John Estrella, 63, died peacefully at his home in Baird on January 30th, surrounded by his family. Born in Providence, RI, Mr. Estrella had lived more than half his life in East Providence, RI, before moving his family to Baird in 1988. He leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Carol, and their six children and 11 grandchildren all residing in Texas. Carrie Elam and her daughter, Katie, of McKinney; Jennie Wigginton and husband, Preston, and her children Matthew and Christopher Smythe, Brittany Ballard and Anthony McBride of Abilene, and Steven Wilcox of Burleson; John A. and wife, Shelbie, and their son, Ty, of Clyde, , and his children Zane and Cayla Estrella of Abilene; Lorrie Kilpatrick and husband, Benson, and their children Cameron and Lilly of Clyde; Robert and wife, April, of Rowlett; and James and wife, Nicola, of Midland. He also leaves his brother, Alfred Jr., of Pascoag, RI, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Mary A. (Costa) Estrella, a brother, Arthur, and Arthur's two children. Mr. Estrella was a decorated U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran and former Rhode Island National Guardsman. He had worked road construction since 1972, and continued to do so after moving to Texas. He had been employed with Contract Paving of Tye, and retired in 2013 after more than 25 years of service with the company. A memorial service honoring Mr. Estrella's life will be held at North's Memorial Chapel, 242 Orange St., Abilene, on Saturday, February 1stat 4pm, with Dr. Cliff Stewart officiating. The family is honoring his wish to be cremated.