Obituaries 2009 April

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04/30/09

Morris Holland Parrish was born 1-28-27 near Tenaha, Texas to Fred and Lena McCann Parrish. Died Thursday April 30, 2009 after a long bout with leukemia. 

Served in WWII and the Korean War as a hospital corpsman in the Navy. Graduated from Tenaha High School in 1943. Received a BBA from Stephen F. Austin State College and a Masters in Hospital Administration from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois. Served as Hospital Administrator of Memorial Hospital - Houston; Memorial Hospital Nacogdoches and Irving Community Hospital - Irving where he retired in 1987. Appointed by Governor Clements to the Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas.

He was appointed by the Irving City Council to serve as Executive Director of the Irving Arts Center where he became interested in art and this interest was carried forth to his eight years as a member of the Irving City Council with four of those being Mayor. This interest was shown through his dedication to public art across the city.

He was dedicated to the concept of regional mass transit and worked tirelessly for the expansion of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit service and fought for Irving remaining a part of the system. He also served as a member of the Dallas Mobility Coalition, Member of the Tollway Committee for the Dallas Region, Member of Dallas Area Rapid Transit Arts Committee, Executive Committee of the North Texas Council of Governments, Executive Committee of North Texas Commission, Chairman, Metroplex Mayors Association. Deacon, Plymouth Park Baptist Church.

Throughout his varied career he served on many boards, commissions and committees in the three cities where he lived and also on the State and National level.

He is survived by his wife, Marjorie of 56 years, two children, Richard Parrish of Terrell, Texas and Judith Bolch of Monument, Colorado. Also survived by five grandchildren, Sam Parrish, Danny Parrish, Alex Parrish, Beau Bolch and Ali Bolch. He is also survived by his twin brother, Mitchell of Waco, Texas who eight years ago donated his stem cells giving Morris a much longer life than was ever expected and creating medical history. Also surviving him are Mitchell's wife LeFern and late brother Bill's wife Jean, of Richardson, Texas. And a number of nieces and nephews. The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Joseph Fay who did so much to preserve the life of their husband and father for so many extra years.

Funeral services will be held at the Plymouth Park Baptist Church in Irving, Friday May 1, 2009 at 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Ken Branam officiating. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Ramah Cemetery near Tenaha, Texas.

It was the desire of Morris that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Irving Healthcare Foundation in Irving, Texas. Morris felt the foundation was one of his great accomplishments while serving as administrator of the hospital from 1973 to 1987.

Honorary pallbearers: Those who called him friend.


04/29/09

Era Fountain, 88, of Center, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital.

Services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, May 2, 2009 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Pat Windham and Bro. James Martin Cobb officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Nacogdoches, Texas. Visitation will be Friday May 1, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

She was born February 10, 1921 to Nella and Gracie (Patterson) Martin. She was a member of Center Missionary Baptist Church. She worked as a bookkeeper in California for many years.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, Nella and Gracie Martin, Husband, Floyd E. “Buster” Fountain, Sisters, Doris Alford, Mildred Cobb, Opal Miller and Vera Sullivan, Sister by Choice, Etta Rose, Father-in-law, Elvin Fountain, Mother-in-law, Lela Fountain, Brothers-in-law, Jack Fountain, Elmer Bennett, Ray Cobb, Clyde Roberts, Paul Miller and Temp Alford, Sister-in-law, Doris Roberts and Daughter-in-law, Linda Fountain.

She is survived by:
Sons and Daughters-in-law:
Floyd and Jackie Fountain of Center
Mike and Dorothy Fountain of Center
Granddaughters: 
Angie Stanley and husband Johnny of Center
Gueinn Clark and husband Mike of Center
Michael Fountain of Center
Grandson:
Curtis Fountain of Center
Great Grandchildren:
Machael McSwain of Center
Crystal White of Center
Lisa White of Center
Jonathan Clark & wife, Kida of Longview
Justin Clark of Center
Jacy Clark of Center
Brandon Fountain of Nacogdoches
Ryan Fountain of Nacogdoches
Bailey Fountain of Nacogdoches
Zack Carlton of Center
Tristan Carlton of Center
Bradley White of Center
Great Great Grandchildren:
Hailey Clark of Longview
Dayton White of Center
Makayla Mayo of Center
Sisters-in-law:
Rachel Fountain of Center
Kathryn Bennett of Nacogdoches 
Numerous Nieces and Nephews
Special Friend:
James White of Center
Pallbearers:
Jonathan Clark, Justin Clark, Jacy Clark, James White, 
Bradley White and Johnnie Hodge

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Service are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas


John E. Jarvis, Sr., 65, of Center, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital.

Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday May 2, 2009 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Willie Thornhill officiating. Burial will follow Old Home Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday May 1, 2009 from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

He was born October 18, 1943 in Wilkesville, Ohio to Fred and Alene (Bishop) Jarvis. He was a member of Old Home Missionary Baptist Church.

.He is preceded in death by his Father, Fred Jarvis, Wife, Beth Ann Jarvis, 2 Sons, Freddy Jarvis and Edward Wayne Jarvis, and Brother, Fred Jarvis

He is survived by:
Mother: 
Alene Jarvis of Pasadena 
2 Sons:
Matthew Jarvis of Center
John Jarvis, Jr. & wife Dawn of Nacogdoches
2 Grandchildren:
John Jarvis, III of Nacogdoches
Elizabeth Raeanne Jarvis of Pasadena
3 Great Grandchildren:
Tiffany, Michael John, and Jonathan Sutton Jarvis
Twin Sister:
Ethel “Sissy” Reed of Pasadena
4 Sisters:
Norma Duvall & husband Ricky of Pasadena
Becky Blakeney & husband Randal of Pasadena
Mary Shelton & husband Donald of Pasadena
Lori Simms of Pasadena
5 Brothers:
David Jarvis & wife Kathy of Centerville
Carl Jarvis & wife Renee of Pasadena
Gerald Jarvis & wife Rita of Cleveland
Paul Jarvis & wife Brenda of Centerville
Richard Jarvis & wife Realie of Cleveland

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Service are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas


04/28/09

Robert Jewell Williford, 67, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, April 27, 2009 in Shreveport. He was born March 21, 1942 in Brownwood, Texas to Levi Williford and Dorothy Burns Williford. Robert was a member of the Church of Christ in Joaquin. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War.

Visitation will be held from 6 pm to 8 pm, Wednesday, April 29th at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral services will be held at 3 pm, Thursday, April 30th at Watson & Sons Chapel with D.J. Dickerson officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Pallbearers will be William Cox, Nathan Cox, Brandon Eaves, Rocky Curry, and Chris Dockens. Honorary pallbearer will be Bo Posey.

He is survived by 
Wife, Diann Ross Williford of Joaquin
Daughter, Tammy Woodfin & husband Robbie of Joaquin
Granddaughter, Harley Smith Eaves & husband Brandon of Joaquin
Grandson, Allen Woodfin of Joaquin
Great Grandson, Trenton Eaves of Joaquin
Brother, Lewis Williford & wife Parfi of Center

Half Brother:
George Williford & wife Sue of Center
Charles Williford of Las Vegas

Half Sisters:
Vicki Thomas of Center
Diane Nutt of Houston
Debbie Hanson & husband Bryan of Houston
Jeannette Bright & husband Robert Dale of Center
Annette Danford & husband Kenneth of Dallas

Also a number of cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Preceded in death by:
Father, Levi Williford 
Mother, Dorothy Burns Williford Paxton
Sons, Dwain Williford, Robert Williford, Jr. and Dewayne Williford
Stepfather, Troy Paxton

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


04/27/09

Kathryn Abernathy, 65, of San Augustine formerly of Midlothian, Texas, passed away Monday April 27, 2009 at Memorial Health System of East Texas in San Augustine. 

Graveside Service will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday April 29, 2009 at Jackson Cemetery in Joaquin with Bro. Luke Garrett officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday April 28, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

She was born April 28, 1943 to Charles and Mary Frances (Holland) Moore.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, Charles and Mary Frances Moore.

She is survived by:
2 Daughters:
Edie Miller & husband Larry of Center
Jackie Hill Elliott & husband Troy of Red Oak
Grandchildren:
Jennafer Farnham & husband Chris of Mansfield, LA
Ryan Miller of Center
Joe Kliment of Midlothian
Parrish Miller of Center
Elisabeth Hill of Red Oak

Pallbearers:
Parrish Miller, Joe Kliment, Ryan Miller, Larry Miller, 
Chris Farnham and Troy Elliott

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangum funeralhome.com
Service are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas


04/24/09

Charles R. Williams, 77, of San Augustine, passed away Friday, April 24, 2009 at Colonial Pines Nursing Center. He was of the Church of Christ faith and a laborer at The Shelby County Workshop in Center.

