Obituaries
01/12/2022
A Memorial Service honoring the life of John Ray Snider, 72, will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 14, 2022 at Open Range Fellowship, 9950 US-80, Greenwood, Louisiana. Officiating the service will be Dennis Aaron.
John Ray Snider was born April 4, 1949 in Shreveport, Louisiana to Elmer and Grace Snider and passed away Tuesday, January 4, 2022 in Longview, Texas.
John graduated from Fair Park High School and was a member of the United States Navy Reserves. He worked as both a lineman and wireman and retired from General Motors. He married his loving wife of 31 years, Marsha, in 1990. John was a lifelong real cowboy. He loved the Lord and loved his family, friends, and others he met along the way. John had a one-of-a-kind personality and never met a stranger. He always knew how to make people feel welcomed and loved. He will be dearly missed.
Left to cherish his memory are:
His wife, Marsha Snider
Son, Shaun Snider and wife, Melissa
Stepson, Craig Borders
Grandchildren:
Matthew Borders
Brody Snider
He also leaves behind special friends, Tommy Wilson and Ernie Williams.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Wayne Martin, Chris Jones, Larry Moses, Glen Nelson, Tommy Swett, Jeff Goldsby, Jimmy Causey, Joe Ferlito, Buzz Kemper, Jim Smith, Larry Hoper, Gary Smith, Bill Wilson, Bob Osborn, Terry Marshall, Charlie Rich, and Jamie Atkinson.
01/11/2022
Mrs. Fannie Clifton Carter, age 58, of San Augustine, Texas passed away Sunday, January 9, 2022, at her residence in San Augustine, TX.
Funeral Service will be held January 15, 2022, at 12-noon at True Vine Baptist Church with interment to follow at New Hope Cemetery with Rev. S. J. Clark, Officiating and Rev. Orvin Garrett, Eulogist.
Visitation will be Friday, January 14, 2022, from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Garner & Son Chapel.
Survivors include:
Sons:
Marcus Clifton of San Augustine
Christopher Malone of San Augustine
Daughters:
Valarie Clifton of San Augustine
Nakendra Clifton of San Augustine
9 Grandchildren
5 Great-Grandchildren
Sisters:
Mary Mosby of Beaumont
Elizabeth Dupree of San Augustine
Brothers:
Robert Clifton of Center
Walace “Bo” Clifton of Center
James Clifton of Port Author
Larry Clifton of Nacogdoches
Steven Edwards of San Augustine
Michael Edwards of Alabama
Aunts:
Edna Blake of Fort Worth
Joann Clifton Barber of Phoenix, Az
As well as a host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives and friends.
01/11/2022
Agnes Johnson, 80 of Center, Texas passed on Monday, January 10, 2022 in Nacogdoches, Texas.
Graveside services for Mrs. Johnson will be Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 1 PM at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville Tx with Dr. Freddie D. Wilson Eulogist.
Public viewing will be from 2pm until 6pm on Friday, January 14, 2022 at Sid Roberts Funeral Home, 3535 SE Stallings Drive, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961.
01/11/2022
Larry Crawford, 79, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on January 9, 2022, in Lufkin, Texas. He was born on January 3, 1943, in Carthage, Texas, to the late Royce and Joella (Hull) Crawford. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Timpson, Texas with Orval Miller officiating.
Larry was the unofficial “Mayor” of the Stockman Community. He loved his community and all who resided there. Larry worked as a lineman for SouthWestern Bell for 31 years before retirement. He loved his wife and sons and spent his life making sure they were taken care of. Larry was happy to spend his days outside riding around on his John Deere tractor and taking care of his garden. Larry would watch the same old Western movies over and over again. He also loved to ride the backroads with his friends and just live the country life. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Larry is survived by:
Loving wife, Pat Crawford
Sons:
Christopher Lee Crawford
William Zachary Crawford and wife, Pamela
Brother, John Alan Crawford
Grandchildren: Graycie, Carrington, Stella, and Willow Crawford.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Royce and Joella (Hull) Crawford.
