Obituaries
01/03/2017
Jerry Lyle Huffman, Sr. 76, of Hemphill, Texas passed away Monday, January 1, 2018 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Jerry was born in Hemphill on March 31, 1941 to John Riley and Viola McGee Huffman. He attended school in Hemphill and graduated from Hemphill High School in 1959.
He married Carolyn Faye Eddins in 1960 and had three children. Following a divorce, he married Robbie Curry.
Jerry drove a truck for Texaco for 17 years before moving in the Texaco office in Belaire where he stayed until his retirement. He traveled a lot with his work but came back home as much as he could. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Sam Rayburn, Texas.
Jerry loved hunting and was a car enthusiast, having raced cars in his younger years. He was also a member of the Houston Gun Collectors Association.
He is survived by:
His wife: Robbie Huffman, of Hemphill, Texas
Sons:
Jerry Lyle Huffman, Jr.
John Lance Huffman, both of Houston
Daughter: Joy Lynn Reavis and husband, Philip, of Osawatomie, Kansas
Granddaughters:
Aleshia Huffman and Matt Wimpee of Nacogdoches, Texas
Jamie Reavis and Joanna Reavis, both of Osawatomie, Kansas
Great-grandsons:
Max Wimple of Nacogdoches, Texas
Patrick Wimple of Nacogdoches, Texas
Brother: Jimmy Huffman and wife, June, of Hemphill
Step-children:
Sharon Worsham of Logansport, Louisiana
Ricky Curry
Vernese Green
Theresa Womack and husband, Horace, all of Mansfield, Louisiana
Rocky Curry and wife, Kerin, of Logansport, Louisiana
Sister-in-law: Melba Caro of Lubbock, Texas
A host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and very special friends Bob and Gladys Giddens of Mt. Pleasant, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, ten brothers, four sisters, and one step-son.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, January 4, 2018 at Starr Funeral Home, 510 Starr St., Hemphill, Texas.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 5, 2018 in Starr Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Steve Hurst and Rev. Bernese Green officiating.
Burial will follow in Hemphill Cemetery under the direction of Starr Funeral Home.
Online condolences can be made at starrfuneralhome.com.
01/02/2018
Ford Brown Sr., 100, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2017, at his residence.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 5, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 6, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Gordon Vaughn and Bro. David Pate officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Ford Brown was born September 19, 1917, on the Stratton Plantation near present day Clute, TX, to Perry Maxey Brown and Merle Stratton Brown. He was raised in the Freeport, TX (Velasco) area. He attended Freeport High School, at which he was a member of their 1935 Championship Football Team. He met the Love of his Life, Iva Nell Pate, after the 1932 hurricane, while pumping some fresh water for her. Just six years later, they were married on June, 28 1938. Shortly after their first two children were born, Ford was called to serve in World War II as a U.S. Marine. He valiantly and heroically served throughout the Pacific Region and was part of the Invasion of Okinawa, the bloodiest and last battle of the Pacific. After returning from the war, his youngest child had been born. Ford held several jobs as a pipe fitter and went back to work for Dow Chemical until he retired in 1984. Other accomplishments included serving as Mayor of Lake Barbara, TX, serving as City Councilman in Clute, TX and serving as a deacon for Emmanuel Baptist Church. Ford spent his retirement years visiting with family, working in his garden, reading every Louis Lamour book, tearing up mower after mower, fishing or playing one of his favorite domino games. Ford’s life was full of serving God and others and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by
Wife: Iva Nell Brown of Center, Texas
Children:
Sylvia Brown Hearn of Center, Texas
Ford S. Brown Jr. and wife, Janis, of Center, Texas
Cynthia Perez and husband, Ramiro, of Angleton, Texas
Grandchildren:
Julia Annelle Belcik and husband, Matt, of Bryan, Texas
Lorri Hearn of Houston, Texas
Melissa Hass and husband, Troy, of Woodstock, Georgia
Andrew Brown of Tyler, Texas
Samuel Brown of Harper, Texas
Phillip Brown and wife, Lua, of Bowie, Texas
Elisabeth Brown of Garland, Texas
Katherine Johnson of Mesquite, Texas
8 Great Grandchildren
Brother: Jack Brown
Sister: Clive Rush
Preceded in death by
Grandson: Daniel James Brown
Parents: Perry Maxey Brown and Merle Stratton Brown
Brothers: Perry Maxey Brown, Dixie Brown
Sisters: Mina Rolbar, Francis Willenberg
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/02/2018
Jo Ann Shull Shofner, 85, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2017, at her residence.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 2, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 3, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Gordon Vaughn and Bro. Billy Windham officiating. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery in Huxley.
