Obituaries
06/27/2022
Pamela Annette Crawford, 55, of Center, passed away Sunday, June 26, 2022, in Center.
Graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at White Rock Cemetery in Center.
Visitation to begin at Noon at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born November 11, 1966, Pamela is the daughter of Leither Keele and Mervil Crawford.
She is survived by:
Son, Lonnie Whitton III and wife Christina of Nacogdoches
Daughter, Marissa Crawford and husband Ismael Escobedo of Aiken
Brothers:
Raymond Crawford of Nacogdoches
James Crawford and wife Pam of Weatherford
Parents, Leither Keele and Mervil Crawford
Grandchildren:
Rachael Alvy
Emily Alvy
Allen Whitton
Natalie Whitton
Raylan Whitton
Pallbearers will be Marcus Steele, Brian Sigler, Will Jacobs, Randall Gilchrist, Coleman Crawford, and Lonnie Whitton. Honorary pallbearer will be Kevin Crawford.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/27/2022
Funeral services for Mrs. Reba Weesner, 89, of Carthage, Texas will be 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, June 29 at First Baptist Church, Tenaha Texas with Rev. Charles Williams and Dr. Andrew King officiating. Burial will follow in the Ramah Cemetery under the direction of Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral home.
Visitation with the family will be Tuesday, June 28 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home, Carthage, Texas.
Reba Joyce Weesner went to her heavenly home on Saturday afternoon, June 25, 2022. She was born in Freestone, Texas on July 17, 1932 and was raised in Cotton Gin, Texas by her loving aunt and uncle, J.C. and Mae Boyd. Reba spent her childhood and early adult life in Freestone and Limestone Counties. After graduating from Teague High School she obtained her LVN and worked in Mexia, Texas for a family doctor and at the local hospital.
While living in Mexia Reba met her future husband, Mason Weesner. They married January 23, 1960 and shortly after moved to Tenaha, Texas where she supported Mason’s banking career as she lovingly raised her family. She loved the town and the people who lived there. Entertaining family and friends in her home brought joy to Reba’s life. Her home was always open as she volunteered for wedding showers, bank functions, and other gatherings. After 35 years of marriage, Mason passed away and Reba spent the next 25 years working at Citizens State Bank in Tenaha. She was a devoted member of Tenaha Church of Christ where she spent many years teaching children’s Sunday School.
She is survived by:
Her son, Jeff Weesner and wife Trela of Highland Village
Daughter, Carol Jan Weesner of Carthage
Granddaughters:
Emily Weesner of The Colony
Andrea Weesner of Longview
Other family members.
Mrs. Weesner is preceded in death by her husband, Mason Weesner and son, Greg Weesner. Her parents Clifford and Alice Boyd, and sister Etta Louise Boyd, uncle J.C. Boyd and aunt Mae Boyd.
The family would like to express their special appreciation to caregiver/friend Melody Hardy and Family Nurse Practitioner, Cicily Cross-Blair for the exceptional care they gave to not only Reba but to the family. They would also like to thank Mercy Williams Odom and Laly Guerra for their assistance in caring for Reba.
Pallbearers are Johnny Harrington, Drue Scull, Terry Scull, C.D. Scull, Craig Haltom, and Tommy McMahon.
Honorary pallbearers are Marcus Frost, Don Dial, Ron Barker, and Kenneth Weesner
Memorials may be made to Tenaha Church of Christ, P.O Box 204, Tenaha, Texas 75974 or Ramah Cemetery, P.O. Box 204, Tenaha, Texas 75974.
A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.
06/25/2022
Joe Pledger, 73, of Timpson, passed away on Friday, June 24, 2022 in Timpson, Texas. He was born on May 30, 1949 in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 3:00pm on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at Taylor Funeral Home with Bro. Ronnie Sowell officiating. Interment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Monday, June 27, 2022 at Taylor Funeral Home.
Joe was born and raised in Shelby County, a place he forever called home. He was taught the importance of Christ and family from a very young age and lived that life for all to witness. He was a man of many talents and became skilled in most of them. Joe was a hard worker and took every challenge bestowed upon him with enthusiasm and determination. He never worried about things because as he saw no reasoning in that. His carefree attitude and endless joy were one of his most adored traits as well as his zest for life and love of people. Joe was the epitome of a “good man.”
