09/09/2019

William Cade Faust, 17, of Shelbyville, passed away Saturday, September 7, 2019, at his residence.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Rusty Hall officiating.  Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to service.

William was born September 5, 2002, in Nacogdoches, to Bill Faust and Randa Askew. He was currently a student and his hobbies included hunting and fishing.

He is survived by:

Father, Bill Faust and wife Bevin of Shelbyville

Mother, Randa McMahon and husband Matthew of Granbury

Sisters:
Tori Hicks and husband Gus of Granbury
Sierra Partlow and husband Trevor of Center

Brothers:
Maison Rivers of Shelbyville
Ruger Raymond of Shelbyville

Grandparents:
Bonnie and Ricky Sims of Shelbyville
Charlsie and John Clark of Shelbyville
Lance Moton of Shelbyville

Nieces and nephews, Korbyn Hicks, Kash Hicks, and Maverick Partlow

Numerous other relatives and a host of friends.

Preceded in death by his grandfather, William Faust and aunt, Page Clark.

Pallbearers will be Chase Spears, Trevor Jackson, Gus Hicks, Trevor Partlow, Maison Rivers, Jacob Jackson, Brayden Askew, Cole McDaniel, and Danny Arnold. Honorary pallbearers will be Ricky Sims, Kyle Steptoe, and Lance Moton.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made toward funeral expenses or a charity of your choice.

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

09/01/2019

Jim Bob Gray, 69, of Joaquin, passed away Friday, August 30, 2019, in Nacogdoches.

Memorial graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m., Friday, September 6, 2019, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Mr. Gray was born August 2, 1950, in Center, to Marvin “R.J.” Gray and Winfrey Dell Neil Gray.

He is survived by his wife, Debra Gray; stepchildren, Robert Paul Prichard of Joaquin and Tara McBee of Joaquin; sisters, Dellie Witt and husband Larry of Florida, Leta Hutto and husband Chester of Center, and Nancy Taylor and husband Robert of Florida; nephew and nieces, Jason Vaughn, Windy Wallace, and Laura Yanaz.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Marvin “R.J.” Gray and Winfrey Dell Neil Gray; sister, Agatha Vaughn; and nephew, William Shannon Vaughn.

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

08/30/2019

Kristal Florene Locke, 94, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on August 28, 2019 in San Antonio. She was born on October 8, 1924 in Center, Texas to John Locke and Martha (Matte) Eudora Higginbotham Locke.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 1, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Newburn Cemetery. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 1, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel.

Kristal grew up in Center and graduated from Center High School. She enjoyed living a simple life doing the things she loved most like gardening, cooking and decorating. Her grandsons were the joy of her life and when they were younger, she was very involved in their lives. Her most precious companion was her dog, Dixie Bell.

Kristal is survived by:

Son, Kenneth Peters, Jr. of Dallas

Grandchildren:
Kenneth Sean Peters of Phoenix, Arizona
Ronald David Peters, Jr. of Dallas
Christopher Peters of Japan

One great-granddaughter.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Martha Locke; and son, Ronald David Peters, Sr.

The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net

08/30/2019

Billy E. Lawson, 88, of Center, passed away Friday, August 30, 2019, at Pine Grove Nursing Center, with family.

A visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, September 3rd at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas.  Funeral service will follow at 11:00 A.M. with Brother Carl Smith, Brother Bobby Bressman, and Manuel Arcibar officiating.  Interment will follow at Antioch Cemetery in the James/Antioch Community.

Mr. Lawson was born January 25, 1931, at his family’s new home in the Antioch Community.  He is the son of the late Hobson Lawson and Lela Jones Lawson.  After attending Center High School, he served his country during the Korean Conflict.  During this time, while stationed at Fort Hood, he married his high school sweetheart, Jean Lawson.  They were married for 58 years until her death in 2010.

After leaving the service, he and his new bride moved to the Coast and was employed by Dow Chemical and later came back to Shelby County.  He was employed by Bruce Hardwood Floors, later bought out by Armstrong, as a supervisor over 3 departments.  He retired after 40 years of service.  He also was a cattle rancher.

