Obituaries
09/29/2020
Bernadine Haney, 102, of Chireno, died September 25, 2020, in San Augustine. She was born June 11, 1918 in Nacogdoches County.
Graveside services for Mrs. Bernadine “Bea” Pleasant Mettauer Haney will be held at 10:00 am Monday, September 28, 2020 at Lower Chireno Cemetery.
“Mrs. Bea” passed from this earthly life on September 25, 2020 at the age of 102 being the last of the six children born to Joseph Emory Pleasant and Minnie Euna Pleasant. “Mrs. Bea” was born in Nacogdoches County in 1918 and attended a rural school. She married Brown Mettauer of Chireno, Texas, and lived her entire life there except for her last years spent in the Twin Lakes Care Center in San Augustine, Texas.
She was preceeded in death by her parents, her first husband, Brown Mettauer, an infant son, Charles David Mettauer and teenage son, Daniel Stephen Mettauer. Other siblings also preceeding her were Ora Pleasant Haney, Marjorie Pleasant Carlisle, William Clyde Pleasant, Billie Pleasant Stripling, and her twin brother, Colonel Bernice Everett Pleasant. Mrs. Bea’s late in life marriage to Charlie Haney ended with his passing.
“Mrs. Bea” truly had a “servant’s heart” as she loved her family and worked endlessly to meet their every need, as well as caring for her friends and serving her community in numerous ways. She was a devoted member of the Chireno Methodist Church. During the 175th Anniversary Celebration of the Chireno Methodist on October 19, 2019, Mrs. Bea was honored as being the oldest living member of the church—she was 101 at the time. She served on the Chireno City Council, the Board for the Chireno Independent School District as well as the Board for the Chireno Gas Company.
After the death of her first husband, Brown, Mrs. Bea operated the family grocery store until it was sold. She then became employed at the Chireno Post Office, a position which she held until she retired as Post Master. “Mrs. Bea” was known for her energy and positive attitude toward life. Once she retired, she continued to help with the local ‘Ladies Quilting Group’ and would drive disabled friends to the VA Clinic in Lufkin. She continued serving others by delivering “Meals on Wheels” until the age of 92. She was a member of the Chireno Historical Society, Daughters of the American Revolution, Daughters of the Republic of Texas, United Daughters of the Confederacy, Colonial Dames of the XVII Century and the National Society of US Daughters of 1812.
Mrs. Bea is survived by:
Son, Joe Bill Mettauer and wife, Connie, of Center, Texas
Grandchildren:
Dr. Mark Menefee Mettauer and wife, Marissa of The Woodlands
Matthew Dance Mettauer and wife, Traci, of Center, Texas
Great-grandchildren: Marxli, McCade, Mabrey, Tatum, and Garrett Mettauer
As well as a host of nieces and nephews
Memorials may be sent to Chireno Methodist Church. C/O Linda Metteauer, 40 Gingerbread Lane, Chireno, Texas, 75935.
09/29/2020
Mary Elizabeth (Beth) Shepherd, died on September 24, 2020 in Cushing, Oklahoma. She was born on December 17, 1923 in Oakdale, Louisiana, to the late George Hutcherson and Bennetta (Croom) Hutcherson.
Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at First Baptist Church, Timpson, Texas, 75975, with Bro. William Dee Daniel officiating. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Beth’s family moved from Louisiana when she was 2-and-half years old when her father took a job as a traveling salesman for the Lee Hardware Company of Shreveport. His territory was East Texas. She attended grade school and high school in Timpson. She then attended Mary Hardin-Baylor College, where she received a degree in elementary education. After college, she taught school in Eagle Pass and Timpson until she married and moved to Beaumont. She taught school in Beaumont for several years.
On August 29, 1947 she married Edward Marion “Shep” Shepherd. They married after Shep completed his military service and finished his education at Stephen F. Austin College. They had two sons: George Edward Shepherd and Richard Croom Shepherd.
Her husband worked for Sun Oil and it took their family from Beaumont to Philadelphia and then to Tulsa. After he retired, they moved back to Texas, living in Timpson for several years before moving to a retirement community in Lufkin.
Beth’s faith was a cornerstone of her life: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not on thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths,” Proverbs 3:5-6. She was active in the Baptist churches in their communities and was involved in the missionary societies as well as working many years as a hospital volunteer.
