OBITUARIES
July 05 - December 05
Howard Burnett
Howard McQuade Burnett, 79, of May, died Sunday, June 26, 2005 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 29,2005 at the Heartland Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Don Longoria officiating. Burial was at his ranch near May. Heartland Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Mr. Burnett was born on November 23, 1925 the son of the late Edgar and Viva Lemaster Burnett.
He was a United States Navy Veteran serving his country in the Pacific during WWII. He was a member of the V.F.W. in both Brownwood and Graham. He had retired from Texas Electric where he worked as a Lineman. He loved ranching and tending to his cattle during his retirement. He had been a resident of May for 25 years formerly of Graham. He was a Baptist.
He was preceded in death by parents, Edgar and Viva Burnett; one daughter, Katherin Joetta Burnett; two brothers and two sisters.
Survivors include two sons, Freddy Wayne Burnett of May, Howard Dwayne Burnett of Lake Brownwood; one daughter, Charlene Ann Carnley of May; three brothers, Ed Burnett of Artesia, NM, Jerry Burnett of May, Ira Lee Burnett of Waco; three sisters, Eloise Hopper of Brownwood, Cozett Oaks of May, Inez Franklin of May; three grandchildren, Misty Carnley, Marcus McQuade Burnett, and Brodie McQuade Burnett; three great grandchildren, Jakob Carnley, Micah Carnley and Brianna Carnley.
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Billie (Butch) Zellman
Billie Faye (Butch) George Zellman, 67, died on June 27, 2005 at home surrounded by family and friends.
She leaves a legacy of tremendous grace and beauty of spirit. She has chosen to educate in death as she did in life by donating her body to helping find a cure for the disease that took her from us.
Memorials can be made to Mission Fund of Ash Creek Baptist Church, American Cancer Society, Main Street Hospice of Azle.
She was preceded in death by son, Scott Zellman, parents Bill and Lonnie George, and brother Mike George.
Survivors include her husband of 49 years, Gene Zellman; daughters, Keri Priest, Tricia Beevers and husband David; sister, Patti Sloan and husband Bobbie; granddaughter, Bridget Flores and husband Manuel; grandsons, Steven and Matthew Priest, and Garon and Jameson Beevers, and many nieces, nephews and friends.
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Durinda Cosper
MESQUITE- Durinda Diane Cosper 43, of Mesquite passed away on June 27, 2005 Monday at a Dallas hospital.
Services were at 2 PM Thursday June 30, 2005 in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Durinda was born on June 12, 1962 in Big Springs, Texas and graduated from Odessa High School. She married James Cosper Jr. on August 4, 1986 in Dallas, Texas. She was a loving wife and mother.
Durinda is survived by her husband James Cosper Jr. of Mesquite, Tx., mother Joyce Lepard of Odessa, Tx., a son James Cosper III of Mesquite, Tx., brother Mike Lepard of Odessa, Tx., mother and father-in-law James and Beth Cosper of Odessa, Tx., brother and sister in law Larry and Karen Cosper of Flower Mound, Tx., three nieces Kimberly Cline, Chelsea Alvarado, and Kelsey Cosper and a nephew J.J. Lepard.
She was preceded in death by her step father Jackie Lepard, and a brother Greg Cline.
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James Stockton
CISCO- James Thomas Stockton, 72, of Cisco, died Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at an Abilene hospital.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2005 at the Bible Baptist Church in Cisco.
Interment was in the Belle Plaine Cemetery, in Callahan County, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Mr. Stockton was born February 12, 1933 in Leflore, OK, to Arthur and Alice Lillian (Brown) Stockton. He entered the U.S. Air Force and served in Korea and Vietnam, retiring as Master Sergeant after 21 years. He settled in Putnam where he operated Stockton Electric Company. He married Janice Stockton, the mother of his children, and she preceded him in death in 1996. He married Kay Tedford on February 28, 2004 in Eastland. He was a member of the V.F.W. in Eastland. He enjoyed singing, visiting and drinking coffee.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Guy, Arch and R.J. Stockton; and by two sisters, Grace Boyd and Mattie Vigil.
Survivors include his wife, Kay Stockton of Cisco; two sons, James Thomas Stockton of Nebraska and James Dean Stockton of Abilene; one step-daughter, Barbara Renee Wessels of Cisco; three step-sons, Cecil Tedford of Breckenridge, Marvin Tedford of Cisco and Billy Tedford of Eastland; three grandchildren, 13 step-grandchildren; one brother and sister-in-law, Homer and Flo Stockton of Vinton, LA; two sisters, Lula Mae Kincaid of Yakima, WA and Inola Franklin of Seattle, WA.
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Mable Fletcher
Mable Louise Kizer Fletcher was born March 5, 1913 in Pittsburg, TX to J.W. and Eugenia Kizer.
She passed away on June 29, 2005 in Hanford, CA.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, J.C. Fletcher. They were longtime residents of Cisco and members of the First Christian Church of Cisco. She retired as bursar of Cisco Junior College and moved to Hanford following the death of her husband.
Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Flora Jean and Bob Lloyd of Riverdale, CA; her son and daughter-in-love, Robert L. and Margie Fletcher of Wylie, TX; granddaughters, Lea Ann Floyd Mattos and husband Anthony of Laton, CA, Wendy Lloyd Wagoner and husband Jim of Fresno, CA, and Karen Fletcher McCloskey and husband Tom of San Antonio; grandson, Ben Lloyd and wife Pauline of Hanford, CA; 13 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; her brothers, Charles R. Kizer and wife, Charlie Mae of Brownwood and Fred R. Kizer of Midland; plus many nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation will be Tues., July 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 6, 2005 at Summers Funeral Home in Cisco. Burial will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco next to her beloved husband.
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James 'Hotshot' Taylor
Funeral services for Mr. James Richard "Hotshot" Taylor, 75, of Whitesboro, Texas, were held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 1, 2005 at the Caudle-Rutledge Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Ronnie Taylor officiated. Burial followed in the Hopewell Cemetery. Services were directed by Caudle-Rutledge Funeral Directors in Lindale.
Mr. Taylor died Tuesday evening, June 28, 2005 at a Tyler hospital.
He was born August 8, 1929 in Smith County to Carl and Ruth Davis Taylor and was a longtime resident of Lindale. He was an Iron Foundry Molder, retiring from EBBA Iron after 25 years, and was a Baptist.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara Rudell Jeter Taylor; brothers, Charles, Travis and Dan Taylor; and sisters, Imagean Watson and Aileen Grey.
He is survived by four daughters, Pam Taylor of Tyler, Oleta "Sissy" Cady of Whitesboro, Treva Sanges of Whitesboro, and Brenda Hargesheimer of Gordonville; four sons, Mike Taylor of Frisco, Ed Taylor of Chapel Hill, Jimmy "Bud" Taylor of Allen, and Terry Taylor of Cisco; brother, Sikes Taylor of Van; sisters, Patricia Johnson of Canton and Virginia Thomas of Canton; 19 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and ex-wife and friend, Nancy Ishmael Taylor of Eastland.
Serving as pallbearers were grandsons, Dusty Ballew, Clayton Ballew, James Covert, Joshua Taylor, Brent Taylor, and Justin Sutherland.
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Harold Arthur
SANSOM PARK- Harold Gene Arthur, 68, passed away Thursday, June 30, 2005.
Funeral services were held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2005 at Mount Olivet Chapel. Burial was in Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Harold was born in Oak Hill, W. VA on August 20, 1936 to Lula and Jimmy Arthur. He was a retired postal letter carrier and an Air Force veteran. He was also a proud Girl Scout volunteer, worked in the stockyards and at LTV. Harold was a devoted hardworking husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, and friend. He loved hunting, telling jokes and good bargains. Harold was able to live his dream of owning a farm and raising pigs and cows in Cisco.
Survivors are his wife of 46 years, Noreen Arthur; daughters, Theresa Emerson, Patricia Arthur, Jeanine Pinillia and husband Pete, Jannette Barritt and husband, Roger; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; foster daughters, Linda and Brenda Kutej; and a lot of good friends.
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Virgie Lee
Virgie Jewell Lee, 97, formerly of May, Texas, passed away Friday, July 1, 2005 at the Holiday Hill Nursing Center in Coleman, Texas.
Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 3, 2005 at the May Cemetery in May, Texas. David Williams officiated. Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star was in charge of the arrangements.
Jewell was born on June 24, 1908 in Mills County, Texas to Hosea Ballew and Maud Wells-Fisher.
She married Olin V. Lee on November 8, 1932 in May, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; 3 sisters; 3 brothers; and one grandson.
She is survived by her two sons, Don Lee and his wife, Pat of Lake Coleman, Edward Lee and his wife, Pam of Abilene; one brother, Mark Fisher and his wife, Jenny of Brownwood; 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.
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Georgia Walter
EASTLAND- Georgia Mae Walter, longtime resident of Eastland, passed away Monday, July 4, 2005 in Irving.
Graveside services were held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 6, 2005 at the Eastland City Cemetery, directed by Edwards Funeral Home.
Georgia was born February 28, 1913.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Travis Fred Walter.
Survivors include 3 sons, Travis Fred Walter, Jr. of El Paso, Marvin Russell Walter of Tucson and Billy Paul Walter of Irving; five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
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Marie Dillard
Marie Dillard, 91, of Cross Plains, died Wednesday, June 29, 2005 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 2, 2005 at Higginbotham Chapel, with Faye Simons officiating. Burial was in the Cross Plains Cemetery.
She was born on July 6, 1913 to John McGee and Mollie (Wingfield) McGee in Callahan County, Texas.
She is survived by her son, N.L. (Raz) Dillard of Cross Plains; daughters, Bonnie Heard, Jean Wilson, Nelda Pancake, La Neal (Sissie) Worley all of Cross Plains and Kala Ranee (Pill) King of Weatherford; sisters, Lois Vaughn of Cross Plains and Johnnie Alexander of California; 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, 3 sisters, Renie Hyman, Dessa Higgins, and Donna Turner as well as one grandchild.
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C.J. 'Junior' Dawkins
GORMAN- C.J. "Junior" Dawkins, 78, of Ranger, died Thursday, June 30, 2005 at the Brownwood Medical Center.
Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 3, 2005 at the Downing Cemetery in Comanche County. Durward Webb and Stan Harvey officiated. Services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home.
Mr. Dawkins was born June 24, 1927 in Gorman to Cleburn Dawkins and Eva (Morris) Dawkins. He was a retired farmer and a protestant. He served in the National Guard.
Survivors include his wife, Flossie Dawkins of Ranger; one sister, Margie Harrison of Waco; and several nieces and nephews.
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Joe Jackson
BRECKENRIDGE-Joe Lynch Jackson, 81, died Friday, July 1, 2005.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 5, 2005 at Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, Rev. Charles West officiated. Burial was in the Macedonia Cemtery directed by Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home.
He was born on February 26, 1924 in Caddo, Texas to parents Robert Jackson and Mabel Smith Jackson. He married Charlene (Toppy) Echols on June 30, 1946 in Oakgrove. She preceded him in death on February 26, 1997. He was an oil man, rancher and had been a banker. He was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church #3 and a U.S. Air Force Veteran of WW II. He was also past president of the Texas Sheep & Goat Raisers Assn, member of the American Hereford Assn, past member of the Stephens Memorial Hospital Board and past chairman of the Board of the Citizens National Bank.
He is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Shirley and Smokey Eppler of Stephens Co.; son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Dena Jackson of Stephens Co.; two grandchildren, Tye Jackson and wife Liz of Havre, Montana and Jacob Jackson of Stephens Co.
Memorials may be made to the Meals on Wheels, the AlzheimerÕs Assn, or to the donorÕs favorite charity and may be left at Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home in Breckenridge.
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James Alford
RANGER- James Alford, 87, of Ranger passed away on Tuesday, July 5, 2005 in Eastland.
Services were held Thursday, July 7, 2005 at 10 a.m. in the Edwards Funeral Chapel, Rev. Jim Wright officiated. Burial followed at Merriman Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger.
James was born on February 18, 1918 in Ball Prairie to Benjamin Franklin and LM Alford. He attended the Lone Cedar School in Eastland County. He married Carroll Reed in 1941 in Breckenridge. He was raised in the Ranger area and moved to Fort Worth in 1950 to work for General Dynamics. He moved back to Ranger in 1993.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jimmy Ray Alford; and 11 siblings.
Mr. Alford is survived by his wife Carroll Alford of Ranger; a son, Ronnie Alford and wife Vicki of Ranger; grandsons, Greg Alford and wife Donna of Ranger and R.J. Alford of Ranger; 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren both of Idaho; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Jimmy Thomasson
CLYDE- Jimmy Blasdell Thomasson, 70, of Clyde, died Tuesday, July 5, 2005 at his home.
A memorial service was held at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 7, 2005 at the Northeast Church of Christ in Abilene. Pat Andrews officiated, directed by Bailey Funeral Home.
