Roy passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025. Born to Richard and Clara (Kirchhofer) Harbers on November 24, 1943, in La Grange, Texas, Roy's life was marked by his selfless loving nature, his handy skills and his wonderful sense of humor.
On June 9, 1979, Roy married Pamela Stephens, they made their home in West Point, Texas and welcomed their daughter Karin in 1983. For the last 46 years, they have built a life that was rich with family, friends, and each other.
As a young man, Roy joined the United States Army and served his country with honor and dedication during the Vietnam War era. During his time in the military, he was stationed in Germany, and he became skilled in mechanics which paved the way for his long and rewarding career. After being honorably discharged from the service, Roy continued expanding his knowledge of mechanical operations by servicing and restoring cars, trucks, and tractors. Roy will always be known as the mechanic “guru” who all could contact to troubleshoot their problems. Later in his career, Roy’s focus was on restoring antique tractors, primarily John Deere. A true John Deere enthusiast, Roy meticulously restored tractors to their true authentic state. Outside of mechanics, Roy enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking, gardening and spending time with family and friends. Roy was well known for his recipes and outstanding BBQ.
Roy's life was a testament to the values of humor, proficiency and enjoying the simple things in life. He touched the lives of many with his kindness and his willingness to lend a helping hand. He had a uniquely humorous outlook on life and an innate ability to see the good in every person. His absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say goodbye to Roy, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, laughter and the simple pleasures that make life worth living. His memory will continue to inspire, guide us and his spirit will forever be a part of the lives he touched.
Roy is survived by his wife Pamela, daughter Karin, and sister Minnie Mae Vrazel. Also surviving is his sisters-in-law Lyndell Harbers, Alisa Taylor (Brian), brother-in-law Michael “Spanky” Stephens, nephews – Ted Harbers, James Vrazel (Susan), Reagan Stephens (Heather), Stephen Taylor (Ari), and Jacob Tayor (Michelle) – and niece Terrie Crow (Rick). There are also numerous great nephews and nieces who survive.
Roy is preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Ray and Mattie Stephens, siblings Clinton Harbers, Ted Harbers Sr., Robert Harbers, Annie Mae Tramp, nieces Linda Verbout and Jean Harbers.
Visitation will be at Fayette Memorial Funeral Home on Sunday, October 5, 2025 from 2:00PM-4:00PM. A private burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice or to Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter, in honor of Roy’s love of animals.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
967 E Colorado Street, La Grange, TX 78945
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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