OBITUARIES
Reverse Order January 2007 - June 2007
Harold R. Pack
Harold R. Pack, 77, of Stephenville passed away Sunday, June 24, 2007, in Fort Worth.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 27, 2007, at the First United Methodist Church in Stephenville with Rev. Dean Reed officiating. Interment followed at the Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Erath County. Stephenville Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Harold was born on July 28, 1929, in Erath County to the late H. Reed and Ruby Jane Barnes Pack. He married Marion Keith on May 24, 1949, in Stephenville. Harold has resided in Erath County all of his life. He served on the Board of Directors for R.E.A. Coop for 19 years, the Federal Land Bank for 20 years, the Farmers Home Administration and the Farmers Milling Coop. Harold was also a life-time member of the American Quarter Horse Association, a Charter Member of the North Texas Dairy Association, and a Charter Member of the Erath County Livestock Association. He served as an ASCS County Committee man, and was selected by the JC’s as the Outstanding Young Farmer of Erath County in 1962. Harold was a Dairy farmer for 49 years and was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Stephenville.
He is survived by his wife, Marion Pack of Stephenville; four children, Jane and husband Bobby Tonne of Cisco, Mike and wife Lynda Pack of San Saba, Steve and Judy Pack of Stephenville, Gaye and husband Prakash Joseph of Brooklyn, New York; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; nine step-great-grandchildren; two step-great-great-grandchildren.
Harold was preceded in death by a granddaughter.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Stephenville or to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center 4601 Hartford St., Abilene, TX 79605.
June 24, 2007 Edition
Frances Carothers Lemley
Nora Frances (Carothers) Lemley, 98, passed away June 18, 2007 in Lubbock, Tx.
Services were held Friday, June 22, 2007 at 10:00 A.M. at the Church of Christ in Ranger, Tx. Visitation was Friday morning from 8:00-9:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial followed in Crossroads Cemetery. Arrangements by Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Tx.
Frances was born to J.C. and Nora Belle Carothers in Milan, Missouri on March 8, 1909. As a child, she lived in Northern Missouri, graduating from Pattonsburg High School. She moved with her parents to Ranger, Texas in 1926. She attended Ranger College and Hardin-Simmons University. In 1932 she married Plummer S. Lemley and they lived in Ranger and Grapeland, Texas, and spent another 25 years in northern New Mexico where he was employed as a plants manager for Southern Union Gas Company.
After retirement, they lived once again in Ranger where her husband preceded her in death in January of 1982. She moved to Lubbock, Texas in 1997 and lived there until her death.
She was a person of great faith and wisdom, a blessing to her friends and family, a life-long active member of the Church of Christ wherever she lived.
She is survived by her only son, Steven, of Westlake Village, California; three grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Memorials can be made to Lubbock Christian University.
The following obituaries ran in the June 21st 2007 Edition of our central area section.
Gloria ‘Granny’ Scott
EASTLAND- Gloria “Granny” Scott, 78, of Eastland, passed away Friday, June 15, 2007 in Eastland.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, June 18, 2007 at the Merriman Baptist Church with Rev. Jimmy Lively officiating, and assisted by Rev. Jim Lang. Services directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Mrs. Scott was born October 31, 1928, in Eastland County to Archie and Annie (Casey) Stephenson. She attended school at Lone Cedar and Olden. She married Millard Hooper in 1945. They followed the oil patch living in the Abilene area. Upon her divorce she returned to Eastland. She married C.N. Scott in 1959. He preceded her in death in 1993.
She was also preceded in death by brothers, Charlie, Jack, Henry, Orville, Louie and Archie Stephenson and sisters, Letha Sellars and Sara Lee Ellis.
She was a homemaker and Avon representative for 25+ years and held many positions within her church including Sunday School teacher, bus captain, food ministry, prayer warrior and was responsible for leading many children to salvation.
Survivors include her children, Jerry Hooper and wife Joanna and Mary Ensor and husband Skinner all of Eastland, Larry Hooper and wife Nita of Clyde, Loyce Jones and husband Terry of Denver City, Loueva Kramer and husband Gene of Springtown and Colleen Young and Deedra Scott both of Abilene; 22 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and a special friend, R.D. Threet.
Eufemia Nava Camacho
Eufemia Nava Camacho, age 88, passed away Wednesday, June 13, 2007 in El Paso, Texas. Born in Cameron, Texas, March 20, 1919, to Josefa Estorga and Esteban Nava, she was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Jose Ruelas Camacho.
Survivors are four children, Pia MacFawn (Don), John Camacho (Esther), Delia Camacho, and Ramona Camacho. She is also survived by five grandchildren, John, Remi, Christina, Joseph, and Stephanie; five great-grandchildren, Mia, Paul, Sophia, Samantha, and Lauren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Four brothers preceded her in death: Juvenicio, Isabel, Santos and Guadalupe and three sisters, Sophia, Flora, and Inez.
She was a lifetime member of St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Ranger, Texas.
Visitation was held Sunday, June 17 from 2 to 9 p.m. at Crestview Funeral Home in El Paso, Texas. A rosary was held at 7 p.m. Mass was celebrated at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Monday, June 18, 2007 at 1 p.m. with burial at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery.
Pallbearers were John Camacho, Joseph Camacho, Paul Garcia, Adrian Garcia, Lou Fernandez, and Pedro Nava.
Richard Lynn Hudgens
Richard (Rick) Lynn Hudgens, was born on October 12, 1955 and died Thursday, June 14, 2007. He was 51 years old.
Graveside services were held Monday, June 18, 2007 at 11 a.m. in Willow Cemetery in Haskell, directed by Holden-McCauley Funeral Home. A memorial service followed at 1009 North 6th Street in Haskell.
Rick was born in Seminole (Gaines County) Texas. He attended schools in Seminole and Fort Stockton, Texas as well as Tehran, Iran, Paint Creek and Cisco Jr. College. Rick was employed with Western Energy Service of Clyde, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his father, Henderson Richard Hudgens; and one brother Randy Hudgens.
Rick is survived by his wife, Lynn of Hobbs, NM; one daughter, Brandy Eddings and husband Steve of Dallas; two sons, Jason Arnette and wife Suzy of Baltimore, Maryland and Jason Armstrong of Hobbs, NM.; three grandchildren, Eric and Erin Eddings of Dallas and Jackelynn Armstrong of Hobbs, N.M.; parents, Verle and Sue Brown of Ranger; two sisters, Darla Davis of Ranger and Carla Crutchfield and husband Rodney of Abilene.
Jean Clark
Jean Clark, 70, died Thursday, June 14, 2007 at an Abilene hospital.
Funeral services were held Sunday, June 17, 2007 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Aspermont officiating by Rev. Robbie Harris, assisted by Bro. Truitt Cockrell. Burial followed in the Aspermont Cemetery under the care and direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Aspermont.
Jean was born in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. She was a longtime resident of Stonewall County. Jean worked many jobs in life with her husband Charles in their construction business from framing, carpentry to roofing or keeping the books and scheduling the jobs.
Jean was a Christian homemaker.
She is survived by her husband, Charles Clark of Aspermont; daughter, Cherri Hill and Kelly of Granbury; sons, Danny Clark and Angie of Aspermont and Larry Clark and Carla of Aspermont; mother, Callie Boyd of Tishomingo, OK.; brothers, Tommy Boyd of Tishomingo, OK, Charles Boyd of Eastland, TX and Maurice Boyd of Hilton, OK; sisters, Betty Carr of Oklahoma City, OK, Joyce Roberts of Poteau, OK, and Clarice Tucker of Tishomingo, OK.; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
The family requests memorials be made to the West Texas Rehab Center 4600 Hartford St., Abilene, TX 79606 or to the American Heart Association.
The following obituaries ran in the June 17th 2007 Edition of our central area section.
Gordon Keith Sherman
Gordon Keith Sherman passed away May 25, 2007 at the age of 87, surrounded by family at his Shoreline home.
Known affectionately as “G.K.,” he was deeply loved by all who had the good fortune to know him. G.K. was born in Fargo, North Dakota in 1920. His family moved to Cisco, Texas In 1935. During high school he was All District guard in basketball and was also County Tennis Champion. His interest in tennis continued throughout his life. In 1938 he graduated as Valedictorian from Cisco High. G.K. took over the role of caregiver and father figure at an early age, helping to raise and support his three younger siblings during his teenage years. This selflessness and take-charge attitude would continue to define G.K. throughout his remarkable life. In April of 1942, he enlisted in the Navy and entered Navy Flight Training. G.K. received his wings and was commissioned as Ensign in December. As a fighter pilot he flew with VF 16 from the USS Lexington throughout the first half of the Central Pacific Campaign and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his skill and valor. He later joined VF 89 on the Antietam for a second tour in the Pacific. He was serving on the USS Antietam at the time of the Japanese surrender. Back in the U.S., while stationed as a flight instructor in Corpus Christi, Texas, G.K. was invited to join the Blue Angel aerobatic flight team -- an honor open only to the most accomplished single pilots. Choosing love over career, G.K. married his soul mate, Theodora Poelma, instead. This year G.K. and Teddy would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. By July of 1950, he was out of service, enrolled In the University of Texas. Recalled to active duty during the Korean War, G.K. joined VP 931 at NAS Whidbey and flew P2V type aircraft out of Kodiak on patrol duty. Following that he had several tours of duty in the Naval Air Reserve Training program serving at NAS Floyd Bennett, Brooklyn, N.Y., NAAS Lincoln, Nebraska, NAS Seattle (Sand Point) and the Bureau of Naval Personnel, Arlington Annex where he was promoted to Captain. He remained in the service until October of 1966 when he retired from the 13th Naval District. After his decorated 26-year military career, G.K. spent the next 29 years as a highly-skilled negotiator for Boeing airplane contracts. Among his many accomplishments, G.K. had the distinction of negotiating the company’s first billion dollar contract for the Boeing 767. At retirement in August of 1994, he was Director of Contracts Support at the Boeing Everett Plant. When G.K. wasn’t satisfying his insatiable curiosity of world history or recounting tales of the war, he was planning the next family ski trip or fishing expedition to destinations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Canada. This tradition continued well into his 80s. The ultimate grandpa, he firmly believed that nothing in life is more important than bringing along the next generation. His family, his friends, those he mentored, and those he counseled will miss him always.
G.K. was preceded in death by his beloved son, Stephen, his only daughter, Anne, and grandson, Taylor.
He is survived by his loving wife, Theodora Sherman; sons, Lawrence Sherman (Gail), Mark Sherman (Leigh), Christopher Sherman (Tonya); daughter-in-law, Johanna Sherman-LaRussa (Mike); brother, William T. Sherman (Evelyn); sisters, Mary Louise Stroud (Ned) and Nancy Lee Grant (Norman); cherished grandchildren, Sarah, Lauren, Brianna, Spencer, Corinna, Alan and Jaesha Sherman; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service and Celebration of his Life will be held at St. Luke Church, 322 N. 175th St., Shoreline on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at 3:00 p.m., with a Reception to follow. Inurement at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Providence Hospice of Seattle, 425 Pontius Avenue North, Seattle 98109 or the St. Luke Youth Ministry, 322 North 175th Street, Shoreline, WA 98133.
Dessie Marie ‘Granny’ Johnson
Dessie Marie “Granny” Johnson, age 71 years 5 months and 7 days, of Comanche, Texas, died Saturday, June 9, 2007 at her residence in Comanche, Texas.
She was born on February 2, 1936 in Decker, Tennessee to Mack Sutton and Dessie (Brinkley) Sutton. For many years she was employed by Girling Home Health as a home health aide. She was an avid Bingo player. Mrs. Johnson was a Baptist.
Mrs. Johnson was united in marriage to Ronnie Johnson on January 20, 1972 in Fort Worth, Texas.
She is survived by husband, Ronnie Johnson of Kopperl; sons, Joey Lavender of Abilene, Nicky Lavender of Comanche, and Oscar Romo of Comanche; daughters and sons-in- law, Valerie and Mike Wilson of Hamilton, and Christy and Mark Lucky of Ranger; granddaughters, Melissa Freeman of Hamilton and C. J. Lavender of Weatherford; grandsons, Eric Freeman of Odessa, Chris Lavender of Breckenridge, Michael Ruiz of Lubbock, Brian Lavender of Comanche, Jeremy Lavender of Weatherford, David Webb of DeLeon, and Scotty Owens of Tennessee; thirteen great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary Shutters of Comanche, Emma Isbel of Tennessee, Brenda Williamson of Comanche, and Cynthia Wimberley of Tennessee; and brother, Lany Sutton of Tennessee. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Wunima Rose and Rosa Lee Owens; and one grand- son, Casey Lavender.
Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 13, 2007 at graveside with Rev. Kenneth Steele officiating. Burial was in the Sardis Cemetery in Comanche County, Texas with Comanche Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
Bobby T. Bacon
Bobby T. Bacon, 87, of Izoro, passed away June 10, 2007 in a local hospital.
