Obituaries
01/15/2021
Marilyn Jane Cooks, 56 of Tenaha, passed away Sunday morning, January 10, 2021 at her residence.
Graveside service is at 1:30pm on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at St. John Cemetery in Tenaha, Texas. Interment is at St. John Cemetery with Pastor Pettis officiating.
She is survived by:
Mother, Lou Willie Cooks of Tenaha
Daughters:
Kristen Tutt of Tenaha
Kasey Cook of Tenaha
Bianca Williams of Tenaha
Son, Sean Fuller of Gloster, LA
4 Grandchildren
Sister, Sherry Cooks of Tenaha
Brothers:
Jesse Lee Cooks of Tenaha
Jesse Earl Cooks of Tenaha
Jesse Cooks, Jr. of Tenaha
Jesse John Cooks of Tenaha
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center, Texas.
01/14/2021
Mikel Wayne Sanford, 55, of Center, passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday, January 13, 2021.
Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, January 16, 2021, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 3:00 p.m. David Sanford and Chris Dockens will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Mikel was born November 15, 1965, in Center, Texas, to Robert and Nell Newberry Sanford.
He is survived by:
Son, Dustin Sanford of Center
Daughters:
Montanna Sanford of Channelview
Lexie Sanford of Spring
Grandchildren:
Gracie Sanford
Paisley Windham
Stepson, Bradley Richards of Center
Step-granddaughter, Kiersten Richards of Center
Brothers:
Robert Sanford of Shelbyville, Tennessee
David Sanford and wife Shauna of Center
Sisters:
Linda Adams (O’Neal McCauley) of Nacogdoches
Betty Byrd and husband Bill of Channelview
Oveta Pyburn and husband James of Nashville, Tennessee
Vada Skelton and husband Jimmy of Garrison
Jeannie Moore of Groveton
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Nell Newberry Sanford; brother, W.C. Sanford; sister, Ada Rasberry; and brother-in-law, Granville Rasberry; grandparents, William and Annie Sanford, and Cara and Beatrice Newberry.
Pallbearers will be Chris Dockens, Devin Sanford, Dakota Sanford, Troy Keele, Robert Sneed, Julian Windham, Keith Shields, and Christopher Dockens.
A special thanks to Gwen Grumbles and Tristin Nelams of Affinity Hospice. Also, special thanks to very special friend, Chris Dockens and his mother, Ruth Ann Dockens.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/14/2021
Betsy Chambliss, 82, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on January 14th, 2021 in Joaquin, Texas. Born February 23rd, 1938, in Joaquin, Texas, Betsy is the Daughter of W. H. and Ellen Grayson.
Graveside service will be held at 1:00PM on Friday, January 15th, 2021 at Strong Cemetery in Shelby County.
Betsy was a Pioneer servant in the ministry of Jehovah’s Witnesses for more than 17 years and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.
Betsy was survived by:
Husband, Burron (Benny) Chambliss of 68 years
Son, Phillip Chambliss and Leann of Huxley, TX
Daughter, Lori Davis and husband Ronnie of Joaquin, TX
Sister, Alene Whiddon and husband James of Joaquin, TX
Grandchildren:
Tory Chambliss and wife Layla
Titus Chambliss and wife Wendi
Taylor Baez and husband David
Thatcher Chambliss
Karsten Davis and wife Carla
Nolan Chambliss and wife Heather
Hannah Carroll and husband Draper
Caitlyn Raybon and husband Lonny
Brian Chambliss
Joey Chambliss
Tazsa Chambliss
Kara Chambliss
Aydin Davis
Numerous Great-Grandchildren and Great-Great-Grandchildren
Host of family and friends.
Preceded in death by her Parents – W.H. and Ellen Grayson, Sons- Tony Chambliss, Clovis Chambliss, Grandson- Ron Davis, Brothers-Tommy Alton Grayson, Paul Grayson and wife Ana, Sister- Susan Kawaja and husband Dean.
