OBITUARIES
January 06 - June 06
Joe Tucker
EASTLAND Ð Joe M. Tucker, 41, of Eastland, passed away Monday January 2, 2006, at an Abilene hospital.
Services were held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2006 at the First United Methodist Church in Eastland with John M. Beckling, Jr. officiating. Interment was in the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. The family received friends at the funeral home Tuesday evening from 5-7 P.M.
Joe was born on December 15, 1964 in Mineral Wells to M.C. - 'Pete' and Beulah (Pelser) Tucker. He grew up in Perrin, where he played football. He attended Weatherford College for a year before graduating from Tarleton State University. He worked for a time for Mitchell Oil in Mineral Wells before moving to Eastland 15 years ago when he began working for C.P.S. He then started working for the Probation Department where he worked for the last 13 years. He married Jennifer Sanders on May 17, 1999 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He enjoyed shooting, trading, gun shows and working around the house where he never left a task undone.
He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Tucker of Eastland; a daughter, Laura Kate Tucker of Eastland; his parents, M.C. 'Pete' & Beulah Tucker of Perrin; a sister, Kay Cline and her husband Gary of Liberty Hill; a nephew, Brian Lones; and by several cousins.
-------------
Robert 'Bob' Beckett
Robert M. 'Bob' Beckett, 67, of Midland, formerly of Cisco, died Monday, January 2, 2006, at a Midland hospital.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 5, 2006, at the First Baptist Church in Cisco with Rev. Harry Garvin officiating. Burial will be in the Oakwood Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home of Cisco.
Visitation will be Wednesday from 6-7 p.m. in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel.
Mr. Beckett was born August 31, 1938, in Del Rio, Texas. He married Dawn Mills on October 30, 1970 in Odessa, Texas. Bob was a proud member of the fightin'. Aggie Class of 61. Soon after graduating from Texas A&M he went to work for Shell Oil Company as a landman. During his tenure as a landman, he was the Division Landman (and later Regional Land Manager) for North American Royalties, Land Manager for Kenai Oil and Gas, and in his later years an independent landman until his retirement. He served as a Project manager for a large Italian construction company (Coger-Impresit) building a multi-story prison in Miami, Florida and as a Project Manager for a the State of Texas building a Texas prison in Abilene, Texas and also a prison in Gatesville, Texas.
Mr. Beckett was a member of First Baptist Church of Midland, Texas and formerly a member of First Baptist Church of Cisco, Texas. He was a member of the American Association of Petroleum Landman, Permian Basin Association of Landman, and the Texas A& M Association of Former Students.
He was preceded in death by one daughter Lela Raye Beckett and his parents.
Survivors include wife, Dawn Mills Beckett of Midland, Texas; two sons and daughter-in-laws, Brent and Stacy Hilliard of Midland, Texas and Hoot and Janecka Beckett of Little Rock, Arkansas; one daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Glenn Johnson of Childress, Texas; one sister, Linda McQuilkin of Eastland, Texas; mother-in-law, Leona Moffitt of Midland, Texas; father-in-law, Louis Mills of Mesa, Arizona; five grandchildren, Tara Holder, Sterling Hilliard, Bradley Hilliard, Spencer Hilliard, and Sam Beckett .
Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home of Midland, Texas. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com
-------------
Howard Dill
Howard Dwayne Dill, 70, died Saturday, December 31, 2005 at an Arlington hospital.
Howard Dwayne Dill was born November 6, 1935, in Cisco, Eastland Co., to John Howard and Daisy Gertrude Evans Dill. He was a longtime resident of the Cisco and Fort Worth area. Dwayne attended Highland Baptist and University Baptist Churches of Arlington and First Baptist Church of Cisco. He retired from Bell Helicopter Textron after working over 35 years as a pattern maker. Dwayne was a member of UAW Local 218 where he served as a union representative. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Donnie and Derrell.
Mr. Dill is survived by his brother, Durwin Dill and family of Weatherford; sister-in-law, Mary K. Dill and family of Edmond, OK; aunts and uncle, Bill and Diane Dill of Montgomery, Pat Dill of Cisco; cousins, David and Virginia Dill of Cisco, Cynthia Dill of Mansfield; longtime companion, Norma Wilson and her family; sons, Steven and Michael Wilson; grandchildren, Nickolas, Alexander, Rebekah, and Sarah Wilson.
Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, January 5, 2006 at White's Chapel of Memories with Chaplain Delton Parker officiating. Burial was at 2:00 p.m. at Corinth Cemetery near Cisco. White's Funeral Home of Weatherford was in charge of arrangements.
---------------
William Wesley
RANGER- William Oliver Wesley 96, of Ranger, Stephens County passed away on Tuesday January 3, 2006 at his home.
Graveside services were held Thursday January 5, 2006 at 2 PM in Necessity Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial was in Necessity Cemetery in Stephens County under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Mr. Wesley was born on January 5, 1909 in Bandera County, Texas Herbert H. and Lena L. Counts Wesley. Oliver was a graduate of Caddo High School. He married Thelma Evelyn Jackson on February 16, 1935 in Ranger, Texas. He worked as a rancher all of his life.
Oliver was preceded in death by three sons Mack in 1979, Earl and Jim in 1998 and a granddaughter Susan Yvonne Wesley in 1962.
Oliver is survived by his wife of 70 years Thelma Wesley of Ranger; sons, Dave Wesley of Ranger, Jack Wesley of Granbury, and Joe Wesley of Ranger; a daughter, Mary 'Sis' Mathis of Ranger; 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; one brother, Alden Wesley of Breckenridge, Tx.; several nieces and nephews.
-------------
Harold Osburn
Harold Osburn, 91, of Fredricksburg and formerly of Eastland, passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2006 in Fredricksburg.
He was buried by his wife, Helen, in the Eastland City Cemetery on Thursday, January 5, 2006 under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
Harold was born October 15, 1914 in Mineral Wells to Walter Fletcher and Mary Catherine (Holderidge) Osburn. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1943 where he was in the war service training program for pilots. He married Helen Evatt Stokes on February 19, 1938 in Eastland. He was a member of the AARP, NARFE, Lone Cedar Country Club and First Baptist Church.
Helen preceded him in death on December 15, 1989.
Survivors include a son, David Osburn and his wife Susan of Fredricksburg.
--------------
Viola Thomas
EASTLAND- Viola Thomas, 82, of Eastland, passed away, Wednesday, January 4, 2006 in Eastland.
Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, January 6, 2006 at the Eastland City Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home.
Mrs. Thomas was born September 15, 1923, in Henrietta, to Ozro and Nora Mae (Miller) Carter. She grew up in Henrietta where she attended school. She married Howard C. Thomas on June 28, 1941 in Archer City. He preceded her in death in September 1979. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, cooking and raising chickens. She was a Baptist, a homemaker and mother who enjoyed raising seven children who survive her including: Weldon Thomas and wife Peggy of Benbrook, Clifford Thomas and wife Bridgett of Odessa, Eddie Thomas and wife Mary of Mission, Freddie Thomas and Susie of Eastland, Gail Runyon and husband David of Austin, Tony Thomas and wife Beverly of Eastland, and Paul Thomas of Austin; a brother, Roscoe Carter of Oklahoma; 14 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Red Cross for the Eastland area.
-----------------
Wordene Hawthrone
Wordene Hawthorne, 81, of Dallas, passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2006 at her home in Dallas.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 8, 2006 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Gorman with Rev. Jimmy Nelson officiating. Burial was in Simpson Cemetery.
Mrs. Hawthorne was born March 19, 1924 in O'Brien, Texas to the late Clint Wharton and Susie (Neils) Wharton. She was a retired claims typist with Gulf Insurance Company and a member of the Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four sisters; and one brother.
She is survived by two sons, Clint Hawthorne of Dallas and Clay Hawthorne and wife, Paula of Athens; three granddaughters, Molly Hawthorne, Amy Wright and Jennifer Wood; four great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
----------
Nola Mierop
Nola Van Mierop, 77, of Rising Star, Texas died Saturday, January 7, 2006 in Rising Star.
Nola was born on January 13, 1928 in Callahan County, Texas to Jefferson Franklin and Mary Annie Vandivere-Botts.
Nola is survived by three sons, Gary Dunn, Donnie Dunn, Johnny Dunn all of San Angelo, Texas; one brother, Aldon Botts of Kansas; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Mark Searcy officiating. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge.
-------------
Ronald Holmans
In loving memory of Ronald S. Holmans, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who served as a United States Marine as a Sgt. E-5 during the Vietnam War.
Funeral services with military honors were held at 11 a.m. Monday, January 9, 2006, at the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Pastor Jody Forbus officiated.
Ronald was born in Harlingen on February 23, 1949 to William Stevens Holmans and Lula Edith Martin.
He passed away on Friday, January 6, 2006 in an Abilene care facility.
Ronald achieved the rank of Sgt. E-5 in the United States Marine Corp. Before his Honorable Discharge, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Champaign Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, a Rifle Marksman Badge, a RVN Cross for Gallantry, and presented a Presidential Unit Citation. In later years, he worked in the transportation industry as a truck driver. He was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Cross Plains.
He is survived by his wife of over 33 years, Roselyn Holmans, of Eastland; his three daughters, Mickie Tolliver and husband Rodney, Denise Matheny and husband David, Veronica Vara and husband Chester; 14 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; former son-in-law Robert Long; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Charles Lee Holmans, his sister Clara Christine Burchfield, and his grandson Norman Williams.
The pallbearers were son-in-laws and grandsons, Williams Holmans, Steven Long, Rodney Tolliver, David Matheny, Chester Vara, and Robert Long.
-------------
Emma Ware
Emma Alfreda Ware, 85, was born on May 28, 1920 in Walnut Springs, Texas to Luther Blanton and Lena Merle Gutton Culpepper.
She passed away on Monday, January 9, 2006 in Dallas, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister Gladys Ware, four brothers Jimmy Culpepper, Luther Blanton (Bea) Culpepper, Jr., Gerald Culpepper and John Culpepper.
Emma is survived by her husband of 67 years, Grady Cline Ware, whom she married on April 18, 1938; two daughters, Debbie Myers of North Richland Hills, and Sondra Forbes and husband Ed of Midlothian, TX.; five grandchildren, Danna Stewart and husband Jason of Maypearl, Jason Myers of Lafayette, Louisiana, Clint Forbes and wife Tina of Belton, TX, Robin Myers and wife of Houston, Melody Winters and husband Matthew of Fort Worth; eight great-grandchildren, Emma and Ethan Stewart, Hannah King-Forbes, Caleb Forbes, Katie and Amanda Myers, and Hannah and Chandler Winters; two brothers, Frank Culpepper and wife Jo of McGregor, TX, and Farrell Culpepper and wife Martha; one sister, Margie Faulk and husband Winfred of Katy, TX.; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was a member of the Graham Chapter of the Eastern Star and worked with the Rainbow Girls.
Pallbearers were Jason Myers, Clint Forbes, James Grady Faulk, Joe Ray Culpepper, Jason Stewart and Ed Forbes.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, January 12, 2006 at the Midlothian Funeral Home, with services following on Friday, January 13 at 2 p.m. at The Midlothian Funeral Home Chapel with burial in the Midlothian Cemetery.
Arrangements by Midlothian Funeral Home.
------------
Jessie McCulley
EASTLAND Ð Jessie Calvin McCulley, 85, of Eastland passed away on Saturday January 7, 2006 at a local hospital. Services were held at 11 A.M. Tuesday at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland, with Dr. T. Shawn Brewer officiating. Burial will be in Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas.
Mr. McCulley was born on May 21, 1920 in Gorman to Clayborn 'Clay' and Ida L. Capers McCulley. He met and married Lorene Hodges on December 29, 1941 in Comanche. Mr. McCulley served in the United States Army in the infantry as a Tech Sergeant during WWII. After his discharge they moved to Goldsmith, TX and Odessa where he played semi-pro baseball and later worked for El Paso Natural Gas, starting in the yard and progressed thru the ranks and retired in 1982 as a shift foreman. They moved to Eastland in 1980. He was a member of the Odessa Temple Baptist Church in Odessa and currently a member of First Baptist in Eastland. He was involved in his son's sports activities including coaching Little League Baseball, a Boy Scout Leader and he enjoyed woodworking and fishing and was a mentor to many children and young adults.
Mr. McCulley is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lorene McCulley of Eastland; sons, Timothy McCulley of Cordell, OK and Jessie D. McCulley of La Porte, TX; 4 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; sisters, Bonnie Overstreet of Petersburg, TX, Elizabeth Bingham of Gorman, TX and Fay Perrin of Sundown, TX.
