Obituaries
10/28/2024
Larry Fred Terry, 81, of Tenaha, Texas, passed away on October 24, 2024, in Tenaha, Texas. He was born on January 12, 1943, in Vivian, Louisiana, to the late Hardy Terry and Grace (Rowe) Terry.
Honoring his wishes to be cremated and no services are planned.
Larry was born and raised in Vivian, Louisiana. He married the love of his life 59 years ago, Linda Riley. The two raised two children. He loved his wife, and children.
Larry was dedicated to his community. He served over 40 years on the Tenaha Volunteer Fire Department as Assistant Chief. He was a longtime member of Tenaha Masonic Lodge #737. Larry enjoyed fishing and watching TV with his Chihuahua companion “Daisey Mae.” He also enjoyed playing the guitar with his rowdy friends! Larry was a member of First Baptist Church Tenaha where he served as a Sunday School teacher for many years.
He is survived by:
Wife, Linda Terry
Sons:
Craig Terry
Jason Terry and wife Ashley
Sister, Kathy Frederick
Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Hardy and Grace Terry.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/28/2024
Hans Joseph Polk, 87, of Timpson, passed away Friday, October 25, 2024, in Timpson.
Liturgy of the Word Service and Rosary will be held at 5pm, Thursday, October 31, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center officiated by Father Bernard. A visitation will follow from 6pm to 9pm.
Funeral service will be held at 1pm, Friday, November 1, 2024, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Matthew Helder officiating. Interment will follow at Folsom Chapel Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born March 23, 1937, in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Hans is the son of Eduard Polk and Bertha van der Rhoer Polk. He was a survivor of the Holocaust. He served in the United States Army. Hans loved golfing and spending time with his family. He was a volunteer for CASA and the President of the Association of Credit Management. He was a member of Knights of Columbus and St. Mary’s of the Epiphany Mission Catholic Church.
He is survived by:
Wife of 38 years, Kay Polk of Timpson
Daughters:
Martha Garcia of Arlington, Texas
Roxanne Miller and husband Joe of Huntly, Virginia
Michelle Helder and husband Brad of Silverdale, Washington
Grandchildren:
Angela Hernandez
Rosalie Ohanian
David Hans Garcia
Joe Miller
Justina Murzyn
Marie Hunt
Carol Lynn Miller
Teresa Donohue
Michelle Miller
James Miller
John Paul Miller
Joshua Polk Miller
Megan Miller
Matthew Helder
Melissa Cianciarulo
14 great-grandchildren
He is preceded in death by his parents, Eduard Polk and Bertha van der Rhoer Polk; second parents, Martha and Frits van Peski; and in-laws, Jean and Paul Flournoy.
Pallbearers will be Joe Miller, James Miller, John Paul Miller, Joshua Polk Miller, David Hans Garcia, and Matthew Helder. Honorary pallbearers will be Joseph Jolley, Jeff Flournoy, and Hector Juarez.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to International Fellowship of Christians and Jews at www.ifcj.org
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/26/2024
Charles Leonard Skinner, known as "Skeeter," was born on March 28, 1930, in the Woodsprings-Bethel Community. He passed away peacefully into eternal life on October 25, 2024.
Skeeter was the third child of Cleveland Robert Skinner and Minnie Lee Bolton. He graduated from Grand Cane School on May 30, 1950, where he was a member of the basketball team.
In December 1950, Skeeter joined the U.S. Navy, serving for three years and ten months as a radar man on the USS Manchester. He often humorously recounted his adventures, claiming, “I jumped off that ship and came up speaking Chinese.”
In 1965, he purchased land in the Woodsprings-Bethel area, creating his cherished "bachelor pad." Skeeter enjoyed a long career with the railroad, often saying, “They are keeping my check good” whenever he heard a train.
Skeeter spent winters in Big Bend and summers on his homestead, where he tended a garden that provided for his neighbors and even the local raccoons. His pond was home to an alligator he named Pat.
