Obituaries
09/11/2020
Charlie A. Stevenson of Timpson passed away September 8, 2020, in Nacogdoches at the age of 84. He was born March 7, 1936, in Groesbeck to parents Robert James Stevenson and Corene (Jackson) Stevenson.
Charlie enjoyed photography, camping, and traveling with his wife, Lavenia. They married on May 1, 1953, when they were both 17. Their travels took them all around the United States to Canada including the Grand Canyon, national parks, and Silver Dollar City, Missouri. He loved listening to Elvis gospel music and attending “all-night sings” with Lavenia.
Mr. Stevenson was a private man who liked everything in perfect order. He was a self-taught perfectionist who built his own house. He worked hard to provide for his family as an offshore driller. He would work 7 days on, and 7 days off without complaint. His family would describe him as easy going, calm, and level headed. He never raised his voice. He loved his grandchildren, and they loved him back.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, James Edward Stevenson.
He is survived by:
Wife of 67 years, Lavenia Stevenson
Daughter, Rhonda “Jeannie” Warr and husband Ronnie
Sons:
Michael Stevenson
Robert Stevenson and wife Helen
Daughter, Leslie Stevenson
8 grandchildren
Several great-grandchildren.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2020, at Cason Monk-Metcalf. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2020, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Sunset Chapel officiated by Celebrant Constance Engelking. Interment will follow at Cold Springs Cemetery in Garrison.
Please visit www.CasonMonk-Metcalf.com to leave your online condolences and memories.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, Nacogdoches.
09/11/2020
Carolyn June Lay Jackson, 81, of Joaquin, passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2020, in Longview.
Graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, at Willow Grove Cemetery in Shelby County with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Sister Melba Rodgers will officiate.
Born February 14, 1939, in Santa Ana, California, to the late Ira Clinton Lay and Gladys Isabel Teague Tillet. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, and spending time with family. She was of the Methodist faith.
She is survived by:
Her children:
David Jackson and spouse Glen of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Vicki Goings of Andersonville, North Carolina
Patti Soto of Andersonville, North Carolina
Terri Nugent and husband Robert of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Kerri Allen
Jayme Durham and husband Dexter
Michelle Essex and husband Christian
Lauren Gaddy
Ryan Hanks and Hannah
Great-grandchildren:
Alandria Gentry
Amiyah Soto
Trey Davis
Tyler Lane
Kiersten Richards
Scarlett Sumstine
Kohen Ross
Destinee Morris
Kadence Morris
Sophia Fearnow
Isabel Soto
Baby Carolyn due in October
Nieces and nephew:
Diana Thomas of Idaho
Lori Tennison of New Mexico
Richard Lay of New Mexico
Sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law:
Sheila Wiggins and husband Chuck of Shreveport
Judith Adams of Tenaha
Sylvia Jackson of Tenaha
Mary Jo Tennison of New Mexico
Jimmy Jackson of Tenaha
Numerous other relatives; and special friend, Gail Allen of Joaquin.
Preceded in death by her husband, Paul Jackson Jr.; grandchildren; Shane Essex, Jeremy Essex, Daryl Essex, Randy Essex, Ramon Soto; great grandchildren, Ramon Soto Jr., Bradley Kent Richards, and Addison Perez; and brothers, Bill Lay, Charles Lay, and Glenn Lay.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/10/2020
Paula J. Black, 85, of Palestine, passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2020, in Palestine.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, September 14, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 12:00 Noon. Interment will follow at Old Salem Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born November 1, 1934, in Center, Ms. Black is the daughter of the late Hubert Kimbro and Thelma Scott Kimbro. She was a secretary at a doctor’s office for many years and also worked at a telephone company in Palestine for 10+ years.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Cindy Tindol of Houston
Grandchildren:
Tommy Black of Midland
Stephanie Stephenson
4 Great-grandchildren
2 Great-great-grandchildren
Brother, Clyde Kimbro of Bandera
Cousins:
Marilyn Scott Hogue and husband Randy of Center
J.B. Scott of Center
Travis Brown of Center
Special friends:
Eraina Smith of Tomball
Becky Urbina of Palestine
Many other friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, James Black; and parents, Hubert Kimbro and Thelma Scott Kimbro.
