Obituaries
03/29/2023
John Henry Raines, Jr., 82, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on March 26, 2023, in Garrison, Texas. He was born on June 27, 1940, in Caledonia, Texas, to the late John Henry and Dollie Mae (Durrett) Raines. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas with Bro. John Elvis Raines officiating.
A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 am prior to the service on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas.
John Henry Raines Jr. was born June 27th 1940 in Caledonia, Texas to Dollie Mae and John Henry Raines Sr. Growing up in the Caledonia community, as a young boy, John could be found harvesting bundles of sugar cane to sell, raising livestock, and tending to the garden on their family farm. As John grew into a young man, he also grew to have a deep love for horses, spending a lot of his free time trail riding.
The Old Spanish Trail, stretching for over 100 miles, was one of his favorite annual activities before meeting a lovely lady working the checkout counter at Amos Foods. He began going into the store every single day and buying several bunches of bananas, prompting the young woman to ask, “do you have a pet monkey or something?” That young woman was Sara Nell Rhodes and she would eventually become his wife on December 22, 1969. In their marriage, they raised four beautiful children together; Pam, Brenda, Wayne, and Johnica.
John owned and operated a feed store in the Timpson community for 25 years called “Raines Feed.” He was a staple in this small town, providing a pulp wood yard, a fertilizing truck business, ferrying within the horse community, and bailed and sold hay among many other things. He once told a story about the first round hay bailer to ever touch the ground in east Texas. He bought it in 1973 off the train car in Mt. Enterprise, and never got back to the house with it before wearing it out. John was a mentor and father figure to many people in the community. He was a big man with a bigger heart and he will always hold a place in ours.
John is survived by:
Daughters:
Johnica Raines and Jason Morton
Brenda Mackey and husband, Charles
Pam Hendricks and Bruce Windham
Bonus daughter, Paula Mullins
Grandchildren:
Amber Renick and husband, Eric
Matt Harbison and wife, Jayme
Haylee Hollman and husband, Josh
Derek Hendricks
Joseph Hendricks and wife, Monica
Brittany Ragsdale and husband, Michael
Charlsey Kirk
Chaylon Mackey and wife, Katie
Madeline Lowery
Makenzie Lowery
Meredith Lowery
Jennifer Hooker
Abbie Morton
Morgan Russell
Great-grandchildren:
Erica Mullins and husband, Hunter
Claycee Renick
Logan Renick
Mayson Harbison
Garrett and Luke Harbison
Hudson Fonbile
Addison Fonbile
Ally Kimbro
Baylor Kimbro
Bracken Kimbro
Macklyn Kirk
Beckett Mackey
Brystol Mackey
Miller Russell
Brother, Buck Raines
Numerous nieces and nephews
He is preceded in death by his parents, John Henry and Dollie Mae (Durrett) Raines, Sr.; wife, Sara Nell Raines; beloved son, Wayne Hooker; sisters, Lorene Chandler and Lerlene Raines.
Serving as pallbearers are Matt Harbison, Joe Hendricks, Chaylon Mackey, Baylor Kimbro, Mayson Harbison, Andy Raines, Marc Raines, and Larry Crump. Honorary pallbearers are Brecken Kimbro, Logan Renick, and Jaxon Stephenson.
03/27/2032
Darrell Lynn Sanford, 67, of Center, Texas, passed away on March 26, 2023, in Nacogdoches, Texas surrounded by loved ones. He was born on January 26, 1956, in Center, Texas, to the late Clarence E. Sanford and Sondia Windham Sanford.
Visitation will be held from 5-7PM on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10am Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home with Bro. Josh Sanford officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.
Darrell was born and raised in Shelby County. He graduated from Center High School Class of 1974. He and his forever love, Pamela Johnson, met in their Geometry class at Center High School. The two high school sweethearts were married on September 18, 1976. They had two wonderful boys, Scott and Kirk. Darrell retired from the US postal service after many years of service. He was a man of many talents. He owned and operated Darrell’s BBQ and Sanford and Sons Lawncare. Darrell loved working in his garden and cooking for the family. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Darrell was a practical person who provided for his family and made sure they were always taken care of. His laughter will be missed.
He is survived by:
Loving wife, Pamela Sanford
Sons,
Scott Christopher Sanford and wife Jenny
Kirk Bradley Sanford and wife Kelli
Grandchildren:
Jaxon Barrett Sanford
Madelyn Grace Sanford
Maddox Cole Sanford
Raylin Gauge Sanford
Carter Byron Andrews
Raylan Christopher Drach
A host of family and friends that will miss him dearly
Darrell is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Sondia Sanford; and father and mother in law, Fred and Loyce Johnson.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Pallbearers serving will be D’Santos (Pancho) Sanjuan, Pedro Garcia, Ediel Hernandez, Ervin Lopez, Gamadial Lopez, Jairo Zelaya, Jose Mendez, Jose Lopez, Julio Lopez, Melvin DeLeon.
