09/09/2023 
Eddie Dalton Smith Jr., 74, of Huntsville, Texas, passed away on September 6, 2023, in Huntsville.  He was born on July 22, 1949, in Pasadena, Texas, to the late Eddie Dalton Smith Sr. and Edith Murl Hammer.  

Funeral service will be held at Pine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church, on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at 2pm with Bro. Eugene Bowden officiating. Interment will be held at Pine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at 1:30PM at Pine Ridge Missionary Baptist Church prior to the service.

Dalton married the love of his life, Diann Smoak, on December 6, 1969. They have spent over 54 years together. They raised three boys.  

Dalton proudly served his country through the United States Army.  His wife and children supported his journey in the military through the years before he retired. Dalton was a great person. He loved his wife, children, and country. He enjoyed the new gadgets. He would love to have the newest tech objects released and couldn’t wait to purchase them.  

Dalton loved his grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with them.

He is survived by his loving wife Diann Smith; sons, Corey Wayne Smith, Dalton Lee Smith, James Michael Smith and wife Andrea; brother, James Smith; sisters, Linda Parr, Marie Perry, Denice Dement, Penny Smith; grandchildren, Cheyenne Renee Smith and Dylan Pederson, Jasten Smith, Davin Smith, James Fletcher Smoak II; great grandchildren, Gracelynn Smith, Rylan Pederson; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of friends that will miss him dearly.

Dalton is preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Edith Smith; brothers, Ricky Smith, Rocky Smith; and sister, Donnie Rowan and Brenda York.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net (http://www.mangumfh.net/). 
 
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

09/08/2023

Barbara Ann Eppes Dean, 84, of Mont Belvieu, passed away Tuesday, September 5, 2023, in Liberty.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville with visitation beginning at 9am to 10am., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.

Born June 21, 1939, in San Augustine County, Barbara is the daughter of Leo Eppes and Lillie Mae McCarter Eppes. She was of the Baptist faith.

She is survived by:
Children: 
Bobby Dean and wife Brenda of Center
Tommy Dean and wife Zettie of Center
Vickie Smith and husband Sammy of Liberty

Grandchildren:
Bobby Hunter Dean
Brandy Gebala
Carmon Roberts and husband Darren
Jeff Smith and wife Ashley
Kristi Mullins and husband Jake

Great-grandchildren: 
Lukas Gebala
Case Roberts
Landon Smith
Justin Smith
David Warthen and wife Marissa
Cheyenne Mullins
Brantley Mullins

Three great-great-grandchildren

Sisters-in-law: 
Barbara Jean Ross of Center
Laretta Dean of Goober Hill

Also, numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by husband, Bob Dean; parents, Leo Eppes and Lillie Mae McCarter Eppes; and siblings, Willie Bue Byley, Louise Moore, and Wilma Byley.
Pallbearers will be Bobby Hunter Dean, Jeff Smith, Landon Smith, Jake Mullins, and Gary Helton. Honorary pallbearers will be Randy Hughes, Keith Devers, Randy Joe Dean, and Sammy Furlow.

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

09/07/2023

William “Bill” “Papa” Dean McHenry Sr, 78, of Lufkin, TX was healed on September 3, 2023, surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Celebration of life will be held at 1:30PM on Sunday, September 10, 2023, at Timber Creek Chapel, 2021 S. John Redditt Dr., Lufkin, Texas 75904. Reception to follow.

Visitation will be prior to the service on Sunday, September 10, 2023, beginning at 12:30PM at Timber Creek Chapel, Lufkin, Texas.

Bill was born on March 18, 1945, to Nilah Fuchs and Garland McHenry in Lakeville, Indiana. After graduating from Lakeville High School he proudly joined the United States Air Force where he served four years as a jet aircraft mechanic and received multiple awards and medals.

He met and married the love of his life, Sandy, and was blessed with four loving children. After moving to Texas in 1975, they finally found their home in Lufkin, Texas.

Bill loved well and was well loved. He lived a life full of hunting, fishing, fixing, tinkering, beach combing, and supporting grandkids. He was a hard-working man with many trades and passed those trades to his children and grandchildren.

Bill is survived by:
Wife of 55 years, Sandy McHenry

Sister, Sharon McHenry

Daughter Tammy Jo and husband Royce Willmon

Daughter Jennifer and husband John May

Son, William “Billy” Dean McHenry Jr and wife Rique

Son, Kristopher McHenry and Rebekah Cheatham

Grandchildren: 
Jennah Pryzbiski and Tyler Reddin
Haley and Seth Thompson
Marisa and Rodney Nash
Tyler McHenry and Jacee Berry
Karley McHenry
Cassidy Willmon
Charlize McHenry
Alaina Willmon
Kylee Wallace
Grace Athanas
Jace McHenry
Journey Weeks

Great-grandchildren:
Remy Przybiski
Stoke Thompson
Ronnie Reddin
Olivia McHenry
Kollyns Thompson
Wyatt Nash

Many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Nilah Fuchs; father, Garland McHenry; step father, Charles Fritz Fuchs; and sister, LuAnna Reed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fisher House Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, or St. Jude’s Children's Hospital in honor of Bill McHenry.

Note: Dress will be casual. In honor of Bill’s (Papa’s) memory, feel free to join the family by wearing a colorful shirt (like a fishing, Hawaiian, or USA shirt etc..)