He worked to provide for his family and always made time to enjoy hunting, fishing or gathering with close friends for a day that was sure to include many hours of fun and laughter and an occasional competitive card game or game of “42.” Joe’s giving nature allowed him to help those around him. If anyone needed a carpenter, he brought his tools; if they needed a lightbulb changed, he loaded his ladder; if someone needed a hug to make them feel better, he was the first to wrap his arms around them. Joe never met a stranger and took great pleasure in becoming friends with anyone he came across. He was honorable and genuine; honest and loyal and he blessed more lives than he ever knew. He brought a smile to your face and a moment of happiness everywhere he went.
When Joe was a young man, he spent many nights skating at Happy Junction, along with his siblings and friends. Once, while he was rolling around showing off his abilities, he caught the eye of a beautiful young lady. Sherry Self found herself watching in awe of his talents and when he asked her to skate with him, she did just that. That night, at Happy Junction skating rink, a bond formed that led to a beautiful love story over the next 51 years, filled with joy and happiness. Joe and Sherry began their journey together, and after the birth of their boys, they found themselves settling in Timpson. He built their house, with loving hands and a determination to make it perfect for his family. He was the husband and father that most only wish for. Joe took his family camping and fishing and taught the boys to be men. He instilled in them that you always say, “I love you” and you mean it. He showed them the love of Christ by living a devoted life. He taught them how to live life, by living life right in front of them. Joe was very proud of Stacy and Eric and when they met and married their soulmates, and he was able to feel the love of daughters and then grandchildren calling him Papaw, he knew his life was complete. He spent his days smiling, laughing and allowing the simple things in life to be what kept him going. He loved children, even other people’s children and was sure to have candy or gum for each of them and this made him happier than it did the kids. His own grandchildren were his pride and joy and he loved them endlessly. Joe will forever be missed by those around him, but his memories will carry on in the lives of those he touched in his lifetime because… we were all blessed to know Joe.
Joe is survived by:
Best friend and wife of almost 52 years, Sherry Self Pledger
Sons:
Stacy Pledger and wife, April
Eric Pledger and wife, Raquel
Grandchildren:
Dustin and Gracie Pledger
Kayson, Kaymin and Bowen Pledger
Sisters:
Cathy Windham and husband, Leon
Jean Gibbs and husband, Dwane
Brothers:
Roy Pledger and wife, Betty
Don Pledger and wife, Vickie
Mother-in-law, Darlene Self
Sister-in-law, Wanda Pledger
He is preceded in death by his parents, Milton Elvert and Grace Ramsey Pledger; brother, Mike Pledger and father-in-law, Bud Self.
Serving as pallbearers wlll be Larry Ramsey, Keven Molloy, Gerald Stamps, Chris Rhodes, David Thomas, Shawn Mason, Zack Molloy, Asher Molloy and Nick Walker. Honorary pallbearers will be Dustin Pledger, Bowen Pledger, Roy Pledger, Don Pledger, Duane Gibbs and Leon Windham.
A special thanks goes out to Tammy Jacobs and the staff of Affinity Hospice for the compassionate and dedicated care shown to Joe and his family during his final days. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s research hospital, an organization that was dear to Joe’s heart.
The Pledger family is being served by Taylor Funeral Home. To convey condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.taylorfh.net.
06/24/2022
Betty Weatherly Young, 88, of Garrison, Texas, passed away on June 20, 2022, in Cleveland, Texas. She was born on August 27, 1933, in Tyler, Texas to the late Sam and Clemmie Mae (Tarver) Weatherly. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, June 25, 2022, at Garrison Funeral Home. Interment will follow at 2:30 pm Saturday, June 25, 2022, at Cathedral of the Pines Cemetery in Tyler, Texas.
Visitation will be held 10:00 to 11:00 am Saturday, June 25, 2022, at Garrison Funeral Home.
Betty grew up in Tyler and Nacogdoches areas. She was a nurse for many years. Betty met her husband, James, at Springs of Living Water Church. The two were soon married on December 6, 1997. Betty and James enjoyed 24 years of marriage before her passing. Betty loved life and was a very outgoing person. She loved fishing off the dock at the lake. Betty enjoyed many shopping trips with her friend, LaDonna Gibbo. Betty and James were members of Highway Tabernacle in Timpson, Texas. They enjoyed going to church singings and worshiping together. “Aunt Betty” will be missed greatly by all who knew and loved her.
