Derrel Dean Renfrow

Derrel Dean Renfrow of San Marcos, Texas, passed away on Monday, June 11, 2018, at the age of 87 years. He was born to J.O. and Lula Mae (Retherford) Renfrow in Beaver County, Oklahoma on Oct. 9, 1930.

Derrel graduated from Balko High School and after attending Oklahoma Baptist University, he came back to Balko and started an aerial spraying company at the family farm. After working for Beech Aircraft and Granville Phillips in Boulder, Colorado, he then set his sights on Texas and his ultimate passion, the fast food industry. Derrel and Dorothy’s new drive-in restaurant in San Marcos was number 47 for Sonic, 51 years ago.

He was a member and deacon of First Baptist Church in San Marcos, where missions became a real passion for him. While serving on the Board of Trustees at Dallas Baptist University, he was honored with a Doctorate of Humanities degree for his 30 years of service to the University and his endless support of all the students.

Derrel is preceded in death by his parents and older brother Leon.

He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy (Cornell) Renfrow whom he married on June 3, 1951; daughter, Rhonda Cox and husband Jim of Richmond, Texas; son, Rocky Renfrow and wife Vicki of Georgetown, Texas; and sister-in-law, Patricia Schroeder of Beaver, Oklahoma. He is also survived by six grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends at Pennington Funeral Home, 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, June 15, 2018.

Derrel’s life will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 16, 2018, at First Baptist Church in San Marcos. Private Interment.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Derrel’s memory may be made to First Baptist Church of San Marcos Missions, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Pennington Funeral Home, San Marcos, Texas, 512-353-4311. www.penningtonfuneralhome.com.