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In memoriam

Darrel Leonard Grumbles

August 30, 1960 – March 24, 2026 · Age 65

Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home - Huntsville

Darrel Leonard Grumbles

Obituary

Darrel Leonard “DL” Grumbles With love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of Darrel Leonard “DL” Grumbles, who passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 65. Darrel was born on August 30, 1960, in Austin, Texas, to Carl Eugene Grumbles and Shirley Trulene (Thurman) Grumbles. He was the middle son, growing up alongside his brothers, Guy Eugene Grumbles and Geron Grant Grumbles. Darrel grew up in Anchorage, Alaska, an experience that helped shape his resilience, independence, and strong work ethic. He later went on to serve his country in the United States Navy, where he carried the same sense of honor and dedication that defined the rest of his life. A man of vision and determination, Darrel was the CEO and founder of Rig QA International, a company he built from the ground up in 2001. Through hard work, grit, and unwavering standards, he created a lasting legacy in his industry, one that continues to thrive today. Darrel was known for doing everything full out. He dreamed bigger than most and never hesitated to chase those dreams. Whether it was fast cars, airplanes, boats, or building something from nothing, he lived life with passion and purpose. Above all, he was a provider, steadfast, strong, and deeply committed to taking care of his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Fox, and his children: Jami Dixon (Stephen Waltman), Jeremy Whittington (Kim Whittington), Casey DeSpain (Cody DeSpain), Miranda VanBrande (Brent VanBrande), and Shawna Grumbles, as well as his honorary daughter, Elizabeth Lowe. He was a proud and devoted Papaw to his grandchildren: Chance Carrigan (McKenzie), Alexis Richard (Brooks), Colin Dixon (Maggie), Kelsey Whittington (Brian), Casey Dixon, Matthew Whittington, Jake Pineda, Luke DeSpain, Reagan VanBrande, Parker VanBrande, and Brooks VanBrande. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Eden, Jett, Kennedy, and Carter Alaine. He is also survived by his beloved brother Guy, and nephews: Jonathon, Nicholas, Matthew, Wyatt, and Jesse Grumbles. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Shirley Grumbles, and his brother, Geron Grumbles. Darrel will be remembered for his strength, integrity, and the way he showed up for the people he loved. He built not only a business, but a life rooted in loyalty, hard work, and unwavering dedication to family. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the family he was so proud of. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. Funeral Arrangements Visitation: Sunday, March 29, 2026 Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home 10129 FM 1097 Willis, TX 77318 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Rosary: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Eulogy and visitation to follow Funeral Service: Monday, March 30, 2026 Sacred Heart Catholic Church 109 N Frazier St Conroe, TX 77301 1:30 PM Burial and reception to follow at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Willis

Visitation & service details

Times, locations, and arrangements are maintained by the funeral home and may change. For complete, up-to-date information on visitation, services, and receptions, please open the official obituary page (opens in a new tab).

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