She is survived by:
Sons:
George Shepherd and wife Pamela of Cushing, Oklahoma
Richard Shepherd and wife Angela of Peachtree City, Georgia
Grandchildren:
Ginger Shepherd and husband Joe Palluconi of Hood River, Oregon
Edward Eugene Shepherd of Cushing, Oklahoma
Meredith Shepherd of Nashville, Tennessee
Nathan Shepherd and wife Jessica of Jacksonville, Florida
Great-grandson, Jase Palluconi of Hood River, Oregon.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net. Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
09/23/2020
Aubrey Gene “AG” Elliott, 70, was born on October 3, 1949 to the Late Herbert Arthur Elliott and Mrs. Willie B. Elliott in Converse, LA. He passed away on September 22, 2020 in Dallas, TX. Graveside services will be held on Friday, September 25, 2020 at 2:00 PM at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelbyville, TX with Bro. Kevin Windham officiating. Visitation will be held prior to Graveside Services at Mangum Funeral Home from 12:00 – 1:30 in Center, TX.
AG was an avid outdoorsman and could always be found on the river with a good buddy. Even if they didn’t catch a boat load of fish, they would certainly tell you they caught them all. He enjoyed raising his chickens and spending time with his family, friends and his dogs.
AG started his career as a boiler maker for several years. From there, he went to work for Weldon Boles for the next 20+ years. AG was never one to slow down and stop working and when lifelong friend, Jimmy Lout, reached out for him to come work for him at the County he couldn’t pass up the offer. He felt he had received the best of both worlds getting to work while spending time with your best friend.
Mr. Elliott is survived by:
His mother, Willie B. Elliott
Sons:
Charles Elliott and wife, Mandi, of Carthage
Stephen Elliott, and wife Leigh Ann, of Carthage
Frank Baker and wife, Emilee, of Joaquin
Daughters:
Sheri Shofner and significant other Jason, of Center
Beth Moore and husband, Donald “Doc” Moore
His sister, Patricia Jackson and husband, Jimmy, of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Hunter Elliott and Fiancé Alicia Kay Anderson
Tanner Elliott and Wife Harley
Physher Elliott
Clayton Elliott
Ainsley Elliott
Jeremy Hancock
Carrie Anthony
Danie Bragg and husband, David
April Hancock
Chris Hancock and wife, Libby
Sara Hancock
Shianne Shofner
Madison Baker
Dixie Baker
He is preceded in death by his father, Herbert A. Elliott; His Significant Other, Debbie Russell and his brother, Herbert Wayne Elliott.
Serving as pallbearers will be Stephen Elliott, Charles Elliott, Jimmy Lout, Jimmy Jackson, Shannon Metcalf and Johnny Glaze.
09/21/2020
Frank Ortega, loving husband, father and Papa, passed away at the age of 56 in Plant City, Florida on Monday, September 14, 2020. He was born in Hamilton, MT.
His family were farm workers who migrated from state to state and settled in Center, Texas when Frank was 13 years old. He graduated from Shelbyville High School where he played football and ran track as a State qualifier during his senior year. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Marine Corp, being honorably discharged after four years of service.
Frank settled down in Florida where he worked as a truck driver and dispatcher for the Radiant Oil Company for twenty-six years, later working for Best Line Oil as a dispatcher, where he was employed at the time of his death. Frank volunteered with the East Bay Buccaneers since 1999, continuing on with the organization for many years after his son played and moved on to high school.
During his tenure with the EBB, he served as head coach and assistant coach at the Midget, JV and Varsity levels, having taken some of his teams all the way to the Super Bowl. Frank also held multiple board member and trustee positions with the EBB during his time there. He previously served as Tri County Youth Football and Cheerleading Conference Executive Board Sgt at Arms, and at the time of his death, held the position of Vice-President. Frank was also volunteering with the East Bay High School football team.
Frank was preceded in death by his loving mother, Juanita Saenz, and his father, Tony Ortega.
He leaves behind:
The love of his life, his wife, Melissa
With whom they had a blended family of four adult children:
Joshua (Brittany Whitworth)
Katherine
Valeria
Cecilia
Grandson, Noah, with whom he had an emotional bond like no other.
Frank also leaves behind six brothers:
Rene Rivera
John Rivera
Eduardo Rivera
Elias Rivera
Paul Rivera
Noe Rivera
Four sisters:
Lydia Rivera
Esther Rivera
Mary Rivera
Marlinda Saenz
Many nieces and nephews
Services at Southern Funeral Care will be private. The family will be hosting a celebration of life at a later date.
09/21/2020
Dean Fred Kawaja of Joaquin, TX passed away at 12:41 am on Saturday morning, September 19, 2020 in Shreveport, LA from complications of CHF.
Services are pending.