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

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

09/05/2023

Robert Earl Thomas “Knotty”, 78, died on August 30, 2023, at Nacogdoches Medical Center in Nacogdoches, Texas.

Mr. Thomas was born to the late Jesse Thomas and Adline Thompson Thomas in Center, Texas on February 2, 1945.

Funeral service will be on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 11am at Revival Tabernacle located at 2398 State Hwy 87N Center, Texas 75935. Bro. Johnnie Johnson will be officiating. 

Visitation will be Thursday, September 8, 2023, at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Committal will be at Thompson Cemetery Shelbyville

Repass at Revival Tabernacle

Robert Earl Thomas “Knotty” is survived by:
Son, Kelvin Ratcliff Sr. (Claudia) of Wells
Daughter, Tracy Ratcliff Smith of Puyallup, Washington

Grandchildren: Kelvin Ratcliff Jr.
DeAngelo and Jasmyne Smith
Khyle Daniels
Taigan Williams 

Brothers:
John A. Thomas of Texas City
Walter Thomas (Edith) of Center
Sisters:
Kathy Thomas of Philadelphia, PA
Debra Thomas of Longview

Special Aunt, Ozell Garrett of Shelbyville

Sisters and Brother-in-laws: 
Belinda Rellford of Mansfield, Louisiana
Claudia Chumbley (Vanessa) of Shelbyville
Vivian Cartwright (Clifton) of Tenaha
Daphne Brooks of Tenaha
LaShun Booth (Joyce) of Tampa, Florida
Bartholemew Booth (Linda) of Nacogdoches
Ramona Booth of Houston
Jackie Booth of Houston

Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935

Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net 

09/05/2023

Thelma Lee Boles, 96, of Center passed away Sunday, September 3, 2023, in Katy, Texas. 

Funeral Services will be at 10 am Friday September 8, 2023 at Watson & Sons Funeral Home, Brother Hayden Wilkes officiating. Interment will follow in Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. There will be a visitation Thursday September 7, from 6 to 8 pm at Watson & Sons Funeral home. 

Thelma Boles was born December 16, 1926, in Center, Texas to Coley F. Beckham and Mary Matsler Beckham.

After graduating from Center High School, she married Waylon S. Boles Sr. and they moved to Almeda California where he served in the Navy for the last two years of World War ll and she worked to support the war effort. 

After the war they moved to Houston raised a family and had successful careers. 

After retirement they moved back to Center to be close to their relatives and friends. 

Thelma was a member of the First Baptist Church in Center. One of her greatest pleasures was being a part of her Sunday School Class at First Baptist. She became a member in the late 1980’s and remained active until 2015, when she had to go live with her children in Katy due to an injury.

Thelma is preceded in death by her Husband, Waylon S. Boles Sr.; Father, Coley F. Beckham and Mother, Mary Matsler Beckham; Brother-in-Law, James Neil Campbell and Sister-in-law Jimmie Louise Boles.

She is survived by:

Sons: 
Steve Boles and wife Terri of Houston
Waylon S. Boles Jr. and wife Fay of Center

Grandsons:
Waylon S. Boles lll of Graford
Kirby Chase Boles of Center

Granddaughter, Izabella Rose Boles of Graford

Brother-n-law, Weldon Boles of Center

Sisters-in-law:
Mary Helen Boles Campbell
Sandra Wheeler of Center

Numerous nieces, nephews, friends and extended family members.

Our entire family wants to thank Gods’ helping angel Taiwo Sosanya. Otherwise known to us as Tai. She adopted mother in the nursing home, way before COVID, and was our everything right up to the last minute.  No words can describe the wonderful helper and friend she became to mother and our family. Tai blessed mother and our family with her love and selfless devotion. Our prayer is that God bless her with even greater love thru out her life. 

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that you make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

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

07/07/2023

Bobbie Jean Sharp McDaniel went home to the Lord on July 4, 2023 at the age of 85. Daughter of Bilton Burl & Ada Mae Sharp, Bobbie was born on September 8, 1937 and lived in El Paso and Shelbyville, Texas. Bobbie was greeted in heaven by her husband of 65 years, Felix McDaniel, whose death preceded her in 2016. Bobbie & Felix McDaniel owned and operated Huxley Bay Marina on Toledo Bend Lake from 1972 to 1993.

Mrs. Bobbie was a devoted member of the Lydia Missionary Baptist Church in Shelbyville for decades and served as a tireless volunteer for multiple organizations.

A memorial service will be held for Mrs. Bobbie McDaniel on Saturday, September 9 at 11am at Lydia Baptist Church on FM 139 in Huxley. A meal will be served following the service. All are welcome to join us in celebration of her life.

A funeral service in memory of Mrs. Bobbie McDaniel will be held at the Wildwood Chapel at Restland Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas on Monday July 10, 2023 at 2:00 PM with a public visitation at 1:00 PM.

Bobbie will be lovingly remembered by:

Brother-in-law Charles (Chuck) Osborne

Nephews: 
Marvin Raycroft and wife Cindy
Michael Walker
Danny Osteen
Tommy Osteen
Aaron Ducharme and wife Elaina
Charles (Chaz) Osborne, 

Nieces:
Kitty Osteen
Dianna Westbrook and husband Henry
Kristina (Kristy) Knowles and husband Bryan
Staci Heath and husband Kevin

Several great nieces and nephews she adored.

