Obituaries
01/05/2019
George Burns, 89, of Tenaha, passed away Friday, January 4, 2019, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, January 6, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 7, 2019, at Morgan Mill Cemetery in Morgan Mill, Texas.
Mr. Burns was born August 4, 1929, in Graham, to Earl Burns Sr. and Rena Ragland Burns.
He is survived by his wife, Geneva Burns; daughter, Paula Askew; grandchildren, Gina Ann Furra and husband James, Clara Michelle Bragg and husband Douglas; great grandson, Jesse Thomas Gay; sister-in-law, Verbie Burns; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
He is preceded in death by parents, Earl Burns Sr. and Rena Ragland Burns; brothers, El Burns Jr., Walter Burns, Robert Burns.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/05/2019
Rhonda Sibley Hudspeth, 55, of Center, passed from this life to the next, Friday, January 4, 2019, at Christus Highland Medical Clinic with her hand held tight to her husband Ryan’s and her eyes fixed wide on the Glory of her Lord.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, January 7, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 8, 2019, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Don Moore officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery in Stanley, Louisiana.
Rhonda was born May 25, 1963, in Mansfield, Louisiana, to James Benton Sibley and Susan Bland Sibley. She grew up in the bustling city of Stanley, Louisiana. If you don’t know where that is, it’s just up the way from the Roberts Road past Stanley High School, where she graduated in the top 17 in her class, which included about 17.
She was one of six siblings who grew up learning the value of hard work and love for others from both of their parents. Values that were evident by her and Ryan’s ability to help see their 3 children all the way through college and into the careers that will no doubt help shape and save lives for years to come in the fields of education and medicine.
She married the love of her life, Ryan, on March 31, 1991. They had 28 wonderful years together. In that time, she had many wonderful experiences, adventures, and joys in her life. The greatest possibly being time spent at home with her granddaughters, Lively, Ariella, and Selah.
Time was cut short by her battle with cancer, or as she called it, Bacteria, but for those here who are left for the moment with those fond memories know that time will be restored when we see her again on the shores of Glory.
She is survived by:
Husband, Ryan Glenn Hudspeth of Center, Texas
Daughters:
Shelby Wheeler and husband, Nic of Center, Texas
Darby Hudspeth of Center, Texas
Rylee Hudspeth of Center, Texas
Granddaughters: Lively Hope Wheeler, Ariella Faith Wheeler, Selah Grace Wheeler
Mother, Susan Bland Sibley of Stanley, Louisiana
Brother, James Benton Sibley Jr. and wife Jessie of Dubach, Louisiana
Sisters:
Jackie Sevulvado and husband Dago of Joaquin, Texas
Penny Shepard of Mt. Pleasant, Texas
Anita Dockens and husband Kevin of Center, Texas
Billie Jo Timmons and husband Eugene of Longstreet, Louisiana
Granny Loyce
Father and mother-in-law, Jessie and Sandy Hudspeth of Center, Texas
Brother-in-law, Robbie Hudspeth and wife Sheri of Milam, Texas
Sisters-in-law:
Jessica Cordray and husband Glenn of Center, Texas
Starla Hall and husband Dale of Center, Texas
Ona Hudspeth of Center, Texas
Numerous nieces and nephews; a host of many more family and friends.
Preceded in death by her father, James Benton Sibley Sr.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/05/2019
Johnnie Evelyn Sanford, 83, of Center, passed away Friday, January 4, 2019, in Center.
Visitation will be held at 12:00 p.m., Sunday, January 6, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Union Cemetery in Shelby County.
