Roy Allen Deterding

Obituary of Roy Allen Deterding

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Roy Allen Deterding passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 77, after meeting a decade-long battle with cancer with the same grit and quiet courage that shaped his entire life. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and man of deep Christian faith - someone whose love for his family was steady, uncomplicated, and unwavering.

Born in 1948 and raised in the small town of Deshler, Nebraska, Roy grew up with Midwestern values stitched into him: work hard, keep your word, and don't make a fuss. He earned a wrestling scholarship to the University of Nebraska, a testament to his determination and competitive spirit. After college, he enlisted in the Army and served in Vietnam, carrying himself with humility and honor until his discharge in 1974.

Roy's path after the military was anything but ordinary. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Northern Colorado, then followed a calling that led him to the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. With a heart for service and a willingness to go wherever he was needed, Roy and his family spent time as missionaries in Georgia and Costa Rica - experiences that broadened his world and deepened his faith.

Throughout his career in accounting, retail management, and warehouse management, Roy built a reputation as an exceptionally hard worker. He wasn't loud about his accomplishments; he simply showed up and did the job well. Those who knew him best will remember his quiet wisdom and his steady presence.

Roy loved to travel and had an adventurous streak that surprised people who only saw his reserved exterior. Whether exploring new places or savoring simple moments at home, he found joy in shared laughter, good stories, and time spent with the people he loved most. Combining all of his loves together made lounging in the sun at any resort, side by side with Sandra, his ultimate "happy place." But above all, his faith in God guided him, providing a constant source of strength, purpose, and peace.

Roy is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Eubanks Tidrow Deterding of Burleson, Texas; children, Dana and Dwayne Bennett of Hallam, Nebraska, Dustin and Corrie Deterding of Clarksville, Tennessee, Jessica and Tory Kort of Grand Island, Nebraska, Sherry and Steven Van Buren of Burleson, Texas and son-in-law, Mike Ross of Burleson, Texas; fourteen grandchildren, Danielle and Aaron Baumgartner, Desiree Bennett, Anthony Bennett, David Bennett, Blake and Meredith Deterding, Cade Deterding, Bryce Deterding, MaKayla and David Bartels, Jordan and Kolton Hobbs, Reagan Kort, Ryker Kort, Tiffany and JT Taylor, Christian Hilliard, Alyssa Ross, and six great grandchildren, Kyler Bennett, Brexton Baumgartner, Eric Bartels, Ila Bartels, Piper Hobbs, and Allison Taylor; siblings, Jean Nyen of Kansas City, Missouri, Kay Elledge of Superior, Nebraska, and Owen Deterding of York, Nebraska. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Edna Deterding; his daughter, Susan Tidrow Ross; and his siblings, Rosa Calahan, Arlene Higer, and Don Deterding. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. A celebration of Roy's life will be held on a later date in Nebraska.

The family are grateful to Community Hospice in Burleson and to their RN Omar and CNA Vanessa. Sandra extends heartfelt thanks to those who offered steady support, love, and practical help throughout his illness, and to their children and grandchildren, who traveled from near and far to be with him until the end. She is especially thankful for the devoted care provided during those last difficult days, when round the clock attention was needed.