Skeeter had a dream of living in Alaska, and he fulfilled this by taking a memorable road trip there in his VW van, joking about wearing out the tires along the way. He was passionate about woodworking, particularly crafting elaborate houses for martins, eagerly awaiting their arrival every Valentine's Day.
In his later years, Skeeter cherished time spent at home near his sister, “Rach”, and brother-in-law “Jody”, along with niece “Pookie”, her husband “MacDoogle”, and great-nephew Josh and "Lil Amy."
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Panola County Nursing and Rehabilitation for the compassionate care they provided in Skeeter's final days. He is survived by his sister Cathrine Loraine Childress and numerous nieces and nephews.
Skeeter was preceded in death by his sisters Clister Pauline Turner, Mary Margaret Alexandria, and Rachel Symanthia Wilson, as well as brothers Robert Nolan “Dootsy” Skinner and Walter Benard “Buddy” Creech.
Skeeter's stories will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“All healing is divine healing by God. Try to distinguish whether we should pray for healing of death to relieve a worn-out body.” My Precious Sister, Pauline Turner
A graveside service will be held at Bethel Cemetery on Sunday, October 27th at 10:00 am.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/25/24
Captain John Mark Moore, age 80, of Center, Texas, died on Sunday, October 6, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. John was born December 17, 1943 in Center, Texas, to Floyd Moore and Helen Fay Smith Moore. He was the second of seven children.
John graduated from Center High School in 1962 as class president and football team captain. John earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in electrical engineering from Texas A&M University in 1966 and a Master’s degree in electrical engineering from Oklahoma State University in 1968. He was a member of five national honor societies of engineering and mathematics. His name is honored in the new Texas A&M Engineering building lobby, and he is certified as a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas. John joined the Apollo Mission of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in 1968, providing technical support for in-flight communications. He subsequently was elected as a Commissioned Officer for the United States Public Health Service in 1970. He worked with the Atomic Energy Commission nuclear weapons testing program, the Environmental Protection Agency Superfund waste cleanup program, and the Environmental Protection Agency ecological monitoring program.
During his career, he directed programs with the U.S. Department of Energy, the State of Nevada, the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, and Clark County, Nevada. He concluded his 30-year career as Director of one of four EPA National Environmental Research Laboratories. John received the U.S. Public Health Service Outstanding Service Medal and the EPA Silver Medal Award and retired with the rank of Navy Public Service Captain (0-6).
John married Nancy Norris on December 27, 1968 in Shenandoah, Iowa. His children, Lisa Catherine Moore, and Richard Andrew Moore, were born in 1972 and 1975. John married Kerry Catlett, mother of Tammy Ann Daileda Lewis and Amy Lara Daileda, on May 1, 1985 in Las Vegas, Nevada. John was an active member of the St. Viator Catholic Community for fifty-four years. He served as a Lector, as a Eucharistic Minister, as a Pastor Care Minister for the Sick, and as President-elect of the St. Viator Church Parish Council. He was a well-respected leader in the St. Viator Catholic Community and served as a mentor to church volunteers.
John committed forty-five years to running. He completed ten marathons, including the Boston Marathon, multiple half marathons, and ran greater than sixty thousand miles. He earned 12 gold, 11 silver, and 7 bronze medals with the EPA Corporate Challenge in Las Vegas. He played doubles tennis and enjoyed watching national and college football and tennis. John was active with his fellow laboratory colleagues. He planned and organized team events, including the EPA Corporate Challenge in Las Vegas for eight years. His EPA marathon relay team went on to the Las Vegas Track Club Marathon relay competition. He enjoyed genealogy as a hobby.
In 2022, John was elected into the Center High School Hall of Honor.
