Shelby County Today

05/04/2021

Charles “Randy” Chandler, 60, of Center, passed away Saturday, May 1, 2021, in Nacogdoches County.

Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, May 7, 2021, at Smith Cemetery in Shelby County with visitation at Noon at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Bro. Derrick Lightfoot will officiate.

Born January 4, 1961, in Center, Randy is the son of the late Charles H. Chandler and Joyce Marie Luman Chandler.  He married and spent 35 years with the love of his life, Monica.  Randy enjoyed being outdoors, drinking his coffee, spending time with his grandson, and fishing and hunting.

He is survived by:

Daughter, Randi Kay Faulkenbery and husband Josiah of Center

Son, Brody Chandler of Center

Grandson, Wyatt Faulkenbery of Center

Brothers:
Ricky Chandler and wife Lecia of Joaquin
Ronald Chandler of Center

Sisters:
Relissa Bailey and husband Shane of Nacogdoches
Rhonda McManus and husband Robert of Athens
Rachelle Chandler and fiancé Billy Ramey of Nacogdoches

Nieces and nephews:
Bo Chandler
Ryan Chandler
Jake Chandler
Shelby Caldwell
Ashlie Chandler
R.J. Chandler
Kodie Bailey
Shayna Tucker
Kortni Bailey
Jordin Fountain
Charlie Fountain
Aybree Bond
Kylar Bond
Chance Bond

Preceded in death by his wife, Monica Chandler; parents, Charles H. Chandler and Joyce Marie Luman Chandler; brother, Robbie Chandler; and niece, Brittany Murdock.

Pallbearers will be Ricky Chandler, Ronald Chandler, Robert McManus, Bo Chandler, Ronnie Davis, and Billy Ramey. Honorary pallbearers will be Jordin Fountain, Charlie Fountain, Ryan Chandler, Jake Chandler, R.J. Chandler, and Kodie Bailey.

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

05/03/2021

Esther Marie Harvey, 87, of Gary, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2021 in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on June 8, 1933 in Shelby County, Texas, to the late Archie Milburn and Ina Mae (Driggers) Darnell. Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas, 75975, with Bro. Carroll Jones officiating. 

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 from 6-8PM at Taylor Funeral Home.

Esther Marie graduated Timpson High School class of 1951. She married Veston (Tenny) Harvey on January 5, 1952. They were married almost 60 years before his death in 2011. Esther Marie loved to cook. She was PTA president and involved with her children’s’ school activities. She loved working at the Timpson Library and the genealogy society. She volunteered at the Esther’s Clothes Closet for several years. While at the nursing home she loved going on outings with them and playing bingo there.

Esther is survived by:
Her son Emmett Harvey and wife Gayle of Gary

Daughter, Sandra Abernathy and husband Gene of Carthage

Grandchildren: 
Kathryn Stamps and husband Ryan of Timpson
Karyn Smith of Longview
Tammy McFarlin and husband Michael of Troup
Timothy McKnight and wife Kristina of Gary

10 great-grandchildren

Sister, Edna Dean of Garrison

Sister-in-law,
Katherine Darnell of Nederland
Suann Harvey of Longview

A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly

She is preceded in death by her husband, Veston Harvey; parents Milburn and Ina Mae Darnell; brother, Emmett Darnell; and great granddaughter, Trinity Rose McKnight.

Family would especially like to thank the entire staff at Garrison Nursing Home for the exceptional care extended to her over the past four years.

Pallbearers serving will be Ryan Clay Stamps, Gabe Smith, Timothy McKnight, Michael McFarlin, Junior Woodfin, and Johnny Woodfin.

Honorary pallbearers will be James Woodfin, Wayne Harvey, Owen Harvey, Wesley Boren, and Tommy McKnight.

In lieu of flowers family requests donations be made to Shelby County Corinth Cemetery, PO Box 426, Timpson, Texas or Garrison Nursing Home Activity Fund, 333 North FM 95, Garrison, Texas, 75946.

To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.

Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.

04/24/2020

Susan Raquel Shofner, 64, of Grande Saline, formerly of Joaquin passed away Monday, April 20, 2020, in Tyler.

A Celebration of Life Service for Monise Rashell Shofner and Susie Shofner will be held Saturday, May 8, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Willow Grove Community Church in Joaquin. The address is 4635 County Road 3790, Joaquin, Texas.

Born June 30, 1955 in Tyler, Texas. She was the daughter of the late Edward Shofner and Grady Lou McKnight Shofner. She graduated from Joaquin High School in 1973. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and family and loved her fur babies.