Special thank you to Affinity Hospice for their love and care to the family.
In lieu of flowers and Donations be made to: Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness, 3751 Loop 500 E, Center, TX, 75935.
Services under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
01/13/2021
Barbara Jean Brown Kirsch, 72, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, January 10, 2021, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 16, 2021, at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelbyville with visitation held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 15, 2021, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Edward Newman will officiate.
Born January 1, 1949, in Houston, Barbara is the daughter of the late Alvin Brown and Allie Rea Sample Brown. She was a singer, songwriter, and a pianist. Barbara was a member of Mt. Calvary Full Gospel Church in Shelbyville.
She is survived by:
Husband, Thomas M. Kirsch of Shelbyville
Sons:
James Gazaway and wife Stephanie of Fort Worth
Danny Gazaway of Goober Hill
Benjamin Gazaway of Denver
Grandchildren: Elizabeth, Caleb, Katherine, Joshua, and Harold Gazaway
Sisters:
Donna and Ted Nordin of Fort Worth
Paula and Nikos Psihudakis of Houston
Nephew, Mike Smith
Niece, Sherry Howard
Preceded in death by her parents, Alvin Brown and Allie Rea Sample Brown; and sister, Sandra Brown.
Pallbearers will be James Gazaway, Danny Gazaway, Benjamin Gazaway, Caleb Gazaway, and Joshua Gazaway.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/13/2021
Mary Lou Lout, 70, of Center, passed away Monday, January 11, 2021, in Center.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 16, 2021, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 9am. Bro. Andy Wilson and Bro. Dathan Triplett will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Pallbearers will be Cody Russell, Garret Hill, Matt Arnett, Taylor Talavera, Brad Windham, John Phillip Windham, Michael Windham, Chuck Bussey, Darren Wiggins, and Rodney Williams. Honorary Pallbearers will be Richard Tomlin, Kinnie Adams, Kenneth Lout, Juan Salavador, Mike Lengl, and David Hailey.
Born November 15, 1950, Mary Lou is the daughter of the late Malcolm Lee Bussey and Mattie Lou Steele Bussey. She was a member of Center First United Pentecostal Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Children:
Susan Penick and husband Brandon of Center
Joanna Birdwell and husband Del of Center
Charlie Lout and wife Rachel of Nacogdoches
Grandchildren:
Mallory Russell and husband Cody
Morgan Hill and husband Garret
Bethany Arnett and husband Matt
Brynna Birdwell and boyfriend Taylor Talavera
Levi Birdwell
Aidan Lout
Keaton Lout
Maddox Lout
Sister-in-law, Linda Dreyer of Center
Numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Howard Lout; parents, Malcolm Lee Bussey and Mattie Lou Steele Bussey; sister, Barbara Windham; brother, Charlie Mac Bussey; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Maxie and Ruby Lee Lout; sister-in-law, Lucretia Bussey; and brother-in-law, John Dean Windham.
Mary Lou attended Center Public schools, the Hockaday School in Dallas, and graduated in May of 1969 from Center High School. She met the love of her life, Howard Lout, soon after and they married on December 23, 1969. Except for a short time attending Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, they made their home in Center, Texas where they reared three children. After 50 years of marriage, Howard was called home this past April. She missed him greatly and joined him in Heaven on January 11, nine months to the day later.
Mary Lou was a gifted writer, putting her talents to use in her chosen profession as a journalist. She worked at the East Texas Light Newspaper, the Light and Champion, and the Shelby Countian. She was widely known for her storytelling, photography, and her ability to turn a business idea into an eye-catching newspaper ad. Her REAL claim to fame, however, was her long-running humor column, “Off the Wall.” Described as part Erma Bombeck, part Andy Griffith, her column was enjoyed far and wide as she related the hilarity of her family and community’s everyday life as only she could.
