Obituaries
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.
02/09/2024
Leacie Mae (Dennis) Mosby was born on July 12, 1937, to Alean (Bolton) and Cree Dennis in San Augustine, Texas, and peacefully passed away in her hometown on February 4, 2023.
Funeral Service is Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 11am at New Hope Baptist Church, San Augustine, Texas with Pastor, Rev. David Mosby, Eulogist. Visitations will begin on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 10am at New Hope Baptist Church, San Augustine, Texas. Burial will be in New Hope Cemetery, San Augustine, Texas.
Leacie's journey through life was marked by love, faith, and dedication.
She was preceded in death by her children, Helen Carpenter, John Morris Mosby, and Derwin Mosby, as well as her grandson Marcus Mosby, and siblings Crezell Dennis and Booker Bolton.
Throughout her life, Leacie touched the hearts of many. She first found love and married James Buckley, with whom she welcomed her daughter, Helen Buckley. Later, fate led her to meet and marry John Alton Mosby. Together, they relocated to Dallas and welcomed sons John Morris and Derwin. Though faced with the tragic loss of John Morris as an infant, Leacie's strength and faith remained unwavering.
Leacie accepted Christ at a young age and later joined Bon Air Baptist Church in Dallas, where she was a faithful member and served on the usher board ministry for over 20 years. Professionally, she dedicated herself to Kraft, Inc., where she worked diligently for 30 years until her well-deserved retirement.
Beyond her professional and religious endeavors, Leacie was a pillar of love and generosity within her family. Her classic style, demure grace, and warm disposition endeared her to all who knew her. She found joy in simple pleasures, such as baking and gardening, sharing her talents and creations with those she loved.
Leacie is survived by:
Sister, Pat Price
Grandchildren:
Elvis Buckley
Ingram Carpenter
LaRhonda Carpenter
Uneeta Mosby
Her legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will continue to inspire and comfort her family and friends for generations to come.
As we gather to honor Leacie's life and legacy, let us find solace in the cherished memories we hold dear and the love that she shared with us all. May her spirit live on in our hearts forever.
Services under the direction of Sid Roberts Funeral Home, Nacogdoches, Texas.
02/07/2024
Cassandra Renee McDaniel, 56 of Joaquin, departed this life on February 3, 2024. She was the mother of Robert Jackson, Lester McDaniel, Jr., Jasmine Slack, and Latitia McDaniel. She was born on February 7, 1967 in San Bernardino, CA to Robert Griffin and Bernice Smith. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Cassandra worked as a Dietary Manager for 20 years and most recently became manager of Dollar General.
She is preceded in death by her daughter, Markeisha Lake.
She is survived by:
Husband, Lester McDaniel, Sr.
Mother, Bernice Smith
Father, Robert Griffin
Children:
Robert Jackson
Lester McDaniel, Jr.
Jasmine Slack
Latita McDaniel
13 Grandchildren
Viewing starts at 10am and visitation is from 6pm until 8pm on Friday, February 9, 2024 at the Community Funeral Home located at 157 Neville Road in Center, Texas 75935. Funeral service will be held at 1pm on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Pinegrove Baptist Church in Holland Quarters at 117 CR 277, Carthage. Interment will be at Pine Grove Cemetery.
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home in Center, Texas.
02/06/2024
Elmelda Allen Thomas (62) of Houston, Texas, died on January 31, 2024. Elmelda is a 1980 Center High School graduate. She was born on November 26, 1961, in Lufkin, Texas to the late Elvin Allen Sr. and Willie B. McClelland Allen.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 1pm at the Gospel Way Missionary Baptist Church located at 3307 Bella Vista Street, Houston, Texas 77022. Graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 1pm at St. John Baptist Church Cemetery located at 2308 CR 2050 Center, Texas 75935 (Africa Community). Rev. C.R. Williams Sr. will be the eulogist.