Graveside Services with full military honors were held Friday, June 15, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.
Bobby was born September 11, 1919 in Cisco, Texas to Ted and Ola (McCanlies) Bacon. He proudly served his country for 20 years in the Marines entering the service January 8, 1940 and retiring January 15, 1960. He was a 3rd battalion, 4th marine regiment on Bataan, during World War II. Bob was a former Japanese prisoner of war, being captured May 6, 1942 in Corregidor and released in Honshu, Japan September 11, 1945. He also served in Korea. After his retirement, he and went on to become a football coach for the San Angelo School District, Coaching at Edison and Lee Junior Highs and was proud of having a record of 5 undefeated seasons, 112 games won, 32 games lost and 4 games tied. After retiring from the school district, Bob ranched for the next 27 years of his life. He was also a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite Order. Bob was a member of the First Christian Church.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents; a brother and a sister.
Survivors include wife of 60 years, Farene, of Izoro; daughter, Jamie Sterling, of Kempner; grandson, Spencer Franklin Sterling, of Santa Fe, New Mexico; granddaughter, Jessica Sterling, of Kempner; brother, Joe Ed Bacon, of Breckinridge and sister, Billie Beth Griffith, of Rockport.
Visitation was held Friday, June 15, 2007 from 10:00-12:00 at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Killeen.
The following obituaries ran in the June 14th 2007 Edition of our central area section.
Alma Loucille ‘Lou’ Smartt Lawler
Alma Loucille ‘Lou’ Smartt Lawler, 82, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2007, in her home surrounded by family and friends.
Born February 19, 1925 in Cisco, Texas, to the late Nolia Ward Smartt and Lydia Alma Rodgers Smartt, she was preceded in death by husband John D. Lawler, brothers Tom Smartt, Doug Smartt, Bill Smartt, Ralph Smartt and Ken Smartt.
She is survived by her loving sister Ruth Lewis of Canton, Texas; daughter, Patsy L. Frey of Missouri City, Texas; son Hal H. Lawler and wife Jan of La Porte, TX; grandchildren, Kathryn E. and John A. Lawler of La Porte, TX; stepgrandchildren Todd Solomon and Jeremy Frey. She also leaves behind Sonny Hilden of Texas City whom she raised as a son. Other survivors include sister-in-law, Midge Smartt, Madge Smartt, Vesta Smartt; and numerous much loved nieces and nephews.
She graduated from Cisco High School in 1942 when World War II was going strong. Her family moved to San Francisco where she began her lifetime legacy of civic involvement by selling war bonds and working in ammunitions factory. She met Air Force officer John D. Lawler at a USO dance and married on November 11, 1946. They traveled with the military until settling down to raise a family in La Porte, Texas in 1947. The hard-working couple started businesses which continue to this day. As a distinguished lady, she was an individual who cared for others. “Mama Lou” will be remembered not only for her unconditional love but also her encouraging letters and notes that impacted lives throughout the years. Besides being a caring and trusting friend, others knew her as a tireless civic leader with a keen sense of humor and quick wit. She worked with the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Red Cross, Air National Guard, Rehabilitation Foundation for East Harris County, Salvation Army, and numerous other groups. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church for more than 50 years, charter of Beta Sigma Phi Master Chapter, Texas Life Member in PTO, and served as an election judge for more than 25 years. The landscape of the La Porte community has been enhanced by her leadership. While serving as the City of La Porte’s Centennial Committee Chairperson, a bronze sculpture was erected near the landmark Sylvan Beach Train Depot Museum, a site she had worked with other citizens to restore. A multi-faceted, energetic lady of “firsts”, Lou was one of the first women to ride the Salt Grass Trail Ride with her beautiful white horse, Buttermilk. As a prominent business woman, Lou served as the first female director of La Porte State Bank. She was the first woman to be elected chairman of the board of the La Porte/Bayshore Chamber of Commerce. During this time, she became aware of the needs of seafarers who entered the Port of Houston at the Barbour’s Cut Terminal. In the early 1980’s she began working with Houston International Seafarers Center Board. As a visionary and momentum builder, she led the fundraising campaign to construct a million dollar facility that now serves as a home away from home for the thousands of seafarers who sail around the world. Trained as one of the first non-clerical ecumenical port chaplains, Lou was invited to Rome in 1992 to participate in the “Apostleship of the Sea” world conference, receiving special recognition from the Vatican and a medal from Pope John Paul II for her ministry to seafarers. In Toronto, Canada, in 1995, the North American Maritime Ministry Association elected Lou to the board of directors. In 1996, she was honored when the Barbour’s Cut Seafarers Center in Morgan’s Point, Texas was named the Lou Lawler Seafarers Center in recognition of her ministry. In 1990, she was nominated for an outstanding volunteer service award by Texas Governor Bill Clements. In 1982, U.S. Congressman Mike Andrews appointed her to his Environmental Task Force. U.S. Congressman Ken Bentsen entered her name in the Congressional Record in Washington D.C. for outstanding civic contributions as a result of her energy and dedication. Her distinctions continued throughout her lifetime, including being recently named Volunteer of the Year for the Neighborhood Center of La Porte, recipient of the Steel Magnolia award for the South East Harris County, and recipient of the Gus Groos Humanitarian Award from the La Porte/Bayshore communities. In response to her passing, Senator Mike Jackson and Representative Wayne Smith of the Texas House and Senate are both preparing proclamations honoring Lou’s lifetime civic achievements to be entered into the record of the 2007 Texas Legislative session.
A memorial service was held at the First United Methodist Church in La Porte, Texas on Saturday, June 2, 2007 at 1 p.m. A reception was held immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lou Lawler Seafarers Center, P.O. Box 1434, La Porte, Texas 77572-1434, attention Patricia Poulus.
Frances Fay Cornelius
Frances Fay Cornelius,75, of Cisco passed away at Canterbury Villa Sunday June 10, 2007.
Funeral services were at 10:00 AM Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at I-20 Church of Christ officiated by Lee Lewis. Burial followed in Oakwood Cemetery, under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Frances was born on September 1, 1931, in Cisco, Texas, to John Thomas and Lillie Odessa (Moss) Smith. For many years she was employed as a garment inspector by Russell Newman. She was a member of the I-20 Church of Christ in Cisco.
Survivors include the following: one daughter, Robbie Jean Mayhall and husband, Buddy, of Katy; two sons, John Earl Robinson and wife, Sharon, of Summerville, and William David Robinson and wife, Donna, of Abilene; two sisters, Charlotte Welborn of The Colony and June Dorrell and husband, Earl, of Vidor,; one brother, Johnny Smith and wife, Shirley, of Eastland. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Pallbearers were Herman Hernandez, Josh Robinson, Michael Davis, Phillip West, James Smith and Chris Robinson. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Bill Kendall and Chuck Chick.
Memorials may be made to the Cisco Church of Christ Camp, P.O. Box 629, Cisco, Texas 76437.
Eula B. Kitchens
EASTLAND -- Eula B. Kitchens, 87, of California and formerly of Eastland, passed away Thursday, June 07, 2007 in California.
Services were held at 10 A.M. Wednesday, June 13, 2007 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Burial will be in the Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger.
Mrs. Kitchens was born on March 14, 1920 in Graham, TX to Edgar W. & Nancy A. Smith. She married Leo J. Kitchens on January 13, 1940 in Ranger. They returned to Eastland, from Abernathy, in 1982. She was a homemaker, a member of the Lake Leon Boat Club and the Merriman Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo, on May 16, 2000.
Survivors include a daughter, Linda Waldheim of Glendale, CA; 2 sons, Jerry D. Kitchens of Eastland and Terry L. Kitchens of Albuquerque; 6 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.
Walter Charles Clark
Walter Charles Clark was born April 1, 1922, to Izetta and John Clark at their home in Sangerton, Texas. As a preemie, he was nursed by the neighbors who took turns keeping him in the oven until he thrived. He graduated from Sagerton High School in 1940.
He married Dorothy Lee Benton on July 21, 1943, while home on furlough from basic training for the US Army. After the wedding, Charles and Dorothy had to report back to their base in Rockingham, NC to continue training due to WW II. There they lived adjacent to long time Sagerton friends, Delbert and Joyce LeFevre, for a time until each soldier received their individual orders. During the war years, Charles attended Slippery Rock University before going on to serve with the 11th Airborne in Germany. After the war he remained for a time to help with the occupation army.
Following WW II, Charles was a rural mail carrier in the Sagerton, Old Glory and Rule Communities for over 30 years, and in addition ran a small farm and ranch operation in Haskell Co. The people on his Sagerton route always said they could set their clock by Charles.
They raised their two sons, Charles Robert and Stephen Davis in the Sagerton and Rule communities.
Charles was active in the Sagerton Community production of Hee-Haw for many years and in the Oldtimers Association of the Stamford Cowboy Reunion. He served as its president in 1986. He was also honored in 1993 for his volunteer work at Rice Springs Care Home in Haskell, TX., due to the many hours he spent making music for the residents. This was a hobby that was utilized throughout several counties. He was a lifelong avid hunter, fisherman and enjoyed piloting his own plane for many years. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Izetta Clark; his siblings, Ruthell Clark Cobb, Whit Clark, Reese Clark and Joe Clark.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy Lee Benton Clark of Rising Star; his two sons, Charles Robert Clark of Mission, TX, and Stephen D. Clark of Comanche, TX.; his four grandchildren, Evangelyn, Kyle, Judson, and Shawn Clark; and five great-granddaughters.
The family wishes remembrances be made to the Sagerton Community Center c/o Joyce LeFevre, 1730 FM Rd. 1661, Sagerton, Texas 79548.
Funeral services were held at Sagerton Methodist Church at 2 p.m. Burial was in the Willow Cemetery, Haskell under the direction of Holden McCauley Funeral Home of Haskell.
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Altha Faye Bowen
Altha Faye Bowen, age 90, of Brownwood, Texas, passed away on Saturday, June 9, 2007.
Funeral services were to be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at Davis-Morris Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Bill Allen officiating; interment was to be at the Clyde Cemetery in Clyde, Texas.
Visitation was held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 11, 2007 at the Davis - Morris Funeral Home.
Altha was born on November 4, 1916 in Hamlin, Texas to Joe W. and Vida Kates (McCoy) King. She was a member of the Coggin Ave. Baptist Church. She was an L.V.N. She married James Norris Bowen in 1965 at Gatesville.
Her church was very important to her, a life long Baptist. She was also very fond of being a nurse.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James N. Bowen ; parents, Joe and Vida King; brothers, Elvin King and Franklin King; and a sister, Elwanda Bruce.
Survivors include: sons, Wes Heald and wife Dorothy of Brownwood and Dave Heald of Itasca; grandchildren, Debra Johnson, Darrell Heald, Cindy Reid, Brittany Heald; Great grandchildren, Bart Johnson, Blake Johnson, Macey Heald, Madison Heald, Carter Reid; brothers, Bennie and Bobbie King.
Donations in her honor should be made to the Building Fund of Coggin Avenue Baptist Church, 1815 Coggin Ave., Brownwood, 76801.
The following obituaries ran in the June 10th 2007 Edition of our central area section.
Norman Andrew Pierson
Norman Andrew Pierson, 86, passed away June 4, 2007.
He was born in Kempner, Texas. October 27, 1920, one of 7 children. Graduated in 1939 from Theny High School, Comyn, Texas, served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. While working in Pasco, Washington, he met Carol Ziegler, who was also in the Navy, and they were married in 1947. He graduated from the University of Texas in 1951 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Employed in 1952 by GATX, General American Corporation as an engineer, he traveled extensively in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Japan, Mexico, South America and Europe and was transferred to South Carolina, Illinois, California, and Utah. In 1963 he moved to Oklahoma where he worked for Sapulpa Tank Company and in 1969 co-founded WEBCO Tank, serving as its Vice President and President. He was a member of the First Methodist Church and the Elks Lodge. After retiring in 1976 they moved to Rising Star, Texas to raise cattle and to farm. They returned to Sapulpa in 1988 where he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends on his houseboat at Lake Keystone. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hiram and Dora (Wootten) Pierson; sisters, Louise Barlow, Genevieve Tomm, Rosemary Pierson; brothers, Harold and Roger Pierson.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol; sister, Maybelle Murphree; daughters, Linda Pierson, Barbara Smith, Mary Carter; his son-in-laws, Jim Stuart and Tim Carter; 3 grandchildren, Devin Carter, Ashley Droz, Casey Smith, and 3 great grandchildren.,
Services were held Thursday, June 7, 2007 at 3 p.m. at Green Hills Chapel in Sapulpa.
R.E. Wilcoxon
R.E. Wilcoxon, 96, of Lingleville, died Sunday, June 3, 2007, in Stephenville.
Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, 2007, at the Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Stephenville with Rev. Steve Holston officiating.
