A visionary entrepreneur and beloved pillar of the Fannin County community, Loyd left an indelible mark on North Texas through his remarkable career spanning education, agriculture, and real estate. Born in 1936 in Ladonia, Texas, Loyd's deep roots in Fannin County shaped his lifelong commitment to serving and developing the region he called home.
After graduating from Ladonia High School, Loyd pursued higher education at East Texas State University in Commerce, earning both his Bachelor of Science degree in 1960 and Master of Education degree in 1966. In May 1959, he married Jane Horton of Lannius, Texas, beginning a lifelong partnership that would see them build both a family and thriving business enterprises in Bonham.
Loyd began his professional journey as an educator, teaching high school English and mathematics while coaching football and basketball in several northeast Texas schools including Dodd City, Bells, Princeton, and Sam Rayburn during the 1960s and early 1970s. His entrepreneurial spirit emerged early as he established and managed the Bonham Roller Rink and The Steak-Out restaurant in Bonham.
In 1973, Loyd embarked on what would become his defining career path, obtaining his real estate salesman license, followed by his broker's license in 1975. He founded Fanninland Realty on Bonham's town square, building it into a cornerstone of the region's real estate market. Throughout the land boom of the late 1970s and early 1980s, Loyd's vision and business acumen led to significant expansion in both real estate and agriculture.
A true pioneer in multiple industries, Loyd was instrumental in developing the Limore' cattle breed, crossing Texas Limousin with Brazilian Nelore' cattle. His agricultural ventures grew to encompass over 7,000 acres of owned farmland and the management of a 2,000-acre ranch operation. In the 1990s and 2000s, alongside his son Chris, Loyd expanded into healthcare real estate development, establishing both the Bonham Medical Plaza and Royse City Medical Plaza.
Loyd's legacy extends far beyond his business achievements. He was a devoted husband to Jane, a loving family man, and a mentor to many in the real estate and agricultural communities. His unparalleled half-century of experience as a broker, farmer, rancher, and entrepreneur made him a trusted advisor and respected figure throughout Fannin County.
The name he chose for his company, Fanninland Realty, reflects not only his dedication to Fannin County but also his vision for its growth and development. Today, we honor Loyd's memory and celebrate a life devoted to building, growing, and nurturing both the land and the community he loved so dearly.
His wisdom, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to guide Fanninland Realty and inspire future generations of real estate professionals in North Texas.