As co-owner of Lout Furniture Showrooms, or “The Sunshine Place” as it was better known, her signature color, yellow, became evident in everything she touched - yellow furniture store, yellow Lincoln Mark 5, yellow delivery trucks for the furniture store. She liked those happy colors!
Later in life, she taught 5th and 6th grades at Christian Learning Center and Center Christian Academy.
Her most cherished title by far was the one of “Mammy” (as she was known to her grands.) She was immensely proud of each one and their accomplishments. She left her grandkids with treasured memories and a wonderful legacy. When she found out that she would be promoted to “Great Grand Mammy'' in April of 2021, she was over the moon. No doubt, her little Mooter would have been spoiled ROTTEN.
She loved spending time with family, especially on trips to the beach. She loved being AT the beach, not necessarily ON the beach.
She gave her life completely to Jesus at Campti Pentecostal Church and more recently attended Center First United Pentecostal Church where she was involved in various ministries over the years.
In her own words:
“The most important things in my life are my Lord, my church, my family, and my friends. I always loved to find humor in everyday situations and believe that ‘a merry heart doeth good like a medicine’.”
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/12/2021
Linda Merle Christian Bomar was born on December 29, 1947 in Center, Texas to Clarence Whitfield and Bernadine Leetch Christian. She attended Shelbyville Schools from grades 1-12. She continued her education at Panola College and graduated from Stephen F. Austin University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. She was an excellent student and received many academic awards.
She married Irvin Bomar in 1979 and they lived in Montana for a few years. They returned to Texas and remained. She taught elementary school at Shelbyville, then began working in the banking industry. She has been employed by Farmers State Bank for 20 years, working as an Executive Assistant in the Loan Department, for Terry Allen. She was a dedicated employee and cared deeply for her fellow employees.
Linda was a member of The Jackson Missionary Baptist Church and loved her Sunday School Class where she occasionally taught the lesson. She enjoyed traveling and recently made a trip to Ireland where one of the stops was home to her Mother’s ancestors. She loved sharing news about her Family, Children, Grandchildren, and Great-Grandchildren.
Linda is survived by:
Beloved husband, Irvin, of Joaquin
Daughter:
Teresa Lemoine and husband, Joey
Mylinda Barter and husband, Alan
Tana Miller and husband, Austin
Grandchildren:
Crystal Kennon and husband, William
Alexander Barter
Jeremiah Lemoine and wife, Alex
Whitney Lemoine McLemore and husband, Patrick
Kiara Guzman
Skylar Barter
Alana McKenney
Elisha McKenney
Great-Grandchildren:
Aaliyah Lemoine
Jenaveve Lemoine
Alivia McLemore
Isabella McLemore
Emma Kennon
Christian Kennon
Sisters:
Millie Alford and husband Rick
Laura Christian
Brother, Wayne Christian and wife Ava
Many nieces and nephews and a host of wonderful friends.
Linda was truly a beautiful Soul and always had words of encouragement for everyone. When learning of her death, her nephew, Brian, had these words to share, “A better place indeed! In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye… is exactly how fast our Lord took hold of your Mom this morning… I won’t pretend there won’t be sadness or pain because we miss her. But we haven’t lost her - we know EXACTLY where she is. She is in Heaven with Our Lord and Her Savior!” Death has been swallowed up in victory.” (I Cor.15:55) “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? (John Donne) Jesus has overcome the grave. Now, we look forward to a glorious reunion.” Rest in Peace, Our Beautiful Linda.
Funeral service will be held at Noon, Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation at 11:00 a.m. Bro. David Long will officiate. Interment will be held at Jackson Cemetery in Joaquin.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/11/2021
Jimmy Earl “Flick” Bratchett, age 72, of San Augustine, passed away on Saturday, January 9, 2021 at Pine Grove Nursing Center in Center, Texas.
Graveside service will be held at 1pm on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Mt. Dena Cemetery with Rev. Michael Jenkins officiating.