R.E. was born on June 18, 1910, in Lingleville, Texas to the late George and Nellie Grimes Wilcoxon. He married Lilly Maxine Whitehead on November 27, 1931, in Lingleville. She preceded him in death on November 8, 2006. R.E. was a member of the Oakdale Methodist Church, the Lingleville Masonic Lodge #752, and the Valley of Ft. Worth Scottish Rite. He was a dairyman and farmer and resided in Erath County all of his life.
He was preceded in death by two sisters and a brother.
R.E. is survived by his daughter Linda Wilcoxon of Lingleville; sons, Wilson Wilcoxon of Stephenville and Gayland Wilcoxon of Eastland; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralhmtx.com.
Eula B. Kitchens
EASTLAND- Eula B. Kitchens, 87, of California and formerly of Eastland, passed away Thursday, June 7, 2007 in California.
Services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland.
Barbara L. Hood
CISCO- Barbara L. Hood, 68, died Thursday, June 7, 2007.
Visitation was held Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Community Memorial Funeral Home, 1443 N. 2nd St.
Family requests memorials be made to Hospice of the Big Country in lieu of flowers.
Linda Q. Linebaugh
Linda Q. Linebaugh, 57, died Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene, following a courageous battle with lung disease.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 7, 2007 at the McCoy Chapel of Memories. Rev. Ward Hayes officiating. Burial was in the Garden of Memories Cemetery.
Linda was born on October 10, 1949, in Sweetwater, Texas. She was a Baptist and has lived in Sweetwater most of her life. She worked as an Inspector for Walls Industries.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Edna Parrish on November 29, 2005; and by her brother, Harold Parrish on March 17, 2006.
She is survived by her father, Alvin Parrish of Sweetwater; brother, Allen Parrish and wife, Pat of Big Spring; sister, Melissa Lewis and husband, Brian of Ranger; two sons, Richard Linebaugh and wife, Lisa of Sweetwater and Ronny Linebaugh and wife, Portia of Sweetwater; two daughters, Tyna Knowlton and husband, Gaylon of Big Spring and Shelley Linebaugh of Tye; seven grandchildren, Porscha and Paige Knowlton, Blake and Daniel Linebaugh, Whitney and Drake Gomez and Ryan Linebaugh.
Pallbearers were Drake Gomez, Blake Linebaugh, Ryan Linebaugh, Daniel Linebaugh, Colby Nix and Joe Daniel.
Donald Morse
Donald Morse, 73, of Gorman, passed away at his home on Tuesday, June 5, 2007.
Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 8, 2007 at the Gorman Cemetery with Denver Rainey officiating. Services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home.
Mr. Morse was born June 18, 1933 in Colusa, California to Earl Morse and Blanche Clarice Deck Morse. He married Nancy Lee Edwards on July 4, 1964 in Reno, Nevada. She preceded him in death in 1985. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a rancher and a member of the Baptist church.
Survivors include a daughter, Blanche Clarice Morse of Eastland and a son, Donald Morse, Jr. of Gorman; and one brother, Kenneth Morse of Scio, Oregon.
He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and three sisters.
Beulah Midkiff
EASTLAND- Beulah Midkiff, 90, of Blue Eye, Mo. died Saturday, June 2, 2007.
Graveside services were held Friday at 2 p.m. in the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Volley Joe Williams
CROSS PLAINS- Volley Joe Williams, 62, died Thursday, May 31, 2007.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 9, 2007 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Cross Plains. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery.
The following obituaries ran in the June 7th 2007 Edition of our central area section.
Novilla Templeton
RANGER- Novilla Templeton 71 of Ranger passed away on Saturday, June 2, 2007.
Services were held at 2 PM Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at the New Hope Baptist Church with Rev. Jimmy Caraway and Rev. Ronnie Guess officiating. Burial was in Macedonia Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas
The family received friends at the funeral home Monday June 4th from 6 to 8 PM.
Mrs. Templeton was born on July 4, 1935 in Albany, Texas to Henry Clarence and Virgie Mae (Price) Edwards. She attended school in Leuders Texas and in Abilene, and graduated in 1953 from Ranger High School. She married C. W. “Bill” Templeton on April 17, 1955 in Eastland, Texas. They moved to Abilene in 1956 and had the first of two children, Carla in 1957 and Karen in 1959. In 1965 they moved back to Ranger where they bought 75 acres. Novilla worked for A. T. Baron and B D Trucking for seven years, a year for HTH, three time for Victor Cornelius, a year at Bruner Chevrolet, 2 years for Steve Benefiel’s Wrecker Service, and ten years for Charlie Mac Richards. In her early years she loved to rodeo and barrel-race. In her later years she enjoyed cross stitching for all of her family. Novilla was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother Gerald Edwards who died in 1976.
Mrs. Templeton is survived by her husband C. W. “Bill” Templeton of Ranger, daughters Carla Gomez and husband Joe of Granbury, and Karen Jernigan and husband Bill of Ranger, two grandchildren Stacy Regon-Vann and Bryan Henson and a great-grandson Dalton Vann.
Audra Lee Fox
CLYDE -- Audra Lee Fox, 67, of Eastland and formerly of Clyde, died Saturday at an Eastland care center.
Memorial services were held at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at the Bailey Funeral Home Chapel with Jim Hall officiating.
Audra was born April 2, 1940, in Anson to Inzer Ray and Cora Mozelle (Edwards) Stinnett. She graduated from Brewer High School in White Settlement. She moved to Eastland from Baird in May of 2007.
Audra was a home health caregiver having worked for Concepts of Care and Girling Home Health. She grew up in the Church of Christ.
Audra is survived by: one daughter, Vanessa Copeland of Eastland; one sister, Janice Goforth of Abilene; one sister-in-law, Joan Stinnett of Baird; six grandchildren, Brandy Ann Davis and husband Kris, Randy Keith Copeland, Robin Lynn Bowles and husband Justin, Bobby Lee Copeland, Cora Lee Copeland and husband Wesley Bullard, and Candis Kay Copeland; and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, James Stinnett in March of 2007.
Laddie Ray Pierce
Laddie Ray Pierce went to be with God on Tuesday, May 29, 2007 at the age of 72.
He was born March 1, 1935 in Lubbock, Texas.
He is survived by his wife of 11 years, Toy Britt Pierce; daughter, Karen Pierce Benefield; son-in-law, Donald Benefield; grandchildren, James Benefield and Jennifer Benefield Sear; and great grandchildren, Alexis and Ashlynn. He will also be sadly missed by numerous step-children, step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren.
Laddie and Toy have been members of the Northside Baptist Church of Conroe for the past several years. He was employed by Houston Lighting and Power for 13 years and owned Pierce Ford Motor Company in Cisco, Texas for 18 years. Since his retirement, he was able to build his dream Log Cabin and spent the last couple of years traveling the country with his wife. Laddie is preceded in death by his parents, Troy and Lucille Pierce of Lubbock, Texas, and his sister, Margaret Ann Moore of Stanton, Texas. Laddie will be remembered as a kind soul to all and for his gracious smile. Memorial services will be held Saturday, June 2, 2007 at 3 p.m. at Northside Baptist Church.
Bonnie Bell Snyder
CISCO - Bonnie Bell Snyder, age 82, passed away on June 1, 2007 in Abilene.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at 10:00 AM. Services were conducted at Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco. Services officiated by Pastor Scott Rasco and held under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home.
Bonnie Bell Stuard was born on February 21, 1925 in Cisco to Jesse Stuard and Ila Mae (Swindle) Stuard. She attended Cisco schools. She married Ed Snyder in El Paso on October 3, 1942.
Bonnie enjoyed a career working as a cook until she retired in 1987. She enjoyed painting and crocheting. Bonnie was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Cisco. She was a cherished resident of Eastland Healthcare for the past three years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ed, her sons Eddie and David, and her sister Jessie Richards.
Bonnie is survived by her loving daughter Tammie Leker and husband Tom of Cisco; her grandsons Tim Snyder and wife Michelle, and Kenneth Snyder and wife Sylvia, all of Ft. Worth; her niece Gail Beaton and husband Donald of Kokomo, Indiana, and many great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed.
Alberta Parsons Sims
Alberta Parsons Sims, 100, passed away May 18, 2007, in Houston, Texas.
Alberta was born June 16, 1906, in Woodward, Oklahoma Territory. Her parents were William Jay and Ruby Owens Parsons, long-time Cisco residents, now deceased.
She graduated from high school in 1925 and Randolph College in Cisco in 1927. She was married to Wilbur B. “Bill” Sims who preceded her in death in 1969 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
In her early life, she was active in sports, teaching, club work, and the First Baptist Church of Cisco. In her later years she traveled extensively with her husband, who was a construction engineer. She was always actively involved in piano and choir work in many churches.
Mrs. Sims was a multi-talented artist who painted in oils and water colors. She was also an expert in knitting, crochet, sewing and tatting.
After her husband’s death, she moved back to Cisco for several years before moving to Houston.
She will be greatly missed by her surviving family: her loving daughter, Sonya Sims Bear and husband Robert T. Bear of Houston; a granddaughter, Stacy Ann Becker and husband Keith of Bulverade, Texas; grandson, Steven Bear and great-grandson Keith Bear of Floresville, Texas.
Private services and interment were in Cisco. Arrangements by Summers-Chambers Funeral Home of Cisco.
Walter Lee Spradling
EASTLAND- Walter Lee Spradling, age 84, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died peacefully on Thursday morning, May 31, 2007.
Funeral services were held at 4 PM on Saturday, June 2, 2007 in the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Interment with full military honors followed at Eastland Cemetery. Services were officiated by Pastor Jody Forbus of Carbon Community Baptist Church.
Born April 9, 1923 in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Walter was the son of Lee and Lou Ella Spradling. He grew up in Fort Smith before moving to Cisco in 1940. Walter married Noma Lea Simmons in 1946, and they were married for 60 years until Noma Lea passed away in February of this year. Walter and Lea are now reunited in God’s grace and Christ’s presence. Walter served in the United States Army in World War II; and worked as a mechanic in Eastland until his retirement in 1983.
Walter was preceded in death by his wife Noma Lea, his mother Lou Ella, father Lee, step-father Frank Hoag, and his sister Esther McKeen.
He is survived by his sister Marge Rector and husband H.B. of Lubbock, TX, daughter Sharon Davis and her husband Jim of Eastland, TX, sons Gary Spradling and his wife Mary of Waco, TX and Scott Spradling and his wife Jeri of Fort Worth, TX, six grandchildren; Amy Maugh, Jason Davis, Lauren Steen, Emily Spradling, Christopher Spradling and Matthew Spradling, and five great-grandchildren; Ashleigh Maugh, Jason Beau Maugh, John Michael Najera, Caroline Steen, and Charley Steen.
Memorial donations may be made to Girling Hospice, 405 E. Commerce, Eastland, Texas, 76448.
Margareet Parks Middleton
Margareet Parks Middleton, 87, died Friday, June 1, 2007 at an Abilene hospital.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 3, 2007 at the Northside Baptist Church with Revs. Jerry Pittman and Chris McCalman officiating. Burial was in the Mount Hope Cemetery, directed by Lawrence-Adams Funeral Home.
She was born November 28, 1919 in Anson the daughter of the late Luther and Beula Linda (Harris) Parks. She was reared in Anson and married A. C. Middleton June 25, 1938, in Melvin. He preceded her in death November 16, 1989. Margreet worked as a dietician for the Anson Independent School District and Valley View Care Center. She was a member of the Northside Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by three brothers and one son, L.C. Middleton.
Survivors include one daughter, Evelyn Woodard and husband, Larry of May, TX; two sons, Larry Middleton of Breckenridge and Mike Middleton and wife, Linda of Hamlin; three sisters, Pauline Black and Virginia Todd of Anson and Sleta Parks of Abilene; 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
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Perry W. Scott, Sr.
Perry W. Scott, Sr., 84, of Clyde, died Tuesday, at a local hospital. Funeral Services were to be at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 1, at Woodlawn Church of Christ. Burial was to follow in the Fort Phantom Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday in the Chapel at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd.
October 12, 199, Perry was born in Nugent, TX to B.B. Scott, Sr. and Fannie Sue (Perry) Scott. After graduating from high school, Perry joined the United States Air Force during World War II. In 1946, Perry married Dorothy “Dot” Jaqueline Eaton in Abilene. While serving his country during war time, Perry was the Crew Chief on a B-25 aircraft called the “Dirty Dora.” During that time, he flew numerous bombing missions over New Guinea. Perry served in the United States Air Force for over 20 years, retiring as Senior Master Sergeant at Dyess Air Force Base in 1966. After retiring from the service, Perry was emploed by the City of Abilene in the Water Utilities Division where he worked until retiring in 1982. Moving from Abilene, the couple has lived in Clyde for the past 25 years. Perry was a member of Woodlawn Church of Christ.
Preceding Perry in death, were his parents, B.B. and Fannie Scott, one son, Matt Scott on February 16, 2007, one sister, Frances Shelton, and one brother, Junior Scott.