Betty is survived by:
Her husband, James Young
Stepson, Jimmy Young and wife, Teressa
Sister, Margaret Spivey
Step-grandchild:
Savannah Murphy and husband, Justin
Step-great-great grandchild, Jackson Murphy
Numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends
She is preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Clemmie Mae Weatherly; stepdaughter, Callie Young; sisters, Billie Jean, Jewel, and Catherine; brothers, Bobby, Preston, Jack, Huey, and Hubert.
Serving as pallbearers are Scott Spivey, Lucas Spivey, Fred Spivey, Jason Spivey, Robbie Spivey, and Mike Ellis. Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Young and Garry Weatherly.
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.
06/24/2022
Joyce Gay (Moody) Holt of Center Texas passed away on June 23, 2022 in Nacogdoches Texas.
She was born April 7, 1938 in Mexia Texas to JT and Susie Mae Moody. She moved to Baytown Texas with her family at an early age and met the love of her life Ted Holt. Ted and Joyce were married November 13, 1954 in Baytown. They were married for 67 years and had two children. Theodore Austin Holt III (Trey) and Robert Louis (Robbie) Holt.
Joyce loved the Lord and showed it in her life. She loved the Church families she had in Baytown at South Main Church of Christ, Johnson Street Church of Christ in Alvin Texas and the Hurst Street Church of Christ in Center. She loved the mission trips she made to Dominica with Johnson Street Church of Christ spreading the Gospel. She especially enjoyed teaching children’s classes and working with the little ones.
Joyce loved her family and her family loved her. Holidays and reunions were always special times for the families to get together and enjoy one another with large meals, games and laughter. She supported her two sons in all the activities they participated in. Only on rare occasions did she miss a game. Her support from the stands could be heard all the way across the field whether it was at a football or baseball game.
Joyce is survived by:
Her loving husband Ted Holt of Center
Son, Robbie Holt and wife Carla of Caldwell
Daughter-in-law, Mitzi Holt of Granbury
Grandchildren:
Kenneth and wife Keely Holt of Hurst
Justin Holt and wife Susan Hinkie-Holt of Baytown
Austin and wife Amber Holt of Mesquite
Jessica and Chip Ray of Katy
Paige Holt and fiancé Jonathan Darby of Texarkana
Great-grandchildren:
Samuel and Alexander Holt
Charlie Ann and Emma Jo Ray
Also, numerous nieces and nephews that she truly loved.
Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Christelle Stevens, two brothers, James Malcolm and Morris Don Moody. She was also preceded in death by her oldest son Trey.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 27, 2022, at Center Church of Christ in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Tim Perkins will officiate. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at Earthman Memory Gardens, 8624 Garth Road, Baytown, Texas, 77521.
Pallbearers will be Kenneth Holt, Justin Holt, Austin Holt, Chip Ray, Al Rieck, and Scott Brymer.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/23/2022
Roy Gene Weeks, 73 of Center, Texas, was born September 16, 1948 to Preston and Gladys Weeks of Shelbyville, Texas. Roy passed away on June 16, 2022 at Holiday Nursing Center in Center.
Roy was preceded in death by his father Preston Weeks, mother Gladys Schillings, and his two sisters, Carolyn Jackson of Center and Francis Fountain of Houston.
Roy is survived by:
Daughter, Tammy Cole and husband Wes of Lufkin
Son, Jason Weeks and wife Dawn of Clear Lake
Son, William Weeks of Jefferson City
Daughter, Lisa Weeks of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Daughter, Emerald Valencia and husband Cristian of Shelbyville
Brother by heart and soul, Bryan Beavers of Center
Grandchildren:
Brandon Sanders
Chelsea, Samantha, and Ashley Weeks
Maci, Joey, Carly, and Eli Weeks
Armani and Isaiah Moore
Caysen and Colsen Valencia
A Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force, Roy served as a military police officer from October 1968 to April 1980. Roy retired from the Air Force after being wounded during active duty. Roy owned and operated several businesses including a clothing resale shop, the Sunshine Club, and a VFW Hall. With a genuine passion for music, Roy was known throughout East Texas and beyond as country western singer Roy West. He performed at local venues across the state of Texas, and got to enjoy all of the wonderful sights along the way. Roy had a love of the traveling and exploring the outdoors, particularly fishing and boating.
