Howard Preston Baxter Jr.

Sulphur Springs - Howard Preston Baxter, Jr., 61 went to be with the Lord on Friday, December 13, 2019. He spent his last days surrounded by friends and family. "Junior" was born December 5, 1958, in Big Spring, to Darlene Brown and Howard Preston Baxter, Sr. He was the third of six children and the only son. Junior married Deana Faye Rigby in Dallas on June 6, 1981, and they had two children. He was an electrician by trade for Baxter Electric.

Junior was a force to be reckoned with and he always lived life to the fullest. He loved Jesus, his family (especially his grandkids!), fast cars, poker and gambling in general, fishing and hunting, shooting pool, cockfighting, cooking, and hosting big dinners and get-togethers. Junior had a big heart and always helped those in need. He cooked and served holiday dinners for the homeless in Dallas on more than one occasion. Junior told the best tall tales, made great apple pies, and never met a stranger.

Junior is survived by his ex-wife, Deana of Sulphur Springs, daughter Carolyn Brumley and husband Loyd Dunigan of Sulphur Springs, son Brian Baxter and wife Amanda Dzenowski of Killdeer, ND. Junior enjoyed nothing more than spoiling his four beloved grandchildren, Collyn Baxter, BreeAnna Baxter, Dakota Rigby, and Jayla Baxter. Survivors also include Junior's sisters Linda "Paula" Brown, Glenda Wood, Sandra "Sandy" Dawson, all of Paris, and Patricia "Trish" Bounds, of Jefferson, as well as a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, eldest sister Brenda Baxter, and many other relatives.

Graveside services will be Monday, December 16, 2019, at 3:00 PM with Pastor James Reed officiating. Interment will be at McDonald Cemetery in Howland. Pallbearers are Brian Baxter, Collyn Baxter, Dakota Rigby, Jordan Dawson, Justin Wood, Jeff Sessums, James Baxter, Jr., Loyd Dunigan. Honorary pallbearers include John Bounds, Derek Atnip, Joseph “Chip” Thomas, and Chris Brown.

In lieu of flowers, memorials or donations in Junior's name may be made to The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center in Dallas bridgenorthtexas.org

The family is incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support for Junior. We miss him sorely, but rejoice knowing that he is united with God and all the loved ones who have gone before him.