Mrs. Bobbie will also be missed by countless friends and community members.

Restland Funeral Home - Wildwood Chapel 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243

09/05/2023

Odessa Ann (Smith) Weaver, 84, of Garrison, Texas, passed away in a tragic car accident on August 29, 2023, in Shelby County, Texas. 

Per her wishes she was cremated. A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home with Bro. Justin Harkness officiating.

“Dessa” was born in Shelby County March 19, 1941, to Pery Smith and Grace Whitton Smith. She was one of seven children. Dessa attended Sardis School and was raised in the Sardis Community. Dessa believed in working hard from day break until a job was complete or until dark and start again in the morning. She also believed in playing hard and enjoying life. In the mid 70’s she owned and operated Weaver’s Grocery Store across the street from Dairy Queen in Center, where she met so many high school kids that she “adopted”. The store was often filled with kids she fondly referred to as her “Weaver Store Kids”. She kept many of those friendships alive through the years. She was an outdoors person, hobbies included gardening, especially “her” flowers; loved all animals of any shape or size; enjoyed cooking; avid reader; spending time with family and friends. One of her greatest joys in most recent years was being sure the great grandkids had balloons for special occasions and loved to learn Soccer while watching them play.

Survived by:
Daughter,
Deborah “Deb” Peterson and husband Tom of Milam, Texas

Grandchildren:
Parick Sample and Alex of Center
Stephanie Harkness and Justin of Center
Ashley Hays and Grant of The Woodlands
Justin Peterson of Texas City, Texas
Allyssa Ray and Nathan of Houston

Great-Grandchildren:
Bronson and Elias Sample of Center
Cyper and Cecil Harkness of Center
Stevie Ray of Houston

Daughter-in-law:
Patricia Jacques of Nacogdoches

Sister:
Virginia Lemoine of Center

Brother:
Ray Smith of Center

Beloved Babies:
Charley and Moppy (dogs)

Many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Odessa was preceded in death by her parents, Perry and Grace Smith; Son, Dale Weaver of Nacogdoches; two brothers, and two sisters.

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

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

09/04/2023

Delfina Guzman Tovar, 80, of Tenaha, Texas, passed away on September 2, 2023, Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on June 11, 1943, in El Jaral, Acambaro, GTO Mexico, to the late Reyes Guzman and Maria (Jimenez) Guzman.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at 10am with Father Juan Pedro Gonzales officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 4, 2023, from 1PM – 8PM, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

Delfina made her home in Texas almost 40 years ago. She married the love of her life, Vicente Tovar, and the two spent over 50 years together. They raised thirteen children. Delfina provided for her family. She was a loving, caring, and compassionate individual. She loved her children and grandchildren. She spent time outdoors tending to her cattle. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, and sewing. Delfina never missed an opportunity to travel. She loved going back to Mexico as well. Her most precious memories are those spent with her family and children. Delfina loved the Lord and served through Sacred Heart Catholic Church and St. Theresa Catholic Church. 

She is survived by:

Children:
Jose (Cuco) R. Tovar
Israel Tovar
Isidro Martinez
Vicente Tovar and wife Yesenia
Joel Tovar and wife Maria
Ramiro Tovar
Jose G. Tovar and wife Argelia
Maria Evangelina Tovar and husband Jose
Maria Perales and husband Orlando
Angelica Sandoval and husband Ciro
Delfina Rico and husband Arturo
Maria Margarita Tovar

Daughter-in-law, Erika Tovar

Son-in-law, Jose R. Rico

34 grandchildren

22 great grandchildren

A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.

Delfina is preceded in death by her loving husband, Vicente Tovar; parents, Reyes Guzman and Maria Jimenez; sons, Jose Luis Tovar, Jose Gustavo Tovar; and grandson, Jonathan Rico.

Pallbearers serving will be Orlando Perales Jr., Jonnie Tovar, Luis Carrillo, Arturo Rico Jr., Leonel Meza, Ciro A. Sandoval, Jared Tovar, Evan Plata, Manuel Espino.

Honorary pallbearers serving will be Jose R. Tovar, Israel Tovar and Isidro Martinez.

The family would like to thank Rebecca Griffin and Micheal Belgard at Hope Community Medicine and Robin Davis at Elera Home Health for the exceptional care given to Delfina throughout her time of illness.

Special thanks to the caregivers, Maria E. Tovar, Ana and Manuel Espino, Emily Perales, Julissa Rico, Mimi Tovar, Delfina Rico, and Marely Perales for the hours you graciously gave taking care of Delfina. Your kind and compassionate care did not go unnoticed. May the Lord bless you in the coming days.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

9/4/2023

Helen Furlow, 87, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, September 3, 2023, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at Strong Cemetery in Huxley with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.

Born June 6, 1936, in Ignace, Ontario, Canada, Helen is the daughter of Samuel Kodak and Mary Finchook. Her hobbies included fishing, reading, playing crossword puzzles, and scratch-off tickets. Helen was a member of Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church in Huxley.

She is survived by:

Son, Sammy Furlow of Huxley

Daughter, Carrie Furlow

Sister and brother-in-law, Vivian and Hugh Bozeman of Butler, Alabama

Sisters-in-law:
Eula Mae Furlow of Shelbyville
Janice Furlow of Huxley
Mozell Scarborough of Pasadena

Many nieces, nephews, and friends

Preceded in death by husband, Milton Furlow; parents, Samuel Kodak and Mary Finchook; and sister, Martha Lamaroux.

