Obituaries
01/08/2026
The family of George Barnett is celebrating the life of a man who truly understood how to live. Known for his warmth and a wit that could brighten any room, George passed away on January 1, 2026. He was 82 years old and died at his home in Henderson, Texas, surrounded by his beloved family.
Visitation is at 11am and a homegoing celebration will be held at 1pm on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Friendship Church, 23049 CR 2183, Tatum, Texas.
Born on March 18, 1943, in Fordyce, Arkansas, to Albert Barnett and Lillie Mae Barnett (Mitchell), George dedicated his life to his family. While attending East Liberty High School in Shelbyville, Texas, he met his future wife. He and the late Angie Mae Barnett were married on July 31, 1969, and together they raised four children. George and Angie were both baptized in Christ when they were members of Harris Chapel Church of Christ. He was a believer and lived his life knowing that God was his sole provider and protector.
George "never met a stranger." He was a "fun-loving soul" who treated everyone like an old friend. He was the heart of every gathering, known for his humorous spirit and a witty demeanor that kept his family laughing until the very end. He loved family and family gatherings. To know George was to have a true friend and a loyal advocate.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Angie Mae; his parents; sisters, Ethel Smith and Jane Helen Washington; and brothers, Charles Barnett, Andy Barnett, and Mike Sparks.
He is survived by:
Children:
Vickie Cooper (Tommy) of Houston
Shermetra Christopher (Dennis) of Henderson
LeFrederick Rashad Barnett of Dallas
Reginald Andrae Barnett of Houston
His legacy lives on through his seven grandchildren—Brandon, Bernard, Brock, Keith, Talisha, Savannah, and DJ—and his nine great-grandchildren.
Siblings:
Sisters:
Linda Alford of Portland Oregon
Merlene Carter (Jamie) of Monroe, LA
Pauline Hewitt (Billy) of Shelbyville
Faye Allen (Kenneth) of Center
Brothers:
Rasheed El-Amin (Nawal) of Houston
Arthur Barnett (Celine) of Houston
Mickey Sparks of Houston
Bobby Sparks (Adrenne) of Center
Sisters-in-law: Cleola Ray of Henderson, Tx; and Alma Jones of Mansfield, La
Brothers-in-law:
MZ Cartwright (Mary) of Dallas
Joe Sparks of California
Leroy Ayers (Avis) of Longview, Tx
Special nephew, Darnell Ray (Angela)
Special friends:
Gene Raster of Tyler, Tx;
Charles and Juanita Bradford of Henderson, Tx
He also leaves behind a large, loving family of nieces, nephews, a host of cousins and dear friends who will miss his charming wit, fun-loving attitude and easy spirit.
"A special thank you to Dennis Christopher—George’s son-in-law and dear friend—for the unwavering 'shepherd care' and devotion he showed our father."
Services are under the direction of Harmon and Harmon Funeral Associates, 208 E. Main St., Ore City, Texas 75683. For online condolences, visit www.harmonandharmonfa.com.
01/08/2026
Surrounded by love and held in God’s peace, Joy L. Sullivan passed on December 12, 2025 in Odessa, Tx after a courageous battle with cancer. Her strength, kindness & unwavering spirit touched everyone who knew her.
Joy lived her life with such care, compassion, and endless selflessness. She poured herself into others and asked for nothing in return. She was an amazing wife of 38 and a half years to her dear Husband Robbie. A mother, sister, grandmother & friend. She always put the needs of those around her before her own and worked very hard at everything she did. She loved her family, her Sloan work family & her clientele as a hairdresser of 40 years. Joy was passionate about taking care of the people around her, giving them a laugh, a shoulder to cry on, a hot meal, or anything you could ever need. Her dedication, strength & unwavering heart leave a void that cannot be filled, but her legacy of love will continue to guide and comfort all who were blessed to know her.
Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., April 11, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Born July 16, 1963, in Downey, California, Joy is the daughter of Delia Lewis and the late Stanley Lewis
She is survived by:
Husband, Robbie Sullivan of Center, Tx
Son, Casson and wife Miranda Sullivan of Midland, Tx
Daughter, Chesnie and Husband Michael Moore of Seminole, Tx
Daughter, Crystan and husband Sean Bindschusz of Cuba, Mo
Mother, Delia Lewis
Sister, Pamela and husband Ben Wesley and children Shaina, Anne, & Hannah
Sister, Jenell & husband Heath Englert, and children Lillian & Evan
Brother, Wayne Lewis and children Keely, Gwendalyn & Jonathan
Grandchildren:
Fallon Sullivan
Cobey Forester
Shailey Forester
Brantley Lake
Emberley Bindschusz
Kensley Bindschusz
Great-grandchild, Silas Bowen
Preceded in death by:
Grandmother, LaVaughn R. Stilwell
Father, Stanley W. Lewis
Beloved Joy will truly be missed.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/06/2026
Johnathon Winston Ezernack, age 43, of Joaquin, TX passed away on December 1, 2025 at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX after a brief illness.
Memorial service for Johnathon will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 2pm at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, 13105 SH-7, Joaquin, TX, followed by a reception at Jackson MBC, 11120 SH-7 Joaquin, TX. Bro. Joseph Innerarity will officiate.
Johnathon was born on February 6, 1982 in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was a 2000 graduate of Southwood High School and served in the United States Air Force from June 2001 until January 2006. He was known to say he joined the military to see the world, and got stationed right back at home. After his military service he became a stay-at-home dad, fulfilling a dream he'd had since his teen years. Athena, his wife of 21 years, who also served in the United States Air Force for many years, made this possible. While Athena was stationed in San Antonio, TX, Johnathon volunteered at the boys’ elementary school coordinating the Watch Dog program that gave him the opportunity to be the big kid at heart that he was. He loved being able to be a positive influence in their lives and to encourage them.
Over the years Johnathon had worked at various jobs that included pediatric clinic reception desk, construction, server, mud engineer, restocking vending machines, and a call taker. While attending the same church camp he had once attended as a young boy where he accepted Jesus Christ to be his Lord and savior (Texas Camp #1 in Laneville TX) on July 14, 2022, Johnathon answered the call to preach. He attended Louisiana Missionary Baptist Institute & Seminary in Minden, Louisiana. He had one semester until he graduated with a BS degree.
Johnathon was a joyful person from the moment he was born and never met a stranger. He grew into a man of God that was eager to share the gospel and serve in any and all capacities. He loved kids and served as a youth leader and happily volunteered each summer at camp. He taught Sunday school and brought devotionals whenever called upon to do so. For the last several years he organized youth events for the church youth and encouraged them to spread the gospel. In February 2025, he became the pastor of Bethlehem MBC of Joaquin, TX.
He and his family cheerfully supported the local sports teams at Joaquin High School, traveling to many games to cheer them onto victory. In many cases, he had nicknames for the kids and cheered for them loudly calling out to them during games and school events.
Johnathon was not a man of hesitation and did not like to wait, once he made his mind up on something he saw it to completion. He knew where he was going after this life on earth and was ready to go walk the streets of gold. He will be missed immensely, but his memory will live on in our hearts and what a glad reunion day that will be.
He is survived by:
Wife, Athena Ezernack of Joaquin, TX
Sons, Braylon and Xavier Ezernack of Joaquin, TX
Parents, Michael and Melinda Ezernack of Joaquin, TX
Brother, Ian Ezernack of Hot Springs, AR
Grandmother, Sandra Lowe of Keithville, LA
Aunt, Melissa Mitchell & husband Randy of Deberry, TX
Aunt, Martha Adams of Keithville, LA
Mother-in-law, Christina Chumley and Jeffrey of Harrah, WA
Father-in-law, Jesus Nunez & fiance Rhonda of San Jose, CA
Brother-in-law, Jesse Nunez of Las Vegas, NV
Brother-in-law, Elijah Chumley and wife Shaunacy of Yakima, WA
Brother-in-law, Reginald Chumley of Yakima, WA
Half-sister, Erika Rawls and Brian of Shreveport, LA
Niece & nephew, Kaylee, and Luke Chumley of Yakima, WA
And a host of other aunts, uncles, and cousins on both sides of the family
Johnathon is preceded in death by his grandfather, Lewis Wren Grace, grandfather Edward "Papaw" Ezernack & grandmother, Charline “Nanny" Grace. Honorary Pallbearers: James “Bubba” Colvard, Paul Boothe, James Grabbe, Brian Wassam
Pallbearers: Jason Carlisle, Levi Cohurst, Nathan Luellen, Jason Walker, Jaden Hurst, Michael Clark
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 234, Joaquin, TX 75954.
