Obituaries
05/24/2021
Hylari Pajh Broadway Esters, 25, of Carthage, Texas passed away on May 20, 2021 in Carthage. Hylari was born June 16, 1995 in Henderson, Texas to Michael Broadway and Lois Ann Coleman Broadway.
She attended Carthage Schools and graduated Carthage High School with the class of 2013. Hylari married KaDerris DeShun “KD” Esters on October 19, 2019. She attended the Pentecostals of Marshall where she was a member of the “Holy Hands” sign team. Hylari loved her family, especially her babies. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Ivy Paulette Coleman; paternal grandparents, Melvin Broadway, Sr. and Peggy Windham Broadway.
Hylari is survived by:
Loving husband, KD Esters of Carthage
Children:
Abbi Jane Esters
Alec Tresston Broadway
Mother, Lois Ann Ross and husband Burt of Carthage
Father, Michael Broadway of Center
Brother, Trevor Michael Broadway and Parris Kruebbe and Londynn of Marshall
Mother-in-law, Diane Fearance and David Harris of Shreveport, LA
Grandfather, Stephen and Sandy Coleman of Nashville, TN
Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and a host of friends.
Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at Ramah Cemetery in Shelby County, Texas with Rev. Chad Roberts officiating under the direction of Jimerson-Lipsey Lipsey Funeral Home, 1131 State Hwy 149, Carthage, Texas 75633. Visitation will be from 1-3:00 p.m. Tuesday at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home.
Serving as pallbearers will be Brandon Fearance, Patrick Johnson, Melvin Broadway, Shavez Bergeron, Burt Ross and Jeremy Baker. Honorary pallbearers will be Trevor Broadway, Chadd Gray and Tresston Broadway.
A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.
05/24/2021
Sandra Ballard, 84, of Shreveport passed away Friday May 21, 2021 in Shreveport, LA. Born November 9, 1936, in Vivian, LA. Sandra is the daughter of Clarence Dean Collins and Auneva Collins. Graveside service will be held at 11:00AM Thursday May 27, 2021 at Brookland Cemetery, Shelby County Texas.
Sandra Graduated from Tenaha High school and after attended Texas women’s University. She was involved with the Eastern Star and Church of Christ. Sandra loved being outdoors and spending time with her family and friends.
Sandra is survived by Brother Michael Collins of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.
Preceded in death by Son – Thomas Joseph Ballard, Daughter – Kimberly Ballard McClurg and Late husband – Ben Ballard.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
05/24/2021
Charles G. Huskey, 62, of Joaquin, passed away Thursday, May 20, 2021, in Tyler.
Mr. Huskey’s wishes were to be cremated and a memorial service will be held 2pm Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Born September 5, 1958, in Emmett, Idaho, Charles is the son of Charles Garland Huskey and Thelma Irene Beeks Huskey. He graduated from Bitburg American High School in June 1976. Charles worked as a crew leader at a paper company in Mansfield, Louisiana.
He is survived by:
Wife, Rhonda Huskey
Children:
Christopher Huskey
Steven and Lindsay Huskey
Danielle Huskey
Grandchildren:
Kyra Huskey
Dylan Hudspeth
Mother, Jackie Gray and husband Berle
Sister, Patricia Holman
Brother, Scott Huskey and wife Rhonda
He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Garland Huskey; sister, Tina Newton; and daughter, Toni Renee Huskey and grandson, Xavier Rae Huskey.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/23/2021
Mona Jones Campbell, 92, of Center, TX, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on May 22, 2021, at Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Texas. She was born October 20, 1928, in Center, Texas to the late H.H. Jones, Jr. and Geraldine Mary Stokes Jones.
Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 24, 2021, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home with visitation an hour prior. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.
Mona grew up in Center, Texas. She attended Center High School and after graduation attended Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri. She also attended Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana. Mona was a member of Beta Sigma Phi. On July 14, 1947, she married “the love of her life,” James Edward Campbell. They worked together at Farmers Gas Company and later Mona worked at Polley Mercantile with her father, H.H. Jones Jr. Mona was a member of First Baptist Church in Center.