A special thank you to Angels in Palestine along with the many nurses and doctors who assisted her.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/09/2020
Jerry Wayne Samford, 89, of Center, passed away Wednesday, September 9, 2020, in Nacogdoches.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 13, 2020, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Rev. Malcolm Monroe will officiate.
Born November 22, 1930, in Center, Mr. Samford is the son of the late Jeff E. Samford and Corine Hughes Samford. He served in the United States Air Force, where he attained the rank of Major. After his military service, he went to work with the Texas Department of Corrections in Huntsville. He began as Assistant Director of the Bureau of Classification. Soon, he was promoted to a Counselor within the department and then later promoted to Assistant Warden. During this time, he developed the Pre-Release Program, which was the first of its kind. After he and his lovely wife Wanda had their four children, they made the decision to move back to Center where he became Manager of the Center Chamber of Commerce. Here, he developed the Tri-County Community Action Program for Shelby, Sabine, and San Augustine Counties. As Director, he started Head Start, Community Centers and Summer Youth Employment programs. Head Start grew to cover 12 counties. State Farm came to him requesting that he become the first State Farm Insurance agent in Center. He flourished in his successful career with State Farm, retiring after 35 years. Mr. Samford was a member of Center Flying Club, Center Noon Lions Club, and First United Methodist Church in Center. He was most proud of his family accomplishments - his 65 year marriage to Wanda, raising his four children who all received college degrees, teaching his sons and grandsons to fly, and being Pa to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who he loved dearly.
He is survived by:
Children:
Jeff E. Samford and wife Joanna of Georgia
Sharon Samford Wilson and husband Rick of Hallsville
Terry W. Samford and wife Penny of Austin
Sandy Samford Wheeler of Center
Grandchildren:
Jeffery Samford
Dawn White
Jeremy Lansford
Elizabeth Houston
Angie Tyler
Ashley Jane Samford
Chris Wheeler
Nic Wheeler
Whitney Wheeler
Great-grandchildren:
Devon Tucker
Natalie Woodell
Maggie Samford
Everett Samford
Jayden Lansford
Owen Tyler
Brody Tyler
Canaan Houston
Lively Wheeler
Ariella Wheeler
Selah Wheeler
Lilah Wheeler
Rhett Wheeler
Cecil Wheeler
Josie Wheeler
Also, numerous other relatives
He is preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Raymond Samford; parents, Jeff E. Samford and Corine Hughes Samford; brother, Jeff E. Samford Jr.; and grandson, Matthew Lansford.
Pallbearers will be Nic Wheeler, Jeffery Samford, Jeremy Lansford, Rick Wilson, Jeff Samford, Chris Wheeler, Terry Samford, and Chris Houston.
Memorial donations may be made to organizations dear to his heart - Methodist Children's Home, 1111 Herring Ave., Waco, Texas 76708 and American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave, Dallas, Texas 75231, www.heart.ora.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/09/2020
Sandy Michelle Broyles, 46, of Tenaha, passed away Thursday, September 3, 2020, in Tenaha.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 11, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 12, 2020, at Ramah Cemetery in Tenaha with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.
Born January 29, 1974, Sandy is the daughter of the late Tommy Broyles and Floyie Patricia Johnson Broyles. She was a member of Ramah Baptist Church.
She is survived by:
Her children:
Breanna Bunting
Colby Bunting
Grandson, Colson Bunting
Mother, Floyie Broyles of Tenaha
Sister, Alleena Odom and husband Bradley of Shelbyville
Nieces and nephews:
Amber O’Rear of Shelbyville
Austin Evans and wife Toni of Shelbyville
Andrew Evans and wife Amanda of Tenaha
Allison Odom of Shelbyville
She is preceded in death by her dad, Tommy Broyles; grandparents, Floyie and Dorothy Johnson and J.C. and Laverne Broyles.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/09/2020
Vanard “Mac - Bear” Vernon McDaniel, 79, passed away Sunday, August 23rd, 2020 in Center, Texas.
Van was born on September 1st, 1940, in Timpson, Texas to Fred Jackson McDaniel and Dovie Keath McDaniel.
Van enlisted in the United States Marine Corps out of high school and was stationed in Southern California. He served his country proudly, had seven children and enjoyed most of his life in Los Angeles. He coached his sons in Football, Basketball and Baseball and was a die hard Cowboys fan. He enjoyed music, chess and playing poker with friends. But he always had a special passion for gardening.
