03/11/2024

Bettie Joyce Pitman Weeks, 84, passed away on March 11, 2024 in Center, Texas.

She was born to Thomas Benjamin Pitman, Sr. and Josephine Elizabeth Jenkins on February 29, 1940 in Dallas, Texas.

She married the late Tribble Jerry Weeks on December 9, 1972, and they lived together in Joaquin. Bettie is survived by her son Jackie Leon Brown, Jr. and his wife Deborah Permenter Brown of Arlington, Texas. She was predeceased by her loving husband in 2000, her brother Thomas B. Pitman, Jr. and her son James Randall Brown.

Bettie was the first baby born on that Leap year and was recognized in an article by the Dallas paper. She had many friends and often claimed a few were her children, too. For most of her life she worked as a business administrator and enjoyed the many people she met through her work.

There will be a graveside service Friday, March 15, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Lone Cedar Cemetery.

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

03/11/2024

Nyna Sue Weaver, 80, of Center, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with visitation an hour prior at Watson & Sons Funeral Home. Bro. Joe Walker will officiate.

Born October 9, 1943, Sue is the daughter of Leon Hughes and Lucille Jackson Hughes. She loved gardening, cooking, and taking care of her grandchildren. Sue was a member of Logansport Missionary Baptist Church in Logansport, Louisiana.

She is survived by:

Children:
Larry Weaver and wife Pam
Denise Owens and husband Pete

Grandchildren:
Lindsey Weaver
Kolby Owens and wife Samatha
Kelsey Owens and Danbert Collum
Karson Owens and Kayla
Kamden Owens and wife Morgan

Great-grandchildren:
Chesney Davis
Clint Davis
Tennyson Weaver
Gentry Owens
August Owens
Autumn Owens
Monroe Owens

Preceded in death by husband, Buford Burt Weaver; grandson, Clint Weaver; parents, Leon Hughes and Lucille Jackson Hughes.

Pallbearers will be Kolby Owens, Karson Owens, Kamden Owens, Danbert Collum, Chad Hughes, and Terry Walton.

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

03/08/2024

Cora Jean Canipe, 94, of Garland, Texas, was born November 4, 1929, and passed away March 5, 2024. 

Ms. Canipe was a member of First Baptist Church in Garland, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Cleveland Canipe; parents, Harold and Alma Gary; brother and sister-in-law, Clifford Gary and Margie; sisters, Bonita Goolsby and Ann Hawkins; and brother-in-law, Jack.

She is survived by:

Sons:
Richard Wayne Canipe, his wife Jimmie
Stephen Gary Canipe

Grandson, Andrew Gary Canipe and his wife Katelyn

Great-grandchildren:
Aydan Gary Canipe
Aaron Allen Canipe

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Ramah Baptist Church with burial at Ramah Cemetery.

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

 

03/06/2024

James Alton “Nutley” Lowe, 68 of Center, Texas, passed away March 2, 2024.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ (908 Danels Street Center, Texas) at 11am. Mr. Lowe was born to Mrs. Shirley J. Lowe on October 18, 1955, in Kountze, Texas. Pastor Desmond Tolbert will do the eulogy.

Visitations is Friday, March 8, 2024, at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 6pm to 8pm and Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 10am at Triumph Church. Committal is at Westview Cemetery, Center, Texas. Repass is at Triumph Church.

He is survived by:

Son, James A. Lowe Jr

Stepsons:
Marcus Bennett
Author (Sylvia) Bennett

Brothers:
Samuel C. Gardner of Daytona Beach, Florida
Elbert C. Kelly (LaChandra) of Point Blank, Texas
Henry Kelly of Houston
Elbert Kelly Jr. of Silsbee
Robert Kelley of Beaumont
LaMillican Deon Johnson (Keisha) of Tenaha
Tristian Gardner of Longview
Renard Gardner of Beaumont
Eshawn Randle of Beaumont
Michael Hubbard of Bristle, Tennessee
Mark Hubbard and Harold Randle (Latisha) of Center

Sisters:
JoAnn (Milton) Baptist of Houston
Sherian Daniels of Nacogdoches
Ora D. Kelly (Jerry) of Silsbee
Jenitha Thomas (John) of Houston
Annie Watts (Maruice) of San Augustine
Sabrina Williams of Los Angeles
Felecia Gardner of Tenaha
Bonnie Hubbard of Virginia
Brenda Johnson of Nacogdoches

Best Friend and Neighbor: Yogi Gorkhali (Monisha) and Avaro Castillo and family.

