Obituaries
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.
01/18/2024
Shirlene Jones, 84, of Center, passed away Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Tyler.
Memorial graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center.
Shirlene was born March 14, 1939, in Abilene, Texas. She worked as the Program Director at Shelby County Outreach Ministries. Shirlene loved her family and was a very Godly woman. She was of the First Assembly of God faith.
She is survived by:
Grandchildren:
Michael J. White, and wife, Tera of Patroon
Josh White of Center
Tabitha Clifton of Beaumont
Christie Nash, and husband, Kevin of Timpson
David Yates, and wife, Tera of Center
LaTeasha Berli of Florida
Cole Jones of Florida
Stephanie Jenkins of Lufkin
Brandy Levitzki of Dallas
Ryan Moore of Tennessee
Preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Jones; children, Beverly Price, Kenny Price, Pam White, Terry Jones, and Wendy Hicks; and parents.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/17/2024
Barbara Lynn Jackson, 54, of Shelbyville, passed away Monday, January 15, 2024, in Shelbyville.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 19, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 20, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Center with Bro. Mike Belgard, Ricky Cartwright, and Pastor Desmond Ferguson officiating. Interment will follow at Bennett Chapel Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Born October 7, 1969, in Center, Texas, Barbara is the daughter of Lucille Cartwright Jackson Bazile and Lucky Gardner. She worked for Graves Bail Bonds for many years under the supervision of Leo Graves. After this milestone, she transitioned to Hope Community Medicine, where she has worked for many years under the leadership of Dr. Michael Belgard until her demise. Barbara also served as a licensed notary public, a beautician, and was a member of Order of Eastern Star. She loved to cook and I mean for everybody! No one left with an empty stomach. She loved her family, children, and her grandkids.
She is survived by:
Husband, Leon Jackson
Six special children:
Manuel D. Jackson
Jacobi Z. Jackson
Princess Tijah M. Jackson
Leonardo Jackson
Leondia Jackson Williamson
Nicole Jackson
Grandkids:
Manuel D. Jackson Jr. (Saint)
Madeline Jackson (Maddie)
Leah Williamson
Godson, Khaza King Henderson, whom she loved dearly
Also left to cherish her memory:
Siblings:
Deborah A. Jackson
Charlie Earl Jackson
Reta A. Perodin
Lorea A. Bonaparte
Lisa G. Jackson
Patrick Blount
Angela Gardner
Tasha Teamer
Tamesha Bazile
Penny Bazile
Best friend, DeAnne Garrett
Nieces:
MacKenzie Deloney
Anja Britton
Amanda Ashton
Arriana Bazile
Kim Gardner
Bridget Brook
Tyasia Blount
Lisha Garrett
Tiyana Blount
Jill Roberson
Nephews:
Elliott Phylow
Zuri Singleton
Ismael A. Jackson
Mason Jaron Roberson
Xavier Bazile
Tyarron Oliver
Ben Winslow
Reagan Hart
Nalond Waines
Zyreon Waines
Desmond Jackson
Mozell Roberson III
Also, a wealth of aunts and uncles - Cartwright and Grisby.
Preceded in death by brother, Tremaine Bazile; and honorary father, Clemon Jackson.
Pallbearers will be Trent Hass, Cody Foshee, Canyon Holmes, Kurtrick Allen, Jordan Williams, H’Leighen McClelland. Honorary pallbearers will be Leon Jackson, Jacobi Jackson, Manuel Jackson, Melvin Durrell, Elliott Phylow, Zuri Singleton, and Ismael A. Jackson.
The family would like to thank you all for your warm thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
Services are lovingly fulfilled by Watson & Sons Funeral Home, 1554 State Highway 7 East, Center, Texas 75935.
Repass will be at Bennett Chapel Missionary Baptist Church.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/18/2024
Waundlyan J. Gardner, 82 of Houston, Texas, passed away. Mrs. Gardner is the wife of Thomas A. Gardner, a native of Center, Texas.
Funeral services will be held at 10am on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Holy Trinity located at 14513 South Post Oak Road, Houston, Texas 77045. Visitation is 9am to 10am on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Holly Trinty in Houston, Texas. Interment is at Houston National, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77038 (Monday, January 22, 2024, at 12:30pm.)