John will be deeply missed by his wife, Kerry Catlett Moore
Children:
Dr. Lisa Moore (Tom)
Richard Moore
Tammy Lewis (Craig)
Amy Daileda (Mario)
Grandchildren:
Abigail Brown
Madeline Brown
Brother, Paul Moore (Jackie)
Sisters:
Mary Catherine Mimsy Spells
Patty Livingston (Jimmy)
Nancy Norris Devonshire.
John was preceded in death by his father, Floyd Moore; his mother, Helen Fay Smith Moore; his brothers, Steve Moore, Joey Moore, and Jeff Moore.
Funeral Mass will be at St. Viator Catholic Church, 2461 E. Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89121 on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 11AM with a rosary at 10AM with Father Rinn officiating. Burial will be at the Southern Nevada Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, with military honors. Arrangements under the direction of Palm Eastern Mortuary, 7600 S. Eastern Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89123. Online tributes may be made at www.palmeastern.com.
The family requests for memorial contributions to be made to Catholic Charities or for memorial donations to be send to the Texas A&M Foundation, 401 George Bush Dr, College Station, TX 77840. Please designate gifts “In memory of Captain John M. Moore ‘66’” in the memo line of the check. Gifts will be directed to the Helen Fay Smith Moore Memorial Scholarship account, established by John in memory of his mother.
10/25/2024
Betty C. Permenter, 96, of Center, passed away Friday, October 25, 2024, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with Mr. Andrew King officiating.
Born August 30, 1928, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Betty is the daughter of George Letford Perkins and Maxine Pearl McQuillen Perkins. She was of the Church of Christ faith.
She is survived by:
Son, Jim Permenter of Center
Daughter, Suzanne Richards of Center
Grandchildren:
Jerrod Permenter
Amy Bosscher
Hannah Lee and husband Mark
Great-grandchildren: Stephen, John, Andrew Lee, and Ella Permenter
Numerous nieces and nephews
Daughter-in-law, Janie Permenter
Preceded in death by her sons, Jerry Permenter and Mike Permenter; parents, George Letford Perkins and Maxine Pearl McQuillen Perkins; daughter-in-law, Jan Permenter; son-in-law, Rex Richards; and sister, Barbara Barnes.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/24/2024
Verbon V. Pate Jr., 86, of Center, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2024, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Bro. Porter Brewer and Bro. Harold Hanson will officiate.
Born November 13, 1937, in the Arcadia Community of Shelby County, Verbon is the son of Verbon Vester Pate Sr. and Lilly Mae Richards Pate. He served in the United States Air Force. Verbon was a member of First Baptist Church in Center, where he served as a deacon. He considered it a great honor to serve his Lord and First Baptist Church and had a passion for God’s Word. Verbon was the pillar of strength for his family, always there when needed. He was happiest when piloting a plane or traveling with Elizabeth in his fifth wheel touring the country, especially the mountains of Montana and the Dakotas. There were few places in the USA, Canada and Mexico that he had not traveled. He and Elizabeth were married for 65 years, living in Washington State for several years while serving in the Air Force. After his discharge they moved to Lake Jackson where he worked for Dow Chemical Company, and later moved back home to Center, where he went into the cattle business. Verbon’s skills as a mechanic and electrician gave him pleasure in working on large locomotive engines to telephones. Commuting to work at Marathon Oil Company for several years and having to be away from home, Elizabeth led Verbon to own Pate’s Jewelry. He mastered his skill with jewelry repair school, and soon became known as one of the best in East Texas.
He is survived by:
Wife, Elizabeth Harris Pate of Center
Brother, Jerry Pate and wife Deborah of Center
Sister, Virginia Goodrum of Jacksonville
Nieces and nephews:
Clint Pate and wife Lori
Brandy Cook and husband John
Sherry Kidd and husband Steve
Jeaniece Mukherjee
Numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; and a host of friends.
Preceded in death by his parents, Verbon Vester Pate Sr. and Lilly Mae Richards Pate.