He was born in Ramallah, Jordan on April 21, 1945 to parents Fred and Suraya Kawaja. The children were gradually moved to the United States to make a better life for their family. Nour-Eddin (Dean) and his older brother Taj-Eddin were sent over in September 1956. He became a citizen November 21, 1961. He was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on May 26, 1965, and married Susan Adel Grayson on June 18, 1966. They later found out they were baptized at the same convention. He was a loving husband and father who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He never lost his hope of seeing his dear wife, Susan Grayson Kawaja whom he lost August 21, 2018. He always held on to the hope of seeing her in the resurrection that Jesus promised at John 5:28,29. He was a devoted member of the Center Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses and often attended the Nacogdoches English Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses via video conferencing. Even when it became very difficult for him, Dean enjoyed working in his yard, growing all kinds of plants and trees, canning (especially pickles), cooking (he was an awesome cook), and praying for others in hopes that even more would come to a knowledge of his God, Jehovah.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Susan, his parents Fred & Suraya Kawaja, his sisters Juliet Culpeper and Rimona Kaywood and his younger brother Rukne Kawaja.
He is survived by:
Brother, Taj-Eddin and wife Beverly of Round Rock, TX
Sisters:
Taj-Mahal Dirbas of San Diego, CA
Muntaha Klöetzer of Wimberley, TX
Children:
Gentry Matlock and husband Danny of Nacogdoches, TX
Donna Barnes and her husband Danny of Bullard, TX
Freddy Kawaja and his wife Karen of Smithville, TX
Eric Kawaja of Smithville, TX
Paul Kawaja and his wife Dana of Kilgore, TX
11 grandchildren (2 spouses)
2 great-grandchildren as well as numerous other family and friends.
He will be missed dearly. We can’t wait to see him in the Paradise Earth that Jehovah God originally intended. Its “Just Around the Corner”!
Services are under the direction of Boone Funeral Home in Bossier City, LA.
09/21/2020
Jeanne Dorothy Stepan Sawyer, born September 28, 1929 in Chicago, IL, Jeanne peacefully passed away September 19, 2020 in the presence of her loving family after a brief illness.
Jeanne attended Public school in Chicago, graduating from Jones Commercial High School in 1947, before attending Northwestern University on a Journalism scholarship. On December 28, 1953, she married the love of her life, Fred Sawyer. The family lived in Maryland, Florida, and New Jersey before settling in the Brookhaven area of Farmers Branch, TX during 1973.
Jeanne is a past member of the First Presbyterian Church of Dallas and Brookhaven Country Club. During the past 35 years, Jeanne has been an active member of Faith United Presbyterian Church, Farmers Branch, the Farmers Branch Women's Club, and an active supporter of the Farmers Branch Historical Park and the Firehouse Theatre. She has spent many hours doing Volunteer jobs at North Dallas Shared Ministries, the Farmers Branch Senior Center, and Metrocrest Services. She leaves a wonderful, inspiring legacy of service to others.
Jeanne has always loved and enjoyed her family and many friends. Her "spare time" interests included travel, golf, bridge, board games, cross stitch embroidery, and following the Texas Rangers and Dallas Mavericks.
Jeanne is preceded in death by her parents, James and Dorothy Stepan, her brother, James Stepan, and her loving husband of 52 years, Fred Sawyer.
She is survived by:
Sister, Nancy Stutzman and husband Byron, of Boston, MA
Sister-in-law, Nancy Stepan of Tucson, AZ
Sons:
Jim and wife Kathy of Center, TX
Bob and wife Karen of Park City, UT
Daughter, Nancy Fox and husband Wade of Shelbyville, TX
Grandchildren:
Anne Sawyer Marsh and husband Eric of Spring, TX
Vilous Fox of Leadville, CO
Nicole Fox Robinson and husband Dusty of Shelbyville, TX
Jeff Sawyer of Bend, OR
Great-grandchildren: Connor, Tucker, Sawyer, Amos, and Gus.
The family wishes to thank the gracious, heroic caregivers at Brookdale Senior Living Center, Farmers Branch, TX, Pine Grove Nursing Center, Center, TX, and Affinity Hospice, Center, TX, all having provided exceptional loving care to Jeanne and our family.
In accordance with her wishes, Jeanne's body has been donated to the Willed Body Program at UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX.
Memorial donations may be made to the Charity of your choice. The family intends to hold a Memorial Celebration of Jeanne's life at Faith United Presbyterian Church, Farmers Branch during 2021.
09/19/2020
Geraldine Johnson, 88, of Center, passed away Friday, September 18, 2020, in Nacogdoches.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 22, 2020, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with visitation beginning at Noon at Watson & Sons Funeral Home. Bro. Chris Collins will officiate.
