Obituaries
03/05/2024
Dianna Lynn Burress, 58, of Center, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 7, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Her wishes were to be cremated.
Born August 10, 1965, in Center, Dianna is the daughter of W.T. Mayo and Barbara Baker Smith. She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star.
Dianna is survived by:
Children:
Paul Burress and wife Heather
Patricia Lori Lynn Sibly and husband Chuck
Mark Phillip Michael Burress and wife Jessica
Eight Grandchildren
Brothers and sister:
Mike Mayo and wife Patsy
Laurie Miller and husband Curtis Fountain
Joe Smith
Sister-in-law, Tammy Smith
Stepfather, Clyde Smith
Stepbrother, Floyd Ogeta
Special friends:
Lorinda Murphy
Ricky McDonald
Susan Sanford
Lara Banta
Preceded in death by husband, Paul Birch; mother, Barbara Smith; and brother, David Smith; husband, Paul Burress, Sr.; and sister-in-law, Lisa Miller.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
03/01/2024
Rachel Symanthia Creech Wilson, 82, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 25, 1941 in the Bethel Community to Floyd and Minnie Bolton Skinner Creech.
As Rachel would say, “she spent her entire life in the suburbs of Funston.” She attended Grand Cane School before marrying the love her life, Edgar Wilson, on October 10, 1958. Rachel then transferred to Joaquin High School graduating with the class of 1959. Seven years, six months, and four days later, she welcomed her beloved daughter, Lisa Darlene “Teet,” into the world. Rachel found immense joy in being a devoted housewife, mother and grandmother. She loved her job as a housewife and carried out all of her housewife duties until her final days. Her favorite past time was bossing everyone around.
An enthusiast of CB radio, Rachel was fondly known across the airwaves as Diesel Widow, often engaging in lively conversations on her Browning Eagle. She cherished time feeding and watching the animals on the farm. She also loved house plants and trinkets. Rachel was always proud to display the alligator hide that she harvested on Sept 4, 2013, at the youthful age of 72.
Rachel was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Minnie Bolton Skinner Creech; her sister, Pauline, and husband, Jimmy Turner; her brothers, Dootsy Skinner and Buddy Creech; and her nephew, Billy Lynn Wilson.
Left to cherish her memory:
Devoted husband of 65 years and 4 months, Edgar Wilson
Daughter, Lisa McPhearson, and husband, Mac Jr.
Grandson, Josh McPhearson, and his wife, Amy
Sisters,
Margaret Alexander
Loraine Childress
Brother, Skeeter Skinner
Sister-in-law, Bennette Horton
Brother-in-law, Billy Mack Wilson, and his wife, Janice
As well as a host of nieces and nephews
Graveside service will be at 1 pm Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Bethel Cemetery in Logansport, La.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals who made a significant impact on Rachel’s life: Shane Ramsey, Mark Cowdin, Michael Cowdin, Stacy Taylor, Buren Lowe, Matthew Barnes, John Haak, Bull Kyle, Kevin Lee, Charlie Metcalf, David Skinner, Dustin Cowdin, and Daniel McCollough.
In true Rachel fashion, she loved her emojis. 
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/29/2024
Tashira Roshun "Pinky" McCollister, 47, went home to be with the Lord on February 21, 2024 at Focused Care of Center. She was born to the late Linda Kay McCollister and the late Dennis Giles on January 25, 1977.
Services will be at 1pm on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Abundant Love Ministries, Center, Texas with Marlin Cloudy Sr. eulogist. Visitation is from 10am until 7pm on Friday, March 1, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment at St. John Cemetery in Tenaha.
Tashira was born and raised in Tenaha, Texas where she attended Tenaha High School. She enjoyed writing in her free time, mostly poetry and also wrote a couple of children's books. Tashira eventually relocated to Center, Texas where she met and married her now ex-husband and worked as a tax preparer.