Mrs. Sanford was born July 13, 1935, in Shelbyville, to William Henry (Willie) Clark and Annie Love Enmon Clark. She graduated from Shelbyville High School and was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Children:
Jo Ann Dodson and husband JD
Charles Crowley
Mary Byrnes
Jo Beth Kimbro and husband Tom
Dennis Crowley and wife Staci
Grandchildren:
Angela Cruse
Keith Askew
Faitha Mayfield
Jennifer Fountain
Tammy Jo Wiggins
Jonathan Byrnes
Joseph Byrnes
Adam Kimbro
Stephen Kimbro
Kathleen Gilbert
Amanda Crowley
John-Kerry Snyder
Jared-Lane Snyder
Keely Snyder
Great-grandchildren: Brittany Burch, Macey Burch, Jared Cook, Peyton Askew, Trista Sikes, Xander Fountain, Payden Fountain, Bradley Fountain, Ethan Wiggins, Jacob Wiggins, Chloe Kimbro, Naomi Kimbro, Timothy Kimbro, Sterling Kimbro, Guvie Kimbro, Easton Kimbro, Colton Gilbert, Jakson Gilbert, Mikayla Snyder, Malakie Snyder, Moira Snyder, Miki Snyder, Brody Snyder
Lifelong friend, Ann Furlow
Harbor Hospice caregiver, Amy Allen RN.
She is preceded in death by her son, Danny Crowley; son-in-law, Larry Bubba Byrnes; grandson, Danny Clint Fenton; parents, William Henry (Willie) Clark and Annie Love Enmon Clark; brothers, Maxie Clark, Derwood Clark, Burk Clark.
Pallbearers will be Keith Askew, Jared Cook, Jonathan Byrnes, Joseph Byrnes, Adam Kimbro and Stephen Kimbro.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/04/2018
Hicks Mortuary is announcing funeral service for Mr. Aaron Robinson Sr., (69) of Las Cruz, New Mexico. Mr. Robinson passed away on Wednesday, December 26, 2018 in Las Cruz New Mexico. He was born on June 5, 1949. Funeral service will be Saturday, January 5, 2019 at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church 617 Hopkins Street in Center, Texas.
Mr. Robinson is survived by:
Children:
Rufus Robinson (Kami) of Tacoma, Washington
Aaron Robinson Jr. (Rochelle) of Center, Texas
Tashana Robinson of Dallas, Texas
Tarhonda Williams (Robert) of Logansport, Louisiana
Ingrid Reed (Antonia) of Shreveport, Louisiana
Cory Robinson of Shreveport, Louisiana
Siblings:
James Robinson (Veronica) of Houston, Texas
Valarie Williams of Logansport, Louisiana
Venita Colbert of Logansport, Louisiana
Avery Carl Robinson of Gloster, Louisiana
Ronnie Keith Robinson (Terrie) of Shreveport, Louisiana
Delwin Russell (Rufus) of Logansport, Louisiana
Delton Robinson of Alexandia
Merle Robinson of Nashville, Arkansas.
Committal: Northwest Louisiana Veteran Cemetery on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at 1:00pm
Repass: St. Paul Baptist Church
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas 75935
01/03/2019
James Worthy Edge (Jim, Jimmy, J.W., Peter, Dad, Papa), 89, of Lake Jackson, passed away Sunday, December 30, 2018, at his home in Lake Jackson, surrounded by his loving family and a room full of angels.
Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 4, 2019, at Center United Pentecostal Church in Center. Funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Folsom Chapel Cemetery in Center.
Mr. Edge was born August 13, 1929, in Shelby County, to Henry Wesley Edge and Mattie Lou Smith Edge. He served in the United States Army.
Left with wonderful memories are his wife, Lanelle Edge; son, James Keith Edge and wife Teresa and their children and grandchildren; daughter, Tina Marshall and husband Bryant Torbet and their children and grandchildren; grandson, Micah James Marshall. He is survived by his brothers, Lyndon Edge and wife Vicki, Paul Edge, Dale Edge; sisters-in-law, Velma Edge, Mary Stacy, Elizabeth Edge.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Henry Wesley Edge and Mattie Lou Smith Edge; siblings, Maxine Miller, John Edge, Joyce Adams, Jackie Miller, H.W. Edge Jr.
