03/16/2024

Marvin Odis Sowell, 74, of Center, passed away Wednesday, March 13, 2024, in Houston.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 18, 2024, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Todd Jenkins officiating. Interment will follow at Sowell Cemetery in San Augustine.

Born August 7, 1949, in San Augustine, Marvin is the son of Ellis Marvin “Cooter” Sowell and Lessie Beatrice Moore Sowell. He graduated from Hemphill ISD and went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps. Marvin worked for Lufkin Industries, retiring after 20 years. He became self-employed until he began having heart failure.

He is survived by:

Wife, Brenda Fay Brittain Sowell

Children:
Sandy Renea Sowell Mitchell and husband Curtis of Mauriceville, Texas
Michael Shane Sowell and wife Pam of Center, Texas
Lucas Cade Sowell of Nacogdoches, Texas

Grandchildren:
Tina Sowell Smith and husband Joshua
Tommy Byers
Bradley Byers
Michael Sowell
Ashley Sowell
Naomie Journey and husband James
Jake Mitchell and Kalie Richard
Shae Mitchell
Jadyn Prosser
Cierra Prosser
Numerous great-grandkids
Daughter-in-law, Cryssy Williams
Stepson, John Howard Prosser

Siblings:
Sharon Renea Sowell Barnett
Barbara Marie Sowell Emmerson
Johnny Mae Sowell
Jessie Bosquez
Frank Moris Bennett Phillips

Brother-in-law, John Brittain and wife Ann of Lufkin

Sister-in-law, Gayla Sowell of Ore City

Numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his son, Randy Ray Sowell; parents, Ellis Marvin “Cooter” Sowell and Lessie Beatrice Moore Sowell; brother, Richard Lee Sowell, Isaac Lynn Sowell, and Darryl Alton Sowell.

Pallbearers will be Tommy Byers, Bradley Byers, Michael Sowell, Chase Hutto, Jake Mitchell, and Josh Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Wilton Parks, Zack Warr and Bill Cook.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.

03/16/2024

Leonard Earl Cartwright, 63 of Center, Texas, passed away on March 12, 2024 at his residence. He was born on November 10, 1960 in Center, Texas to Lemes L. Cartwright and Mary Jean Cartwright.

The funeral service will be Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 1pm at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church in Center. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10am until 12 noon.

Leonard fellowshipped at multiple community churches since childhood and was very knowledgeable of God’s Word. He attended Center ISD and served for a brief period in the US Army. Leonard was a very talented and skilled young man who worked at Tyson for several years but spent the majority of his working years as a handyman for hire. He was well known throughout the neighborhood for his lifelike portrait drawings and is colorful poetry.

Leonard was preceded in death by his father, Lemes L. Cartwright; and brothers, Alvin Brinson and Quinard Earl Cartwright.

He leaves behind to mourn him:

Mother, Mary Jean Cartwright of Center

Brothers;
Tommy Crockett (Patricia) of Colorado Springs, CO
Ortega Cartwright (LaTreaser) of Center
TraManski Johnson of Dallas

Sisters:
Veronica Cartwright of Center
Laundre Johnson of Center

He also leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends

Two very special friends, Joyce Jackson and Sam Thomas

Funeral services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

03/15/2024

Life came to a close at age 77 for Beatrice Joyce Weathered, “Aunt Bea,” on Friday, March 8, 2024 at Summit Nursing and Rehab of San Augustine, Texas. She was born July 21, 1946 in San Augustine County to the late Jim Bratchett and Merline Moody.

Visitation is 10am until 7pm on Friday, March 15, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center, Texas. Funeral service is at 11am on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Mount Dena Baptist Church, 1126 County Road 140, San Augustine, Texas 75972 with Pastor Michael Jenkins officiating. Interment is at Mt. Dena Cemetery, San Augustine.

She attended Mt. Dena Baptist Church at an early age. She attended Lincoln School in San Augustine, Texas. Beatrice worked at Fairway Farms in San Augustine as a cook. She also cooked at Sunset Hills Community Center. She would often baby-sit for whoever needed it.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jim Bratchett and Merline Moody; daughter, Stephanie Ann Weathered; and brothers, J.T. Bratchett and Jimmy Earl Bratchett.

