Donald Eugene Maness

Donald Eugene Maness, 74, of Meridian, Texas, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on September 16, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas, with his loved ones by his side. He was born on July 3, 1952, in Hico, Texas, to Lorene Weatherford and Emmitt Maness.

Don was a man who built a life through hard work, steady hands, and deep devotion to his family. A true jack of all trades, he worked on the pipeline and spent many years as a carpenter before retiring to life on the ranch. That life suited him well. He found satisfaction in building things, working around the shop, tending cattle, and caring for the farm. Don was very quiet until you got him talking, and then he was a man of many words, sharing his thoughts, stories, and wisdom in a way those close to him will always remember.

Of all the roles Don held in life, the ones he treasured most were being a dad and, later, a papa to his grandkids. His family remembers him as stern and strict with his boys—until those grandsons came along. With them came a tenderness that his family cherished. His love for his family, especially his grandsons, was one of the defining joys of his life.

Don is survived by his wife, Donna Davis Maness; his sons, David Maness and wife Brittney, and Dustin Maness and wife Alexia; and his beloved grandsons, Dawson Maness, Denver Maness, and Denton Maness, who brought him so much pride and happiness. He is also survived by his brother, Dale Maness and wife Bobbie; sisters, Elaine Becker and Donna Maness; nephew, Andrew Becker and wife Lauren; great-niece, Emery; great-nephew, Parks; and nieces, Lory and Amy. Also left to miss him is Abigail, lovingly called Abbie, his favorite fur-baby.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lorene Weatherford Wright, and his father, Emmitt Maness.

Don will be remembered for his strength, his work ethic, his love of the land, and the quiet but lasting way he cared for those around him. His memory will live on through the family he loved so deeply and in the many things he built with both his hands and his heart.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, 254-435-2792.