Mr. Lawson was the father of three daughters, Debra, Luciana, and Sherry.  He and his family are members at First Baptist Church, Center in which his grandfather was one of it’s founders.  He loved God and he loved family.

Family survivors include:

Daughters:
Debra Lawson Yarbrough
Luciana Lawson Barr and husband Charles
Sherry Lawson

Grandchildren:
Cade Yarbrough and wife Traci
Nathan Yarbrough
Blake Barr and wife Alix

Great-grandchildren:
Cole Yarbrough
Mallory Yarbrough
Dillon Yarbrough
Charles Brent Barr
Kennedi Barr
Braylon James Barr

Sister, Ruby Lawson Hughes

Sisters-in-law:
Wynell Lawson
Leona Lawson
Nadine Lawson
Clydia Lawson

Brother-in-law, Randy Andrews

Former son-in-law, Bruce Yarbrough

A host of nephews, nieces and friends.

Mr. Lawson was preceded in death by his parents, Hobson Lawson and Lela Jones Lawson; wife, Jean Andrews Lawson; grandson, Charles Brent Barr; brothers, Joel, Glenn, Happy, Forriest, and Tommy; sisters, Oleta Lawson Cockrell, Mildred Lawson Partlow, and Judy Lawson Carrington; sister-in-law, Sally Windham Lawson; brothers-in-law, Charles Paul Hughes, James (Bud) Andrews, Darrell Partlow, and Ernest Carrington; and mother and father-in-law, James J. Andrews and Iva Mac Ogden Andrews.

Pallbearers will be Cade Yarbrough, Nathan Yarbrough, Blake Barr, Johnny Barr, Steve Barr, and Larry Horn.

The family request in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Antioch Cemetery Fund c/o Lenora Walton, 237 CR 3129, Center, Texas 75935.

The family would like to extend their thanks to Pine Grove Nursing Center and staff for their love and care and Affinity Hospice. Special thanks to caregiver, Charlotte Garrett.

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

 

08/29/2019

Thomas Rex Parkman, 91, of Lufkin, passed away on Thursday, August 29, 2019 in a Lufkin hospice facility.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 1, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Mark A. Newton and Brother Wayne Roberson officiating. Interment will follow at 4:00 p.m. Sunday in Ramah Cemetery in Shelby County, close to the home where he was born.

Mr. Parkman was born August 28, 1928 in Tenaha, Texas, the son of the late Minnie Ellen (Pickard) and Thomas Preston Parkman.

After attending high school in Tenaha, Rex served his country in the U.S. Army and later in the U.S. Air Force. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in accounting, and became a senior accountant for Dupont in Victoria, Texas, where he served for 35 years. During this time, Rex met and married his sweetheart, Robbie. This love affair lasted 69 wonderful years.

Mr. Parkman was the father of two sons, Tom and Jim. His love for his family was only matched by his love for God and His church. When he was 26 years old, Rex was ordained as a deacon at the First Baptist Church in Victoria, an appointment which he took very seriously. He practiced what he preached and earned the respect of all who knew him. Mr. Parkman was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church Lufkin.

Family survivors include his wife, Robbie (Thompson) Parkman of Lufkin; son, Jim Parkman and wife Sharon; four grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and his brother, Hubert Parkman and wife Jane.

Rex was preceded in death by his son, Tom Parkman.

Pallbearers will be Danny Parkman, Joshua Parkman, Mark Williams and Joseph Zwolinski. Honorary pallbearers are Jeff Zwolinski, Bill Wesley, Delbert Parrott and David Kirkland.

The family wishes to thank Hospice in the Pines for exemplary care and to also thank all his friends who prayed and cared for him.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice in the Pines, 1504 W. Frank Ave., Lufkin, Texas 75904, or to the Ramah Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 204, Tenaha, Texas 75974.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at the funeral home. Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

08/28/2019

Janet Lynn Gipson Luman, 48, of Mansfield, Louisiana, passed away Tuesday, August 27, 2019, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 31, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Dennis Landtroop officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service.

Ms. Luman was born August 27, 1971, in Lufkin, Texas, to James Walter Gipson and Mary Lynn Belsha Gipson. She enjoyed writing poetry and helping others in any way possible. Ms. Luman attended Church on the Rock in Logansport, Louisiana.