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.

03/05/2024

James Daylon Witter of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, in a traffic accident in Shelby County, Texas, at the age of 25 years, 6 months, 18 days.

"Daylon" was born August 15, 1998, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was a longtime resident of San Augustine County and worked as a tree trimmer with Hoffpauir Tree Service. He had a passion for the outdoors and a great love for all types of hunting.

His survivors include:

Parents, Tisha and J.D. Burns of San Augustine

Sisters and brother-in-law:
Jaysa and Coy Bennefield of San Augustine
Kinley Burns of San Augustine

Step-brother, Derek Burns of San Augustine

Niece, Emmy Joe Bennefield of San Augustine

Grandparents:
Terry Joe Sr. and Julia Montes of Lufkin, Texas
Debbie and Bruce Johnson of Zavalla, Texas

Aunts and uncles:
Brandy and Chris Nair of Hudson, Texas of Lufkin
Terry "Bubba" Montes and B.J. Robertson of Lufkin
John and Griselda Montes of Lufkin
Brandon Montes of Lufkin
Matthew and Rachel Montes of Lufkin
Renne Wall of San Augustine
Sissy Burns of San Augustine
John and Nikki Mayhugh of Chireno
Joey and Cassie Bynum of Lufkin

Host of cousins and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, James and Judy Burns; and great-grandparents, Clyde and Opal Montes and J.W. Knight.

Visitation will be held Friday, March 8, 2024, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas. Funeral services are set for 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel with Bro. Robert Byley officiating. Committal service and interment will follow at Dickerson Cemetery, located on County Road 4255 in San Augustine County.

Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.

03/05/2024

Dianna Lynn Burress, 58, of Center, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 7, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Her wishes were to be cremated.

Born August 10, 1965, in Center, Dianna is the daughter of W.T. Mayo and Barbara Baker Smith. She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star.

Dianna is survived by:

Children:
Paul Burress and wife Heather
Patricia Lori Lynn Sibly and husband Chuck
Mark Phillip Michael Burress and wife Jessica

Eight Grandchildren

Brothers and sister:
Mike Mayo and wife Patsy
Laurie Miller and husband Curtis Fountain
Joe Smith

Sister-in-law, Tammy Smith

Stepfather, Clyde Smith

Stepbrother, Floyd Ogeta

Special friends:
Lorinda Murphy
Ricky McDonald
Susan Sanford
Lara Banta

Preceded in death by husband, Paul Birch; mother, Barbara Smith; and brother, David Smith; husband, Paul Burress, Sr.; and sister-in-law, Lisa Miller. 

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

03/01/2024

Rachel Symanthia Creech Wilson, 82, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 25, 1941 in the Bethel Community to Floyd and Minnie Bolton Skinner Creech.
 
As Rachel would say, “she spent her entire life in the suburbs of Funston.” She attended Grand Cane School before marrying the love her life, Edgar Wilson, on October 10, 1958. Rachel then transferred to Joaquin High School graduating with the class of 1959. Seven years, six months, and four days later, she welcomed her beloved daughter, Lisa Darlene “Teet,” into the world. Rachel found immense joy in being a devoted housewife, mother and grandmother. She loved her job as a housewife and carried out all of her housewife duties until her final days. Her favorite past time was bossing everyone around.
 
An enthusiast of CB radio, Rachel was fondly known across the airwaves as Diesel Widow, often engaging in lively conversations on her Browning Eagle. She cherished time feeding and watching the animals on the farm. She also loved house plants and trinkets. Rachel was always proud to display the alligator hide that she harvested on Sept 4, 2013, at the youthful age of 72.
 
Rachel was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Minnie Bolton Skinner Creech; her sister, Pauline, and husband, Jimmy Turner; her brothers, Dootsy Skinner and Buddy Creech; and her nephew, Billy Lynn Wilson.

Left to cherish her memory:
Devoted husband of 65 years and 4 months, Edgar Wilson

Daughter, Lisa McPhearson, and husband, Mac Jr.

