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.

01/09/2024

Linda Ruth Quigley, 67, of Center, Texas, passed away on January 7, 2024, in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on September 10, 1956, in Shelbyville, Texas, to the late Harold Edward Sherrill and Babe Ruth (Mitchell).

Funeral service will be held at 3PM on Wednesday, 10, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Gordon Winslow Jr. officiating.

Visitation will be held from 6-8PM on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home.

Linda was born and raised in Shelby County. She attended Center School. She married the love of her life, Bubba Livingston, and they spent over 17 years together before his passing. Linda was a fanatic for word puzzles. She enjoyed it and spent many hours solving them. She was a loving and compassionate individual. She took pride in serving others as she was a caretaker for many years. Linda enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. 

She is survived by her sons:

Robert Quigley Jr. and wife, Amanda
Bradley Livingston

Daughter, Andrea Bustos

Brothers:
James Sherrill
Harold Sherrill and wife, Connie

Sister, Kay Green and husband, Buck

Grandchildren:
Clay and wife, Kalie
Trey
Chassity
Jeremiah
Caleb
Bentley
Ryder
Carter
Levi
Eli
Victoria

Great-Grandchildren:
Vallyn
Baylen

Linda is preceded in death by her husband, Bubba Livingston; parents, James Edward Sherrill and Ruth Mitchell; and sister, Patricia Sherrill.

Pallbearers serving will be Jason Sims, Kevin Woolf, Brian Harkness, Bubba Lee, Thomas Green, and Hunter Green.

Honorary pallbearers serving will be Clay Quigley, Trey Quigley, Jeremiah Davis, Caleb Davis, Buck Green, and Bryan Slocum.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

01/09/2024

Douglas Lynn Fanestiel, 67, of Center, Texas, passed away on November 22, 2023, in Center.  He was born on July 29, 1956, in Hobbs, New Mexico, to the late Nickolas Fanestiel and Rosalie (McClaughlin) Fanestiel.  

Celebration of life will be held at 1PM on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the Center Community House, 425 San Augustine St., Center, Texas, 75935.

Douglas was born and raised in Hobbs, New Mexico. He worked many years as a heavy equipment operator before retiring. Douglas enjoyed spending time with his children, and grandchildren. They brought much joy into his life. Douglas also loved spending time outdoors. His love for his family will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his daughter, Misti Whittley and Michael Young

Son, Brandon Fanestiel and Nikki Moraga

Sister,
Nicki Fanestiel

Grandchildren:
Truit Whittley
Christopher Whittley, and wife, Faith
Taylor Whittley
Blake Miller
Camden Hughes
Madison Fanestiel, and Fiancé, Monty Mullins
Sarah Lunsford

Great-Granddaughter,
Laura Whittley

And a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.

Douglas is preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Rosalie Fanestiel.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

01/08/2024

Lewis Lynn Fausett Jr. "Louie", 66, of Center, passed away at his home on January 7, 2024.

Funeral services are under the direction of Watson & Sons Funeral Home and will be updated when details become available.

01/08/2024

Billie Joy Allen, 91, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on Friday, January 5th in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on June 26, 1932, in Center, Texas to Edward Fitts and Zelma (Brittain) Fitts.

Funeral services for Mrs. Allen will be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church in Timpson, Texas with Bro. Tim Lovelady officiating. Visitation will precede the service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Timpson, Texas.

Billie Joy grew up in the Huber community, but was never too fond of her name, so everyone called her B.J. In a sweet turn of events, she fell in love with a boy who also wasn’t too fond of his name and went by his initials, too, L.G. The two would marry in 1948 and have two sons, Ricky born in 1953 and Bradley born in 1956. When her boys got older, B.J. went back to school for nursing at Panola College. She worked in the hospital in Center for several years before taking over as the school nurse at Timpson ISD.  

After retiring from the school, she took a position with DETCOG, planning trips through their R.S.V.P. program. She led tours all over the United States, cruises to Alaska, and even a trip to Europe. She was an extremely creative person who loved painting and making things with her husband and selling them at Canton Trade Days. She spent her spare time gardening, but her favorite pastime was decorating her home to match every holiday or season. 