Mr. Thomasson was born May 14, 1935 in Runnels County to Pete Lessly and Jewel (Whiddon) Thomasson. He attended Ballinger High School. He met Agatha Cagle in early 1954 and they married on December 23, 1954 in Big Spring. They moved to Clyde from Big Spring in 1974. Mr. Thomasson was in business with Knox Waggoner at Insurance and More for several years. He served as a bus driver for the Clyde ISD during his semi-retirement. He was a member of the Northwest Church of Christ. Jimmy's joys during his life were following his grandchildren to watch them participate in all of their activities. He also enjoyed playing dominoes, eating watermelon, home-made ice cream and garage sales. Although he was unable to sing for some years, the songs in his heart were evident by the tapping of his toes.
He is survived by many loving family members, including his wife, Agatha of Clyde; two sons, Joe Dale Thomasson and wife Cara of Merkel and Jacky Thomasson and wife Stephanie of Weatherford; two daughters, Jenise Walker and husband Mike and Jill Winters and husband Rickey, all of Clyde; three brothers, W.A. Thomasson and wife Betty of Idaho, Less Thomasson and wife Roxie of Clyde and Bob Thomasson and wife Nancy of Merkel; a sister, Nelsene Hamilton of Ballinger; three sisters-in-law, JoAnn Cagle of Keller, Darlene Cagle of Carbon and Pearl Thomasson of Portales, NM; a brother-in-law, Bud Cagle and wife Marva of Odessa; a daughter-in-law, Kim McDaniel of Abilene; nine granddaughters, Christi and Erin Walker, Rick Ann, Tessa and Kendra Winters, Camen, Callie, and Jordan Thomasson and Haili Shirley; six grandsons, Jared Walker, Zack Winters, Bradley, Barrett, Blake and Caleb Thomasson, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.
Donations may be made to the Uganda Mission Work or the Berean ChildrenÕs Home in care of Northwest Church of Christ.
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Roberta 'Toby' Guy
Roberta "Toby" K. Guy, 73, died Tuesday, July 5, 2005.
Services were held 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 8th at Church of the Servant in OKC, OK with interment following at Rose Hill Burial Park in OKC. Services are under the direction of Hahn-Cook, Street & Draper.
She was born August 7, 1931 in Gorman, TX to Hubbard and Bernice Gilbert. After graduating from high school at Carbon, TX, she attended Tarleton Junior College. She was married to Truett D. Guy on August 11, 1956.
She was preceded in death by her parents Hubbard and Bernice Gilbert.
She is survived by her husband Truett D. Guy, her son Steven Guy and his wife Gina of Houston, TX; her daughter Cindy Chtay of Edmond, OK; and her sister Marion Craddock of Lubbock, TX. Also survived by grandchildren, Steven Guy, Jr., Nick Guy & Macaulay Chtay.
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Justin Jones
FORT WORTH - Justin Jones, 19, of Fort Worth died Tuesday June 28, 2005 at a Fort Worth hospital.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2005 in the First Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial was in Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Justin was born on August 6, 1985 in Mesquite, Texas to David Jones and Delores Gomez. He was a graduate of Ford High School in Quinlan, Texas. Justin enjoyed playing basketball, volleyball, swimming and singing Karaoke. He is said to have never met a stranger and was very loved by his family and many friends.
Justin is survived by his mother Delores Gomez Jones of Fort Worth, Tx., his father David Jones of Quinlan, Tx., his maternal grandmother Helen Gomez of Ranger, Tx., and paternal grandmother Francis Jones of Breckenridge, Tx., a brother Michael Gomez of Ranger, Aunts; Tammy Hodnett and husband Heath of Ranger, Elvera Taylor and husband Troy of Ranger, Paula Lee of Breckenridge, : Uncles Eldon Jones of Point and Mike Jones of Utah. A nephew Halsten Hodnett. Justin was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Roy Gomez and paternal grandfather Paul E. Jones and a uncle Lee Roy Gomez. Pallbearers included: Richard Desadier Jr., Jesse Gutierrez, Justin Holtervell, Brandon Jones, Gary Lovejoy, Greg Morgan.
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Mayme Thompson
EASTLAND - Mayme J. Thompson, 86, died Sunday, July 10, 2005 in Abilene.
Graveside services were held Tuesday, July 12, 2005 at Eastland Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. David Tankersley, of Harmony Baptist Church, officiated.
Mrs. Thompson was born June 21, 1919. She was married to Edward B. Thompson on February 7, 1940 in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. She moved to Cisco from Oklahoma.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward B. Thompson and one son, Dale Thompson.
Survivors include sons, Ed Thompson of Morton Valley, Bill Thompson of Shawnee, OK, Jerry Thompson of Edgewood, OK; one daughter, Arbrie Preddy of Corinth, TX; sister, Jackie Brown and two brothers, Carl and Gene Harbison all of Okmulgee, OK; several grandchildren and great grandchildren.
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Tad Van Cleave
CISCO - Tad Ray Van Cleave, 65, of Lubbock, died July 8, 2005, in Lubbock.
Services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2005, in Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco, officiated by Reverend Bob Fagen and directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home. Burial was in the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco.
Mr. Van Cleave was born on October 2, 1939, in Cisco. He moved with his family to Lubbock in 1946. He was a member of the Memorial Baptist Church.
His mother, Willie Flonetta (Harris) Van Cleave preceded him in death.
Survivors include his father, Lester Byron Van Cleave, two brothers, Larry and Barry Van Cleave, all of Lubbock and a number of uncles, aunts and cousins.
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Sena Garrett
EASTLAND - Graveside services for Sena Merle Garrett, 92, were at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 13, 2005, at the Eastland City Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Hooper of Liberty Baptist Church officiating. Burial was under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
Mrs. Garrett died Monday, July 11, 2005, at Eastland Healthcare Center.
She was born September 4, 1912, in Erath County, to James Hilburn and Mary Elizabeth (Drake) Hilburn. She was a longtime resident of Eastland. She married John Henry Garrett in June 1934 in Eastland. She was a retired nurse, and a devoted wife and mother, grand-mother, great grandmother and friend. She was a very loving, compassionate person who loved to laugh. She will be truly missed.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, 4 sisters, 3 brothers, and 2 grandsons, Leslie Perkins and Grandal Garrett.
Survivors include her daughter, Mary Ann (Garrett) Perkins and her son, John Garrett and wife, Glenda; grandsons, Marty Perkins and wife, Misty; granddaughter, Lisa Perkins; Gregg Garrett and wife, Carla; great grandchildren, Samuel Perkins, Hannah Perkins, Trisha (Garrett) Arnold and husband, Danny and Kristina Garrett, all of EastlandÕ and several nieces and nephews.
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Violet Burcham
Violet Burcham, 93, of Rising Star, died Wednesday, July 13, 2005 at Brownwood Regional Hospital.
Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 15, 2005 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Richard Massey officiating. Burial was in Wolf Valley Cemetery in Brown County, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge.
Mrs. Burcham was born on August 6, 1911 at Duster, Texas to Harley Henry and Martha Elizabeth Gallaway-Huddleston. She married Arbie Raymond Burcham on October 28, 1934 in Cordell, Oklahoma.
Survivors include several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, 3 brothers, and 2 sisters.
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Durwood Bush
Graveside services for Durwood L. Bush of Fritch were at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2005, with Rev. Chad Chaddick, pastor of Fairlanes Baptist Church, officiating. Burial was in The Garden Of Love at Westlawn Memorial Park in Borger.
Mr. Bush died Saturday, July 9, 2005, in Borger.
He was born June 19, 1917, in Cisco. He grew up in Ranger and graduated from Ranger High School in 1936.
He had been a resident of Fritch since 1982, moving from Phillips where he was a supervisor for Phillips Petroleum Company for 38 years. He was a member of Fairlanes Baptist Church.
He married Geneva Walker on December 28, 1937, in Ranger. She preceded him in death in 2003.
Survivors include a son, Larry D. Bush of Fritch; two brothers, Ronald Bush of Fritch and T.L. Bush of Fort Worth; two sisters, Bernice Walthall of Ponca City, OK, and Audrey Rose of Ranger; two grandchildren, Chad Bush and Sharra Karrh; three great-grandchildren and one sister-in-law, Opal Rogers of Ranger.
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Pearl Goodman
EASTLAND - Pearl Goodman, 88, of Eastland died Wednesday, July 13, 2005 in an Eastland Hospital.
Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 16, 2005, in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bill Ince officiating. Burial was in the Eastland City Cemetery.
Born November 12, 1916 in Carbon to Hugh L. Kuykendall and Mary Eliza Ann (Ballow) Kuykendall, she attended school in Carbon. She married Frank Chisum in Monahans in 1936. He preceded her in death in 1970. She later married Edward Goodman in Atlanta Texas, who also preceded her in death. She was a housewife for a while, a nurseÕs aid for several years at Eastland Manor Nursing Home, a seamstress working in a sewing factory in Pampa. She was a member of the First Baptist Church (since 1932) in Eastland and enjoyed sewing, working puzzles and country music.
She is survived locally by nieces, Lila Pearl Mehaffey and Gayle Parsons; sister Alice Adele Didom of Livingston , and her children, Mary Ann, Judy, Terri, Clark and Jo Lana; nieces and nephews, Delores Madison of Monahans; Rosa Brooks of El Reno, OK, Carrol Collette of San Antonio, Louis Houston of Silom Springs, Arkansas, Hilton Parsons of Colorado City, and John M. Ray.
She was preceded in death by brother, Hilton Kuy-kendall; sisters, Martha Parsons, Virgie Luttrell, Willie Jo Ray, and Frankie Faircloth.
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Dana Sprung
EASTLAND- Dana Carol Sprung, age 47, of Eastland, died Tuesday morning, July 12, 2005, at her home in Eastland. Viewing and graveside services were held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, July 14, 2005, at the Staff Cemetery, near Lake Leon in Eastland County, with Uncle Don Wood officiating. Services were under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
She was born Dana Carol Cox on December 27, 1957 in Kermit to H.L. "Slim" Cox and Joyce Shoemake Cox, who worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company. Dana was raised in several natural gas camps in Texas and Oklahoma before arriving in Eastland in 1985. She married Richard Byron Sprung on July 21, 1993 in Eastland. She was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church in Cisco and operated a lawn service business until she became medically disabled.
Dana's talents were many. She was a skilled needle worker, an artist, a patient fisherwoman and even a mechanic. She had a special way with children and a special love for her great niece and nephews: Kaedyn, Brody and Haley. She will be missed by her pet dog and companion Ginger.
She was preceded in death by Father, H.L. "Slim" Cox, grandparents, J.C. Shoemake, Audis White and Tommie & Callie Cox.
She is survived by husband, Richard Sprung of Eastland, mother, Joyce Cox of Eastland; brother and wife Mart and Judy Cox of Cisco; sister; Peggy Evans of Cisco; nieces and nephews, Lori Jeter, Shane and Brad O'Bannon, Sgt. Shane Evans and wife of Olden and Leanna Evans of Cisco; aunts and uncles Raymond Cox of Casa, Arkansas, William and Janice Cox of Levelland, Texas, Nina Bartley of Andrews, Texas, Melvin and Marie Cox of Littlefield, Texas, Tommie and Sharon Cox of Jasper, Missouri, Wilbourn and Cindy Cox of Amherst, Texas, Tom and Pat Shoemake of Lake Leon, Texas, Harold and LaNell Shoemake of Cisco, Texas, Don and Barbara Wood of Winters, Texas, and many cousins.
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George Bingham
GORMAN - Services for George Bingham, 85, were at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 16, 2005, at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Bill Campbell officiating. Burial was in Sand Hill Cemetery.
Mr. Bingham died Thursday, July 14, 2005, at Comanche County Hospital.
He was born February 8, 1920, in Comanche County to Albert Newton Bingham and Maggie Elizabeth (Land) Bingham.
He married Elizabeth McCulley on January 18, 1942, in Eastland. He was a World War II veteran serving in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Gorman Masonic Lodge and the Quarterback Club. He retired from Sun Oil Company in 1982 as a production foreman.
Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth Bingham of Gorman; two daughters, Gloria Wall and husband, Earnest of Burleson and Terry Wedge and husband, Larry of Sachse; one sister, Lockey Cole of Florida; three grandchildren, Kevin Wall and wife, Jody, Jamie Plaisted and husband, Mike, and Kelly Harp and husband, Brent; six great grandchildren, Brandon Wall, Nathan Wall, Andrew Wall, Michael Plaisted, Daniel Plaisted and Brittany Harp.
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Nelda Nevill
EASTLAND- Nelda Charlene Nevill, 63, died Saturday, July 16, 2005 in an Abilene hospital after a long battle with illness.
Funeral services were held Monday, July 18, 2005 at 2:30 p.m. in the First Baptist Church in Eastland with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Burial was in the Eastland City Cemetery.
