Obituaries
07/17/2023
William Gordon Corbell, 89, of Shelbyville, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2023, in Shelbyville.
Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County with Mike Belgard and Joey Gennaro officiating.
Born June 9, 1934, in Shelby County, William is the son of William Perry Corbell and Aileen English Corbell. He was a member of Association of Drilling Contractors and Patroon Baptist Church.
He is survived by:
Wife of 70 years, Nell Hitt Corbell of Shelbyville
Daughter, Lisa Corbell Gennaro and husband Joey of Center
Grandchildren:
Robert McDonald of Tucson, Arizona
Meghan McDonald and husband Brad of Midland
Great-grandchildren:
Caleb McDonald
Joshua McDonald
Mark Berryhill
Marlee Berryhill
Colt Berryhill
Mackenzee Berryhill
Violet McDonald
Numerous friends and relatives.
Preceded in death by parents, William Perry Corbell and Aileen English Corbell; son-in-law, Mark McDonald; sister, Wilma Campbell; and brothers, Gerald Corbell and Billy Jack Corbell.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Hamilton Cemetery.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/17/23
Sandra Gayle (Ramsey) Cantrell, 75, passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023 in Lufkin, Texas. She was born on December 26, 1947 in Center, to the late Roy and Oleta Ramsey.
Graveside services will be held at 10am on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at Shady Grove Cemetery in Timpson, Texas with Orval Miller officiating.
Sandra grew up in Timpson where she graduated from Timpson High School in 1966. She worked for 38 years as an insurance sales assistant for State Farm. She was known as “Bird” to many co-workers and friends. Sandra had a love of country music and dancing. She met Gary while dancing in Lufkin, Texas. The two were smitten immediately and went on to marry on May 20, 1989. She had put up with Gary for over 34 years at the time of her passing. Sandra took joy in building and refinishing furniture. She could spend hours antiquing. Sandra loved being outdoors and took great pride in her gardens. Sandra was the best traveling partner and took many trips with Connie and Gary. She was a member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church in Hudson, Texas. Sandra’s memory will be treasured, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Sandra is survived by:
Loving husband, Gary Cantrell
Daughters:
Connie Burnett
Amanda Lasiter and husband, Grant
Grandchildren:
Eli Lasiter
Adeline Lasiter
She is preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Oleta (Thornton) Ramsey and an infant daughter, Tanya Gayle.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Hospice in the Pines.
Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home of Timpson. Online condolences can be made at taylorfh.net.
07/14/2023
Pascal Broach, 85, of Panola County, passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2023, in San Augustine.
His wishes were to be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.
Born September 3, 1937, in Lafayette, Louisiana, Pascal is the son of Betram Broach and Sudie Mae Jenkins Broach. He was family oriented, devoting his life to his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by:
Daughters, Leah and husband Travis Adams of Gary
Jennifer and husband Billy Wyatt of Timpson
Granddaughters:
Emma Adams of Gary
Susan-Mary Kaly Russell of Timpson
Great-grandchildren:
Joseph and Alondra Benavides of Timpson
Sisters and brother:
Betty Walters of Houston
Rodney Broach of Houston
Martha Jordan of North Carolina.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/14/2023
Vera M. Bailey Dubose, 88, of Keithville, Louisiana, passed away Thursday, July 13, 2023, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate. Interment will follow at Pine Ridge Cemetery in Joaquin.
Born September 15, 1934, in Joaquin, Vera is the daughter of Walter S. Bailey and Oda M. Walker. She worked many years at Industrial Steel in Shreveport, Louisiana. Vera enjoyed Genealogy and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was a member of Order of Eastern Star Joaquin Chapter. Her favorite color was purple. She attended Pine Ridge Church in Joaquin and Caddo Heights Baptist Church in Shreveport.