Pallbearers will be Clint Pate, Scotty Wilkins, Ben Wilkins, Cade Harris, Clay Harris, and Teddy Hopkins. Honorary pallbearers will be the Deacons of First Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse.org or DRT Scholarship Fund, c/o Merle Howard, 420 King Street, Center, Texas 75935.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/23/2024
Holley Josephine Nowell was born in Baumholder, Germany on October 1, 1954 on a U.S. Army base.
She graduated high school in Beaumont and moved to Houston where she worked as an executive secretary. Her favorite job was as a legal secretary. Holley was creative and did lovely embroidery and crochet, grew beautiful roses, was an avid reader, enjoyed community theater and literature, and science fiction programs such as Dr. Who and Star Trek.
Holley married Eugene Smith, Sr. and they were stationed with the U.S. Coast Guard in Texas and Hawaii. Upon returning home to Texas, their son Eugene L. Smith, Jr. was born.
Holley is survived by:
Son, Eugene, Jr.
Grandchildren:
Bryan Smith of Oslo, Norway
Scarlette Rose Smith of Houston
Leila Smith of Houston, TX
As well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and extended family.
Holley is also survived by:
Sisters and brothers-in-law
Pamela and Doug Rickman of Huntsville, AL, and Laurie and Pat Sykes of Colmesneil, TX and their families.
Services will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Duncan Cemetery in Shelby County, Texas. Holley will be buried next to her mother Freddie Lee Duncan Nowell.
For information, contact Mangum Funeral Home at (936) 598-3341 or go to their website at www.mangumfh.net
10/23/2024
James Arthur (Hopper) Waller, 78, of Center, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2024, in Lufkin.
Funeral service will be held at 11am, Saturday, October 26, 2024, at Central Baptist Church in Center with visitation beginning at 10am Bro. Danny Dodson will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born June 18, 1946, in Center, James is the son of Marvin A. Waller and Melinda Whiteside Waller. He grew up in Shelby County and had a deep love for the people in his community. He never met a stranger. His family and friends were often entertained by his storytelling, and many fell prey to his loving pickin’ and joking. Hopper always had an infectious smile on his face. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing at the lake and taking care of his animals. Children from all over the county enjoyed visits to the Waller Farm to see his goats, chickens, and other animals. Above all, he loved his Lord and was a man of faith. Hopper was a life-long member of Central Baptist Church in Center.
He is survived by:
Wife of 57 years, Iva Waller of Center
Daughter, Angela Barreraz and husband Bobby of Center
Son, Marty Waller and wife Veronica of Cypress
Grandchildren:
Brittany Barreraz of Center
Brent Barreraz of Center
Sisters:
Lena Barrow of Deweyville
Marcelle Jackson and husband Douglas of Center
Brother, Larry Waller and wife Kim of China
Sister-in-law, Lora Hutto and husband James
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of friends and his 42 family at the Senior Nutrition Site.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Marvin A. Waller and Melinda Whiteside Waller; and his brothers, Lee Waller and Gypson Waller.
Pallbearers will be Marty Waller, Brent Barreraz, David Spratley, Clifford Grimes, Cameron Hutto, Colton Hutto, Chase Hutto, and Dennis Liker. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Waller, Douglas Jackson, Cecil Jackson, Maxie Eaves, Victor Bryan, and Walt Baty.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/23/2024
Dorothy Davis Goodwin, 95, of Magnolia, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2024, in Magnolia.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 25, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate. Interment will follow at Sardis Cemetery in Center. Born December 5, 1928, in Center, Dorothy is the daughter of Homer Davis and Velma Fowler Davis. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt. Dorothy was known for her beautiful flower gardens.