-------------
Roy Allen Miller
Roy Allen Miller, 54, of Loxahatchee, passed away on January 5, 2006. He was born in Austin, Texas moving to Florida 16 years ago. He graduated from Eastland High School in 1970. He had been employed for 13 years with Continental Florida Material. Roy was an outdoorsman, especially enjoying fishing, hunting and scuba diving.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 16 years, Karen of Loxahatchee; his son, Ryan and his mother and step-father, Wilma and Ed Ethridge and his father and step-mother, Jim and Claylia Miller; sisters, Earin (Bobby) Martin and Susan (Terry) Jennings; half-brother, Mark Miller; step-brother, Jay Manuel and nieces and nephews all of Texas.
He will be laid to rest at Austin Memorial Park, Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations made to St. Jude's Childrens' Hospital, Miami, Florida would be appreciated.
Arrangements under the direction of Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 North Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas 78752.
--------------
Mark Sanders
Mark Leif Sanders, age 22, of Abilene, Texas, was killed in an accident Tuesday, January 10, 2006 near San Angelo.
Graveside services were held at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, January 12, 2006 at the Gorman Cemetery with Denver Rainey officiating. Services were under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home in Gorman.
Mark was born December 14, 1983 in Snyder, Texas to Olen Ray Sanders and Sandra Jean (Coopedge) Sanders. He was a floor hand in the oilfield.
Mark is survived by the love of his life, Tiffany and her children, Michael, Joshua and Tamara of Abilene; parents, Ray and Janet Sanders of DeLeon; brother, Jeremy Sanders of Big Lake; sister, Susan Sanders of Phoenix, Oregon; step-brother, Derrik Adams of Carrollton and grandmothers, Betty Sanders Frasier of Gorman, Mattie Bolden of Ira, TX. and Cora Lee Merworth of DeLeon; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.
----------------
Patricia Berel
EASTLAND Ð Patricia Berel, 20, of Eastland, passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2006 in Eastland.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 14, 2006 at the Eastland City Cemetery. Edwards Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Viewing will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning at the cemetery.
Patricia was born on March 30, 1986 in Red Bluff, California to Billy Berel and Sarah Watkins.
-----------
Charlie Samuels
OLDEN - Charlie Glenn Samuels, a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, died peacefully on Tuesday, January 10, 2006 in Ranger, Texas.
'Charlie Glenn', was born March 5, 1920 in Carbon, Texas to Jessie and Clara Belle Bisbee. For many years she lived and worked in Eastland where she met and married Thomas Clay Samuels in 1947. Charlie and Tommy later moved to Brownwood and then to Fort Worth. In 2002 they came back to the area moving to Olden.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 12, 2006 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Graveside services were at 3:30 p.m. at the Greenwood Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Charlie Glenn was survived by her husband of 58 years, Tommy Samuels; her daughter, Cheryl Nelson of North Richland Hills, Tx.; her sons, Harold Armstrong of Bossier City, La. and Ron Armstrong of Olden, Tx.; sister, Sammie Phillips of Fort Worth; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
---------------
William 'Sonny' Kirby
EASTLAND - William 'Sonny' Kirby, 66, a lifelong resident of Eastland, passed away Monday, January 9, 2006 in Eastland.
Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 13, 2006 at the Eastland City Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Maston officiating and under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
William was born Nov. 16, 1939 in Eastland to Floyd John & Willie Ophelia (Slaughter) Kirby. He enjoyed visiting with friends and working on lawn mowers. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include a brother, Robert Ellis Kirby of Eastland; 4 sisters, Doris Castleberry & her husband Bob of Cisco, Linda Sue Crowder of Edmond, OK, Joyce Elaine Howell of Houston, and Glenna Marie Preslar & her husband Bill 'Butch' of Eastland; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
--------------
Chad Sobley
EASTLAND- Chad Edward Sobley, 29, of Ranger, died at his home in Ranger on December 8, 2005.
A memorial service for Chad and his mother, Cathy Stanley, will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, January 15, 2006 at Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland.
-----------
Cathy Stanley
EASTLAND- Cathy Ann Stanley, 51, of Ranger, died in a Fort Worth hospital on January 4, 2006.
A memorial service for Cathy and her son, Chad Sobley, will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, January 15, 2006 at Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland.
--------------
Lacey Nichols
EASTLAND - Lacey Lynn Nichols, infant daughter to Gary and Jennifer Nichols, passed away on Thursday January 12, 2006 at a Fort Worth hospital.
Services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at the Nazarene Church in Cisco with Rev. Bob Ferguson officiating. Burial was in the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas.
Lacey was born on October 18, 2004 in Eastland, Texas to her parents Gary and Jennifer Hayes Nichols.
She is survived by her parents Gary and Jennifer Nichols of Eastland; paternal grandfather, Ben Nichols of Cisco; maternal grandfather, Dale Hayes of Dallas; sisters, Lynnsey, Jaynie and Leeanne Nichols; aunts and uncles; Angela Yoes, Bennie & Liz Nichols, Fred and Ann Nichols; and cousins Jennifer Burke and Julie Nichols.
----------
Hubert Johnson
Hubert G. Johnson, 86, died Friday, January 13, 2006, at an Abilene medical center.
The funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 16, 2006 at the Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith, 5701 Hwy 277 South, officiated by Rev. David Cason. Interment follow in Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories. The family received friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Hubert was born on October 20, 1919, in Eastland County, Texas, and moved from Cisco to Abilene in 1947. He served in the U. S. Army and the National Guard, and worked for the Federal Civil Service all totaling 35 years. He retired in 1979 as a chief warrant officer.
On December 16, 1988, Mr. Johnson married Anna Carrigan in Abilene. He was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church and Cobb Park Senior Citizens. He was also a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for fourteen years and a member of Rose Park Tennis Center for many years.
Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Burton; brothers, Macon Adams, Dalton Adams, O. B. Johnson, M. L. Johnson, and Benny Johnson; and sisters, Zilla Agnew, Winnie Pimm, and Zennie Lauderdale.
Survivors include his wife, Anna Johnson of Abilene; daughters, Carolyn Johnson and Nita Smith both of Abilene and Sherryl Johnson of Lake Forest, California; a sister, Estelle Tomlinson of Tucson, Arizona, fourteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels Plus, Inc., PO Box 903, Abilene, TX 79604.
-------------
Bobbie Daniel
Bobbie L. Daniel, 90, of Ranger, formerly of Temple, passed away peacefully at her residence on Saturday, January 14, 2006.
She was born to the late Boss and Rena Thomas on August 26, 1915 in Gatesville.
Bobbie was a faithful member of Heights Baptist Church. She loved attending church, traveling and volunteering her time. She loved working at the Senior Fellowship Center and with Meals on Wheels in Temple. Bobbie was a very loving and giving person.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years, Hugh L. Daniel; daughter, Hueleita Daniel; grandson, Garron Sims.
She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Sims and her husband, Duane of Ranger; sisters, Ruth Winkler of Dallas, Lois Stewart of Big Springs; 3 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at Bellwood Memorial Park with Dr. Tom Henderson officiating.
------------
Mary Chambers
Mary Louise Chambers, 73, of Glen Rose, Texas died Saturday, January 14, 2006 in Rainbow, Texas.
Mary was born on December 19, 1932 in Munday, Texas. She was raised in Cross Plains, Texas. She married Dewey Hughes Chambers on November 25, 1947 and moved to Rising Star. She resided in Rising Star until the middle 1990Õs. She was a Baptist and a very Christian lady.
Mary is survived by four daughters, Terry and her husband, Dennis Hampton of Waco, TX, Mackie and her husband, Gary Chambers of Stephenville, TX, Susie and her husband, David of Rising Star, Debbie and her husband, J.D. Roberson of Rainbow, TX; two sisters, Lavern Woods of Comanche, TX, Donna Jones of Troy, TX; two brothers, Gene Tate of San Bernardino, CA, Mike Tate of Fresno, CA; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many close family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dewey H. Chambers; mother, Alma Lee Mattocks; father, Merion Tate.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 16, 2006 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Dick Williams officiating. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star, with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge of arrangements.
---------------
Linda Paulson
Linda Lonell Paulson St. Clair, 58, died January 14, 2006 at her home in Eastland, Texas.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 21, 2006 at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Eastland.
Her body was donated to Medical Science per her request.
Linda was born December 29, 1947 in Clifton,Texas to Jim Lumkin Paulson and Virgie Devilla Savage in Palo Pinto, Texas. She was a graduate of Temple Jr. College and a Baptist.
She was a resident of Eastland for 7 years.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Joe St. Clair; her parents, Jim Lumkin Paulson and Virgie Devilla Savage; and a brother, John Edgar Paulson.
Survivors include her children, Misti Delynn Nipp of Eastland, Jimmy Joe St. Clair, Jr., and James Kevin St. Clair; a brother, Jimmy Dan Paulson of Canyon, TX.; sisters, Wanda Virgie Childress of Ranger, Mary Jane Bayles of Belton, and Bonnie Ruth Jansen of Temple; grandchildren, Katelynn Vergie Stroud, Justin Michael Stroud, Brian Keith Stroud, Jr., Steven Dewayne Lewis of Mingus and Lonny Allan (Pete) Lewis of Mingus; and numerous nieces and nephews.
-----------
Stetson Pacheco
GORMAN- Stetson Spur James Pacheco, 8 month old infant son of Efren and Tanya Pacheco, died Saturday, January 14, 2006.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Gorman with Father McNamara officiating. Burial followed in Gorman Cemetery.
Stetson was born April 30, 2005 at Brownwood, Texas.
He is survived by his parents, Efren and Tanya Pacheco; a brother, Lane Pacheco of Gorman; sister, Christianna Pacheco of Gorman; paternal grandmother, Maria A. Pacheco of Gorman and maternal grandparents, Balvina and James Lewis of Gorman; as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.
-------------
Glenn Patton, Sr.
Glenn Patton, Sr. passed away on January 7, 2006.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2006 at Harrell Funeral Home Chapel in Austin, Texas. James Harris, Jr. officiating. Interment was in Live Oak Cemetery in Manchaca, Texas.
He was born in Eastland, Texas on November 3, 1944 to Carl and Vera Patton. Glenn married the love of his life, Gloria, on May 4, 1965.
Glenn will be remembered as a loving husband, brother, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Vera Patton; and sisters, Mildred Lewis and Betty McSpadden.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 40 years, Gloria Patton; daughter, Millie Scherbek and husband Nathan; son, Dale Patton and fiancé' Laura Valdez; daughter, Melinda Swenson; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters, Ernal Jenkins of Anadarko, OK, Neva Rogers of Odessa, Liz Ballard and husband, Butch of Fort Worth; brother, Carl Dave Patton, Jr. and wife, Maria of Everman; and a large extended family.
Glenn's work was his own business 'Unique Mobile Home Transport' for over 20 years. His life-long passion was singing, songwriter, and musician of gospel music.
No words can describe this loving and generous man. Glenn gave his all and always had a kind word and a smile that would light up a room. His wife was his life, and his children were his joy. Glenn was so much, to so many that his passing will affect us all.
He has now gone on to be with the Lord, to watch over us from above.
--------------
William 'Bill' Whittington
OLDEN- William 'Bill' Whittington, 79, of Olden, passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2006, in an Abilene hospital.
Graveside services were held at 3 P.M. Monday in the Merriman Cemetery with Danny Dodd and Jerry Hooper officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas.
Mr. Whittington was born on August 1, 1926 in Attalis County, Mississippi to E. Earl and Valley Eugenia (Payne) Whittington. He worked for 60 years as a self employed trader. He retired from the U.S. Army after World War II and Korea. He is preceded in death by his parents, and son, Gene Allen Whittington.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Ann Whittington of Olden; sister, Elanor Jennings of Greenville, Mississippi; sons, Richard Duane Whittington of Olden and William Earl Whittington, Jr. of Fort Worth; and grandsons, Patrick Duane Whittington, Jr.
Violet Watson
DESDEMONA- Violet Mae Watson, 95, died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2006. Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2006 at Desdemona Church of Christ. Burial followed in Alameda Cemetery, directed by Nowlin Funeral Home.
------------
Lois Baulch
Lois Squyres Baulch, 83, of Gainesville, Texas died January 15, 2006 at North Texas Medical Center.
Graveside services were held at the Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger, Texas on Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 2 p.m. under the direction of Geo. J. Carroll and Son Funeral Home.
Mrs. Baulch was born August 27, 1922 in Ranger to Riley O'Neal Squyres and Sentha Elizabeth Dempsey Squyres. She graduated from Ranger High School in 1939. She moved to Gainesville in 1954.