He is survived by:
Wife, Katie Miles Bratchett of Lufkin
Son, Robert Earl Bratchett (Yolanda) of Lufkin
Daughter, Joyce Casandra Bratchett Johnson of San Augustine
9 grandchildren and 6 Great-Grandchildren
Brother, J. T. Bratchett of San Augustine
Sister:
Beatrice Weathered of San Augustine
Rosie Bluford of San Augustine
Nancy Gray of Center
Carrie Boykins (E. B.) of Center
Alma Walker (Royce) of Center
As well as a host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives and friends.
Services are entrusted to Percy Garner and Son Mortuary, San Augustine, Texas.
01/09/2021
Maria Santos Martinez, 82, of Center, passed away Saturday, January 9, 2021, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, January 11, 2021, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with Pastor Enrique Perez officiating.
Maria was born November 1, 1938, in Jalpilla, Guanajuato, Mexico, to Isaac Martinez and Elvira Gamez. She loved cooking and gardening.
She is survived by:
Children:
Catalina de Perales
Faustino Ruiz
Cesareo Ruiz
Anjel Ruiz
Maria de Santana
Silvia de Morales
Lauro Ruiz
She is preceded in death by her husband, Catarino Ruiz; and her children, Antonio Sanchez and Avel Ruiz.
Pallbearers will be Faustino Ruiz, Anjel Ruiz, Lauro Ruiz, and Rafael Morales.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
María Santos Martínez, 82, del Center, falleció el Sábado 9 de Enero de 2021, en Center.
El servicio se llevará a cabo a 3:00 p.m., el Lunes 11 de Enero de 2021, en el Oaklawn Memorial Park en Center con el Pastor Enrique Pérez oficiando.
María nació el 1 de Noviembre de 1938 en Jalpilla, Guanajuato, México, hija de Isaac Martínez y Elvira Gamez. Le encantaba cocinar y jardinería.
Le sobreviven sus hijos, Catalina de Perales, Faustino Ruiz, Cesareo Ruiz, Anjel Ruiz, María de Santana, Silvia de Morales y Lauro Ruiz.
Ella es precedida en la muerte por su marido, Catarino Ruiz; y sus hijos, Antonio Sánchez y Avel Ruiz.
Los portadores del féretro serán Faustino Ruiz, Anjel Ruiz, Lauro Ruiz y Rafael Morales.
Las condolencias y homenajes en línea se pueden enviar en www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/09/2021
Roy Edward Noble, 83, of Joaquin, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 10, 2021, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Bro. Luke Garrett and Bro. Lawrence Thompson will officiate.
Roy was born November 1, 1937, in Center, Texas, to Roy Leon Noble and Fleta Leona Noble. He had a passion for flying airplanes. His entire career was centered on the United States Air Force, FAA, and Civil Service at Barksdale Air Force Base, where he retired in 1994. He married his best friend, Joyce Baggett Noble, in 1992.
He is survived by:
Wife, Joyce Baggett Noble
Son, Curt Noble and wife Jennifer of Houston, TX
Daughters:
Misty Colvard and husband Mathew of Waxahachi, TX
Joel Bumback and husband Mike of Joaquin, TX
Dawn Hutchins and husband Jacob of Joaquin, TX
Grandchildren:
Justin and Courtney Noble, Ty and Hunter Kiser of Houston, TX
Mickey, Madeleine, Max, Miles, Matthias, Mackenzie, and Mitchell Colvard of Waxahachie, TX
Tyler McSwain and wife Peyton, Bailee Smith and husband Cole of Joaquin, TX
Michael Bumback of Huntsville, TX, and Luke Bumback of Tinton Falls, NJ
Dawson and Deakon Kay, and Harlow Hutchins of Joaquin, TX
Great-grandchildren:
Landry and John Tyler McSwain of Joaquin, TX
Sister, Geraldine Tomlin of Beaumont, TX
Sisters-in-law:
Hazel Brittain of Garrison, TX
Ella Manshack and Wayne Baggett of Center, TX
Brother-in-law, Pete Baggett and wife Sharon of Garrison, TX
Many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceded in death by his parents, Roy Leon and Fleta Leona Noble; brothers, Jerry and Roger Noble; sisters, Syble Adkison and husband Bo and Vivian LaMerle Rozell; brothers-in-law, Ramsey Tomlin, James Manshack, and Buddy Baggett.