01/05/2026
Ofelia Rico, 73, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, January 5, 2026, at her residence.
Visitation will begin at 11am at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel. Services will be 2pm on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at St. Therese Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha.
She was born March 23, 1952 to Eligio Caballero and Yrene Garcia in La Granja Acambaro Guanajuato Mexico.
She is preceded in death by her father, Eligio Caballero; mother, Yrene Garica; and brother, Esteban Caballero Garcia.
Pallbearers: Jose Rico, Arturo Rico, Israel Rico, Juan Rico, Fidel A Sandoval, Alan Balanos and Joshua Perea.
She is survived by:
Children:
Son, Jose Rico of Joaquin, Texas
Son, Arturo Rico and wife, Delfina of Tenaha
Daughter, Hermila Rico and husband, Pablo of Ill
Son, Israel Rico of Ill
Daughter, Fabiola and husband, Ramiro of Ill
Son, Juan Carols Rico and wife, Claudia of Carthage
Daughter, Maria Dania Rico and husband, Fidel of Joaquin
19 Grandchildren and 5 Great-Grandchildren
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/04/2026
Deidra Annette Jones, 64 of Spring, Texas, passed away on December 9, 2025. She was born on May 19, 1961, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Jesse and Lucille Jones.
Deidra grew up in East Texas and graduated from Tenaha High School in 1988. She continued her education at Panola College earning her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Driven by her passion for caring for others, she later graduated from Angelina College with her Registered Nursing Degree.
Deidra dedicated sore than 30 years to the nursing profession, serving patients and families with compassion, skill, and unwavering commitment. She spent the latter part of her career in case management, where her experience and gentle guidance made a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
A lifelong animal lover, Deidra had a special place in her heat for cats. She supported and worked with several programs devoted to their care and protection, always advocating for the animals who needed her most.
Deidra is survived by:
Mother, Lucille Jones
Brothers:
Kenneth Jone and Louise
ALan Jones and Susan
Casey Jones and Gina
Beloved nieces and nephews:
JT Jones
Kendal Wise
Rystian McDermell
Kelsi Jones
Zack Jones
Jackson Jones
Staci Robertson
She is also remembered fondly by many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
She is preceded in death by her father, Jesse Jones; maternal grandparents, Sidney and Emma Mena; and paternal grandparents, Jesse and Willie Ruth Jones.
Deidra has already been cremated, honoring her wishes. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at a later date.
Deidra's kindness, dedication, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
01/04/2026
W.A. Nichols, 76, of Center, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Jenkins and Bro. Bradley Ford officiating. Interment will follow at East Hamilton Cemetery in the East Hamilton Community of Shelby County.
Born March 10, 1949, in the East Hamilton Community of Shelby County, W.A. is the son of Alton “Buddy” Nichols and Westerfield Wright Nichols. W.A. was a man known for his hardworking spirit, his love for family, and the simple joys that filled his days. He spent much of his time building things from the ground up, tending to his garden, or on his tractor—always finding purpose in working with his hands. When he wasn’t doing that, he was devoted to his grandbabies, creating memories they will cherish forever. Rarely seen without a Zero Dr Pepper in his hand, W.A. loved deeply and cherished everyone in his life. To know him was to love him, and he will always be remembered for a life rooted in love, dedication, and family.
He is survived by:
Daughter, Melissa and husband Marlin Spears
Grandchildren:
Justin Taylor
Michael Spears and wife Laiton
Chase Spears
Kayla and husband Michael Gibbo
Great-grandchildren:
Emberly Spears
Rhett Spears
Wrenli Spears
Numerous nieces and nephews
Sisters:
Joy Bradshaw
Josephine Kettler
Preceded in death by parents, Alton “Buddy” Nichols and Westerfield Wright Nichols; and brothers, Herbert “Bubba” Nichols, Robert Nichols, and J.C. Nichols.
