Obituaries
05/30/2023
Jennifer Denise Gray-White, 40, of Center, Texas, passed away Thursday, May 25, 2023, surrounded by loved ones at CHI St. Luke Baylor Hospital in Houston, Texas. She was born February 21, 1983, in Center, Texas, to Jonathan Gray and Nancy (Berry) Gray.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Friday, June 2, 2023, at 1pm with Rev. Anthony Jackson officiating.
Jen was born and raised in Center, Texas. She graduated from Center High School, the Class of 2001. In 2011 she married the love of her life, Garnet White Ill. The two spent over 13 years together. Jen enjoyed laughing, spending time with family, friends, and was always the life of the party. She loved her husband, children, and family dearly. She was an outstanding cook and interior decorator. She enjoyed trying new recipes, watching cooking shows, mukbangs, and grilling. All of her loved ones had a special entree or dessert of hers they loved and would often request her to make. She was a Daddy’s Girl. She did it all. From field dressing deer to scaling fish with a spoon. Jen worked serving others as a private caretaker as her heart was focused on serving others. She was a very compassionate, kindhearted, and thoughtful person. She was full of charisma and had a magnetic personality that will be truly missed.
Jennifer is survived by:
Her loving husband, Garnet White III
Children:
Austin Randle
Cali White
Bonus children:
Isaiah White
Sean White
Mother, Nancy Gray
Grandmother, Lurline Wade
Brother, DeQuinn Nickerson and wife Stephanie
Sisters:
Katina Hubbard and husband Greg
Jessica Watts and husband Justin
Nieces:
Sykera Hubbard (CaDarius)
Kylie Hubbard
Lia Nickerson
Great-Niece, Essence Evans
Nephews:
Gregory Hubbard Jr.
Jaxon Watts
Levin Nickerson
Special cousins:
Carlos Berry and wife Veronica
Valerie Moore and husband Jeremy
Regina Patton
Courtney Dock
Special friends:
Katrina Starling and husband Cory
Sara Garcia and husband Maro
Shellie Jackson (Dakota)
Shanika Collins
Jarvis Hubbard
Nykoha White
Cathy Duthu
And numerous family members, friends, aunts, and uncles that will miss her dearly.
She is preceded in death by her father, Jonathan Gray; great-aunt, Lucille Gray; special friend Christina Jackson.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
05/26/2023
William Foster Wilburn (Cotton), 81, of Conroe, passed away Friday, May 19, 2023, in The Woodlands. He was surrounded by his family. Born December 4, 1941, in Shelbyville, Cotton is the son of Reese Parrot Wilburn and Addie Anderson Wilburn.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 2, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Don Windham officiating. Interment will follow at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County.
Cotton grew up in Goober Hill with seven brothers and sisters. He attended Shelbyville ISD and graduated in 1960. After graduating, Cotton moved to Nederland, where he raised his family. But, his heart remained in Goober Hill. He and his wife Mary Ann were together for 45 years. He worked as a truck driver for Central Freight Lines, where he retired after 35 years of service.
Cotton spent most of his spare time wolf hunting with his friends Troy, Elvin, and others. He loved Field Trial hunts. He also enjoyed deer hunting. He could spot a deer in the woods a mile away. Cotton loved to listen to country western music. His favorite of all time was George Jones. He loved family gatherings, cooking fish, and barbequing for everyone. He enjoyed laying on the couch and watching football. Cotton loved to collect things, so if you ever needed an appliance, he probably had it.
Cotton showed love by helping others, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His greatest love was his family. His kids and grandkids were his biggest joy. He always worried about taking care of everyone. He loved kids, and would always make sure they had a little money to buy something. He adored his fur baby, Romo. The day he went to the hospital, he was out walking Romo before he would go to the ER. That’s the type of person he was, putting everyone and everything first before himself. He was an amazing man, and will be forever loved and missed.
Cotton is survived by:
Wife, Mary Ann Wilburn of Conroe
Son, William Wilburn and wife Maria of San Angelo
Daughter, Erin Wilburn of Conroe
Grandkids:
Michael Wilburn
BB Adaway Jr.
Kristopher Adaway
Joseph Adaway
Adam Adaway
Dustyn Wilburn
Jessica Vera
Brother, Douglas Wilburn
Sisters-in-law:
Susan Lopez and husband Arnold
Renee Montalvo and husband Morris
Kathy Jones and husband Jack
12 great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces, nephews, and friends that he loved dearly.
Cotton was anxiously awaiting the birth of his great-granddaughter, Bexley.
He is preceded in death by parents, Reece and Addie Wilburn; daughter, Laura Adaway; grandson, Michael Wilkerling; and siblings, Jacqueline Wilburn, Maxine Miller, Kenneth Wilburn, Darlene Nall, Bob Wilburn, Billie Sue Smith and Edith Risinger.
Pallbearers will be Russell McGowan, Armand Chauvin, Juan Vera, Dustyn Wilburn, Jonathan McGowan, and Joseph Adaway.
To all the nurses and doctors who cared for our husband/dad with kindness during his stay at Houston Methodist Hospital, The Woodlands, we wanted to say Thank You. Our family is sincerely grateful from the bottom of our hearts.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/25/2023
Becky Rogers Walton of the Hunter Community, (De Soto Parish Louisiana) was born on Halloween, and this explains a lot if you really knew her, October 31, 1947 in Logansport, Louisiana, to the late M.O. “Jack” Rogers and Gloria Brossette Rogers. Much to her dismay, she lived her entire life right there on “the hill“. Well, actually, after her children were grown and moved out, she and Pa built her dream home down in front of the big pond, (rest assured, the timing of that decision was thoroughly discussed by said children) and she was quite content staying at home after that. Ma left here and took her first breath of Heavenly air, no longer needing oxygen, no longer needing anything, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at Willis-Knighton Pierremont Medical Center in Shreveport, at the age of 75. She was thoroughly worn out and ready to go HOME.
