Billy Garland Middlebrook

Billy G. Middlebrook, 90, of Haskell, passed away Sunday, October 25, 2026, in Abilene. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Haskell Church of Christ, with Robbie Peiser officiating. Burial will follow in Willow Cemetery under the direction of Haskell Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, October 30, 2026, at Haskell Funeral Home, 2 Avenue D, Haskell. Condolences may be made at www.haskellfuneralhometx.com.

Billy was born March 5, 1936, in Stamford, Texas, to the late Garland Velton "G.V." Middlebrook and Ruby Ann Earles Middlebrook. On March 28, 1955, he married the love of his life, Peggy Sonnamaker. Together, they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on January 10, 2024. He was a member of the Haskell Church of Christ.

A lifelong farmer and rancher, Billy had a deep appreciation for the land, the outdoors, and the value of hard work. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed working with his hands and always seemed to have a project in the works. Billy had a unique ability to turn his hobbies into money-making ventures. Whether it was working with CB radios, building deer feeders, making jewelry, or crafting handmade knives. His beautiful, handcrafted knives became known for their quality and craftsmanship, finding their way into collections across the United States and around the world. Among his many accomplishments, 13 of his knives were placed on display in the Vatican Museum in Rome.

Billy was also deeply committed to serving his community. Throughout his life, he dedicated countless hours to various boards and organizations, including 19 years on the Paint Creek School Board, 12 years as an electric cooperative director, 10 years on the original County Tax Appraisal Board, and service with the Gin Board, Farm Bureau, County Tax Appraisal Review Board, and Paint Creek Community Water System.

His involvement extended beyond the local community through his service with the National Charolais Association and the National and State Trapshooters Associations. He served three years on the State Trapshooters Association Board, including one year as president.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Peggy and an infant daughter.

Billy is survived by son, Bryan Middlebrook and wife Nancy of McKinney; grandchildren, Joshua Middlebrook of McKinney; Hayley Ochoa and husband Sabboth of Carrollton; Matthew Middlebrook of Carrollton; brother, Dale Middlebrook and wife Ruby Mae of Paint Creek, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and a host of dear friends.