She is survived by:

Sisters:
Jan R. Berry of Shelbyville
Monise R.Shofner of Timpson (passed 11/25/2020)

Nephew:
Robert Berry

Nieces:
Amanda Robbins 
Tabitha Wachal

Great-nieces, Allison Robbins and Nolyn Wachal

Great-nephew, Trevin Wachal

She is preceded in death by her parents Edward E. (Sonny) Shofner and Grady Lou McKnight Shofner.

Services are under the direction of Hilliard Funeral Home, 386 N. Maple, Van, Texas 75790.

05/03/2021

Hughie Jennings Allen (81) native of Center, Texas; formally of Orange, Texas; and now of Denton, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2021.

Graveside services will be Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at Westview Cemetery, 12:00 noon.

He was born in Center, Texas on June 22, 1939 to the late Willie Leroy Allen and the late Blanche Kathleen Pilot Allen McClelland. Hughie was known for his laughter, deep voice, broad smile, and strong handshake. Hughie had a heart for people and never met a stranger. He had a love for family, friends, music, cooking and caring for his yard. In his youth, he joined Mt. Zion CME church and remained a life-long faithful member. Over the years, he served in numerous churches and utilized his God-given musical talents. He will lovingly be remembered for his 40+ years of service as an educator, dedication and service to others, his professional excellence, civic and community involvement. Most of all, he will be remembered for his love of music and playing the piano from an early age for church and special events. Hughie was a professional musician and has trained choirs and appeared on radio and television on many occasions.   

At 16 years old, Hughie graduated Valedictorian Class of 1957 from C.H. Daniels High school in Center, Texas. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Texas College, a Master’s Degree from Stephen F. Austin University with further study toward a Doctorate degree. Hughie began his career as an educator in the public schools in Diboll and Lufkin, Texas. In 1974, he and his family moved to Orange, Texas where he served as Assistant Principal at West Orange Junior High School, and later served as Principal of Jones Elementary and Personnel Director for the West Orange Cove Independent School District. Hughie loved his students, education and investing in those around him. He set high standards for all of his students and inspired them to reach for their dreams. Hughie retired from education in 1998, but he never stopped teaching and learning. He was an avid reader, student of history and family ancestry and gardening. 

Hughie desired to make a difference; he was an active member and leader in numerous organizations, committees and boards. Upon retirement, he continued to serve in these roles and added a few along the way. He began his second career as a Realtor in Orange, Texas and found great joy in this activity. Hughie had a variety of talents including grilling, barbecuing, and growing a garden. Hughie valued relationships - spending time with people brought him energy and happiness! In his younger years, he was sure to make in person visits to say hello. In his later years, his frequent phone calls and texts replaced those drive by’s via car, but they were still often and jovial. 

East Texas held a special place in his heart. From Center, to Nacogdoches, to Lufkin and all points in between, whenever in the area, he was sure to hit all the spots to say hello to a cousin or friend along the way. No matter where he traveled, Center held a special place in his heart and he always found his way home. 

Being a husband, father, grandfather, brother “bubba”, and uncle were high on his list. He loved his family to the moon and back and would brag on each of them whenever he had the chance.

He is survived by:

Dedicated wife, partner in life and music for more than fifty years, Doris

Daughter, Raquel (Leo) Daniels and his son Vincent Allen

Grandchildren:
Noah Allen
Zoe Allen
Ian Daniels
Bryce Allen

Siblings:
Reggie McClelland (Tammy)
Kathy (Michael) Haynes

Niece, Vanessa (Al) Davis

Sister-in-law, Linda Allen

Brother-in-laws, men who are like brothers, many nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews will miss him dearly. Numerous cousins, family friends, and those that were on the weekly speed dial and text list, will miss him every single day. 

To honor Hughie, a Memorial with the Prostate Cancer Foundation has been established. In lieu of flowers, contributions and gifts may be made via http://www.pcf.org/HughieAllen. 

The greatest comfort during our sorrow was the expression of sympathy conveyed to us in many ways. We deeply appreciate your thoughtfulness and thank you most sincerely for your prayers, support, and love. The family of HJA

Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and graveside services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.

Service entrusted to Sparrow Funeral Home (1107 6th Street Orange, Texas 77630. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.sparrowfuneralhome.com. Obituary announced by Hicks Mortuary of Center, Texas.

04/30/2021

Terry Lynn Cooley, 71, of Center, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, April 29, 2021, in Center.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 3, 2021, at Center First United Pentecostal Church in Center with visitation an hour prior. Bro. Andy Wilson will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. 