Mrs. Nevill was born in Bisbee, Arizona on February 17, 1942 to William Morris and Evelyn Pomroy Hammett. She spent most of her childhood in Carlsbad, New Mexico. In 1962 she met and married John Ed Nevill of Sonora, Texas in Carlsbad. After moving to Eastland in 1969 with her husband and 3 small children she decided to go to barber school. She owned and operated Modern Barber Shop for 26 years in Eastland. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed bowling, her grandchildren and working as a volunteer at the Majestic Theatre.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by husband, John Ed Nevill of Eastland; children, April of Plano, Kellar and his wife Deepika and children Brielle, Brycen, Kiran and Zara of Trophy Club, Glenn and his wife, Carol and children Rachel and Ashley of Southlake; brothers, Bill Hammett and wife, Bonnie, and Don Hammett all of Carlsbad; 3 nieces, 5 nephews and several great nieces and nephews.
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Shirley Cole
Shirley A. Cole of Cisco passed away on Sunday, July 10, 2005.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. James Cole of Cisco and her son Greg Blankenship of Houston.
Shirley lived in Cisco for the past 15 years and recently moved back to Houston.
She is survived by her son, Scott T. Morgan of Spring, Texas; sisters, Mary and Pam of Houston; a brother, Richard of Clute, Texas; and many friends.
Mom you will always be in our hearts - Scott and Sally Morgan
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Dorothy Carr
RANGER - Dorothy Seymour Carr 84, of Ranger died Saturday, July 16, 2005 at a local hospital. Services were held 11: 00 a.m. Tuesday, July 19, 2005 in the First Baptist Church. Burial was in Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Dorothy was born in Colony Community north of Ranger on March 9, 1921 to Oliver Calvin Bowen and Pearlie Mae Mills. She was a graduate of Colony High School and attended one year of college. She worked as a supervisor for Harv-Al Athletic Supplies for 20 years. She lived all of her life in Ranger and married Willard Seymour in 1938 and he preceded her in death 1987. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Ranger and enjoyed painting, sewing, crafts, cooking and was a loving and generous person.
She is survived by her children; Elizabeth Nowak and husband Charles of Dodson Prairie, Tx., Robert (Butch) Seymour and wife Vickie of Olden, Tx., Kenneth Wayne Seymour and wife Billie Sue of Ranger, Tx., and Donna Hogan and husband Pat of Eastland, Tx. And a niece Jackie Bush and husband Alford of Ranger, Tx., Three sisters Mae Isabell, Una Beck, and Pauline Breneman all of Ranger. Eleven grandchildren; Ricky, Rusty, Shane, Cindy, Lisa, Kenny Jr., Kristen, Keya, Tammy, Will, and Jerry. Eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Maxine Robbins
ALBANY- Maxine P. Robbins, 94, died Saturday, July 16, 2005 at an Abilene hospital.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at the First Baptist Church of Albany, Rev. Bart Burgess officiated. Burial followed in the Albany Cemetery directed by Godfrey-Neese Funeral Homes, Inc.
Maxine was born on July 24, 1910, in Shackelford County, Texas. She married John W. Robbins. He preceded her in death in 1979.
Maxine was a 1924 graduate of Albany High School. She attended West Texas State University at Canyon and was a graduate of Ranger Jr. College. She taught one year at Diller Flat country school in Shackelford County. She was employed by Blanton and Blanton Attorneys-at-Law and for 18 years was the secretary for four different county judges.
Mrs. Robbins was a member of the First Baptist Church, the Order of the Eastern Star, the Bluebonnet Study Club, the Old Jail Art Center, the Shackelford County Retired Teachers Association and the Baptist Women's Missionary Union.
Survivors include one brother, John Henry Palm of Fort Stockton, TX; one sister-in-law, Viva Palm of LaLuz, New Mexico; three cousins, Harold Cockerell of Albany, Bob Cockerell of Moran and Elizabeth Edgington of San Angelo; and six nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a twin brother, Maxwell Palm.
Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund or the American Cancer Society or the donor's charity of choice.
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Carlos Martinez
EASTLAND - Carlos Martinez, Sr., 68 of Eastland passed away on Sunday, July 17, 2005 at an Abilene hospital.
Services were held at 3 PM Wednesday, July 20, 2005 in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, with burial in the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, TX.
Carlos was born on March 8, 1937 in Dallas, Texas. Mr. Martinez lived in Ranger for a number of years working for Ranger College and was very active in the Ranger Fire Department as a volunteer, also serving as president of the Girls Softball Association, Boys Little League, Boy Scouts, and Ranger Jaycee's. Carlos worked for Victor Cornelius as a cutter from 1970 to 2002 and moved to Eastland in 1983. After he retired he went to work for the Hook Line and Sinker store in Olden until his death. He loved cooking Sunday brunch for his family, and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It is said that Carlos never met a stranger. He was a good and loving man.
Carlos is survived by the mother of his children Aurelia Riojas of Ranger; his children, Carlos Martinez, Jr. and wife Cheryl of Lufkin, Ricardo Martinez and wife Michelle of Cleburne, Ramon Martinez and Melanie of Cleburne, Robert Martinez and wife Carol of DeRidder, LA., Becky Srader of Olden, Ruben Martinez and wife Renee of Phoenix, AZ., Rodger Martinez of Ranger and Diana Martinez Clay of Eastland, Tx.; 22 grandchildren; Chad & Cherish Martinez, Kimberly Coffin, Cody Brown, Brandon Coffin, Josh Coffin, Ashley Coffin, Nesha Johnson, Juan, Chon, Manoleto Martinez, Kelly & Courtney Martinez, Tracie Hernandez and husband Gilbert, Aaron & Kenna Hoodie, Andrew Lopez, Perscilla, Cruz and Sergio Martinez, Keifer & Zachary Mills; 8 great-grandchildren; Celeste, Isaiah, Malachi, Nate, C. J., Blake, Sharon, and Jayden.
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Sandra Sipes
RANGER- Sandra Janette Sipes, 56, of Ranger passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2005 in Fort Worth.
Services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 20, 2005 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial followed at Merriman Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger.
Sandra was born on April 29, 1949 in Wichita Falls to Walter and Dee (Loudermilk) Byrum. She married Marvin Sipes on December 1, 1974 in Las Vegas. She was a Hair Dresser and owned and operated the Gold Comb Beauty Shop in Ranger from 1985-1997. She was a member of the Mesquite and Rusk Street Church of Christ.
Survivors include her husband Marvin of Ranger; brother, David Byrum of California; sister, Becky Kemp of Flower Mound; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
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Anna Walker
Anna T. Walker, 94, of Ranger, died Monday, July 18, 2005, at Valley View Nursing Home in Eastland.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements entrusted to Community Memorial Funeral Home, 1443 N. 2nd St. in Abilene.
Mrs. Walker was born in Eden, Texas on October 13, 1910, to the late J.B. and Tinnie (Lindsey) Lee. She lived in Ranger, TX most of her life and was a member of the Eastside Baptist Church. She worked as a nurse at most of the area hospitals.
She is survived by a daughter, Yvonne Blackburn of Ranger; one sister, Leverne King, also of Ranger; two grandchildren, Ben Yarbrough of Ponder, TX and Robert Blackburn of Reddick, FL; five great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.
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Leo Hatten
Leo Albert Hatten, 85, of El Paso, Texas, formerly of Portales, New Mexico, died Tuesday, July 19, 2005 at an El Pao nursing home.
Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 24, 2005 at Oakwood Cemetery officiated by Reverend John Beckling, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation will be Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mr. Hatten was born in Eastland to Joe and Carrie Hunter (Clyatt) Hatten on November 2, 1919. He graduated from Eastland High School, attended Tarleton University, University of Texas and Georgetown University. He retired from the US Army with the rank of Lt. Colonel. He served during World War II and landed in Normandy with the second wave on D- Day, he also served during the Korean Conflict and Viet Nam. After his retirement he was director of Financial Aid at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico, retiring in 1989. He married Reda Wray Clark on December 8, 1945 in Cisco. She preceded him in death on April 29, 2001. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Order of Eastern Star and First United Methodist Church in Portales, New Mexico.
Survivors include daughters, Patricia Faye Nance of El Paso and Leila Lynn Blanar of Chandler, Arizona; grandsons, William Kirk Blanar of Queen Creek, Arizona, Ryan Alex Blanar of Payson, Arizona, Christopher Wray Nance of San Diego, California; granddaughters, Lauren Ann Blanar of Prattville, Alabama and Nicole Noelle Nance of Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Deanna Thomas
RANGER- Deanna Walton Thomas, 43, of Ranger died Sunday, July 17, 2005 at College Station.
Graveside services were held Friday, July 22, 2005 at 2 p.m. at Alameda Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger.
Deanna was born September 15, 1961 in Mineral Wells to Lynn Lezious and Theaopel (Ash) Walton. She lived in Ranger for most of her life and was a Baptist.
Deanna married Dennis Thomas on April 27, 1997 at Gunsight Baptist Church. She worked at Love's Truck Stop in Ranger.
She is survived by her husband, Dennis Thomas of Breckenridge; children, Richard Neil Walton of Abilene and Theaopel Shadley of Waco; brothers, David Walton of China Springs, Dennis Walton of Navasota, and Dana Walton of Ranger; sister, Doris England of Ranger; grandchildren, Layne Andrew Walton and Skyler Elizabeth Walton both of Cisco and Hannah Deann Hutchison and Zachary Dale Hutchison both of Waco; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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William Brown
CISCO- William Burl Brown, 86, died Thursday, July 21, 2005 in Cisco.
Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2005 at Redeemer Lutheran Cemetery, directed by Summers-Chambers Funeral Home.
RANGER- Jacob Freudiger, 81, died Wednesday, July 20, 2005. Services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger.
EASTLAND- Glenda Kim Hurst died Tuesday, July 19, 2005. Services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
EASTLAND- Elmira Lucille Carroll, 74, died Friday, July 22, 2005 in Eastland.
At press time services are pending. For information please contact the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home.
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Thelma 'Ted' Ellis
Funeral services for Thelma 'Ted' Ellis, 92, of Andrews were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 26, 2005 at Means Memorial United Methodist Church. Officiated by Rev. Rick Doyle, pastor of Means Methodist. Burial followed in the Andrews Old Cemetery directed by McNett Funeral Home.
Ted died Saturday, July 23, 2005 at Willow Hill Assisted Care Center in Andrews. She was born on October 12, 1912 in Eolian, Texas. She graduated from Andrews High School in 1930. She married Carl P. 'Mutt' Ellis on September 8, 1934 in Andrews. Mutt preceded her in death in 1949.
Ted owned Andrews Tiny Tech Nursery School from 1958 to 1987. She was a member of the Means Memorial United Methodist Church.
She is survived by a daughter, Jan Bilhartz of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; sons, Mutt Ellis of Midland and Bobby Ellis of Odessa; a sister, Dottie Truk of Midland; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
To register, send condolences, or view the obituary, go to www.mcnettfuneral home.com.
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Elmira Carroll
EASTLAND- Elmira Lucille Carroll, 74, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 22, 2005, with her family by her side, after a long and difficult illness.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 24, 2005 at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Chapel. Interment followed at Merriman Cemetery in Ranger. Larry Roberts officiated.
Lucille is survived by her husband of 57 years, Bob Carroll; her daughters, Sherry Green and husband, Jim, Judy Orms and husband, Charlie; grandsons, Bryan and Brandon Orms and wife Keri, Russell Orms and Justin Green; and granddaughter Kristin McKay and husband Scott; four great-granddaughters, Ashlyn Orms, Holland Orms, Abigail and Avery McKay; and two great-grandsons, Austin and Andrew Orms. Also surviving Lucille are brothers, Charles Walton and wife GeorgeAnn of Saginaw, TX, Clifton Walton of Ranger, Weldon Walton of Bluff Dale, Johnny Walton of Belton; one sister, Margie Hogan and husband George of Weatherford; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Pallbearers were: Lyndell Garrett, Max Henson, Mario Hernandez, Roberto Hernandez, Dale Langlitz and Adolfo Rodriguez.
She was predeceased by her parents, Charlie and Bertie Walton and a sister Charlene Chandler.
She was adored by her entire family, so much so that three of her great-granddaughters are named after her. She was not only a loving wife, but also a working partner with her husband in the successful business they founded, BC Construction Co. She was also a member of the Daugherty Street Church of Christ. Lucille's most honorable trait was her generosity- to not only family members, but everyone fortunate enough to touch her life.
Lucille spent the last five years of her life at the Hummingbird House, founded by Jenny Offield, in Eastland. This wonderful facility and staff provided her the most loving care possible as she battled complications from Parkinson's Disease.
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William Brown
CISCO- William Burl Brown, 86, passed away Thursday, July 21, 2005 at a Cisco care facility.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2005 at the Redeemer Lutheran Cemetery, near Cisco, with Mathew Brackman officiating. Services were held under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home.
Burl was born on December 3, 1918 to William Edgar and Mary Martha Ann Music Brown in Runnels County, Texas. He was a farmer and rancher by trade. He married Juanita Ziehr on August 6, 1994.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Leon Brown.