Perry is survived by his wife, Dorothy “Dot” Scott of Clyde; one son, Perry Scott, Jr. and his wife Leanne of Abilene; one daughter-in-law, Trisha Scott of Buffalo Gap; two granddaughters, Kathryn Scott Gilreath of Abilene, Caroline Scott also of Abilene, and numerous nieces.
Lidell Crow, Don Scott, Scott Gilreath, Steve Kile, and Derek Burbank will serve as pallbearers.
Memorials may be made in behalf of Perry Scott’s wife, Dorothy “Dot” Scott, to the Alzheimer’s Association, 241 Pine St., Ste. 1-C Abilene, Texas 79601.
Online condolences may be sent to: www. HamilFamilyFuneral Home. com.
Leora K. Purcell
Leora K. Purcell, 39, went to be with her Lord and Savior following a car accident in Eula on June 1, 2007.
Services were to be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 5, 2007 in Tuscola United Methodist Church with Reverends Michael Berry and Toby Henson officiating. Burial was in Tuscula Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation was from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 4, 2007 at the funeral home.
Leora K. Purcell was born October 15, 1967, in Abilene to Orbin Leo and Janice Standard Purcell. She graduated from Jim Ned High School in 1986. She was a homecoming queen candidate and a cheerleader for one year. She lived in Dallas for three years after graduation, returned to Abilene in 1989, and moved to Clyde in 2003. She was a graduate of LVN School at Cisco Junior ollege. She was a member of Southwest Park Baptist in Abilene.
Preceding her in death were her grandparents, Max and Louise Standard and Orbin and Ruby Purcell.
Survivors include her father, Leo Purcell of Brownwood; her mother, Jan Purcell of Tuscola; one son, Dakota Morris and three daughters, Kristin K. Reilly, Brittni K. Reilly and Paisley K. Short, all of Clyde; one sister, Paula K. Waddle of Clyde; one brother, Charlie Purcell of Tuscola; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
The following obituaries ran in the June 3rd 2007 Edition of our central area section.
Willie ‘Billie’ Frances Beggs
EASTLAND - Willie “Billie” Frances Beggs, 81, of Eastland, passed away Wednesday, May 30, 2007.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 2, 2007 at the First Baptist Church in Eastland with Rex Boggs officiating. Burial will be in the Murray Cemetery in Carbon, Texas. The family visitation was held at the Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland on Friday from 6 until 8 P.M.
Mrs. Beggs was born January 25, 1926 in St. Augustine, Texas to Johnny R. and May F. (Arnold) Phelps. She married Samuel L. Beggs on August 7, 1943 in Eastland. She was a homemaker, a member of the Gunsight Baptist Church, and the Extension Education Club. She enjoyed quilting, latch hook, fishing, cooking and spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by 7 sisters and 2 brothers.
Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Sam Beggs of Eastland; children, Sam & Marilyn Beggs, Jr. of Austin, Lonny Beggs and Laney, Randy & Cathy Beggs, Linda Beggs and Sharon Beggs, all of Eastland; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren; 1 sister and 2 brothers.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society and Girling Hospice of Eastland.
Rogelio Rodriquez ‘Roger’ Chapa
Rogelio Rodriquez ‘Roger’ Chapa, 40, of Brownwood died Saturday, May 26, 2007 at the Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 31, 2007 at the Heartland Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. B.S. Garcia of Brady officiating. Burial followed in the Greenleaf Cemetery. Visitation was held from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Arrangements by Heartland Funeral Home, Early, Texas.
He was born March 18, 1967 in Fredricksburg the son of Arnoldo and Yolanda Rodriquez Chapa. He was a concrete finisher and had worked in construction. He was a Methodist. He married Brenda Miller in 1983 and was blessed with a son, Joshua Lee. He had lived most of his life in Brownwood.
He had a deep love of the outdoors and loved to fish and attend family gatherings. He loved people and spending time with friends and family.
He is survived by his father, Arnoldo Chapa of Ranger, Texas; his mother, Yolanda Rodriquez Chapa of Brownwood; his step-father, Rafael Navarro of Brownwood; his son, Joshua Lee Chapa; two brothers, Daniel Rodriquez Chapa of Abilene and Antonio Rodriquez Chapa of Odessa; two sisters, Gracie Rodriquez Chapa and Julia Rodriquez of Brownwood; a beloved sister-in-law, Beatrice Sandoval of Odessa.
He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Daniel A. Rodriquez.
Friends are invited to sign the guest book at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net.
Janie Dale Beck Marvin
EASTLAND - Janie Dale Beck Marvin, 60, was welcomed into her heavenly home by a host of family and friends after a short stay at Hendrick Hospital at Abilene, Texas. She left this world on May 29, 2007. She will be missed by all who remain on earth. She was known for her concern and care for others.
Janie was born January 12, 1947 in Eastland, Texas to Clifton and Jo Jane (Nix) Beck. She married Bill Marvin May 27, 1967. Janie was a Buckaroo and graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1965. She was a member of the Daughtery Street Church of Christ in Eastland and worked as a 911 dispatcher for Eastland County.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Marvin; her mother, Jo Jane Beck; and her brother, Wesley Beck.
Survivors include her father, Cliff Beck, of Eastland; her daughter, Tracey Marvin of Midlothian; her son, Tom Marvin of Eastland; sister, Lendy and her husband Bud Henry, of Mineral Wells; sister, Nixie and her husband Lynn Roach of Midlothian; nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins and countless loved friends.
Family visitation was held at the Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas on Thursday evening, May 31st, from 6 to 8 pm. Services will be held at the Daugherty Street Church of Christ in Eastland at 309 S. Daugherty on Friday, June 1st at 1 pm.
Janie has touched countless lives with her loving nature and generosity. In death, as in life, Janie continues to give of herself through donation. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Hendrick Hospice Care of Abilene, Tx.
Rufus Nathaniel Jordan
Rufus Nathaniel Jordan, 83, passed from this life on May 9, 2007, in El Paso, Texas. Services were held in St. Paul’s United Methodist Church by Rev. Eddie Rivera in El Paso, followed by burial in the Memory Gardens of the Valley across the border into New Mexico.
Rufus was born on May 12, 1923, near Carbon, Texas, to James Nathaniel Jordan and Tennie Weaver Jordan, born in the house where most of his six siblings were also born. He graduated from Carbon High School and attended Texas Christian University.
Rufus served as a Seaman First Class in the US Navy toward the end of World War II and afterward and served in the Philippine Islands and California. He took pride in selling Beltone Hearing Aids for 20 years in a wide West Texas area and consulted with his replacement for another 20 years or more. He was an avid tennis player from age 11, playing in college and the Navy and reaching national level championship in the senior division. He even built a professional tennis court in his back yard and willingly shared it with many friends and acquaintances. He loved to restore old and antique cars, owning over 190 during the course of his life. Antique clocks and watches were among his passions. He loved his immediate family and expanded family of brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Two nephews, two nieces, and old friends still live in the Eastland area.
Mr. Jordan was predeceased by his parents, his first wife, Anne (Hunter), and all six of his siblings. Mr. Jordan is survived by his beloved wife, Norma Jean Chase Lindsey Jordan, of El Paso; two sons: Dana Jordan of Alpine and Marc Jordan and wife Dawn of Austin; step-sons Kent Lindsey and wife Joy of Jacksonville, Florida, and Jeffery Lindsey and wife Francis of El Paso; three grandchildren: Ben, Amber, and Ashley; seven great grandchildren; eighteen nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
The family suggested memorials be made to his church, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in El Paso.
Billy B. Wood
Billy B. Wood, 87, died Saturday, May 26, 2007 in Abilene.
His graveside service with the Reverend Mike Greenfield officiating was held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, May 31, 2007 at Elmwood Memorial Park. Visitation was from 5 to 7 PM on Wednesday at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 HWY 277 South.
Mr. Wood was born on October 18, 1919 in Eastland where he grew up and graduated from Eastland High School in 1937. He later attended Hardin-Simmons University and was a noted softball player, pitching in two World Championships during 1940 & 1941. He married Helen Rosenquest in Eastland on February 8, 1943. He was a Captain in the Army Signal Corp. during WWII and received a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart after he was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge. After returning to Abilene, Mr. Wood worked as a Power Dispatcher for WTU until his retirement in 1981. Mr. Wood was a lifetime member of the Optimist Club and was named “Outstanding Optimist” several times. He was a past President of the Cooper Booster Club and coached Little League for many years. He always enjoyed watching high school and college athletic events particularly when his kids and grandkids played. Mr. Wood loved having morning coffee and visiting with his lifelong buddies at Athletic Supply and golfing with his buddies at Lone Cedar Golf Course in Eastland.
Mr. Wood was one of only four survivors who witnessed the removal of “Old Rip” (the horny toad) from the cornerstone of the Eastland County Courthouse. Old Rip was originally placed in the cornerstone by his grandfather, E.E. Wood. Mr. Wood cared for “Old Rip” until his death and participated in the Old Rip Festival later in life.
Survivors include his wife, Helen of Abilene; two daughters, Jeanne Jowers and husband Charles of Abilene, and Jazen Wood of Austin; one son, Danny Wood and wife Cindy of Arlington; seven grandchildren, Callie Jowers, Erin Jowers, Clay Jowers and wife Hannah, Ryan Wood and wife Monica, Robin Wood , Sierra Bair and Will Bair; four great grandchildren, Dylan, Tristan, Eden and Aliyah; one sister, Jan Johnson and husband Jerrold of Roswell, New Mexico; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
His sister, Edith Grissom preceded him in death.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Sears Methodist Center, 3202 S. Willis, Abilene, Texas 79605 or the donor’s favorite charity.
Stella Avery
CISCO- Stella Mae Avery passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2006. Beloved Mother and friend is now at rest. Mrs. Avery had been ill for several years, and had been living in Houston for the last four months.
Services were held at Kimbrough Funeral Home at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2007. Interment was at Oakwood Cemetery.
Visitation was held Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
She was born March 24, 1916 in Cottonwood, Texas to Calvin and Nancy Wilcoxen.
Stella Mae has two brothers, Lawrence Wilcoxen of Irving and Adrian Wilcoxen of Brownwood.
She is survived by her five children, Delores Way, Wanda Sneed, Doris Sneed and Jerry Avery of Cisco, and Yvonne Avery of Sugarland; six grandchildren, John M. of Cisco, Mary Sneed of Dallas, William Sneed of Doole, Jerry McGough of Cisco, Melody Collier of San Antonio, and Don Edward of Del Rio and 11 great-grandchildren.
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William Beggs
William David Beggs, 83, formally of Austin, Texas passed away on Friday, December 29, 2006 at Greenview Manor Nursing Home in Waco, Texas surrounded by his loving family.Ê
William was born on February 28, 1923 in Carbon, Texas to Samuel David and Opal Beggs.ÊHe attended Eastland schools and shortly afterwards, he joined the U.S. Army.ÊHe served in Japan during World War II.ÊUpon his return from the service, he drove a gas truck.ÊHe owned and operated, along with his brother-in-law, Jim Brock, Brock and Beggs Paint Contracting Company until his retirement.Ê
William was married 61 years to Connie Lee Wood until her death on November 19, 2002.ÊThey made their home in Lubbock until moving to Austin in 1969.ÊHe was also preceded in death by his parents, son, Jerry Glen, and brother, J.T. Beggs.
He will be sadly missed by his beloved family, sons, Larry and wife, Dixie of Troy and Terry and wife, Myra of Bastrop; he was blessed with 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Sam Beggs, Sr. and wife, Billie of Eastland; sister-in-law, Betty Lou Beggs of Rising Star; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of special friends.
The family received friends from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Monday, January 1, 2007 at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home.ÊGraveside Services were held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, January 2, 2007 at Onion Creek Memorial Park with Dr. Ken Baldwin officiating.
Arrangements under the care of Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home, 6300 W. William Cannon Drive, Austin, Texas, 78749, (512)892-1172.
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Florence Walker
EASTLAND-Florence G. Walker, 96, died Saturday, December 30, 2006 in Eastland.
Funeral services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
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William 'Bill' McFarlin
HAMILTON- William R. 'Bill' McFarlin, Sr., 82, of Hamilton, died Thursday, December 28, 2006 in a Temple hospital.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, December 31, 2006 in the Riley Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in Oakwood Cemetery with full military honors.
Bill was born July 18, 1924 in Hamilton County to Andrew Jackson and Kansas (Carlisle) McFarlin. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during WW II and Korea. He retired after 21 years of service. Bill married Virginia Barnes on October 21, 1966 in Hamilton. He worked for Patterson Plumbing for 20 years. Bill was a member of the Evergreen Baptist Church.