Born June 30, 1932, Mrs. Johnson is the daughter of the late Doss Hughes and Fernader Eaves Hughes. She retired from Center Plywood and was a member of North Jericho Baptist Church in Shelby County.
She is survived by
Children:
Eva Johnson Terry of Longview
Vivian Johnson Ford and husband, Bill, of Center
Lewis Johnson and wife, Connie, of Tenaha
Glenn Johnson and wife, Teresa, of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Brad Johnson and wife, Chavaletta
Brandi Johnson
Thomas Jernigan and wife, Rebekah
Todd Jernigan and wife, Cortney
Preston Parker and wife, Paige
Dustin Parker and wife, Ashley
Misty Hill and husband, Steven
Stacy Williams
Great-Grandchildren:
Kaitlyn Johnson
Alizabeth Jernigan
Hunter Hill
McKenize Hill
Austin Williams
Lance Williams
Luke Williams
Brylie Jernigan
Aalyiah Jernigan
Kayden Cooper
Bryce Johnson
Khloe Johnson
Mahalia Raymond
Jaxson Parker
Dylan Parker
Lane Parker
Shon Parker
Dallas Parker
Maggie Parker
Great-Great-Grandson: Kason Hogg
Brother-in-law: Edward Johnson of Center
Sister-in-law: Ella Manshack of Center
Preceded in death by her
Husband: Travis Lee Johnson
Parents: Doss Hughes and Fernader Eaves Hughes
Son-in-law: Fern Jernigan Sr.
Daughter-in-law: Debra Baggett Johnson
Pallbearers will be Thomas Jernigan, Todd Jernigan, Dustin Parker, Preston Parker, Stacy Williams, Steven Hill and Brad Johnson. Honorary pallbearers will be Wayne Adams and Bill Ford.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/18/2020
Alvie Joe Barlow, 85, of Center, passed away Thursday, September 17, 2020, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 21, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation an hour prior. Bro. R. B. Elumbaugh and Chet Brake will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born February 10, 1935, Alvie Joe Barlow is the son of the late Guy Allen Barlow and Minnie Mae Lovell Barlow. He served in the United States Air Force, retiring after 30 years as an aircraft mechanic and maintenance controller for Barksdale Airforce Base Civil Service Department. Mr. Barlow was a member of Mt. Herman Missionary Baptist Church in Center.
He is survived by:
Wife, Helen Jerline Barlow of Center
Children:
Darrell Lynn Barlow and wife Debra Keithville, Louisiana
Ginger Barlow of Chalfont, Pennsylvania
Elizabeth Kander of West Monroe, Louisiana
Grandchildren:
Tamara Barlow
Natalie Barlow
Flannery Barlow
Julian Flores
Regan Alese Horn
Geoffrey Barlow Lewis
Daniel Jordan Lewis
Sky Alexander Kander
Dakota Allen Kander
Casey Nicole Kander
Shelby Elizabeth Kander
Great-granddaughter, Arianna Thomas
Sisters:
Gloria Watlington
Onita Brockman
Preceded in death by his parents, Guy Allen Barlow and Minnie Mae Lovell Barlow; twin sister, Alice Langford; sister, Sarah Cruse; and brothers, Allen Barlow, Franklin Barlow, Tony Lovell, and Ray Barlow.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/17/2020
Mary Watts, 69, of Palestine, passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2020, in Palestine.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 20, 2020, at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha with visitation one hour prior.
Born March 6, 1951, in Austin, Mary is the daughter of the late Mose Francis Watts and Irene Smith Watts.
She is survived by:
Sisters:
Frances Sprouse and husband Delton of Austin
Carolyn Glasscock and husband Johnny of Tyler
Betty Davis of Joaquin
Numerous nieces and nephews
Special cousin, Linda Rowe of Gladewater.
Preceded in death by her parents, Mose Francis Watts and Irene Smith Watts; sisters, Patsy Alexander and Jeanette Miles; and brother, James Vincent Meurer.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/15/2020
Donna Moore McSwain, 59, of Center, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2020, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 14, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Rusty Hall and Bro. Kevin Windham officiating. Interment will follow at Old Salem Cemetery in Shelby County.
Donna Marie McSwain was born November 16, 1960 in Center, Texas. She has lived most of life here with her family, as well as a brief time in Ruston, Louisiana.
She met her husband Ronnie while attending Center High School, and got married a year after her graduation, in 1980. They went on to have 40 years together with 5 kids and a herd of grandkids.