Mrs. Shofner was born May 31, 1932, in Shelby County, to Nolan Shull and Lillian Guidry Shull. Her hobbies included sewing, crocheting, quilting and decorating cakes. Mrs. Shofner was a member of First Baptist Church in Shelbyville.
She is survived by:
Sons:
R.E. “Bubba” Shofner Jr., of Shelbyville
Troy Shofner of Shelbyville, Texas
Granddaughters:
Shari Shofner Sautner of Atlanta, Georgia
Amanda Shofner Graves and husband, Kirk, of Patroon, Texas
Great-Grandsons: Colin Sautner, Rowan Sautner
Brother: George Shull and wife, Betty, of Shelbyville, Texas
Sisters-in-law:
Mickie Shull of Center, Texas
Vivian Hamaker of Shreveport, Louisiana
Billie Marie Corder of Shreveport, Louisiana
Cousins:
Shirley Brittain of Shelbyville, Texas
Jane Ewing of Port Bolivar, Texas
Juanita Beasley of Haslam, Texas
Linda Ann Choate of Galveston, Texas
Special Friend and Daughter: Kellie Jean Baty
Troy’s Special Son: Jamie Carroll and wife, Shelby
Troy’s Special Granddaughter: Tucker Carroll
Special Caregiver and Friend: Hazel Sullivan
Preceded in death by,
Husband: R.E. “Pete” Shofner Sr.
Great Granddaughter: Dixie Graves
Parents: Nolan Shull and Lillian Guidry Shull Monroe
Brother: Eugene Shull
Grandparents: Bill and Fannie Shull
Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law: P.O. and Odell Sample
Pallbearers will be Richard Sharp, Barry Hughes, Brent Hughes, Bart Hughes, James Shull and David Ewing. Honorary pallbearers will be Elton Chumbley, Matt Boren, Donald O’Rear, Walt Baty, Jamie Carroll, Robert Eugene Shull and Jesse Hughes.
A special thanks to Affinity Hospice for their compassionate care.
Memorial donations can be made to Strong Cemetery Fund, c/o Prentice Hendricks, PO Box 1383, Center, Texas 75935 or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/01/2018
Funeral service for Mrs. Shirley Fay Garrett (76) of Timpson, Texas will be Saturday, January 6, 2018, 2:00pm at New Prospect Baptist Church in Timpson, Texas. Mrs. Garrett was born on February 19, 1941. Mrs. Garrett died at Nacogdoches Medical Center on December 22, 2017. Rev. George Grace will be officiation.
Mrs. Garrett is survived by:
Daughter: Shelia Aguilar
Granddaughter: Talissa Caraway
Great-Grandchildren: Memoree McClure and Kanas McClure
Sister: Ellis Berry of Timpson, Texas
Visitation: Friday, January 5, 2018 after 1:00pm
Committal: Antioch Cemetery in Timpson, Texas
Repass: Timpson Community Center in Timpson, Texas
Services entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas
01/01/2018
Clifford Wayne Craver, 74, of Huxley, passed away Saturday, December 30, 2017, at his residence.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 2, 2018, at Toledo Bend Cowboy Church in Shelbyville with Bro. Jeff Spring officiating. Interment will follow at Wimberly Cemetery in Huxley. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Mr. Craver was born August 5, 1943, in Dyer, Tennessee, to Vincent Ritchey Craver and Flora Lee Sims Craver. He enjoyed music and playing the piano. Mr. Craver was a member of Toledo Bend Cowboy Church, where he served as the music minister for twenty years.
