Shelby County Today

04/14/2025

Bonnie Lee Henderson, 83, of Logansport, Louisiana, left us early in the morning April 13,2025, to be with the Lord. She was born to Johnny and Marguerite Keenum (Mummey) February 3, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee. 

Funeral service will be held at 11am, Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Logansport with visitation beginning at 10am. Bro. Shawn Thrapp will officiate. Interment will follow at O.E. Price Cemetery in Logansport, Louisiana.

She was preceded in death by her father, Johnny Keenum and his wife Helen Keenum; her mother, Marguerite Mummey and her husband Earl Mummey; and a younger sister, Mary Keenum.

She was a successful employee of Halliburton until she retired and moved from Lewisville, Texas, to her home in Logansport, Louisiana. With her husband Jimmy Henderson, they opened a business, RedMan Trading Company, in their town. She enjoyed camping with family, visiting with friends and family, and playing bingo.

She is survived by:

Husband, Jimmy Henderson

Children:
Son, Bob (Connie) Ellison, Jr.
Son, Barry (Janet) Ellison
Daughter, Brenda Koether

Grandchildren:
Jeremy (Rebecca) Ellison
Brandon (Sarah) Ellison
Jessica Loftin
Kaylee Koether
Kristin Koether

Loved stepchildren:
Mike (Shary) Henderson
Lisa Witcher
Becky (George) Cline
Lonnie (LeeAnn) Henderson

Many other grandchildren and great grandchildren that she loved dearly.

Siblings:
Sister, Harriet (Michael) Wisener
Sister, June (Jim) Mays
Brother, Earl (Patsy) Mummey

Sister-in-law, Beth (Tom) Radcliff

Numerous treasured nieces and nephews that will miss her dearly.

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

04/09/2025

Jay Dee Cockrell, 64, of Joaquin, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, April 11, 2025, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Jody Hooper officiating.  Interment will follow at Sholar Cemetery in Joaquin.

Jay Dee was born on July 10, 1960, in Logansport, Louisiana, to James Horace Cockrell and Jo Dell Edburg Cockrell. He was an Eagle Scout and a 1978 graduate of Joaquin High School. He spent his life working hard, taking care of his family, and showing up for his community.

He started out in the oilfield before settling into poultry farming, raising broilers for 40 years. He also raised cattle and took pride in everything he did.

Over the years, Jay Dee served on the Huxley City Council, coached little league teams, and held positions on the Joaquin ISD School Board, the Shelby County Tax Appraisal Board, and the Joaquin Fire District Board. He was proud to serve as President of the Sholar Cemetery Association and was a steady supporter of the Shelby County Livestock Show. He was awarded the Honorary Lone Star Degree from the Texas FFA Association. Jay Dee was a member of the Shelby County Cookers and a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Go Texan Committee.

In 1981, he married his best friend and the love of his life, Selisha Kay Cockrell. They shared 43 years together, built on love, loyalty, and a whole lot of grit. She was his rock — the one who stood by his side through every season of life. Jay Dee was never prouder than when it came to his kids. Supporting them and watching them grow into who they are today brought him more joy than anything. He loved being with family and friends — always ready to lend a hand, tell a story, or share a laugh.

Jay Dee always had a way of figuring things out — a true problem solver. He could fix or figure out just about anything and always had something to say. He was a straight shooter, and yes, a certified bullshitter — always with a good heart.

Jay Dee will be remembered for his grit, generosity, and the deep love he had for his family, his work, and his community. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the example he set.
He is survived by:
His wife, Selisha Kay Cockrell of Joaquin

Children:
Kade Cockrell of Joaquin
Jodi Cockrell of Joaquin

Uncle and Aunt, Jerry and Margaret Cockrell of Joaquin

Mother-in-law, Betty Burgay of Timpson

Brother, John Cockrell and wife, Karen, of Prosper

Brothers-in-law:
Chuck Kay of Shelbyville
Stephen Burgay of Timpson

Numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends whom he loved deeply.

He was preceded in death by:
His parents: James Horace Cockrell and Jo Dell Edburg Cockrell
Fathers-in-law: Tom Kay and Stanley Burgay
Brothers: James Allen Cockrell and Joe Cockrell
Sister-in-law: Cynthia Cockrell

Pallbearers will be Derek Cockrell, Ricky Cockrell, Brad Cockrell, Brandon Cockrell, Jace Gurley, Robby Woodfin, Skipper Hendricks, and Kenny Weeks. 

Honorary pallbearers will be John Paul Lawson, Rodney Dean, Rich Cockrell, John Cockrell, Scooter Gray, and Jesus Gomez.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Sholar Cemetery, 8334 US Hwy 84 E, Joaquin, TX 75954. 