She is survived by:
Husband, Donald R. Dubose of Keithville, Louisiana
Children:
Randy D. Stone and wife Lynn of Deberry
Larry W. Stone of Logansport, Louisiana
Vickie M. Galles and husband Kenny of Deberry
Stepchildren:
James A. Dubose and wife Sherri of Shreveport, Louisiana
Elaine D. Darity of Valdosta, Georgia
16 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren
Sister-in-law, Justine Bailey of Bossier City, Louisiana
Numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by parents, Walter S. Bailey and Oda M. Walker; sister, Thelma Bailey Windham; and brother, Robert N. Bailey.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
07/14/2023
Ruben Soto, 63, of Timpson, was called home to be with the Lord surrounded by his loved ones on July 13, 2023, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Interment will follow at Powdrill Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born October 12, 1959, in Mercedes, Texas, Ruben is the son of Rafael Soto and Ursula Munoz Soto. He worked as a landscaper for many years. Ruben was always up for a good time, enjoying country music and dancing. Fishing was also among his hobbies. He was a member of St. Therese Catholic Church in Center.
He is survived by:
Daughter, Crystal Epps and husband Alex of Dallas
Sons:
Ruben M. Soto Jr. of Garrison
Jacob Soto and wife Rebecca of Garrison
Grandchildren:
Brandon Soto
Shaun Soto
Hannah Epps
Brothers and sisters:
Ralph Soto Sr. of Timpson
Vangie McGraw of Goshen, Indiana
Jane Smith and husband Eddie of Fort Wayne, Indiana
Roland Soto and wife Donna of Elkhart, Indiana
Raul Soto of Timpson
Raymond Soto and wife Bonnie of San Antonio
Mary Walker and Allen Thompson of Center
Rose Mangrum and husband Mike of Center
Rudy Soto and wife Leslie of Shreveport, Louisiana
Jackie Soto and wife Kristle of Joaquin
Moses Soto and wife Alicia of Nacogdoches
Numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by parents, Rafael Soto and Ursula Munoz Soto; siblings, Herlinda Soto, Helen Simmons, Rey Soto, and Ramiro Soto.
Pallbearers will be Ralph Soto, Raymond Soto, Rudy Soto, Brandon Soto, Justin Williams, and Eric Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Raul Soto and his best friend, “C.L.”.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/13/2023
John David Adams, 62, of Tenaha, passed away Thursday, July 13, 2023, in Lufkin.
Private family burial will be held at Antioch Cemetery in Center.
Born September 20, 1960, in Center, John is the son of John R. Adams and Betty Lovell Adams. His hobbies included hunting and fishing. John was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by:
Daughter, Kasey Chambliss and husband Robbie
Mother, Betty Joy Adams
Grandchildren:
Preston Chambliss
Christian Lewis Chambliss
Wesley Chambliss
Emily Chambliss
A host of nieces, nephews and cousins
Sister, Neva Joyce Dawson
Preceded in death by father, John R. Adams; brother, J.T. Adams; grandson, Klayton Lewis Chambliss; and grandparents, Mr. Flint and Georgia Adams.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/12/2023
Sister Mirilla Hill Garrett, 95 of Shelbyville, passed away Monday morning, July 10, 2023 at home in the East Hamilton Community. She was born to the late Isiah Hill Sr. and Docia Hill on September 4, 1927, in Shelbyville, Texas.
Funeral service is Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 1pm at East Hamilton Baptist Church, Shelbyville. Visitation is Friday, July 14 at 10am until 8pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment is at Burton Field Cemetery, Shelbyville with Bishop Roosevelt Swindle officiating.
Mirilla Hill Garrett accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior at a very young age and joined East Hamilton Missionary Baptist Church, were she served faithfully.
She loved and enjoyed garden work. She always gave her lasted. Loved cooking for people. Specialty greens, friend chicken, dressing, and homemade ice cream.
She is preceded in death by mother, Docia Hill; father, Isiah Hill; loving husband, Lee Mathis Garrett; sons, Tyrone Garrett and Billy Hill; brothers, Isiah Hill, Jr. and Jewel Hill; and sisters, Eara Hill Welk and Agartha Tilley.
