Obituaries

July to December 2008

Prof. Gary Reeves Hill
EASTLAND- Professor Gary Reeves Hill, age 66 of Eastland and Criminal Justice instructor for Cisco Jr. College, passed away Saturday, November 29, 2008 in an Abilene hospital. Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at 10 AM in the Cisco Church of the Nazarene. Visitation was held Monday 6-8 PM at Edwards Funeral Home. Burial was in Eastland City Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland. Born November 7, 1942 in Winters, Texas to Robert Lee Hill and Claudia [Rampy] Hill, he was the Salutatorian of the Class of 1961 Winters High School. After school he worked as a John Deere mechanic in Winters and Colorado City. He married Kay Rogers in Winters on Dec. 31, 1966. Gary enrolled in The Stenograph School in Abilene and finished in Plainview. He worked in Athens as a court reporter for about a year before entering the Texas Department of Public Safety Academy, for 10 years he worked first as a Highway Patrolman then in License and Weight retiring from active law enforcement after back surgery. He began teaching at Cisco Jr. College in the Criminal Justice Program and continued for 28 years. He earned his Masters in Criminal Justice from Texas A&M at Tarleton with a 4.0 grade average. He also did medical transcription for local Eastland physicians. He was a member of the Church of the Nazarene and served on the Board of Directors, he served on the Criminal Justice Advisory Board of Tarleton University. Member of the Community College Criminal Justice Educators of Texas. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, farming, telling jokes and most of all his Grand and Great granddaughters. He is survived by wife, Kay of Eastland; son, Michael Hill of Wichita Falls, Texas; 3 brothers, Bob Hill of Australia, Ronald and Mike Hill both of Sweetwater; granddaughter, Jennifer Hill and great-granddaughter, Payten Kunkel. He was preceded in death by a brother Stan Hill.

Lottie Redell Browning Morris
GORMAN- Lottie Redell Browning Morris, the daughter of John and Ertie Browning, was born June 29, 1914 at the Rock Bluff community, 8 miles south of Gorman, Texas. She graduated from Gorman High School in 1931. She married the love of her life, Hupp Morris on October 7, 1931 in Kilgore, Texas. During their 69 years of marriage they followed the developing oil business and lived in Kilgore, Cisco, Hamilton, Houston, Seminole, Kermit, Levelland, Brownfield and Monahans before retiring to the Gorman community for the past 37 years. While living in Gorman, Lottie and Hupp were avid supporters of the Gorman schools, especially the athletic program. They seldom missed any event the fighting Panthers were participating in. They were twice recognized and presented plaques for their support. Lottie was the Coming Home Queen in 1978. In 1998 having the Panther yearbook dedicated to them and then in 2005 a special recognition by the Ex Student’s Association honored them. She was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star and was a Past Worthy Matron. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hupp, on January 2, 2000. Survivors include one son, James and his wife, Beverly of Katy, Texas; one daughter, Pam Hulse and her husband, Mark of Hobbs, N.M.; one grandson, Mark Morris; four granddaughters, Mitzi Cross, Leha Searcy, Amy Zulaica, and Susan Hulse; six great-grandsons; eight great-granddaughters; and one great-great-granddaughter; and many special nieces and nephews; one brother, Joe Bob Browning of Brownwood. A celebration of life service was held at the First Baptist Church of Gorman at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 29, 2008 with interment at the Oaklawn Cemetery. Grandsons and great-grandsons served as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Gorman; Gorman Panther Booster Club; Homestead Rehab of Gorman; or a charity of your choice.

Wilma Jean Butler-Lasater
RISING STAR- Wilma Jean Butler-Lasater, 80, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Sunday, November 30, 2008 at Rising Star Nursing Center in Rising Star, Texas. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Rising Star with Matt McGowen officiating and Terry Jackson assisting. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge. Wilma was born on June 29, 1928 in Brown County, Texas to Curt and Roxie Chambers-Butler. She married Herbert Doyle Lasater in 1952 in Eastland County, Texas. She was a member of the Church of Christ. She has lived in the community for most of her life. She was a farmer and a rancher. She was an avid golfer in her younger years. She worked for Taylor and Eastland County Child Welfare Service. She is survived by her cousins, Butch Butler and Kay of Rising Star, Ken Butler and his wife, Judy of Inez, Sara McGowen and her husband, David of Rising Star, Ann Garms of Brownwood; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Lasater; and son, Edward Doyle Lasater.

Andrew ‘Drew’ Kearby Allen McCleskey
ABILENE- Andrew ‘Drew’ Kearby Allen McCleskey, 16, has left his journey here on earth to rest in the arms of his wonderful Savior Jesus Christ. Funeral services were held at the Broadview Baptist Church on Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at 11 a.m. with Pastor David Cason officiating. Interment at Elmwood Memorial Park. Girdner Funeral Home of Abilene was in charge of arrangements. Andrew ‘Drew’ will be greatly missed. He always smiled. Always loved. Always gave the worlds greatest hugs. Andrew was kind to all. Known by many and loved by everyone. He loved music and playing the drums since the “ripe old age” of 8 months. He enjoyed the outdoors especially fishing. A star by God’s grace, he gave us, forever held in our hearts. He attended Eula High School and was a member of Broadview Baptist Church. Andrew was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Glenn F. McCleskey; a cousin, Shannon McCleskey; great-grandfathers Allen D. Baxley and J. Robert Miller. He is survived by a sister, Liberty McCleskey, and a brother, Vincent McCleskey; his mother, Alisa McCleskey and father, Brian McCleskey all of Abilene; grandparents, Bruce Hawkins, Fredda Fox, Gary Baxley and wife, Anita, of Alaska, Lee and Jan Mussman and Viola McCleskey all of Abilene; great-grandparents, Fred and Opal Smith of Cisco; and great-grandmother, Madge Baxley of Springtown; aunts, Holly Smith and husband, Robert of Ft. Worth, Beaulah Solis of Abilene, Raul Solis of Ft. Worth; uncles, Brent McCleskey and wife, Stacey of VA, Tim Baxley and wife, Amy of Abilene; several great-aunts and uncles; a ton of cousins, Hailey, Talley, Salem, Ariana, Geneva, William, Alisa, Alayna, Ariel, Grant, Mason, Natalie, Nathan, Breanna and Tristyn; a special lifelong friend, Travis Ford and his “other Mom” Tina Ford of Abilene. Andrew was blessed with a huge loving family, too many to list. Pallbearers were Brent McCleskey, Tim Baxley, William Mussman, Jr., Travis Ford, Gary Baxley and Michael Freeman.

Arnold Ray ‘Red’ Jennings
OLDEN -- Arnold Ray “Red” Jennings, 74, passed away Thursday, Nov. 27, 2008, at his home in Olden. Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, December 1, 2008 in Doty Cemetery in Gordon. Pastor Chad Gosnell and Chaplin Joe Bernier officiated. Greenwood Funeral Home Fort Worth, Texas was in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Jennings was born in Mingus and raised in Gordon. He served in the Navy during the Korean War and retired from Carswell Air Force Base in 1997. He was a member of the Country Cowboy Church of Eastland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ira and Jessie Jennings of Gordon’ and a son, Stephen Ray Jennings of Lakeside. Survivors are his wife, Linda Jennings of Olden; sons, Mike Jennings of Ben Wheeler, James Jennings of Joshua and Randy Jennings of Burleson; brother, JB Jennings of Fort Worth; sisters, Betty Wilkerson of Granbury and Clara Brighterton of Mineral Wells; 10 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Dorothy L. Jolly
  GRAND PRAIRIE-- Dorothy L. Jolly passed away Thursday, November 27, 2008. Visitation was held from 6-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 2, at the funeral home. Graveside Service: 12:00 (Noon), Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger, Tx. Survivors: son, Richard & Joann Jolly; daughter: Judy & Jim Edenburn; nephew, Steve & Sue Campbell; grandchildren, Patrick & Debbie Jolly, Kelly Kirkland & Laura, Kim & Angelo Morreale and 9 great-grandchildren. Bean-Massey-Burge Funeral Home, Grand Prairie

Wanda Jean Hall Boyle
Wanda Jean (Hall) Boyle, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, went to be with her Lord on November 30, 2008. Funeral services were held Wednesday, December 3, 2008 in the Chapel; burial followed at the Burkett Cemetery. Visitation was held on Tuesday night December 2, 2008 at Higginbotham Funeral Home from 6:00 until 8:00. Wanda was born on October 7, 1928 in Valleyview, Texas, the daughter of the late Ira Henry Hall and Alice (West) Hall.  She grew up in Cross Plains and graduated from Cross Plains High School in 1946.  She married Arthur Boyle on September 24, 1946 in Cross Plains.  During their marriage they were blessed with three children, Elaine, Jerry and Sandra. Wanda was saved and baptized in the First Baptist Church in Cross Plains. She was a current member of the First Baptist Church in Brownwood where they have lived for the past 11 years. During her lifetime, Wanda worked as a dental assistant for several years.  Later she lovingly worked in the education field as a teacher’s aid in kindergarten and special education in both Howe and Cross Plains, Texas. She is survived by her husband Arthur; daughter, Elaine Denney and husband Charles of Goldthwaite, Texas; son, Jerry Boyle and wife Meladee of Burleson, Texas, and daughter Sandra Terrell and husband Rodger of Eastland, Texas; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; sisters, Doris Givens and Joan Kunkel; one sister-in-law, Billie Hall; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Ira and Alice Hall, one brother James Hall, and one sister Kathrine Harris. Bob Harrell ~ Funeral Director/Manager, Dee Harrell ~ Administrative Assistant - Higginbotham Funeral Home, Cross Plains, TX.

Samuel Lee Beggs, Sr.
Awaiting the day when he could join his beloved wife Billie, of 63 years, in their eternal home, Sam enjoyed team roping with his friends. Thanksgiving afternoon he was enjoying a beautiful afternoon with his roping buddies when he was critically injured. He was in John Petersmith Hospital in Ft. Worth where he remained until he passed at 6:45 P.M. on November 30, 2008. Services were held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008 at the First Baptist Church in Eastland with Rex Boggs officiating. Burial was in the Murray Cemetery in Carbon, Texas. The family visitation was held at the Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland on Tuesday, December 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sam was born May 21, 1927 in Eastland, Texas to Samuel David and Opal Selena Wright Beggs. He married Willie “Billie” Frances Phelps on August 7th, 1943 in Eastland. He was a member of Gunsight Baptist Church. He worked his entire life in the body works business. He owned Scott Body Works in Eastland until his retirement in 1990. His hobbies were team roping, fishing, hunting, ranching and spending time at the coffee shop with his friends. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Billie on May 30, 2007; 3 brothers and his parents. Survivors include his children, Linda Beggs and Sharon Beggs of Eastland, Sam Beggs, Jr. and wife, Marilyn of Austin, Lonny Beggs and Laney of Eastland and Randy Beggs and wife Cathy of Eastland; 11 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were grandsons. Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity or Gunsight Baptist Church.

Jimmie Prickett
CISCO- Jimmie Carl Prickett, 70, of Weatherford passed away Saturday, November 29, 2008. Funeral services, officiated by Larry Payne and Reverend Justin Krieg were held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Burial with Military Honors was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Mr. Prickett was born to Leslie Ernest and Jerusa Lilly (Smith) Prickett on May 17, 19 38 in Trent, Texas. He served in the US Army and was a Farm Equipment salesman. He married Linda Faye Johnson on December 29, 1975 in Ardmore, Oklahoma. He is survived by his wife Linda of Weatherford, Texas; son, Nicholaus Carl Prickett of Weatherford, Texas; stepson, Mancil Littlepage and wife Kelly of Murray, Kentucky; daughters, Pam Westmoreland of Eastland, Texas Cindy Gordy and Barry Spruell of Flower Mound, Texas and Mackenzie Nicole Prickett of Weatherford, Texas; step daughter, Melinda Murach and Les Freeman of Newark, Texas; sisters, Louise Childress of Wichita Falls, Texas, Frankie Keeney and husband Lawrence, Linda Edgar and husband Billy and Shirley Darr and husband Royce all of Cisco, Texas; grandchildren, Missy Prickett, Christopher Posey, James Louis Gordy, Elijah Westmoreland, Jacob Westmoreland, Joshua Littlepage, Miach Littlepage and Aaron Littlepage; great grandchildren, Gabriel and Gabyn Prickett. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bobbie, Sam and Ronnie Prickett. Nephews serving as pallbearers were, Jamie Talley, Brandon Talley, Cody Talley, Chris Keeney, Stacy Edgar, Kelly Darr, Joel Prickett and Kevin Prickett.

George William Latham, Jr.
CISCO-George William Latham, Jr., 74, of Cisco passed away December 1, 2008, in Eastland Memorial Hospital. No services are planned.

