Leroy Ray Machart of Sheridan, Texas, passed away on September 16, 2026, at the age of 76. He was born on December 15, 1949, in El Campo, Texas, to Albina Gallia Machart and Bohumil Machart.

Leroy graduated from Wharton High School and spent many years working in construction as a crane operator. He was a hardworking and dependable man who took pride in his work and was always willing to lend a helping hand. When family needed him, Leroy could be counted on to show up, get to work, and do whatever needed to be done.

For many years, Leroy called Magnolia Beach home before later settling in Sheridan. He loved the outdoors and found some of his greatest happiness fishing, hunting, and spending time with family. Whether he was chasing redfish through the bays, setting lines in the rivers, or pursuing the big ol’ bucks, the outdoors was more than something he enjoyed—it was a way of life and an important part of who he was.

Leroy was also known for the way he cared for his family. Whenever family called, he was ready to come over and help. Whether it was butchering and making sausage, cleaning fish, or lending a hand with whatever needed to be done, he and Uncle Bob could usually be counted on to show up and get the job done. Those days of working side by side became treasured memories and reflected the kind of man Leroy was: generous with his time, steady in his support, and happiest when helping the people he loved.

Leroy shared more than 30 years of his life with Linda Spencer, affectionately known as Mamaw to the family. They shared many years together until Linda’s passing in 2021.

Leroy was hard to miss and even harder to forget. With his long beard and ponytail, he became the family’s own “Willie Nelson” look-alike, a nickname that brought plenty of smiles and laughter. Yet his appearance was only one small part of what made him special. To Jean Ann and her children, and to our family and kids, he was affectionately known as “Grandpa Uncle Leroy.” It was a fitting name for a man who held a special place in the lives and hearts of the younger generations of his family. Through his presence, humor, and the time he shared with them, Leroy created memories that will continue to be cherished.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, Albina Gallia Machart and Bohumil Machart; his longtime companion, Linda Spencer; and his siblings, Edwin “Butch” Machart, Bob Machart, and Charlene Brewer, and a niece in-law Dedra Knott (Machart), who was a great support for him and Mamaw.

He is survived by his remaining siblings: Evelyn Novak of El Campo, Texas; Marvin Machart of Louise, Texas; Agnes Walker of Manvel, Texas; Jeanette Spicer of Hillje, Texas; Darlene Machart of Sheridan, Texas; and Jill Machart of Sheridan, Texas, who lovingly cared for him and was a big source of support for him during his final years.

He is also survived by a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry his memory with them.