Roll Call Tribute

Milton Roy "Spike" Halbert, USAF (Ret) 

March 30, 1938 - January 24, 2026 

Milton Roy Halbert, age 87, of Plano, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, in Plano. Milton lived a life defined by service, faith, dedication to family, and a quiet commitment to helping others.

Milton was born on March 30, 1938, in George West, Texas, to William R. Halbert and Ruby Francis (Walton) Halbert. His father passed away when he was 15 months old. He went to live at the Masonic Home and School in Fort Worth, Texas when he was 4 years old. Milton was a multi-sport athlete and an honor student. He graduated in 1956 as Valedictorian of his class. He was raised with strong values that guided him throughout his life — integrity, hard work, and devotion to both country and community.

He attended Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. Milton graduated in 1960 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and later returned to Texas A&M to earn his master’s degree, further reflecting his dedication to education and lifelong growth.

Milton proudly served in the United States Air Force for twenty years, from 1961 until his retirement in 1981. A Vietnam War veteran, he was stationed at various locations throughout his military career, including Maryland, California, Ohio, Virginia, and Texas. His service reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to protecting others. Following his military retirement, Milton continued his professional career with Martin Marietta, where he worked for ten years on the ballistic missile program, contributing to critical national defense efforts.

Later in life, Milton devoted his time and talents to serving others in meaningful ways. He worked as a house parent at the Mountain States Children’s Home in Longmont, Colorado, providing guidance and stability to young lives, and spent ten years as a high school math teacher, where he was known for his knowledge and steady encouragement of students.

A man of strong faith, Milton was an active member of Eastridge Church of Christ and Prestoncrest Church of Christ. He faithfully served in numerous volunteer roles, participated in Men’s Bible Study, and served as an elder. Even in his later years, while living at The Conservatory of Plano, Milton continued to serve others by taking the initiative to maintain and organize the community library — a reflection of his lifelong desire to contribute and be useful wherever he was.

On February 11, 1961, Milton married the love of his life, Lois Royder, in Dayton, Texas. Their marriage spanned more than six decades and was marked by steadfast love, partnership, and devotion. Together, they built a family rooted in faith and shared values.

Milton had many interests that brought him joy. He enjoyed golfing and fishing, woodworking — making picture frames, toys, and small furniture items — and reading, particularly biographies, numerous novels, and books about U.S. presidents. One of his greatest pleasures was watching his grandchildren play sports and attending their extracurricular activities, always showing up with pride and encouragement.

Milton was preceded in death by his sister, Wilma Johnson. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lois (Royder) Halbert of Plano, Texas; his children, Larry Halbert and wife Kelley of Franklin, Tennessee; Darryl Halbert and wife Stephanie of Plano, Texas; Mark Halbert and wife Julie of Tupelo, Mississippi; and Tracy Littlejohn and husband Damon of Irvine, California. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Creighton (Erica) Halbert, Cameron (Lisa) Halbert, Kelby (Taylor) Davis, Kacey Halbert, Keaton (Sarah Rice) Halbert, Carter (Braeleigh) Halbert, Hayes Halbert, Trevor Littlejohn, Addison (Cameron) Wilborn, Trey Littlejohn, Kaden Littlejohn, and Rylan Littlejohn; and his great-grandchildren: Titus Halbert, Ellie Halbert, Felix Halbert, Brynn Halbert, and James-Blayne Halbert. Additional surviving family members include his niece, Jennifer Johnson Edgar, his great nephew Garrett Edgar, and his nephew, Milton Johnson.

Milton Roy Halbert will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a faithful servant of God, a proud veteran, and a man whose life quietly touched many through service, teaching, and kindness. His legacy lives on in the family he loved deeply and the many lives he influenced through faith and example.

A memorial service to honor Milton’s life will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Eastridge Church of Christ, located at 670 N. Stodghill Road, Rockwall, Texas 75087. Services will be officiated by Minister Jason Reeves. Additionally, the United States Air Force Honor Guard will be present to render full military honors, in recognition of Milton’s faithful service to his country.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rest Haven Funeral Home in Rockwall, Texas.