She gave birth to three children: ShaDerica Gregory, Chavis Gregory, and Christopher "Cobe" Caraway. Tashira has four grandchildren: Ariana Jones, A'Tracelyn Evans Journeigh Gregory, and A'Jhaelyn Evans which she loved and adored more than life itself. Until the day she was called home she spent every moment taking care of "Nannies Babies" and being the glue that held her family together.
Preceding her in death was her mother, Linda Kay McCollister; father, Dennis Giles; grandmother, Lillian (Kate) McCollister; special cousin, Kamekaqua McCollister Dagley; and uncle, Kenneth McCollister.
Tashira leaves to mourn:
Children:
ShaDerica Gregory of Center
Chavis Gregory of Center
Cobe Caraway (Allecia) of Kilgore
Brothers:
Christopher Evans of Tenaha
Chavis McCollister of Tenaha
Sisters: Lillian McCollister of Center
Roshayla McCollister of Center
Katina Evans of Center
Omeisha Williams of Center
Laticia Giles of Houston
Daphne Giles of Houston
Theresa Giles of Houston
Aunts:
Rose Robertson of Tenaha
Eva Thompson of Tenaha
Mary McCollister of Tenaha
Uncle, Frank McCollister of Oklahoma
Host of nieces, nephews, and cousins
Special Step-Dad, Gerald Thomas
Services under the direction of Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
02/29/2024
Terri Lynn Wilson, 60, of the Woods Community in Panola County, Texas, passed away Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024, at her home. Terri Lynn Wilson was born on March 19, 1963, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to the late Mark Howard and Anita Faye Pinell Wilson.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Vaun Henry officiating. Interment will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Shelby County. A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday prior to the service.
She graduated from Carthage High School with the class of 1981, and earned her associate's degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Terri later earned her LVN certification from Panola College. She worked for many years as a contract nurse. Terri loved her home in the Woods Community and enjoyed gardening, photography, and sewing. She was a member of Antioch Baptist Church.
Terri was preceded in death by her nephew, Derek Moore.
Terri is survived by:
Son, Brandon Wilson
Daughter, Sarah Credeur
Grandchildren:
Carson and Addison Wilson
Cade and Cole Credeur
Sister, Kim Robinson and husband Jerry
Best friend, Terrie Howard
Pallbearers are Roger McCuller, Mark Coleman, Bobby Howard, Braylen Moore, Carson Wilson, and Dwayne Belair.
Terri’s family extends a special thanks to Hearts Way Hospice for giving her such comforting care during her time of need.
A guestbook may be signed at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.
02/29/2024
Norris Roberson Taylor, 74, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away Wednesday, February 28, 2024, in Joaquin, Texas. Norris was born February 8, 1950, in Center, Texas, to Woodrow and Mary Louise Taylor.
Graveside service will be held Friday, March 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Jackson Baptist Church Cemetery, Joaquin, Texas. Officiating the service will be Melba Rogers and Frank Jousan.
Norris graduated from Joaquin High School in 1968. He married Wanda Jo Haight December 25, 1972. He had a career in welding and was a fourth-generation Shelby County farmer and rancher.
Norris is preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Mary Louise; sister, Virginia; and brother, Morris.
Surviving are:
Wife, Jo Taylor
Sons:
Stacy Taylor and wife Jesse of Joaquin
Justin Taylor and wife Pam of Shelbyville
Granddaughters:
Haley Taylor and fiancé Matt Gamble
Stella Taylor
Gracie Ellis
Rilynn Ellis
Grandsons:
Rowdy Taylor
Rory Taylor
Tucker Taylor
Toby Taylor
Dusty Taylor
Great-grandson, Lawson Gamble
Sisters-in-law:
Mickey Revis of Dickinson, Texas
Jane Gamble of Grand Cane, Louisiana
Nieces, Libby Lang and husband Steven
Hannah Gamble-Gramm and husband Zack
Great-nieces:
Madison Lang
Annistyn Touchton
Special friend, Jeannie Taylor
Honoring Norris as pallbearers will be Toby Taylor, Rowdy Taylor, Rory Taylor, Dusty Taylor, Matt Gamble, and Bill Baker. Honorary pallbearers will be Darrell Alford and John Hugh Leggett.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/28/2024
Frankie Lane DeSoto, 69, of Center, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 1, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon. Bro. Danny Sikes and Bro. Hayden Wilkes will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born July 18, 1954, in Mansfield, Louisiana, Frankie is the son of Frank Samuel DeSoto and Gladys Lucille Lee DeSoto. On June 8, 1974, he married the love of his life, Cynthia Kay Windham DeSoto. A Baptist minister, Frankie pastored Antioch Baptist Church in Center, Pine Ridge Baptist Church in Joaquin, and was most recently a member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Center. Frankie was a member of Joaquin Masonic Lodge #856. He was a die-hard Dallas Cowboy fan.