Pallbearers will be Justin Noble, Tyler McSwain, Mickey Colvard, Dawson Kay, Max Colvard, Miles Colvard, Matthias Colvard, and Deakon Kay.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/09/2021
Karen Denise Wilkinson, 56, of Tenaha, passed away Friday, January 8, 2021, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 11, 2021, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with service held at 1:00 p.m.
Born December 17, 1964, in Gonzalez, Karen is the daughter of the late Raymond Mikesh Sr. and Betty Rhodes Mikesh.
She is survived by:
Her daughter, Christy Lynn Dutton and husband William
Stepson, Tommy Joe Wilkinson
10 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren
Sisters:
Angel Rogers
Betsy Byrd
Brother, Raymond “Bubba” Mikesh Jr.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Tommy Frank Wilkinson; son, Joseph Windham; parents, Raymond Mikesh Sr. and Betty Rhodes Mikesh; brother, Marty Mikesh; and sister, Janice Mikesh.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/09/2021
Juston Michael Lout, 39, was born January 14, 1981 to Mike and Patricia Lout, of Shelbyville. He gained his wings on January 7, 2021.
Services will be held Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at 2pm at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel in Center with visitation beginning at 12 noon. Interment will follow at Biggar Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Juston is survived by:
His fiancée, Sharayah Warr, and her two children Ileigha and Lex Warr
His parents, Mike and Patricia Lout
Sister, Tiffanne Klein
Nieces:
Lieza Klein
Liela Klein
Aunts and Uncles:
LaJuan Baugh of Center
Betty McLeod of Beaumont
Linda George of Center
Michael and Joyce Meeks of Center
Johnny and Sheri Burgay of Shelbyville
Ricky Lout of San Augustine
Barry Lout of Shelbyville
Vicky Lout of Center
Grandmother, Shirley Lout of Shelbyville
Many many other relatives and treasured friends
Juston loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. He was a proud business owner for the last 20 years of J Lout, Inc. and JML Management, Inc.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Ben & Edna George; Grandfather, J.H. Lout; uncles, Shon Lout and Glenn McLeod.
Serving as pallbearers will be Carlos Taylor, Jon Schillings, John Koltonski, Scott Foster, Patrick Scarborough, Dusty Lout and Kevin Baugh.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Leonardo Mendez, Carmello Salazar, Isidro Salazar and Darrin Lout.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Team Grayson Fund in Juston’s memory.
Team Grayson Fund
3996 Private Drive
Torbert, LA 70762
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/08/2021
Robert Joe Giddens, 83, of Mount Pleasant, Texas, peacefully passed away, in his sleep, on December 27, 2020. He was born in Ringgold, Louisiana, on October 15, 1937, the first born son of Mary Elizabeth Giddens and Robbie Luel Giddens.
After graduating from Ringgold High School with the class of 1955, Bob went on to work full-time in the oil fields in Venice, Louisiana, while attending Louisiana State University. On May 16, 1958, he married the love of his life, Gladys Marie Walker, in Mississippi, after her graduation ceremony from Ferriday High School. Shortly thereafter, Bob transferred to the Northeast Louisiana State College Pharmacy School in Monroe, Louisiana. In 1960, Bob then spent six months in the Army Reserves Active Duty at Fort Knox, Kentucky, before returning to college and graduating with a Bachelor of Pharmacy in June of 1963. After spending seven blissful years together, Bob and Gladys welcomed their only son, Robert Kirk Giddens, into their lives on November 15, 1963. Kirk went on to attain his Bachelor in Pharmacy at Northeast Louisiana University, in Monroe, Louisiana. Kirk has spent the last 31 years working for Walmart Pharmacy and is now happily married to his one true love.