She is survived by: 

Son, Stephen Luman and wife Donna of Timpson, Texas

Grandchildren: 
Joshua Luman
Chloe Luman
Lyndon Nichols
Lathan Nichols
Ethan Luman
Madison Luman
Landon Luman
Luke Luman
Katherine Luman
Amara Luman
Cora Luman
Erin Luman
Destiny Luman,
Dustin Luman

Step-children: 
Paul Luman of Dallas
Glen Luman of Carthage
Rebecca Woods of Cabot, Arkansas

Father: James Gipson of San Augustine, Texas

Brothers: 
Jamie “Bubba” Gipson of Logansport, Louisiana 
Shelby Gipson of Tyler, Texas

Sister-in-law: Lora Taylor of Carthage, Texas

Grandfather: Howard Belsha of Center

Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends

She is preceded in death by her stepson, Ronnie Luman Jr.; mother, Mary Lynn Gipson; grandparents, Jeanette Belsha and JD and Edna Gipson; aunt and uncle, Olga and Shelly Bowman.

Pallbearers will be Paul Luman, Glen Luman, Caleb Clark, Lathan Nichols, Lyndon Nichols, and Mark Anderson.

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

08/28/2019

Joe Doyle Anderson, 87, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 27, 2019 in Center.

Joe D. Anderson was born January 7, 1932 to Joe C. and Jewell Ellis Anderson. He was the second child of six and the oldest son. He was born in Navarro County on the family farm where he spent most of his formative years. He attended and graduated from Richland High School, Navarro Junior College and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture from Texas A&M University, Class of 1954.

With Joe, God came first, family second and Texas A&M third. Growing up on a cotton farm all the kids learned to work at an early age. They grew up in a loving Christian home and maintained a great love for each other that has never wavered.

After graduating from Texas A&M, Joe became Assistant County Agent in Montgomery County. It was there in Conroe that he met the love of his life, Linda. They shared 61 years of marriage. In 1958, as newlyweds they moved to Center, where he served as County Agent for 12 years. In 1970, he began a career in insurance, which continued until his death.

Their first Sunday in Center, Joe and Linda united with First Baptist Church in Center and served faithfully in many capacities for over 60 years. His favorite place of service was as greeter and usher. He loved meeting people and making them feel welcome when they came to worship. He served as Deacon for 45 years and was named Deacon Emeritus in March 2019 as his health declined. He was also Aggie Muster Chairman for over 40 years. 

Joe is survived by:
Wife: Linda Anderson

Son: Walter Lee Anderson

Daughters: 
Valerie Fillmore and husband, Cameron
Vickie Shannon and husband, Steve 
JoLynn Fountain and husband, Kenny Dyber
Emily Buck and husband, Steve

Former Son-in-law: Victor Eddins

Grandchildren:
Alex Eddins
Casey Nelson and husband, Ben
Cody Fountain and wife, Kim
Eoin O’Shannon
Adam Dyber 
Kyle Buck

Great Grandchild: Colton Lee Fountain 

Brother: 
Guy Anderson
Willy Anderson and wife, Pat

Sisters:
Marie Yazell
Cleta Johnson and husband, Tom
Judy Means

Many nephews, nieces, 5th daughters and a multitude of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Jewell Anderson; an infant son; and son-in-law, Eddie Fountain.

Serving as pallbearers will be Burton Brown, Robert Williams, Terry Scull, Jason Locke, Cody Fountain, Alex Eddins and Steve Jeans 

Honorary pallbearers will be Joe’s grandsons: Kyle Buck, Adam Dyber, Alex Eddins, Eoin O’Shannon; sons-in-law: Steve Buck, Kenny Dyber, Cameron Fillmore and Steve Shannon; the Deacons, Ushers, Greeters and Staff of First Baptist Church in Center.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to First Baptist Church Mission Fund, 117 Cora Street, Center, Texas 75935 or to The Gideons International Processing Center, P.O. Box 97251, Washington, DC 20090-7251.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at First Baptist Church in Center, Texas. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. 

A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, August 30, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home. 

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.