Van had a dynamic personality, infectious smile and was always the life of the party. He loved an excuse to celebrate and was known for entertaining friends and throwing large Christmas parties.
He was forever a proud Texan and returned to Center to live out his golden years close to his brother, Fred.
Van is survived by all seven of his children, Cary McDaniel, Michael McDaniel, Mark McDaniel, Christopher McDaniel, Kelly McDaniel-Mielke, Matthew McDaniel and Heather McDaniel; Sister-in-law, Mary McDaniel; grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Dovie McDaniel; siblings, Ruby Nichols, Lois Amburn, Thelma Delaney, Fred McDaniel and Azell Caldwell.
There will be a celebration of life at a later date.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
09/09/2020
David Dewayne Fountain born April 17,1967 passed away August 15, 2020 at 7:22pm at UT Health Tyler, Texas
David was dedicated to his work having spent 18 years at Tidewater Industries out of Morgan City LA. He then spent the last 13 years in his work career close to home with General Shelters in Center Tx.
His main love outside of his family was fishing wherever his travels took him and then bringing his stories of his adventures back to his family. Not having children of his own, he found happiness with his nieces and nephews. His honest smile and his genuine love always left everyone with memories that only David Fountain could do in his own unique way.
Parents:
Evangelina Fountain Jeffress
The late Bryant Bryon Lee Fountain
Brother & Sister:
Bryant E. Fountain and Wife Patricia of Tenaha, Texas
Angie J. Spurlock of Springfield, MO
John G. Fountain and Wife Brandy of Henderson
Raymond L. Fountain and Wife Jodi of Center
Laurence G. Fountain of Tenaha Tx
Serita M Porter and Husband George of Corpus Christi Tx
Nieces and Nephew:
Crystal Barlee
Brandie Parrish McGee
Starlla Cooper
Austin Fountain
Joshua Fountain
Brandon Fountain
Daylon Fountain
J. Bryce Fountain
Issac Fountain
Angel Fountain
Many great-nieces and nephews he loved as his own
Preceded in death by-
His Father, Bryant Bryon Lei Fountain
Brother, Mark Anthony Fountain
Sister, Darlene Fountain
09/09/2020
Tommy Lee Lout, formerly of Center, passed away August 26, 2020, in Houston at the age of 68. He was the son of Maxie and Ruby Lee Lout.
Tommy was born August 9, 1952, in Dreka, Texas. He was a 1970 graduate of Center High School and attended Kilgore College and a member of Center United Pentecostal Church.
He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy. He was a very gifted guitarist.
Tommy is survived by:
Sister and her husband, Linda and Frank Dryer
Sister-in-law, Mary Lou Lout
Special niece and nephew, Amanda Jones and Josh Hendricks
A host of other nieces, nephews and friends.
Tommy is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Bruce Lout, Billy Mack Lout and Howard Lout.
A private family service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Thursday, September 10, 2020, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/09/2020
Shauna “Mimi” Kyle, 75, of Bullard, passed away Monday, September 7, 2020, in Tyler.
Before Alzheimer’s took Mimi’s memory she made it clear she wanted her Savior and Lord Jesus Christ glorified in her death as she desired to glorify Him in her life. Mimi loved Jesus and looked forward to the day her faith would be made sight. That day has come. Since coming to faith in Jesus in the late ‘70’s Mimi earnestly prayed for family and friends to have the peace Jesus had given to her, a peace that comes only from knowing their creator on His terms, according to His revealed will in the Holy Scriptures, and no longer having to fear the coming judgment. Micah 6:8 says, “Mankind, He has told you what is good and what it is the Lord requires of you; to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Mimi strove to walk obedient to these commands and to be like Jesus; thoughtful, kind, generous, true, dependent entirely upon God’s help, seeking to be the kind of woman He desired her to be; seeking in all things to do His Will and to please Him. She has now heard her Master say ‘well done good and faithful servant…come and enter into my rest.’
Mimi was born June 26, 1945, in Dallas. She was the oldest of three children born to the late Bascom P. Smith and Aileen Smith. Mimi’s love of, and devotion to, family was evident to all who knew her and her history. As a young, single mother of three boys she endured incredible hardships to provide for her children. Her marriage to Jim Kyle in 1976 was blessed by the arrival of two daughters.