Honorary pallbearers serving will be Freddy Notes, Loyd Irwin, Travis Wall, and Larry Horn.
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
03/25/2023
O.B. (Bert) Furlow passed peacefully in his home on the morning of Friday, March the 24th 2023.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 26, 2023, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Kevin Windham and Bro. Michael McArthur officiating. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery in Huxley.
He was born in Huxley, Texas, on September 30th 1930 to parents, Emmitt and Levell Dean Furlow. He faithfully served his country in the Marine Corps from February 1952 to February 1954. Later, he worked at Bruce Hardwood Floors. He served as Justice of the Peace for over 30 years. He was a faithful member of Lydia Missionary Baptist Church. He would often spend his days listening to Southern Gospel Music. He deeply loved God as well as his church and family.
He is survived by:
Wife of 64 years, Janice Furlow
Daughter, Annette Jernigan and husband Jody
Son, Mike Furlow and wife Pam
Sister, Mozell Scarborough
Sisters-in-law:
Helen Furlow
Mae Furlow
Grandchildren:
Samantha Ranft and husband Brant
Jeremy Yates
Logan Furlow
Taylor McGee and husband Tony
Alan Weeks
Great-grandchildren:
Kale Ranft
Jaycee Ranft
Blakely Ranft
Bella McGee
As well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt and Levell Dean Furlow; brothers, Clovis, James, and Milton Furlow; daughter-in-law, Toletha Harrington Furlow; brother-in-law, Larry Scarborough; and sister-in-law, Joan Furlow.
Pallbearers will be Richard Furlow, Sammy Furlow, Mike Furlow, Jody Jernigan, Jeremy Yates, Logan Furlow, and Allen Weeks. Honorary pallbearers will be Buddy Kay, Ashton Bragg, Rick Haggard, Keith Oswalt, and Brant Raft.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/23/2023
Carlos Booth, 48 of Center, passed away Monday, March 20, 2023.
Funeral service is at 2pm Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Bennett Chapel Church in Shelbyville with Bishop W.C. Martin officiating. Interment is at Liberty Cemetery in Joaquin.
He is survived by:
Wife, Wyesa Booth of Center
Mother, Betty Session of Center
Father, Cleveland Booth of Center
Sons:
Carlos Booth of Center
Jerome Ratcliff of Shelbyville
Mekhi Caraway of Center
Cory Wilson of Center
Daughters:
Tynae Swindle of Shelbyville
Shymone Ratcliff of Center
KoNeisha Ratcliff of Center
Ne’Kenzee Caraway of Center
Sisters:
Aretha Garrett of Center
Angela Booth of Center
Aluina Cartwright of Shelbyville
Sheena Norris of Center
God Sister, Sophia Cartwright of Center
Brothers-in-law:
DeNorris Blackshire of Timpson
Rodney Swindle of Shelbyville
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas 75935.
03/22/2023
Lee Anna Olds, 71, of Garrison, Texas, passed away on March 20, 2023, in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on December 24, 1951, in Duncan, Oklahoma, to the late Dee and Iva Anna (Coulter) Sloan.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at Garrison Funeral Home in Garrison, Texas with Bro. Shak Arrington officiating. Interment is at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Timpson.
A visitation will be held from 12 noon to 1pm prior to the service on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at Garrison Funeral Home in Garrison, Texas.
Lee grew up in Oklahoma and moved to Dallas, Texas later. While in Dallas, she met Morris Hutto. The pair were inseparable from that moment on. Lee and Morris moved to Garrison in 1996 and have called it home ever since. They had a loving 35 years together before she was called home. Lee enjoyed cooking and had a love for animals. Nothing gave her more pleasure than to be outdoors, whether fishing or hunting, or just taking in the beauty of nature. Lee will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Lee is survived by her significant other, Morris Hutto and several nephews and nieces.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Dee and Iva Sloan; and a sister, DeaLoris Bernard.
Serving as pallbearers are: Eric Boudar, Doug Davis, Matt Nichols, JD King, Fischer Rothenberger, and Jason Mullins. Honorary pallbearers are Glen Bernard and Raymond Wiggins.
Online condolences can be made at garrisonfh.net
03/21/2023
Helen Tyler McSwain, 80, of Joaquin, formerly of Logansport, Louisiana, passed away Monday, March 20, 2023, in Mont Belvieu TX.