Mr. Williams was born June 5, 1931, in Center, Texas to Elijah Dee Williams and Arleva McSwain Williams.

Graveside services will be held 2:00 pm, Sunday, April 26, 2009 at the Mt. Herman Cemetery with interment to follow.

Charles Ray Williams is survived by:
A number of Nieces, Nephews also Great Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and a host of friends.

Mr. Williams was preceded in death by: 
Brothers: Burnice "Slick" Williams, Norman Williams, and Oran Williams.
Sisters: Lena Youngblood and Wilma Eddins.

Services are pending at this time.


Nathan Cooks, age 5, of Tenaha, passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at LSU Medical Center, Shreveport, LA. Services will be Saturday, 2 PM at First Baptist Church in Tenaha, Texas. Interment to follow at St. Johns Cemetery in Tenaha, with Rev. Rusk Atwood to officiate.

Nathan is survived by:
Mother, Yolanda Boykin of Tenaha
Father, Earl Prince of Tenaha
Sister, Dallas Boykin of Tenaha
Grandmother, Betty Boykin of Tenaha


Jalyric Boykin, age 6, of Tenaha, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Shelby Regional Hospital in Center. Services will be Saturday, 2 PM at First Baptist Church in Tenaha, Texas. Interment to follow at St. Johns Cemetery in Tenaha, with Rev. Rusk Atwood to officiate.

Jalyric Boykin is survived by: 
Mother, Yolanda Boykin
Father, Earl Prince of Tenaha
Sister, Dallas Boykin of Tenaha
Grandmother, Betty Boykin of Tenaha


04/22/09

William S. Lucas, 80, of Shelbyville, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Shelby Regional Medical Center. He was born July 16, 1928 in Houston County to Hosey Lucas and Adelle Johnson Lucas.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, at 2:00 PM, April 23, 2009 at Strong Cemetery in Shelbyville with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.

He is survived by:
Wife, Geneva Creath Lucas of Shelbyville
Daughter, Sherry Lynn Humphrey of Buffalo, New York

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


04/21/09

Richard Howard “Dick” Busby, Sr., 84, of Center, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Nacogdoches Medical Center. He was born July 8, 1924 to Alex Richard Busby and Allie Belle Hickey Busby. Richard was born in Garrison and was raised in Hallsville. He was a seventh generation Texan, member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, Sam Samford Masonic Lodge #149, and the First Baptist Church of Center. He moved to Center in 1959 and worked for United Gas Company before starting his own business, Busby Heating & Air Conditioning, which he owned and operated with his son for over forty years.

Richard joined the U.S. Army in 1942, at the beginning of World War II. He was a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Special Forces division, which was an elite fighting group that later became known as the Rangers. Richard was involved in several major battles of World War II, including D-day and The Battle of the Bulge. He was also awarded several medals including; Bronze Star, Expert Marksman, American Campaign, EAME Campaign, World War II Victory and a Purple Heart.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Thursday, April 23rd at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, April 24th at Watson & Sons Chapel with Rev. Carl Smith and Rev. Michael Hale officiating. Graveside services will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park under the direction of the VFW Post #8904.

Richard is survived by:
Wife of 65 years, Relda Jeanette “Jane” Busby of Center

Children:
Mary Kathleen Busby Smith & husband H.G. Jr. of Dallas
Jacqueline Ann Busby Cochran & husband Gregg of Austin
Richard Howard Busby, Jr. & wife Jolene Ruth of Center
Joyce Yancy Cawthorn & husband Roy E. III of Corsicana

Grandchildren:
H.G. Smith, III, Michael Ryan McClain, Jennifer Windham, Mary Elaine Brackin, Richard Howard Busby, III, Byron E. McDonald, Timothy P. Yancy, Thomas O. Cawthorn and Austin S. Yancy.

Great Grandchildren:
Nicholas Windham, Rhiannon Windham and Christopher McDonald

Sisters:
Alyne Harrell of Holly Lake Ranch
Faylene Mackey & husband Tom of Hallsville

Also numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

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


04/20/09

Jim Clark, 68, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, April 20, 2009 in Shreveport, LA.