She worked for Kaden the Florist for a number of years where she developed her lifelong love of growing plants and flowers. She could grow anything. When she left Kaden's she worked at Ranger Arms in Gainesville for 2 years while there she actually made her own 25-06 rifle. She loved camping and deer hunting with her son and grandsons. After leaving Ranger Arms she worked and retired from Weber Aircraft.
She was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary, when in her younger years she was very active.
She is survived by sons, Bobby Alexander and wife Terry of Gainesville, Robert Thacker of Gainesville, Barry Mathins, and Clifton Mathis and wife Mary of Ranger; two daughters, Darlene Dudenhoeffer and husband Daniel of Lindsay, and Sharon Biggar of Sharon Biggar of Arkansas; sister, Helen M. Sparks of Bakersfield, California; grandchildren, Daryl and Dana Dudenhoeffer, Darla and Greg Wolf, Jordan Alexander all of Gainesville, Brad and Marty Bugg of Saint Jo, Bobbie Alexander of Las Vegas, Cindy Shoemaker of Princeton, Kevin Biggar of Leonard; her best friend, Lena Clodfelter; and 16 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Eunice; and her brother, Myrl.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the VFW Auxiliary, American Heart Association or Cooke County Home Hospice.
--------------------
Avery Arrington
EASTLAND- Avery Grace Arrington, infant daughter of Brad and Leigh (Jarrell) Arrington, passed away Tuesday, January 17, 2006 in Abilene.
Services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, January 20, 2006 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Burial was in the Eastland City Cemetery.
Survivors include her parents, Brad and Leigh Arrington; grandparents, Donny and Gina Jarrell of Eastland, Jackie and Shelby Arrington of Sweetwater and Rebecca and Shannon Thomas of Tyler; great-grandparents, Eula and Joe Cauble of Lake Leon, Don and Maxine Lowrance of Eastland, Sara Sims of Mexia and Bill and Sharon Crow of Wortham; great-great-grandparent, Doris Lowrance of Eastland; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
--------------
Juanita Guthrie
Juanita Margaret Guthrie, 90, of Eastland, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2006 in the Eastland Healthcare Center.
Graveside services, officiated by Rev. Wade Copeland, were held Thursday, January 19, 2006 at 2 p.m. in the Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home of Cisco.
Juanita was born to John and Ruth (Hambrick) Greear on December 1, 1915 in Winters, Texas. She was one of five siblings. She was a cashier in the food service industry for many years. She married Paul Guthrie in 1962 in Sonora, Texas. They had two daughters and two sons. One son, Thomas Lindsey, preceded her in death. She was a member of the Baptist church.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Johnnie Ruth Whatley and a brother, Scott Greear.
Survivors include two daughters, Neeta Thames of Temple and Bobbie Hazard of Eastland; son, Owen Sellers of Junction; sister, Mary Swails of Junction; a brother, Ray Greear; 16 grandchildren and numerous great-great-grandchildren.
---------------
J. C. Childers
CROSS PLAINS- J.C. Childers, 95, died Saturday, January 21, 2006 at the Cross Country Health Care in Brownwood.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 23, 2006 at the Higginbotham Chapel in Cross Plains. Jim Senkel officiating. Burial followed in the Cross Plains Cemetery.
He was born July 25, 1910, to Harry and Myrtle Mae (Hill) Childers in Eastland County, Texas. J.C. married Wessie B. McDonald on December 25, 1933 in Callahan County. He worked as a cable tool driller. He was a Methodist.
He is survived by his son, Kenneth Childers of Cross Plains; daughters, Dorothy Davis and husband, Bill of Cross Plains, Betty Thomas and husband, Ronnie of Cross Plains; brothers, John Waggoner of Midland, Bill Childers of Midessa; 8 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers were Gary Taylor, Robert Phillips, Tommy Phillips, Gerald Barker, Freddie Childers and Bill Davis.
--------
Lynn Thorne
Lynn L. Thorne, 58, died Thursday, January 19, 2006.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 21, 2006 at Melton-Kitchen Funeral Home Chapel of Memories with Rev. Roy Hailey officiating. Burial was in the Harpersville Cemetery directed by Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home.
He was born on February 21, 1947 in Breckenridge, Texas to parents Marvin C. Thorne and Sarah Isabell Hall Thorne. He graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1965 and graduated from the University of Texas in 1970 with a pharmaceutical degree. He had been a pharmacist at Wal-Mart in Eastland and a member of St. Paul Methodist Church in Breckenridge.
He is survived by a sister, Elaine Moore and husband Virgil of Breckenridge; a brother, Byron L. Thorne and wife, Anita of Breckenridge; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Sarah Thorne; a daughter, Lousarah Thorne; and a nephew, Lance Thorne.
Memorials may be made to the donors favorite charity and may be left at the funeral home.
----------
Ora Simcox
RANGER- Ora Mae Barrons Simcox 77, passed away on Sunday January 22, 2006.
Graveside services were held Tuesday, January 24, 2006 at 2 PM in Evergreen Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Mrs. Simcox was born in Newport, AR on October 18, 1928, the daughter of Jesse James Barrons and Mary (Cook) Barrons. Dear sister of Thurman Barrons of New Orleans, LA. And Lily Knowles of Osyka, MISS., the late Herman Barrons, Elsora Barrons, Rosa Ovena Barrons-Wilson and John Franklin Barrons. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Phyllis Jean Nash and grandson Michael Nash of Ranger, TX. She is survived by her children; Celita White and husband Samuel of St. Louis, MO, Janet Ballard of Mooringsport, LA., Donald Edwards and wife Yun, Steven Lewis and wife Tammy, Kenneth Edwards and wife Cheryl all of Ranger, Texas and Dennis Edwards and wife Natalie of Waco, Tx., and
Alma Vigil and husband Aaron of Alamosa, CO. Dear Mother-in-law of James Nash, the grandmother of 21 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-granddaughter, dear aunt, cousin and friend too many.
-------------
Alma King
Alma Aldonnie King, 72, died Thursday, January 19, 2006 at the Hendrick Health Center in Abilene, after a brief illness.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 21, 2006 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel. Terry Simmons officiated. Burial was in the Cross Plains Cemetery in Cross Plains.
She was born December 14, 1933 in Dawson County, Texas to F.H. Brooks and Ruby Mings Brooks. She married Noel King in Bangs on February 17, 1950. She was a housewife, and mother and a member of Pioneer Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters.
She is survived by her husband, Noel King of Cross Plains; sons, Billy King and wife Beth of Olden, Richard King and wife Kala of Weatherford; daughters, Ruby Myers and husband Jerry of Rising Star, Betty Westerman of Cross Plains; son-in-law, Gary Westerman of Rising Star; brothers, Buddy Brooks and Jesse Brooks both of Cross Plains; sisters, Sis Taylor of Abilene and Jewel Newman of Chilton, Texas; 8 grandchildren, Thomas and Toni Myers, Mandee and Tony Jacobs, Landon Westerman, Mike Keese, Shelly Morelan, Chris Key and Lacy Key; two great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
----------
Clara 'Pete' Holland-Jones
ABILENE Ð Clara 'Pete' Holland-Jones, 81, died Monday, January 23, 2006.
Services were held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith, 5701 highway 277 South, with burial in the Elmwood Memorial Park.
Mrs. Jones was the mother of Elaine Gosnell of Eastland.
------------
Luther 'Bud' Jernigan
Luther B. 'Bud' Jernigan, 76, of Cisco passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at Brownwood Nursing and Rehab Center.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 2, 2006 at Kimbrough Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Jerry Maston. Burial was in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mr. Jernigan was born in Gorman, Texas on July 27, 1929 to Henry Louis and Lucy Petty (Yarbrough) Jernigan. He married Bobby Joe Basket on December 24, 1948 in Cisco. He was a former police officer for the City of Cisco and a member of Bible Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Henry Louis Jernigan, Jr. and Sam Moran; sister, Loretta Kennedy; one grandchild and 3 great-grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife, Bobby Joe Jernigan of Cisco; sons, Larry Luther Jernigan and wife, Connie of Cisco, David Wayne Jernigan and wife Stephanie and Bryant Wade Jernigan and wife Debbie all of Brownwood; daughters, Barbee Joe Howell and husband Alton of Bridgeport, Petty Collene Harris and husband James of Brownwood, Angela Sue Jernigan of Breckenridge; brother, Ollie Moran and wife Christine of Cisco; 25 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.
-----------------
Helen Brashear
CISCO- Helen Brashear, 84, of Cisco, passed away Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at Abilene Regional Hospital.
Services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 4, 2006 at the First Baptist Church in Cisco under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Interment followed at Scranton Cemetery.
Helen was born in Scranton 'Lena Helen' to Ples and Aline Ray on December 22, 1931. After traveling by wagon to New Mexico for homesteading when Helen was a toddler, the Rays returned to Scranton. Helen started to school in a new red school house in 1927. She attended Scranton schools from 1st grade until she graduated in 1938. She came to 2nd grade by buggy, 2nd grade on a gray horse named Klondike, and walked from 'around the corner' from 3rd grade until graduation after moving to what is known as the Ray Place.
After graduation Helen married Paul Brashear in the Atwell Community. On November 22, 2005 they celebrated their 67th Wedding Anniversary. During their life together Helen was a homemaker, owned Helen's Flower Shop in Cisco, worked as a state employee for the Welfare Department and Coordinating Board of Colleges and Universities in Austin, and retired to Scranton on the Ray Place in 1984. After living in Clyde in the early 90Õs Paul and Helen came home to Cisco to be near family.
Helen leaves as her legacy two daughters, Ann Etta Dunning of Cisco and Sarah Matthews of Clyde. She was the proud Grandmother (they call her Mee Mee) of two granddaughters, Angela David of Kaufman and Nanette Vaughn of Silsbee; three grandsons, Rick Coats of Eastland, Major Mark Matthews of Clovis, New Mexico, and Merrick Matthews of Lubbock; four great-granddaughters, Lindsey Coats of Fort Worth, Ashley David of Kaufman, and Kaelyn and Brooke Matthews of Clovis, New Mexico. Besides her husband Paul, Helen is survived by brothers, Morrell Ray of Cisco, Mark Ray of Abilene and sister, Dortha Ben Taylor of Gig Harbor, Washington; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She loved sharing God's love through her singing on Monday night at Canterbury Nursing Home. Her favorite things were flowers, reading, her Birthday Club at First Baptist, Cisco and playing 42.
Helen will be remembered for her dedication to family and friends and for her love of life.
------------------
Nell Rhoades
RISING STAR - Nell Rhoades, 72, of Rising Star died Monday, January 30, 2006.
Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, February 2, 2006 at Wolf Valley Cemetery in Brown County with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge.
She was born August 25, 1933 in San Saba to Buck and Rosa Nell Skaggs-Mitchell. She was the beloved mother of Connie Dyches and dedicated sister of Sue Mitchell. She was a beautician in May for many years. She was a Baptist and loved the Lord.
Survivors include one daughter, Connie Dyches and her husband, Greg of Abilene; sister, Sue Mitchell of Rising Star; two grandchildren, Jennifer Godkin and Daniel Dyches; 2 great grandchildren, Kennedi Godkin and Bryan Godkin. Nell was loved and will be missed greatly.
--------------
Lois Carr
CISCO- Lois Lenora Carr, 81, of Cisco passed away Wednesday, February 1, 2006 in Abilene.
Services were held Friday, February 3, 2006 at 3 p.m. in the Pavillion at Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco, officiated by Rev. C.P. Floyd and assisted by B.W. Carr and under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Lois was born on December 24, 1924 in Moran, Texas to Robert Tandy and Edna (Farmer) Donham. She was an accountant for many years at Lois's Bookkeeping & Tax Service in Cisco.
She married J.D. Carr May 16, 1946 in Cisco. He preceded her in death March 3, 1992.
She was a member of East Cisco Baptist Church.
Lois is survived by two daughters, Carolyn Pence and husband, Jerry of Cisco and Peggy Ledbetter and husband, Larry of Cisco; grandchildren, Jeri Suriff and husband, Darrell of Georgetown and Rodney Ledbetter and wife, Rinda of Red Oak; great-grandchildren, Whitney Pence of Cisco, Carson, Kaitlyn, and Justin Suriff of Georgetown, Tera Crosby of Dallas, Brandon Crosby of Kansas and Christopher Hamm of Waxahachie.
She was preceded in death by her grandson, Tommy Pence.
Honorary pallbearers were Leon Boles, James Donham, Guyle Donham, W.T. Donham, Herman Cravey and Drew Dan Jackson.
------------
Owen King
Owen E. King, 79, of Arlington, Texas passed away January 25, 2006.
Services were held at the First United Methodist Church in Cisco, Texas on January 28, 2006.