Before being widowed in 2004 Mimi, ever the caretaker, assumed caregiver role to her mother, who was also afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease. Mimi saw people as being image bearers of their creator, and as such she was never reluctant to sacrificially assume childrearing/caretaking responsibilities whenever and wherever the opportunity arose, as many in her life can attest.
She is survived by her children:
Ronald DeChamplain and wife Sylvia
Robert DeChamplain
Rodney DeChamplain and wife Debbie
April Kyle
Grandchildren:
Destiny
Brittany
Abigale
Jessica
Jordyn
Annalyn
Dylan
Sydney
Christopher
Brother, Robert Smith and wife Christine
Sister, Shay Smith
Numerous, nieces and nephews and a couple of great grandkids.
She is preceded in death by her husband, James F. Kyle; her youngest daughter, Jamie Kyle Hope; and her parents, Bascom P. Smith and Aileen Smith.
The family will be holding a private graveside internment ceremony at a later date, TBD.
The family asks that donations to Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County (http://www.alzalliance.org/) and/or Samaritan’s Purse (https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/nam/) emergency relief for hurricane survivors be made in lieu of flowers.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/09/2020
John Talmage Barbee passed away September 7, 2020, in Tyler. Mr. Barbee was born January 12, 1949, in Center, TX, to the late Archie Barbee and Faye Deason Barbee.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, September 10, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 11, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Larry Lampley officiating. Interment will follow at Short Cemetery in Shelby County.
John was always a family man. He quit school at age 16 to go pipeline to help take care of his brothers and sisters. In 1970, he married Gloria Watson and had a family of his own. He had a cousin, Weldon Boles, ask if he wanted to drive a truck for him and that started what became a 40 year career in the propane business. Later on, when the company sold, he went to work for Smith Energy as a dispatcher in the oilfield industry, where he worked until his accident in March 2020.
You could always count on John for a quick comeback, a corny joke, produce out of his garden, some sage advice, a smile, or a handshake. He never met a stranger and could start a conversation with anyone.
Most of all, he loved his grandkids, where he got them 4 wheelers when they were little, taught them to shoot when they got older, made sure they had a car when they got old enough to drive, and provided a way for whatever kind of education they wanted.
He is survived by:
His wife of 50 years, Gloria Barbee
Son, Rocky Fountain
Daughter, Holli Barbee
Grandkids:
Kelsey Haffelder and husband Tyler
Tory Davis
Colton Davis and fiancé Carissa Tyler
One precious great-grandson, Bryson Lee Haffelder, that he called “Little John”
Sisters:
Barbara McDonald
JoAnn Rushing and husband Bill
Ronda Holloway and husband Robert
Vicky Snider
Carolyn Harkness and husband Ricky
Brothers:
Denel Ray Barbee and wife Rosa
Donald Barbee and wife Julie
Ricky Barbee
A host of nieces, nephews, family and friends who will all miss him greatly.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Faye Barbee; sisters, Beverly Walker and Linda Cougler; brothers, William Marshall Barbee, Bobby Barbee, and Archie T “Bo” Barbee Jr.; also, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carrol and Elaine Watson.
Pallbearers will be Billy Bob McAdams, Wayne Harkness, Josh McAdams, Bubba Peavy, David Griffin, and Jimmy Wood.
Honorary pallbearers will be Weldon Boles, Smokey Smith, Bob Tennant, Larry Watson, Carlton Watson, and James Fountain.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/08/2020
Jimmy T Prinz, 34 of Huxley,Texas passed away September 4, 2020 in Georgetown, Texas.
In Memory of Jimmy a Celebration of life will be held 1pm Saturday September 12, 2020. Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church of Huxley Texas, County Road 2 2450, Shelbyville, Texas 75973.
Jimmy was born in Galveston, Texas on the 23rd of December 1985 to Willie and Patsy Prinz. He went to school at Joaquin high school where he graduated in 2004. Jimmy married Camille on the 3rd of October in 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He graduated College from Sam Houston State with a Masters degree. Jimmy had an enthusiasm for education which led him to teaching for 9 years.