Visitations is 11am to 1pm on Friday, February 9, 2024 at the Gospel Way Missionary Baptist Church and 11am - 1pm Saturday, February 10, 2024 at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. Committal is at St. John Baptist Church Cemetery Africa Community. Repass is at St John Baptist Church Cafeteria.
Elmelda Allen Thomas is survived by:
Husband, Michael Thomas of Houston, Texas
Children:
Amanda N. Lindsey
Andrew L. Lindsey II
Granddaughter, Addisyn Grace Neveaux
Brother, Elvin Allen Jr. and wife Edwina
Best Friend/Cousin, Mattie A. “Sissy” Suell and her husband Melvin
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
02/03/2024
Gary Mora, 61, of Center, passed away Saturday, February 3, 2024, in Nacogdoches.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 5, 2024, at White Rock Cemetery in Center with Bro. Dale Morton officiating.
Born March 19, 1962, in Dallas, Gary is the son of Edward D. Mora and Doris Marie Robinson Mora. He enjoyed life.
He is survived by:
Parents, Edward D. Mora and Marie Mora of Center
Brother, Jerry Mora of Center
Niece, Samantha Mora
Nephews:
Jaron Mora
Jordan Mora
Christopher Mora
Seth Mora
Preceded in death by brothers, Greg Mora and Ronnie Mora.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/03/2024
Franklin Ray Doggett, 58, of Shelbyville, passed away Thursday, February 1, 2024, in Nacogdoches.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Don Windham officiating. Interment will follow at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Born October 27, 1965, in Center, Franklin is the son of Billy Ray Doggett and Yvonne Plant Doggett. He loved hunting, fishing, and riding four wheelers and horses.
He is survived by:
Daughters:
Brandi Doggett and Matthew Reynolds of Shelbyville
Jodie Doggett of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Paetin Doggett
Emily Gregory
Everleigh Reynolds
Levi Reynolds
Brother, Billy Doggett and wife Christine of Center
Mother of his children, Marsha Doggett of Shelbyville
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of friends.
Preceded in death by his son, Scotty Ray Doggett; parents, Billy Ray Doggett and Yvonne Plant Doggett; brother, David Robinson, Kenneth Robinson, and Curtis Robinson.
Pallbearers will be Robert Bolton, Kenneth Gray, Jack Brittain, Cheyenne Fenton, Jason Griffin, and Brandon Doggett. Honorary pallbearers will be Clyde Parfait and Timmy Denby.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
02/02/2024
Jean Hunter Bounds, 92, of Logansport, Louisiana passed away on Monday, February 1, 2024, at her home surrounded by family.
Funeral services will be 3:00 PM, Sunday, February 4, 2024, at First Baptist Church Logansport, LA with Bro. Timothy Roberson and Rev. Shawn Thrapp officiating. Burial will follow in O. E. Price Cemetery, Logansport, LA. The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 4, 2024, from 2:00 PM until the time of service.
She was born August 17, 1931, to Ashton Hunter and Addie Smith Hunter.
Preceding Jean in death were her husband Calvin Bounds; daughter Marsha Jean Franklin; brothers, Jack Hunter, Gerald Hunter, and Bobby Hunter; sisters, Marise Bounds, and Peggy Hay; and her parents.
Those left behind to cherish her memory are:
Sons:
Randy Bounds, and wife, LaRee
Alan Bounds, and wife, Annette
Grandchildren:
Bridgette Wilburn, and husband, Tommy
Staci Williams, and husband, Stacy
April Knight, and husband, Alan
Ashton Franklin, and wife, Tally
Hunter Bounds
18 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren
Host of nieces and nephews, and special friends Odie Foshee and Judge Cordray.
Honoring Jean as pallbearers will be her great grandsons Landen Wilburn, Trevor Wilburn, Ashton Rickards, Gage Deason, Dylan DeChamplain, Auston Franklin, and Jake Deason. Honorary pallbearers will be David Graves, Tilghmon Tolson, Rodney Ramsey, Stoney Overstreet, Dale Morvan, Richard Brazzil, Mike Wallis, Scott Evans, and Craig Burns.