She and James had three children: Angela, Jamie and Rick. She loved her children and would do anything for them. She was known as Nano to the 5 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
She and James loved to travel and they loved dancing. Mona was an avid golfer and played often with Mary Bugler, Portia Gaines and Janet Palmer. She also loved art and was quite a good painter. She was also gifted with organization and housekeeping. She was a blessing as a wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
She is survived by:
Her husband, James Edward Campbell
Daughter, Angela Koonce and husband David
Son, Rick Campbell and wife Katrina
Son-in-law, Stephen Gamble
Grandchildren:
Michelle Permenter and friend Julianne Horst
Cam McElroy
Collin McElroy and wife Hillary
Ashton James Campbell
Brooke Campbell Lane and husband Brad
Great-grandchildren:
Ethan McElroy
Campbell Ryan Beck
Vivi Lane
Eva Lane
Connor McElroy
Tucker McElroy, and baby to be, Olivia Jamie McElroy
Also caregivers and friends, Brenda Berry and Annie Winn
Preceded in death by her daughter, Jamie Campbell Gamble; parents, H.H. Jones Jr. and Geraldine Mary Stokes Jones; sister, Mary Eldred Jones Massey; in-laws, Lacy Burk Campbell and Naomi Booth Campbell; and brother-in-law, Cecil Massey.
Pallbearers will be Brad Lane, Roy Blackshear, Scott Massey, Johnnie Hi Massey, Cam McElroy, and Collin McElroy. Honorary pallbearers will be Yazoo Thomas, Sammy Dance, Ashton Campbell, Randy Floyd and Nick Waters.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas 75701,
First Baptist Church, 117 Cora Street, Center Texas 75935 or an organization of your choice.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/19/2021
Frances O. Hoover, 85, of Timpson, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2021 in Garrison Texas. She was born on January 14, 1936 in Streetman, Texas, to the late Alfred E. Stephens and Virginia Othella (Goodson) Stephens. Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, May 21, 2021 at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas with Bro. Jason Sparks officiating. Private interment will be at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Timpson.
Frances grew up in Timpson, Texas. She attended Timpson High School. Frances had three wonderful children whom she loved dearly and raised them by herself. She loved not only her own children but was “Granny” to numerous others in Shelby County. She was very active in her children’s activities when they were younger. Frances was even a Boy Scouts leader when the troop could not find a male leader. She worked at Tom’s Clothing for many years and later enjoyed working at Sandy’s Flower Shop. Frances enjoyed the outdoors, especially working in her flowerbeds. Frances also enjoyed watching General Hospital each day on TV. She loved the Lord and served by ministering to children through youth trips, VBS, and assisting in children’s church. She was a founding member of Woodland Christian Church, Timpson.
She is survived by:
Her son, Robert G. Hoover and wife Joni
Daughters:
Lisa Geisser and husband George
Cheryl Pate and husband Timmy
Sister, Dorothy Bailey
Grandchildren:
Christopher Dimmick and wife Ashley
Emily McBride and husband Zachary
Melissa Herrera and husband Daniel
Hannah Hoover
Heather Radney and husband Jason
Rachel Geisser
Chelsea Richerson and husband Justin
17 great-grandchildren
A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Frances is preceded in deaht by her parents, Alfred and Virginia Stephens; 7 brothers; and 4 sisters.
Pallbearers serving will be Tommy Sparks, Howard Sparks, Johnny Sparks, Alan Poskey, Joe Stephens Jr., Tim Amos, Damien Amos, and Terry Amos.
Honorary pallbearers will be Darrell Rhodes, John Poskey, JC Crawford, Ricky Rhodes, Timmy Pate, Justin Richerson, and Zachary McBride.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
05/18/2021
L.H. Hewitt, 86 of Center, passed away Saturday evening, May 15, 2021 at his daughter's house. He was born July 28, 1935 in Center to Louie and Erma Jean Hewitt who proceeded him in death.
Services are 11 am May 20, 2021 at Triumph Church, 908 Daniels Street, Center, Texas. Viewing is 1pm until 5pm on May 19 at Community Funeral HOme, 157 County Road 2230, Center, Texas and 9am until 11am on May 20th prior to service at Triumph Church.