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.
01/11/2022
Kenny Smith, 74, of Timpson, passed away Monday, December 20, 2021, in Waco.
Graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022, at Woodlawn Cemetery in Timpson.
Born April 14, 1947, Kenny is the son of Sarah Mills and Marcus Smith. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree and made a career in the insurance industry. Kenny enjoyed being outdoors, especially with his horses.
Survivors include:
His son, Joseph Steinke and wife Lorrin of Belton
Grandson, Beckett Steinke of Belton
He is preceded in death by his parents, Sarah Mills and Marcus Smith.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/10/2022
Leonard Darnell “L.D.” Eaves, 85, of Center, passed away Sunday, January 9, 2022, in Houston.
Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm, Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held 10am, Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Watson and Sons Chapel with Bro. Mike Belgard and Dr. Jack Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born January 20, 1936, L.D. is the son of Hugh Artist Eaves and Edith Elmira Sigler Eaves. His hobbies included fishing and hunting. L.D. also loved to fly. He was a member of Sam Samford Masonic Lodge #149 in Center and First Baptist Church in Center.
He is survived by:
Wife of 62 years, Melba Lyles Eaves of Center
Daughters:
Rhonda Fausett and Glenn of Center
Shelly Hudspeth and Henry of Center
Grandchildren:
Adam Fausett and Emily of Shreveport, Louisiana
Jacob Hudspeth of Seguin
Sheri Fausett of Ft. Worth
Kalob Hudspeth of Center
Kade Hudspeth of Center
Sisters:
Sylvia Snider of Center
Leola Brittain of Arkansas
Gwen Cravey and Billy of Center
Lisa Bingenheimer and Bill of Center
Numerous nieces and nephews
Special friends:
Pat and Charles Hall
Jim Kasper
Latresser and Ortega Cartwright
Malcolm Weston
Carol and Mike Skinner
Charles Spann
A host of other friends
Preceded in death by parents, Hugh Artist Eaves and Edith Elmira Sigler Eaves; and granddaughter, Amber Fausett.
Pallbearers will be Adam Fausett, Jacob Hudspeth, Kalob Hudspeth, Kade Hudspeth, Glenn Fausett, and Henry Hudspeth.Honorary pallbearers will be Charles Hall, Jim Kasper, Ortega Cartwright, Malcolm Weston, Mike Skinner, Charles Spann, and Maxie Eaves.
A special thanks to DCI Center nurses, Center ER staff, and a special thank you to the staff of MD Anderson ICU.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
01/10/2022
Jimmy Wayne Adams, 73, of Moores Hill, Indiana, passed away on Thursday, January 6, 2022. He was born July 7, 1948 in Center, Texas, son of the late Robert and Betty (Alford) Adams.
Jimmy was a member of the Hopewell Masonic Lodge, Shrine Club, Scottish Rite, Safari Club, NRA, and FFA. He was a world renowned hunter and enjoyed shooting. He was the Owner and President of Adams Cooling Towers.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Jim Wayne (Kim) Adams of Lebanon, TN
Barry (Kelly) Bridges of Aurora, IN
Sister, Mary Joy Meadors of Moores Hill, IN
Brother, Robert (Marie) Adams of Morehead, KY
Grandchildren:
Ashely (Kyle Rutter) Adams
Nolan (Hannah) Bridges
Joshua Van Soest
Jacob Van Soest
Trey Van Soest
Great-grandchildren:
Alice Schalk
Adalyn Rutter
Nephews:
Joseph Jurica
Brad Adams
Brooks Triplett
Nieces:
Penny Jurica
Holly Triplett
Kassie Adams
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert F. and Betty Adams; loving wife, ReAnn Adams, and one brother, Jay Lynn Adams.