01/31/2024
Barbara Ann Anderson, 69, of Timpson, Texas, passed away January 31, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Timpson, Texas. She was born on July 17, 1953, in Center, Texas, to the late Thomas W. Livingston and Pauline (Williams) Livingston.
Graveside service will be held at 2PM on Friday, February 2, 2024, at White Rock Cemetery with Bro. Fred Wilcox officiating.
Barbara had two important things in her life: God was first, then family. If she wasn’t reading her Bible, she was listening to the Bible on CD. Her faith and trust in God never wavered. She loved reading. She traveled all over the world simply through her books. Sometimes she enjoyed the trips so much that she would read some books, 3,4, and even 5 times. She loved to write short stories as well. Her children and loved ones will always remember her cooking. From the cakes, brownies, rice krispy treats, and fudge, but a few of the best dishes were chicken and dressing, potato salad, hamburger soup, and milky way cake.
She is survived by:
Son, Jason Anderson
Daughter, Renee’ Prince
Special Nephew, Stacy Valentino
Grandchildren:
Dakota Barr
Nathan Barr
Christapher Anderson
Blake Prince
Great-grandchildren:
Kaleb Anderson
Phoenix Barr
Sisters:
Evon Green
Linda Griffin
A host of aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, Witmar “Marty” Lamar Anderson; parents, T.W. and Pauline Livingston; maternal grandparents, Thomas Allen and Eva Beatrice (McCauley) Williams; and paternal grandparents, Roy and Ola (Adams) Livingston.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/29/2024
Annie Louise (Cottle) Hayden (April 7, 1931 to January 27, 2024) passed quietly at Pine Grove Nursing home in Center from the afflictions of old age at 92. She was a follower of Jesus and has now gone to Him.
Born April 7, 1931 in Shreveport Louisiana to Loia Ethel (Menefee) and John Bunyan Cottle. In 1956 Annie married Bill Gunter Hayden. Bill served in the US Navy in WWII and was a successful salesman and entrepreneur, establishing Hayden Honda in 1969 in Center Texas. Bill died in 2000. They had one son, John Wiley Hayden, in 1957.
Annie, known by her middle name Louise, attended Center High School graduating in 1948. During summers she worked for her father as a photographer's assistant, printed photos, colorized black and white photos, and occasionally did portrait photography at her father's Cottle Portrait Studio at 124 Wheeler Ave in Center. After high school her first job was at her father's studio. The following year in 1949, she worked as secretary at Elliott & Waldron Abstract Co. In 1951 she worked for JW Holsey as secretary/notary until 1959. Her longest employment was at E L Bruce company from 1959 to 1971, a national producer of wood flooring with a plant in Center Texas. In 1972 she joined her husband at Hayden Honda which expanded to Hayden Distributors in 1983. On her own, at age 62 Annie Louise started Hayden Insurance Agency in 1993 which she successfully ran for two decades. With her husband she travelled to Japan in 1970 and 1972, and Europe in 1974.
She is survived by:
Son, John
Daughter-in-law, Denise
Grandchildren: Ian, Sean and Anita
Grand-daughter-in-law, Renee
Great-grandchildren: Seamus, Tess and Anaximander
Close friend, Sue Gill, who became like a daughter.
Also survived by Alyne McDaniel, her cousin. They were like sisters their entire lives.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Interment will follow at Newburn Cemetery in Shelby County.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/26/2024
Edna Ruth Shofner Birdwell, 82, of Center (formerly Nacogdoches), went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 25, 2024, in Nacogdoches. She was surrounded by her family.
Services will be held on Monday, January 29, 2024, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Mangum Funeral Home in Center. Bro. Dathan Triplett of Revival Tabernacle will officiate.
