Dan Ray Hooks, the legendary coach of the West Orange-Stark Mustang football team from 1981-2010, passed away December 9, 2025. He was 87.
Hooks lead his Mustangs to the State Championship game four times, winning in back to back years in 1986 and 87. Included in his record are 12 District Championships and 19 Playoff appearances.
He’s been inducted into the Texas High School Hall of Fame, Greater Houston Football Coaches Hall of Fame, Southeast Texas Coaches Hall of Fame, and was also named one of the Top 50 most memorable coaches by Texas Football magazine.
In 2006, the football stadium was renamed after him.
Besides all of his accomplishments on the field, people gravitated to Hooks because of his quick witted humor, great stories, and honest answers.
He is survived by his wife Cynthia, two daughters, Dee Dee and Shae Lynn, and one son, Dr. David Jones.
KOGT will have more in the days to follow.
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