He is survived by
Wife: Judy Craver of Huxley
Children:
Vincent Leroy Craver and wife, Barbara, of Richmond
Jessica Randall of Huxley
Grandchildren:
Kali Nichole Randall of Huxley
Kalub Christopher Randall of Huxley
Melissa Lee Ann Craver of Nacogdoches
Vincent Bryce Craver of Nacogdoches
Benjamin Luke Craver of Richmond
Olivia Grace Craver of Richmond
Brother: Franklin Robert Craver of Waverly, Tennessee
Preceded in death by
Parents: Vincent Ritchey Craver and Flora Lee Sims Craver
Brother: Milton Eugene Craver
Pallbearers will be Richard Norris, Richard Thrasher, Russell Swaim, Trever Doucet, Landon Oliver and Anthony Tomlin. Honorary pallbearers will be Charlie Patton, Robert Windham, Ken Cooper and Mike Hubel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Toledo Bend Cowboy Church, 2543 FM 3172, Shelbyville, Texas 75973.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
1/1/2018
Idell Fults, 96, of Center, Texas, passed away on December 31, 2017 in Center. She was born on September 16, 1921 in Center to James Porter Fults and Lela Ceapearl Fults. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery with Bro. Lynn Johnson officiating.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
1/1/2018
Thomas 0. Davis, Jr. age 94 died peacefully on Saturday, December 30, 2017. Thomas was born in Center, Texas to Judge T.O. and Ella Mae Davis.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Jeff Warren, and his younger brother Charles Edward Davis; and by the late Bertie C. Davis, beloved wife of 62 years.
Thomas is survived by:
Daughters and their spouses:
Deborah and Kevin Whitsett of Dallas, Texas
Diane and Bill Dunnagan of Spring, Texas
Grandchildren:
Emily Dunnagan
Paul Whitsett
Claire Fittz and husband, Michael
David Dunnagan
Great-grandchildren:
Harrison Fittz
Caleb Fittz
Several nieces and nephews
Thomas graduated from Center High School, attended one year at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, and graduated from the University of Texas, earning a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering in 1947. WW II interrupted his college education. He received a commission as Ensign, U.S.N.R., at the Notre Dame Midshipman School and served with distinction for three years with half of that time in the Pacific Theater. His last assignment was Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Prestige, an-underwater mine detection vessel.
Thomas's entire 38-year working career was spent with Atlantic Richfield Company where he began his career as a reservoir test man in DeRidder, LA. He later worked in various engineering positions in Odessa, TX and Longview, TX. He served in Casper, WY and Denver, CO as District Engineer in ARCO's Rocky Mountain District for 8 years. He transferred to Dallas, TX in 1966 and became Principal Buyer for technical equipment in ARCO's Purchasing Department where he worked until his retirement in 1985.
He served as a deacon at the Skillman Avenue Church of Christ for several years and later became an active member of the Prestoncrest Church of Christ.
Thomas and Bertie traveled extensively in the United States and Canada. Their favorite place was Ogonquit, Maine where they headquartered many times to see the fall colors in New England. They also traveled to Australia, New Zealand, England, Ireland, Scotland and Western Europe. They especially enjoyed England and returned time and time again to the Cotswolds where they stayed in a little village named Burton-on-the-Water.
They also enjoyed visiting the theater in London. One of their most memorable and emotional experiences was when they walked through the Cemetery for the American World War II Veterans in France near the shore of the English Channel.
A Memorial Service will be at Restland Memorial Chapel on Thursday, January 4, 2018 at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be made to a charity of your choice.
12/30/2017
Kimberly Ann Sherrod, 50, of New Caney, Texas, passed away on December 28, 2017 in Kingwood. She was born on February 22, 1967 in Nacogdoches to Ora Verdell Christopher and Helen Miller Christopher. Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Sunday, December 31, 2017 at Shady Grove Baptist Church with Bro. John Withem officiating. Interment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery. A visitation will be held prior to service time from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Sunday, December 31, 2017 at Shady Grove Baptist Church.
Kim was a down-to-earth and gentle woman who loved being with family more than anything. “Mimi” would quickly jump at the opportunity to keep her grandchildren and found so much joy caring for each of them. Such a kind and genuine heart, Kim really knew how to be a wonderful sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. If she was not at home taking care of family, Kim enjoyed shopping and traveling the world on cruises. She was proud to say that she knew the Lord.