08/27/2019

Graveside service for Stroud Carter Kelley, 70, of Prague, Czech Republic, will be Thursday, August 29, 2019 at 2PM at Woodlawn Cemetery, Timpson, Texas. He died at Motol Hospital on August 6. He was a resident of Austin and the Austin area for more than thirty years. Stroud was born in Victoria on September 19, 1948, the only child of W. H. (“Bill”) and Hyacinth (“Hy”) Kelley. He lived with his parents in Del Rio from 1957 to 1961, then in Vernon until 1963.  While in Del Rio he was an active member of the Val Verde County 4H Club, competing successfully in the fat lamb shows.  He graduated from St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Austin and received his B.A. (Hon.) in history from the University of Texas and a law degree from the University of Texas School of Law.

Stroud served as committee counsel and special counsel to Texas House of Representatives.  From 1978 to 1987, he engaged in private law practice and oil and gas exploration, before joining the Texas General Land Office legal department in 1987, where he held several positions including deputy general counsel and special counsel for energy policy.  While at the Land Office, Stroud was among the principal lawyers in a series of major lawsuits brought by the Land Office related to royalties and leasing, including litigation over state leases in the Yates Field in Pecos County.

While in high school and university he worked for several years as a newspaper reporter. He was active in Texas politics and in the Texas and Travis County bar associations.  Stroud resided in Prague, Czech Republic from 1997 and from 1999 to 2016, he was an international legal and business consultant in oil, gas, and power sector reform in a number of countries, including the Republic of Georgia, Armenia, Turkmenistan, Bangladesh, Ghana, Albania, Montenegro, and Afghanistan.  

Stroud was an avid gardener and fisherman, especially on the Devil’s River at Dolan Falls.  He will be dearly missed by his friends and family. 

He is survived by:
A daughter: Frances Kelley Ozaki of Tokyo, Japana

A son: William S.W. Kelley of Austin

Beloved grandson: K.C. Kelley Ozaki

A cousin: Jo Harrell of Austin.

The family is being served by Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas 75975.
To send condolences or sign an online register please visit www.taylorfh.net

08/26/2019

Funeral services for James “Bob” Horton, 92, of Lufkin will be held Thursday, August 29, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Commissioned Pastor Robert Adamson officiating. Interment will follow in the Tennessee Cemetery in Shelby County. 

Mr. Horton was born December 3, 1926 in the Tennessee Community of Shelby County, Texas to the late Ellie Loveless (Crawford) and Dachie Franklin Horton, and died Monday, August 26, 2019 in a local hospice facility.

Mr. Horton attended school in a one room schoolhouse in the Tennessee Community until he started at Timpson High School where he graduated at the age of 16 as Valedictorian of his class. After graduating he lied about his age so he could serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the Army Mr. Horton worked as a dump truck driver. He also played semi-pro baseball.

Mr. Horton used the GI Bill and worked to put himself through school at Sam Houston State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture. He earned a Master’s degree in Education from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1958, and earned his EdD from East Texas State University in Commerce

Mr. Horton met Bettye Jo Jarrett at a diner in Livingston. They were married September 3, 1947. His first teaching job was as an Ag teacher at Hudson ISD in 1952. Mr. Horton started Hudson’s baseball program and was their first baseball coach. He went on to serve as Hudson’s High School Principal and then Superintendent until 1973. After leaving Hudson Mr. Horton was head of Henderson County Junior College - Anderson County branch (now Trinity Valley College). In 1978 he returned to Lufkin to serve as Personnel Director for Lufkin Industries, retiring in 1992.

Education was extremely important to Mr. Horton and he generously gave money to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren to attend college. In his spare time he enjoyed square dancing and clogging.

Survivors include:
His wife: Nell (Bradley) Horton of Lufkin

Daughter and son-in-law: Frankie Jo and Alan Clark of Lufkin

Sons and daughters-in-law: 
James Hubert and Kathy Horton of Argyle
Charles Bruce and Karen Horton of Hudson

Stepdaughter and son-in-law: Laura Lee and Bob Majerle of Atlanta, Georgia

Grandchildren and spouses:
Jamie and Kristi Clark
Shane and Jennifer Clark
GeorgElla Clark
Dachie Horton
Alexandra Horton
Jarrett Horton
Brad Horton
Devin Horton
Nick Horton 

Great-grandchildren and  spouse: 
Anthony and Kacy Clark
Jacob Clark
Aubrianne Clark
Christopher Clark
James Clark
Sean Clark
Sarah Clark
Lexi Horton
Anna Horton
Kaley Horton

Step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren 

Special niece: Theresa and husband Mike Guerra

Many other nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Bettye Jo (Jarrett) Horton; and sister, Edith East.

