Shelby County Today

09/12/2025

Jim Hooper, February 18, 1943 – September 11, 2025

The Lord took home a good cowboy on September 11th, and his name was Jim Hooper.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Haslam with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Bro. Jody Hooper, Bro. Michael Mynes, and Roland Jackson will officiate. Interment will follow at Wimberly Cemetery in Huxley.

Jim was born in Nacogdoches, Texas, on February 18, 1943, to Arnold and Annie Sue Hooper. He was raised alongside his brother, Joe, on the Bar H Ranch in Joaquin, Texas — a place that shaped the man he would become.

While attending Joaquin High School, Jim had no idea that his heart would one day be won by a girl from across the river at their rival school, Logansport High. That girl was June. They dated for five years and married on May 1, 1965. This year, they celebrated 60 years of a life well-lived and well-loved together.

Jim was rarely seen without his signature cowboy hat and lived by the motto he chose for his high school yearbook: “I don’t want to set the world on fire, but just put a spark in everyone’s heart.” And that, he surely did.

He was an entrepreneur in the truest sense. Jim wore many hats over the years — welder, chicken and cattle farmer, timberman, oil and gas investor, and business owner. But if you ever asked him what he did for a living, he’d humbly tell you, “I’m a farmer.”

He is survived by:
Devoted wife, June

Son, Wade

Daughter-in-law, Katie

Brother, Joe

Beloved grandchildren: 
Cole
Sofia

He also leaves behind nieces Jennifer Peters and Andrea Tatum, nephews Jody and Josh Hooper, and a host of extended family and friends who simply called him “Uncle Jim.”

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Sue Hooper.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Dialysis Clinic in Center, Texas, for their dedicated care, and to the compassionate team at Lifepath Hospice — Allison, Samantha, Lisa, Eileen, and Noli — for walking alongside them during this difficult time. A very special thank you is given to Heidi Ellis, whose loving care and presence meant the world to both Jim and June.

Good work, Jim Hooper, good work!

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

09/12/2025

Judy Beth Lily Permenter, 77, of Timpson, Texas, passed peacefully at home on September 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born September 24, 1947, in Nacogdoches, she was the cherished daughter of Lacie and Leola Lilly.

A proud 1965 graduate of Timpson High School, Judy went on to complete her studies at Nacogdoches Business School before beginning what would become a lifelong career with Tyson Foods. For 44 years, she poured her dedication and work ethic into her role there, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues until her retirement.

Outside of work, Judy found joy in life’s simple but meaningful pleasures. She had a gift for gardening and loved filling her home and yard with colorful flowers. She was a talented seamstress who enjoyed sewing, cross-stitch, and crochet, often creating pieces that reflected her creativity and care. Judy also treasured the friendships she made as a member of the Tenaha Sewing Club and The Order of the Eastern Star.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of Timpson Missionary Baptist Church, Judy not only attended faithfully but gave of her time generously—whether volunteering at the local food bank, helping at the polls, or serving at church events. Her quiet strength, kindness, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Judy’s greatest joy, however, was her family.

She leaves behind:
Two loving daughters who meant the world to her:
Amanda Spradlin of Alma, Arkansas
Genna Smith, and her husband, Billy of Sumiton, Alabama

She was a loving sister to Brenda Lilly Hillin of Timpson

A proud grandmother to her grandsons:
Hunter Comer of Alma, Arkansas
Kade Spradlin, both of Alma, Arkansas

She will also be remembered fondly by:
Niece, Stefanie Standard of Beckville

Nephew, Aaron Hillin, and his wife, Ashley of Timpson

Numerous great-grandchildren, a great-niece, 2 great-nephews and 2 great-great- nephews, and a wide circle of friends and church family who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lacie and Leola Lilly.

Judy’s strength and resilience were remarkable. Over the past 37 years, she faced cancer four times with unwavering courage and grace. To many, she was nothing short of a miracle—an inspiration whose faith carried her through even the hardest days. While her family and friends will miss her deeply, they find peace in knowing that her suffering has ended and that she is finally home.

A visitation will be held Friday, September 12, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson. Funeral services will follow on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. Flowers may be sent to Taylor Funeral Home, or memorial donations in Judy’s honor may be made to Timpson Missionary Baptist Church.

09/11/2025

Kelly Allen Grubbs, 75, of Pasadena, Texas, passed away on September 10, 2025, surrounded by loved ones in Pasadena, Texas. Born on February 10, 1950, in Center, Texas, to Richard Grubbs Sr. and Tommye (Duke) Grubbs. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 12PM – 1PM at Mangum Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 1PM at Mangum Funeral Home with Bro. Levi Cohorst officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. 