She is survived by:

Sons:
James Earl Weathered (Linda) of Center
Marvin Earl Weathered of San Augustine
Calvin Earl Weathered of San Augustine
Alex C. Weathered (Celina) of San Augustine
Anthony J. Weathered (Latoya) of Terry, Mississippi

Sisters:
Rosie Bluford of San Augustine
Nancy Gray of Center
Carrie Boykins (Eddie) of Center
Alma Walker (Royce) of Center

Devoted niece, Stacy Garrett

Uncle, Anthony Earl Jones (Susie) of Orange

Aunts:
Mollie Roberts of San Augustine
Patsy Ann Perkins of Jasper

Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews, and other relatives and friends.

It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to the light. ~ Aristotle Onassis

Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

03/14/2024

Wilma Laverne Jamison, 84, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away on March 12, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in San Augustine, Texas. She was born on February 22, 1940, in San Augustine, Texas, to the late Floyd Hardy and Tassie (Chumley) Hardy.  

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024 prior to the service from 10:00-11:00 AM at Mangum Funeral Home, Center. Graveside service will be held after visitation at Rather Cemetery with Bro. Michael McArthur officiating.

Wilma was raised in San Augustine, Texas. She graduated from San Augustine High School. Wilma received her Cosmetology License and worked for over 50 years doing what she loved, styling hair. Wilma loved her family and enjoyed the time spent with them. She also loved drawing and painting, working in her flower beds and gardening. She worked for many years creating special arrangements at Kroger’s in the floral department. She will always be remembered as a hardworking, kind, and compassionate person.

She is survived by:

Sons:
Mark Jamison and wife Allyson
Todd Jamison and wife Donna
Scotty Jamison and wife Pam

Grandchildren:
Riley Jamison
Ethan Jamison and wife Maria
Javey Jamison and wife Jamie
Lance Jamison
Leigh Martin and wife Whitney
Heather McDonald and husband Grant
Lindsey Moore and husband Jimmy

Great-Grandchildren:
Alana Harville and husband Caleb
Hannah Kyle and husband Patrick
Bradley Jamison
Caleb Jamison
Douglas Martin
Eden Martin
Woodrow Martin
Luke Martin
Shade McDonald
Levi McDonald
Walker McDonald
Casen Moore
Cainen Moore

Great-great-grandchildren:
Avery McKelvey
Jaxon Kyle

Wilma is preceded in death by her loving husband, J.V. Jamison; parents, Floyd and Tassie Hardy; brothers, Pat Hardy, John Earl Green; sisters, Louise Hillyer, Dora Lee Bennefield, and Abby Ruth Smith.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Colonial Pines Memory Care Unit for the exceptional care provided during her stay, and to Affinity Hospice especially, Rai, Mallory, Tristin, and DeeDee for their love and compassionate care.

Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers serving will be grandsons and great-grandsons.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

03/12/2024

David Anthony "Tony" Francis, 70, of Timpson, TX, passed away at home March 5, 2024. Mr. Francis was born on August 22, 1953.

Graveside services will be held at 11: 00 AM, on Monday, March 11, 2024 at Mt. Olive Cemetery with Orville Miller officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM, Monday, March 11, 2024 at Mt. Olive Cemetery.

Tony’s fondest childhood memories are of being a country kid and having adventures in Stockman with the Boushay Boys. On the weekends at the farm, he woke early and went to their house and got them up so their fun could start, getting into little kid mischief, swimming in the pond and playing any type of sport from daylight to dark. He taught himself to ride a unicycle and rode it everywhere. Tony played football at Garrison, taught himself to pole vault and held the record for many years. His love of sports continued throughout his life, having a remarkable knowledge of sports trivia. After college, he went to Houston and worked in the grocery business. It was an adventure, but then life took him to Tyler. He went to work in the concrete business as a hand, later starting his own business in which he excelled, being innovative, bringing small equipment onto the jobs.

In 1985, a young boy came to work for him. They clicked and together along with much of the Mata family, they worked hard and built the business into more than they could have imagined and it’s still going strong. He loved and appreciated all of his guys, they were family, and he made many friends along the way.

He always felt very fortunate to have great parents and cherished time with them.

He was a generous person, loved animals, especially his dogs, cows, and cats.

He was blessed to have three children, David, Jessica and Garrett, his biggest regret was that he didn’t spend enough time with them, but they were loved.