Jimmy is preceded in death by his younger brother Justin Prinz, his Grandparents Clarence and Gladys Prinz, his Grandmother Nora Taylor, Uncle Charles Michael Prinz and Aunt Debbie Kay Wilde.
Jimmy is survived by:
His wife Camille Prinz of Georgetown
Brother and Sister-in-law, Josh and Jenifer Prinz of Tyler
Brother, Stetson Levi Prinz of Huxley
Parents, Willie and Patsy Prinz of Huxley.
Grandparents, JT Furlow, and Sally Furlow of Huxley TX
Nephews:
Austin Prinz
Corbin Ashley
Nieces:
Abigail Prinz of Tyler
Caiden Ashley of Tyler
09/07/2020
Flossie Caroline Smith, 81, of San Augustine, Texas formerly of Center, TX passed away on September 4, 2020. She was born October 30, 1938, in, Shelby County, Texas. Smith is the daughter of the late Bobby Lee Smith and Viola (Tynes) Smith. Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 11 A.M. with visitation beginning at 10:30 A.M. at White Rock Cemetery, Center, Texas.
Ms. Smith is survived by:
Sister, Thelma Hinton, of Shelbyville
Nephew, Brad Hinton, and wife, Dena, of Shelbyville
Great-Niece, Harley Hinton
Great-Nephew, Clayton Hinton
She is proceeded in death by her parents; her brother, Winston Smith; and her brother-in-law Charles Hinton.
In lieu of flowers family requests donations be made in memory of Flossie to White Rock Cemetery, 604 CR 1210, Center, Texas, or at Farmers State Bank in Center, Texas.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book, you may go to www.mangumfh.net.
09/07/2020
Robert Oren Warr, 91, passed away September 4, 2020 in Center, TX. Mr. Warr was born October 11, 1928 in Shelby County to the late Robert Elvie Warr and Annie Lee (Cooper) Warr.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 5:00 P.M. Service will be Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. at Mangum Funeral Home with his son, Bobby Warr, officiating and Son Windham assisting, internment to follow at Old Salem Cemetery.
Mr. Warr was a member of Sam Houston Lodge #32 and a long time member of the Shriners. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved spending time with his family and friends. He was also a member of Old Salem Missionary Baptist Church.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Bobby Warr and wife, Karen of Center
Wesley Warr and wife, Rhonda of Center
Brother, Noah Gene Warr and wife, Kay, of Gulf Port, MS
Sister-in-law, June Warr of Nacogdoches
Grandchildren:
Billy Bob Warr and wife, Sarah, of Henderson
Micah Warr and wife, Katya, of Henderson
Sharayah Warr of Center
Cooper Warr and wife, Crystal, of Center
Cody Warr and wife, Lauren of Center
Great-Grandchildren:
Braydon, Kaiden, Ileigha, Alexander Oren, Eden and Elissa
Carolina, Cannon, Christian, Lilly, Caidi, Aiden and Wesley Callon
Special cousin, Billy Rae Bailey
Numerous Nieces, Nephews and a host of family and friends
He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Mildred “Millie” Warr; his parents, Robert Elvie Warr and Annie Lee (Cooper) Warr; brothers, Henry Earl Warr and Alden Lee Warr.
You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfh.net. Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, TX.
09/07/2020
Melba Joyce Battles, 82, of Nacogdoches, passed away Saturday, September 5, 2020, at her residence in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Cecil Chessher will officiate. Interment will follow at White Rock Cemetery in Center.
Born December 23, 1937, Melba is the daughter of the late Tracy Hughes and Opal Bradshaw Hughes. Ms. Melba Battles was known to many as “Miss Melba” spending numerous years caring for the children in her Martinsville community. She became an honorary grandmother to so many children and impacted the lives of many young girls and boys. Her hobbies included painting and cooking and her home quickly became a museum to her artwork. She was a very talented lady with an overwhelming spirit of humility. But Ms. Melba’s sincerest passion in life was for her children, her family and her Savior. She tirelessly and sacrificially gave of herself to love her family, provide and care for them while endlessly praying over each of them. She has left an immeasurable legacy of character, love, honor and faith in the lives of our family. Truly she has heard the words of her Savior, “Well done my good and faithful servant.”
