Earl Weldon McNiel, Jr.

Earl Weldon McNiel, Jr., known to many as 'Mr. Wonderful', passed away on December 4, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Earl was born on July 19, 1954, in El Paso, Texas, to Earl Weldon McNiel, Sr. and Bessie Ailene Barnes.

After high school, Earl earned his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas.

Earl met the love of his life, Becky Lyn Fears, and the two were married on June 21, 1980, in Granbury, Texas. Together they built a beautiful life centered on love, patience, hard work, and a shared passion for family.

Earl proudly served with the Texas Department of Public Safety for 30 years. He retired as an Assistant Commander of Narcotics Service in 2004. During his dedicated career, he began as a Trooper and faithfully served the citizens of Texas with integrity and commitment.

After retirement, Earl especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports. Athletics were woven throughout his life-whether it was softball, golf, basketball, or, most of all, football. He was a lifelong and loyal Dallas Cowboys fan. Earl loved traveling with his family and close friends, especially spending time near the water and in the mountains. He loved fishing, whether it was trips to Caddo with friends, or at the lake with his kids and grandkids. He was always the light in every room, making everyone feel seen and welcomed. Earl never knew a stranger, he was full of life, always had jokes, nicknames for everyone, and witty sayings often referred to as Earl-isms.

As a child, Earl went to the Church of Nazarene and joked that they were there every time the doors were open. He made lifelong friends being active in the church and the youth groups everywhere they lived. He was a child of God and is joyfully embracing his Lord today.

Earl is survived by his wife, Becky 'Bicky Dahlin'; his daughters, DeDe Hatton, Amanda McNiel, and Lynsie Nuckolls and husband Matt; his brother, Michael McNiel and wife Phyllis; and his grandchildren, Jace, Reagan, and Ryder Hatton, as well as Cannon and Everleigh Nuckolls.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Carrie Jo "Angie" Fowler and Brenda Maler. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Combest Family Funeral Homes, 2210 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas 79401.

Funeral services will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Church on the Rock, 10503 Slide Road, Lubbock, Texas 79424. Burial will follow the service.