Funeral services are being held Saturday, June 25th at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas. Visitation will begin at 2pm with services being held at 3pm. No graveside services will take place in honor of Roy's wishes to be cremated.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
06/22/2022
Rex Earl Howard was a beloved father, grandfather and spouse during his 84 years of life. He passed away peacefully on Monday, June 20, 2022.
Rex will be lovingly remembered by:
Spouse, Linda Howard of Deer Park, Texas
Children:
Peggy Watlington and Jasen of Center
Gaylon Howard of Shelbyville
Penny Jones and Wayne of Center
Stepchildren:
Larry Wake and Alicia of Mont Belview
Leonard Wake and Tarrah of Smackover, Arkansas
Bryan Kejonen and Paige of Mont Belview
Sisters:
Laverne Jeans and Billy of Center
Betty Sue Howard of Lufkin
Rex was preceded in death by his granddaughter Dayna Howard of Shelbyville, brother Bobby Howard of Texas City, Texas and parents Lewis and Pauline Howard of Center.
He was the proud "Papaw" to his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as a wonderful brother, uncle, friend and mentor.
Rex was born in Center on November 5, 1937 and graduated from Center High School in 1956. He moved to Deer Park in 1976 where he worked as a Chemical Operator until his retirement. Rex had a love of gardening and as an avid gardener, he always had plenty of extras to share. Rex and friends even started, and diligently maintained, a garden in downtown Deer Park as a project for the community.
His greatest gift, though, was in his discipleship and the many friends and family who came to know Jesus through knowing Rex. He always had time to share his faith and spent many hours teaching, preaching and mentoring. The family will miss his big presence in their lives but rejoices knowing he is at peace and resting as the good and faithful servant he was.
A memorial service will be held at 2pm on July 2, 2022 at Missouri Street Church of Christ in Baytown, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at stjude.org, by mail (click here for form), or by calling (800) 805-5856.
06/21/2022
Wilbur Charles Huss passed away on Saturday, June 18, 2022, in San Augustine, Texas, at 90 years old. He died peacefully at home in his sleep, surrounded by family.
Wilbur, known as Wil or WC, was born on February 13, 1932, in Guthrie County, Iowa. Wil was the first of three sons born to Charles and May Huss. Wil graduated from Payton High School in 1949 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served for four years. On December 23, 1952, Wil married Lauretta Dagit of Pekin, Illinois. They had three children: Douglas, Teri, and Richard.
In 1957, Wil began a career with IBM (International Business Machines) as one of their first computer programmers. While employed at IBM, Wil worked and lived with his family in many states: New York, Missouri, Michigan, Iowa, Texas, New Jersey, Illinois, Indiana, and then back to Texas. Wil worked on several aeronautics projects for the “Federal Systems Division” of IBM, most notably as a member of a team of programmers who wrote emergency spacecraft landing procedures for NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) missions, including Gemini, Apollo, and the Space Shuttle. Wil retired from IBM after 30 years of service.
Wil had a lifelong love for hunting, bowling, playing cards, gardening, birdwatching, playing his guitar, listening to country music, singing to his grand- and great-grandchildren, watching baseball, and reading the Bible. Wil was known for his quick wit, his irresistible smile and laugh, and his kind and compassionate spirit.
Wil was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and May Huss; his wife, Lauretta Huss; and his brother, Gary Huss.
He is survived by:
Son, Doug and grandchildren with Vickie Huss:
Jeremiah and Tonya Huss
Erin and Josh McGee
Karl and Rebecca Huss
Morgen and Ryan Hamlin
Daughter, Teri and Randy Town
Granddaughter, Amber Hartley
Son, Rick Huss
Brother and sisters-in-law:
Jim and Cheryl Huss
Connie Huss
Wil is also survived by seventeen great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild due December 2022.
Visitation will be held Friday, June 24, 2022, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, 316 West Columbia Street, San Augustine, Texas.
Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, June 24, at the Wyman Roberts Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Randy Mills officiating. Interment will follow at the Huss Family's Piney Woods Cemetery in San Augustine County, Texas.
Memorial donations may be made to The Salvation Army: https://give.salvationarmytexas.org.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences. Services are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas.