She was “Rosebud” to her husband of almost 57 years, Sam Walton. Whenever she met someone new, during the course of conversation, she would end up telling them she was married to Sam Walton. Then, when the look of surprise and shock came across their face she would follow up by saying “don’t get excited, it’s definitely not that one”. We think the best years of their marriage weren’t when they were young and carefree, but, oddly enough, in recent years. It’s been such a blessing for both of them to faithfully and dutifully take care of each other throughout their health challenges. Of course We kids just assumed that they didn’t trust us to do it right so they had no other choice but rely on each other. Overall, that was probably a wise decision.
She’s also survived by her first born, her daughter Sonya Lynette “Cissy” Dearman of Hunter Louisiana, who she punished by giving her that hideous first and middle name. We always felt it was because Ma hated her first name so much, which you’ll notice we didn’t mention in this obituary, so she chose Cissy’s name with a sort of “misery loves company” ideology. She had a great love for her son-in-law, Jim Dearman, thinking he had no clue what he was getting into when he married into the family and she really felt sorry for him.
Realizing, after having Cissy a few years, that they could surely do better, they had a son, Michael Walton, who lives in Sheridan Arkansas. She was always concerned about him because he had the same personality, disposition and mouth that she had, so she knew he would either do great things in life or end up in prison. She died still unsure how that will ultimately turn out. Needless to say, after having both children for several years, they just decided to cut their losses and wait for grandkids.
We weren’t planning to mention them, the granddaughters that is, but we’re really not sure what havoc Ma might be able to wreak from the great beyond, so we’re reluctantly putting them in here. Reason being, once Lindsay Carpenter and Kristin Dearman were born, they seemed to do no wrong in Ma’s eyes, and yes we were all more than a little jealous. Of course Ma knew this and it seemed to motivate her. Oh, and we can’t forget her grandson-in-law, Clay Carpenter, who she put in the same area of concern as her son-in-law. Our little family didn’t come with warning labels, so Ma just felt like she’d have to pray extra hard for them. Later, when the great grandchildren came on-scene, Elias, Evlynn “Evie”, Winter and Samuel, we just gave up any hopes of future recognition whatsoever.
Ma was an extremely gifted person when it came to making pretty things out of nothing. She dabbled in more types of arts and crafts then we could possibly remember to mention. Unknown numbers of people, who never met her, have eaten a piece of wedding, birthday, or other occasion cake that she baked and decorated. If you knew Ma, you know she loved her animals, and we sincerely hope that her mansion in heaven has a backyard full of peacocks. Mainly because she had more animals than Noah, yet reminded us constantly, that the one thing she didn’t have was a peacock. Over the years, she raised hundreds of dogs. Well, Pa raised them mostly, but make no mistake it was under her direction. She always rooted for the underdog in any situation, and that crossed over into her animals as well. She especially liked her dogs when they got old and toothless and wheezed just a little, because she felt like she was in better shape than they were. If all the dogs weren’t enough, she decided about the time Pa retired that they needed to have an ostrich farm. She was always a little apprehensive about his retiring after only being home every other week during his entire offshore oil career, so no one at that time, Pa included, was really sure if this venture was for hobby, for profit, or if she was perhaps just setting him up to get rid of him, just in case his being at home full-time got on her nerves. Lord knows Pa was an ostrich kick away from Glory on several occasions. In the end it all turned out fine and everyone made it through that phase pretty much unscathed, except the poor traumatized people who reported Bigfoot sightings when the ostriches escaped and roamed freely through western De Soto Parish for a time there at the end. She was a career person….well kind of. She worked in numerous occupations through the years, until she got tired of the work or the people at work and then she would come to the house, regroup, and set off on her next adventure. She would likely have died in Angola prison had she continued her career as a bus driver into this modern day society where everyone keeps their feelings hurt. Luckily for her, she did it during those days when people had good sense, and discipline was enacted at the place of the offense, by the person in charge, and on that bus, make no mistake, she was in charge. Now Ma was a precious person, but both her children can tell you firsthand, and backhand, that she believed in discipline. Now, it’s generally believed (by him) that her son didn’t deserve nearly as many whipping’s as he got, but he felt sorry for his sister so he took them anyway to save her the pain. Ma didn’t believe in grounding you, she was more a fan of swift justice. Her idea of “Time out“ was when she got tired of swinging the belt, switch, flyswatter, shoe, or whatever other instrument of torture that she had available, so she switched hands. She also worked at the school cafeteria, thankfully before hairnet requirements. She worked in retail, and she sold Avon and Tupperware. She went to beauty school and did hair briefly. She sold real estate through Century 21 as well as burial policies for Kilpatrick. Between those two careers she felt like she would either sell you your forever home, or your sure ‘nuff forever home.