Eugene Wesley Lambright
CISCO- Eugene Wesley Lambright, age 46, passed away Saturday, November 22, 2008 in Eastland. Funeral services were held Friday, November 28, 2008 at 1:00 PM in the New Life Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church in Cisco with Michael Roach officiating under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Eugene Wesley Lambright was born November 25, 1961 in Corpus Christi, TX to Wesley J. and Bertha (Dunn) Lambright. He moved to Cisco when he was 15 years old. Eugene was a member of the National Guard. He married Margaret Wallace in October of 2004 in Granbury. Eugene enjoyed welding, the outdoors, loved animals and was passionate about raising boar goats. He was a preacher and would want all to know the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. He was a member of the Moran Country Gospel Church. Eugene was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Margaret; his sons, Bradley, Jonathan and Justin Lambright; his daughters, Beth, Rachel and Eiliesha Lambright; his grandson, Cayden James Lambright; his brothers, Fred Crammer, Tommy Lambright and Robert Hunt; and his sisters, Linda Lifto and Cris Ellifon.

Lottie Redell Browning
GORMAN- A celebration service for Lottie Redell Browning’s life will be held at First Baptist Church in Gorman at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 29, 2008 with interment in Gorman Oaklawn Cemetery. Grandsons and great-grandsons to serve as pallbearers. Lonnie Redell Browning, the daughter of John and Ertie Browning was born June 29, 1914 at Rock Bluff community, 8 miles south of Gorman. She graduated from Gorman High School in 1931. She married the love of her life, Hupp Morris on October 7, 1931, in Kilgore, Texas. During their 69 years of marriage they followed the developing oil business and lived in Kilgore, Cisco, Hamilton, Houston, Seminole, Kermit, Levelland, Brownfield and Monahans before retiring to the Gorman community for the past 37 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hupp, on January 2, 2000. She is survived by one son, James and his wife, Beverly, of Katy, TX; one daughter, Pam Hulse and her husband, Mark of Hobbs, N.M.; one grandson, Mark Morris; four granddaughters, Mitzi Cross, Leha Searcy, Amy Zulaica, and Susan Hulse; six great-grandsons; eight great-granddaughters; one great-great-granddaughter; many nieces and nephews; one brother, Joe Bob Browning. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Gorman; Gorman Panthers Booster Club; Homestead Rehab of Gorman; or charity of your choice.

William F. ‘Bill’ Agnew
ABILENE- William F. Agnew passed away at Hendrick Memorial Center on November 21, 2008, after a brief and unexpected illness. He was better known to his family, friends, and all who loved him, as “Bill.” Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at the University Church of Christ. Dr. Bill Young, assisted by Dr. Don Wilson, officiated. Dr. Rex Anderson, Jr. read scripture. Burial followed in Elmwood Memorial Park. Visitation was held from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Bill was born on July 30, 1934 in Brownwood, Texas to the late Ray and Alta Agnew. He graduated from High School in Rising Star. Bill was a 1955 graduate of Abilene Christian University and a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. He married Nancy Oldham on December 30, 1952 at the University Church of Christ. He was the son and grandson of a grocer, and owned and operated Agnew Superette, located initially in a shopping area on Ambler, and later on his property at the intersection of Ambler and Madison. The Superette was well known to at least two generations of friends and customers, all of whom Bill loved and respected. Many college students, whom Bill enjoyed, attribute his employment of them in school as being a significant factor in obtaining their education. Bill was a sincere, caring, generous man, who never met a stranger. He was described as one who lived his life transparently, and was the same to both the privileged and downcast. In particular, one individual described him as being the person who taught him how to interact with those in all sets of circumstances, and that few realized how he helped so many others either financially, or with personal problems. Preceding him in death were his father and mother Ray Agnew and Alta (Burrus) Agnew; his son, David Michael Agnew on February 4, 2007; Nancy’s mother, Laura Irene Oldham, one brother, Burt Agnew, and a sister-in-law, Helen Rhodes. Bill is survived by his wife, Nancy Agnew, of Abilene; one daughter, Carol Agnew Holliman and her husband Gary, of Terrell, Texas; one grandson, Michael William Agnew, of Abilene and San Antonio; one brother, Pat Agnew and his wife Carolyn, of Abilene; a sister, Edith Bibb and her husband Kenneth, of Rising Star; two sisters-in-law, Louise Swim, of Dallas and Rosita Lazar, of Boynton Beach, Florida; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and a host of friends. Pallbearers were Don Hood, Don Baber, Garnie Hatch, Wayne Bramhall, Johnny Jones, Tommy Morris and Dr. Jimmy McNeil. Honorary pallbearers were lifetime friend, Don Etter, Larry Wishard, of Auora, Colorado, James Cobb, Danny Fleming, Gary Sitton, and Jeff Huckabee. Memorials may be made in honor of Bill Agnew to the donor’s favorite charity. Bill, in a quiet way, touched the lives of countless members of the community. Online condolences may be sent to: www.HamilFamilyFuneralHome.com

Eva Mae Adkins Stroud
RANGER- Eva Mae Adkins Stroud, 83, passed away Friday November 21, 2008 in Abilene. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. Monday, November 24, 2008 in Bullock Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger. Visitation was Sunday evening from 6-9 P.M. Eva was born in Sanco, Texas on March 28, 1925 to Thomas and Emma (Akins) Adkins. She moved to the Ranger area in 1965 and lived there until her passing. She married Roy Luther “Bud” Stroud in 1973 and they had 3 children. She worked as a waitress for many years all over the area. She later worked for Green Thumb and at the Ranger School in the cafeteria and at the nursing home. Eva never met a stranger and was considered a people person. She loved having people over at her house and cooking for them. She and Roy loved to fish, dance and garden together. On occasion she did some crocheting. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Roy in 1984, a son Rodney Mayhall, a daughter Connie Tinder, brother Earl and two sisters Mary Harris and Glenda Humbel. She is survived by her children Glenda Harrison and Mary Masters; grandchildren, Paul Mayhall, Don Chandler, Suzie Harrison, Terry Don Schuessler, and Tiffany Barnes, Christopher France; and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Willie B. Dunson Phillips
RANGER - Willie Beatrice Dunson Phillips, 92, of Ranger passed away on Sunday November 23, 2008 in Fort Worth. Services were held Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at 1:30 pm at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, burial in Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas. Willie was born March 19, 1916 to Ransom Donning Dunson and Nellie Grey Pope in Hext, Texas, Minard County. She was preceeded in death by her parents, 2 sisters, Pearl and Bonnie, 3 brothers Steve, Buddy and Henry and also her daughters Betty Lou and Helen Joyce. She is survived by two brothers Charlie and Rubin, her granddaughters Cherri Harbison and Angie Killian and 4 great- grandchildren.

Howet Neal Wilson
CROSS PLAINS- Howet Neal Wilson of Cross Plains died Sunday, November 23, 2008 at Brownwood Regional Hospital. Services were held Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. at Higginbotham Funeral Home in Cross Plains. Burial followed at Atwell Cemetery. He was born August 4, 1922 at Atwell to L.F. and Hattie Wilson. He served as a Navy Seabee from 1943-1947. He moved to Cross Plains in 1949 working in the oil field. He married Roylene Arrowood in 1949. In 1976 he started Wilson Well Service Inc., an oil and gas production company. He was preceded in death by a brother, Leslie Wilson and sisters, Helen Campbell, Juanita Harston and Bobbie Lowrance. Survivors are three sons, Don Wilson and wife Linda of Baird, Richard Wilson and wife Linda of Ruidoso, NM and James Roy Wilson of Cross Plains; two sisters, Arcie Pointer of Lancaster, CA and Adelle Smith and husband Harvin of Lubbock; one grandson, Brent Hatcher and wife Brook of Breckenridge; 4 granddaughters, Kelly Windham and husband Bill of Rockdale, Laura Molloy and husband Guy of Charleston, SC, Tracie Russenberger and Brent of Richardson and Allison Wilson of Baird; and 8 great-grandchildren.

Verna Dean Underwood
EASTLAND – Verna Dean Underwood, 78, of Eastland, passed away Sunday, November 23, 2008 in Eastland. Services were held at 2 P.M. Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at the Daugherty St. Church of Christ with Larry Roberts and Gary Montgomery officiating. Burial followed in the Eastland City Cemetery. The family received friends at Edwards Funeral Home on Tuesday, 6~8 P.M. Mrs. Underwood was born on July 13, 1930 in Gorman to Claude William & Merle (Proctor) Smith. She was raised on the Blackwell Ranch in Gorman and Desdemona. She attended Desdemona High School. She married Milton Underwood on August 3, 1945 in Gorman. She worked at Hollywood Vassarette for 16 years. She then became a cook for Carbon High School and later Eastland High School, retiring after 21 years service. She was a member of the Daugherty St. Church of Christ and enjoyed cooking, was an avid sports fan and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded by a brother, Delbert Smith. Survivors include her devoted husband of 63 years, Milton Underwood of Eastland; 2 children, Stanley Underwood and his wife Judy of Eastland and Sue Mizell and her husband Terry of Fort Worth; sister, Ima Mae Tonn & her husband Durwood of Denton; brother, Ronnie Smith and his wife Betty of Glen Rose; sister-in-law, Myrna Smith of Longview; 7 grandchildren, Laurie Alexander, Tammy Ledbetter, Doug Underwood, John Mizell, Brad Underwood, Tracy Sweet & Gary Mizell; 10 great-grandchildren, Zach, Trey, Christopher, Dylan, Megan, Mindi, Bailey, Haley, Mason & Cutter. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.

Pirtle Ivan Hunsaker
CISCO- Pirtle Ivan Hunsaker, 82, of Cisco passed away November 23, 2008. Services were held Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at 2:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church officiated by Reverend Perry Hunsaker, assisted by Reverend John Beckling.  Burial followed in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.  Visitation held Tuesday from 5~ 7:00 PM in the Kimbrough Chapel. Mr. Hunsaker was born July 27, 19 26 , in Bryant, Oklahoma to Travis Ivan and Ruby Irene (Pirtle) Hunsaker.  He served in the US Army Air Corp during World War II.  P. I. Hunsaker was a musician and a comedian, and still is an artist.  Everything he touched he made more beautiful whether it was a blank canvas, a plot of ground or a plate of pasta.  He dedicated his life to providing for his kids and grandkids. As a musician, he loved singing carols around the piano with his family.  He also loved playing his cornet. As a comedian, he used his quick wit to make everyone feel special.  His sense of humor exuded from him even on his sickbed as he entertained all who were tending him. He began his career with Phillips Petroleum in 1046 at the Borger Refinery.  He began at ground level and worked his way up to be the Assistant Processing Superintendent, spending four years in Teeside , England building the largest Processing refinery at that time.  He retired in 1985. He and his wife, Norma, were married 63 years ago, which is a testament of their love for each other.  The family created together has been their greatest blessing.  He will be truly missed. Survivors include his wife, Norma, of Cisco; daughter, Karen Worthington, of Clovis, NM; sons, Jerry Travis Hunsaker and wife, Elizabeth, of Rising Star, and Randall Dolvice Hunsaker and wife,Gail, of Stratford; grandchildren, Aaron Hunsaker, Kara Potter, Nataline Northcutt, Stephanie Yellow Eye, Daniel Hunsaker, David Hunsaker, and Wesley Hunsaker.  Thirteen great grandchildren also survive him.

Janice Aileen Corbin Henegar
CISCO – Janice Aileen (Corbin) Henegar, of Putnam, age 68, passed away Friday, November 14, 2008 in Abilene. Graveside services were held Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 2:00 PM at the Putnam Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home in Cisco. Janice Aileen Corbin was born November 14, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan to Eugene George and Gweneth Raye (Neff) Corbin. She moved to Texas after graduating from High School in Michigan. Jan married William “Bill” Henegar. She worked for Wagley Dozer for many years. She most recently worked at the Post Office in Putnam. Jan really enjoyed shopping but her favorite activity was playing games on the computer. Jan was preceded in death by her husband and her parents. She is survived by her sister, Margie Weeks; her son, Wilson Henegar; her granddaughters, Riley Altman, Michelle Henegar and Melanie Henegar; great-granddaughter Aubrie Curry; several nieces and nephews; and her very close friends, Post Master Alecia Howard of Putnam, Ray, Judy, Joseph, Andy, Belinda and Drew Maxwell, Blayne Buchanan and Richard Wagley. Jan will be greatly missed by those she has left behind.

Anna Louise Robbins Waggoner
BAIRD- Anna Louise Robbins Waggoner, 82, of Baird, Texas, died Tuesday, November 18, 2008 in Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene. Burial of cremains was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 22, 2008 at Clyde Cemetery with Rev. Toby Henson officiating. Services under the direction of Parker Funeral Home of Baird. Anna was born November 17, 1926, in Elmdale, Texas, to Thomas A. Robbins and Mary Bartley Robbins. She married James M. Waggoner on February 23, 1943. They had lived in Baird since 1979, moving from Texas City, Texas. Anna had been a waitress, seamstress, and most often a homemaker. She was a Methodist. Survivors include one daughter, Billie Padgett of Clyde; one granddaughter, Stacy Harris of Waller, TX; two sisters, Letha Goodman and Thelma Davies, both of Austin; 3 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, James M. Waggoner; son, David Waggoner; and daughter, Beverly Yowell.

