Obituaries
10/25/2022
Valrie Elaine Daniel, 77, of Huxley, Texas, passed away on Saturday, October 22, 2022, in Center, Texas. She was born on May 29th, 1945, in Lawton, Oklahoma. She was better known as Nanny to her family and friends in her community. At a very young age, she moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana where she would later graduate from Broadmoor High School before pursuing a degree in nursing from Northwestern State University.
Elaine then became a Nursing Home Administrator and continued working in that field up until 1997 when she purchased Scarbers Grocery in Huxley, Texas. In 2001 she sold the store to her kids, Tammy and Tim Brown. Elaine continued working at Scarbers until its closure, in December 2015. Elaine cherished every customer and friend she made throughout her years working there. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren meant the world to her. She also loved her grandchildren’s friends as if they were her own. Nanny’s favorite thing in life was watching Austin and Bailey play their various sports while cheering them on as loudly as she could, never missing a game. They were the light of her life. Nanny was a wonderful, caring person that touched the hearts of many and will deeply be missed by all.
Left to cherish her memory
Daughter:
Tammy Wells Brown and husband Tim
Sons:
Tim Wells and wife Jan
Howard (Woody) Daniel and wife Kaye
Lance Daniel and wife Kelli
Grandchildren:
Austin Rabalais and wife Angel
Bailey Rabalais
Desare Emigh and husband Mitchell
Brittany Williams and husband Jeremy
Sherri Daniel
Shayna Hayden and husband Chance
John Wyatt Daniel
Hydie Daniel
Trevor Daniel
Landrey Daniel
Cody Wells
Hunter Wells
Peyton Wells
Great-Grandchildren:
Laina Rabalais
Bo Rabalais
Dani Rabalais
Sadie Emigh
Kolton Emigh
Easton Strickland
Astrid Strickland
Harper Gilliland
Rohen Hayden
Brothers:
Larry Smith Hebert
Chico Bond and wife Nancy
Sister:
Kathy Bond Donaldson
Best friends of over 50 years, Paula Harris McMahan and Sharon Baehr
Special Friends:
Sylvia Oliver
Jim White
John Daniel
Preceded in death by:
Father of her children, Harold Wells
Birth parents, Adrian Smith, Sylvia Elenor Smith Bond and Evert Earl Bond
Adoptive parents, John Valrie Latil and Mary Alice Latil
Per her request, no services will be held at this time. A memorial in her honor will be held at a later date.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/25/2022
Cathryn “Cathy” Watson Hall, 85, left this earth early Tuesday morning, October 18, 2022, on her journey to join her beloved husband, Hershel Floyd Hall, in Heaven.
Cathryn was proceeded in death by her parents Clyde and Elizabeth Watson; grandparents Tom and Minnie Watson; brothers Dr. Thomas J. Watson and Eugene “Gene” Watson; and step mother Loyce Watson.
Cathryn is survived by:
Her stepchildren:
Doak Hall
Kim Allen and husband David
Granddaughters:
McKenna and Jamie
Grandson, Ronnie Sorters and his wife Erica
Great-grandson, Cole
Stepsister, Sandy Hudspeth
Stepbrother, Raymond Jimmerson
Along with many cousins and a host of friends
Two of her special friends are Debby Voorhies and Ron Mercer.
Cathryn was born in Center, Texas and was a graduate of the class of 1955 at Center High School. After obtaining her teaching degree, she taught for over 35 years in the Brazoria area schools. She taught history and traveled and coached the cheerleaders for many years.
Cathryn and Floyd were very active in the community and participated in the annual trail rides until their health no longer allowed them to do so. In the last few years her sweet cats, Cleo, Romeo and Precious offered her a world of companionship.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 29 at Restwood Funeral Home (1038 West Plantation Dr., Clute, Texas 77531) followed by a Memorial Service at 11:00 a.m.
She will then be taken to Center, Texas for her final resting place. A Graveside Service will be held on Sunday, October 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Oaklawn Memorial Park (1552 State Hwy 7 E., Center, Texas 75935). Everyone is invited to attend lunch following the service at the JOI Ranch (5198 FM 2026, Tenaha, Texas 75974).
Services are under the direction of Restwood Funeral Home and Watson & Sons Funeral Home.
10/24/2022
Johnnie Howell Cassell Cook, 80, of Huxley, Texas, passed away on October 22, 2022, in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on June 17, 1942, in Center, Texas, to the late Howell Cassell and Johnnie Kay Cassell.