Tony was a hard worker, that was his idea of fun, happiest when operating machinery, reading blueprints, pouring a new slab, getting things accomplished. He also loved yard work, having beautiful plants and trees.

He ran out of time to accomplish more and enjoyed all that he had been given.

Services under the direction of Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas.

03/08/2024

Carol Greathouse passed away peacefully on March 10, 2024 at home surrounded by her family. She was 89.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 14, 2024, at First Baptist Church Haslam. Bro. Jody Hooper will officiate.

Carol was born January 11, 1935 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Lenhart Heckler and Catherine Gorman Heckler.  Carol graduated from Crafton High School in 1952. She met her husband of almost 55 years, Leo Greathouse, while he was stationed in Pittsburg serving in the United States Army. They married on September 1, 1956 and enjoyed many years together until his death in 2011.  They made their home in Houston, Texas where they had two sons. 

While the boys were young, the family lived in Salt Lake City and Chicago. Eventually they came back to Houston. Then settled in East Texas after Leo’s retirement. Carol was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Carol’s wish was to be cremated and have her ashes spread with her husband’s on their son’s ranch in Joaquin, Texas.

She is survived by:

Son, Kevin Greathouse of Longview

Son and daughter-in-law, Glen and Debbi Greathouse of Joaquin

Granddaughter, Megan Greathouse, who was perhaps her greatest joy

She was preceded in death by her parents Lenhart Heckler and Catherine Gorman Heckler, her husband Leo Greathouse, and two sisters Patty Heckler Marble and Jeannie Heckler Buker.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

03/11/2024

Marlin Brian Shofner Sr., 66, of Shelbyville, passed away March 10, 2024, in Houston, after fighting with cancer for nearly 4 years.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Central Baptist Church in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Bro. Danny Dodson will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Born July 23, 1957, in Aberdeen, Washington, Mr. Marlin is the son of Oscar Howard Shofner and Pat Person. After graduating high school, he served three years in the United States Army. He made a profession of faith to our Lord and Savior in 1973, near Aberdeen, Washington. A faithful Christian, Mr. Marlin was a member of Central Baptist Church in Center. He loved gardening.

He is survived by:

Wife, Vivian Shofner of Center

Children:
Hannah Shofner of Center
Marlin Shofner Jr. of Center

Brother, Eric Shofner

Preceded in death by his parents, Oscar Howard Shofner and Pat Person; and brothers, Ed Shofner and Russell Shofner.

Pallbearers will be David Spratley, Jair Rosales, Joe Consford, Tony Matamoros, Rob Pinkston, and Daniel Graf. Honorary pallbearers will be Dennis Liker, Sandy Little, Eddie Grimes, and Mark Foley.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.

03/11/2024

Bettie Joyce Pitman Weeks, 84, passed away on March 11, 2024 in Center, Texas.

She was born to Thomas Benjamin Pitman, Sr. and Josephine Elizabeth Jenkins on February 29, 1940 in Dallas, Texas.

She married the late Tribble Jerry Weeks on December 9, 1972, and they lived together in Joaquin. Bettie is survived by her son Jackie Leon Brown, Jr. and his wife Deborah Permenter Brown of Arlington, Texas. She was predeceased by her loving husband in 2000, her brother Thomas B. Pitman, Jr. and her son James Randall Brown.

Bettie was the first baby born on that Leap year and was recognized in an article by the Dallas paper. She had many friends and often claimed a few were her children, too. For most of her life she worked as a business administrator and enjoyed the many people she met through her work.

There will be a graveside service Friday, March 15, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Lone Cedar Cemetery.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

03/11/2024

Nyna Sue Weaver, 80, of Center, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with visitation an hour prior at Watson & Sons Funeral Home. Bro. Joe Walker will officiate.

Born October 9, 1943, Sue is the daughter of Leon Hughes and Lucille Jackson Hughes. She loved gardening, cooking, and taking care of her grandchildren. Sue was a member of Logansport Missionary Baptist Church in Logansport, Louisiana.

