Hal Ray Reichardt

Hal Ray Reichardt, 77, of Shiner, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026. 
Hal was born on April 13, 1948, in Shiner, to Henry and Helen Reigh Reichardt. He married Patsy Ruth Lilley on December 19, 1981, at the Lilley Family Ranch in Lampasas.
Hal was a faithful member of Shiner Lutheran Church and the Retired Teachers Association. He was baptized and confirmed at United Dr. Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Shiner. He was a graduate of Shiner High School, Victoria Junior College, and Texas A&I University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He also pursued graduate studies through Texas Tech University.
Hal served his country honorably in the United States Army Security Branch, with assignments at Fort Lewis, Washington; Fort Lee, Virginia; Sinop, Turkey; and Fort Devens, Massachusetts. He continued his service by educating young people, teaching Texas History, American History, and Civics at Needville Junior High and High School.
After retiring from teaching, Hal returned to Shiner with his loving wife. He delighted in telling jokes, visiting with friends at the donut shop and Bea’s, and walking his faithful companion, Ziggy. He enjoyed gardening and yard work, where he grew beautiful patches of pansies. Hal loved people, especially children, and was known for being giving, thoughtful, and always willing to help his neighbors.
He was a devoted son and husband. He enjoyed camping with friends, playing lottery scratch-offs, and antiquing with his wife as they searched for nativity scenes to add to their collection. Hal often volunteered at church, serving as co-financial secretary for 12 years and caring for the church candles and bulletins. He kept his mind sharp by reading history and mystery books. His second home was the Shiner Library.
Robert Frost once said, “I am not a teacher, but an awakener.” Certainly, Hal awakened many students throughout his years as a teacher, and all are better because he cared so deeply.
Hal is survived by his adoring wife, Patsy Ruth Lilley, Reichardt; sisters-in-law, Rev. Lin Lilley of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Sue Lilley of Lampasas, as well as nieces and nephews by marriage. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; and infant brother, Roy Reichardt.
The family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m. Saturday, February 7 at Shiner Lutheran Church, with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m.
Interment will take place in Shiner Cemetery. 
Honorary pallbearers are Albert Krenek, Rudy Janik, David Wheeler, Doug Syamken, Ronnie Chumchal and Harvey Dlouhy.
Memorials may be made to Shiner Lutheran Church, Shiner Public Library, or to the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Shiner Funeral Home.