Grandson, Josh McPhearson, and his wife, Amy

Sisters,
Margaret Alexander
Loraine Childress

Brother, Skeeter Skinner

Sister-in-law, Bennette Horton

Brother-in-law, Billy Mack Wilson, and his wife, Janice

As well as a host of nieces and nephews
 
Graveside service will be at 1 pm Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Bethel Cemetery in Logansport, La.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals who made a significant impact on Rachel’s life: Shane Ramsey, Mark Cowdin, Michael Cowdin, Stacy Taylor, Buren Lowe, Matthew Barnes, John Haak, Bull Kyle, Kevin Lee, Charlie Metcalf, David Skinner, Dustin Cowdin, and Daniel McCollough.

In true Rachel fashion, she loved her emojis. 

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

02/29/2024

Tashira Roshun "Pinky" McCollister, 47, went home to be with the Lord on February 21, 2024 at Focused Care of Center. She was born to the late Linda Kay McCollister and the late Dennis Giles on January 25, 1977.

Services will be at 1pm on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Abundant Love Ministries, Center, Texas with Marlin Cloudy Sr. eulogist. Visitation is from 10am until 7pm on Friday, March 1, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment at St. John Cemetery in Tenaha.

Tashira was born and raised in Tenaha, Texas where she attended Tenaha High School. She enjoyed writing in her free time, mostly poetry and also wrote a couple of children's books. Tashira eventually relocated to Center, Texas where she met and married her now ex-husband and worked as a tax preparer.

She gave birth to three children: ShaDerica Gregory, Chavis Gregory, and Christopher "Cobe" Caraway. Tashira has four grandchildren: Ariana Jones, A'Tracelyn Evans Journeigh Gregory, and A'Jhaelyn Evans which she loved and adored more than life itself. Until the day she was called home she spent every moment taking care of "Nannies Babies" and being the glue that held her family together.

Preceding her in death was her mother, Linda Kay McCollister; father, Dennis Giles; grandmother, Lillian (Kate) McCollister; special cousin, Kamekaqua McCollister Dagley; and uncle, Kenneth McCollister.

Tashira leaves to mourn:

Children:
ShaDerica Gregory of Center
Chavis Gregory of Center
Cobe Caraway (Allecia) of Kilgore

Brothers:
Christopher Evans of Tenaha
Chavis McCollister of Tenaha

Sisters: Lillian McCollister of Center
Roshayla McCollister of Center
Katina Evans of Center
Omeisha Williams of Center
Laticia Giles of Houston
Daphne Giles of Houston
Theresa Giles of Houston

Aunts:
Rose Robertson of Tenaha
Eva Thompson of Tenaha
Mary McCollister of Tenaha

Uncle, Frank McCollister of Oklahoma

Host of nieces, nephews, and cousins

Special Step-Dad, Gerald Thomas

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

02/29/2024

Terri Lynn Wilson, 60, of the Woods Community in Panola County, Texas, passed away Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024, at her home. Terri Lynn Wilson was born on March 19, 1963, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to the late Mark Howard and Anita Faye Pinell Wilson.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Vaun Henry officiating. Interment will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Shelby County. A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday prior to the service.

She graduated from Carthage High School with the class of 1981, and earned her associate's degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Terri later earned her LVN certification from Panola College. She worked for many years as a contract nurse. Terri loved her home in the Woods Community and enjoyed gardening, photography, and sewing. She was a member of Antioch Baptist Church.

Terri was preceded in death by her nephew, Derek Moore.

Terri is survived by:

Son, Brandon Wilson

Daughter, Sarah Credeur

Grandchildren:
Carson and Addison Wilson
Cade and Cole Credeur

Sister, Kim Robinson and husband Jerry

Best friend, Terrie Howard

Pallbearers are Roger McCuller, Mark Coleman, Bobby Howard, Braylen Moore, Carson Wilson, and Dwayne Belair.

Terri’s family extends a special thanks to Hearts Way Hospice for giving her such comforting care during her time of need.

A guestbook may be signed at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.

02/29/2024

Norris Roberson Taylor, 74, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2024, in Joaquin, Texas. Norris was born February 8, 1950, in Center, Texas, to Woodrow and Mary Louise Taylor.

Graveside service will be held Friday, March 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Jackson Baptist Church Cemetery, Joaquin, Texas. Officiating the service will be Melba Rogers and Frank Jousan.

Norris graduated from Joaquin High School in 1968. He married Wanda Jo Haight December 25, 1972. He had a career in welding and was a fourth-generation Shelby County farmer and rancher.