Ma was honestly the kindest person you would ever meet and also the most gentle, yet if she saw a snake, the after affects would look like an Al-Qaeda airstrike had taken place, assuming of course the pilot had been a short, Louisiana country girl who likely cussed a little during the process. She was “Ma” to untold numbers of people in her community, and we are admittedly biased, but we feel the world is a little less bright today with her homegoing. She didn’t just give us life, she made our lives enjoyable. She taught us to be good people even when people aren’t good… Or else she would kill us. She taught us to believe in ourselves, because she believed in us…or else she would kill us. She also insisted, and would do an in-depth investigation every New Years Day to make sure that we ate our black-eyed peas, cabbage, and hog jowl, just like any self-respecting southern mama would do. Please don’t think her admonishments only apply to her immediate family. Y’all don’t get off the hook that easy. To anyone who has already cried, or has even thought about shedding a tear, I’ll refer you to her famous line: “dry it up or I’ll give you something to cry about“.
We’ll end this obituary, with the only thing that she would want you to know. Through all her sickness and suffering over the years, her faith never wavered one bit. All that little woman would want you to know is that she made the most important decision of her life many years ago, and that she was a blood bought, born again, child of the true living God, and He saw her through 75 years on this earth, and now she’s home for an eternity with Him in Heaven. We laugh at this obituary, because for the child of God, “death ain’t no big deal“. If you don’t know Ma’s Jesus, there’s no time like right now.
A celebration of her life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, May 28, 2023 at Magnolia Baptist Church On Highway 191 in the Hunter Community with Bro. Michael Walton and Bro. Amador Santos officiating. Burial will follow in the Hunter Memorial Park cemetery adjacent to the church. Visitation will also be Sunday, from 1:00 p.m. until service time.
Lord, we hope you had her some Community Dark Roast ready in an old drip coffee pot when she got there and I don’t know whether or not you like squirrel, but she can make some mean gravy. Oh, and one last thing…. Lord we realize, that you know all things, but it might be a good idea to not call her Evlynn…. Just trust us on that.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/25/2023
Laura Lea Krieg, 81, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on May 22, 2023, in Joaquin, Texas. She was born on March 14, 1942, in La Port, Indiana, to the late Jacob Floyd Newcomer and Edith Agnes Newcomer.
Laura was born and raised in La Port, Indiana. She graduated from Penn High School. She met the love of her life, Wayne E. Krieg, and the two were married in 1960. They had 4 wonderful children. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, and spending time with family. She loved to travel and has seen many beautiful places within the States. She loved the outdoors, especially working in her flower gardens.
She is survived by:
Son, Ty Allen Krieg of Huxley
Daughters:
La Mona Niver, and husband, David of Palmetto, Florida
Kathi Morey, and husband, Roy of Huxley
Sister, Mary Schneider, and husband, Don of Indiana
Grandchildren:
Caleb Krieg
Lori Landsperger, and husband, Christopher
Davie Niver
Great-grandchildren:
Lena Landsparger
Leah Landsparger
A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly
Laura is preceded in death by her husband, Wayne E. Krieg; parents, Jacob and Edith Newcomer; and son, Christopher Robert Krieg.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
05/24/2023
Charles Ray Sheppard, 71 of Shelbyville, passed away Friday, May 19, 2023 at his home in Shelbyvllle.
Funeral service is Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 2pm at First Assembly of God in Timpson. Visitation is Friday, May 26 from 10am until 6pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment is at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Tenaha in the Wood Community with Pastor Mario Osby officiating.
He was a man full of life, love, and laughter; to know him was to love him. He loved so many things in life from attending sporting events to fishing with his brother Buck, but the thing he loved most was being with family. If there was a family event happening, he would be there making everyone laugh.
He leaves to cherish his memory:
Wife, Ramona Sheppard
Children:
Rodney Gray
Charles Sheppard, Jr. (Launa)
Monica Chatman (Phillip)
Derrick Sheppard
Kajlauna Gray
Chadrick Sheppard (Jackie)
Cornelius Gray (Kattie)
Charlotte Jallow (Cherno)
Kristen Sheppard
Kimberly Sheppard
Christopher Sheppard
Mario Osby (Teresa)
Michael Osby (Val)
Caira Osby (Sam)
Sahara Osby (Kristi)
43 Grandchildren
26 Great-Grandchildren
Siblings:
Regina Sheppard
Elaine Brooks (Edward)
Delores Earl (Bennett)
Denise Cartwright (David)
Anita Moody (Vernella)
Felicia Holmes
Iva Lee Cartwright
Billy Sheppard
Carl Wayne Sheppard
Ricky Sheppard
Floyd Sheppard
Special Nephew, DeShannon Henry
A host of family members and friends
He is preceded in death by his mother, Minnie Louise Sheppard (Bill); father, T.C. Cartwright; brother, James Cartwright; sister, Shirley Patton; daughter, Marcia Osby; granddaughter, Destine Gray; and grandson, Jamerrion Gray.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
05/24/2023
James (Jim) Charles Puryear, 58, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on April 22, 2022, in Timpson, Texas. He was born on November 23, 1964, in Riverside, California, to Grady Puryear and Marilyn (Kehr) Puryear.
As per Jim’s wishes he will be cremated and later be reunited with his father and brother.
Jim was born in California. He graduated from high school. He made his home in Shelby County. Jim was a hard worker. He was a master mechanic and could fix almost anything. Jim worked for many years in Garrison as an auto mechanic. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
Survived by:
Mother, Marilyn Puryear
Sisters:
Symantha Puryear
Katherine Puryear
Nieces:
Elizabeth Puryear
Tiffany Puryear
Sarah Puryear
Jim is preceded in death by his father, Grady Puryear; and brother, Phillip Puryear.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
05/23/2023
Sara Ballenger Eaves, 74, of Tenaha, passed away Monday, May 22, 2023, in Carthage.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 27, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Tenaha with visitation beginning at Noon. Dr. Bill Holmes and Eugene Bowden will officiate. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha.
