Obituaries
06/21/2017
Dennis Ray Gardner (56) of Houston, Texas, died Sunday, June 18, 2017 at a local hospital in Houston, Texas.
A memorial service will be Friday, June 23, 2017 at 12 o'clock noon at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. A funeral service will be Saturday, June 24, 2017 at All Peoples' Funeral Home at 12 o'clock noon in Houston, Texas. Visitation will be at 11:00 am on Saturday at All Peoples' Funeral Home.
Mr Gardner is survived by:
Wife: Erma Betts, Gardner of Houston, Texas
Children: Shametray Betts, Shilisa Betts, Elizabeth Gardner, & James Hurley III all of Houston
Mother: Betty Sanders (John) of Center, Texas
Stepmother: Emma Shirlene Brittian of Crockett, Texas
Siblings:
Valerie Hudson (David) of Henderson, Texas
Sugarman Gardner (Debra) of Center, Texas
Atoshia "Shanek" Ayers of Center, Texas
David Brittian of Baltimore
Murray Brittian of Baltimore
Elmira Pickrom (Carlos) of Crockett, Texas
Uncles: Tom Gardner (Katy) of Shelbyville, Texas and Lucky Gardner (Wilda) of Center, Texas
Internment: Houston Memorial Gardens 2426 Cullen Blvd., Houston, Texas 77581
Repass: 6039 Sunrise Light Lane, Houston, Texas 77048
Hicks Mortuary and All Peoples' Funeral Home located 5654 Reed Road, Houston, Texas 77033 are announcing funeral services.
06/20/2017
Carolyn M. Austin, 86, of Apex, died on June 18, 2017 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Gaston, County a daughter of the late Franklin B. McArver ad Margaret Knox McArver.
Carolyn was a member of Apex United Methodist Church. She received her Bachelors of Arts Degree in Primary Education from Lenoir Ryne College. She taught Elementary Education in Hickory Public School Systems. She enjoyed spending time with her family and BINGO on Monday evenings.
Carolyn was predeceased by her husband Edward B. Austin in 2011.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Amy Lockman and husband Michael of Waco, TX
Meg Camp and husband James of Center, TX
Son, David Austin and his wife Beth of Cary
Six grandchildren:
Jay Camp and wife Taylor of Katy, TX
Amy Camp of Spring, TX
Megan Camp of Forney, TX
Ben Austin and wife Kathleen of Apex
Chris Austin and wife Monica of Durham
Katie Austin of Cary
Great-grandson, Jackson Edward Camp of Katy, TX
Brother, Frank McArver and wife Linda of Austin, TX.
A memorial service will be held Friday, June 23, 2017 at Glenaire Retirement Community, 4000 Glenaire Cir, Cary, NC 27511.
A graveside service will be held 11:30 am Saturday, June 24, 2017 at Gaston Memorial Park, 1200 S New Hope Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Glenaire Retirement Community or to the Apex United Methodist Church.
06/19/2017
Kenneth Sanders, age 82, lifelong resident of Center passed away Sunday, June 18, 2017 at his residence in Center.
Services will be 3p.m. Friday, June 23, 2017, Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Bennie Boles officiating. Private family graveside and burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Center following the service. Viewing will be one hour prior to the service starting at 2 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel.
He was born December 2, 1934 in Center, Texas to parents, Herbert Loraine Sanders and Tennie “Dutch” (Brookshire) Sanders. Kenneth graduated from Center High School and was a 1955 graduate of The University of Texas. After graduating he worked at his father’s stamp store in Center for several years. He owned and operated Sander’s Food Store located on the South side of the Center square for twenty years. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Center.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert & Dutch Sanders and his son, Kenneth Sanders, Jr.
He is survived by:
Wife of 61 years, Tharon (Nelson) Sanders of Center
Children:
Lisa Sanders Massey and husband, John H. Massey of Kerrville
Shari Sanders Smith of Colorado Springs, CO
Angela Sanders Howard and husband, Thomas of Center
Grandchildren:
Eric Massey and wife, Nancy
Kristen Massey
Ashlynn Smith and Anslee Smith
Wesley Howard and Emily Howard
Sister, Frances Lee Jones of Houston
Nieces: Cathy Murray, Elizabeth Broyles and Deanna Jackson
Special Cousins:
David Smelley and wife, Dorothy
Dr. Jim Smelley and wife, Carol
Abbye Lynn Branch and husband, Tom
Charles Neal Evinger
Buddy Nelson
In lieu of flowers family request donations be made in memory of Kenneth Sanders to the charity of your choice.
