2026 Farmer of the Year

Steve Devillier

​Growing up in Winnie, Texas where my very large family and most of the Winnie Community were involved in agriculture was very rewarding. Now being one of the very few still farming in Chambers County is evident of the challenges facing agriculture.

I had my first crop in 1975 at the age of 15 and have planted a crop every year since. I have traveled to Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Arkansas, California & Nicaragua (picture with Ford Frost) to learn the newest and best farming techniques and further my education in agriculture. I currently operate a vast farming & ranching operation with my wife Rhonda that consists of rice, crawfish, hay and cattle.

We own land and will forever be grateful to the landlords that have trusted me to lease their land for many years. I have previously served on various agricultural boards; President of Devers Canal Rice Producers Association, President of Winnie Rice Farmers Co-Op, Farm Bureau and currently serve on Texas Rice Council Board. With my wife we have 3 daughters and 7 grandchildren.

I don’t intend to retire; I plan to farm & ranch till I take my last breath – it was born in me and runs through my blood. My wish is that my family will continue in agriculture for decades in the future.