Obituaries
07/09/24
Roger Dale "Rusty" Layton, 71, of Tenaha, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024, in Huxley.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Shelby County. Those wishing to be a part of the procession, please be at Watson & Sons Funeral Home at 9am.
Born December 17, 1952, Roger is the son of Roy Homer Layton and Eileen Virginia McLaughlin Layton. A man of many professions and talents, Roger worked as a truck driver, a heavy equipment operator and supervisor in the oil and gas industry, as well as pipelining throughout the United States. He loved bass fishing, hunting, playing golf, and mowing grass. Roger was a member of Lydia Missionary Baptist Church in Huxley.
He is survived by:
Children: Rerun Layton, and wife, Ashley of Magnolia
Eileen Warr of Mt. Enterprise
Stephanie Parker, and husband, Steve of Reidsville, Georgia
Joseph "Possum" Munden, and wife, April of Richards
Jarrod Munden of Huntsville
Grandchildren:
Michael, and wife, Ali
Chance, and fiancé, Lily
Lucie
Banner, and fiancé, Lane
Connon
Farris
Wyatt
Colt
Aaliyah
Alanah
Jarren
Aubrey
Avery
Jace
Jessie
Great-grandchild, Brenlee Grace Layton
Sister, Cheryl Campbell
Preceded in death by wife, Alicia Layton; parents, Roy Homer Layton and Eileen Virginia McLaughlin Layton; brothers, Jerry McLaughlin, Bobby McLaughlin, Roy L. Layton; sister, Ruth Chandler.
Pallbearers will be Rerun Layton, Chris Snider, Connon Warr, Joseph Munden, Josh Snider, and Jesse Snider.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
07/03/2024
Elijah Jamaal Berry, 15, of Center, Texas, passed away on June 29, 2024, in Center, Texas. He was born on January 9, 2009, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Valerie Moore and Judge Davis II.
Funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Abundant Love Ministries in Center, Texas, with Pastor Marlin Cloudy Sr. officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Dena Cemetery, CR 140, San Augustine, Texas. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 5, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home from 5-7pm.
Elijah attended Center High School and was looking forward to going to Roughrider Academy. He was baptized and served as a Junior Usher at Abundant Love Ministries. He also attended Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Bobo, Texas and was very active to serve when called upon. In his free time, he enjoyed talking on the phone, riding horses and 4 wheelers, playing his PS-4 or 5 and X box series X, he was a serious gamer. He also loved going on trail rides, swimming, hanging out at the barbershop playing pool with his uncle Carlos and cousin Jercarius.
Elijah has been the most helpful with his nieces, nephews, cousins, especially at the trampoline park. He made extra money by feeding Jercarius’ dogs and horses and had recently started going to work with is Pa Pa Eddie. He said he was going to need to get a new wallet soon to keep all of his money in.
Elijah had obtained his permit and picked out which of his uncle Carlos’ trucks he’d be getting. He was also gifted a blue truck from Jercarius. After graduation he had plans to go to truck driving school and welding school. He also wanted to become a barber like his uncle Carlos.
He is survived by:
Mother, Valerie Moore (Pastor Jeremy Moore)
Father, Judge Davis II
Grandparents:
Carrie Boykins (Eddie Boykins)
Thermon Davis
Margarett Jo Burrell
Judge Davis I
Sisters:
Raveen Berry
Ja’Aliyah Moore
Brothers:
Judge Davis III
Jayden Davis
Jaylen Davis
Special uncles and aunts:
Carlos Berry (Veronica)
Christopher Chumbley (Briget)
Special cousin, Jercarius Berry
A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
07/03/2024
Lauren Nicole Chance-Stackhouse, 44, of Boerne Texas passed away into the arms of the Lord on July 2, 2024.
Visitation will start at 10:00 am and Funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm, Monday, July 8, 2024, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home 1554 Hwy. 7 East Center, TX 75935. Interment will follow at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Shelby County.
Lauren was born in Houston Texas on April 21, 1980 to Wendell Chance of Center Texas and Christina Russell of Willis Texas. Lauren grew up in Houston and Center Texas where she made many friends and memories in the East Texas Hills. Lauren is loved by many, and those who knew her best, knew of her love of animals and her infectious smile. Lauren volunteered for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for several years on the Rodeo Operations Committee.