Family and friends are invited to a gathering in memory of Jimmy at Fitch-Denney Funeral Home, 455 Ridge Ave, Greendale, Indiana to be held on Saturday, January 15, 2022 from 2-5 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Shriner's Hospital or St Jude Children's Hospital.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Frank Linkmeyer, Larry Tyson, and John McKittrick.
Visit us at www.fitchdenney.com
01/08/2022
Jason Maurice Fulbright, 50, of Center, passed away Wednesday, January 5, 2022, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, January 10, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at New Life Church in Center. Bro. Steve Noble and Landon Oliver will officiate. Interment will follow at Ramah Cemetery in Tenaha.
Born August 17, 1971, in Haywood County, Waynesville, North Carolina, Jason is the son of the late Danny Coleman Fulbright and Bunita Fulbright Nicolau of Clever, MO. For 13 years, Jason owned J&B Donut Factory in Center and and later founded Intelligent Concepts which later became Intelligent Computer Concepts. His hobbies included fishing, playing guitar, learning new music, and spending time with his family. Jason was a member of New Life Church in Center, where he was Praise and Worship Leader.
Left to cherish his memory:
Wife, Barbara Simmons Fulbright of Center
Daughters:
Destini and Taylor Jones of Springfield, MO
Mariah and Devin Dowling of Center
Ashley and Taylor Hudspeth of Center
Grandchildren:
Bentyn and Mikki Jones
Alli and Asher Dowling
Mother, Bunita Fulbright Nicolau and Erwin of Clever, MO
Brothers:
Jeremiah Fulbright of Longview, TX
Bradford Fulbright of Longview, TX
Aunts:
Marlene and Bob Ashton of Weeki Wachee, FL
Diana and Bob Berg of Campobello, SC
Fathers-in-law:
Joe Simmons of Springfield, MO
Dennis Jennings and wife Patti of Tyler, TX
Preceded in death by grandparents, Maurice and Juanita Trull and Jack Fulbright and Willie Perez; mother-in-law, Sandra Davis.
Pallbearers will be Ron Belanger, Phil Hennigan, Dwayne Bomar, Jeremy Evans, Tom Dramburger, and Eric Partlow. Honorary pallbearers will be Brad Fulbright, Jeremiah Fulbright, Taylor Jones, Devin Dowling, Taylor Hudspeth, and Mike Belgard.
Memorial donations can be made to the music ministry at New Life Church in Center.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
01/07/2022
Harlon Kenneth Vail (also Papa, Poppop, Uncle V) passed away January 4, 2022, in Denton, Texas, at the age of 68.
Funeral service will be held 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation one hour prior. Chad Hussey will officiate. Interment will follow at McClelland Cemetery in Shelby County.
He was born May 28, 1953, in Center, Texas.
Left to cherish his memories are:
His wife, Janet
Daughter, Lindsey Weaver and husband Justin
Son, Joshua Vail and wife Jeannie
Sister, Iva Nell King and husband Leonard
Grandchildren:
Danielle
Chelsey
Britney
Dakota
Paisley
Greyson
Adoring nieces; great-nieces; nephews; great-nephews;
2 little great-great-nieces:
Kylie and Kinzie, who will deeply miss him; and lots of friends.
Preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sadie Briggie Vail; father, Jessie Belton Vail; siblings, Rafael Vail, William Vail, Leonard Vail, Lillie Killen, Jessie Vail, Ellen Burk, and Gene Vail.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/06/2022
Geraldine “Jeri” Dean, 81, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on January 5, 2022, in Garrison, Texas. She was born on February 27, 1940, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to the late Matt and Vera (Kerr) Mercer.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Friday, January 7, 2022, at Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas with Orval Miller officiating. Interment will follow at Bethel Cemetery, Appleby, Tx.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 pm till 7:00 pm Thursday, January 6, 2022, at Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
Jeri was born and raised in East Texas. She owned a café in Timpson for a time. Jeri was also an EMT for 28 years. She worked for many years until her retirement as a phlebotomist for local nursing homes. Jeri loved to watch the hummingbirds as they fought over the nectar. She was happy outdoors. Jeri enjoyed working in her flower beds and prided herself on how beautiful she kept them. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Jeri is survived by:
Sons:
Robbie Lee Strahan and wife, Jerrie
Don Wayne Strahan and wife, Sherri
Kevin Lynn Strahan and wife, Terri
Grandchilren: Jessica, Mallory, Karlie, Krissie, and Dustin
Great-grandchildren: Averie, Emma, Landrie, Noah, Shyanne, Beckham, Sage, and Marley.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Matt and Vera Mercer; husband, Cecil Dean, Sr.; brother, JT Mercer; and sister, Margaret Hornbuckle.