You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas
06/19/2017
Meliton Lira, age 51 of Center, passed away Sunday, June 18, 2017 in Jacksonville.
Services are pending at this time.
He was a member of Iglesia Bautista Monte Sinai
Among his survivors include:
Wife, Maria Lira of Mexico
9 children:
Juan Lira and wife, Cristine
Alex Lira and wife, Anasilva
Ceasar Lira
Yesenia Lira Gutierres and husband, Alejandro
Gerardo Lira
Maria Lira
Blanca Lira
Belinda Lira
Poloma Lira
14 Grandchidren
Brother, Antonio Lira
Numerous other relatives and friends
You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas
06/19/2017
Bobby Bartlett was born April 10, 1947 in Freeport, Texas to Woodrow Wilson Bartlett and Evelyn Landry Bartlett. He died June 17, 2017 in Garrison, Texas
Services will be held 1:00 pm, Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at the Caledonia Church. Visitation will be one hour before service 12:00-1:00 pm.
Bobby married his best friend Darleen on August 1974 they were married for 42 years. After they were married Bobby was accepted as a Game Warden in May 1976 and he served until May 1996. He was loved and respected by many and will be deeply missed.
Survivors:
Wife: Darleen Bartlett of Garrison, Texas
Sisters:
Betty Bartlett of San Antonio, Texas
Brenda Bartlett of San Antonio, Texas
Jackie Wiley of Oregon
Numerous other relatives and friends
Honorary Pallbearers: Kenny Lamb, Ken Ramsey, Glenn Ramsey, Toby Ramsey, Nathan Ramsey, Steven Ramsey, Gus Irwin, Ronie Degges
He was preceded in death by parents
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Caledonia Cemetery, P.O. Box 535, Garrison, Texas 75946
Family being served by Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas
06/19/2017
James Randall “Randy” Windham, 56, of Center, passed away Saturday, June 17, 2017, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 23, 2017, at Reynolds Cemetery in Shelby County with Bro. Don Windham officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at Watson & Sons Funeral Home, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Mr. Windham was born June 30, 1960, in Center, to Willie Everett Windham and Jenny Marie Reynolds Windham. He was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by
Son: David Hendricks and wife, Shelby, of DeBerry
Grandchildren:
Brylee Hendricks of DeBerry
Brynley Hendricks of DeBerry
Father: Willie Everett Windham of Center
Sister: Kay Lawson and husband, Garry, of Center
Brother: Donald Everett Windham and wife, Sherree, of Dayton
Numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, other relatives and friends
Preceded in death by
Mother: Jenny Marie Reynolds Windham
Brother: Michael Windham
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Watson & Sons Funeral Home to assist with final expenses.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/19/2017
Mildred “Millie” Warr, age 81, passed away Saturday, June 17, 2017 at Pine Grove Nursing Home in Center.
Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with her son, Bro. Bobby Warr officiating and her grandson, Billy Warr assisting. Burial will follow at Old Salem Cemetery in Center. Visitation will be Monday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home.
She was born December 24, 1935 in Shelby County in the Choice Community to parents Luther Wilbur and Evie Lena (Askew) Wright. She worked at Sears for many years and she was a homemaker. She was a member of Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church.
She is preceded in death by her parents Luther and Evie Wright, three brothers; E.C Wright, Scotty Wright and Bruce Wright, four sisters; Norma Bass, Fran Clark, Verlene Barlow and Nell Williams.
She is survived by:
Husband of 65 years, Robert Oren Warr of Center
Sons:
Bobby Warr and wife, Karen of Center
Wesley Warr and wife, Rhonda of Center
Grandchildren:
Billy Bob Warr and wife, Sarah of Henderson
Micah Warr and wife, Katya of Henderson
Sharayah Warr of Center
Cooper Warr and wife, Crystal of Center
Cody Warr and fiancée, Lauren of Center
Great-Grandchildren:
Braydon, Kaiden, Ileigha, Lex, Eden and Elissa
Carolina, Cannon, Christian, Lilly, Caidi and Aiden
Brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Gene and Kay Warr of Gulfport, Mississippi
Sister-in-law: June Jones of Nacogdoches
Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Pallbearers: Jeff Warr, Brent Warr, Micha Warr, Cooper Warr, Cody Warr and Brent Clark
Honorary Pallbearers: Dan Cook, Larry Williams and Robert Bruce Windham
You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas
06/16/2017
Donald T Burrows passed away Thursday June 15, 2017. Don was a father, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, banker, community leader, mentor and friend to many. He was born in Nacogdoches, Texas on May 29, 1937. He was proud to be a 5th generation Texan.