Pallbearers will be Jamie Clark, Shane Clark, Dachie Horton, Jarrett Horton, Devin Horton, Brad Horton, Nick Horton, Anthony Clark, and Jacob Clark.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice in the Pines, 1504 W. Frank Avenue, Lufkin, Texas 75904.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home.

Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed, at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

08/26/2019

Julio Cesar Vazquez, 28, gained his wings on August 25, 2019 in Center, Texas. He was born on September 27, 1990, in San Jose Acateno Puebla, Mexico to Victor Manuel Vazquez Garcia and Maria Magdalena Bautista Mendez.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, August 29, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel. 
He was his parents pride and joy. When other kids his age would be out there getting into trouble or playing around, Julio was working and making his own money. At the age of 18, Julio left his home in Mexico with very little notice as he did not like goodbyes. He then traveled to Nacogdoches, TX. He first worked in several small jobs until he started with 4G Contractors in Logansport, Louisiana on July of 2011 and later moved to Shelby County. He was welder helper and later became a welder. 4G contractors was not just his place of employment, it was a place where he met friends that later became his second family. He was loved by many and always described as an honest, true and loyal friend. A friend whom you knew you could always count on. He was always willing to help anyone, without expecting anything in return. Julio was proof that even in a world like the one we live today; there were still people with a great heart like his. 

Julio is survived by his wife:
Esther Karina Lopez Morales

Parents: Victor Manuel Vazquez Garcia and Maria Magdalena Bautista Mendez

Brother: Victor Manuel Vazquez Bautista

Sister: Diana Sarai Vazquez Bautista. 

The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.


Julio Cesar Vazquez Bautista, 28, fallecio el 25 de Agosto del 2019 en Center, Texas. El nacio el dia 27 de Septiembre del 1990 en San Jose Acateno Puebla, Mexico. Sus padres Victor Manuel Vazquez Garcia and Maria Magdalena Bautista Mendez. 

El era el orgullo y alegria de sus padres. Cuando otros niños andavan hacienda travesuras y jugando, Julio ya sabia trabajar y ganarse su propio dinero. A los 18 años, Julio partio de su casa en Mexico con poca advertencia ya que a el no le gustaban las despedidas. Llego al pueblo de Nacogdoches, Texas y anduvo trabajando en varios trabajos pequeños hasta el dia que llego a la compañia 4-G Contractors en Logansport, Louisiana en Julio del 2011. Ahi fue cuando el se mudo al condado de Shelby. Empeso como un ayudante de soldador y con el tiempo se convertio en soldador.  4-G Contractors no tan solo era su lugar de empleo,  fue el lugar donde conocio a amigos que despues se convirtieron en su segunda familia.  Fue querido por muchos y siempre referido como un amigo honesto, leal y verdadero. Un amigo al cual siempre sabias que podias contar con el.  Siempre  dispuesto ayudar sin esperar nada a cambio. Julio era prueba que aun en el mundo que vivimos el dia de hoy....aun habia personas con un gran corazon como el de el. 

Sus sobrevivientes son su esposa; Esther Karina Lopez Morales; padres, Victor Manuel Vazquez Garcia y Maria Magdalena Bautista Mendez; hermano, Victor Manuel Vazquez Bautista; hermana, Diana Sarai Vazquez Bautista.

08/26/2019

Gale Culpepper,  67, departed this life on August 22, 2019 at her home. Gale was born July 1, 1952 in Marshall, TX.

The Homegoing Celebration Services for Gale Culpepper are Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 11:00 am at Iron Wheel Baptist Church, 820 First Street, Nacogdoches, TX.

The family respectfully requests that you wear bright colors.  We plan to honor Gale by wearing her favorite colors Purple and Gold. Repass to follow at the church.