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.
Funeral services for Phillip Lynn Walker, 67, of Logan, Texas will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 8, 2022 at the First Baptist Church in Tenaha, Texas. Burial will follow in the Adams Cemetery under the direction of Hawthorn Funeral Home. Visitation will be 6-8:00 p.m. Friday night at Hawthorn Funeral Home.
Lynn Walker was born July 28, 1954 in Center, Texas. He went to be with the Lord Tuesday, January 4, 2022 peacefully at his Logan, Texas home. Lynn was one of four children born to the marriage of John Melgon and O.D. Juanita Baker Walker. He was schooled in Logansport, Louisiana graduating with the class of 1972. He graduated Panola College and attended Stephen F. Austin State University. He married Dolores Lynn Norris in 1976 and they celebrated 45 years of marriage and raised three children.
Mr. Walker worked as a cable repairman since 1975 for AT&T retiring after 30 plus years of service. Lynn was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Tenaha serving as deacon, Sunday school and VBS teacher. He loved spending time with family, sports, hunting and tending to his cattle.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, John Bruce Walker, Jr., sister, Thelma Bonita Ann Hanson; nephew, Steve Byron Walker, Jr., beloved in-laws, Bill and Juanita Norris; and brother-in-law, Bill Norris, Jr..
He is survived by:
Loving wife, Dolores Walker of Logan
Children:
Phillip Lynn Walker, Jr. and wife Jamie of Van Alstyne
Pamela Lynne Walker of Carthage
Patrick Lynn Walker of Carthage
Brother, Steve Walker and wife Connie of Logan
Grandchildren:
Sadie Layne Walker
Phillip Lynn “Tripp” Walker, III
Brother-in-law, Mel Hanson of Long Branch
Sisters-in-law:
Debbie Walker Valentine of Alvin
Debbie Spurlock and husband David of Tenaha
Kelley Roberson and husband Chip of Tenaha
Judy Bardwell and husband L.W. of Woods
Numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.hawthornfuneralhome.com.
01/05/2022
Wyman Earl Tompkins, age 84, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at his residence.
Mr. Tompkins was born August 19, 1937, in Sabine County, Texas, to parents Hamp and Abbie (Harville) Tompkins. He grew up in the Geneva area and attended school in Hemphill. He was a longtime resident of San Augustine and worked a number of years at Noble & Company as marine mechanic. He was also a U.S. Army veteran.
Wyman had enjoyed fishing throughout his life. He served with the San Augustine Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of White Rock Baptist Church and Redland Masonic Lodge #3 in San Augustine.
He and Louise Wilburn, a Shelby County native, were married on May 12, 1957, and they enjoyed 64 years of marriage.
His survivors include:
Wife, Louise Wilburn Tompkins of San Augustine
Daughter, Peggy Tompkins Collins and husband Michael of Shelbyville
Sons:
Michael Tompkins and wife Paula of San Augustine
Keith Tompkins of Shelbyville
Sister, Helen Williams of Pineland
Brothers:
Jimmy Tompkins and wife Mary Ann of Hemphill
Tommy Tompkins and wife Barbara of Longview
Larry Tompkins and wife Annette of Lufkin
Jerry Tompkins and wife Ruby Jo of Geneva
Grandchildren:
Christopher Winfield and Adriane
Luke Winfield and Brittany
Jon Michael Tompkins and Jessica
Lynsie Watson and Stephen
Winston Tompkins and Ashlyn
Great-grandchildren: Avery, Peyton, Jacob, Harleigh, Madi, Declan, Reece, Mason, Wylden, Lachlyn, and Asher.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hamp and Abbie Tompkins; a daughter-in-law, Terri Smith Tompkins; a brother, L.H. Tompkins; a sister, Juanell Beckham; and his parents-in-law, Horace and Bernice Wilburn.
