Durwood Koonsman

Roy Durwood Koonsman, 88, of Morgan, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, in Waco, Texas.

Durwood was born on January 30, 1938, in Miles, Texas, to Roy Herman “Hi” Koonsman and Ollie Mae (Tidwell) Koonsman. He was raised in Iredell, Texas, where he graduated from Iredell High School in 1957. He married Ernestine “Tena” Pearl Dunlap on August 17, 1957.

A lifelong farmer and rancher, Durwood began his career at the well-known Flat Top Ranch before working at Gregory Ranch for over 30 years. In 1962, Durwood and his family moved to Morgan, TX, where he remained a resident until his passing. Durwood served for 12 years on the Morgan ISD School Board. In 1998, he continued his public service and successfully ran for Bosque County Commissioner, Precinct 2, a position he held for 20 years before retiring in 2018. While working as commissioner, Durwood ranched for the Frank DePauw and Rob Richmond family at the Rocking R Ranch. In addition to his work duties, Durwood ran his own cattle operation alongside his son Rickey. Durwood was also a proud member of the Masonic Lodge. He first joined the Kopperl Lodge before later transferring to the Meridian Lodge. Durwood dedicated over 50 years to Freemasonry.

Durwood found his greatest enjoyment outdoors. He took pride in growing the biggest vegetables in Bosque County, and loved showing them off and sharing them with others. Durwood enjoyed hunting with his family and friends, especially his grandkids. He was also an avid fishermen, always trying to snag the biggest yellow cat. Durwood was well known for frying catfish. Between this and his membership of the “Chili Gang,” he donated countless hours cooking for various functions and fundraisers throughout Bosque County. Durwood truly appreciated the simple pleasures of country life.

He is survived by his son, Rickey Koonsman and wife, Kim, of Meridian; his daughter, Annette Jones of Granbury; his daughter, Sherry Mize; his daughter, Nina Richter; his brother, Donnie Koonsman of Granbury; and his sister, Jennifer Tidwell of Burleson. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Stephen Richter and daughter, Aubree; Kristy Baty and children Ryan, Shelby, Kolby and Khloey; Ryan Koonsman and wife, Shannon, and daughters Lexi and Madison; Kimber Koonsman and Jayden Reynolds; Trinton Jones and wife, Gabrielle, and children Teagan and Grace; Dana Dowell and husband, Kody, and children Anson and Jewel; and Sara Mize; along with countless other relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Tena Koonsman; his parents, Hi and Ollie Koonsman; and his sister, Faye Carpenter.

Durwood’s legacy of hard work, public service, and unwavering love for his family will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories.

A service to honor Durwood will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, July 17th, 2026 at Lawson Funeral Home in Meridian, TX, with Reverend Johnny Teague officiating. Visitation will take place at 9:00 AM prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mitchell Cemetery in Iredell, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Meridian Masonic Lodge #268 to support its charitable work. Donations can be sent to: 1898 CR 2545 Meridian, TX 76665.

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