Born July 16, 1948, in Wills Point, Sara is the daughter of Sam Ballenger and Lola Belle Ballenger. She loved cooking, reading, going to church, spending time with her grandchildren and attending their sporting activities. Sara was a member of First Baptist Church of Tenaha.
She is survived by:
Husband, Renny Eaves of Tenaha
Daughter, Elizabeth Maloy and husband Austin of Carthage
Grandchildren:
Ava Maloy of Carthage
Cruz Maloy of Carthage
Brother-in-law, Randall Eaves of Huxley
Sisters-in-law:
Liz Ballenger of Nacogdoches, Texas and Janice Faussett and husband David of Tenaha, Texas; nephew, Jacob Eaves and wife Jill of Missouri; nieces, Kim Hendrix of Fort Worth, Texas, Billy Kay Wheless and husband Jason of Logansport, Louisiana, Candace Barnes and husband Daniel of Faith, Texas, Beth Smith and husband Hal of Montgomery, Texas, Angie Scritchfield of Henderson
Katie Broyles and husband Matthew
Great-nephews and nieces:
Lucas Barnes
Caleb Wheless
Nathan Wheless
Cassidy Barbee and husband Logan
Carly Smith
Julia Eaves
Jackson Eaves
Rosie Kate Broyles
Sam Smith
Anna Smith
Jenny Ruth Smith
Logan Mohr
Preceded in death by her parents, Sam Ballenger and Lola Belle Ballenger; brother, Dr. Richard Ballenger; sister, Diane Scritchfield; father and mother-in-law, Floyd and Maurice Eaves; and nephew, Sammy Hendrix.
Pallbearers will be Austin Maloy, Craig Ballard, Steven Eaves, Craig Haltom, Keith Martin, and O’Neal Jones.
Memorial donations may be made to Restland Cemetery, PO Box 87, Tenaha, Texas 75974 and The Gideons International, PO Box 83, Center, Texas 75935, https://www.gideons.org/
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/24/2023
William Charles Cassell (aka W.C. or Dub) was called home during his last battle with cancer May 22, 2023. He was surrounded by loved ones in the comfort of his home and is now walking with Jesus.
Funeral service will be held 10 a.m., Saturday, May 27, 2023, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with interment following at Dunnigan Cemetery in Shelbyville, TX. Visitation will be held Friday, May 26, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Officiating is Bro. Welton Blackman and Bro. Steven Berry.
Dub was born April 12,1940 to Charles Cassell and wife, Jimalee Webb Cassell in Shelbyville, TX where he and his siblings explored all of Shelby and surrounding counties. Dub's father traveled for work which allowed him to become acquainted with a great deal of people which led to meeting the love of his life, Barbara Lentz Cassell. They married young and parented three (3) children during their 65 years of union.
Dub made a living for his family traveling with the pipeline industry which was often a life spent away from home. However, he took extended breaks between jobs to spend time with his wife and children. When Dub wasn't employed by a pipeline company he could often be found on his land doing his most favorite things.
Making his final home near the lake was a bonus as he loved fishing and being on the water. He also enjoyed hunting and most anything outdoors, but during off seasons he could be found on his tractor keeping his property nice and clean and he invested countless hours doing so. Dub also had a knack for inventing his own tools and devices to better serve himself.
He loved socializing, helping others providing for the community, being deacon of East Hamilton Missionary Baptist Church for many years, and he loved the Lord. Dub put alot of his effort into doing good for others.
Dub was a great husband, father to his children, mentor to others, and known as a legend in the pipeline industry. Although he was great in the many labels he obtained, we would all agree his greatest title has been "Papa".
Papa was a very active grandparent. He showed each grand and great grandchild his love and support and each one felt special by him. Often the grandchildren would seek advice and wisdom from Papa. He was always considerate about our feelings and treated us accordingly, but would always give us the most honest, truthful, guidance with as much love as he could provide. Often he would provide a response with a Bible reference such as verses or a familiar story.
Papa would always help his grandchildren regardless of the need was emotional, physical, or financial. He'd pour himself into the well-being of each one no matter the circumstances.
Papa was the greatest earthly hero to his family. He had many family and friends respecting the man that he was and will be greatly missed by everyone that has encountered him.
Survivors include:
Wife:
Barbara (Bobbie) Cassell
Sons:
Michael Cassell (Beatrice) of Eldorado, AR
Randy Cassell (Brenda) of Shelbyville, TX
Daughter:
Charlsie Clark (John) of Shelbyville, TX
Sister:
Peggy Turner of Beaumont, TX
Sister in Law:
Opal (Bob) Vanlandingham
Grandchildren:
Clint Cassell (Dawn) of Silsbee, TX
Bridgett Lout (Josh) of Shelbyville, TX
Chadd Cassell of Nashville, TN
Randa McMahon
Michael Cassell, Jr. of Shelbyville, TX
Chralieda McKamy (Mark) of Troupe, TX
William Cassell (Cadie) of Vidor, TX
Erin Hargroder (Nick) of Vidor, TX
Christopher Askew (Carmen) of Shelbyville, TX
Mica Laney (Greg) of Huffman, TX
Daniel Cassell
Chasity Clark of Shelbyville, TX
Bill Faust (Bevin) of Shelbyville, TX
Brandi Watkins (Bradley) of Lexington, AL
Shumecio Ford Pavia Jones
44 great-grandchildren
14 great-great-grandchildren and expecting 4 more
Special loved ones:
Nong Clifton
Lance Moton
Keith Cagle
Preceded in death by:
Parents: Charles Cassell and Jimalee Webb Rice
Brothers: Donald Cassell and wife, Marybeth, Wayne Cassell and wife, June
Grandchild: Angelica Page Clark
Great Grandchild: William Cade Faust (Boo Boo)
Kayla
Pallbearers will be Clint Cassell, Chadd Cassell, Michael Cassell Jr., William Cassell, Christopher Askew, and Danial Cassell. Honorary pallbearers will be John Clark, Joshua Lout, Greg Laney, Mark McCamy, Nick Hargroder, Keith Cagle, Bill Faust, Lance Moton, and Jammie Casey.