He attended Nacogdoches schools, Kilgore College and is a graduate of the School of Banking of the South at Louisiana State University.
Don spent most of his professional career as a banker on Galveston Island. He began his career as a collector for GMAC then became a loan officer at Moody National Bank before moving to First Hutchings Sealy National Bank as a Vice President and loan officer. He finished his Galveston career as Chairman of the Board and CEO of American Bank. While in Galveston he was a member of the Optimist Club, Lions Club, Galveston Planning Commission, Galveston Historical Commission, board of trustees at O'Connell High School and he and Jo Ann served as Captains of the Treasure Ball. He also was proud of the fact that he gave many of the young people of Galveston their first job and also taught them the values of good credit, making many of them their very first loans. For many years he came in to O'Connell Junior High School and gave students a brief lesson on "Money & Banking".
After his children completed their high school educations he moved back to East Texas to the family farm. He became President and CEO of First State Bank in Timpson where he completed his banking career. He served as a member of the Timpson City Council, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce, volunteered at the annual Frontiers Day Festival and loved his community and the people in it. He was also personally active in restoring many of the old buildings on the Timpson Town Square.
Donald T Burrows is survived by his loving wife Beverly Jean Burrows; son, Don Burrows, Jr and wife Kim; daughters, Cindy Burrows Cappa and husband Mike, Terri Burrows Martin and husband John; grandchildren, Amber Janak Black and husband David, Dustin Janak and wife Amber, Ryan Janak, Hannah Janak, Nathan Janak, Heather Gray, Brittany Dupree and husband Jason, Kaela Hudman, Donald T Burrows, lll and wife Sarah and Payton Rae Burrows; two nieces, Jana Burrows and Kay Burrows; 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. Don loved his family above all else and was thrilled when they would all come together for celebrations. He was the provider, protector and patriarch of his growing family.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Jo Ann Burrows; parents, the late Judge Carl S. Burrows and Agnes Lowery Burrows; brothers Carl S. Burrows, Jr. and Erwin Earl "Bubba" Burrows.
Pallbearers are Donald T. Burrows, III, Dustin Janak, Ryan Janak, Nathan Janak, David Black and Bayley Black.
Honorary Pallbearers are Jerry Wood, Kenneth Prince, Doug Connelly, Mike Cappa, and John Martin.
The Burrows family would like to thank all of his caregivers. Especially his beloved wife Beverly Burrows who was always by his side during these last few months, Brittany Dupree, Heather Gray, Shauna Windham Sanford, the medical team at UTMB's Jennie Sealy Hospital in Galveston and the caring and compassionate nurses Peggy, Rebel and Maureen At Methodist St John's in Clear Lake.
Services will be held Friday June 23rd at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas with family visitation beginning at 1pm and a funeral service At 2pm officiated by the Rev. Doc Lazarine. Burial will follow at the Weaver Cemetery.
To convey your condolences or sign an online register, please visit www.taylorfh.net.
06/15/2017
Mrs. Jane Ann Land, 109, of Shelbyville passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at her residence.
Services will be 1pm Saturday, June 17 at Triumph 1st Pentecostal Church in Shelbyville, Tx. Interment will follow at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville with Rev. Karl Moore officiating.
Mrs. Jane Ann Land is survived by:
Daughter: Lola Bell Land of Shelbyville, Tx.
Sister: Pinkie Atkinson of Shelbyville, Tx.
Brother: Willie Swindle of Shelbyville, Tx.
06/14/2017
Marcus Henry (Bill) Cranford, was born October 22, 1925 to Virgil Cranford and Orbin “Fowler” Cranford in Garrison, Texas. He entered into rest June 14, 2017 in Garrison, Texas.