Owen was born in Brenham, Texas on September 12, 1926 to Davis Preston and Annie (Muery) King. He spent his high school years in Cisco where he attended Cisco High School and Cisco Junior College. He joined the Navy September 9, 1944 and served his country during World War II on the USS Battleship Texas as Radarman Third Class. When he left the Navy in June of 1946 he attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas where he received his degree in business.
Owen married Margaret Frances Hailey on September 30, 1950 in Cisco, Texas. They lived in Ft. Worth for two years where Owen worked for G.E. and Margaret worked for Texas Power and Light. In 1952 they moved back to Cisco where they both taught at Cisco High School. Owen was then employed by Southwestern Life Insurance Company as an insurance salesman. They moved to Amarillo, Texas in 1958 where Owen was an assistant branch manager under Joe Martin.
In 1960 they moved to El Paso where Owen was branch manager for Southwestern Life. Owen and Margaret lived in El Paso for 16 years where they raised their three children. Owen had a great love for the outdoors. He passed on this love for animals, nature, fishing and camping to his children and grandchildren.
In June of 1976 Owen and Margaret moved to Arlington, Texas. Owen retired from Southwestern Life in 1980. In 1983 they moved back to Cisco, Texas where they lived for 22 years. During this time Owen drilled several oil wells, raised cattle and loved being a grandfather. These were some of the most joyful years of his life. Reunited with family and dear friends in Cisco where he was involved with his church and community. Owen was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Cisco, the Cisco Lions Club and Cisco Veterans organization.
Owen was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Margaret of Arlington, TX; two daughters, Gay Clark and husband Robert of Arlington, Peggy McGaughey of Spring, TX; son, Ralph King of Winters, TX; five grandchildren, Robert Clark and Lindsey Clark of Arlington, John L. McGaughey of Spring, TX, Kelsey McGaughey of Conroe, TX, Keri and Tom Crooks of Plantersville, TX; and great-granddaughter, Hailey Grace Crooks of Plantersville, TX.
------------
Weldon Armstrong
EASTLAND Ð Weldon Armstrong 86, of Eastland, died Thursday, January 26, 2006 at the Eastland Memorial Hospital.
Services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 30, 2006, in the First Baptist Church with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Entombment was at 3:30 p.m. at Crestview Memorial Park in Wichita Falls, Texas with Dr. Robert Jeffress officiating under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
Mr. Armstrong was born
on June 4, 1919 in Gorman, Texas to John Hardy and Lela Frances Clement Armstrong. He married Marvelene Moore on October 7, 1939 in Carbon, Texas. Weldon worked for Mobile Oil also known as Magnolia Petroleum as a pumper from 1951 to 1984. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Eastland, Texas.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years Marvelene Armstrong of Eastland, daughter Carole Knight of Wichita Falls, Texas and son Larry Armstrong and wife Vicki of Eastland, Texas. Grandchildren; Kim Pitman of Wichita Falls and Randy Knight and wife Elaine of Wichita Falls. Kelly Armstrong of Eastland and Steve Armstrong of Austin. Great grandchildren; Amber and Tawny Broomfield, Kendye Hodges, Abby, Emily, and Zackary Knight.
-------------
Joe Pruet
ARLINGTON - Joe Elison Pruet, 69, died Friday morning, January 27, 2006 at his home. He will be forever at peace, after courageously battling years of illness.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, January 31, 2006, at 1:00 p.m. at Wade Family Funeral Home Chapel, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington with Rev. Ed Michael officiating. Burial: 3:00 p.m., DFW National Cemetery, Dallas.
Joe was born on November 23, 1936 to Arnold and Kathleen Pruet in Port Neches. He graduated from Abilene High School prior to receiving his B.B.A. at West Texas State University where he was a member of Kappa Alpha. Joe was a veteran of the US Airforce. He was a private pilot, aviation mechanic, and flight instructor. Joe retired from the US Treasury Department after twenty years of service in Arlington. He was a life member of the Confederate Air Force. He is preceded in death by his parents. Joe will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife, Nancy Pruet of Arlington; daughters, Kelli Hundt of Keller, Darletta Michael and husband, Kirk of North Richland Hills, and Jana Jo Pruet of Dallas; brothers, Floyd Pruet of Fayetteville, Ar. and Glen Pruet of Richardson, Tx.; sister, Barbara Hodges of Putnam, Tx.; grandchildren, Joshua, Dalton, Kelsie, Jarod, Kamron, Jeremy, and Morgan; numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
Davey Lee Wheeler, 56, of Cisco, passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2006 at Mulberry Manor and Rehab in Stephenville.
Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at Oakwood Cemetery, officiated by Larry Fitzgerald. Burial followed, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Davey was born in Littlefield, Texas to Edwin and Gertie (McGann) Wheeler on August 8, 1949. He served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam War from 1969 to 1972. After serving in the Army he worked as a Cosmetology Instructor and was a member of the Baptist church.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Gertie Wheeler and a sister, Carmaleta Spurlin.
Survivors include his parents, Edwin and Elsie Wheeler of Weatherford; son, Michael Wheeler of Snyder; sisters, Linda Gattis of Cisco and Pansy Sherrill of Austin; brothers, Eddie Wheeler of Gower, Missouri, Timmie Wheeler and Mark Harris both of St. Matthew, South Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.
---------------
C.V. Williamson
ALPINE- C. V. Williamson 89, of Alpine passed away on Saturday January 28, 2006 in a Fort Stockton hospital.
Graveside services were held at 3 pm Tuesday, January 31, 2006 in the Mt. Zion Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
C.V. was born in Post Texas on April 16, 1916 to Les and Ovie Phillips Williamson. He married Bertha Poland on October 16, 1938 in Eastland County Texas. C. V. worked all of his life as an electrician, working in New Mexico, Nevada, California, Arizona, and started out for Texas Electric as a lineman in Eastland, Texas. He received his master journeyman and was a member of the union. Everything he learned about being an electrician came from experience.
Mr. Williamson is survived by his wife of 67 years Bertha Williamson of Alpine, TX.; daughters, Dolly Calhoun of Midland, TX, Charlsie Weyerts and Gayle Lewis both of Alpine, TX.; two sisters Marie Tankersley Martin of Guam and Mittie Tankersley of Lubbock, TX.; sister-in-law, Cletis Williamson of Ranger, TX.; seven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews.
---------
C.Keith Beyette
FORT WORTH Ñ C. Keith Beyette, 95, an electrical engineer with Texas Electric Service Co., died Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2006.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 11, 2006 in the chapel of First United Methodist Church. Dr. William Longsworth and Dr. Lamar Smith will officiate. Burial was held at West Oakwood Cemetery. Thompson's Harveson & Cole Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Pallbearers: Jeff Darlington, Joe McLure, James Sinor, Richard Korman, Fred Woerner and Wayne Pinkerston. Honorary pallbearers: members of The Twosome Class.
Memorials: The Foundation of First United Methodist Church.
Charles Keith Beyette was born Nov. 29, 1910, in Fort Worth to Charles and Kathryn Beyette. He graduated from Central High School (now Trimble Tech) in 1928. He graduated with distinction from Rice Institute earning a BS in electrical engineering and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa fraternity. He received his master's degree in electrical engineering from MIT. Keith returned to Fort Worth and began working at Texas Electric Service Co. in 1933. He retired in 1975 as manager of substation and underground design.
He and his wife traveled to over 61 countries, with Keith's favorites being Papua, New Guinea, and the former USSR countries of Georgia, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Keith volunteered at the Scott Theater, building sets for various productions, and also for several years as the popcorn vendor at Harris Hospital.
Keith was 'born into the First United Methodist Church' of Fort Worth, was baptized in 1911 and joined in 1916. He had been president of the Twosome Class, a member of the official board and ushered for decades.
Keith was also a member of Cooke-Peavy Lodge #1162, AF&AM.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Betty Beyette.
Survivors: daughters, Emily Beyette and Susan Bonner and her husband, Norman; granddaughters, Lisa Porto and her husband, Jack Gillooly, Marci Sinor and her husband, James, and Shelly Darlington and her husband, Jeff; and great-grandchildren, Kayley Sinor and Chase Darlington.
Thompson's Harveson & Cole Funeral Home and Crematory, Fort Worth, Texas.
-------------
Wanda Nelms
CISCO- Wanda Lee Joyner Nelms, 77, passed away Wednesday, February 8, 2006.
Born in Cisco on January 10, 1929, to Velma Everett Joyner and William M. Joyner, Wanda attended Cisco schools and graduated from Cisco High School in 1946. She married John Coleman Nelms on December 6, 1952, in Lovington, New Mexico. From that beginning, their family grew to include three children: Connie, Kerry and Cindy.
Wanda lived a long and fruitful life filled with her love of extended family, a host of friends, and her church family. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who spent her life in service to her Lord, her family and her community. When asked what one word described their mother best, her daughters agreed: 'Nurturing.'
Among Wanda's activities, she was involved in AARP, serving as an officer; Cisco Musical, Monday night singer at Canterbury Villa, member of Calvary Baptist Church 37 years, where she was Sunday school teacher, church secretary and Awanas leader; and committee member of Keep Cisco Beautiful.
Her hobbies included art classes with Linda Foster, photography, reminiscing, family history, school reunions, family reunions, sewing, quilting and musicals.
She is survived by her husband, John Coleman Nelms of Cisco; two brothers, William M. Joyner, Jr. and wife Phanon, of Odessa and Michael E. Joyner and wife Betty of Austin; sister-in-law, Gay Joyner of Odessa; daughter, Connie and husband Rodney Huffman of Mt. Pleasant; son, Kerry and wife Tovayah Nelms of Cisco; daughter, Cindy and husband, Joe Blakeley of Cisco; 18 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and family of the heart.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two grandchildren.
The family wishes to recognize special friends in Wanda's life, which include life-long friends Belva Yeager and Verna Tarver and families and the members of Wanda's Calvary Baptist Agape Sunday School Class.
Pallbearers are six of her grandsons: Jason Nelms, Benjamin Nelms, Aaron Huffman, Zachary Nelms, Karson Nelms and Rogan Nelms. Honorary pallbearers include grandsons Michael Blakeley and Kyler Nelms; nephews Jeremy Joyner and Travis Joyner; grandsons-in-law Tom Linebaugh, Jr. and Cragg McFarlin.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, Cisco, Texas on Saturday, February 11, 2006 at 2 p.m., officiated by Rev. Phillip Thomas and Pastor Farris Wilks. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
-----------
Tina McBee
EASTLAND- Tina Mae McBee, 93, passed away in a Brownwood hospital on Wednesday, February 8, 2006.
Funeral services were held Friday, February 10, 2006 at 11 a.m. in the Eastland City Cemetery. Services were held under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home.
Tina was born in the Mangum Community of Eastland County on January 11, 1913 to Brodie and Ida Woolsey. In 1931, she married the love of her life, Aubrey M. McBee. They were married in the back of their automobile by Brother Ben Clements.
Tina worked for over 28 years as a seamstress for Hollywood Vassarette. She was raised in a Baptist home as a child and had been a member of the First Baptist Church of Eastland.
Ms. McBee is survived by her son, George W. McBee of San Antonio; her sister, Helen Hubanks of Brownwood; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
--------------
Willie Alexander
CISCO- Willie Earl Alexander, 61, of Cisco, Texas passed away Friday, February 10, 2006 at the VA Hospital in Dallas, Texas.
Funeral services will be at 4 p.m. Sunday at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Pastor Jeremy Howard. Burial will be in Wayside Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mr. Alexander was born in Wienert, Texas on August 14, 1944 to S.R. and Mary (Hunt) Alexander. He served in the US Navy as a Recruiter. He married Debra Lynn Jarrett on June 25, 1999 in Eastland, Texas. He was a member of the Old Gospel Church.
He is survived by his wife Debra Alexander of Cisco; sons, Robert Earl Alexander and wife Dee of Alvarado and Terry Glen Alexander and wife Julie of Fort Worth; brother, W.R. Alexander and wife Betty of Benbrook and Charles Alexander and wife Jennifer of Cisco; sisters, Mary Yates of Cisco and Glenda Scarbrough and husband Randy of Cisco; grandsons, Clayton Earl Alexander and Kirk Yeager Alexander; granddaughters, Shayla Kay Alexander and Taryn Reese Alexander; nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Butler.
---------------
Larry Koger
EASTLAND- Larry Shawn Koger, 36, of Cisco, passed away Thursday, February 9, 2006 in Abilene.
Graveside services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, February 12, 2006 at the Breckenridge Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Larry was born March 10, 1969 in Eastland. He grew up at Gunsight and attended school in Breckenridge. He went to work for EBAA Iron, at the age of 18, where he worked for six years. He worked for Crestridge Homes for 11 years. He received several safety and employment awards from work.