Born September 30, 1949, Terry is the daughter of Finnie and Harvey Commander. Better known as “Mimi”, she lived her life to the fullest. She loved to laugh, make others laugh, and lift people up. Terry never met a stranger and loved unconditionally. She loved her life as a wife and mother, but “Mimi” was her role. She was a member of Center First United Pentecostal Church in Center.

She is survived by:

Husband, Archie Wayne Cooley of Center

Children:
Michael Garrett and wife Darlene of Conroe
Hannah Louise Cooley of Center
Danny Wayne Cooley and wife Jeannie of Oneonta, Alabama
Angel Sullivan and husband Brad of Lucedale, Mississippi
Tina Whiteside and husband Darren of Center

Grandchildren:
Brian Garrett
Chass Garrett and wife Heaven
Patrick Garrett and wife Kaitlyn
Casey Garrett
Danny Bailey and wife Brittany
Allen Urban
Heather Amrine
Jessy Egan
London Reeves and wife Jesse
Jeremy Cooley
Chris Cooley
Alex Manning

18 great-grandchildren and counting

Brothers:
Johnny Johnson
Robert “Bobby” Johnson
Howard Johnson

Numerous nieces and nephews

Lifelong friends, Rohte and Leah Rae.

Preceded in death by parents, Finnie and Harvey Commander; and birth mother, Eva Lamerle Johnson.

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

04/29/2021

Jasper “Lin” Lindon Marcantel, 71, passed away March 25, 2021 at U.T. Health in Tyler, Texas from complications after a fall. Lin was born on September 14, 1949 in De Quincy, Louisiana to Jasper Sidney and Doris Marie Cole Marcantel. He resided in Bronson, Texas until his death.

Lin was known by all for his great leather work which he started at a very young age. He was the owner of Lin’s Custom Saddlery in Bronson, Texas. Where many of his friends enjoyed coming by for a visit and to hear what new stories Lin had to tell. His knife making friends always came on Monday to have him make sheaths for them.

Lin worked for several western stores before working for Texas Parks and Wildlife where he retired from. He continued working in his leather shop up until his death.

He was a member of Bronson First Baptist Church. He dearly loved his grandchildren, Cade, Gracie and Chase. Lin had a heart of gold and would give the shirt off his back if someone was in need.

Survivors include:

Son, Corey Ross and his daughter, Lindsey Ross

Brother, Bill Marcantel and wife, Sharon of Darrington, Washington

Sisters:
Nell and Larry McBride of Pineland
Nita and Mike Adkison of Center

Grandchildren:
Cade and Gracie Ross
Chase Williams

Several nieces and nephews

Aunts:
Marie Cole of Westlake, Louisiana
Lorine Marcantel of DeQuincy, Louisiana

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jasper Sidney Marcantel and Doris Marie Cole Marcantel.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 28, 2021 at the Pineland First Baptist Family Life Center in Pineland, Texas with Rev. Jimmy Salles and Rev. Adam Carrigan officiating. Burial is at Centerview Cemetery in Pineland, Texas.

Mike Mitchell, Jay Smith, Norman Dew, John McBeth, Darrell Elerby, John Stephenson and Jeff Greer served as pallbearers. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Lin to the Pineland First Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. BOX 216, Pineland, Texas 75968.

04/28/2021

Luevenia Barnes, age 81, of San Augustine, Texas passed away Monday, April 26, 2021 at Christus Good Shepherd in Longview, Texas.

Funeral Service is 1pm Saturday, May 1, 2021 at Reed Chapel Baptist Church. Interment is at Corinth Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Anthony Jackson, Officiating.

Viewing is 1pm until 6pm Friday, April 30, 2021 at Garner and Son Chapel.

She is survived by:

Son, Travis Lee Barnes of San Augustine, Texas

Daughters:
Thelma Jean Crockett of San Augustine, Texas
Shearon Colman (David) of Easton, Texas
Janice Barnes of Lufkin, Texas
LuCrishia Simmons of San Augustine, Texas
LuTishia Barnes of San Augustine, Texas

18 Grandchildren

20 Great-Grandchildren

Brothers:
Leroy Crockett of Shelbyville, Texas
James Crockett of San Augustine, Texas

Sisters:
Lovie C. Boyd of Gloster, LA
IverNell Simmons of Geneva, Texas

As well as a host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives and friends.

Services are entrusted to Percy Garner and Son Mortuary in San Augustine, Texas.

04/27/2021

Emma Elizabeth (Betty) Willoughby Chambliss of Lufkin, Texas, formerly of Center, Texas, went home to be with our Lord and savior on Friday, April 23, 2021 at the age of 80. 