If you have a favorite photo of  or with Gale-please bring it for the memory board display at the repass.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Multi-Myeloma Foundation in the name of Gale Culpepper are appreciated.

You are welcome to drop in for the Viewing on Friday, August 30, 2019 at any time from 3:p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Sid Roberts Funeral Home, 3535 S.E. Stallings Dr., Nacogdoches, TX 75961, Alana S. Culpepper.

Services are under the direction of Sid Roberts Funeral Home, Nacogdoches, Texas.

08/26/2019

Ina Dora Bass, 80, of Center, passed away Saturday, August 24, 2019, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 28, 2019, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with Bro. Hayden Dupre officiating.  Visitation will be held prior to the service at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Mrs. Bass was born January 20, 1939, in Nacogdoches, to Hiram Victor Bass and Helen Dorothy McGinty.  She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #348 in Center and Center Missionary Baptist Church in Center.  Her hobby was spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by:

Children:
Kenneth Shahan and wife Sarah of Center
Justin Shahan of New Hampshire
Cherie Rudd and husband Randy of Center

Grandchildren:
Zachary Shahan and wife Janne of Massachusetts
Mathew Shahan and wife Jennifer of Gary
Kristi Sibley and husband Brodie of Center
Jamie Rose and husband Jessie of Center

Ten great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Hiram Victor Bass and Helen Dorothy McGinty.
Pallbearers will be Mathew Shahan, Brodie Sibley, Jessie Rose, Tony Willoughby, Jim Green, and Buster Masters.

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

08/26/2019

Billy W. Davis, 74, of Center, passed away Saturday, August 24, 2019, in Center.

Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 27, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home with Bro. Don Windham and Bro. Johnnie Johnson officiating.  Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to service.

Mr. Davis was born July 14, 1945, in Carthage, to George Davis Jr. and James Vernie Lawhorn Davis.  He was a mechanic in Center since 1987, owning and operating Imperial Truck and Trailer Repair.  Mr. Davis was an avid hunter and loved drag racing and spending time with family.  He was a member of Mount Calvary Full Gospel Church in Shelbyville.

He is survived by:

Wife of 48 years, Cherry Davis

Children:
Stacey Middleton and husband Martin of Wills Point
Ashley Hines and husband Chatrick “Chad” of Center
Casey Davis of Center

Grandchildren:
Breanna Middleton
Brooklyn Ikner
Adrianna, Taylor, Kaydence, and Ty Hines

Sisters:
Vera Lou Roberts and husband Bill of Tenaha
Mary Ann Skinner of Joaquin

Numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George Davis Jr. and James Vernie Lawhorn Davis; and brothers, Johnny Davis and Wayne Davis.

Pallbearers will be Chatrick Hines, Martin Middleton, Ricky Fowler, Tremayne Hewitt, Allen Hogan, and Dale Langsford.  Honorary pallbearer will be Terry Adkinson.

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

08/24/2019

Arthur Melvin Waller, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 23, 2019 in Nacogdoches, Texas, after a lengthily illness. He was born on October 25, 1951 in Kerrville, Texas to Arthur Pershing Waller and Jimmie Louise Yarborough Waller. 

A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 10am at Center Christian Fellowship Church. 

Melvin graduated from Center High School with the Class of 1970. He worked for several large companies before establishing Waller Construction, servicing Shelby County and the surrounding areas for 30 years.  Deciding to continue his education, he obtained a teaching certificate in April 2011 and began educating young minds in Construction Technology at Center High School. 

Melvin was dedicated to his family and never hesitated to help out and do whatever was necessary to fill any need. He was instrumental in teaching work ethics and values to his nephews and nieces. Spending time with family was one of his favorite things to do. His wit and humor kept us all laughing and waiting to see what was going to happen next. Melvin had such a generous heart and as a matter of fact one could say that his heart was too big for his body. His life's motto was "give to others" and that was exactly what he did. No sacrifice was too great or small. He was a master builder and could build just about anything and enjoyed whatever he did. He was also loved artwork at which he was equally gifted.  He was a Christian and not even death can steal the memories that he leaves with us all. 