He married Kimberly Nelson on September 26, 1994, in Breckenridge. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing golf.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Koger and grandparents, Cecil and Leetie Lindley and J.B. and Maime Koger.
Survivors include his wife, Kimberly Koger; son, Bryan Koger; daughter, Lara Koger; son, Brandon Koger; step-daughter, Tiffany Stuard; mother, Frankie (Lindley) Koger; sisters, Patricia Johnson and Debbie Casey; brothers, James Koger, Jr., Gary Koger, and Randy Koger; and several nieces and nephews.
----------------
Thelma Moore
CISCO- Thelma Moore, 94, of Cisco went to be with the Lord Tuesday, February 14, 2006 in Canterbury Villa with her family by her side.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 16, 2006 at I-20 Church of Christ. Larry Fitzgerald, assisted by Thelma's nephew, Lou David Allen of Merkel, officiating. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Thelma Rebecca Moore was born August 29, 1911 to Warren Walter and Lola (Pate) Everett in Rising Star, Texas. Later they moved to Cottonwood and then to Putnam where she attended school and graduated in 1929. Thelma married Neal Moore in 1936 in Abilene. In 1938 they moved to Cisco. They had been married 65 years when Neal preceded her in death in 2002. Her two sisters and brother also preceded her in death.
Thelma was known to her family as 'Ning-a-Ning' a name her first grandchild gave her. She was a great 'Ning-a-Ning', and her family loved her very much. Thelma loved to cook, knit, sew and taught her family to do these things.
Thelma was a long-time faithful member of the Cisco Church of Christ. She loved to sing, and in later years she could be heard humming the tunes.
Survivors include a daughter, Caryon Garrett and husband, Bobby; a granddaughter, Vicki Posey, and husband, Curt, of Cisco; two grandsons, Robi Garrett, Kelli Garrett and wife, Carla, all of Cisco; great-grandchildren, Corey Collins and wife, Julie of San Diego, CA., Jeremy Posey, Bailey Posey, Kimberli Garrett, Levi Garrett, Ashli, Shelli and Sydni Garrett all of Cisco, and Davy Chapman of Eastland; great-great-grandchildren, Madison Collins, Hailey, Felecity and Ryan Chapman and soon to arrive Rylan.
Memorials may be made to Lake Cisco Christian Camp, P.O. Box 629, Cisco, Texas 76437.
--------------------
Arvin Wilson
EASTLAND- Arvin Wilson, 85, of Eastland, died Wednesday, February 15, 2006 in Eastland.
Services were held Friday, February 17, 2006 at 10 a.m. in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel.
Burial was near Center Texas in the Willow Grove Cemetery at 4:15 p.m. with Edwards Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, Mangum Funeral Home in Center assisting.
Born December 10, 1920 in Paxton, Texas to Alex and Edna (Thompson) Singletary, she was a graduate of Joaquin High School. She married Claire Steadman (Steve) Wilson on September 5, 1982 in Breckenridge, Texas. She worked as a clerk for U.S. Greenstamps Company until her marriage, then as a homemaker.
They moved to Eastland in 1980 and were active in the Inspiration Church of God and later the Bethel Baptist Church.
She enjoyed visiting others, especially over the phone, reading and flowers.
Survivors include one nephew, J.W. Singletary of Pasadena, TX.; several cousins in East Texas and a host of friends and church members in Eastland.
She was preceded in death by her husband Steve in 1987.
---------------
Diana Snider
Diana Jean Snider, 60, passed away Saturday, February 18, 2006 at her home in Gorman.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 23, 2006 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Denver Rainey officiating. Burial followed at the Oaklawn Cemetery.
Diana was born July 7, 1945 to Jewel and Maggie (Hamilton) Snider. She graduated from Carbon High School. She had worked for Birdsong Peanuts 33 years, just recently retiring. Diana was a member of the Pentecostal Church.
Survivors include her father, Jewel E. Snider of Gorman; two brothers, Kenneth Snider of Rose Bud, Arkansas and Larry Snider of Gorman; two sisters , Maudie Lee Husband and Peggy Sue Ingram both of Cisco and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Maggie Estelle Snider; a brother, Thomas Ray Snider and two sisters, Alice Marie Smith and Treva Jewel Green.
------------
R. J. 'Bobby Joe' Crudgington
BRECKENRIDGE- R.J. 'Bobby Joe' 'Cotton' Crudgington, 68, died Tuesday, February 21, 2006.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, February 24, 2006 at the Gunsight Baptist Church with Rev. Rex Boggs officiating. Burial was in the Post Oak Cemetery, directed by Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home.
He was born on August 8, 1937 in Stephens Co., Texas to parents Robert Evans Crudgington and Annie Lee Parker Crudgington. He married Linda McCrary on December 13, 1964 in Breckenridge. They lived 41 wonderful years together. They had two biological children, Joy Ann and Robert Darrell and also many adopted children. The child usually adopted them first. Cotton served in the U.S. Army from 1959-1961, stationed in Germany during the rise of the Berlin Wall. No battle he faced in life, was as tough as his last. He was employed by Brico Oil at the time of his death.
He is survived by his loving wife, Linda of the home; children, Robert Darrell and Sheila Hicks Crudgington of Midland and Joy Ann and Rick Raines of Cisco and Arthur and Becky Mathias of Breckenridge; 3 brothers and 4 sisters-in-law, Art and Barbara Crudgington of Ranger, Billy and Judi Crudgington of Seymour, Wayne and Yvonne Crudgington of Breckenridge and Barbara Crudgington of Ft. Worth; 11 grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, 1 sisters, and 1 sister-in-law and numerous aunts and uncles.
Memorials may be made to the Meeks Childrens Hospital or the American Cancer Society and may be left at the funeral home.
------------
J. E. 'Jimmie' Johnson
CISCO- J. E. (Jimmie) Johnson, 87, was received in Heaven by Jesus, on Friday, February 17, 2006.
A celebration of life was held at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at 2 p.m. Brother Bob Ferguson officiated. Jimmie was laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in private ceremonies.
Tom and Ettie (Fenn) Johnson received Jimmie as a gift from Heaven on December 24, 1918. He was born in Eastland County. He was raised in a loving Christian home and continued his Christian faith his entire life. He was Pentcostal.
At the young age of 19 he met the love of his life Sue DaVault. They were joined as one before God on May 7, 1938. Jimmie was husband to one, Dad, Grandpa, and Uncle to many. He was loving, generous, and a wonderful story teller, and a great singer of old gospel songs. If you needed anything he was the first to help.
Those awaiting him in Heaven with Jesus are his loving wife of 68 years, Sue, who passed away 3 months and 2 days before him, a baby son John Thomas, and a son of 55 years Harold D'wayne, his parents, his siblings, and a host of others.
Those he leaves to lovingly remember him are, his daughters, Sharon Carlton and husband Billy, Sheila Conger and husband Jackie, a daughter-in-law, Sandra Johnson; grandchildren, Stacie Murphy, Doug Kirby and wife Judy, Jennifer Jones and husband Michael, Brandie Williamson and husband Kevin, Lindsey Carlton, Cayla Conger, Shelby Carlton and Calli Conger; great-grandchildren, Colton Kirby, Noah Jones, Riley Jones, Lucey Jones and Mackenzie Williamson; several nieces and nephews and ones he felt blessed to call friends.
Pallbearers were his nephews, Leon Boles, Glenn Boles, Randy Boles, James Elliott and Carvell Reed, and his only grandson, Doug Kirby.
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org/honor.
----------------
Charles Stidham
EASTLAND- Charles Booker 'Charlie' Stidham, 73, passed away at his home in Eastland on February 18, 2006.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 23, 2006 in the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel. Interment with military honors followed at the Eastland Cemetery with Roscoe Seay officiating.
Charles was born in Tyronza, Arkansas, May 18, 1932 to Woodard and Viona (Palmer) Stidham. Mr. Stidham grew up and went to school in Arkansas. He married Mary Mason on January 13, 1951 in McRae, Arkansas. He was a devoted husband and a loving father. He served his country as a member of the United States Army from 1948 to 1952, participating in the occupation of Japan after WW II and the Korean War. In 1964, Charles and Mary moved to Texas. In 1993, they retired to Eastland. Other than his family, cooking was his true love.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Mary, of over 46 years, and five brothers and five sisters.
He is survived by four brothers, Art, Ray, Fred, and Frankie; two sisters, Faye and Elva; his children, Kenneth Stidham, and wife Dianne of Eastland; daughters, Belinda Stidham of Mission Viejo, CA., Patty Cole and husband Earnest of Eastland, and Juanita Mullins of New Braunfels; as well as 7 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
------------
Loretta White
EASTLAND - Loretta Lois White, 81, of Morton Valley, lost her long and courageous battle with cancer and passed away from this life to be with her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, February 22, 2006.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 25, 2006, in the Eastland Cemetery, David Tankersley officiated. Arrangements were held under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Vistitation was held Friday at the funeral home.
Loretta was born August 18, 1924 to Audie and Lee Heflin in Morton Valley, where she spent most of her life. Her parents preceded her in death. She married Royce White on August 23, 1983.
Loretta was a homemaker and took care of all her aunts and uncles in their time of need. She was active in community service and spent many years volunteering for the American Cancer Society. She received the American Cancer Society Award of Hope in 1984. She also received the Award of Honor from the Kiwanis Club in 1986 for her community service. She also received the Quality of Life Award from Eastland Unit of the American Cancer Society in 1992.
Loretta is survived by her husband, Royce, of Eastland; her step-son Ricky White and family of Wichita, Kansas; several cousins and many friends.
------------------
Jess Honeycutt
LAKE WORTH- Jess Honeycutt, 71, passed away Tuesday, February 21, 2006, at a Fort Worth hospital.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 25, 2006 at Biggers Funeral Chapel. Burial was in Dido Cemetery. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Biggers Funeral Home.
Jess was born June 6, 1934, in Orth. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He and his wife were married for over 50 years. Jess was a faithful member of Grace Chapel United Pentecostal Church and was a friend to all.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Vera Carroll; grandson, Brandon Evans; and a great-grandson, Wade Bascom Honeycutt.
Survivors are his wife of 50 years, Frankie Honeycutt of Lake Worth; a son, Rowland Honeycutt and wife, Linda of Ranger; daughters, Barbara Burkhalter and husband, Chester of Abilene, and Brenda Evans and husband, Curtis of Fort Worth; sister, Moyldeen Koontz of Seattle Washington; brother, Joe Honeycutt and wife, Mary of Borger; grandchildren, Lori Honeycutt and Nathan Honeycutt and wife, Shayla; great-grandchildren, Seth, Zane and Jesse; and a host of extended family and friends.
------------------
Norma Walker
RANGER- Norma Jean Walker, 76, an LVN for 58 years, died in Eastland on Friday, February 3, 2006.
Services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, February 6, 2006 at the Eastside Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Speer officiating. Burial was at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Stephenville, Texas at 3:45 p.m.
Mrs. Walker was born in Knoxville, Tennessee on January 22, 1930 to Silas U. and Della Marie Gregory Jones. She was raised in Iredell, Texas and was a graduate of Iredell High School. After years of experience she was issued a Licensed Vocational Nurse's certificate. She married Delton Walker on March 25, 1950 in Stephenville, Texas and she worked for Stephenville Hospital. Delton preceded her in death on November 26, 1999. During her career she worked for Ranger General Hospital and later for Eastland Memorial Hospital as well as filling in at nursing homes. She retired from nursing in February 2005 due to health reasons, but never stopped nursing. Jean spent her life taking care of people and considered her extended family all of the nurses she worked with.
Jean was a member of Rocky Creek Baptist Church and attended Eastside Baptist Church. She enjoyed watching football, traveling, and feeding humming birds; however, her love was nursing.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, grandmother Bertha Hobbs, sisters, Virginia Greene and Nancy Hamilton.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Larry and Melinda Walker of Desdemona; grandchildren, Selina and Scott Walker of Desdemona; a brother, Allen Jones of Burleson; brothers-in-law, J.D. and Wilma Walker and Jerry and Wanda Walker all of Stephenville; sister-in-law, Linda and Doyle Hooks of Stephenville; and a brother-in-law, Taylor Greene of Prescott, AZ; several nieces and nephews; and extended family of nurses she worked with.
Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers will be Eastland Memorial Hospital Health Care Staff.
The family request memorials be made to the American Lung Association, or Eastland Memorial Hospital Nursing Scholarship Fund.
-----------
Dorothy Brown
GORMAN- Dorothy S. 'Dot' Brown, 89, of Kankakee, Il., died Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at her home.
Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Monday, February 6, 2006 at Gorman Cemetery, with Victor Pena officiating, directed by Higginbotham Funeral Home.
Mrs. Brown was born January 24, 1917 in Sherman, Texas to William A. Wright and Sue (Weber) Wright. She married Neal Brown on December 26, 1942 in Little Rock, AK. She was a homemaker and a teacher and basketball coach in Benton, AK. from 1940 to 1945. Mrs. Brown was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Kankakee where she was a Deacon, member of the Kankakee Women's Club, Riverside Hospital Auxillary and volunteer, member of the Elks Country Club Golf Assoc. She was a member of the Quadrille Dancers, and the Tuesday Book Review. She enjoyed playing bridge, golfing and traveling.
Survivors include her husband, Neal Brown of Kankakee, IL.; son, Terrell Brown and wife Ruth Ann of Peoria, AZ; daughter, Diane Brown of Itasca, IL; brother, William A. Wright II and wife Martha of Richmond, VA; four grandchildren, Gregory, Kimberly, and Jeffrey Hanson and Rebecca Carey; as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
--------------
A. M. 'Van' Greene
Funeral services for A. M. (Van) Greene, 81, of Lubbock, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, Feb. 6, 2006, at Monterey Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.
Mr. Greene passed away Friday, Feb. 2, 2006.
He was born Sept. 11, 1924, in Jones County, to the late Joe and Thelma Greene. He grew up and graduated from high school in Lamesa. He lived in several towns, including Morton, before moving to Lubbock. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army Air Corp during WWII. He was a B-29 flight engineer instructor. He married Betty Sue Roberts in 1951. She preceded him in death in 1985. He later married Lavona Jordon in August 30, 1986.
Van served on the school board in Morton. He served as District Governor for the Lion's Club, serving as Director of the Texas Lion's Camp of Kerrville. He was an active member of Monterey Church of Christ, serving as chairman of the mission committee and going on mission trips to Bulgaria, El Salvador, and Mexico. One granddaughter, Susan Wilson, preceded him in death.
Those left to cherish his memory include: his wife, Lavonda; five children and their spouses, Andy and Celine Wilson of Flagstaff, AZ, Becky Ritchey of Ft. Worth, Bob and Shvaughn Green of Lubbock, Sheri and Rob Carryl of Jacksonville, FL, and Leslie and Mike Lewis of St. Augustine, FL; eleven grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.
Memorials are suggested to the Monterey Church of Christ, Mission Fund.
--------------
Jean Coleman
EASTLAND- Jean Richards Coleman, 76, of Eastland, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2006 at home.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 7, 2006 at the Bethel Baptist Church in Eastland with Rev. Jim Andrews officiating. Burial was at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in Union Cemetery, west of Gustine, Texas.
Jean was born on September 23, 1929 in Comanche County to Eugene and Golda Richards. She married Otis Kenneth Coleman June 7, 1946 in Comanche, Texas. Jean was a bookkeeper for Humble Oil Company, Fuquay Aztec Mobil Homes, and Otis Coleman Aluminum. Jean was a wonderful and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, friend and foster mother. She was strong in her faith and sharing of her great strength to all she knew. She enjoyed spending time with family, friends, fishing, camping, water skiing and finding the perfect bargain. Jean was the best at cooking dove, chicken and catfish. Jean never met a stranger in her life, she could strike up a conversation with anyone she met and did. Jean has numerous self proclaimed adopted children and grandchildren. Jean and Otis were foster parents for several years and helped many children. Jean loved her church family and was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Eastland.
Survivors include her husband, Otis Coleman of Eastland; a daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Kenneth Payne of Carbon; a daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Robert Hallmark of Midland; six grandchildren, Kelly and husband Butch Jessup of Cisco, Holly and husband Brian Kizer of Hutto, Kayci Cunningham of Eastland, Jarod Hallmark of Richardson, Allie Hallmark of Denton, Haylie Hallmark of Midland; six great-grandchildren, Taylor Jessup, Blayke Jessup, Alexa Kizer, Regan Jessup, Johnathan Cunningham, and Bryson Kizer; one sister, Alline Petsick of Comanche; sister-in-law, Wanda and husband Jerry Tucker of Cisco; five nephews; one niece; two step-grandchildren and five step-great-grandchildren.
----------------
Harvey Cunningham
MINERAL WELLS- Harvey W. Cunningham, 79, of Mineral Wells died Thursday, February 2, 2006 at a Mineral Wells nursing home.
Graveside services were held Monday, February 6, 2006 at 10 a.m. in the Gourdneck Cemetery on Tudor Road with military honors.
Mr. Cunningham was born on March 17, 1926 in Brownwood, Texas to John Henry and Sarah Ellen (Tutt) Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham is a retired U.S. Army Veteran. After retiring he worked for Southern Airways and was county commissioner when he lived in Mingus. He married Dorothy Atkins in 1950 in Palo Pinto, Texas. She preceded him in death on April 7, 1980. He was a member of the DAV and was a Baptist.
Mr. Cunningham is survived by two sons, Harlen W. Cunningham of Mineral Wells and Rodger Cunningham of Rodgers, AR.; a daughter, Darlene Delgado of Mineral Wells; a sister, Dorothy Mae Goss of Rising Star; six grandchildren, Brian, Travis, Alecia, Kim, Marisa, Mattie and Nicolas; and four great-grandchildren, Kristen, Clay, McKinsey and Jacob; and numerous nieces and nephews.
-----------
Richard 'Dick' Donovan
CISCO- Richard (Dick) Donovan, 85, passed away at his home Friday, February 10, 2006.
Memorial services were held Sunday, February 12, 2006 at 2 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church of Cisco. Pastor John Beckling officiated. Services were held under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home.
Richard was born November 1, 1920 in Cisco, Texas, the first child of Vyvian and Dorothy (Davis) Donovan. He attended Cisco schools and was active in the First United Methodist Church of Cisco. As a child he helped with the cattle, plowing, and other work on the Donovan Ranch, owned by his grandfather, W.J. Donovan. He loved to fish, hunt and camp in the woods. After graduating from Cisco High School, he attended A&M College of Texas for four years, majoring in Accounting. In January 1942, during his senior year, the entire senior class volunteered for service with the armed forces, and was inducted en massee. He was commissioned a lieutenant in the Quartermaster Corps.
On May 26, 1943, Dick was married in Cisco to Dorothy Slaughter, daughter of J.W. and Azlee (Fuller) Slaughter. In September that year the couple moved to Tooele, Utah, where Dick was Motor Pool Officer at Dugway Proving Ground. Their only child, Richard Lee, was born in Tooele on August 4, 1944. In 1945, Dick was sent overseas by the Army to the China, Burm, India Theatre, moving supplies over the Ledo road into China.
After the war, the family remained in Cisco, where Dick joined his father in the automobile repair business at City Garage and Battery. After the death of his father in 1976, Dick continued to operate City Garage and Battery until his retirement in January 2006. At this time, City Garage and Battery had been in continuous operation for 85 years.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents and his only brother, Robert H. (Jibby) Donovan.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Donovan; his son Richard (Butch) Donovan and wife Bernadine (Campbell) Donovan; three grandchildren, Terry, Kevin, and Dana (Donovan) Steinberg; and three great-grandchildren, Amanda Donovan, Kyle Donovan, and Paige Steinberg; and his sister-in-law, Johnie Sue (Slaughter) Largent.
Memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Cisco, the Cisco Public Library, or to Henricks Hospice.
-----------
Margaret Cozart
Margaret Cozart went to be with the Lord Friday, February 10, 2006.
Margaret (Rec) Rector Cozart, was born December 21, 1912 to Marion Monroe Thompson and Alice Ethel Baker Thompson in Corral county, Texas. She grew up around the Gatesville area where she met and married Roy Albert Fry. They moved to Abilene in 1941. Margaret worked at Lankford's sewing factory for many years and could operate any sewing machine they had. She also worked for Maxine's sewing little dresses. She also worked for Harry Groates men's wear on Chestnut St. altering men's clothing. Margaret moved to Cisco with her last husband Jack (Pappy) Cozart where they lived for 23 years. During this time she worked for Davie's sewing factory in Breckenridge for several years. She also worked at the Pit Grill preparing food in the back for the cooks.
Margaret survived all 4 of her husbands Roy Fry, Sam Edwards, Albert Muller, and Jack Cozart. She was also preceded in death by four children, Waylan Lee Fry, Charles Fry, R.G. Fry, and Stella Louise (Fry) Fechner.
Margaret resided at the Abilene Convalescent Center, where she was loved by most of the ones that knew her.
Margaret is survived, by one child, Linda (Fry) Byrd; 12 grandchildren and many great grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
All who knew and loved her will truly miss Margaret. She is now with all of the other angels in heaven.
Services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 12, 2006 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery.
-------------------
John Wells, Sr.
BAIRD- John Garland Wells, Sr., age 93, of Baird, Texas, died peacefully on Sunday, February 12, 2006 at home with family in Baird.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2006 at Parker Funeral Home in Baird. Interment was in Belle Plaine Cemetery.
Garland was born December 31, 1912 in Eastland County to William Nathan and Maude May (Caudle) Wells. He attended school at Scranton until he began farming the family land. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corp from 1942 to 1945 serving overseas in Guam. For some time he was stationed in Western Washington State. He married Tommie Jo McCoy in Colorado City, Texas on March 14, 1942. Taken by the greenery, mountains, and temperature climate of Puget Sound, he settled and raised his family in Mount Vernon, Washington. After retiring from the Carnation Milk Company, he and Mrs. Wells returned to Baird in 1976.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Roy; and sister Lucille Blassingame.
He was of the Christian faith.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Tommie Jo (McCoy) Wells; three sons, all living on the West Coast, John Wells, Jr., of Puyallup, WA, Myron Wells of Ramona, CA, and Thomas N. Wells of Snohomish, WA.; one daughter, Verna Wells of Portland, OR; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Texas.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country 4601 Hartford, Abilene, TX. 79605 or to the Cross Plains Fire Relief Fund, P.O. Box 699, Cross Plains, TX 76443.
He will be remembered for his wonderful smile, love of baseball and popcorn.
---------------
George Robinson
RANGER Ð George N. Robinson 74, of Ranger passed away on Sunday February 12, 2006.
Services were held at 2 PM Wednesday February 15, 2006 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ben Hubert officiating. Burial was in Mt. Zion Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Mr. Robinson was born in Ranger, Texas on April 3, 1931 to Charlie A. and Ola Mae Lassiter Robinson; He graduated from Ranger High School. He was U. S. Army Veteran and a member of the Eastland V.F.W. Post # 4136 and the Fisher County Masonic Lodge. He worked for Bell Helicopter as a truck driver, forklift driver and general maintenance person for 27 years. George married Shirley Baker on August 8, 1951 in Ranger, Texas. He was a member of the First Baptist Church. He enjoyed riding around and visiting with friends.
Mr. Robinson is survived by his wife Shirley Robinson of Ranger, Texas, a son Ricky Robinson and wife Michelle of Azle, TX. two daughters Rita Shell of Weatherford, TX., and Robin Del Bosque and husband Frank of Waxahachie, TX. A brother Frank Robinson and wife Minnie of Ranger, TX. and a sister Leona Hyche of Crane, TX. Seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Numerous nieces and nephews.
-----------
Lois Claborn
Funeral services for Lois Vines Claborn, 91, of Lufkin were held Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 2 p.m. in the Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home Chapel with Hershel Bearden, Dr. Larry Claborn, and Judge Paul White officiating. Graveside services followed at 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 22, 2006 in the Rising Star Cemetery, Rising Star, Texas, with Dr. Larry Claborn and D.A. Cochran officiating.
Mrs. Claborn was born April 26, 1914 in Sipe Springs, Texas, to the late William Attaway and Susie (Hanes) Vines, and died Friday, February 17, 2006 in a local hospital.
Lois was a Christian and a member of Central Church of Christ. She loved her church family and always enjoyed her association with them. She was a devoted, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She enjoyed traveling with her husband all over the world, working in her beautiful yard, china painting, shopping with friends, and meeting new friends.
Mrs. Claborn is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Colleen and Charles Prahl of Lufkin; four grandchildren, Debbie and husband Steve Horn, Greg and wife Kim Prahl, all of The Woodlands, David and wife Brenda Claborn of Roanoke, Texas, Susan and husband Dr. Paul Watts of Dallas; and ten great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, C.D. Claborn; her son, William Kenneth Claborn; three sisters, Bernice Steele, Austice Claborn, and Mary Elizabeth Vines.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Church of Christ Building Fund, 711 N. Second Street, Lufkin, Texas 75901.