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at Gipson Funeral Home in Lufkin, Texas. 
Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 28, 2021 in the Gipson Funeral Home Chapel, with Bro. Blake Powers officiating. She will be buried beside her beloved husband in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park.

She was born in Benton, Bossier Parish, Louisiana on July 14, 1940 to Henry Clayton Willoughby and Tressie Alaf Byrd Willoughby.

She was blessed with a close and loving family. She loved her family fiercely and without fail was always there to provide guidance, forgiveness, unconditional love and support in everything they encountered and set out to accomplish.

She was married to Charles Thomas Chambliss for 60 years and together they raised three beautiful daughters, Cindy, Debi and Mary. She was a member of Parkview Baptist Church in Lufkin, Texas since 1961. She worked at Land O’ Pines Diary Products Co/Okay Food Company, Inc. for 37 years. She retired as office manager and an officer in the company.

She is survived by: 
Her daughters: 
Cynthia Ann Raines of Lufkin
Debra Renee’ Blackburn and husband Joe of Lufkin
Mary Elizabeth Chambliss Stripling and husband Doug of Lufkin 

Grandsons: 
Charles Andrew Raines of Fort Wainright, Alaska
Cory Penick of Lufkin
Robert Lee Raines and wife Melissa of Nacogdoches

Step-granddaughter, Katelyn Stripling of Lufkin

Great-granddaughters: 
Charla Ann of Fort Wainright, Alaska
Kaelee Yam Raines of Fort Wainright, Alaska

Great-grandsons: 
Cash Lee  of Nacogdoches
Eli Isaac Raines of Nacogdoches

Brother, Kenneth Wayne Willoughby of Joaquin

Brother-in-law, Terry Chambliss and wife Elena of Mission

Sisters-in-law: 
Lena Chambliss of Chireno
Barbara McCauley and husband WH of Nacogdoches
Beverly McCauley and husband Travis of Chireno

Many loved nieces, nephews, first, second and third generations, and other family and friends

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Charles Thomas Chambliss; parents, Henry and Tressie Willoughby; brother, Alvis (Buddy) Willoughby and wife Helen; sister, Rosa Mae Jordan-King; sister, Maxine Oswalt and husband Dennis; sister-in-law, Rose Willoughby; son-in-law, James Valdez; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Thomas Leonard and Viola Gertrude Fenley Chambliss.

Pallbearers are: Charles Raines, Active; Cory Penick, Active; Robert Raines, Active; Shane Willoughby, Active; Allan Willoughby, Active; Clayton Wright, Active; Robert Earl Jordan, Active; Joe Blackburn, Honorary; Doug Stripling, Honorary; Wayne Blackburn, Honorary; Wayne Willoughby, Honorary.

Memorial contributions in Mrs. Chambliss’ memory may be made to the Parkview Baptist Church Building Fund, 111 Parkview Circle, Lufkin, TX 75901.

Condolences may be offered at www.gipsonfuneralhome.com Services have been placed in the trust of Gipson Funeral Home.

04/26/2021

Sylvia Martin Miller, 75, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on April 25, 2021 in Center, Texas. Born May 26, 1945, in Philadelphia, Mississippi. Sylvia is the daughter of Robert Ponder and Mira Ponder.

Visitation will be 10:00AM - 11:00AM Wednesday April 28, 2021 at Haslam Baptist Church Joaquin, Texas. Funeral Service will be 11:00AM Wednesday April 28, 2021 at Haslam Baptist Church Joaquin, Texas.

Sylvia is survived by: 

Sons: 
Tommy Martin and wife Chris
James Miller and wife Brenda
Kenneth Miller and wife Victoria
John Martin, and wife Casi 

Grandchildren: 
Darren Hodney
Dustin Hodney
Cara Hodney
Chase Martin
Julianna Martin “Oswalt”
Emma Martin
Shelbi Miller
Junior Miller
Danielle Miller
Chevy Bounds
Remington Panell
Ruger Panell
Derringer Panell

Great-grandchildren: 
Everly Martin
Sarah Doles
Kaden Doles
Heavenly Pate
Dustin Michael Hodney
Kaleb Hodney
Carter Hodney
Jaxon Martin
Kenzi Martin
Madi Martin

Sisters: 
Elizabeth Fuller
Linda Walden

Preceded in death by: Husband, Elwood Martin; Parents, Robert Ponder and Mira Ponder; Daughter, Sherry Hodney and Sister, Lillian Holloway.

Pall Bears; Tommy Martin, James Miller, Kenneth Miller, John Martin.

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