Services will be 10:00 am, Saturday, June 17, 2017 at Cold Springs Baptist Church, Garrison, Texas burial will follow at Cold Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Friday, June 16, 2017 at Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas
Survivors:
Sons:
Richard Cranford of Garrison, Texas
Roger Dale Cranford and wife Beren of Garrison, Texas
Donnie Cranford of Garrison, Texas
Grandchildren:
Christie Stokes
Keith Cranford
Amy Cook
Marc Cranford
Laurie Fuller
Casey Cranford
Amanda Crump
Leigh Cranford
Holly Elder
Denie Cranford
Brad Davis
Callie Halbert
Kelsey Standefer
Tess Cranford
Great-Grandchildren 29
Great-Great-Grandchildren 6
Brother: Blackie Cranford and wife Ima Lee of Lufkin, Texas
Sister: Ima J. Harris and husband Charles of Garrison, Texas
Special Friend: Dorothy Jean Staine
Sale Barn Friends:
H.M. Mitchell
Melvis Bell
Host of other friends and relatives
Preceded in death by:
Wife: Ann Cranford
Grandson: Donald Alex Cranford
Parents: Virgil and Orbin Cranford
Brothers:
Snap Cranford
Bobby Cranford
Buster Cranford
Vernis Cranford
Sisters:
Verlene Williams
Dorlene Box
All his old Cowboy Buddies
06/14/2017
Ollie Ray Barr, 89, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on June 14, 2017. He was born on March 31, 1928 in Timpson, Texas to Erastus and Mary Etta (Stone) Barr. Visitation will be on Thursday, June 15, 2017 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be on Friday, June 16, 2017 at 2:00 PM at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson with Bro. Paul Barr and Bro. Clyde Hess officiating. Interment will follow at Caledonia Cemetery.
Ollie was born and raised one of nine children in his family in Shelby County, Texas. After completing school he continued to be self taught to do many things. Ollie Ray worked for Worsham Grocery before getting his job with Bupane and starting his lifelong career. He served many customers throughout Shelby County and the surrounding areas delivering propane. He retired from Shelby LP Gas with over 40 years of service in 1999 before starting a late career with McAdam’s Propane and retiring with approximately 10 years of service in 2009 at the young age of 80. Ollie Ray spent numerous nights out making sure his customers had propane for their farms and residences. When Ollie Ray wasn’t driving the propane truck you could find him farming and ranching here in Shelby County. He enjoyed working and feeding his cattle in his spare time. Ollie Ray was a member of the Masonic Lodge #437 in Timpson, Texas. He will definitely be missed by all that knew him.
Ollie Ray is survived by his brother, Carlos Barr and wife Lou Ella; sisters, Carrie Chaney, Louise Nolan, Billie Birdwell and husband Charles, and Bertie Hess; nephews, Charles Barr, Ricky Nolen, Randy Nolen, Charles Birdwell, Ray Morrison, Clyde Hess, Jr., Orval Hess, James Daniel Hess, Edgar Chaney, Larry Chaney; nieces, Tammy Hayes, Diana Hess, Sandra Parsons, Mary Holter, Sharon McCorkle, Angela Holloway, Gina Broussard, Rachel Mabe, and Tammy Haymon; numerous family and friends that will miss him dearly.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James Daniel Barr, Erastus Barr Jr.; and sister, Linda Morrison.
Pallbearers are Gareth Yoder, Joshua Yoder, Ray Morrison, Billy Broussard, Ricky Nolen, and Randy Nolen.
The family is being served by Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.taylorfh.net.
06/13/2017
Bobby Reid "Bob" Kristensen, 88, died on June 4, 2017. Bob was a native Texan, born in Timpson TX on August 30, 1928. He had a great love for the small towns in East and Central Texas and found the citizens of those towns to be "the salt of the earth."
After graduating from Timpson High School, Bob attended Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in Lexington VA toward the end of WWII, completing 2 years of accelerated college. Then he entered the U.S. Army, completing Ranger Training. Upon discharge, Bob attended and graduated from Rice University in Houston TX. While pursuing post-graduate work on a PhD at Rice, he was recalled to active duty in the Korean War with the mobilization of the First Ranger Battalion. He was commissioned in the field and received two Purple Hearts, Bronze Star with V for Valor, Prisoner of War medal, and Army Commendation medal.
Following the Korean War, Bob attended the Perkins School of Theology of Southern Methodist University in Dallas TX, graduating with a Master of Theology degree. He received a Doctor of Theology degree from Union Theological Seminary in New York City. Dr. Kristensen was also the recipient of numerous honorary degrees. He was ordained in the Methodist ministry, serving churches in Bronson, Brookeland, Anderson, Whitehouse, Troup, St. Phillip's of Houston, and First United Methodist of Houston.