He is survived by his wife, Juanita, of the home; two sisters, Minnie Rhodes and Rachael Hillard; two step-children, Pam Kinard and John Cockrell, both of Cisco.
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Delores 'Nanaw' Tankersley
EASTLAND Ð Delores 'Nanaw' Tankersley, 76, of Eastland, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday morning, July 24, 2005.
Services were held Tuesday, July 26, 2005 at 2 P.M. at Daugherty Street Church of Christ with Larry Roberts officiating. Burial followed at Eastland Cemetery. The family received friends at the fellowship hall of the church from 1PM until service time on Tuesday. Arrangements were under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Nanaw was born on February 15, 1929 in Coleman to Lemmie Lewis and Jeanette (Coleman) Davis. She married Weldon Tankersley on March 31, 1951 in Breckenridge and had resided in Morton Valley since the 1950's. She was a homemaker, member of the Lakeside Country Club Lady's Golf Association, and member of the Daugherty Street Church of Christ.
Nanaw is survived and lovingly remembered by her daughters, Thresa Tankersley-Huff of Eastland and Melissa Lynn Little and husband Ray Neal of Eastland; brother, Harold Davis of Robert Lee; granddaughters, Emily Renea Little of Abilene and Lauren Kendall Huff of Eastland; great-granddaughter, Kourtney Michelle Peacock of Abilene; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Weldon on March 13, 1995, and sisters Jessie Mae Henry, Earlena Livingston, and Ethel Lee Tiner.
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Clyde 'C.W.' Guthrie
CISCO- Clyde Wingfield 'C.W.' Guthrie, 75, of Cisco died Monday, July 25, 2005 in Eastland Memorial Hospital.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2005 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Reverend Bob Ferguson. Burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 27 at the Kimbrough Chapel.
C.W. was born on June 14, 1930 in San Angelo to Charles and Beatrice (Farhquar) Guthrie. He graduated from Cisco High School in 1947 and was owner of Guthrie and Guthrie Bookkeeping where he worked as an accountant. He married Ursula Shaul on December 7, 1961 in Breckenridge. He was a Baptist, and a member of the Cisco Volunteer Fire Department and served as Fire Chief for 21 years, he was past president of Texas Firemen's Association.
Survivors include his wife Ursula of NR Weyhill Andover, UK; daughters, Anthea Patton of Fort Worth and Elizabeth Guthrie of Cisco; son, Bart Guthrie of Cisco; grandchildren, Heath Sylva and wife Angela, Ursula Patton and Teddy Patton; great grandchildren, Darian, Dakota, Dillan, Jack, Orson, Ted, Austin, Hannah, Tanner and Frankie. He was preceded in death by his parents a son, Art Guthrie.
Pallbearers will be Herman Eakers, Bubba Eakers, David Gill, Walter Fairbanks, Tim McKinney and Stacy Edgar.
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Lorine Landor
Lorine Barnes Landor, 50, died Saturday, July 23, 2005 at a Fort Worth medical center.
Services were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2005 at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith. Rev. Darrell Martin officiated. Burial was in the Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories.
The daughter of Lee (Pullin) and Elisha Barnes, Lorine was born on March 21, 1955, in Walader, Texas. She was a lifelong resident of Abilene and a homemaker. She was a member of the Church of Christ.
Mrs. Landor was preceded in death by her husband, Preston Landor in 1999; her parents; four sisters and two brothers.
Survivors include sons, Rodney Landor, Jermaine Landor, Patrick Landor, Desmon Landor and Jalen Landor, all of Abilene; a daughter, Sabrina Landor of Eastland; and grandchildren, Dy Quan Landor, Sha Taveon Cooper and Chrishae Cooper; brothers, Elisha Barnes of Texas, and Melvin Barnes and Archie Barnes both of Abilene; her twin sister, Corine Colbert of Abilene, and sisters, Cora Lee Allen of Abilene and Nannie Lee Barnes of Stamford; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
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Esther Schwesig
GORDON- Esther Marlene Schwesig, 69, of Gordon passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 in Mineral Wells, Texas. Mass was said Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. in St. John's Catholic Church in Strawn. Father Jerome Jayasuriya officiated. Burial was in the Mt. Marion Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn.
Esther was born in Mingus, Texas on January 6, 1936 to Albert and Anna (Morris) Schwesig. She was a devoted and loving mother.
She is survived by six sons, R.D., Mark, Tim, Eric, Kevin and Woody Parsons; a brother, Bob Schwesig; three sisters, Shirley Gotcher, Sue Deskeere and Barbara Smith; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and several nieces
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Vernon Ables
Vernon Edward Ables, 69, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2005 at his home in Dublin.
Services were held at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 4, 2005 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Gorman. Harry Earles and Denver Rainey officiated. Interment was in the Gorman Cemetery.
Vernon was born January 27, 1936 in Gorman to Hubert Vernon Ables and Denzel (Rainey) Ables. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Navy and a member of the Purvis Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his father; one son, Matthew in May of 2001; and a brother, Carroll Dean 'Dink' Ables.
Survivors include a daughter, Cathy Steele of Cypress, CA; two sons, William V. Ables of Dublin and Vernon Ables, Jr. of Godley; his mother, Denzel Ables of Gorman; two sisters, Lottie Finch of Lubbock and Fay Ables of Gorman; one brother, Dail Ables of Copperas Cove; five grandchildren, Jennifer Perry, Allison Steele, Michael Steele, Cameron Sills and Trey Ables; and one great-granddaughter, Jada Perry.
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Jerry Elizalda
CISCO- Jerry Lee Elizalda, 46, of Cisco went to be with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, August 2, 2005 after a long battle with illness.
Rosary was at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, August 4, 2005 at Kimbrough Funeral Home. Mass was at 10 a.m. Friday, August 5, 2005 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church officiated by Deacon Ruben Castaneda. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Jerry was born October 14, 1958 in Amhurst, Texas to Jesse and Connie (Porras) Elizalda. He attended Cisco public school and was active in football. He was an alter boy at Holy Rosary Catholic Church during his youth. He lived in Tracy City, Tennessee for several years where he worked as a carpenter supervisor. When he returned to Cisco he worked for Energex until he became ill. He married Katie Hudson in Cisco on October 12, 2002.
He is survived by his loving wife, Katie and son Dominic Elizalda of the home; daughters, Jerrica Elizalda of Monteagle, Tennessee, Candice Schaerer of Tracy City, Tennessee, Brandice Elizalda of Monteagle, Tennessee; his parents, Jesse and Connie Elizalda of Cisco; brothers, David Elizalda, Roger Elizalda, Martin Elizalda all of Cisco, Johnny Porras of Ozona and Brandon Elizalda of Pensacola, Florida; sisters, Bonnie Lavender, Delma Trice and Susie Loza all of Cisco, Olivia Smith of Haughton, Louisiana; grandchildren, Jagger, Jatin, Nevaeh and Kelsi; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
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Luther Harrison
BELTON, TX.- Luther A. Harrison, 88, died July 24, 2005 at Park Place Manor Nursing Home.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 6, 2005 at First United Methodist Church in Belton, Texas. Rev. Darren Walker officiated. Burial was in College Station Cemetery at 4 p.m. Arrangements by Hillier Funeral Home of Bryan, Texas.
He was born November 9, 1916 in Cisco, Texas. He was employed by the Physical Education Department at Texas A&M University from 1941-42 and 1946-58; Assistant Registrar 1959-1964 and Manager of A&M Golf Course from 1965-1977. He later retired.
He served in the U.S. Army (Major) 1942-46. He attended FUMC in Belton.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kay Harrison.
Memorials may be made to United Methodist Children's Home.
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Kenneth Simpson
TEXARKANA- Kenneth G. Simpson, 62, passed away Sunday, July 31, 2005.
Funeral services were held at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, August 4,2005 in Greenwood Chapel, 3100 White Settlement Rd, Fort Worth, TX. Burial was at 2:30 p.m. at Oakwood Cemetery, Waco.
Kenneth was born July 6, 1943, in Crosbyton, Texas to Carl C. and Mina Mae Simpson. He graduated with honors from Cisco High School, where he was lead trumpet player. Kenneth worked in the banking industry for 30 years in Tyler, Del Rio, Corpus Christi and Houston. Over the past decade, he was an executive in the energy business. He received his Business degree from Baylor University in 1994 with Cum Laude Honors. He loved his children and grandchildren dearly, followed by baseball and all things Baylor. He was an active member of Trinity Baptist Church in Texarkana.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his father, Carl C. Simpson; and brother, Larry Simpson.
Survivors include wife, Beverly Greer-Simpson of Texarkana; son, Gary Dean Simpson and wife, Corinne of Fort Worth; daughters, Michele Lynn Gill and husband, Kyle of Fort Worth and Laura Gayle Mucciarone and husband, Michael of Little Elm; grandchildren, Brett Peterson, Shayne Simpson, Nathan Simpson and Maya Simpson; mother, Mina Mae Cox of Graham; and brothers, Bob Simpson of Fort Worth and Cecil Simpson of New Mexico.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Kenneth G. Simpson Memorial Accounting Scholarship, Baylor University, One Bear Place #97026, Waco, Texas 76798-7026.
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Bill Tate
EASTLAND- Bill R. Tate, 67, of Lake Leon, died Tuesday, August 2, 2005 at an Abilene hospital after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, August 5, 2005 at the First United Methodist Church in Eastland. Rev. Mike Madden officiated. Burial was in the Merriman Cemetery, near Lake Leon, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Bill was born October 25, 1937 in Kilgore, Texas to Alva and Evelyn (Testerman) Tate. He moved to Oklahoma as a child and later to Odessa, where he was a 1956 graduate of Odessa High School. He served in the U.S. Army between 1957 and 1960 in Augsburg, Germany with the 11th Airborne Division and the 24th Infantry Division. After an Honorable Discharge he returned to West Texas and worked in the oil fields, moving to Andrews in 1973. He retired as Area Salesman of L&L Trucking in 1998. He and wife Imogene moved to Lake Leon after retiring, where he enjoyed a close walk with his Lord and Savior, his wife, children, grandchildren, fishing, hunting and fellowship in the First United Methodist Church in Eastland.
He was preceded in death by a son, Dennis Clift in 1983; a brother, Donald Tate; and his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Imogene of Eastland; 3 sons and daughters-in-law, Brandon and Ashli Tate of Odessa, Bill and Lisa Clift of Andrews, and Mike and Jennifer Clift of Lubbock; two daughters, Laura Eager of Longview and Dayna Clift of Lubbock; one brother, A.H. ÒBudÓ Tate and wife Peggy of Mineral Wells; one sister, Norma Bird and husband Tom of Haskell; and 15 grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church P.O. Box 588, Eastland, TX 76448.
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Thomas Weaver
RANGER- Graveside services for Thomas C. 'T.C.' Weaver, 88, of Belton were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger. Rev. Eric Seay officiated.
Mr. Weaver died Monday, August 15, 2005 at a Temple hospital.
He was born February 24, 1917 in Avery, Texas to Elisha P. and Annie B. (Darnell) Weaver. He attended Ranger schools, Ranger Jr. College and Texas A & M University. He served in the US Army in World War II. He married Loretta Faye (Mutt) Thompson on June 24, 1938 in Ranger. He retired from Lone Star Gas in 1973 and Ranger College in 1985. He was a life long resident of Ranger until moving to Belton in 1993. He was a lifetime member of Ranger Masonic Lodge and the First United Methodist Church in Belton. He was a resident of Park Place Manor in Belton where he was President of the Resident Council.
Survivors include two daughters, Carolyn Seay and husband Fred of Midland, and Brenda Severn and husband Ray of Belton; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to Park Place Manor Resident Council.
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Jerry Farley
Jerry D. Farley, 76, of Midland, Texas died August 18, 2005.
Graveside services have been scheduled for 2:00 pm, Saturday, August 20, 2005 at the Cisco Texas Cemetery.
He was born March 2, 1929 in Cisco, Texas and graduated from Cisco High School. His early work career included co-owner/operator of the F&F Trucking Company of Cisco. After graduating from Texas A&M, he worked 33 years for Exxon Company USA (formerly Humble), retiring as Administrative Manager of Exxon's Exploration Department in Houston, Texas. Subsequently, he worked for Occidental Petroleum as Vice President of Human Resources for their Petrochemical Division in Houston.
He was preceded in death by his parents; Allen Leon Farley and Wilma Ethel Farley; and one sister, Louise Morrison.
He is survived by two sons, Steve Farley of Memphis, Tennessee and Joe Farley of Midland, Texas; one daughter-in-law, Astrid Farley of Midland, Texas; two grandchildren, Dean Farley and Megan Farley of Midland, Texas; one brother, Rex Farley of Lafayette, Louisiana; one niece, Karen Farley of Memphis, Tennessee, and a host of good friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Midland, Inc. at P.O. Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702.
Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com
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Clara 'Liz' Wilburn
Mrs. Clara Elizabeth 'Liz' Wilburn, 70, of Colorado City, died Saturday, August 20, 2005 in a Lubbock Care Center.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 25, 2005 at the Kiker-Seale Funeral Home Chapel with Elder Gail Faries officiating. Burial followed in the Westbrook Cemetery under the direction of Kiker-Seale Funeral Home. A reception followed the graveside at Oak Street Baptist Church in Colorado City.
Mrs. Wilburn was born to Barney and Addie Burt Rasco in Big Spring on March 13, 1935. She was a retired Paramedic, a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and a Christian at heart who attended several different churches. She has been a Colorado City resident since 1974.
She is survived by her children, Sandra Lee Edwards and husband Paul of Lakewood, Washington, Katheryn Christian of Puyallup, Washington, Michael Wayne Edwards of Spanaway, Washington, Randall Wilburn and Robert and wife Jennifer Wilburn all of Colorado City; 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Sonny Edwin Williams of Colorado City.
A very special thank you to a close family friend Kathleen Krone of Loraine, who has done so much for her, and her family.
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Emmett Burns
Emmett Edward Burns, 65, of Thornton, Colorado died Monday, August 22, 2005.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 28, 2005 at Kimbrough Funeral Chapel in Cisco with Larry Fitzgerald officiating. Burial will follow in the Elm Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Edward was born on October 5, 1939 in Okra, Texas to Ed and Eddie Mae Burns. He married Beverly Manchester on January 15, 1983 in Arvada, Colorado. He worked as a drywall finisher and was a member of the Church of Christ.
Survivors include his wife, Beverly of Thornton, Colorado; sister, Mary Louise Roesler of Cisco; sons, Brian Burns and wife, Denise of New Jersey, Brad Letterly of Lafayette, Louisiana, Craig Letterly of Thornton, Colorado; daughter, Jennifer Streifel and husband, Jason of Thornton, Colorado; six grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
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Harry Gates
MORAN- Harry S. Gates, 67, of Moran, Texas, died Thursday, August 25, 2005 at a Breckenridge hospital.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 27, 2005 at the First United Methodist Church in Albany. Rev. Kay Reed officiated. Burial followed in the Moran Cemetery directed by Godfrey-Neese Funeral Home of Albany.
He was born on October 17, 1936 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He married Gwen Burton in 1988. He was a member of the Baptist Church. He was a graduate of Albany High School, and served 23 years in the United States Navy. He was a member of the American Legion. He returned to Albany in 1986.
He is survived by his wife, Gwen Gates of Moran; one son, Harry S. Gates, Jr., of Indianapolis, Indiana; one step-daughter, Tammy Titsworth and husband Paul of Euless; one step-son, Steve Taggart of Richland Hills, TX; one step-granddaughter, Laura Halbert of Moran; one brother, Rubert Gates and wife, Priscilla of Albany; as well as many nieces and nephews.
One brother, Johnny Gates preceded him in death.
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Sharon Rener
Sharon Ann Rener, 65, of Cisco died Thursday, July 28, 2005 in Coleman County Medical Center.
Memorial services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 31, 2005 at Kimbrough Funeral Chapel in Cisco, officiated by Deacon Ruben Castaneda and Terrell Jackson. The body was cremated.
Sharon was born in Midland, Texas on June 29, 1940 to H.A. and Armine Boyette. She married Samuel (Joe) Rener on March 25, 1957 in Ft. Worth, Texas and was a homemaker and Catholic.
She was preceded in death by one son, David Rener; and two sisters, Shirley Maples and Billie Jean Ford.
Survivors include her husband, Samuel (Joe) Rener; sons, Sam and wife, Annabelle of Sunset, Luke and wife, Laura of Haslet, Chris of Gainsville, FL., Mark of Cisco and Josh and wife, Jennifer of Cisco; one daughter, Lynn Jackson and husband, Terrell also of Cisco; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
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Dorotha Guthrie
Dorotha L. Guthrie, 80, of Abilene, died Thursday, July 28, 2005 at a local hospital.
Cremation arrangements entrusted to Community Memorial Funeral Home. No services are planned at this time.
Mrs. Guthrie was born in Rising Star, Texas on June 24, 1925, to the late Robert Alvie and Lucy (Young) Haynes. She was raised in Rising Star and moved to Lawn as a small child. She attended Wylie schools and later moved to California returning to Tye in 1998. She was a homemaker and was loved dearly by her family. She was a Baptist and a simple lady with a heart of gold.
She is survived by two sons, John Oliveria and wife, Candi, of Tye and Robert Oliveria and wife, Vicky, of Crowley, TX; one sister, Marlett Fincher of Abilene; ten grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leroy Guthrie; a daughter, June Ann Brasher; a sister, Melissa Arnold and a grandson, Robbie Oliveria.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, Abilene Chapter, 2555 Grape St., Abilene, Texas 79601.
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Larry Keith
Larry Scott Keith, 44, of Gorman died early Sunday morning, July 31, 2005 at the Eastland Memorial Hospital.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2005 at the First Baptist Church. Victor Pena and Gary Bear officiated. Interment was at Victor Cemetery. Services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home.
Larry was born April 19, 1961 in Monahans to Mack ÒRedÓ Keith and Nelda (Rainey) Keith. He was a graduate of Gorman High School and was a member of the First Baptist Church. He married Traci Burns on April 16, 1987 in Eastland County. He was employed at FMC in Stephenville as a machinist.
Survivors include his wife, Traci Keith of Gorman; three sons, Laramie Keith of Lubbock, Aaron Keith and Matt Keith both of Gorman; two daughters, Kiley Keith of Lubbock and Nikki Keith of Gorman; his mother, Nelda Keith of Fort Worth; two brothers, Michael Keith and wife Melinda of Stephenville, Steve Keith and wife Kay of Comanche; one sister, Terri Lewis and husband Jimmy of Fort Worth; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father.
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Matthew Sherrod
EASTLAND- Matthew Dee Sherrod, 26, a former resident of Carbon and Gorman, passed away Wednesday, July 27, 2005, near Fort Worth.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 30, 2005 at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Interment followed at Oaklawn Cemetery in Gorman. Rodney Ferrell officiated.
Matthew was a good athlete as well as an avid sportsman. He was a good friend to many and was a lovely young man. The 26 years that his family and friends knew and loved him were short; yet they were a blessing to them all.
Matthew is survived by his wife Monica Sherrod; two daughters, Lindsay Sherrod and Emily Sherrod; his parents, Mike Sherrod and Paula Davis; his sister, Lauren Davis; his brother, Jacob Davis; grandparents, Don and Ginny Doubleday; his uncle and aunt, Donald and Shea Doubleday; his cousins, Jacqueline and Sarah Doubleday; and many great-aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Home (Jack) and Jessie Sherrod; his grandfather, Bob Hogan and his Uncle Greg Sherrod.
Pallbearers were Terry Wright, Jeff Wright, Rudy Pack, Chris Pack, Larry League, James Gober, Bobby Huff, Ronnie Huff
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Kathleen Lebredo
RANGER- Kathleen Howard Lebredo, 83, died Saturday, July 30, 2005.
Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, August 1, 2005 at Evergreen Cemetery, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger.
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Nadine Graham
Nadine Childers Graham, 81, of Rising Star, Texas died Friday, August 5, 2005 at Sherwood Nursing Home in Bryan, Texas.
Nadine was born on July 31, 1924 at Meridian, Texas to J.N. Childers and Effie Anna Parson-Childers. She was a Methodist and had lived in the community since 1986.
Nadine is survived by two daughters, Sherry Melton and her husband, Bobby and Barbara LeMaire and her husband, Harry all of College Station; son, Stan Graham and his wife, Barbra of Seguin; four grandchildren, Michael Neace of San Antonio, Melanie Huckaby of Seguin, Nena Patterson and her husband, Tom of Cuero, Ann Margaret Sanchez and husband, Daniel of Waxahachie; 6 great-grandchildren; one sister, Gladine Seago of Houston; two nephews and one niece.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, August 8, 2005 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel. Lynn Starnes officiated. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge.
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Thora Walker
Thora Mae Walker, 92, of Rising Star, formerly of Cross Plains, died Saturday, August 6, 2005 in Rising Star.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at the First Baptist Church. Terry Simmons officiated, assisted by Darren Jones and John Vaughn. Burial was in the Brown Ranch Cemetery.
She was born on May 20, 1913 to Joel and Willie Beatrice (Haney) Copeland in Saledo, Texas. Thora was a nurse as well as a homemaker. She was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Cross Plains.
She is survived by her sons, Douglas Ware Walker of Rising Star and Mark Dennis Walker of Cross Plains; daughter, Martha Will Jones of Abilene; 7 grandchildre, 15 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.
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J. L. Pettyjohn
J. L. Pettyjohn, 70, of Lake Leon, Texas, died Friday, August 5, 2005 at his home at Lake Leon, Texas.
Memorial services will be scheduled at a time to be announced at a later date.
He was born on June 10, 1935 in Titus County, Texas to Elmer F. and Lyda M. (Dave's) Pettyjohn. He served in the U.S. Army and after his discharge worked as a truck driver.
He is survived by his sons, Franklin Pettyjohn of Eastland, Michael Pettyjohn of Arlington; daughters, Debra Corley of Lake Leon, Patricia Corley of Sweetwater; sisters, Kathryn Bowman of Cisco, Patricia Estes of George West; brother, Billy Pettyjohn of Glen Rose; and 10 grandchildren.
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Opal Hopkins
STRAWN- Opal Meredith Hopkins, 88, of Strawn, Texas, died Saturday, August 6, 2005 at her residence.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 9, 2005 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Mike Brown and Mike Orsini officiating. Burial followed in the Mt. Marion Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Strawn.
Mrs. Hopkins was born January 31, 1917 in Lyra, Texas to Joe and Katie Swift Meredith. She married Jack Laird Hopkins on October 13, 1932 in Fredricksburg, Oklahoma. She was a housewife and lived most of her life in Strawn. She was a member of the World Wide Church of God.
She is survived by two sons, Jimmy Hopkins of Strawn and Billy E. Hopkins of Converse, TX; a daughter, Jo Ruth Roberson of Abilene; one sister, Vera Wyatt of Strawn; 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by husband, Jack Hopkins, and a son, Jack Allen Hopkins.
Mary D. Sikes, 31, died Sunday, August 7, 2005 at Hendricks Medical Center in Abilene.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 8, 2005, at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith. Interment was at 4:30 p.m. at Shady Groves Cemetery in Breckenridge.
She was born on October 27, 1973 in Breckenridge, Texas. She was receptionist and secretary at TriStar Home Health. She was a member of Cowboy Church in Abilene. She taught 2 to 4 year olds in Sunday School.
Mary was preceded in death by her sister, Deandra Ellen Sikes.
Survivors include her father, E.L. Sikes of Ranger; her mother, Sandra Shifflett and husband, Virgil, of Merkel; her brothers, Thomas Sikes and Michael Webb both of Breckenridge; maternal grandmother, Mary Pickered of Duncan, Okla.; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital 332 N. Lauderdale, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.
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Lillian Pence
CISCO- Lillian Pence, 101, died Friday, August 5, 2005.
Services are pending with Summers Funeral Home.
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Thelma Ekanger
EASTLAND- Thelma Ekanger, 84, died Saturday, August 6, 2005.
Arrangements are pending with Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
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Sabas Martinez, Jr.
CISCO- Sabas Martinez, Jr., 59, died Saturday, August 6, 2005 in Abilene, Texas. He was a resident at the Abilene State School.
Sabas was born in Cisco on March 29, 1949 to Sabas Sr. and Juanita Martinez. He lived in Cisco until 1958 when he was then placed in the Texas State School in Austin, Texas.
He is remembered for his liveliness, sparkle, and affection. He would make our children laugh with his comical antics. He had a love for music, singing at church, and he loved his guitar and radio.
He is survived by his dear father, Sabas Martinez, Sr. of Cisco; one brother, Joe Coronado of Houston; one sister, Felipa DeLeon of Cisco; and numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his loving mother in 1972 and his 3 brothers, Raymond, Ned and Larry.
Following services at 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, Cisco, a private burial will be held. Following the burial, the family will gather at his sister's home in Cisco.
Lonnie Gene Abbott, 63, of Cisco died Monday, August 8, 2005 at Canterbury Villa Nursing Home.
Services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 10, 2005 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Harry Garvin officiated. Burial was in the Oakwood Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Lonnie was born in Cisco, Texas on February 5, 1942 to Guy and Viola Abbott. He worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone for 35 years in Breckenridge and Cisco. He married Joy Abbott on July 3, 1976 in San Antonio. He was a member of First Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Jason Samuel Abbott.
Survivors include his wife, Joy Abbott; two daughters, Cyndi Ann Abbott of Breckenridge and Amy Lajoie Housh of Cisco; two sons, Jeffrey and Davin Hohhertz of Cisco; six grandchildren, Lacey Medina and Casey Abbott of Breckenridge, Skylynn and Layton Housh of Cisco, and Dylan and Colten Hohhertz of Weatherford; two great-grandchildren, Alexa and Aryan Medina of Breckenridge.
