Royce Gene Hanson

Royce Gene Hanson was born October 10th, 1951 in Tyler, TX. He passed away on Friday, August 17th at the age of 66 after suffering a stroke. He is survived by his daughter Christi Peters (husband Hal) and grand-daughter Aubrey Peters of Houston, TX; step-son Danny Parsons and step-grandson JD Parsons of Durango, CO; his sisters, Leala Reep of Arp, TX and Donna Little of Tyler, TX; brother Jerry Hanson (wife Pamela) of Henderson, TX; nephews Josh Burks (wife Larissa), David Burks (wife Shelby), Jeff Burks (wife Kimberly); niece Lisa Stott (husband Ryan), as well as eleven great-nephews and great-nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry Royce Hanson and Dorothy Jean (Dykes) Hanson; his wife, Linda Parsons Hanson (his best friend, travelling buddy and the love of his life); and his brothers-in-law, Robert Little and Don Reep. Music became central in Royce’s life at a young age. In 1955, his mother placed him on stage, ukulele in hand, while Elvis Presley was performing during the Louisiana Hayride tour. A photo of Royce and Elvis was printed in the local paper. In 1977 after Elvis’s death, Royce made the front page of the paper again, when the photo re-circulated as a part of Elvis’s Texas history. Royce has been dubbed “the very first Elvis impersonator”. Royce was a gifted musician, repairman and chess player. He especially enjoyed playing electric and steel guitar. He travelled extensively, playing music around the country beginning in his late teens. In addition to playing, writing and recording music, Royce worked in installation and repair of electronics and appliances for over 45 years. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 26th at 10 am @ Caudle-Rutledge Funeral Home, 206 W South St, Lindale, TX 75771. In lieu of flowers, the family will collect school supplies for donation. Royce would want you honor his memory by spending time doing what you love most. Remember him by playing a favorite song, spending time on a treasured hobby that brings you joy or simply by spending time with those you love. Cards of remembrance may be sent to the family c/o Caudle Rutledge, PO Box 5, Lindale, TX 75771.

Royce Gene Hanson

October 10, 1951 - August 17, 2018