06/21/2022
Gwendolyn James Dodd, 63 of Center and commonly known as “Frat,” died on Friday, June 17, 2022, at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital in Nacogdoches, Texas. Mr. Dodd was born to the late Spencer Dodd and Imogene Greer Dodd on March 7, 1959, in Center, Texas.
Funeral service will be on Friday, June 24, 2022, at 1:00 PM at St John Baptist Church in the Africa Community. Pastor Marlin Cloudy Sr. will be officiating. Visiting is Thursday, June 23, 2022, at Hicks Chapel from 1pm until 7pm. Committal is at St. John Cemetery in Center, Texas.
He is survived by:
Brother, Vencer Dodd of Center
Sisters:
Helen Davis of Houston
Margaret Baltimore of Beaumont
Brenda Dodd of Center
Onita Dodd of Center
Melba McClelland of Houston
Lonniece Simmons (Wilbert) of Center
Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and funeral services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.
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.
06/17/2022
Gordon Davis, Jr., AKA John, 50, of Lufkin, passed away Thursday, June 9, 2022, in Lufkin.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 18, 2022, at Sardis Cemetery in Shelby County with Bro. Don Noble officiating. Visitation will be at Watson & Sons Funeral Home, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Born August 27, 1971, in Center, Gordon is the son of the late Joyce Ann Allums and Gordon Lamar Davis. His love of driving and working on trucks made his log truck driving career enjoyable. Fishing, hunting, and gardening were among his hobbies. Gordon loved getting together with his family, sitting on the front porch drinking coffee, and feeding the squirrels. He was a member of First Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ.
Survivors include:
Sisters:
Tammy Fields of Lufkin, Texas
Tina Davis of Center, Texas
Rebecca Davis and John McCormick of Bossier City, Louisiana
Brother, Joey Davis and Sabrina of Pollok, Texas
Nieces and nephews:
Anthony Rice of Lufkin, Texas
Bryan Rice of Lufkin, Texas
Joshua Fields of Lufkin, Texas
Destiny Fields of Austin, Texas
Chance McCauley and Brittany Paul of Gatesville, Texas
Andrea Hefley and Dakota of Tenaha, Texas
Kelli Young of Center, Texas
Christian McCauley and Cheyenne of Center, Texas
Kara Griffin of Center, Texas
Hunter Griffin of Center, Texas
Ryan Dickerson of Joaquin, Texas
Brenda Baker of Pollok, Texas
Miranda Davis of Big Spring, Texas
Zachary Proctor of Big Spring, Texas
Dustin Davis of Nacogdoches, Texas
11 great nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by wife, Paula Davis; father, Gordon Davis; mother, Joyce Davis; brother, James Davis; nephew, T-man Davis; and both sets of grandparents.
Pallbearers will be Chance McCauley, Daniel Pina, Dakota Hefley, Ryan Dickerson, Brenden Baker, and Christian McCauley. Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Bennett, John McCormick, and Bryan Rice.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/15/2022
Douglas Coody, 79, of Joaquin, passed away Sunday, June 12, 2022, in Joaquin.
Born October 1, 1942, in Saline, Louisiana, Douglas is the son of the late Jimmie Huntly and James Coody. He served in the United States Army.
Survivored By:
Wife, Rhonda Coody
Sons:
Joseph Dollar of Joaquin, Texas
Sylvian Coody of Saline, Louisiana
James Parry of Stonewall, Louisiana
Brother, Billy Coody of Henderson, Nevada
Sister, Ruth Purdue of Logansport, Louisiana
Numerous grandkids and great-grandkids.
Preceded in death by his children, Dejuana Coody and Lane Coody; parents, Jimmie Huntly and James Coody; and brothers, Ben Coody and Maxie Coody.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/13/2022
Frances Sue Williford “Cisco” went home to be with the Lord on June 8, 2022, at the age of 71. She was born and raised in Center, Texas, to J.C. and Sallie Williford.
Services will be held at Watson & Sons Funeral Home on Saturday the 18th at Noon.
Frances loved the Lord, painting, photography, birdwatching, and her family. She will be greatly missed and forever loved by family and friends.