She is survived by:
Son, Del Birdwell, and wife, Joanna of Center
Grandchildren:
Bethany Birdwell Arnett, and husband, Matt of Holden, Louisiana
Brynna Birdwell Talavera, and husband, Taylor Talavera of Nacogdoches
Levi Birdwell, and fiance, Kloye Sonmor of Center
Great-granddaughter, Maren Mae Arnett of Holden, Louisiana
Sisters:
Linda Henderson, and husband, Joe of Tennessee Colony
Kathi Howard, and husband, Dewey of Center
Sister-in-laws:
Rosa Lee Vaughn Shofner of Center
Beth Rogers, and husband, Jerry of Athens
Linda Wade, and husband, Stanley of Sacul
Brother-in-laws:
Jack Birdwell, and wife, Joyce of Nacogdoches
Lamar Birdwell, and wife, Judy of Madisonville
Numerous nieces and nephews
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bryant Haden Birdwell; parents, Martin Lee Shofner and Bessie Mae Fleming Shofner; brothers, James Richard Shofner and Delbert Shofner; sisters, Billie Jean Livingston and Mary Reichel; sister-in-laws, Carol Shofner, Betty Cole; brother-in-laws, Leon Livingston and Jerry Reichel, Bobby Birdwell, Joe Birdwell, Jim (Birdie) Birdwell; father and mother-in-law, Lawrence Birdwell and Wanda Fountain Birdwell; niece and nephew, Janet and Mike Wilburn.
Edna was born in Center to Martin Lee and Bessie Mae (Fleming) Shofner on March 10, 1941. She was one of seven children and loved her family very much. She graduated from Center High School with the class of 1959 and spoke highly of the many dear friends that she attended school with. She attended Massey Business College in Nacogdoches following her high school graduation. She married Bryant Haden Birdwell of Cushing on March 13, 1965, and the two made their home in Nacogdoches, Texas with their son, Bryant (Del) Birdwell. Edna loved Bryant dearly, and they were married for 53 years before he went to be with Jesus in April 2018. Edna worked for Stone Fort National Bank for 30 years and went on to work for Stephen F. Austin State University until her retirement.
Upon retirement, she stepped into the full-time role of “Nanny”--her favorite and most cherished title of all–to her three grandchildren. She was exceedingly proud of them and enjoyed talking about them to everyone she came in contact with. She left them with fond and lasting memories of days spent gardening, sewing, cooking, canning, shelling peas and shucking corn, frequenting bookstores, galavanting around Nacogdoches “Mall” on any given Saturday, and a fridge that was always full of Cokes. She was the best Nanny and a true “jack of all trades.” Her easy going temperament, patience, and willingness to teach will forever be etched into the hearts of her grandchildren.
One of Edna’s dearest friends recently penned the following:
“Her nature was kind, loving, affirming, and supportive. She seemed to always think of others before herself.”
She was known by many as a constant and faithful friend, a loving and kind mother, wife, and sister, an adoring grandmother, and a true Christian. We will miss her until we all meet again.
"We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." II Corinthians 5:8
If you would like to make a charitable contribution in memory of Mrs. Edna, please make it to Center Christian Academy, P O Box 427, Center, Texas, 75935.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/26/2024
Tay Tay, 66, of Center, Texas, passed away on January 23, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas. She was born on January 1, 1958, in Myanmar.
Funeral service will be held at 12PM on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, with Ler Mey Paw officiating. Visitation will be held from 6-8PM on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home.
She is survived by her husband, Sein Win.
10 Children
Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/26/2024
Keith Tyrone Suell, 56, passed away Monday, January 22, 2024. He was born on December 13, 1967 to the late Bertha Lee Netherly and William Daniel.
Bertha Lee and Jimmy Netherly united in marriage in 1971; Keith was then loved and raised as Jimmy’s biological son. Keith joined Blount Chapel Baptist Church at an early age and was baptized by Rev. L.A. Thomas of Shreveport, Louisiana.
He was a graduate of Center High school and joined the United States Air Force.
