Obituaries
12/09/2020
Herbert Edward “Ed” Turk, aged 75 years, entered Heaven’s gates on December 7, 2020 in Livingston, Texas after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
Ed was born on March 11, 1945 in Itasca, TX to Herbert Cooper Turk and Mary Faye (Cypert) Turk. He spent his early years on a cotton farm in rural Hill County. The family moved to Jal, NM when he was 5. He loved telling his grandchildren stories about growing up in an early gas field town on the open range desert of southeastern New Mexico.
After graduating from Jal High School in 1963, Ed moved to Fort Worth to attend drafting school and began working at Tri County Electric Cooperative in Azle, TX. While he only stayed at the coop for a few years, this began a career in rural electrification that spanned nearly 45 years.
Ed joined Cornelius-Pierce Consulting Engineers in 1975 and retired as a partner in 2007. More than the work, Ed enjoyed the people that he worked with at C-PCE and the electric cooperatives of East Texas. He made many lifelong friends at the cooperatives.
In February of 1968 Ed married the love of his life, Bobbie Jo (Harrison) Turk. They made their home in Benbrook, TX until moving to Center, TX to be closer to their grandchildren.
Ed was active in Benbrook United Methodist Church before moving to Center. He enjoyed hunting, fishing trips to New Mexico and spending time with his grandchildren, who knew him as “Be-Be”.
An outdoor funeral service will be held graveside at Hillcrest Garden of Memory in Hillsboro, TX at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 12. An outdoor viewing and visitation will begin at 1:00 PM at the cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Larry Warren, Michael Warren, Bart Bauer, Steve Waters, Jack Vickers and Mark Healer.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cochran Funeral Home in Livingston, TX.
Ed is preceded in death by his mother, father, and wife of 50 years.
In addition to a host of extended family, Ed is survived by:
Son, Doug Turk and wife, Angie, of Livingston
Grandchildren:
Maggie Turk of Livingston
Eddie Turk of Livingston
Sister, Wanda Lou Cook of San Angelo
Brother-in-Law, Dr. David Harrison and wife, Dr. Kelly Harrison, of Blacksburg, VA
Niece, Prissy (Cook) McCollum and husband, Steve, of San Angelo
Nephews:
John David Cook of San Angelo
Nathan Harrison and wife, Stephanie, of Christiansburg, VA
K.C. Harrison and fiancée, Catherine Heindel, of Blacksburg, VA
Great-Nieces:
Lauren McCollum of San Antonio
Harper Harrison of Christiansburg
Great-Nephew, Liam Edward Harrison of Christiansburg
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Benbrook United Methodist Church in Benbrook, TX or First United Methodist Church of Center, TX.
12/08/2020
Martha Marie Miller, 90, of Shelbyville, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 7, 2020.
Marie was born in Shelbyville, Texas on August 9, 1930, to Lonnie Burl Davis and Carrie Luman Davis. She graduated from Shelbyville High School as valedictorian of her class. She married Fearnon Learease (F.L.) Miller on September 3, 1949. F. L. and Marie then moved to Houston and worked for the telephone company. After 2 years of trying to get rich in Houston, they moved back to Shelbyville where F. L. worked as a rural mail carrier, water plant operator, fishing guide and jack of all trades. Marie saw an ad for a Census worker and signed up with her friend, Myrtle Yates. That job eventually led to her and F.L.’s postal careers, as those were political appointments during that era. Marie also worked for the tax office before finishing her career as the Shelbyville Postmaster.
Growing up, Marie’s mother, Carrie, sold eggs and butter so Marie could have piano lessons. Marie loved music and played for more than 70 years, playing for Doyle Boles and the Sunday Afternoon Singers and funerals, as well as being the pianist at Oakland Nazarene Church and then at Ephesus Baptist Church.
F. L. and Marie enjoyed playing 42 with their friends, and you could find them playing as often as they could. Marie enjoyed traveling in her younger years, packing her bags to go on cruises, family trips and more. They loaded up the kids and drove cross-country to see the Grand Canyon, the Smoky Mountains, Colorado, as well as many trips to Six Flags. She also loved going with her kids and grandkids to Disney World.
During the summer she called neighbors and friends to see if she could pick the figs from their trees to make her famous fig preserves. They were the absolute best to eat on one of her hot, homemade buttermilk biscuits. If you came to visit, you could almost count on her making a pan of biscuits in her cast-iron skillet, that made the best crunch on the bottom. She had it down to an art. AND if she made biscuits, she probably cooked at least a pound of bacon to go with them. All of the grandkids liked to pile it on their plates or go back for seconds.
If you ever visited T & R on a Sunday after church, or even on a week day, you could spot Marie filling her plate with her favorites: “green jello”, aka pistachio salad, and chicken fried steak with brown gravy. In her most recent years, if there wasn’t chicken fried steak on the buffet, she would ask one of the waitresses if they had any that day; and as she would tell us, “it magically appeared at the table.” She loved to go there on lunch dates with her friends, Ann Butler Curtis and Gladys Newman. If she was short on time, a quick trip to the Dairy Queen for steak fingers and onion rings was an option.