She is survived by:
Children:
Joy Scarborough and husband Dean of Nacogdoches
Linda Raymond and husband Doug of Lindale
Sonda Gross and husband B.J. of Nacogdoches
Shane Battles and wife Sheri of Longview
Sean Battles and wife Amanda of Nacogdoches
Stepchildren:
Ricky Battles and wife Beverly of Nacogdoches and children Tammy, Amanda and Matthew
Dennis Battles and children Bryan and Susan
Gay Joyner and husband Tony and children Misty, Alena and Grace
Grandchildren:
Jason Scarborough
Brandon Scarborough
Hunter Scarborough
Kennon Sharp
Austin Raymond
Magen Martin
Conor Gross
Lauren Battles
Kylie Battles
Emily Battles
Tori Ferrebee
Cole Battles
Amelia Battles
Numerous great-grandchildren as well as great-great grandchildren
Sisters and brother:
Virginia Campbell of New Caney
Huey Hughes of Irving
Carrie Bailey of Center
Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives, and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, J.L. Battles; parents, Tracy Hughes and Opal Bradshaw Hughes; sister Cheryl McCauley and brothers Jerry Hughes and Spencer Hughes.
Pallbearers will be Conor Gross, Cole Battles, Jason Scarborough, Brandon Scarborough, Hunter Scarborough, and Matthew Battles. Honorary pallbearer and musician will be Austin Raymond.
You will forever be missed Mom, but we will see you again, We Love You!!
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/06/2020
Darence “Coon Dog” Stanley, 75, of Center, passed away Saturday, September 5, 2020, in Nacogdoches. He lived a long and healthy life until a recent blood disorder diagnosis which led to his unexpected death from pneumonia.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 8, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m.,Wednesday, September 9, 2020, at Central Baptist Church in Center with Bro. Danny Dodson and Bro. Eddie Grimes officiating. Interment will follow at East Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born July 9, 1945, in Center, Darence is the son of the late Dalton Stanley and Thursie Marie Davis Stanley. When he was a little boy, his Daddy started calling him “My little Coon Dog” and it stuck with him. When he grew up and became a truck driver, it was his “perfect handle.”
He married Billie Nichols in 1968. They will celebrate their 52nd wedding anniversary the 28th of this month. He had a love for antique cars and trucks and they went to many car shows. The Lord blessed them to be able to do some traveling and they got to see some of His creations that they never dreamed of getting to see as they were growing up.
They were blessed with two sons, Brian and Jason, that he shared his love for cars with. On November 5, 2017, he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. After that, he loved being with his church family and never missed a service unless he was very sick.
He is survived by:
His wife, Billie Stanley of Center
Sons:
Brian Stanley and wife Stacey of Kountze
Jason Stanley and wife Beverly of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Colton
Garrett
Brenden
Hannah
Lanie
Kennedy
Great-granddaughter, Gracie
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dalton Stanley and Thursie Marie Davis Stanley; brother, Elton Lee Stanley; and sister, Joyce Hollis.
Pallbearers will be Brian Stanley, Jason Stanley, Colton Stanley, Garrett Stanley, Brenden Stanley, Waylon Griffith, and Monte Griffith.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/05/2020
Dallon Permenter, 86, of Center, passed away Thursday, September 3, 2020, in Center.
Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 12, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born November 26, 1933, in Center, Dallon is the son of the late Waymon Leon Permenter and Bonnie Lee Samford Taylor. Dallon graduated Center High School in 1950. He went on to further his education at University of Texas which privilege he had earned through a Band Scholarship. In the summer of 1952, while working two jobs in Orange, a night shift at DuPont and a day shift at a gas station, he met his lovely wife, Katherine. After winning her heart, the two were married in 1953. He worked as a homebuilder, having built over a thousand homes in the Beaumont area.
Mr. Dallon owned and operated Dallon Homes on North Eleventh Street for twenty-five years and was also president of the Homebuilders Association. He also served in City Administration for the City of Center, during which time he assisted in designing the John D. Windham Civic Center and several other buildings in the area. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, driving his boat, flying his airplane, playing his clarinet, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by:
His sons:
Mark Permenter of Center
Duke Permenter and wife Marie of Beaumont
Daughter, Debbie Stanford and husband Tommy of Beaumont
Grandchildren:
Ryan Permenter of Florida
Robert Becks of Center
Dallon Becks of Vidor
Katie King
Josh Permenter
Great-grandchildren:
Michael Becks of Center
Avery Becks of Center
Mallory of Vidor
Gregory of Vidor
Luke Permenter of Galveston
Rylee King
Kaylee King
He is preceded in death by his wife, Katherine Permenter; and his parents, Waymon Deon Permenter and Bonnie Lee Samford Taylor.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/04/2020
Mary Jo Pearce Vick, born August 26, 1923, entered into rest on September 4, 2020 after a brief stay in a local nursing facility.
