Delbert Ray Covington
In Loving Memory
Delbert Ray “Del” Covington, 72
Born in Pontiac, Michigan
Resided in Hillman, MI and Longview, TX
Passed away on July 7, 2025
Delbert Ray Covington, known affectionately as “Del,” passed away peacefully at the age of 72 on July 7, 2025. Born in Pontiac, Michigan, Del spent his life between the peaceful woods of Hillman, MI, and the warmth of family life in Longview, TX.
Del was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Sherry Covington, with whom he shared 50 years of laughter, partnership, and deep love. He was a proud father to his son, Stephen Covington, and daughter-in-law, Cassity, and a doting grandfather to Cari and Ashton Covington. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren — Ember Lynn, Lyllie, Rebel, and a new baby girl expected in September — who brought him immeasurable joy, especially Ember, his light.
A man of deep faith, Del served as a Methodist minister for over 40 years, touching countless lives through his sermons, counsel, and unwavering commitment to his calling. He also served as a college professor, sharing his knowledge and curiosity with generations of students. He would tell anyone he met that his favorite job was actually a short time he spent at Circuit City.
Del’s pride and joy — aside from his family — was the cabin he built by hand in the woods of Michigan. For over 30 summers, he and Stephen made the pilgrimage north, hammer in hand and jokes at the ready, slowly crafting the cabin that became a symbol of his love for nature, hard work, and quiet simplicity.
He was a jokester, a “jack of all trades,” frugal to a fault, and content with the simple things in life. Those who knew him will remember his humor, his ability to fix nearly anything, and his deep-rooted values that never wavered.
Del was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Jeannete Covington, his brother, Bill Covington, and his sister, Millie England.
Per his wishes, there will be no formal funeral or memorial service. Instead, the family will honor his memory as he wanted — with a gathering of friends and loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and the memories that made him unforgettable.
In lieu of flowers, the family simply asks that you take a moment to share a favorite story or memory of Del — and maybe tell a joke in his honor.