William Henry “Scotty” Oliver, 89, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 1, 2026, in San Saba, Texas. Born on January 13, 1937, and raised in San Saba, he was the son of Dr. C.M. and Bertha Oliver, and was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, Andrew Taylor Oliver and Charles Murray Oliver Jr.
Scotty spent most of his adult life in Austin before recently returning to his hometown, where his life came full circle.
On October 15, 1960, in San Saba, he married the love of his life, Dora Juanette Barker. Their marriage was a beautiful example of devotion, partnership, and enduring love. While his faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life, Juanette was his greatest earthly blessing and companion. Together they built a strong family rooted in faith, loyalty, and love.
Scotty had a diverse and accomplished career. He worked for the Texas Highway Department, owned a life insurance agency, and was in commercial real estate before retiring from Texas Parks and Wildlife. In recognition of his dedication, a hunter education building in Fort Worth bears his name, honoring his lifelong commitment to hunter education and the outdoors.
A devoted man of faith, Scotty was a member of Great Hills Baptist Church for 51 years, serving as a deacon and chairman of the deacons for several terms. He considered it a privilege to have baptized several of his grandchildren in the San Saba River, passing on his faith in a deeply personal way. His life was a testament to his belief in Jesus Christ, and he left a lasting spiritual legacy for his family and community.
He was a gifted storyteller with an extraordinary memory. Whether recounting family history, discussing the family tree, or sharing stories from years gone by, he had a way of bringing the past to life. He was often the family’s historian, a trusted source in ancestral conversations and treasured memories.
Scotty loved the outdoors and shared that passion with his family. Deer hunting with his sons and grandchildren was a favorite pastime, and he also enjoyed trotlining for catfish, creating lifelong memories with his boys and grandkids. He loved reading western novels and was known to be a good dancer, always ready to enjoy life with a story, a lesson, or a quiet smile.
He was a proud father to three sons: Danny Oliver and his wife Annette; Marlis Oliver and his wife Heather; and David Oliver and his wife Alyssa.
He was a cherished grandfather to eight grandchildren: Brantley and his wife Samantha, Trenton, Baker and his wife Megan, Jackson, Charlie, Will and his wife Audrey, Weston, and Josie; and a proud great-grandfather to Brooklyn and Stetson.
Above all, Scotty will be remembered for his testimony of faith, love, and strength, which lives on through his family and all who knew him.
His memorial service and burial will take place at Harmony Ridge Cemetery 7214 County Road 126, San Saba, Texas, 76877 on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Harmony Ridge Cemetery Association: 1102 W. Wallace St. San Saba, Texas 76877
Pallbearers: Brantley Oliver, Baker Oliver, Trenton Oliver, Jackson Oliver, Will Oliver, Weston Oliver, Charlie Oliver, and Josie Oliver.