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Gary Echols
GORMAN- Gary Clea Echols, 64, of Eastland died Friday, August 12, 2005 at an Abilene hospital.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, August 15, 2005 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel. Larry Roberts officiated, assisted by Terry Slavens. Burial followed in Oaklawn Cemetery directed by Higginbotham Funeral Home of Gorman.
Gary was born April 1, 1941 in Gorman to Clea and Mutt Echols. He married Lavenia Rodgers on March 12, 1960 in Gorman. He was District Supervisor for Energas for many years before retiring. He was a member of the Eastland Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife, Lavenia Echols of Eastland; two sons, Craig and wife, Terri Echols of Odessa and Eric and wife, Karen Echols of Chandler, Arizona; two grandsons, Aaron Echols of Abilene and Ryne Echols of Odessa; two aunts, Velda Baze and Annie Watson of Gorman.
He was preceded in death by his parents Clea and Mutt Echols.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to The American Diabetes Foundation or Fosters Children Home in Stephenville.
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John Hicks
John Hicks, 19, died Saturday, August 13, 2005.
Funeral services were held Monday, August 15, 2005 at 2 p.m. at the Hwy 36 Church of Christ with Dr. Ed Headrick and Jon Schwiethale officiating. Burial followed in the Tecumseh Cemetery directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home.
John Michael Hicks was born May 28, 1986 in Abilene, Texas to Mike Hicks and Tammy Armor. John was a 2004 Honor Graduate of Jim Ned High School and was involved in FFA and athletics. He played tennis and football; but baseball was his sport of choice. He lettered three years at Jim Ned in baseball; and in his senior year they won District for the first time in 10 years. John was a member of Jim Ned Valley Church of Christ and was attending Tarleton State University.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Kay Hicks.
Survivors are his mom, Tammy Armor of Tuscola; his father, Mike Hicks and wife, Vicky of Clyde; brothers, Austin Windham of Tuscola and Michael Hicks of Clyde; step-brother, Zane Simmons and step-sister Tori Simmons, both of Clyde; grandparents, John and Kathleen Armor of Tecumseh and Harold and Rhonda Hicks of Clyde; aunts and uncles, Darlene and Randy Tyler of Clyde, David Hicks of Eastland, and Julie Hicks of Mansfield; cousins, Lucy and Tamara Tyler and Morgan and Colby Hicks.
Memorials may be sent to Tecumseh Cemetery Association or West Texas Rehabilitation Center.
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Laura Wende
CISCO- Laura Annie Wende, 93, of Cisco died Friday, August 19, 2005 at Canterbury Villa.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 21, 2005 at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Pastor Matthew Brackman officiated. Burial was in the Redeemer Lutheran Cemetery, under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Laura was born on November 10, 1911 in Rayland, Ford County, Texas to Ben B. and Mary (Coufal) Weise. She married Alvin Paul Wende on April 27, 1944 in Eastland County whom preceded her in death on July 13, 1970. She was a homemaker and a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church.
She is survived by a daughter, Marilyn Fleming and husband, Morgan of Cisco; sons, Melvin Wende and wife, Lynda of Lake Brownwood, Donald Wende and wife, Avelon of Cisco; brother, David Weise of Carlsbad, NM; five grandchildren, Brian Fleming of Richardson, Sandra Parsley of Midland, Brad Fleming of Abilene, Larry Wende of Houston and Lyle Wende of New Braunfels; seven great-grandchildren, Stefan Parsley, Kelsey Parsley, Derick Parsley, Bri Fleming, Aiden Fleming, Brantley Fleming and Alyssa Fleming; sisters-in-law, Blanche Weise of Cisco and Katherine Wende of Abilene.
She was preceded in death by brothers, Joe Weise and Alfred H. (Buddy) Weise; sisters, Hattie Bennie and Mattie Reed.
Pallbearers were Brian Fleming, Brad Fleming, Gary Parsley, Larry Wende, Lyle Wende, Robert Dunning and Frank Weise.
Memorials may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church, Redeemer Lutheran Cemetery Association or the Lutheran Hour.
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Velma Letney
Velma Ruth Letney, 79, formerly of Cross Plains, Texas died Thursday, August 18, 2005 at Canterbury Villa in Cisco.
Graveside services were held Saturday, August 20, 2005 in the Nimrod Cemetery, Frances Walls officiated.
She was born on December 19, 1925 in Staley, Texas to Benjamin and Georgia (Pienkey) Caswell. She married James B. Letney on September 13, 1941 in Cole Springs, Texas. She was a homemaker and mother and a member of the Baptist church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and son, Robert Earl Letney.
She is survived by three sons, James B. Letney, Jr. and Henry S. Letney both of Cisco, John D. Letney of Cross Plains; brothers, George Junior Caswell of Kansas City, KS, S.V. Caswell of Cleveland, Tx; and a sister, Louise Shoner of Freeport, TX; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
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Harriette Rutherford
Harriette Elizabeth Rutherford, 87, of Rising Star, Texas died Thursday, August 18, 2005 in Victoria, Texas.
Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, August 21, 2005 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Dick Williams officiating and Matt McGowen assisting. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in Charge.
Harriette was born on August 11, 1918 in Healdon, Oklahoma to Dee and Lenora Henley-Moren. She married James A. Rutherford on January 15, 1946 in Breckenridge, Texas. They enjoyed 40 wonderful years together before James passed away on April 30, 1986. She was a devoted mother, wife and grandmother. She was known alternately as 'MiMi' and 'Mothergrand'. She and her husband James were also owners of the First State Bank of Rising Star for numerous years. She was a member of the Methodist Church in Rising Star. She lived in the community for 44 years.
Harriette is survived by one son, Jim Rutherford and his wife, Robbie Joy of Bryan, TX; 2 daughters, Judy and her husband, Ken Butler of Victoria, TX; Kaycee and her husband, Weldon Butler of Odessa, TX; 10 grandchildren; the joys of her life 'The Grands', Jamie and Neal Keith of Georgetown, TX; Trey and Karrie Rutherford of Caldwell, TX; Amanda and Richie Hogan of Bryan, TX; Tiffany Rutherford of College Station, TX; Allison, Brenam, Bryley, Cody, Cliff and Chase Butler; 7 great grandchildren 'The Greats'; Traes, Tyler, Tate Hogan; Colby and Cameron Rutherford; Cade and Caislyn Keith; her circle of caregivers, Peggy Brockenbush; Toneta Koop; Stephanie Carrazos; Eunice; nurses, Kelly Leuschner and Chasitiy; Dr. Joe Perkinson. She was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Rutherford; sister, Dorothy Ward; 2 brothers, Pete and Claude Moren; grandson, Tyler Rutherford; granddaughter, Kaylee Upton.
Pallbearers were Frank Grey, Harold Dudley, Don Bagwell, David McGowen, Eddie Henry, James Cox, Trey Rutherford, Richard Hogan.
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Gracie Foster
STAMFORD - Gracie LaJuan Carmichael Foster, 62, died Saturday, August 20, 2005 in a Stamford nursing home. Funeral services were held 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 22, 2005 at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Calvin Gray officiating. A graveside service followed at 2:00 p.m. in Siloam Cemetery, Comanche County under the direction of Kinney-Underwood Funeral Home in Stamford.
Gracie LaJuan Carmichael was born June 24, 1943 in Gorman, Texas, the daughter of Bobby Tatum and the late Ireace Carmicheal. She was a sales representative for Avon and had lived in Stamford for 30 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church and the VFW Post in Stamford.
Her father, Ireace Carmichael preceded her in death.
She is survived by three sons, David, John, and Charles Foster, all of Stamford; her mother, Bobby Tatum Bond of Cleburne; one sister and brother in law, Judy Stone and Charles of Cedar Park; four grandchildren, Brandan, Siobhan, Tatum, and Stormy Foster; one step grand child, Christopher Hellums; and two nieces and nephews.
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Jesse Simmons
CISCO- Jesse L. Simmons, 90, passed from this world on August 20, 2005 in Cisco.
Services were held Monday, August 22, 2005 at 2 p.m. at the I-20 Church of Christ with Larry Fitzgerald officiating. Interment was at Eastland Cemetery. Services were under the direction of the Summers Funeral Homes.
Mr. Simmons was born January 31, 1915 in Idaho to Jesse Monroe Simmons and Johnnie Ola Lissembee. He moved with his family to the Dothan community in the early 1920Õs.
He was employed as a laborer and electrician in the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930Õs, at the Longhorn Caverns, near Burnet. Jesse was inducted into the United States Army on March 18, 1941. He served as a tank commander in Europe, fighting in three campaigns.
Upon his discharge from service he returned to Cisco and married Dollie Ulola Kellar on January 7, 1948.
After the war he worked for the City of Cisco as a lake patrolman. He was also a plumber by trade.
Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John Simmons and his sister, Alma Juanita Parker.
He is survived by his loving wife Dollie; his daughter, Barbara Elaine Purcell and husband Tom of Cisco; his son, Kelly Don Simmons and wife Sandra of Austin; and two grandchildren, Melody and Jesse T. Simmons.
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Mary Tarrant
RANGER, TX Ð Mary Alice Moore Tarrant, 87, died Monday, August 22, 2005, at VITAS Hospice Care in Baylor All Saints Hospital, Fort Worth, Texas.
Services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, August 25, 2005 at Edwards Funeral Home, Ranger, TX. Graveside services at Colony Cemetery with reception immediately following at the Ranger Fire Station.
Donations may be made to VITAS Innovative Hospice Care at Baylor All Saints Hospital.
Mary Tarrant was born in Ranger, Texas January 11, 1918. Her childhood was spent in Ranger, working on the family farm. Known as Mamie, she married L.D. Tarrant March 20, 1943, and moved to Fort Worth. She worked at the Convair Bomber Plant during World War II. While raising 5 children, she was employed with Dillard's Department Store in Fort Worth in designer dress sales, and modeled for several years before retiring to the family farm in Ranger.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, L.D.; her parents, George and Della Moore; sister Ruby Griffin and brother George Wesley Moore, Jr.
A very spiritual woman, she loved living in the country where her passions included family and friends, gospel music, gardening, nature, reading and sewing, all with her most trusted friend and protector Troubles the dog. The farm was her Tara, and said she would only trade it for a mansion in the sky. Having never met a stranger, she had numerous friends in Ranger, Eastland, and Fort Worth. The greater part of each day was spent reading and writing letters to her dear friends and loved ones. Thanks to all of her friends, neighbors, doctors and nurses for their loving support and friendship throughout the years. A very special Thanks to Ellis County Bluegrass for singing the songs she so dearly loved at her service.
Survivors include daughters Mary Knight of Austin, Karen Lee and Dennis of Ft.Worth; sons David Tarrant and Missy of Mansfield, Kenneth Tarrant of Austin, Donald Tarrant of Eastland, TX; grandsons, Zachary Tarrant and Dana of Weatherford, John Tarrant of Mansfield, and Jeffrey Knight of Austin.
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Sid Davis
CROSS PLAINS- Sid Davis 79, of Cross Plains passed away on August 25, 2005 at his home. Graveside services will be 11 AM Saturday August 27, 2005 in the Pioneer Cemetery near Cross Plains with Rev. Dwaine Clower officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas.
He was born on January 6, 1926 in Tyler, Texas to Pete and Dollie Mae Davis. He served in the U. S. Army during World War II. He married Sally Owens on June 19, 1947 in Paducah, Texas. He managed Cluck Cattle Company Ranch in Santa Rosa, New Mexico for several years. He then moved to Cross Plains and owned and operated a cattle hauling operation for 25 years known as Davis Trucking.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters Jinivee Chavez and Jinidee Jiles; one brother Harold Davis; son Sidney Frank Davis and a great-grandson Michael Alan Alaniz.
Survivors include his wife Sally Davis of Cross Plains, two daughters Peggy Chavez and husband Richard of Santa Rosa, New Mexico, and Lil Martinez and husband Joe of Eastland; two sons Alan Davis and wife Patricia of Lockney and Neal Davis and wife Gabriel of Frankfurt Germany; eighteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews.
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Betty 'Vicki' Morris
RANGER Ð Betty Charlene 'Vicki' Morris 62 of Ranger passed away on Thursday August 25, 2005 in Abilene, Texas. A memorial service will be 2:30 pm Sunday at the Lake Leon Dam Peninsula with Dr. Richard Waters officiating.
Vicki was born on February 20, 1943 in National City, California to Charles Bill Vick and Eunice Florene Squyres Vick. She moved to Ranger in November 1994 and was the owner and operator of The Gusher Liquor Store.
Mrs. Morris is survived by her children; Rebecca Nunziato and husband Bob of Castleton New York, Danny LaRue and wife Holly of Ranger, Tx., Candice Cay Robinson of Azuza California. Special friend Jackie Whitson of Ranger, Tx. Granchildren; Patchen and Cody Wetterman, Kiley Nunziato and Taylor Nunzaito, Nikki, Noni and Colby and great-grandchildren Bailey & Payton & Clayton. Numerous nieces and nephews and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Karl.