She leaves to cherish her memory:
Sister, Vernon Williams
Daughters:
Janice Hill
Kathleen Garrett-Bolton (Joe)
Son, Lee A. Garrett (LaQuista)
Special niece daughter, Eunice Washington
Fourteen grandchildren
Nine great-grandchildren
Host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
07/12/2023
Judy Kay Hutto Wilkins, 64, of Shelbyville, passed away Monday, July 10, 2023, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 14, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery in Huxley. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.
Born July 23, 1958, Judy is the daughter of Ed Foster Hutto and Grace Pearl Davis Hutto. She worked as an LVN for 36 years. Judy loved life, especially spending time with her daughter, grandchildren, friends and family. Antiquing and thrift shopping were among her hobbies. She attended Lydia Missionary Baptist Church in Huxley.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Chastity Wilkins
Grandchildren:
Matthew Jagger Hudman
Chesney Foster Wilkins
Cutter Lee Bradshaw
Chyler Grace Bradshaw
Sister, Sheila McDonald and husband Lannie McDonald Jr.
Nephew, Lannie McDonald III
Special friend, Peggy Davis.
Preceded in death by parents, Ed Foster Hutto and Grace Pearl Davis Hutto.
Pallbearers will be Lannie McDonald Jr., Lynn Davis, Keith Oswalt, Matthew Jagger Hudman, Chesney Foster Wilkins, and Howard Davis.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/11/2023
Joe Raymond Cockrell, age 69 of Grayson, Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM, Thursday, July 13, 2023, from the sanctuary of Cross Roads Baptist Church with Bro. Shane Duke and Bro. Tommy Prince officiating. Interment will follow in the Cross Roads Cemetery under direction of Riser & Son Funeral Home of Columbia. The visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. at the church.
Joe Raymond Cockrell was born on July 21, 1953, at Mansfield , LA to the union of his parents, James Horace Cockrell and Jo Dell Edburg and he passed from this life on July 8, 2023, at Willis Knighton Medical Center in Shreveport following an extended illness.
Joe was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and loved his family immensely. He loved chatting with the guys at Dukes Hardware in Columbia. He graduated from Texas A & M University with a Bachelors of Science Degree and participated in many different things in life. He was an active member of Holum Baptist Church and his former church Cross Roads Baptist. He served as a Sunday School teacher and even taught in the public school system. He was preceded in death by his parents, by his son, Lester Cockrell and his brother, James Cockrell.
Left to cherish his memory is:
Wife, Karen Yarbrough Cockrell of Grayson
Sons:
Jacob Lee Cockrell of Colorado
Jerry Michael Cockrell of Grayson
Anthony "Tony" Cockrell of Grayson
R. J. Cockrell of Grayson
Issac Cockrell of Grayson
Daughters:
Rachel Cockrell of Grayson
Lorie Cockrell of Grayson
Makayla Cockrell of Grayson
Sarah Cockrell of Grayson
Brothers:
Jay Dee Cockrell of Joaquin, Texas
John Cockrell of Prosper, Texas
Grandchildren:
Gabriel Cockrell
Isabella Cockrell.
Serving as pallbearers will be Brian Boyd, Ray Braddock, Tim Yarbrough, Darrell Yarbrough, Reuel Yarbrough, Stacy Yarbrough, Tracy Yarbrough and Zachary Maudsley. Honorary pallbearers include Ricky Hatten, Tony Wyant, and Howard Hogg.
07/11/2023
Elaine Williford Yarbrough, 88, of Center, passed away Monday, July 10, 2023, in Tenaha.
Funeral service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to service. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha. Jason Lee and Ruston Bush will officiate.