Kelly grew up in Center, Texas. He graduated from Center High School Class of 1968. He was proud to have been part of the Center Roughrider football team during his high school years. He was one of seven children. 

He is survived by:
Brothers:
Gary Grubbs
Paul Grubbs
Richard Grubbs Jr.
Fred Grubbs

Sisters:
Joy Austin and husband James
Tammy Grubbs Malek and husband Cliff

Numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of family that will miss him. 

Kelly is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Tommye Grubbs; grandparents, Fred Ashford and Alice Grubbs, Paul and Nina Mae Duke; and two aunts.  

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and entire staff at Texas Care & Independent Living Group Home, LBJ Hospital, and Houston Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Kelly over the past weeks, months, and years. Your dedication and support have meant so much during this time.

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

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

09/09/2025

Bobbie Jane Childress, 81, of Joaquin, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm, Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Friday, September 12, 2025, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Paul Silvey and Bro. Dean Register officiating. Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery in Logansport, Louisiana.

Born September 4, 1944, in Logansport, Louisiana, Bobbie is the daughter of Ollie Lee Odis Morris and Hazel Barlow Morris. She attended Logansport High School where she played basketball for the Lady Tigers. After high school she met and married Johnny Ray Laffitte and had a daughter, Tammy. After a tragic loss of her husband, she later met and married Don Childress of Joaquin and they added a son, Dennis, to the family. She has lived in Joaquin on the family farm for the past 58 years.

Bobbie had many jobs in her lifetime from business to teaching to church directory sales. For the last 20+ years she has been one of the Directors of God’s Food Pantry in Logansport helping serve over 150 people each month. She was also  a proud member of the Logansport Friends of the Library and was always ready to help with many activities in the community.

For the first 75 years of her life, she attended and served Bethel United Methodist Church in Logansport, where she proudly raised her family. In the last 5 years she became a loving part of Joaquin First Baptist Church where she was well known for her “famous peach cobbler” and recently the winner of the church chili cook-off!! Needless to say, her food was always a huge part of many church and family gatherings.

Her biggest legacy would be the Love and Compassion she had for her family. From attending rodeos to football games, twirling events and any other activities the grandchildren were involved in. Most recently this also included her great granddaughter.

Our mother, mamaw and great mamaw will be deeply missed but the comfort of knowing her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is by her side gives us all comfort. 

She is survived by:

Daughter, Tammy and husband Jimmy Hamilton of Joaquin

Son, Dennis Childress and wife Shawnia of Center

Grandchildren:
Cody Hamilton and wife Cassidy of Joaquin
Colby Hamilton and Alexis of Joaquin
Bobbie Sue and husband Dalton Shaw of Keatchie, Louisiana

Great-grandchildren:
Hadley Claire Hamilton
Garrett Wade Shaw
Baby Girl Shaw (on the way)

Sister, Marguerite Honick of Ponca City, Oklahoma

Numerous nieces and nephews

Preceded in death by her husband, Don Childress; husband, Johnny Ray Laffitte; parents, Odis and Hazel Morris; brother, Johnny Marvin Morris; sister, Mary Helen Roberts; and brothers-in-law, Clifford Honick and Richard Roberts.

Pallbearers will be Cody Hamilton, Colby Hamilton, Dalton Shaw, Shawn Murray, Luke Murray, and Chase Kelly. Honorary pallbearers will be William Roe and Tommy McMellon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to God’s Food Pantry, PO Box 763, Logansport, Louisiana 71049.

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

08/31/2025

Larry Shannon Matthews, 84, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, in Nacogdoches, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on November 18, 1940, in Livingston, Texas, to the late Ben J. Matthews and Mary Ann Wainwright.

Visitation will be held from 1pm - 2pm on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas. Funeral service will begin at 2pm at Mangum Funeral Home, in Center, with Bro. Rusty Hall, Bro. Chris Collins, and Bro. Levi Willoughby officiating. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery.

Larry graduated from Shelbyville High School, then he attended Stephen F. Austin. He married the love of his life Judy Martin Matthews in December 29, 1961. She was his one true love, and they devoted their lives to each other for 63 years. They had two children together, Shani and Matt. He knew they were blessings from above and he thanked God for them daily.

He had lots of different jobs along the way. The one that meant the most to him was being a fishing guide on Toledo Bend Lake for 16 years. He then worked for Southwest Outdoor Sales as a sales representative for Shimano fishing products. Later in life he retired working in the oilfield.