Bill is survived by his wife, Virginia of Hamilton; four sons and their spouses, Robert and Kathie McFarlin of Hamilton, Gene and Denise McFarlin of Stephenville, Mike McFarlin of Jonesboro, Ray and Linda McFarlin of Hamilton; two daughters, Karen Hybl of Hamilton and Phyllis and husband, Melvin Seider of Goldthwaite; sister and brother-in-law, Necie and John Kelly of Hamilton; 15 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, William R. 'Billy' McFarlin, Jr; 3 brothers, Lonnie, Johnny, Raymond McFarlin; sister, Gracie McNew; and 3 grandchildren, Michael, Robert, Jr., and Meagan McFarlin.
Donations may be made to the Evergreen Baptist Church.
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Horace Crutchfield
Horace Benny Crutchfield, 89, of Abilene, Texas passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2006 at Eastland Memorial Hospital in Eastland, Texas.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 2, 2007 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was in the Romney Cemetery in Eastland County, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in Charge.
Horace was born on August 13, 1917 in Eastland County, Texas to Claude Benny and Jennie White-Crutchfield. He married Corina Lee on June 25, 1938 in Baird, Texas who preceded him in death on June 9, 2001. He married Frances Larkin on December 11, 2002 in Abilene, Texas.
Horace is survived by his wife, Frances Crutchfield of Abilene; one step-daughter, Betty Irvin of Noodle; one sister, Jessie Chick of Queen City; one brother, Tom Crutchfield of Abilene; 5 step-grandchildren; 2 step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Corina Lee-Crutchfield; a son; 4 brothers; one sister.
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Opal Atwood
Opal Francis Atwood, 69, of Rising Star, Texas, passed away Saturday, December 30, 2006 at home surrounded by her loving family in Risingded in death by her parents, her husband, Roland C. Atwood.
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Charles Stacey Watson
Charles Stacey Watson, 59 of Cisco passed away Monday January 1, 2007 at Hendrick Medical Center after a long hard fight with cancer.Ê
Stacey was cremated and memorial services officiated by Reverend Baylis Pope will be 2:00 PM Saturday, January 6, 2007Ê at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Stacey was born on March 17, 1947 in Roaring Springs, Texas to Frasier and Dorothy (Webb) Watson.Ê He worked as an oil driller.Ê He is a decorated veteran of the US Navy during the Viet Nam War serving from 1965 to 1969.ÊÊ He married Mary Kathleen Denton on September 6, 1990 in Eastland and was a Baptist, he was talented musician and enjoyed playing with his friends.
He is survived by his wife Kathleen Watson of Cisco; son, Anthony Watson and wife Alicia of Abilene; daughters, Stacey Michelle Morrison of Cisco, Missy Speers of Dallas, Rachel Maxwell and husband Terry of Odessa and Cindy McGee of Eastland; mother, Dorothy Watson of Cisco; sister, Retha Smith of Abilene; grandchildren, Shanleigh Morrison, Savannah Morrison, Kaylyn Watson, A.J. Watson, Mark Allen Speers, Cody Morrison and Preston McGee; niece Cindy Bridges and husband Scott, nephew, Don Allen Bridges,Ê sisters-in-law, Pat, Shirley, Dot and Linda and his special sister-in-law and care giver Charleen.Ê
He was preceded in death by his father.
The family would like to thank the doctors that treated Stacey during his illness. Memorials are requested to be made to the American Cancer Society, American Cancer Society, District 18 Office, 3301 W. Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76107.
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Sheila Teeters
Sheila Gay Gray Teeters, 67, of Eastland, Texas, died Monday, January 1, 2007, at Hendrick Memorial Hospital in Abilene, Texas.
Sheila was born June 7, 1940, at the home of her parents in Burkett, Texas, the daughter of Oscar William and Opal Marie (Harris) Gray. She was a graduate of Cross Plains High School in Cross Plains, Texas.
Sheila was united in marriage with Fred Jerl Teeters April 9, 1958, in Oklahoma. They made their home in Abilene for several years, moving to Clyde and then to Eastland.
She was a member of the Church of Christ in Ranger. Sheila was an outdoors woman, loving to hunt and fish, and travel to Colorado and various scenic places with Jerl, the love of her life.
She is survived by her husband, Jerl, of Eastland; daughter, Dana Kay Teeters Kingery; son-in-law, Jack Kinergy; grandsons, Kasey Karl Kinery and Kurtis Kile Kingery of Brownwood; her brother, Ronald William Gray, ans sister-in-law, Lynda King Gray, of San Antonio, Texas; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Sheila was preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation was held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Thursday, January 4, 2007 at the Cross Plains Funeral Home.
Graveside service and interment was at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2007 at the Burkett Cemetery, Burkett, Texas.
Memorials may be sent to The Abilene Rehabilitation Center or a charity of your choice.
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Linda Gattis
CISCO- Linda Gail Gattis, 52, passed from this life on January 1, 2007 at Hendrick Medical Center .
Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Thursday, January 4, 2007 at First Baptist Church , officiated by Reverend C.P. Floyd, assisted by Reverend Craig Curry.Ê Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery under direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.Ê Visitation was Wednesday from 6:00-8:00 PM at the funeral home.
Linda was born February 18, 1954 in Littlefield , Texas to Edwin and Gertie (McGann) Wheeler. She married Randy Gattis on April 21, 1976 in Cisco.Ê She was office manager for Randy Gattis Plumbing and a member of East Cisco Baptist Church .
Linda lived life to the fullest, focused totally on her husband and two precious daughters.Ê She was also available day or night, anytime someone needed a helping hand.Ê Her compassion and healing touch were so obvious in all that she did.Ê She adopted all her daughtersÕ friends, calling them Òmy other babiesÓ.Ê Linda exemplified the Òhands and feetÓ of Jesus in full servant hood in to all in need.Ê She was our Mother Teresa.
She is survived by her husband, Randy; daughters, Stephanie and Britani Gattis all of Cisco; father, Edwin Wheeler of Amhurst; sister, Pansy Sherrill and husband Richard of Amhurst; brothers, Eddie Wheeler and wife Shirley of Gower, MO, Timmie Wheeler and Mark Harris both of St. Matthews, SC, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by mother Gertie Wheeler and step mother, Elsie Wheeler, brother Davey Lee Wheeler and sister, Carmaleta Spurlin.
Pallbearers will be Butch Willingham, Steve Cozart, Tommie Lee, Chase Harris, Terry Johnson, Bryan McCulloch
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Thaddeous Fullen
EASTLAND- Thaddeous Milton Fullen, 88, peacefully departed this life on Wednesday, January 3, 2007.
Funeral services will be held, Sunday, January 7, 2007 at 1 p.m. in the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Eastland Cemetery. The Rev. Larry Smith, former minister of Inspiration Church of God in Eastland, now of East Prairie, Missouri, will be officiating along with the Rev. Jim Wright. Visitation is Saturday from 4-6 p.m. at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home.
God in His grace prepared Milton for his passing to go home to the Lord when he received Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord in June 2001.
Milton was born on December 20, 1918 in Clarendon, Texas. In 1930, he moved to Eastland with his mother and two brothers.
His mother was employed at Warner Memorial University, the former location of the Inspiration Church of God. The Church of God was their spiritual home.
During the depression, the University closed and Milton moved to Olden with his family. There, they operated the Tri-Me CafeÕ. Milton was a determined, energetic, and ambitious young man. In 1935, at age 17, he started working for Smith Plumbing Company in Eastland.
Milton married Juanita Mae Cummings on May 7, 1939. He established his first business, Fullen Plumbing Company, in 1939. During World War II, Milton served his country in the United States Navy Seabees. After his discharge from the Navy in 1946, he reopened his plumbing business. In 1949, he was employed by Lamb Motor Company in the Frigidaire sales business. After purchasing Lamb Motor Company in 1952, he formed Fullen Motor Company. He successfully operated Fullen Motor Company for thirty years and retired in 1982.
He selflessly gave his time to his family, friends, and the community. He joined with the other volunteers from the community who gave many hours to build Eastland Memorial Hospital in 1952. Milton was intensely loyal to the hospital and served on the board for 42 years.
Milton enjoyed hunting, fishing, and activities on Lake Leon. Milton taught numerous adults and children to water ski. He was a great outdoorsman who loved hunting white tail deer in the Edwards Plateau and fishing for rainbow trout in Colorado. He hunted on the Earwood Ranch near Sonora for 32 years.
He instilled in his children an uncommon work ethic-believing that a man should work hard and get the job done no matter how big or small the task. He loved to work and found fun in working. He has now rested from his labor.
He was preceded in death by his wife of over 63 years, Juanita Mae Fullen, November 14, 2002.
Milton is survived by a daughter, Patricia Ann Fullen Jarrett and husband Jaye C. of San Antonio; a son, James Milton Fullen and wife Diane of Eastland; five grandchildren, Tami Jarrett Plummer and husband Jim of Houston, Lisa Jarrett Richter and husband Kris of San Antonio, John Milton Jarrett of San Antonio, Kellye Fullen Stuart and husband Gary of Brentwood, Tennessee, and Tracy Fullen and wife Kimberly of Eastland; six great-grandchildren, Jarrett Nathan Richter and Kristina Le Vaughn Richter of San Antonio, Zachary James Stuart and Grayson Tyler Stuart of Brentwood, Tennessee, Kandra Kae Fullen and Taylar Faith Fullen of Eastland; daughter-in-law, Robbye Fullen Buchanan of Hutto; and several nieces and nephews.
His family wishes to express their deep appreciation and gratitude for the devoted, loving, compassionate care given to him by Mrs. Roberta Humphries and her family during the last six years.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making contributions to the Eastland Memorial Hospital, 304 S. Daugherty, Eastland, Texas 76448.
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Albert Abraham
MINGUS- Albert E. Abraham, 85, of Mingus passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2007 at a Stephenville hospital.
Rosary was Friday, January 5, 2007 at 7 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn, Texas. Mass was said on Saturday, January 6, 2007 at 11 a.m. in St. John Catholic Church with Father Tim Gollob officiating. Burial followed at Mt. Marion Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn, Texas.
Albert was born on April 6, 1921 in Mingus, Texas to Joseph and Myra (George) Abraham. He graduated from Mingus High School and attended two years at Ranger Junior College. Albert served during World War II in the United States Army. He was known as a self employed businessman, owning and operating a liquor store and the Trio Club. He was a member of the St. John Catholic Church in Strawn, Texas.
Albert was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, Cecil, Nate, Gailey, Sam, George and Mannie.
Albert is survived by four sisters, Mary A. Walker and husband Bob of Mingus, Elizabeth A. Calloway of Willis Point, Emily A. Bosley of Weatherford, and Linda Childers and husband Dick of Fort Worth; sisters-in-law, Virginia Abraham of Fort Worth and Ivah Abraham of Anna; a special friend Tootie Mitchell of Odessa, her mother Ruby Harper of Odessa, TootieÕs daughters Cynthia Anderson of Kerrville and Carol Harper of Burleson; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
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Willie Joyner
RANGER- Willie A. Joyner, 90, of Ranger passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2007 at her home.
Graveside services were held at 2 PM Sunday, January 7, 2007 at Evergreen Cemetery with Rev. Ronny Guess officiating. Burial follow under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas.
Mrs. Joyner was born on May 26, 1916 in Thurber, Texas to Earl Franklin and Julia Viola (McCoy) Freeman. She grew up in Thurber and attended school in the Jaybird Community and in Thurber. Mrs. Joyner married John Lewis ÒRalphÓ Joyner and he preceded her in death in 1953. She lived most of her life in Ranger and worked for Adams Grocery for 37 years as a cashier. She was a member of the Second Baptist Church in Ranger.
Mrs. Joyner was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three brothers, two sisters and a daughter, Dorothy Ryon in 1984.
Mrs. Joyner is survived by a daughter Joyce Jones of Santa Anna; a son Tommy Joyner of Whitney; her care giver Janice Young of Ranger; two sisters Flogene Throne of Stephenville and Betty Jo Ryan of Weatherford; six grandsons and one granddaughter; fourteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
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Nina Hamilton
GORDON- Nina Mae Hamilton, 86, died Thursday, January 4, 2007 in Stephenville.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 8, 2007 in the Mingus Baptist Church with Jay Whitlow and Rev. Bill Dawson officiating. Burial was in the Mt. Marion Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn, Texas.
Family received friends at the funeral home on Sunday.
Mrs. Hamilton was born Nina Mae Burleson on January 21, 1920 in Tuscola, Texas to Arthur C. and Mattie (Muscheck) Burleson. She married Clarence Hamilton on September 30, 1938 in Putnam, Texas and he preceded her in death in 1969. She was a devoted wife, mother and Ma Ma. She worked at the Bar B Truck Stop restaurant and The Smoke Stack restaurant as a waitress for many years.
Mrs. Hamilton is survived by a daughter, Val Beal and husband Jay of Grandview; a son, Philip Hamilton and wife Carol of Odessa; a daughter Linda Caldwell and husband David of Abilene; 9 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Curtis of Baird; and brother Forest Burleson of Baird; several nieces and nephews.
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Roy Barnes
RISING STAR- Roy Lee Barnes, 74, of Rising Star, Texas, passed away Thursday, January 4, 2007 at his residence in Rising Star.