Pallbearers will be Michael Spears, Michael Gibbo, Justin Taylor, Sam Nichols, Chase Spears, and Maison Rivers.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/02/2026
Weldon Leo English, 95, of Center, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2026, in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be held at 3pm, Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 2pm Bro. Charles Williams and Bro. Roy Davis will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born July 20, 1930, in Shelby County, Weldon is the son of John Huley English and Lottie Swan Melton English. He served in the United States Army from 1947 to 1950 and in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954. Weldon was a member of Logansport Masonic Lodge, Mt. Vernon Masonic Lodge, and Heritage Missionary Baptist Church.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Danny English and wife Cylvia of Kilgore
Steve English and wife JoAnne of Joaquin
Daughter, Jan and husband Tommy Poole of Huxley
Grandchildren:
Justin English and wife Tammy of Kilgore
Matt English of Naples, Florida
Chad Seals of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Lee Poole and wife Sonya of Logansport, Louisiana
Jennifer and husband George Aherne of San Francisco, California
Race English of Midland
Cam English and wife Janet of Midland
Great-grandchildren:
Samantha English
Olivia Seales and Caleb
Haven Seales
Holden Seales
Owen Seales
Hudson Seales
Alice Poole
Jackson Aherne
Finn Aherne
Rayni English
Charley English
Great-great-grandson, Cooper Bass
Special nieces:
Belinda and husband Keith O’Rear of Huxley
Connie Jo and husband Gilbert Vaughn of Huxley
Special great-nieces and great-nephews:
Karissa Vaughn
Bree Beardon
Charlee and Grant Beardon
Brother, Wayne Swan and wife Mary of Joaquin
Preceded in death by wife, Edra English; brother, Curtis English; and sister, Orene Hinton.
Pallbearers will be Justin English, Matt English, Lee Poole, George Aherne, Gilbert Vaughn, and Keith O’Rear.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heritage Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 211, Center, Texas 75935.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
1/2/2026
Merle Bass, 85 of Timpson, passed away Sunday, December 28, 2025. He was born September 16, 1940 to Lucian and Audrey Bass.
Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Taylor Funeral Home officiated by Hollis Bass. Interment will follow at Corinth Cemetery. A visitation will be held prior to service from 12 noon to 1pm on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Taylor Funeral Home.
Merle Bass, also known to many as “Buddy”, grew up in Cushing and later attended Stephen F. Austin State University. He honorably served our country in the United States Navy. Merle was raised with superb morals and values. When he grew up, he knew he was going to pass this on to his children. He was married to the love of his life, Brenda and together they raised their children with those same outstanding ethics. He loved them more than they ever knew and even though he dealt them tough love, it was all for the lessons in life they would need to survive in the world. He also made sure to instill great Christian values in them. Merle was a worker and made sure his wife and kids were provided for. He drove a truck across country and then worked in maintenance for The City of Houston for many years. His time spent outside of work was with the ones he loved the most but also enjoyed horseback riding and time on his motorcycle. These times will forever remain in their memories as they learn to navigate a world without him.
He is survived by:
Wife of 60 years, Brenda J. Bass
Daughters:
Angela Bass
Rebecca Mojica
Brother, Hollis Bass and wife Catherine
Sister, Wanda Kirkpatrick
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lucian and Audrey Bass; son, Joseph Bass; and brother, Darvis Bass.
Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
1/2/2026
Kirksy "Chuck" Dock Jr., 60, passed away Monday, December 29, 2025. He was born to Kirksy Dock Sr. and Emma Dock Johnson on December 7, 1965 in Shelbyville, Texas.
Funeral service is 2pm Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Triumph First Pentecostal Church, 222 CR 2024, Shelbyville, Texas 75973 with Bishop Roosevelt Swindle, Pastor. Visitation is from 10am until 6pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center.
Kirksy Dock was a graduate of Shelbyville High School.
He worked for E.L. Bruce Hardward Floor, Tyson Food, OMI Energy, M&M Sale Service, and for K.C.S. Railroad Commission all for many, many, years.