----------
Jo Taylor
Jo Wanda Taylor, 68, of Gun Barrel City and formerly of Cisco, passed away February 16, 2006 in Cedar View House Assisted Living.
Graveside services officiated by Rev. Benny Hagan and under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home of Cisco were held Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 2 p.m. in Oakwood Cemetery.
Jo Wanda was born to Robert Homer and Myrtle Van (McCanlies) Jackson on May 29, 1937, in Cisco, Texas. She was a Medical Secretary and a member of the Christian Life Center in Kemp, Texas.
Jo Wanda was preceded in death by her parents and step-father, Herbert L. Short. She was also preceded in death by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. James Edward McCanlies.
She is survived by two sons, James Young and Jeff Abernathy of Kemp, TX.; brother, Marlyn Jackson and wife, Tia, of Denver City, TX; two grandchildren, Jennifer Abernathy and Donnie Abernathy.
----------
Charles Mitchell
OLDEN- Charles W. Mitchell, 63, died Thursday, February 16, 2006.
Services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland.
CISCO- J. E. (Jimmie) Johnson, 87, was received in Heaven by Jesus, on Friday, February 17, 2006.
A celebration of life was held at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at 2 p.m. Brother Bob Ferguson officiating. Jimmie was laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in private ceremonies.
John and Etta Johnson received Jimmie as a gift from Heaven on December 24, 1918. He was born in Eastland County. He was raised in a loving Christian home and continued his Christian faith his entire life. He was Pentcostal.
At the young age of 19 he met the love of his life Sue DaVault. They were joined as one before God on May 7, 1938. Jimmie was husband to one, Dad, Grandpa, and Uncle to many. He was loving, generous, and a wonderful story teller, and a great singer of old gospel songs. If you needed anything he was the first to help.
Those awaiting him in Heaven with Jesus are his loving wife of 68 years, Sue, who passed away 3 months and 2 days before him, a baby son John Thomas, and a son of 55 years Harold D'wayne, his parents, his siblings, and a host of others.
Those he leaves to lovingly remember him are, his daughters, Sharon Carlton and husband Billy, Sheila Conger and husband Jackie, a daughter-in-law, Sandra Johnson; grandchildren, Stacie Murphy, Doug Kirby and wife Judy, Jennifer Jones and husband Michael, Brandie Williamson and husband Kevin, Lindsey Carlton, Cayla Conger, Shelby Carlton and Calli Conger; great-grandchildren, Colton Kirby, Noah Jones, Riley Jones, Lucey Jones and Mackenzie Williamson; several nieces and nephews and ones he felt blessed to call friends.
Pallbearers were his nephews, Leon Boles, Glenn Boles, Randy Boles, James Elliott and Carvell Reed, and his only grandson, Doug Kirby.
----------
Samuel Hart
Samuel Garnet Hart, 88, of Rome, New York died Monday, December 26, 2005 at Rome Memorial Hospital in Rome, New York after a brief illness.
Samuel or Garnet as he was known by friends and relatives in Texas was the oldest child of 7 children born to Samuel G. and Ina Thompson Hart of near Cisco, Texas.
Garnet was preceded in death by sisters, Effie Kamon Hart, Fern Hart and younger brother Griffin Hart. His beloved wife Marie Ricciardi of Long Branch, New Jersey whom he married in 1946 also preceded him in death.
Garnet attended Cisco schools and Cisco Junior College. He then enlisted in the U.S. Army Signal Corps and had schooling in Radio and Radar repair until discharged in 1946. Garnet then spent 30 years with U.S. Civil Service and lived in Rome, New York at the Rome Air Development Center with a team designing newer Radar Early Warning Systems and installing Radar in Germany and on the DEW Early Warning line in Canada.
Funeral services were held at the Price-Boyd & Hyatt Home for Funerals in Rome, New York. Spring interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery at Rome, New York next spring.
Survivors are a daughter, Barbara Lamphear; grandson, Blair Lampshear both of Rome, New York; sisters, Rose Clark of Cisco, Violet Frazier of Abilene; a brother, Thomas Cullen Hart and wife, Ruth of Cisco.
--------------
Steve England
OLDEN - Steve England, 46, of Olden passed away on Thursday February 16, 2006 in a local hospital. Graveside services will be 11 AM Monday, Feb. 20, 2006 in Evergreen Cemetery. Burial followed under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Steve was born in Ranger on January 3, 1960 to Bobby and Wanda Jones England. He was a graduate of Eastland High School. He worked most of his life in the oilfield as a rough neck. Steve married Leisha Lassiter on February 8, 1980 in Eastland, Texas.
Steve was preceded in death by a brother Robert England in 1992.
Steve is survived by his wife, Leisha England of Olden; his parents, Bobby and Wanda England of Olden; his children, Monica Lassiter of Eastland, Steven England, Jr. of Iowa Park, Veronica and Kandi England both of Eastland; a sister Terri Cate and husband Larry of Big Spring, Tx.; four grandchildren, Kayla, Kay Cee, Jodi and Blake; numerous nieces and nephews.
--------------
E. J. Sharp
LAKE LEON - E. J. Sharp, 56, of Lake Leon and formerly of Olden passed away on Thursday, February 16, 2006.
Services were held at 2 PM Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was in Eastland City Cemetery.
Mr. Sharp was born in Ranger, Texas on June 13, 1949 to Elmer J. and Lorene Kathryn McCoy. Mr. Sharp entered the United States Army in December 1966 and was honorably discharged on November of 1968 serving as a heavy truck driver for the Corps of Engineers. He married Tana Maurine Eaker on October 3, 1970 and she preceded in death Mr. Sharp was a member of the American Legion Post #553 for over 25 years and past commander, member of the Disabled American Veterans Association, and V.F.W. Post # 4136 for over 25 years and was past trustee and chaplain.
Mr. Sharp was preceded in death by a brother Bud Sharp and a sister Geneva Sharp.
Mr. Sharp is survived by daughters Kim Sharp and husband Lance of Brock, Cherissa Sharp Allsup of Ranger; a companion, Debra Dehaven of Eastland; sisters, Marcella Pennington of Ranger, Janice Maston of Eastland, June Berry of Weatherford; brothers, Johnny Sharp of Ranger, Jimmy Allen Sharp and Jimmy Ray Sharp both of Eastland, Wayne Sharp of Eastland, Rudolph Sharp of Jacksboro, John L. Sharp of Peaster, T. M. Sharp of Weatherford, Odell Sharp of Stephenville; five grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
-----------------
J. Frank Walton
J. Frank Walton, 67, passed away Sunday, February 12 in Richardson Regional Hospital.
He was born May 29, 1938, in Cisco, Texas to Frank and Mary Walton who both preceded him in death. A half brother, Bob Walton, also preceded him in death. He was a 1956 graduate of Cisco High School.
J. Frank is survived by his three children, Frank Walton, Tony Walton, and Terina Lowrimore; six grandchildren all of the Dallas-Ft. Worth area; one sister and brother-in-law, Nina Jo and Teddy Anderson of Cisco; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Walton donated his body to science. No funeral service is planned.
-----------
Mary Holt
Mary Clark Sturdivant Holt, 92, died Thursday, February 23, 2006 at Welsey Court.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 25, 2006 at First Baptist Church Chapel, with Dr. Phil Christopher, Paige Baize, and Dr. Virginia Connally officiating. Graveside services were held at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, Eastland County, at 3:30 p.m., directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory.
She was a homemaker, teacher, business woman, rancher, and was the wife of the late Harry Holt, whom she married in Sweetwater on June 4, 1938.
Born in Nolan County on November 13, 1913, Mary Clark was the daughter of Hayes and Ruby (Bagley) Sturdivant. She had been a resident of Abilene since 1938 and a member of First Baptist Church. She was employed by Abilene Public Schools as a teacher of Adult Education for 8 years; and previously taught at Divide (Nolan Co.) four years and Tuscola for two years. She later owned and operated the Knit Shop in Abilene for many years. Mary Clark was a member of Abilene for many years. Mary Clark was a member of Abilene Woman's Club, Professional Needlecrafters, and Eastern Star. She helped organize the 20th Century Club in Abilene, was past president of National Needlecrafters, and the author of four cookboks. Along with her husband, Harry, she ran their ranch in Eastland County.
Mary Clark was preceded in death by her husband, Harry in 2004; her parents; and a brother, James Allen Sturdivant.
Survivors include two daughters, Mary Jo Holt Smith and husband, Jerrell of Carbon and Betty Ann Holt of Dallas; brother, Max Sturdivant and wife, Oneta of Waco; two sisters-in-law, Billye Meadows and Katherine Dyess, both of Abilene; two grandchildren, Matt Smith and wife, Rachel, and Leigh A. Smith; three great-grandchildren, Morgan Smith, Chandler Smith, and Eliesabeth Smith; and many nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers were Jerrell Smith, Matt Smith, Charles Malon Meadows, Justin Jones, Paige Baize, and Jimmy Sturdivant.
Memorials may be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center 4601 Hartford, Abilene, TX 79605, or The Harry & Mary Clark Holt Scholarship, c/o Texas Cooperative Extension, 1982 Lytle Way, Abilene, TX 79602.
-----------
Richard Bennie
Funeral arrangements are complete at the Zoeller Funeral Home New Braunfels, Texas for Richard Dale Bennie.
Mr. Bennie was born September 1940 in Cisco, Texas to William Campbell Bennie and Lillian Mae Bennie. Richard married his wife Linda in February 1960. Richard served the people of the State of Texas with the Texas Department of Public Safety from 1972 to 1996 as a Highway Patrolman in Sherman, Texas, a Highway Patrol Sergeant in San Antonio, Texas and a Texas Ranger in McAllen and Seguin, Texas. Upon his retirement from the Texas Rangers, Richard served as the Chief Deputy for the Comal County Sheriff's Office from January 1997 until December of 2005. Richard loved the time he spent as a law enforcement officer, especially the time he served the people of Comal County as their Chief Deputy.
Richard is survived by his wife, Linda; his son, William A. (Tony) Bennie and daughter-in-law, Michelle; granddaughters, Megan and Morgan of Sherman, TX; daughter, Kerri Thompson and son-in-law, Dan; granddaughters, Peyton and Kathryn of Illinois; his mother, Lillian Mac Bennie of Mineral Wells; his siblings, William C. Bennie, Jr. of Mineral Wells, Robert U. Bennie of Cisco, Linda Hutchison of Pagosa Springs, CO, and Timothy M. Bennie of San Angelo.
Richard was preceded in death by his father, William Campbell Bennie.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, February 26, 2006 at 2 p.m. in the Zoeller Funeral Home chapel. Serices will conclude in the chapel.
The family has requested that memorial contributions be given to the Green Santa Program in care of the Comal County Sheriff's Office.
-----------------
Newland 'Babe' Nichols
Newland 'Babe' Nichols, 95, of Abilene, died Friday, February 24, 2006.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, February 27, 2006 at North's Memorial Chapel with Rev. Dwayne Staggs officiating. Burial followed at I.O.O. F. Cemetery, directed by North's Funeral Home.
Mr. Nichols was born August 28, 1910 to Newton and Fannie Nichols in Eastland County, Texas. He moved to Abilene in 1930. He married Clara Hawkins on December 22, 1943 in Abilene. He worked for Blue Bonnet Motors and the Blue Bird Inn for 14 years. He worked for the Abilene Independent School District at the following schools: Lincoln Middle School, Bonham Elementary and Fannin Elementary, in the maintenance department for 20 years. He enjoyed his 20 years there and most importantly he loved 'the kids'. He was a member of the First Baptist Church.
He and his wife loved to square dance and won the Championship of Square Dancer's in the 1940's. He was a professional bowler and held the Championship Professional Bowler title for 30 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife and one son, Gene Nichols.
He is survived by one son, Nick Nichols and wife Marty of Dallas; several nephews include Doyle Plemons and several nieces; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Condolences may be sent to www.northsfuneral home.com
---------------
Daryl Thomas
EASTLAND- Daryl Thomas 54, of Rockwall, a long time TXU employee died Thursday in a Dallas hospital,
Funeral services were held Monday, February 27, 2006 at 2:00 PM in the First Baptist Church in Eastland. Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas was in charge of the arrangements. Burial was in the Eastland Cemetery. Ministers were Dr. Shawn Brewer, Rev. Jimmy Maples, Rev. Bruce Stovall.