Keith had a passion for youth basketball and baseball, he coached for many years in the South Carolina AAU League.
He also had a passion for music and was the faithful disc jockey at many family gatherings by bringing his own equipment and many genres of music.
Keith was preceded in death by his mother; Bertha Netherly and grandmother; Hannah B. Suell. He leaves to cherish in his memory:
Kayla and Darian Suell, both of Columbia, South Carolina
Granddaughter, Jaelynn Suell of Columbia, South Carolina
Brothers:
Michael Netherly (Evette) of Center
Kip Dixon of Mckinney, Texas
Parents, Jimmy and Mary Netherly, of Center
Aunts:
Johnnie Mae Whitaker, who helped raise Keith like her own son
Austrene Edwards of Houston, Texas
Nephews:
Ryan Netherly
Myles Netherly
Caleb Dixon
Daniel Dixon
Josh Dixon
He also had a loving host of cousins and friends; including best friend; Lon Ratcliff of Dallas, Texas.
The memorial service for Keith Tyrone Suell will be held Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at 12pm at Watson and Sons.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/25/2024
Santania “Tiny” Richards, 37, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024. She was born September 30, 1986 to Joe Fletcher and Monica Osby.
Funeral service is 2pm Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Timpson First Assembly of God, 652 Houston Street, Timpson, Texas 75975, with Pastor A.L. Shaw Eulogist. Visitation is 11am until 7pm on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Timpson. Interment is at Timpson Cemetery in Timpson.
She was a member of First Smyrna Baptist Church and Clayton Temple Church of God in Christ in Timpson, Texas at a young age. She later committed to Davis Memorial Church of God in Christ in Nacogdoches, Texas as an adult.
Tiny was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Ruth Mae Osby and Annie Mae Fletcher; grandfathers, Mike Osby, Sr. and George Fletcher, Jr..
She is survived by:
Father, Joe Fletcher
Mother, Monica Osby
Daughters:
Jariyah Marshall
Jakourtlynn Patton
Son, Jakobe Patton
Sisters:
LaRuth Osby of Nacogdoches
Kierra Osby of Nacogdoches
Kenya McGuire of Nacogdoches
Cura Richards of Nacogdoches
A’hkeyrah Fletcher of Longview
Brothers:
Brandon Davis (Krystal) of Cedar Hill, Texas
Darius Fletcher of Dallas
Shaquille Fletcher of Garrison
Five Aunts, favorite, Anita Tutt
Five Uncles, favorite, Mack Osby
Favorite cousin, Aretha Page
God-Sister:
Tarnisha Piro
Tiwaneka Grace
Chanetta Mims
Aunt Ollie Mack
Aunt Ludene Driver
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
01/25/2024
Mr. Johnny Johnson, 74, of Carthage, Texas departed her life on Friday, January 19, 2024, at Carthage Healthcare Center in Carthage, Texas. He was born on July 28, 1949, to the late Robert Johnson and Eliza Jackson in Shreveport, La. Mr. Johnson’s Graveside service will be held at Westview Cemetery, at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 27, 2024. Rev. Joe Mitchell will be the eulogist.
Mr. Johnson is survived by:
Sons:
Chris Johnson of Florida
Johnny Johnson II of Carthage
John Johnson (Janett) of Carthage
Grandchildren:
Johnny Ray Johnson III and Alessandrian Johnson of Carthage
Visitation: Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Hicks Chapel at 12:00 Noon.
Interment: Westview Center, Texas
Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
01/23/2024
Bobbie Lamerle Richards Gary, 92, of Center, Shelby County, went to be with the Lord on January 22, 2024.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 26, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Rev. Carroll Jones will officiate. Interment will follow at Mount Bethel Cemetery in Panola County.
She was born September 7, 1931, to parents, Robert “Bob” and Sallie Bishop Richards. Bobbie (Lamerle to her family) grew up on the family farm in the Arcadia Community of Shelby County the youngest of four sisters. She and her husband had no children. Bobbie was more like a sister to her nieces and nephews than an Aunt. She walked with them and the community children two miles to and from Cooper School, later graduating from Timpson High at sixteen years of age.