Graveside service will be held at Strong Cemetery, on Monday, October 24, 2022, at 5pm with Bro. Gordon Vaughan officiating.
Johnnie was raised in the Huxley community. She loved the outdoors, reading, and spending time with family and friends.
Mostly known as granny, to know her was to love her. If you knew her from working at short stop for years or if you were blessed to be able to call her a friend. Johnny Howell was a one in a life time type of person, and she loved everyone. She loved unconditionally, she never cared about your background, or the skeletons you had in your closet. Her front porch was a safe place. She raised her own five children, then continued to raise five more grandchildren. Selfless is an understatement. She would give you the shirt off her back. Her hobbies included talking on the phone, smoking cigarettes, reading, spending time with her grandchildren and also catering to her chihuahua “JoJo”. The good ones always go too soon, I hope the angels know how blessed they are to have our beloved mother, granny and friend.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Vicki Lout
Gail Aguilar and husband Tereso
Sheila Powdrill and husband Mike
Sondra Dutton and husband John
Misty Hogue
15 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren
Brother, Bobby Howell Cassell
Sisters:
Glenis Tom Carroll
Judy Marie Goings
Joy Lynn Redmon
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Johnnie is preceded in death by her son, Ricky Leon Goings; parents, Howell and Johnnie Kay Cassell; brother, Bobby Jo Cassell; and grandchildren, Michael Powdrill, Antonio Aguilar.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/20/2022
Billie Jean Moore Harris, 79 of Center, passed away Thursday night, October 13, 2022 at the Center Emergency Room. She was born to the late James Moore and Beatrice Suell on June 3, 1943. Billy Jean Harris was a member of Open Door Worship Center, Center, Texas.
She was united in marriage on October 7, 1961 to the late Timothy Harris. Whereas two children were born, daughter, the late Phyllis Bell, and son, Timothy Mark Harris.
Funeral service is at 11am Friday, October 21, 2022 at Center Triumph Church, 908 Daniels Street, Center, Texas with Rev. Alvin Davis Sr. officiating. Viewing is 10am until 6pm on Thursday, October 20, at Community Funeral Home in Center and on Friday at 10am at Center Triumph Church. Committal is at Westview Cemetery and repass is at Pineywoods Outreach Center, Center, Texas.
She is preceded in death by her father, James Moore; mother, Beatrice Suell; husband, Timothy Harris; sisters, Exie Lee Nash and Zella Moore; brothers, Clemon McCoy and Cleo Daniels; and daughter, Phyllis Bell.
She leaves to cherish her memories:
Son, Timothy Mark Harris of Center
Grandchildren:
Latasha Bell Hodge (Jamaal Hodge) of Nacogdoches
Kenneth Bell, Jr. of Nacogdoches
Five Great-Grandchildren:
Kasey Teel of Nacogdoches
Kenzie Gallien of Nacogdoches
Peaches Gallien of Nacogdoches
Kayden Bell of Nacogdoches
Kamryn Bell of Nacogdoches
One Great-great-granddaughter, Karleigh Gardner of Nacogdoches
Sisters:
Katherine Goodwin of Center
Rosie Stephenson of Nacogdoches
Laura Lee Moore of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Special Aunt, Annie Pearl Moore of Laneville, Texas
Special Uncle, Willie Glen Moore of Levelland, Texas
Special friends: Billie Daniels, Ann Bell, Joyce Edwards, Willie Pearl Done, and Joyce McCoy
Special neighbors: Nichole Ellington, Gilbert and Clara Dergin, and Quincy and Nicole Simpson
Special grandchildren: Keith McCoy and Obie Barnes
Special Goddaughters: "The Lister Sisters"
A host of other relatives and friends
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
10/20/2022
George Thomas Wages, 71, of Nacogdoches Memorial service will be held on Friday, October 28, 2022. Mr. Wages passed away on Friday, October 7, 2022, in Dallas, Texas.
George Thomas Wages was born April 19, 1951, in Denton, Texas, to parents Morris and Evelyn Wages. Growing up in Grand Prairie, he attended and graduated from Grand Prairie High School where he played athletics and was part of the marching band.
After high school, George went to Tarleton State University. Attending classes and showing horses weren’t his only activities. He happened to go on a blind date which turned into a 49-year love affair with his wife Debbie. They married on July 21, 1973, in Eastland, Texas.