Survived by:
Son, Jason Simms
Daughter, Cynthia Johnson (Lori Johnson)
Sister, Sandra Kaye Robinson
Many grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/13/2022
Merlin Osburn, 83, of Center, passed away Friday, June 10, 2022, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. Bro. Josh Sanford will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born August 8, 1938, in Valentine, Nebraska, Merlin is the son of the late Gladys Breuklander Osburn and Ervy Leroy Osburn. He served in the United States Air Force and went on to become a master plumber. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, welding, and tinkering with broken down equipment. Merlin attended Lone Star Baptist Church in Shelby County.
Survivors include:
Wife, Phyllis Ann Osburn of Center
Daughter, Julie N. O’Neal of Boise, Idaho
Son, Mitchell Osburn and wife Paige of Bryan
Grandchildren:
Kassie Kate of New York, New York
Dallas Reed of Waco
Cody and Kitty of Killeen
Kortney Anne of Bryan
Dakota Mae of Bryan
Dusty Dane of Bryan
Preceded in death by parents, Gladys Breuklander Osburn and Ervy Leroy Osburn; brothers, Billy Osburn and Jim Osburn; and sister, Darlene Burge.
Pallbearers will be Huey Britt, Bennie Eddins, Bruce Britt, Chrisco Bragg, Joe Yarborough, and Duane Bomar.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/13/2022
Donald W. Sample, 78, of Quitman, passed away Monday, June 13, 2022, in Quitman.
Graveside service will be held at 11:45 a.m., Thursday, June 16, 2022, at Sample Cemetery in Shelby County with Bro. Carl Loften. Visitation will be held at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, beginning at 9am.
Born August 22, 1943, in the Dreka Community of Shelby County, Donald is the son of the late Alma Mae Metcalf and Willie Sample. He served as a minister and also worked as an insurance agent for many years. He was of the Pentecostal faith.
Survivors include:
Wife, Deloris Scarborough Sample of Quitman
Children:
Derek Sample of Center
Dena Brewer of Big Sandy
Delicia Smith of Quitman
Donel Sample and wife Joyce of Greenville
Grandchildren:
Ainsley Beavers
Rustyn Sample
Alexis Sample
Jayson Smith
Alayna Sample
Taylor Keply
Emily Keply
Great-grandchildren
Brothers:
Douglas Dale Sample of Pittsburg
Ronald Gene Sample of Jasper
Also, numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Alma Mae Metcalf and Willie Sample; sisters, Mildred and Loreli Sample; and brother, Prentice O’Neal “P.O.” Sample.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/10/2022
Bryant O. Jones, 42, of Center, passed away Sunday, June 5, 2022, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 11, 2022, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. David Mosby officiating. Interment will follow at Roberts Baptist Church Cemetery in San Augustine County, Texas.
Born March 24, 1980, in Center, Bryant is the son of Evelyn Reed and Bobby Jones. He loved music and was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include:
Mother, Evelyn Jones of Center
Father, Bobby Jones of San Augustine
Preceded in death by his sister, Anita Reed; and grandparents, Jacob and Mattie Reed.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/10/2022
Rebecca Chance, 67, of Center, went to be with the Lord Thursday, June 9, 2022, in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with Mike Thomson officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Shelby County. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m.
Born June 5, 1955, in Houston, Rebecca is the daughter of the late Rhoda Laird Mullins and Dempsey Mullins. Rebecca dedicated her life to the service of others as a nurse, specializing in home health, hospice, and geriatric care.
She is survived by:
Husband, Wendell Chance of Center
Daughter, Lauren Chance and Matt Stackhouse of Boerne, Texas
Son, Justin Chance and Charlie Leclair of Willis, Texas
Grandson, Mason Chance Leclair
Sisters:
Diane Clay and Gary of McKinney, Texas
Patricia Hicks of Crockett, Texas
Susan Thomson and Mike of Crockett, Texas
Sister-in-law, Shelia Milam Estes of Oklahoma
Brother-in-law, Gary and Debbie Chance of Montgomery, Texas
Also, numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Rhoda Laird Mullins and Dempsey Mullins and mother and father-in-law, Lonnie and Billy Chance; brother, Curtis Mullins; nephew, Dooley Mullins; and great-niece, Parker Beavers.