Kirbsy is preceded in death by his father, Kirksy Dock Sr.; brothers, Curtis Dock and James Dock; and sister, Christene Garrett.
He leaves to cherish his memories:
Wife, Kristian Dock
Daughters:
Paula Osby of Nacogdoches
Sha'quaina Houston (Steven) of Center
Olivia Dock of Center
Grandsons: Jabaris Houston, Aubrarysha, Audrionna of Center and Nacogdoches
Mother, Emma Dock Johnson of Center
Sisters:
Mary Haley (Donald) of Mansfield, Louisiana
Linda Dock of Center
Betty Gardner of Center
Brenda Wilson (Ernest) of Tyler
Latonya Dock of Houston
Sister-in-law, Bethany Dock of Logansport, Louisiana
A host of Nieces, Nephews, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and other relatives and friends.
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
1/2/2026
Truly Noel Casey was born on August 23, 2024 to Sherrel Washington and Cleveland Casey. She departed this life on December 22, 2025 at Texas Children Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Funeral service is 11am on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, 908 Daniel Street, Center, Texas. Visitation is 10am until 6pm Friday, Janaury 2, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment is at Westview Cemetery in Center.
She leaves to cherish her memories:
Mother, Sherrel Washington
Father, Cleveland Casey
Siblings:
Jace Smith
Milanee Washington
Amie Washington
Maternal Grandparents:
Benita Washington
Vernon Washington
Renoda Washington
Paternal Grandparent, Sharon Casey
Great-Grandmother, Joyce Ann Washington
Host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Special love ones.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
1/1/2025
James Keisling Smith, 73, was born on September 18, 1952, in Galena Park, Texas, the son of Eddie Dalton Smith Sr. and Edith Murl (Hammer) Smith. He passed away on December 24, 2025.
He was proceeded in death by his parents; wife, Patricia Rae (Kramer) Smith; brothers, Eddie Dalton Smith Jr., Richard Lee Smith and Rocky Lynn Smith; sisters, Linda Murl Parr, Brenda Joyce York and Donnie Faye Rowan; and infant siblings, Billy Ruth Smith and Ralph Wayne Smith.
J.K. lived in the Hugo, Oklahoma community for the past 20 years. He joined the United States Army before his high school graduation where he met and married his beloved wife, Patricia Rae Kramer. Together they shared a happy life raising their son. After proudly retiring from the United States Army, J. K. earned an associates degree from Paris Junior College. He was a member of the VFW Post 8316 where he enjoyed playing bingo with his friends and family. He also enjoyed going to Walmart, visiting with people and loved his fur baby Sadie. Above all else. J.K. loved his family and spending time with his son and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
J.K. Is survived by:
Son, Earnest Smith and wife Kristi of Abilene, Texas
Grandchildren:
Earnest Aquirre
Zamira Smith
Jovanni Smith
Kase Smith
Ariel Faraci and husband Jacob
Great-grandchild, Raiden Faraci
Sisters:
Marie Perry and husband Harry of Joaquin, Texas
Denice Dement and husband Ray of Crosby, Texas
Penny Smith of Center, Texas
Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and host of other family friends and loved ones.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, January 3 at Ramah Baptist Church at 11 o’clock.
12/31/2025
Robert Wayne Baker, age 63, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at CHI St. Luke's Medical Center in Lufkin, Texas.
"Wayne" was born June 23, 1962, in DeQuincy, Louisiana, to parents Elizabeth Ann (Sherman) and Robert Clymen Baker. He grew up in San Augustine County and lived in the area most of his life. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church and spent many years driving trucks on local runs as well as overland transportation. A great passion in Wayne's life was fishing and he loved spending time with his family and friends.
His survivors include:
Daughter, Carmen Baker Stephens and her husband Ray of Natchitoches, Louisiana
Grandson, Jackson Stephens of Natchitoches, Louisiana
Mother, Elizabeth Ann Baker of San Augustine, Texas
Sister, Sheila Baker Hughes and husband Clifton "Scooter" of Center, Texas
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert C. Baker, in 2019.