Zachary Ryan Martin
CLYDE- Zachary Ryan Martin, infant son of Daniel and Ashley (Dillard) Martin, was born on Monday, November 17, 2008 in Abilene, Texas. He died peacefully on the same day. Services were held at 4 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2008 at the Bailey Chapel in Clyde. Zachary may have passed from this world, but his presence will be missed by his family, both immediate and extended. His memory will live on, along with that of his brother, Bo, in the hearts of many. His family treasured the time they had with him. Zachary is most lovingly survived by his parents, Daniel and Ashley Martin of Clyde; his sister, Hannah Martin of Clyde; maternal grandparents, Sam and Terri Dillard of Clyde; paternal grandparents, Deotis and Pam Tennison of Clyde; his maternal great-grandparents, Wayne and Lois Dillard of Baird; his paternal great-grandmother, Lura Tennison of Clyde; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother, Bo Dillard in 2006; his paternal great-grandfather, Deotis Tennison, Sr.

Kimberly Lean Akers
CLYDE- Kimberly Lean Akers, 42, of Clyde, died Wednesday, November 19, 2008 while holding the hand of her husband, Doug in hospice care at Hendrick Medical Center. Services were held Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 3 p.m. at the First Baptist Church with Dr. Toby Henson and Greg Clemmer officiating. Burial followed in the Clyde Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home. Kim was born June 25, 1966 in Eastland to Edward (Jerry) and Nora (Jordan) Black. They moved to Clyde from Merkel in 1968. She was a 1984 graduate of Clyde High School. She married Doug Akers May 4, 1985 in Clyde. She had worked as an assistant vice president at First National Bank in Abilene for 12 years and as a teller at First Financial Bank in Clyde. She was a member of the Clyde First Baptist Church and also attended Cowboy Heritage Church. Kim is survived by her husband, Doug of Clyde; her daughter, Jessica Akers of Clyde; her parents, Edward and Nora Black of Clyde; two brothers and their wives, Jerry Don and Tonya Black of Clyde and Braldey and Ashlie Black of Nugent; her mother-in-law, Shirley Akers of Clyde; several nieces and nephews including Brandon, Alicia, Kinnia, Hagan, and Braiden Black; and a special great niece, Kaili Rollins. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care P.O. Box 1922 Abilene, Texas 79604.

Howet Neal Wilson
CROSS PLAINS- Howet Neal Wilson of Cross Plains died Sunday, November 23, 2008 at Brownwood Regional Hospital. Services were held Wednesday, November 26, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. at Higginbotham Funeral Home in Cross Plains. Burial followed at Atwell Cemetery. He was born August 4, 1922 at Atwell to L.F. and Hattie Wilson. He served as a Navy Seabee from 1943-1947. He moved to Cross Plains in 1949 working in the oil field. He married Roylene Arrowood in 1949. In 1976 he started Wilson Well Service Inc., an oil and gas production company. He was preceded in death by a brother, Leslie Wilson and sisters, Helen Campbell, Juanita Harston and Bobbie Lowrance. Survivors are three sons, Don Wilson and wife Linda of Baird, Richard Wilson and wife Linda of Ruidoso, NM and James Roy Wilson of Cross Plains; two sisters, Arcie Pointer of Lancaster, CA and Adelle Smith and husband Harvin of Lubbock; one grandson, Brent Hatcher and wife Brook of Breckenridge; 4 granddaughters, Kelly Windham and husband Bill of Rockdale, Laura Molloy and husband Guy of Charleston, SC, Tracie Russenberger and Brent of Richardson and Allison Wilson of Baird; and 8 great-grandchildren.

Joyce S. Williams
WAXAHACHIE- Joyce S. Williams, 86 of Waxahachie passed away Monday, November 17, 2008 in a Waxahachie nursing home. She was born to the late John G. & Bertha M. Bell Smith on August 3, 1922 in Frost. Joyce graduated high school from Frost.  She opened a Diner in Frost then moved on to the Haggar Clothing Factory in Waxahachie.  She also worked at Citizens State Bank in Frost as a teller. Joyce married Rev. Frank R. Williams, Jr. on a Sunday morning October 14, 1962 after the regular church services were concluded to the congregations surprise.  This began 40 plus years of dedicated service for them both in the Central Texas United Methodist Church organization.  Joyce was very active in every church they pastored and took the role of being the pastor’s wife very serious.  She was very involved in the ladies ministry and various other functions of the church. She and her husband pastored in this area.  She also enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.  She will be missed by so many who knew her and loved her. She is survived by her son, Russell Williams and his wife, Judi of Waxahachie; her sister, Fanell Dunagan of Frost; her beloved grandchildren, Lindsey & Chase Williams of Waxahachie; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Rev. Frank R. Williams, Jr.; her sister, Sarah Helen “Tommie” Moore; and her parents. Services to celebrate her life are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 20, 2008 at the Pat Boze Memorial Chapel of Wayne Boze Funeral Home with Rev. Delbert Taylor officiating. Interment will follow at the Frost Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at the Wayne Boze Funeral Home. www.waynebozefuneralhome.com

Leonard Lee Hollander
CISCO- Leonard Lee Hollander, age 71, passed away Friday, November 14, 2008 in Fort Worth, TX. Memorial Services will be held Monday, November 24, 2008 at 2:00 PM in the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco with Bob Ferguson officiating. Leonard was born March 16, 1937 in Cisco. He lived all his life in Cisco. It was a community he loved and cherished. In addition to being a loving husband and devoted brother, Leonard was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love and companionship will be greatly missed by each and every one of his children. Leonard is survived by his wife, Janet Hollander; his children, Sheila Holmes, Sean Hollander, Danny Hollander and daughter-in-law, Debbie Hollander; four step-children, Charity Griffin, Crystal Rains, Steven Coslett and Cody Coslett; four grandchildren, Stacy Henslee, Cory Pearson, Dana and Deatra Hollander; eight step-grandchildren, Cole, Haden, Jameson, Tiffany, David, Gabriella, Jon, Kiera; six great-grandchildren; two brothers, Tommy and Jerry Hollander; a nephew, Tommy Hollander; and a host of friends.

Esther Lee Gilbert-Hughes
SUNSET -- Esther Lee Gilbert-Hughes, 76, passed away Nov. 18, 2008 at home. Service: 11:30 a.m. Friday, November 21, 2008 in Mount Olivet Chapel. Interment: Sunset Cemetery. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Mount Olivet Funeral Home. Pallbearers were Lowell Hughes IV, Patrick Cox, Cole Hughes, Taber and Rendon Long, Jory Privett, Tommy Owens and Ramon Chavez. Esther was born April 29, 1932 in Carbon, Texas to Ida and Walter Gilbert, Sr. She lived in Keller from 1968 to 1998 and has resided in Sunset for the last 10 years. Esther married Lowell Hughes, Jr., on Oct. 22, 1950 in Florence, Ariz. Esther retired from Quickway Stamping in Euless. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Horace Gilbert, Sr., sheriff in Sonora in the early 1900’s, Ida Isabell Decker; siblings, Walter Horace Gilbert, Jr., Fred Truman Gilbert, Weldon Bruce Gilbert and Emma Josephine Gilbert and grandchild, Heath Ray Owens. Survivors: husband of 58 years, Lowell Bland Hughes, Jr.; children, Lowell Bland Hughes III and Wu Jing of China, Teresa Lee Cox and husband, Steve, Michelle Denise Long and husband, Tom, Wesley Darryl  Hughes and girlfriend, Debbie Durban, Thera LeAnn Owens and husband, Tommy all of Sunset; grandchildren, Toni Michelle Sharer, Lowell Bland Hughes IV, Shi Wen Hughes, Stacy Leigh Privett, Patrick Wayne Cox, Tomorrow Michelle Long, Taber Rendell Long, Rendon Thomas Long, Wesley Cole Hughes, and Heather LeAnn Owens; great-grandchildren, Scout Dennis-Graham Sharer and Zachary Thomas-Graham Sharer. Mount Olivet Funeral Home 2301 N. Sylvania Ave. Fort Worth, Texas 76111 * 817-831-0511
 
Ed C. ‘Red’ Brown
WOODSON- Ed C. “Red” Brown, 69, died Wednesday, November 19, 2008 in Breckenridge. Funeral services were held at the First Baptist Church in Woodson Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 2 p.m. with Revs. Pete Parker and Danny Brown officiating. Burial followed in Woodson Cemetery under the direction of Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home of Breckenridge. Ed was born to Silas and Virgie White Brown in Lubbock, Texas on September 5, 1939. He was raised in Woodson where he attended Woodson High School graduating in 1958. He attended Cisco Junior College and Ranger Junior College. After working on ranches and in the oilfield for a few years, he met and married the love of his life, Joy Lee Fonville in Breckenridge on January 28, 1961. Red started to work for the Texas Highway Department in Nov. of 1964 at Throckmorton. He retired from the Texas Dept. of Transportation in Throckmorton 38 years later in July of 2002. He was a member and Deacon of the First Baptist Church of Woodson, and past member of the Woodson ISD School Board. Survivors are his wife of 48 years and 10 months, Joy Brown of Woodson; two sons, Eddie Brown and wife Tina of Tuscola and Tommy Brown and wife Tammy of Albany; 5 grandchildren, Garrett, Payden, and Dyllan Brown of Tuscola, Teagan and Taryn Brown of Albany; two sisters, Martha Brown of Woodson and Delores Peacock of Breckenridge; a brother, Gerald Brown of Woodson, and many numerous children and young adults in Woodson, Albany, Tuscola, and Abilene that knew him as “Pa”. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials may be made to the Woodson Cemetery Association, First Baptist Church of Woodson, or the donor’s favorite charity.

Doy Aloe Wheeler
RANGER- Doy Aloe Wheeler, 79, passed away November 18, 2008 in Abilene. Graveside Masonic services were held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, November 22, 2008 in the Eastland City Cemetery. Visitation was Friday evening from 6-8p.m. Arrangements provided by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger. Doy was born on February 17, 1929 in Bomarton, Texas to James and Hester (McGee) Wheeler. He served in the Navy for over 20 years during WWII, Korea and Vietnam. After his discharge from the Navy, he worked in the oil fields and nursing home administration. He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the NRA, VFW and American Legion. He is preceded in death by his parents, a brother John, and a sister Jeannette. He is survived by a son John, two brothers Jimmy and Kenneth Wheeler, a sister Flodell Jones and numerous nieces and nephews.

Paul Aaron Sneed
CISCO-Paul Aaron Sneed, 68, of Cisco passed away Wednesday, November 12, 2008. Services were held Sunday, November 16, 2008 at 3:00 PM at the Calvary Baptist Church in Cisco.  Reverend Phillip Thomas officiated, assisted by Mike Bacon. Burial was in the Scranton Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Paul was born March 9, 1940, to John Ruben and Agnes (Garrett) Sneed in Grosvenor, Texas. He earned a BS degree in Public Administration and was self-employed as an Economist. He married Wanda Avery June 27, 1990, in Cisco and was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church. Paul was survived by his wife, Wanda of Cisco; sons, John Mark Sneed of Cisco and William Gregory Sneed of Doole, TX; daughter, Mary Elizabeth Sneed of Dallas and a brother,Wendell Sneed of Cisco;  five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles Alfred Sneed, Roy Gene Sneed and sister, Edna Joyce Payne.
 
Mark Jerry Olguin
RANGER – Mark Jerry Olguin, 19, of Ranger passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at a Fort Worth hospital. Memorial services were held on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 2:00 PM at the Leon River Cowboy Church, with Rev. Paul Howie officiating. Services and burial will be at Belen, New Mexico at a later date. Mark was born on May 4, 1989 in Farmington, New Mexico. Mark attended school in New Mexico and later moved to Ranger were he was a 2007 Ranger High School graduate. He had attended the University of New Mexico Valencia Campus. While in high school he was very active in football and drama and was an academic honor student. Mark never met a stranger, everywhere he went, whether it was Texas, New Mexico, and even Boston, he made friends. Mark was a giving person, always considerate, honest and loved by all who knew him. Mark was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Jose Chavez. Mark is survived by his parents; Diane and Brett Riggs of Ranger; a sister, Kaitlin Olguin of Ranger; biological father, Mark G. Olguin; step-brothers, Garrett and Colton Riggs of Mineral Wells; maternal grandparents, Frank and Betty Saiz of Los Lunas, New Mexico; paternal grandfather, Jerry Olguin of Los Lunas, New Mexico; step-grandparents, Robert and Becky Riggs of Mineral Wells; step-great-grandmother, Lucille “Granny” Fitzgerald of Weatherford; uncles, Mike, Gerald and Russell Chavez, Doug Connor; step-uncles, Bryan, Blake, Robert, and Brian Keith Riggs, and Keith Pope; aunts, Elaine Connor, Mary Ann Chavez, Judy Saiz and JoAnn Chavez; step-aunts, Jennifer Pope, Michelle and Cindy Riggs; and a host of cousins and friends.

