Henry Louis Stokes

Henry "Buddy" Louis Stokes, 91, of Ballinger, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Monday, July 13, 2026.

He was born on December 27, 1934, to Herman Lawson and Dora (Lange) Stokes in Runnels County. Buddy grew up on the family farm in the Blanton area. He married the love of his life, Willie Darlene Wade, on June 6, 1953, at Blanton Baptist Church. He began his life as a mechanic in high school, working for Leroy Mueller, and eventually purchasing the business from him. For over 20 years, he fixed all kinds of things. In the mid 80s, he sold his mechanic business to purchase his ranch land. Buddy then spent the rest of his career raising cattle and building many miles of all types of fences.

In his spare time Buddy was the ultimate outdoorsman. From fishing and hunting to camping, he made many memories, including Thanksgivings spent at the deer lease. He loved Bearcat football games and attending his grandchildren's pageants, dances, and sporting events. Buddy even coached little league baseball, and one of his greatest joys was when the Bearcubs would go fishing at his tank.

Buddy served on the West Texas REHAB Cattlemen's Round-up committee and was  a member of the Rodeo Association of Ballinger. He was also a proud member of the First Baptist Church of Ballinger.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Dora Stokes, and his brother, Herman "Sonny" Stokes Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Darlene Stokes, his daughters Kay Tarkenton and husband Tim, Diana Hood and husband Wes, and his sister Doris White. Buddy is also survived by his grandchildren Tavisty Baillio (Mike), Tahnae Allen (Winston), Crescenda Uhles (Michael), and Austin Williams (Sarah) He will also be greatly missed by his great-grandchildren Mack, Romee. Archer, Kendall, and step-great-granddaughters Mary Elle and Josie.

The funeral service for Buddy will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 am at the First Baptist Church of Ballinger, with Marty Akins officiating. A visitation will be held afterward in the Family Life Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Texas REHAB in honor of Buddy or to a charity of choice.

The family wishes to thank the outstanding staff of Ballinger Home Health and Hospice for their tender love and care of Buddy.