L.H. attended C.H. Daniels High School where he ranked 2nd in his class. After graduation, he joined and was enlisted in the United States Army. Once he served his term as a dedicated soldier, he worked at Holly Farms while running his own liquor store. The neighborhood children loved buying candy and chips from him. L.H. loved his church, Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, and his members loved him. He loved working independently and took it upon himself and started his own professional logging company, L.H. Hewitt Inc.. He worked as the owner and employed several others until his health failed. He was well known throughout East Texas and never met a stranger. When you mentioned his name everyone knew who he was.
He leaves to cherish the memories:
Devoted daughter, Teresa (Oliver)
Sons: Darryl, Eddie, Eric (Lana)
Grandson he raised as his own, Tremayne (Trise)
His wonderful legacy of grandchildren: Deondrick, Candice, Keaton, Jewel, DeNeshia, Johnathan, Lisa, and Josh
9 Great-grandchildren and 1 Great-great-granddaughter
Twin brothers: Richard and Thomas Martin
Sister, Mary Lou Hughes
He was preceded in death by his sisters Mary Jane, Ida Mae, Eddie Pearl, Erma Jean, and Bertha; two brothers Willie B. and Samuel Lee; two sons Louie and Frederick Hewitt; and two daughters Rachel and Shirley Ann.
He had beloved friends: Shirley Hewitt, Fannie Holman, and the William Sisters.
L.H. had a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and business partners.
He never met a stranger and showed love to everyone.
Services are under the direction of PrePared Place and Savoy Gambles and Community Funeral Home of Center.
05/18/2021
On April 23, 2021, Sharon Diana Grace, age 54, fell asleep in death after a brief illness.
Sharon was born December 2, 1966 to Robert Earl and Doris (Oliver) Grace in Center, Texas. She was the first of 3 children and grew up in Pasadena, Texas. She was a graduate of the 1985 class at Deer Park High School, in Deer Park, Texas. She worked for many years as an assistant and manager for several Pizza Hut restaurants. In 1990, she gave birth to her only child, Kari M'Lynn Grace.
Sharon had a big heart and enjoyed spending time with her friends. She loved to laugh. She was often involved in the care of her nieces and nephews, with whom she had a close bond with in their childhoods. Her four grandchildren were the light of her life. In later years, she suffered many illnesses and spent much time unwell. She is now resting peacefully.
She is preceded in death by her father, Robert.
She is survived by:
Mother, Doris of Livingston, TX
Sister, Stephanie Armstrong (Jason) of Arkansas City, KS
Brother, Jonathan Grace (Jamie) of Livingston, TX
Daughter, Kari of Cleveland, Tx., fiancé, David Lester
Grandchildren:
Dustin Bowman
Jordan Bowman
Serenity Adams
Zane Grace
She also leaves behind her nieces and nephews:
Erin Talkington (Tom)
Matthew Brobst
Caleb Armstrong
Haliegh Grace
Jonathan Michael Grace
Makenna Grace
Jacob Grace
Liam Smith
Services will be held privately by the family and close friends at a later date. She will be interred with her father at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha, Texas.
05/17/2021
Bruce Wayne Koonce, 80, of Center, passed away Monday, May 17, 2021, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation at 3:00 p.m. Bro. Luke Garrett and Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate. Interment will follow at Jackson Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born July 10, 1940, Bruce is the son of Robie Koonce and Pauline Humphries Koonce. He graduated from Center High School in 1958. After 25 years of service, Bruce ended his career at Tyson Foods. His love of fishing made him an excellent fishing guide on Toledo Bend and led him to attaining a membership in Shelby County Bass Anglers. He also enjoyed hunting and became a member of both Attoyac and Iron Ore Hunting Clubs. Bruce was also a member of Jackson Missionary Baptist Church in Joaquin, where he was actively involved in the Men’s Sunday school class.