Funeral service will be held at Noon, Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Charles Hall will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born February 16, 1943, in Norfork, Virginia, Helen is the daughter of William Herman Tyler and Jennie Wimberly O’Riley. Helen married her husband, Billy, and together they raised two sons – John Paul and Tim McSwain. While her boys and later her grandkids were young, Helen enjoyed spending time with them during athletic events and outdoor activities. Billy and Helen also enjoyed family RV trips. A devoted Christian with a strong faith, Helen laid a foundation for her children by reading Bible stories to them each morning before school. During their childhood, Helen worked in the family business – Mac’s Frosty Shop in Logansport and later, she drove a school bus for DeSoto Parish. After her children were grown, Helen pursued her passion as a caregiver by earning a degree in Nursing. As an LPN, she worked for Willis Knighton Hospital. She later retired to stay home and care for her grandson, Tyler. In retirement, she enjoyed traveling to local churches to hear Gospel music bands. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Logansport for over 20 years and was most recently a member of Jackson Missionary Baptist Church.
She is survived by:
Son, Tim McSwain and wife Paula of Mont Belvieu
Grandchildren:
Daniel McSwain of Anahuac
Tyler McSwain and wife Peyton of Joaquin
Logan McSwain and wife Kara of Anahuac
Bailee Smith and husband Cole of Joaquin
Great-grandchildren:
Landry, John Tyler, and Paxton McSwain
Mikelyn Smith
Harper McSwain
Daughter-in-law, Joel McSwain Bumback of Joaquin
Brother, Willie Tyler of Huxley
Sister, Grace McMahan of Austin
Preceded in death by husband of 60 years, Billy McSwain; son, John Paul McSwain; father, William Herman Tyler and wife, Ollie; and mother, Jennie Wimberly O’Riley and husband Pat.
Pallbearers will be Daniel McSwain, Tyler McSwain, Logan McSwain, Cole Smith, Jimmy McSwain, and Stephen Ford. Honorary pallbearer will be John Tyler McSwain.
Memorial donations can be made in Helen’s name to Jackson Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 1047, Joaquin, Texas 75954.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/21/2023
Patrick Henry Barton, 31, of Center, passed away Sunday, March 19, 2023, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at Noon, Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Oaklawn Memorial Park with visitation at 11:00 a.m. at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born April 16, 1991, in Center, Patrick is the son of Larry Barton and Libby Smith Barton. He served in the National Guard. His hobbies included fishing and playing chess.
He is survived by:
Mother, Libby Barton of Center
Brother, Larry G. Barton and wife Sarah of Iowa
Sister, Carlee Renee Barton of Timpson
Nephews:
Christian Barton
Jason Barton
Chase Barton
Preceded in death by dad, Larry Barton; grandparents, Jessie Barton, John Henry Smith, and Peggy Jean Smith.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/20/2023
Billy Gilcrease, age 66, of Center, Texas passed away on March 16, 2023 in Dallas, Texas after a brief illness.
Billy was born January 13, 1957 in Lufkin, Texas. He started working at a young age at Moore Brothers Construction Company and later working for East Texas Asphalt at which he retired. He was married to his wife, Cheryl Gilcrease, for 29 years. Billy enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing and hunting. His passion was fishing, but always looked forward to, and loved, spending opening day of dove season with his son, Billy Jr., every year.
He is survived by:
Wife, Cheryl Gilcrease, of Center
Son, Billy Gilcrease Jr. and fiancé Hannah of Center
Step-daughter, Sally Murphree and husband Justin of Center
Step-son, Jonathan Eshliman and wife Chelsea of Center
Grandchildren:
Greyson Wayne Gilcrease of Center
Hallie Emerson of Center
Brittany LeValley of Center
Kambree Murphree of Center
Kye Murphree of Center
Wesley Murphree of Center
Tessa Eshliman of Shelbyville
Johnny Eshliman of Shelbyville
Harley Eshliman of Shelbyville
Brother, Roy Gilcrease and wife Judy of Pollok
Sister, Linda Sue Gates and husband William of Lufkin
Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins
Preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Ethel Gilcrease; brothers, David Gilcrease, and Lynn Gilcrease; sisters, Bennie Phillips, Jo Pigg, and Jane Simmons.
Please join us to celebrate the amazing life of Billy. We will gather to share some of our favorite memories and favorite stories and remember the wonderful husband, dad, brother, uncle and friend who will be greatly missed, Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 2 p.m., at 578 County Road 1443 in Center, Texas.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
03/18/2023
Royce E. Perry, 87, of Tenaha passed away Friday, March 17, 2023, to be with the Lord.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Tenaha. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Tenaha with Br. Bill Holmes and Bro. Joe Bob Alexander officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha.