Waundlyan is Survived by:
Husband, Thomas A. Gardner of Houston
Sons:
Christopher (Gwen) Hardemon of Houston
Craig D. (Simone) Gardner of Houston
Kevin Gardner of Houston
Daughter, Jackie Opara of Houston
Brother and Sister-in-laws:
Rev. Billy E. (Margie) Gardner of Lufkin
Ester M. Singleton of Longview
Myrtis McClelland of Center
Jerry W. (Sheryl) Gardner of Ft. Worth
Frederick (Stella) Gardner of Center
Uncle, Lucky (Wilda) Gardner
Services announced by Hicks Mortuary of Center, Texas and McCoy and Harrison Funeral Home of Houston, Texas.
01/17/2024
Joy Paige Campbell, 88, of Center, passed away Monday, January 15, 2024, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Dr. Andrew King will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born February 26, 1935, in Center, Joy is the daughter of Roy Paige and Erma Askew Paige. She was a member of Tenaha Church of Christ.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Sonya Campbell Anthony, and husband, Mitchell
Stacy Campbell Spruiell, and husband, Greg
Son, Steven Campbell, and wife, Alesia
Grandchildren:
Lindsey Blackshear, and husband, Wil
Carrie Anthony, and fiancé, Jeremy
Justin Campbell, and wife, April
Shane Campbell, and wife, Ashley
Blake Campbell, and wife, Magon
Chase Campbell, and wife, Jade
Alexandria (Alex) Spruiell
Elizabeth (Liz) Spruiell
Jesse Spruiell and wife Shelby
Great-grandchildren:
William Blackshear
Mason Blackshear
Eli Blackshear
Presley Campbell
Kross Campbell
KwadeCampbell
Kroix Campbell
Stihl Campbell
Colt Campbell
Case Campbell
Caroline Campbell
Walker James Spruiell
Brothers-in-law
John Campbell, and wife, Ginny of Atlanta, Georgia
Jerry Campbell, and wife, Melody of Lewisville
Kenneth Campbell, and wife, Molly of Timpson
Sisters-in-law:
Earline Austin of Shreveport, Louisiana
Rosemary Campbell of Shreveport, Louisiana
Numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews
Pallbearers will be Justin Campbell, Blake Campbell, Wil Blackshear, Shane Campbell, Chase Campbell, and Jeremy Hancock.
Preceded in death by husband, Tommy Campbell; parents, Roy and Erma Askew Paige, brothers-in-law, Curtis, E.C., Jim, Otto, and Buster Campbell, Maxie and Jo Campbell, Glenn and Inez Campbell, and Coy and Irene Campbell; sisters-in-law, Sue Davis, Eula “Bootsie” Worsham, Billye Cather, and Margie Campbell.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/15/2024
Lance Lee Parks, 47, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2024, in Longview, Texas.
Graveside service was held at 2pm, Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Spann’s Chapel Cemetery in Center with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.
Born November 8, 1976, in Center, Lance is the son of Jimmie Devo Parks and Ima Jean Spann Parks. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by:
Wife, Tonya Parks
Son, Devin Waller
Brother, Charles Parks and wife Sherry
Sisters:
Shelby Fowler and husband Ricky
Rose Parks
Nieces and nephews:
Kevin and Samantha Rushing
Gabriel and Darlene Parks
Rachel and Josh Chase
Sarah Parks and Edgardo Marrufo
Joshua Parks
Shannon and Brad Denby
James and Nina Tyre
Tina and Jaime Pardo
William Jody Windham
John and Briget Parks
Angie and Corey Sigler
Adam Ramirez and Ashley
Tori Ramirez and Jacoryan
Numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.
Lance is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie Devo Parks and Ima Jean Spann Parks; sister, Susan Parks Windham; and brother, Jimmie Devo Parks Jr..
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/15/2024
Mae Lee Roberts Adams (86) of Tenaha, Texas, departed her life on January 12, 2024, at Focused Care Nursing Facility in Center, Texas.
Mrs. Mae Lee Roberts was born on April 19, 1937, to the late Beamon Roberts and Jennie Lee Williams Roberts in Tenaha, Texas.
Funeral service will be held at St. John Baptist Church in Tenaha, Texas, at 11:00 AM on January 17, 2024. Rev. Claudell Anderson will be the eulogist. Interment at St. John Baptist Church Cemetery Tenaha, Texas.
Mae Lee Adams is survived by:
Children:
Daughters:
Cristy Byndom (Keith) of Center
Vee Allsbrooks (Mitchell) of Rusk, Texas
Son, Clovis Adams Jr. (Sharon) of Tenaha
Sisters:
Karolyn Carraway of Dallas
Betty Rhodes of Dallas
Brother, Ketral Roberts (Dean) of Dallas
Five Grandchildren: Chase, Mallory, Christopher, DaKota, and Aiden
Four Great-grandchildren
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and other relatives.