Winston L. Dunlap
CALIFORNIA- Winston L. Dunlap born May 2, 1938 to Jack Anson Dunlap and Ruby Estelle Wyatt Dunlap, in Sudan, Texas, 53 miles NW of Lubbock, died November 14, 2008 in Hermosa Beach, California. Winston graduated from Cisco High School in Cisco, Texas before entering the United States Army in 1958. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service while stationed in Frankfurt, Germany. Winston then came back to attend school at the University of Texas and started his career at the Lone Star Gas company in Dallas. He then worked for Six Flags Theme Park for 17 years and was in charge of the acquisition of Magic Mountain in Los Angeles, California. This brought his family out to the west coast where he eventually left the company as Vice President of Finance. With inspiration from his sons, Winston, Nancy and the boys started DVS Shoe Company in 1995. They grew this company into a worldwide enterprise that today employs over 125 people. As he approached his golden years of enjoyment with his wife and their grandchildren, Alzheimer’s took him away. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Dunlap; his sons, Kevin Dunlap and wife, Alissa of Hermosa Beach, CA., Mike Dunlap and wife, Kirsten of Huntington Beach, CA., Brian Dunlap and wife, Sandy of Manhattan Beach, CA.; grandchildren, Devin, Kale, Ashley, Zack, Cooper, Taylor, all of California; 3 brothers, Wendell Dunlap of Plainview, Gerald Dunlap of Midland, and Durward Dunlap of Pampa; 3 sisters, Winona Keester of Dallas, Annette Hall of Midlothian, and Sherry Meers of Buffalo Gap; and numerous nices and nephews. Public viewing was held Wednesday, November 19, 2008 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at Rice Mortuary in Torrance, CA. Funeral will be Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to the Alzheimers Association, Attn: Development Department, 5900 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1100, Los Angeles, CA. 90036 or to www.alz.org, the Winston L. Dunlap Tribute Fund.

James E. ‘Jake’ Connel
BRONTE- James Edgar ‘Jake’ Connel, 85, of Blackwell died Thursday, November 13, 2008. Funeral services were held Monday, November 17, 2008 at the Bronte Church of Christ at 2 p.m. Burial followed in the Blackwell Cemetery. Arrangements by Shaffer Funeral Home. James was born July 9, 1923. He was one of nine children; seven boys and two girls. He grew up in Clyde and graduated from Abilene Christian College in 1949. He was a WW II veteran serving in the army in the Phillippines. On December 25, 1948 he married Frances E. Thetford. James was in education either teaching or in administration for 45 years. He served on the State Board of Education for a time. He began his teaching career in Avoca later coaching and becoming a superintendent. He then was employed in Richland Springs as a superintendent before moving to Blackwell in 1972 where he was the superintendent for Blackwell schools until he retired in 1991. He enjoyed bowling, golf and woodworking in his retirement. James was a long time member of Bronte Church of Christ and was currently serving as an Elder of the church. He was a loving husband, wonderful father and grandfather, and a faithful servant to the Lord. James was preceded in death by two children, Barbara and Gaylan and five siblings. Survivors are his wife, Frances of Blackwell; his daughter, Linda Dixon and her husband, Roy of Abilene; sons, John Connel of Snyder and Marshall Connel and wife Sandy of Lovington, NM, and Brad Connel and wife Kim of Midland; 17 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; his brothers, Ben Connel and wife, Myota of Phoenix, AZ., and Bob Connel and wife, Edie of Abilene; one sister, Lillie Faye Mann of Lubbock.

Wayne Evans Kirklen
ABILENE- Wayne Evans Kirklen, 87, died Wednesday, November 12, 2008. Graveside service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Hamby Cemetery directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home. Honorary pallbearers were Lance Edwards, Cody Edwards, Ronald Galle, Randall Ferrell, Keith Bryan, Billy Joe Tolliver and Dean Allen. Wayne was born June 2, 1921, at Camp San Saba, Texas to U.S. (Slim) Kirklen and Mabel Evans Kirklen. He graduated from Brady High School and Gulf Coast Business Schools, and attended SMU. He married Lila Selman on January 19, 1940, and enjoyed 68 years of marriage. Wayne was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his daughter, Kay Gist. He was a WW II veteran, having served with the 863rd Bombardier Squadron in the U.S. Army Air Corps. In 1954, he moved to Abilene from Brady. Wayne was a well-known building contractor and master craftsman. He is survived by his wife, Lila Kirklen of Abilene; son, Bobby Kirklen of Abilene and wife, Glenda of Clyde; daughters, Patsy Miller and husband, Jerry of Ovalo, and Betty Edwards and husband, Grady of Eula; 7 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Esther Effie Day
CLYDE- Esther Effie Day, 87, of Baird and formerly of Clyde, died Monday, November 17, 2008 at a local care center. Services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at the Bailey Chapel. Burial followed in the Clyde Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home. Mrs. Day was born May 26, 1921 in Seniors, Texas to Adolph and Jennie (Nellums) Munk. She attended school in San Antonio and graduated from Physicians and Surgeon’s Hospital nursing school in San Antonio. She was the widow of James E. Day, whom she married in 1944 in Yuma, AZ. They moved to San Diego, Ca. from San Antonio in 1943 and to Clyde from San Diego in 1952. They also lived in Philadelphia from 1954-1957, returning to Clyde in 1957. She was a member of the Rebecca Lodge and Cherry Heights Baptist Church in Clyde. Survivors include one son, James Leland Day of Austin; two daughters, Deborah Ana Caldwell of Clyde and Dr. Pegge Jo Rasberry of Eastland County; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband; one son, Wayne Kevin Patterson; five brothers and one sister.

Margaret Cramer
CLYDE- Margaret Cramer, 85, of Clyde, died November 16, 2008 at Hendrick Medical Center, Hospice Unit in Abilene. Services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at the Bailey Funeral Chapel with Terry Davis officiating. Burial followed in the Clyde Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home. Margaret was born September 10, 1923 in Montana. She attended school in Council Bluff, Iowa. She married Ray Cramer on December 1, 1980 and they made their home in Clyde. She came to Clyde from Henderson in 1969. She loved painting and ceramics and she loved her babies. She was a housewife and a member of the Methodist church. Survivors are her husband, Ray Cramer of Clyde; his children, Mr. and Mrs. David Cramer, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Fletcher, and Tracy Robillard, all of Abilene; Margaret’s children, Mr. and Mrs. David R. Beeman of Las Vegas, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Davis and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Beeman, all of Clyde, Mr. Steve Beeman of Baird, and Mr. Jimmy Beeman of Clyde; one sister, Rosetta Parker of Sibley, MO.; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one son, Eddie Beeman; one daughter, Kathy Graham; one stepdaughter, Wendy Cramer; three brothers, Dewey, Tommy and Clyde Davis; and two sisters, Pearl Froman and Viola Withem. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, P.O. Box 1922, Abilene, Texas 79604.

Bertha Marie Moats Hazard
WEATHERFORD – Bertha Marie (Moats) Hazard, 95, passed away Monday November 10, 2008 in Weatherford.
Graveside services were held Thursday, November 13, 2008 at 2:00 P.M. in Merriman Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger. There is no set visitation.
Bertha was born March 10, 1913 in Thurber, Texas to Melson and Josephine (Kelley) Moats. She attended school in Thurber and Ranger. She married George Hazard and they made their home in the Ranger area. She worked for Montgomery Ward and Brays Department Store. She later worked at Ranger College. She was a member of the First Baptist Church. She lived near her daughter in Weatherford for the past several years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and three sons, Bob, George and Jack Hazard.
She is survived by a daughter, Deanne Carter and husband Roddy of Weatherford, daughters- in-law, Ella and Shirley Hazard of Sweetwater and Betty Hazard of Odessa, 12 grandchildren and 38 great and great-great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Covenant Care Hospice, 3221 Collinsworth St # 160, Fort Worth, TX 76107

Linda J. Landrum
WACO- Linda Landrum of Waco died Sunday, November 9, 2008 at Parkland Hospital.
Services were held at 10 a.m. Friday, November 14, 2008 at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel with Randy Dale officiating. Burial followed at Potosi Cemetery in Potosi at 4 p.m.
Linda was born February 12, 1940 in Cross Plains, Texas, to Carl and Dorothy Edington. She graduated from Abilene High School in 1958 and attended McMurray University. She married Harold Landrum on August 1, 1959. She worked for Hallmark Greeting Cards for over 20 years. Linda was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church of Waco. She was a member of several service organizations, such as Texas Preceptor ETA ETA Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi for over 45 years, Good Time Garden Club, and Waco Christian Women’s Connection.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy Edington; and her brother, Don Edington.
She is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, Harold Landrum; her father, Carl Edington; two sons, David Landrum and his wife, Dana, of Mansfield; grandchildren, Laci, Whitney, and Dylan Landrum; and Derin Landrum and his wife Melissa, of Waco; and grandchildren, Blake, Will and Hayden Landrum.
Honorary pallbearers were Dylan Landrum, Blake Landrum, Will Landrum, Hayden Landrum, Charles Hillburn, Don Baber, Larry McCraw, and Steve McCraw.
Memorials may be made to the Susan G. Koman Cancer Foundation.

Mark Olguin
Memorial service for Mark Olguin, 19, of Ranger will be held Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the Leon River Cowboy Church in Olden. 
Mark is the son of Brett and Diane Riggs of Ranger and the brother of Kaitlin Olguin. 
Mark was a 2007 graduate of Ranger High School.  He attended Leon River Cowboy Church and was employed at Auto Zone in Eastland, Texas.

Jerlene ‘Jerry’ Sue Toland
CISCO- Jerlene “Jerry” Sue Toland, 84, of Cisco passed away Friday, November 7, 2008 , at Homestead Nursing and Rehab in Cisco.
  Services were Sunday, November 9, 2008 at 2:00 PM in First Baptist Church officiated by Reverend Marvin Baucom, Ross Honea, Billy Griffin and Rileigh Storrs.  Burial followed in the Nimrod Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.  Visitation was 5~ 7 PM Saturday in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel.
  Jerry was born in Gould, Oklahoma on February 11, 1924 to Paul Hamilton and Sally (Patrick) McDaniel.  She married Carl Warren on May 8, 19 43 , she later married Tommy Toland on January 6, 1973 he preceded her in death in 2001.
  She was manager of the bookstore at Cisco Junior College and was a member of First Baptist Church . 
  She is survived by daughter, Betty Griffin of Trinity; sons, Larry Warren and wife Donna of Cisco and Randy Warren and wife Sharon of Mesquite; grandchildren. Betha Griffin Storrs and husband Jeff, Billy Carl Griffin and wife Staci, Belynda Griffin Black, Brandie Warren Chapman and husband Russell, Clayton Roy Warren, Heather Warren Smith and husband Daniel, Shawana Warren Chambers and husband Matt, Adam Wayne Warren and wife Cheryl, Christina and Don Gibbins, Glen and Suzy Perkins; great grand  children, Rileigh and Mason Storrs, Miranda and Chole Griffin, Reece and Cassi Black, Haleigh Prather and Hunter Weir and Carter Smith, Paige and Rode Chapman, Tristan Warren and Harley Cantrell, Dusty and Derick Gibbons; brother-in-law, Travis Toland and wife Wanda; sister-in-law, Virginia Toland; and nephews, Jerry Toland and wife Sharon and Travis Toland.
  Pallbearers were Billy Griffin, Jeff Storrs, Russell Chapman, Matt Cantrell, Adam Warren and Daniel Smith; honorary pallbearers were Joe Jarvis and Charles Fisher.

Nova Sharp George
RANGER- Nova Sharp George, 77 of Ranger went to the Lord on November 6, 2008 after a lengthy illness. 
She passed away in Kindred Southwest Hospital in Fort Worth .
Services were held at 2:00 PM Monday, November 10, 2008 in Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, with interment in Bear Springs Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
  Ms. George was born in Olden, TX on February 20, 1931 to James Frank and Virgie Lucille (Yancy) Sharp.  She retired from nursing in 1994.  She worked in hospitals and was Director of Nurses in nursing homes in Baird, Cisco, Eagle Pass and Eastland.  After leaving Eastland County to help raise her grandchildren, she worked at and retired from Wichita Falls State Hospital .  After her retirement, he did private setting and worked part time for a local home health agency.
  She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Siler of Ranger; son, Jim Siler of Wynnewood, OK; six grandsons, Kirk Siler of Austin, Kevin and Mark Siler of Round Rock, Jeremy Robinson of Breckenridge, Dederic and Zacchary Siler; two granddaughters, Kelly Massey of Shreveport, LA and Jamie Honea of Brownwood; six great grandchildren, Layton, Shelby, Brooke, Peyton, Ben and Raegan; brother T.E. Sharp of Mission.  She also survived by tow step sons, Mike George of Joshua and Dirk George of Fort Worth and their children, Mica, Jessica, Dana and Kirk.
Her parents, three brothers and one sister preceded her in death.
  Nova was a tower of strength for many people and will be greatly missed by all, including her many cousins, nieces and nephews.  May our sad loss be Heavens joyous gain.