He is survived by:
Wife, Cynthia Kay Windham DeSoto
Children:
Angie Gillis (Travis) of Center
Jennifer Rumbo (Brad) of Brownsboro
Grandchildren:
Sara Gillis
Travis “Bubba” Gillis IV
Alexis Wehrmann (Gage)
Paisley Rumbo (friend, Grayson)
Anna Grace Gillis
Sisters:
Shirley Brownfield of Denham Springs, Louisiana,
Susan Johnson of Pleasant Hill, Louisiana
Sisters-in-law:
Hazel Miller (Carl) of Joaquin
Patsy Riley (Danny) of Tatum
Sue Gill (Leslie) of Tenaha
Mary Cummings (Kenneth) of Joaquin
Brother-in-law, Fisher Windham of Center
A host of nieces and nephews; and fur babies, Snake, Wendy, and Ceaser.
Preceded in death by parents, Frank Samuel DeSoto and Gladys Lucille Lee DeSoto; infant brothers, Frank S. DeSoto Jr. and Donnie W. DeSoto; nieces, Tracy Brownfield and Amanda Johnson; infant son, Baby DeSoto; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Rev. Felix and Anner Dee Windham.
Pallbearers will be David Miller, Keith Riley, Jeff Cummings, Justin Brownfield, Eric Brownfield, Gage Wehrmann, Grayson Epperson, and Bubba Gillis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/27/2024
Mrs. Lasonia Natasha Jenkins Lister, age 42, of San Augustine, Texas. Mrs. Lister departed this physical life on February 22, 2024, at her residence in San Augustine, Texas.
Funeral service Saturday, March 2, 2024, 1pm at Taylor Tabernacle with interment to follow at Lane town Cemetery with Rev. Michael Jenkins, Officiating, and Rev. Timothy Teel, Eulogist.
Visitation and Wake Friday, March 1, 2024, from 1:00pm until 5:00pm at Garner & Son Chapel 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Bell Chapel Baptist Church.
Survivors are:
Husband, Kevin Lister of Center
Daughter, Jabria Jenkins of Shelbyville
Son, Kason Lister of Shelbyville
Parents, Charles and Emma Jenkins of Shelbyville
Granddaughter, Jailee Brielle Conley of Shelbyville
Brother, LaMarcus Ramon Wallace of Nacogdoches
Sister, Charity Latrece Jenkins of San Augustine
God-Sisters:
Faith Williams (Ardis) of Shreveport, Louisiana
Sascha Jenkins Cartwright (James) of Center
Ashley Jenkins of San Augustine
As well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Services are under the direction of Percy Garner & Son Mortuary in San Augustine.
02/26/2024
James Ray Smith, 86, of Center, Texas, passed away on February 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas. He was born on April 24, 1937, in Center, Texas, to the late Perry Buren Smith and Grace Louise (Whitton) Smith.
Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church, Center, Texas, with Bro. Todd Jenkins and Bro. Lamar Rash officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Ray was born in Shelby County. He attended Sardis and Center schools and was raised in the Sardis community. Ray loved the Lord and served him faithfully at Sardis Pentecostal Church.
