William John Thomas Brock, 74, of Early, Texas passed from this earthly existence on January 10, 2013. John was born on November 6, 1938 to William “Bill” and Eva Gentry Brock in an oilfield camp near Stamford, Texas. He was reared in the Trickham community by his uncle and aunt, Gordon and Alma Stearns. John joined the Trickham Union congregation as a youngster and was baptized in Mukewater Creek. It was here, at the age of six, that he began guitar lessons at church, leading to his lifelong passion for music. He attended schools at Brookesmith and Brownwood, graduating in 1957. John began working for the Santa Fe Railroad where he remained employed for 42 years.
John was a natural storyteller, a collector of many things, and loved playing the guitar and hunting. In his retirement, he became an avid collector of firearms and musical instruments. As an active performer in the Texas Country and Bluegrass music scenes, John spent much of his time travelling to Bluegrass Festivals with his long-time companion, Helen. His dedication, love, and respect for the guitar, bluegrass music, and his fellow musicians undeniably lasted him a lifetime. He played in Pearl, Texas, as recently as December.
John is preceded in death by his parents, his uncle and aunt, and his cousin,“Sis” Ina Vee Rogers Starkey, also reared in the Stearns household. He is survived by his dear friend and long-time companion, Helen Alexander of Early, Texas; brother, Gordon Byrd of El Dorado, Arkansas; a sister of Amarillo, Texas; a scattering of cousins, nieces, and nephews; and a lifetime accumulation of hunting and music enthusiasts. He also leaves behind Helen’s 5 children, 10 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren whom not only considered him family, but many as their grandfather or great-grandfather. It was here he was lovingly referred to as “Big John”.
Arrangements are under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home in Santa Anna, Texas. Visitation will be on Friday, January 18, 2013 between the hours of 6:00-8:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at Trickham Cemetery on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 11:00 am with Rev. Richard Hetzel officiating. Pallbearers are Clifford Green, Sam Stewart, and Helen’s grandsons: Christopher Wigington, Troy Pruitt, Ryan Danford, Nick Danford, and Tyler Danford. Memorials may be directed to Trickham Union Church, Trickham Cemetery Association, or the Pearl Bluegrass Association: c/o Ronald Medart, 820 CR 153, Purlmela, TX 76566.