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

04/07/2025

Betty V. Massey, 76, of Tenaha, passed away Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Center.

Her wishes were to be cremated.

Born March 28, 1949, Betty is the daughter of Floyd Parker and Virginia Rich Parker. She spent her time gardening and taking care of her flowers. Betty loved gambling and used her wins to support her jewelry shopping addiction.

She is survived by:

Daughter, Naomi Stiles and husband John Jr. of Tenaha

Son, James V. Massey III and wife Kathy of Center

Grandchildren:
Melanie Farmer and husband Jason
Stephanie Stiles
Stacie Greear and husband Hayden
Jessica Massey
Zackary Massey

Great-Grandchildren:
John Paul Farmer
Daisy Farmer
Gunner Greear
Emily Greear
James Rhett Jaudon

Sisters:
Elaine Stanley
Sue Parker
Cathy Butler
Connie Harroff

Brother, Richard Parker

Preceded in death by her husband, James V. Massey Jr.; granddaughter, Emily Stiles; parents, Floyd Parker and Virginia Rich Parker; and siblings, Curtis Parker, Margie Anderson, Judy Bailey, and Edward Parker.

Memorial donations may be made to Noble Children’s Services Christmas Fund, 1306 Louisiana St., Center, TX 75935.

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

04/04/2025

It is with profound love and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donald E. Franke, beloved husband and father on Sunday, March 23rd in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Donald, 87, was born on May 6th, 1937 in Shelbyville, Texas to Alfred E. Franke and Ruth Bounds Franke. Raised on his family’s livestock farm in Shelbyville, he attended Shelbyville High School, where his early experiences ignited a lifelong passion for agriculture and beef cattle genetics.

After graduating high school, Donald pursued higher education at Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches, Texas. He then served three years in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Boston. Following his military service, he taught vocational agriculture for three years in Little Cypress Mauriceville, near Orange, Texas, where he met and married the love of his life, Barbara Kent Franke. Donald continued his academic journey, earning a Master of Science in Agriculture from Louisiana State University (LSU), and a PhD in Breeding and Genetics from Texas A & M University.

Donald’s distinguished career in academia began in 1974 as an associate professor at the University of Florida. He joined Louisiana State University in 1976 earning a promotion to full professor in 1978. Over his tenure, he directed 32 master’s students, 16 doctoral students and authored/co-authored numerous articles and abstracts. He retired from LSU in 2008 after receiving the 2001 McFatter Endowed Professorship and being named Professor Emeritus in the College of Animal Science at LSU.

A devoted family man, Donald cherished sharing his love of fishing and hunting with his sons, grandchildren and close friends. An ardent LSU sports enthusiast, he spent countless memorable years attending football, basketball, and baseball games with his family and friends.

Donald is survived by:

Wife, Barbara Kent Franke

Children:
Elizabeth Bonnecaze (Remi)
James Franke (Ann Marie)
Kent Franke

Grandchildren:
Alex Bonnecaze
Katherine Bonnecaze Robinson (Andrew)
Bryan Bonnecaze
Anna Kate Franke
Christopher Franke
Payton Franke

Sister, Doretta Watson

Sisters in-law:
Susanne Staudt
Patricia Kent

Nieces and nephews:
Amanda Franke Eaves (David)
Cindy Franke Hauver (Dowd)
Matt Watson (Chris)
Mark Watson
Matt Staudt (Karen)
Mark Staudt
Stephanie Staudt 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Ruth Franke; brother, James F. Franke; parents-in-law, Earl H. Kent and Marie Kent; and siblings in-law, Elaine Franke, Michael Kent, Max Staudt and Charles Watson.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the Doctors and Nurses at the Baton Rouge General, Amedisys Home Health, St. Joseph Hospice and Carpenter House for their compassionate care. We would also like to thank Vivian Smith for her care and support during Donald’s last year.

A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Donald’s life will be held at St Jude the Apostle Church in Baton Rouge, on Tuesday April 8th, 2025 beginning at 11:00 am. A recitation of the Divine Mercy will begin at 9:30am prior to the Mass, with visitation from 9:45 to 10:55. A private burial will follow at Cypress Grove Cemetery in New Orleans.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Donald’s name to the LSU College of Agriculture in support of the Animal Sciences Development Fund. Donations can be made online at www.lsufoundation.org by clicking the “Give Now” button at the top and searching for “Animal Sciences Development Fund.”

Services are under the direction of Church Funeral Services, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Online condolences can be made at churchfuneralservices.com. (Note: Guestbook located at bottom of obituary page.)