He is survived by:
His wife of 59 years, Mary Lewis Koonce of Center
Son, David Koonce and wife Angela of Center
Daughters:
Kathy Nichols and fiancé Mark Davis of Center
Kristi Holt and husband John of Center
Grandchildren:
Cody Nichols and wife Holly
James Holt and Julie McSwain
Taylor Nichols and fiancé Wyatt Hairgrove
Kamryn Holt
Great-grandchild, Laityn Nichols
Sister, Alice Sue Howard and husband Bob of Center
Sisters-in-law:
JoAnn Walla of Joaquin
Joyce Richards of Friendswood
Numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by his parents, Robie Koonce and Pauline Humphries Koonce; grandparents, George and Ethel Humphries; in-laws, James and Mary Cannie Lewis; brothers-in-law, Walter Walla and Steve Richards; nephew, James “Bubba” Walla.
Pallbearers will be Grant McDonald, Mark Davis, Cody Nichols, James Holt, Shelby Johnson, “Scooter” Clark, Matt Mathews, Wyatt Hairgrove, and Charles Barr. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary McDonald, Sammy Arnold, Royce Lynn Johnson, Bob Howard, James Crelia, Wayne Willoughby, Freeman Nichols, Iron Ore Hunting Club, Shelby County Bass Anglers, and Jackson Men’s Sunday School Class.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Jackson Missionary Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 1047, Joaquin, TX 75954.
A special thank you to Affinity Hospice, especially Tristan, Sara, and Mallory, for their compassionate care.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/17/2021
Kenedy Wayne “Skinny” Edwards, age 54, of Center, Texas passed away on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 due to a log truck accident on SH 103.
Funeral Service is at Taylor Tabernacle at 1pm on Saturday, May 22, 2021 with interment at Union Grove Cemetery with Rev. Napoleon Shaw officiating. Viewing is from 1pm until 6pm on Friday, May 21, 2021 at Garner and Son Chapel.
He is survived by:
Brother, James R. Edwards (Diane) of Las Vegas, NV
Sisters:
Loise Edwards of Hudson, Texas
Ivery Davis (Donald) of San Augustine, Texas
Shenet Smith of San Augustine, Texas
Special Aunt, Myrtle Malone of San Augustine, Texas
As well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Services are under the direction of Percy Garner and Son Mortuary of San Augustine.
05/15/2021
A memorial service honoring the life of Eugene Matthews, 58, of Joaquin, Texas, will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Chapel in Logansport, Louisiana.
Officiating the service will be Rev. Jody Hooper. A visitation will be held before the service from 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home chapel.
Eugene was born on September 28, 1962, in Shreveport, Louisiana to Phillip Tony Matthews and Lavern Malmay Matthews. He entered into eternal rest on May 13, 2021, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He never met a stranger and had numerous adopted children. He loved trucks of any kind, telling stories to all that would listen, and grilling food for everyone to enjoy.
He is survived by:
His wife, Samantha Jones Matthews
Sons:
Jeff Matthews and wife, Laura
Hayden Matthews
Sawyer Matthews
Daughters:
Jessica Blalock and husband, Brandon
Madison Matthews
Mackenzie Matthews
Brothers:
Randy Matthews and wife, Wanda
Scott Matthews and wife, Joannie
In addition, he leaves behind 6 grandchildren:
Landon Hendon
Alexis Blalock
Breanna Welch
Kinsley Blalock
Vaelin Matthews
Erza Matthews
3 fur babies:
Elsa
Ragnar
Sassy
Preceding him are his parents, Mr. Tony & Mrs. Laverne Matthews; grandparents, Ethel Skinner and Ed Malmay, Audrey Matthews, and Elwood Matthews; brother, Mack Matthews; mother-in-law, Patsy Phillips; and his twin infant boys.
05/14/2021
Joe Louis Jones: Guru of Shelby County joined his loving wife, Gloria Ann Simon Jones on May 10, 2021. At the time of death he resided in College Station, TX with his son and daughter-in-law, Ben and Michelle Jones.