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
01/12/2024
Suzanne Hancock Ihlo, 82, of Center, Texas passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 11th surrounded by family.
The funeral service for Suzanne Ihlo will be held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Mangum Funeral Home in Center, Texas. Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. also at Mangum Funeral Home. Pastor Malcom Monroe of the First Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Suzanne was born February 13th, 1941, to Vance Earl Hancock and Gladys Imogene Hancock. As a native of Shelby County, she graduated from Center High School in 1958 before attending Baylor University. Although her wanderlust took her in many directions, she spent most of her life here in Center, Texas among family and friends. She was an active member of the community where she enjoyed being a part of many organizations including Bridge Club, Reading Club, Beta Sigma Phi sorority, and the Daughter’s of the American Revolution chapter in Nacogdoches, as well as the Washington chapter in Galveston, TX. In her most recent years Suzanne embarked upon new adventures in Galveston, Texas. She always looked forward to her participation and outings with the Women’s Association of Galveston Country Club and her neighborhood Book Club. Some of her favorite pastimes were walking on the beach, collecting shells and sea glass, riding her golf cart through the neighborhoods, and visiting with her many friends.
As a longtime member of The Methodist Church in Center, Texas she served on various committees. After several years of dedication and hard work, one of her proudest moments was securing a historical marker for the First Methodist Church Cemetery, one of the oldest in the county, dating back to 1861.
Throughout her life, Suzanne was known to be outgoing, fun loving, and faithful. She had an indescribable way of making everyone she met feel comfortable, welcomed, and loved. Suzanne had a great sense of humor and was friendly to all in her presence. Mindful of the family legacy passed on to her from her mother and grandmother, Suzanne inherited a gift for southern charm and hospitality. Her greatest joy was the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
She is survived by:
Children:
Roy Blackshear and Liz Burke
Pat Blackshear Porter
Kristi Ihlo LaVerdure and Maurice LaVerdure
Janan Ihlo Pigg
Grandchildren:
Alicia Pigg
Wil and Lindsey Blackshear
Madeline and Logan Luzzo
Mackenzie Porter
Grant and Maddie LaVerdure
Grayson LaVerdure
Great Grandchildren:
William Blackshea
Mason Blackshear
Eli Blackshear
Siblings:
Buddy Hancock
Martha Jean Hancock Golden
Preceded in death by husband, William G. Ihlo; parents, Vance Hancock and Imogene Carriker Hancock; and son-in-law, Gilbert Scott Porter.
Suzanne was loved deeply by her family and countless friends. She will be in our hearts forever and always.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Methodist Church, 211 Porter Street, Center TX 75935
Pallbearers are Billy Ihlo, Maurice LaVerdure, John Henry Holloway, Wil Blackshear, Logan Luzzo, Grant LaVerdure, and Grayson LaVerdure.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/11/2024
Maxcine Berry, 61, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2024. She was born May 3, 1962.
Funeral service is Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 11am at Benford Chapel Baptist Church, 126 Martin Luther King, Tenaha, Texas. Visitation is from 4pm until 6pm on Friday, January 12, 2024 at Black's Funeral Home in the Ruth Lovely Memorial Chapel, 641 E. Sabine Street, Carthage, Texas 75633. Interment is at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Tenaha, Texas.
Services are under the direction of Black’s Funeral Home, Carthage, Texas.
01/11/2024
Billy Glenn Carroll, 53, of Carthage, passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2024, in Carthage.
Visitation will be held from 5pm to 8pm, Thursday, January 11, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 11am, Friday, January 12, 2024, at Strong Cemetery in Huxley with Bro. Shane Iturbide officiating.
Born July 8, 1970, Billy is the son of David Paul Carroll and Glenis Cassell Carroll. He loved fishing, gardening, and cutting up with his friends.
He is survived by:
Daughters:
Taylor Cheyenne Carroll
Laci Leigh Carroll Price and husband Thomas Cody Price
Grandchildren:
Cayden Cole Price
Chloe Nikole Price
Mother, Glenis Carroll
Brother, James David Carroll
Niece, Jessi Carroll Webb and husband Michael Clifton
Nephew, Jamie Carroll and wife Shelby
Aunts:
Sheila Jo Powdrill and husband Mike
Joylynn Redmon
Judy Goings
Stepmother, Kayse Carroll
Preceded in death by father, David Paul Carroll; brother, Kenneth Leon Carroll; grandparents, Johnnie and Howell Cassell; aunt, Johnie Howell Cooks; and uncles, Bobby Howell Cassell and Bobby Joe Cassell.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/11/2024
Tommy Lee Shahan, 70 of Logansport, Louisiana, entered into rest on Monday, January 8, 2024, surrounded by his family. Tommy was born on November 4, 1953, in Anson, Texas to H.B. “Buster” and Vera Mae Shahan.