Graveside Service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday April 23, 2009 at Johnson Cemetery in Joaquin with Bro. Frankie Mathis officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday April 22, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

He was born February 11, 1941 in Centrailia, IL to Alvie L. and Gaynell (Burgess) Clark. He graduated from Hallettsville High School. He worked for Georgia –Louisiana Pacific as a maintenance supervisor for 35 years.

He is preceded in death by his Parents, Alvie and Gaynell Clark and Brother, Alvie Clark.

He is survived by:
Daughter:
Kimberly Payne of Ft. Worth
Son:
Christopher Clark & wife Tammy of Logansport
Grandchildren:
Amanda, Alicia, Sergio, Teri Lynn, Kristina and Andrew
Great Grandchildren:
Emelio and Kailee
2 Brothers:
Harold Clark & wife Cathy of Hallettsville
Bob Clark & wife Evelyn of Yoakum
Numerous Nieces & Nephews
Many Friends at Woodland Shores

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangum funeralhome.com
Service are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas


04/19/09

Seldon Marie Tribble, 95, of Center, passed away Sunday April 19, 2009 in Shreveport.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday April 22, 2009 at First Baptist Church Center with Bro. Michael Hale officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. Visitation will Tuesday April 21, 2009 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

She was born December 25, 1912 in Center, Texas to James G. Rogers and
Minnie Jewel (Thomas) Rogers. She graduated from Center High School in 1930 and she worked for John C. Rogers Drug Store in Center for a number of years.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, James G. and Minnie Jewel (Thomas) Rogers, 
Husband, Allen F. Tribble, Sr., 2 Brothers, James G. Rogers, Jr. and John Oscar Rogers, Uncles, Neal Rogers and Y.W. “Hap” Rogers, Aunt, Hazel Rogers Muldrow, First Cousins, Robert Neal Rogers and Bill Rogers.

She is survived by:
Son:
Allen F. Tribble, Jr. of Shreveport
First Cousins: 
John C. Rogers of Center
Louis Muldrow of Waco
James G. Rogers, III of New Orleans, LA
First Cousins:
Alice Sue Muldrow Rhodes of Tyler
Elizabeth Rogers Holloway of Nachitoches, LA
Catherine Rogers Simmons of Tyler
Nancy Rogers Crawford of Eugene, Oregon
Patsy Parmer of Center
Sister-in-law:
Virginia Rogers of Tyler
Numerous Great Nieces and Nephews, Cousins and Friends
Family Request that donations can be made to the First Baptist Church, Center 117 Cora St Center, Texas 75935 (936) 598-5605
Pallbearers: 
Donald Monroe, Sam Lane, Ben Thomas, 
Burton Brown, Miller Thomas and Richard Prince 
Honorary Pallbearers: 
Malcom Weaver, James Campbell and John Dean Windham
You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home


Elizabeth Nell Scherzer, age 57 of Tomball, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2009 in Houston, Texas.

Graveside Services will be 11:00 am Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at Fairview Cemetery, Center, Texas.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 21, 2009 from 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Mangum Funeral Home.

She was born February 29, 1952 in Center to Gene and Mary Margaret (Slayden) Scherzer.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, Gene and Mary Margaret Scherzer and Grandparents, Max and Floy Slayden.

She is survived by:
Brother:
Charles Scherzer & wife Jennifer of Tomball
Sister:
Sarah Ann Scherzer of Houston
Sister:
Mary Margaret Rebresh & husband Emery of Plainfield , IL
Numerous Nieces, Nephews, Great Nieces and Nephews, Cousins and Friends

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home


Lucille Woolen Munnerlyn, beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away peacefully April 18, 2009, at 98 years of age.

Graveside Service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday April 21, 2009 at Oaklawn Memorial Park with Rev. Carla Reed officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday April 21, 2009 from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.

Lucille was born January 3rd, 1911 in Fairfield, IL to Carrie Mae and Charles Marion Woolen. She was a long time resident of Center, TX, as well as other small towns in East Texas. Lucille’s sweet nature and infections smile will be remembered always by those who knew and loved her. Lucille spent her life nourishing her family with love, faith and pound cake. She was very proud to have raised two fine and distinguished sons, despite once being told by a doctor that she could never have children. Lucille was active in the Methodist Church, where she was a choir soloist, and was a life member of the Eastern Star. Lucille will be fondly remembered for her home cooked meals, lovingly prepared from home-grown ingredients, which were served for large gatherings of family and friends. 

