Obituaries
08/21/2023
Harold Loyd Coats Jr., 74, of Nacogdoches, passed away Monday, August 21, 2023, in Houston.
A private family graveside service will be held at Strong Cemetery in Huxley.
Born January 15, 1949, Harold is the son of Harold Loyd Coats Sr. and Eleanor Elizabeth Lagoudis. Loving art, he became a professional artist. Harold served as a Boy Scout leader and Cadet Major of High School R.O.T.C. He worked for the Houston Fire Department for twelve years, acquiring the rank of Captain. As a hobby, Harold enjoyed playing the game of Chess, reading, and studying science and history. An avid photographer, he loved being outdoors on his land. Harold was of the Baptist faith. Above all, he loved and sacrificed for his family.
Survived by:
Wife of 55 years, Linda Diane Coats of Nacogdoches
Children:
Shannon Bryan Coats and wife Shanan of Henderson
Malisa Lanae Bobbitt and husband Andy of Mansfield
Adam Loyd Coats and wife Brittney of Pollok
Grandchildren:
Colin Coats and wife Meagan
Casey Coats and wife Mary
Jessica Coats, Madeline Brassell
William Bobbitt
Great-grandchildren:
Karter Coats
Jack Coats
Cooper Coats
Sisters:
June Arlene Cox and husband Ron of Huntsville
Loretta Lynn Thornbrough and husband Mark of Bryan
Numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends
The family would like to thank the heart donor’s family for the additional thirteen years of life.
Preceded in death by father, Harold Loyd Coats Sr.; and mother, Eleanor Elizabeth Lagoudis.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Volunteer Christian Builders of First Baptist Church of Henderson, 207 W. Main, Henderson, Texas 75654.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
08/21/2023
Dorothy Bain, 96, of Center, Texas passed away August 18, 2023, at her home in Center surrounded by her loving family. Dorothy was born November 27, 1926, in Center, Texas to the late Fred “Shorty” and Mollie Baugh. She married Billy E. Ballard on September 20, 1945. They had four children, Sandy, Billy, Gayle and Ronnie. After Billy’s death in 1991 she married David Bain on April 29, 1995.
Funeral Service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, First Baptist Church Center, burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be Monday, August 21, 2023 at Mangum Funeral Home from 5:00pm until 8:00pm.
Dorothy loved people and hugs! She worked for many years at H & S Grocery and made many friends during that time. And oftentimes we would come across people that met her there and remembered her and her sweet charms and attitude.
She was baptized and served her Lord through her church, First Baptist Church in Center. She was active during all the many years she was a member. She enjoyed WMU and teaching Sunday School and most recently was a part of the Golden Harvest choir.
Dorothy is survived by:
Children:
Sandra Yarborough
Billy Ballard
Gayle Harvey and husband Emmett
7 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren
Step-daughter, Rebecca Vergiels and husband Victor
Sisters:
Barbara Fischer
Bonnie Bagwell
Connie Lucas
A host of family and friends that will dearly miss her and her sweet spirit.
She is preceded in death by her husbands, Billy Ballard and David Bain, parents Shorty and Mollie Baugh, son Ronnie Ballard, brother Fred “Botch” Baugh Jr., son-in-law Rogers Yarborough and daughter-in-law Debra Ballard, grandson-in-law Jack Massey.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
08/17/2023
ShaCoury Richardson, 45 of Timpson, passed away Sunday, August 13, 2023 at his home in Timpson.
Memorial service is 11am Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Clayton Temple C.O.G.I.C. of Timpson.
Shacoury Richardson was born March 15 1978 to Elizabeth Richardson and Allen Williams in Carthage, Texas.
He was a member of Clayton Temple Church of God in Christ, Timpson. Texas He attended Timpson ISD, where he received his diploma in 1997.
After High School he started his path to manhood by working in the oil and construction Industry. He took a break and followed his dreams in honoring God, when he was united with Sheila Faye Dickey Richardson.
As a devoted father of five beautiful daughters: Shacouriunna, TJ, Moesha, Rosie, and JJ. He guided his family in serving the Lord. He had passion for not just God but family, fishing, pitbulls, cooking and serving others. He was a loud talker with a soft and kind heart for his community.
