George W Avent

With heavy hearts but joyful memories, we gather to celebrate the remarkable life of George W Avent, affectionately known as "Big George." George passed peacefully at the age of 86 on December 7, 2024, in Dalhart, Texas.

A service honoring George's life will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Central Methodist Church in Dalhart. Rev. Steve Patterson will officiate, with Rev. Ryan Strebeck assisting. Following the service, George will be laid to rest at 3:00 p.m. in Dreamland Cemetery, Canyon, Texas. George will lay in state from noon to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 13, at Dalhart Funeral Home, which has been entrusted with his final farewell services.

George was born on May 14, 1938, in Canyon, Texas, to Wilson Lavert and Peggy Avent. He attended the newly opened Palo Duro High School and also attended High School in California for one year to play football, where he picked up the nicknames "Rusty" and "Tex." At the age of 20, he married Barbara Jean Woods, the love of his life, on September 6, 1958, in Amarillo, Texas. Their 66-year union was a testament to strength, love, and perseverance. In 1962 they moved north of Dalhart to work for JT Sneed Estate where they lived until his retirement from ranching in 1997, but continued day working in the area.

George served as beef Assistant Superintendent for Sherman County Livestock Show and was one of many cooks at the yearly Kerrick Community calf fry for many years. As his kids were growing up, George was involved in the 4-H horse club in Stratford and lead many trail rides for them. He lead the ride for St. Jude Children's Hospital held in Dalhart for many years. He was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge and embodied the values of integrity, fellowship, and service that the organization holds dear. George was a member of Central Methodist Church. He was known by many and will be missed by all.

A man of many stories and jokes, George's most notable saying was, "Grinnin' like a possum eatin' manure!"

George was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson Lavert and Peggy Avent; his brothers, Wilson Lavert II, Donnie Avent, and Robert Avent; and his sisters, Martha Wilkins, Mary Jo Robinson, and grandson Trinity Avent.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Avent; their 3 children, Bevin Avent wife Donna of San Jon, NM, Bevilyn Wright husband Jimmy of Dalhart, and Lavert Avent wife Tammie of Mineral Wells, TX; his cherished sister, Juanita Allred of Amarillo, TX; and 7 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and extended family who continue to carry on his legacy.

George Avent lived large, loved fiercely, and laughed often. His legacy isn't just etched in the land he worked but in the countless stories told around the branding fires. He reminded us that life's greatest moments are often the simplest and that even the toughest days can leave you with a tale to tell.

Join us in celebrating George's life by sharing your favorite memories and stories. Let's make this a tribute to remember, just as George would have wanted-filled with love, laughter, and togetherness.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Shriners Children's Hospital or St. Jude Children's Hospital.