Joel Bevel

Joel Bevel, 70, a long time resident of Rochester, TX, passed away Wednesday, October 26, 2016 at his home. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, October 28, 2016, at the First Baptist Church, Rochester. Burial will follow the service at Willow Cemetery in Haskell under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Homes. A visitation is planned from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m, Thursday, October 27, 2016 at the funeral home, 200 S Lincoln Ave., Rochester, TX 79544.

Joel was born July 26, 1946 in Knox City to Earmal and Thomas J. (TC)  Bevel. He married Pam (Ross) August 26, 1972 in Rochester. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1964 and attended Texas Tech University. Joel was a member of the First Baptist Church, Rochester and followed in his father's footsteps as a farmer. He was an avid Texas Tech fan, loved watching his grandchildren play sports and enjoyed playing golf and fishing. He served as president of the Haskell Jr. Livestock Association from 1993-1994 and was a past president of Farmers Gin in Rochester. Joel also served for many years on the Rochester ISD School Board.

He is survived by his wife, Pam Bevel of Rochester; two sons, Brad Bevel and wife Kendra of Haskell and Brian Bevel and wife Erin of Haskell; two daughters, Stacie Teague of Haskell and Tracie Pribyla and husband Joe of Bomarton; seven grandchildren, Ashlyn, Kaelyn, Braelyn, Drake, Calie, Brylee and Boawen; two sisters, Faye Bledsoe and Joann Carroll; and numerous aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Earmal and Thomas J. Bevel.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford St., Abilene, TX 79605.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.smithfamilyfh.com