Shacoury attended Bible Study every Monday at the Senior Citizen Apartment Center, then on Wednesday and Sunday, he attended Pastor David Wawhorn Church Services, the Messiah Baptist Church.
Shacoury Richardson was met by his brother Sashi Kushika Roberts at one of heavens hill tops, where was welcomed into heaven to reunite with his grandparents: George and Louise Richardson, Frank James and Emma Jean Roland, uncle: George Richardson Jr., and close friends: Marcus Yarbrough and Cedric Mosby.
He leaves to cherish his memories, Wife, Sheila Richardson
Daughters:
Shacouriunna
TJ
Moesha
Rosie
JJ
Mother, Elizabeth Blanton
Father, Ike Blanton
Siblings:
Isaac (Verity) Blanton
Bethany (Shannon, his brother-in-law was his longtime friend) Hooper
Andrea Williams
Jeff Williams
A special friend Donnell Hildreth and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, other relatives, and friends.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
08/17/2023
Lillie Mae Moore Moses, 95 of Shelby County and Orange, Texas, passed away Saturday, August 12 at her home in Center. She was born June 30, 1928 to the late Jesses Moore and Leveneie Harper Moore in Shelby County and later moved to Orange, Texas. She spent all of her adult life there.
Funeral service is at 11am Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center.
Her wishes were to be cremated.
She was the usher President at Salem United Methodist Church for many years. She will be truly missed. Her niece will truly miss her for the last three years of life they were together and loved along with the rest of the family.
She is survived by:
Sister, Creola Cartwright
Bonus, Vicker Moses
Nieces:
Denise (David) Cartwright
Anita (Vernell) Moody
Nephews:
Gregory Richard
Iva Lee Cartwright
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
08/16/2023
Buna Rachel Addison, 96, of Center, passed away Wednesday, August 16, 2023, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 2pm to 4pm, Thursday, August 17, 2023, at The Venue on Southview, Formerly Center First UPC, Hwy 96 S - Center, TX, with funeral service following at 5pm. Interment will be at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. Officiating is Rev. Gordon Winslow, Rev. Darrell McCoy, and Rev. Marlow Shubert.
Rachel was born on June 26, 1927, in Shelby County to William Barto and Betty Kathleen Helton Bailey. She was the 6th child out of 12. She grew up in Waterman community and attended school there. After the many adventures that come along with being part of a large family, she met Junior Brown Addison, and they were married on January 29, 1945. They began their life together, raising their family in Shelby County, and attended Center First UPC. Rachel enjoyed serving the community as she worked through the years at Piggly Wiggly, Minimax Grocery, and Brookshire Bros as a meat wrapper. She retired from Brookshire Brothers after 25 years of service, and came home to help take care of her family.
She fought the fight and she has finished her course. Faith was her weapon and a positive outlook was her game. To some she was Rachel and Mother, to some MawMaw, to some the Candy Lady, and to a few she was Buna. There will never be another person as loyal. If she was on your side, it was for life. She would tell everyone how wonderful you were and how well you could do things. But never doubt, if you needed to be straightened out, she was there for that too!! She would tell you exactly how it was or how it should be. Cooking was her love language. Her soup…the BEST!! Her pies…AMAZING!!!
She always made sure the grandchildren and great grands had what they needed. If you were present, you were her favorite!! When the next group came in…they were her favorites too!! There were a few that rose to the top and shined a little brighter than the rest of us. The spiritual heritage she has left is strong. She trusted and left all things in the hands of the Lord. For the past few days she has laid with her eyes closed at times. She wasn’t asleep…she was praying. We are thankful for all of the prayers she has prayed over us.
There will never be another… and we are so glad she was ours.