Graveside services were held at 3 p.m. Saturday, January 6, 2007 in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star with Terry Jackson officiating. Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star was in charge of the arrangements.
Roy was born April 10, 1932 in Eastland County, Texas to Joe and May Hollifield-Barnes. He was a Korean Veteran. He lived in the community for 50 years.
He is survived by his brother, Bernie Barnes of Rising Star.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Perry.
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Carol Bullock
EASTLAND- Carol Bullock of Eastland passed away Thursday, January 4, 2007, in Eastland.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 8, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church. Burial was in the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. The family received friends at the funeral home on Sunday.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations made to the Child Welfare Board, P.O. Box 765, Eastland, TX 76448.
Mrs. Bullock was born July 4, 1942 in Tulsa, Oklahoma where she grew up. She moved to Dallas during her senior year of high school. She married Earl Bullock, Sr. on March 25, 1960 in Dallas, where they lived until moving to Eastland in 1972.
She worked as a business office manager for Fuqua Homes, Morgan Portable Buildings, Eastlander Designs, and the last 17 years for Eastland Memorial Hospital, from which she retired in 2006. She was a board member for the Eastland Child Welfare Board, a member of the Community Bible Study, past Treasurer of the Eastland Band Boosters, President of the Republican WomenÕs Club, and had been active in the Bellhurst Theater.
She was an avid reader, and amazing cook. She loved traveling, especially spending time in the mountains of Colorado. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Eastland.
She is survived by her husband, Earl Bullock, Sr. of Eastland; a son and daughter-in-law, Earl and Kim Bullock, Jr. of Olden; a daughter and son-in-law, Rebecca and Phillip Gattis of Ballinger; two grandsons, Cory and Cody Bullock of Olden.
She was preceded in death by a son, Mike Bullock in 1991; and a sister, Wilma Sue Halliburton; and three brothers, G.L., Bill, and Bob Farmer.
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Willie Langford
Willie Earle Langford, 87, of Cisco passed away Saturday January 6, 2007 at Hendrick Medical Center .Ê
Graveside services were held at 11:00 AM Monday, January 8, 2007 at Bullock Cemetery near Ranger, Texas , officiated by Reverend Steven Forrester, directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mrs. Langford was born in Cisco, Texas on December 13, 19 19 to Earl Pleasant and Lilla (Wilkerson) Henson.
Her husband Garland Austin Langford whom she married on August 11, 1949 in Ranger, Texas , preceded her in death.Ê She worked for Southwestern Bell and was a member of the Baptist Church .
She is survived by sons, Gary Langford of Mart, Eddie Langford and wife Janna of Euless, Gregg Langford of Arlington; daughter, Mona Garland and Bill of Boyd; sisters,Virginia Drake of Midland, Barbara Kile of Carrollton, Sylvia Wilkerson and husband Jimmy of Oklahoma; brother, Rodger Henson and wife Barbara ofÊ Washington, brother-in-law, Billy Langford and wife, Edith, of Oklahoma; several grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren
Preceded in death by her brothers, Albert Henson, Glenn Henson and Wayne Henson; sisters, Pauliene Tichel, Hester Pascal, Wanda Wright and Christene Henson.
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Florence Walker
EASTLAND - Florence Gladys Walker, age 96, of Eastland, died Saturday, December 30, 2006 in Eastland. Her home for the last 5 years had been Eastland Healthcare Center.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, January 3, 2007, at 2 P.M. in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation was held on Tuesday, 5 to 7 P.M. at the funeral home. Burial was in the Eastland City Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.
Mrs. Walker was born on January 17, 1910 to Jim and Carrie Lee Castleman of Lone Camp, Palo Pinto County, Texas. She married Monroe Walker from Ranger, Texas. They made Eastland their home and farmed and ranched at Yellow Mound. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eastland. She excelled in art. She sold paintings, painted several local church baptisteries, taught art, and painted for family. She enjoyed music and played for churches, nursing homes and senior citizens. Her yard showed her Ògreen thumbÓ. Sewing and cooking were also the hobbies she enjoyed.
Florence was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Monroe Walker; a son, Donald R. Walker; a grandson, Mark E. Conner 3 brothers, John, George and Ruben and his wife Marie Castleman; 2 sisters, Maudie Baker and husband Claude, and Lula Jones and husband Lark.
Florence is survived by daughter, Ella Joy Conner of Eastland; daughter-in-law, Joyce Walker of Eastland; grandson, Steve Walker and wife Kelly of Austin; granddaughter, Cheryl McCarthy and husband Jeff of Fort Wayne, Indiana; grandson, Chris Conner of Camp Wood, Texas; great-grandchildren, Ashley Reddig and spouse David of Ft. Wayne, Colby, Chase and Chelsey Walker of Austin; 1 great-great-granddaughter, Evennia Mansfield of Ft. Wayne; 2 sister-in-laws, Opal Rogers of Ranger and Wanda Gilmore of Searcy, Arkansas; 1 brother-in-law, Bueford Jordan of Eastland; and many nieces and nephews.
She will be missed by her friends and family. Memorials should be made to Girling Hospice of Eastland.
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Estelene Morrow
Estelene Morrow, 93, of Ranger went to be with her Heavenly Father Tuesday, January 9, 2007 in Eastland.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 11, 2007 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger.
Estelene, formerly from California, was a proud member of a group of women known as ÒRosie the RivetersÓ helping build aircrafts in WW II.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Glen Morrow; parents, George Washington and Lydia (Glass) Woods and 8 siblings.
She is survived by a godson, Kevin Baker and wife Angelica and daughter Amelia Rose of Ranger; and numerous nieces and nephews.
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Roy Whitlock
Roy Lee Whitlock, 69, of Gorman, formerly of Desdemona passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2007 in the Eastland Memorial Hospital.
Services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 13, 2007 at the Gorman Church of Christ with Larry Stogsdill officiating. Interment at Alameda Cemetery. Services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home of Gorman.
Roy Lee was born December 20, 1937 in Gorman to Loyd Alvin Whitlock and Georgia Wimberly Whitlock. He was a retired farm laborer and a member of the Church of Christ. He had lived in this area all of his life.
Survivors include one sister, Jackie Whitlock of DeLeon; and two nephews, Blake Whitlock of Granbury and Bryan Whitlock of Glen Rose.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Wayne and Charlie Whitlock.
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Zelda Milam
Zelda Ardilla Milam, age 100, passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2007 in Rising Star, Texas.
Graveside services were held Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 11 a.m. in the Fairview Cemetery with Burlie Taylor officiating.
She was born June 21, 1906 in Brown County, Texas to A.A. and Jackie (Luttrell) Moore. She graduated from the Grosvenor High School while her father was principal there. She married Earl Milam in Brown County, Texas on June 28, 1941. She worked as a hairdresser for many years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Cross Plains.
She is survived by a cousin Lorene Jennings of Rising Star and several nieces and nephews as well as great-nieces and nephews.
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Wanda Flippin
Wanda Faye Flippin, age 82, of Rising Star, Texas passed away January 9, 2007 in Abilene. She had been battling a grave illness for more than three weeks.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. at the Higginbotham Funeral Chapel in Cross Plains, Texas, Friday, January 12, 2007. Graveside services followed at the Pioneer Cemetery pavilion. Burial followed.
Wanda was born in Haskell County, Texas to Willard and Vera Melton on November 16, 1924. She married Tom Flippin on January 9, 1942 at the Eastland County Courthouse. They lived for a number of years in West Texas, Eastern New Mexico and Richfield, Minnesota. They returned to Eastland County in 1970 where they still reside. Wanda was greatly loved by her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be missed until our reunion with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
She is survived by her husband, Thomas Flippin of the home; sons, Donald, Willard, and Jodee Flippin; daughter, Denise Hubbard; two daughters-in-law, Patty Ann and Patty Rose Flippin; grandchildren, Michael, David, Steven, Timothy and James Flippin, Angela Haynes, Dawn Rudolph, Dawn Bohenen, Jennifer Davis, Jonathon and Jacoby Hubbard; and 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Pioneer Cemetery Association,300 Hog Creek Road, Brownwood, Texas 76801, or the charity of your choice.
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Paul Henderson
Paul Henderson, 57, of Stephenville, died Tuesday, January 9, 2007, at Harris Methodist Erath County Hospital.
Paul was born March 9, 1949, in Fort Worth to Polly Anderson and the late Wesley Thomas Henderson, Sr. Paul graduated from May High School, and attended Tarleton State University, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, May 16, 1971. He was employed as a Math teacher at Stephenville Junior High, August 16, 1971. On August 15, 1976, Paul received his Master of Education in Educational Administration also from Tarleton State. On August 1, 1978, he became principal at Stephenville Junior High School, a positin he currently held for the past 29 years. Paul married Linda Banks, on June 9, 1991 in Stephenville. He was a member of Stephenville Lions Club, and a faithful member of the Harvey Baptist Church. Paul had lived in Stephenville since 1967; moving here from Rising Star.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 13, 2007 at the First Baptist Church in Stephenville with Dr. Kyle Davis officiating. Interment followed at Gardens of Memory Cemetery. The Henderson family received friends and family, Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Stephenville Funeral Home.
Survivors include his wife, Linda; four daughters and son-in-laws, Leslie and Michael Kunkel of Lamkin, Kristi Steele of Stephenville, Ashlee and Ted Wooten of Stephenville, and Shelley and Lance Gilliland also of Stephenville; son, Jeff Parker of Stephenville; mother, Polly Price of Stephenville; brother and sister-in-law, Tom and Annette Henderson of Sugarland; grandchildren, Matthew and Brian Kunkel, Megan and Lacey Steele, and Paige and Miles Wooten; father-in-law, Emmett Banks of Colorado City.
Paul was preceded in death by his father Wesley Thomas Henderson, Sr. in 1962.
Memorials may be made to the Stephenville ISD- Paul Henderson Memorial Fund at 2655 W. Overhill Drive, in Stephenville, or to the American Heart Association, or the American Diabetes Association.
Online condolences may be made to www.funeralhmtx.com
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Johnnie Wallace
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS- Johnnie Lowery Wallace, 98, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Saturday, January 13, 2007.
Funeral services will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, January 18, 2007 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger. Burial in Evergreen Cemetery. Services by Pastor John Ketcherside.
Pallbearers were Ed Doyle, Matt Hardy, Bobby Bartlett, David Wallace, and Dewayne Purvis.
Johnnie was born March 18, 1908 was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to everyone that knew her. She lived a long and blessed life. She and her husband Lowe lived in Ranger, TX, from the 1920Õs through the 1970Õs and rasied their family there. The past 25 years she also resided in Springtown, Tx, Quartsite, AZ, and Cross Plains, Tx. Many friends loved her as she loved them. Johnnie had a forgiving spirit, sense of humor and vitality for life until her very last day. She was a long time member of the First Christian Church in Ranger and attended many churches while living with her sons, grandchildren and their families.
She was preceded in death by her husband Lowe W. Wallace; daughter, Kathyleen Peterson; son, Mickey Wallace and grandson, Lowell Lynn Wallace.
Survivors are a son, Bobby Lowe Wallace and wife, Ruby; granddaughters, Nancy Doyle and husband, Ed, April Hardy and husband Matt, Rachael Kline and Nicole Wallace; grandson, David Wallace; great-grandchildren, Baylee Hardy and Scottie Tanner.
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Teresa Krieg
Teresa D'Aun (Hickey) Krieg went home to be with her Lord and Savior January 13, 2007 at Methodist Hospital in Dallas.
She was born October 17, 1955 in Andrews, TX. Teresa was the wife of Gene Krieg, a pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Cisco, TX for 15 years. At Faith Baptist, she loved to sing and she loved her ladies group. She touched many lives through the ministry at Faith Baptist Church.
Teresa is the faithful and loving mother of Jeremy Krieg, Justin Krieg, and Tera Hokanson. She was the precious grandmother of Kailee Krieg, Brody Krieg, Kaci Krieg, Jourdan Krieg, Briana Krieg, Brady Krieg, Logan Hokanson, and baby Hokanson to come.
Teresa is the daughter of James and Louise Hickey. She has three siblings living, Jamie Hickey, Randy Allen, and LeeAnn Burnett.
Teresa just beofre her illness professed Christ to all of those around her. Making others know what she believed and where she stood. She is greatly missed by many of the lives she touched throughout her life.
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James Cox
CISCO- James Elmo Cox, 84, of Cisco entered peacefully into eternal life on January 12, 2007.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, January 17, 2007 at 10 a.m. at the Calvary Baptist Church under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Pastor Phillip Thomas officiating. Interment with full military honors was held at 4:30 p.m. at the Rest Haven Cemetery in McCamey.
Elmo was born May 9, 1922, in Talpa, Texas, the son of Hardy E. Cox and Delia (Broyles) Cox. He attended Kermit High School where he was the tuba player in the high school band.