The first grandchild, Christie Gunter Adams, affectionately started calling her Big Mama, much to her dismay. However, the name stuck, she learned to love it, and she is known as Big Mama to many far and wide.
Big Mama loved to sew, and fashioned many outfits for our different occasions. She made a Halloween pumpkin costume that she kept passing down to the next child. She enjoyed quilting and had quite a collection of fabric. For many years, she appliqued matching Christmas shirts for all the girls in the family. As part of her love to serve, she made baby blankets and sent many of them to Ronald McDonald House in Houston. For a time, she also made Angel Baby Blankets for First Baptist Church in Center. She loved to sit and rock her grandbabies and greats and, sometimes it was hard for her to let them go and be put in their beds.
After Toledo Bend was built, F. L. bought a fishing boat and the family decided to learn to water ski. It took much practice and many falls, but Big Mama learned to ski and could hold her own. Many days you could see the family skiing four across from the Doyle English Marina.
Christmas was her favorite time of year. She wanted the tree up early, and loved decorating the house and yard.
A special thanks to Casey Lout and Affinity Hospice for all of their hard work in trying to bring our Big Mama home.
Marie is survived by:
Son, Dr. Keith Miller and wife Linda of Center
Daughters:
Ruth Gunter of Tyler
Wynema Payne and husband Steve of Greenville
Renita Hudman and husband Kelvin of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Christie Adams
Craig Gunter and wife Holly
Steve Payne II
Seth Payne, wife April, and baby girl Payne
Spenser Payne and wife Courtney
Reid Miller
Ryan Miller
Amy Matthews and husband Luke
Great-Grandchildren:
Richard A. (Chipper) Adams Jr
Peyton Adams
Bailey Gunter
Kegan Gunter
Marlee Gunter
Jacob Payne
Carrie Matthews
Maggie Matthews
Sadie Matthews
Preceded in death by: The Late Fearnon “FL” Miller; parents, Lonnie Davis and Carrie Davis; and brothers, Early Davis and Barron Davis.
Interment will be at Rather Cemetery with a private family graveside service.
In lieu of flowers and food, please consider a donation in her memory to either Rather Cemetery % Cathy Taylor, 11883 State Highway 87 South, Shelbyville TX 75973; or Shelbyville Volunteer Fire Dept, P.O. Box 226, Shelbyville, TX 75973.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
12/08/2020
Charles Roy Hutto, 71, of Timpson, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2020 in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was born on May 15, 1949 in Shelby County, Texas, to the late Freddie Hutto and Marie (Cordova) Hutto. Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas, 75975. Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery, Timpson, Texas.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 PM on Wednesday, December 9, 2020, at Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson.
Roy was raised in Shelby County. He attended and graduated Timpson High School. Roy’s hard work and determined work ethic was rewarded with his ownership of Hutto Wrecker and a service station for over 50 years. He has helped many people throughout the years in Timpson and surrounding areas. Roy was a very kind man. He would do most anything to help someone out. Roy loved his family and enjoyed visiting with folks.
He is survived by:
His sisters:
Helen Cruse of Carthage
Thelma Scott of Central Heights
Eva Lewis and husband David of Timpson
Brothers:
Thomas Hutto of Garrison
Ray Hutto and wife Mary of Timpson
Rex Hutto and wife Gwen of Center
Numerous nieces and nephews; his precious dog Harley; and a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.
Roy is preceded in death by his parents, Freddie and Marie Hutto; and brother, Jerry Cordova.
The family would like to express special thanks to Encompass Home Health and Affinity Hospice for the exceptional care that was extended to Roy during his illness.
Pallbearers serving will be Emmitt Yarbrough, Lenny Gaddis, Chase Hutto, Rodney Adams, Marc Quist, Michael Hutto.
Honorary pallbearer will be Keaton Smith.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
12/7/2020
Mark Wayne Campbell, 64, of Port Arthur, passed away Saturday, December 5, 2020, in Port Arthur.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 10, 2020, at Carroll Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born July 14, 1956, Mark is the son of the late Carl Truman Campbell and Joyce Ann Carter Campbell. He was a member of Stone Gate Baptist Church in Port Arthur.
He is survived by a host of cousins, other relatives, and friends.
Preceded in death by his parents, Carl Truman Campbell and Joyce Ann Carter Campbell; grandparents, Jim Fred Campbell and Callie Tom Furlow Campbell and Smith Carter and Della Ballard Carter.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/7/2020
Kathleen Noble, 76, of Lumberton, Texas passed away on December 1st, 2020 in Beaumount, Texas. Born August 11th, 1944, in Frankston, Texas, Kathleen is the daughter of Steve Bell and Mildred Lookabaugh.Visitation will be from 9:00AM to 10:30am on December 12th, 2020 at Mangum Funeral Home Center ,Tx. Graveside Service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday December 12th, 2020 at Oaklawn Memorial Park Center, Tx.
Kathleen is survived by:
Daughters:
Noelle Noble of Center, Texas
Christie Pickens and husband Chris of Lumberton, Texas
Sisters:
Silver Motley and husband Luke of Center, Texas
Linda Lane and husband Wardlow of Center, Texas
Grandchildren:
Austin Pickens and Brianna of Lumberton, Texas
Cortney Stelly and Chris of Christiana, Tennessee
Abby Pickens and Fiance Trey Hutto
Great-Grandchildren, Ryan and Kayla Pickens
Numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and a host of family and friends.