She is survived by her
Children:
Delores Fountain of Center
Bobby and Rose Addison of Center
Tonhia and Jerry Fleming of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Lisa and David Hailey of Timpson
Monica and Raymond Caldas of Center
Stephanie and Wallace Wilkins of Cabot, AR
Joey and Iletha Fountain of Center
Lance and Pam Lightfoot of Center
Derrick and Jacy Lightfoot of Joaquin
Alanna Fleming of Richfield, MN
Great-Grandchildren:
Krista Elliott of Bentonville, AR
Kendron Elliott of Los Angeles, CA
Hannah Caldas of Center
Alissa and Abbey Hailey of Timpson
Christipher Lightfoot of Joaquin
Cannon, Mckenzie, and Delancy Wilkins of Cabot, AR
Mitch and Leah Fountain of Center
Lyndrey, Jansen, Taylen, Daygen, and Paxley Lightfoot of Joaquin
Numerous nieces and nephews
Special Friend, Linda Brittain of Center
Preceded in death by her parents; husband; son-in-law, Joe Fountain; grandchild, Addison Hailey; sisters, Wanda Burt, Helen Bowden, Lynn Burkett, Vaudene Owens, Ruth Gills, Lavern Merritt and Shelby Jean McDonald; and brothers, Troy Bailey, Buck Bailey, James Bailey, and Thomas Bailey.
Pallbearers are Lance Lightfoot, Derrick Lightfoot, Wallace Wilkins, Raymond Caldas, Joey Fountain, and David Hailey.
Honorary Pallbearers are Christipher Lightfoot, Jansen Lightfoot, Daygen Lightfoot, Kendron Elliott, Cannon Wilkins, and Mitch Fountain.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
08/16/2023
Timothy Garland “Timmy” Rogers Sr., age 51, of Logansport, Louisiana passed away at his home on August 12, 2023. He was born November 25, 1971, to Sammy and Reba Brown Rogers.
After high school, Timmy worked in the oilfield, working his way up to tool pusher before an accident ended his career. Timmy loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and gardening. He often planted a few too many tomatoes. He was called Bruiser by his closest friends, and he was known to make his own “happy place.”
Timothy is survived by:
Wife, Kelly
Sons:
Timothy “T.J.” Rogers Jr. of Logansport, Louisiana
Trepton Rogers of North Carolina
Daughter, Kiley Raybon and husband Stephen of Grand Cane, Louisiana
Mother, Reba Rogers of Gary, Texas
Grandchildren:
Kayden Brown
Adisyn Rogers
Hudson Rogers
Luca Raybon
Sister, Sharman Ballard and husband C.L. of Gary, Texas
A host of other family and friends.
Timothy is preceded in death by his father, Shelton “Sammy” Rogers Jr.; sister, Lori Rogers; grandparents, Bro. Shelton Rogers Sr. and Lois Rogers, and Henry Earl Brown and Hestell Brown; and aunt, Linda Johnson.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Chapel, 943 Polk St., Mansfield, Louisiana. Steve Walker to officiate the service.
Services are under the direction of Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Mansfield, Louisiana.
08/14/2023
Bobby Dean Cheatwood, 68, of Carthage, passed away Saturday, August 12, 2023, in Tyler.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, August 18, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 19, 2023, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Joe Walker officiating. Interment will follow at O.E. Price Cemetery in Logansport, Louisiana.
Born October 22, 1954, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Bobby is the son of Joe Neal Cheatwood and Iva Jean Pierce Cheatwood. Bob worked in the oilfield for many years. After retiring in 2021, his passion was operating a motor grader for Road and Bridge Precinct 3 in Shelby County. Bobby was also an exceptional mechanic who could work on and fix anything. He loved hunting, fishing, and dancing. He also had a love for animals of all kinds, especially Ox, his dog, who meant the world to him.
He is survived by:
Daughter, Amber Cheatwood Whiddon and husband Aaron
Sisters and brothers:
Janice Bonner and husband James
Roy Cheatwood and wife Jackie
Patti Hogg and husband Cleve
Carolyn Lee
Judy Choate
Nieces and nephews:
Jon Bonner
Jamie Briggs
Roy Gene Cheatwood
David Cheatwood
Patrick Hogg
Mark Cheatwood
Eric Collier
Neal Choate
Debbie Choate
Preceded in death by parents, Joe Neal Cheatwood and Iva Jean Pierce Cheatwood; brother, Curtis Cheatwood; nieces and nephews, Melissa Cheatwood, Rodney Cheatwood, Joseph Lee, and Charlie Collier.
Pallbearers will be Jon Bonner, David Cheatwood, Robby Tinkle, Rocky Massengal, Danny Green, Jimmy Daw, and Michael Bates.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
8/14/2023
Rev. Carl C. Smith, 85, of Center, passed away Sunday, August 13, 2023, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5pm to 8pm, Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Thursday, August 17, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Center, Texas. Rev. Mike Belgard and Bro. Mike Brister will officiate. Interment will be Friday 10am at Sibley Cemetery in Florien, Louisiana.