Kim is survived by her husband of 33 years, Timothy Sherrod of New Caney; parents, Ora and Helen Christopher of Nacogdoches; children, Stacy Sherrod of Center, Kayla Sherrod of Porter, Shelby Sherrod of New Caney and Forrest Rushing of Cleveland; brothers, Ronald Miller and wife, Betty of Nacogdoches, Steve Christopher and wife, Rhonda of Martinsville, and Joey Christopher and wife, Lindsay of Nacogdoches; sister, Tresa Ady and husband, Tony of Nacogdoches; eleven grandchildren, Kolton, Cody, Kaptan, Sequin, David, Blake, Leo, Mariah, Jeremiah, Joey, and Loghen; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her brother, Ora Verdell “Bubba” Christopher, Jr.
Pallbearers will be Kayla Sherrod, Stacy Sherrod, Shelby Sherrod, Forrest Rushing, Joey Christopher, and Cody Burrage.
Honorary pallbearers will be her grandchildren.
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.
12/30/2017
Louise Faulk Worsham,
92, of Joaquin, passed away Thursday, December 28, 2017, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 4, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 5, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Brad Faulk officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Mrs. Worsham was born May 28, 1925, in Tenaha, to John T. Holmes and Era Cox Holmes. She was a cosmetologist and also worked in the family business of Worsham Grocery in Joaquin for many years. Mrs. Worsham was a member of Jackson Baptist Church in Joaquin.
She is survived by
Son: Terry Faulk and wife, Myriam, of Spring, Texas
Step-Children:
Jill Kay and husband, Ken, of Joaquin, Texas
Kay Childress of Tenaha, Texas
Phil Worsham and wife, Debra, of Joaquin
Daughter-in-law: Candi Faulk of Rockwall, Texas
Grandchildren:
Sandy Farr of Bullard, Texas
Bradley Faulk of Richland, Washington
Ashley Holcombe of Pasco, Washington
Alesha Seroczyski of Grainger, Indiana
Danise Faulk of Dallas, Texas
Damon Faulk of Wylie, Texas
19 Great-Grandchildren
Step-Grandchildren:
Josh Childress
Nena Ivey
Sarah Gand y
Travis Worsham
Olivia Worsham
Shelby Commer
Cassey Porter
Jacob Kay
A number of step-great-grandchildren
Sisters:
Ever Andreason of South Dakota
Irene Yancy of Houston, Texas
Preceded in death by
Husbands: A.D. Faulk, Levis Worsham
Son: Danny Faulk
Son-in-law: Buddy Childress
Parents: John T. Holmes and Era Cox Holmes
Sisters: Vivian Owens, Clara Holmes
Pallbearers will be Damon Faulk, Jacob Kay, Phil Worsham, Ken Kay, John Owens and Matt Commer. Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Farr, Jacob Farr, Josh Childress, Travis Worsham, Kyle Ivey, Bryan Gandy and Matt Porter.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/29/2017
Ms. Willie Mae Cartwright, 58, of Shelbyville passed away Tuesday morning at her residence in Shelbyville.
A memorial will be held at a later date.
Ms. Willie Mae Cartwright is survived by:
Daughter: Raetta (Hollis) Polk of Nacogdoches, Tx.
Sons:
Kinshana Cartwright of Jacksonville, Tx.
Cortez Cartwright of Shelbyville, Tx.
Sisters:
Shirley Hightower of Houston, Tx.
Sophia Cartwright of Center, Tx.
Shelia Cartwright of Shelbyville, Tx.
Brothers:
Wayne Thompson of Center, Tx.
Billy Bennett of Shelbyville, Tx.
Larry (Camilla) Cartwright of Shelbyville, Tx.
12/28/2017
Irene Meurer, 89, of Center, passed away Wednesday, December 27, 2017, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 31, 2017, at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 12:30 p.m. at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Mrs. Meurer was born March 28, 1928, in Ft. Worth, to Joseph Hank Smith and Opal Irene Moorehead Smith. She was of the Baptist faith.