Mrs. Vick was the daughter of the late Dr. and Mrs. F.L. Pearce. She taught music and art in the Center Independent School District for 32 years.
Mrs. Vick graduated from Texas Women’s University (previously Texas State College for Women) in Denton, Texas in 1944 with a Bachelor of Science in Music Education. At TSCW she played saxophone and Clarinet in College Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, and the Swing Orchestra, still active at the school, Known as “the Serenades.” In 1956, she received a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education with a double major in Music Education.
She was a long-time member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, Center Music Study Club, Texas State Teacher’s Association, and Texas Classroom Teachers.
Mrs. Vick served as Historian of Shelby County Bicentennial Celebration in 1976 and wrote the song “Shelby County, Heartbeat of East Texas” performed at the celebration. She participated in composer retreat sponsored by the late N.O. Thomas of Shreveport at his facility in Shelby County. In 1987, her song “Welcome Hall,” written in honor of Thomas and the facility, was adapted, and preformed publicly in Center by the Shreveport Symphony.
She was very active in the First United Methodist Church in Center, serving as a Sunday School teacher, adult choir director and Vacation Bible school teacher. She taught crafts and music at the Lakeview Methodist Assembly near Palestine for eleven years. She later served as secretary and treasurer for the Tennessee Methodist Church in the Tennessee Community in Shelby County.
Mrs. Vick served as a host for “Story Hour” and other Activities at the Fannie Brown Booth Library in Center. She was a faithful, dedicated nursing home volunteer in Center for many years and was chosen Adult Volunteer of the Year by the Texas Health Care Association in 2000.
She was loving and supportive of her family, friends and associates in the city, county, and state throughout her life.
Mrs. Vicks is survived by:
Sons:
Ray Vick of Center
Jack Vick of Beaumont
Frank Vick of Silsbee
Grandchildren:
Mary E. Koller, MSN of Charleston, South Carolina
Dr. Kenneth D. Vick of Madison, Mississippi
Dr. Bertrand R. Vick of Oakland, California
Jessica Jagneaux, BSN of Silsbee
Katha Everitt, BSN of Silsbee
Eleven great-grandchildren
Seven great-great-grandchildren,
And all the residents of Center who were in 3rd through 5th grades there between 1955 and 1988, whom she considered part of her extended family.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 1:00 P.M. at Mangum Funeral Home with a graveside to follow at 3:00 P.M. at Oaklawn Memorial Park Center, TX.
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.
09/04/2020
Mary Katherine C. Weddle, 72, of Center, passed away Thursday, September 3, 2020, in Center.
Ms. Weddle’s wishes were to be cremated and no services are planned at this time.
Ms. Weddle was born September 2, 1948, in Mojave, California, to William Fay Cotter and Marguerite Cotter. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Son, Douglas Weddle and wife Christina of Joshua, Texas
Grandchildren:
Chase Weddle of Joshua, Texas
Katy and Richy Austin of Arlington, Texas
Marissa Jackson of Center, Texas
Brenden Jackson of Decatur, Texas
She is preceded in death by her parents, William Fay Cotter and Marguerite Cotter; daughter, Kari Jackson; and sister, Wilma Carlisle.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/04/2020
Robert Dennon Vaughn, 52, of Shelbyville, passed away Friday, September 4, 2020, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, September 5, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, September 6, 2020, at Holly Springs Cemetery in Shelby County with Bro. Chris Collins officiating.
Born February 23, 1968, Robert is the son of Dexter Vaughn and LaRetta Goings Vaughn Dean. When he wasn’t working maintenance in the poultry industry, Robert enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was an avid woodworker.