Born April 9, 1938, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Carl is the son of Cecil Coleman Smith and Bonnie Sibley Smith. He served in the United States Army Reserve for eight years, and also served in the Louisiana National Guard. Carl dedicated his life to service in ministry. Serving as youth and recreation at Hampton Place Baptist Church in Dallas TX and FBC W. Monroe LA. He served as a Baptist Student Union director at Southwestern University in Hammond LA and also for most of the colleges in Shreveport, including Centenary and LSUS. From 1980-1993 he served as the Minister of Education at FBC Center and lead pastor from 1993-2003. He also served as interim pastor of other churches with the latest being Lone Star Baptist of Center, TX. During retirement he was a member of the Singing Men of East Texas.
He is survived by:
Wife and lifelong friend, Charlotte Smith of Center, Texas who was a blessing to him for over 6 years
Children:
Matthew Coleman Smith and wife Brandi of Wylie, Texas
Carla Jo Smith Denney and husband Kurt of Center
Jonathan Charles Smith and Ryan Carr of Atlanta, Georgia
Sister-in-laws:
Carol Philbrick
Jackie Smith
Stepdaughters:
Cindy Premeaux
Cathy Tall
Christy Cosey
Grandchildren:
Hannah Chase
Samuel Chase
Sibley Smith
Elizabeth Smith
Sydney Gipson
Corey Denney
Nine step-grandchildren
Eight step-great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of friends
Preceded in death by wife of 52 years, Sally Philbrick Smith; parents, Cecil Coleman Smith and Bonnie Sibley Smith; brothers and sister, Gerald Cecil Smith, Travis Wendell Smith, and Sybil Doris Edwards; brother-in-law, Howard Lee Edwards; and Sister-in-law, Nancy Segue’.
Pallbearers will be Corey Denney, Samuel Chase, Jason Locke, Terry Scull, Drue Scull, and Wayne Christian.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Harold Hanson, Teddy Hopkins, and Larry Rymal.
Special thanks to Affinity Hospice of Center and Janelle O’Pry with Right at Home of Nacogdoches for their care given with such dignity and respect.
Memorial donations may be made to StepStones Ministry International, 101 Hurst Street, Suite 300, Center, Texas 75935 or Navigators at www.donations.navigators.org
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
08/10/2023
Sarah Jane Mosby, 70 of Center, passed away Monday, August 7, 2023 at Palestine Health Care Center, Palestine, Texas.
Funeral service is at 10am on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Center, Texas with Pastor Johnny Jones officiating. Repass will be at the church immediately following funeral service. Visitation is from 10am until 6pm on Friday, August 11, 2023 at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center, Texas.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Corey Mosby and wife Natasha Mosby
Derrick Mosby
Daughter, Tami Coleman and husband Byron
Grandchildren:
Ardreona Mosby
Rachel Coleman
Kylon Coleman
Mason Mosby
Tyler Mosby
Tra Mosby
Jasmine Mosby
Shaela Mosby
Courtney Dade
Kameron Coleman
Kennedi Peters
Brayden Williams
Mother, Willie Mae Ingram and husband Wyssie Ingram
Brother, Billy Ray McCoy
Sister, Willie Jean Ragster
Nieces:
Michelle Ragster Walter
LaShonia Ragster Gordan
Father of her children, Johnny Mosby
A host of uncles, aunts, cousins, family, and friends.
She loved her music of all types and shopping.
Bible verse: Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. ~ Nehemiah 8:10
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
08/10/2023
Joe Clifton Hughes Jr., 62, of Center, Texas, passed away August 5, 2023.
A private family graveside will be held at Powdrill Cemetery in Shelby County.
Joe is the son of Miranda Jean Bailey and Darrell Bailey, and Joe Clifton Hughes Sr. He was a beloved father, brother, and son. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and riding his Harley-Davidson.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Eric
Shawn
Chris
One sister; four brothers and their wives; and lots of nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Powdrill Cemetery Fund, 549 Lakewood, Center, Texas, 75935.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
08/08/2023
Maria Baldwin Pleasant, 86, of Center, passed away Monday, August 7, 2023, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, August 13, 2023, at Woods Cemetery in Panola County. Pastor Pete Sellers will officiate.
