Dr. Bert DeBord, Jr.

Dr. Bert A. DeBord, Jr. passed away at home on Sunday, September 1, 2013, at the age of 98. He was born on December 17, 1914, in Temple, Texas, to Bert and Ada Alexander DeBord. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years, Ethel Shields DeBord, in 2012, and his daughter, Julie DeBord, in 2011. He is survived by his son Bert A. DeBord III and wife Jane, granddaughter Lara Rodgers and children Jake, Adeline and Audrey of Plano, grandson Michael DeBord and daughter Arielle, fiancée Sarah Canaday and daughters Amy and Reyn of Cedar Park, plus extended family Linda and Dean Mohlstrom and Mark Dye. Dr. DeBord was a member of First United Methodist Church of Temple. He graduated from Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, and completed his residency in New Orleans. After serving in the U.S. Army as a captain in World War II, he came to Scott & White in 1946 with the establishment of the Ear, Nose and Throat Department and retired in 1982. Molded by his mother's compassion and faith, and guided by his father's convictions and principles, he was a man of grace and manners who wore integrity as a badge. His desire to help people undergirded his medical career and life. Being married to Ethel for 70 years was his greatest delight. Hunting and fishing with his dad and son were fond memories. An avid fan of baseball and football, he kept his radio tuned in to the action, always with a bar of chocolate by his side. His love of chocolate will always bring a smile. His final year was spent in the loving care of Tony Jeter's Tender Mercies "angels." Nicky, Angela, Eva, Kathy and Jamie each brought their own special joy and brightness to his days. This generous and well-loved man will be remembered for his kind spirit, subtle wit and gentle nature. The following poem from his childhood, which he continued to recite into his late nineties, offers a glimpse of his outlook on life: "Life is like a journey taken on a train, with a pair of travelers at each windowpane. I may sit beside you all the journey through, or I may sit elsewhere, never knowing you. But if fate should mark me to sit by your side, Let's be pleasant travelers . . . It's so short a ride." If desired, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, Temple, First United Methodist Church, Rogers, or Scott & White Healthcare. Funeral services will be held at 10 A.M. Wednesday at First United Methodist Church with interment at 9:00 A.M. Wednesday at Hillcrest Cemetery. Scanio-Harper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.