Visitation was held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine.
Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, December 23, 2021, at Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel with Bro. Mike Belgard and Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating. Interment followed at the Patroon Cemetery, located in Shelby County's Patroon community.
Pallbearers: Robert Wilburn, Scott Wilburn, Bradley Wilburn, Morris Tompkins, Lynn Williams, and Tim Hardy. Honorary pallbearers: David Noble and Ray Hardy.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Patroon Cemetery Fund are suggested.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences. Services were under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
01/04/2022
George Lee Henry, 66 of Shelbyville, passed away Monday, December 27, 2021 at Nacogdoches Medical Center, Nacogdoches, Texas.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at 12:00 noon at Triumph First Pentecostal Church in Shelbyville, TX. Rev. Winston Kibbles will be the eulogist. Interment at Bennett Chapel Cemetery.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Demonic (Kandra) Henry of Diball, TX
Deshannon (Stephanie) Henry of Nacogdoches, TX
Daughter, Versheka Franklin (Eric) Bennett of Carthage, TX
20 Grandchildren
15 Great-Grandchildern
Sisters:
Alberta Smith of Minnesota
Marie Siller of Gary, Indinna
Birdie Cartwright of Shelbyville, TX
Sharon Cartwright of Shelvyville, TX
Debra Cartwright of Shelbyville, TX
Donna Garrett(Steven) Shelbyville, TX
Brothers:
Curtis Henry Jr. of Shelbyville, TX
Freddie Ray (Emma) Cartwright of Nacogdoches, TX
Harold Cartwright (Jackalyn) of Center, TX
Ricky (Karen) Cartwright of Shelbyville, TX
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, TX.
01/03/2022
Kenneth Lee Campbell Sr., 80, of Timpson, passed away Sunday January 2, 2022, in Timpson.
Graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 6, 2021, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with eulogy by his valued friend and classmate, Jack Harris. Music will be led by longtime friend and neighbor, Rodney Golden.
Born March 1, 1941, Kenneth is the son of R.L. Campbell and Alma Harris Campbell. He was proud of the fact that he was born and raised in Center, a member of Center High School Class of 1959. On November 23, 1961, Kenneth married Jerri Lynn Hendricks. She preceded him in death December 26, 2011. Kenneth was a man of “many hats.” He started a trucking company with one truck and grew to several. Wanting to spend more time at home, he played a game of dominos with a friend. The winner made the choice to keep all trucks of both parties or sell out. He won and sold out.
In 1976, he started a lumber yard and became a builder. Today, there are many commercial properties and residential homes in the county which he built, financed, and/or owns.
He is currently married to Londa. They have been so blessed to enjoy the life and friends they hold so dear.
His final years have been devoted to raising cattle, hunting hogs, and watching the beautiful sunrises on the land he loved.
Kenneth is survived by:
His wife, Londa
Son, Kenneth Campbell Jr.
Stepson, Ralph Godsey
Grandchildren:
Kenneth Campbell III
Jessie Campbell
Reagan Godsey
Brother, Robert Ladean Campbell
Niece, Michelle Renfro
Preceded in death by wife, Jerri Lynn Hendricks Campbell; parents, R.L. Campbell and Alma Harris Campbell; and brother, Richard Campbell.
Pallbearers will be Kenneth Hardy, Kenneth Boles, Tommy Alfred, Jimmy Rhoden, Doug Fuller, and Ronnie Bush.
Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan Ave, 17th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601-633 (www.alz.org) or Center High School Class of 1959.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
01/03/2022
Roy Manning Crump Jr., 57, of Joaquin, passed away Sunday, January 2, 2022, in Joaquin.
Funeral service will be held Noon, Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow at Sholar Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born March 2, 1964, Roy is the son of Roy Manning Crump Sr. and Joyce “Sally” Rutherford Crump. Growing up on the river was paradise to him. He truly loved crappie fishing and spending time with family. He was a member of Joaquin Class of 1982. An avid golfer, Roy was a member of Center Country Club, where over the years, he made many lifelong friends and memories.
He is survived by:
Daughter, Carolyn Shaw Crump of Shreveport, Louisiana
Mother, Joyce “Sally” Holmes and husband Tommy of Joaquin
Sisters:
Cristi Hutchins and husband Jinx of Joaquin
Carrie Obregon and husband Anthony of Joaquin
Nephews and nieces:
Cole Gray
Wyatt Hairgrove
Tristan Hairgrove
Abram Hairgrove
Lexi Hutchins
Tate Obregon
Holly and Reid Nichols
Barrett and Ella
Haley and Chad Smith
Callyn
Also, extended family, Chelsea Paoletti, Kinley, Keaton, and Kanbree
Preceded in death by his father, Roy Manning Crump Sr.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/31/2021
James Derrell West, 52, of Center, passed away Friday, December 31, 2021, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at Noon, Tuesday, January 4, 2021, at First Pentecostal Church-Jesus with visitation one hour prior. Bro. Richard Goodwin will officiate. Interment will follow at Smith Cemetery in Center.
Born January 19, 1969, in Converse, Louisiana, James is the son of Edna Marie Spears West and Charles William “Bill” West. He worked as a carpenter. His hobbies included fishing and woodwork.
He is survived by:
Fiancé, Elizabeth Freeman of Center
Sisters:
Carla K. Harris of Garrison
Sandra Dale Grillette of Ringgold, Louisiana
Other family members, Stacy and Samantha Oates of Center and Ed and Belinda Mathis of Center; and a number of friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Edna Marie Spears West and Charles William “Bill” West; and brother, William West.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/30/2021
J.T. Bratchett, 77 of San Augustine, passed away Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at his residence.
Graveside service is at 1pm on Sunday, January 2, 2022 at Mt. Zion Cemetery in San Augustine, Texas with interment at Mt. Zion Cemetery. Pastor Herman Scott to officiate.
He is survived by:
Daughters:
Mary (David) Parks of San Augustine
Glenda (Jerry) Whitaker of Tyler
Son, James Hoyt of San Augustine
Daughter-in-law and caregiver, Paula Hoyt
Brothers:
Issac Bratchett of Dallas
Author Bratchett of San Augustine
Sisters:
Amber (Royce) Walker of San Augustine
Beatrice Weathered of San Augustine
Rosie Bluford of San Augustine
Carrie (Eddie) Boykins of Center
Nancy Grey of Center
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center, Texas.
12/30/2021
Arnold Bert Gordon, 86, of Gig Harbor, Washington, passed away 15 December 2020 at his home. He was born 18 August 1934 to Arnold Ruel and Oneida Ramsey Gordon of Joaquin Texas. Bert grew up in Joaquin, was a standout athlete at Joaquin High School in multiple sports, and served in the US Army during 1956-1958 and again in 1961. He was a graduate of both JHS and Texas A&I College in Kingsville TX.
Bert worked nearly 50 years in oilfields around the globe, gaining particularly high reputation as one of the world's leading experts in offshore exploration drilling. More important, he was a loving and generous father, possessed a keen sense of humor, and provided a magnificent example for his sons, his family, and all who knew him. He is sorely missed.
Bert's cremains will be interred with a graveside service in Joaquin Cemetery in Joaquin Texas, at 11:00 a.m. on 15 January 2022.