Born October 28, 1934, in Belmont, Louisiana, Elaine is the daughter of William Nathan Jones and Blanche Davis Jones. She worked as an LVN for 50 years. Elaine was a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Children:
Connie Fletcher of Tenaha
Cathy Lee of Tenaha
Debbie Sims and husband Allen of Shelbyville
Patricia Bush of Center
Dan Windham and wife Vonda of Nacogdoches
Donna Penny and husband Robert of Tenaha
Daughter-in-law, Sue Williford of Georgetown
Son-in-law, Calvin Evans of Troup
Grandchildren:
Eddie Fletcher and wife Teresa
Kristin Coleman and husband Chris
Renee Bush and husband Steven
Jason Lee and wife Dorothea
Ellen Singletary and husband Ronnie
Melody Vaughn and husband Chris
Brent Sims and wife Melinda
Macie Boone and husband Derek
Cassie Bush and Amber
Daniel Windham and wife Christell
Christopher Windham and wife Melanie
Shauna Welch and husband Brian
Braydon Howard and wife Shawna
Adam Penny and wife LeAnne
Leslie Meadows and husband Brent
Nick Shoalmire
33 great-grandchildren
3 great-great-grandchildren
Sisters-in-law:
Marsha Jones of Center
Libby Jones of Center
Special friends:
Sandy Runnels
Nancy Cockrell
Preceded in death by husbands, Joe Yarbrough, Robert Smith, and Chester Williford; father of her children, Dan Windham; children, Eddie Williford, Curtis Williford, and Sue Williford Evans; grandchildren, Dayna Howard and Robin Shoalmire; parents, William Nathan Jones and Blanche Davis Jones; and siblings, Leon Foster, Marie Coombs, Lavelle Jones, Harding Jones, Elbert Jones, and R.H. Jones.
Pallbearers will be Eddie Fletcher, Brent Sims, Braydon Howard, Daniel Windham, Christopher Windham, and Nick Shoalmire.
Honorary pallbearers will be Colton Bush, Dexter Vaughn, Austin Vaughn, Dillon Shoalmire, Wade Williford, and Aaron Williford.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/11/2023
Douglas Lynn Eaves, 60, of Tenaha, passed away Monday, July 10, 2023, in Tenaha.
Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha with visitation beginning at 9:30am.
Born February 5, 1963, in Denison, Douglas is the son of Jackie Warren Eaves Sr. and Adell Conway Eaves. He loved to BBQ, never met a stranger, and was always there for his family. Douglas attended First Assembly of God in Timpson.
He is survived by:
Wife, Kelli Eaves of Carthage
Sons:
Doug Eaves Jr. and wife Jennifer of Diana
Brandon Eaves and wife Alayna of Center
Daughter, Amber Eaves of Tenaha
Grandchildren:
Haylee
Ayden
DK
Trenton
Noah
Nate
Parker
Case
2 brothers and 5 sisters:
Tommy Eaves and wife Becky of Tenaha
Larry Joe Eaves and wife Delicia of Center
Debra Pratt of Center
Elaine Hicks and husband Donald of Tenaha
Angela Hurst and husband Ed of Tenaha
Becky Bridges and husband Willy of Tenaha
Brandy Kerr and husband Bryan of Nacogdoches
Also, multiple nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Jackie Warren Eaves Sr. and Adell Conway Eaves; brother, J.W. Eaves Jr.; and sister, Cynthia Eaves
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/10/2023
Alice Sue Koonce Howard, beloved wife, mother, cherished friend, and pillar of strength, passed away on July 8th, 2023 at the age of 65. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion that will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew her.
Alice was born on January 14th, 1958 in Center TX to Pauline and Robie Koonce. From a young age, it was evident that Alice possessed an extraordinary spirit and a compassionate nature that would guide her throughout her life. She was a beacon of light in the lives of those she touched, always willing to lend a helping hand and provide comfort to those in need.
As a mother, Alice was unparalleled in her love and dedication to her only child, Melissa. She poured her heart and soul into raising her, instilling in her values of compassion, resilience, and integrity.