Thank you to Heart to Heart Hospice for your Services. A special thank you to LaQuita (Kat), Olga, and Linda for the care and comfort provided. It was a definite Blessing during this time.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/23/2023
Mac Warren, 74, of Center, Texas, passed away on May 22, 2023, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was born on November 19, 1948, in Center, Texas, to the late Joyce Clyde Warren and Margaret Elizabeth (Goodwyn) Warren.
Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 10am with Bro. Jesse Casey and Bro. Rob Merriman officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, beginning at 9am until service time at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Wimberly Cemetery, Shelbyville, Texas.
Mac worked as a lineman for the Deep East Texas Electric Co-Op for thirty years prior to retiring. While retired he served as president for the Shelby County Farm Bureau for many years.
Mac was an active member of First Baptist Church Shelbyville. Mac Loved his friends and family, he never ceased to joke and make everyone smile he came in contact with. He was the most supportive Poppa, and he loved cheering on his grandkids and great grandkids in all their activities. He was a strong leader and loved his Lord and family above all else.
Mac is survived by:
Wife of fifty-four years, Valerie Warren
Daughters:
Melissa Casey, husband Jesse
Denise Merriman, husband Rob
Grandchildren:
Luke Casey and wife Courtney
Carly Emerson and husband Josh
Jacob Casey and wife Julia
Tyler Merriman
Hallie Merriman
Great-Grandchildren:
Harlyn
Quin
Kennedy
Jackson
Alexander
Reagan
Grant
Jessie
Gianna
Madison
Cambrie
Brothers:
George Warren and wife Vicky
Larry Warren and wife Tamie
Sister-in-law:
Reneta Jones
Brother-in-law:
Sammy O’Rear and wife Yvonne
Numerous nieces and nephews
He is preceded in death by:
His parents, Joyce and Margaret Warren
Father-in-law, Billie Joe O’Rear
Mother-in-law, Mittie O’Rear
Brother, J.C. Warren
Pallbearers serving will be Craig O’Rear, Daniel O’Rear, Wade O’Rear, Kreig Oswalt, Joez Jones, and Michael Warren.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Shelbyville or Shelby County Children’s Advocacy Center.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
05/18/2023
Robert Clinton “Clint” Lilly, 41, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on May 13, 2023, in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Laird Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Laird Funeral Home.
Clint was born in Nacogdoches, Texas to Danny and Sharon Lilly on January 10, 1982. He was married to his wife, Heather for 20 wonderful years. He met his wife, Heather, at a gathering with mutual friends. He attended Timpson High School and loved to play football. Robert is known to his friends and family as “Clint.” He was a country man through and through and that showed in his outdoor activities and love for country music. He was an avid skydiver, hog hunter, and fisherman, even though he was never great at fishing. Some of Clint’s other hobbies included coin collecting, history, metal detecting, but most of all he enjoyed welding. Other than his wife his greatest loves were his children and grandchildren. His favorite people will miss their Pappy with all their heart.
Clint is survived by:
Father, Danny Hoye Lilly
Wife, Heather Lilly
Children:
Rylee Carmela Lilly
Bailee Anne Lilly
Nathan Chase Lilly and wife Kristen
Carter Cheyenne Smith
Sister, Samantha Halstead and husband John
Brother, Greg Lanier and wife Genina
Grandchildren:
Kaden Chase Lilly
Harper Ailene Lilly
Haevyn Grace Lilly
6 nieces, 4 nephews, and 1 great niece, and his dog, Buddy.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Sharon Lilly; grandmothers, Ailene Lilly and Nellie Frasier.
Services are under the direction of Laird Funeral Home of Nacogdoches. Online condolences can be made at lairdfh.net.
05/18/2023
J.T. (Shorty/Jake) Furlow, 85, of Huxley, passed away Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at his home in Huxley, Texas.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with graveside service at Noon at Sholar Cemetery in Joaquin, Texas. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.
Born November 14, 1937, in Shelby County, J.T. is the son of James T. Furlow and Vera Permenter Furlow. J.T. was a member of Lydia Missionary Baptist Church.
J.T. married “the love of his life”, Willie Mae (Sally) Furlow, March 8, 1977. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his loved ones. He loved the Lord and his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He loved to tell stories of his past experiences and jokes.
Left to cherish his memories:
Wife, Willie Mae (Sally) Furlow
Brother, Royce Gene Furlow
Children:
Patsy Prinz and husband Willie Prinz
Ann Hargrove and husband Richard Hargrove
Richard Furlow
Brenda Ethridge
James Ray Collum
Janet Burleigh and husband Steve Burleigh
Grandchildren:
Josh Prinz
Kristy Chapman
Bryan Atchley
Jolanda Furlow Webb
Richard Furlow Jr
Simon Furlow
Noralee C. Furlow
Stevie Ethridge
Anna Collum Sandifer
Mikayla Broadway Eddins
Karley Broadway
Great-grandchildren:
Abigail Prinz
Austin Prinz
Haley Jo Wise
Ray Chapman II
Lydia Chapman
Megan Atchley
Ryanna Atchley
Simon Furlow Jr.