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Sabas Martinez, Sr.
CISCO- Sabas Martinez, Sr., 104, passed away on Thursday, August 25, 2005 in Cisco.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, August 29, 2005 in Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Rev. Eddie Gonzales. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
He was born April 20, 1901 in Rosales, Coahuila, Mexico to Pedro Martinez and Llonierez Rojenio.
On May 15, 1921, he crossed the border to the United States as a young man. He found jobs working on farms doing the trade he learned while growing up in the Sierras in Mexico. He loved working with cattle and farming. He filled us with all of his stories growing up in Mexico and doing jobs in the United States. He had a keen, accurate memory up to his last days. He would remember every little detail about his jobs and wages. People learned he was a hard worker and he had no trouble finding work. He found jobs in Comanche, Sweetwater, Rotan, and Ennis.
Sabas met his wife, Juanita Coronado, 1926, at Rosebud, Texas. They had six children- Ernesto, Joe Coronado, Ramon Rodriguez, Hilario, Felipa, and Sabas, Jr.
In 1940, Sabas worked with the railroad stationed in Cisco. The family was furnished a boxcar for living quarters until they bought a house of their own in Cisco. This is the home he lived in even after his wife passed away in 1972. He remained there until he moved next door to his daughter. He lived on his own with some assistance from his daughter checking up on him daily. He was a very remarkable man to all. He was in such good health up until the last two weeks before his death. He had so much enthusiasm in living with very meager needs. To his grandchildren he was a very gentle giant who was very respected by them. We could never fool him, because he was always one step ahead of us!
On April 20 of this year he celebrated his 104 birthday with a ÒCome and GoÓ birthday party. He looked forward to these birthdays with his family and friends. The little children that showed up were his favorite. He enjoyed visitors stopping by to visit him and he would talk to them with such vitality. He especially enjoyed his visits with Ted Fields chatting about horses.
He will greatly be missed by his family, because we have had him for so long. ItÕs impossible to believe that this great man is gone. We will always remember him and his strength.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita, in 1972, and 3 of their children: Ramon and Nazario of Houston; Hilario and Sabas Jr. of Cisco died just this year.
He is survived by his daughter, Felipa DeLeon and husband Pedro, of Cisco; and son, Joe Coronado of Houston. His grandchildren, Margaret Gaeta and husband Leo, Rita Santos and husband David, Angie Guidry and husband Randy, Pete Jr. DeLeon and wife Brenda, and his extended grandchildren from the Houston area: Carmen and Nazario, Jr. of Houston, Roy, Raymond and Anna Coronado of Houston; his great-grandchildren, Michael and Lisa Gaeta, Richard and Jesse Santos, Eric Jimenez, Marissa and Duane Walingstick and Antonio and Marcos DeLeon; Mason and Casey Guidry; great-great-grandchildren, Megan, Symone and Natalie Santos and Kailauni Jimenez. He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren in the Houston area.
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Alice Briggs
Alice R. Briggs, 55, of Georgetown, Texas died Thursday, August 25, 2005 in Georgetown.
She was born on April 13, 1950 in Ranger, Texas to Lee Q. and Mabel A. (Smith) Greer.
Alice married Ralph P. Briggs on August 31, 1973 in Fort Worth, Texas. Alice was a member of the Heritage Baptist Church in Georgetown, and worked for Lone Star Hospice as a Secretary in Round Rock, Texas up until the time of her illness. She volunteered at the Williamson County Animal Shelter.
Survivors include her husband, Ralph P. Briggs of Georgetown; three sons, John Briggs of Ranger, Joey Briggs of Jarrell, Tx, Jerry Briggs of Upland, California; a daughter, Cathy Matta and husband Tony of Georgetown; also 12 grandchildren.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, August 29, 2005 at Heritage Baptist Church in Georgetown. Rev. Don Ledbetter officiated. Burial was in Weir Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society 2433 Ridgepoint Drive, Suite ÒBÓ Austin, Texas 78754.
Arrangements by The Gabriels Funeral Chapel of Georgetown.
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Daniel Wooldridge
EASTLAND- Daniel 'Danny' Wooldridge, 59, of Lake Leon, died Saturday, August 27, 2005, in Eastland.
Funeral services with Military Honors were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 30, 2005 in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, Rev. Harry Garvin officiated. Burial followed in Oakland Cemetery, near Gorman.
Mr. Wooldridge was born June 22, 1946 in Weatherford to Oris C. and Hazel Juanita (Nickel) Wooldridge. He excelled in F.F.A. in high school. He entered the US Army during Vietnam and later joined the Navy and was injured as an underwater diver during battle. He received an Honorary Medical Discharge in 1972. He married Linda Kirk on December 25, 1970 in Weatherford. They moved to Eastland in 1973 and later to Lake Leon. He worked for a time for Southern Airways at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells and Victor Cornelius printing for a short time. He was a member of Lake Leon Baptist Church, Disabled American Veterans and the North American Hunting Club. He enjoyed his family, hunting, gardening, and drawing.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Linda of Lake Leon; daughter and son-in-law, Mae and Rick Rackow of Eastland, daughters, Christy Wooldridge of Abilene and Hollie Wooldridge of Eastland; son, Daniel Wooldridge II of Eastland; granddaughters, Laney and Terra Rackow of Eastland; one brother, Norman Wooldridge of Weatherford; one sister, Juanita Cummins of Weatherford; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Brenda (Kirk) and Jerry Newton of Irving, Jimmy Kirk of Irving, Timmy and Kathy Kirk of Missouri; nine nieces and nephews; and nine great-nieces and nephews.
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Catherine Clark
WEATHERFORD- Catherine Meglasson Clark, 89, joined her husband in heaven Sunday, August 28, 2005.
Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at Cisco Cemetery directed by White's Funeral Home of Weatherford.
Catherine was born on July 22, 1916 in Walnut Springs. She was a resident of Willow Park for 31 years after moving from Arizona.
Survivors are a daughter, Wanda Brightwell of Haltom City; sons, Charles Clark of Colleyville, Don Clark of Willow Park; a brother, George Meglasson of Houston; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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J. H. 'Jack' Lee
J. H. (Jack) Lee died Friday, September 2, 2005, at the age of 93, following a brief illness.
Funeral services were held at the Daugherty Street Church of Christ in Eastland at 2 P.M. on Sunday, September 5, and interment followed at the Eastland Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were made by Edwards Funeral Home.
He was born in Angelina County, Texas, on December 17, 1911, to Richmon and Katie (Walker) Lee. Much of his childhood was spent in North Central Texas near Bowie. He had memories from that time of travel by horseback and of moving family possessions across the Red River by raft. He spent a brief period working on a ranch, then entered the service station business.
He moved to Eastland County in about 1934, and married Pauline Lemaster in Desdemona, Texas, on August 31, 1935. He eventually came to own several service stations in Eastland County. He had a busy life hauling gasoline for his stations, overseeing the business, and often personally operating the station in Eastland. He retired at age 66. He spent much of his retirement working in the yard and tending to property in Eastland and Ranger. He was able to continue working until this July, when he was hospitalized. He and Pauline celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary two days before his death.
He was a devoted and respected member of the Eastland Church of Christ, where he had served as a deacon and as an elder.
He is survived by his wife, Pauline; his son, Lanny, of Fairfax, California; his daughter, Lela, her husband, Norman Wikner and their daughter, Elena, of Denver, Colorado; a brother, Troy, of Casper, Wyoming; and many nieces and nephews.
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Maurine McElroy
Maurine Davenport McElroy, recently retired from the University of Texas Department of English, has died at age 91, on Friday, September 2, 2005.
Services were celebrated at University United Methodist Church, 2409 Guadalupe, Austin, at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 7, 2005. Burial followed at Austin Memorial Park with a reception afterwards at University United Methodist Church.
She was born on September 28, 1913, in Eastland, Texas, to William Frederick and Mary Johnson Davenport. Her parents both were descendants of pioneer families that helped settle the area.
Maurine earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas Tech University in 1937. This was followed by a Master of Arts degree from Hardin Simmons University in 1948 and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in English Literature from the University of Texas at Austin in 1964.
Dr. McElroy began her long career in education at age 19 teaching at an elementary school in her hometown. Her students even included a brother and a cousin. She retired as an Associate Professor Emeritus from the Department of English of the University of Texas at Austin in 2003, where she specialized in medieval and Renaissance drama, Shakespeare, and in summers, a review of American Nobel Prize winners. Between these two extremes she taught English and journalism in several high schools and Del Mar Community College in Corpus Christi.
Dr. McElroy took off a decade that she devoted to family rearing and feature writing for the Arkansas Democrat in Little Rock. She is the regular teacher for the Fellowship Forum of the University Methodist Church in Austin. She has served as an organizer and lecturer for the Quest program of continuing education at the University of Texas at Austin.
Dr. McElroy is survived by a daughter, Mary Maurine; a son Kennedy King and his wife, Katy McElroy, all of Austin, Texas; and by two grandchildren, Mariah McElroy of Fort Worth, Texas, and Austin McElroy of Austin, Texas. Also, she is survived by her three brothers, Dr. Frederick Parks Davenport of Boerne, Texas; Thomas Overton Davenport of Atlanta, Georgia; and, Joseph Robert Davenport of San Antonio, Texas.
Pallbearers were Jerry Conn, Carl Hehmsoth, Dr. James Magnuson and Edgar McElroy, all of Austin; George and Richard Harris of Midland, William Marrs of Temple, and James Marrs of Round Rock. Honorary pallbearers will be her three brothers, Dr. Theodore Dowd of Fort Myers Florida, and Col. (Ret ) W. L. McDowell of Brady.
The family is asking that memorial contributions be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2141 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 7000, El Segundo, CA 90245; or the Maurine McElroy Excellence in Education Fund, Quest Program for Continuing Education, The University of Texas at Austin Thompson Conference Center, P.O. Box 7879, Austin TX 78713-7879.
Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas 78705 (512) 452-8811. Obituary and guestbook online at wcfish.com
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Oleta Hale
CISCO- Oleta Hale, 89, passed away Sunday, September 4, 2005.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, September 7, 2005 at the Cisco Church of Christ, Larry Fitzgerald officiated, assisted by Charles Ivie, a nephew from the Church of Christ in Tatum, New Mexico. Burial followed in the Dotham Cemetery, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mrs. Hale was born July 2, 1916, to Luther and Crete Donaway, near the Dothan Community, west of Cisco. She attended school in Dothan, then graduated from Union High School in 1934, which was then located between Putnam and Moran. She was the sixth child of a fourteen sibling household (two died as infants).
Over the next five years, she struggled as many others did during the Depression with odd jobs in and near the home. Then in 1939 she and sister Bonnie Wayne McCleskey went to Ranger, Texas and took nursing training for two years through the National Youth Administration Program. They both met their future husbands in Ranger. Bonnie never used her nursing training, partially because her husband was killed in World War II and it took years for her to get over the loss. Oleta went to work in a quicker fashion, after a marriage that never worked to help support her only son, Duane. Oleta was a nurse in Eastland County for 45 years and a member of the Cisco Church of Christ.
She is survived by her son, Duane Hale of Cisco; two grandchildren, Bracken Hale and Lee Hale both of Austin; a great-grandson, Rune Harrison Hale; two brothers, Harlan Eugene Dunaway of Odessa and Gordon Dunaway of Dothan; a sister, Ida Hazlewood of Dothan; twelve nephews and seven nieces.
Memeorials may be made to Lake Cisco Christian Camp for Katrina Survivors Relief.
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Alvin Kitchens
CISCO- Alvin Henry 'Tuffie' Kitchens, 87, died Friday, September 2, 2005 at a Cisco care facility.
Funeral services were held Sunday, September 4, 2005 at 2 p.m. in the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Interment followed at the Elm Cemetery near the Okra Community. Terrell Jackson officiated.
Tuffie was born April 22, 1918, in Ravia, Oklahoma to Henry Kitchens and Lena Songers Kitchens. He married Jeffalee Dale Burns on October 4, 1940 in Levelland. They moved together to Cisco in 1961. He was a retired farmer and rancher. He was a faithful member of the I-20 Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and a brother, Alton Kitchens.
Survivors include his son, Royce Kitchens of Early, and wife, Paula; his daughter, Carolyn Hull of Cisco, and husband, Fred; sisters, Helen Small, Lottie Johnson, Lillian Martin, and Ruby Stanton; grandchildren, Terry Kitchens, Tommy Kitchens, Lezlea Hull, Teddy Hull, and Kari Porter; and 8 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.
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Elisa Ewing
Elisa Ewing, 42, passed away on Wednesday, September 7, 2005 at her residence.