Pallbearers will be Justin Chance, Matt Stackhouse, Charlie Leclair, Jason Hudson, John Michael Barnett, and Tony Dyches. Honorary pallbearers Chuck Kennedy, Gary Chance, and Mason Chance Leclair.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
06/10/2022
Pauline “PK” Kaper, 85, of Joaquin, passed away Thursday, June 9, 2022, in Joaquin.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2022, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at Watson and Sons Chapel with Bro. Hollis Bass officiating. Interment will follow at Old Home Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born August 3, 1936, in Alvin, Pauline is the daughter of the late Yvonne Lambden and Paul Edomm. In 1973, Pauline became a registered nurse. She saw the need to treat the elderly, and rose quickly to nursing home administrator. Pauline was named in the 1987 book, Death Without Dignity, which documents her state investigation and testimony into the Autumn Hills Nursing Home trial which prosecuted five executives for abuse, neglect, and the death of 60 elderly patients. In 1989, she was named Nursing Home Administrator of the Year. In 1990, Pauline was awarded the BritWill Life Saver Award for going above and beyond to provide the highest levels of care for the long-term care organizations. Her career as a nursing home administrator continued for many years before she retired as an administrator in Center, Texas.
She loved working outdoors on the ranch, “Kaper’s Acres,” with her husband, Ronnie. They loved working their cows and all of the chores associated with their ranch. At one time, they owned many acres in Shelby County. Pauline was a member of Old Home Baptist Church in Shelby County.
She is survived by:
Husband, Ronnie Kaper of Joaquin
Daughters:
Pam Cunningham of Center
Georganne and husband James Palmer of Houston
Grandchildren:
Christopher Shafer
Richard Shafer
Michiel Lemaster
Jamie Trevino
Randle Kaper
Michelle Kinnan
Jason Kaper
Katrina Armstrong
Zack Kaper
9 great-grandchildren
Sister, Cathy Fox of Center
Brothers:
Roy Lambden of Amarillo
Troy Lambden and wife Kathy of Graham
Caregiver/daughter, Sheila Dixon of Joaquin
Also, numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by parents, Yvonne Lambden and Paul Edomm; son, George Allen Goodwin; and son-in-law, Luis Trevino.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/10/2022
Darnese Parrish, 88, of Center, passed away Thursday, June 9, 2022, in Garrison.
Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Sunday, June 12, 2022, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with Chris Watlington officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m.
Born September 24, 1933, Darnese is the son of the late Alfred and Lucille Parrish of the Spring Hill Community. He attended Martinsville School until 10th grade and graduated from Nacogdoches High School in 1952.
He was drafted into United States Army in 1955 and was stationed at Fort Carson Army Base-Colorado Springs, Colorado. He married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue Corbitt, on May 5, 1955, while in Colorado. Their first child, Marilyn Sue, was born July 19, 1956. After his discharge from the Army, they settled in Center, TX. Vickie Ann was born December 26, 1958, Linda Faye was born October 23, 1964, and Michael Darnese was born December 22, 1968
He worked for the Texas Department of Transportation for 36 years, retiring in September 1993.
Daddy loved to play baseball growing up and later loved coaching girls softball, little league baseball, and t-ball. He also loved his horses and raising cows. He loved going to Friday Night Football with John Holt, Jerry Parker, and Jimmy Matthews. Pawpaw was always involved in the grandkids’ sporting events and rarely missed anything.
Daddy was a great friend to many and admired by all who knew him. He never met a stranger, always talking with everyone. He will be greatly missed by all.
Survivors include:
Love of his life of 67 years of marriage, Carolyn Parrish
Brother, Robert Parrish
Sister, Jean Consford
Sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Sarah Corbitt Burrows and Charles Burrows
Daughters and sons-in-law:
Marilyn and Larry Latham
Vickie Rudd
Linda and Tommy Jacobs
Son, Michael and Stephanie Parrish
Grandchildren:
Laurie Latham White
Randi and Jon Lunsford
Matt Latham and Wendy
Adam and Veronica Rudd
Rachel and Michael Quast
Ashley Lowe
Amber and Matthew Phelps
Great-grandkids:
Blake Latham
Reese White
Ryan Lunsford
Cade White
Jaycie Latham
Laini Lunsford
Noah Quast
Soon to be Baby Rudd
Special friends, Dorothy and Earnest Bailey
Preceded in death by parents, Alfred and Lucille Parrish; in-laws, Herbert and Audrey Corbitt; brother-in-law, Jerry Consford; and sister-in-law, Sue Parrish.