Lucille was preceded in death by her devoted Husband of 63 years, James O’Ree Munnerlyn, Brothers Orville Woolen and Ernest Woolen, and Sisters Irene Woolen Prudomme, Corene Woolen Elliot, and Geraldine Woolen.

She is survived by:
2 Sons:
James H. Munnerlyn and wife Nancy H. Munnerlyn of Rowlett, TX, 
Charles R. Munnerlyn and wife Judith G. Munnerlyn, of San Jose, CA. 
Grandson: W. John Munnerlyn and wife Julie Munnerlyn, and their daughters Ivy and Rosemary of Santa Cruz, CA
Grandson: James David Munnerlyn of Bryan, TX
Granddaughter: Audrey L. Munnerlyn of Los Gatos, CA
Grandson: Mark S. Munnerlyn and wife Heidi Munnerlyn, and their children Mackenzie and Hunter of Rowlett, TX
Grandson: Stewart A. Munnerlyn and wife Stacey Munnerlyn of Pine Grove, CA
Grandson: C. Patrick Munnerlyn and wife Rhonda Munnerlyn and their children Brady and Kate of Los Gatos, CA
Grandson: Thomas O. Munnerlyn and wife Neely Munnerlyn, and their children Lauren, Miranda and Allison of Rowlett, TX

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Services are under direction of Mangum Funeral Home√04/17/09

Genevieve “Genny” Wright,67, of the Woods Community, passed away Friday April 17, 2009 at her residence.

Her body will be cremated and no services are planned at this time.

She was born January 19, 1942 in Brookhaven, MS to Willard and Christeen (Carlisle) Nevels. She was a realtor for Town and Country Real Estate in Center for many years.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, Willard Nevels and Christeen (Carlisle) Nevels.

She is survived by:
Husband,
Billy Joe Wright of the Woods Community
Son:
Billy J. Wright and wife Muriel of the Woods Community
Daughter:
Kimberley Marshall and husband Michael of Bryan, Texas
Daughter:
Jodi Wright of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Christopher Marshall and fiancé Candi Edwards
Laura Jan Marshall and fiancé Jerry Newman
Jayson Wright
Bryan Zulko 
Amy Zulko
Great Grandchildren:
Emma Marshall
Robert Newman
Kira Marshall
Makayla Marshall

Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas


 

Mary Lou Tarver, 81, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2009.
Funeral: 10 am Monday at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel in Fort Worth. Interment: Laurel Land Memorial Park of Fort Worth. Visitation: 2 to 4 pm Sunday at Laurel Land Funeral Home.

Mary was born Jan. 26, 1928 in Louisiana to Berta Smith Ramsey and Elvah Ramsey. She was a retired operator for Southwestern Bell. Mary was a life time member of Marystown Baptist Church where she played the piano and sang in the choir for 35 years. She rode in the rodeo as a flag bearer. She enjoyed crocheting and playing dominoes. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 51 years, Ernest Lester Tarver; and her son, Curtis Ramsey Tarver.

Survivors: Daughter-in-law, Diane Tarver; grandchildren, Jena Tarver, Mikel Tarver and Cody Tarver; great-grandchildren, Christopher Clausen and wife, Robyne, Tiffany Junge, Steven Clausen, Brian Tarver and wife, Ashley, Brittany Tarver, Anthony McNabb, Lona Tarver and Jacob Tarver; great-great-grandchildren, Xander and Ryan Clausen, Celeste and Haylee Ogle, Macy McElyea, Bailey and Blair Tarver.

Services are under the direction of Laurel Land Funeral Home , 7100 Crowley Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76134, 817-293-1350


04/16/09

James Smith, 53, of Garrison, passed away April 15, 2009 at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital.

His body was cremated and no services are planned.


Richard Vernon "Ricky" Higginbotham, Jr. 50, passed away April 15, 2009, at his home in Lake Dallas, Texas. A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, April 18, 2009, at First Baptist Church, Timpson, with Rev. Josh Walters officiating.

Born July 20, 1958, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Richard Vernon "Ricky" Higginbotham, Jr. was the son of Richard and Geneva (Jones) Higginbotham. He was a graduate of Timpson High School and Stephen F. Austin State University. On October 02, 1976, Ricky married Katrina Fletcher, his high school sweetheart.

