William "Hal" Howell Barclay

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved William Howell “Hal” Barclay, who departed this life peacefully at his home in Silsbee, Texas, on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the age of 73.

Born and raised in Silsbee, Hal was the middle child of George and Jean Barclay. He graduated from Lamar University and went on to build a long and respected career as an electrical supervisor and team leader at Temple Inland and Motiva. In addition, Hal served his community as a paramedic and, for a time, operated his own ambulance service. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In 1977, Hal welcomed his beloved daughter, Brooke, and in 1984, his cherished son, Brandon. He instilled in them a deep commitment to generosity, kindness, forgiveness, and the importance
of helping others—a legacy of compassion and quiet strength that lives on in them today.

One of Hal’s greatest joys was becoming a grandfather to Dominica Klisch and Lillian Barclay. He loved to spend time with family and close friends, but if he wasn’t with them, he was off being a solitary man, and roaming cowboy. You could find him hunting, listening to AM radio in his truck while watching his cows roam the pasture, or diving into his passion for history—especially Texas and American history. He had a deep appreciation for theatre, especially Les Misérables, Fiddler on the Roof, and Phantom of the Opera, as well as country music and classic Western films.

Hal was preceded in death by his parents, Jean and George Barclay. Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Brooke (and Tiemo) Klisch, and granddaughter, Dominica Klisch;
his son, Brandon (and Dallas) Barclay, and granddaughter, Lillian Barclay. He is also survived by his older brother, Jack (and Donna) Flowers; younger brother, Marc (and Paula) Barclay; and
their beloved children and grandchildren. He leaves behind his Aunt Beverly Tobias, his former wife, Vanessa Barclay, and a host of close friends—Dewey Odom, Erin Ford, David Brooks, Fred Samford, Ronnie Smith, Ronnie Mitchell, Ronnie Conner, Mark Flanakin, Dena Shaw—and many more.

Please forgive us if we haven’t named everyone. Hal had so many dear friends, and this list could never be complete.

Hal dedicated his life to his children, grandchildren, and friends—all of whom consider themselves profoundly blessed to have known him. He was, and always will be, remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering generosity, and quiet wisdom.

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