Ples M. Crouch, Jr.

Ples M. Crouch Jr., of the Sand Branch Community, was born in Atascosa County on December 15, 1939. He passed away surrounded by his loving family on September 3, 2021, in Poteet, Texas at the age of 81. Ples was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Stella Mae Wood Crouch, and son, Timothy M. Crouch. He is survived by his children, Michael D. Crouch, Rhonda Crouch, Susan Gail Crouch, Mark L. Crouch, and wife Christina Crouch; grandchildren, Nicole, Ruben Joshua, Clint, Chris, Sarah, and Lily; great-grandchildren, Grayson, Chloe, Cale, and Zoey. Ples was a long-time member of Sand Branch Baptist Church. He served in the US Navy and worked for the US Government as a civil servant for over 30 years. Ples found his true love at Garner State Park in July 1960 and then in August 1961, Ples and Stella eloped and were married in Corpus Christi, Texas where he was stationed. During their 53 years of marriage, they raised a family, and through good times and bad, they navigated the tides of life. He was a loving father to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Ples loved to tell stories of his past, tell jokes, and wasn't one known to back down from a fight. He was loved by all and will be missed dearly. A visitation will begin at 9 am - 10 am at Sand Branch Baptist Church with a service to follow at 10 am on Friday, September 10, 2021. Interment to follow in Sand Branch Cemetery. If you wish to offer a word of condolences to the family or share a memory you may do so by visiting www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home in Devine, Texas.