But more than anything Lauren was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She enjoyed playing games with her family and always faced challenges with the strength and enthusiasm of an angel. Lauren’s legacy will be cherished by all who knew her.
Lauren is survived by:
Husband, Matt Stackhouse
Stepchildren:
Steven
Adam
Crystal
Father, Wendell Chance
Mother, Christina Russell
“Bonus” Father, Donnie Russell
Sister, Stephanie and her husband Rick Atwood
Brother, Justin Chance husband Charlie LeClair
Nephews:
Austin and Chase Schroeder
Mason Chance-LeClair
Niece, Taylor Schroeder
Host of friends
Lauren is preceded in death by husband, Steve Millender; step-mother, Rebecca Chance.
Pallbearers will be: Adam Stackhouse, Steven Stackhouse, Justin Chance, Charlie LeClair, Gary Chance, and Amber Anderson-Lively
Honorary pallbearer: Mason Chance-LeClair
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
07/01/2024
Virginia S. Royes, 89, of Center, Texas, passed away on June 28, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on January 16, 1935, in Laurel, Mississippi, to the late William Washington Sumrall and Ollie Mae (Bush) Sumrall.
Funeral service will be held at 2PM on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Porter Brewer officiating. Graveside service will be held at 10AM on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Springhill Cemetery in Laurel, Mississippi.
It was mid-January of a tough year, 1935. But one ray of sunshine appeared for William Washington Sumrall and his wife, the former Ollie Mae Bush. On the 16th, a daughter was born, Virginia Rose Sumrall. Now, William and Ollie Mae already had a family waiting for her with 5 siblings, but Virginia, or Ginny as she came to be called, showed promise from the beginning.
Graduating from George S. Gardiner High School in 1952, she won a full scholarship from the Masonite Corporation and attended the University of Southern Mississippi.
But her life changed when she met a young serviceman named John Royes, and a lifelong partnership was formed. College, an engineering degree for John and two children for them both, Karen and Andrew, shaped their lives from that point on.
Ginny devoted her life to her family and her faith. She also enjoyed handwork like knitting, crocheting, needlepoint and cross stitch and even crafted small baskets from long leaf pine.
Her beloved husband John died 2 and a half years ago, and Ginny joined him on Friday, June 28th.
She is survived by:
Son, Andrew Royes
Daughter, Karen and her husband Roger Gray
Granddaughter, Mary Brigid Gray
Virginia is preceded in death by her loving husband, John Royes Jr; parents, William and Ollie Mae Sumrall; brothers, Joe Sumrall, Frank Sumrall; and sisters, Juanita Johnson, Rachel Evans, and Rebecca Jackson.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
06/29/2024
John Michael “Mike” Towns, 80, of Jasper, passed away Friday, June 28, 2024, in Jasper.
Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, July 1, 2024, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. Bro. Jerry Clifton will officiate, assisted by Bro. Ozay Ford. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Timpson.
Born December 29, 1943, in Timpson, Mike is the son of Ebben Towns and Annie Bernice Robinson Towns.
He is survived by:
Wife, Rebecca (Becky) Towns of Jasper
Children:
Lisa McLawchlin and husband Kevin of Timpson
Micky Ray and Melinda Howard Ray of Kingwood
Misty Ray of Center
Grandchildren:
Michelle Williams of Timpson
Kevin Michael and wife Malana of Timpson
Marissa Rutherford and husband Blayne of Joaquin
Morgan Ray of Kingwood
Meghan Ray of Kingwood
Mason Ray of Kingwood
Great-grandchildren:
Caseyn Milford
Jaxon Rutherford
Adalyn Rutherford
Heidi Rutherford
Lincoln Williams
Landry Jane Williams
Maddyn McLawchlin
Krew Michael McLawchlin
Preceded in death by parents, Ebben Towns and Annie Bernice Robinson Towns; mother-in-law, Miriam Jernigan; and first cousin, Caroll Barnes.
Pallbearers will be Kevin Michael McLawchlin, Micky Ray, Blayne Rutherford, Misty Ray, Bryce Marcantell, Jeremy, Tony Garcia, and Kevin McLawchlin. Honorary pallbearers will be Mason Ray and Caseyn Milford.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
06/27/2024
John Eugene Todd Sr. was called home Wednesday morning, June 26, 2024, in Timpson, Texas at the age of 71 year.