Pallbearers will be Mike Furlow, Richard Furlow, Steve Oswalt, Keith Oswalt, Mark O’Rear, and Skipper Hendricks. Honorary pallbearers will be Joey Furlow and Harold Sabin.

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

09/02/2023

Kelvin Dorian “Showtime” McCowin, 62 of Shelbyville, departed this earthly home on Tuesday, August 19, 2023. He entered this world on September 3, 1960, born to Charlie Faye and Enoch McCowin.

Funeral service is 11am Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at East Liberty Baptist Church, 2980 CR 2569, Center, Texas 75935. Visitation is 10am until 6pm on Tuesday, September 5 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center, Texas. Visitation is also 10am until 11am on Wednesday prior to the funeral service at East Liberty Baptist Church. Interment is at East Liberty Cemetery in the East Liberty Community.

Kelvin “Showtime,” as we called him, loved life. While in this life, he became the father of three children. Later he came to visit in the town of Shelbyville and there he met the love of his life, Miss Sharon Stanberry. After he mesmerized her, they were united in holy matrimony on January 2, 1999 and in this union they were blessed with a baby boy.

To know Kelvin was to love him, anytime he entered a room he was guaranteed to fill the room with laughter with his jokes. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Kelvin is preceded in death by his father, Enoch; mother-in-law, Bobbie Jean; brother, Cedric; sister-in-law, Deniece; and granddaughter, Cassidy.

He is survived by:

Loving wife, Sharon Stanberry McCowin

4 Children: Trisha, Kelvin Jr., Delorean, and Kawon

5 Grandchildren: Elizabeth, Darius, Delorean Jr., Brandon, and MaKyiah

Mother, Charlie Faye McCowin

Father-in-law, Tommy Stanberry Sr.

Brother, Gerard

Sisters-in-law: Janell and friend David and Jennene (Calvin)

Brothers-in-law: Tommy Jr. (Melissa) and Montique (LaTisha)

A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

09/02/2023

Vicki Lynn Jackson, 72, of Center, passed away Saturday, September 2, 2023, in Center.

Her wishes were to be cremated and no services are planned.

Born August 16, 1951, Vicki is the daughter of R.F. Williams and Lilly Faye Rutledge Williams.

She is survived by:

Husband, Glenn Jackson

Sons:
Robert Allon Jackson
Jason Todd Jackson

Grandson, Justin Todd Jackson

Brother, Robby Williams

Sister, Debra Kay

Preceded in death by parents, R.F. Williams and Lilly Faye Rutledge Williams.

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

09/01/2023

Karen Lynn Peake, 62 of Joaquin, TX, was eternally reunited with her Savior and her parents on August 31st, 2023. Her impactful life in this world will be celebrated by her family and friends during a visitation that will be held at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center from 1:00 to 2:00 on Sunday, September 3, 2023, funeral to follow at 2:00. Interment will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Joaquin, TX.

Karen, or KK as she was called by her nieces and nephews, was born on October 26th, 1960, in Houston, TX to her mom, Ardis Helen Soma Peake, and her dad, Harry James Peake Sr. She entered this world in the same manner she left it, with overwhelming love and affection. Her life’s story was, and continues to be, a testimony to the triumph of the human spirit and the overwhelming love of God.

Karen was an artist in the truest sense of the word. Artists create! They take the seemingly mundane things of life and package them into a gift that stirs the souls of the people who receive it. Yes, she colored, she painted, and she sang her favorite songs, but she created so much more than colorful pages and canvases, she created community. Karen used her favorite medium, love, to weave together people from all walks of life into a tapestry as diverse and unique as the latch-work quilts that her daddy taught her to make as a child. She brought out the best in people. She used her gift of love to illuminate a path of purpose and perspective. To know her was to love her and to spend a few minutes in her company was to better know yourself.

As an artist, she was best known for her painting of angels and often adorned her canvases with her favorite passage of scripture, Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unaware. Hebrews 13:2. Her art brought her more than just the satisfaction of creation, it also took her places. After saving up the money she had made from selling several paintings, and with the help of family, she finally fulfilled a lifelong dream of going to Disney World and spending time with one of her most favorite, Mickey Mouse.

She was nothing if not entertaining. She refused to color with a dull crayon or share the sharp ones with her nieces and nephews for that matter. Love was in abundance, but sharp crayons were not. There were two things that she took even more seriously than her crayons, and both of them warranted the two calls she placed to 911 (there might have been more if the phone had not been restricted), one to report that she couldn’t find her sister, Debbie Leggett, and the other to report that she was out of Diet Coke. No doubt there was more panic in her voice concerning the latter.

Karen never quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson, who said “The only way to have a friend is to be one.”, but she believed that lofty principle. She was your friend first, not because of who you were, but because of who she was. She saw right past the labels and stereotypes that this world often places on each of us and looked only at our humanity, and she helped others to see the same way. She had so many dear friends that it would take pages and pages to list them all, but there a few who stand out. The first would be Richard Kyle, who Karen first met during a Special Olympics event more than 30 years ago. They shared a lifelong friendship and a love for the Special Olympics competitions. Then there is Mrs. Kaye Powell, for whom our family will forever be grateful for the love and care she gave to Karen these past several years. Not only Mrs. Kaye, but all the staff and residents at Lakeside Assisted Living, where Karen lived since 2014 until earlier this year when the need for additional care necessitated her moving to Pine Grove Nursing Home. Of all the caregivers in Karen’s life, it would be remiss not to name Samantha Clifton, she not only cared for Karen, but she also took time to play games with her and look after her as only a friend can do.