BJ was sweet, thoughtful and nurturing but also a spitfire. You never had to wonder what she was thinking, or how she felt about you or a situation. She was especially passionate and protective of her favorite sports teams, which she followed religiously her entire adult life. You better not say a bad word about the Timpson Bears, Houston Astros, or Dallas Cowboys around BJ! She loved watching her teams and was always up to date on the games and players.

She is survived by:

Brother, Jerry Fitts and wife Wanda

Grandchildren:
Michael Allen
Kyle Allen and wife Tisha
Amy Allen and husband Bryan Stinnett
Katie Norman and husband Clayton
Jacob Allen

Great-grandchildren:
Taylor Morris-Fanguy and husband Taylor
Tyler Morris
Taran Morris
Lukas Allen
Clyde and Tully Stinnett
Jordan Allen
Nicolas Allen
Marina Allen
Alana Allen
Emery Norman
Ellison Norman

Great-great-grandchildren:
Sam Fanguy
Beau Fanguy

Numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews

Dearest family friends:
Robin and Duncan Connell
Brenda Allen.

She is preceded in death by her husband, L.G. Allen and her sons Ricky Allen and Bradley Allen, her father, Edward Fitts, her mother Zelma Brittain Fitts, and brothers Waymon and Maurice Fitts.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Glenda King, Shirley Parker, and Debra McLeroy, who so lovingly stood beside BJ during her last years at home.

Pallbearers for Mrs. Allen's service are Kyle Allen, Jacob Allen, Bryan Stinnett, Clayton Norman, William Melvin Edwards, and Jeffery McElroy.

Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.

01/07/2024

Winston Leon Goodrum, 83, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on January 3, 2024, at his home in Timpson, Texas. He was born on April 1, 1940, in Madisonville, Texas. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Timpson, Texas.

Leon was born and raised in Madisonville and joined the United States Army in September 1963, honorably serving our great nation. Prior to leaving with the US Army, he married the love of his life, Judy Harmon, on May 11, 1963 and the two of them have been by each other’s side for the entirety of their 60 years as husband and wife. He loved Judy so much and were blessed to have their daughter, Trisha, that completed their little family. 

Leon spent his lifetime as an employee of Timpson Independent School District where he made many lifelong friends along the way. He was also a dedicated member of Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. When he wasn’t working, he spent his time fishing and watching old cowboy shows or football games. He also loved working on anything that needed fixing. However, his best moments of his life were spent with his beloved wife and daughter.  

Leon is survived by:
Beloved wife, Judy Goodrum of Timpson

Daughter, Trisha Goodrum of Timpson

Sister, Doris Hines of Normangee

Sisters-in-law: 
Mattie Goodrum of Clute
Alice Harmon of Nacogdoches  

He is also survived by Janell Baker and family, of whom he loved dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Selven Smith and Josie Nichols; sister, Earline Driskell and brothers, Luke Goodrum, Melton Goodrum, Billy Goodrum and S.J. Goodrum.

Serving as pallbearers will be Rick Goodrum, Roy Goodrum, George Duke, Bobby Rhodes, Casey Stanford and Ronnie Wolfe.

01/06/2024

Mrs. Myrtle Lee Randle Garrett, 84, of Center passed away Monday night, January 1, 2024 at CHI St. Luke Health in Lufkin.

Myrile Lee Randle Moore Garrett was born on June 02. 1939 to the late Jeff Jr. and Eula Randie. She was a member of Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ. She worked for East Texas Poultry.

Visitation will be held Sunday, January 7, 2024, 10am at Community Funeral Hone in Center. Services will be held Monday, January 8, 2024, at 12-noon at Center Triumph Church with interment to follow at Westview Cemetery in Center with Bishop Howard Cloudy, Sr. officiating.