Royce was born on December 27, 1935 in Anderson, Texas to Lewis Elbert Perry and Irene Walker Perry. He had several different careers, one being a cattleman and hay baler. He was a member of the Tenaha Masonic Lodge #737 for over 50 years. During that time, he received the Golden Trowel Award in 1991 from the Tenaha Lodge. He was a member of the Men’s III Sunday School Class and Tenaha First Baptist Church. Royce loved his family and his church.
He is survived by:
Wife, Linda Perry
Son, Michael Perry
Daughter, Janet Perry
Step-son, Johnnie Walker and wife Valerie
Step-daughter, Brenda Agnew and husband Jerry
Grandchildren:
Sarah Alves and husband Shelton
Janie Homan and husband Corey
Blake Walker
Scott Agnew
Amy Stephens and husband Peter
Leslie Walker
Eight great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis Elbert Perry and Irene Walker Perry; wives, Peggy Perry and Mary Perry; brothers, Charles Perry and Robert Perry; step-son, Mark Walker; grandson, Brent Walker; aunt and uncle who helped raise him; Viola Walker Christian and Julian Christian.
Pallbearers will be Keith Martin, Chip Roberson, Blake Walker, Harry Perry, Rusty Kilpatrick, Peter Stephens and Bobby Parker. Honorary pallbearers will be Al Howard, Ron Barker, Jerry Agnew, Johnnie Walker and John Harrington.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tenaha First Baptist Church or Tenaha Masonic Lodge #737.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors in Shreveport, Dr. Koticha, Dr. Ann Bryan and Affinity Hospice.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/18/2023
Kathrine Marie Boles, age 36, of Houston, Texas passed away on Friday, March 10, 2023. Kathrine was born in Plano, Texas to Pete and the late Donna Kirkpatrick Low.She entered the world a little earlier than expected, much like she left it.
After graduating from Center High School in 2005, she worked and attended college where she met and married Nolan Boles. Their family increased in size when a daughter, Elizabeth Grace Marie Boles, made her appearance. A few short years down the road, they welcomed a son, William Joseph Gene Boles, a micro-preemie whose birth ignited a passion for social work in Kathrine’s heart. In 2014, she earned a Master’s of Social Work degree from Stephen F. Austin State University to add to her Bachelor’s (2012) and Associate’s (2011) of Criminal Justice/Police Science degrees.
She is survived by:
Husband, Nolan Eugene Boles
Daughter, Elizabeth
Son, William
Father, Pete Low (Robbie)
Aunt, Cassy Ellis (Neuman)
Maternal grandmother, Martha King Kirkpatrick,
Aunt, Danita Kirkpatrick West (Randy)
Numerous cousins
Kathrine was preceded in death by her mother, Donna Marie Kirkpatrick, maternal grandfather, Carl William Kirkpatrick, and paternal grandparents, SGM Gene M. Low and Frances Delores Low.
She loved animals and enjoyed reading, coloring, and doing crafts. Since the very beginning, Kathrine was filled with a love for others that surpassed her love for herself. Our Katie’s beautiful smile and kind nature will never be forgotten.
A visitation for Kathrine will be held Saturday, March 18, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, 5400 North St, Nacogdoches, Texas 75965. Following the visitation will be a graveside service at 4:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Park, Nacogdoches, Texas.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.casonmonk-metcalf.com for the Boles family.
03/16/2023
Funeral services for our Mother, Dorthy Adell Livingston, will be Monday, March 20th at 11 AM with visitation at 9 AM at Watson and Sons Chapel in Center. Burial will be at Mt. Herman Cemetery.
We, the family, request your prayers as we lay her to rest. She was an amazing woman. She lived to be 94 years old. Her first priority was her family. She was married on September 27, 1946 to our daddy, James Marron (Jim) Livingston. We kids and all the grands called him Papa. They both came from large families. She was one of 10 kids and he was one of 13. They never knew any other life other than taking care of family. At a young age, their responsibilities included taking care of siblings, there being so many in their families. Many ‘dates’ included a brother or sister or more along for the ride and their early married life found them sharing a home sometimes with parents, siblings and their sibling’s wives and kids.
She and Papa had 5 Children, 14 Grandchildren, 30 Great-grandchildren, and 8 Great-great grandchildren with another Great-great grandson expected in May.
