Dennis Bartley

Dennis Bartley, 69, of Midlothian, Texas, passed away on February 14, 2026, in Houston, Texas. He was born on September 25, 1956, in Haskell, Texas.

Though his given name was Richard Dennis, he was known and loved by all simply as Dennis. A proud American, devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Dennis was the kind of man whose steady presence filled a room. He was warm, dependable, and stubborn as all get out — and he wouldn’t have had it any other way. A true Southern gentleman and a faithful man of God, Dennis lived his life guided by love for the Lord, his family, and the blessings around him.

On June 27, 1998, Dennis married the love of his life, Kay Lynn, in Hamlin, Texas. Together they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, hard work, laughter, and adventure. That same year, they founded Bartley Construction, creating not only a successful business but a lasting legacy. Through integrity, grit, and determination, they grew the company until retiring in 2024, proudly passing it along to his son, Jake. Dennis believed in building things to last — homes, relationships, and a name people could trust.

Dennis embraced life with enthusiasm. He chased blue marlin across the globe on deep-sea sport fishing adventures, cheered passionately for NASCAR, and confidently declared himself a “wine sommelier.”

If you knew Dennis, you knew the full Bartley experience — especially when it came to food. Many of us enjoyed the finest wines and unforgettable meals because of him. He could turn the simplest ingredients into a gourmet feast, and somehow it always became the best meal — and the best memory — you’d ever had.

He loved to travel, but more than the destinations, he treasured the memories made with Kay Lynn and the friends and family he loved so deeply.

He was kind and generous, with a huge heart and always ready to champion the underdog. He loved fiercely and stood firmly in his faith. While strong-willed and determined, his heart was tender toward those he cared about most. His family and friends were his greatest pride and joy.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Kay Lynn Atwood-Bartley of Midlothian, Texas; their son, Jake Atwood and wife, Katy, of Italy, Texas; his brother-in-law, Keith Atwood and wife, Sherrie, of Eastland; his mother, Patsy Pierce Alexander of Temple; his sisters, Patti Wigley and husband, Kenny, of Salado; Roni Reynolds of Temple; and Tina Westberry and husband, Robert, of Georgia; half brother James Bartley of Nebraska, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Bartley, and his nephews, Adam and Lance Wigley.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, hard work, and generosity. While we grieve his absence, we take comfort knowing he is at peace — likely casting a line in heavenly waters and keeping watch over those he loved so dearly.

Pallbearers:

• Colby Chappell
• Luis Hererra
• Victor Johansen
• Terry Kelly
• Frankie Pleitez
• Bruce VanWaes
• Larry Wilson

Honorary pallbearers:

• Bob Bryant
• Steve McCoy
• JK McKee
• Ray Pack
• Kenny Wigley