Beyond her role as a mother, Alice was a cherished friend and confidante. Her warm smile, gentle demeanor, and compassionate ear made her a trusted and valued companion. She had an innate ability to brighten even the darkest days, offering words of wisdom, a listening ear, and a shoulder to lean on. Alice's friendships spanned generations, and she made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Alice's memory will forever be cherished by everyone who knew her, especially by her daughter and surviving husband, Bob.
We invite all those whose lives were touched by Alice to join us in a celebration of her life on Tuesday, July 11th at Watson and Sons Funeral Home at 9am, followed by a graveside service at 11am.
In honoring her memory, we can find solace in the knowledge that her spirit lives on through the memories we hold dear. Her impact on the lives she touched is immeasurable, and her memory will be cherished for generations to come. May she rest in eternal peace.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
07/08/2023
Barbara Gayle Killey, B.G., 67, passed early Tuesday, June 13, 2023 peacefully at her home in Walton, KY.
Born on the 20th day of June in the year of 1955 to Andy and Billie Killey in Houston, Tx. She graduated from Center High School in 1973 and attended Panola College, Carthage, Texas.
Barbara grew up in East Texas, yet touched dirt in many of places in this land of America. She had many obstacles in life, yet she overcame and over powered them 1 by 1. A glimpse in her life would show you how strong willed she was. At the tiny age of 5 she contracted polio and so begun her first journey of survival. She believed in Jesus, the Christ. She was a carrier for the USPS in the 70s. Despite her physical struggles and mental abuse lead by sexism in her 30s, Barbara challenged her limitations and learned to climb up and into operate heavy machinery, thus completing Diesel Driving Academy of Shreveport, Louisiana. At 62 she battled nine long months to rid her body of breast cancer. At 67 (only a few months ago) against high odds of defeat, cancer in her colon was successfully fought too. However, 53 years of inhaling nicotine, long begun a battle with COPD that she wouldn't survive.
Barbara is preceded in death by father of her 3 children, Billy Earl Edison (Aka Red Bone); son, Terry Glen Rash; daughter, Miranda Rae (Edison) Tofflemire; sister, Martha Jane (Killey) Hollinsworth; father, Andrew Leeo Killey (Aka Andy); mother, Billie Burke (Bishop) Killey (Aka Nanny); grandfather, Lee Bishop; grandfather, Albert Lilly (Big Daddy); and grandmother, IZ Baker (Bishop) Lilly (Aka Mother).
Barbara is survived by:
Sister, Marsha Ann (Killey) Clark and husband Mark of Lake Kiowa, TX
Brother, Robert Andrew Killey and wife Anita of Arcadia, TX
Daughters:
Angela Nicole Edison of Cincinnati, OH
Crystal Gayle (Edison) Hudson of Fort Thomas, KY
Grandchildren:
Elijah
Hunter
Tyler
Cheyenne
Michaela
Solomon
Lily
Alexa
Aden
Great-grandchild, Forest
Many more extended family and friends.
She will be insanely missed and loved forever. May her beautiful soul rest in peace June 20, 1955 - June 13, 2023.
Barbara is to be creamated followed by a private family gathering at a later date. Her wishes were to have her ashes scattered at the springs of her former home in East Texas.
Services under the direction of Walker Funeral Homes. To sign online condolences, visit herbwalker.com.
07/08/2023
Dimtri MyKeith Scott, 52 of Center, Texas, died on June 27, 2023, at the local emergency room. He was born to the late Lewis Viree and the late Etta Mae Scott in Alexandra, Louisiana on December 26, 1970.
Funeral Service will be held on Monday, July 10, 2023, at Hicks Memorial Chapel at 11am. Pastor Desmond Tolbert will be officiating. Committal is at Bennett Chapel Cemetery in Shelbyville, Texas.
Visitation is Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Hicks Memorial Chapel from the hours of 3pm to 5pm. A Ballon Release will be held on Kindle Street at 5:30pm on Sunday, July 9, 2023.
