Shelby County Today

05/06/2026

Curtis Alvin Lister, 74, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026. He was born on July 27, 1951 to Alvin and Norvie Lister in Texas.

Visitation is from 11am until 6pm on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center, Texas. Funeral service is at 2pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Triumph Church, 908 Daniel Street, Center, Texas. Eulogist is Rev. Winston Kibbles.

Curtis worked at Tyson for 10 years, and Hallmark for 10 years.

He is preceded in death by father, Alvin Lister; mother, Norvie Lister; sister, Linda Meeks; niece, Chantina Lister; and brother-in-law and best friend, Donald Lofton.

He is survived by:

Significant Other, Deloise Walker Lister

Siblings:
Sister, Vanessa Perkins Lister
Brother, Riley Lister
Brother, Alan Ray Lister
Sister, Karen Lofton
Brother, Hyman Lister

Nieces and Nephews:
Niece, Tammy Nicole Eutsey
Nephew, Deljon Lister
Nephew, La-Trevion Lister
Niece, Shinay Lofton
Niece, LaDonna Philips
Nephew, Derrick Lofton
Niece, Bria Meeks
Nephew, Taigen Meeks

A host of great-nephews and great-nieces.

Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

05/06/2026

Doris Marie Rather, 76, passed away Wednesday, April 29, 2026. She was born on February 6, 1950.

Visitation is at 11am until 6pm on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. A celebration of life service will be held at 11am on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church, 8033 FM 2026. Interment is at Mt. Gillion Cemetery. Repass at Mt. Gillion Baptist Church, 5545 State Hwy 87 N, Center, Texas 75935.

Doris' life journey began on February 8, 1950, in the small town of Timpson, Texas. She was born the fifth child of the twelve children of the late Lee Berk and Lola Mae Jackson Rather. She was the third of seven girls.

Doris was always very strong and a hard worker in everything she did. She had an unusual strength about her that was unexplainable. However, one explanation was that she was a strong Christian woman. She was a praying woman and full of Faith which allowed her to accomplish many things. She was very creative and she loved working with children. She was a servant from her heart and loved doing things for people.

Doris graduated from Timpson High School in 1968 earning the Valedictorian of her class. After graduation, she entered Texas College in Tyler, Texas. Thanks to our math teacher in Timpson who was from Tyler, Mrs. Essie J. Carr, Doris became the first of our family to attend college.

After her second year at Texas College, she moved to Sweetwater, Texas with her oldest sister, Mary Horn. Doris began working as a seamstress at Wall's Industry, a coat factory in Sweetwater, until she retired. This is where she raised her two sons as a single mother providing everything they needed, putting them both through college. Sometimes she worked two jobs. Doris was a very dedicated Mother.

Doris united with the New Prospect Baptist Church in Timpson and was baptized along with several other young people in the Deacon Chairman's pond, at the age of twelve. Our parents made sure we were in Sunday School and Church every Sunday and were taught the Word of God.

After moving to Sweetwater, Doris united with Greater Zion Baptist Church where the late Rev. William Jackson served as pastor. She was very active in her church there in Sweetwater where she became the Youth Directress, choir member, church custodian, Vacation Bible School Directress, Culinary Ministry, and wherever else she was needed.

Doris later relocated to Baton Rouge, Louisiana and united with Mt. Carmel Baptist church where she was very active until her health failed. She served as Deaconess President, Youth Sponsor, Vacation Bible School Director, Choir member, Girl Scout Sponsor, etc. She loved outreach and serving others. She would personally prepare meals for families who lost loved ones. She would often make things and deliver them to Nursing Homes, she was a part of the visitation Ministry with deacons who administered Communion to the sick and shut in, she would make things for her neighbors in her apartment complex which was for disabled Seniors. She also worked at a Church Day Care where she was over the kitchen. She prepared meals for the children and prepared food for the parishioners every Wednesday night. Doris was a phenomenal woman!!

Doris suffered many hardships in her life, but she pressed onward with very strong convictions, She went through so much, but yet she pressed on by the Grace of God. She could truly say as Paul said in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day...'

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, Lee Berk and Lola Mae Jackson Rather; two brothers - Nelson and Paul Rather; and two sisters - Mary Horn and Gladys Simon.

She leaves to cherish her memories:

Sons:
Durl Lyn Rather (Tracy), Arlington, Texas
William "Billy" Rather (Allison), Alexandria, Louisiana

Godsons: Kerrington and Kylan

Brothers:
Samuel Rather of Nacogdoches, Texas
Michael Rather of Nacogdoches, Texas
Clifford Lynn Rather of Nacogdoches, Texas

Sisters:
Linda Black, Nacogdoches, Texas
Alice Snow Mosley, Tyler, Texas
Joyce Johnson, Center, Texas
Josie Rather of Houston, Texas
Birdie Kelley of Houston, Texas
Shelia Rather of Houston, Texas

Sister/niece: Sharon (Darryl) Dickey, Little Rock, Arkansas

Grandchildren:
Ellie Maris and Noah Harrison Rather, Arlington, Texas
Ayden Rather, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Services are under the direction of Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas 75935.