She loved being a homemaker. She loved antiques, flower gardening, fishing, deer hunting, arrowhead hunting, volleyball, dominoes and 42 and was an avid lover of nature and the outdoors. She especially loved Autumn. She and her best friend and cousin, Velma Luman Smith, carved out loads of creek bank fun for us kids, and they loved to go treasure hunting, ‘bottle digging’, fishing, and hunted out all manner of outdoor fun for us to enjoy. She loved to raise a vegetable garden every year and spent many hours canning and preserving the bounty for her family. She always had her table set at least 3 times a day with a southern home cooked meal on the table. She always kept our home clean and we always had clean clothes to wear, no matter if the clothes hung out to dry on the clothesline got frozen in the winter and had to be brought in like a stack of planks. Almost everything had to be starched and ironed back then. Early on she made almost all of our clothes and each and every morning she had a pan of homemade biscuits. We never had to wonder ‘if’ she’d be home for supper when we got in from school or from the fields. She had supper ready and waiting. And if you just ‘happened by’ she’d fix up a mighty good home cooked meal in a hurry. She was an awesome cook and had a flair for decorating. She raised us 5 kids and provided a home for several of her brothers. She and Papa were watermelon farmers and raised cattle and chickens. There wasn’t much she couldn’t put her hand to. It takes a lot of patience and stamina to be a farmer’s wife, with all of its ups and downs, chores, long hours and knowing what can happen and probably will at the worst times. But she was always up to the task with faith and fortitude to get it done.
She was a longtime member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church and was baptized May 14, 1961. She made sure us kids went to church and lived a Godly life. She loved her Lord and Savior. I know her wish would be for each and every one of her family and you all to know Him too. We are so thankful for her suffering is over and rejoice because we know she is in Heaven.
She is survived by:
Three sons:
James Lynn and Catherine Livingston of Center
Richard and Tammy Livingston of Center
Chuck and Heather Livingston of Lufkin
Two Daughters:
Debbie Samford of Center
Donna Lynch of Shelbyville
Seven Grandsons:
Ronnie Livingston of Center
Craig and Sharon Livingston of Sunnyvale
Bryan and Amanda Livingston of Garrison
Dewayne Lovell of Center
Jeremy and Ashley Lynch of San Augustine
Ryan and Eryn Lynch of Austin
Eric and Bianca Livingston of Tyler
Five Granddaughters:
Deanne and Jason Sample of Tenaha
Delana Lovell of Center
Amy and Eddie Bridwell of Center
Stephanie and Kris Akins of Blanchard, OK
Hannah Bauerle of College Station
Thirteen Great Grandsons:
Zack Evans
Cash and Caitlin Livingston
Darin Livingston
Gauge and Ashlyn Sample
Hunter Sample and Brittany Hutto
Briar Sample
Jax Haislip and Kayla Green
Connor Lovell
Jake Lovell
Zane Lovell
Dustin Bridwell
David Akins
Jace Lynch
Fifteen Great Granddaughters:
Emily and Adam Fausett
Whitney and Brian McDaniel
Madison Livingston and Cole Bickham
Kaylee Emerson
Amber and Brent Smallwood
Ally Livingston
Sarah Malanthy
Natalie Bridwell
Leah Livingston
Taryn Livingston
Kaycee Vaughn
Toni Lovell
Annelise Akins
Carolyn Akins
Luna Raine Bauerle
Eight Great-great Grandchildren:
Blake McDaniel, Serenity McDaniel, Adeline Bickham, Avery Bickham, Jase Bickham, Max Livingston, Wes Livingston, Caleb Livingston
Sister, Sue Cameron
Brothers and Sisters–in-law:
Patsy Luman
Dawn Luman
Pauline Brittain
Sammy and Joy Jones
Dora Jean Livingston
Dianne Jones
Sammy and Linda Clifton
Preceded in death by:
Husband, James Marron “Jim” Livingston
Parents, Elmer Luman and Irene Hooper Luman Isbell
Grandsons, Richard Wesley Livingston and Gregory Scott Livingston
Great-Grandson, Tony Dustin Lovell
Great-Granddaughter, Brooklyn Heflin Livingston
Son-in-law, Jerry Glynn Lynch
Daughter-in-law, Dianne Lynch Livingston
Father and Mother-in-law, Louis and Della Abbott Livingston
Seven Brothers: Dewey Luman, Ray Luman, Rex Luman, Royce Luman, Joe Luman, James Luman, and Kenny Luman
Sister, Odell Luman Samford
Special Cousin and Friend, Velma Luman Smith
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Heart to Heart Hospice, Pine Grove Nursing Home, Colonial Pines Nursing Home, Nacogdoches Medical Center, Dr. John Oglesbee, Dr. David Venthur, Dr. Christopher Gayden at Performance Orthopedics, and all the doctors, nurses and caregivers during my mother’s trials.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Texas Childrens Hospital or Providence Missionary Baptist Church.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/15/2023
Ethelda “Scooter” Davis, 84 of Lufkin, died Sunday, March 12, 2023 in a hospice facility in Tyler. She was born September 25, 1938 in Center, Texas to the late Olean McClain and Buren Chandler
Funeral service will be held Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Kent Childers officiating. Interment will follow in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park. The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday morning prior to the service.