Born August 7, 1937, in Guadalajara, Mexico, Maria is the daughter of Miguel Cejo and Sara Alba. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family. Maria was of the Baptist faith.
She is survived by:
Husband, Otis Pleasant of Center
Children:
Jim Baldwin of Center
Richard Baldwin (Susan) of Center
Sarah Hairgrove-Wells (Chris) of Marshall
Stepchildren:
Adam Pleasant (R.J) of Center
Chris Pleasant of Center
Sisters:
Mary Crouch of Austin
Irma Rick of Temecula, California
Brothers-in-law:
Mike Baldwin (Joan) of Center
Sam Baldwin (Shree) of Tenaha
Sister-in-law, Cecil
Grandchildren:
Brad Baldwin (Eva) of Center
Matthew Hairgrove of Houston
Jonathan Hairgrove (Jessica) of Marshall
Blaine Baldwin of Conroe
Beau Baldwin of Conroe
Great-grandchildren:
Madilyn and Masen Hairgrove of Marshall
Lilly, Olivia
Hudson Hairgrove of Marshall
Max, Caleb and Wes Livingston of Center
Step-grandchildren:
Emily Jackson (Jordan)
Justin Hearn
Cash Livingston (Caitlin)
Step-great-grandchildren, Nixon and Noah Jackson
Special friends:
Johnny and Sandy Mahan
Travis Snider
Preceded in death by husband, James E. Baldwin, Jr.; mother-in-law, Jessie Lee Baldwin; father-in-law, James E. Baldwin, Sr.; brother, Jesse Cejo; mother, Sara Alba; father, Miguel Cejo; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Jack Baldwin, Sandy Baldwin, Tony Barclay, Patricia Edmundson, and Leon Pleasant.
Honorary pallbearers will be Bradley Baldwin, Jonathan Hairgrove, Matthew Hairgrove, Beau Baldwin, Adam Pleasant, Chris Pleasant, Johnny Mahan, and Travis Snider.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to American Heart Association at www.heart.org
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
08/07/2023
Michael Wayne Whisenant, 45, of Center, passed away Saturday, August 5, 2023, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday night. Bro. Rusty Hall will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Michael Whisenant was born May 21, 1978, in Dallas, Texas. He was raised in Franklin, Texas, and spent his adult life in Center, Texas. Michael was a devoted dad to his four children and a coach to many others. He enjoyed spending his time teaching the sports he loved. When Michael wasn’t coaching he was on the sideline supporting his kids at every game he could attend. Michael was a hardworking man and spent most of his career working in the oilfield as a roughneck to provide for his children. Michael was loved by many and will forever be in our hearts.
He is survived by:
Children:
Kobe Whisenant
Kade Whisenant
Gracie Whisenant
Gabby Whisenant
Father, H.M. Whisenant and wife Kathy
Mother, Yvonne Booher
Brothers:
Matt Whisenant and wife Lisa
Sid Spindor and wife Kristiene
Sisters:
Emma Brieann Booher
Melissa Whisenant
Nieces and nephews:
Kolton Whisenant
Zoe and husband Josh Wilson
Stetson Armstrong
Numerous cousins and other extended family.
Preceded in death by his grandmother, Modena Fann; and uncle, Walter Whisenant.
Pallbearers will be Chris Smitherman, Robert Gabby, Clifton Whisenant, Brandon Bennett, Mike Galavez, Anthony Tomlin, and Tony Powdrill.
Honorary pallbearers will be Matt Whisenant, Sid Spindor, Kolton Whisenant, Gene Whisenant, and Nathan Mclean.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
08/04/2023
Gordon Andrew Welch, 64, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on July 31, 2023, in Center, Texas. He was born on October 26, 1958, in Dallas, Texas, to James Bird Welch and Sarah Judith (Sobert) Welch.
The Welches raised their boys with love, discipline, and an exceptional work ethic, which Gordon lived by his entire life. He was a man of few words, but what he did say was always honest and sincere. He enjoyed time in the outdoors, deer hunting in the fall and crappie fishing in the spring.
