Henry Donovan Hassell

Henry D. Hassell, known affectionately as H.D. by his friends and family, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2023, in Longview, Texas. Born on May 12, 1932, in Neches, Texas, H.D. lived a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and joy.

H.D. grew up in the tight-knit community of Neches and attended local schools, building the foundation of a life dedicated to learning and excellence. After graduating, he furthered his education at Nixon Business School, where he received his diploma, an accomplishment that would serve him well in his future endeavors.

His commitment to his country was evident when he proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954. H.D.'s patriotism and discipline were hallmarks of his character throughout his life. After his military service, he embarked on a successful career as a Chemical Operator for Eastman, where he dedicated 34 years before retiring. His expertise and work ethic were so valued that he was asked to return to Eastman as a guard during a challenging period, once again demonstrating his reliability and dedication to his community.

Family was the central joy of H.D.'s life. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 71 years, Bonnie Rawls Hassell, a loving father to his children, Bonnie Dollahite, Kathy George and her husband, James, and Sherry Shanks and her husband, Rusty. H.D. was also a cherished grandfather to Tracy Martinez and her spouse, Joe, Jason Hamilton and his partner, Terina Boyd, and Brandy Hasler. He adored his great-grandchildren, Joey, Brandon, Kaitlynn, Donovan, Kaci, Harley, Morgan, Dalton and Keeli, Kolton, and Summer, and was blessed to meet his great-great-grandchildren, Ava, Linnlee, Kaylee, Kyler, and Kaysen.

His siblings held a special place in his heart, and he is survived by Lurlene Stone, Nellie Hamilton, Evie Jean Lazenby, Judy Sue McNeil, Daphne Bennett, and his special sister and brother, Lisa Tucker and Gary Tucker. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry and Evie B. Hassell, his brother, K. D. Hassell, and sisters, Adalene Scritchfield and Dovie Bennett.

An avid outdoorsman, H.D. loved to fish for catfish, squirrel hunt, and tend to his garden. These activities brought him peace and allowed him to appreciate the simple pleasures of nature. However, it was his family that was his true passion in life. He nurtured his family with the same care and attentiveness that he gave to his beloved garden, and he took immense pride in the accomplishments and happiness of his loved ones.

H.D.'s life was marked by his unwavering integrity, his gentle strength, and his generous spirit. He was a man who lived by example, teaching his family the values of hard work, commitment, and love through his actions. His sense of humor and warm smile were contagious, and he was known for his ability to lift spirits and bring joy to any situation.

As we say goodbye to H.D., we celebrate the remarkable life he led and the impact he made on those around him. His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared by those who knew him best and loved him deeply. Henry D. Hassell will be profoundly missed, but the legacy he leaves behind will endure for generations to come.

H.D.'s life on earth may have concluded, but his spirit remains a guiding light for all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Jason Hamilton, Harley Hamilton, Dalton Brewer, Kolton McPherson, Gary Tucker, Joe Martinez, Joey Martinez and Brandon Martinez.

Visitation for H.D. will be held at Sullivan Funeral Home from 5-7pm, Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Funeral service with military honors will be held at Sullivan Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 2:00pm. Interment will follow at Memory Park Cemetery in Longview, Tx.