Karen was also a teacher. She taught us to be kind to one another, to love one another, to be content and to appreciate life for the gift that it is. It’s difficult, at first, to imagine this world without her. But after a little reflection, a few tears, and a lot of smiles and laughter, it’s easy to see that she lives on through the many lives that she forever changed.

To carry-on the work Karen began, she leaves behind:

Sister, Debra Kay Leggett and husband Dennis of Joaquin, TX

Brother, Harry James Peake Jr. and wife Pamela of Grapeland, TX

Niece, Cristal Vazquez and husband Salvador of Sunset, LA.

Nephews:
Nathaniel Peake of Houston, TX
Jonathan Peake of Rosharon, TX
Luke Garrett and wife Ginger of Joaquin, TX

Great-Nieces:
Molly Vazquez
Betsy Vazquez
Allyson Garrett
Lauren Garrett Hall and husband Jeremy
Whitney Garrett

Great-Nephew, Jacob Vazquez

Great-Great-Nephew, Baker Luke Hall.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry James Peake Sr. and Ardis Helen Soma Peake.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to Willow Grove Cemetery Fund, 7948 FM 139, Joaquin, TX 75954.

08/30/2023

Marlene Crowley (Aunt Weenie), 68, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 28, 2023, in Center, Texas. She was born on January 3, 1955, in Palestine, Texas, to the late Ernest McKinnley Gordon and Hessie Bee (Shelton) Gordon.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery, Huxley. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 10am at Mangum Funeral Home, 420 San Augustine St., Center, Texas 75935.

Our mom found happiness in so many ways and things. All are not perfect, but they were to her. She, with her sister most of the time, would ride backroads after our ball practices. She loved raising chickens. Found great joy in growing a garden. She loved going camping with family even if it was just 20 miles down the road. Mom loved going to her brothers and especially him coming to our grandma’s house. That meant that all the family would be together. They would sing, eat, drink, and play dominoes. They would argue and laugh. These were some of the happiest times. She loved to play Yahtzee with her mom. Sometimes every day and sometimes from morning to night. She loved sitting in the backyard around a campfire. We would go to bed, but my brother would stay up and sit with her and Aunt Sis all night. This was their time. She absolutely loved these moments and cherished them. Sometimes unwillingly. I remember being so aggravated but now that I think about it I would give anything to have to put them to bed again. All of them. She loved going to both of her sons’ homes with her sister by her side. She could not get enough of family. She went by a couple of names, Marlene to her friends, Mom, and Aunt Weenie by her nieces and nephews. She got aunt Weenie from her brother-in-law, as she would carry a wiener around folded in bread all the time so her oldest nephew AL started calling her Aunt Weenie and it has stuck throughout the years. She was also a very hard worker. We never remember her shying away from work. She made sure we had exactly what we needed. Our mom loved everyone. She was a mother to more than just her sons and thought of as one too. She treated her sister’s kids as if they were her own. Sometimes we thought she loved Teresa more than she did her own sons.  She had plenty of love to give. She loved Christmas at Teresa’s house. She loved that all would just be together during this special time. She found joy in everyone else’s joy. Especially the grandkids. Later in life she found joy in sharing a home with her sister. They seemed to always be together so why not live together. If you need the definition of true sisterly love, then all you had to do was witness these two together. Our mom lived exactly how she wanted to. She will be sadly missed, greatly loved, but never will she be forgotten.

Marlene is survived by:

Sons:
Travis Warner and wife Nicole
Anthony Warner and wife Crystal

Grandchildren:
Michael Warner
Cambell Warner
Kassidy Warner
Gage Warner
Braxton Warner
Braelynn Warner
Gabriel Warner
Mackenzie Warner
Mikayla Warner
Alyssa Warner

Sister, Betty Reynolds

A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ernest McKinnley Gordon, and Hessie Bee Gordon; and brother, Ernest Eugene Gordon.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

08/30/2023

Billy Ray Mosley, 86, formally of Tyler and now of Center, Texas, died on August 28, 2023, at Pinegrove Nursing Facility in Center, Texas. He was born to the late Luke Mosley and Corrine Brown in Converse, Louisiana on December 25, 1936.

Funeral service will on September 1, 2023, at 12:00 noon at Loop 500 Church of Christ located at 3216 Loop 500 Center, Texas. Bro LaVel Tukes Sr. will be officiating. Visitation is Thursday, August 31, 2023, at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 12:00 Noon to 6pm. Committal is at St John Cemetery Center.

Billy Ray Mosley is survived by:

Children:
Gary Mosley of Tyler
Gloria Holmes of Hemphill

Grandchildren:
Daniel Ray Holman
Gary Mosley Jr.
LaQuinlus Mosley
Markeithus Mosley
Cedric Holmes (Kandie)
Tashay Holmes Prejean
Felondria Holmes

Special Niece and Nephews:
Linda Suell (Henry) 0f Joaquin
Calvin Gaddis Jr.
Lenard Gaddis (Becky) of Timpson
Charles R. Gaddis of Jacksonville

A host of great-grandchildren, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net.