In 1967, Bob left active ministry, entering the insurance business. He earned the CLU degree and pursued this career but still missed the pastorate. Bob began fulltime ministry again in 1982 as senior pastor at Hilltop Lakes Chapel in Hilltop Lakes TX and joyously ministered there for over 18 years until he retired. In 2007, Bob and his wife, Virginia, moved to Cinco Ranch in Katy TX to be near their five children, and they became members of St. Peter's United Methodist Church.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace Kristensen and Lou Willie Shipp Kristensen, his wife of 47 years, Mary Virginia Ward Kristensen, and a grandson, Seth Tyler Havers.
He is survived by his two daughters, Suzanne Miller and Cynthia Hepler, and their spouses. He is also survived by Virginia's three children, Maurice Estlinbaum, John Estlinbaum, and Mary Kettle, and their spouses, as well as a combined 8 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 11am on Saturday, June 17, at Hilltop Lakes Chapel, #2 Hilltop Drive, Hilltop Lakes TX 77871, with Dr. Tony Taylor, Senior Pastor, presiding. A private family interment will be held at Hopewell Cemetery near Hilltop Lakes. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hilltop Lakes Chapel Foundation, PO Box 1143, Hilltop Lakes TX 77871.
06/12/2017
Dorothy Hughes Shofner, 74, of Center, passed away Saturday, June 10, 2017, in Nacogdoches.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 13, 2017, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 14, 2017, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Sister Melba Rodgers officiating. Interment will follow at Holly Springs Cemetery in Shelby County.
Mrs. Shofner was born September 6, 1942, in Center, to R.C. Hughes and Willie Eva Bowlin Hughes. She was a housekeeper at Holiday Nursing Home for many years. She attended Willow Grove Community Church.
She is survived by
Children:
Sherri Shofner Molitor of Center
Jason Hunter Shofner and wife, Denise, of Houston
Grandchildren:
Shianne Shofner of Center
Angel Shofner of Houston
Honorary Granddaughter: Braycee Berry of Houston
Numerous nieces, nephews, other family and friends
Preceded in death by
Husband: J.B. Shofner
Mother: Willie Eva Hughes Burns
Father: R. C. Hughes
Sister: Johnnie Ruth Adams
Brothers: Robert Hughes, Wayne Hughes, Jack Hughes, Harvey Hughes, R.C. Hughes Jr.
Pallbearers will be Bill Whitley, Truitt Whitley, Christopher Whitley, Shannon Shofner, Mickey Shofner and Kenneth Hubble. Honorary pallbearers will be Rob Quigley, Charlie Smith, Charlie Smith Jr. and Virgil “Red” Worthey.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/12/2017
Chuck Greear, age 47 of Tenaha, passed away Saturday, June 10, 2017 in Center after a sudden illness.
Graveside service will be 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 15, 2017 at Ramah Cemetery in Tenaha with his friend, Jerrod Nutt to speak. No visitation is planned.
Chuck was born November 30, 1969 in Harris County, Texas to parents, Matthew Charles Greear, Sr. and Sandra Hood Greear who precede him in death.
He is survived by :
Wife: Julia Warr Greear of Tenaha
Son: Hayden Greear & wife, Stacie of Tenaha
Daughter: Haley Greear of Tenaha
Grandchildren:
Gunner Greear
Layne Green
Sister: Cynthia Young of TN
Numerous other relatives and friends
You may sign the online registry book at www.mangumfuneralhome.com Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home Center, Texas
06/10/2017
Robbie Jane Hairston, 89, of Timpson, Texas passed away on June 9, 2017 in Timpson, Texas. Born September 12, 1927, Robbie Jane is the daughter of the late Robert Jefferson and Clara Mae (Drewery) Wood.
Robbie Jane was born and raised in the Wilder Community in Timpson, Texas. She spent many years working for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company before retiring and returning back to her hometown of Timpson. Robbie Jane was a very loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She enjoyed crocheting, canning, and cooking. She was an Ordained Minister and helped in many churches around Timpson and surrounding areas. Robbie Jane was also willing to lend a hand to those in need. She loved her Lord and Savior.
Robbie Jane is survived by her son, Morris Allen Hairston, and wife Kristie Carroll Branch-Hairston of Timpson, Texas; daughter, Teresa McCauley and husband, Jimmy of Center, Texas; five grandchildren, John Jacob Miller and wife Amanda, Lauren Hairston, Logan Hairston, Jennifer Faul, and Julia Hairston; two great-grandchildren; Zane and Brayden Miller; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Robert Anthony Wood, John Oscar Wood; sister, Bonnie Fay Haaksma; and brother in law, Henry Haaksma.