Gordon loved working with his hands, particularly with wood, and took great pleasure in the finished product of hours of meticulous craftsmanship. That attention to detail is best reflected in the wood finishes throughout the home he shared with his wife Debbie for thirty-five years. There, they raised a daughter, Lanie, who is her father’s daughter in every best sense of the word. When the time came, they welcomed into the family a son-in-law, Ryan, who Gordon loved, respected, and trusted completely to care for Lanie.
He accepted Christ as his Savior and was baptized at Clever Creek Baptist Church, where he served as deacon and in service to the Sunday School department and various committees. At the time of his death, he was a member of First Baptist Church in Center, where he attended the Andrew Class.
Gordon worked as Lead Area Service Technician – First Class Lineman for Deep East Texas Electric Cooperative, where he had been employed for almost 45 years. He cared about the men and women he worked with and about the people he served every day.
He is survived by:
Wife, Deborah Kennon Welch, of Shelbyville
Daughter, Lanie Welch Fitzgerald and Ryan of Levelland, TX
Brother, Roy Welch of Shelbyville
He was preceded in death by his parents, James B. Welch and Judy Welch; and brothers, James Nathan Welch and Norman Boyd Welch.
Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at 10AM with Dr. Tim Watson and Bro. Teddy Hopkins officiating. Interment will follow at Clever Creek Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 7, 2023, from 6-8 PM at Mangum Funeral Home.
Pallbearers serving will be Johnny Brinson, Rick Foehner, John Kennon, Tommy Lee, Spencer McFarland, and Thomas Swearengen.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
08/03/2023
Matt Smith, age 65, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Friday, July 21, 2023, at his residence.
He was born November 19, 1957, in Port Arthur, Texas, to parents Nay Oran Smith Sr. and Avey Smith.
He was self-employed and a building contractor for more than 46 years. He lived in San Augustine for 50 years. Matt was a member of the Go Texans for 20 years. He loved to hunt, cook, and garden. He attended the Cowboy Church.
His survivors include:
Fiance, Carol Cartwright of San Augustine
Son, Clint Cartwright of San Augustine
Daughters:
Cami Clement and Steve of Hampshire-Fannett, Texas
Chelsi Ellerbe and fiance Justin Klein of San Augustine
Siblings:
Nay Smith Jr. and wife Cathleen Channel Smith of San Augustine
Cindy Smith Watts and husband Ron Watts of Tyler
Seven grandchildren; a nephew; and two nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Nay Oran Smith Sr. and Avey Smith; and his daughter, Shena LaShele Smith.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 4, 2023, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas.
Funeral services are set for 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 5, 2023, at Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Antioch Cemetery, located on Highway 147 North in San Augustine County.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences.
Services are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
08/02/2023
It is with great sadness that the family of Betty Louise Bradshaw announces her passing on July 29, 2023 in Conroe, Texas.
Betty was born on November 15, 1943 in Channelview, Texas to Clyde and Virginia Windham. On October 14, 1972, Betty married the love of her life, Jimmy Bradshaw. They were married for 50 loving years and she is now reunited with her beloved husband, who went to be with the Lord just 3 months ago. She was the mother of four children, daughters Alicia Willoughby and Darla Hughes and sons Michael Willoughby and Bo Bradshaw. Betty was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She had an impact on everyone who knew her. She was a devout Christian, making God and faith a priority in her and her family’s lives. This was illustrated with her and Jimmy’s final days, when Jimmy’s eyesight began to fail. Betty would sit in the afternoons and read the Bible to Jimmy and discuss their faith. She worked her entire life as a bookkeeper and accountant, while raising kids and maintaining a household and being a model wife. She was truly a dynamic woman, working in professional environments, then putting on her work clothes and working in the garden or catching catfish and crappie with the best of them. She thrived in every environment. She loved cooking and tending to her family and friends, working tirelessly to ensure everyone was fed and happy. She was the light and rock of her entire family and will be truly missed.