Adilynn Ethridge
Raelynn Ethridge
Brooklynn Ethridge
Karsin Mosley
Adalynn Mosley
Brinklee Mosley
J.T. is preceded in death by father, James T. Furlow; mother, Vera Permenter Furlow; brothers, Harold Furlow and Edward Furlow; sons, Ricky Ethridge and James Ethridge; and grandchildren, Jimmy Prinz, Justin Prinz, Vance Ethridge, Michael Ethridge, and Eric Ethridge.
Pallbearers will be Steve Burleigh, Cody Eddins, Stevie Ethridge, Caleb Mosley, Ryan Sandifer, and Melvin Broadway Jr.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at http://www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/17/2023
Linda Gayle Roe, 81, of Center, passed away Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 19, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home with visitation beginning at Noon. Rev. Doyce Whitton and Rev. Sam Roe will officiate. Interment will follow at Old Home Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born August 30, 1941, in Many, Louisiana, Linda is the daughter of Euell Fields Oliver and Alliwese Pugh Oliver. She enjoyed taking care of her flowers and her garden. Hobbies included reading and bowling, especially with the grandkids. Linda was a member of White Rock Missionary Baptist Church in Center.
Survived by:
Husband, George Roe
Son, Charles Roe and wife Cecelia
Daughters:
Cheryl Roe
Andrea Peacock and husband Courtland
Grandchildren:
Parker Roe,
Nicholas Peacock,
Alexander Peacock
Aaron Peacock
Reese Gonzalez
Olivia Roe
Great-grandchildren:
Jordan Peacock
Tarah Tracy
Sisters:
Lois Oliver
Francis Cole
Marcie Chisum
Preceded in death by parents, Euell Fields Oliver and Alliwese Pugh Oliver; and sister, Sharan Soltau.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/17/2023
Doris Hazel (Bowley) Jones, 90, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on May 8, 2023, in Timpson, Texas after a valiant battle with Lewy Body Dementia. She was born on May 1, 1933, in Wilson, Texas to the late Willie and Hazel (Ashley) Bowley.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas with interment to follow at Caledonia Cemetery, Timpson, Texas. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 12:00 to 2:00 pm.
Doris was married to Clarence Earnest Jones on April 15, 1949, at the age of 16 by Reverend T.F. Burrow in Houston, Texas. She was a long-time employee of AT&T/Southwestern Bell Telephone, where she was a member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) union, as a telephone operator before eventually retiring as a supervisor/instructor. Doris enjoyed reading anything and everything. She was an excellent cook, despite actually hating cooking. Doris loved music and playing piano. She was a very talented cabinetmaker and woodworker. Doris took great joy in being outdoors planting and gardening.
Doris is survived by:
Children:
Margaret Darlene Klawinski and husband, Harry of Tomball, Texas
Rickey Lynn Jones and wife, Debra of Overton, Texas
Phillip Allen Jones of Conroe, Texas
Dana Keith Jones and wife, Angela of Timpson, Texas
Sister, Adalee Steward
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hazel and Willie Jones; siblings, Leroy Bowley, Larry Charles (L.C.) Bowley, and Delores Liedtke; and daughter-in-law, Christina Jones.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.garrisonfh.net. Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, is in charge of arrangements.
05/16/2023
Frankie Blunt Scruggs, 82, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, May 15, 2023, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Joe Halliday officiating. Interment will follow at Lone Cedar Cemetery in Joaquin.
Born June 29, 1940, in Logansport, Louisiana, Frankie is the daughter of Lawrence Carroll Blunt and Pearl House Blunt. She operated Scruggs, Inc. Frankie loved fishing with her grandchildren, cooking, gardening, and her dog, Toto. Squirrel hunting was also among her hobbies in her younger years. She was a member of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church in Joaquin.
She is survived by:
Husband of 64 years, Joe Scruggs of Joaquin
Son, Richard Scruggs and wife Wanda of Joaquin
Daughter, Vickie McFadden and husband Neal of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Megan Paske and husband Matt
Lacey Scruggs
Dawson McFadden
Brooklyn Smith
Great-grandchildren:
Ella Paske
Nolan Paske
Walker Freeman
Brothers:
Bubba Blunt and wife Sandra of Grand Cane, Louisiana
Jimmy Blunt of Stanley, Louisiana
Sisters:
Linda Owens and husband Arnold of Frierson, Louisiana
Deborah Meisner of Converse, Louisiana
Sisters-in-law:
Eva Melton of Joaquin
Sylvia Scruggs Michael of Shreveport, Louisiana
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Lawrence Carroll Blunt and Pearl House Blunt; brothers, Johnny Blunt and Jerry Blunt; half-brother, Bill Blunt; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dan Meisner, Lera Childress and husband Russell, Hervy Scruggs and wife Lorene, Avis Lambert and husband ER, Errollene Brimberry and husband Lee, W.L. Scruggs, Audrey Dyer and husband Gary, Hilburn and Glenda Scruggs, and Zig Melton.
Pallbearers will be Larry Blunt, Lawrence Blunt, Paul Blunt, John Blunt, Jason Blunt, and Jeremy Blunt. Honorary pallbearers will be Dan Melton, Matt Paske, Dawson McFadden, and Rusty Lambert.