She is survived by:

Children:
Larry Weaver and wife Pam
Denise Owens and husband Pete

Grandchildren:
Lindsey Weaver
Kolby Owens and wife Samatha
Kelsey Owens and Danbert Collum
Karson Owens and Kayla
Kamden Owens and wife Morgan

Great-grandchildren:
Chesney Davis
Clint Davis
Tennyson Weaver
Gentry Owens
August Owens
Autumn Owens
Monroe Owens

Preceded in death by husband, Buford Burt Weaver; grandson, Clint Weaver; parents, Leon Hughes and Lucille Jackson Hughes.

Pallbearers will be Kolby Owens, Karson Owens, Kamden Owens, Danbert Collum, Chad Hughes, and Terry Walton.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.

03/08/2024

Cora Jean Canipe, 94, of Garland, Texas, was born November 4, 1929, and passed away March 5, 2024. 

Ms. Canipe was a member of First Baptist Church in Garland, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Cleveland Canipe; parents, Harold and Alma Gary; brother and sister-in-law, Clifford Gary and Margie; sisters, Bonita Goolsby and Ann Hawkins; and brother-in-law, Jack.

She is survived by:

Sons:
Richard Wayne Canipe, his wife Jimmie
Stephen Gary Canipe

Grandson, Andrew Gary Canipe and his wife Katelyn

Great-grandchildren:
Aydan Gary Canipe
Aaron Allen Canipe

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Ramah Baptist Church with burial at Ramah Cemetery.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

 

03/06/2024

James Alton “Nutley” Lowe, 68 of Center, Texas, passed away March 2, 2024.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ (908 Danels Street Center, Texas) at 11am. Mr. Lowe was born to Mrs. Shirley J. Lowe on October 18, 1955, in Kountze, Texas. Pastor Desmond Tolbert will do the eulogy.

Visitations is Friday, March 8, 2024, at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 6pm to 8pm and Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 10am at Triumph Church. Committal is at Westview Cemetery, Center, Texas. Repass is at Triumph Church.

He is survived by:

Son, James A. Lowe Jr

Stepsons:
Marcus Bennett
Author (Sylvia) Bennett

Brothers:
Samuel C. Gardner of Daytona Beach, Florida
Elbert C. Kelly (LaChandra) of Point Blank, Texas
Henry Kelly of Houston
Elbert Kelly Jr. of Silsbee
Robert Kelley of Beaumont
LaMillican Deon Johnson (Keisha) of Tenaha
Tristian Gardner of Longview
Renard Gardner of Beaumont
Eshawn Randle of Beaumont
Michael Hubbard of Bristle, Tennessee
Mark Hubbard and Harold Randle (Latisha) of Center

Sisters:
JoAnn (Milton) Baptist of Houston
Sherian Daniels of Nacogdoches
Ora D. Kelly (Jerry) of Silsbee
Jenitha Thomas (John) of Houston
Annie Watts (Maruice) of San Augustine
Sabrina Williams of Los Angeles
Felecia Gardner of Tenaha
Bonnie Hubbard of Virginia
Brenda Johnson of Nacogdoches

Best Friend and Neighbor: Yogi Gorkhali (Monisha) and Avaro Castillo and family.

Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net.

03/05/2024

James Daylon Witter of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, in a traffic accident in Shelby County, Texas, at the age of 25 years, 6 months, 18 days.

"Daylon" was born August 15, 1998, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was a longtime resident of San Augustine County and worked as a tree trimmer with Hoffpauir Tree Service. He had a passion for the outdoors and a great love for all types of hunting.

His survivors include:

Parents, Tisha and J.D. Burns of San Augustine

Sisters and brother-in-law:
Jaysa and Coy Bennefield of San Augustine
Kinley Burns of San Augustine

Step-brother, Derek Burns of San Augustine

Niece, Emmy Joe Bennefield of San Augustine

Grandparents:
Terry Joe Sr. and Julia Montes of Lufkin, Texas
Debbie and Bruce Johnson of Zavalla, Texas

Aunts and uncles:
Brandy and Chris Nair of Hudson, Texas of Lufkin
Terry "Bubba" Montes and B.J. Robertson of Lufkin
John and Griselda Montes of Lufkin
Brandon Montes of Lufkin
Matthew and Rachel Montes of Lufkin
Renne Wall of San Augustine
Sissy Burns of San Augustine
John and Nikki Mayhugh of Chireno
Joey and Cassie Bynum of Lufkin

Host of cousins and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, James and Judy Burns; and great-grandparents, Clyde and Opal Montes and J.W. Knight.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 8, 2024, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas. Funeral services are set for 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel with Bro. Robert Byley officiating. Committal service and interment will follow at Dickerson Cemetery, located on County Road 4255 in San Augustine County.

Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.

03/05/2024

Dianna Lynn Burress, 58, of Center, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 7, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Her wishes were to be cremated.

Born August 10, 1965, in Center, Dianna is the daughter of W.T. Mayo and Barbara Baker Smith. She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star.

Dianna is survived by:

Children:
Paul Burress and wife Heather
Patricia Lori Lynn Sibly and husband Chuck
Mark Phillip Michael Burress and wife Jessica

Eight Grandchildren

Brothers and sister:
Mike Mayo and wife Patsy
Laurie Miller and husband Curtis Fountain
Joe Smith

Sister-in-law, Tammy Smith

Stepfather, Clyde Smith

Stepbrother, Floyd Ogeta

Special friends:
Lorinda Murphy
Ricky McDonald
Susan Sanford
Lara Banta

Preceded in death by husband, Paul Birch; mother, Barbara Smith; and brother, David Smith; husband, Paul Burress, Sr.; and sister-in-law, Lisa Miller. 

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

03/01/2024

Rachel Symanthia Creech Wilson, 82, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 25, 1941 in the Bethel Community to Floyd and Minnie Bolton Skinner Creech.
 
As Rachel would say, “she spent her entire life in the suburbs of Funston.” She attended Grand Cane School before marrying the love her life, Edgar Wilson, on October 10, 1958. Rachel then transferred to Joaquin High School graduating with the class of 1959. Seven years, six months, and four days later, she welcomed her beloved daughter, Lisa Darlene “Teet,” into the world. Rachel found immense joy in being a devoted housewife, mother and grandmother. She loved her job as a housewife and carried out all of her housewife duties until her final days. Her favorite past time was bossing everyone around.
 
An enthusiast of CB radio, Rachel was fondly known across the airwaves as Diesel Widow, often engaging in lively conversations on her Browning Eagle. She cherished time feeding and watching the animals on the farm. She also loved house plants and trinkets. Rachel was always proud to display the alligator hide that she harvested on Sept 4, 2013, at the youthful age of 72.
 
Rachel was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Minnie Bolton Skinner Creech; her sister, Pauline, and husband, Jimmy Turner; her brothers, Dootsy Skinner and Buddy Creech; and her nephew, Billy Lynn Wilson.

Left to cherish her memory:
Devoted husband of 65 years and 4 months, Edgar Wilson

Daughter, Lisa McPhearson, and husband, Mac Jr.

Grandson, Josh McPhearson, and his wife, Amy

Sisters,
Margaret Alexander
Loraine Childress

Brother, Skeeter Skinner

Sister-in-law, Bennette Horton

Brother-in-law, Billy Mack Wilson, and his wife, Janice

As well as a host of nieces and nephews
 
Graveside service will be at 1 pm Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Bethel Cemetery in Logansport, La.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals who made a significant impact on Rachel’s life: Shane Ramsey, Mark Cowdin, Michael Cowdin, Stacy Taylor, Buren Lowe, Matthew Barnes, John Haak, Bull Kyle, Kevin Lee, Charlie Metcalf, David Skinner, Dustin Cowdin, and Daniel McCollough.

In true Rachel fashion, she loved her emojis. 

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

02/29/2024

Tashira Roshun "Pinky" McCollister, 47, went home to be with the Lord on February 21, 2024 at Focused Care of Center. She was born to the late Linda Kay McCollister and the late Dennis Giles on January 25, 1977.

Services will be at 1pm on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Abundant Love Ministries, Center, Texas with Marlin Cloudy Sr. eulogist. Visitation is from 10am until 7pm on Friday, March 1, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment at St. John Cemetery in Tenaha.

Tashira was born and raised in Tenaha, Texas where she attended Tenaha High School. She enjoyed writing in her free time, mostly poetry and also wrote a couple of children's books. Tashira eventually relocated to Center, Texas where she met and married her now ex-husband and worked as a tax preparer.