She is survived by:
Son, Allen Ray Goodwin, and wife, Pam of Livingston
Daughter, Linda Lois Gumm of Magnolia
Grandchildren:
Melissa Kleb, and husband, Kevin
Brittany Goodwin
Chrissy Landberg
Amber Gumm
Great-grandchildren:
Chase Sanders
Brian Kleb
Logan Landberg
Carter Landberg
Dylan Rasberry
Brother, James Davis, and wife, Joyce of Pineland
Sister, Cassie Balch of Cedar Hill
Numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by husband, Carl Goodwin; parents, Homer Davis and Velma Fowler Davis; brother, M.C. Davis; and sister, Verna Mae Cooper.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/23/2024
Ivnell Jones Moore, 96 of Lufkin, Texas, departed this physical life on October 20, 2024, at Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin, Texas.
Funeral service is at 12 noon on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at Mt. Horeb Baptist Church in the Blande lake community. Interment is at Haley Bush Cemetery with Rev. Timothy Teel officiating.
Visitation is from 2pm until 6pm on Friday, October 25, 2024 at Garner & Son Chapel, San Augustine.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Dewey Frankline Davis Moore (Charlene) of Petersberge, VA
Charles Lamar Moore of Lufkin, Texas
Kennith Wayne Moore (Lakesha) of Dallas, Texas
Daughters:
Archie Marie Johnoson of San Augustine, Texas
Lanease Culbterson (Ronald) of Houston, Texas
Elenor Moore of Lufkin, Texas
Sammie Ray Thweatt (John) of Prience George, VA
Zella McCoy (Jerry) of Houston, Texas
Didric Lathan (Kimble) of Center, Texas
A Host of Grand Children, Great Grandchildren, and Great-Great Grandchildren
As well as a host of other relatives and friends.
Services are under the direction of Percy Garner and Son Mortuary, 304 Ironosa Road, San Augustine, Texas 75972.
10/22/2024
Shirley Jean Rowland, 88, of Bryan, Texas, passed away on October 18, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Bryan, Texas. She was born on December 26, 1935, in Marshall, Texas, to the late Thomas Smith and Eunice (Lawerence) Smith.
Funeral service will be held at 2PM on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Duncan Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 1PM on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home.
Shirley was born and raised in Marshall, Texas. She graduated from Marshall High School. She met and married the love of her life, Duncan Rowland, in a few short months. The two were widows at the time. Although, little time passed before they were married, the two have spent over 47 years by each other’s side. She retired from Mellon Mortgage Company after thirty years and her and Duncan enjoyed traveling together. Shirley loved to travel in their RV as well as their private plane they owned to explore the countryside of the great USA. She enjoyed clogging, playing dominoes, bowling, and corn hole. She and Duncan volunteered many hours for Hilltop EMS. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. One of her favorite times of the year was the holidays. She loved dressing up for each holiday celebrated. Shirley loved the Lord and attended Hilltop Lake Chapel.
She is survived by:
Husband, Duncan Rowland
Sons:
Darrell Benoit and wife Cindy
Randy Rowland and wife Debbie
Daughters:
Janice Gomez and husband Ray
Cynthia Rowland
Rhonda Livingston and husband Eddie
Sister, Martha Dawson
13 Grandchildren,
16 Great-Grandchildren
Shirley is preceded in death by her son Rodney Rowland; parents, Thomas and Eunice Smith; and sisters, Naomi McCloud, Anna Kate Scott, Bessie Moore; and brother, Calvin Smith.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
10/22/2024
Louise Wilburn Tompkins, 84, of San Augustine, passed away Sunday, October 20, 2024, in San Augustine.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate. Interment will follow at Patroon Cemetery in the Patroon Community of Shelby County.
Born May 12, 1940, in Shelby County, Louise is the daughter of Horace E. Wilburn and Bernice Elliott Wilburn. Louise was raised in Shelby County. She was one of five children. Louise married the love of her life, Wyman Earl Tompkins, and the two had three children. They devoted over 64 years to each other before Wyman passed away in 2021. She worked for Deep East Texas Electric Company for over 32 years. Louise was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She enjoyed loving her family, reading, and cooking. Louise was a fantastic cook. She was a member of White Rock Baptist Church in San Augustine.