Dimtri M. Scott was survived by:
Iva Lanette Moore Scott of Lufkin
Special Friend, Shalonda Moore of Center
Sisters:
Reneker Hills of Tampa, Florida
Kiesel Iles of Alexandria, Louisiana
Nephews:
Andre Hills
Donte Ross
Special Nieces:
Croatia Iles
Dimitriana Iles
Destiny Ross
Honorary Mother, Louis Johnson of Center
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
07/08/2023
Jerdena Daniels, 54 of Center, passed away Monday, July 3, 2023 at home in Center, Texas.
Jerdena L. Johnson Daniels was born to Mary L and Carl C. Johnson on November 5, 1968 in Houston, Texas and later relocated to Center, Texas and made their home.
Service is Sunday, July 9, 2023 at 2pm at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church in Center with Pastor Jackson officiating. Committal is at Westview Cemetery in Center. Visitation is Saturday, July 8, 2023 from 10am until 6pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center.
Jerdena leaves to cherish her memories:
Son, Tristen Johnson Sr. (Evyone Dodd) of Center
Baby Boy, Johnathon Johnson (LaDonna) of San Antonio
Baby Girl, LaKetha Handy of Houston
Grandchildren:
Joniyah Handy of Houston
(DaQwan Smith) of Houston
Jakacee Handy of Houston
Jazaria Handy of Houston
Kristen Johnson
Imani Smith Johnson
Favorite grandson, Tristen Johnson Jr.
Granddaughters:
Neveah Johnson
Arriana Johnson
One great-grand BB (Bully Baby), A’myra Smith
Sister, Cheryl D. Johnson of Center
Brother, Charles Stanley of Center
Uncles and Aunts:
Rodney Johnson of Center
Tommy Johnson of Center
Glen Johnson (Debra) of Center
Robert L. Johnson (Jean) of Center
Charles Johnson of Dallas
Sister/Aunt/Best Friend, “Allie Dock”
Nieces:
Keisha Johnson of Center
Shaquama Dock of Center
Paula Lacy of Center
Special Friends:
Mrs Irene
Connie Brinson
“Handy Man”
Host of other relatives and friends
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center.
07/06/2023
Imogene Grantom, 77, of Center, passed away Wednesday, July 5, 2023, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 8, 2023, at Buckner Cemetery with Bro. Don Windham officiating.
Born June 28, 1946, Imogene is the daughter of Tommy Mitchell Wikinson and Mozelle Wagstaff Wilkinson. She loved life and was very giving. Her hobbies included decorating, crocheting, making crafts, and being around people. Imogene was of the Baptist faith.
Survived by:
Children:
Anita Cooper
Latonya Risinger
Suzy Diamond
Wesley Diamond
Grandchildren:
Brandi Dwire and husband Ben
Dustin Cooper
JeAnna Sanders
Erika Diamond
Sisters and brother:
Shirley Amburn
Kenneth Wilkinson and wife Sheila
Manuela Shuemaker and husband Bobby
Cindy Sanders and husband Mike
Great-grandchildren:
LeAnn Dwire
John Dwire
Bradley Dwire
Katelynn Jones
Alyssa Jones
Sean Jones
Michael Nichols Jr.
Elliott Bradshaw
Great-great-grandchildren:
Alex
Lyric
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, Tommy Mitchell Wikinson and Mozelle Wagstaff Wilkinson; brothers, Tommy Frank Wilkinson and Alton Wilkinson; grandsons, Matthew Risinger and Chad Diamond; son-in-law, Phillip Cooper; and great grandson, James Lee Diamond.
Pallbearers will be Joshua Booher, Martell Hodge, Tim Perry, Derrick Hughes, Bradley Dwire, and John Dwire. Honorary pallbearer will be Trace Windham.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/05/2023
Sarah Lynn “Sue” Fountain (94) of Center, Texas passed away at her daughter’s residence. Sarah was born to the late L.J. Hillard and the late Emma Fountain Byndom on April 20, 1929.