Daryl was born on October 3, 1951 in Gorman, Texas to Rev. A. J. and Mary Marie Rush Thomas. Daryl attended school in Olden and graduated from Eastland High School in 1970 where he was very active in basketball, baseball and track. After high school Daryl went to the University of North Texas and received a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. He went to work for TXU Energy working in Midland, Snyder, and Dallas and holding numerous positions through out the company for twenty four years. Daryl was a member of the Lion's Club and the Rotary Club. As with every community he lived in, he became very active in civic and volunteer activities. In Snyder, Daryl was a member of the Red Leather Club and was the writer of the Creed that set the club standard. In 1995 he received the President's Award from the Snyder Chamber of Commerce and United Way Volunteer of the Year while in Midland. Daryl's last residence was Rockwall Texas, and like all the other communities he had lived in he became involved in different civic and volunteer activities, one in particular was the Rockwall Community Playhouse, which in 2004 he was rewarded Volunteer of the Year. Daryl was a member of the Lake Pointe Baptist Church in Rockwall. He was preceded in death by his father Rev. A. J. Thomas. Daryl will be missed by his family and friends, in several different communities. The family request in lieu of flowers that memorials be made to the Eastland I.S.D. in memory of the Daryl Thomas Scholarship Fund to help further the education of Eastland Student Athletes.
Daryl is survived by a daughter, Kristin Thomas of Corinth, Texas; a son, Bryan Thomas of Rockwall, Texas; his mother, Marie Thomas of Eastland, Texas; two brothers, Wade and Gary Thomas both of Eastland, Texas; two sisters, Wanda Baird and husband Don of De Leon, Texas and Carolyn Martin and husband Ted of Abilene, Texas; several Special nieces and nephews and a host of special friends and Daryl's Church family.
The family would like to thank all for their love and support during Daryl's illness.
-------------
Pete Golson
Pete Golson, 87, died Friday, February 24, 2006 at the Rising Star Nursing Center.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 27, 2006 at the Higginbotham Chapel in Cross Plains, Max Evans officiated. Burial followed in the Burkett Cemetery.
He was born on May 27, 1918 in Coleman County, Texas to Marion A. (Bud) and Lola Keller Golson. Pete graduated from Burkett High School in 1936 where he played basketball. He also played baseball and basketball for commerical teams. He married Nora Lee Pope in Coleman on November 18, 1940. He farmed and worked in the oil field and drove for Sewalt Butane Company for 31 years. Pete enjoyed his grandkids and extended family, raising flowers and making music with the band at Jean's Feed Barn every Thursday night.
He is survived by his son, Bobby Golson and wife Linda of Cross Plains; grandchildren, Glenn Golson and wife Carolyn of Lawn, Billy Golson and wife Kathy of Lawn, Scott Cupit of Waco, Kayla Rodgers and husband Joe of Waco, Stacey Pancake and husband Jody of Cross Plains, Jeremy Box and wife Debbie of Cross Plains, Rickey Box and wife Cindy of Georgetown; 13 great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Nora, brother O'Dell and sister Juanita.
----------------
Billie 'Bill' Strickland
Billie (Bill) R. Strickland, 76, died Friday, February 24, 2006 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, February 26, 2006 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Cross Plains. David Wallace officiated. Burial followed in the Burkett Cemetery.
He was born June 6, 1929 in Burkett, Texas to Tom and Ollie (Zirkle) Strickland. He married Joyce Wright on June 29, 1946 in Cross Plains and they had 4 children. Joyce preceded him in death on February 11, 1994. He then married Shirley Hunter on June 6, 2003. He worked in the oil fields as a driller, and was a member of the Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley of Burkburnett; sons, Randy Strickland and wife Dena of Cross Plains, Bo Strickland of Burkett; daughter, Jan Baker and husband Ken of Burkett; step-son, Randy Hunter of Abilene; step-daughter, Kim Hunter of Coleman; sisters, Mary Hightower of Cisco, Tootsie Rhodes of Breckenridge; brothers, Sonny Strickland of Doss, Eddie Strickland of Burkett; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Joyce, son, Jerry, two brothers, Tom and Jack.
--------------
Veno Hale
Veno Angilee Hale, 97, of Gorman passed away Thursday, February 23, 2006 at the Comanche County Medical Center.
Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, February 24, 2006 at the Murray Cemetery near Carbon with James Holt officiating.
Ms. Hale was born December 25, 1908 in Eastland County to Reck L. Hale and Ersey A. (Young) Hale. She was a homemaker and a member of the Baptist church.
Survivors include nieces and nephews, Ima Boles of Gorman, Betty Little of Eastland, Bobby Little and wife, Mary Jane of Eastland, Jimmy Little and wife, Verna of Gorman and Charles Little and wife Carolyn of Eastland; as well as a host of great and great-great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother and two sisters.
-------------
Jewel Hathorn
STEPHENVILLE- Jewel Downing Hathorn, 96, died Friday, February 24, 2006 at a local hospital.
She was born July 2, 1909 in Moran, Texas to William E. and Pearl (Herring) Downing. She married J.L. Hathorn on December 16, 1959 in Uvalde, Texas. She was a Title Insurance Clerk and attended Hillcrest Church of Christ.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, February 27, 2006 at Gardens of Memory Cemetery. Gary Williams officiated. Burial followed directed by Lacy Funeral Home of Stephenville.
Online condolences can be made at www.lacyfuneral.com
Survivors are her husband, J.L. Hathorn of Stephenville; two sons, Jim Carter of Eastland and Charles and wife Jeanette Hathorn of Justin, TX; one daughter, Pat Braggin of Houston; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to American Heart Association 1024 West Jones Street Stephenville, Texas 76401.
-------------
Paul McClendon
CISCO- Paul Franklin McClendon, 77, died Saturday, February 25, 2006.
Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 27, 2006 at the Romney Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
-------------
Benito De La Torre
RANGER - Benito De La Torre, 59, of Ranger, passed away Friday, February 24, 2006 in a Fort Worth hospital. Rosary service will be 7 PM Tuesday evening at Edwards Funeral Home and Catholic service at St. Rita's Catholic Church 3 PM Thursday with burial in Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Mr. De La Torre was born on March 21, 1946 in Palo Blanco Castanos Coah Mexico to Manuel De La Torre and Apolonia Mata. He worked for Bird Song Peanut factory in Gorman, Tx. He married Maria Rosales in 1963 in Mexico. He was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Cisco.
Survivors include his wife Maria of Ranger, his father Manuel De La Torre, children Juan De La Torre and wife Hope of Lake Leon, Anabel De La Torre Montano and husband Erasmo of Olden and San Francisco De La Torre of Ranger. Brothers and sisters; Amador De La Torre of Ranger, Jesus and Crispin De La Torre Mata of Mexico, Juan De La Torre of Ranger, Martin De La Torre of Stephenville, Able De La Torre of Stephenville, Maria Torres of Ranger. Grandchildren Adrian Montano, and Guillermo Montano. Numerous nieces and nephews.
-------------
Avo Moore
Mrs. Avo Moore passed away February 25, 2006 at the age of 102, in Simi Valley, California.
Avo was born to Neal Pippen and Allison Drake Pippen on August 27, 1903 in Eastland County, Texas. She grew up on the family farm and attended school at Dothan, Texas.
On December 24, 1918, she married Byron Harris Yeager. They had three children Bill, Maxine and Doris Jean. They divorced in 1941.
In 1950, she married Jim L. Moore in Eastland, Texas. In 1952, they moved to Westwood, California, where Avo owned an apartment building.
Jim was a carpenter and built them a home in Bellflower, California. Later, they sold the other properties and bought the Garden Grove Apartments in Garden Grove, California. Jim worked at Hughes Aircraft Co. in Fullerton, California. When Jim retired with heart problems, they moved to Hemet, California.
Avo is survived by a brother, Jeff Pippen of Cisco; two daughters, Carole Maxine Gallagher of Simi Valley, California and Doris Jeanne Lepiane of Anaheim, California; 3 grandchildren, Suzanne Duckspan of Nashville, TN., J.R. Yancy of Sun City, CA., and Mark Lepiane of Fullerton, CA.; and 7 great-grandchildren.
Avo lived in Desert Hot Springs, Calif. after Jim died. She moved to Simi Valley, Calif. in January, 1999.
Services were held Friday, March 3, 2006 at 2:30 p.m. at Westminster Memorial Park and Mortuary in Westminster, California.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Avo's name to the Church of Christ 311 North State College Blvd., Anaheim, CA. 92806. She was interred next to her husband Jim L. Moore at the Westminster Memorial Park Cemetery.
---------------
Paul McClendon Sr.
CISCO- Paul Franklin McClendon, Sr. died of lung cancer February 25, 2006.
Mr. McClendon was born January 27, 1929 in Clarkton, MO. to Elva Pierson McClendon and Althea Bell Silman McClendon. A long time resident of Caruthersville and Sikeston, MO before he and his wife moved to Cisco, Tx. in 2002. He served in the US Army from 1952-1954. He was stationed in Japan and was awarded medals of Good Conduct and four Sharpshooters.
He was married to Verna Mae McClendon.
Paul owned and operated Missouri Tank and Tower. He was well known in the bootheel and surrounding states. He had a fondness for sparkling western suits and gold and diamond rings. At one time he had a collection of 30 pairs of cowboy boots. Loretta Lynn gave one pair to him. He was also a big fan of old westerns as reflects in some of his children's names. He was a very loving father.
Paul had two siblings proceed him in death: Jerold Thomas McClendon and Erma Maxine McClendon.
Survivors are a brother, Ira Ray McClendon of Caruthersville, MO.; children: Paulette Davis of Caruthersville, MO, Elva Ray McClendon of Caruthersville, MO, Steven McClendon of Caruthersville, MO, Pam Gibson of Caruthersville, MO, Paul Franklin McClendon, Jr. of Salt Lake City, UT, Kevin Randolph McClendon of Sikeston, MO, Cassie McClendon Lighter of Kellogg, ID, Daniel Scott McClendon of Proctor, AK, John Pierson McClendon residence unknown, Phyllis McClendon of Caruthersville, MO, Paul Britt McClendon of Caruthersville, MO.; stepchildren include: Jerry Lee Riggs of Cisco, TX, Odean Gregory of Bloomfield, MO, Paula McClendon of Caruthersville, MO, Dickey McClendon of Caruthersville, MO. Paul had 26 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Paul will be buried in Romney Cemetery in Romney, TX.
----------
Hazel Landers
Hazel Edith Landers, 79, of Cisco, passed away Wednesday, March 1, 2006 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 4, 2006 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Rev. Jerry Speer. Burial was in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mrs. Landers was born May 28, 1926 in Mt. Calm, Texas to A.W. and Lillian (Court) Dawson. She married Bradford (Brad) Landers on November 18, 1955 in Baird. She worked for Southwestern Bell as an operator and was a member of First Baptist Church.
She is survived by her husband Brad of Cisco; son, Marvin Dean Landers and wife Ronda of Cat Spring, Texas; grandchildren, Leslie Landers and Allison Landers; and a brother, W.D. (Dock) Dawson and wife Rhonda of Midland, Texas.
-----------------
Cone Rice, Jr.
Cone Carroll Rice, Jr. (Bud or CC to his friends) was born in Tyler, Texas on June 10, 1933 to Cone Carroll Rice and Edna Gallagher Rice. He graduated from Tyler High School in 1950, and attended the University of Texas. In 1954, he left his beloved University to join the Navy, where he became a Lieutenant serving as a helicopter pilot. In 1957, he was stationed at Rehm Field in San Diego, California, where he met his future wife and the mother of his five children, Stephenie Rich. In 1961, he graduated from the U.S. Navy Post Graduate School in Monterey, CA.
After marriage, and the birth of his first two children, Cone returned to Tyler in 1962, where he owned and operated Cone Rice GMC. He eventually sold the dealership and partook in other ventures in various fields. At one point he owned and operated a dry cleaner, and also received his real estate license and worked in sales for different companies. In 1986, he was awarded Salesman of the Year for Ortho Chemical Company. While working for the Spectrum Group, he achieved the top region in Sales, for three years in a row. Cone was quite the salesman
In March, 1994, Cone went to work for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. He was the Supply Officer at the Walker Sayle Unit in Breckenridge, TX until May of 2004, when he retired from the state. The Sayle Unit is a Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, and Cone loved having the opportunity to encourage young men to turn their lives around and embrace sobriety. His intellectual curiosity led him on a life journey of discovery and a review of history. He loved classical music, biographies, and virtually everything non-fiction. He knew something about everything and always had an interesting anecdote to share on virtually any subject. He used that same wonderful memory to recall details about everyone he met, delighting the individuals who had shared some detail of their life with him, with his incredible recall and sincere interest in them and their lives. His wit was quick, and he appreciated the same trait in others, rewarding them with deep and infectious laughter. He was deeply compassionate, and incredibly thoughtful, once again remembering dates, significant events and passages which had occurred to other people