Norris is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Mary Louise; sister, Virginia; and brother, Morris.

Surviving are:

Wife, Jo Taylor

Sons:
Stacy Taylor and wife Jesse of Joaquin
Justin Taylor and wife Pam of Shelbyville

Granddaughters:
Haley Taylor and fiancé Matt Gamble
Stella Taylor
Gracie Ellis
Rilynn Ellis

Grandsons:
Rowdy Taylor
Rory Taylor
Tucker Taylor
Toby Taylor
Dusty Taylor

Great-grandson, Lawson Gamble

Sisters-in-law:
Mickey Revis of Dickinson, Texas
Jane Gamble of Grand Cane, Louisiana

Nieces, Libby Lang and husband Steven
Hannah Gamble-Gramm and husband Zack

Great-nieces:
Madison Lang
Annistyn Touchton

Special friend, Jeannie Taylor

Honoring Norris as pallbearers will be Toby Taylor, Rowdy Taylor, Rory Taylor, Dusty Taylor, Matt Gamble, and Bill Baker. Honorary pallbearers will be Darrell Alford and John Hugh Leggett.

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

02/28/2024

Frankie Lane DeSoto, 69, of Center, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024, in Center.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 1, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon.  Bro. Danny Sikes and Bro. Hayden Wilkes will officiate.  Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Born July 18, 1954, in Mansfield, Louisiana, Frankie is the son of Frank Samuel DeSoto and Gladys Lucille Lee DeSoto.  On June 8, 1974, he married the love of his life, Cynthia Kay Windham DeSoto. A Baptist minister, Frankie pastored Antioch Baptist Church in Center, Pine Ridge Baptist Church in Joaquin, and was most recently a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Center. Frankie was a member of Joaquin Masonic Lodge #856.  He was a die-hard Dallas Cowboy fan.

He is survived by:
Wife, Cynthia Kay Windham DeSoto

Children:
Angie Gillis (Travis) of Center
Jennifer Rumbo (Brad) of Brownsboro

Grandchildren: 
Sara Gillis
Travis “Bubba” Gillis IV
Alexis Wehrmann (Gage)
Paisley Rumbo (friend, Grayson)
Anna Grace Gillis

Sisters:
Shirley Brownfield of Denham Springs, Louisiana,
Susan Johnson of Pleasant Hill, Louisiana

Sisters-in-law: 
Hazel Miller (Carl) of Joaquin
Patsy Riley (Danny) of Tatum
Sue Gill (Leslie) of Tenaha
Mary Cummings (Kenneth) of Joaquin

Brother-in-law, Fisher Windham of Center

A host of nieces and nephews; and fur babies, Snake, Wendy, and Ceaser.

Preceded in death by parents, Frank Samuel DeSoto and Gladys Lucille Lee DeSoto; infant brothers, Frank S. DeSoto Jr. and Donnie W. DeSoto; nieces, Tracy Brownfield and Amanda Johnson; infant son, Baby DeSoto; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Rev. Felix and Anner Dee Windham.

Pallbearers will be David Miller, Keith Riley, Jeff Cummings, Justin Brownfield, Eric Brownfield, Gage Wehrmann, Grayson Epperson, and Bubba Gillis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org

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

02/27/2024

Mrs. Lasonia Natasha Jenkins Lister, age 42, of San Augustine, Texas. Mrs. Lister departed this physical life on February 22, 2024, at her residence in San Augustine, Texas. 
   
Funeral service Saturday, March 2, 2024, 1pm at Taylor Tabernacle with interment to follow at Lane town Cemetery with Rev. Michael Jenkins, Officiating, and Rev. Timothy Teel, Eulogist.

Visitation and Wake Friday, March 1, 2024, from 1:00pm until 5:00pm at Garner & Son Chapel 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Bell Chapel Baptist Church.

Survivors are:
Husband, Kevin Lister of Center

Daughter, Jabria Jenkins of Shelbyville

Son, Kason Lister of Shelbyville

Parents, Charles and Emma Jenkins of Shelbyville

Granddaughter, Jailee Brielle Conley of Shelbyville

Brother, LaMarcus Ramon Wallace of Nacogdoches

Sister, Charity Latrece Jenkins of San Augustine

God-Sisters:
Faith Williams (Ardis) of Shreveport, Louisiana
Sascha Jenkins Cartwright (James) of Center
Ashley Jenkins of San Augustine

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

Services are under the direction of Percy Garner & Son Mortuary in San Augustine.

