John Hartley

John Hartley, 70, of Keller, Texas, went home to be with Jesus on Sunday, July 12, 2026. He passed at home, surrounded by his wife and children, knowing how deeply he was loved. John was born September 9, 1955, in Fort Madison, Iowa to William "Bill" and LaVerne (Wellman) Hartley. The fourth of eight children, John grew up with the values that would remain at the center of his life.

John spent his entire 42-year career with BNSF Railway, where he was highly respected for his knowledge and experience. His career took him and his family from Fort Madison, Iowa to Merriam, Kansas, and Naperville, Illinois before bringing them to North Texas, where John and Darlene made their home in Keller. No matter where life took him, John remained proud of his Iowa roots. John believed deeply in the value of a day's work, and he passed that work ethic on to his four children by leading as their example. Work was a privilege; he often reminded his family "he gets to go to work" never that he had to go.

However, the work that mattered the most to him was taking care of his family. John's 45 years of marriage to Darlene were a testament to a life built together and a commitment that endured. John served as his family's avid weatherman, always ready with the forecast and summary of rainfall from the night before. He enjoyed the predictability of a light romantic comedy. He was always willing to share his wisdom when asked. One of his endearing traits was checking in on loved ones who shared their location with him; it satisfied his curiosity and comforted him knowing they made it to their destination safely.

John will be remembered as ever-reliable, pragmatic and uncompromising, with a wry sense of humor, quick wit, and a way of putting others at ease. He was rarely seen without a Diet Coke in hand, a warm inviting smile, and a sparkle in his eye.

John's faith was a steady presence throughout his life. He loved the Lord, and his family finds peace in knowing that after a life well lived, John is now home with Jesus.

John is survived by his wife, Darlene (Swanson) Hartley of Keller, Texas; his four children, Benjamin Hartley of Arvada, Colorado, Timothy Hartley of Fort Worth, Texas, Abigail Hartley of Keller, Texas, and Emily van der Merwe (Nicholas) of Keller, Texas; and his siblings, William "Bill" Hartley (Chrissy) of Keokuk, Iowa, Robert "Bob" Hartley (Pat) of Adel, Iowa, Ronald "Ron" Hartley (Sandy) of Cape Coral, Florida, Diana Killoren of Fort Madison, Iowa, Lonny Hartley, and Janet Wilbert of Overland Park, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and LaVerne Hartley, and his brother, Donald Hartley.

Visitation and funeral service will be held at Lucas Funeral Home of Keller, Texas. Visitation will be Thursday, July 23 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with the funeral service on Friday, July 24 at 10:00 a.m.