Hearne loses life-long business friend
William Kent Brunette October 14, 1953 March 22, 2026 Memorial Funeral Home William Kent Brunette, affectionately known as Kent, passed away on March 22, 2026, at St. Joseph Bryan. Born on October 14, 1953, in Cameron, Texas, Kent’s life was marked by a distinguished career, deep community involvement, and a profound love for family and friends. Kent completed his secondary education at Hearne High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Texas. He further honed his expertise by attending Baylor Law School, preparing for a career that would bridge law, public service, and advocacy. Kent’s professional journey took him to Washington, DC, where he served as a lobbyist for the A.A.R.P., demonstrating his commitment to representing and advancing the interests of older Americans at the national level. After years in the nation’s capital, Kent returned to his roots in Hearne, Texas. There, he utilized his skills and experience as the Economic Development Director for Hearne. His dedication to regional progress extended through numerous roles within Robertson County, including serving as Director of the Hearne Depot Project. Kent’s leadership significantly contributed to the growth and revitalization of his hometown and county, leaving a legacy of civic dedication and community enhancement. Kent was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Lois Evelyn Bush and William Jacob Brunette. He is survived by his sister, Carol Broadus and her husband Gary, who, along with their children—Chris and his wife Miranda, Cole and his wife Kailey, Justin and his wife Brandi, and Brady and Brianna—carry forward Kent’s memory. Additionally, he is survived by extended family members Mary Schultz and her family, Susan Meadors and her family, Lisa Sanders and her family, and Butch Morgan and his family, a special mention to Judy and Mike Werlinger and their family and James Shear and his family, who were an important part of his life. Kent’s life was enriched by many long-standing friendships, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His family cherishes the memory of his warm smile, infectious laugh, and the countless updates he shared about his King Charles Spaniel puppies, which highlighted his affectionate and caring nature. William Kent Brunette’s professional achievements and personal warmth have left an indelible mark on the communities he served and the people who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, and colleagues.
Chainsaw artist turns Hearne trees into lasting tribute
Roy McCoy roy@robconews.com Robertson County News HEARNE — What used to be just a couple of trees in Hearne are now something people are stopping to look at. Texas chainsaw artist Della Meredith recently spent a few days in the community, transforming two cedar trees at the home of Mike O’Neil into detailed carvings — one shaped into a bouquet of flowers and the other featuring his house number. O’Neil is known locally for something simple, but meaningful. Each year, he grows wildflowers in front of his home and invites people to stop and pick a bouquet for themselves, or to give to someone special. It’s become a small gesture that’s made a lasting impression on those who pass by. The wildflowers have just recently been planted for the season and aren’t ready yet, but once they bloom, the carved bouquet will sit just behind them, tying everything together in a way that feels fitting for the space. Instead of removing the trees, they’ve been turned into something that will likely be there for years to come — something people can stop and take in, much like the flowers out front. Meredith travels across the state doing this kind of work, taking trees that are dead, damaged or no longer wanted and turning them into something meaningful. In Hearne, that idea fits right in. Her work can also be seen nearby at St. Mary’s Cemetery, where she carved a cedar tree into a statue of Jesus. That piece, completed earlier, has already drawn attention from visitors and adds to the growing presence of her work around town. People who have seen the carvings say they add something more — not just visually, but emotionally. It’s the kind of work that makes you pause for a moment, whether you meant to or not. Now, what used to be just a couple of trees is something a little more permanent — something that reflects both the artist’s work and the spirit of the place it now calls home.
