Willie Lee Herring

Willie “Frog” Lee Herring, age 93, of Belton, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on February 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, at 6-8pm at Dossman Funeral Home. Graveside service will be held on Friday, February 6, at 10:30am at Rest Haven Cemetery.

Frog was born on May 4, 1932, near the Colorado River in San Saba, Texas, to Rev. Olen and Avo Herring.

From an early age, it was clear that Frog possessed a rare natural talent, an unwavering work ethic, and a quiet determination that would guide him throughout his life.

Affectionately known to all as “Frog,” he discovered his gift at just 14 years old when he was given the opportunity to repair a damaged rear quarter panel on a black vehicle, something an experienced older worker had been unable to fix. When Frog completed the task, he was immediately hired. That moment ignited a lifelong passion for automotive bodywork. By the age of 23, Frog opened Quality Paint & Body in Killeen, Texas, in 1955. Through dedication, craftsmanship, and pride in honest work, he built a highly respected business. In 1969, he sold the shop to his younger brother, Harold “Wayne” Herring, leaving behind a legacy rooted in excellence and integrity.

At just 16 years old, Frog married the love of his life, Odelia “Maggie” Sellers, on December 3, 1948. Their marriage marked the beginning of a lifelong journey grounded in love, family, and shared memories that became the foundation of his life.

In his younger years, Frog spent countless hours on the lake with his children, water skiing and patiently teaching them how to ski. His ingenuity and love for craftsmanship extended far beyond his work—he even built his own boat. Frog also enjoyed many rounds of golf with friends and cousins, valuing the fellowship as much as the game itself.

Frog had a lifelong need for speed and a deep passion for racecars. He loved building and racing them and was a familiar presence at the track in Little River Academy, as well as many others. In later years, he shared this passion with his grandson David “DJ” Fuller and other family members, forming special bonds and creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Beyond his talents and interests, Frog was a genuine, honest, and kind man. He believed deeply in people and quietly invested in their potential. Over the years, he helped many individuals start businesses by providing seed money to build their first home or purchase their first property. His influence is woven throughout Bell County, with quiet “crumbs” of generosity scattered across the homebuilding and development community. Frog never sought recognition—his joy came from giving others an opportunity and watching them create something meaningful. At home, Frog found peace working on his land, often seen on his tractor tending to projects around his property—always building, fixing, and improving.

In his final moments, Frog was at home, surrounded by family who lovingly sang Southern gospel hymns as he passed. With peace in his heart, he went home to meet his Lord and Savior, in whom he placed his faithful trust.

Frog was preceded in death by his loving wife, Odelia Herring; his beloved son, Kenneth Herring; his parents, Olen and Avo Herring; and his brother, Harold “Wayne” Herring.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Jan Martin and her husband Mark of Belton, Texas; his grandson, David “DJ” Fuller and wife Audrey of Salado, Texas; and his granddaughter, Jana Herring of San Antonio, Texas. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren: Anthony Herring of San Antonio, Texas; Brettney Fuller of Washington, D.C.; Mea Fuller of Waco, Texas; and Samuel Fuller of Salado, Texas. He is further survived by his brothers, Johnny Herring and David Herring, both of Salado, Texas, and his sister, Jean Pedigo of Belton, Texas.

Willie “Frog” Lee Herring lived a long and meaningful life marked by faith, hard work, devotion to family, generosity, and a passion for building—both with his hands and through the lives he touched. His legacy will live on through the generations he leaves behind and the countless people who were given an opportunity because he believed in them.