Clois "Delmore" Koontz

Clois “Delmore” Koontz, 87, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on the morning of June 19, 2026. As believers rejoice in God's promise, we remember the words of Jesus: "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die." — John 11:25.

Delmore was born on November 13, 1938, to Clois “Buster" Koontz and Pauline Koontz. He was a lifelong resident of Chillicothe, Texas, where he was raised, attended Chillicothe High School, and built a life rooted in the community he called home. His greatest passion was training race horses, a vocation that brought him immense satisfaction and earned him the respect of many throughout the years. Those who knew Delmore knew they were likely to hear a memorable story or two from his days at the racetrack. He delighted in sharing those experiences and the lessons they brought. When he wasn't working with horses, Delmore enjoyed spending time at the barn tending to his livestock, growing a garden, and sitting quietly on the porch, taking in God's creation through a beautiful sunrise or peaceful sunset.

He appreciated life's simple blessings. On August 5, 1989, Delmore married the love of his life, Lenora Koontz. Together they shared 34 years of marriage before her passing. Above all else, Delmore sought the Lord. He devoted countless hours to reading and studying the Bible, seeking to better understand God's grace. Over time, we believe he came to treasure the truth that salvation is not something earned through human effort, but a gift freely given through the finished work of Jesus Christ. His faith rested in the promise of Scripture: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not a result of works, so that no one may boast." — Ephesians 2:8–9.

Delmore was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lenora Koontz; his parents, Clois “Buster" Koontz and Pauline Koontz; his grandson, Taylor Koontz; his great-granddaughters, Elsey Mae Howland and Kaila Brazille; and his stepdaughter, Lori Kell.

He is survived by his sons, Vondell Koontz (Cody) and Stewart Koontz (Denise); his daughters, Louise Ayres (David) and JeanAnn Jarrett (Jaysen); his stepchildren, Marshall Brazille (Cathy) and Tracy Howland (Mike); 14 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren.

Though every life tells a unique story, those who knew Delmore will remember his love of horses, his enjoyment of the outdoors, his quiet appreciation for God's creation, and, most importantly, his desire to know the Lord through His Word. The family finds peace in knowing that Delmore's faith has become sight and that he now rests in the presence of the Savior he faithfully sought.