She is survived by
Children:
Frances Sprouse of Austin
Mary Watts of Palestine
Carolyn Glasscock of Tyler
Betty Davis of Joaquin
Patsy Meurer of Tyler
James Meurer of Palestine
Grandchildren:
Delvin
Billy
James
Kathy
Jearl
Danny
Rebecca
Kelly
Misty
Crystal
Kim
Chasity
Michael
James
Joe
A number of great-grandchildren
Preceded in death by
Daughter: Janette Miles
Parents: Joseph Hank Smith and Opal Irene Moorehead Smith
2 Sisters
2 Brothers
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/27/2017
Joe McCary, 93, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on December 26, 2017 in Center. He was born on December 3, 1924 in Shelby County to John and Sarah Chambliss then lovingly adopted by John French McCary and Alice Huntington McCary. Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, December 29, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. James Risinger and Bro. Son Windham officiating. Interment will follow at Rather Cemetery.
A visitation will be from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Friday, December 29, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel.
After serving in the United States Army in World War II, Joe moved to Houston working for the City of Houston water department while also owning and operating McCary Furniture and Appliance. After retiring, he came back to East Texas and settled here with his family. He was one of the hardest working men around. He was the owner of Patroon Concrete and took great pride in his work. Joe was also a lover of people and people loved him equally in return. He enjoyed visiting with anyone that wanted to take the time to talk. On any day of the week, you could stop by and find Joe in the front porch swing or walking in the pasture. Those peaceful moments outdoors were some of his favorite. Baby and Bitty, his sweet feline friends, were sure to be close to his side. Joe was known for being a great craftsman, and he loved traveling to flea markets to sell his creations, especially his swings. Joe was a good provider for his family and made sure they had whatever they needed.
Joe is survived by:
His daughters:
Barbara Risinger and husband, James of Goober Hill
Ruthie Folsom and husband, Wayne of Center
Rhonda McSwain of Center
Step-sons:
Johnnie Ponder and wife, Flordelis of Rockwall
Clifford Ponder of Dallas
Tom Ponder and wife, Delicia of Lewisville
Grandchildren:
Mark Jackson
David Jackson and wife, Christy
Cody Folsom and wife, Maggie
Casie Windham and husband, Landon
Ashton Askew and husband, John
Roscoe McSwain, Jr. and wife, Ronna
Bryan Ponder
Michael Ponder
Kristina Petralia
Great-grandchildren:
Lane and Madison Jackson
Dawson and Ethan Jackson
Allie Windham
Annistyn McSwain
Lemley Folsom
John Camden Askew
Special friend: Maggie Hudson and her granddaughter, Liberty.
He is preceded in death by his wives, Martha Luman McCary and Mildred Chandler McCary; parents, John and Alice McCary; and four brothers.
Pallbearers will be Mark Jackson, Lane Jackson, Landon Windham, John Askew, Cody Folsom, and David Jackson.
Honorary pallbearers are Dawson Jackson, Ethan Jackson, Kenneth Hardy, Jimmy Strong, Johnny Covington, and Paul Birdwell.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Rather Cemetery.
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.
12/26/2017
Donald Francis (Don) Schmutz, age 83 of Center, Texas passed away on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at the Overton Brooks VA Hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana, succumbing to his battle with cancer. Don and Judy moved to Center, Texas in 1967 where Don was a very successful businessman. He raised a family in Shelby County where all of his children graduated from both Center and Shelbyville High Schools. Don and Judy semi-retired in 1989 and moved to West Yellowstone, Montana, working in the restaurant food service industry for 10 years before returning to Shelby County.
Don was born to John and Enda (Christenson) Schmutz on December 29, 1933 in Peoria, Illinois. Don married Judith Ann (Judy) Van Dusen on June 5, 1957 and celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this summer. Don is survived by his sons Randy (wife Amber); Ricky (wife Grace), Rodney (wife Michelle) and Cassidy (wife Nana); his grandchildren Cade, Conner & Calli (Randy & Amber); Patrick and Sarah (Rodney & Michelle); Ryan & Sophia (Cassidy & Nana); Amber Luzko (Rhonda); his great grandchildren Annabelle and Katya (Amber Luzko). Don is also survived by his sister Mary Lou Meis from Peoria, Illinois and many wonderful nephews and nieces. Don was preceded in death by his daughter Rhonda, his parents, John and Edna Schmutz, his brother Jim Schmutz and his sisters Vivian Litterest, Elaine Skaggs, Dorothy Drieth, Beverly Christensen.