Mrs. Davis had resided in Lufkin for 50 years and was a member of Providence Baptist Church.
Survivors include:
Son-in-law, Randy Baggett of Tyler
Five grandsons
10 great-grandchildren
Numerous other relatives.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Chester R. Davis; son, Jay “Randy” Davis; daughters, Wanda Ray Baggett, Rita Jo Manthey; and brother, Delton Chandler.
Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed, at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.
Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.
03/15/2023
Charles Ray Williams, 78 of Center, was called home by the Lord on Monday, March 13, 2023. He was born August 18, 1944 to the late Willie Pilot and Annie Cook Williams.
Funeral service is at 11am on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at Loop 500 Church of Christ, 3216 Loop 500 East, Center, Texas. Evangelist Minister LaVel Tukes, Sr. officiating. Visitation is from 10am until 6pm Friday, March 17, 2023 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center, Texas.
Charles worked in the poultry business until his health problems began. He fought a good fight.
He married Rosie and to this union two sons were born, Cedric and Daryl Williams (deceased). He later married Eunice Young on April 5, 1995. He raised her four children: Jacqueline, Angle, Bernadette, and Samuel as his own. They were married 27 years.
He leaves to cherish his memory:
Wife, Eunice Faye Williams of Center
Daughters:
Jacqueline Henry (Johnny) of Huntsville, TX
Angel Young of Center
Bernadette Simon of Houston
Son, Samuel Jones of Lufkin
Sister, Eula Ray Harris (James) of Houston
Brothers:
Fate William, Jr. (Anita) of Center
James Williams (Paula) of Center
Seven Brothers-in-law and Five Sisters-in-law
Fourteen Grandchildren and 20 Great-grandchildren
Host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends
He was preceded in death by both of his fathers, Willie Pilot and Bro. Fate Williams; mother, Annie Williams; sons, Cedric Williams and Daryl Williams; sister, Lena Mae Jones; and brothers, Robert L. Williams and Leon Williams.
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
03/15/2023
Minister Jerry Glenn Lathan, 75 of Center, passed away on March 8, 2023. He was born on November 16, 1947 to the late Ms. Clara Rushing and Mr. Dick Lathan.
A celebration of life is Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 1pm at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, 908 Daniels Street, Center, Texas 75935 with Bishop Roosevelt Swindle, Eulogist. Visitation is Friday, March 17, from 10am until 6pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center, Texas.
He graduated from C.H. Daniels High School in Center. After graduating, he served his country by joining the Marines. He was a member of Triumph 1st Pentecostal Church. He was married to Joyce Ann Bolton for 43 years.
He returned to his home town of Center and once again became part of the community. In 2013 he ran for Center City Council. After winning, he served on the council for 9 years until November 2022. A project of the City of Center, the renovation of Perry Sampson Park, was dear to his heart and he was proud to see it happen in 2022. As graduates of C.H. Daniels, Jerry and his wife, Joyce were crowned the King and Queen at the school’s biennially reunion in 2017.
He leaves to cherish his memories:
Children:
Sebastian Lathan of Tyler
Kimley Pierce (James) of Madison, Alabama
Seprina Lathan of Nacogdoches
Da Rae Ward (Julie) of Ft. Worth, Texas
Ouida Ward of Ft. Worth, Texas
Eighteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren
Sister-in-law, Billie Kyles of Silsbee, Texas
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Services are under the direction of Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
03/14/2023
Anne Lamkin, 90 of Center, passed away Monday, March 13, 2023 at Colonial Pines in San Augustine.
Graveside Service will be 1:00 p.m. Friday March 17, 2023 at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Anne Lamkin. Anna was born September 29, 1932 in Mt. Carmel, IL to Bert and Mary Hancock. Anne attended Mt. Carmel School of Nursing in Mt. Carmel, IL. She then moved to Texas where she attended Nacogdoches Business School and there she met the love of her life, Rayford K Lamkin of 64 years. Anne was also the original founder of transcribing physicians orders at Shelby General Hospital in Center until they closed. One of her biggest pleasures was using her 25 years of experience as a Mary Kay Consultant, helping others look and feel beautiful.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Bert and Mary Haycock and loving husband, Rayford Lamkin.
She is survived by:
Sons and Daughters-in-law:
Keith and Kimberly Lamkin of Friendswoods
Kenneth and Peggy Lamkin of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Kelle, Blake, Casey, Julie, Angel and Morgan
5 Great-Grandchildren
She will be layed to rest for eternity next to her loving husband Rayford at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
03/14/2023
Frances Marie Gray Crocker, 93, of Lufkin died Sunday, March 12, 2023 at The Joseph House.