George started his career by moving to the Oldest Town in Texas as the Assistant County Agent for Nacogdoches County. He later moved to Meridian, Texas, as the County Agent for Bosque County. He returned to Nacogdoches to work for and later buy J&J Feed. After 15 years as a proud business owner, he moved to Nacogdoches County Farm Bureau, where he spent 4 years as an Agent. He was then promoted to Agency Manager and spent another 22 years until his retirement in September 2016.
When George wasn’t working, he found most joy in following his grandchildren, who called him “Papa G”, around with their activities, spending time with friends, and volunteering at church. George was a true southerner at heart. His favorite hobbies were raising cattle, riding horses, deer hunting and exploring the world, one city at a time. George was also a longtime member of the Nacogdoches First Baptist Church and served as a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and greeter. He was involved in the Nacogdoches Rotary Club and Gideons International, volunteered with the Glory Gang, and served as the President of the Lilly Grove Water Board.
Mr. Wages is survived by:
Wife, Debbie, of Nacogdoches
Daughter, Jennifer Chandler & husband, Brad, of Spring
Son, Bryan Wages & wife, Dee, of Tenaha
Daughter, Amanda Comegys & husband, Mike, of Van Alstyne
Grandchildren:
Matthew Comegys, of Van Alstyne
Wesley Wages, of Tenaha
Luke Comegys, of Van Alstyne
Hannah Wages, of Tenaha.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Evelyn Wages.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in George’s honor to the American Cancer Society or First Baptist Church of Nacogdoches Missions Ministry or Children’s Ministry.
Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
”If you pray, why worry? If you worry, why pray?”
The Wages family is being served by Laird Funeral Home. To convey condolences or sign an online register, visit lairdfh.net.
10/19/2022
Ruby Winnie (Gary) Molloy, 92, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on October 15, 2022, in Timpson, Texas. She was born on May 20, 1930, in Timpson, Texas, to the late Earnest and Diamond (Spradley) Gary. Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm Thursday, October 20, 2022, at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church, Timpson, Texas, officiated by Bro. Levi Cohorst. Interment will follow at Timpson Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
Winnie grew up in Timpson and graduated from Timpson High School. She married the love of her life, Bobby Molloy, on March 18, 1947. They were married for 66 years before he passed away in 2014. Winnie loved her family and took great pride in raising her two boys. Nanny adored all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved the farm life and was happiest while on the farm in Timpson. Winnie enjoyed gardening and singing with her sisters. She was an active member of Timpson Missionary Baptist Church and had her hands in everything she could. She loved serving God and her church with all her heart.
Winnie is survived by:
Sons:
Larry Keith Molloy and wife, Melonia
Randall Earl Molloy
Sister, Vera Brooks
Grandchildren:
Kevin Molloy and wife, Erin
Stefanie McDonald and husband, Greg
Jeremiah Brandon Soap and wife, Holly
Isaiah Houston Molloy and wife, Amanda
9 great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Molloy; parents, Earnest and Diamond Gary; daughter-in-law, Roma Faye Molloy; and 7 brothers and sisters.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
10/18/2022
Kaitlyn Simone Hewitt (17) of Center, Texas died on Friday, October 14, 2022, at Willis Knighton South in Shreveport, Louisiana. Kaitlyn was born to the late Jerry Dewayne Hewitt and the late Karaline Ann Suell-Hewitt on October 21, 2004.
Kaitlyn attended Center High School and was in her senior year. Kaitlyn participated with the girls' tennis team. Kaitlyn’s hobbies included watching soccer and participating in the Culinary Arts Department at Center High School. Go Riders!
Balloon Release: In remembrance of Kaitlyn Hewitt’s 18th birthday, there will be a balloon release at Center High School approximately 11:30am on Friday, October 21, 2022.
Funeral service will be on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ located 908 Daniels Street Center, Texas 75935 at 2:00 P.M. Elder Cleon Williams Sr of Lilly of the Valley Church of God in Christ will be officiating.
Visitation is Friday, October 21, 2022, at Hicks Chapel from 1pm until 7pm. Committal is at Westview Cemetery and repass is at Pinewoods Outreach Center Center, Texas.
Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and funeral services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.