She is survived by:
Special-friend, Levon Andrews

Daughters: 
Roslyn Moore (Land)
Robin Moore (Ronnie)

Sons:
Larry Moore (Iva)
Tony Moore

Sisters: 
Essit Gibbs
Mary Randle
Twanna (Charles) Kirkling
Giselt Randle

Brothers: 
Jet Randle, Jr. (Jessie)
James Randle (Jen)

Grandchildren: 
Micheal (Nethra) Moore
Jozlun Moore
Jakera Land
Zackery Moore
Dewayne Morgan
Laquanna Davis
Andrea Morgan
Lean Moore
Lindsey Moore
LaJerrical Jackson
Tonisha Moore (Sy Morgan)
JaGerrick Moore (Jakayla)
Taiya Moore
Tzarvian Moore
LaBrodrick Smith

A host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends

Myrtle was preceded in death by her sons: Gregory and David Moore; Parents: Jeff Jr. and Bula Randle: sisters: Ruthie Hill and Dorothy Randle; husbands: Robert Moore and Minon Garrett. Jr.

01/05/2024

Judy Lynn Scarborough, 73, of Shelbyville, passed away Thursday, January 4, 2024, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, January 8, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Rusty Hall and Bro. Wayne Bickley officiating.  Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery in Huxley.

Born April 14, 1950, in Center, Judy is the daughter of Walter Price Wilburn and Cynthia Payne Wilburn. Judy Scarborough married her high school sweetheart, and in their 50 years, they were blessed to live a full life.

She was an active member of Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church, where she worked and taught Sunday School for many years. As a big influence in the church, she set a good example for everyone she met. 

She was always active in her kids’ and grandkids’ lives, whether she was attending a sporting event, a theater production, a milestone event, or shuttling her grandkids literally everywhere. You could see the love she had for her grandkids because she always had at least one with her.

She never failed to go above and beyond her duties as a mother, mother-in-law, and “Mawmaw.” Her family and her grandkids’ friends will never forget Sunday lunches at Mawmaw’s house, where everyone was welcome.

She is survived by:
Sons: 
Phillip Scarborough, and wife, Stacey of Shelbyville
Patrick Scarborough, and wife, Jaclyn of Shelbyville

Grandchildren: 
Savannah Dutton, and husband, Robbey
Alli Jo Dickerson, and husband, Coleman
Brayden Scarborough, and wife, Jayton
Brylee Scarborough
Brysen Scarborough
Bryant Scarborough
Ashton Scarborough
Saylor Scarborough

Great-grandchildren: 
Tate Dutton
Beau Dutton

Brother, Price Wilburn

Numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives

Preceded in death by husband, Danny Scarborough; daughter Pam Baldwin; sister, Louise Wagstaff; and brothers, Elmer Ray Wilburn, Gary Wilburn, Gerald Wilburn, and Bobby Wilburn.

Pallbearers will be Ryan Wilburn, Justin Wagstaff, John Wilburn, Brad Wilburn, Jeffery Wilburn, and Ronald Wilburn. Honorary pallbearers will be Keith Wilburn, Timbo Wilburn, Roger Wagstaff, and Greg Wilburn.

Special Thank you to Pine Grove Nursing Home and Heart to Heart Hospice for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church in Huxley.

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

 

1/5/2024

Ryan Keith Felder, 31, of Center, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024, in Center.

Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Cool Springs Cemetery in Logansport, Louisiana.

Born July 6, 1992, in Nacogdoches, Ryan is the son of Keith Felder and Loretta Adams Felder. He loved hog hunting and saltwater fishing.

He is survived by:

Parents, Keith Felder and Loretta Adams Felder

Sister, April Alexander and husband Jeff

Nephews:
Caleb Alexander
Matthew Alexander

Grandparents:
Edgar Felder
James Adams and wife Phyllis

Special friends:
Robert Bloys and wife Annika
Travis Crozier and his family

Uncles:
Mark Felder and wife Sherri
William Adams and wife Kim

Aunt, Veronica Lawson and husband Joey

Father-in-law and mother-in-law, Michael and Julie Bates

Brother-in-law, Zachary Bates

Numerous cousins and other relatives

Preceded in death by wife, Kara Felder; daughter, Danica Felder; grandmothers, Patsy Adams and Elaine Felder.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made toward funeral expenses.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

01/04/2024

Bennie Ray Gillaspie, 80 of Center, passed away Sunday morning, December 31, 2023 at Woodland Height Medical Lufkin, Texas. He was born on June 1, 1943 to the late Lillie Gillaspie Latham and Claudius Gillispie.