Visitations for John will begin Sunday, June 30, 2024, 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at Taylor Funeral
Home located at 511 Ross Graves Dr. Timpson, Texas, 75975. Services for John are scheduled for Monday, July 1, 2024, 11:00 A.M. at the First Assembly of God in Timpson, Texas with Brother EJ Adams officiating. Interment will follow at Cold Spring Cemetery in Garrison, Texas.
John was born September 25, 1952, to Sam K. Todd and Frances “Louise” (Stone) Todd in Garrison, Texas.
John was raised in Houston, Texas where he then relocated to Timpson, Texas. He was taught at an early age from his father how to work on diesel motors and drive trucks.
It was in Garrison, Texas where he met the love of his life, Patricia. They then were married on March 29, 1979, and made their home in Timpson. They then later on built their dream home on the same land. John became a part of the Timpson Masonic Lodge #437, January 31,1986. He spent his life self-employed working as a diesel mechanic and owning his own trucking business for 30 years where he was then given the name “Part Time” by his trucking friends. In his last years he built a large shop where he built and rebuilt old vintage tractors. John was a wealth of knowledge kind of person. People all the time would call to ask what was wrong with their tractor or truck and he always was happy to share his knowledge with them. He enjoyed watching his grandkids grow up and spending time with them. He loved taking them for rides on the tractor and golf cart.
John was later diagnosed with lung cancer. Where he fought a long, hard battle. He was a strong man to endure all of the treatments and appointments, but he met some of the best nurses and doctors during his time at Christus Cancer Center in Shreveport, Louisiana. They always took the best care of him. He was determined to beat cancer, but his body couldn’t endure it any longer.
John is survived by wife of 45 years, Patricia (McDonald) Todd
Children:
Mike Todd, and wife, Tonya of Judsonia, Arkansas
Doy “Nathan” Todd, and wife, MaKenzie of Timpson
Jesse (Todd) Taylor, and husband, Stacy of Joaquin
Eight grandchildren:
Micah (Todd) Swindle, and husband, Josh
Jonathan “Lane” Todd
Gracie Ellis
Rilynn Ellis
Allie Todd
Tucker Taylor
Stella Taylor
Aaron Todd
Five siblings:
Betty Caldwell, and husband, Dan
Nell Yates
Sam “Bo” Todd
Frankie Parkman, and husband, Kim
Joe Todd, and wife, Linda
Numerous nieces and nephews
With special relationship with nephew Richard Arvello
A special thanks to the Christus Cancer Center of Shreveport all the nurses and Dr. Christopher Sneed and Gus. Special nurses Gabby, Stephanie and Allison. Thank you to Heart to Heart Hospice for all of your care.
He is preceded in death by his son John Todd Jr., his parents Sam K. and Frances “Lousie” Todd, his grandparents Walter and Francis Stone, and John D and Zula Todd his brother Jimmy “Buster” Todd.
Pallbearers:
Danny Arvello
Kaden Arvello
Richard Arvello
David Ballard
Tim McDonald
Terry Washington
Honorary Pallbearers:
Duncan Connell
Pat Hairgrove
Al Skinner
06/27/2024
Marie Madalene Stanley Long, 100, of East Texas, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2024. She was born May 7, 1924 in Jasper, Texas to Bertie Mae McBride Stanley and Ira A. “Doc” Stanley. She married Lewis Johnson Long of San Augustine on May 25, 1946.
Throughout her 100 years, she was a loving daughter, sister, wife, caregiver, mother, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. Her incredible life will be celebrated with a graveside service at Spann’s Chapel Cemetery on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Come join us to honor and remember the amazing person and spirit that was Marie.
She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and generosity. Her talents were many: artist, seamstress, gardener, caregiver, cook, and biscuit and cornbread master. Her energy and sense of humor made everything more fun. She will be deeply missed.
Marie recently celebrated her centennial birthday with friends and family, marking a full life with incredible stories and unforgettable tales. As the eldest daughter of seven children (sadly she is preceeded in death by all of them), Marie learned the ropes of responsibility and care early on. She was the rock of the family, giving us unwavering support and love as well as an opinion or two.