Funeral services will be held Friday, March 17, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Lone Cedar Missionary Baptist Church in Joaquin with Wayne Roberson and Todd Stracener officiating, and eulogy by Mark Crocker. Interment will follow in Lone Cedar Cemetery.
Mrs. Crocker was born October 7, 1929 in Joaquin, Texas to the late Bennye (Oats) and James Edison Gray. A longtime resident of Houston, Mrs. Crocker had resided in Lufkin 14 years. She was a homemaker and a member of Lone Cedar Missionary Baptist Church.
Survivors include:
Her son and daughter-in-law, Ron and Robin Crocker of Lufkin
Grandsons and wives:
Mark and Amanda Crocker of Lufkin
Chase and Callie Crocker, all of Lufkin
Heather and Josh Harrison of Central
Great-grandchildren:
Taylor Marie
Payton Lynn
George Henry
Audrey Grace
Silas Nathaniel
Hattie Marie
Brother and sister-in-law, Tommy and Joanell Gray of Joaquin
Brother-in-law, Clifford Hamilton of Joaquin
A number of nieces and nephews
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, H. Elvin Crocker; and sisters, Era Lou Gray and Wanda Hamilton.
Pallbearers will be her grandsons and nephews.
Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.
Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.
03/14/2023
Ernest McNeil (Mac) Moore Jr., 89, of Center passed away March 9, 2023 in Longview, Texas. He was born June 26, 1933 in Center, Texas to McNeil Moore, Sr. and Iona Anderson Moore.
Services will be held Sunday, March 19 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Center with Mike Belgard and Harold Hanson, officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
A man of God with a strong Christian faith, Mac was a leader in the First Baptist Church of Center for many years serving as a deacon and Sunday School teacher. He also attended and taught Sunday School classes at the First Christian Church of Port Arthur. He loved his God, his faith, his family, and his friends. Mac attended Center schools and graduated in 1950. After graduation, he played football for the Rice University Owls. In 1951, he transferred to Sam Houston State University where he continued his football career for the Bearkats setting school rushing records that held for 50 years. He graduated earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree. In 1971 he was one of the first four inductees in the Sam Houston Athletic Hall of Honor.
After graduation from SHSU in 1954, he was drafted by the Chicago Bears of the NFL as a defensive back. He played for the Bears earning Pro Bowl recognition until a knee injury ended his football career in 1957. He was also drafted by Uncle Sam and served in the U. S. Army from 1955-1956. After a brief coaching stint, in 1959 he began a career with American General Life Insurance Co. He retired from American General in 1997. In 1998, he was inducted in the Center High School Roughrider Athletic Wall of Honor, received the Center ISD Distinguished Alumni award in 2000 and was a member of the Center ISD school board. Mac was a longtime member of the Center Noon Lions Club, Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce where he received the Outstanding Young Man of the Year in 1968 and the distinguished Citizen of the year in 1994.
He is survived by:
Daughters,
Karen Anderson and husband Bob of Longview
Kathy Sawyer and husband Jim of Center
Grandchildren:
Ashley Wier and husband Byron of Dallas
Austin Anderson and wife Kristen of Dallas
Bonnie Catherine Wilson and husband Matt of Dallas
Anne Marsh and husband Eric of Klein
Great-grandchildren:
Maddie Wier
Cooper and August Anderson
Marshall and Matthew Wilson
Connor, Tucker, and Sawyer Marsh
As well as many nieces and nephews.
Bonus children and grandson, Shannon, Troy, and Jacob Jones of Nederland.
Mac is preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 54 years, Bonnie, wife Linda Howard Moore and sister, Bettye Minter.
Sincere love and appreciation to Kaye Powell and the entire staff at Lakeside Village Assisted Living of Center. He loved you all as family and we are forever grateful for your love and care in return.
Memorials can be made to the McNeil and Bonnie Moore Roughrider Scholarship fund at Center High School or a charity of your choice.
Pallbearers: Alan Minter, John Howard, Dewey Howard, Dana Howard, Bob Howard, Howell Howard, Thomas Howard and John Black.
Honorary pallbearers: Carl Smith Laura Walker Mary Lynn Tinkle Kaye Powell
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/13/2023
Kathleen Gopffarth Kight, 83, of Center, passed away Saturday, March 11, 2023, in Nacogdoches.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at Watson and Sons Funeral Home. Funeral service will start at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at Watson and Sons Funeral Home with Bro. Milton Powers officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Chester, TX.
Born July 10, 1939, Kathleen was born in Bonham, TX to Herman Stephen Kurt Gopffarth and Mattie Arkatie Gopffarth. During her free time, she enjoyed embroidery and sewing. Kathleen also enjoyed reading and gardening. Kathleen was a member of Shelbyville Baptist Church.