The family would like to thank Dr. Kenneth Fitzgerald, Dr. Kevin Gallagher, and Dr. Joyce Feagin of Willis Knighton Hospital and Willis Knighton Cancer Center for their care and compassion.
Memorial donations may be sent to Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 328, Joaquin, Texas 75954.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at http://www.watsonandsonsfh.com
05/15/2023
Brandon Quartez Horton, 33, of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away on May 6, 2023, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was born in Center, Texas on November 08, 1988, to Desmond Steadman and Caroline Horton.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at 2:00PM at Tenaha’s Special Event Center with Bishop Nash officiating.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 19, 2023, beginning at 5PM at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
Brandon was a loving guy who loved his family and super protective of his children. Growing up in Tenaha, he graduated from Tenaha High School Class of 2007. Brandon was a member of the House of Refuge Ministries under the leadership of his God Father Bishop William Nash.
Proceeding him in death are both his maternal and paternal grandparents; Willie Herman Horton, Carolyn Ann Horton, Gene A. Evans, and Alice Pearl Steadman.
Left to cherish his great memories are:
Children:
Daughter, ZyKeira Chancey of Nacogdoches
Daughter, Destiny Horton of Nacogdoches
Son, Josiah Horton of Nacogdoches
Son, Ayden Horton of Nacogdoches
Mother, Caroline Horton-Wilson (husband Kelvin Wilson) of Tenaha
Father, Desmond Steadman (wife Monia) of Tenaha
Siblings:
DeAndre Horton (wife Shelisa) of McKinney
LaDarren Cooks of Tenaha
DeMon "Tootie" Horton (wife Shanta) of Pineland
Takavion Wilson of Tenaha
JaMon Moore (wife Jasmine) of San Augustine
Wendi Moore of Center
Jacolby Ivy of Longview
Shanequa Anderson (husband Lee) of Fort Worth
Kandi Dent (husband Kenny) of Tenaha
Lance Steadman of Tenaha
Lataejha Steadman of Tenaha
Grandmother, Joy Goodwin of Tenaha
Aunts:
Shirley Watts of Houston
Tamiko Landing of Nacogdoches
Tierria Henderson of Dallas
Jacqueline Horn
Cassandra Horton
Tracy Horton of Tenaha
Letisa Borens of Tenaha
Danielle Thompson all of Tenaha
Uncles:
Carlton Horton of Tenaha
Terry Steadman of Tenaha
Stacy Steadman of Tenaha
Keith Evans of Bossier City, LA
Mario Evans of Dallas
Sinatra Evans of Center
Jason Matthews of Nacogdoches
Special Mother, Susie Crawford of Lufkin
Special Father, Gerald Thomas of Austin
Godparents, Bishop William and Lady Pearl Nash of Center
Godsisters:
TeCosa Walker
Aliyah Brown (husband Mario)
Mariah Nash
Great-Aunts:
Bennie Mae Mitchell (husband William) of Tenaha
Lera Jones of Lufkin
Helan Marie Johnson of Virgina
Frankie Johnson of Houston
Rose Loyd of Tenaha
Special Friend like a brother, Mark Carey
Special Nannie, aka Caretaker, Faye Jackson
Godsisters:
Jasmine Dodd
Alisa Dodd
Godbrother, Christopher Crawford.
A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
05/15/2023
Willie B. Anderson Elliott, 99, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on May 13, 2023, in Shelbyville, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. She was born on September 3, 1923, in Shelby County, Texas, to the late Wright J. Anderson and Sybil (Lout) Anderson.
Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Monday, May 15, 2023, at 2PM with Bro. Lamar Denby and Lynn Raymond officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Monday, May 15, 2023, beginning at 1PM until service time at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at West Hamilton Cemetery.
Willie was born and raised in Shelby County. She graduated from Shelbyville High School. She married the love of her life, Herbert A. Elliott, on January 24, 1942. They raised three wonderful children. She and Herbert enjoyed many wonderful years together before his passing in 2011. Willie enjoyed a wonderful long life. She was a loving, compassionate person. Even in her 80’s she was taking care of “old” people as a caregiver. She loved gardening, flowers, and the outdoors. Gardening independently into her early 90’s and enjoyed every minute of it. She was the most wonderful cook. She enjoyed spending time with her family. She loved the Lord and her church family.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Patricia Jackson and husband Jimmy
Daughter-in-law, Carolyn Elliott
Grandchildren:
James (the favorite) Elliott and wife Terrie
Jan Windham and husband Kyle
Bridget Hughes and husband Lance
Charles Elliott and wife Mandi
Stephen Elliott and wife Leigh Ann
Great-Grandchildren:
Konner Windham Dean and husband Brian
Holly Hughes
Emilee Elliott
Hunter Elliott and wife Alicia
Tanner Elliott and wife Harley
Physher Elliott
Clayton Elliott
Ainsley Elliott
Zac Hutchins
Liza and Jacob Kay
Great-Great-Grandchildren: 7
Willie is preceded in death by her loving husband, Herbert A. Elliott; sons, Wayne (Hub) Elliott, Aubrey Gene Elliott; granddaughter, Farrah Jackson; great grandson, Jacob Hughes; and brother, Cleveland Anderson.
Pallbearers serving will be Lance Hughes, Kyle Windham, Charles Elliott, Stephen Elliott, Brian Dean, and Lynn Raymond.
The family would like to especially thank A Piney Woods Home Health, Affinity Hospice, and Brenda Hebert for the exceptional care given to Mrs. Elliott throughout this journey. Your exceptional, compassionate care has not gone unnoticed.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
05/11/2023
Linda Yarborough 75 of Silsbee, TX; passed Apr. 29, 2023.