Pallbearers will be Jack Quinn, Travis Quinn, Johnny Miller, Danny Edge, Larry Edge, and Nathan Edge. Honorary pallbearers will be Waylon Quinn and Clint Quinn.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/03/2019
James Paul “Squirrelly” Wilson, 81, of Center, went to be with Lola on January 1, 2019.
Visitation will be begin at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 4, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Bro. Fred Wilcox officiating. Interment will be held at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center.
James Paul Wilson -Squirrelly- was born on Snow Hill in Shelby County to Buford and Ethel Beasley Wilson on January 13, 1937. After growing up and attending Center High School, where he met the love of his life Lola, they attended Stephen F. Austin State University, got married, and started a career of traveling and making music with The Four Mints. The Four Mints played night clubs and other venues from coast to coast preforming doo-wop music, Christian music, and even a little rock and roll.
After James and Lola had their family, James ran Medical Arts Pharmacy and the Lake Country Inn for several years while starting to travel and sing with the Governor of Louisiana, Jimmy Davis. James Paul would play the guitar and sing backup with Jimmy's wife Anna. They traveled throughout Louisiana and the South singing Christian music and drawing very large crowds.
Some of you may remember the rooster crowing each morning on KDET as James Paul opened up the radio stations morning show. He also presented the Swap Shop and occasionally the General Store. He loved to introduce Mattie Dellinger every day for her afternoon spot, "Here's Mattie" would become a familiar battle cry that the community became accustom to daily. Come rain, sleet, snow, or shine, James would be there by 6am every morning to ensure the community stayed on top of the daily events.
James was also an avid golfer and truly loved the sport. He was a member of the Center Country Club for many years and you could see the bright yellow golf cart zipping around the course several times a week. James was also instrumental in the Darren Wilson Scholarship Fund which raises money for high school students who want the further their education. The money raised helps students with their tuition, room and board, and purchasing books.
James was so blessed having an amazing wife, three incredible children, three marvelous grandchildren, and four beautiful great grandchildren with two more on the way. He was a wonderful Daddy and Papa. We will miss him very much.
He is survived by his daughters, Tana Hairgrove and husband Tom, Traci Morris and husband Tommy; grandchildren, Brent Gregston and wife Jennifer, Tyler Patterson and wife Amanda, Briana Goodrum and husband E.J.; greatgrandchildren, Noah Gregston, Jonah Gregston, Sadie Patterson, Taegan Goodrum, Baby Ezra Gregston due January 2019, Baby Goodrum due July 2019; brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Rosie Wilson.
Preceded in death by his wife, Lola Wilson; son, James Darren Wilson; father and mother, Buford and Ethel Beasley Wilson; father-in-law, Mac Houston; mother-in-law, Kate Houston.
Pallbearers will be Rick Campbell, Stephen Gamble, Glenn Cordray, Neal Stevenson, David Jacobs and Jody Cooper. Honorary pallbearers will be Brent Gregston, Tyler Patterson, E.J. Goodrum, Tommy Morris and Tom Hairgrove.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Darren Wilson Scholarship Fund, PO Box 1091, Center, Texas 75935.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/03/2019
James “Jamie” Wooten, Jr., 70, of Orange, passed away at his residence, Tuesday, December 25, 2018. He was born on February 16, 1948, to Mildred Strong Wooten and James S. Wooten, Sr., in Orange. A memorial graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 5, 2019 at Strong Cemetery in Shelbyville, Texas. A family committal was held at Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.
Jamie was a Little Cypress-Mauriceville graduate. After graduating high school, he worked for Firestone and international paper in the electrical department. Jamie was a member of the Masonic lodge and loved spending time hunting and fishing. He was known for his welding and craftsmanship fabricating furniture from horseshoes.
Survivors include his son, Tom Wooten and his wife, Miranda; daughter, Kim Lawrence; mother of his children, Sandra Tucker; granddaughter, Hannah Suitts; grandson, Tyler Wooten; sister, Charlotte Wooten, brother, Edgar Wooten; and his four-legged companion, Gizmo.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial contributions to assist the family with expenses may be made to Sabine Federal Credit Union, account number 1903571.