Funeral service is Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 11am at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church, Center, Texas. Visitation is from 10am until 8pm on Friday, January 5, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center, Texas. Interment is at Westview Cemetery in Center with Minister Deshmond Johnson officiating.

He is survived by:

Brothers:
C.W. Gillaspie (Levady) of Center
Tommy Latham of Center

Sisters:
Helen McCowin (Howard) of Center
Stella Gardner (Fredrick) of Center
Della Johnson (Bobby) of Center

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, sister, and two brothers.

Services under the direction of Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

01/04/2024

Robbie Gwyn Beavers Baggett, age 88, of Rogers passed away Sunday December 31, 2023, in Rogers. She was born February 22, 1935, in Center, Texas, the daughter of Henry Harvey and Ethel Ruhl Woods Beavers.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Reba Beavers Watlington.

Robbie worked for First Methodist Church, Center, TX in the 1950s as secretary to the pastor. She later worked at Ava’s Flowers in Center, TX as manager and designer. The family moved to Northwest Arkansas in 1972. Robbie worked with Matkins Flowers in Bentonville before founding Touch of Class gift and silk flower shop in downtown Rogers. Robbie was a talented artist and had a passion for painting landscapes, birds, flowers, and nature scenes. She was a deeply devoted member of PEO and was awarded a lifetime membership in the Bentonville/Rogers Junior Auxiliary.

She is survived by:

Husband, Carl Baggett

Son, Barry Baggett and his wife Patricia of Rogers

Daughter, Regina Bures and her husband Terry of St. Germain, WI

Grandchildren:
Brad Arnold
Wes Arnold
Kiley Arnold
Gwyneth Baggett

Great-grandchildren:
Aaron Arnold
Ben Arnold
Kaylin Arnold
Abram Arnold
Colin Arnold
John Luke Arnold

Visitation will be held 10:00 am – 11:00 am Friday, January 5, 2023, at Central United Methodist Church in Rogers with Funeral Service beginning at 11:00 am. A private family committal will be held at Bentonville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church in Rogers 2535 W New Hope Road, Rogers, Arkansas 72758 or https://centralrogers.com/giving

To leave an online condolence please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com

01/03/2024

Lee Ola Eaves, 95, of Center, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2024, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 5, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Andrew King and Sister Melba Rodgers officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Born September 28, 1928, Lee Ola is the daughter of Henry and Minnie Ola Spells. She graduated from Center High School and married Carl Leon Eaves May 11, 1946. They had four sons. She started her working career at Farmers State Bank and worked there for eight years, she then worked at Herider Enterprises for eleven years, then managed Hawkeye Hunting Club for 22 years. Her son, Reagan, then bought Lee’s Kitchen and she managed it along with him and George working by her side for 14 years until they moved on to manage the Center Country Club for another 14 years before retiring at the age of 89 years. She loved spending time with her family, watching football and baseball games and was famous for her Lee’s Homemade Pies.

She is survived by:

Sons:
David and Pattie Eaves
George and Lisa Eaves
Randy Eaves

Daughter, Michelle and Darrell Whiteside

Grandchildren:
GB and Samantha Eaves
Amanda Eaves
Heather Eaves
Abigail Eaves
Nita and Charles Morris
Kaylena and Justin Carroll
Connor and Jaiden Whiteside
Lindsey Eddins

Great-grandkids:
Megan and Ridge Delahoussaye
Gabrielle Brown
Brooklynne Aikins
Hayzen Eaves
Kaine Eaves
Gavin Aikins
Easton Steptoe
Anistyn Steptoe
Hudsyn Eaves
Kyndra Miller
Sydney Miller
Carlee Miller
Taegan Carroll
Sabryn Carroll
Laklyn Carroll

Great-great-grandchildren:
Axel Miller
Ridge Delahoussaye Jr.
Rhyder Miller
Craft Delahoussaye