Her faith was simple and strong, and she was a dedicated church member her entire life. Attending Sunday school as part of The Bible Class, she volunteered in the nursery and helped setup the pre-school. She especially enjoyed assisting with the baptisms and even made the white robes the new Christians wore for their immersions. She was even known to offer recommendations to the various pastors that served the First Baptist of Center over the last forty years. Marie was always in service to others in and outside the church.
Survived by:
Daughter, Edna Long Nelson (son-in-law, Jimmy Wayne Nelson)
Son, Lewis Kenneth Long
Granddaughters, Kendall Cobb, and Janet Gerhard
Great-grandchildren, Corbett Cobb and Vivian Cobb, and James and Caroline Gerhard.
There are many other surviving family members in East Texas (especially her nephews and nieces and their respective spouses) and extended family members across the east coast that she called family.
Thank you to my beautiful selfless Mamma for graciously always making the cupcakes when I volunteered her knowing full well she was working full time. But, in my defense, they were always better when she made them.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Spann’s Chapel Cemetery Fund.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/25/2024
John Madison Hughes, 78, passed from this life on June 21, 2024. He was born August 5, 1945 in Orange, Texas to Velton B Hughes and Bonnie Ruth Franks Hughes. John was a talented singer, songwriter, and musician.
He is survived by:
Children:
Jon Robert Hughes-Pfeiffer
Shelly Bee Hughes Cantrell and husband, James
Jesse Madison Hughes and fiance, Tori
Grandchildren:
Jon Michael Hughes-Pfeiffer
Felecia Nicole Pfeiffer Black
Courtney Hughes MacTaggart
Roni Hughes Boidy
Lauren Hughes
Brady Lane Wells
Brandt Cabot Wells
Heath Madison Hughes
Valley Rae Hughes
Bostyn Michelle Hughes
Great-Grandchildren:
Roxanne Pfeiffer
Naomi Pfeiffer
JJ Pfeiffer
Gordon Black
Nora MacTaggart
Blair MacTaggart
Waylon Boidy
Emery Boidy
Layne Boidy
Sister, Bonnie Bee Hughes Lane
John was preceded in death by his parents, Velton B Hughes and Bonnie Ruth Franks Hughes; his son, J.B. Hughes; his paternal grandparents, Madison Barto “Bart” Hughes
and Mary Belle Webb Hughes; and his maternal grandparents, J.W.B. “Bud” Franks and Mary Leticia Murray Franks.
No services have been planned at this time.
06/25/2024
Diana Lynn Barnes, age 65, of San Augustine, Texas. Ms. Barnes departed this physical life on June 20, 2024, at Nacogdoches Medical Center in Nacogdoches, Texas
Graveside Services is Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 11:00 am located at Redland Cemetery with Rev. S. J. Clark Officiating
Visitation is Friday, June 28, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Garner & Son Chapel
Survived by:
Brother Claude Wayne Barnes of Cedar Park, Texas
Sister Patrician Ann Gerald (Rossano V. ) of San Antonio, Texas
As well as a host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives and friends.
Services are entrusted to Percy Garner and Son Mortuary, San Augustine, TX 75972.
06/24/2024
Paula Fleming, 72, of Tenaha, Texas,Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 27, 2024, at the Woods New Hope Baptist Church with Rev. James McRight, Bro. Richard Reed and Rev. Justin Pierce officiating. Burial will follow in the Woods Cemetery under the direction of Hawthorn Funeral Home. Visitation will be 1:00-2:00 p.m. Thursday prior to the service.
Mrs. Paula Jo Fleming was born on September 26, 1951, in Carthage, Texas. She passed from this life June 20, 2024, in Wichita Falls, Texas. She was one of five children born to the marriage of Charles David and Julia Imogene Gurley Fleming, Sr. She was raised in the Woods community, graduating Carthage High School with the Bulldog Class of 1970. She attended Panola College, and later in life at the age of 65 she received her Bachelors in Education from Letourneau University.
Her career began as a paralegal and many years as a land man. Paula taught 7th and 8th grade language arts through the Center I.S.D. where she was awarded Teacher of the Year. Paula loved her Lord and Savior as a member of the First Baptist Church where she taught the 6th grade S.S.C. and brought a Wednesday night bible study at the Woods New Hope Baptist Church. She loved nurturing her garden and growing roses. She is preceded in death by her parents, as infant sister and a brother James Wesley Fleming.