She is survived by:
Children:
Michael Willoughby and wife Dorrie of Germany
Darla Hughes and husband Brent of Houston
Bo Bradshaw and wife Susan of Joaquin
Sisters-in-law:
Billie Jean Henry of Longview
Ila Rae Williams of Lake Jackson, Texas
Grandchildren:
Ashlyn Sims and husband Matt Dillon of Woodland Park, Colorado
Kristyn Willoughby of Florissant, Colorado
Jeremy Williams of Hemphill
Taylor Wright and wife Elizabeth of Conroe
Bailee Bradshaw of Joaquin
Emilee Bradshaw of Joaquin
Jade Hughes of Houston
Great-Grandchildren:
Bradley and Nolan Sims of Woodland Park, Colorado
Brooks and Cayden Wright of Conroe
Reese Williams of Hemphill
A number of nieces, nephews and cousins, including Shauna Sanford, Nicole Bush, and Rex Ann Simmons.
Betty was predeceased by her loving husband of 50 years, Jimmy Bradshaw, daughter, Alicia Willoughby, brother, Robert Windham, and her parents, Clyde and Virginia Windham.
Pallbearers will be Michael Willoughby, Bo Bradshaw, Taylor Wright, Joey Lawson, Gale McClelland, Darrin Lout, Mark Leach, and Coby Barbee.
Honorary Pallbearers: Carl Davis Smith, Bill White, James White, and Mark Jackson.
Visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3:00, followed by the funeral service at 3:00 on August 6, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Bro. Chris Collins will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
08/01/2023
Shirley Jane Green, 82, passed away quietly at her home in Shelbyville with family on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
Graveside service will be held at 10:30am, Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Carroll Cemetery in Shelbyville with Bro. Rob Merriman officiating.
Shirley was married to Edgar “Ed” Green for 52 years and they had three children, Mark, Mindy and Lacy.
Six grandchildren, Chris, Stephan, Savannah, Jimmy, Taylor and Megan. She had five great-grandchildren.
She will be forever remembered with love and respect by a grateful family.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
08/01/2023
Elmer Gene Richards, 54, of Center, passed away Monday, July 31, 2023, in Center.
Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, August 4, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation one hour prior. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.
Born November 9, 1968, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Elmer is the son of James William Richards and Jerelyn Windham Richards.
He is survived by:
Brothers:
Johnny Richards and wife Paula
Wayne Richards and wife Lucinda
Matthew Byrd
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by parents, James William Richards and Jerelyn Windham Richards.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
07/31/2023
David “Randy” Randle Dennis, 60, of Joaquin, passed away on July 30, 2023, Joaquin, Texas. He was born on January 4, 1963, in Center, Texas, to Albert Levi Dennis and Helen Joy Porter Dennis.
Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at 1pm with Bro. Eugene Bowden officiating. Interment will follow at Sardis Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, from 6-8pm at Mangum Funeral Home.
Randy was born in Center, Texas. He later moved to Port Lavaca before returning home to Shelby County. He attended Joaquin High School. He met the love of his life on Valentine’s Day at an outing. The two were married just a few short months later in April 1982. They raised two wonderful children, Casey and Christopher.
Being one of eight children, Randy was a family man. He cherished times spent with his grandchildren, traveling with his sisters, and loving his wife and children. He was the kind of man that loved to aggravate those close to him. He was funny, cheerful, and kindhearted. Randy worked hard and did many things throughout life. He was a great mechanic. He enjoyed working cattle, driving tractors, and spending time with his dog, Moon Pie and cat, Buddy. Randy also loved the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and camping.
He is survived by:
Loving wife, Deborah Dennis
Daughter: Casey Marie Dennis and friend Stacy Rogers
Son, Christopher Dennis and wife Amanda
Brothers:
Johnny Dennis
Willie Dennis and wife Deena
Shane Dennis and wife Wilma
Sisters:
Judy Smith and husband Jay
Debra Perry
Diane Carroll and husband Dewey
Gege Byrd and husband Steven
Grandchildren:
Riley Dennis
Bryce Dennis
Hudson Dennis
Special friend, David Adkison
Special friend and adopted daughter, Arcelli IIaida Porter
A host of friends that will miss him dearly.
Randy is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Helen Dennis; father and mother-in-law, Tye and Ann Brittain; brother-in-law, Donald Perry; and special friends, Jake Porter, Kim Porter, and Sandy King.
Pallbearers serving will be Stacy Rogers, David Adkison, Brandon Byrd, Dusten Byrd, Draper Carroll, David Cheatwood, Jack Brittain, and Shannon Langford.