Melvin is survived:

Brother: Thomas Waller and wife, Brenda of Center, Texas

Sisters: 
Kathy Hagler and husband, Jimmy of Center, Texas
Annie Waller Fisher of Hot Springs, Arkansas

Family workforce, nephews, and nieces:
David Brittain
Heath Hagler
Brian Adams
Josh Waller
Joel Waller
Chris Adams
Nicole (Nickel) Styles
Stephanie Waller

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur P. and Louise Waller; sister, Beth O’Donnell; and brothers-in-laws, Dean Fisher and Michael O’Donnell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association 2550 North Loop West, Suite 265, Houston, TX 77062.
 https://action.lung.org/site/Donation2?df_id=31272&31272.donation=form1

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

08/22/2019

Billie Jean Wheeler, 81, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 21, 2019 in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on August 2, 1938 in San Augustine, Texas to Fred Corbitt Page and Lillie Mae Perry Page. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 27, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home with Bro. Charles Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

A visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, August 26, 2019 at Mangum Funeral Home.

Billie was a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church.

Billie is survived by:
Children:
Debbie Bell and husband, Bubba of Center
David Wheeler and Porfi Williford of Center
Deidra Cockrell and husband, Bryan of Center
Sandy Wheeler of Center

Grandchildren:
Jason Bell and wife, Jessica
Justin Bell and wife, Amanda
Chris Wheeler and wife, Kaitlyn
Nic Wheeler and wife, Shelby
Whitney Wheeler
Andy Cockrell and wife, Bridgett
Ben Cockrell and wife, Grace

Great-Grandchildren:
Bryn and James Paul Bell
Carter and Cash Bell
Lilah, Cecil and Rhett Wheeler
Lively, Ariella and Selah Wheeler
Clay and Dusty Cockrell
Allyson Cockrell

She is preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Wheeler; parents, Fred and Lillie Mae Page; sisters, Nora Olean Page and Mary Conway; and brothers, Jerry Page and Fred Taylor Page.

Pallbearers will be Jason Bell, Justin Bell, Chris Wheeler, Nic Wheeler, Andy Cockrell and Ben Cockrell.

Memorial donations can be made to the general fund at The Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas, 75701 or to the Hospice of your choice. 

The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net

08/22/2019

John Stephens Walker Sr., 80, of Center, passed away Wednesday, August 21, 2019, in Nacogdoches.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, August 23, 2019, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 24, 2019, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Jerry Gannon and Dale Gannon officiating. Military honors will he held immediately following the service under the direction of VFW Post #8904. Interment will follow at Smith Cemetery in Center.

Mr. Walker was born September 2, 1938, in Carthage to Newton Flournoy Walker and Rose Mary Bozeman Walker.  He served in the United States Navy and later became a lawyer. He owned and operated John S. Walker Law Firm in Center for fifty years, during which time he also served as District Attorney for Shelby and Panola Counties for eight years and County Attorney in Shelby County for eight years.  Mr. Walker was awarded for his fifty years of service to the Texas State Bar. He was a member of James Church of Christ, where he served as Elder and Sunday school teacher.

He is survived by:
His wife: Diann Walker of Center

Children: 
Amy Walker Hampson and husband Gregory John of Cochrane
Rhonda Kaye Walker of Wichita, Kansas
John Stephens Walker Jr. of Pearland

Grandchildren: 
Jonathan Joseph Boudousquie
Andrew Joseph Boudousquie
KellyAnn Walker Guerrettaz
Stephanie Kaye Walker
Sarah Michele Walker
James Bronson

Special cousins: Tommy and Ben Thomas

Niece: Karen Walker

Brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Walter D. Manning, Jr. and Ellen Manning

Other family; and a host of friends.

Preceded in death by his wife of 52 years: Jo Anne Manning Walker; parents, Newton Flournoy Walker and Rose Mary Bozeman Walker; brothers, Robert F. Walker and Gholston Walker.

Pallbearers will be Larry Russell, Wayne Hooper, Joel Hooper, Tommy Thomas, Greg Hampson, and Ben Thomas. Honorary pallbearers will be Jody Hooper, Carlton Shamburger, and Jr. Cassity.

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

08/21/2019

Nettie Lou Jenkins, 74 of Logansport, LA, passed away Monday morning, August 12, 2019 at Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, TX.