Don served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy from 1951 to 1954 and was honorably discharged with the rank of 3rd Class Signalman. While serving in the Navy, Don attended the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
Pallbearers will be members of the Knights of Columbus. Honorary Pallbearers will be his lifelong friend Bill Jones and his grandsons, Patrick Schmutz, Cade Schmutz and Conner Schmutz and Tommy Hughes and Tim Wulf.
Visitation will be Thursday, December 28th from 5pm to 7pm at Watson & Sons Funeral Home located at 1554 TX Hwy 7 in Center, Texas. Funeral will be Friday, December 29th at 10am at the St. Therese Catholic Church located at 717 FM 2974 in Center, Texas. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery in Huxley, Texas.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/26/2017
Odell Shofner Sample, 86, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on December 26, 2017 in Center. She was born on February 23, 1931 in Shelbyville. Funeral services for Mrs. Sample will be at 10:00 AM on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel.
Odell grew up in Shelbyville and graduated from Shelbyville High School. She took pride in being a virtuous woman who truly loved the Lord and Savior. Odell was a living example of what a woman of God should be for her husband and for her family. She loved, supported, cared for and stood beside the love of her life, P.O. Sample for 67 years until his passing. She was passionate about serving her family to the best of her ability and make sure to always be available for them no matter the circumstances. Odell was a fantastic Grandma to her entire crew and each one was a special sparkle in her eye.
Odell loved to work outside in the flower beds and mowing her yard. She also enjoyed sewing and making clothes for others. If Odell wasn’t outside taking in God’s beautiful creations, she would definitely be found in the kitchen cooking up a scrumptious meal. She was famous for her fried chicken and her chicken and dumplings.
Odell was a member of Shelbyville First Baptist Church.
Odell is survived by:
Children:
Cathy Brittain of Shelbyville
Debbie Snider and husband, Billy of Center
Larry Sample and wife, Debbie of Center
Grandchildren:
Rodney Brittain of Shelbyville
Nikki Brittain of Richmond
Jill Jefferson and husband, Keith of Shelbyville
Karen Liker and husband, Jason of Center
Bridget Kirkwood and husband, Donny of Salado
Matt Snider and wife, Mallory of Center
Pat Sample of Center
Stephanie Harkness and husband, Justin of Center
Ashley Hayes of Houston
Mary Alford and husband, Wayne of Timpson
Christopher Peurifoy and wife, Becky of Longview
Great-grandchildren:
Aaron, Jesse, Jake and Ariel Liker
Trace Brittain
Logan and Morgan Jefferson
Cyper and Tolan Harkness
Bronson and Bryanna Sample
Braylyn and Millie Sims
Garrett Kirkwood
Mason Snider
Bella and Mackee Alford
Caleb Peurifoy
Sisters:
Vivian Hamaker and husband, CJ of Shreveport
Billie Corder and husband, Charles of Shreveport
Brothers:
Joe Shofner and wife, Shirley of Center
Doug Sample and wife, Myrtle of Pittsburg
Donald Sample and wife, Deloris of Quitman
Ronnie Sample and wife, Deborah of Jasper
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, P.O. Sample; parents, Arvie and Della Shofner; and brothers, Jack and Pete Shofner.
Pallbearers will be Pat Sample, Matt Snider, Aaron Liker, Logan Jefferson, Keith Jefferson, Jake Liker, and Jesse Liker.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Affinity Hospice, Latham Cemetery, or Pine Grove Nursing Home.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
12/26/2017
William M. “Bill” Raborn, 90, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on December 25, 2017 in Houston. He was born on April 25, 1927 in Pleasant Hill, Louisiana. Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery.
A visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM on Thursday, December 28, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel.