He loved his community and gave back to it every chance possible. He was one of the charter members of the Shelby County Bass Anglers, he was also a Shriner. He was a Master Mason at Sam Houston Lodge #32 in Shelbyville, TX. He also served as a council man for the City of Huxley for 30+ years.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, and great-grandpa and took so much pride in those roles. The most important thing in his life was his relationship with God. He made sure he paved the road for his children to know about God. There will never be another husband, dad, papaw, or Ol’ Salt like him. He left a legacy, and we were blessed as a family to be loved by him. Rejoice in Heaven and go find you a fishing hole! You’ll be forever missed. 

He is survived by:

Loving wife, Judy Matthews

Son, Matt Matthews and wife Stephanie

Daughter, Shani Oswalt and husband Kevin

Grandchildren:
Zach Oswalt
Chasity Willoughby and husband Levi
Rachel Upchurch
Ty and Sierra Matthews

Great-Grandchildren:
Elly Willoughby
Tillie Willoughby
Masie Matthews
Tripp Matthews
Kimber Oswalt

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Mary Matthews; and father and mother-in-law, Doc and Gay Martin.

Pallbearers serving will be Joey Dyess, Brad Hughes, Bryant Sanford, Brad Sanford, Jody Fancher, David Koonce, David Lindsey, Vic Cooper, Gary McDonald, and Shane Murphy. Honorary pallbearers will be James Jarod, Kevin White, David Graves, Craig Hendricks, Ron Hendricks, and Jason Wells.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

08/29/2025

Michael Wade Hughes, age 68, of Livingston, Texas passed away Sunday, July 6, 2025. He was born March 24, 1957, to Franklin Wade Hughes and Betty Jean Crump Hughes.

Mike grew up and went to school in Joaquin, Texas. He later moved to Livingston, Texas. He worked as an auto mechanic throughout his life and made many friends.

Mike is survived by:

Son, Michael Lloma Hughes of Livingston, Texas

Daughter, Mysti Nicole Hughes of Rye, Texas

Grandchildren:
McKenzie Jean Hughes
Aiden Wade Hughes

Step-grandchildren, Ean Wayne and Lillian Rose Whitemire along with their mother, Christina Ann Cangemi, all of Livingston, Texas

Sisters:
Vicky and husband, Larry Askew of Center, Texas
Brenda Ford and husband, Tommy of Spurger, Texas
Patricia Hughes of Cleveland, Texas
Martha Weaver of Center, Texas
Kathy Abbott and husband, Bill of Azle, Texas
Robby Fry and husband, Randy of Joaquin, Texas

Sister-in-law, Teresa Hughes of Joaquin, Texas

Brothers-in-law:
Bobbie Eddins of Center, Texas
John “Red” Wheless of Joaquin, Texas

Special friend who was like a brother, Doug Shook of Joaquin, Texas.

Mike is preceded in death by his mother, Betty and stepfather, Charles Rippy; father, Franklin Wade Hughes; brother, Steve Hughes, and sisters, Janie Wheless, Pam Cunningham, and Sandra Eddins. 

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Services are under the direction of Cochran Funeral Home, Livingston, Texas.

08/28/2025

Barbara Jane Hudman Green, 73, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on August 26, 2025.

She was born on October 5, 1951, to John Noble Hudman and Bernice Adkinson Hudman. Barbara grew up with her siblings, Johnnie Nix, Judy Ritter, Jeff Hudman, and Chris Hudman.

On February 20, 1970, Barbara married Jack Michael “Mike” Green. Their marriage lasted just short of 55 years, ending only with Mike’s passing in January 2025. Together they built a life defined by hard work, devotion, and family. Barbara and Mike owned and operated several businesses over the years, working side by side and supporting one another through every season. Their partnership was marked by perseverance and love, and their family is a reflection of the life they shared.

Barbara and Mike raised four children:
Craig Green, and wife, Gracie of Tenaha
Kerry Thrift, and husband, Mike of Timpson
Misty Hudspeth, and husband, Jerry of Bobo
Kyle Green, and wife, Amanda of Krum

She is also survived by:
Grandchildren Shelby
Tristan
Tylor
Kaela
Bobbie
Alex
Aiden
Brylie
Adria
Camryn

Seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Barbara worked for many years as a hairdresser in Timpson, Tenaha, and Center, where she built lasting connections with her clients and community. She was a member of Woodland Christian Church and faithfully served on the praise team for many years, sharing her beautiful soprano voice in worship.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike Green; her parents; and grandchildren Jake, Brayden, and Logan.