He is survived by:
Wife:
Keiko Fujita Gordon of Gig Harbor Washington
Sons:
Robert Gordon and wife Melanie of Port Orchard Washington
Shing Gordon and wife Shelley of Clackamas Oregon
Grandchildren:
Ellen Gordon, Anna Gordon, and Olivia Gordon
Brothers:
Ramsey Gordon and wife Shirley of Orange Texas
John Gordon of Joaquin Texas
Sister-in-law:
Carolyn Cockrell Daw of Center Texas
Nieces and nephews:
John Gordon of Orange Texas
Rhonda Gordon Harvey of Buena Texas
Shandice Gordon Gonzales of Tyler Texas
Suzanne Daw Hunt of Coppell Texas
Preceded in death by:
Parents, Arnold Ruel and Oneida Ramsey Gordon
Wife, Marianne Daw Gordon
Brother-in-law, Samuel Ray Daw
Sister-in-law, Pertrice Worley Gordon
Niece, Mary Angela Daw
12/29/2021
Dorothy May Schuhmann Hooper MacLean (98) left this earthly world on December 27, 2021, but memories of her remain to be treasured by generations of loved ones.
A family viewing will be held at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Drive, Timpson Texas on Monday, January 3, 2022 from 9-9:30am. Friends are invited to join the family at 9:30, with the funeral being conducted at the same location beginning at 10am. Graveside services will follow at New Prospect Cemetery, FM 1645, Timpson, Texas.
Born on November 9, 1923, in La Grange, Texas to Monroe Henry Emil and Clara Laura Dippel Schuhmann, Dorothy grew up speaking German in the Fayette County farming community where her family settled in 1853. One of ten children, she was thrust into adulthood responsibilities before her eleventh birthday due to her mother’s death in childbirth. Nicknamed “Sissy” as a child and now the oldest daughter still at home, Dorothy became the primary caregiver for her siblings until her father remarried in 1936 to Alma Schroeder.
Four years later in 1940, at the age of sixteen, Dorothy fell in love with and married tall, broadshouldered Hilton Hooper from Shelby County, Texas. The handsome East Texan and the pretty, auburn-haired fräulein made a stunning couple. Together, they were magic on the dance floor — and there must have been some magic elsewhere, as well, because their marriage was blessed with four children. Priscilla Ann, the eldest, was born in 1941, followed by Fred Hilton in 1945, Robert George in 1946, and Cynthia Jo in 1954.
Caring for her husband and children brought Dorothy great joy. Whether cooking, sewing, gardening, or cleaning, she did it with all her heart because it was for her family. She also took pride in her work outside of the home. After completing cosmetology classes in the mid-1950s, Dorothy worked for several years as a beautician in Pasadena, Texas. With her newfound skills, she could finally achieve the curly hair she had always wanted! Dorothy and Hilton’s marriage ended with his untimely death in 1968 from a work-related accident.
Faced with the task of supporting herself and their youngest child, Cynthia, Dorothy courageously enrolled in secretarial training and found employment in Center, Texas with a local savings and loan association. Her warm smile, quick wit, and caring nature endeared her to customers young and old. Her many friends from Center and Timpson were sad to see her move to Nacogdoches in 1977 to serve as dorm mother to the 150 Stephen F. Austin State University students residing in Gibbs Hall. Dorothy enjoyed mothering “her girls,” as she called them, but after much encouragement from her family, she decided to retire and move to San Antonio to live closer to Priscilla, her eldest daughter, and Priscilla’s husband, Jimmy, now deceased. Dorothy’s youngest son, Bobby, was a key enabler of this move because he purchased the home for her where she initially resided.
It was in San Antonio that she met Colonel Norman A. MacLean, a retired Air Force pilot and nearby neighbor. In 1980, Dorothy and Norm married, but unfortunately tragedy struck again. In 1983, after only a few short years of marriage, Norm succumbed to cancer. She was alone once more, but still strong, still resilient. For the next 26 years, Dorothy continued to reside in the Castle Hills Forest home she shared with Norm, enjoying the company of beloved neighbors and hosting frequent family gatherings.