He is survived by:
Wife, Barbara Vaughn of Shelbyville
Children:
Carrie Speed (John) of Spring
Kasey Giancaspro (Joe) of Connecticut
Cory Ivey (Megan) of San Augustine
Randy Vaughn of Shelbyville
Corey Vaughn (Stephanie) of Connecticut
Ryon Vaughn (Rachel) of Cypress
Grandchildren: Macy, Joey, Carly, Levi, Ely, Bradlee, Brynlee, Vittoria, Eliana, Durante, Blakelee, Harper, Jamison, James, Jackson, and Benjamin
Mother, LaRetta Dean of Shelbyville
Sister, Tinka Saintignan (Mark) of Nacogdoches
Brother, Chris Vaughn (Melody) of Shelbyville.
He is preceded in death by his father, Dexter Vaughn; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Raymond and Martha Branch; and brother, Robert Dexter Vaughn Jr.
Pallbearers will be Lonnie Dailey, Chad Vaughn, Mark Vaughn, Phillip Chambliss, J.D. Cassell, Caleb Stracener, C.R. Branch, Layne Pfannenstiel. Honorary pallbearers will be co-workers from Pilgrim’s Feed Mill in Tenaha.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
09/03/2020
John L. Gibbs , age 87, passed away September 3, 2020. Graveside Services will be held Saturday September 5, 2020, 3:00PM at the Tennessee Cemetery in Shelby County, Texas, with Bro. Wade Rector and LaMar Hall officiating.
Johnnie LaMar “John” Gibbs, was born May 6, 1933 in Gary, Texas, to the marriage of George & Lillie (Taylor) Gibbs. Like most of the boys of his generation, education was from the school of hard knocks. Quitting school at an early age, he helped his Daddy and brothers with whatever job they could find to feed their big family, from pulp wood to picking cotton, to carpenter work, to ditch digging, to truck farming crops. As soon as he was old enough, he went to Houston and found work. One job he worked on was building the Hobby Airport. In December of 1952 he married a pretty girl with dark curls, named Ruby. They shared almost 60 years together, and raised 3 daughters and 2 sons.
John was a mechanic by trade, working at the Chevrolet Dealership for many years. He traveled to Houston on weekends for mechanics school. In the mid 60’s, he built his own garage at home. Ruby and the kids helped him make a living there for many years, along with raising cows, truck farming, and selling cars. Life was hard sometimes, but they raised their kids to be hard working, caring and respectful adults, with all 5 of them graduating high school. That was a first generation for that in both of their families.
In his spare time, you could find John picking his guitar, that was always plugged into the amp. He was always glad when everybody gathered for a birthday or holidays, because there was always plenty there to sing. The family played and sang many years at local jamborees, revivals, funerals, or parties. After the kids grew up and started their own lives, John and Ruby spent many years playing and singing at Highway Tabernacle and at Nursing Homes with Carole, Jeannie, Scotty, Burk, and Brooksie, just to name a few. Brooksie recently dubbed him the “best guitar picker in the universe.”
He was a member of the Tennessee Presbyterian church, but he last attended Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. He didn’t feel like his Savior was confined to one church or building. Even in pain, the last understandable words he said were, “Thank You Sweet Jesus”.
When the Grand and Great Grand Kids started coming along, each one was special to him. I’m sure each one of them could share a "Papaw Story".
After Ruby died, John was very alone. Rose was a friend from Church, and they spent several years together, until his health failed.
John Gibbs is survived by:
Wife of 6 years, Rosalie Cook Gibbs
Children:
Leta “Teny” and Ken Rector
Debra “Deb” and James “Buddy” Hall
Peggy Sue Eddins
Johnnie and Mary Gibbs
Duane and Jean Gibbs
Grandchildren:
Wade and Heather Rector
LaMar and Shayna Hall
Angela Cook
Matthew and Sarah Hall
Kenneth and Holly Traylor
David Eddins
14 Great-Grandchildren
Sister, Sallie Coleman
A host of family and friends.
Preceded in death by Wife, Ruby Wells Gibbs; Parents, George and Lillie Gibbs; Son-in-law, Jeff Eddins; Granddaughter, Shelby Rector; Grandson, Dusty Eddins; Great-Grandchildren, Tommy Hall and Baby Rector; Sister, Peggy Adams; Brothers, George, Kenneth, Billy Joe, Gene, and Larry.
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.
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