Adren Gonce
 EASTLAND – Adren Gonce, 71, of Lake Leon, passed away Thursday, November 6, 2008 in Abilene.
Graveside services were held at 4:00 P.M. Saturday, November 8, 2008 at the Simpson Cemetery with Chad Gosnell officiating and under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Visitation was at 9:00 A.M. Saturday morning at the funeral home.
Adren was born on May 5, 1937 in Breckenridge to Ollie & Nettie Pearl (Reynolds) Gonce. He married Verta Roberts on April 9, 1955 in Plainview. He was self-employed in the pest control business for 30 years and had worked at Wal-Mart in Eastland for a year. He was a member of the Country Cowboy Church. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Darlene Norris.
Survivors include his wife, Verta; a son, Clayton Gonce of San Antonio; a daughter, Donna Gonce of Eastland; a brother, Eddie Earl Gonce of Hereford; a sister, Mavis Green of Lawton, OK; grandchildren, Kevin Gonce of San Antonio, Kimberly Nigh and Tanya Kennedy, both of Amarillo, Greg McCormick of Stephenville, Chris McCormick, Ryan McCormick and Ashlee Norris, all of Eastland; and several great-grandchildren.

Sue Sparkman Clements
EASTLAND – Sue Sparkman Clements, 74 of Blanket, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2008 in Dallas.
Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday at the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco with Larry Fitzgerald officiating and under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland. The family received friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6 until 8 P.M.
Mrs. Clements was born March 9, 1934 in Abilene to Eulis Jefferson and Alma Lorene (Trimble) Sparkman. She grew up in the Scranton and Cisco area. She married William Ivery Hunt and they lived in Cisco while raising 5 children. She later married Willie Clements. She moved to Blanket in 1992 and attended Faith Baptist Church in Brownwood. She was also preceded in death by a son, Curtis Moore in 2007. She enjoyed cooking, making jelly and spending time with her grandchildren.
Survivors include 4 children, William Gerald Hunt of Waco, Ivery Joe Hunt of Bangs, Roxie Sue Lawrence of Early and Cindy Lou Gilbert of San Angelo; a brother, Bobby Joe Sparkman of Midland; a sister, Lena Brown of Eastland; 16 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

John W. McMinn
RANGER – John Weston McMinn, 82, passed away Saturday, November 8, 2008 in Abilene.
Graveside services were held at 9 AM Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at the Evergreen Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger.
John was born December 3, 1925 in Tucson, Arizona to W.R. and Janoria (Hoph) McMinn. He graduated from Ewing High School in Cordell, Tx. John settled in Ranger in 1944 and was a self-employed mechanic for 50 years.
He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, David and Robert McMinn.
He is survived by two children and a good friend Doug Manken.

Jimmy L. McNutt
CROSS PLAINS- Jimmy L. McNutt, 56, of Cross Plains died Friday, November 7, 2008 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, November 10, 2008 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ronnie B. White officiating. Burial was in the Cross Plains Cemetery.
Jimmy was born on November 26, 1951 in Rising Star, Texas. He worked as a mechanic and was a Baptist. Jimmy always put his heart on the line for other people. He had a generous hand and open heart to all people. He loved life and all the people that came into his life.
He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Rudloff of Mansfield; sons, Byron McNutt of Abilene, Brenton McNutt of Cross Plains; sisters, Joan Apple of Cross Plains, Mary Lou Ashcroft of Temple; and brother, Glen McNutt of Brazoria; and two grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Edgar.

William ‘Bill’ Shoffnor Moore
ABILENE- Bill Moore, 79, died Friday, November 7, 2008 at an Abilene nursing home.
Graveside services were held Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at Moran Cemetery with Rev. Jack Clack officiating and directed by Godfrey-Neese Funeral Home.
Bill was born in Stirrant, West Virginia. He lived in WV his young life. He joined the US Air Force 1947-1951. Bill met his wife Donna while stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base. Donna was attending University of Texas at Austin. After their marriage, Bill attended Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls. After graduation he entered the construction field. He traveled to several states, Washington State, and Kansas building Atlas Missle Silos. He then moved to North Carolina in 1963-1997. he was a construction superintendent for building projects, including schools, malls, service stations, and theaters. Bill and wife Donna moved to Moran in 1997 after retirement, to Donna’s family homeplace. Bill was a veteran and a 50 year Mason. He enjoyed old cars and was known as the man driving his 1928 model A Ford with black lab in the back seat.
He is survived by his wife Donna Moore; daughter, Leslie Rivers; son and wife, Shof and Laura Moore; grandchildren, William Smith, Tanner Moore, and Shelby Moore.

Amy Hewison Greathouse
ABILENE- Amy Hewison Greathouse, 72, of Abilene died Tuesday, November 4, 2008 in Dallas, Texas at Baylor Medical Center.
Amy was born June 28, 1936 in North Shields, England. She was a former resident of Big Spring, San Angelo and Sweetwater.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 2008 at the Bailey Chapel with Dr. Herbert Wood officiating. Burial followed in the Eula Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home in Clyde.
Mrs. Greathouse is survived by her husband, Ben Greathouse of Abilene; her mother, Amy Hewison of North Shields, England; her brother, Albert Hewison and wife June, of North Shields; her sister, Muriel Reay and husband Harry of Houston; her daughter, Mickey Faircloth and husband Auddie of Eula; her sons, Troy White and wife Cindy of Eula and Cary White and wife Paula of Weatherford; one stepson, John Greathouse of Austin; two stepdaughters, Susan Bennett and husband Mark of Austin and Sandra Duke of Canyon; twelve grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and her lifelong chum, Rita “Beavers” Spencer.
She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Hewison, and one daughter, Debbie White.

Donald Bruce Groce
BAIRD- Donald Bruce Groce, 69, of Baird, died Tuesday, November 4, 2008 in Hendrick Hospice.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2008 at the Parker Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Jimmy Hatcher officiating. Interment, with military honors, followed in Ross Cemetery, Spencer-Price Addition. Services under the direction of Parker Funeral Home of Baird.
Don was born March 25, 1939, in Gorman, Texas, to Bruce Lanier Groce and Hazel Rhoades Groce. He graduated from Clyde High School in 1958 and attended the U.S. Naval Academy. He married Bess Tollett on March 13, 1963 in Baird. Don served in the U.S. Navy for 22 years, retiring in 1989 as a highly decorated Senior Chief Boatswain Mate. A member of the Navy Seals, he served several tours of duty during the Vietnam Conflict. Honors awarded for his dedicated service included the Navy Cross, 5 Purple Hearts, 3 Bronze Stars with Combat Valor, 2 Navy Commendations Medals, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medals, Presidential Unit Citations, Brigade Level Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Regiment Level Vietnam Gallantry Cross. He had resided in Baird for 27 years where he worked for Groce, Inc. Oil Field Leases, served as the Baird City Marshall for 4 years from 1989 until 1993, and also worked for the Baird ISD as a bus driver.
Survivors include his wife Bess Groce of Baird; a daughter, Kim Groce of Baird; a son, Brian Groce and his wife Rebecca of Auora, Colorado; a sister, Cindy Cunningham and her husband Obbie of Humble, Texas; and three nephews, Taylor and Heather Wells and family of Waco, Micah Wells of Odessa, and Jake and Nichole Wells and family of Midland.

James Weldon ‘J.W.’ Collins
PUTNAM- James Weldon “J.W.” Collins, 29, died Thursday, November 6, 2008 at his home in Putnam.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 2008 at the Parker Funeral Home Chapel with Robert Winter officiating. Interment followed in Putnam Cemetery. Services directed by Parker Funeral Home of Baird.
J.W. was born April 2, 1979 in Eastland to James C. “Sonny” Collins and Jolynn Whitehead Collins. He attended schools in Baird, graduating from Baird High School in 1997. He had participated in basketball and track for the Baird Bears. He attended Cisco Junior College and Texas State Technical Institute. J.W. was an independent welder. He had been attending as Jesus Walked Ministries in Abilene.
J.W. is survived by his parents Sonny and Jolynn Collins of Putnam; two sons, James Clay Collins and Jake Weldon Collins, both of Baird; his brother, Denver Clay Collins of Plano; grandmother, Martha Collins of Baird; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Laurice Jensen Weir
NORTH PLATTE, NE - Laurice Jensen Weir, 88, of North Platte, NE, formerly of Fort Worth, TX. died Thursday, November 6, 2008 at Linden Court in North Platte.
Laurice was born August 21, 1920 to Robert Pierce and Sarah Annie Johnson Slough in Oplin, TX where she grew up and attended school.
Laurice married Dee Carrel ‘D.C.’ Rutherford on June 12, 1937 at Baird, Texas. They made their home there in the Abilene area. She worked as a PBX Operator in the Abilene area and for the Fort Worth State School until it closed.
Laurice married Edwin B. Weir on August 12, 1967 in Oklahoma and they made their home in Fort Worth. After Edwin’s death she later moved to North Platte in January 2004 to be near her daughter Beth.
Laurice was a member of the Church of Christ, Petroleum Club Desk and Derrick, South Fort Worth Business Women’s Club, PBX Club and a Garden Club.
Survivors include her daughter Beth (Jerry) Parrish of North Platte; two sons, Wayne (Atriel) Rutherford of Abilene and Gene Rutherford of Big Spring; a stepson, Morris (Barb) Weir of Clifton, TX; a sister, Jackie (Oscar) Knight of Granbury; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edwin; a stepson, Dean Weir; two sisters, Roberta Dorothea Stephenson and Betty Lou Christine Townsend; a brother, Paul Weldon Slough and two grandchildren.
Cremation was chosen. A memorial graveside service was held at 4 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 2008 in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Abilene. Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore was in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent to odeanchapel.com

Stanley Morris
MERKEL- Stanley Morris, 55, died Thursday, November 6, 2008 at his home.
Services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, November 10, 2008 at Merkel First Baptist Church with Rev. Jimmy Griffith officiating, directed by Starbuck Funeral Home.
Stanley was born April 17, 1953 in Sweetwater to Ella (Walters) and Amos Morris. he married Fay Warren on May 30, 1970 in Sweetwater. Stanley was a Baptist. He was a mechanic by trade and had worked for A.J. Enterprises, R.L. Anderson, TxDOT and for his brother at Morris Automotive. His hobbies included fishing and baseball. He loved his family especially his grandchildren and cats. Stanley was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was in the middle of building a race-car.
Survivors include his wife, Fay Morris of Merkel; two daughters, Melissa Reagan and husband, Shane of Olden, Stacy Williams and husband, Calvin of Trent; six sisters, Lena Jackson, Annie Mae Brenem, Alice “Bugsy” Chacon and Joyce Doan all of Trent, Jean Holte of Fargo, ND, Brenda Boyd of Athens; three brothers, Gary Lynn Morris of Clyde, Clifton Morris of Haskell, Larry Morris of Bakersfield, CA; six grandchildren, Lauren, Lindsey, Shelbi, Mackensy, Ashley and Tyler.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Stanley Paul; a sister, Rosie Nell Chase; and a brother, David.

Jimmy L. McNutt
CROSS PLAINS- Jimmy L. McNutt, 56, of Cross Plains died Friday, November 7, 2008 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, November 10, 2008 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ronnie B. White officiating. Burial was in the Cross Plains Cemetery.
Jimmy was born on November 26, 1951 in Rising Star, Texas. He worked as a mechanic and was a Baptist. Jimmy always put his heart on the line for other people. He had a generous hand and open heart to all people. He loved life and all the people that came into his life.
He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Rudloff of Mansfield; sons, Byron McNutt of Abilene, Brenton McNutt of Cross Plains; sisters, Joan Apple of Cross Plains, Mary Lou Ashcroft of Temple; and brother, Glen McNutt of Brazoria; and two grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Edgar.

Addie Odessa White
EASTLAND – Christmas in Heaven this year, with her beloved husband, will be the reward for Addie “Odessa” White. With her daughters by her side, Odessa abandoned her battle with cancer to find peace in the arms of the Lord on Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at the age of 85.
Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, November, 8, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church in Eastland, with Rex Boggs officiating assisted by Randy Beggs.  Burial will follow at Ross Annex Cemetery in Baird, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland. Visitation was Friday evening 6:00 to 8:00 at the funeral home.
  Odessa spent most of her life raising her daughters, spoiling her grandchildren and caring for her family.  She also worked by her husband’s side in the grocery business until their retirement from Super Save Grocery in Eastland.  She was happiest when she had her family around her.  She touched many lives and was a wonderful Christian woman.  She was loved and will be missed by many.  She grew up in the Scranton/Putnam area and married G. A. on December 29, 1943 in Cisco.  She was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Eastland. 
  She moved to Austin after the death of her husband in 2002 to Parmer Woods Assisted Living.  It was there that she found a very special friend named Phyllis. They have been inseparable for the past 6 years and were known as the “twins” wherever they went.   She and Phyllis moved to Vista Oaks Assisted Living of Lakeway.  These two women had a very special bond and Odessa was blessed to enjoy her final time on earth with such a special companion, where she was active until one week before her passing.
Preceding her in death were her parents, W. J. & Addie Shirley, one sister and four brothers. 
She was a loving wife to G.A. White for 58 years before his death in 2002. 
She is survived by her two daughters, Carolyn Bolt and husband John of Burleson and Marilyn Beggs and husband Sam of Austin; four grandchildren, Greg Bolt of Houston, Paul Bolt of Burleson, Dax Beggs of Lockhart and Wende Beggs Jones of Kyle; along with 8 great-grandchildren, Shawna and Dallas Bolt, Tye, Steiley, and Kix Beggs, and Jake, Jett and Addison “Addi” Jones, named after her grandmother; along with her best friend, Phyllis Weathers of Austin; one brother, Earl Shirley of Abilene. 
Memorials may be made to the Hospice chapter who we are so indebted.  Odyssey Health Care, 4201 W. Parmer Lane, Suite 100, Bldg. C, Austin, Texas  78727.
  No words could possibly express our appreciation to Vista Oaks Assisted Living of Lakeway, which is an “age in place” facility that allow residents to remain in their apartment and are cared for and treated with dignity, love and respect until they leave their earthly home.  Also, Odyssey Health Care who offered 24 hour continuing care, never leaving her side and giving the family unbelievable support during her final week and last but not least the family of Phyllis Weathers who stayed by our side and were constant with their love and support and will always be a part of our extended family. 