Funeral service is at 11am Saturday, August 24 at St. Luke Baptist Church, Logansport, LA with interment at Haslam Cemetery, Haslam with Rev. Frankie Cooper officiating.

She is survived by:

Husband, Wilbert Jenkins of Logansport, LA

Sons:
Wilbert Ray (Val Zenia) Jenkins of Chesapeak, VA
Harold Dean Jenkins of Logansport, LA
Reginald Dewayne Jenkins of Carthage
Jeffery Lamar Jenkins of Logansport, LA
Dexter Lee Jenkins of Logansport, LA

Daughters:
Kimberly Kay Jenkins of Mansfield, LA
Shelia Michelle Jenkins of Ervin, TX

15 Grandchildren, 3 Great-Grandchildren

Brother, Pete Williams of Minden, LA

Sister, Jeanie Mae Watts of Joaquin

Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

08/21/2019

Lucille Gray, 84 of Center, TX passed away on Friday, August 16, 2019, at Focused Care Nursing Facility in Center, TX.

Lucille was born December 30, 1934 to Rev. Jessie Gray, Sr. and Callie Hamilton Gray.

A graveside service will be held at 10am on Friday August 23, 2019 at West View Cemetery in Center, TX with Bishop W.C. Martin officiating.

She is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other family, and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Jessie Gray, Sr. and Callie Hamilton Gray; daughter, Dollie Hall; son-in-law, William Hall; granddaughter, Angela Hall; brother, Jessie Gray, Jr.; sisters, Mary Phipps and Hazel Scott; niece, Jasmine Phipps; and nephew, Jonathan Gray.

The family of Lucille Gray would like to thank the staff of Focused Care, Heart to Heart Hospice, and All Families Mortuary for all the loving care given to our family.

Arrangements are under the direction of All Families Mortuary in Burke, Texas.

08/18/2019

Nelson Ray Weathered, age 73, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2019 at Twin Lakes Rehabilitation and Care Center in San Augustine, Texas. 

Funeral Service is at 11am Friday, August 23, 2019 at China Chapel Baptist Church. Interment is at Countyline Cemetery, Geneva, Texas with Pastor Orvin Garrett officiating. Visitation is from 1pm until 6:30pm on Thursday, August 22, 2019 at Garner & Son Chapel.

Survivors:

Wife, Ruby Price Weathered of San Augustine, Texas

5 Sons:
James Weathered (Linda) of Center, Texas
Marvin Weathered of San Augustine, Texas
Calvin Weathered of San Augustine, Texas
Anthony Weathered (LaToya) of Terry, Mississippi
Alex Weathered of San Augustine, Texas

10 Grandchildren and 12 Great-Grandchildren

As well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and Friends.

Services entrusted to Garner and Son Mortuary, San Augustine, Texas.

08/18/2019

Jimmy Ray Eddins, 79, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 17, 2019 in Houston, Texas. Born, June 18, 1940, in Chireno, Texas to the late Willis Harvel Eddins and Glendon Adelle (Parrish) Eddins. Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at 10AM at East Hamilton Cemetery with Bro. Fred Wilcox officiating.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 19, 2019 from 6-8PM at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas.

Jimmy was faithful in serving his country through the United States Navy, Special Forces. He was a very generous, kind person towards others. Jimmy was a very intelligent man and worked well with his hands. He enjoyed repairing guns as well as practice shooting. Being outdoors was one of Jimmy’s favorite things to do, and in his free time he liked camping. Being in nature always brought him a sense of peace. Jimmy was known for being an avid baseball fan, especially when it came to little league. Nothing got him going like a little competitive baseball game. He was Baptist by faith.

Jimmy is survived by:

Sons:
Johnny Ray Eddins
James William Eddins

Daughter, Katie Crofoot

Brother, W.H. “Dub” Eddins

Sisters:
Barbara Jean Corbell
Joyce Hughes

Numerous grandchildren, other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Glendon Eddins; sons, Christopher Eddins and Jeffery Allen Eddins; brother, Bobby H. Eddins and grandson, Dustin Eddins.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or visit https://www.stjude.org/give.

To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net. Family is being served by Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.

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