He served his country as a member of the U.S. Army from 1941-1945. He served as an antitank gun crewman and as a member of the army band. Elmo was a POW in WW II for over 26 months.
Later, he worked for Northern Natual gas and retired after 25 years of employment.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Ruth (Clara) Cox.
He is survived by his sons James E.W. ÒJimmyÓ Cox of Weatherford and Kenneth J. Cox of San Angelo; daughter Brenda A. Mills of Odessa; his grandchildren, Charles E. Mills of Converse, Linda Vesey of Rochester, WA and Henry Mills, Jr. of Odessa; his nieces, Linda Hamel and Brenda Peak of Clyde; and 8 great-grandchildren.
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Robert Speir
EASTLAND- Robert Lucien Speir went home to be with his heavenly father January 7, 2006 in Eastland.
Funeral Services: 2 PM Tuesday in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland with Rev. Benny Hagan officiating. Burial with Military honors will follow in Redeemer Lutheran cemetery south of Cisco.
He was born 5 miles south of Paris, Texas on July 2nd, 1922. He was the 6th child of James Yancy and Florence Knowles Speir. Growing up, he and his family lived in various Texas towns including Clarendon, Atlas, Lelia Lake, Mission and McAllen where the family settled in 1942. Mr. Speir worked in fruit packing sheds; and as a tree pruner until he was drafted into the United States Army Dec. 13th, 1942 serving in World War II until Dec. 4th, 1945. Induction Station was at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas Dec. 21, 1942. Twenty-four weeks of basic training at Camp Wolters in Mineral Wells, Texas at which time he was sent to Fort Ord, California for overseas duty to OAHU. On May 23, 1943, Robert was assigned Co. G 106th Infantry, 27th division. PFC Speir was engaged in heavy, intense battles, was involved in 3 major invasions: Majuro Atol, Saipan, Okinawa, Iwo Jima and Guadalcanal. It was fifty years before Mr. Speir would speak about the war, but in time he began to relate stories to the family. During the invasion of Okinawa Mr. Speir was among 185 men who fought for 4 months before the remaining 19 men were relieved by 255 Marines who lost sixty men the first night and were six weeks advancing one mile. This invasion began on Easter Sunday April 1st, 1945. PFC Speir, along with others were air lifted to Tokyo, Japan Sept. 1st, 1945, weighing 95 pounds. Japan surrendered Sept. 2nd, 1945; the signing of the official peace documents ended World War II. Personal service citations he received include Combat Infantryman Badge; Specialty Rifleman; Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Stars; Good Conduct Medal; Victory Ribbon, and 5 overseas Service Bars. After receiving his honorable discharge he worked in Pharr, Texas packing fruit and started flying lessons, but regrettably did not complete all the necessary hours needed to obtain a pilots license. He then took and passed the Highway Patrol exam, but did not go into that field. In August of 1949 Robert moved to Cisco, Texas where he met his future bride Adeline Lieske Tickner. They wed Nov. 23rd, 1949. They were married 53 years before her death in 2002. Mr. Speir started night school while working at various jobs including Boss Mfg. leather glove factory as a cutter; Service Stations; oil fields in West Texas; United States Postal Service and his favorite job, driving fuel tanker trucks. He graduated Cisco Junior College with an above average GPA in Business; later earning an associates degree in Business Administration at Hardin Simmons University. Robert was an avid reader and stamp collector. He enjoyed building, carving, and creating useful attractive items from discarded materials.
He was preceded in death by his wife Adeline, parents, two brothers, three sisters, and a grandson Tony Hodnett.
He is survived by One Daughter Gwynette Greenwood and son in law Benny of Gilbert AZ, two Sisters, Virginia Dare Towne, and Gilda Ruth Rock and husband Fred all of Pharr Texas., one granddaughter Gia Valenzuela of Gilbert AZ, Three Great Grandsons; Logan and Trey Valenzuela of Gilbert AZ and Sgt. Jade Hodnett and wife Letica of Lake Havasu City AZ. Two Great granddaughters; Brandy Hodnett of Avondale, AZ. And Saraya Valenzuela of Gilbert AZ. One Great-great granddaughter, Jessica Hodnett of Lake Havasu City AZ. Also numerous nieces and nephews.
Contributions may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Cemetery Association, 1711 Conrad Hilton Ave. Cisco, Texas 76437 or to Valley View Health Care Center, 700 South Ostrom, Eastland, Texas 76448.
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Sharon Scott
GORDON- Sharon Lee Libby Scott, 65 of Gordon passed away on Monday at a Stephenville hospital. Services will be 2 PM Saturday January 20, 2007 in the First Baptist Church in Gordon with Rev. Kurt Powell officiating. Burial will be in New Gordon Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn, Texas.
The family received friends at the funeral home on Friday from 6 to 9 PM
The family request in lieu of flowers memorials be made to Meals on Wheels in Gordon and Gordon EMS.
Sharon was born on August 1, 1941 in Jackson County Missouri to Louis Edwin ÒNickÓ and Violet (Martin) Libby. She grew up and graduated school from Kansas City Missouri and attended two years at Junior College. She entered the United States Navy and met Curtis Scott. They were married on September 16, 1963 in Millington Tennessee. While in the service they traveled to many different places including Japan. However Florida was some of the happiest times in their life. After serving in the Navy and a year at Jones Business College, Sharon went to work for the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers in government contracts from 1975 to 2001 when she retired. Sharon and Curtis made their home in Gordon in 2001. She enjoyed taking care of people.
Sharon is survived by her husband Curtis Scott of Gordon, a daughter Shelley Marie Hurd of Hurst, a son Edward Curtis Scott of Crowley, a sister Rhoda Pate of LeeÕs Summit Missouri, a brother Robert E. Libby of Salt Lake City Utah, three grandchildren Rodney Hurd of Hurst, Amanda Lee and Shannon Marie Scott of Duncan, OK. Numerous extended family, nieces, nephews and friends.
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Lorenzo Stiles, Jr.
Lorenzo Stiles, Jr., 88, of the Scranton Community near Cisco passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2007 at his home. He will lie in state Tuesday and Wednesday with a visitation at the funeral home from 4:00-6:00 PM on Wednesday. A funeral service for Mr. Stiles will be held in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine at a later date, local arrangements were made by Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Mr. Stiles was born in Milo, Maine to Ida (Smart) and Lorenzo Stiles, Sr. on November 10, 1918. He was in the US Army during World War II and worked in the golf tee manufacturing industry.
He is survived by a sister, Emma Bunnell of Keller, Texas, nephews and nieces.
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Lorain Merrill
Lorain 'Nana' Merrill, age 86, of Pioneer went to be with the love of her life on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at her home.
Memorial services were held at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Cross Plains on Friday, January 19, 2007, with Rufus Wilson officiating. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
Nana was born April 3, 1920 in Madisonville, Texas to Carl and Effie Teague. She married F.L. Merrill on September 12, 1936 in Mills County. Her greatest love in life was her family.
She is survived by 3 children: Harold Clyde and wife Ophelia of Pioneer, Barbara McAnally and husband Larry of Brownwood, James Richard and wife Johnnie of Rising Star; 13 grandchildren, Teresa Koenig and husband Lynn of Pioneer, Robin Faucet of Abilene, Cheryl Daniels and husband Rick, Kim Thomas and husband Travis of Cross Cut, Mack McAnally of Abilene, Randall McAnally and wife Cindy of Brownwood, Kristi White and husband Sean of McKinney, Pam Tankersly and husband Scott of Midland, Judy Faucet and husband Lee of Gordon, John Merrill and wife Heather of Rising Star, Sallie Boyette and husband Donavahan of Moran, Sondra Pope and husband Landon of Burkett, Michael Merrill of Snyder; 31 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Glyn Teague of Lampasas; two sisters, Evelyn Teague of Anson, Karlene Wadsworth of Bangs; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and close family members.
The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers memorials be made to Cross Plains Volunteer Fire Department and the Rising Star Volunteer Fire Department in her memory.
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Harry Reddick
Harry Bynum Reddick, 83, died January 4, 2007 at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
Memorial services were held on Tuesday, January 9, 2007 at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, in Killeen, Texas.
Harry was born February 5, 1923 in Lawton, OK., the son of John C. Reddick and Virgie Mae Snow. He graduated from Williams High School in 1941. Harry served in the U.S. Air Force in England in 1941 with the 305th Bombardment Squadron. While in service he met Iris Eva Gregory of Leicester, England. They were united in marriage December 23, 1944 in the Holy Apostle Church of England. Upon returning to the U.S. he owned and operated a small garage in Rising Star, Texas. Harry also attended Cisco Junior College at this time. The couple moved to Pecos in 1950 where he managed Powell and Sons (John Deere) Tractor Company for 35 years.
Harry was a very devoted husband and father. His favorite interest was gardening, and he enjoye playing his fiddle for Senior Citizens activities and other functions.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Michael John Warrick Reddick; two brothers, Roger Henry Reddick of Lake Worth, TX and Lee Roy Reddick of Pioneer, TX.
Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Eva Reddick; five daughters, Patricia Ann Oden of Pecos, Marilyn Faye Clawson and husband Doyle of Regency, Virginia Marie Graham and husband Gary of Scotsdale, AZ, Andrea Rae Cherry of Hourma, LA, and Mary Lou Shipman and husband David of New Bloomfield, MO.; 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; two nephews, Randall Ray Reddick of San Angelo and Roy John Reddick of Pioneer; three nieces, Karen Smith of Lake Worth, Sharon Crevinston of Irving, and Jessa Gilbreath of Abilene; two sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Reddick of Lake Worth and Jessie Reddick of Pioneer.
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Martha Blair
Martha Jo Blair, age 72, of McKinney, Texas passed away on January 18, 2007.
She was born on July 27, 1934 in Bridgeport, Oklahoma to Leo and Myra (Eiklor) Akins. Martha was a retired Secretary with the State of Texas.
She is survived by her children, Virginia Blair of McKinney, Texas, Frances Blair of Stephenville, TX, Katherine Blair of McKinney, TX, Jim Blair of The Colonly, TX, John Blair of Eastland, TX, Brenda Blair of McKinney, TX; seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Memorials may be made to FosterÕs Home for Children, Stephenville, Texas.
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Chuck Ivy
GORDON- Chuck Ivy 68, of Gordon passed away on Sunday at Palo Pinto General Hospital in Mineral Wells, Texas. Services will be 2 PM Thursday January 25, 2007 at the First Baptist Church in Gordon with Jimmy Ivy and Rev. Kurt Powell officiating. Burial will be in the Old Gordon Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn, Texas.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 7 to 9.
In lieu of flowers the family request memorials be made to Gordon Home Meals, P O Box 276, Gordon TX 76453 or Tri-City Ambulance, P O Box 271 Gordon TX 76453.
Chuck was born on April 15, 1938 in Lubbock, Texas to Olen R. and Nola (Reed) Ivy. He graduated from Lazuddie High School. Chuck married Ginger Roberts on June 23, 1957 in Muleshoe, Texas. They lived in Arlington for many years and where Chuck worked as a butcher and rancher and then as a utility contracts from 1983 until his death. Chuck moved to Gordon in 1994. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Gordon. Chuck enjoyed hunting, water skiing, cooking outside and entertaining company at his house. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Gayle Mosley in 2004.
Chuck is survived by his wife Ginger Ivy of Gordon, mother-in-law Ruth Roberts of Gordon, sons Mark Ivy and his wife Danita of Santo and Paul Ivy and his wife Kristi of Palo Pinto. A sister Barbara Matthews and her husband C. C. Jr. of Ransom Canyon, TX., three grandchildren Kayci, Adrainna, and Michael Ivy, and a great-grandson Robert Freeman. Nephews Gary and Darrell Matthews and niece Angela Dunn, Aymee, Anna, Lindsey Mosley as well as a brother-in-law Rick Mosley of Lubbock, TX, and extended family and friends.
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Betty Morris
Betty Coleman Morris, 75, of Brownwood, formerly of Strawn, passed away January 21, 2007 in Brownwood.
A rosary was said at 7:30 p.m. Monday, January 22, 2007 at Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn. Mass was Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at 10 a.m. at the St. JohnÕs Catholic Church in Strawn. Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home of Strawn.
Betty was born on June 25, 1931 to Lonnie R. and Ireta E. (Cole) Coleman in Strawn, TX. Betty later met and married Stanley Morris in 1946. They were married 44 years before his passing in 1990. She was a member of St. MaryÕs Catholic Church in Brownwood. She was also a member of the Sons of Herman Lodge. She loved to play board games, cards, and dominoes with friends and family.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one son Ross Morris in 1986; and two brothers, J.W. and Bill Mathis.
She is survived by a son, J.R. (Rick) Morris and wife Becca of Cleburne; two brothers, Jim Mathis of Lubbock and Jack Coleman of Gordon; one sister, Sissy Crawley of Ranger; two grandchildren, Shala Draper and husband Brian and Keath Morris both of Cleburne; and three great-grandchildren, Cass Draper of Cleburne and Ashton Morris and Cutter Morris, all of Midland.
