Edward Allen Hermes, 88, of Hallettsville, passed away December 7, 2016 in Hallettsville, Texas. Edward was born October 2, 1928 in Lavaca County, Texas to Lucy Mayo Hermes and Patrick Joseph Hermes. He was preceded in death by an infant son, along with his first wife, Norma Loy in 1974. He was also preceded in death by his second wife, Elizabeth Bollom Hermes in 2012, and his stepson, Patrick Bollom in 2015.

Edward lived a life of service to God, country and community. He graduated from Hallettsville High School and then served in the United States Army during the Korean conflict. Afterwards, he attended Business School in San Antonio, Texas. He returned to Lavaca County working in the farming and ranching business and later became co-owner of Hermes Feed Mill. In 1976, Edward was appointed to fill an unexpired term of Precinct 4 as Lavaca County Commissioner. He established himself as an effective member of the court, and the people continually confirmed their trust in him by electing him to five consecutive terms. Throughout his many years as commissioner, he was at all times loyal to the philosophy of the people he represented. He also served on the Victoria area Golden Crescent Board and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Edward was a faithful member of St. John Baptist Catholic Church. His strong ethics and hard working values came from God, his family, and The Depression. Known as "Papaw" by his family, he was a loving and strong husband, father and grandfather.

Edward is survived by his children: Karen Hermes Renger and husband, Harvey; Ronnie Bollom and wife, Diane; Mike Bollom and wife, Judy; and Bernard Hermes and wife, Darcy. He is also survived by his beloved brothers: William "Buddy" Hermes and wife, Marie, and Alton Hermes and wife, Sue, of Hallettsville. Edward is survived by his many grandchildren: Krisha Belz and husband, Jeff, and two children: Jake and Wyatt; Jessica Trozzo and husband, Matt, and three children: Jace, Annie and Travis; Roddy Renger and wife, Angela and two children: Ryder and Aislynn; Richard Renger; Erinn Hengst and husband, Chris, and two children: Grey and Reece; Kaci Gougler and husband, Phil; Garret Bollom and wife, Taylor; Charlie Bollom and wife, Laurie and two children: Kaitlyn and Jordyn; Alicia Harsh and husband, David and son, Nate; Kelsi Hermes and daughter, Adelynn Zimmerman.

Visitation is Saturday, December 10th at 9:30 am, a Rosary at 10:30 am with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hallettsville, Texas, and Monsignor John Peters officiating. Pallbearers: Donnie Leopold, Lawrence "Butch" Hermes, Jamie Hermes, Carl Hermes, Ken Hermes, and Garret Bollom. Honorary Pallbearers : Pat Belcik, James Hermes, Pat Hermes, Anthony Henneke and all grandchildren. Memorials: St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, P.O. Box 201, Sweet Home, TX 77987; Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville; or Donor's choice.