Funeral services celebrating the life of Tommy Lee Shahan will be held at 10am, Friday, January 12, 2024, at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Chapel, 943 Polk Street, Mansfield, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Rev. Joe Walker. Interment will follow at Reeves McMillan Cemetery, Logan, Texas. A visitation will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, from 9am until the time of service at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home.
In Loving Memory of Tommy Shahan, a member of Logan MBC, a devoted family man and an outdoor enthusiast. Tommy peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. An avid hunter and fisherman, he found solace in nature, forging unforgettable bonds with family and friends during countless adventures. His green thumb was evident in the flourishing garden he tended to with passion and care. His love for his family and the great outdoors will forever be etched in our hearts.
As we bid farewell, we find solace in knowing that he has found his eternal rest in heaven.
Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, H.B. “Buster” and Vera Mae “Beanus” Shahan; brother, Clinton Shahan; niece, D’Andra Parker; nephew, Lil Buster Shahan; and brother-in-law, Freddie Paul David.
Left to cherish his memory include:
Wife of 46 years, Caroel Shahan
Son, Gary Shahan and wife Angela
Sisters:
Verna Mae Parker and husband Dare
Sandra David
Bea Bagley and husband Rickey
Eunice Harris and husband Mike
Brothers:
Sidney Shahan and wife Debbie
Henry Shahan and wife Anita
Grandsons:
Ian Shahan
Conrad Shahan
Sisters-in-law:
Reba Shahan
Gloria Cook and husband Billy
Brothers-in-law:
Martin Windham and wife Irene
Tommy Niswonger
Melvis Windham
A host of nieces and nephews
Honoring Tommy as pallbearers will be Jimmy Arbuckle, Jed Smith, Jason Gray, Brad Stanley, Chad Santos, and Jeremy Hennigan. Honorary pallbearers will be Harry Furlow, Mike Harris, Wayne Taylor, Billy Cook, and Brandon Sowell.
Services under the direction of Rose Neath Funeral Homes, Mansfield, Louisiana.
01/10/2024
Jason Alan Ward, 63 of Nacogdoches, Texas passed away on January 8, 2024, surrounded by his family after a battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Jason was a quiet example of what a man should be that he instilled in his sons, his family, and his friends.
Visitation will be held at Cason Monk-Metcalf on Thursday, January 11, 2024 from 5pm to 7pm with services on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 2pm at Cason Monk-Metcalf with interment to follow at Waterman Cemetery, Shelby County, TX.
Jason was born on November 7, 1960 in Nacogdoches to Jimmy and Sherry Ward. Jason graduated from Center High School in 1979 but not before meeting the love of his life, Rhonda. They dated their senior year and married on December 1, 1979 in Center, TX. Jason and Rhonda defied the odds of marrying at 18 and 19 as they just celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary. Their first “date” was Jason taking Rhonda home after church, that set the tone for the rest of their marriage, God was always first.
Jason grew up a cowboy, as his father was a cattle buyer and a cowboy he remained. In 1989 Jason had this bright idea to buy an outfitting business in Colorado, Rhonda being the ever-faithful Houston born wife, agreed and the adventures at Wolf Creek Outfitters in Pagosa Springs began! Jason guided hunters on horseback for elk, mule deer, bear and sheep, while also running cattle on several ranches and guiding snowmobile tours in the winter. Rhonda was the scheduler and bookkeeper of this organized chaos of which they owned and operated for 14 years. While in Colorado Jason served on the Colorado Outfitters Association Board, the Governor’s Task Force for establishing hunting and recreational guidelines as well as serving on the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Friends of NRA committees.
The decision was made in 2002 to sell the business and move back home to Nacogdoches to another adventure – East Texas Appraisal Services. Whatever business they were in, it was always as a team. Jason and Rhonda were very blessed to be able to work side by side for over 35 years.
Jason will be remembered for his “Jasonisms”, his love for his family and his friends -- he truly loved each of them, and if you knew him, you knew it. Jason left this earth with dignity, strength, and the heart of a cowboy. His was a life well lived!
Jason is survived by:
Wife, Rhonda
Son, Chad Ward and wife Holly of Anna, Texas
Son, Dillon Ward and wife Amy of Nacogdoches
The absolute lights of his life grandchildren: Hayden, Connor, Slone, Ronan, and Slate Ward.