Joe was born May 4, 1927, in Center. He was a 4th generation resident of Shelby County, where his great-grandfather, Louis Jones, settled in the Newburn area before the mid-19th century after leaving Indiana on a house boat. Joe Louis resided in Center most of his life and graduated from Center High School in 1944. After a short stint in the U.S. Navy in San Diego, California, he moved into Ms. Atkin’s boarding house on Mound St. in Nacogdoches while he completed his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture on the GI Bill from Stephen F. Austin State College.
As a life-long resident of Shelby County, Joe, had a variety of responsibilities. He swept out the State Guaranty Bond Bank for his Father, Vice President of the bank; chopped cotton on the farm near Smith Creek north of Center in the summers after school let out; waited the counter and closed out the register at the end of the night at the Brian Bailey Café on the square; as a young father milked 37 head of Jersey cows twice a day at the same time he worked as a teller in the bank he’d swept out as a child; owned a wholesale/retail business, owned a cow/calf operation on the same farm he’d chopped cotton and milked cows; imported the first Pinzgauer cow (red and white) into the U.S. from Europe, with his unique wit and dry humor, he always said “The prettiest color a cow can be is green at selling time;” served as Center Little League Coach (Worlds Greatest Coach 1966) and the Center Noon Lions Club Tail Twister; worked with the Texas Archeological Society in evaluation of several archeological sites of significance in Shelby county as a self-taught archeologist; served as the Shelby County Historic Courthouse Docent; and was a loving and devoted Husband; Father; and Grandfather.
Some may remember him as the Master of Ceremonies at the Center Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquets; the Red Wing and cowboy boot dealer at Thrifty Discount Shoes, one block east of the square behind the old post office or maybe you toured the Shelby County Historic Courthouse for a dose of Joe Louis’ stories, history, and humor of Shelby County.
He loved, was loved, and was preceded in death by his beautiful and loving wife of 64 years, Gloria “Ann” Simon Jones.
He is survived by:
His daughter, Traci Ellen Jones of Missouri City
His son and daughter-in-law, Ben and Michelle Jones of College Station
Grandchildren:
Daniel Jones and wife, Danielle
Natalie Jones
Brittany Yoder and husband Kyle
Chris Braaton and fiancée Rosa Locke
Nick Braaton and wife Lauren
Great-grandchildren:
Sloan Yoder
Caden Braaton
Gage Yoder
Kylie Graham
Kaylin Graham
Graveside service will be held 3:00 p.m., Saturday, May 22, 2021, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with visitation at Watson & Sons Funeral Home beginning at 2:00 p.m. Reverend Malcolm Monroe will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the First United Methodist Church, 211 Porter Street, Center, Texas 75935.
05/14/2021
Cecil Oliver went home to be with the lord May 12th, 2021. Cecil loved life and loved his home and family and was a friend to everyone and especially his dog Lucky. As a RN nurse, he loved and spent his life helping people and most of all he loved his lord.
A private family graveside service will be held May 16th, 2021 at 2:00 pm at Mt. Olive Cemetery.
He is survived by his sons:
Thomas of Kingwood
Austin of Glastonbury, Connecticut
Daughter:
Katelyn of Logan, Utah
Brother,
Dr. Byron Oliver of St. Johns,Vi
Sisters,
Carolyn Elliott of Splendora
Bess Reeves of Center
He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Bryant and Bessie Oliver, brothers, William, James, Bruce, Riley Bryant, and Gordon Oliver.
05/10/2021
Mrs. Lee Vern “Leevern” Williams Stotts Gilliam (82) of Joaquin, Tx transitioned May 4, 2021, at home with family.
Mrs. Lee Vern was born to the late Andrew Williams Sr. and Accie Richardson Williams April 23, 1939 in Ashton Hill-Shelby County Tx. Mrs. Lee Vern retired as Federal USDA Inspector. She was first African American to serve as City Councilwoman of Joaquin, Tx.
Mrs. Lee Vern served as Usher Board president at her local church Keatchie COGIC, Mansfield District and for Historic Louisiana First Jurisdiction. She served her community and surrounding areas faithfully. Mrs. Lee Vern loved people and she definitely loved her family.