She was known for being selfless and for being a fighter. She spent most of her days making sure everyone else was taken care of. Biologically, she had 5 children, but she really was like a mom to all her nieces, nephews, and children’s' friends. She would even give strangers from the grocery store a ride home or offer you her slice of pie if you simply glanced at it for too long. So concerned about others, she often forgot about herself. It would be close to dinner time (I'm sorry - supper time - we would argue about that, but she would not budge. That is just one example of her profound stubbornness.) and we would have to ask her if she had eaten that day. Usually the answer was along the lines of "oh yeah I had a 1/4 of a biscuit this morning."
Always on the road, she may have been running errands for her husband at the log woods, taking her kids to or from school, or going to get herself a tobacco barn coke. If you ever saw her driving by, it was only for split second because she was always late and in a hurry… and probably putting on mascara.
If she wasn't busy taking care of everyone, she'd be reading murder mysteries, sharing pictures on Facebook, watching Lifetime movies, singing out of tune, or making up silly songs in the car.
By the way she liked to talk, you would have never thought that she was shy growing up. She always had plenty of stories to tell, including times of her working at The Red Kitchen where she learned to make the best gumbo around.
She grew up with a large family, married into one just as big, and made friends with everyone she met. The love they all shared is simply unmeasurable.
She looked forward to the day she would be reunited with her own mother. Though, despite being late to every event that ever occurred, she was the first of her siblings to see her mama again.
She is survived by:
Her husband, Ronnie McSwain
Children:
Justin McSwain and wife Amanda
Jacob McSwain and wife Kyrsten
Jennifer Watson and husband Sean
Julie McSwain and James Holt
Jessi McSwain
Grandchildren:
Jeffrey
Caleb
Jasper
Kason
Clayton
Laina
Noah
Emerson
Audrey
Brothers and sisters:
Charles Moore
David Moore and wife Deborah
Martha Smith and husband Bob
Carl Moore
Debra Sowell and husband Glenn
Donald Moore and wife Beth
Barbara Harding
Mother-in-law, Mildred McSwain
Preceded in death by her parents, Waymon Moore and Janette Colvin Moore Byrd; father-in-law, James Lee McSwain; and grandparents, William Bryce Moore and Pearl Anderson Moore and Raymond T. Colvin and Angie Spencer Colvin.
Pallbearers will be Donna’s nephews.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/15/2020
Nelwyn Faye Samford found her peace in the early morning hours of Friday, September 11, 2020, at HomePlace, The Hospice of East Texas. She was the daughter of the late Samuel Berton Samford and Lurline Lemons Samford and was born in Center, Texas, October 9, 1930.
Graveside service will be held at 11 am, Wednesday, September 23, 2020, at New Hope Cemetery in Center with Rev. Stephen Rhoads of Pollard United Methodist Church of Tyler officiating.
Nell graduated with degrees from Stephen F. Austin State College in Nacogdoches and Colorado State College of Education, Greeley, Colorado. Through her teaching career, she taught in Livingston, Humble, Beaumont, Henderson, and the balance of her career at Moore Middle School, Tyler. She and Jan traveled together throughout the States and Europe but the mountains of Colorado called to them most powerfully, and Estes Park became like a second home. She was a member of Pollard United Methodist Church, Tyler. Although she never married and had children of her own, she treasured her part in the lives of her sister’s children, Don and Julie, Julie’s daughter, Erica and Erica’s son, Nathaniel. Aunt Nell couldn’t have loved them more if they had been her own. This woman with a keen wit and love of life fought against the ravages of Alzheimer’s Disease during the last years of her life. Her dear friend, Jan, was her rock, always there with words to soothe and the unimaginable strength to care for her at home. The family will be forever grateful.
Nell was preceded in death by her mother and father, brother James Berton Samford, sister Muriel Samford Thames, nephew Don Thames, and Jim Hicks, husband of Erica.
She is survived by:
Life-long friend, traveling partner and caregiver, Janice Tuomi
Niece, Julie Thames Muller and husband, Charles
Grandniece, Erica Lynn Hicks
Great-grandnephew, Nathaniel Walker Hicks and wife, Chelsea
Numerous other relatives.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial gifts be made in Nell’s name to Pollard United Methodist Church, 3030 New Copeland Rd., Tyler, Texas 75701, or HomePlace at The Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas 75701.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
Services are under the direction of Hilliard Funeral Home, Van, Texas.
09/15/2020
Mary Permenter Jarrell, 86, of Lufkin, passed away Sunday, September 13, 2020, in Lufkin.
Graveside service will be held at Noon, Friday, September 18, 2020, at Strong Cemetery in Huxley with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to Noon, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born April 1, 1934, Mary is the daughter of the late Bryant Permenter and Nellie Taylor Permenter. Her hobbies included quilting and sewing. Mary was of the Baptist faith.