She gave birth to three children: ShaDerica Gregory, Chavis Gregory, and Christopher "Cobe" Caraway. Tashira has four grandchildren: Ariana Jones, A'Tracelyn Evans Journeigh Gregory, and A'Jhaelyn Evans which she loved and adored more than life itself. Until the day she was called home she spent every moment taking care of "Nannies Babies" and being the glue that held her family together.

Preceding her in death was her mother, Linda Kay McCollister; father, Dennis Giles; grandmother, Lillian (Kate) McCollister; special cousin, Kamekaqua McCollister Dagley; and uncle, Kenneth McCollister.

Tashira leaves to mourn:

Children:
ShaDerica Gregory of Center
Chavis Gregory of Center
Cobe Caraway (Allecia) of Kilgore

Brothers:
Christopher Evans of Tenaha
Chavis McCollister of Tenaha

Sisters: Lillian McCollister of Center
Roshayla McCollister of Center
Katina Evans of Center
Omeisha Williams of Center
Laticia Giles of Houston
Daphne Giles of Houston
Theresa Giles of Houston

Aunts:
Rose Robertson of Tenaha
Eva Thompson of Tenaha
Mary McCollister of Tenaha

Uncle, Frank McCollister of Oklahoma

Host of nieces, nephews, and cousins

Special Step-Dad, Gerald Thomas

Services under the direction of Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

02/29/2024

Terri Lynn Wilson, 60, of the Woods Community in Panola County, Texas, passed away Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024, at her home. Terri Lynn Wilson was born on March 19, 1963, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to the late Mark Howard and Anita Faye Pinell Wilson.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Vaun Henry officiating. Interment will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Shelby County. A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday prior to the service.

She graduated from Carthage High School with the class of 1981, and earned her associate's degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Terri later earned her LVN certification from Panola College. She worked for many years as a contract nurse. Terri loved her home in the Woods Community and enjoyed gardening, photography, and sewing. She was a member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Terri was preceded in death by her nephew, Derek Moore.

Terri is survived by:

Son, Brandon Wilson

Daughter, Sarah Credeur

Grandchildren:
Carson and Addison Wilson
Cade and Cole Credeur

Sister, Kim Robinson and husband Jerry

Best friend, Terrie Howard

Pallbearers are Roger McCuller, Mark Coleman, Bobby Howard, Braylen Moore, Carson Wilson, and Dwayne Belair.

Terri’s family extends a special thanks to Hearts Way Hospice for giving her such comforting care during her time of need.

A guestbook may be signed at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.

02/29/2024

Norris Roberson Taylor, 74, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2024, in Joaquin, Texas. Norris was born February 8, 1950, in Center, Texas, to Woodrow and Mary Louise Taylor.

Graveside service will be held Friday, March 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Jackson Baptist Church Cemetery, Joaquin, Texas. Officiating the service will be Melba Rogers and Frank Jousan.

Norris graduated from Joaquin High School in 1968. He married Wanda Jo Haight December 25, 1972. He had a career in welding and was a fourth-generation Shelby County farmer and rancher.

Norris is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Mary Louise; sister, Virginia; and brother, Morris.

Surviving are:

Wife, Jo Taylor

Sons:
Stacy Taylor and wife Jesse of Joaquin
Justin Taylor and wife Pam of Shelbyville

Granddaughters:
Haley Taylor and fiancé Matt Gamble
Stella Taylor
Gracie Ellis
Rilynn Ellis

Grandsons:
Rowdy Taylor
Rory Taylor
Tucker Taylor
Toby Taylor
Dusty Taylor

Great-grandson, Lawson Gamble

Sisters-in-law:
Mickey Revis of Dickinson, Texas
Jane Gamble of Grand Cane, Louisiana

Nieces, Libby Lang and husband Steven
Hannah Gamble-Gramm and husband Zack

Great-nieces:
Madison Lang
Annistyn Touchton

Special friend, Jeannie Taylor

Honoring Norris as pallbearers will be Toby Taylor, Rowdy Taylor, Rory Taylor, Dusty Taylor, Matt Gamble, and Bill Baker. Honorary pallbearers will be Darrell Alford and John Hugh Leggett.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

02/28/2024

Frankie Lane DeSoto, 69, of Center, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024, in Center.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 1, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon.  Bro. Danny Sikes and Bro. Hayden Wilkes will officiate.  Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Born July 18, 1954, in Mansfield, Louisiana, Frankie is the son of Frank Samuel DeSoto and Gladys Lucille Lee DeSoto.  On June 8, 1974, he married the love of his life, Cynthia Kay Windham DeSoto. A Baptist minister, Frankie pastored Antioch Baptist Church in Center, Pine Ridge Baptist Church in Joaquin, and was most recently a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Center. Frankie was a member of Joaquin Masonic Lodge #856.  He was a die-hard Dallas Cowboy fan.