Ray is survived by:
Sons:
Jimmy Ray Smith and wife Jackie
Van Buren Smith
Daughters:
Shelia Smith Kennedy and husband John
Patti Brown
Sister:
Virginia Lemoine
Grandchildren:
Drew Kennedy and wife Chloe
Aaron Kennedy and wife Sara
Ali Kennedy
Sam Smith
Nate Smith
Great-Grandchild:
Collins Kennedy
Numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends all of which he loved deeply.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Warr Smith; daughter, Rena Smith; parents, Perry and Grace Smith; brothers, Wayne Smith, Jerry Smith; sisters, Edna Smith, Frances Snow, and Odessa Smith Weaver.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
02/26/2024
Zannie Gay Belrose, 103, of Center. After a long and full life, our dear Mother & Grandmother, Zannie Gay Belrose, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 24, 2024, at the age of 103. She was born September 22, 1920, to Julian Henry Fields and Florence Rowena Squyers Fields.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church in the Sardis Community of Shelby County. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 4, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church. Interment will follow at Brandon Memorial Cemetery in Shelby County.
She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother who was always available when any of her family and friends needed her—whether it be for prayer, guidance, a listening ear or to simply put monkey blood on a “bobo.” Having many, many friends, she was a well-loved, member of the Sardis community. Zannie Gay has been a lifelong member of the Sardis Pentecostal church dating back to when it was just a brush arbor.
Many have said she had a direct line to heaven, and we are convinced she certainly did! She was a great prayer warrior for her family, for her church family, and for many others from all walks of life. You could call her at any time—day or night—and she was ready and willing to pray for or with you.
A memory for us all was her drinking coffee from her saucer because her cup truly overflowed.
She would say she was blessed beyond measure by her family . . . they made her beam with pride. We also remember Papaw say one Christmas as he was looking over his family before Mamaw read the Christmas story: “Zannie Gay look what we have started!”
She would make homemade biscuits for every single meal. When we say every single meal, we mean she cooked three meals a day—every single day. Let me tell you folks . . . it wasn’t ever just a casserole.
Zannie Gay, in the prime of her life, was a woman of many talents: from a star athlete, handyman, Sunday school teacher, 5-star cook, to fisherman right alongside her husband. She once said in an interview, “Her greatest accomplishment was her family.” She also said, “What a blessing it is to be called ‘Mamaw’ by so many people!”
You will forever hold a special place in our hearts and your legacy will live on through us all!
She is survived by her children:
LaNell Rash
Lillian Shofner
Martha Rash, and Kenneth
Melba Rodgers
Kathryn Schillings, and Joe Tom
Lester Belrose, and Teresa
Leo Belrose, and Janet
Daughter in Law:
Connie Belrose Noble, and Don
Grand Children:
Lisa Eaves, and George
Shannon Shofner
Lamar Rash, and Kris
Kevin Rash, and Kim
Leann Rash
Kerri Griffin, and Ray
Heather Moody, and Donnie
Todd Clark, and Darlene
Doug Rodgers, and Lindsey
David Rodgers
Donnie Belrose, and Denise
Ronnie Belrose, and Carmen
Jennifer Leach, and Mark
Jon Schillings, and Joanna
Brandy Ellis, and Shawn
Austin Belrose, and Drew
Tyler Belrose, and Stephanie
Jordan Steele, and John
Grant Belrose, and Korie
54 great-grandchildren
47 great-great-grandchildren
Sister:
Margie Hinton, and Jimmy
Numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends
Special caregivers:
Janet Anderson
Marsha Jernigan
She was preceded in death by:
Husband, Ray Belrose; Mother, Florence Squyers Fields; Father, Julian Fields; Son, Lonnie Belrose; Grandsons, Brandon Shofner & Terry Rash; Great Grandson, Jesse Don Moody; Son’s in Law, Bobby Rash, Oliver Shofner & Mike Rodgers; Brothers, Roy Fields (Susie), Ralph Fields (Esther) Elbert Fields (Dot) Sisters, Zolema Anthony (J.M.) Annie Mae Clark (Marlin) & 2 infant sisters
Serving as Pallbearers will be the Grandsons and Great-Grandsons
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/23/2024
Rhonda Louise Huskey, 63, of Joaquin, passed away Thursday, February 22, 2024, in Longview.