She is survived by:
Her children:
Carolyn McClean of Delaware
Bobby Jarrell and wife Julie of Northford, Virginia
Sherree SoRelle and husband Robert of Conroe
Michael C. Jarrell and wife Janna of Lufkin
Grandchildren:
Roxy Slayton of Washington
Amanda Mayer of San Antonio
Susan Dawson of Washington
Brian Jarrell of Little Rock Arkansas
Great-grandchildren:
Jackie Jarrell
Tyler Mayer
Madlyn Dawson
Sydney Mayer
Preceded in death by her husband, Willie Jarrell; parents, Bryant Permenter and Nellie Taylor Permenter; brothers, Sam and Roy Permenter; sisters, Daisy and Janice; and son-in-law, Chuck McClean.
A special thanks to The Joseph House and staff for their compassionate care.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/15/2020
Minister Mike Sparks was born in Diboll, TX, on June 7, 1954, to the late Reverend Jesse James Sparks and Lillie Mae Mitchell being the 10th and a twin of 14 children.
In 1995, after a long chase, he captured the heart of his beautiful wife, Kimberly, whom he loved more than life itself. They became a union before God in 2016 which was the happiest day of his life. He was a dedicated and hardworking man in the logging industry for 50 years as a loader operator.
Having a pastor as a father, Brother Sparks was raised in church and continued through his adult life. He made Abundant Love Ministries his church home where for the past 3 years he served as a minister. He was a phenomenal man of many words, hats, and suits, who enjoyed spending time with his family, estate sales, yardwork, working on vehicles, and winding down his day watching the news while enjoying a large bowl of Bluebell’s Homemade Vanilla Ice cream.
Minister Mike Sparks is preceded in death by his mother and father, Lillie Mae Mitchel and Reverend Jesse James Sparks; 2 sisters, Ethel Mae Smith and Jane Helen Washington; 2 brothers, Charles Barnett and Travis Sparks.
He leaves to cherish:
His lovely wife, Kimberly Sparks
Daughters:
Shanta (Desmond) Ferguson of Lufkin
Americus Sparks of Center
Dametria Cartwright of Shelbyville
Mukinsely Barnes of Lufkin
LaKendra Barnes of Center
Shakeria Barnes of Center
Sons:
Jordan Robinson of Logansport
JaKyrie Driver of Center
Grandkids:
TaNiya Barnes
Savannah Ferguson
Jikei Cartwright
Jayceon Harris
Mikevius Lane
Amida Hill
Micahel (Mikee) Hill 3rd
Au’Breyah Lacy
Sisters:
Penney Sparks of Orange
Linda Alford of Portland, OR
Merlene (Jamie) Carter of Monroe,
Pauline (Billy) Hewitt of Shelbyville
Lizzie Faye (Kenneth) Allen of Shelbyville
Brothers:
Andy (Margie) Marbett of Oklahoma
George (Angie Mae) Barnett of Longview
Mickey Sparks (twin) of Houston
Rasheed El-Amin of Houston
Bobby (Brenna Sparks) of Center
Half-sisters:
Pauline Johnson of Center
Earlene McCowin of Tyler
Special grandson, Jayceon Harris
Special friends:
Calvin Gaddis
Cameron Cloudy
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends
In lieu of flowers, the family ask deliveries be made to Watson and Sons Funeral Home, 1554 TX-7, Center, TX 75935 or Abundant Love Ministries, 1426 Shelbyville Street, Center, TX 75935.
The family would like to thank Abundant Love Ministries, HLH Timber Company LLC, and Watson and Sons Funeral Home.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 18, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with funeral service being held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 19, 2020 at Abundant Love Ministries. Marlin Cloudy will officiate. Interment will follow at McWilliams Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Pallbearers will be Ricky McCollister, Michael Cloudy, Cameron Cloudy, Earl Cartwright, Riley Reed, and Bobby Watts. Honorary pallbearers Jacky Williams, Bryan Gillespie, Fredrick Yarborough, and Melvin Calhoun.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/15/2020
Carmelo Dominguez, 63, of Tenaha, passed away Sunday, September 13, 2020, in The Woodlands.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 19, 2020, at Iglesia Bautista Nueva Esperanza in Tenaha. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha.
Born November 21, 1956, in Mexico, Carmelo is the son of the late Francisco Dominguez and Soledad Chavez Dominguez. He worked as a truck driver for Scull Timber. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and volleyball. Carmelo was a member of Iglesia Bautista Nueva Esperanza, which he loved.
