Don Wesley "Deke" Erwin

Don W. “Deke” Erwin, 85, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2026. Born on December 17, 1940, in Holliday, Texas, Deke lived a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and dedicated service to his community.

Deke graduated from Holliday High School in 1959 and attended Midwestern State University for two years before beginning a distinguished 45-year career as an insurance agent. Throughout his life, he was respected for his integrity, kindness, and commitment to helping others. His contributions to the Bridgeport community were numerous and far-reaching.

A Life Member of the International Association of Lions Clubs and a devoted member of the Bridgeport Lions Club, Deke believed strongly in serving others. He was also a proud member of Bridgeport Masonic Lodge No. 587, served as the 1975 Chapter President of the Bridgeport Jaycees, and was a past member of the Southwest Football Officials Association. In recognition of his outstanding service and leadership, he was honored as Bridgeport’s “Citizen of the Year” in 1978. He was the “Voice of The Bulls” for many years and coached Pee Wee football.

Above all else, Deke treasured his family. He shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Sandra Gail “Sandy” Erwin. Their enduring love, devotion, and partnership were an inspiration to all who knew them. Though Sandy preceded him in death, the memories they created together remained among his most cherished blessings.

Deke loved spending time with family and friends. He was an avid golfer and a die-hard Dallas Cowboy fan. He also enjoyed camping trips that created countless stories and lifelong memories. Whether gathered around a campfire, attending family events, or simply enjoying time together, his greatest joy came from being surrounded by those he loved.

A faithful servant of God, Deke was a member and deacon of The Bay Community Church in Runaway Bay. His faith guided every aspect of his life and was reflected in the compassion, generosity, and encouragement he shared with others.

He is survived by his daughter, Lezlie Michael and husband Jim; his son, Eric Erwin and fiancée Marna Huber; grandson Ryan McWhorter and wife Brittney; granddaughter Johnnye Soles and husband Michael; granddaughter Ashleigh Erwin; grandson Wesley Erwin; great-grandson Phoenix McWhorter; great-granddaughter Penelope McWhorter; and great-grandson Gunnar Soles. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who will forever cherish their memories of him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra Gail “Sandy” Erwin; his parents, Martin and Vernis Erwin; five sisters; one brother; and his beloved granddaughter, Mandi McWhorter.

Deke’s legacy of faith, service, generosity, and love will continue through the countless lives he touched. He leaves behind a family strengthened by his example, a community enriched by his service, and friends who were blessed to know him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 19th from 6 PM – 8 PM at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport, Texas. His Celebration of Life will be held at The Bay Community Church in Runaway Bay on Friday, November 20th at 2 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites donations to The Bay Community Church in Runaway Bay, the Bridgeport Lions Club, Masonic Lodge, or a charity of your choice. All who knew and loved Deke are welcome to join the family in celebrating a life well lived and honoring a man whose kindness, faith, and devotion to others made the world a better place.

Hawkins Funeral Home Bridgeport

940-683-2211

www.hawkinsfuneralhome.com