Numerous nieces and nephews

Special Niece, Dee Williams

Special friends:
Emma Johnson
Suzanne Richards

Preceded in death by husband, Carl Leon Eaves; son, Reagan Lee Eaves; parents, Henry and Minnie Ola Spells; granddaughter, Monica Eaves; brothers, John B. and Sue Spells, James and Lerlene Spells, Walter and Irene Spells, Henry David and Dollie Spells, and Billy Don Spells; sisters, Cora Mae and Kermit McSwaine, Norvell “Pee-wee” and Harry Holt (AJ Williams), and Zettie and Robert Barnett; nephews, Jay Randall Williams, and Joe McSwain; and special friend, Rex Richards.

Pallbearers will be G.B. Eaves, Michelle Whiteside, Vic Cooper, Jody Cooper, Grant McDonald, Cade Eberenz, Justin Carroll, and Darrell Whiteside.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.

01/02/2024

Funeral services for Robert "Bob" Crump, 87, of Timpson, Texas, will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church with Bro. Fred Wilcox officiating. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 pm on Thursday, January, 4, 2024, at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery.

Bob Crump was born at home in the Silas community on Feb. 8, 1936. His dad, Joe, told me that it was the coldest day he could ever remember. Back in those days, electricity wasn't available. The light was provided by lamps and heat came from the fireplaces and the wood stove in the kitchen. The Crump household was always busy, because everyone worked on the farm to provide for the family. Bob has said there wasn't any money, but they didn't need any. He has said many times that they ate like kings!  

Bob was always working. He worked at gas stations, picked cotton, worked in the fields, cleaned out chicken houses, drove the school bus while he was in high school, cleaned out wells, painted houses, hauled gasoline and oil, raised cows, anything that needed doing, he would do. He found a way to rise to the top, no matter what the challenge, and he was always available to help anyone in need.

He used his earnings to pay for his education. He worked in the cafeteria at SFA to pay for his room and board. He wasn't afraid to tackle any kind of job. After his graduation, he had to follow the job market, so he moved to Houston where he began his teaching career.

Of all the things in his life that meant the most to him was teaching. He loved all of his students and found joy in teaching the school courses, but he also felt a call to teach life lessons. He also shared his faith in God and kept a Bible on his desk. The little sayings that he shared like "That dog won't hunt” and "Sure is a pretty day" were imbedded in their memory and came to mind when they were making decisions long after they left his classroom. He loved to see his former students succeeding in life. He truly cared for them all. It really gave him pleasure when they came to him as adults and thanked him for the things that he shared with them.

When a teaching job became available in Garrison, he came home. This was truly where his heart was. He was able to care for his father as he got older and be around the friends he grew up with. He bought property and settled back into the Silas Community.

Bob was set on doing the right thing. Always and no matter how hard it was. He lived his life serving his Lord and was always trying to keep on the straight road. For years he worked at Mt. Olive Baptist Church replacing light bulbs, working on the plumbing, counting the offerings, turning off the lights and locking doors after each service, and helping people in need. He didn't do these things for recognition, he did them because he was doing what God wanted him to do. Most people were completely unaware of his service, and that was fine with him.

It was very important to him to live his life as a good citizen. He was a Mason for over 50 years serving as Masonic Chaplain for 44 years and had a great love of Masonry. It was another way for him to serve his fellow man. He enjoyed being around people of like mind. He was also a Gideon, and he gave bibles to anyone who would take one. Sharing his faith was very important to him.

He loved his family, his church, and his friends. He made the world a better place wherever he went, and anyone who had Bob Crump for a friend had a rare find.

Bob is survived by:

Wife, Judy Crump

Children: 
Lisa Garrett, and husband, Brad
Mark Crump, and wife, Karen
Terri Strahan, and husband, Kevin
Avery Wedding

Grandchildren: 
Karlie Anders, and husband, Nate
Krissie Shull, and husband, Justin
Dustin Strahan, and wife, Maci
Tabitha Skinner
Michael Scott Tremaine
Jenny Gibson, and husband, Dallas
Andy Garrett, and wife, Hang
Cody Garrett, and wife, Breann
Kaley Thompson, and husband, Garrett
Mason Crump
Jessica Ta, and husband, Shane
Emiley Davis, and husband, Justin

12 great-grandchildren

Brother. Billy Joe Crump, and wife, Linnie

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Minnie Anderson Crump, daughter, Laura Tremaine and 6 siblings

Services under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.

