Shelby County Today

02/09/2018

Patricia “Trish” Ann Denby Wade, 57, of Savoy, Texas, passed away on February 5, 2018 in Savoy. She was born on May 14, 1960 in Center, Texas to Henry Lamar Denby and Frances Jean White Denby. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 10, 2018 at West Hamilton Cemetery with Bro. Lamar Denby, Jr. officiating. 

Trish grew up in the Goober Hill Community and graduated from Shelbyville High School. She continued her education at Grayson County College where she became a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Trish was a quiet, but caring person who enjoyed having fun with family and friends. She also loved spending time outdoors hunting, fishing or horseback riding. If you were feeling lucky, you might challenge her to a game of pool, but there were no guarantees you would win because she really enjoyed the game. Chi-Ann, Pinball Wizard, Vidor and Mia were just a few of the names that her friends and family would call her. Each one defined something special about Trish that they all loved.  Of all the moments of her life, the birth of her grandchildren ranked at the top of the list for Trish. The genuine love she had for her grandbabies was immeasurable.

Trish is survived by her son, Joshua Gallier and wife, Ashley of Savoy; mother, Frances Jean White Denby; brothers, Bro. Lamar Denby, Jr. and wife, Roxanne of Huntington, Clarence Denby and wife, Brenda of Etoile, Jamie Denby and wife, Debbie of Huntington, and Michael Ray Denby and wife, Florence of Goober Hill Community; sister, Sheila Horrocks and husband, Steve of Etoile; grandchildren, Braylee, Jasper, and Alice Gallier; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. 

She is preceded in death by her father, Henry Lamar Denby.

Pallbearers will be Robert Denby, Caleb Denby, Daniel Denby, James Denby,  Michael Ryan Denby, and Dustin Kile.
 
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.

2/5/2018

Sharron Parrozzo, 68, of Zavalla, Texas, passed away on February 5, 2018 in Zavalla. She was born on September 2, 1949 in Jacksonville, Texas to Maurice Forbis and Wanda Hughes Forbis.

Viewing will be at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine from 5pm until 7pm Thursday, February 8, 2018. Funeral services will be 2pm Friday, February 9, 2018 at Short Cemetery Chapel with interment to follow at 3pm.

Sharron and her family moved around a lot growing up as her father was transferred for work. They did return to Jacksonville where she would graduate from JHS before moving on to college to pursue a degree in nursing. Before becoming a licensed vocational nurse, Sharron worked as a waitress. One evening, a group of US Air Force Airmen dined at the establishment where she worked. After receiving some unwanted heckling from one of them, Sharron was standing her ground until another Airman stepped in and as any true gentleman would do, politely requested that the heckling stop. D.J. Parrozzo had caught her eye when he came to her rescue and the spark from that moment turned into a love story they would tell for years. 

Sharron loved her job as an LVN. Serving others was something that came natural and was more than a job; it was a way of life. She took pride in her work and was willing to do the things that were most needed, even if it required more of her. Sometimes when things would get overwhelming and stressful, Sharron would go over to help in Labor and Delivery. Those precious moments where life began were always rejuvenating for her and reminded her of the purpose God had for her life. 

Mom, as everyone would call Sharron, was a peaceful and gentle soul that was not just a caregiver by trade, but was one by heart. Sharron also had a personal relationship with the Lord that was evident in her daily walk. She loved to sing in the church choir and also sang specials with her mother. She treasured her church family and the time they were all able to fellowship. She was a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church.

Sharron’s free time was often spent doing some sort of art work. She had a passion for art her entire life. From a young age, Sharron would paint as a hobby and developed great skill overtime. She even loved painting her fingernails. If she didn’t have paint supplies around, she would just pick up a coloring book and color her stress away on those pages. Those small, quiet moments would bring her peace and happiness as well. Sharron was a breath of fresh air, a bright smile, and a warm heart that left such a positive impression on the lives of those she came in contact with. 

Sharron is survived by:
Her son: David Parrozzo and close friend, Stacey of Zavalla

Daughter: Nova Casterlin and husband, James of Minnesota

Grandchildren: 
Noah William Jones
Olivia Jones
Caitlyn Hart.

She is preceded in death by her husband, D.J. Parrozzo; parents, Maurice and Wanda Forbis; and brother. Ronnie Forbis. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine.

2/2/2018

Darrell Dean Matthews, 81, of Joaquin, passed away Friday, February 2, 2018, in Nacogdoches.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 5, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Wayne Jones and Bro. David Long officiating.  Interment will follow at Jackson Cemetery in Joaquin.