Survived by:
Her loving daughter, Jeaniece Mukherjee of Wichita Falls
Brother, David Fleming and wife Gail of Woods
Sister, Peggy Greene of Midlothian
Grandchildren:
Woods Pate of Colorado Springs
Charles Mukherjee of Ft. Worth
Vivian Mukherjee of Ft. Worth
Serving as pallbearers will be Trey Fleming, Chris Reese, Brandon Reese, Blake Hodge, John Hodge, Wesley Greene, and Mike Reese. Honorary pallbearers will be Woods Pate and Charles Mukherjee.
The family suggests memorials to the Woods Cemetery Assoc.
Under the direction of Hawthorn Funeral Home Carthage, TX www.hawthornfuneralhome.com
6/24/2024
Vernon Boyd Beaty, 75, of Center, passed away Thursday, June 20, 2024, in San Augustine. Funeral service will be held at Noon, Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Folsom Chapel Cemetery in Center.
Born December 28, 1948, in Angleton, Vernon is the son of Vernon Beaty and Willie Mae Socha Beaty. He loved Harley Davidson Motorcycles and karaoke. Vernon was an avid fisherman and enjoyed boating. He had an uncanny sense of humor and made everyone smile.
Survived by:
Fiancé, Sherry Murphee of Center
Children:
Michelle Beaty of Seabrook
Jason Beaty of Spring
Jeremy Beaty of Katy
Jacky Winters of Sour Lake
Stepson, Justin Murphree and wife Sally
Stepdaughter, Ashley Campbell and husband Shane.
Grandchildren:
Ethan Beaty
Devon Beaty
Jordan Beaty
Ayden McVeigh
Kora McVeigh
Axel Beaty
Emily Beaty
Katana Beaty
Step grandchildren:
Wesley Murphree
Kye Murphree
Kambree Murphree
Stihl Campbell
Colt Campbell
Sister, Connie Sams of Willis
Half-sisters, Penny and JoJo
Nieces, Kim, Tammy, Angie, Annette, Alaura, and Megan Milliff
Nephews, James Krauskopf, Hunter Cochran, and Corey Milliff.
Preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Beaty and Willie Mae Socha Beaty; and sister, Barbara Krauskopf.
Pallbearers will be Jason Beaty, Jeremy Beaty, Jacky Winters, Justin Murphee, Lee Winters, and Newman Champagne.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/22/2024
Loretta Yvonne Shunkwiler Armstrong, 85, of Anacoco, Louisiana, passed away Tuesday, June 4, 2024, in Anacoco.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 23, 2024, at Joaquin First Baptist Church, 100 Connell Ferry Road, Joaquin, Texas 75954 with Bro. Jody Hooper officiating.
Born March 10, 1939, in Joaquin, Texas, Loretta is the daughter of Milo Cleburne Armstrong and Violet Laverne McGee Armstrong.
She is survived by:
Children:
Jesse Mathewson
Cheri Harris
Athea Shunkwiler Williams
Tara W. Shunkwiler
Grandchildren:
Seaira Dawn Mathewson
Chelsea Dionne Harris
Allison Casey Harris
Taylor Layne Harris
Teagan Carl Chase Shunkwiler
Haeden Chance Shunkwiler
Catin Mikey Shunkwiler
6 great-grandchildren
Brother, Mike Armstrong
Sister, Geneva Armstrong-Bush
Nephew, Shawn Armstrong
Preceded in death by parents, Milo Armstrong and Violet Laverne McGee Armstrong; daughter, Dawn Capucine Mathewson; son-in-law, Leland Milam Harris; and brother, Carl Lee Armstrong.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at http://www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/21/2024
Michael Anthony Waller age 26 years, 4 months, and 19 days of Center, Texas went to walk with Jesus on June 2, 2024. Michael, the son of Melissa Jeannette Waller and Jerry Wayne Smith, Jr., was born in Marshall, Texas on Wednesday, January 14, 1998.
Memorial Service will be held 2pm to 4pm on July 16, 2024 at East Main United Pentecostal Church in Nacogdoches, Texas with Brother Ennis Fuller.