Bobbie married Glyn W. Gary on August 7, 1948. They moved to Fort Worth, Texas. She loved to tell the story about renting an apartment, sleeping on pallets on the floor and sitting on apple crates until they both found work with the Kimble Food Company. The owners basically adopted them and they were like family. It was not long before they were on their feet and doing quite well, Thank you.
They later moved to Tyler, Texas, where Glyn was Manager of the Brookshire Food Store and Bobbie went to work for a financial company as a bookkeeper. After a few years the company asked Glyn to move to Longview, Texas, to manage the Brookshire Food Store there and Bobbie began working for Trailmobil. We cannot tell Bobbie’s life story without telling a part of Glyn’s story. He surrendered to the Ministry, 1962 and resigned as Manager of Brookshire’s. He entered the Texas Baptist Institute and Missionary Baptist Church of Hughes Springs, Texas. At this time, Bobbie resigned her job with Trailmobil, thus began her life as a Pastor’s wife. She and Glyn served several churches before he was called to be a Missionary Pastor organizing the Tanglewood Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, Texas.
Bobbie was very involved in the church where ever Glyn served as Pastor. She had earlier studied piano and played for the services. She hosted many events in their home and continued to do so after his passing. During this time she continued her private bookkeeping for small business.
Bobbie depended on her strong faith to help her through some trying times. Glyn had surgery for a pituitary tumor in 1978. He came through surgery with vision only in one eye and very little left in the other. He lost all vision in December of 1980. He was bedfast from July of 1981 until the early part of 1983, not realizing what was happening around him. Bobbie took care of Glyn at home while working full time in the office of Shelby Savings Bank. A miracle of the Lord allowed him to regain his strength and mind but not his vision, he continued preaching to different churches until June of 1986. Bobbie quit her job and was there every step of the way helping him continue his Bible Study and sermon preparations by putting his scripture and notes on tape. He would listen to those tapes until his sermon was committed to memory. Many in the Shelby County area will remember attending his sermon at the Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. Bobbie standing by his side helping with his notes and tape, as he sat and preached in June 1986 at Longview Missionary Baptist Church for “Glyn Gary Day”. Brother Glyn Gary was called home to be with the Lord, January 2, 1987. A collection of Glyn’s sermons were published in book form and tapes and put in the library at the Texas Baptist Institute and Seminary for the study of future Ministers.
After Glyn’s death, Bobbie went back to work for Shelby Savings Bank, soon building a new house. When it was time to move to that new house, the men employees at the bank volunteered their Saturday afternoon and moved her. She loved to cook and her chocolate pie was famous with her fellow employees. After retirement, Bobbie spent time in her yard, cooking and continued working for her Lord.
Bobbie checked herself into the Lakeside Village Assisted Living in Center, where Kay Powell and the staff took special loving care of her for many years. They saw that she had her morning 5 o’clock coffee while everyone else was asleep. In June of 2023, she had a stroke and the staff at Lakeside could no longer take proper care of her. She had to be moved to Focused Care Nursing Home in Center, where of course, the staff and Heart to Heart Hospice Care took special care of her.
She is survived by:
Nieces and nephews:
Jerry Pate, and wife, Debra of Center
Virginia Goodrum of Jacksonville
Fay Socia of Nacogdoches
Verbon Pate, and wife, Elizabeth of Center
She is preceded in death by husband, Glyn W. Gary; parents, Robert Henry “Bob” Richards and Sallie Louanna (Bishop) Richards; sisters, Lillie Mae Pate and husband Verbon Sr., Laura Anna Bell Deason and husband Cecil, and Era Wren Ramsey Adams and husbands James P. Ramsey and Robert Adams; also, a host of nieces and nephews.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/20/2024
Marilyn Dee Haywood Welch Griffin, 89, of the Stockman Community of Shelby County, went to be with the Lord on January 19, 2024. She was born November 5, 1934, to Jim and Stella Haywood.