Mrs. Lee Vern is survived by:
Daughters:
Levarie Cloudy (Arthur) of Center
Rosalind Stotts (Wade) of Houston
Pamela Barnes (Bobby) of Logansport, La.
Novelle-Tina Gatlin (David) of Logansport, La.
12 Grandchildren, and 21 great grands. Sister: Bertha Mae Jack of Houston, Tx. Brothers: Juan Williams and Junior Williams of Joaquin, Tx and Robert Williams of Houston, Tx. A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation: Friday, May 14, 2021 at St Peter COGIC, Logansport, La, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Funeral Services: Saturday, May 15, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Logansport Elementary Gym 17228 LA-5, Logansport, La 71049 Officiating: Elder Maurice Rogers.
Burial: Carroll Cemetery, Shelbyville, Tx.
Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and funeral services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.
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
05/10/2021
Wade Dewane Howell, 29, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, May 9, 2021, in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 13, 2021, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Bro. Rusty Hall will officiate. Wade’s wishes were to be cremated following the service.
Born January 16, 1992, in Yuma, Arizona, Wade is the son of Mark Howell and Lezlie Hughes Howell. He worked as a mechanic at Center Auto Repair and also served on the Center Volunteer Fire Department. Wade was a kind and generous person, always lending a helping hand. With his goofy smile and fun personality, he never met a stranger. Wade enjoyed baseball and invested in Shelby County’s youth by coaching Dixie Little League for several years. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, bow fishing, and four wheeling.
He is survived by:
His yellow lab, Buddy
Parents, Mark and Lezlie Howell of Shelbyville
Grandparents:
Judy and Darrel Howell of Grove, Oklahoma
Jean Hughes of Buckeye, Arizona
Brother, Clinton Howell and wife Sheryll of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Nieces, Alexandria and Holly Howell of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Aunts:
Christine Builta and husband Gary of Grove, Oklahoma
Jennifer Wilson and husband Deacon of Weatherford
Cousins:
Kimberly Carlson, her husband Amodi, and their son, Keenan, of Tacoma, Washington
Christian and Bailey Wilson of Weatherford, Texas
Other than blood family, Wade is survived by the entire McDonald Clan and their extended family. Also, all the brothers and sisters who’s kids called him Uncle Wade.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Center Volunteer Fire Department, 110 Patton Street, Center, Texas 75935.
There is an account on Venmo for donations: @inMemoryofWade and also an account at Shelby Savings Bank for donations in Memory of Wade.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/10/2021
Wynona Nance, 83, of Cypress, passed away Thursday, May 6, 2021, in Cypress.
Graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, May 9, 2021, at Strong Cemetery in Huxley with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.
Born October 23, 1937, in Shelbyville, Wynona is the daughter of John Dewey Miller and Alice Mae Goings Miller. She worked as a florist and was also a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother. Wynona was a member of Order of Eastern Star and Past President for SCA Thrift and Gift Shop. She was also a member of First Baptist Church in Orange.
She is survived by:
Children:
Jennifer Groleau
John Nance
Eugene Nance II and wife Starla
Grandchildren: Angela, Jessica, Ericka, John II, Tyler, and Logan
Great-grandchildren: Alice, Elizabeth, Felicity, Huxleigh, Kolton, Tyler Jr., Grayson, and Bryce
Sisters:
Wilda Beth Varney
Glenda Faye Jeffcoat
Several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Lee Nance; father, John Dewey Miller and Alice Mae Goings Miller; and son-in-law, Pepper Dan Groleau.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/09/2021
Graveside services for Betty Lou Anderson, 88, of Humble, formerly of Lufkin, will be held Sunday, May 16, 2021 at 2pm in the New Hope Cemetery in Center with Brother Tim Verner officiating.
Ms. Anderson was born August 6, 1932 in Center to the late Thelma (Lansford) and Odis Walker, and died Sunday, May 9, 2021 in a facility in Humble.
Ms. Anderson graduated from Center High School. She retired from Lufkin State School after 25 years of service. After retirement she enjoyed cooking, her Facebook where she could never remember her password, and dancing. Ms. Anderson was a lifetime member of the Lufkin VFW.