He attended Nacogdoches and Timpson TX High Schools. His first job was at Tyson Foods Center, TX.
Michael attended church in his youth at Glory Gang on Stallings Drive in Nacogdoches. He was baptized at Trinity Baptist Church on Solomon Rd. Nacogdoches County.
Michael was a great son, brother, relative and friend to everyone he knew. He was a friendly, kind, caring and jovial person. He enjoyed gaming with his online friends and sisters. He loved listening to music, singing, spending time with friends and family, animals and going to the beach.
He is preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Jerry Wayne Smith Sr. and Linda Nell Tube Smith; and maternal grandfather, Charles Steven Waller.
Survived by:
Grandmother, Carol Winfrey
Grandfather, Mike Couder
Mother, Melissa Jeannette Waller
Father, Jerry Wayne Smith Jr.
Sisters:
Christina Smith
Makayla Waller
Meagan Smith
Madison Smith Greear and husband Rocky Greear of Nashoba, Ok
Uncles:
Jeffrey and Tricia Smith
Jonathan Smith
Charles Waller
Aunts:
Delta Dawn Smith
Leann Couder Platt and husband Daniel Platt
Nieces, cousins
Great-Aunts and Great-Uncles
Hilliard Funeral Home, 386 N. Maple, Van, TX 75790
06/21/2024
Susie Martin Wright, 78, of Center, was called to her eternal home on June 20, 2024. A graveside ceremony will be held at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Grant Murphree officiating.
Born January 19, 1946, in Center to Woodrow “Dutch” and Edith Christian Martin. Susie was a joyous soul who loved life and embraced all the people in it. She enjoyed shopping, cooking, camping, and most of all spoiling her babies. Susie had a servant’s heart.
She never failed to help family and friends, always with a smile on her face.
She is survived by:
Son, David Neal Wright, and wife, Sabrina of Center
Grandchildren:
Megan Barbee, and husband, Derek of Timpson
Carson Wright of Charlotte, North Carolina
Great-grandchildren:
Mattisyn Barbee
Talon Barbee
Cullen Barbee
Sister, Cherry Murphree, and husband, Don of Center
Brother, Johnny Mike Martin, and wife, Beverly of Lufkin
Nieces and nephews:
Michelle Oneal-McCafferty, and husband, Mark of Navarro, Florida
Laura Sage, and husband, David of Lufkin
Kim Altimari of Nacogdoches
Charles W. Martin, Jr,. and wife, Stacy of Nacogdoches
Harold Martin, and wife, Amber of Houston
Micah Abshire, and husband, Pat of Louisiana
Grant Murphree, and wife, Madison of Center
As well as numerous great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends
Preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow (Dutch) Martin and Edith Christian Martin; brother, Charles W. (Scooter) Martin; sister-in-law, Nancy Martin and nephew, Jim Altimari
A gracious thank you to Focused Care of Center for their compassionate care.
06/21/2024
Howell Maurice Adkison, 74, of Center, passed away Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in San Augustine.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 21, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Bro. Grant Murphree and Ginia Hooper will officiate. Interment will follow at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center.
Born April 20, 1950, in Jasper, Texas, Howell is the son of Hollis Howell Adkison and Myrtle Maurice Adkison. He served in the United States Army and was stationed in Vietnam during part of that time.
He is survived by:
Wife, Pamila Hooper Adkison of Center
Sons:
Brandon Heath Adkison of Nacogdoches
Clinton Howell Adkison, and wife, Anittra of Garrison
Grandchildren:
Leyonna Donyele Adkison
Brenton Howell Adkison
Austin Dean Adkison
Philip Ryan Adkison, and wife, Hali
Great-grandchildren:
Wyatt Raynor-Storm Grenzebach
Pierce Howell Adkison
Sister, Shirley DiVerdi, and husband, Vince
Mother-in-law, Ann Hooper
Sister-in-law, Ginia Hooper
Also, numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by grandparents, Fannie Mae Adkison, Vernie Turner, and brothers Stephen Hollis Adkison and Terry Lynn Adkison and wife Jeannie; and father-in-law, Billy Wayne Hooper.