Visitation will be held Friday, January 2, 2026, from 1pm to 2pm at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2pm, Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFH.com for memories and condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
12/31/2025
Nellye Sue Tomlinson, age 87, of Garrison, Texas passed away on December 27, 2025. She was born on October 5, 1938, in Roswell, New Mexico to parents Charles and Louise Morrison.
Sue married the love of her life, James H. Tomlinson, on March 10, 1957. They were happily married for 65 years when he passed away in 2022. They lived in Roswell, New Mexico before moving to Artesia, opening and running a meat packing plant. They later made the decision to sell and move to Sweetwater, Texas, where they enjoyed participating in the Rattlesnake Roundup and taking friends and family hunting every weekend. Sue enjoyed gardening with her long-time friends.
James’s job later moved them to Allen, Texas where they lived for several years until James decided to build a chicken farm and move to Center, Texas. Sue enjoyed her family time at the chicken farm and watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play there. After Sue retired from Walmart, she mostly enjoyed spending her time as a substitute teacher at Martinsville School where the kids loved her! She became MeMe to everyone. As members of Stallings Drive Church of Christ, Sue and James enjoyed hosting the youth and college classes in their home.
James and Sue eventually sold their chicken farm and moved to Chireno until Sue’s health caused her to move to Garrison Nursing Home & Rehab, where she lived until her passing.
Mrs. Tomlinson was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Louise Morrison; husband, James H. Tomlinson; son, James W. Tomlinson; and siblings, Evelyn Abers and Billy Morrison.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Jamie Larkins and husband Bob of Tioga, Texas
Stacy Piazza and husband Joe of Garrison, Texas
Grandchildren:
LaShea Meroney
Haley Riney and husband Joey
Devin Dean and wife Preslie
Dylan Dean and wife Morgan
Dawson Dean
Great-grandchildren:
Payton Meroney and wife Autumn
Payslee Meroney and fiancé Nick Solano
Cayden Riney
Kyler Riney
Zoey Riney
Heston Dean
Barret Dean
Haidyn Dean
Bobbie Jo Dean
Hallie Dean
Great-great-grandson, Lucas Meroney
Bonus grandchildren: Trey, Austin, Hope, Tony, Claire, Nova, Zander, and Oakley
Sister, Cynthia Barlow
Many nieces and nephews
Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 am on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Sunset Chapel. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home officiated by Randy Harshbarger and Eddie Whitaker.
Sue will be laid to rest in Mount Herman Cemetery in Shelby County, Texas.
Serving as pallbearers will be Devin Dean, Dylan Dean, Dawson Dean, Payton Meroney, Joey Riney, Austin Piazza, Shane Meroney, and Cayden Riney.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Garrison Nursing Home and Rehab and Heart to Heart hospice for the loving care shown to Mrs. Tomlinson.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.
12/31/2025
Lorenza “Mami-Nena” Arcibar, 70, of Center, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 3pm to 8pm, Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 11am, Friday, January 2, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born August 20, 1955, in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, Lorenza is the daughter of Lino Diaz and Leonor Jimenez. She was a member of Iglesia Bautista Monte Sinai.
She is survived by:
Husband, Amador Arcibar
Children:
Aracely and husband Floriberto Gonzalez
Jose Arcibar and wife Yolanda
Estela and husband Fidel Alvarez
Amador Arcibar Jr. and wife Dora
Martha and husband Manuel Cruz
Jessica and husband Venancio Trejo
Moises Arcibar and wife Cindy
23 Grandchildren
11 Great-grandchildren
Pallbearers will be Jose Arcibar, Amador Arcibar Jr., Moises Arcibar, David Trejo, Marco Gonzalez, Abram Arcibar, Cesar Arcibar, and Ezekiel Arcibar.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
12/31/2025
Carolyn Parrish, 88, of Center, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Friday, January 2, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon. Chris Watlington will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born July 7, 1937, in Center, Carolyn is the daughter of Herbert Corbitt and Audrey Hughes Corbitt. She loved to sew and enjoyed genealogy. Carolyn was a member of First Baptist Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Marilyn and husband Larry Latham
Vickie Rudd
Linda and husband Tommy Jacobs
Son, Michael Parrish and wife Stephanie
Grandchildren:
Laurie Latham White
Randi and Jon Lunsford
Matt Latham and Wendy
Adam and Veronica Rudd
Rachel and Michael Quast
Ashley and David Todd
Amber and Matthew Phelps
Great-grandchildren:
Blake Latham
Ryan Lunsford
Jaycie Latham
Noah Quast
Audrey Quast
Soon to be baby Luke Quast
Reese White
Cade White
Laini Lunsford
Josephine Rudd
Jolene Todd
Sister, Sarah and husband Charles Burrows
Brother-in-law, Robert Parrish
Sister-in-law, Jean Consford
Special friends:
Reba Daniels
Debbie Williford
Mary Byrnes
Preceded in death by the love of her life and husband of 67 years, Darnese Parrish; parents, Herbert Corbitt and Audrey Hughes Corbitt; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alfred and Lucille Parrish; brother-in-law, Jerry Consford; and sister-in-law, Sue Parrish.