Father, Jimmy Ward of Center
Brother, John Ward and wife Bridgette of Center
Sister, Gina Castro and husband Sergio of Hurst, Texas
Mother-in-law, Mildred Rothmund of Nacogdoches
Father-in-law, Bill Rothmund of Idalou, Texas
Sisters-in-law:
Rochelle Gibbs and husband Tommy of Merryville, Louisiana
Robin Hunter and husband David of Lexington, Kentucky
Rachel Adame and husband Adrian of Victoria, Texas
Nieces and nephews:
Landry Ward
Brady Ward Colton Ward
Taylor Seerden
Trevor Seerden
Elizabeth Hunter
Jason is preceded in death by his mother, Sherry Ward.
Pallbearers will be Chad Ward, Dillon Ward, John Ward, David Hunter, Glenn Hoffpauir, and Allen Powell.
Services in the care of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, Nacogdoches, Texas.
01/10/2024
Lewis Lynn Fausett Jr. “Louie”, 66, of Center, Texas, passed away at his home on January 7, 2024.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home, Highway 7 East, with visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. Graveside services and burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery.
Louie was born on October 13, 1957, in Torrance, California, and died on January 7, 2024, in Center, Texas. He graduated with the Center High School Class of 1976.
Lewis “Louie” enjoyed spending time with his family and keeping up with his oilfield friends on the phone.
He loved to fish, hunt, and in his later years, spend time watching “his” deer in his front yard.
Louie’s work and careers spanned from hauling watermelons in East Texas, the logging woods in East Texas, pipefitting in the refineries around Houston, Texas, and then worked the Drilling Rigs in the oilfields of Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. If you were around him for very long, you were going to hear a fishing story, a hunting story, a drilling story from his drilling and tool pushing days, or what his deer were doing every evening. He was a quiet man, but when you got him started, he could tell some stories.
Louie had been baptized in the Episcopal faith.
Survived by:
Wife, Jaimie Fausett of Center
Mother, Mary Rafter Fausett of Center
Brothers:
James Fausett and wife Ching-Yi Fausett of Huxley
Richard Fausett and Susan Sanford of Center
Children
Tanya Fausett Lay of Ruston, Louisiana
Scott Fausett of Ruston, Louisiana
Stepchildren:
Tabetha Steffek, Billy Themis of Center
Byron Themis of Kemp, Texas
Grandchildren:
Shelby Stevens Reaser
Tristen Lay
Nya Miller
Trent Fausett
Tydus Fausett
Asia Yarbrough
Reagan Yarbrough
Niece, Erika Fausett Lovelace and husband Justin
Nephew, Joel Fausett and wife Stephanie Cummings
Numerous cousins
Preceded in death by father, Lewis “Poodle” Fausett; grandparents, R.B. and Fleta Fausett, and Eric and Elsie Rafter.
Pallbearers will be Ronnie Adams, Donnie Adams, Randy Fausett, Zack Fausett, Trent Fausett, and Tristen Lay. Honorary pallbearers will be Franky Adams, Howard Farmer, Glenn Fausett, Mike Fults, Douglas Jackson, and Patrick Sparks.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/09/2024
Steven Michael Dockens, 64, of Mulvane, KS, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2023 at his home on Dockens Farm.
Funeral Services will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, 420 San Augustine St, Center, TX. A burial will follow at Strong Cemetery in Shelbyville, Texas.
A special celebration in honor of Steve's life and legacy will be scheduled in the spring or summer 2024.
Steve was born in Shreveport, LA on June 29, 1959, to the late Joan (Bonin) and J. Donice Dockens. Steve retired as a crew chief at Textron after 30+ years of dedicated service. Steve enjoyed drag racing, hunting, fishing, farming, coaching baseball and spending time with family and friends.
On August 8, 1980, he married Suzanne (Westcott) Dockens in Livingston, TX who survives him.
He is also survived by:
Children:
Shadrick Dockens of Mulvane, KS
Steven E. Dockens, and wife, Sarah of Wichita, KS
Shelbi Chavana, and husband, Robert of Augusta, KS
Neil Giese of Conroe
Sister, Donna Vaughan of Bridgeport
Brother, Dave Dockens of Rose Hill, KS
Grandchildren:
Austin Dockens
Chase Dockens
Riley Dockens
Chance Dockens
Greyson Dockens
Leo Dockens
Aaralynn Chavana
Paizley Chavana
Rozlynn Chavana
Gentry Chavana
Madison Bohlmann
Sydni Bohlmann
McKenzie Dagel
He was preceded in death by his sister, Kathleen Grass.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
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