She is survived by:
Children:
Peggy Tompkins Collins, and husband, Michael of Shelbyville
Michael Tompkins, and wife Paula, of San Augustine
Keith Tompkins of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Christopher Winfield, and wife Adriane
Luke Winfield, and wife, Brittany
Jon Michael Tompkins, and wife, Jessica
Lynsie Watson, and husband, Stephen
Winston Tompkins, and wife, Ashlyn
Great-grandchildren:
Avery
Peyton
Jacob
Harleigh
Madi
Declan
Reece
Mason
Asher
Wylden
Lachlyn
Baby in February 2025
Brothers:
Travis (Tappy) Wilburn, and wife, Delma of Shelby County
Carroll Wilburn, and wife, Virginia of Shelby County
A host of nieces and nephews, family and friends who will miss her dearly.
Preceded in death by husband, Wyman Earl Tompkins; parents, Horace and Bernice Wilburn; daughter-in-law, Terri Smith Tompkins; brother, Larry Wilburn; and sister, Joyce Smith. Pallbearers will be Robert Wilburn, Scott Wilburn, Bradley Wilburn, Joe Williams, Lynn Williams, and Tim Hardy.
The family would like to thank Dr. John Oglesbee, Colonial Pines Nursing Home, and Affinity Hospice for their kind and loving care. Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/22/2024
Vivian “Nell” Smothermon Patterson, 91, of Keithville, Louisiana, passed away Monday, October 21, 2024, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Grawood Baptist Church in Keithville, Louisiana. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 25, 2024, at Old Home Cemetery in Shelby County. Bro. Chris Wilcutt will officiate.
Born May 23, 1933, in Shelby County, Vivian is the daughter of Arden Desma Smothermon and Allie Carpenter Smothermon. She owned and operated her own beauty salon for more than 15 years. Vivian enjoyed girl trips to the mountains. She loved spending time with her family and often cooked delicious meals for them. At the age of 12, she accepted the Lord as her Savior. Vivian was a member of Grawood Baptist Church in Keithville, Louisiana.
She is survived by:
Children:
Beverly Falkenberry, and husband, Frank
Rhonda Laird, and husband, Glenn Brad Patterson, and wife, Cheryl
Gail Screws, and husband, Aaron
Grandchildren:
Jason Falkenberry
Jennifer Whitfield
Laura Buivides
Suzanne Murphy
Greg Patterson
Cody Patterson
Brandon Screws
Allie Howe
12 great grandchildren
Brothers:
Glendon Smothermon
Doug Smothermon
Preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Patterson; and parents, Arden Desma Smothermon and Allie Carpenter Smothermon.
Pallbearers will be Jason Falkenberry, Michael Falkenberry, Greg Patterson, Kris Murphy, Cody Patterson, Gabe Buivides, and Josh Howe.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/21/2024
Diane Carol Wiggins Sample, 83, of Houston, Texas passed away on Friday, October 18, 2024. She was born in Houston, Texas on March 3,1941 to parents, Carolyn G. (Wiggins) Espinosa and Sheldon T. Wiggins.
Diane was a devoted wife of 63 years. She will be fondly remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend. Diane loved and prayed for her family without ceasing. Some of her many passions included spending quality time with her family and friends.
Before retirement Diane had a career in education. She was a Teacher for over 50 years. Her joy for teaching didn't end there. Diane also taught Sunday school. She was a prayer partner and a devout member of Day Spring Church. She touched lives of many around the world through missions. She was a woman of great faith and made the decision to become an Ordained Minister. Some of Diane's greatest pastimes included, attending the friendship center twice a week for fellowship and playing bingo with her friends. She greatly impacted every person she encountered until her final days on this earth. Diane will be greatly missed by all who came to know her.
Diane is preceded in death by her parents, Carolyn G. (Wiggins) Espinosa and Sheldon T. Wiggins and Son in law Del.