Her wishes were to be cremated.
Born April 22, 1960, in Bonham, Rhonda is the daughter of Larry Thomas McDowell Sr. and Rachel Kathleen Boney McDowell. Her hobbies included traveling, gardening, reading, and watching true crime documentaries.
She is survived by:
Children:
Christopher Huskey
Steven and Lindsay Huskey
Danielle Roth and husband Christian
Grandchildren, Kyra Huskey and Dylan Hudspeth
Mother, Rachel Kathleen Boney McDowell
Sisters:
Virginia McDowell
Carla Likes and husband Bobby
Brother, Larry McDowell Jr. and wife Patty
She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles G. Huskey; daughter, Toni Renee Huskey; grandson, Xavier Rae Huskey; and father, Larry Thomas McDowell Sr.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/22/2024
Janette Wheeler Wilburn, 75, of Shelbyville, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024, in Shelbyville.
Graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, February 23, 2024, at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County. Bro. Bobby Warr will officiate. Visitation will be held prior from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born April 13, 1948, in Center, Janette is the daughter of Oscar Wheeler and Agnes Wheeler. She was married to the love of her life, Andrew Wilburn, for twenty-seven years. She loved spending time with family, especially her grandkids and great grandkids. Janette also enjoyed talking on the phone and shopping.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Pam Jamison and husband Scotty of Shelbyville
Granddaughters:
Heather McDonald and husband Grant of Shelbyville
Lindsey Moore and husband Jimmy of Shelbyville
Great-grandchildren:
Shade McDonald
Levi McDonald
Walker McDonald
Casen Moore
Cainen Moore
Nieces and nephews:
Randy Wheeler
Mario Martinez
Ricky Wheeler
Debbie Taylor
Preceded in death by husband, Andrew Wilburn; parents, Oscar Wheeler and Agnes Wheeler; sister, Louise Honeycutt; brothers, Glenn Wheeler, Blount Wheeler, and J.B. Fletcher.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/22/2024
Barbara Jeff Wilburn, 83, of Orange, passed away on February 19, 2024, at her home in Orange.
Funeral services will be 10:00 am, Saturday, February 24, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Jay Thomas and her brother, Reverend Gordon Vaughn. Burial will follow at Autumn Oaks Cemetery in Orange. Visitation will be from 9:00 am, Saturday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Barbara was born in Center, Texas, on April 23, 1940, she was the daughter of George W. Vaughn and Nona Gladys Vaughn. She was a graduate of SFA and went on to teach first grade for 35 years. Once retired from teaching, Barbara always lit up whenever she ran into a former student of hers. She also enjoyed volunteering with hospice in her spare time.
Barbara was a longtime member of MacArthur Heights Baptist Church in Orange where she also taught Sunday School. She loved the Lord fiercely as well as her church. She was a wonderful mother and the best “Maw Maw” to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Nona Vaughn; husband, Gerald Wilburn; brother, Dexter Vaughn; and sister, Mary Ann Dailey. She is survived by:
Children: Tammy Renee Henley, and husband, Bo of Orange
Greg Wilburn, and wife, Brandi of Lexington
Grandchildren:
Johnathan Henley, and wife, Brandy
Amber Rickenbrode, and husband, Phillip
Great-grandchildren:
Austin Rickenbrode
Grayson Rickenbrode
Henley Rickenbrode
Jaxson Henley
Asher Henley
Penelope Henley
Sullivan Henley
Brothers and sisters:
Thurman Vaughn
Gordon Vaughn
Madge Lombardino
Rhonda Schlueter
Sister-in-law, Loretta Vaughn
Brother-in-law, Price Wilburn
Serving as pallbearers will be Bobby Payne, Rusty Lombardino, Austin Rickenbrode, Grayson Rickenbrode, Asher Henley, and Jaxson Henley.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to MacArthur Heights Baptist Church at 3600 Nightingale Street, Orange, Texas.