She is survived by:
Her son, Karl Kight and wife Vickie
Grandchildren:
Heather Mitcham
Dillon Powell
Sister-in-law, June Gopffarth
Numerous nieces and a nephew
Preceded in death by her parents, Herman Stephen Kurt Gopffarth and Mattie Arkatie Gopffarth; brothers, Richard Gopffarth, and Glenn Gopffarth.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/10/2023
Jimmy Youngblood, 86, of Center, passed away Friday, March 10, 2023 in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 11, 2023 at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday March 12, 2023 at Watson & Sons Chapel with Ronnie Youngblood and Koby Youngblood officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Shelby County.
Jimmy Rex Youngblood was born in Shelby County on October 28, 1936. He married Barbara Johnson on November 10, 1961 and they had 2 children, Ronnie and Becky. Jimmy and his parents ran their family owned grocery store from 1955 until they sold the business in 1978. He also delivered freight for Red Ball after which he was a city mail carrier in Center for over 25 years. Jimmy and Barbara enjoyed traveling and loved taking Ronnie and Becky on family vacations every year. Their favorite destination was Colorado.
They also enjoyed going to the Dallas Cowboys game every Thanksgiving. Jimmy also enjoyed playing 42. Never one to sit still, after retiring from the post office, Jimmy delivered and picked up cars for the local dealerships and he also worked part time at Toledo Automotive. He was a member of Sam Samford Lodge #149, and was a Mason for over 40 years. He was also a member of the Church of Christ in James. Jimmy was extremely proud of his family and he will be greatly missed. The family would like to extend its gratitude to Pine Grove Nursing Home and Affinity Hospice for their loving care.
He is survived by:
His children:
Ronnie Youngblood and wife Margaret
Becky Elliott and husband Puncho
Grandchildren:
Joni Youngblood
Koby Youngblood and wife Alyssa
Michael Elliott and wife Kay
Great-grandchildren:
Sabryn Cook and husband Tanner
Cade Collins
Kambry Ferguson
Izzy Youngblood
Guner Youngblood
Deacon Youngblood
Nikki Youngblood
Great-great-grandchild:
Wrenlee Cook
Sister-in-law, Sandra Harkness
Preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Youngblood; and parents, C.W. Youngblood and Lena Williams Youngblood.
Pallbearers will be Koby Youngblood, Michael Elliott, Cade Collins, Guner Youngblood, Tanner Cook, Brian Harkness, and Deacon Youngblood.
Honorary pallbearers will be Stan Jones, and Bennie Baugh.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/09/2023
Judy Vanell Salas, 68, of Center, Texas, passed away on March 9, 2023, in Center, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. She was born on January 1, 1955, in Center, Texas, to the late William Fred Lawhorn and Beatrice (Hall) Lawhorn.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 10, 2023, from 6pm-8pm at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas. Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 2pm with Bro. David Paul Lawhorn officiating. Interment will follow at Old Center Cemetery, Center, Texas.
Judy was born and raised in Shelby County. She attended Center High School. Judy met the love of her life at the young age of 16 years old, Fidencio “Pete” Salas, through mutual friends. The two courted for just a short time before they were married. They raised 4 children together. Times weren’t always the best however, they vowed to love each other forever. She and Pete spent over 51 years together before her passing. She enjoyed going to the casino, playing cards, and going to the beach often. Judy was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother. She enjoyed spending precious time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her laughter and contagious smile will be missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by:
Loving husband, Pete Salas
Daughters:
Regina Tovar
Judith Olalde and husband Jorge
Elizabeth Salas
Son, Christopher Salas and wife Mayra
Grandchildren:
Jeremy Tovar
Courtney Campos and husband Jose
Pablo Barcenas
Alexis Salas and husband Billy Miller
Monica Olalde
Mateo Barcenas
Jorge Olalde
Anthony Salas
Omar Olalde
Jonathan Salas
Troy Salas
Great-grandchildren:
Benjamin Campos
Aziel Miller
Brother, Jerry Lawhorn and wife Nancy
Sister, Patricia Lawhorn
Nephews:
Daniel Lawhorn
David Lawhorn
A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly
Judy is preceded in death by her parents, William and Beatrice Lawhorn, and great-great granddaughter, Jaxie Campos.
Pallbearers serving will be Jeremy Tovar, Pablo Barcenas, Mateo Barcenas, Jorge Olalde, Anthony Salas, Omar Olalde, and Johnathan Salas.
Honorary pallbearers will be Troy Salas, Benjamin Campos, and Aziel Miller.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
Pages