The family is being served by Broussard’s Crematorium in Beaumont and Mangum Funeral Home in Center. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.broussards1889.com or www.mangumfh.net.
01/03/2019
Elenor Joseph Horton (64) of Center, Texas, died Tuesday, January 1, 2019. Mr. Horton was born October 4, 1954.
Funeral service is Sunday, January 6, 2019 at Mt. Gillion Baptist Church (Highway 87 West), Center, Texas at 3:00pm. Rev. Gary Suell will be officiating. Visitation is at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 6:00pm to 7:00pm on Saturday, January 5, 2019. Committal at Mt Gillion Cemetery and Repass at Mt Gillion Church Fellowship Hall.
Mr. Elenor Joseph Horton is survived by:
Son and Daughter:
Joseph Shame (Ruth) Horton
Tominika Horton of Houston, Texas
Mother: Josie Horton of Spring, Texas
Brothers:
Edward Earl Horton of Center, Texas
Anthony (Virginia) of Center, Texas
Eric (Shelia) Horton of Houston, Texas
Larry Charles Harris of El Paso, Texas
Sisters:
Pamula Joyce Jones of Houston, Texas
Josie Harper of Spring, Texas
Sharon (Curtis) Hamilton of Center, Texas
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas 75935.
01/02/2019
Rose Mary Andrews Brittain, 89, of Bossier City, Louisiana, formerly of Norfolk, England, passed away on December 28, 2018 in The Woodlands. She was born on September 5, 1929 in England to Arthur Andrews and Audrey Fenn Andrews. Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 4, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Wayne Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Folsom Chapel Cemetery.
A visitation will be from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM prior to the service on Friday, January 4, 2019.
Rose met Hillard Brittain in 1953 when he was in the military and stationed in England. They began a journey that could be called a true love story, were married in June of 1954 and built an amazing and beautiful life together. Rose was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her most treasured moments were spent with her family. To Momo, as her grandkids would call her, family was everything. Rose loved animals, tending to her roses and traveling. She also enjoyed cooking, crossword puzzles and reading. The light and love that she brought to her family and friends will be dearly missed.
Rose is survived by:
Son, Johnny J. Brittain and wife, Linda of Shreveport, Louisiana
Daughters:
Sandra Landrum of Spring, Texas
Jan Ayres of England
Norma Terry of Walkersville, Maryland
Sherry Thompson and husband, Robert of Seabrook, Texas
Brother, Norman Andrews of England
Sister, Violet Nancy Miller of Indianapolis, Indiana
Grandchildren: Darlene, Lisa, Jennie, Melissa, Robert, Jennifer, Brandy, Joshua and Johnny
Three step-grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; nine step-great-grandchildren; five step-great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Hillard F. Brittain; parents, Arthur and Audrey Andrews; and brother, George Andrews.
Pallbearers will be Robert E. Thompson, IV, Johnny Brittain, Dale Guara, Ronnie Stegall and Johnny Frederick.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home in Center, Texas. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
01/02/2019
Joel Dale Snelson, 72, of Garrison, passed away on Sunday, December 30, 2018, in Garrison, Texas. Born March 22, 1946, in Timpson, Texas to the late Everett and Doris (Stokes) Snelson. Funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at Taylor Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Cold Springs Cemetery in Garrison. Visitation will be held from 5:00pm – 7:00pm on Tuesday, January 1, 2019 at Taylor Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 5:00pm – 7:00pm on Tuesday, January 1, 2019 at Taylor Funeral Home.
Joel Dale was raised in Garrison, Texas. He was a proud graduate of Garrison High School and joined the United States Army in 1965 proudly serving his great country for over four years. Joel Dale enjoyed fishing. His greatest moments were the times he spent attending events the grandkids had going on. He was an avid football fan, especially a fan of the Garrison Bulldogs, in which he proudly supported. You could frequently find Joel Dale riding the backroads with his best friend-brother, Herb Chatman. They spent lots of time together always enjoying each other’s company. Joel Dale enjoyed scratching lottery tickets. There was something about possibly winning that kept him interested. He was a loving father, brother, friend. Joel Dale was a member of Harvest Point Baptist Church in Nacogdoches, Texas.