Kaitlyn Hewitt is survived by:
Grandmother, Shirley Suell of Center, Texas
Grandfather, Jimmy Earl Hewitt of Shelbyville, Texas
Brothers:
Andre’ Suell of Ft. Worth
Corwin Suell of Indiana
Derrick Gardner of Houston
Eric Gardner of Center
Cortez Cartwright of Dallas
Special Brother: Joshua Ingram of Center, Texas
Special Sister: Brianna Suell of Nacogdoches, Texas
Uncles:
Gary Suell (Pamula) of Center
James Earl Hewitt (Gloria) of Shelbyville
Charles Hewitt (Sherinka) of Shelbyville
Billy Sr. (Pauline) of Shelbyville
Aunts:
Marcia Jones (Julius) of Riverview, Florida
Debbie Suell-Tanner of Nacogdoches
Jennifer Suell-Ingram (Larry) of Center
Great-Uncle, Oscar Suell of Houston
Great-Aunts:
Kay McCoy of Dallas
Myrna Williams of Melissa
Gloria Adams of Houston
Ella Ree Thomas of Dallas
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.
10/18/2022
Exa Mae Tyler, 99, of Center, Texas, passed away on October 15, 2022, in Center, Texas. She was born on April 19, 1923, in Center, Texas, to the late Thomas Martin and Grace Lou Fielder Martin.
Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 2pm. Visitation will be held prior to the service on October 19, 2022, beginning at 1PM until service time at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Newburn Cemetery, Center, Texas.
Exa was born and raised in Shelby County. She resided many years in the Houston area working in the food service industry. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, and reading and studying God’s word. She especially found great joy spending time with family.
She is survived by:
Stepson, William Tyler and wife Mary
Nieces:
Carolyn Bittick
Dorothy Lou Moore
Special friend, Renny Aarons
Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Exa is preceded in death by her husbands, Dan Tyler, Hurst Byrd; parents, Thomas and Grace Martin; sisters, Annie Martin, Veola Furlow, Syble Lee Byrd, Dorothy Wilburn; and brother, J. T. Martin.
The family would like to express sincere thanks to Affinity Hospice and Pine Grove Nursing Center for the exceptional care provided to Exa during her time of need.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/17/2022
Inga Yvonne Lout, 68, of Center, passed away Thursday, October 13, 2022, in Shelbyville.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born July 12, 1954, Inga is the daughter of Billie and Bryan Bell. She loved to read. Inga was a member of Center First United Pentecostal Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Son, Roy Eric Sicko of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Jackson Wayne Holloway
Heaven Annyson Metcalf
Allyson Louise Bolton
Also, a host of friends.
Preceded in death by daughters, Sunny Ann Sicko, Angel Lorrine Lout, and Brandi Lynn Lout; and parents, Billie and Bryan Bell.
Pallbearers will be Dillon Porter, Cody Porter, Roy Eric Sicko, Jackson Lane Holloway, Luke Metcalf, and Clint Crocker.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
10/17/2022
B (Becky) Adrienne Maidic, 87 of Center, passed away October 11, Tuesday evening 2022 in Center, Texas. She was born July 20, 1935 in New York City to Albert and Blanche Beck.
Per Becky’s request, a memorial service was conducted at Watson and Sons Funeral Home at 11am on Thursday, October 13, 2022 with Rev. Malcom Monroe officiating.
Becky grew up and graduated from High School in Oklahoma. Becky was employed with Corporate Office of Exxon, Inc. in Houston, Texas until her retirement in 1974.
After a long courtship with her best friend of 18 years, Becky married Frank Evan Maidic in 1979. Frank retired from Hudson Hardware Company as a Sales Representative and the couple purchased a chicken farm in Center and raised chickens until Franks death in 2000.
She is preceded in death by her mother, Blanche Martin and her husband, Frank Evan Maidic.
She leaves to cherish her memories:
Special friends, Cliff and Carolyn Lightfoot
Nephew and niece by marriage, Wayne and Gerry Jenicke of Kansas City, Kansas
Cousin, Marilyn Railsbeck of California
Best friends:
Peaches Conway
Carol Doyal
Paul and Sandy Risinger
Dixie Dellinger
Barry and Janet Ellison
Bo and Iris Warren
Roy and Sandra Davis
Shawn
Sitters: Judy Guidry, Cindy Battles, Kim Todd
Employees of Wal-Mart, Center Tire Company, Brookshire Brothers, and other businesses she visited daily.
Services entrusted to Watson & Sons Funeral Home, after which her body will be transported to Kansas City, Kansas to lie in state beside her husband Frank Evan Maidic.