Pallbearers will be Matt Latham, Adam Rudd, Michael Quast, Matthew Phelps, Reese White, and Cade White. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Latham, Tommy Jacobs, David Todd, Ronny Rudd, Jon Lunsford, Charles Burrows, Blake Latham, and Noah Quest.
A special thank you to Harbor Hospice for their compassionate care.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/29/2025
Len Weaver, 71, of Center, Texas, passed away on December 28, 2025, in Tyler. Graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Fairview Cemetery in Center. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Born September 5, 1954, Len is the son of David Lamar Weaver and Violet Joy Dukes Weaver. Len was a simple man; he enjoyed hunting and fishing, and raising his chickens. He was also the owner of Handy Andy’s.
He is survived by:
Children:
Sami Jo McRae
Jason Adkison
Jennifer Weaver
Grandchildren:
Jesse Adkison
Chris McRae
Blaine McRae and wife Emily
One great-grandchild, Kohen McRae
He is preceded in death by his son, David Weaver Jr.; parents, David Lamar Weaver and Violet Joy Dukes Weaver; brothers, Danny Lee Weaver, Dale Weaver, and Donald Lamar Weaver.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/29/2025
April Felder Alexander, 42, of Center, passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2025, in Nacogdoches.
A private graveside service was held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Antioch Cemetery in the Antioch Community of Shelby County. Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiated.
Born June 7, 1983, in Center, April is the daughter of Keith Felder and Loretta Adams Felder.
She is survived by:
Husband, Jeff Alexander of Center
Sons:
Caleb Alexander of Center
Matthew Alexander of Center
Parents, Keith and Loretta Felder of Center
Grandparents:
Edgar Felder of Center
James Adams of Center
Mother-in-law, Cathy Alexander of Forest City, North Carolina
Father-in-law, Joe Alexander and wife Cindy of Forest City, North Carolina
Sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law
Gina and husband Tony Gowan of Green Creek, North Carolina
Denna and husband Ricky Hoyle of Shelby, North Carolina
Joey Alexander and wife Amy of Cliffside, North Carolina
Jessica and husband Will Owens of Forest City, North Carolina
James Alexander and wife Rebecca of Forest City, North Carolina
Josh Alexander and wife April of Forest City, North Carolina
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her brother, Ryan Felder; grandmothers, Patsy Adams, Elaine Felder, and Margaret Cole; niece, Danica Felder; and sister-in-law, Kara Felder.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/26/2025
Thelma Louise Scott, 73, passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2025 in Nacogdoches, surrounded by close family members. She was born on August 29, 1952 in Shelby County, the daughter of Marie Cordova Hutto and Freddie Hutto.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30pm on Monday, December 29, 2025 at Countyline Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 1-2pm on Monday, December 29 at Taylor Funeral Home.
Thelma Louise Scott was born and raised in Timpson, where she absolutely loved. She felt at home, where she has always been, amongst the beauty that can only be found right here in her beloved East Texas.
