Irvin E. Elkins

Irvin Earl BopBop Elkins Irvin Earl BopBop Elkins, beloved sweetheart, husband and father, went to meet his Lord on August 18, 2008. A celebration of his life on earth will be held in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home in Longview, Texas on Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 10 AM with Pastor Jim Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Mattox Cemetery in Diana. Mr. Elkins was a member of the Fellowship Bible Church of Longview, where he and his wife Bettye were members of the Encore Class. Irvin attended Marshall schools and graduated in 1943. He later attended Texas A&M College and graduated in 1947 with a Bachelor of Science degree. While at Texas A&M, he served as Company Commander and Head Drum Major of the nationally famous Fightin' Texas Aggie Band. Upon graduation, he was employed by Southwestern Electric Power Company where he was a pioneer in the sales of residential electric heating. He retired from SWEPCO after over 38 years as Assistant Division Sales Manager. Irvin enjoyed his family and friends, fishing, his beloved A&M and playing harmonica for which he was well known. Irvin is survived by his wife, Bettye of Longview; his son, Wade Elkins of College Station; daughter, Kathy Elkins of Marshall; daughter and son-in-law, Linette and Lee Wright of Montgomery, Alabama; daughter and son-in-law, Dianne and Don Conoly of Longview; and daughter and son-in-law Patti and David Minor of Liberty City, TX. He was blessed with 8 grandchildren: Emilee Wright of Baton Rouge, LA, Julianna Wright of Orlando, Fl, Holli Hampton of Liberty City, TX, Josh Minor of Flint, TX, Nicholas Ballard of Jacksonville, FL, Stephanie Ballard of Liberty City, TX, Hardy Elkins of Lubbock, TX, and Will Elkins of Longview, TX; 2 great-granddaughters, Hannah Grace Hampton and Giana Nicole Ballard. Irvin will be remembered by his many friends and business associates, including his life-long best friend, Albert Agnor of Marshall, TX. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Rader Funeral Home. Special thanks to all these who lovingly cared for our BopBop at Whispering Pines Lodge, Home Health Hospice, Fellowship Bible Church and the Alzheimer's Day Club.

Irvin E. Elkins

May 21, 1926 - August 18, 2008