Duncan Eugene Hirsch, known and loved by many as "Gene," of Jourdanton, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on September 1, 1943, in Yoakum, Gene lived a full and meaningful life centered on service, hard work, faithfulness to family, and a deep love for his community.

Gene was the son of Elliott "Duncan" Hirsch and Annabelle Telford Hirsch. Early in life, he served his community as a firefighter while also spending his days working as a cowboy. The cowboy way of life was not just what Gene did—it was part of who he was, and he carried that pride, grit, and tradition with him throughout his life.

Gene found great joy in team roping and in the western life he loved so deeply. The respect he earned over the years was evident in the honors he received, including being named Atascosa Cowboy of the Year in 2010 and his induction into the Atascosa Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2025.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Elliott "Duncan" Hirsch and Annabelle Telford Hirsch; his in-laws, Harvey and Viola Hess; his brother-in-law, Jay Segrest; and his nephews, Eric Brown and Jason Segrest.

Gene leaves behind a family who loved him deeply: his devoted wife, Sandrea Hirsch ("Sandy"); his son, Duncan Hirsch Jr. ("Geneo"), and his wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Stacy Hirsch, and her wife, Brenda Burney; his sister, Marty Segrest; his brother-in-law, Jerry Brown, and his wife, Janice; his grandchildren, Cheyenne Hirsch-Parsons and her husband, Allan, and Taylor Hirsch; his greatgrandchildren, Kelli Yaws and Creed Parsons; his nephews, John Segrest and his wife, Amy, Mark Segrest and his wife, Cheryl, Kirt Brown and his wife, Negin, and Christopher Brown; and his adopted family son, Gene Chapa. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and fellow members of the cowboy and ranching community who will continue to hold his memory close to their hearts.

Gene will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his steady and dependable spirit, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. Whether through his service to others, his love of team roping, or the life he built as a cowboy, he touched many lives and leaves behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and heart.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Gene at Hurley Funeral Home on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with graveside services to follow immediately. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hurley Funeral Home.

Pallbearers: John Segrest, Mark Segrest, Gene Chapa, Bryan Chapa, Cuatro Hindes, Gilbert Gonzales, Ricky Cox, Allan Parsons, and Scott Watts. Honorary Pallbearers: Casey Cox, Willy Shannon, Mickie Clark, Roy Hindes, and Russell Hild.

"Those we love remain with us always, held close in our hearts and remembered every day."