James Carlyle Lawrence, II
CISCO- James Carlyle Lawrence, II, 23, went to be with his Lord Wednesday evening, November 5, 2008 at an Abilene hospital.
Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 2008 graveside in the Aspermont Cemetery officiated by Rev. Robby Harris under the care and direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Aspermont.
James was born in St. Jospeh, Missouri to James and Kathy Lawrence. James loved to do arts and crafts and work with his hands, he also loved to work on cars.
Survivors include his parents James and Kathy Lawrence of Cisco; sister, Wendy Dawn Fuquay and husband Kenneth of Cisco;
maternal grandparents Harold and Bessie Kingery of Clyde; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Donald Bruce Groce
BAIRD- Donald Bruce Groce, 69, of Baird, died Tuesday, November 4, 2008 in Hendrick Hospice.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2008 at the Parker Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Jimmy Hatcher officiating. Interment, with military honors, followed in Ross Cemetery, Spencer-Price Addition. Services under the direction of Parker Funeral Home of Baird.
Don was born March 25, 1939, in Gorman, Texas, to Bruce Lanier Groce and Hazel Rhoades Groce. He graduated from Clyde High School in 1958 and attended the U.S. Naval Academy. He married Bess Tollett on March 13, 1963 in Baird. Don served in the U.S. Navy for 22 years, retiring in 1989 as a highly decorated Senior Chief Boatswain Mate. A member of the Navy Seals, he served several tours of duty during the Vietnam Conflict. Honors awarded for his dedicated service included the Navy Cross, 5 Purple Hearts, 3 Bronze Stars with Combat Valor, 2 Navy Commendations Medals, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medals, Presidential Unit Citations, Brigade Level Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Regiment Level Vietnam Gallantry Cross. He had resided in Baird for 27 years where he worked for Groce, Inc. Oil Field Leases, served as the Baird City Marshall for 4 years from 1989 until 1993, and also worked for the Baird ISD as a bus driver.
Survivors include his wife Bess Groce of Baird; a daughter, Kim Groce of Baird; a son, Brian Groce and his wife Rebecca of Auora, Colorado; a sister, Cindy Cunningham and her husband Obbie of Humble, Texas; and three nephews, Taylor and Heather Wells and family of Waco, Micah Wells of Odessa, and Jake and Nichole Wells and family of Midland.

J.W. Collins
PUTNAM- James Weldon “J.W.” Collins, 29, died Thursday, November 6, 2008 at his home in Putnam.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 8, 2008 at the Parker Funeral Home Chapel with Robert Winter officiating. Interment followed in Putnam Cemetery. Services directed by Parker Funeral Home of Baird.
J.W. was born April 2, 1979 in Eastland to James C. “Sonny” Collins and Jolynn Whitehead Collins. He attended schools in Baird, graduating from Baird High School in 1997. He had participated in basketball and track for the Baird Bears. He attended Cisco Junior College and Texas State Technical Institute. J.W. was an independent welder. He had been attending as Jesus Walked Ministries in Abilene.
J.W. is survived by his parents Sonny and Jolynn Collins of Putnam; two sons, James Clay Collins and Jake Weldon Collins, both of Baird; his brother, Denver Clay Collins of Plano; grandmother, Martha Collins of Baird; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cecil Leon Boles
CISCO- Cecil Leon Boles, 65, of Cisco passed away Thursday, October 30, 2008 in Dallas.
Services were held at 2 PM Sunday, November 2, 2008
at the Cisco First Baptist Church with B. W. Carr officiating. Burial followed in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Leon was born March 12, 1943, in Cisco to Cecil Sherman and Willie Hazel (Carr) Boles. He was a graduate of Cisco High School. He lived in Cisco all of his life except for a short time spent in Strawn. He was employed by the City of Cisco for 33 years and served as the Director of Public Works.
He married Helen Kile on June 14, 1963, in Cisco. Leon was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church . He was active in many organizations—Cisco Lion’s Club, Past Master of the Cisco Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, past member of the Cisco Rotary Club, West Texas Water Utilities Association, an Honorary Fireman and a Plumbing Inspector. Leon was an avid guns-man and outdoors-man. Everyone who knew Leon and Helen knew that they were very family oriented and have enjoyed family vacations to Corpus Christi since 1980.
Survivors include his wife, Helen; two sons, Glenn and Randy Boles; mother, Willie Hazel Foster, all of Cisco; brothers and sisters, Delores Boles, Jerry Boles and wife, Celia, and Bobby Foster, all of Cisco, Catherine Krensavage and husband, George, of McKinney, Doris Sumrow and husband, Jimmy, and Linda Bloomingdale and husband, David, all of Humble; three grandchildren, Dustin Keith, Ryan Barnes and Kenna Barnes also survive.
Leon will be missed greatly by his family and many friends.
Serving as pallbearers were Truly Clark, Mike Moore, Herman Eaker, Jimmy Yowell, Ted Fields, Rex Fields and Randy Johnson.
Honorary pallbearers were Dustin Keith, Ryan Barnes, Eris Ritchie and Lewis Burns.

Gene Bush
CROSS PLAINS- Gene Bush, 73, of Cross Plains died Thursday, October 30, 2008 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, November 3, 2008 at Higginbotham Funeral Chapel in Cross Plains with Bob Pipes officiating. Burial was in the Cottonwood Cemetery.
He was born on June 5, 1935 in Santa Anna, Texas to Lester and Lucille (Champion) Bush. He was a graduate of Cross Plains High School in 1954, and attended and graduated from Tarleton in Stephenville. He served in the United States Navy. He was a member of the Church of Christ.
He is survived by his daughter, Susan Larsen and husband, Brett of Dallas; brother, Neil Bush of Lubbock; two grandchildren, Sarah and John Larsen.

Edith Marie Quarles Reeve
Edith Marie (Quarles) Reeve died November 5, 2008 in Angleton Texas.
Memorial Service will be Thursday, November 6, 2008 at 2 p.m. at the West Columbia Retirement Village in the Club House.
She was a graduate of Carbon High School and had gone on and received her LVC license.
Widow of Bruce Reeve, and survived by son Daniel, daughters Deana and Margaret, 5 grandsons, 1 granddaughter and 4 great-grandchildren and sister Ruby Dell (Quarles) Ward and her husband Barry.

William Russell Edwards
RANGER - William Russell Edwards, 78, passed away Monday November 3, 2008 in Eastland. Services will be Thursday at 10:00 A.M. at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger with burial following in Evergreen Cemetery. There is no set visitation.
Mr. Edwards was born on December 28, 1929 in Ranger to William Tom and Alma May (Russell) Edwards. He married Lucy Norton in Ranger on June 27, 1951 and they had two children, Charles and Christy.
Mr. Edwards loved to fish, hunt and watch college football. He and Lucy played dominoes for many years and attended the Lake Leon Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife Lucy, children Charles R. Edwards and Christy Renteria, a sister Pat, 9 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Julia Beth Sellers
MESA, AZ– Julia Beth Sellers, age 75, died Wednesday, October 29, 2008 in Mesa, Arizona.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at 11 AM at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Interment followed at Eastland City Cemetery with Jim Andrews officiating.
Julia Beth Hurt was born July 24, 1933 in Eastland, TX to Columbus and Eddie Belle (McCleskey) Hurt. She graduated from Eastland High School in 1950. She married Billy Charles Sellers in Monahans, TX on September 4, 1953. They both attended and graduated from West Texas State College. Billy and Beth were blessed with three sons. They moved to Arizona in 1962. Beth was a special education teacher for thirty two years. She worked with the 4H clubs and was always involved in numerous different activities. Many students graduated that other teachers had given up on because of Beth’s dedication and determination for the students she taught. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Kearney, Arizona.
Beth was preceded in death by her parents and one brother.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years; three sons, Dave Sellers of South Dakota, Randy Sellers of Arizona and Douglas Sellers of Texas; her sister, Rhea Ward of Midland; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and her very close friend, Gudrun Kelso.

Kieleigh Ruth Anne Stephens
CROSS PLAINS- Kieleigh Ruth Anne Stephens, 11 months, died Monday, November 3, 2008 in Abilene, as a result of injuries sustained in an auto accident.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, November 6, 2008 at First Baptist Church in Cross Plains with Matt McGowen officiating. Burial to follow in the Sabanno Cemetery. Higginbotham Funeral Home of Cross Plains was in charge of the arrangements.
She was born November 17, 2007 to Garrett and Lauralei Cheri Wheeler Stephens in Abilene. She was here for a short time, but gave immeasurable love and joy to her family and all that had the opportunity to know her.
She is survived by her parents, Garrett and Cheri Stephens of Cottonwood; maternal grandparents, Randy and Shannon Wheeler of Fort Worth; paternal grandparents, Wade and Pat Stephens of Cottonwood; great-grandparents, Judy and Trubon Wheeler of Acton, Odean and Shirley Smoot of Pioneer, Ann Stephens of Valera, Delphine Watson of Abilene, Dwayne and Emma Watson of Merkel; aunts, Randi Dawn Wheeler and Megan Wheeler both of Fort Worth, Janeal and Ed Yancey of Alabam, AR and Erin Stephens of Abilene; cousin, Vallie Yancey of Alabam, AR; as well as several great-aunts, uncles, and other cousins.

Lena Spivey
CLYDE- Services for Lena Spivey of Killeen were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at Bailey Funeral Home in Clyde, Texas. Burial followed at Clyde Cemetery.
Lena died Sunday, November 2, 2008 in Harker Heights.
She was born May 22, 1934, at the Freeman home in Clyde, to Ed and Ivilene Freeman.
Lena was a member of Memorial Baptist Church in Killeen. She retired after working a number of years as a beautician in Clyde, Killeen and Dripping Springs.
She enjoyed bowling, working crossword puzzles and reading.
She was preceded in death by her husband Billy Hubert Spivey in June 1995 and her parents.
Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Ronnie Parker of Harker Heights; her son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Cherie Spivey of Burnet; her grandsons, Adam Parker and wife Carrie of Harker Heights and Jacob Spivey of Burnet; great-granddaughters, Bailey and Bevin Parker of Harker Heights; her sister, Eva Cooper of Abilene; several nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Memorial Baptist Church Project 31, 4001 Trimmier Road Killeen, Texas 76542.

Gene Bush
CROSS PLAINS- Gene Bush, 73, of Cross Plains died Thursday, October 30, 2008 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, November 3, 2008 at Higginbotham Funeral Chapel in Cross Plains with Bob Pipes officiating. Burial was in the Cottonwood Cemetery.
He was born on June 5, 1935 in Santa Anna, Texas to Lester and Lucille (Champion) Bush. He was a graduate of Cross Plains High School in 1954, and attended and graduated from Tarleton in Stephenville. He served in the United States Navy. He was a member of the Church of Christ.
He is survived by his daughter, Susan Larsen and husband, Brett of Dallas; brother, Neil Bush of Lubbock; two grandchildren, Sarah and John Larsen.

Ronald ‘Ron’ Scheuren, Sr.
Ronald (Ron) Scheuren, Sr. of Cisco passed away at his home in Cisco on Tuesday, October 28, 2008. Mr. Scheuren was cremated, Funeral Mass was held at 2:00 PM Thursday, October 30, 2008 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Cisco, officiated by Deacon Ruben Cassaneda and Father Kyle Walerscheid. Ron was born in Philadelphia, PA on November 17, 1943 to Thomas Joseph and Catherine (Gerrity) Scheuren. He served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War.  He married Pauline Wachsmann on November 20, 1965 in Wichita Falls, Texas.  He worked as an accountant and was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. He is survived by his wife, Pauline of Cisco; children, Daniel Brock and wife Lisa of Gainsville, GA, Barbara Jessup and husband Larry of Early, Sgt. Ronald Scheuren, Jr. and wife Gail of Fort Hood, and Cathy Scheuren and mate Brian Fondren of Evant; sister, Elizabeth Schmitt and husband Pat of Philadelphia, PA; brother, Joseph Scheuren and wife Carol of Lindonuold, NJ; and 6 grandchildren. His parents, 2 sisters, 1 brother and son, Tommy Brock, preceded him in death. Memorials may be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital, West Texas Rehab, American Cancer Society or Cisco Food Pantry.