Over the 50 years as a practicing pharmacist, Bob held pharmacy licenses in four states, owned his own pharmacy, and became an employee of his son before retiring.
In 1967, Bob secured his Master Mason Degree in the Masonic Lodge going on to receive his 32nd Degree in Shriners. He was also a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and the Lion’s Club.
Over the last 63 years, Bob and Gladys spent almost every day together. When not working, they loved traveling. Together they have been to all 50 states, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, and France, but most of all, Bob enjoyed Colorado. He loved to hunt, loved Christmas time, loved his country, adored his wife, and most of all gave his heart to Jesus. He was active in the church choir in every church he attended and always served faithfully as a deacon. Besides traveling with his bride, Bob spent hours watching his two beautiful granddaughters play sports, get married and have families of their own.
Bob’s beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of his family: his precious wife, Gladys Giddens of Mount Pleasant, Texas; his son, Robert “Kirk” Giddens and his wife Christy Giddens of McKinney, Texas. He is survived by all of his loving siblings, Doyce Lanelle Boyet of Azle, Texas; Gloria Faye Fowler of Ringgold, Louisiana; Jerry Lance Giddens of New Orleans, Louisiana; Garry Vance Giddens of Natchitoches, Louisiana; two beautiful granddaughters, Alyssa Nicole Giddens of Dallas, Texas, and McCall Kalyn Nelson of Daingerfield, Texas; multiple great-granchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Bob was preceeded in death by his mother, Mary Elizabeth Giddens and his father, Robbie Luel Giddens.
Bob left his footprint on every life he touched. His precense on this earth will be terribly missed; his sweet smile, his sense of humor, and his love for Jesus. He is in a much better place now, painfree, happy, and at peace.
A private family ceremony was held on Tuesday, December 29, in Mount Pleasant followed by the burial at Springfield Cemetery in Ringgold, Louisiana.
Jerry Giddens, Garry Giddens, Greg Boyet, Shane Boyet, Keith Boyet, and VIc Fowler will all serve as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a contribution be made, in the name of Robert Joe Giddens, to the First Baptist Church of Mount Pleasant.
Funeral services are under the direction of Bates Cooper Sloan Funeral Home, Mount Pleasant, Texas.
01/07/2021
Margie “Red” Bennett, 93, of Center was born January 10, 1927 to Elize Smith and Ethel Lister, Smith in Center. Mrs. Bennett died on January 6, 2021 at the local emergency room.
Graveside service will be Saturday, January 9, 2021 at Westview Cemetery in Center, Texas at 1:00 PM. Rev. Anthony Jackson will be officiation.
Mrs. Bennett is survived by:
Sons:
Hardice Lee (Shirley) Bennett of Timpson
Lee Willis (Marilyn) Bennett of Ft. Wayne Indiana
Eddie Lee Bennett of Houston
Bobby Wayne Bennett of Center
Jackie Quinn Bennett of Center
Daughter, Gloria Faye Fountain of Center, Texas
Special Daughter, Dollie (Tommy) Davis of Center, Texas
Brother-in-law: Jim Yarbrough of Center, Texas
Sister-in-laws: Mozell Smith and Naomi Goodwin of Center, Texas
Visitation will be Friday, January 8, 2021 at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 1:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.
Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and graveside services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.
Service entrust to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
01/07/2021
Mrs. Orstella Netherly, 82, of Shelbyville, Texas. Mrs. Netherly was born July 16, 1938 to Ira Jennings and Beatrice Gardner, Jennings in Shelbyville, Texas. Mrs. Netherly died on January 5, 2021 at the local emergency room.