The family would like to give a special thank you to her church family and neighbor Charlsie Haley, and Center Well and Synergy for care and compassion.
02/21/2024
Marcia J. Wood, 85, of Center, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, February 23, 2024, at McClelland Community Church in Shelbyville with Bro. Chris Collins officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at McClelland Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Born January 12, 1939, Marcia is the daughter of Frank Collins and Stella Graves Collins. She was a member of McClelland Community Church in Shelbyville.
She is survived by:
Sister, Dorothy Hess of Shelbyville
Daughter, Melodie Wood
Grandchildren:
Hollie Dauzat and husband Brad of Conroe
Kennodie Robinson of North Carolina
Great-grandchildren:
Alexander Wood of Conroe
Brookelyn Wood of Conroe
Preceded in death by husband, Donald L. Wood; parents, Frank Collins and Stella Graves Collins; and brother, Lonnie Collins.
Pallbearers will be Alexander Wood, Cory Collins, Jon Collins, Brian Collins, James Alvis, and James Jernigan.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/21/2024
Don Ahart, 73, of Shelbyville went to be with his Savior on Monday, February 19, 2024 at his home in East Hamilton. He was born to Lloyd Douglas Ahart and Madeline Wolfe Ahart in Ravenwood, West Virginia on December 1, 1950.
Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Friday February 23rd, 2024 at Watson and Son’s Funeral Home in Center. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday February 24th, 2024 at Watson and Son’s Chapel with Bro. Ronnie Wheeler officiating. Interment will follow at Sardis Cemetery in Sardis, Texas.
He met and married the love of his life Sheila in 1971 in Melbourne, Florida, and together they celebrated 52 years of marriage. In 1978, the two moved to Angleton, Texas where they raised their two daughters. He was an electrician by trade for over 30 years in Brazoria County, Texas and finally retired to the Pineywoods of East Texas in February of 2018. Don was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and working with his hands, he was never idle for long. He had a green thumb and was always growing things in his plentiful gardens and flower beds. He instilled an early love for travel and conservation in his daughters as the family traveled all over the United States to many National Parks.
He was known as a loving husband, father, pawpaw, son and brother and will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by:
Wife, Sheila Ahart of East Hamilton
Daughters:
Danie Jones of Shelbyville
Nicci Cooper and husband Brandon of Sardis
Grandchildren:
Shane Ballard
Kane Anderson
Zane Anderson
Brandalyn Cooper
Will Cooper
Brother, Mike Ahart and wife Lupe of Brazoria
Sister-in-law, Valerie Lamberth of Melbourne, Florida
Brother-in-law, Jim Derry and Dreama of Melbourne, Florida
Nieces and nephews:
Christina Lopez
Michael Ahart
Michelle Hinman
Tiffany Snider
Alida Higlar
Stephanie Shumate
Preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Douglas Ahart and Madeline Wolfe Ahart; and brother, Lloyd Ahart.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/17/2024
William Windham, 74, of Center, passed away Friday, February 16, 2024, in San Augustine.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 19, 2024, at White Rock Cemetery in Center. Visitation will be held prior from Noon to 1:30 p.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born October 20, 1949, in Center, Texas, William is the son of Ida Pate Windham and Henry Windham.
He is survived by:
Daughters, Brenda Smith (Mike)
Larenda Murphy (Dewayne Marr)
Grandchildren:
Brandon Lee (Aliesha)
Dakota Windham
Gillian Bailey (Treven)
Gary Smith
Maria Smith
Christina Tarver
Katrina Tarver
Toby Murphy
Great-grandchildren:
Trae Bailey
Madison Bailey
Carrington Bailey
Elizabeth Smith
Grayson Smith
River Smith
Pallbearers will be Mike Smith, Dewayne Marr, Trevin Bailey, Dakota Windham, Toby Murphy, and Gary Smith.