Joel Dale is survived by his daughter, Cammy Knight and husband Randy; lifelong friend, Herb Chatman; sisters, Donna Boyett and husband Kenneth, Debbie Snelson; grandchildren, Paytin Dillon, Kalee Sadberry and husband Chris, Karsen Knight, Kollier Knight; great grandchildren, Rylan Knight, Piper Payne, Maddyn Sadberry, and Oaklee Payne; and a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Tara Snelson Dillon; and parents, Everett and Doris Snelson.
Pallbearers serving are Jim Chatman, Rusty Cook, Kenneth Boyett, Randy Knight, Mark McFadden, and Johnny Edwards.
Honorary pallbearer serving is Herb Chatman.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book please visit www.taylorfh.net.
Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr, Timpson, Texas, is in charge of arrangements.
12/31/2018
Ralph Wilburn, 56, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on Saturday, December 29, 2018 in Shelbyville. He was born on November 29, 1962 in Center, Texas to Kenneth Maurice Wilburn and Katherine Vinie Sherrod Wilburn. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 3, 2019 at West Hamilton Cemetery with Bro. Lamar Denby, Jr. and Bro. James Eddie Risinger officiating.
Ralph grew up in Vidor, Texas and graduated from Vidor High School. He was active in the football program while in school and kept a passion for it throughout his life. His favorite team to follow was the Dallas Cowboys. You could call him a true Cowboys fan. Ralph also loved music. He was a talented guitar player and enjoyed singing and playing. Ralph enjoyed singing and playing at East Hamilton Baptist Church where he was a member. He was an avid outdoorsman who liked to hunt and fish. Some of the fondest memories of Ralph were at family reunions. He always looked forward to gathering with extended family to share lots of stories and laughter. His best pals were his two dogs, Little Mama and Rusty.
Ralph is survived by:
Uncles:
William Wilburn and wife, Mary Ann
Douglas Wilburn
Bobby Wilburn and wife Betty
Aunts:
Edith Risinger
Billie Sue Smith and husband, Delmar
Bonnie Kaemmerling
Niece, April Wilburn
Numerous other cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Melissa Lewis Wilburn; parents, Kenneth and Katherine Wilburn; and brother, Randall Wilburn.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home in Center. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
12/28/2018
Jimmy Scates, 76, of Center, passed away Thursday, December 27, 2018, at his residence.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 28, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 29, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Gordon Vaughn and Bro. Michael Brittain officiating. A masonic service will follow under the direction of Newbern Masonic Lodge #97. Interment will be at White Rock Cemetery in Center.
Mr. Scates was born March 3, 1942, in Center, to Harry D. Scates and Cecil Brittain Scates. He served in the United States Army. His hobbies included hunting and fishing with friends and family. He also enjoyed teaching masonry. Mr. Scates was a Shriner and a member of Newbern Masonic Lodge #97 and Order of Eastern Star. He was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by:
Children:
Randy Scates and wife Tammy of Martinsville
Cindy Eubank and husband David of Center
Grandchildren: Cassidy Scates, Ryan Scates, J.T. Scates, Michelle Scates, Kristy Barrett, Sara Duvall, J.W. Barrett
Great-grandchildren, Gavin Burrous, Jailei Scates, Ashton Furra, William Furra, Abbie Blanton, Joshawa Duvall, Emily Duvall, Bryce Sanders, Aiden Sanders, Mackenzie Barrett
Brothers:
Harry (Bubba) Scates and wife Mary of Center
Jerry Scates and wife Barbara of Center
Special bonus son, David Wilson.
Preceded in death by wife, Betty Lavada Scates; parents, Harry D. Scates and Cecil Brittain Scates; sister, Shirley Arnold; grandson, Jonathan Burrous.