He is survived by:
Wife, Elva Mireles Dominguez
Children:
Monica Dominguez
Lorena Dominguez
Dina Garcia and husband, Michael
Josh Dominguez and wife, Carmen
Grandchildren:
Mia Villalobos
Colt Garcia
Daylon McClure
Emily Villalobos
Mikayla Garcia
Kamille Garcia
Brothers and sisters:
Ignacio Dominguez
Romelo Dominguez
Pablo Dominguez
Durijen Dominguez
Erminia Dominguez
Juana Dominguez
Martha Dominguez.
Preceded in death by parents, Francisco Dominguez and Soledad Chavez Dominguez; and sister, Inez Dominguez.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
Carmelo Domínguez, de 63 años, de Tenaha, falleció el Domingo 13 de Septiembre de 2020 en The Woodlands.
El servicio funerario se llevará a cabo a la 1:00 p.m., Sábado, 19 de Septiembre de 2020, en la Iglesia Bautista Nueva Esperanza en Tenaha con visita a partir de las 10:00 a.m. El entierro seguirá en el Cementerio Restland en Tenaha.
Nacido el 21 de Noviembre de 1956, en México, Carmelo es hijo de los difuntos Francisco Domínguez y Soledad Chávez Domínguez. Trabajó como camionero para Scull Timber.
Sus pasatiempos incluían la caza, la pesca y el voleibol. Carmelo era miembro de la Iglesia Bautista Nueva Esperanza, a la que amaba.
Le sobrevive su esposa, Elva Mireles Domínguez; Mónica Domínguez, Lorena Domínguez, Dina García y su esposo Michael, y Josh Domínguez y su esposa Carmen; nietos, Mia Villalobos, Colt Garcia, Daylon McClure, Emily Villalobos, Mikayla García y Kamille Garcia; hermanos y hermanas, Ignacio Domínguez, Romelo Domínguez, Pablo Domínguez, Durijen Domínguez, Erminia Domínguez, Juana Domínguez y Martha Domínguez.
Precedido en la muerte por sus padres, Francisco Domínguez y Soledad Chávez Domínguez; y hermana, Inez Domínguez.
Las condolencias y homenajes en línea se pueden enviar en www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/14/2020
Robert Reed, 79, passed away September 12th 2020. He was born on August 18th 1941 to the late Robert and Clare Reed.
Graveside services will be held Wednesday the 16th 12:00PM at Enterprise Cemetery.
Reed is survived by:
Wife Barbara Reed of 40 years
Children:
Michael Reed
Melony Reed Halford
Linda Plumb
David Mitchell
Angelina Grey
Jenny Mitchell
Sister, Linda Kay
Grand-Children 15, numerous nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Reed and Clara Reed.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book, you may go to www.mangumfh.net.
09/14/2020
Donna Moore McSwain, 59, of Center, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2020, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 14, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Rusty Hall and Bro. Kevin Windham officiating. Interment will follow at Old Salem Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born November 16, 1960, Donna is the daughter of the late Waymon Moore and Janette Colvin Moore Byrd.
She is survived by:
Husband, Ronnie McSwain
Children:
Justin McSwain and wife Amanda
Jacob McSwain and wife Kyrsten
Jennifer Watson and husband Sean
Julie McSwain and James Holt
Jessi McSwain
Grandchildren: Jeffrey, Caleb, Jasper, Kason, Clayton, Laina, Noah, Emerson, and Audrey
Mother-in-law, Mildred McSwain
Brothers and sisters:
Charles Moore
David Moore and wife Deborah
Martha Smith and husband Bob
Carl Moore
Debra Sowell and husband Glenn
Donald Moore and wife Beth
Barbara Harding
Preceded in death by her parents, Waymon Moore and Janette Colvin Moore Byrd; father-in-law, James Lee McSwain; grandparents, William Bryce Moore and Pearl Anderson Moore and Raymond T. Colvin and Angie Spencer Colvin.
Pallbearers will be Donna’s nephews.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/12/2020
Joanne Anderson, 78, of Center, passed away Friday, September 11, 2020, in Tyler.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at Smith Cemetery in Shelby County with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.
Born July 1, 1942, in Lake Providence, Louisiana, Joanne is the daughter of the late Harlon E. Wrider and Hazel Juanita Wrider.