She is survived by:
Loving husband of 63 years, Talmadge Wane Sample
Children:
Talmadge Sample Jr. (Janice)
Mike Sample (Nancy)
Carolyn Felice (Gene)
Kelly Butler (Del)
Casey Sample (Monica)
19 grandchildren
13 great-grandchildren
Siblings:
Sheldon Tom Wiggins (Irene)
Robert Espinosa (Janie)
Denise Espinosa Loyd
Beloved dog, Woody
As well as a host of other family and friends.
A visitation for Diane will be held Friday, October 25, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039. A funeral service is scheduled to follow at 12:00 PM. Burial will be at Sample Cemetery in Center TX on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 1:00 PM.
The service will be live streamed on Brookside Memorial Funeral Home Facebook page, you may click on the following link https://www.facebook.com/BrooksideLauder.
10/21/2024
Jimmy Lynn Rhame, 74, of Center, passed away Monday, October 21, 2024, in Nacogdoches.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at Sardis Cemetery in Center with visitation beginning at Noon. Matt Miller will officiate, assisted by Bro. Don Windham and Bro. Dan Fleming.
Born August 6, 1950, in Shelby County, Jimmy is the son of Lee Esco Rhame and Sallie Adams Rhame Brittain. He spent many years in construction and most recently worked for Center ISD as a custodian. His hobbies included playing bingo and watching westerns. Jimmy was a member of Mt. Calvary Full Gospel Church, where he served as song leader.
He is survived by:
Wife, Betty Rhame of Center
Sons:
Wesley Rhame and wife Savannah of Center
Kris Rhame and wife Charla of Center;
Grandchildren:
Colton Rhame and wife Michelle
Jaden Rhame
Jake Lynn Rhame
Calob Chisenhall
Matthew Chase Rhame
Caden Sowell
Zachary Retherford and wife Alaina
Great-grandchildren:
Cailyn Rhame
Cole Rhame
Raelyn Retherford
Fisher Retherford
Sisters:
Sue Jansen of Center
Tammy Lewis of Center
Numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives; and a host of friends.
Preceded in death by his granddaughter, Alyssa Retherford; parents, Lee Esco Rhame and Sallie Adams Rhame Brittain; sister, Cathy Lee Hamlin; sister-in-law, Iva Nell Miller; and brothers-in-law, Gene Miller and David Jansen.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
10/14/2024
Dallas Joseph Berry, 79, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on October 13, 2024, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was born on April 1, 1945.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be held from 5:00 – 6:00PM on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
A full obituary will be published soon.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
10/14/2024
Patricia “Nikki” Diaz, 41, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on October 12, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Tyler, Texas, after a brief illness. She was born on October 18, 1982, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Charles Brown and Mary (Evans) Brown.
Funeral service will be held at 2PM on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Tommy Cunningham officiating. Interment will follow at Jackson Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 6-8PM on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
Nikki attended Joaquin High School. Her favorite hobbies were coloring, doing yard work, and spending time with family and friends. The family will miss having her at holiday gatherings. Her brother, JR, loved to see how mad he could make her. Regardless of how mad he made her, she always let it be known she loved her “baby brother” very dearly.
She is survived by:
Son, Dustyn Raymond and wife Haley
Parents:
Butch and Mary Brown
Johnny and Karen Parker
Grandmother, Janie Thornton
Sister, April Childress and husband Brandon
Brothers:
JR Brown and wife Katie
Tyler Parker and wife Hannah
A host of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Special friend, “Mama Jackie”
Best friend and special cousin, MT Amox
Nikki is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Helen Jane and Wayne Evans; paternal grandparents, Hugh and Sue Brown; grandparents, John and Betty Cunningham; aunt, Sherry Shaw; uncles, Marion Cunningham and Morris Wayne Brown.
The family would like to send a special thanks to the ICU staff at UT Health Tyler for the compassionate care shown during Nickki’s stay.