She was born on September 18, 1962 to Robert Cavazos and Mary Reyes in Mangum, Oklahoma. Elisa was a loving mother, sister, aunt, daughter, niece and friend. She graduated from Platt Career Institute of Corpus and was employed by Spohn Property Mgmt for 22 years. She enjoyed participation in Mary Kay Cosmetics for three years. Elisa will be remembered for her love of laughter and her devotion to family.
Elisa is survived by her sons, Robert Ewing of Ranger, Texas, and Christopher Rice of Corpus Christi, Texas; her mother, Mary Reyes of Corpus Christi, Texas; her father, Robert Cavazos of Weslaco, Texas; two brothers, Ruben Gomez of Santa Fe, New Mexico and Albert Gomez of Harker Heights, Texas; two sisters, Rachel Garner of Corpus Christi, Texas and Jenny Gomez of Harker Heights, Texas; one granddaughter; and her loving fiance, Howard Goodpaster of Corpus Christi, Texas.
A Memorial Service was celebrated at St. Patrick's Catholic Church on Saturday, September 10, 2005 at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elisa Ewing Benefit Fund in c/o Christus Spohn Hospital Health System Credit Union, P.O. Box 3906 Corpus Christi, Texas 78463 or Christus Spohn Hospice Health System, 600 Elizabeth, Corpus Christi, Texas 78404, 1st Floor.
SEASIDE MEMORIAL PARK AND FUNERAL HOME Corpus Christi, Texas was in charge of arrangements.
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Beverly Moore
Beverly Anne Moore, formerly a resident of Ranger, 81, died Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2005, in Keller.
Graveside service were held 10 a.m. Friday, September 9, 2005 in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, George (G.W.) Moore, Jr.
Survivors include sons, Glenn Spinella, Mark Spinella; grandchildren, Jennifer, Sarah and Ty Spinella; and extended family of nieces and nephews. One nephew, Don Tarrant, resides in Ranger.
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Charlie Livingston
Charlie Livingston, of Cisco, passed away Friday, September 9, 2005, after a brief struggle with age-related complications. A life-long farmer and rancher, he was 90 years old and proud of it.
Funeral services were held Monday, September 12, 2005 in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco officiated by Rev. Benny Hagan and assisted by Rev. Baylis Pope. Burial followed in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Charlie was born in the Mitchell community southwest of Cisco on November 22, 1914. He grew up on the family farmstead with eight brothers and sisters and attended Dan-Horn and Scranton schools. He loved Scranton High School where he was an outstanding athlete in track and basketball. He graduated in 1933.
Charlie began courting a beautiful, firey red-haired neighbor girl, Christena Ruth Brown, and they married in January of 1939.
Two children, Coy and Stanley, were born in the 1940's. After a short stay near Carbon, the family moved to their permanent home on the farm south of Cisco in 1951.
The drought years of the 50's tested Charlie's skills as a farmer and manager, but by the end of the decade, the farm was beginning to prosper. Peanuts and feed grain were the major crops while he always ran a few cattle, which came to be like friends.
In the 1970's Charlie retired from farming but never from the farm. His cows, chickens, dog, cat, garden, and fruit trees gave him the desire to get out every morning and tend to his chores. He was active until the end.
Charlie is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, of 66 years; two children; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; many loving relatives; and a community of wonderful neighbors and friends.
Charlie's life could be described by the title of the old Jimmy Stewart movie, 'It's A Wonderful Life.' His was!
Memorials may be sent to the Red Cross or Texas Baptist Children's Home, P.O. Box 7, Round Rock, Texas 78680-9988.
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Neoma 'Shorty' Phillips
Neoma Lee (Shorty) Phillips, 85, of Cisco, died Saturday, September 10, 2005 at Canterbury Villa.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 13, 2005 at Carbon Christ Center officiated by Rev. Jimmy Maples and assisted by Rev. Chris Justice. Burial was in Murray Cemetery, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Shorty was born to Virgil Aaron and Velma (Petree) Ables on January 29, 1920 in Carbon, Texas. She married Jessie Z. Phillips, Jr. on August 29, 1938 in Putnam. She and her husband operated a cafe in Carbon for several years. He preceded her in death. She was a member of the Pentecostal Church and the Order of Eastern Star.
Survivors include two sons, Bill Joe Phillips and wife Deanna of Cisco and Johnny Ray Phillips and wife LaDonna of Cathey's Valley, California; sister, Robbie Barnett of San Ramon, California; grandchildren, Robert Lee Phillips, Gene Louis Phillips and Wendy Rey Sullivan; great-grandchildren, Justin Aaron Phillips, Cody Sullivan and Kelsey Carol Sullivan.
Serving as pallbearers were Lemon Ables, Wayne Ables, Gene Phillips, Bobby Phillips, Johnny Phillips, and Bill Phillips.
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Ila Walsh
BRECKENRIDGE- Ila Walsh, 79, of Breckenridge, died Thursday, September 8, 2005 in Abilene.
Services were held Sunday, September 11, 2005 at 2 p.m. in the Edwards Funeral Chapel. Cecil Harper officiated. Burial followed at Evergreen Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger.
Ila was born on February 23, 1926 in Scott County, Mississippi to Carl Lee and Laura Bell (Harvey) Jones. She attended school in Lake Mississippi. She worked as the Head Nurse for many years at Dr. Scaff's office in Monahans. Ila married James 'Pug' Walsh on March 28, 1974 in Lovington, NM. They came to the Ranger area in 1983. Ila became very active in the Senior Citizens Dance Group and was a member of First Baptist Church. She moved to Breckenridge in the spring of 2002 to be closer to her family. Ila loved her work as a nurse, dancing, and most importantly her family and grandchildren.
Survivors include sons, Richard Lancaster and wife Sue of Breckenridge and Kenneth Lancaster and wife Sue of Abilene; step-son, James M. Walsh of Austin; brothers, Hines Jones of Tyler and Bill Jones of Forest; sisters, Joyce Davis of Washington State and Bonnie McCory of Pearl, Miss.; grandchildren, Susan Leann Lancaster of Abilene, Christina Lancaster of Breckenridge, Jordan Layne Lancaster of Breckenridge, D.J. Lancaster of Abilene, and Tracey Goff of Abilene; 12 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, James 'Pug' Walsh on May 8, 2001; and brother, Carl L. Jones, Jr.
Pallbearers were Chris Orr, D.J. Lancaster, Jordan Lancaster, David Carter, Brooks McClanahan, and Rex Owens. Honorary pallbearers were Taylor and Slader Goff.
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Mae Jones
MORAN- Mae Delle Jones, 85, died Sunday, Sept. 11, 2005 at an Abilene hospital.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2005 at the First United Methodist Church of Albany. Rev. Jack Clack officiated. Burial was in the Moran Cemetery directed by Godfrey-Neese Funeral Home.
Mae Delle was born on September 7, 1920 in Moran, Texas. She married Warlick G. Jones on November 18, 1948 in Abilene, Texas. He preceded her in death in 1975. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Moran. She was a homemaker. She was a member of Lee's Legion Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution; Amity Club of Moran; Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 591 and the American Legion Auxiliary. She was a lifelong resident of Moran and was very active in the community.
Survivors include one daughter, Lynda Jones Weatherby of Stephenville; one son, Bert Jones and wife, Delnita of Albany; four grandchildren, Ladelle Weatherby Morse and husband, Brian of Dallas, James Weatherby of Austin, Wade Jones and wife, Melissa of Albany and Brock Jones of Albany.
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Mildred Speegle
CISCO- Mildred Irene Speegle, 76, of Cisco, died Tuesday, September 13, 2005 at Canterbury Villa.
Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. Friday, September 16, 2005 at Oakwood Cemetery officiated by Rev. John Beckling, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mildred was born in Colorado City, Texas on March 10, 1929 to Charlie Clyde and Dollie (Lassister) Cooper. She married Oren Merritt Speegle on December 31, 1948 in Cisco. He preceded her in death on December 8, 1990. She worked at Boss Glove Manufacturing, later she worked in the food service department at E.L. Graham Memorial Hospital. She also worked as a caregiver to the elderly. She was a member of Cisco Chapter #461 Order of Eastern Star and First United Methodist Church.
Survivors include a son, Randy Speegle and wife Charlotte of Cisco; sister, Dorothy McCune of Cisco; brother, Charley Joe Cooper of Denton; granddaughter, Lori Ann Lilley of Sealy; grandson, Michael Lynn Speegle of Midland; six great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son, Terry Lynn Speegle.
Honorary pallbearers were Doug Witt, Dave Witt, Jim Bob Maples, Chris Maples, Mike Harrison, Richard Harrison, Brady Maples, Wayne Cooper and Hollis Williams.
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Robert Ator
CISCO- Robert Ator, 77, of Cisco, died Tuesday, September 13, 2005 at his residence.
Services were held Thursday, September 15, 2005 at 10 a.m. in the Edwards Funeral Chapel with Rev. Mike Madden and Rev. David Sims officiating. Burial followed in the Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Mr. Ator was born on November 26, 1927 to Thad and Minnie (Thornton) Ator. He married Doris Lankford on February 6, 1948 in Brownwood. He worked for Southwest States Phone Company for 35 years as an engineer. He was a member of the Grace Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Doris Ator, on November 22, 2004.
He is survived by his children, Laura Holleman of Cisco, David Ator of Brownwood, and Robert Shannon Ator and wife Frankie of Salado; brother, H.B. Ator of Odessa; sister, Ann Matthews of Odessa; 5 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Walter Hutchins, Jr.
RANGER- Walter Hutchins, Jr., 65, of Ranger, died Monday, September 12, 2005 in Temple.
Memorial services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, September 14, 2005 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger with William Holden officiating.
Mr. Hutchins was born July 21, 1940 in Dallas to Walter, Sr. and Katherine Ann (Baugus) Hutchins. He served in the U.S. Army from 1960 until 1963 where he served with the 82nd Airborne Division. He married Sandra Lee Nearhoof on June 10, 1963 in Marina, California. He owned and operated Hutchins Tire Sales in Dallas for 30 years, moving to Ranger in 1992. He was a member of the Lawson Baptist Church.
He was a wonderful father and husband who will be missed most by his wife, Sandra Hutchins of Ranger; children, Walter Hutchins, III and Kim Moore of Plano, Keith Houston Hutchins and Idella of Malakoff, Ruth Katherine Henderson and Chuck of Ft. Worth, and Lori Luttrell and Randy of Morgan Mill; brothers, Alfred Hutchins of Dallas and Oscar Hutchins of Ranger; grandchildren, James David Parker and Bambi Lynnette Hutchins and Jesse Garcia, all of Wichita Falls, Walter Hutchins, IV and Austina of Ranger, Ariel Ruth Anna Anderson and Ezra Joe Martin Henderson, both of Ft. Worth, James and Sean Flanagan and Crystal Pornich, Amanda Pornich and Marcus Pornich all of Malakoff; mother-in-law, Ruth Nearhoof of Youngstown, Ohio; brother-in-law, Houston Willard Nearhoof and Riki of Sharon, PA; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Clarence Stroebel
CISCO- Clarence G. Stroebel, 88, passed away in a local hospital Wednesday, September 14, 2005.
Funeral services were held Friday, September 16, 2005 at 11 a.m. at the Redeemer Lutheran Church under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Committal services were held at Romney Lutheran Cemetery with Pastor Matthew Brackman officiating.
Clarence was born March 2, 1917 to Henry Stroebel and Christine Mueller in Cisco, Texas. In September of 1944 he married Ruth Weiser and settled near the Stroebel home place.
He was a farmer and rancher by trade. He was baptized into the Lutheran Church on March 18, 1917 and remained a faithful member to the present day Redeemer Lutheran Church.
Clarence loved to restore both antique cars and antique furniture.
He was preceded in death by his parents; all 12 of his brothers and sisters; and a daughter Carol Stroebel.
He is survived by his wife Ruth of the home, and his son, Mike Stroebel, both of Rising Star.
Pallbearers serving were Ronnie Weiser, Robert Dunning, Douglas Akers, Bud Linny, Herman Eaker and Frank Weise.
Honorary pallbearers were Paul Sims, David Yoch, Terry Crozier, John Gerhardt, John Muller, and Joe Ziehr.
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Elizabeth Earnest
Elizabeth Kathryn (Kay Gibbs) Earnest, 73, of Hobbs, passed away Sunday, September 11, 2005 in a local hospital.
Funeral service was held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, September 15, 2005 at Prairie Haven Memorial Park Chapel with Reverend Kevin Kellow officiating. Interment followed at Prairie Haven Memorial Park.
Mrs. Earnest was born February 26, 1932 in Cisco, Texas to Thomas Howard (Papa Tom) & Willie May Maxwell Hennington. Mrs. Earnest married Samuel L. (Tiny) Gibbs and he preceded her in death in March of 1968. She married David H. Earnest on October 1, 1968 in Hobbs. She enjoyed delivering meals on wheels and helping her friends and neighbors. Mrs. Earnest work many years at 7-11 Hamburger Stand on E. Broadway when hamburgers were 20 cents each. One of her favorite days of the week was Monday, family day at the beauty shop. Mrs. Earnest babysat for sch