She is survived by:
Husband, Kenneth Wayne Anderson
Son, Michael Wayne Anderson and wife Robi
Daughter, Vicki Anderson
Grandchildren: Bryan, Brooke, and Brandon
Brothers:
Jerry Wayne Wrider
Kenneth Wrider
Preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Pat Eaton.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
09/11/2020
Prentice Edward Hendricks, 78, was born on March 16, 1942 to the late Bowser and Connie (Elliott) Hendricks and passed away September 10, 2020. Graveside services will be held Saturday, September 12, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. at Strong Cemetery in Huxley, TX with Bro. Kevin Windham officiating.
Mr. Hendricks was a member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church and served on Huxley City Council for many years. Prentice also served as the mayor pro tem for the City of Huxley. He retired from Center Plywood/Hallmark, as Plant Manager, after 32 years of service.
Mr. Hendricks is survived by:
Loving wife of 58 years, Thelma (Parker) Hendricks, of Huxley
Sons:
Craig Hendricks and wife, Patti, of Huxley
Ron Hendricks and wife, Yanci, of Huxley
Four Grandchildren:
Sarah Hendricks Ryder and husband, Ashton, of Huxley
Hunter Hendricks and wife, Chelsea, of Huxley
Seth Hendricks and Sawyer Hendricks, of Huxley
Two Great-Grandchildren, Caul and Cord Ryder, of Huxley
Brother, Verbon Hendricks and wife, Joyce, of Huxley
Numerous nieces, nephews and a host of family and friends.
Mr. Hendricks is preceded in death by his parents, Bowser and Connie (Elliott) Hendricks; his brother and sister-in-law, L.E. and Ima Hendricks.
Serving as pallbearers will be Craig Hendricks, Ron Hendricks, Hunter Hendricks, Seth Hendricks, Sawyer Hendricks, Puncho Elliott and Luke Hendricks.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Strong Cemetery in honor of Mr. Hendricks, P.O. Box 1383 Center, TX 75935.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book, you may go to www.mangumfh.net.
09/11/2020
Tommie LaMerle McCarty Cox, 79, of Shelbyville, passed away Thursday, September 10, 2020, in Nacogdoches.
A memorial service will be held later at San Augustine Church of Christ (105 W. Market St., San Augustine, Texas 75972) with Steven Wiggins officiating. Interment will be at East Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born December 27, 1940, in Center, Tommie is the daughter of the late Marvin J. McCarty and Ora V. Powers McCarty. She worked as a secretary for Shelby L.P. Gas for many years. Tommie enjoyed cooking and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a member of San Augustine Church of Christ.
She is survived by:
Her husband, Tommy L. Cox, Sr. of Shelbyville
Children:
Kevin and Trish Cox of Nacogdoches
Tommy and Christi Cox of Carthage
Sherry and Tony Wingate of Bullard
Patty Cox of Kilgore
11 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren
Sisters:
Marcelle Wiggins of Carthage
Frances Crump of Carthage
She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Mark Allen Cox; and brother, Kenneth McCarty.
Memorial donations can be made to organizations researching cancers of brain, lung, bone, and breast.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
Olva Gloy "Ivy" Mason, Ivy Mason, as everyone knew her, 86, entered her enternal rest September 9, 2020.
Ivy was born on August 11, 1934, to Novel & Henrietta Pigg in Center, Tx. She moved to LaPorte, Tx at an early age, where she attended grammer & high school. Ivy moved to Galveston, Tx in 1956.
Ivy worked as a waitress all her life. She loved her job as she was always meeting new customers and loved her loyal regular customers. Ivy was a dependable & faithful employee working at Carnell's Restaurant for 10 years and at Christie's Beachcomber for 16 years, where she met so many wonderful people, locals & from all over the world.
She was preceded in death by her Mother & Step-father, Owen & Henrietta Young of LaPorte, Tx. Her grandparents, Lee & Sallie Lowe, Joaquin, Tx, Son, Rodney Mason, daughter, Vicki Mason, Aunt Olivia Quick, Center, Tx & cousin Zack Baggett of Dallas, Tx
Ivy is survived by:
Son, Cecil Wayne Hammers, of Hemphill
Daughter and son-in-law: Retta Ann & Alfred Lopez, of Santa Fe
Daughter, Nina Mason, of Houston
Grandchildren:
Ivan Wayne Lopez, of Houston
Danielle Hammers, Tiffany Hammers, of Lufkin
Robert Sanders
Amber Phfund
Ashley Fenn
Great-Grandchildren:
Braeden Lopez
Hailey Pounds
Mason Pounds
Alasia Argumon and Owen
Luke and Liam Fenn
Cousin, David Baggett, of Spring
A host of family & friends, from near and far
Ivy was baptized at an early age into the Baptist faith at Jackson Church, Joaquin, Tx.
At Ivy's request, there will be no services.
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