Barbara enjoyed spending time outdoors mowing, caring for her beloved pugs, tending to her cows, crafting, and being with her family. She loved all her children but especially loved and held extremely dear all her great grandchildren. And as of this year, we are extremely proud and grateful that we have a new member to our family in Tiffany Chirstopher, her Husband Jeremy, and their beautiful baby boy, Jeremiah. She especially loved singing alongside her husband and children, creating memories through music that her family will always cherish.

The visitation will be held Tuesday, September 2, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson. Funeral services will be on Wednesday, September 3, at 2:00 p.m. at Woodland Christian Church, officiated by her son, Pastor Kyle Green. Burial will follow at Tennessee Community Cemetery.

08/27/2025

Emily Camille York, 54, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on August 23, 2025. She was born on September 13, 1970, in Searcy, Arkansas, to Richard and Geraldine York. Camille graduated from Dougherty High School in Albany, Georgia, in 1988.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at Mangum Funeral Home, with visitation for close family beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Carroll Cemetery.

Camille will be remembered as a devoted mother, partner, daughter, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend. She was strong, kind-hearted, hardworking, and thoughtful. Her sense of humor, contagious smile, and loving heart touched everyone she came in contact with. She had a way of making people feel seen and cared for, and her laughter and smile could light up any room. Camille lived with determination and strength, never giving up, and she instilled those same values in her children and family.

She is survived by her children, 
Lindsey York-Randel, and her husband, Jacob Randel
Taylor Lilley

Her partner, Todd Wilburn

Grandchildren:
Lane Ridge Morton 
Kaycie Jo Randel

Parents,  Richard and Geraldine York

Sisters:
Renee McCoy 
Michelle York, and her husband, Izaak McGinnis

Nieces and nephews:
Kristen McCoy
McKayla McCoy
Mackenzie McGinnis
Zachary McGinnis
McKenna McCoy
Jackson McGinnis

Her partner’s children:
Paige Wilburn 
Tanner Wilburn

Her partner’s grandchildren:
Daniel Mims II
Sarah Mims
Madline Rose Mims

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Geneva and Alvy Strayhorn, Elsa and William Dean York, and her brother-in-law, Johnny Ray McCoy.

Camille’s greatest joy was being a mom and a “Millie.” The love, lessons, and strength she shared will remain her lasting legacy.

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

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

08/25/2025

Linda Byley Rushing, age 74, of Broaddus, Texas, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Nacogdoches Medical Center. 

Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine. Funeral services will be held at 3pm Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Trinity Baptist Church, located at 310 FM 83 in Broaddus, with Pastor Don Lofton officiating. Committal service and interment will follow at Liberty Hill Memorial Garden in San Augustine.

Linda was born May 27, 1951, in San Augustine County, Texas, to parents Nelson and Wilma (Epps) Byley and had been a lifelong area resident. She was quite successful in the real estate market as a respected broker operating "Linda Rushing Real Estate" office in Broaddus. 

In addition to her business, Linda was an avid supporter of the community and Broaddus School District with great efforts to many organizations, projects, and drives--including service for several years on the Broaddus ISD board of trustees. She was a member of Trinity Baptist Church.

Linda loved family and was the greatest supporter of her children and grandchildren. She was known by many names, such as Mama, Nana, Sue, Aunt Sue, and Linda Sue, but she was most proud to be called "Nana." She never missed a ballgame or a chance to watch her grandkids do anything. She was always at a basketball game, a skeet shoot, or some kind of a performance.

Her survivors include:

Son, Shannon Rushing of Broaddus

Daughter, Dr. Melanie Rushing-Saldana and her husband, Dr. Gerardo "Jerry" Saldana of Nacogdoches

Grandsons:
Sladen Saldana
Sloan Saldana
Ryan Rushing
Reese Rushing and wife Bree Ann

Granddaughter, Rylee Fountain

Great-grandchildren:
Rosee Kate Fountain
Ivy Fountain
Soon to be arriving Rowen J. Rushing

Father of her children, Ralph Gaylon Rushing

Brothers:
Mike Byley
Kent Byley and his wife Tonillia

Cousin like a sister, Mary Kay Hardy and her husband Larry

A host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nelson and Wilma Byley; daughter-in-law, Melissa Rushing; and her close friend, Sue Smith.

Pallbearers: Josh Byley, Jerrod Byley, Brett Byley, Dustin Hardy, J.R. Rushing, and Rip Smith.

Visit www.WymanRobertsFH.com for memories and condolences. Services are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.