Catherine Sue Cooper Mason
Catherine Sue Cooper Mason passed away on October 27, 2008 in Hilo, Hawaii at the age of 74. Catherine was born to W. H. and Gladys Trantham Cooper on December 9, 1933 in Eastland, TX. Catherine attended Eastland High School where she was a majorette and played tennis on the team that won the regional championship. After graduating in 1951 she was accepted to Stephens College with a full scholarship, but elected to go to TCU where she majored in ballroom dancing, much to the chagrin of her parents. In 1954 she married Robert (Booger Red) Nixon Jr., and together they had four children, Robert Nixon III, Sheri, Timothy and Kyle. Catherine often joined Booger Red on the rodeo circuit while living in Texas and raising paint horses in Louisiana. As an accomplished seamstress she designed and made all of the competition rodeo outfits for Booger as well as Bobby and Sheri when they competed. In 1972 she married Bill Mason and traveled the world with Bill’s company to Malaysia, Scotland, Lima, Peru, and finally to Hawaii. After Bill passed away in 1982 Catherine continued to live in Hilo, Hawaii overlooking the Pacific Ocean from her lanai. She enjoyed snorkeling with her children and grandchildren to swim with the sea turtles and tropical fish. She often returned to Texas to visit family and friends over the years. Catherine had an infectious sense of humor, loved and cared for her family, and lived life to the fullest. Catherine was preceded in death by W. H. and Gladys Cooper, Bill Mason and Booger Red Nixon, son Timothy Nixon, and grandson, Billy Bob Powell. She is survived by sons Bobby (Robert William) Nixon, III of Eastland, TX, Kyle Nixon, Dallas, TX, and daughter Sheri Powell, Volcano, HI, a grandchild, Brandi Satre and her husband Andrew, and great grandchildren Jason, Taylor, Isaiah and Bridey, a brother Bill and wife Peggy Cooper, Corpus Christi, Tx, nieces, Carolyn Jenkins and Becky Boerner, nephew, Billy Cooper, her beloved maltese, Kui, and many friends. Visitation will he held at Edwards Funeral Home on Sunday, November 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Funeral service will be officiated by Rex Boggs at the First Christian Church on Monday, November 3rd at 1:30pm with burial service immediately afterwards at Eastland Cemetery.

Rudolph Little
EASTLAND- Rudolph Little, 86, of Olden, died in Abilene, October 28, 2008. Funeral services were held at 2 PM Friday, October 31, 2008 in Eastland with Rev. Bryan Patrick officiating. Burial was in Eastland City Cemetery. Mr. Little was born March 31, 1922 in Graham, Texas to Clarence Looney Little and Lillie Mae Watkins. He moved to Eastland as a child, graduating in the class of 1939, when he began farming on the family farm in Stephens County. During WWII he worked for General Dynamics aircraft factory in Fort Worth. He married Opal Ramsey in Eastland where they made their home. He began working for Texas Electric Service Co. in the Olden Generating plant, retiring in 1983. They then moved to Olden where he was active in producing prize winning pecans and was an expert in grafting and stock market investing. He was very involved in the Muscular Dystrophy Association after the death of his son, Ben. He was a member of First United Methodist Church where he was the Sunday School Superintendent and served on many committees. He also served on the Olden Water Board. He was proceeded in death by a son Ben in 1963. He is survived by his wife, Opal Little; sister, Janis Little Solomon; niece, Susan and husband Nick Toscano; and several other nieces and nephews. Memorials can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Merlene Ross King
EASTLAND – Merlene Ross King, 82, of Eastland, passed away Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at a local hospital. Services were held at 2 P.M. Thursday, October 30, 2008 at the First Baptist Church with Jim Wright and Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Burial followed in the Eastland City Cemetery, directed by Edwards Funeral Home. Merlene was born Dec. 12, 1925, in Portales, NM to Jacob and Bertha (Churchwell) Ross. She moved to Eastland at an early age. She began dating her future husband, Bob King, in high school, and they married Dec. 18, 1948. She was a graduate of Eastland High School and Texas Wesleyan University. She taught school in Breckenridge and Eastland, as well as being a sorority sponsor and fraternity hostess, focusing on teaching social skills. They lived in Breckenridge for a while, where they operated King Motor Co. for several years. While there she was active in the Women’s Forum. She aided her children’s rodeo activity by taking them to competitions, her daughter Vicki being very accomplished in horsemanship. Merlene was an accomplished artist in painting by watercolor, glass painting and, most of all, sculpting. She took great pride in decorating a new home in 1996 around her artist work. She was proud of being the wife of an Aggie and an Aggie Mom. Survivors include a son, Rob King and wife, Debra, of Eastland; a daughter, Vicki King of Gonzales; grandchildren, Robbie King of Chandler, AZ, Sarah Sellers and husband Justin, of Stephenville, TX, Dane King of Corpus Christi, TX and Jordan Robinson of New York, NY. Memorials may be made to the Artist of Eastland County, 203 Garvin, Eastland, Texas 76448.

Venora Lea Sullivent
OLDEN – Venora Lea Sullivent, age 83, died Wednesday, October 29, 2008 in Ft. Worth. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland with Chris Justice and Jimmy Maples officiating. Venora Lea Huddleston was born May 24, 1925, in Dermott, TX to Millard Hope Huddleston and Annie Lois (Green) Huddleston. She married J. D. “Jake” Williams on May 13, 1943. Jake preceded Lea in death. On June 8, 1974 she married Elmer Sullivent. Lea enjoyed many different activities in life. She loved to paint, fish and camp. For many years Lea brought joy to cancer patients by making handcrafted pillows just for them. She attended Baptist and Pentecostal Churches. Preceding her in death were her parents; her brother, T. J. Huddleston; her sister, Hazel Thomas; son, Elmer Wayne Sullivent; and daughter, Janice Sullivent. Lea is survived by her husband of over thirty-four years, Elmer Sullivent; her sons, Jack and Jerry Williams of Clyde and Jesse Sullivent of Seymour; her daughters, Janith Price of Clyde, Patricia Campbell of Arkansas, Donna Barrett of Ranger, Debra Lee-Nelson of Tennessee, Mary Hernandez of Cisco and Kelly Bezayiff of Stephenville; her sisters, Ophelia Platt of Bonham and Joyce Freeman of Arlington; 25 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Ladies Auxiliary VFW 4136.

Alma Joyce Hallford
SAN ANGELO- Alma Joyce Hallford, 84, died Wednesday, October 29, 2008 in San Angelo nursing center. Graveside services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, November 1, 2008 at the Trent Cemetery with Don Harmes officiating, directed by Starbuck Funeral Home. Alma was born January 18, 1924 in Altus, OK. to Gussie (Ferguson) and Cassie E. Coleman. She married Theodore E. Hallford on September 30, 1940 in Bangs. He preceded her in death. Alma was a member of the Church of Christ. She was a caretaker for Edith Rudd for many years. She was a sports fan and loved sewing, baking, yard work and fishing. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Survivors include two sons, Edward Hallford and wife, Louise of Graford and Teddy Hallford and wife Margarett of San Angelo; two daughters, Beverly Davis and husband Oddie of Trent, Brenda Cotton and husband Mark of Stanton; a brother, Burnice Coleman and wife Joyce of Cisco; 9 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Trent Cemetery Association.

Viola Pearl Hallmark
CISCO- Viola Pearl Hallmark, 77, of Cisco passed away Friday, October 24, 2008, at Homestead Nursing & Rehab in Cisco. Services were held Sunday, October 26, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Reverend Stephen Forrester.  Burial was in the Cisco Oakwood Cemetery. Viola was born April 19, 1931, to Sargent Sylvester Hollis and Nettie Pearl (Grissom) Hollis in Danhorn, Texas.  She married Melbourn Younger Hallmark on October 8, 1948, in Cisco.  He preceded her in death December 24, 2000.  She was a homemaker and a member of the Bible Baptist Church.  She loved her family and really delighted in being with her grandchildren. She is survived by a son, Herrel Hallmark and wife, Wanda, of Lamesa; 3 daughters, Connie Clement, Margaret Hallmark, and Patricia Ann Hallmark, all of Cisco; 8 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 5 great great-grandchildren. Viola will be missed greatly by her family and many friends. Pallbearers were Weldon Harris, Dr. Gary Harris, Dr. Larry Harris, Dr. Leland Harris, Dennis Harris, and Darla Johnson.

Bobby Edward Blackwell
CISCO- Bobby Edward Blackwell, 77, of Cisco passed away at Hendrick Medical Center on Friday October 24, 2008. Graveside services were held at 10:00 AM Monday, October 27, 2008 in Oakwood Cemetery officiated by Walter Pope, interment was under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Mr. Blackwell was born in Nimrod, Texas on April 29, 1931 to Robert Edward and Nora Cordelia (Luttrell) Blackwell. He served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict.  He married Wanda Marie Reed in Scranton, Texas on September 8, 1950.  He was a farmer and was a gas plant operator. He is survived by his wife Wanda of Cisco; children, Gail Roberts and husband Gary of Bangs, Ray Blackwell and wife Fran of Aubrey and Sam Blackwell of Abilene; his mother, Nora Green of Cisco; brothers, Jim Blackwell and wife Becky and Jerry Blackwell and wife Nona all of Clyde; 9 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.
 
Pauline Ross
RANGER- Pauline Ross, 90, died Thursday, October 23, 2008. She was preceded in death by her husband, W.M. “Chick” Ross; five brothers and one sister. She is survived by her daughter, Yvonne Maynard of Oklahoma City, OK; son, Ronny Ross and wife Barbara of Blooming Grove, TX and 5 grandchildren. Graveside service was held at 2 p.m., Sunday, October 26, 2008 at the Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger. Arrangements by Edwards Funeral Home.  

Marie Estalene ‘Tillie’ Turner
RANGER – Marie Estalene “Tillie” Turner, age 87, a resident of Ranger Care Center in Ranger died Saturday, October 25, 2008 in Abilene. Services were held at 2 PM on Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at the First United Pentecostal Church in Ranger. Burial followed in Bullock Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger, Texas. Marie was born June 23, 1921 in Stephens County to Daniel Wayne and Rosa (Mitchell) Boone. She married Gordon H. Turner in Dallas Texas on July 11, 1947, and he preceded her in death on July 29, 2006. She and Gordon worked for Cullum and Boren Apparel Factory for 30 years in Dallas. In 1973 they moved to Ranger and opened Ranger Athletic Manufacturing Company which they sold in 1978 and continued to manage for another 10 years. She and Gordon enjoyed farming and raising cattle on their land north of Ranger. Marie was a member of First United Pentecostal Church of Ranger. She is preceded in death by her parents Daniel Wayne and Rosa Boone, her husband, Gordon, and a brother D. W. Boone. Marie is survived by two brothers; Troyce M. Boone and wife Effie Mae of Ranger, Wilbur (Pete) Boone and wife Sarah of Hobbs, New Mexico and several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to Bullock Cemetery Association or American Cancer Society.

Vera Verta Sellers Welch
EASTLAND – Vera Vetra Sellers Welch, 91, of Eastland, passed away Friday, October 24, 2008 in Eastland. Services were held Monday, October 27, 2008 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Burial followed at Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Mrs. Welch was born on July 1, 1917 in Sparta, Texas to Arthur and Minnie Sellers. Mrs. Welch is preceded in death by her husband, John Edward Welch, her parents Arthur and Minnie Sellers and brother N. F. Sellers. Survivors include a son Gary L. Welch and wife Lisa of Minden, Nevada; daughter, Debra S. Welch of Glen Rose; nephew, Robert Welch and wife Wanda of White Settlement; granddaughter, Jenee Welch also of Minden, Nevada; and a host of friends.

Faye Scitern
Faye Scitern, age 76, of Gorman passed away Saturday, October 25, 2008 at an Abilene nursing home. Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 28 2008 at the Gorman Cemetery with Larry Stogsdill officiating. Faye was born November 27, 1931 in Dimmitt, Texas to Henry Lawson Scitern and Oza Rebecca Burleson Scitern. She was a retired licensed vocational nurse and a member of the Church of Christ. She retired and moved back to the hotel in Gorman in 2004. She had been in the nursing home in Abilene for almost two years. Survivors include son, Robert Callison of Gorman; two daughters, Margaret Littlefield and husband, Guy of San Antonio and Malinda Moore and husband, Kenneth of Port Aransas; daughter-in-law, Jeanie Callison of Strawn; brother, Alvis Scitern and wife, Bonnie of Gorman; two sisters, Louise Tinkler of Abilene and Carolyn Foster and husband, Gene of Gorman; sister-in-law, Troy Scitern of Gorman; 9 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Larry Callison; brother, John Scitern; son-in-law, John Wilson; and brother-in-law, Rollo Tinkler.