Survivors include his wife, Katrina Fletcher Higginbotham of Lake Dallas; parents, Vernon and Geneva Higginbotham of Timpson; son Kamren Higginbotham and wife Kristi of Longview; daughter Carmen Higginbotham of Houston; sister, Lisa Higginbotham of Shereveport, LA; granddaughters Kelsey and Kilynn Higginbotham of Longview; mother-in-law, Mary Fletcher Gatliff and husband Don of Timpson; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Ricky was preceded in death by father-in-law, Joe Fletcher.

Visitation will be 6-8 PM, Friday, April 17, Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson.


Betty White, age 83 of San Antonio,Tx. passed away on Monday, April 13,2009 at Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Tx. She was born August 7,1925 in Gridley, Kansas. 

Betty was formerly of Tyler, Tx. where she was a homemaker. She attended the University of Tulsa in Tulsa, Oklahoma majoring in medical technology and was a member of Chi Omega sorority. She was also a member of Boston Avenue Methodist church.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 16th and Friday, April 17th at Burk's Walker Tippit Funeral home in Tyler, Tx. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 18th at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel at Burk's Walker Tippit Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Cathedral in the Pines in Tyler, Tx.

She is preceeded in death by husband, Barney White, sister, Mary Lou Detjen, and parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.A. Binford.

She is survived by:
Daughter: Susan Yeaman and husband Jim of San Antonio, Tx.
Daughter: Debby White of Tyler, Tx.
Daughter: Christy Mahan and husband Ken of Center, Tx.
Grandchildren:
Sonny White of Tyler, Tx.
Lindsay Yeaman and husband James of Arlington, Tx.
Whitney Mahan of Center, Tx.
Ross Mahan of Center, Tx.
Great grandchild:
MaKayla Patin of Arlington, Tx.


04/15/09

Kathey Lout, age 55, of Shelbyville passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. She was born September 5, 1953 in Center to Raymond Fults and Dovie Tindol Fults. Kathey was a counselor for Joaquin I.S.D. and had previously worked for the Texas Department of Human Services as a social worker. She was a member of Dreka Pentecostal Church, and worked many years with the Empty Stocking Fund.

Kathey's purpose in life was to be an advocate for others. Her gentle guidance as a counselor and strong- yet caring determination as a social worker positively impacted numerous lives in and around the community. Although she worked hard so that we never wanted for anything, family always came first. As a wife, she was faithfully devoted to standing by and caring for our father in sickness sometimes more than health. As a mother she believed in and encouraged us while instilling precious values of church, family, and education. We have been so blessed to have her as our mother and best friend. Life will never be the same since Heaven gained our special Angel. We pray to find comfort in this storm …to see “her rainbow” that always gave her heart peace during the trials of life.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Thursday, April 16th at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, April 17th at Watson & Sons Funeral Home with Rev. Kerry Green and Rev. Eric Bartley officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Survivors include:
Husband: Shelley Lout of Shelbyville
Daughter: Jenni Mooney and husband Bryan of Center
Son: Sawyer Lout and wife Amber of Shelbyville
Sister, Joan Johnson of Nacogdoches
Brothers: Jerry Fults & wife Betty of Nacogdoches and Kenneth Fults & wife Patricia of Round Rock
Mother-in-Law, Norma Lout of Shelbyville
Sister-in-Law, Kim Adams & husband Kennie of Shelbyville
Grandchildren: Tyler Mooney, Cole Mooney, Austin Mooney, Dylan Mooney, Alexis Lout, and Katelyn Lout
Nieces and Nephews: Kourtney Adams, Kendra Adams, Ramona Lee, Kevin Johnson, Wedney Meades, Miranda Fults, Jeremy Fults, Renee Fults, and Aubrey Don Fults.

Preceded in death by:
Parents, Raymond Fults & Dovie Tindol Fults
Daughter, Melody Ann Lout
Father-in-Law, Bernard Lout
Brother-in-Law, Leo Johnson
Niece, Candice Johnson

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


Elwanda Ogden, 84, of Tenaha, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at The Clairmont Nursing Center in Longview. She was born March 29, 1925 in Nacogdoches to Claude Greer and Nina Golden Greer. She was beloved, admired and adored daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and friend. She loved her family to the fullest. Nothing brought her more joy than being surronded by those she loved most in this world. She loved her sweet Lord and savior Jesus Christ, who carried her through many trails; most of all the loss of her beloved husband, Jack. Those who never met him felt they knew him through her eyes and her heart. We, her loving family, take comfort in the knowledge that they are no longer separated, but are both celebrating at the feet of Jesus, along with the many family members and friends who have met her in heaven. Her frail and ailing earthly body holds her no more! She will be greatly missed and loved forever.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Friday, April 17th at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, April 18th at the First Baptist Church in Tenaha with Bro. Russ Atwood officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha.