08/30/2023

Dennis “Charles” Rowe, 81, of Center, passed away Tuesday, August 22, 2023, in Nacogdoches.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation one hour prior. Bro. Tim Watson and Bro. Joseph Rowe will officiate.

Born November 29, 1941, in Nacogdoches, Charles is the son of Dennis Rowe and Tommie Pilgreen Rowe. His hobbies included sport shooting, golfing, and watching sports, especially football. He collected coins, Coca-Cola memorabilia and knives. Charles loved spending time with his grandchildren and being a part of their various activities.

He is survived by:

Wife, Laura Butler Rowe of Center

Children:
Scott Rowe and his family
Taffany Rowe Erwin and her family

Stepson, Jason Butler and wife Helen of Round Rock

Stepdaughter, Jennifer Jones and husband Kevin of Center

Brother, Wayne Christian and wife Lisa and their family of Center

Brother-in-law, Martin W. Thruston and wife Isabel of Santa Barbara, California

Step-grandchildren:
Brooke Butler
Tiffany Butler
Collin Jones
Ryan Jones
Camille Jones

Numerous other family members; and a host of friends.

Preceded in death by his parents, Dennis Rowe and Tommie Pilgreen Rowe.

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

08/26/2023

Betty Ruth (Crawford) Eldredge, 82, of Timpson, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2023, at her home in Timpson. She was born on February 9, 1941, in Indianola, Oklahoma to the late Roy Samuel and Audrey (Harrelson) Crawford. Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 PM on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church in Timpson, Texas, with Bro. Levi Cohorst officiating. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 3:00 to 4:00 PM on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church.

Betty’s entire life was a testimony to God’s divine direction, provision, mercy, grace and love. She grew up in McAlester, Oklahoma, until her junior year of high school when her family moved to Denison, Texas due to a job transfer. What seemed a difficult move during this stage of her life, would later prove to be the start of a beautiful story God was writing. Betty met Sammy Joe Eldredge in November 1958 at the Dixie Dog. Betty told Sammy, “You can’t park there.” Sammy said, “Watch me.” She kept bossing him around for the rest of their lives. From the moment he laid eyes on her, Sammy knew Betty was the love of his life. Betty never understood why such a handsome man would be so interested in her, but she gave him a chance and the rest is history. On June 13, 1959, Sammy and Betty were married and within the next two years, they grew their family by two, with daughters, Cindy and Sandy. 

In 1966, Betty began working part-time in a beauty salon. Being a cosmetologist was not a job for her. She truly loved what she was doing which was proof in her lengthy career from 1959-2023. It was so fulfilling for her to pamper people, make them feel beautiful and all the while becoming friends. Even throughout all of the moves her family would make, Betty continued working as a beautician. After moving to Timpson in 1974, she went to work for Callie B. Robinson at Callie’s Beauty Shop. When Callie passed in 1990, Betty and Sammy purchased the beauty shop, but kept its name, and Betty worked there tirelessly until February of 2023.  

Every moment of Betty’s life was a divine appointment from her Lord. Nothing was a coincidence. From moving to Texas and meeting Sammy, surrendering to the ministry, coming to Timpson, her battle with cancer, and all of the moments in between. There was a bigger picture….a greater story written. Her entire life was a ministry. Thousands of lives were touched, changed, moved in some way. She poured love out on everyone she met. Most importantly, she shared Jesus. Betty taught Sunday School classes, served in the Ladies Auxiliary and sang in the church choir. She was never ashamed to share the gospel of Christ, even the day her doctor shared the final diagnosis, she proclaimed her faith and then witnessed to him right in that office. “I’m ready,” she said, “Are you ready?”  

“Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” ~ Proverbs 31:10. Betty was the epitome of a Proverbs 31 woman. Humble, caring, hard-working, servant’s heart, giver, devoted…these words and so many more describe the legacy that is Betty Eldredge’s life. Her greatest legacy was her faith. July 1967, Sammy walked the aisle of their church to surrender his life to the ministry, and right behind him walked Betty. That morning, she, too surrendered her life alongside her husband, and from that day forward, through some of the toughest times, Betty stood by her surrender. The sacrifices that would have to be made, the challenges they would face, in every moment they remained faithful in their work for the Lord. In June 1968, they moved to Henderson to attend seminary and shortly thereafter took the pastorate of Gumsprings MBC where they remained until 1972. Lee-Hi MBC called Sammy and Betty to their church in Sulphur Springs until 1974 when God would move their family to Timpson as pastor of Timpson MBC and they remained there until 2008 when Sammy retired. Even after his retirement and his passing, Betty continued her personal ministry in their church until about a month before her passing.  

Second to her faith was her family. She was a dedicated daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, pastor’s wife, and friend. She was everybody’s Granny. You walked in her home and there was a feeling of warmth there. She loved having her entire family over for the holidays. Over the years as the family grew, the love just multiplied, filling Granny and Papoo’s house with abundant joy. The funny Christmas games, the Easter egg hunts in the yard, dressing up every year for the trick or treaters. She was the best host every year for the ladies Christmas party in her home. Her sweet tea, bacon and cherry cheesecake is legendary! At church functions, everyone walked in expecting those infamous “Granny’s Sweet Tea” jugs to be sitting on that back counter, and at special events, that cheesecake. Even during her treatments when she couldn’t make it to the fellowship, she still found enough energy to get that tea made and send it to the church. That end seat on the third row and hearing her adjourn every business meeting….Betty’s presence among her church family will be evidently missed, but the time God allowed her to serve with them will be treasured for years to come. 