Johnny Glenn Clay
RISING STAR- Johnny Glenn Clay, 69, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Friday, October 24, 2008 at home in Rising Star. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, October 27, 2008 at First Baptist Church in Rising Star with Terry Simmons officiating. Burial was in the Pendergrass Cemetery in Comanche County, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge. Johnny was born on June 1, 1939 in Wills Point, Texas to Jesse Carroll (Riley) and Ola Mae (Hill) Clay-Henry. He graduated from Sidney High School. He served in the United States Army. He lived in the community since 1972. He worked in the Auto Body Repair business and retired from Big Country Live Stock Equipment. He was a member of the Eastside Baptist Church in Comanche, Texas. He is survived by his sons, Greg Clay of Rising Star, Johnny Clay, Jr. of Ft. Riley, Kansas; 4 daughters, Angela White, Laura Alexander, Melissa Evans and Becky Clay all of Rising Star; 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild; 4 brothers, Jesse Clay of Henderson, Mansel Clay of Early, Travis Clay of St. Helens, Oregon, Billy Henry of Comanche; 3 sisters, Barbara Chamberlin of Carthage, Macie Kinard of Graham, Pat Holden of Comanche. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Wanda Clay.

Richard Don Rodgers
RANGER- Richard Don Rodgers, 61, of Ranger passed away Thursday, October 23, 2008 at an Abilene hospital. Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 27, 2008 at Mitchell Cemetery, five miles southwest of Cisco. Pierson - Benton Funeral Directors were in charge of arrangements. Don was born in Cisco, Texas on August 1, 1947 to Richard Steven Rogers and Bessie Lee Hunt Rogers. He spent most of his life in West Texas towns making a living as a drywall/paint contractor. He loved old-time music, and was a guitar player and songwriter. Don loved his family and especially his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his wife Billie of Ranger; his daughter, Leah Rogers and her children, Krista, Karen, Sarah, and Hannah of Abilene; his son, Ric Rogers and his children Richard, Brittany, and Jason of Abilene; one great-grandchild, Brylee; two sisters, Wanda Payne and husband Larry of Cisco, and Virginia Fulmer of Cisco; former wife, friend and mother of his children, Linda Royall; former mother-in-law, Norma Royall Hambric; and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Daniel, and his former father-in-law Pastor Dan Royall. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to a benefit account that has been set up in Richard Don Roger’s name at First Financial Bank to help cover financial expenses.

Lenora Baker Speegle
CISCO- Lenora (Baker) Speegle, age 68, of Cisco, passed away Saturday, October 25, 2008 in Abilene. Services were held Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 10:00 AM in the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home Chapel with Howard Stovall and Terrell Jackson officiating. Interment followed at Scranton Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Lenora Baker was born February 8, 1940 in Rotan, Texas to Charlie and Anna L. (Hittson) Baker. On September 1, 1972 she married Robert Bruce Speegle in Corpus Christi, Texas. They were blessed with two children. Lenora was a homemaker and a member of Mitchell Baptist Church. Lenora was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers. She is survived by her husband Robert, of 36 years; her son, Robert Bruce Speegle, Jr.; her daughter, Dena Moore; and three grandchildren. Lenora will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends.

Carrol Dolan Parker
Carrol Dolan Parker finished his life, following a lengthy illness, at a robust 86 years of age on Friday, October 24, 2008, in Abilene, Texas, at Abilene Regional Medical Center. His dear wife, Ruby Lee, also 86, was there to see him off. Dolan and Ruby Lee were members of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church, and were active in church life as long as their health permitted. He was Dolan to those who knew him well, husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend to those of us who will remember him. Dolan was born August 3, 1922, to Hugh and Pearl Parker in Hollis, Oklahoma. Dolan and his brother and two sisters, Norris, Maudean and Edith, spent their early years working on the family farm. Later, when they opened Parker Furniture in Hollis, Oklahoma, Dolan worked there until joining the Army Air Corps to serve in World War II. Dolan’s life would never be the same again after 1921, when the stunning 20 year old Ruby Lee Price walked Carrol Dolan Parker finished his life, following a lengthy illness, at a robust 86 years of age on Friday, October 24, 2008, in Abilene, Texas, at Abilene Regional Medical Center. His dear wife, Ruby Lee, also 86, was there to see him off. Dolan and Ruby Lee were members of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church, and were active in church life as long as their health permitted. He was Dolan to those who knew him well, husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend to those of us who will remember him. Dolan was born August 3, 1922, to Hugh and Pearl Parker in Hollis, Oklahoma. Dolan and his brother and two sisters, Norris, Maudean and Edith, spent their early years working on the family farm. Later, when they opened Parker Furniture in Hollis, Oklahoma, Dolan worked there until joining the Army Air Corps to serve in World War II. Dolan’s life would never be the same again after 1921, when the stunning 20 year old Ruby Lee Price walked through the front door of Parker Furniture. Dolan looked up from the register and his heart knew love. After a whirlwind romance, Dolan and Ruby Lee married in 1922. The following two summers their daughters, Charlsa and Sue, were born. Dolan and Ruby Lee spent a fulfilled and peaceful life in Hollis, Oklahoma, where they ran Parker Furniture and were members of First Baptist Church of Hollis; in Eastland, Texas, where they retired by the lake and were active members of Lake Leon Baptist Church; and finally in Abilene, Texas, where they spent time with family. Dolan and Ruby Lee spent their lives in the service of God and raised two wonderful Christian daughters. Dolan loved to spend time with his grandchildren and thrilled them by singing maritime songs. He grew verdant gardens until the very end, filling the lives of those around him with the perfume of flowers, and filling the plates and bowls of those around him with the fruits of the earth. Dolan is survived by his wife, Ruby Lee; his brother, Norris Parker; his daughters, Charlsa Haynes and husband Perry, and Sue Strickland ; his grandchildren, Melissa Hamilton, Carly Andrews and husband Chris, Michele Haynes and husband Cody Garrison, Matthew Haynes and wife Ashley; and by his great grandchildren, Abigail and Isabella Hamilton, Kassidy Haynes, and Charis and Price Andrews. His funeral service with Dr. Jeff Reid officiating will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 27, 2008 at the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 HWY 277 South in Abilene. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.elmwoodfuneral.come through the front door of Parker Furniture. Dolan looked up from the register and his heart knew love. After a whirlwind romance, Dolan and Ruby Lee married in 1922. The following two summers their daughters, Charlsa and Sue, were born. Dolan and Ruby Lee spent a fulfilled and peaceful life in Hollis, Oklahoma, where they ran Parker Furniture and were members of First Baptist Church of Hollis; in Eastland, Texas, where they retired by the lake and were active members of Lake Leon Baptist Church; and finally in Abilene, Texas, where they spent time with family. Dolan and Ruby Lee spent their lives in the service of God and raised two wonderful Christian daughters. Dolan loved to spend time with his grandchildren and thrilled them by singing maritime songs. He grew verdant gardens until the very end, filling the lives of those around him with the perfume of flowers, and filling the plates and bowls of those around him with the fruits of the earth. Dolan is survived by his wife, Ruby Lee; his brother, Norris Parker; his daughters, Charlsa Haynes and husband Perry, and Sue Strickland ; his grandchildren, Melissa Hamilton, Carly Andrews and husband Chris, Michele Haynes and husband Cody Garrison, Matthew Haynes and wife Ashley; and by his great grandchildren, Abigail and Isabella Hamilton, Kassidy Haynes, and Charis and Price Andrews. His funeral service with Dr. Jeff Reid officiating was held at 2:00 PM on Monday, October 27, 2008 at the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 HWY 277 South in Abilene. Burial followed in Elmwood Memorial Park. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.elmwoodfuneral.com

Thomas Greer
Thomas Greer was born November 28, 1923 in Carbon, TX and passed away October 23, 2008 in Frisco, TX. He was employed by Mobil Oil in exploration services. Survived by his wife, Marg Greer; son, Timothy Greer; daughters, Ann Sandefer and Pamela McCauley; brother, Larry Greer; sisters, Jo Lee and Betty Greer; and 1 grandchild. Service was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 25, 2008 at Restland Wildwood Chapel. Visitation was held 1 hour prior to the service at the chapel. Memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH. 45250-0301.

George L. Spradlin
ABILENE- George L. Spradlin, 78, died Tuesday, October 21, 2008 in Alaska. Funeral services were held with Mike Hill officiating held at Beltway Park Baptist Church at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2008 with entombment following in Elmwood Memorial Park. George was born on July 23, 1930 and has been a lifelong resident of Taylor County. He served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956 and worked for Southwestern Bell for over 30 years. He married Jane Owen Spradlin on August 9, 1958 in Anson and she preceded him in death on March 12, 2003. He attended Broadview Baptist Church. George was an avid outdoorsman, and always enjoyed all types of water activities including fishing, scuba diving and many trips to Possum Kingdom Lake when he was raising his family. After retirement, he and Jane enjoyed many travels in their mobile home and after a one trip to Alaska, he developed a great love for the landscape and fishing that state had to offer. He made many successful fishing trips to Alaska that could always be proven by a freezer full of salmon and halibut. When he was home in Abilene, he could often be found in his shop enjoying his love for woodworking. George is survived by his children, Eddie Buster and wife Kathy of North Richland Hills, Ronnie Buster and wife Sandra of Clyde, Tony Spradlin and wife Rebecca of Tuscola, and Sandi Zalkind of Fort Worth; one sister, Glenda Gay of Abilene; 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society 209 S. Danville Dr. Abilene, Texas 79605.

Edith Hazel Culver Watts
BAIRD-Edith Hazel Culver Watts, 98, died Monday, October 27, 2008 at Hendrick Hospice. A memorial service is pending at Bethel Temple Christian Center in Abilene, Texas, with Pastor G. Frank Estes officiating. Local arrangements are under the direction of Parker Funeral Home in Baird. Edith was born June 3, 1910 in Aurora, Illinois, and married Elmore P. Watts of Gibson City, IL., in 1935. Her husband preceded her in 1986. Edith was a lifetime member of Marion Avenue Baptist Church in Auora, and has been a most valuable member of society all of her life. She moved to Abilene in 1994, and became known around Abilene as “Miss Edith” due to her youthful energy. Survivors include a daughter, Cherryl Norris; two grandchildren, Randy Norris and Cheri Castillo, all of Abilene; five great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren. Memorials may be sent to Admiral Cemetery Association 4591 FM 2228, Baird, Texas 79504 or to Bethel Temple Christian Center, 3101 N. 12th Abilene, Texas 79603.

Lester Clay Kinnard
EASTLAND- Lester Clay Kinnard, age 82, of Eastland passed away Friday, October 17, 2008, at his home in Olden in Eastland County with his family around him. Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Monday, October 20, 2008, at the graveside in the Cross Plains Memorial Cemetery. Clay was born to Benjamin B. and Lottie P. (Lawrence) Kinnard on June 14, 1926 in Callahan County, Texas. He worked for the railroad as a line repairman. He married Deborah Reeder on October 31, 2003 in Palo Pinto, Texas. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Kinnard of Eastland; son, Clayton Kinnard of San Angelo; daughters, Cindy Lewis of San Angelo, Christy Kvapil of Ballinger; brother, Delbert Kinnard of Tuscola; step-son, D.W. Cooley and wife Jan of Eastland; two grandchildren.

Ima Mae Pruett Johnston
RANGER – Ima Johnston, 90, passed away Sunday, October 19, 2008. Services will be 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, October 22, 2008 in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger. There is no set visitation but the funeral home will be open until 9:00 P.M. Burial was in Merriman Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger. Ima was born July 31, 1918 in Ranger to Elzie and Alice (Crawford) Pruett. She married Bill W. Johnston on January 16, 1935. Bill preceded her in death in 1980. She is also preceded in death by two children, Corky Johnston and Lynette Stowe, a brother, Kenneth Pruett, and three sisters, Dee Key, Dot Willingham, and Billie Tudor. She is survived by her children, Joann Kinder, Billy Ray Johnston, Gladys Walker, Jerry Johnston, Jimmy Johnston, Roger Johnston and Mary Alice Choate; a brother, Elzie Pruett Jr; 25 grandchildren, an abundance of great grandchildren and several great great grandchildren.

Frank Murphy, Jr.
MERKEL- Frank Murphy, Jr., 46, died Thursday, October 16, 2008 in a Lubbock hospital. Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 18, 2008 at Merkel Church of Christ with Michael Bryan and Dustin Simmons officiating. Burial was in Rose Hill Cemetery, directed by Starbuck Funeral Home. Frank was born May 21, 1962 in Abilene to Connie (Henderson) and Frank Murphy. He attended Merkel schools where he participated in all sports. Frank worked in the oilfield as a roughneck and was a truck driver for 18 years. At the present, he was a pumper for Hanson Operating in Roswell, N.M. He had a passion for cowboying and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a loving father and grandfather. Survivors include his son, Braden Murphy of Roswell, N.M; his daughter, Danielle Morgan of Eastland; his sister, Marjorie Mae “Maggie” Gregory and husband, Albert of Merkel; his granddaughter, Shayden Morgan of Eastland; two aunts, Lola Willis and husband, Ray of Roswell, NM, Karen Murphy of Austin; two uncles, John Lewis Murphy of Lake Charles, LA and Russell Murphy of Wickenburg, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Robert ‘Bob’ Grider
CROSS PLAINS- Robert “Bob” Grid