Pallbearers serving will be M.T. Amox, Johnathon Amox Sr., Johnathon Amox Jr., Tommy Amox, J.D. Glaze, and Jimmy Wayne Evans.
Honorary pallbearers serving will be Charles Carroll, Hunter Carroll, Lane Glaze, Justyn Brown, Jadyn Brown, Benson Brown, Devon Lee, Degan Lee, and Levi Childress.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/14/2024
Deborah Lynette Sellman, 65, of Center, passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Ephesus Baptist Church in Shelbyville with visitation beginning at 1pm. Bro. Ronnie Wheeler will officiate. Interment will follow at Sellman Family Cemetery.
Born October 1, 1959, in Beaumont, Deborah is the daughter of Eugene Gum and Patsy Hale Gum. She loved reading, camping, boating, and SFA Basketball. Deborah was a member of Gideon’s International, Women’s Service League, and Ephesus Baptist Church.
She is survived by:
Husband of 33 years, Henry Ennis Sellman Jr. of Center
Daughters:
Amanda and husband Kaleb Castor of Waxahachie
Ashley Sellman of Plano
Stepson, Henry Ennis Sellman III and wife Kayla of Coleman, Alabama
Granddaughter, Colbie Lynn Castor
Brothers and sister:
Craig Gum and wife, Luann of Ft. Pierce, Florida
Kevin Gum of Stillwater, Oklahoma
Tracey and husband, Mike Robinson of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Preceded in death by parents, Eugene Gum and Patsy Hale Gum; and brother, Brian Gum.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
10/11/2024
Lawrence E. “Sonny” Gardner Sr., 89 of Ypsilanti, Michigan, died on September 23, 2024, in Michigan. He was born to the parent of Mr. Louis “Harry” Gardner on March 10, 1935, in Center, Texas.
Memorial Service for Mr. Lawarence E Gardner Sr. will be held Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Metropolitan Memorial Baptist Church, 431 Hawkins St., Ypsilanti, MI 48197 at 11am.
“Sonny” is survived by:
Wife, Caroline Gardner of Michigan
Son, Ed Malloy & wife Alicia of Michigan
Brother, Larry Gardner of Michigan
Daughters:
Karen & husband Maurice Glenn of Michigan
Shirley & husband Rex Carter of Michigan
Sisters:
Barbara Shepard of Mobil Alabama
Lois Williams of Mobil Alabama
Uncle: Lucky & Wilda Gardner of Center, Texas
Special 1st Cousin, Levady and C.W. Gillaspie of Center, Texas
Host of additional 1st cousins.
Services announced by Hicks Mortuary, Center, Texas.
10/08/2024
Janice Marie Stough Harrold 12/30/1954 - 10/08/2024. Janice was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. Janice passed away in Spring Texas after a courageous battle with cancer. Janice was born in Ypsilanti Michigan to parents Garlton Mozell Stough and Glenda Aline Stough.
She is survived by:
Children:
Kristy Arndt (with daughter-in-law Amanda Arndt)
Randy Thomas Arndt (with daughter-in-law Gabriell Arndt)
Grandchildren:
Hailey McLemore
Derek Arndt
Reanna Morris
Ryan Arndt
Great-grandchildren:
Preston McLemore and Mason McLemore
Erick Harrold (with daughter-in-law Stephanie Council
Grandchildren:
Jasmine Harrold
Anthony Harrold
Skylar Harrold
EmmaLee Harrold
Brothers: Bill, Tom and Bob Stough and their families.
Janice also leaves behind many loving friends. Janice lived in several different places but always wanted to be near her children and grandchildren. She loved fishing, singing karaoke to motown hits, playing cards but most of all she loved spending time with her family. She loved the Detroit Tigers and Lions! Her laughter and smile could light up a room and brighten the darkest of days. She was loved by many and will be missed by all.
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