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David Neal “PawDaddy” Stribling, 72, of Sulphur Springs, Texas, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026. David was born on September 18, 1953, and spent most of his life in Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County, where he built a legacy of love, hard work, and quiet strength. He was the son of Chester Lee and Bertha Mae Strawn Stribling, from whom he learned the values of hard work, family, and helping others.
Over the years, David worked as a truck driver, dairy farmer, rodeo stock contractor, and cow breeder, and he took great pride in doing the job right and taking care of the people around him. He was known for his contagious smile, quick wit, and desire to help others.
To his grandchildren and those who knew him well, he was “PawDaddy,” and that title meant the world to him. He delighted in teaching them about farm life, horses, and many other mischievous tricks, and he created memories that they will carry for the rest of their lives.
David is survived by his wife, Debra Gilbreath Stribling of Sulphur Springs; his children, David and Debbie Stribling of Sulphur Springs, Brandon and Becky Stribling of Cibolo, and Mike and Rhandi Taylor of Winnsboro; grandchildren, Amber Stribling of Sulphur Springs, Case Fails of Sulphur Springs, Ryker Taylor of Winnsboro, Daniel and Alexis Sosa of San Antonio, Brayden Stribling and Ali Franco of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Lita Tijerina of San Marcos; great-grandchildren, Hendrix and Hazel Sosa of San Antonio; a sister, Charlotte Burns of Miller Grove; and a brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Vicky Stribling of Sulphur Springs. He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Bertha Stribling.
Visitation will be held at West Oaks Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Shooks Chapel Cemetery.
The family finds comfort in knowing that David is now at peace and rests in the presence of his Lord.
David “PawDaddy” Stribling will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know him.
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