Survivors include:
Her son, Tony Coleman and fiancée Betsy Peavy of Central
Grandchildren:
Kyle and Cheyenne Coleman of Pollok
Robbie Thomas and girlfriend Mary Koller of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Ashley and Cory Hearrell of Tennessee Colony
Shana and Gerald Derouen of Streetman, Texas
Great-grandchildren:
Dana Diaz
Caryn Thomas
Claudia Thomas\
Christopher Thomas
Matthew Thomas
Alexander Thomas
Courtney and James Kappus
James Hearrell
Colten Hearrell
Madison Hearrell
Cody and Morgan Hearrell
Chase Hearrell
Kaylee Miley
Adam Reed, Jr.
Ayanna Derouen
Nine great-great-grandchildren
Sister, Ruby Eddins of Humble
Brother, Tommy Walker of Euless
Nieces:
Jean Parham
Mona Bowlin
Tammie Stanaland
Lisa Tennant
Linda Slaton
Numerous other relatives
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Teresa Hogue Hutto; sister, Ovia Biggar; and nephew, Jerald Eddins.
Honorary pallbearers will be Gerald Derouen, Cory Hearrell, Robbie Thomas, Case Hearrell, and Jamie Perry.
The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday evening at Carroway Funeral Home in Lufkin.
Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.
Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.
05/08/2021
Marcille Hancock Hughes born April 9, 1925 in Shelby County passed peacefully May 5, 2021 and joined her loving husband, Pershing Hughes, who preceded her in death in 2003.
She is survived by:
Her daughters:
Alice Russell of Forney
Regina Hughes Vaughn and husband Waylon Vaughn of Center
Marcie Hughes Nelson and husband Scott of Nacogdoches
Grandchildren:
Alexander Thurman
Abby Thurman Stone
Amber Smith Thurman
Dustin Wright
Anthony Thurman
Emma Nelson Hughes
Lyle Nelson
Great-Grandchildren:
Mason Thurman
Weston Wright
Easton Wright
Landon Thurman
Ali Thurman
Wes Thurman
Gage Smith
Her life will be honored May 15th at the Hancock Cemetery of Shelby County.
Marcille lives on in the eyes of her loved ones and the stories she wrote.
05/07/2021
Jack Lout, 82 of Center, passed away Thursday, May 6 in Tyler after a brief illness. He was born in Shelbyville on September 19, 1938 to J.P. and Bertha Lout. He served in the US National Guard.
'As a young man, Jack met the love of his life, Miss Martha Nell Shadowens and they married in 1960. They were inseparable for almost 60 wonderful years until she passed away in 2020.
Jack worked as a logger all his life. He trained many young men how to run a skidder and a loader, including his son Shad, who followed in his footsteps.
Jack loved to farm with his father-in-law Mr. Shadowens. They gave away bushels and bushels of produce! He passed that love of farming on to his son and grandchildren, too. He loved to be anywhere his family was but his favorite places were in the woods and on the Sabine riverbank. He was a true outdoorsman and loved squirrel hunting and fishing. He spent many wonderful hours with Shad, his grands and friends in the woods and on the river - and playing no telling how many games of 42! People were drawn to Jack because of his ready smile and laughter and the stories he could tell with a twinkle in his eye.
His grandkids were the light of his life and just about any given day you could find him at a ball game rooting them on in whatever they were competing in at that time. Papa Jack never missed an opportunity to let them know how proud he was of them in all aspects of life.
He was also blessed with so many friends that he loved so much.
Jack had been a long time devoted deacon and patriarch of Ephesus Baptist Church. He told stories of walking to church there as a child and his devotion to the Lord carried him through life to the very end.
He is survived by his son, Shad and wife, Casey;
And grandchildren Colby, Eli, Dylan and Ali Brooke, all of Center.
He is also survived by his brother, Jimmy and wife, Paula;
Nephew Josh Lout and wife Bridgett
Niece Stacy Lout Lambright and husband, Kenny.