02/26/2024

James Ray Smith, 86, of Center, Texas, passed away on February 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas.  He was born on April 24, 1937, in Center, Texas, to the late Perry Buren Smith and Grace Louise (Whitton) Smith. 

Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church, Center, Texas, with Bro. Todd Jenkins and Bro. Lamar Rash officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. 

Ray was born in Shelby County. He attended Sardis and Center schools and was raised in the Sardis community. Ray loved the Lord and served him faithfully at Sardis Pentecostal Church. 

Ray is survived by:
Sons:
Jimmy Ray Smith and wife Jackie
Van Buren Smith

Daughters:
Shelia Smith Kennedy and husband John
Patti Brown

Sister:
Virginia Lemoine

Grandchildren:
Drew Kennedy and wife Chloe
Aaron Kennedy and wife Sara
Ali Kennedy
Sam Smith
Nate Smith

Great-Grandchild:
Collins Kennedy

Numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends all of which he loved deeply.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Warr Smith; daughter, Rena Smith; parents, Perry and Grace Smith; brothers, Wayne Smith, Jerry Smith; sisters, Edna Smith, Frances Snow, and Odessa Smith Weaver.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

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

02/26/2024

Zannie Gay Belrose, 103, of Center. After a long and full life, our dear Mother & Grandmother, Zannie Gay Belrose, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 24, 2024, at the age of 103. She was born September 22, 1920, to Julian Henry Fields and Florence Rowena Squyers Fields.  

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church in the Sardis Community of Shelby County.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 4, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church.  Interment will follow at Brandon Memorial Cemetery in Shelby County.
She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother who was always available when any of her family and friends needed her—whether it be for prayer, guidance, a listening ear or to simply put monkey blood on a “bobo.” Having many, many friends, she was a well-loved, member of the Sardis community.  Zannie Gay has been a lifelong member of the Sardis Pentecostal church dating back to when it was just a brush arbor.
 
Many have said she had a direct line to heaven, and we are convinced she certainly did! She was a great prayer warrior for her family, for her church family, and for many others from all walks of life. You could call her at any time—day or night—and she was ready and willing to pray for or with you.  

A memory for us all was her drinking coffee from her saucer because her cup truly overflowed. 

She would say she was blessed beyond measure by her family . . . they made her beam with pride.  We also remember Papaw say one Christmas as he was looking over his family before Mamaw read the Christmas story: “Zannie Gay look what we have started!”
 
She would make homemade biscuits for every single meal.  When we say every single meal, we mean she cooked three meals a day—every single day.  Let me tell you folks . . . it wasn’t ever just a casserole.  
 
Zannie Gay, in the prime of her life, was a woman of many talents: from a star athlete, handyman, Sunday school teacher, 5-star cook, to fisherman right alongside her husband.  She once said in an interview, “Her greatest accomplishment was her family.”  She also said, “What a blessing it is to be called ‘Mamaw’ by so many people!”
 
You will forever hold a special place in our hearts and your legacy will live on through us all! 
 
She is survived by her children:
LaNell Rash
Lillian Shofner
Martha Rash, and Kenneth
Melba Rodgers
Kathryn Schillings, and Joe Tom
Lester Belrose, and Teresa
Leo Belrose, and Janet
 
Daughter in Law:
Connie Belrose Noble, and Don
 
Grand Children:
Lisa Eaves, and George
Shannon Shofner
Lamar Rash, and Kris
Kevin Rash, and Kim
Leann Rash
Kerri Griffin, and Ray
Heather Moody, and Donnie
Todd Clark, and Darlene
Doug Rodgers, and Lindsey
David Rodgers
Donnie Belrose, and Denise
Ronnie Belrose, and Carmen
Jennifer Leach, and Mark
Jon Schillings, and Joanna
Brandy Ellis, and Shawn
Austin Belrose, and Drew
Tyler Belrose, and Stephanie
Jordan Steele, and John
Grant Belrose, and Korie

