Dan Elbert Lydia

Dan Lydia, 80, of Kaufman, TX went to be with the Lord on February 28, 2025. Dan was born on March 6, 1944, to Charlie Jenkins and Ethel Gaines. He was raised in Kaufman and graduated from Pyle High School in 1962. After High School he went to Jarvis College in Tyler to play basketball and when he was finished there, he joined the Air Force. Dan worked for Southwest Airlines for about a year before becoming a truck driver for the rest of his career, retiring from Kroger in 2007. Dan married Glenda Lydia, and they have been together for over 40 years. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play in sports and was a faithful Christian. Dan attended Wilson Street Church. He had a servant’s heart, always helping people in need.

Dan later took his stepfather’s last name of “Lydia”.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents; Ethel May Gaines and Charlie Jenkins Jr., siblings; Louis Jenkins, Jackie Jenkins, Lloyd Jenkins, Allen Jackson, Rodney Jackson, Brenda Jackson and Luida Gaines.

Dan is survived by siblings; Floyd Jenkins, Shane Jackson, Raymond Gaines Jr., Ray Lee Gaines Jr., Billy Ray Gaines, Edward Glen Gaines, Marilyn Marten, Joanne Gaines, Linda Ivory Jenkins, Chetra Robinson Jenkins, Alfonzo Jenkins, Angela Jackson. Left to cherish his memory are his children David Pickron and wife Tammy, Floyd Pickron and wife Tracie, Candace Lydia, Brandy Dickerson, Kenny Dickerson and wife Carol; grandchildren: Adrian Williams, J’lil Herndon, D’shunovick Herndon, Brandee Ashely, Kaden Pickron, Legacy Bloodson, K.C. Jeffers, Isaiah Pickron, Alexis Dickerson, Daylon Dickerson, Rylan Gore, Tyler Dickerson, Jordan Dickerson, along with 15 great-grandchildren who will all miss him dearly.

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Daddy,

My heart aches knowing you’re no longer here, but I find peace knowing you’re in heaven, watching over us. No more pain, no more suffering – just rest, love, and the warm embrace of those who went before you. Still, Daddy, I miss you so much.

I’ll miss our late-night phone calls, the ones where you made sure I was home safe with the doors locked. I’ll miss that familiar, comforting voice saying, “Heyy, Pumpkin.” I’ll miss your wisdom, your stories, your guidance – the way you always knew just what to say to keep me grounded. You were my protector, my teacher, my anchor. Without you, everything feels a little less steady.

But I promise, Daddy, I’ll hold on to everything you taught me. I’ll carry your legacy of faith, strength, and love. I’ll do my best to make you proud, just like you always made me proud to be your daughter.

I love you beyond words, and I already miss you more than my heart can bear. Until we meet again, keep watching over us. I know you will.

I love you forever.

Love,

Candace

A.K.A. Pumpkin