Pallbearers are beloved friends:
Monte Taylor
Richard Tomlin
Mike Lout
Ricky Lout
Joe Lawson
Junior Dean
Kenneth Hardy
Jimmy Strong
Honorary pallbearers are the great men of the Ephesus Baptist Church Sunday School class who he loved so very much.
Visitation will be on Friday, May 7th from 5-7pm at Watson & Sons Funeral Home. Service will be on Saturday, May 8th at 11am at Ephesus Baptist Church with burial to follow at Rather Cemetery.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/06/2021
“Dobber” Steve Tomlin, 68, of Center, passed away Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at home in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 9, 2021, at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Shelby County. Bro. Gordon Vaughn will officiate.
Born July 8, 1952, in Center, Dobber is the son of the late Thomas “T.E.” Tomlin and Hattie Mae Andrews Tomlin. He worked as a truck driver and his hobbies included camping and fishing.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Clarence Tomlin (Nicole) of Campobello, South Carolina
Logan Strozier (Erika) of Inman, South Carolina
Grandchildren:
Joe Tippitt Jr.
Steven Tippitt
LynnLeigh Rutledge
Ceely Tomlin
Callan Tomlin
Raylen Jackson all of South Carolina
Brother, Melvin Tomlin (Margie) of Tenaha
Preceded in death by daughter, Audra Leigh Tomlin Rutledge; and parents, Thomas “T.E.” Tomlin and Hattie Mae Andrews Tomlin.
Pallbearers will be Wesley Gilchrist, David Gilchrist, Rex Hutto, Gene Haynes, Russell Andrews, Alan Hooper, “Red” Glen Bittick, and Pete Andrews.
Honorary pallbearers will be Chris Andrews, Carlton Harkness, and Jerry Mahan.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/05/2021
Wavah Jeanette “Bogue” Benoit, 86 years old, passed away at her homeplace in Timpson, Texas on February 22, 2021. Born November 11, 1934 in Timpson, Texas to Anna Lois “Reeves” Hudson and Horace T. Bogue.
A graveside inurnment will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at 11am at Woodlawn Cemetery, Timpson, Texas with Bro. Justin Timmons officiating.
Jeanette lived a full life and believed in hard work as a rule of thumb, as taught by example by her grandfather John Lumas Bogue. As a young lady she went out into the workforce experiencing many jobs including retail, movie theaters, and grocery stores. In the early 60’s she operated a “Room and Board” house with 17 rooms and housed 32 occupants. In the late 70’s she began collecting antiques and learned to repair antique clocks. She eventually opened 2 antique stores. She was always fascinated with and had a love for restoring old things and finding a bargain. Her husband’s job began to lead them to many different states, Jeanette loved the travels and enjoyed meeting new people. In ’86 she bought a breeder farm and began to learn all about its operations as the owner, working from sunup to sundown. After 10 years she retired back to Timpson. Anyone driving down Rosehill Road might see her out mowing, pulling up weeds, or climbing onto the roof. Strangers wondered who lived on that “neatly kept” property with the sign that read “Nutbush City Limits.”
Her awesome sense of humor attracted many people to her. She was a great mentor, and she was loved by many. Some may feel the mold was broken after this dear mother of ours was born. Such a legacy. Let us add that if she picked on you or had a nickname for you, you held a special place in her heart.
She’s preceded in death by husbands, Travis Kammerer and Rodney Benoit; brothers, Joseph Wayne Bogue and David Bogue; son, Derek Shane Benoit, whom she regarded as her angel who flew close to the ground; and son-in-law, Eric Fox.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Vicki Lowe and husband Matt
Gayla Fox
Sharon Kammerer and fiancé Tom Reid
Along with grandchildren:
Fred Lowe
Candyce Wagnon
Bryan Bishop
Jessica Thevis
Jeremy Bishop
Aaron Deleonardis
Christopher Speaks
Haley Blassingame.
She also leaves behind 10 great-grandchildren, with numerous family members and friends.
In leiu of flowers family requests donation be made in honor of Ms. Jeanette Beniot to Woodlawn Cemetery Fund, P O Box 369, Timpson, Texas, 75975.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to taylorfh.net. Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
Pages