Pallbearers will be Glenn Greer, Joe Alan Greer, David Barron, Scott Savage, Brandon Barr and Drew Sitgreaves. Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of the First Baptist Church in Tenaha.

Survivors include:
Daughters:
Kathryn Lewis & husband John of Nacogdoches
Margaret Holt & husband Danny of Longview

Son, Mike Ogden & wife Crystal of Tenaha

Grandchildren: 
Michele Savage & husband Scott of White Oak
Jason Holt & wife Krystal of Longview
Kimberly Sitgreaves & husband Drew of Houston
Stacie Ogden of Tenaha
Brandon Barr of Joaquin

Great Grandchildren:
Taylore savage, Hannah Savage, Alli Holt, Jack Walker Holt, Griffith Holt

Brother, Billy Joe Greer & wife Josie

Sister-in-law:
Eardis Greer, Abby Lee Watson, Judy Ogden, Lois Ogden, Ruth Clanton

Brother-in-law:
Billy Ray Ogden, T.R. Ogden

Dear Friend, Berta Babek

Also many nieces, nephews and friends

Preceded in death by:
Parents, Claude Greer & Nina Golden Greer
Husband, Jack Ogden
Brother, Paul Greer, John T. Greer and O'Neal Greer
Sister, Helen Lunsford, Holland Barron, Claudie Lee Wiggins and Brooksie Ogden

Her family would like to thank all of the caring staff and nurses at the Clairmont Nursing Home, Texas Home Health Hospice, Dr. Keiser, and the wonderful nurses at Good Shepherd Medical Center and the many friends who visited her during her illness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: 
Texas Home Health Hospice, 3220 N 4th Street, Longview, Texas 75605
Tenaha First Baptist Church, 200 S George Bowers Dr. Tenaha, Texas 75974


04/14/09

Weldon Brown age 81 of Vinton, Virginia passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009.
Graveside Services will be 10:00 am, Saturday April 18, 2009 at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center, Visitation will be Friday April 17, 2009 from 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Mangum Funeral Home.

Mr. Brown was a proud Marine , having served in World War II and he was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie Brown and an infant Daughter. 

He is survived by :
Daughter, Judy Carter of Virginia
Son, Raymond Brown & wife, Diane of Irving, Texas
Niece, Tonya Waugh, of San Antonio, Texas
Grandson, Michael Carter & wife, Ruth of Roanoke
Granddaughter, Suzan Hutchinson & husband, Scott of Knoxville, Tennessee
4 Great Grandchildren; Channing, Kayla & Elisha Carter and Carter Hutchinson. Special Friend and Nurse, Louise Zimmerman of Roanoke, VA.


Ruth Lou Lawrence age, 92 of Center passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at Pine Grove Nursing Home.

Services will be 1:00 pm Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Pat Windham officiating. Burial will follow Antioch Cemetery in Center. Visitation is Tuesday, April 14, 2009 evening from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

She was born August 23, 1916 in Shelby County to Parents, Alford Bell Watson & Eula Mae Yancey. She was an Insurance Salesman for Globe Life for many years.

She is survived by:
Son & Daughter-in-law:
Freddy & Patricia Lawrence of Center
Grandchildren: 
Freddy Charles Lawrence of Texarkana, Arkansas
James Alan Lawrence of Odessa, Texas
Gregory Wayne Lawrence & wife, Suellen of Ace, Texas
David Lawrence & wife, Nikki of Center
Melissa Lawrence of Center
Great Grandchildren:
Jeremy, Tara & John Lawrence
Jonathan & Jeffrey Lawrence
Desiree & Victoria Lawrence
Justin & Elizabeth
Alexis & Avery Lawrence

You may sign the online registry book at www.mangum funeralhome.com
Service are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas


04/09/09

Vineta “Neet” Neel, 94, of the Tennessee Community, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2009 at Nacogdoches Medical Center. She was born October 19, 1914 in Timpson to Arthur M. Ramsey and Anna Woodfin Ramsey. Ms. Neel was a member of Tennessee Presbyterian Church.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Friday, April 10th at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 11th at Tennessee Presbyterian Church with Rev. Don Gregory officiating. Interment will follow at Tennessee Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Neel Farris, Charles Neel, Anson Neel, Monty Neel, Phillip Crump and Tom Green.