Pallbearers will be Brenton Howell Adkison, Austin Dean Adkison, Philip Ryan Adkison, Dillion Hooper, Terry Adkison Jr., and Chris Denby. Honorary pallbearer will be Mike Mangrum.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/20/2024
Darrion G. Landon, 42 of Center, passed away Sunday morning, June 16, 2024 at the Center Emergency Room. He was born to the late David Landon and Syble Dixon on September 22, 1981.
Visitation is from 11am until 6pm Friday, June 21, 2024 and from 9am until 3pm on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center.
Darrion graduated in 2001 from Tenaha High School.
He leaves to cherish his memory:
Loving wife of 18 years, Tameka Landon
Children:
Anthony Jackson, Jr.
Terence Johnson
Jaenlyn Johnson
Siblings:
Sister, Linda Landon of Houston
Brother, David Landon of Tenaha
Brother, Dirondwer Landon (Tracie) of Tenaha
Auntie, Sue Sparks
A host of nieces, nephews, and truck driver friends.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
06/19/2024
Margaret Bell Kay, 88, of Shelbyville, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024, at Pine Grove Nursing Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, June 22, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 23, 2024, at Strong Cemetery in Huxley with Ryan Mason and Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.
Born November 10, 1935, in Center, Texas, Margaret Rose is the daughter of Arthur W. and Ruby Cain Bell. She graduated from Strong High School in 1953 and married Elwood Kay on November 10, 1953. Their union was for 56 years and ended upon his death September 8, 2010.
She was a lifelong resident of the Dreka and Huxley communities of Shelby County, Texas. She loved to garden and maintained a picture perfect yard and flower beds her entire life. She delighted in cooking pies for friends and family. You were truly blessed to have been gifted with one of her pecan, coconut, or chocolate pies. She also grew a vegetable garden in which weeds and grass didn’t venture to grow. Neighbors shared in her harvest, be it tomatoes, corn, peas, green onions, or greens.
Margaret loved to share the bounty of the many flowers she nurtured. She gladly would dig up clumps of Iris, Daylilies, or Hardy Hibiscus to gift family members and visitors.
She worked various jobs throughout her life, one of her favorites was driving a Shelbyville school bus. Her kids loved and respected her and she loved them too. She never spent her income on herself. She used it to provide a loving home. She also operated Rodgers Harbour, Toledo Bend, making lifelong friends with people near and far, never leaving at night until all fishermen were back at the dock. She retired in 1980 to being her favorite job of Nana.
She is survived by:
Daughters by birth:
Deborah Morgan
Kim Kay
Daughter by choice, Sherre Bowers
Granddaughters:
Kilie Mason (Ryan)
Codie Buchheit
Grandchildren: Danielle, Caleb, Rex, and R.J.
Sister, Lois O’Rear
She is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur W. and Ruby Cain Bell; her husband, Elwood Kay; her brothers, James and Charlie Bell; and her sons-in-law, Aubrey Morgan and Billy Bowers.
Pallbearers will be her great grandsons, Caleb Mason and Rex Buchheit; nephews, Chance Cansler, Jason Bell, and Mark Kay; and special friend, Phillip Scarbrough. Honorary pallbearers will be Ken Kay, Buddy Kay, Bubba Bell, Craig Jordan, and Shane Corbell.
Margaret’s wishes were that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Strong Cemetery, PO Box 1383, Center, Texas 75935.
The family would like to thank Pine Grove Nursing Center, Heart to Heart Hospice, and Christian Love Private Home Care for the tender care they provided during their mother’s final months.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/18/2024
Richard Dean McConnell, 78, of Timpson, passed away Monday, June 17, 2024, in Houston.
His wishes were to be cremated.
Born November 6, 1945, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Richard is the son of Adry McConnell Sr. and Florence Snow McConnell. He loved fishing, carpentry, NASCAR, and playing card games on his phone and computer.