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at Mt. Zion CME Church, 921 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas 75935. Service time at 11am with Rev. Richard E. Edwards officiating. Committal is at Westview Cemetery. Repast is at Mt. Zion CME Church, James Hines Fellowship, Center, Texas.
Visitation is Friday, July 7, 2023, at Hicks Memorial Chapel from the hours of 5pm to 7pm.
Sue worked at E.L. Bruce for 35 plus years and retired in 1998. She graduated from C. H. Daniels High School in Center, Texas.
Sue is survived by:
Son, David L. Fountain
Daughters:
Rosemery Patton (Connell) of Timpson
Anita B. Williams (Fate) of Center
Grandson, Connell Deshaun Patton
Granddaughters:
Shalanda
Shanayah
Karla
Alicia
Chasity
Latoia
Great-Granddaughters:
Alexandria
Araya
Great-Grandsons:
Zeybrieyn
Caydreyn
Zachary
Keegan
Korgan
Tyeson
Bryce
Special Cousins:
Ray Dean McCollister
Kenneth Earl Hinson
Gwendolyn Garrett
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net.
07/05/2023
Barbara Ann Alford Smith, 81, of Tenaha, Texas, passed away on July 2, 2023, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas. She was born on July 25, 1941, in Center, Texas, to John “Jake” Bail Alford and Bennie Evelyn Cobb Alford.
A graveside service will be held at 10AM on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at Restland Cemetery, Tenaha, Texas, with Bro. Bill Holmes officiating.
Visitation will be held on July 5, 2023, from 5-7pm at Mangum Funeral Home.
Barbara was born and raised in Tenaha, Texas. She graduated from Tenaha High School Class of 1959. One of her first jobs was working the telephone switch board in Shreveport LA.
After her three sons were born she pursued her Bachelor of Arts degree in teaching from Stephen F. Austin State University. She taught for over 31 years at her favorite place, Tenaha ISD. She was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Tenaha and proudly displayed her award.
Barbara met the love of her life, Gerald “Jerry” Wayne Smith, at her aunt’s house at the young age of twelve. Jerry was sure she would be his soulmate and the two high school sweethearts were married on January 23, 1960. They spent over 63 wonderful years together raising three sons. She only left Shelby County for a few months while Jerry served in the Navy while stationed in California. Barbara was an excellent cook. She enjoyed spending time with family. She made sure her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren knew the importance of family and faith. Barbara loved to read her bible. She served as a Sunday school teacher and sang in the choir for many years before her health began to fail. She enjoyed painting, drawing, and working outdoors in her flower garden.
She is survived by:
Loving husband, Jerry Smith
Mother, Bennie Evelyn Alford
Sons:
Michael Wayne Smith and wife Robyn
Ronnie Alan Smith and wife Joann
Terry Brian Smith and wife Ramona
Brothers:
Johnny “Randall” Alford and wife Ione
John Bail Alford Jr. and wife Lori
Sisters:
Nancy Donahoe
Joyce Sloan and husband Mike
Grandchildren:
Kalen Smith and wife Jessica
Ryan Smith and wife Diane
Josh Smith and wife Val
Brittany Smith
Jessica Smith
Stephanie Smith
Shayne Stewart and wife Jasmine
Joshua Stewart
Great-Grandchildren,
Makenna
Ethan
Sophie
Zachary
Zoey
Mason
Jenna
Khai
Jozie
James
Wesley
Davina
Mason
Miles
Baby Stewart on the way
And numerous nieces and nephews.
A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Barbara is preceded in death by her father, John “Jake” Alford; brother, Larry Hoyt Alford; sister, Brenda Daniels; brother-in-law, Kenny Donahoe.
Pallbearers serving will be Kalen Smith, Ryan Smith, Josh Smith, Joshua Stewart, Lewis Johnson, and Craig Haltom.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
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