Dr. Bobye June Riney

Dr. Bobye Riney was born in Merkel, Texas, daughter of Lena Jo Garrett Riney and Robert E. Riney. She was a graduate of Merkel High School and attended Texas Women’s University, Abilene Christian College, Southern Methodist University, and Purdue University where she obtained her Ph.D. in consumer economics.

For most of her career, she was a professor at the University of North Texas in what is now known as the College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism. Her earlier work life also included serving as a Home Demonstration Agent and a Rural Civil Defense Specialist with Texas Agricultural Extension Service.

Her passions included buying, selling and collecting antiques, genealogy, her flower beds of Texas native plants, RVing, the Dallas Cowboys, TV (watching any football game or antique related show), and spending time with her loved ones and many friends. She loved butterflies, watching birds, all the antics of her cats and dogs, and sweets.

Bobye was a woman of faith who believed God loved her. She took comfort and encouragement from the old gospel songs, hymns, and many contemporary Christian songs as well. While her faith journey began in the Church of Christ, for the last 27 years she has been a member of Metropolitan Community Churches.

Bobye was preceded in death by her parents, her brother “Bud” Riney, nephew Kendall Riney, and long-time friend Alice Milner. She is survived by her family of choice Colleen Darraugh, Shelly Torres-West, Robert Hodder, and Nancy Vaughn, many cousins and friends, as well as her cat Bandi. In all of her work and living, she positively impacted many people who are grateful for her presence in their lives.

A chapel service will be held on Thursday, April 21st at 11am, with viewing beginning at 10am, at Starbuck Funeral Home in Merkel, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dr. Bobye Riney Scholarship Fund, College of Merchandising, Hospitality and Tourism, PO Box 311100, 1150 University Circle, Denton, TX 76203 or to Metropolitan Community Churches, 2775 NW 49th Ave., Ste 205-327, Ocala, FL 34482.

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