Graveside service will be Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at Gates Chapel Cemetery at 12:30 PM.
Mrs. Netherly is survived by:
Son: Cedric Netherly
Sister: Reba Faye Spartling
Visitation will be Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 1:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and graveside services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.
Service entrust to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
12/30/2020
Bobby Jones, 84, of Center, passed away Tuesday, December 29, 2020, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2pm, Saturday, January 9, 2021 at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center with Bro. Doug Moore officiating.
Born September 27, 1936, in Center, Bobby is the son of the late Jody Jones and Etura Fultz Jones. He served in the US Air Force and later retired as a truck driver. Bobby attended Mt. Calvary Full Gospel Church.
He is survived by:
Wife, Shirlene Jones of Center
Grandson, Josh White of Center
11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren
Preceded in death by his children, Beverly Campbell, Kenneth Price, Pamela White, Terri Jones, and Wendy Hicks; parents, Jody Jones and Etura Fultz Jones; and brother, Neal Jones.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/06/2021
Josie Marie Singleton, 79 of Shelbyville, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at her residence in Shelbyville.
A graveside service will be held at noon on Saturday, January 9th at Bennett Chapel Cemetery in Shelbyville. Interment is at Bennett Chapel Cemetery with Elder Faye Dell Allen officiating.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Angel Singleton of Center
Son, Leroy Singleton of Louisiana
2 Grandchildren and 4 Great-Grandchildren
A special friend, Jimmy Earl Hewitt of Shelbyville
Sisters:
Margueite Dorsey of Louisiana
Olivia Washing of Louisiana
Brenda L. Cooks of Louisiana
Mary Ann Cooks of Louisiana
Brothers:
Ulusses Cooks of Louisiana
Sterling Cooks of Louisiana
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center.
01/06/2021
James Arthur Hewitt, 70 of Nacogdoches, passed away January 1, 2021 at Nacogdoches Medical Center, Nacogdoches.
A graveside service will be held Saturday with interment at Westview Cemetery. Bishop W.C. Martin officiating.
He is survived by:
Daughters:
Patsy Patton of Nacogdoches
LaTrece Hewitt of Center
Son, Patrick McCollister (Bridgette) of Nacogdoches
13 Grandchildren and 21 Great-Grandchildren
Brother, Jimmy Earl Hewitt of Shelbyville
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center.
01/06/2021
Mr. David (Preacher) Greer was born February 24, 1941 in San Augustine, Texas to the late Ed and Janice Greer. He passed away January 3, 2021.
Services will be held Saturday, January 9 at 2pm.
In 1968, David made the most important decision of his life. He became a dedicated baptized Witness of Jehovah God. He allowed God to guide his life, and because of his love for Jehovah God and his son Christ Jesus. He chose to follow the principles and commands of the Bible.
He lived his life helping others to learn the truth about the Bible.
David was a loving husband. He leaves to mourn a wife of 15 years Mary Louise Greer, and they resided in Center.
He was a wonderful father and he leaves to mourn,
Sons:
Matthew Greer
Emanuel (Sussana) Greer
Timothy Greer
Daughters:
Tamara Greer
Rebecca Greer
Abigail Greer
Step-children:
Carl Moore
Demetris (Patrick) Mack
Christopher Lovell
David was a loving and caring grandparent to:
Bianca
Michaela
Tiffany
Hannah
Step-grandchildren:
Brandon
Gabriella
Ashley (Jermain)
Ariel (Te'Shaun)
Tynesha
Tiara
Ja'Carrion
Ja'Christian
Ja.Davion
He was a loving great-grandfather of nine. Hr was also a loving brother. He leaves to mourn eight siblings:
Roene (James) Cole of Dallas
James (Stella) Greer of Dallas
Etheria Wilder of Dallas
Elva (Kay) of Dallas
Ira Jewel King of Dallas
Margaret Anthony of Nacogdoches
Margie (Michael) Borders of Humble
Eddie (Debra) Greer of San Augustine
A host of friends and relatives.