Thelma was a daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. Her happiness came with the work of her hands in her beautiful flower beds. She enjoyed nothing more than potting and repotting, planting and growing every flower or plant, she could. She was the green thumb in the family. Her perfectly kept yard was something to be proud of and the envy of everyone. However, the most beautiful and well loved “flowers” in her garden of life, were her two granddaughters, Kinley and Kaylee. The love she had for them could not be measured. They were her sunshine every day and the one thing she looked forward to with each breath she took. She also had a special bond with her cat, Lucky. And even though he bit her all the time, she still loved him!
Thelma was a member of Hiway Tabernacle in Timpson where she spent time worshiping and praising her Lord, along with the many friends she had there. She will be missed, but the love she has shown will forever be a great memory to those surrounding her.
Thelma is survived by:
Daughter, Wendy Coats and husband James
Grandchildren:
Kinley Coats
Kaylee Coats
Sisters:
Helen Cruse
Eva Lewis and husband David
Brothers:
Thomas Hutto
Rex Hutto and wife Gwen
Ray Hutto and wife Mary
She is preceded in death by her husband, Wendell J. Scott; parents, Marie Hutto and Freddie Hutto; and brothers, Jerry Cordova and Roy Hutto.
Serving as pallbearers will be Randy Mora, Lewis Mora, Danny Pate, Shaun Milford, Royce Coats and Jessie McKelvy. Honorary pallbearers are Cutter Wright Jr. and Stanley Amos.
The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Willowbrook Nursing Home for their love and care of Thelma.
Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
12/24/2025
Richard Wayne Locke, known to many as Rick, passed away on December 20, 2025, at the age of 77.
Rick lived life boldly and on his own terms. He was a man of strong opinions, sharp instincts, and his own approach to the world.
He had a deep love for big game hunting and football and was a skilled gambler. Rick had a keen mind for strategy and business. He was a natural risk-taker and a savvy businessman. While he could be set in his ways, he also gave his family something invaluable, memories of a life fully lived, and a world explored without hesitation.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Richard Raymond “Pop” Locke, and his mother, Mozelle Crocker “Mama Mo” Locke.
He is survived by:
Children:
Dawn Hadden
Amber Locke
Rickie Locke Boyd and fiancé Justin Rodriguez
Travis Botz and wife Christy Botz
Lenata Meadows and husband Brandon Meadows
Christie Butzke.
He is also survived by:
Grandchildren:
Alexis Murphy
Brandon Hadden
Rorri Boyd
Bristol Boyd
Trindon Botz
Treyton Botz
Calie Botz
Lily Meadows
Kody Butzke
Rilee Butzke
Six great-grandchildren
Brother, Carl Lance Locke and wife Pat Locke
Along with many extended family members and friends.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, January 4th, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center, TX with visitation from 12:30-1:00 at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, TX. Officiating will be Rev. Porter Brewer.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/23/2025
Barbara Jean Vaughn, 69, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on December 23, 2025, in Spring, Texas.
Barbara was born on August 14, 1956, in Apalachicola, Florida, to Charles and Martha Branch. She spent much of her childhood growing up in League City, Texas, and later made her home in Shelbyville, where she built a life centered around family, hard work, and simple joys.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Martha Branch; her husband, Robert Dennon Vaughn; and her brother, Curtis Branch.
She is survived by:
Children:
Carrie Speed (John Speed)
Cory Ivey (Megan Ivey)
Ryon Vaughn (Rachel Vaughn)
Beloved grandchildren: Macy, Joey, Carly, Ely, Jackson, Levi, Bradlee, Brynlee, Blakelee, Baylor, Harper, and Jamison
Siblings:
C.R. Branch
Brenda Branch
Bonnie Branch
As well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
Barbara worked for many years at the Brookshire Brothers deli and bakery, where her dedication and strong work ethic were evident to all who knew her. Outside of work, she found joy in cooking and baking for her family, showing love the way she knew best through food shared around the table.
She was known for her honesty, her fun-loving spirit, and her deep devotion to her family. Above all else, Barbara adored her grandchildren and loved them “to the moon and back,” a phrase that perfectly captured the affection she carried in her heart.
A graveside service will be held at 2pm on December 27, 2025, at Holly Springs Cemetery in New Harmony, Texas.
Barbara will be remembered for her warmth, her straightforward nature, and the love she poured into the people closest to her.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
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