Pallbearers will be Steven Fults, Brandon Jordan, Adam Jernigan, Ron Gililand, Patrick Brittain and O’Brian Brittain. Honorary pallbearers will be Billy Akridge and Gerald Messer.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/27/2018
Franklin Blackwell, 77, of Nacogdoches, passed away Wednesday, December 26, 2018, in Nacogdoches.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, December 29, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 30, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Robert Strong and Bro. Buddy Strong officiating. Interment will follow at Newburn Cemetery in Center.
Mr. Blackwell was born December 30, 1940, in Center, to Herbert Blackwell and Ione Smith Blackwell. For many years, he worked as a contractor. His hobbies included fishing, listening to gospel music, playing his guitar, and watching a good Dallas Cowboy football game. Mr. Blackwell loved getting together with his family and friends and playing with his dog, Cody. He was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by:
His wife: Delois Blackwell of Nacogdoches
Children:
James Blackwell of Carthage
Delisa Carroll and husband Randy of Center
Grandchildren:
Justin Bernal of Denver, Colorado
Thomas Russell and wife Kim of Carthage
Trent Russell and wife Hailey of Martinsville
Great-grandchildren:
Cameron
Lexi
Lani
Zane
Kagen
Daxton
A host of other family and friends
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Melissa King; parents, Herbert Blackwell and Ione Smith Blackwell; an infant brother.
Pallbearers will be James Blackwell, Thomas Russell, Randy Carroll, Trent Russell, Jimmy Welch, and Bobby Strong. Honorary pallbearers will be Price Wilburn, Bobby Watson, Roger Steorz, Beamon Johnson and Sheila Wilkinson.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, 800.805.5856, www.stjude.org.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/28/2018
Pamela Marie Gray, 71, of Tenaha, passed away Thursday, December 27, 2018, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, December 28, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 29, 2018, at Ramah Cemetery in Tenaha with Bro. Keith Keele officiating.
Mrs. Gray was born February 6, 1947, in Shelby County, to Herbert Lampley and Beatrice Cummins Lampley. She was a retired nurse.
She is survived by:
Husband, John Gray, of Tenaha
Children:
John Gray II and wife Carolyn of Joaquin
Jamie McHugh and husband Lee of Joaquin
Jeana Morrisey of Bonham
Stepchildren:
Jeana Morrissey and boyfriend Rick Hazelip of Bonham
Jeanette Cortes and husband Tim of Lake Kiowa
Grandchildren: Cassie, Logan, Shelby, Lindsey, Katie, J.C., Zack, Tiffany
Step-grandchildren: Stephanie, Ben, A.J., Brittany, Jenniffer, Charlotte, Erica, Amanda, Davin, Brandyn, Christy, Kerry, Kyle
4 great-grandchildren; 8 step-great-grandchildren and one on the way
Brother, Larry Lampley of Tenaha
Brother-in-law, Richard Gray and wife Patricia of Joaquin
Sister-in-law, Theresa Underwood of Arlington
Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, step nieces, step nephews, step cousins, other relatives and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Herbert Lampley and Beatrice Cummins Lampley; sister, Bobbie Ann Merle; brother-in-law, Henry Underwood.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/27/2018
Wilma Pearl Hairgrove Culp, 86 of Lampasas, TX passed peacefully from this earth December 25, 2018. She was born March 14, 1932 in Teneha, TX to parents Wilburn Newton Hairgrove and Pearl Elizabeth Burns Hairgrove. She graduated from Timpson High School in 1949 and Shreveport Meadow Business College in 1950. She was employed through the years with Shreveport Times Newspaper, Esso Standard Oil and Packard and Hudson Auto Dealerships in Shreveport. She also was an assistant to Dr. Calvin Miller, Christian author and Pastor of Westside Baptist Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Wilma and Paul owned and operated several family agricultural businesses through the years, Little River Ag-Chem, Paul’s Fertilizer and Agro-Tech Service Inc.