Miss Marilyn loved her family, friends, and loved life. She never met a stranger. Marilyn was a door greeter for Wal-Mart in Center for many years. If she met you once, she recognized you forever as one of my customers. She was loved by a big family and many friends. Marilyn had many little sayings that each one of her children, grandchildren, and friends will remember of her.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Claudine Moore, Ardell Bardwell, Hester Blackwell, James Haywood; son, Bobby Welch; three grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
Marilyn is survived by:
Daughters:
Delois Blackwell of Nacogdoches
Rebecca and Bobby Strong of Carthage
Sons:
Larry and Francine Welch of Springs, Colorado
Jimmy and Marilyn Welch of Stockman
Seven grandchildren:
Delisa Carroll
Terry Welch
Chris Welch
Jamie Welch
Anthony Welch
Buddy Strong
Robert Strong
Many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of friends
Services will be at 2pm, Thursday, January 25, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Blair Cemetery in Timpson. Officiating the services will be Bro. Robert Strong and Buddy Strong.
Pallbearers will be Joshua Strong, John Strong, Austin Eldridge, and Anthony Welch.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
01/20/2024
On Thursday, January 18th, 2024, we bid a heartfelt farewell to a cherished wife, beloved mother, and adored grandmother, Ona Delores Pritchet, lovingly known as Dorothy. Born on the Summer Solstice of June 21, 1944, in Dallas, Texas, to Rheinhardt Herman Engelke and Ona Mary Leona Burnette, Dorothy brought warmth and joy to the lives she touched.
Dorothy found her lifelong love in Homer Lewis Pritchet, and on May 24th, 1973, they embarked on a journey of 50 years together. The James Community of Center, Tx, became the canvas of their shared memories and the haven they called home.
Preceded in death by her parents and granddaughter Kara Miller, Dorothy's legacy lives on through the love she showered on her family.
She is survived by:
Devoted husband and soul mate, Homer
Four children:
Felton Gilmore and his wife MaryAnn
Cathy Dickerson and her husband Bob
Charlotte Halvorson and her husband Scott
Sheri Miller and her husband Matthew
Dorothy and Homer's love multiplied in the form of 15 grandchildren:
Mylinda White
Mylissa Capp
Jonathan Gilmore
Jeremy Gilmore
Justyn Gilmore
LaniNicole Russell
Jennifer Richards
Rey Soto
Lindsey Crandall
Brandon Halvorson
Derek Miller
Joshua Miller
Jared Miller
Kara Miller
Matthew Miller
Garrett Hoover
Additionally, they shared in the joy and love of 17 great-grandchildren.
Visitation to honor Dorothy's memory will take place on Saturday, January 20th, from 5 to 7 pm at the Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas. The Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, January 21st, at 2 pm, with Brother Johnny Lewis of the Antioch Baptist Church officiating.
In this time of sorrow, let us remember Dorothy not with tears for her departure but with smiles for the moments we shared. May her gentle spirit and enduring love remain eternally in our hearts.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/19/2024
Funeral services for Wandell Womack will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Tenaha with Dr. Andrew King officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, January 21, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Pallbearers will be Chip Roberson, Don Dial, Tommy Baker, Brack Harrison, Russell Rowe, and Reginald Parks. Honorary pallbearers will be Sean Pevoto and Bob Sanders.