12/30/2023

Brenda Parker, 63, of Tenaha, Texas, passed away on December 29, 2023, at her home in Tenaha. She was born on October 15, 1960, in Center, Texas, to the late Jasper Newton Welch and Dorothy (Ferguson) Welch.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Restland Cemetery, with Bro. Bill Holmes officiating.

Brenda was born and raised in Shelby County. She graduated from Center High School, class of 1979. Brenda worked for the railroad after high school and then attended Panola College where she received her nursing degree shortly after her children were born. She was married to the love of her life, Frank Alan Parker. They made a beautiful home place in Tenaha where they raised their children. They met while visiting the Center square one evening, as the kids did back then. The two were married at their home on November 27, 1981, and spent many wonderful years together before his passing in 2002. They raised three children together. Brenda found great joy in helping and giving to others. Her loving and compassionate nature was treasured by those who knew her. Brenda enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and bonus grandchildren, as she liked to call them. She enjoyed her shopping trips with Alana as well as frequent mani/pedis and lunch dates. They shared a very special bond with one another. She also enjoyed vacationing with her family as often as possible.

She is survived by:

Sons:
Frank Alan Parker II and wife Bekah
Brad Parker and wife Season

Daughter, Danielle Parker-Adams and husband Michael

Brother, Mike Welch

Grandchildren:
Alana Kelly
Peyton Marshall

Special family, Albert Kelly and wife Ashley and their children, Kayla, Sissy, Bubba, LeLe, and Man.

As well as several bonus grandchildren and numerous friends.

Brenda is preceded in death by her husband, Frank Alan Parker; parents, J.N. and Dorothy Welch; and sister, Peggy Welch Stagg.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

12/30/2023

Beverly A. Garrett, 69, passed away December 22, 2023 in Palestine, Texas. She was born June 5, 1954 to mother Lucille Garrett and father Does James Garrett.

A homecoming celebration in loving memory will be held at 2pm Sunday, December 31, 2023 at Community Funeral Home Chapel, 157 CR 2230, Center, Texas 75935 with Bishop Zephaniah Swindle officiating.

She is preceded in death by parents, Lucille and Doise James Garrett; sister, Doris Ann Garrett; and brother, Robert Garrett.

She leaves to cherish her memory:

Children:
LaShalla Garrett
Mark A. Cartwright (Erika)

Grandchildren:
Mikela Cartwright
Ke'Shaun Cartwright
Felix Garrett J (Katelynn)
Christian Russell
Jerica Cartwright (Edward)
Janesha Kenney

Special Nieces and Nephews:
Anniha McFadden
Marcus Williams
Robert Dickson
Jocelyn Garrett
Edgar Maiden
Alicia Dixon (Harold)
Bobby Moore

Special Godson, Jamarcus Patton

Special Friend, James Charles Pitts

The family of Beverly A. Garrett is sincerely grateful and humbled by all the many expressions of sympathy in our time of bereavement.

Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.

12/29/2023

Rebecca (Becky) Hardin received her ultimate healing and entered into her eternal home on December 25, 2023, at her home in Timpson TX.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 3:00 PM at First Assembly of God in Timpson, TX with Rev. E.J. Adams officiating. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Interment will follow the service at Mt. Bethel cemetery in Gary, TX.

Becky was born to parents Johnny Dee and Cacilie Busalt Adams on June 11, 1956, in Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Becky was a long-time resident of Timpson, TX, moving from Stonewall, LA where she attended and graduated from Stonewall High School. She then met the love of her life Mike Hardin and they were married January 24, 1981 after Mike swept her off her feet. Her cruise taken with Mike was one of her most cherished memories. Cruises, shopping, and swimming were at the top of her list for excitement and happiness. Other things Becky loved to do were playing bingo, dominoes, and cards. In her younger years she was dedicated to her bowling leagues where she bowled weekly. Becky enjoyed her 20 years of employment at Walmart especially her most recent position as a sales associate in the Vision Center aiding customers in their selection of eyewear. Most of all her faith in God never wavered and she served where and when possible, she will forever be remembered for her faithfulness to God. 