Pallbearers will be Larry Latham, Tommy Jacobs, Matt Latham, John Holt, Jon Lunsford, and Matthew Phelps. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry Parker, Charles Burrows, Adam Rudd, Reese White, Blake Latham, Ronny Rudd, Michael Quast, Noah Quast, and Cade White.
A special thank you to Garrison Nursing Home & Rehab and Affinity Hospice for their compassionate care.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/10/2022
Timothy Byndom, 56 of Shelbyville, passed away Wednesday morning, June 8, 2022 at his home in Shelbyville. He was born October 18, 1965 to the late Roy Byndom and the late Ella Mae Cartwright Byndom.
Visitation will be 10am to 5pm on Friday, June 10 at Community Chapel in Center. Visitation will also be held prior to the funeral service on Saturday beginning at 10am at the Church. Funeral Service is at 11am on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at Bennett Chapel Baptist Church in Shelbyville, Texas. Internment is at Gates Chapel Cemetery in Shelbyville with Bishop WC Martin officiating.
Tim attended Shelbyville ISD. He worked in the logging woods up until his health failed. He was a member of Bennett Chapel Missionary Baptist Church and often attended Gates Chapel Baptist Church as well.
He is preceded in death by maternal and paternal grandparents; brother, Kent Byndom; niece, Jessica Brinson; and nephew, Jermaine Brinson.
He leaves to cherish his memory:
Faithful companion, Rose Lloyd (Kathy)
Daughters:
Angela Bledsoe Burse (DeShawn)
Tichice McCollister
Tyonronda Adams
Son, Baron Horton (Acquantis)
Sisters:
Sherry Brinson (Johnny)
Tracey Belin (Travis Sr.)
12 Grandchildren
4 Nephews:
Justin Brinson
Johnny Brinson Jr. (Bianca)
Jeremy Brinson
Travis Belin Jr.
Aunts:
Lucille Brazil
Annie Garrett
Jewel Williams
Gladys Garrett
Brenda Carrillo (Jesus)
Diane Sparks
Donna Martin (W.C.)
Minnie Stanberry
Girtha Swindle (Roosevelt)
Mildred Gardner
Iva Boykins (Joe)
Uncles:
Lawrence Cartwright
Truman Cartwright
Howard Cartwright
Kerry Cartwright
V.K. Byndom
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
06/09/2022
Leo Paul Putman, 87, of Shelbyville, passed away Wednesday, June 8, 2022, in Shelbyville.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2022, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at Watson and Sons Chapel with Bro. Chris Collins and Bro. Mike Belgard officiating. Interment will follow at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Born December 20, 1934, in Texarkana, Arkansas, Leo is the son of Ira Mae Johnson and Joseph Leon Putman.
He is survived by:
Children:
Genise Putman Saas and spouse Ben
Pamela Cole
Keith Putman and spouse Shonia
Kyle Putman and spouse Lisa
Grandchildren:
Jason Franzese
Jessica Franzese
Jarah Chesnut and spouse Gary
Heather Saas
Kristy Carnes
Alissa James
Jodi Mullins and spouse Jonathan
Haley Dillon and spouse Kirk
Keith Putman Jr. and spouse Angie
Kandace Meisch and spouse Victor
Amanda Linthicum
Kevin Putman
Matthew Putman and spouse Mariah
Adam Copelin and spouse Jennifer
Jessica Greer and spouse BJ
Cade Copelin
Maya Putman
Elijah Putman
Many great-grandchildren
2 great-great-grandchildren
Siblings:
Jeanette Edling
Dale Putman
Edna Baldwin
Jack Putman
Wayne Putman
Pat Yakich
Preceded in death by wife of 63 years, Wilsa Putman; children, Denise Putman and Kevin Putman; grandson, Cole Carswell; son-in-law, Carlton Cole; parents, Ira Mae Johnson and Joseph Leon Putman; siblings, Travis Vaughn, Mildred Appleby, and Kathy Griffin.
Pallbearers will be Keith Putman Jr., Kevin Putman, Matthew Putman, B.J. Greer, Roger Putman, Lesilie Putman, and Gerald Humphrey. Honorary pallbearers will be Levi Greer, Gary Chesnut, Kaleb James, Adam Copelin, and Cade Copelin.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
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