All donations may be made to Alzheimer Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, 17th Floor, Chicago, Illinois 60601-7633 or online at www.all.org.
10/14/2022
Derwin Wayne Armstrong, 63 of Center, passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2022 in Center. He was born June 14, 1959 to Carl Armstrong Sr. and Fannie Hubbard McCoy in Houston, Texas.
Funeral service is 1pm on Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Community Funeral Home Chapel, 157 CR 2230, Center, Texas with Reverend Fields officiating.
He sang in the choir at St. Paul Baptist Church at an early age with his grandmother Florine McCoy.
He attended Jones High School in Houston, Texas. He later married Rosalyn Doggins Armstrong. He was a jack of all trades and was employed by Tyson Foods.
He is preceded in death by his father, Carl Armstrong, Sr.; son, Derwin Armstrong, Jr.; and siblings, Franklin McCoy, Bruce Armstrong, and Barbara Taylor.
He leaves to cherish his memories:
Children:
Celina Armstrong (Alex, Sr.)
Dexter Armstrong (Tanisha)
Latisha Armstrong, Jasmine Williams
Grandchildren: Jatavion (Shay), Shyteria, Amaria, Jahmyah, Alexiyah, Alex Jr., and Aleya
Siblings:
Angelina Hubbard Johnson (Irvin)
Gregory McCoy
Ronald Armstrong (Juanna)
Stanley Armstrong
Carl Armstrong, Jr.
Sheila Atkins (Carl)
Gwen Armstrong (Celeste)
Belinda Armstrong
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Special recognition to two nephews: Christopher Hubbard and Zachary Bolton
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
10/14/2022
Lydia Cossette Martin, 86, of Joaquin, passed away Friday, October 14, 2022, in Lufkin.
Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, October 16, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Sardis Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born March 20, 1936, in Center, Lydia is the daughter of Roxie Jackson Porter and Hubbard Porter. She loved bingo, the Dallas Cowboys, and her dog, Abbey.
She is survived by:
Children:
David Martin and Donna of Logansport, Louisiana
Charlene Fowler and Larry of Lufkin
Charles Martin and Tiny Wells of Joaquin
James Martin and Melanie of Logansport, Louisiana
Teri Byrd and Michael of Joaquin
Claudette Kendrick and Lane Pridgen of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Brandon Martin
Joey Kendrick
Michelle McKim
Elizabeth McCarty
Brad Kendrick
Chris Kendrick
Amanda Fowler
Alexis Byrd
Emily Byrd
Michalla Byrd
Dillon Martin
Megan Evans
Heather Martin
Stephen Key
Kathy Foley
Amie Graham
Angela Farrington
D.J. Martin
Denvor Martin
Bryan Martin
Numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren
Also, numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by husband, Charles Martin; parents, Roxie Jackson Porter and Hubbard Porter; four sisters; and 2 brothers.
Pallbearers will be Brad Kendrick, Chris Kendrick, Brandon Martin, Edward Barber, Dillon Martin, and Denvor Martin.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/13/2022
Morris Wayne Brown was born November 23, 1938 to Hugh Brown and Ima Brown Furlow in Huxley, Texas. He went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, October 12, 2022.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, October 14, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Rusty Hall officiating. Interment will follow at Wimberly Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Morris retired from AT&& after 33 years of service. He was a lifetime member of the Old Spanish Trail Ride from 1957 to his death. He served as Trail Boss from 1980 until his death. He was a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock and Rodeo serving on several committees. Morris’s life was his family and his trail ride family. He was a diehard Joaquin Ram’s fan. He graduated from Joaquin Class of 1957. He loved the University of Texas Longhorns. He joined the army in December of that year serving his country for 3 years.
Left to cherish his memory:
Wife and best friend Sally Brown.
Children:
Tim Brown and wife Tammy
Shannon Lowe and husband Mac
Douglas King, Jr and fiancé Brittaney Aaron
Grandchildren:
Desare Emigh and husband Mitchell
Dalton Wheless and girlfriend Lexi Smith
Preslie King, Cody Aaron, and Blake Aaron
Bailey Rabalais
Austin Rabalais and wife Angel
Darren Lowe and wife Abbey
Jace Lowe and wife Mackenzie Lowe
Special grandson Adam Mason and wife Sterling.