In 2009, she decided she wanted to spend her remaining years in East Texas. With her children’s full support, she relocated one more time to Cushing, Texas, establishing a home on land owned by her eldest son, Fred, and his wife, Joyce. This arrangement gave her the ability to preserve daily independence, while assuring nearby assistance whenever needed. During those years, nothing gave her more pleasure than morning coffee shared with her son, Fred. While her physical health began to decline, her mental acuity was as sharp as ever. She dearly loved phone calls and visits from friends and family. She was proud to still be driving in her 90s and was most reluctant to surrender her driver’s license at 95. She still found great joy in life and in her strong faith. However, in 2015, tragedy returned. Perhaps the greatest sorrow Dorothy endured during her lifetime was the much too soon death of her youngest son, Bobby, to cancer. She continued to mourn his passing for the rest of her life and would have been bereft without his weekly Sunday calls, except Bobby’s wife, Kathy, lovingly continued the Sunday tradition up until the time Dorothy could no longer talk on the phone.
With the passage of years and continued loss of mobility, balance, and hearing, it was soon evident that it was time to make assisted living arrangements. This determination was not made lightly, and for once in her life, it was not Dorothy’s decision. In late 2020, she moved to Magnolia Court in Nacogdoches, Texas and then in 2021, when even more care was needed, she chose her final residence, Garrison Nursing Home in Garrison, Texas. The family is deeply thankful for the loving care provided to Dorothy by both Magnolia Court and Garrison Nursing Home. The staff at Garrison was particularly supportive during the final few months of her life, when Dorothy faced the loss of a beloved granddaughter, Kimberly, in September to COVID, and her own bout with the debilitating virus in December.
As Dorothy is welcomed by her heavenly Father, we remember her legacy and honor her for the way she lived her life: Strong-willed… some might say stubborn; Unafraid of hard work, fiercely independent; No one ever left her home hungry; Happiest surrounded by her family, but dancing was a close second; Loving mother and grandmother; Devoted wife, daughter, sister, aunt, friend; Faithful servant of Jesus Christ, her Lord and savior; and Proud matriarch of a family that spans six generations and includes four children, thirteen grandchildren, thirty great-grandchildren, nineteen great-great grands, and two great-great-great grands.
12/28/2021
Mary D. Pitts Hornback, 72, of Center, passed away Tuesday, December 21, 2021, in Logansport, Louisiana.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, December 31, 2021, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 1, 2022, at Carroll Cemetery in Shelby County with Pastor Marlin Cloudy and Pastor Everett Hall officiating.
Born August 1, 1949, Mary is the daughter of Aaron Pitts and Rossie Roberts Pitts. She enjoyed reading and was a member of Abundant Love Ministries in Center.
Survivors include:
Her children:
Eltrone A Hornback of Poteau, Oklahoma
Elecia Thomas and Patrick of Logansport, Louisiana
Grandchildren:
Kierra Steele
Gavin Steele
Megan Handy
Serenity Hornback
Daneisha Hornback
Trenton Hornback
Jihadriek McCollister
11 great-grandchildren
Sisters:
Christine Edwards and Larry of Killeen
Emma Johnson and Robert of Center
Preceded in death by her husband, James Hornback; daughter, Elecia Hornback; son, Christopher Hornback; parents, Rossie Roberts and Aaron Pitts; siblings, Billie Ann Gardner, James Edwards, Jeraldine Pitts, and Billie Hill.
Honorary pallbearers will be Jaiden Steele, Alex Cross, Josian Horton, Dentrenton Simpson, Kyrie Steele, Jason Horst, Christian Steele, and Adam Rice.
Honorary flower girls will be Kannon Steele, Karsyn Steele, Phoneix Steele, Gianni Steele, Morgan Steele, and Lillian Cross.
A special thanks to Willis Knighton Hospice.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
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