54 great-grandchildren
 
47 great-great-grandchildren
 
Sister:
Margie Hinton, and Jimmy

Numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends

Special caregivers:
Janet Anderson
Marsha Jernigan 
 
She was preceded in death by:
Husband, Ray Belrose; Mother, Florence Squyers Fields; Father, Julian Fields; Son, Lonnie Belrose; Grandsons, Brandon Shofner & Terry Rash; Great Grandson, Jesse Don Moody; Son’s in Law, Bobby Rash, Oliver Shofner & Mike Rodgers; Brothers, Roy Fields (Susie), Ralph Fields (Esther) Elbert Fields (Dot) Sisters, Zolema Anthony (J.M.) Annie Mae Clark (Marlin) & 2 infant sisters
 
Serving as Pallbearers will be the Grandsons and Great-Grandsons

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

02/23/2024

Rhonda Louise Huskey, 63, of Joaquin, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024, in Longview.

Her wishes were to be cremated.

Born April 22, 1960, in Bonham, Rhonda is the daughter of Larry Thomas McDowell Sr. and Rachel Kathleen Boney McDowell. Her hobbies included traveling, gardening, reading, and watching true crime documentaries.

She is survived by:

Children:
Christopher Huskey
Steven and Lindsay Huskey
Danielle Roth and husband Christian

Grandchildren, Kyra Huskey and Dylan Hudspeth

Mother, Rachel Kathleen Boney McDowell

Sisters:
Virginia McDowell
Carla Likes and husband Bobby

Brother, Larry McDowell Jr. and wife Patty

She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles G. Huskey; daughter, Toni Renee Huskey; grandson, Xavier Rae Huskey; and father, Larry Thomas McDowell Sr.

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

02/22/2024

Janette Wheeler Wilburn, 75, of Shelbyville, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024, in Shelbyville.

Graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, February 23, 2024, at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County. Bro. Bobby Warr will officiate. Visitation will be held prior from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.

Born April 13, 1948, in Center, Janette is the daughter of Oscar Wheeler and Agnes Wheeler. She was married to the love of her life, Andrew Wilburn, for twenty-seven years. She loved spending time with family, especially her grandkids and great grandkids. Janette also enjoyed talking on the phone and shopping.

She is survived by:

Daughter, Pam Jamison and husband Scotty of Shelbyville

Granddaughters:
Heather McDonald and husband Grant of Shelbyville
Lindsey Moore and husband Jimmy of Shelbyville

Great-grandchildren:
Shade McDonald
Levi McDonald
Walker McDonald
Casen Moore
Cainen Moore

Nieces and nephews:
Randy Wheeler
Mario Martinez
Ricky Wheeler
Debbie Taylor

Preceded in death by husband, Andrew Wilburn; parents, Oscar Wheeler and Agnes Wheeler; sister, Louise Honeycutt; brothers, Glenn Wheeler, Blount Wheeler, and J.B. Fletcher.

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

02/22/2024

Barbara Jeff Wilburn, 83, of Orange, passed away on February 19, 2024, at her home in Orange.

Funeral services will be 10:00 am, Saturday, February 24, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Jay Thomas and her brother, Reverend Gordon Vaughn. Burial will follow at Autumn Oaks Cemetery in Orange. Visitation will be from 9:00 am, Saturday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Barbara was born in Center, Texas, on April 23, 1940, she was the daughter of George W. Vaughn and Nona Gladys Vaughn. She was a graduate of SFA and went on to teach first grade for 35 years. Once retired from teaching, Barbara always lit up whenever she ran into a former student of hers. She also enjoyed volunteering with hospice in her spare time.

Barbara was a longtime member of MacArthur Heights Baptist Church in Orange where she also taught Sunday School. She loved the Lord fiercely as well as her church. She was a wonderful mother and the best “Maw Maw” to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Nona Vaughn; husband, Gerald Wilburn; brother, Dexter Vaughn; and sister, Mary Ann Dailey. She is survived by:
Children: Tammy Renee Henley, and husband, Bo of Orange
Greg Wilburn, and wife, Brandi of Lexington

Grandchildren:
Johnathan Henley, and wife, Brandy
Amber Rickenbrode, and husband, Phillip

Great-grandchildren:
Austin Rickenbrode
Grayson Rickenbrode
Henley Rickenbrode
Jaxson Henley
Asher Henley
Penelope Henley
Sullivan Henley

Brothers and sisters:
Thurman Vaughn
Gordon Vaughn
Madge Lombardino
Rhonda Schlueter

Sister-in-law, Loretta Vaughn

Brother-in-law, Price Wilburn

Serving as pallbearers will be Bobby Payne, Rusty Lombardino, Austin Rickenbrode, Grayson Rickenbrode, Asher Henley, and Jaxson Henley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to MacArthur Heights Baptist Church at 3600 Nightingale Street, Orange, Texas.