After high school, Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force to honorably serve his country. His time in the military left him with many stories to tell and pass down later in his life to his friends and loved ones. He loved to tell those stories of days gone by. Bill eventually settled with his family in East Texas where he worked for Timpson ISD in the maintenance department and as a bus driver for a number of years until his retirement. Bill was a family man. He loved his grandkids beyond words and treasured the moments he was able to spend with them. He also enjoyed hunting, air planes, Nascar and most especially, his dogs. Bill was a character to remember. Everyone he met enjoyed his company and his storytelling. It always seemed like Bill knew a little bit of everything. He was a truly beautiful soul that will be missed dearly.
William is survived by son, Wendell Raborn and wife, Elisa of Lafayette, Louisiana; daughter, Marcella Kemzuro and husband, Chuck of Lafayette, Louisiana; step-sons, Billy Collier and wife, Susan of Cleveland and Jimmy Collier and wife, Doris of Cleveland; brother, Smiley Raborn of Canada; sister, Marie Raborn; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Johnnie Raborn; brothers, E.C. Raborn and Emeal Raborn; and two grandchildren, Dusty Collier and Andrew Raborn.
Pallbearers will be members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
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.
12/26/2017
Mary Anna Menefee, cherished daughter, faithful friend and one of God’s special children died at Briarcliff in Carthage, Texas on December 22nd, 2017 at the age of 65.
On June 13, 1952 a long awaited child, a daughter, was born to Richard and Vivian Menefee in Shreveport, Louisiana. Mary Anna lived her entire life in Center, Texas and was blessed with so many who loved her. The Methodist Church was a cornerstone of her life and, as her health permitted, she rarely missed a Sunday. She and her mother kept the church nursery for over 30 years. In addition to God, family and friends, Mary Anna loved music. Countless hours were spent listening to everything from rock-n-roll, country, gospel and KDET selections of the day.
Always ready with a compliment or a gracious thank you on any occasion, her life was a testimony to honesty and sincere love for her fellow man. Truly, those who knew her loved her!
Mary Anna was preceded in death by her devoted parents, Richard & Vivian Menefee. She is survived by so many who loved her and were blessed to have shared her life.
The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the precious folks who so lovingly cared for her these past years. What joy each of you brought to her each day, and what began as employment moved into friendship and devotion. Words cannot express our appreciation for your care and kindness to our loved one.
The Celebration of Life will be held at First Methodist Church, 211 Porter Street in Center, Texas on Saturday, December 30th. Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 am with the service immediately following. Arrangements are made with Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Memorials may be made to the First Methodist Church in Center or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/25/2017
Billy Wayne McGuire, 80, of Garrison, passed away Saturday, December 23, 2017, in Nacogdoches.
Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 27, 2017, at Garrison Funeral Home in Garrison.
Mr. McGuire was born June 22, 1937, in Garrison, to Grady Gibson McGuire Sr. and Georgia Lavinie Wells McGuire. He served in the United States Army. His hobbies included spending time with his family, fishing and playing dominoes.
He is survived by
Wife: Lois McGuire
Children:
Debi Ann Moore and husband, Mark
Grady Wayne McGuire and wife, Kim
Gary McGuire and wife, Trish
James McGuire and wife, Tausha
Renee McDonald
Grandchildren:
Jaclyn
Jennifer
Christopher
Nick
Drew
Jake
Madalyn
Leslie
Averie
Cassie
Kevin
Stephen
Sister: Joyce Wingate
Brothers:
Grady Gibson Jr.
Raymond McGuire
A number of great grandchildren and great great grandchildren
Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
Preceded in death by
Son: Billy Wayne McGuire Jr.
Parents: Grady Gibson McGuire Sr. and Georgia Lavinie Wells McGuire
Sisters: Juanita McGuire, Wanda Jean Thomas, Evelyn Marie McGuire
Brother: James H. McGuire, Grady McGuire Jr.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Nacogdoches Shriners, PO Box 498, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961.
Services are under the direction of Garrison Funeral Home in Garrison, Texas.
12/22/2017
Graveside service for John L. Menefee (91) of Lufkin, Texas will be Wednesday, December 27, 2017, 11:00am at Sand Hill Cemetery in Nacogdoches, Texas. Mr. Menefee was born on May 28, 1926. Mr. Menefee died at Woodland Height Hospital in Lufkin, Texas, December 21, 2017.