Mr. Matthews was born October 29, 1936, in Logansport, Louisiana, to Charlie Matthews and Mary Horn Matthews.  Shortly after graduating from Logansport High School, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  He served his country for six years.  His hobbies included hunting, fishing and gardening.  He grew the most delicious watermelons and tomatoes.  Mr. Matthews was a member of Jackson Missionary Baptist Church in Joaquin.

He is survived by
Daughter: Debbie Mahaffey and husband, Darren, of Diamondhead, Mississippi

Son: Jimmy Matthews and wife, Mitzi, of Shreveport, Louisiana

Granddaughter: Angie Feezor and husband, Allen, of Slidell, Louisiana

3 Great-Grandchildren

Brother: Bobby Matthews

Sisters:
Virginia Young
Exa Doss
Jan Miller

Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives

A host of friends

Preceded in death by
Son: Donnie Matthews
Parents: Charlie Matthews and Mary Horn Matthews
8 Brothers and Sisters

Pallbearers will be James Carroll, Steven Bounds, Jim Strong, Darrell Alford, Randy Bonner and Glenn Oates.  Honorary pallbearers will be Newton Johnson & John Richards

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

02/01/2018

Alford “A.L.” Samford, 85, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on February 1, 2018 in Center. He was born on February 16, 1932 in Center to J.E. and Molly Samford. Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Charles Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Jackson Cemetery. A visitation will be held prior to service time from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home.

A.L. grew up in Joaquin and attended Joaquin ISD. At a young age, he went to work with his father at the local sawmill. In his early twenties, A.L. served in the National Guard for a few years before returning home to work. Hard work was never a stranger to A.L., and he did whatever was necessary in order to help provide for his family. He would find a career in the Oil Field working two week shifts with one week at home. Even though the job was strenuous and required time away, he knew it would take care of his family. For over forty years, A.L. remained in the field before retiring and settling back into East Texas.

A.L. had a blessed life outside of the oil and gas industry. A young lady down the road, Melvie Lambert, happened to catch his eye. She raised chickens, as did he, but A.L. would still go down the road to buy them from Melvie just so he could see her. Very persistent, he finally told her that he wanted to marry her. Melvie told A.L. that she wasn’t sure her son would be okay with it, but after some persuasion, the two were married on September 24th, 1960. Their two families joined as one and through the years, they created a new and beautiful life together.

A.L. was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to squirrel hunt and most especially, enjoyed fishing. There was no place like the Sabine River bottom, and A.L. wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else. Family was extremely important to him and the time he was able to spend with them were moments treasured. They would come together for domino nights and a fish fry in the back yard enjoying all of the stories and laughter shared. A.L. was a kind-hearted, down-to-earth gentleman who will dearly missed by his loved ones. He was a member of Jackson Baptist Church in Joaquin.

A.L. is survived by:

Daughter, Sandra Riley and husband, Lee of Oklahoma

Son, Jerry Patton of Lampasas

Three grandsons: Troy Lee, Kenneth Lee, and Jesse Lee

Niece, Portia Cox.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Melvie Lambert Samford; parents, J.E. and Molly Samford; and brother, E.C. Samford.

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

01/31/2018

Pastor Curtis Archie Jr., age 68, of Hemphill, passed away Monday morning January 29, 2018 at his residence. 

Visitation will be held Thursday evening, February 1st, from 7-8 p.m. at East Liberty Baptist Church (East Liberty Community).

Funeral Services will be held Friday, February 2nd, at 11:00 a.m. at East Liberty Baptist Church (East Liberty Community) with Pastor Freddie Willson officiating. Internment to Follow at Cedar Grove Cemetary in Hemphill, TX.

Survived by:

Wife: Lovey Archie of Hemphill

Mother: Soporia Archie Richerdson, of Mansfield, LA

Daughters:
Mary Archie Lopez, of New Llano, LA
LaGatha Archie Davis, of DeRidder, LA
LaShaunda Pitts and husband Howard, of New Llano, LA

Sons:
Phillip Archie and wife Lillie, of Hemphill
Rev. Curtis Archie III and wife Devona, of New Llano, LA

Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas

1/31/2018

Funeral service for Mrs. Cora Pearl White (79) of the East Liberty Community will be Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 11:00am at East Liberty Baptist Church.  Mrs. White was born January 11, 1939.  Mrs. White died at Twin Lakes Nursing Center in San Augustine, Texas on Saturday, January 27, 2018. Rev. Fred Dade will be officiating.   