She is survived by:
Son, Ben A. Neel & wife Barbara of Denton
Daughter, Peggy Hancock & husband Gail of Stockman

Grandchildren:
Neel Farris, Charles Neel, Monty Neel, Anson Neel, Andrea Gilbert and Jan Neel
Fourteen Great Grandchildren

Preceded in death by:
Husband, Dolphus Neel
Sons, Charles Neel & Joe Neel
Grandsons, Nicky Farris & Joe Allen Neel

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


04/07/09

Doug Carlton, 51, of Center, passed away Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at his home. He was born May 31, 1957 in Houston to Vernon Willis Carlton, Jr. and Carole Norton Carlton. Mr. Carlton was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Lufkin.

At the families’ request, Mr. Carlton has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, April 8th at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Rev. Carl Smith officiating.

Doug is survived by:

Daughter, Alyx Carlton & Charles Kinder of Center

Son, David Carlton of Center

Granddaughter, Evy Kinder of Center

Mother & Step Father, Carole & Dr. John Rogers of Center

Brothers:
Steve Carlton of Trinity County
Vernon Carlton & wife Kellye of Center

Sister, Rebecca Carlton of Nacogdoches

Step Sisters:
Leigh Porterfield & husband Clint of Center
Rena Stephan of Colorado Springs, Colorado

Step Brother, John Rogers & wife Julie of The Colony

Also a number of nieces and nephews.

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


R. D. Strong, 84, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, April 6, 2009 at Overton Brooks VA Hospital in Shreveport. He was born August 7, 1924 in the Fellowship Community of Shelby County to Robert “Poss” Strong and Mary Jessie Lowe Strong. Mr. Strong was a member of the United Pentecostal Church in Logansport. He served in the US Navy, and was a survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Tuesday, April 7th at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, April 8th at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Bennie Bynog & Bro. Joe Walker officiating. Graveside services will follow at Lone Cedar Cemetery under the direction of VFW Post 8904.

He is survived by:

Sisters:
Mildred Fairey of Palo Alto, California
Jean Sorsby & husband Al of Huxley

Also numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by:
Parents, Robert “Poss” Strong & Mary Jessie Lowe Strong
Wife, Fern Strong
Sisters, Merle Jones & Shirley Webb
Brothers, Alva Tom Strong, Talmadge Strong, Earl Strong and Bobby Glen Strong

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


04/03/09

Ray Jackson, 79, of Center, passed away Friday April 3, 2009 at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital.

He requested that his body be cremated and no services are planned.

He was born March 24, 1930 in Bragg, Hardin County, Texas to Thomas Allen and Omino ( Newman) Jackson. He graduated from Center High School in 1947 and he retired from Houston Lighting Company after retirement he moved back to Shelby County and he spent countless hours researching history for the Shelby County Museum which he was very proud of.

He is preceded in death by his Parents, Thomas and Omino Jackson, Brother, Melvin Jackson, Sister, Ruth Jackson McSwain and Special Friends, Carla and Bernadette.

He is survived by:
Bunch of Friends especially Beatrice
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas


04/01/09

Glynn E. Windham, 47, of Bossier City, Louisiana, passed away March 31, 2009 at his home. He was born October 13, 1961 in Germany. Glynn served in the US Navy. He was a member of Bellaire Baptist Church in Bossier City, where he was also a member of the choir.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 pm Friday, April 3rd at Antioch Cemetery in Joaquin with Bro. Pat Windham officiating.

Glynn is survived by:

Parents, Julious & Thelma Bailey Windham of Bossier City, Louisiana

Daughter, Erika Farris & husband Kenneth of Bossier City, Louisiana

Granddaughter, Ayame Farris of Bossier City, Louisiana

Sister, Linda Nein of Brentwood, Tennessee

Nephews:
Matthew Nein & Nicholas Nein of Brentwood, Tennessee

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