Mr. Menefee is survived by:
1 Daughter: Donnell Hood
1 Grandson: Tony Hood wife Allis and great-great grandchild
Special caring loving friend and provider Ms. Wanda Williams Davis, forever friend Billy H. Daniel, caring neighbor Louis Walker, many other neighbors and friends.
Visitation: Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at 10:30am at Sand Hill Cemetery
Committal: Sand Hill Cemetery
Services entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas
12/22/2017
Gene Bates, 75, of Nacogdoches passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Gene was born in Nacogdoches, Texas on September 6, 1942, the son of Claude Bates and Inez Boatman Bates. Memorial services for Mr. Bates will be held at 1:00PM Thursday, December 28, 2017, at Laird Funeral Home, with Bro. Sonny Scarborough officiating.
Gene was born and raised in Nacogdoches, the son of Claude and Inez Boatman Bates. He grew up with his siblings and enjoyed making memories as they played in the yard and woods. He learned from an early age, how to fit in with any group he was around. When he married and became a father, he realized how much love one person can have in their heart. His family was very important to him. Over the years, they enjoyed being together traveling in the old bus going camping and fishing, which many times included playing “telephone” at the lake. Gene always had a good time no matter what he was doing. Whether he was piddling around outside, working in the garden, playing 42, or telling stories and riddles to those around him, he was always happy. He worked very hard at everything he done, including providing for his family. Gene, also known as “Pan Handler” to his driving buddies, drove a truck for most of his life, and the workers at International Paper could set their clocks by the schedule he kept because he turned the corner every day at 2:17pm! Racing cars on dirt tracks was something else he enjoyed. The memories he made over the years will last a lifetime with his family and friends as they carry on his legacy of living life to the fullest.
Mr. Bates is survived by:
Wife, Patsy Bates of Center, Texas
Sons:
Lewis Britton and wife Bonnie of Lumberton, Texas
Tony Bates and wife Mary of Forney, Texas
David Bates of Jasper, Texas
Daughters:
Kathy Beck and husband Patrick of Plano, Texas
Drenda Wilson of Tyler, Texas
Susie McCauley and husband Shay of Nacogdoches, Texas
Brenda Hogue and husband Ronnie of Center, Texas
Numerous grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and numerous great-great grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents; Claude Bates and Inez Boatman Bates; son Danny Bates; brothers, Wayne Bates and Phillip Bates; sisters, Mable Butcher and Dorothy Blankenship.
Honorary pallbearers are Kenneth Pate and Verdell Christopher.
The Bates family is being served by Laird Funeral Home. To convey condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.lairdfh.net
12/21/2017
Faye Erwin Camp, 85, of Hickory passed away peacefully at Catawba Regional Hospice on Thursday, December 21, 2017.
Born Mary Faye Erwin in Rutherford County on September 27, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Claude Myers and Elizabeth Gettys Erwin. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Hickory. Faye was a graduate of Lenoir-Rhyne College where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Education. She taught English and Social Studies for 27 years at Grandview Junior High. Faye loved to spend time with her family, travel, and scrapbook. She had a great love for her grandchildren, a fondness of cardinals and was an avid reader. One of her favorite places that she truly enjoyed was the Biltmore Estate. Faye's special gift to each of her grandchildren when they turned six years old was to take them on an airplane ride for their birthday.
She is survived by:
Husband of 64 years, James "Jim" Camp Jr.
Daughters:
Bobbie Setliff and husband Rob of Hickory
Lisa Hahn and husband Harold "Tinker" of Denver, NC
Son, James "Jimmy" Camp III and wife Meg of Center, TX
Grandchildren:
Tripp Setliff and wife Erika
Drew Setliff and wife Mary Taylor
Luke Setliff and wife Leeann
Isaac Setliff and wife Carmen
Noah Setliff
Lauren Wilson and husband Luke
Eric Hahn
Jay Camp and wife Taylor
Amy Camp
Megan Camp
8 great-grandchildren
Brother, Max Erwin of Gastonia
The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 23, 2017 from 12:30 pm to 1:45 pm at First United Methodist Church. Memorial service will follow at 2:00 pm with Reverend Paul Christy and Reverend Wil Posey officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658 or First United Methodist, 311 3rd Ave. NE, Hickory, NC 28601.
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