04/02/2025

Tammy Ann Osby, 55 of Garrison, made her transition on March 25, 2025. She was born on March 28, 1969 to Leonard Osby and Ruby Thompson.

Visitation is from 11am until 1pm on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Community Funeral Home, 314 Hwy 87, Timpson, Texas 75975.

She is preceded in death by father, Leonard Osby and sister, Dorothy Osby-Pleasant.

She will forever be remembered by a family that loved her dearly. These memories will be cherished by:

Daughters:
Temeka Henderson
Nikisha Osby

Brothers:
Marquis Reed
David Reed

Mother, Ruby Thompson

Grandkids:
Markeese Henderson
Ta'Raylon Henderson
Zy'Kelon Henderson

A host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

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

04/02/2025

J. D. Smith, age 67, passed away Saturday evening, March 29, 2025 at his home in Center. He was born December 6, 1957 in Wells, Texas to Genell Ratcliff-Smith and the late Auguster Smith.

Funeral service is at 11am on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center with Bishop Roosevelt Swindle eulogist. Interment is at St. John Cemetery in Center.

J.D. later moved to Center, Texas, where he attended Center High School and was a 1977 graduate. J.D. - those who knew him could tell you that he was one of a kind. J.D. was the show of any party and enjoyed talking his talk. J.D. spent most of his time spending it with his mom whom he loved dearly. He loved his rock music and college basketball and tennis.

He leaves to cherish his memories:

Daughter, Lynette Evans, Center

Grandkids:
Kasen Evans of Center
Keldrec Evans of Center
Kiunnah Fisher of Center

Mother, Genell Smith, Center

Sisters:
Linda Garrett (Joe Mitchell) of Center
Mary Smith of Center
Yvonne Smith of Center
Zandra Smith of Center
Sandra Horton (Joe) of Center
Priscilla Williams (Marcus) of Center
Judy Ratcliff, Wells, Texas
June Beasley (Lynn), Gary, Texas

Brothers:
Walter Ratcliff of Center
Jimmy Smith (Mercedes) of Center
Michael Smith (Pam) of Center
Calvin Smith (Jennene) of Center
Tyrone (Megan) of Center

Many, many nieces, nephews, and friends, special nieces:
Neddryunna Johnson "Moo-Moo"
LaToska Ratcliff "Flip"

Special friends:
Carolyn Moore
Gloria Johnson
Linda Fields

Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home in Center.

04/01/2025

James Allen Price, 38, of Joaquin, passed away Monday, March 31, 2025, in Joaquin.

His wishes were to be cremated.

Born March 29, 1987, in Center, James is the son of A.J. Price, Jr. and Polly Ann Phillips Price. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and gardening.

He is survived by:

Parents, A.J. Price, Jr. and Polly Ann Phillips Price of Tenaha

Brother, Allen Price of Joaquin

Sister, Christy Barber and husband Earl of Logansport

Nieces and nephews:
Emberly Price
April Price
Michael Price
Matthew Price
Ariel Price

Special friends:
Bradley Estes of Tenaha
John Estes of Tenaha
Coreyel Beard of Logansport

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

03/27/2025

Mary Charlotte Boles Broadway, 89 of Timpson, passed away peacefully, March 26, 2025 in Nacogdoches after a wonderful life as a loving and caring daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and dedicated servant to her beloved Timpson.

Funeral service will be at 11am Monday, March 31, 2025 at Taylor Funeral Home Chapel, Timpson, with Rev. Ozay Ford officiating. Eulogy by Mayor Debra Smith. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Timpson.

Family visitation with friends will take place, 5 to 7pm, Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Taylor Funeral Home.

Charlotte was born to Clarence and Nannie Mary Strong Boles on August 12, 1935 in the Rusk County community of Concord. She attended school in Concord and Mt Enterprise, and was crowned homecoming queen at Mt Enterprise High in 1950.

Two days after turning 16, she and the love-of-her life, Forest Broadway were united in marriage, August 14, 1951, and spent 56 years together before his passing in April 2008. In 1962 they welcomed their son, Tracy Allen, and in 1968, a daughter, Mary Christi.

Along the way, she supported Forest from the sideline, as “un-official owner” in his business endeavors. Including: Quik-Clean Laundry, Tracy's Malt Shop, Tracy's Coffee Shop, and Broadway Fireworks.

Charlotte's greatest joy was seeing her children and grandchildren happy, provided for, and knowing she cared and loved them, regardless. Her favorite past-time was enjoying the company of those grand-children, Seeing their smiles, and the sound of their laughter.