Preceded in death by wife, Carlin Windham; and parents, Ida Pate Windham and Henry Windham.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/16/2024
Janine Marie Hughes, 69 of Milam, Texas passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 14th, 2024 in the comfort of her home in Milam.
She is being cremated by McNutt Funeral Home in Lufkin, Texas.
Memorial service will be held for her at Liberty Springs Methodist Church, 1280 Carter’s Ferry Road (also known as FM 276) East Milam, Texas 75959, on Tuesday, February 20th, at 1pm.
Born August 31, 1954 in St. Paul, MN, Janine is the daughter of the late Kenneth Martin, and survived by her mother Barbra Lundberg.
Janine is survived by:
Daughter, Emily Jones and husband, Marcus Jones
Step-son, Kevin Hughes and wife, Janice Sledge Hughes
Daughter-in-law, Sonya Barnes Hughes
Grandchildren:
Kaleb Hughes
Michelle Johnson
Marissa Johnson
Siblings:
Brother, Jeff Martin and wife, Terry
Sister, Janette Short and husband Jeff
Brother, Jim Martin and wife, Linda
Brother, Jerry Martin and wife, Judy
She was loved and adored by many of her nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She had numerous amount of friends, including childhood friend, Robin Everson. Best friends, Marti Scates, Rona (Wendy) Wilson, Jody and Annette Jernigan, and many more...
Janine was also loved by all of her daughter's childhood friends.
Preceded in death by her first husband, Larry Whitehead; late husband, Jerry Hughes; step-son, Gene Hughes; and in-laws, Elbert and Emily Hughes.
Janine enjoyed many hobbies such as fishing, hunting, going to the beach, road trips, spending time with family and friends, taking care of the people in her community, and was also an active member of her church. She enjoyed life to the fullest, and was always on the go. She also loved her cats, Little Girl and Mister so very much.
Flowers and any arrangements can be purchased at: Hemphill Flower Shop and Boutique, 201 Starr Street, Hemphill, Texas 75948.
All donations can be sent to: Liberty Springs Methodist Church, PO Box 121, Milam, Texas 75959.
02/14/2024
Jay Roy Teske was born February 16, 1929, in Houston, Texas, at Memorial Hospital to Julius and Amelia Teske. He passed away February 14, 2024, two days shy of his 95th birthday, surrounded by his family.
Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Rev. Karen Jones officiating. Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Earthman Resthaven Cemetery in Houston.
Jay and Mae moved to Timpson in 1981. Jay sold steel all his life. In 1985, he and Mae started Steel Building Supply in Center, which is still a family owned company.
He is survived by:
Wife, Mae of Timpson
Daughters:
Frances Day of Longview
Jan Schkade, and husband, Ron of Spring
Nancy Panova of Tomball
Sue Downey, and husband, John of Willis
Son, J.R. Teske and wife Angie of Center
Also surviving him are his 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and sons-in-law, James Coe and Larry Day.
He loved to hunt, fish, and go RVing.
Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice, Martha Kennedy, his caregiver and his nurse, Crystal Roberts.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/14/2024
Walter Wayne Colbey, 69, of Tenaha, passed away Sunday, February 11, 2024, in Nacogdoches.
Memorial service will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Revival Tabernacle in Center with Bro. Dathan Triplett officiating.
Born August 12, 1954, in Galveston, Walter (known as Wayne by friends and family) is the son of Earl Newton Colbey and Ruth Bell Colbey. He loved southern gospel music and helping people. He was a big man with a big heart. It took a man his size to try and contain all of the love and concern he had for others. He was very outgoing and made everyone feel special. Earlier in his life, he had an interest in photography and he liked collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia.