The family is being served by Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas. To send condolences or to sign an online register, visit www.taylorfh.net.
06/09/2017
Graveside service for Joyce F. Boozer Brooks, 86, of Tenaha, will be at 10:00 AM, on Monday, June 12, 2017 at Fairview Cemetery in Nacogdoches, Texas.
Mrs. Brooks passed away on June 7, 2017 in Caldwell, Texas. She was born on September 6, 1930 in Nacogdoches.
Joyce was born and raised in the Nacogdoches area, she is a graduate of Nacogdoches High School; soon after she attended Stephen F. Austin State University where she received her Master’s Degree in Education. Her joy in life was teaching, she spent 30 years as a teacher. Joyce was loved by her students, and she touched many lives throughout her career. She taught in Tenaha ISD and Timpson ISD among others.
Joyce met her husband, Marlin Brooks, they were married for a total of fifty-seven years, and raised three wonderful children together on a farm in Tenaha. They lived there for more than 40+ years.
She enjoyed gardening, among her favorite things were growing tomatoes and flowers. In her free time, she would travel, care for her dogs, and she especially loved the time spent with her grandchildren.
She loved her Lord and Savior and was a member of the Tenaha Church of Christ for many years.
Mrs. Brooks is survived by her son, Jimmy Brooks of Tenaha; daughter, Melinda White and husband, Dale White, of College Station; brother, Wayne Boozer of Douglass; 5 grandchildren: Melanie Ballard, Chad Sherrod, Shellie Henry, Jon Brooks, and Ashley Sims; 16 great grandchildren: Dawson Williams, Cameron Shofner, Hadley Sims, Cade Sims, Abigail Jones, Briley Jones, Carmen Brooks, Bryson Brooks, Drew Henry, Macee Henry, Riley, Kace, Lexi, and Logan Sherrod, Caleb Holleman and Michael Lofton, along with other family and friends who will miss her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Fern Boozer; her husband, Marlin Brooks; son, Billy Brooks; grandson, Lee Ballard, and brother, Charles Boozer.
Services under the direction of Laird Funeral Home, Nacogdoches, Texas.
06/09/2017
Josephine Martin Spratley, 88, of Center, passed away Friday, June 9, 2017, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 12, 2017, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 13, 2017, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Sister Melba Rodgers officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Mrs. Spratley was born October 2, 1928, in Columbia, Louisiana, to Calb Thompson and Zula Gibson Thompson. She loved flowers and working in her garden.
She is survived by
Children:
Angelee Randolph of Houma, Louisiana
Bobby Martin and wife, Patty, of the Woodlands
JoAnn Price of Center
Charlene Battles of Dickerson
Jewel Rhodes and husband, Rickey, of Center
Grandchildren:
Jimmy Randolph
Lisa Perez
Karen Fenter
Bobby Randolph
Michael Rowland
Pam Howell
Bill Rowland
Tiffany Taylor
James Martin
Jeremy Martin
Bryan Battles
Susan O’Rourke
Terry Atkison Jr.
Taja Harvey
Colby Adkison
Rickey Rhodes
Danielle Backenbury
Rhoda Kitts
Jennifer Mazon
36 Great-Grandchildren
9 Great-Great-Grandchildren
Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
1 Brother
1 Sister
Preceded in death by
Husband: Uel Martin
Husband: John Spratley
Daughter: Lois Jean Sims
Granddaughter: Tammy Rowland
Parents: Calb Thompson and Zula Gibson Thompson
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/08/2017
Dovie Lee Sholar, 90, of Huxley, passed away Wednesday, June 7, 2017, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 9, 2017, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 10, 2017, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating. Interment will follow at Sholar Cemetery in Joaquin.
Mrs. Sholar was born February 16, 1927, to William Oswald Cockrell and Rosa Dean Cockrell. She was a member of Lydia Missionary Baptist Church.
