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Daniel Ray Parkhurst, born December 16, 1937, in Bristow, Oklahoma, passed away on June 20, 2024, in Midland, Texas. His life was characterized by unwavering determination, a deep-rooted passion for the oil and gas industry, and above all, a profound love for his family and Jesus Christ.
Daniel, affectionately known as Dan, graduated as salutatorian from Gypsy High School in 1955. He married Delois "DeDee" Wood on June 14, 1958, at First Baptist Church in Bristow, Oklahoma. Dan furthered his education at Central State College in Edmond, Oklahoma, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Chemistry in 1959.
In 1960, Dan moved to Sweetwater, Texas, with his wife and son, Tom, to begin his career in the oil and gas industry. He worked diligently for Skelly Oil Company until 1979. Driven by his love for the profession, he left Skelly to establish a drilling company and acquire oil and gas properties. In 1989, he settled in Midland, Texas, where he continued working until his passing. Dan was well known and respected for his knowledge, experience, expertise, and work ethic.
Dan and DeDee were blessed with five children: Tom, Dalaine, David, Damon, and Doug. His legacy lives on through his wife, children, twelve grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, especially watching them play sports. Dan made a profession of faith as a youth and was baptized in Sweetwater, Texas at Lamar Baptist Church in 1963, where he taught Sunday School for high school aged boys. Dan was an active member of First Baptist Church in Midland, Texas from 1989 until his death.
Dan's love for Texas Tech University was unwavering, with all five of his children and several grandchildren attending Tech. He enthusiastically supported the university's football and basketball teams, sharing countless memorable moments going to games with DeDee, children, and grandchildren. Beyond his professional pursuits, Dan had a passion for cars and enjoyed participating in amateur drag racing in his younger years, cheered on by his five children.
Daniel Ray Parkhurst is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Pearl Parkhurst, his eldest son, Daniel Thomas Parkhurst, and his siblings Jimmy, Lorene, Darlene, Mark, and Joyce. He leaves behind a legacy cherished by all who knew and loved him..