He is survived by:
Wife, Mary Adelia Colbey of Tenaha
Mother, Ruth Bell Colbey of Buckeye, Arizona
Sons:
Jackeray Colbey and wife Lisa of Vidor
Johnathan Colbey of Tenaha
Shane Colbey of Tenaha
Grandchildren:
Elizabeth Colbey
Walter Colbey
JoAnna Colbey
Lane Colbey
Kaitlyn Colbey
Kayla Colbey
Two great-grandchildren
Brother, Peter Colbey and wife Cheryl of Buckeye, Arizona
Sisters:
Jeannie Spell and husband Timothy of Baker, Louisiana
Rosemary Meredith of Clear Water, Florida
Preceded in death by father, Earl Newton Colbey; and brother, Edward Colbey.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
02/13/2024
Ricky Lee Evans, 53, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on February 13, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Joaquin, Texas. He was born on August 05, 1970, in Center, Texas, to L.B. Evans and Marylee (Alvis) Evans.
Graveside service will be held at 2PM on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Brookland Cemetery, with Bro. Jason Broadus and Bro. Jodi Hooper officiating. Visitation will be held from 12-2PM on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home.
Ricky was born and raised in Shelby County. He graduated from Joaquin High School Class of 1989. His pride and joy was his son, Lucas Bryan, whom he loved immensely. He loved watching Lucas play sports and always cheered loudly for him and his team. Ricky enjoyed the outdoors hunting and fishing. He was a very family-oriented man. His family was very important. Ricky loved his nieces and nephews and supported them throughout the years. His kind, compassionate heart was genuine.
He is survived by:
Wife, Deanne Evans
Mother, Marylee Evans
Son, Lucas Bryan Evans
Special Daughter, Stormie Myers
Brothers:
Gary Evans and wife Melissa
Jessie Griffith and wife Lisa
Sisters:
Christy Bates
Lori Evans Eldridge Gauger and husband Mark
Mother-in-law, June Swint
Sister-in-law, Diane Swint Wolfe
Nieces and nephews:
Alicia Davis
Michael Starner
Cody Evans and wife Meghan
Colton Eldridge
Callie Bonner and husband Justin
Carly Reeves and husband Seth
Kane Bates
Dylan Bates
Numerous great nieces, great nephews, and extended family that will miss him dearly.
Ricky is preceded in death by his father, L.B. Evans; brother, Mike Griffith; and brother-in-law, David Bates.
Pallbearers serving will be Justyn Brown, Jaydn Brown, Jake Neal, Brayden Cummings, Carson Rodgers, Try Laform, and Ethan McGhen. Honorary pallbearers serving will be Alan Palmer, Jerry Hunter, Shane Barber, and Danny Davis.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
02/09/2024
Charles Hughes, 82 of Carthage, Texas, passed from this life on Thursday morning, February 8, 2024, in Longview. He was born to the marriage of Edward Marshall “E.M.” Hughes and Nova Ruth Gunter on December 17, 1941, in Houston, Texas.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 3:00 pm at the Hawthorn Funeral Home Chapel. A time of visitation will be held from 2:00-3:00 prior to the service.
He married Ms. Joyce Durham on September 21, 1963, and they celebrated over 60 years of marriage. He attended Houston ISD and furthered his education at Stephen F. Austin State University obtaining his master’s degree.
He came to Carthage working for Panola College and retiring after 30 years of service as the college administrator. He served his community as a member of the Trinity Baptist Church in Carthage and the Rotary Club of Carthage. Mr. Hughes was a hard worker, handy craftsman on things around the house, flower beds and gardens and had the best green thumb anyone could find.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Michael Hughes; daughter-in-law, Janet Hughes.
Charles is survived by:
Loving wife, Joyce Hughes
Daughter, Claire Windham and husband Micah
Son, Edward Hughes
Grandchildren:
Tori Windham
Wyatt Windham and wife Ciara
Sam Windham
Molly Windham
Sibling, Mary Hughes Bondurant
Sister-in-law, Theresa Hughes
The family suggests memorials be made to the Charles E. Hughes Scholarship at Panola College.
Services are under the direction of Hawthorn Funeral Home, Carthage, Texas.
Pages