She is survived by
Children:
Rosa M. Horn and husband, Alton, of Shreveport, Louisiana
Julia Ann Taylor of Livingston
David Sholar and wife, Janet, of Houston
Betty Lou Richardson of Longview
Grandchildren:
Michael David Horn
Cindy MaLea Bishop
Gina Michele Meyer
Tiffany LeAnne Stockton
Brannon David “Bubba” Sholar
Cheryl Suggs
Angelia Dawn McKnight
Great-Grandchildren:
Joshua Rogers
Kristen Page Meyer
Patrick Meyer
Lilly Faith Bishop
Emily Grace Bishop
Jaycee Suggs
Matthew Meyer
Kennidy Stockton
Preston McKnight
Destiny McKnight
Sister: Sally Furlow of Huxley
Numerous nieces, nephews and friends
Preceded in death by
Husband: Elvin John Sholar
Parents: William Oswald Cockrell and Rosa Dean Cockrell
2 Sisters
2 Brothers
Pallbearers will be Randall Eaves, Bubba Suggs, Adam Stockton, Tony Sechler, Michael Horn and Wesley Lewis.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/08/2017
Ouida Faye Brock, 66 of Tenaha, passed away Saturday morning, June 3, 2017 at Focused Care Nursing Home, center, Texas.
Funeral service will be held at 2pm Saturday, June 10, 2017 at St. John Cemetery in Tenaha. Wake is Friday, June 9, 2017 from 6pm until 8pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center, Texas. Interment at St. John Cemetery, Tenaha with Rev. Harold Patton officiating.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Reginald Brock of Tenaha
Radley Brock of Center
Sisters:
Joy (Asie) Goodwin of Tenaha
Rose (Michael) Lloyd of Tenaha
Brother, Michael (LaQuita) Watts of Center
13 Grandchildren, 18 Great-Grandchildren
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas 75935.
06/08/2017
Pamela M. Phelps, 61, of Center, passed away peacefully Thursday, June 8, 2017, at her home surrounded by her family.
Pam was born and raised in Galveston County, to father Harvey Gene Sutton and mother Mary Jane Richards Sutton. As the eldest sibling and only daughter, Pam embraced being a leader and caretaker; traits that she exuded throughout her life.
In 1975, Pam wed Jerry R. Phelps with whom she shared 40 years of marriage. Shortly after they wed, Pam and Jerry moved to Center, Texas where they raised their two children, Valerie Ogle and Nathan Phelps, and created a circle of close friends that quickly became their extended family. Her Texas pride and love of people directed her to obtain her license with Town & Country Real Estate. During her 38 years in Center, Pam was an active community member and a dedicated steward of service.
She was a member of First United Methodist Church where she acted as MYF leader for many years. She also joined Beta Sigma Phi sorority and served in multiple leadership positions. Her proudest appointment was serving as the Executive Director of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. A position she held for 19 years.
Pam maintained a love for the Texas Coast and Galveston. Her family’s annual summer trip to Bolivar was also an open invitation to anyone who happened to be down on the coast. And Pam, an effortless hostess, was always at the ready to greet you with something delicious.
She is lovingly remembered as a woman who treasured friendships, remembered all the details of a shared conversation, and believed you should rejoice in all of life’s moments, big and small.
The funeral service for Pamela M. Phelps will be held at 4:00 p.m., Monday, June 12, 2017, at First United Methodist Church in Center. The family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall immediately proceeding the service. Then Tuesday, June 13, 2017, a visitation will be held at Crowder Funeral Home in Dickinson, Texas at 2:00 p.m. Graveside service will follow at 4:00 p.m. at Galveston Memorial Park Cemetery in Hitchcock.
She is survived by
Children:
Valerie Ogle and husband, Tommy, of Longview
Nathan Phelps and wife, Amber, of Center
Grandchildren:
Maggie and Mollie Kate Ogle
Kiptyn and Baylin Phelps
Brothers:
Richard Sutton and wife, Karen, of League City
Russell Sutton and wife, Donna, of Pearland
Nieces:
Emily Sutton Arbuckle of League City
Kate Sutton Shimek and husband, Chris, of Friendswood
Erika Lacey and husband, David, of Dickinson
Brooke Sutton of Pearland
Brittany Decoteau and husband, Kameron, of Pearland
Uncle: Richard T. Richards, of Longview
Cousins:
Carter Richards of Michigan
Margaret Banta and husband, Jon, of Longview
Preceded in death by
Husband: Jerry Phelps
Parents: Harvey Gene Sutton and Mary Jane Richards Sutton
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First United Methodist Church, 211 Porter Street, Center, Texas 75935 or Affinity Hospice, 1400 Tenaha Street, Suite C., Center, Texas 75935.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
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