He is survived by:
Daughters:
Carrie Ann Lawrence of California
Wendy Wallace, and husband, Troy of Timpson
Laura Yanez of Center
Grandchildren:
Alexus Wallace
Tahlia Wallace
Tyler Lawrence
Great-grandchildren:
Jetsyn Wallace
Amara Garcia
Brother, Adry McConnell Jr. of Minnesota
Sister, Judy Anderson of Minnesota
Also, numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by his parents, Adry McConnell Sr. and Florence Snow McConnell; and sisters, Mary Jane Hanson, JoAnn Hughes, and Jan Nick.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.comhttp://www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/18/2024
William Chadwick “Chad” Warren, beloved son of William “Bill” and Donna, entered this world on January 16, 1970, in Center, Texas. His birth brought joy and light to their lives, and he grew up surrounded by love and warmth.
On June 12, 2024, Chad's journey on this earth came to an end in Mount Pleasant, Texas. His passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Chad was preceded in death by his father, William “Bill” Spencer Warren Jr., his mother, Donna Warren Holt, his grandparents, William Spencer Warren, Barbara Jeff Davis, Almon Chadwick Boozer, and Ona Mae Malone, his Uncle Thomas Charles Warren, his niece Danielle Angel Osburn, and his cousin Brent Warren Dance. Their memory lives on as he joins them in eternal peace.
Known to many as “Charming Chad,” he had a special way of brightening up any room with his humor, infectious laugh, and carefree attitude. His hobbies and interests were varied, encompassing motorcycles, music, coin collecting, and traveling. Chad's zest for life and adventurous spirit left an indelible mark on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Chad is survived by:
Sister, Paige and husband Mitchell Osburn of Bryan
Stepfather, Bill Holt of Center
Aunts and Uncles:
Barbara and Sammy Dance of Center
Kathleen Warren of New Orleans, Louisiana
Cousins:
Spence Dance of Center
Sea Sea Dance of Flower Mound
Trey Dance of Center
Nieces and Nephews:
Kassie Kate Osburn of New York, N.Y.
Dallas Reed Osburn of Bryan
Cody Warren Osburn, and wife, Kitty of Killeen
Kortney Anne Osburn of Bryan
Dakota Mae Osburn of Bryan
Dusty Dane Osburn of Bryan
Grandniece, Aubrey Alyse Lanehart, of Bryan
Daughter, Katie Lee Hughes of Arlington
Many more relatives and friends
A celebration of Chad’s life will be held on June 22, 2024. Visitation with the family will start at 12 PM followed by a service given by Father Malcolm at 1 PM at the First Methodist Church on Porter Street in Center, Texas, where family and friends will come together to honor his memory and share stories of his remarkable life. Honorary pall bearers include: Jason Buddin, Spence Dance, Chuck Gaddy, Bob Mooney, Brian Schoelpple, Preston Whitney, and Sean Wright.
In the wake of his passing, let us hold onto the cherished memories we shared with Chad and find solace in the knowledge that his spirit will live on through the love and laughter he brought into the lives of those around him. May he rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will be forever missed and remembered.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/17/2024
Elmagene Malone Daniels (62) of Center, Texas, departed her life on June 5, 2024, in Leander, Texas. Elmagene was born to the late Oscar Davis and MeckEllen Malone on August 13, 1961.
Memorial service will be held at Sunset Church of Christ located at 208 Martin Luther King Drive in San Augustine, Texas 75972 on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 1pm. Bro Larry Howard will conduct the eulogy. Committal is at Roberts Cemetery San Augustine, Texas.
Elmagene Malone Daniels is survived by:
Husband, George Daniles of Center, Texas
Daughters:
NaEllen Malone
Seresa Moore
NaTasha Malone
Son, Channing Daniels (Mellody)
Grandchildren:
Jamarious Cartwright
Channing Daniels II
Omarion Nobles
Kyndall Abraham
Denim Moore
Christian Johnson
Makinzi Johnson
Dontavious Nobles
Colton Daniels
Cannon Daniels
Jase Moore
Mariah Johnson
Kennley McFarlin
Great-Grandchild, Aiyana Cartwright
Sisters:
Michelle Brooks (Anthony)
Martha Jean Jiner
Ella Louise Davis
Raqual Davis Butler
Brothers:
Charles Davis (Marsha)
Richard Malone
Kevin Davis (Teresa)
Grandmother, Ideria Davis
Special Aunt, Alisha Polk
Special friend, Janedia Caraway
A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by brothers, L.C. Malone (Teronica), Johnny L. Davis; sister, Verna Blount; and grandmother, the late Bernice Garrett Polk.
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net.
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