Wandell Conner was born on January 27, 1929 to Callie and Drew Pierce Conner of Zavalla, TX. She was the second of five children. The family moved to Tenaha in 1941 where Wandell was involved in various extracurricular activities at school and in her church. She learned to sew at a young age and made her first full-sized quilt at eight years old. Wandell began dating Joe Dan Womack when they were 16 and 14, respectively, and they were married four days after his 18th birthday on July 14, 1949. They worked together at Tenaha ISD for many years and were beloved by generations of Tigers. Together they had four children: Becky, Lou Jane, Jerry, and Terrie. Through a full-time career and raising four children Wandell was still active in First Baptist Church, Tenaha, until she was unable to continue doing so. For many years she was involved in the sewing ministry and created many articles of clothing, quilts, and blankets for babies and adults alike. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She passed away peacefully on January 18, 2024 after having a 95th birthday party with her family. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Wandell was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Dan Womack; their three daughters, Becky Womack King, Lou Jane Womack, and Terrie Womack; her parents; and her siblings, Gladys Nell Mathews, Maude Yvonne Rowe, Kenneth Conner, and Bert Conner.
She is survived by:
Son, and his wife, Jerry and Dina Womack
Son-in-law, Joe King
Granddaughters, grandsons-in-law, and three great-grandchildren: Bob and Katie Sanders and Ben; Sean and Jenni Pevoto and Joey; and Reginald and Megan Parks and Jenni; and sisters-in-law, Maxine Conner Strahan and Linda Conner; along with numerous nephews, nieces, other relatives, and friends.
The family would like to thank the incredible doctors and nurses of the Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center Marshall, 5th floor, and Magnolia Place Wellness and Rehabilitation Center for their support and care over the last few weeks.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Sewing Ministry at First Baptist Church, Tenaha.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/19/2024
Mary Ann Skinner, 81, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on December 30, 2023, in Tomball, Texas.
Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., February 1, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas. Funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Watson & Sons Chapel. A private burial service will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Mary was born October 3, 1942, in Panola County, Texas. She graduated from Joaquin High School and lived in and around Joaquin all but the last few years of her life. She was married to William Edward Skinner Sr. of Joaquin, Texas, for 54 years. She worked at Headricks Drug Store in Logansport, Louisiana, for many years and then for Texas State Bank in Joaquin.
She is survived by:
Son, Robert G. Skinner of Magnolia
Granddaughters:
Bailey Skinner Bailey, and husband, Travis of Tomball
Reagan Skinner Arnold, and husband, Kobe of Magnolia
She is also survived by her son, William Edward Skinner Jr., and wife, Kim of Wasilla, Alaska
Granddaughters, Bobby and Keri
Mary is preceded in death by her father, George Davis Jr.; and mother James Vernie Lawhorn Davis, her husband, William Edward “Bill” Skinner Sr. of Joaquin, Texas; her three brothers, Billy, Johnny, and Wayne Davis of Shelby County, Texas; and sister, Vera Roberts of Tenaha, Texas.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/19/2024
Paul E. Bailey was born August 31, 1937, in Shelby County TX to parents LaClair and Evelyn Bailey. He passed from this life on January 17, 2024.
Visitation will be 10:30 am until 12:00 pm, Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Taylor Funeral Home. Graveside Service will be 12:30 pm at Blair Cemetery, Timpson, TX.
Paul graduated from Timpson High School in 1955 and attended Panola Junior College. He married Frances Collins on February 10, 1961. Paul was a long-time rancher and owner of Bailey’s Feed & Fertilizer. He was a member of Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Bailey had previously served on the Timpson ISD School Board.
He is survived by:
Wife, Frances
Children:
Son, David (Deborah) Bailey of Highland Village
Daughter, Vickie (Chris) Fontaine of Whitehouse
Also surviving are his grandchildren:
Kristen (Nick) Netsch
Kathryn Bailey
Garrett (Jordon) Bailey
Matthew Fontaine
Madison (Austin) Lusk
Great-grandchildren:
Annie Netsch
Hudson Netsch
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ann Flowers, and brother Ray Bailey
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20, at 10:30 AM (Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson) followed by a graveside service at Blair Cemetery with Pastor Levi Cohorst.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Garrison Nursing Home & Rehabilitation located at 333 FM 95 Garrison, TX 75946. The family would like to especially thank the staff at Garrison NH & R for their loving care and Heart to Heart Hospice for providing care in his final days.
Pages