He is survived by:
Wife, Cynthia Kay Windham DeSoto

Children:
Angie Gillis (Travis) of Center
Jennifer Rumbo (Brad) of Brownsboro

Grandchildren: 
Sara Gillis
Travis “Bubba” Gillis IV
Alexis Wehrmann (Gage)
Paisley Rumbo (friend, Grayson)
Anna Grace Gillis

Sisters:
Shirley Brownfield of Denham Springs, Louisiana,
Susan Johnson of Pleasant Hill, Louisiana

Sisters-in-law: 
Hazel Miller (Carl) of Joaquin
Patsy Riley (Danny) of Tatum
Sue Gill (Leslie) of Tenaha
Mary Cummings (Kenneth) of Joaquin

Brother-in-law, Fisher Windham of Center

A host of nieces and nephews; and fur babies, Snake, Wendy, and Ceaser.

Preceded in death by parents, Frank Samuel DeSoto and Gladys Lucille Lee DeSoto; infant brothers, Frank S. DeSoto Jr. and Donnie W. DeSoto; nieces, Tracy Brownfield and Amanda Johnson; infant son, Baby DeSoto; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Rev. Felix and Anner Dee Windham.

Pallbearers will be David Miller, Keith Riley, Jeff Cummings, Justin Brownfield, Eric Brownfield, Gage Wehrmann, Grayson Epperson, and Bubba Gillis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

02/27/2024

Mrs. Lasonia Natasha Jenkins Lister, age 42, of San Augustine, Texas. Mrs. Lister departed this physical life on February 22, 2024, at her residence in San Augustine, Texas. 
   
Funeral service Saturday, March 2, 2024, 1pm at Taylor Tabernacle with interment to follow at Lane town Cemetery with Rev. Michael Jenkins, Officiating, and Rev. Timothy Teel, Eulogist.

Visitation and Wake Friday, March 1, 2024, from 1:00pm until 5:00pm at Garner & Son Chapel 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Bell Chapel Baptist Church.

Survivors are:
Husband, Kevin Lister of Center

Daughter, Jabria Jenkins of Shelbyville

Son, Kason Lister of Shelbyville

Parents, Charles and Emma Jenkins of Shelbyville

Granddaughter, Jailee Brielle Conley of Shelbyville

Brother, LaMarcus Ramon Wallace of Nacogdoches

Sister, Charity Latrece Jenkins of San Augustine

God-Sisters:
Faith Williams (Ardis) of Shreveport, Louisiana
Sascha Jenkins Cartwright (James) of Center
Ashley Jenkins of San Augustine

As well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Services are under the direction of Percy Garner & Son Mortuary in San Augustine.

02/26/2024

James Ray Smith, 86, of Center, Texas, passed away on February 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas.  He was born on April 24, 1937, in Center, Texas, to the late Perry Buren Smith and Grace Louise (Whitton) Smith. 

Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church, Center, Texas, with Bro. Todd Jenkins and Bro. Lamar Rash officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. 

Ray was born in Shelby County. He attended Sardis and Center schools and was raised in the Sardis community. Ray loved the Lord and served him faithfully at Sardis Pentecostal Church. 

Ray is survived by:
Sons:
Jimmy Ray Smith and wife Jackie
Van Buren Smith

Daughters:
Shelia Smith Kennedy and husband John
Patti Brown

Sister:
Virginia Lemoine

Grandchildren:
Drew Kennedy and wife Chloe
Aaron Kennedy and wife Sara
Ali Kennedy
Sam Smith
Nate Smith

Great-Grandchild:
Collins Kennedy

Numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends all of which he loved deeply.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Warr Smith; daughter, Rena Smith; parents, Perry and Grace Smith; brothers, Wayne Smith, Jerry Smith; sisters, Edna Smith, Frances Snow, and Odessa Smith Weaver.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

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