Multiple great grandchildren
Sisters:
Beth Brown Lee
Debbie Brown Gamble and husband Herman
Brother: Butch Brown and wife Mary
Proceed in death by his infant daughter, Father Hugh Brown, Mother Ima Brown Furlow, Step Father Ed Furlow, Sister Carla Adkison, Brother Ricky Brown, Brother in law Harold Lee, nephew Billy Watson. Special Cousin Dan Duncan. Maternal Grandparents Dode Duncan, Lona Duncan, Paternal Grandparents Leonard and Velma Brown. His very special friend Thomas Harvey.
Serving as pallbearers:
Darrell Withers
John Bell
Dalton Wheless
Adam Mason
Austin Rabalais
Tony Yang
Honorary Pallbearers:
Board of Directors and Members of the Old Spanish Trail Ride
Donut Shop Gang
Mask are not required, but recommended.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/13/2022
Esther Lee Bledsoe Norris, 93 of Joaquin, passed away Monday, October 10, 2022. She was born to John Henry Bledsoe, Sr., and Fannie Lee Williams Bledsoe on December 30, 1928 in Mansfield, Louisiana.
In 1944, she married Josh Norris, Jr. (deceased). To this union six children were born.
Graveside service is 11am Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Haslam Cemetery in Joaquin, Texas with Rev. Frankie Cooper officiating. Interment is at Haslam Cemetery.
She leaves to cherish her memories:
Children:
Betty Lamb of Joaquin
Junie (Alan) of Logansport
Queen Norris of Joaquin
Sandy Norris of Tenaha
Sister, Betty Woods of Houston
26 Grandchildren, 40 Great-grandchildren, 28 Great-great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews
Son-in-law, Clarence Sledge
She is preceded in death by her husband, Josh Norris, Jr.; two children, Willie Glenn Norris and Fannie Mae Norris; two grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center.
10/13/2022
Pamela Bounds, 75, of Frisco, passed away Saturday, October 8, 2022, in Plano.
Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Visitation will begin at 11:00. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born January 26, 1947, she lived a life of love and service. Her hallmark was loving the Lord, His Word, and being a beloved daughter of the King of Kings! She loved her husband, children, and grandchildren more than words can convey. She valued educating young people in excellence through their everyday schoolwork and lives.
Survived by:
Son, Phil Bounds
Daughter, Mishea Davis
Daughter-in-law, Shanda Bounds
Grandchildren:
Kayman Bounds
Kingsley Bounds
Ayden Davis
Hannah Bounds
Caden Bounds
Brother, Chris Head
Sister, Cynthia Butler
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/11/2022
Justin Lynn McSwain, 37, of Center, passed away Saturday, October 8, 2022, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, October 13, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 14, 2022, at Watson and Sons Chapel with Dathan Tipton and Brandon Jones officiating. Interment will follow at Old Salem Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born April 7, 1985, in Nacogdoches, Justin was the son of Donna Marie Moore McSwain and Ronnie Lynn McSwain. Justin graduated from Center High School in 2003. He enjoyed the outdoors – hunting and fishing. He was incredibly smart and so talented at welding and tinkering on his many trucks and projects. He loved his family so deeply and loved spending time with them – especially with his boys. He cared about his siblings so much and was very protective of them. Growing up he was always so energetic and happy and full of life and ambition. When he was a kid, he had a bag full of drawings and plans for their clubhouse they built. He was fearless and tough, a leader. He was also fiercely competitive and naturally good at anything and everything he did.
Survived by:
Sons:
Caleb McSwain
Jasper McSwain
Jeffrey McSwain
Mother of Children, Amanda McSwain
Dad, Ronnie McSwain
Brother, Jake and wife Kyrsten McSwain
Sisters:
Jennifer and husband Sean Watson
Julie McSwain and James Holt
Jessi McSwain
Nieces and Nephews:
Laina
Noah
Emerson
Audrey
Clayton
Kason
Grandmother, Mildred McSwain
Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and a host of friends.
Preceded in death by mother, Donna McSwain; grandparents, Waymon Moore and Janette Colvin Moore Byrd; and grandfather, James Lee McSwain.
Pallbearers will be Ryan Harding, Cory Young, Sean Watson, AJ McSwain, Payton McSwain, Marcus Adkinson, and Randall Gilchrist. Honorary pallbearers will be cousins.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/09/2022
Nelda Kay Oliver Shillings, 86, of Center, Texas, passed away on September 19, 2022, in Center, Texas. She was born on July 23, 1936, in Tenaha, Texas, to the late J.W. Oliver and Elva Forsythe Oliver.
