Coach David Pyle

Coach David Ross Pyle, 90, of Carthage, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in Temple, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Central Baptist Church with Dr. Charles Dodson officiating. Visitation will be from 2:00–3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in Ash Creek Cemetery in Azle, Texas. David Ross Pyle was born January 5, 1936, in Bedias, Texas, to Claude Eagle Pyle and Mary Erma Pyle. He was the older of two children and grew up with a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for family, faith, and community. David graduated from Tomball High School and continued his education at Blinn College and Sam Houston State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in education. He later pursued postgraduate studies through Prairie View University. On June 8, 1963, David married the love of his life, Celia Ann Conwell. Together they shared 45 wonderful years of marriage and raised two sons before Celia preceded him in death in 2008. Known affectionately by generations as “Coach Pyle,” David dedicated 35 years of his life to education and athletics. His coaching career included service with the school districts of Smiley, Nocona, Tomball, Midlothian, Alvarado, Hubbard, Klein, Magnolia, Tenaha, Carlisle, and Carthage ISD. Through his leadership, mentorship, and encouragement, he left a lasting impact on countless students and athletes. David was a member of the Texas High School Coaches Association and faithfully served as a Gideon. He also loved serving at Central Baptist Church, where he warmly welcomed others as a greeter. His strong faith, servant’s heart, and genuine kindness touched many lives. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Celia Ann Pyle; his parents, Claude and Erma Pyle; his son, Vince Pyle; and his sister, Claudean Schultz. Left to cherish his memory are his devoted son, Craig Pyle and wife Sara of Little River; daughter-in-law, Annette Pyle Harris and husband Carl of Carthage; grandchildren, Caitlin Limones and husband Miguel of Waco, Robert Pyle of Carrollton, Emily Pyle of Bryan, and Cody Pyle of Carthage; and one treasured great-granddaughter, Evangeline “Evie” Joy Limones. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, former students, ball players, and many dear friends. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Paul Bishop, Jeff Griffin and James Wills. Coach Pyle’s legacy will live on in the lives he shaped, the lessons he taught, and the example of faith, dedication, and compassion he shared with all who knew him.

Tributes

Coach David Pyle

January 5, 1936 - May 18, 2026