Wilma fell in love and married Paul Maxwell Culp on July 5, 1953. They recently celebrated 65 years of marriage!
She is survived by:
Her husband: Paul Culp
Son: David Wayne Culp and wife Martha of Robinson
Daughter, Linda Culp Floerke and husband Benton of Lampasas, TX
Grandchildren:
Rachel Culp Aguilar (Timm)
Rebekah Culp Lopez
Sarah Floerke Gouak (Steve)
August Floerke (Brooke)
Great-grandchildren:
Josh Ely
Naomi Lopez
Lillian Culp
Madeline Pearl Gouak
Wilma was one of seven children
Other family includes:
Sister: Frances Hairgrove McIntyre
Brothers:
Franklin Hairgrove
Bill Hairgrove
Many precious nieces and nephews also survive. Wilma loved her Lord and Savior and was active in the Baptist Church throughout her lifetime. She also enjoyed cooking, travel, ranch life and entertaining. She was never happier than when sitting around a table visiting with friends and family.
She was preceded in death by sister, JoNell Hairgrove Young and by brothers; Van Hairgrove and James Hairgrove.
Funeral service will be Saturday December 29, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Buena Vista Cemetery near Timpson, TX on Sunday December 30, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral Saturday at First Baptist Church in Lampasas, TX.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to First Baptist Church 402 S. Key Ave Lampasas, TX 76550.
12/26/2018
Ora Verdell Christopher, 71, of Nacogdoches, passed away Monday, December 24, 2018, at his residence.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 28, 2018, at Shady Grove Baptist Church in Nacogdoches County with Bro. John Withem officiating. Interment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery in Nacogdoches County. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service.
Mr. Christopher was born May 14, 1947, in Nacogdoches, to Ora Ford Christopher and Vera Mae Norton Christopher. He worked as an auto mechanic. Mr. Christopher loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church in Nacogdoches County.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Helen Miller Christopher; children, Ronald Miller and wife Betty of Nacogdoches, Tresa Ady and husband Tony of Nacogdoches, Steve Christopher and wife Rhonda of Nacogdoches, Joey Christopher and wife Lindsay of Nacogdoches; son-in-law, Timothy Sherrod of New Caney; 17 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by children, Kim Sherrod of New Caney, Ora Verdell (Bubba) Christopher of Nacogdoches; parents, Ora Ford Christopher and Vera Mae Norton Christopher; brothers, Bobby Christopher, Tommy Christopher, Bill Christopher, Alan Christopher.
Pallbearers will be David Miller, Christopher Ady, J.D. Christopher, Anthony Ady, Steven Christopher, and Casey Grimet. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronald Miller, Steve Christopher, Joey Christopher, Tony Ady, Joby Christopher, and Timothy Sherrod.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/26/2018
Jimmie Blanche Glenn of Houston, Texas, formerly of Center, passed away on December 23, 2018 in Houston. She was born in Center to Obie M. Glenn and Una Stephens Glenn. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Oaklawn Memorial Park with Rev. Ozay Ford officiating.
A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home.
Jimmie is survived by numerous first, second and third cousins.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Obie and Una Glenn and her sister, Hester B. Glenn.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home in Center, Texas. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
12/26/2018
Rev. Byron Boyett died December 21, 2018 in Garrison, Texas having reached the age of 82. He was born December 20, 1936 in Huntington, Texas to Carrol Thomas Boyett and Cleo Nora Boyett.
Funeral service will be held 2:00 pm, Wednesday, December 26, 2018 at the Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas. Bro. Fred Wilcox will officiate. Dr. Keith Tilley (son-in-law) will bring the message. Burial will be at Shady Grove Cemetery, Shelby County, Texas. Visitation will be held before service 12:30 to 2:00 pm.