Mrs. White is survived by:
Husband: Linson White of the East Liberty Community 

Son: Joe Nathan (Antoinette) White of Lancaster, Texas 

Granddaughters:
Anitra White of Dallas, Texas
Alicia White of Greely, Colorado 
Arnesia White of Dallas, Texas

Sisters:
Lou Willie (Richard) Rolle of Lufkin, Texas 
Everten (Fred) Dade of San Augustine, Texas 
Rachel (Richard) Rocquemore of Houston, Texas 
Mary (Leroy) Reed of Maywood, Illinois 
           
Visitation will be held Friday, February 2, 2018 from the hours of 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Committal to be Thompson Cemetery in Shelbyville, Texas 

Services entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas 

01/27/2018

Brenda Lynn Burkhalter Buckner, 76, of Center, Texas, passed away on January 27, 2018 in Nacogdoches. She was born on February 19, 1941 in Center to Travis Franklin Burkhalter and Dora Mae Halsted Burkhalter. Funeral services will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, February 2, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mike Frederick officiating. Interment will follow at Buckner Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, February 1, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home. 

Brenda graduated from Center High School in 1959. She went on to college and later began working at Bruce’s Flooring where she remained for over forty years before retiring in 2007. Brenda met Lonnie Buckner early in life and the two were joined in marriage. For 51 years, they remained faithfully by one another’s side until Lonnie’s passing in 2008. “Red” as her family and friends would call Brenda, loved to spend time in the great outdoors. She and Lonnie always took advantage of days off and enjoyed fishing and camping on Lake Sam Rayburn. She was a member of Center Missionary Baptist Church.

Brenda is survived by:
Her brothers: 
Charles Burkhalter of Baytown
James Burkhalter and wife, Laura of Kingwood
Ronnie Burkhalter and wife, Joan of Madisonville, LA
Dennis Burkhalter and wife, Ann of Magnolia
Darrell Burkhalter of the Woodlands
Donnie Burkhalter and wife, Teresa of the Woodlands
Danny Burkhalter and wife, Linda of Magnolia
Corey Burkhalter and wife, Tina of Center

Sister: Judy Reynolds of Center

Numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Travis and Dora Mae Burkhalter and her husband, Lonnie Buckner.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Haley, Kevin Haley, David Haley, Richard Mayo, Scott Burkhalter and Michael Burkhalter.

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

1/26/2018

Maggie Lee Anderson Samford Sanders, 98, of Lufkin, formerly of Center, passed away Thursday, January 25, 2018, in Lufkin.  

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 27, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Rev. John Bingham and Rev. Ozay Ford officiating.  Interment will follow at Asbury Chapel Cemetery in Shelby County.  Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 12:00 noon.

Mrs. Sanders was born July 8, 1919, in Stanley, Louisiana, to Sam Anderson and Zella Bell Stephens Anderson.  Loving the outdoors, she spent much time working in her garden and flower beds.  She was a member of Saint Mark’s United Methodist Church.

She is survived by
Nephews:
Jack Harris and wife, Susan, of Rochelle, Texas
Joe Harris of Crosby, Texas
Mark Anderson and wife, Sadah, of Crosby, Texas
Dennis Permenter and wife, Judy, of Tenaha, Texas

Stepchildren:
Cissy Latiolais and husband, Mike, of Anahuac, Texas
Elaine Ellis and husband, Mike, of Richardson, Texas
Sam Sanders and wife, DeAnn, of Friendswood, Texas
Otis Sanders and wife, Susan, of Woodland, Texas

A number of grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren

Numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were special to her

Preceded in death by
Husband: Paul Harris
Husband: Dugan Samford
Husband: Otis Sanders
Parents: Sam Anderson and Zella Bell Stephens Anderson
Sisters: Eva Permenter, Ola Harris
Brothers: Curtis Anderson, S.J. Anderson, Allan Anderson, Bob Anderson

Pallbearers will be James Coleman, Lane Coleman, Colton Coleman, Otis Sanders Jr., Carter Samford and Travis Samford.  Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Anderson, Joe Harris Sr., William Hughes, Frankie Fitzgerald and Dennis Permenter.

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

1/25/18

Kenneth Earl Fields, age 58, of Center, TX passed away January 22, 2018 in LSU Shreveport, LA.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 PM on January 27, 2018 at Abundant Love Ministries with Bishop Roosevelt Swindle officiating with internment to follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Center, TX. 

A wake will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on January 26, 2018 at Community Funeral Home Chapel. 

Survived by: 
Sisters - Edna Fields, of Dallas; 
Tina Fields, of Center; 
Cherry Lee, of Corrigan; 
Phyllis Ortiz, of Corrigan; 
Demetris and Marcus Hall, of Lufkin

Brothers - Jesse and Sharonica Fields, of Dallas; 
Milton and Shirly Fields, of Center; 
Cory and Brandi Fields, of Austin; 
Darryl Lynn and Sonya Fields, of Austin

Step-Sons - Jason McCollister, of Center, and Brandon McCollister, of Center

And Friend, Sheila McCollister, of Center

Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home