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Saunders Gregg
Saunders Gregg died peacefully with his daughters by his side on Saturday, January 20, 2007 at the age of 92.
Mr. Gregg had a full and wonderful life. He was born in Brownsville, Texas on September 25, 1914 to Saunders and Anna Mae Gregg and grew up in Ranger, Texas. He attended Austin College and graduated from the University of Texas in 1937, where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and was elected as a member of the Goodfellows. He graduated from the University of Texas School of Law in 1940. He joined the firm of Vinson & Elkins in Houston where he worked until he enlisted in the United States Navy at the beginning of the Second World War. He served his country with distinction in the Pacific Theatre becoming a Lieutenant Commander and being invited to join the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island; an organization he proudly attended for many years. After the war, he returned to Houston and to the law firm. In 1948, he married Edwina Lane Breihan with whom he shared a wonderful marriage of 59 years. After a brief time in Chicago with the law firm, Saunders and Edwina moved to Shreveport, Louisiana with the United Gas Company which later became Entex. He finished a distinguished career with Entex in Houston as a Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and member of the Board of Directors.
Mr. Gregg is survived by his wife Edwina; his daughters, Martha Ann Snyder and her husband, Byron and Susie Dilg and her husband, Joe. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Gregg Snyder and wife, Sarah, Worth Snyder, Lane Dilg, and Mary Saunders Dawson and her husband, Jack.
Mr. Gregg was predeceased by his brother, Lewis; and by his parents.
Mr. Gregg was well known among his many friends for his love of life and his keen sense of humor. He loved a good party, a clever joke, and a great round of golf with friends. He served as President of the Shreveport Country Club and was a member of the Houston Country Club, Allegro and many other organizations. For many years he served on the Boards of Trustees of the Retina Research Foundation and Austin College. He and Edwina were long time members of the First Presbyterian Church where he could be found almost every Sunday at 11 a.m. in the second row pew.
The family will gather for a private interment ceremony at Glenwood Cemetery in Houston on Tuesday, January 23rd.
The memorial service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 23rd, in the sanctuary of the First Presbyterian Church in Houston. Dr. Bill Heston officiating. Geo H. Lewis & Sons in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of usual remembrances, the family has suggested that contributions in memory of Mr. Gregg be directed to the Retina Research Foundation, 6560 Fannin St., Suite 2200, Houston, TX; the University of Texas School of Law, 727 East Dean Keeton St., Austin, TX 78705; Austin College, 900 N. Grand Ave., Sherman, TX 75090; or to the First Presbyterian Church of Houston, 5300 Main St., Houston, TX 77004.
The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the friendship, care and support provided to Mr. Gregg in his later years by Panchita Manzano, Olga Cerrato, Buddy Hooper, Norma Logan, Evelyn Marsh, Patricia Mayon, Vivian Taylor and Howard Trojankowski.
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Megan Cook
Megan Cook, 15, died as the result of injuries sustained when she was struck by an auto while running near her home Saturday in Wepumpka, a suburb of Montgomery, AL.
Funeral was to be held Wednesday at a Methodist Church in Wepumpka. She was a high school sophomore.
She was the daughter of Mike and Angela Cook, granddaughter of Don and Jan Ratliff, great-granddaughter of Mable Rogers of Eastland; and great-niece of Gaynell and H.V. OÕBrien.
She was a pitcher and played second base for the Indians softball team. Her mother is the softball coach and senior administrator at Huntington College where her grandfather, Don is assistant softball coach.
Survivors also include a brother, Ryan, 13.
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Marie Saylors
ATHENS- Marie Garlington Saylors, 83, of Athens, passed away Monday, January 22, 2007 at the South Place Nursing Center in Athens.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 25, 2007 at the Gordon-Foster-Brown Funeral Chapel in Athens. Burial was in the Oaklawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Athens. The family received friends at the funeral home Wednesday evening.
Mrs. Saylors was born on September 12, 1923 in Fastrill, TX to Osco and May (Waltmon) Garlington. She moved to Henderson County in 1939 and lived there for 68 years. She married Bob Saylors on June 19, 1940. She was a waitress and a member of BartonÕs Chapel Assembly in Murchison, TX.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her parents; and a sister, Reba Carpenter.
Survivors include a son, Frank Saylors of Eastland; two daughters, Sue Hurst of Longview and Barbara Williams and husband Ray of Murchison; five grandsons, Eddie McDade, Randy McDade and wife Karen, Kyle Saylors and wife Erica, Kenny Saylors, and Brent Williams and wife Danielle; two granddaughters, Lisa Von Spreecken and husband Gale and Katrina Cook; and nine great-grandchildren, Jonathan Von Spreecken, Justin Von Spreecken, Austin McDade, Hunter McDade, Drew Cook, Cody Cook, Alyssa Cook, Brendan Williams and Trinity Williams.
Condolences may be e-mailed to the family at gfb@cox-internet.com.
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George Johnson
George A. Johnson, age 74, of Gorman, passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at his home in Gorman.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, January 25, 2007 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Richard Nachtigall officiating. Burial was at Murray Cemetery.
Mr. Johnson was born December 2, 1932 in Eastland County to Joseph ÒBusterÓ Johnson and Ruby Maness Johnson. Mr. Johnson was a retired pipeline, heavy equipment operator and rancher. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the Baptist church and he loved to hunt and fish.
He is survived by three daughters, JoAnn Scitern and husband Johnny of Gorman, Cathy Craig of Eastland and Lindy Snider and husband Gary of Granbury; three sons, Johnny Johnson of Carbon, Jimmy Johnson and wife Sherry of Gorman and Jacky Johnson of Gorman; one sister, Dolores Walker and husband Fred of Tyler; 16 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, James H. Johnson and one sister, Deon Fields.
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Luther Mauldin
Luther H. Mauldin, 81, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Thursday, January 25, 2007 at the Rising Star Nursing Center in Rising Star.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Friday, January 26, 2007 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Red Chamberlain officiating. Burial was in the Fairview Cemetery in Brown County, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge.
Luther was born on January 12, 1926 in Grosvenor, Texas to Marshall and Clifton Waldon-Mauldin. He married Janice Patterson on October 31, 1948 in Yuma, AZ. He served in the Navy during World War II. He lived in the community for 16 years. Before moving to Rising Star he lived in San Diego, CA. He was a member of the Union Center Baptist Church. He was Past Comm. American Legion Post #6 VFW in San Diego, CA. He was Past Master at the Rising Star Masonic Lodge 688 and a 50 year member.
Luther is survived by his wife, Janice Mauldin of Rising Star; son, David Mauldin of Rising Star; sister, Doris McClanahan.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steven Mauldin; brother, W.A. Mauldin.
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Wesley Spivey
Wesley Steve Spivey, 44, of Gorman, passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2007, at an Abilene hospital.
Services will be Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Gorman, directed by Higginbotham Funeral Home and officiated by Bro. Barry Schahn. Interment will be in Oaklawn Cemetery in Gorman.
Steve was born in Gorman, Texas on December 7, 1962, and had resided in Gorman all his life. He graduated from Gorman High School in 1981. He was employed by A.O. Easley Trucks, Inc. of Gorman. He married his high school sweetheart, Tracy Dossey, June 23, 1984 in Gorman. Steve and Tracy were blessed with three beautiful children, of whom he was always so very proud. His family was his life and filled the greatest part of his loving heart.
Steve is survived by his wife, Tracy; two sons, Adam Welsey and Colby Ryan, and his little girl Lauren Rebecca, all of Gorman. Also surviving are his parents, Wesley and Sue Spivey of Gorman; his parents-in-law, Rev. Darrell and June Dossey of Gorman; a brother-in-law and wife, David and Janet Dossey of Breckenridge; a sister-in-law and husband, Becky and Jackie Don Simpson of Brownfield; and a sister-in-law, Lesa Dossey of Breckenridge. He also had many nieces and nephews and a host of wonderful friends.
Steve will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all whose lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Spivey Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, American State Bank, P.O. Box 519, Gorman, Texas 76454.
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Byrl Warren
GORMAN- Byrl Gene Warren, 67, died Wednesday, January 24, 2007.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 27, 2007 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel. Burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.
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Earlene Spencer
ANSON- Earlene Spencer, 83, died Saturday, January 27, 2007, at an Anson hospital.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 29, 2007, at Lawrence-Adams Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jerry Pittman. Burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery, directed by Lawrence-Adams Funeral Home.
Born August 14, 1923, in Jones County, Earlene was a daughter of the late Vernon and Ludie (Steel) Reinhardt. She married Earl Spencer on July 14, 1942, in Anson. He preceded her in death April 3, 2001. Earlene worked for U.S. Brass and was a Baptist.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Fay Hubbard; and a son, Bobby Ray Spencer.
Survivors include one daughter, Brenda Cearley and husband, Jimmy of Cisco; one son, Winford Spencer and friend, Dana Wilson of Anson; a daughter-in-law, Kathy Spencer of Anson; two sisters, Maxine Lane and Gay Nell Reinhardt, both of Anson; grandchildren, Winford Spencer, Jr. and wife, Cynthia, Penny Ayaya, Amanda Irby, Justin Cearley, Patrick Spencer, and Bethany Spencer; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and caregiver, Maggie Munoz.
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Byrl Warren
Byrl Gene Warren, 67, of Gorman, passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2007 at the Eastland Memorial Hospital.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 27, 2007 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Richard Watson officiating. Burial was at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Byrl Gene was born December 14, 1939 in Gorman to Vernon Warren and Lydia Maynard Warren. He married Cho IL Kim in Seoul, Korea on October 10, 1963. He was a lab tech at Parkland Hospital in Dallas for several years. They had moved back here from Florida.
He is survived by his wife, Cho IL Kim Warren of Gorman; one sister, Joyce Forrest of Gorman and one brother and his wife Jimmy and Marilyn Warren also of Gorman.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Spivey Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, American State Bank, P.O. Box 519, Gorman, Texas 76454.
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Dale Murdock
EASTLAND- Dale E. Murdock, Sr., 67, of Lake Leon, died Monday, January 29, 2007 in an Abilene hospital.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Edwards Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 1, 2007 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Burial with Masonic graveside rites will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger.
Dale was born July 25, 1939 in Fort Worth to Frank Colbert Murdock and Vera Lou (Baggerley) Murdock, where he was raised. He married Barbara Sue Dickson in Weatherford on October 13, 1959. They made their home in Burleson where Dale worked for Santa Fe Railroad, first as general help, then as a train dispatcher, retiring after 21 years. He also worked part time as a police dispatcher for the City of Burleson. After his retirement they moved to Lake Leon where Dale enjoyed fishing, ranching, and mowing lawns. He became Master Mason, belonging to the Eastland Masonic Lodge, where he served as Worshipful Master, worked on degree teams, served the district as District Deputy. He currently served as Secretary, a post which he has held for many years. He was also a member of the Scottish Rite and the Tri County Scottish Rite Club.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Murdock; and a sister Delores Caron.
He is survived by his mother, Vera Sing of Farmers Branch, TX; 4 daughters, Laurie Murdock Cox of Tecumseh, OK, Dolores Murdock Cordero of Pflugerville, TX, Leslie Murdock of Austin, TX, and Melissa Murdock Parent of Pflugerville, TX; 1 son, Dale Murdock, Jr. of Tye, TX; 1 brother, Dick Murdock of Cleburne, TX; 7 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.
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Steven Herridge
Steven Douglas Herridge, 37, of San Angelo passed away Saturday, January 27, 2007 at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo.
Steven was born May 3, 1969 in Taipai, Taiwan to Billie Vestal Davis and the late Gene Herridge.
He is survived by his mother, Billie Davis of San Angelo; his brother, Craig Herridge of Big Spring; his sisters Tina, Brenda and Sheila Herridge of San Angelo; his aunt Linda Stewart and husband, Larry of San Antonio; his aunt Audie Hamilton of Lindale; uncle Wayne Vestal and wife, Aletris of Cuero; aunt Linda Smith and husband, Doyce of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; aunt Karen Johannesen of Richardson and aunt Virginia Peca and husband, Louis of Leslie, Arkansas; cousins and friends; and great-aunt Viola Hallmark of Cisco.
Steven was preceded in death by his father, M/Sgt. Milton Gene Herridge; his maternal grandparents; and his paternal grandparents, George and Lena Herridge of San Angelo.
Steven lost a lifelong battle with kidney disease, and all the while not complaining to the ones he loved. His favorite scripture passage includes these words: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of death...” He believed with no doubt whatsoever that he would be comforted through that walk with absolutely no fear. He prayed daily for his family and friends.
Funeral services were held Monday, January 29, 2007 at 10 a.m. at Lange Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was to follow in Old Runnels Cemetery in Ballinger.
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Dorothy Henson
Dorothy Louise Burns Henson, 75, passed away January 31, 2007, with her family at her side. She was at peace with the knowledge she would be gree