He is survived by:
Wife: Lurlene Franks Boyett
Sister: Nell Welborn and husband Jim
Daughters:
Rebekah Johnson & husband Gary
Deborah Tilley & husband Keith
Diana Stanford & husband Lynn
Grandchildren:
Daniel Stanford & wife Savanna
Jacob Stanford
Michael Stanford
Lucas Tilley
Josiah Tilley
Sarah Johnson
One Great-grandchild: Raelynn Stanford
Also, numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers are Daniel Stanford, Jacob Stanford, Michael Stanford, Lucas Tilley, Josiah Tilley, and David Welborn.
Services are under the direction of Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas.
12/24/2018
John Wayne Thompson, “JWT”, 74, of Carthage, TX, passed away on Monday morning, Dec. 24, 2018, in Longview. He was born on Sept. 1, 1944, in Center, TX to the late Lois Etoile Joplin Thompson and John Elvin Thompson. John Wayne had one brother, Jerry Lynn Thompson, who preceded him in death.
As a child, he lived in Timpson, TX, moving with his family to Center when he was in the seventh grade. He graduated from Center High School with the class of 1963, and attended Panola College. John Wayne earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. He taught and coached multiple sports in Tenaha and Hemphill before leaving the coaching profession.
John Wayne moved his family to Carthage in 1977, where he owned and operated Carthage Muffler & Tire, Carthage Towing, and the Carthage Country Club as well as many other businesses. He was and avid golfer and enjoyed hunting. He loved attending his grandchildren’s events, as well as supporting the University of Texas Baseball Program, the Carthage Bulldogs, and the Tenaha Tigers.
He is survived by:
His wife of 39 years, Kay Hull Thompson
Children:
John Todd Thompson and fiancé Donna Venette of Forney Jodi Ellis and husband Robert of Nacogdoches
Jill Lupton and husband Patrick of Tyler
Robert Wayne Thompson and wife Heather of Carthage
Sydney Wright and husband Tyler of Tyler
Son-at-heart: Chris Adams and wife Roxie of Carthage
Grandchildren:
Regan Thompson
Tanner Thompson
Aubrie Ellis
Morgan Ellis
Duke Ellis
Caroline Walton
Claire Walton
Chloe Walton
Cooper Lupton
Zoey Thompson
Riley Thompson
Truitt Wright
Great-grandchildren:
Jax Marquis
Corbin Stracener
Sadie Easter
Nephews:
Patrick and Sean Thompson
Numerous cousins and many friends also survive Mr. Thompson.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 28, 2018, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Dale Reed officiating. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.
A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.
12/21/2018
Grace Watts Enmon, age 92 passed away peacefully December 17, 2018. She was born September 29, 1926 in Jonesboro, Louisiana to Orin and Ethel Watts.
Grace loved people and lived a long, beautiful and unselfish life. She loved to travel with her friends and loved to fish. She was very involved for many years in her fishing club. She loved the Christmas season and collected Whitehouse Christmas ornaments. She decorated her Christmas tree this year with only Whitehouse ornaments, a collection that she had amassed over many years.
For many years Grace worked at a plastics plant in Port Arthur, where she had many friends that she remained close to. Late in her life, she worked at Luby’s Cafeteria where she got much joy from seeing all her many friends she touched over her life. She lived her last few years with her son and daughter in law, where she became a member of Fellowship Baptist Church. This church took her in as family and gave her much joy. I know that over her life she was active in many churches; however, this one was very special, and God bless them!
Grace is survived by her brothers and their wives, Malcom and Jessie, OG and June, and Lehman and Vernell and sister-in-law, Rose Mary, the wife of her oldest brother Valton and her sister and husband Bonnie and Kenneth Smith who preceded her in death. She was mother to her daughters Amy and Beth who preceded her in death. She is also survived by her son Mike and his wife Kari, grandson Travis, and many nephews and nieces.
Her name says it all, she was truly amazing “Grace.” The family thanks all of you for the joy you have given her.
Please join us celebrating her life Saturday, December 22, 2018. Viewing begins at 1:00 pm and the graveside service is at 2:00 pm at Clever Creek Baptist Church, 199 Co Rd 1042, Center, Texas 75935.
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