Honorary pallbearers serving will be Johnny Brittain, Pete Estes, Keith Lane, James O. Davis, Ronnie Brittain, and Scotty Pate.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
07/31/2023
Camo Lee Morton, 17, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on July 27, 2023, in Timpson, Texas. He was born on December 13, 2005, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Cheyenne Morton.
Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, Texas with Bro. Jared Brown officiating. Interment will follow at Corinth Cemetery, Timpson, Texas.
A visitation will be held prior to the service from 12 noon to 2pm on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church.
Camo was an exceptional person. He was an “amazing” student at Gary ISD and Timpson ISD, friend, son, and grandson. Camo enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing guitar, taking the tires off his truck and putting them back on every chance he got, and most of all, hanging out with friends. He had a way of making friends easily. He was a friend to all and treated everyone with love and respect. He had a free spirit and always lived in the moment. Camo had a bright and vibrant soul which illuminated any room. His laughter and smile always seemed to bring joy to those around him. Camo looked up to his dad and learned more from him than anyone else.
Camo is survived by:
Father, Cheyenne Morton and Jill Tiller
Sisters:
Kaylin Melton
Kelsey Blakely
Brylie Tiller
Grandparents:
Ronnie Morton
Tammy Comeaux
Doris Morton
Jimmy Atterson
Jan Cartier
Great-grandmother, Anna Sisco
God parents, Debra and Ronnie Joe Smith
Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins
A host of friends.
He is preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, JT Morton, Bobby Jo Morton, Frank Sisco, Bobby Joe Smith; great-grandmother, Mary (Bunny) Fougeron and uncle, John P. Morton.
Serving as pallbearers will be Morgan Rabon III, Denim Smith, Caleb Smith, James Cauthron, Kooper Dawson, and Bryan Robles. Honorary pallbearers are Kannon Wheless, Kendell Mardis, Caitlynn Ayers, Cole Cauthron, Ronnie Joe Smith, Jimmy Atterson, and Brandon Smith.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
07/31/2023
Frederick Dewayne Gardner, Jr., 15 of Center, died on July 28, 2023, in Logansport, Louisiana. Frederick, Jr. was born to Frederick Dewayne Gardner, Sr. and LaTasha Rochelle Brumley Gardner on March 25, 2008.
Funeral service will on August 5, 2023, at 1pm. Funeral service has been moved from Central Baptist Church to Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, 908 Daniels Street, Center, Texas 75935. Rev Desmond Johnson will officiate.
. Committal is at Westview Cemetery Center, Texas. Repass is at Pineywoods Outreach Center located 255 Hayle Drive, Center, Texas 75935.
Visitation is Friday, August 4, 2023, at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 5pm to 8pm.
Frederick Jr. would have been an upcoming Freshman at Center High School. Frederick Jr. was active in basketball and track. Go Riders!
Frederick Jr. is survived by:
Parents:
Frederick Dewayne Gardner Sr. of Center
LaTasha Rochelle Brumley Gardner of Kountze
Brothers:
Jamarion Mitchell of Kountze
Marcus Gardner of Center
Grandparents:
Frederick E. Gardner and Stella Faye Gardner of Center
LaWanda Polley of Center
Milton Fields of Center
Helen Brumley of Beaumont
Uncles:
Eric Gardner of Center
CaDarius Gardner of Center
Milton Brumley of Lumberton
Tyvan Brumley of Beaumont
Aunts:
LaTrisa Barkins (Jeremy, Frederick Jr’s Godfather) of Center
Janella Brumley of Beaumont
Great-Uncles:
Rev. Billy E. Gardner (Margie) of Lufkin
C.W. (Levady) Gilliaspie of Center
Benny Gilliaspie of Center
Thomas (Waundylan) Gardner of Houston
Jerry (Cheryl) Gardner of Ft. Worth
Tommie L. Latham of Center
Great-Aunts:
Ester Mae Singleton of Longview
Myrtis McClelland of Center
Helen (Howard) McCowin of Center
Della (Bobby) Johnson of Center
Sharon Polley of Center
Barbara Polley
Talicia Polley of Nacogdoches
Great-Great-Uncles:
Lucky (Wilda) Gardner of Center, Texas
Jack Cartwright
Great-Great-Aunt:
Ivey Nell Johnson of Shelbyville
Betty Sanders (John) of Center
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.
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