Graveside services will be held on Sunday, October 16, 2022, at 2pm at the Sardis Methodist Church on FM 414 between Center and Shelbyville.
Nelda is survived by:
Children:
Wendy Williams of Lufkin
Cheryl Parker of Lufkin
Leon Shillings Jr. and wife Gina of Spring, Texas
Grandchildren:
Ashley Whiteside of Shelbyville
Randall Mixon of Azle, Texas
Leslie Jacobs and husband Brent of Center
Great-grandchildren:
Baylee, Reese, and Camille Whiteside
Zane, Tatum, and Lawson Jacobs
Sister, Doris Grace of Livingston
Brother, John Oliver of Paxton
Sisters-in-law:
Jeanette Oliver
Margaret Oliver
Linda Lawler
Special cousin, Mildred Baldwin
Host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Leon Shillings Sr.; parents, J.W. and Elva Oliver; brother, Wayne Oliver; and sisters, Ruth Gandy and Winniebeth Oliver.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/03/2022
April Julissa Cavazos-Guzman, 20, of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away on September 27, 2022 in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born on October 10, 2001, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Eloy Cavazos and Yolanda Guzman-Cavazos.
Funeral service will be held at Mangum Funeral Home, on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 2pm. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, beginning at 12PM until service time at Mangum Funeral Home.
April attended Center High School. She was a dedicated, loving stay at home mom to her two children, Arlo and Josman. April enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She always carried a smile and was happy. April will be remembered in our hearts always and forever.
She is survived by:
Precious boys:
Arlo Cavazos
Josman Cavazos
Parents, Eloy Cavazos and Yolanda Guzman
Sisters:
Anita Guzman
Lilliana Balderas
Laura Balderas and husband Edwin Melenez
Brothers:
Jose Guzman and wife Prisila
Edgar Guzman and wife Leah
Ricardo Guzman Cavazos
Numerous cousins
Host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
April is preceded in death by her grandmother, Anita Olivarez; and sister, Jasmin Cavazos.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/03/2022
Dorothy Nell Strong, 91, of Joaquin, passed away Sunday, October 2, 2022, in Joaquin.
Graveside service will be held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at Brookland Cemetery in Joaquin with visitation at 9:30 a.m. Bro. Charles Hall to officiate.
Born October 6, 1930, Dorothy Nell is the daughter of Hilda Shirey Creech and William H. Creech. She loved reading and traveling. In younger years, Dorothy Nell and her husband R.C. were instrumental in the development of the Old Spanish Trail ride, and she was also a lifetime member of the Go Texan committee. Dorothy was a member of First Baptist Church in Logansport, Louisiana.
She is survived by:
Her sons:
Jim Strong and wife Judy
Chester W. Strong and wife Marilyn
Grandchildren:
Jenifer and husband Brad McKee
Jessica Henderson
Jeremy Strong
Great-grandchildren:
Bailey McKee
Kendall McKee
Lexie Henderson
Lacie Henderson
Lane Henderson
Colton Strong
Corbin Strong
Brother, William “Buddy” Creech and wife Suzanne
Numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives
Preceded in death by husband, R.C. Strong; son, Robert “Buck” Strong Jr.; sister, Doris Ann Crenshaw; parents, Hilda Shirey Creech and William H. Creech; and significant other, Bud Hooper.
A special thanks to caretaker, Carol “C.J.” Johnson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church in Logansport, LA, 1009 Gum,
PO Box 38o, Logansport, LA 71049 or to the Brookland Cemetery fund P.O. Box 338 Joaquin, TX 75954.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/01/22
Jerry "Perch" Bass, 69, of Joaquin, passed away Friday, September 30, 2022, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 3, 2022, at Sholar Cemetery in Joaquin with Thomas Spurlock officiating.
Born February 12, 1953, Jerry is the son of Fay Woods Bass and Clarence Emmitt Bass Sr.
He is survived by:
Children:
Shelly Bass and Michael Bass of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Dayza Lane
Boogie Lane
Jayden Bass
Tate Bass
Maddie Fiedler
Great-grandchild, Kailynne Johnson
Sisters:
Martha Shelton of Joaquin
Billie Pritchett of Joaquin
Preceded in death by parents, Fay Woods Bass and Clarence Emmitt Bass Sr.; brother, Clarence Emmitt Bass Jr.; and sister, Annie Ruth Richards.
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