Linda attended school in Nederland and Timpson TX. She lived and worked in Center Tx for many years before moving to Silsbee and lastly she was a cashier and door greeter for Walmart in Lumberton TX.
Linda's wishes were to be cremated and a private family service.
Survived by:
Daughters:
Angie Bridges (James)
Yolanda Barton
Granddaughter, Bethany Bridges
Brothers:
Mike Crouch
Melvin Crouch (Barbara)
Sister, Melissa Crouch Burton (Roger)
Cousin and family care giver Traci (Chuck) Young.
She was preceded in death by son, O'Neal Jackson Jr., Parents Maurice and Melba Crouch, Brother and Sister Jack Wilson and Judy Wilson.
Proctor's Mortuary - Beaumont, is in charge of final arrangements, 3522 Washington Blvd. Beaumont, TX. 77705 (409) 840-2022. The guest book can be signed; words of comfort and condolences for the family can be left at www.proctorsmortuary.com
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Linda Yarborough, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
05/11/2023
Dr. Joe Neal Lacy, beloved father, husband and friend, died suddenly and unexpectedly Sunday afternoon, May 7, at the age of 66.
A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 15, at Christ Chapel Bible Church, 3701 Birchman Avenue. His family will receive friends following the service.
Joe was born to John Neal Lacy and Zelma Palmer Lacy on December 2, 1956, in Center, Texas. He graduated from Center High School and Summa Cum Laude with a Biology degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. He attended medical school at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where he also completed a Surgical Infectious Disease Fellowship, a General Surgery Internship and an Orthopedic Surgery Residency. He and a partner established an orthopedic surgery practice in Sherman & Denison Texas. Although entirely resolved later, upon learning of a health concern, Joe ended his surgical career and obtained a Master of Business Administration degree from The University of Texas at Austin. After several years of healthcare consulting with a prominent consulting firm in Dallas, Joe returned to medicine, completing a Radiology Residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, followed by a Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina. For the past sixteen years, Joe has been a radiologist with Radiology Associates in Fort Worth. Joe received many awards and honors during his career and was a member of several professional medical organizations.
Far more significant than all those achievements were the things that gave meaning and purpose to Joe’s life. He worked to make a living and provide for his family, but his real passions were his family and forming meaningful relationships with those he encountered. His childhood experiences drove him to be a great dad and he pursued it intentionally, tenaciously and with God’s guidance. Together with Jane, he set an incredibly wonderful example for his children. When he made mistakes as a father, he was consistent with apologies and finding a way to use it for good. Joe’s children say because of their dad, they know and have confidence in who they are, and they’ve learned how to work and seek balance in life. Joe loved to be outside and work, getting his hands dirty. Wonderful times were spent in the mountains skiing and hiking with family. He rarely sat still and enjoyed productivity. He and Jane were working together on property they owned in the country when he died. Joe was deeply drawn to authenticity in relationships and shunned superficiality. He was a friend to many and was always generous with his time, willing to share his medical expertise with those having concerns. Joe, Jane, and their children are members of Christ Chapel Bible Church and Joe served on several missionary trips to El Salvador and most recently on a medical mission trip to Panama. Early in his life, Joe spent a great deal of time at First Baptist Church in Center participating in choir and other activities. He was a man of deep faith and routinely shared the difference Jesus Christ made in his life as his Lord and Savior. As he grew in his relationship with Christ, God transformed him to love and serve in deeper and greater ways.
Survived by:
His wife of 32 years, Jane Ann Freese Lacy
Sons:
Wilke
Grey
Luke
Daughter, Anna
Sisters:
Nancy Warr
Linda Reinhart
Janice Compton
and their families.
Memorial: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial gifts be made to Vida Nueva, a church in El Salvador, which Joe served during several missionary trips. Instructions to give online or by mail can be found at https://www.goodnewsinaction.org/donate. Or to The Roughrider Foundation, P. O. Box 152, Center, TX 75935, in Joe’s memory. Please note Joe Lacy on the check.
Arrangements Robertson Mueller Harper Funerals, Cremations & Life Celebrations 1500 Eighth Avenue – Fort Worth, Texas 817-924-4233
05/10/2023
Nora Ann Patterson, 90 of Timpson, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2023 in Nacogdoches. She was born on January 29, 1933 in the Cold Springs Community of Nacogdoches County.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Friday, May 12, 2023 at Garrison Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Gough officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.
Services are under the direction of Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas.
05/10/2023
Ruth Polley Cook, 83 of Houston, Texas, formally of East Liberty Community, died on May 6, 2023, in Houston, Texas. Ruth was born to the late James and Aree Eddins Polley on March 6, 1940, in Center, Texas (East Liberty Community).
Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 12, 2023, at 11:00 AM at East Liberty Baptist Church (2980 CR 2569 Center, Texas). Pastor Jeremy Moore will be the eulogist. Visitation is prior to service from 10:00AM to 11:00AM at East Liberty Baptist Church on Friday, May 12, 2023. Committal is at East Liberty Cemetery.
She is survived by:
Son, Jimmy R. Polley
Daughter, Ruthie M. Polley-Phone (Ivan)
Grandchildren:
Morgan A. Mathis
Brandon J. Polley
Alicia A. Polley
Great-Grandchildren:
Ezra J. Polley
Issac A. Polley
Brothers:
Arthur J. Polley (Georgia)
Charles W. Polley (Annie)
Special Friends:
Ozell Garrett
Ernestine (Tina) Lister
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
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
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