Betty was a friend, confidant and counselor. She was always a voice of reason. She would offer words of advice and comfort, sometimes words you didn’t want to hear but that you needed. She was a worrier and a warrior! If you knew Betty, she always found something to worry about, usually people and what they had going on, but you also knew that at the end of the day, she let the warrior rise and she would be fighting in prayer for you. Her faith always won over her fear. 

Betty was a caregiver. Emotionally, mentally and physically she gave of herself and her time. From caring for her mother and father during their illness and eventual passing, to honoring her vows to Sammy, “in sickness and in health” and gently caring for his needs when his health failed him and the Lord called him home. Then helping her friend Jim during the last few years and caring for him until his passing as well. There were days through all of those years when Granny didn’t have enough strength to provide what they needed, but that is when she prayed, leaned on the Lord and let His strength carry them all. 

That was Betty, everyone’s Granny. Never a hair out of place. Never a wrinkle in her clothes (or her curtains, or her sheets….she literally ironed everything!) She was the walking definition of proper, respectable, loving and faithful. During her final months as her cancer took its toll, Granny still leaned on the Lord to see her through. She worried more about what it was doing to her family than to her. Everyday, she continued to read her Bible as she did her entire life. She knew where her help came from and trusted that while none of us understood this journey, that God’s ways were greater. Even in the last days of her life, she had her daughters sit and listen as she quoted the 23rd Psalm. The sweet assurance of God’s promise of peace and comfort were offered to help her during the suffering, but also to whisper to her family of God’s unfailing grace and mercy during all circumstances. 

While her absence will leave an unfillable void, what a glorious celebration we all can have knowing she is now in the presence of her Savior! Her life was a testimony of Him, as was her death. Romans 8:18 KJV reads, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” That quiet morning in her bedroom when the Lord called Betty home, her body was healed from all ailments and suffering and her eyes were opened in the glories of Heaven she taught and spoke of all those years. None could compare to the glory she beheld as the Savior welcomed her home. 

Betty is survived by:

Daughters:
Cindy Rhodes and husband, Bobby
Sandy Jones and husband, Carroll

Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren:
Kimber Jones and husband, Joey (Tres, Emma, Erin)
Scott Jones and wife, Katie (Makayla, Sophie, Jaxon, Darcie, Maddie)
Jenny Rhodes (Savannah and Madeline)
Joseph Jones and wife, Kathryn (Klaira, Kayleigh, Alaina, Josiah, Judah, Jaden, Jordan)
Samuel Jones and wife, Ashley

Sister and brother-in-law, Louise and Richard Koiner
Brother: Roy Crawford, Jr. 

A host of other family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Sammy Eldredge and parents, Roy and Audrey Crawford. 

Pallbearers for her service will be Scott Jones, Joseph Jones, Samuel Jones, Joey Jones, Jaxon Jones and Solomon Cassell. 

In lieu of flowers, Betty requested donations be made to Timpson MBC Building Fund. 

08/25/2023

Jose De La Luz Carrasco, 79, of Lamesa, passed away Thursday, August 24, 2023, in San Augustine.

Funeral services will be held in Lamesa, Texas, under the direction of Gonzalez Funeral Home.

Born December 13, 1943, in Cuchillo Parado Chihuahua, Mexico, Jose is the son of Nicodemes Carrasco and Cristina Rubio.

Survived by:

Daughters:
Sonia and husband Tim Jacobs of Joaquin
Maria A. Carrasco and Orioll Licon of Borger

Grandchildren:
Natalie Ovalle and Doug Moffett of Amarillo
Blane Bailey of Joaquin, Carlos Carrasco III of Borger
Arnaldo Carrasco of Borger

Great-grandchild, Evyn Ovalle of Amarillo.

Preceded in death by his children, Maria Leticia Carrasco and Arnaldo Carrasco; father, Nicodemes Carrasco; mother, Cristina Rubio; one sister; and two brothers.

08/24/2023

Melba Jean Gaines Scurlock passed peacefully at her home on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, with her family by her side.

A memorial service celebrating Melba Scurlock’s life will be held at Rose-Neath South Funeral Home, 2500 Southside Drive, on Friday, September 1, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be before the service beginning at 9:30 a.m. Officiating will be Rev. Dr. Jonathan King, with interment following at Forest Park West Cemetery.

Melba was born in Beaumont, Texas on February 4, 1929. She lived in Beaumont until she graduated from Beaumont High School and then lived a short time in Center, Texas where her parents ran the White Auto Store. She married Ray Scurlock on November 18, 1949, and shared 73 years together before he passed away earlier this year. Melba was a member of Summer Grove United Methodist Church for 60 years.

She had a love for travel and made many special memories with friends and family at her camp on Toledo Bend. She enjoyed being a mom, volunteering, church activities, family gatherings and watching sunsets with Ray by her side.

Melba is preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Ray Scurlock; parents, Leona Mae Beagle Gaines and Oscar William Gaines; her brother, Bill Gaines; and her granddaughter, Carla Lenert.