Those left to honor and cherish her memory are:

Mother, Cacilie Adams of Timpson

Brother, James Adams and wife, Kathy of Apopka, FL

A host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins many of whom reside in Germany.

Becky is preceded in death by her husband of 20 years, Mike Hardin; her father, Johnny Dee Adams; and her brother, Johnny Dee Adams, Jr.

Services under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.

12/29/2023

Spencer Lloyd Yarbrough, 83, of Wills Point, Texas, passed away on December 24, 2023. Born on May 11, 1940, in Center, Texas, to the late Eugene Yarbrough and Lucille Christopher. Spencer was known for his selfless nature, handy skills, and strong work ethic.

Spencer dedicated his career to heavy civil construction, working for JD Abrams in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. He was highly respected for his expertise in the field. Outside of work, Spencer had a passion for ranching, carpentry, and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed visiting vineyards and was a proud member of the American Quarter Horse Association and the Texas Cattle Raisers Association.

Spencer is survived by:

Loving son, Chris Yarbrough, and wife Mary

Devoted daughter, Sonya Duffer, and husband Taylor

Brother, Bruce Yarbrough

Sister, Lagene Smoak, and husband Jerry

Cherished grandchildren: Harley, Carson, Nick, Noah, and Nate

Adored great-grandchildren: Wesley, Libi, Wyatt, and Peyton

He was preceded in death by his mother and father; his brothers, Troy, Kenneth, and Joseph; and his grandson, Nolan Spencer.

Spencer graduated from Center High School in 1958 and furthered his education at East Field College and Stephen F Austin. He was a lifelong learner and valued the pursuit of knowledge.

Friends and family are invited to attend the visitation and funeral on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. with funeral following at 11:00 a.m. at Mullin-Fuller Funeral Home, located at 205 Corky Boyd Ave., Wills Point, Texas. Interment will follow at White Rose Cemetery in Wills Point.

12/29/2023

Funeral service for Elizabeth Ann Acrey, 77, of Gary will be held at 12:00pm on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Taylor Funeral Home with Kevin Otto officiating.  Interment will follow at County Line Cemetery.  Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 10am.

Mrs. Acrey passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023 in Tyler.  She was born on March 19, 1946 in Santa Ana, California.

Elizabeth was born to parents, Ernest Nathaniel and Daisy Kennard Wright and grew up in Houston, where she met the love of her life, James Acrey, Sr. Their chance meeting led to a marriage 7 days later, and the two stood by each other’s side for only a few days short of 50 years. They raised their family together and taught them all they needed to become wonderful adults. When the grandchildren came along, she knew her heart was full. 

Elizabeth loved like there were no boundaries. She was devoted to those around her and supported everyone in whatever their hearts led them to do. She was a hard worker who was a part of many different jobs during her lifetime, each of which she enjoyed tremendously. She worked in the nursery of First United Methodist Church for 13 years, in the school cafeteria, drove a dialysis van, delivered for Meals on Wheels and even attained her teaching certificate and taught in Missouri for a short period. She also enjoyed gardening, sewing and especially going to garage sales.  

Elizabeth is survived by:
Daughters: 
Doris Matlock, and husband, Ricky
Virginia Matlock
Patricia Nelson, and husband, Danny

Sons: 
James Acrey, Jr
Lee Acrey, and wife, Yvonnette

16 grandchildren

19 great-grandchildren

Sisters: 
Mary Berry
Marie Ball

Brothers: 
Edwin Wright
Junior Lemley, and wife, Jamie

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, James Acrey, Sr.; granddaughter, Sydney Nelson; great grandson, Korbyn Matlock and brother, Eddie Wright.

Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Matlock II, Travis Matlock, Anthony Beasler, T.C. Stroud, Jamie Acrey and Brayden Acrey. Honorary pallbearer will be Clint Newman.

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