David was a friend to all and loved by all.
Special thanks to Harbor Hospice and Community Funeral Homes.
01/05/2021
Kenneth E. Yarbrough, a 50 plus year resident of Livingston, died peacefully on December 28, 2020. He was born on August 4, 1938 at home in East Texas along the Attoyac River near the Nacogdoches and Shelby county line to Eugene Yarbrough and Lucille Christopher.
Yarbrough worked hard along side his parents and siblings on the family dairy farm. He grew up in Shelby county and attended Center schools. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University and began his career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, then as an outside salesman for the Ralston Purina Company serving the many poultry farmers throughout East Texas. Married in 1961 to Norma Jean Hogan, they moved together to Livingston in 1969 and purchased an established farm and ranch retail business that eventually became Feeder’s Supply which they operated together for 25 years. He made many life long friendships during his time in the farm and ranch business. He even hosted a popular local radio show offering gardening tips and advice. A consummate salesperson, he reinvented himself as an independent insurance agent in 1993 and enjoyed many more years in his new career. He was an active supporter of his community becoming a member of the Rotary Club and volunteering with his children’s activities especially with the local chapters of the FFA, 4-H and the Polk County Youth Rodeo Association. Mr. Yarbrough was a Christian and was a long time member of the Livingston Church of Christ serving as a deacon, elder and Sunday school teacher. He especially loved worshipping the Lord in song. He was a good man, a hard worker and beloved by many.
Yarbrough is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Troy and an infant son, Clint.
He will be missed by:
Wife, Jean Yarbrough
Daughter, Deanna Rickabaugh and her husband Marvin of San Antonio
Son, Jason and wife Sandra of Magnolia
Beloved nephew, Danny Stephens and partner Jennifer of Austin
He loved the grandchildren he leaves behind:
Kathryn Walker and husband, Clint
Natalie Yarbrough
Clint Rickabaugh
Amy Rickabaugh
Brothers:
Joe Yarbrough (Elaine) of Center TX
Spencer Yarbrough of Wills Point, TX
Bruce Yarbrough of Center, TX
Sister, Lagene Smoak and husband Jerry of Jefferson
Sisters-in-law:
Frances Hancock Williams
Debra Lawson Yarbrough
Many, many other relatives and treasured friends.
Due to Covid 19 safety concerns, no formal service is scheduled at this time. A donation to the Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ.org) or to the charity of your choice is suggested as an alternative to flowers.
Funeral services are under the direction of Cochran Funeral Home, Livingston, Texas. Online condolences can be made at https://www.cochranfh.com/obituary/kenneth-yarbrough.
01/04/2021
Celebration of Life services for Ms. Mickie Wright, 70, of Overton, will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021 at Crawford - A. Crim Funeral Home chapel with Bro. Bo Stevens and Terry Lowry officiating.
Visitation will be from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 6 at the funeral home.
Mickie was born May 22, 1950 in Arlington, TX to the late John Jackson and Johnnie (Prater) Krueger. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, who loved being with her family, including her sister, and was a loyal friend. She also enjoyed doing various crafts and gardening, and just lived and loved with passion. She was baptized in 2017 and was a member of the Arp Church of Christ.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Krueger.
Survivors include:
Children:
Buddy Wright and wife Patricia of Center
Misty Hughes and husband Curtis of Overton
Ten grandchildren:
Ashley Wright
Breanna Fuller and husband Josh
Kyle Wright
Lacy Clifton
Kristi Barton
Owen Clifton
Levi Hughes, and girlfriend Samantha Fuller
Baylee Hughes
Anabelle Hughes
Kailynn Hughes
Seven great-grandchildren
Her beloved sister, Rani Craft and husband Rick of Midlothian
Condolences may be made at www.crawfordacrim.com.
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