She is survived by:

Sons:
Ted Scurlock and wife, Polly
Dan Scurlock and wife, Nancy

Daughters:
Janet Dodd and husband, Henry
Judy Lenert and husband, Steve
Ann Karkoska

She also leaves 18 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren who loved her dearly.

The family would like to acknowledge and express their appreciation to mom’s caregivers, Lavera Potter, Cora Wright, Doris Jackson, Beronica Washington Clay, Kellie Trimmer, Brenda French and Jay Mitchell for the love and kindness they showed mom over the past year. A special thanks to Valerie and Johnny Mitchell who became like family over the past several years.

Pallbearers will be her eight grandsons, Paul Dodd, Cody Lenert, Patrick Dodd, Peyton Dodd, Clint Scurlock, Peter Scurlock, Joshua Karkoska and Daniel Karkoska.

Donations to the Meals on Wheels Program c/o Caddo Council on Aging, located at 1700 Buckner Street, Suite 240, Shreveport, LA 71101 would be appreciated. Ray and Melba spent many years delivering meals to those in need.

08/23/2023

Maron Dudley McIntyre born June 18, 1929, passed away on August 22, 2023.

Dudley began his eternal life with our Heavenly Father on August 22, 2023 at the age of 94. He passed peacefully at home in the Rose Hill Community in Timpson, TX on the same beloved land where he spent his boyhood years and was known by his contemporaries for jumping fences, climbing trees and being an all-around “nice” guy. He enjoyed singing in the choral choir, playing basketball, football and running track for the Timpson Bears and graduated from Timpson High School in 1946. 

He married the love of his life, Frances Jane Hairgrove, in 1952 and provided for his family as a highly skilled machinist at The Texas Company (Texaco) in Port Arthur, TX working there from 1950 until his retirement in 1984. He also dutifully served his beloved country for 14 years in the Texas National Guard. His real love was always music, particularly church music. He sang with a gospel quartet, The Echo Men, and also served for many years as interim music director at North End Baptist Church in Port Arthur, TX followed by First Baptist Church in Timpson, TX. Dudley was ever faithful in service to our Lord by living his life on mission as a deacon for over 60 years. He was also involved in many civic activities such as reading to kindergarteners at Timpson Elementary, ringing the bell for the Salvation Army, working the local elections, and working the local Food Bank, just to name a few.

Dudley is survived by:
Wife of 71 years, Frances Hairgrove McIntyre

Son, Kent McIntyre

Daughter, Jan McIntyre

He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren Adam McIntyre, Allison (Bray) Wheelock, Blake McIntyre, Mark McIntyre and Lindsey McIntyre. His joy with the “young-uns” continued with great-grandchildren Betsey, Drew, Luke, Brooke, Colby, Jackson, Duncan, Amelia and Jocelyn.

He is also survived by his nephew Lee McIntyre and nieces Susie Bickel, Shelly Johnson and Sarah Spruill.

He was the son of James Otis McIntyre and Effie Ora Bogue McIntyre of Timpson, TX and was the grandson of James Madison McIntyre and Mary Rebecca Reynolds McIntyre of Evergreen, AL and John Lumas Bogue and Martha Delia Wilson Bogue of Timpson, TX. He had a great many cousins and in-laws who were always very important to him. He was also preceded in death by brothers Charles Otis McIntyre and Thomas Wayne McIntyre as well as infant great-grandson, Seth.

Funeral arrangements are through Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson. A memorial service will be held 10:30 am Friday, August 25, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Timpson followed by interment at Woodlawn Cemetery.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 pm Thursday, August 24, 2023, at Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.

08/22/2023

Betty Horton Mitchell, age 70 of Timpson, TX, passed away at Memorial Hermann in Houston, TX on August 20, 2023. She was born July 2, 1953 in Tenaha, Texas to Mr. Milton Horton, Sr. and Mrs. Carrie Shepherd Horton.

Visitations is from 3pm until 6pm Friday, August 25, 2023 at Sid Roberts Funeral Home, 3535 S.E. Stallings Dr. Nacogdoches, Texas. Funeral Service is at 11am Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Mt. Gillion Baptist Church, 5545 State Highway 87 North, Center, TX 75935 with Rev. Charleston Johnson officiating and Rev. Rayford Caraway Pastor/Eulogist. Interment is at Mt. Gillion Cemetery, Center.

Betty leaves to cherish her memory:

Husband, Johnny Ray Mitchell of Timpson

Son, Terry Mitchell of Richmond

Daughter, Tasche Mitchell of Center

Brother, Milton Horton, Jr. (Earsie) of Shelbyville

Sisters:
Peggy Brown of Timpson
Callie Horton of Timpson
Donna (Alford) Fletcher of Timpson

Sister-in-law, Sherina “Kay” Horton of Lufkin

Grandchildren: Ta’Sharrrea, Jaden, Kaden, Jamari and Tyriek

A host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Deacon Ronnie Horton, Darren Horton, Lawrence “Mickey” Horton, Allen Horton, Robert James Shepherd; nephews, Timmy, Shamfrea, and LaSherrea Hooper, Quincy Handy, and Mark Anthony Smith.

Services entrusted to her family of professionals at Sid Roberts Funeral Home, 3535 S.E. Stallings Drive, Nacogdoches, TX 75961. (936) 564-4351

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