05/06/2026

Mr. Johnnie Mack Harper “Skippa Mack”, age 73, of San Augustine, Texas departed this physical life on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at his residence in San Augustine, Texas. DOB: 09/01/1952 - DOD: 05/03/2026

Funeral Service Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 12:00 Noon located at Reed Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Timothy Teal, Officiating Minister and Interment: Lane Town Cemetery.

Viewing Friday, May 08, 2026 at 2pm until 6:30pm located at  Garner & Son Chapel.

Survivors: 

Sons:
Jarvis Harper of San Augustine, Texas
Jonavic “Macshayne” Harper of Nacogdoches, Texas
Massaud Williams ( Romecia) of Center, Texas

Daughters:
Jasmine Harper of Lufkin, Texas
Latoya Miller (Kendrick) of San Augustine, Texas
Sha-Ryiah Harper of San Augustine, Texas

A host of Grandchildren, great-grandchildren and Great-Great Grandchildren

Sisters:
Verna Williams of Garland, Texas
Altee Harris of Flint, Michigan

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

 Services are under the direction of Percy Garner & Son Mortuary, 304 Irons Rd. San Augustine, Texas 75972. https://www.percygarner.com/

05/05/2026

Graveside services for Doris Dale (Faussett) Hooper, 70, of Henderson, TX, will be held at 2:30 PM, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Woodlawn Cemetery with Bro. Kevin Windham officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM, at Taylor Funeral Home.

Doris was born on January 3, 1956, in Center and passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at Holiday Nursing Home in Center. She was the daughter of George Dewey and Hortense Faussett. Doris attended Angelina College as well as Dallas Community Christian College.

Growing up, she worked at Fred Hudson Hardware as a clerk and later as a caregiver for family.  Doris and her family attended Little Life Tabernacle in the James Community. She stayed in touch with two high school friends, Cathy and Beverly which she spoke of quite often. In 2024, Doris went on a cruise to Cozumel and had a great time. She also enjoyed beginning her mornings with a good cup of black coffee and her times listening to Elvis Presley recordings. Doris was also a lover of animals, raising many fur-babies through the years.

Doris became a member of the Hooper family and was considered as a daughter and sister. She was dearly loved by the Hooper family.

Doris resided in Henderson and spent several years living there. She spent many hours watching evangelist Joyce Meyers early in the morning, loved reading her bible and sending special words and verses of encouragement through Facebook. Another favorite past time would be spent with her friend Stacie playing board games such as Scrabble and Yahtzee.

Melisa, one of her daughters, would sing Doris’ favorite hymns to her when she came to visit. Through Doris’ health issues, she stayed strong with her faith from God.

The family would like to thank UT Henderson, Holiday Nursing Home staff and Heart to Heart Hospice for the love, compassion and care for our Doris.

05/04/2026

Chris Windham, 60, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Lufkin.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Bro. Kevin Windham will officiate.  Interment will follow at Patroon Cemetery in the Patroon Community of Shelby County.

Born December 1, 1965, in Pineville, Louisiana, Chris is the daughter of Keith Winston Bolton and Betty Ann Thomasee Bolton. Her hobbies included working in her flower beds, listening to music, reading, and shopping with her girls. She had a career in nursing for 25+ years. Chris was a member of Patroon Baptist Church in the Patroon Community of Shelby County.

She is survived by:
Husband, Jeffrey Nile Windham of Shelbyville

Daughters:
Jami Windham and her wife Mary Georges of Houston
Kacie Windham of Houston

Brothers:
Bryan Bolton of Shelbyville
Major General Charles Bolton and his wife Stacey Bolton of Scott Air Force Base, Illinois

Sister, Pamela Butler of Greenwood, Louisiana

In-laws:
Patsy and George Essary
Donald and Linda Windham
Bryan and Lori Windham
Jason and Pam Windham
Chad and Kimberlee Mills

Numerous nieces and nephews. 

Preceded in death by her parents, Keith Winston Bolton and Betty Ann Thomasee Bolton.

We would like to extend special thanks to Hospice in the Pines, Gaby Padilla and the amazing members of Patroon Baptist Church for all their support.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Patroon Baptist Church Youth Fund. Donations can be sent via Venmo @Mary-Georges or to their treasurer, Sandy Jenkins at 228 County Road 2156, Shelbyville, Texas 75973.

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

04/29/2026

Donald (Don) Raymond Johnson Sr., 76, of Center, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, in Center, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on September 22, 1949, to the late Raymond Johnson and Joy Windham Johnson. 

(Due to inclement weather this will be held at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel) Graveside services will be held at 10am on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Oaklawn Memorial Park, Center, Texas, with Bro. Wes Hall, Rev. Melba Rodgers, and Shelia Gregston officiating.

Don’s life began in Center, Texas, where he was born at the Old Center Sanitarium. He graduated from Center High School and went on to earn his associate’s degree from Panola College. Later, he met the love of his life, Jennifer Spurlock Warr, and the two were united in marriage on January 29, 1982. Together, they built a life centered on family, love, and lasting memories.