The family would like to give a special thank you to her church family and neighbor Charlsie Haley, and Center Well and Synergy for care and compassion.

02/21/2024

Marcia J. Wood, 85, of Center, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024, in Center.

Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, February 23, 2024, at McClelland Community Church in Shelbyville with Bro. Chris Collins officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at McClelland Cemetery in Shelbyville.

Born January 12, 1939, Marcia is the daughter of Frank Collins and Stella Graves Collins. She was a member of McClelland Community Church in Shelbyville.

She is survived by:

Sister, Dorothy Hess of Shelbyville

Daughter, Melodie Wood

Grandchildren:
Hollie Dauzat and husband Brad of Conroe
Kennodie Robinson of North Carolina

Great-grandchildren:
Alexander Wood of Conroe
Brookelyn Wood of Conroe

Preceded in death by husband, Donald L. Wood; parents, Frank Collins and Stella Graves Collins; and brother, Lonnie Collins.

Pallbearers will be Alexander Wood, Cory Collins, Jon Collins, Brian Collins, James Alvis, and James Jernigan.

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

02/21/2024

Don Ahart, 73, of Shelbyville went to be with his Savior on Monday, February 19, 2024 at his home in East Hamilton.  He was born to Lloyd Douglas Ahart and Madeline Wolfe Ahart in Ravenwood, West Virginia on December 1, 1950.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Friday February 23rd, 2024 at Watson and Son’s Funeral Home in Center. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday February 24th, 2024 at Watson and Son’s Chapel with Bro. Ronnie Wheeler officiating. Interment will follow at Sardis Cemetery in Sardis, Texas.

He met and married the love of his life Sheila in 1971 in Melbourne, Florida, and together they celebrated 52 years of marriage. In 1978, the two moved to Angleton, Texas where they raised their two daughters. He was an electrician by trade for over 30 years in Brazoria County, Texas and finally retired to the Pineywoods of East Texas in February of 2018. Don was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and working with his hands, he was never idle for long. He had a green thumb and was always growing things in his plentiful gardens and flower beds. He instilled an early love for travel and conservation in his daughters as the family traveled all over the United States to many National Parks.

He was known as a loving husband, father, pawpaw, son and brother and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by:

Wife, Sheila Ahart of East Hamilton

Daughters:
Danie Jones of Shelbyville
Nicci Cooper and husband Brandon of Sardis

Grandchildren:
Shane Ballard
Kane Anderson
Zane Anderson
Brandalyn Cooper
Will Cooper

Brother, Mike Ahart and wife Lupe of Brazoria

Sister-in-law, Valerie Lamberth of Melbourne, Florida

Brother-in-law, Jim Derry and Dreama of Melbourne, Florida

Nieces and nephews:
Christina Lopez
Michael Ahart
Michelle Hinman
Tiffany Snider
Alida Higlar
Stephanie Shumate 

Preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Douglas Ahart and Madeline Wolfe Ahart; and brother, Lloyd Ahart.

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

02/17/2024

William Windham, 74, of Center, passed away Friday, February 16, 2024, in San Augustine.

Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 19, 2024, at White Rock Cemetery in Center. Visitation will be held prior from Noon to 1:30 p.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.

Born October 20, 1949, in Center, Texas, William is the son of Ida Pate Windham and Henry Windham. 

He is survived by:
Daughters, Brenda Smith (Mike)
Larenda Murphy (Dewayne Marr)

Grandchildren: 
Brandon Lee (Aliesha)
Dakota Windham
Gillian Bailey (Treven)
Gary Smith
Maria Smith
Christina Tarver
Katrina Tarver
Toby Murphy

Great-grandchildren: 
Trae Bailey
Madison Bailey
Carrington Bailey
Elizabeth Smith
Grayson Smith
River Smith

Pallbearers will be Mike Smith, Dewayne Marr, Trevin Bailey, Dakota Windham, Toby Murphy, and Gary Smith.

Preceded in death by wife, Carlin Windham; and parents, Ida Pate Windham and Henry Windham.

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

 

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