Forest and Charlotte provided a loving Christian home, and instilled in their children life values, including respect, honesty, and a dedicated work ethic. Not long after marriage, Charlotte began a 69 year working career that saw her have only two jobs, both in Timpson. She went to work for Frank Bussey at Bussey Drug Store, where she spent 32 years waiting on customers, to assisting the pharmacist in filling prescriptions. One day in 1983, late mayor, Ross Graves, Jr. placed a phone call telling Charlotte a clerk was needed at city hall. She accepted, and spent the next 36 years until retirement in 2019. Along the way she developed friendships with customers and citizens, that lasted a lifetime.

Being a pride-filled lady, she never left home unless she was “properly dressed,” including make-up and hair, “just right,” and those manicured red nails.

Faith was important to her, as a life-time Methodist, serving as a Sunday School teacher of 5th & 6th graders at First United Methodist Church, Timpson. She enjoyed attending worship service so much.

In addition, her love of youngsters led to her serving as a Cub Scout Den Mother, and a Bear Band Booster parent.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers John, C.M. (Marion), and Jim Boles, and husband Forest.

Survivors include: 

Son, Tracy Broadway and wife Tammy of Timpson

Daughter, Christi Smith and husband, Calvin, Jr. of Timpson

Grandchildren:
Brandon Broadway and Nami
Allyson Pinkston and Jordan
Mary Kathryn (Amy) Cagle and Joshua
Ashlyn Broadway
Caitlyn Cochran and Andrew
Hunter Smith and Lauren
Hayden Smith and Amanda

Great-grandchildren:
Kazuma Broadway
Brighton Cochran
Briggs Cochran
Rowan Smith
Beau Smith
soon-to-be, Charlotte “Charley” Howard

Sister-in-law, Annette Boles of Forney

In addition to nephews, nieces, and former co-workers

Special friends, Paula Mullins and Scotty Rhodes

Pallbearers are Brandon Broadway, Jordan Pinkston, Joshua Cagle, Andrew Cochran, Hayden Smith and Hunter Smith. Honorary pallbearers are Kazuma Broadway, Tommy Sparks, Larry Burns, Tony Boles, Scott Boles, James Cope and Scotty Rhodes.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Nacogdoches Medical Center and Affinity Hospice. In addition to friends for their prayers and condolences.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Charlotte Broadway's memory to the Shelby County Children's Advocacy Center, 131 Tenaha St., Center, TX 75935.

03/25/2025

Barbara Jean Sigler Cruse, 81, of Center, Texas, passed away on March 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones in Bronson, Texas.  She was born on October 21, 1943, in Center, Texas, to the late Wesley Griffin and Louise (Campbell) Griffin.  

Funeral service will be held at 2PM on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Kevin Windham officiating. Interment will follow at Short Cemetery. 

Visitation will be held from 6-8PM on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home. 

Barbara was raised in Shelby County. She married the love of her life, Charles Everett Sigler, on July 15, 1961. They had four children. After Charles passed in 2004, Barbara later married Fred Cruse, and the two spent several years together before his passing. Barbara loved her children, grandchildren, and great granddaughter. She enjoyed spending time with them. Barbara loved gospel music; her favorite was attending Gospel Jamboree’s. She also enjoyed shopping and going to eat different places. She enjoyed the outdoors watching her birds eat.  

She is survived by her children:
Leisha Sowell and husband Jerry Meldrum
Donald Sigler and wife Melissa
Mary Elizabeth Mitchell and husband John
Amy Windham and husband James

Brother:
Ben “Bo” Griffin
Sisters:
Betty Schull
Dolly Ann Adair

Sister-in-law, Ileen Griffin

Grandchildren:
David Sowell
Tiffany Benavides
Brandon Sowell
Joseph Richards
Brian Sigler
Ashley Moye
Amanda Jordan
Stefani McSwain
Lacy Cowart
Jessica Leija

15 Great-Grandchildren

1 Great-Great-Granddaughter

Barbara is preceded in death by her husbands, Fred Cruse, Charles Sigler; parents, Wesley and Louise Griffin; brothers, Johnny Griffin, Burnice Griffin, Ray Griffin; sisters, Billie Watson, Bobbie Campbell Roberts, Brooksie Tindoll, Beverly Hendricks; brothers-in-laws, Troy Roberts, George Schull, Royce Tindoll, and Larry Hendricks.
Pallbearers serving will be Glenn Sowell, Brian Sigler, Joseph Richards, Caden Sowell, Blake Higginbothan, Steve Cox, Dakota Benavides, Kody Page, and Thomas McSwain. 
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit please visit www.mangumfh.net.

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