Don retired from CCC Construction Group in 2017, where he served as an On-site Safety Supervisor. He took great pride in his work and was deeply committed to the responsibility of keeping others safe.

In his free time, Don had a love for airplanes, antique cars, and could often be found enjoying episodes of Gunsmoke on television. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved fur babies, who brought him much joy and companionship.

He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, quiet strength, and a lifetime of memories that will be cherished and shared for generations to come.

He leaves behind:

Loving wife of 44 years, Jennifer Johnson

Children:
Donnie Johnson and wife Vicki
Randy Johnson and wife Crystal
Sonya Wilburn and husband Bradley

Grandchildren:
Lynn Johnson and wife Melissa
Mitchell Johnson
George Johnson and wife Lauren
Carson Wilburn
Emma Wilburn

Great-granddaughter, Maya Johnson

Brother, Ron Johnson and wife Marsha

Sisters:
Shelia Gregston and husband Eugene
Cherie Hall and husband Wes

Brother-in-laws:
Michael Spurlock and wife Shirley
Jeffrey Spurlock

Special Friends:
Rex Rains
David Ducote

Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. 

Don is preceded in death by his father, Raymond Johnson; mother, Joy Windham Johnson Wells; sisters, Pamela Johnson Barnett and Kathryn Johnson Hines. 

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Harbor Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Don during his final months.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Harbor Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Don during his final months.

Pallbearers serving will be Bradley Wilburn, Carson Wilburn, Randy Johnson, Donnie Johnson, Ron Johnson, Eugene Gregston, Steven Eaves, and Rex Rains.

Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Eat and Meet Club.

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

04/29/2026

Jerry G. Russell, 68, of Center, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Timpson.  

Born May 19, 1957, in Longview, Jerry is the son of David Russell and Weeda Flournoy Russell.  He loved hunting and hot rods.  Jerry attended White Rock Missionary Baptist Church in Center.

He is survived by:

Wife, Charlene D. “Lisa” White of Center

Son, Kurt Russell of Longview

Grandson, Ryan Russell of Joaquin

Brother, Larry Russell of Huntington

3 stepchildren

14 step-grandchildren

Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins

A host of friends

Preceded in death by his parents, David Russell and Weeda Flournoy Russell.

Pallbearers will be Dennis Russell, Jacob Duke, Dale Flournoy, Joseph Jolley, Paul Knight, and Rick Goodrum.

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

04/29/2026

Robert I. Hughes Jr., DVM lived a life rooted in service, family, and a deep love for Texas. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, he went on to follow his calling, earning degrees from Stephen F. Austin University and Texas A&M University before completing veterinary school. For over 50 years, he cared for animals with skill, dedication, and a steady hand.

He never lost his appreciation for the simple joys—camping trips, long drives, and time spent traveling with those he loved most. Whether out under the Texas sky or gathered with family, he was happiest when everyone was together.

He is lovingly remembered by:

Wife, Dr. Jane Todd

Brother, Mack C. Hughes

Son, Robert I. Hughes III

Daughter, Deanna C. Coats

Granddaughter, Kimber S. Steptoe

Grandsons:
Tray Hughes
Gregory W. Coats
Jack W. Coats
Augustus H. Coats

Great-granddaughter, Dani Kole Steptoe

Countless cousins, who were more like siblings

Nieces and nephews

He leaves behind a legacy of care, quiet strength, and a lifetime of stories that will continue to be shared for years to come.

Services will be at Watson Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday, May 1st from 5-7pm and the service will be held on Saturday, May 2nd at 11am. Burial will be following at Short Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Happy Tails Adoption Center or a Veteran, Animal Charity of choice.

Pallbearers will be Gregory (G.W) Coats, Jack Coats, Augustus Coats, Paul Hughes, Ryan Hughes, and Tray Hughes. Honorary pallbearers will be Mack Hughes, Brad Coats, Kyle Steptoe, Alpha Fields, Members of VFW Post 8904, and Members of Center Rotary Club.

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

04/27/2026

Willie Darren Cloudy, 60 of Center, Texas, passed away Sunday, April 19, 2026, at his residence. Willie Darren Cloudy was born to the late Willie Hulon Ruth and the late Bobbie Jean Pilot-Cloudy on October 30,1965, in Center, Texas.

Willie Darren Cloudy is the 1984 graduating class of Center High School.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 1pm at Abundant Love Ministries located at 1426 Shelbyville Street, Center, Texas 75935. Pastor Marlin Cloudy Sr will be the Eulogist. Committal is at Westview Cemetery, Center, Texas.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory:

Sons:
Derrick Cloudy of Center
LaDarius Cloudy of Center

Brother, Donise Ruth (Wenda) Deceased 

Sisters:
Kathryn Cartwright (Billy)
Debra Cloudy-Johnson (Bruce)

Nephew and Nieces:
Patrick (Kizzy) Cartwright
Lametra Cartwright
Jada Johnson
ZaMarkus Moten
Bruce Jr.

Two grandchildren: Jamarion and Iyana

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