Kathleen is proceeded in death by her Husband, Charles Noble; Parents Steve and Mildred Bell and Brother, Steven Ray.
Pall Bearers: Chris Stelly, Trea Hutto, Luke Motley III, Mark Massey, Lynn Smith and Cord Will.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Tx is in charge of arrangements.
12/05/2020
Sharon Ann Railey Holt, 73, of Logansport, Louisiana passed away Friday, December 4, 2020, in Shreveport.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, December 6, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, December 7, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Frankie Mathis and Sister Melba Rodgers officiating. Interment will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Shelby County.
Sharon was born October 21, 1947, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Lewis and Sadie Davis Railey. On September 6, 1965, she married Gunter Holt. She adored her family and her wonderful friends and they adored her as well. Sharon was known as “Nanny” to not only her grandkids, but also to her extended family. Seeing the grandkids play ball was always a highlight and Sharon attended every game possible. She was a member of Cowboy Church in Bethel, Louisiana, where she had a church family whom she dearly loved.
She is survived by:
Children:
Denise Curry and Mack Ramsey
Larry Holt and wife Wendy
Sharon is “Nanny” to:
Michael and Kayce Curry
Hillary Rutherford
Ryan and Michelle Curry
Sarah and Matt Smith
Cody and Elisha Holt
Shelby Holt
Derik Holt.
She is “Great Nanny” to Taylor, Zoey, Easton, Madisyn, Jaxon, Mason, and Maizeleigh.
Brother, Mike Railey and wife Carol
A host of other family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Gunter Holt; grandson, Christopher Wade Curry; great grandson, Christopher Ryan Curry; and parents, Lewis and Sadie Davis Railey.
Pallbearers will be Michael Curry, Ryan Curry, Cody Holt, Derik Holt, Matt Smith, David Holt, Mack Ramsey, and Lennis Holt.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/04/2020
Ella Mae Jenkins, age 64, of San Augustine, passed away on Sunday, November 29, 2020 at Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin, Texas.
Graveside service is Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 11am at New Hope Cemetery with Rev. George Simon officiating.
Visitation is Friday, December 4, 2020 from 2pm until 6:30pm at Garner and Son Chapel.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Donny Jenkins (Shayvon) of Shelbyville, Texas
Kenderick Jenkins (Farlesha) of San Augustine, Texas
Daughters:
Lawanda Berry Weathered (Leonard) of Geneva, Texas
Yolanda Tanner of Lufkin, Texas
Lakeitha Simmons (Jamie) of Lufkin, Texas
Pamela Jenkins (Donothon) of Lufkin, Texas
21 Grandchildren
8 Great-Grandchildren
9 brothers and sisters:
Helen Ruth Martin of Phoenix, AZ
Helen Jean Henson (Billy) of Houston, Texas
Tommy Berry (Barbara) of Tenaha, Texas
Evangelist Wanda Kay Berry of Spring, Texas
Linda Smith (Jimmy) of San Augustine, Texas
Carolyn Malone (Cliff) of San Augustine, Texas
Margret Berry of San Augustine, Texas
Margret Berry of San Augustine, Texas
Jerry Berry of San Augustine, Texas
Terry Berry (Minnie) of San Augustine, Texas
A host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives, and Friends.
Services are entrusted to Percy Garner and Son Mortuary, San Augustine, Texas.
12/03/2020
Annie Pearl Pilot, 77, of Center died, November 29, 2020 at her sister’s home in Longview, Texas.
Mrs. Pilot was born April 1, 1943 in San Augustine. She is a graduate of the 1961 C.H. Daniels High School.
Graveside services will be Saturday, December 5, 2020 at Westview Cemetery in Center at 11:00 A.M. Brother Freddie D. Wilson will officiate.
In God’s care she leaves:
Her adult son, Christopher Pilot of Center
Sister, Margie (Lamar) Turner of Longview
Grandchildren:
Christal Jackson of Ft. Worth
Chataka “Danielle” Pilot of Lufkin
Christopher Jr. (Jennifer) Pilot of Temple
Jakayla Pilot of Shreveport, La.
Her only living Aunt Hazel Brown of Longview
Nieces, nephew and a host of cousins, great-grands, family, and friends.
Visitation will be Friday, December 4, 2020 at Hicks Chapel (804 MLK Drive Center, Texas 75935) from the hours of 1:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.
Due to COVID 19, masks are required during visitation and graveside services. All safety procedures are strictly enforced.
Service entrust to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
12/03/2020
Linda Hamilton Campbell, 67, of Tyler died November 26, 2020 in Tyler, Texas.
Mrs Campbell is the daughter of the late Luke and Rose Mae Hamilton. She was born on September 15, 1953.
Funeral service will be Saturday, December 5, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. at Peoples Missionary Baptist Church in Tyler and burial will be at Hopewell Valley Baptist Church Cemetery in Tyler.
Local Survivors:
Aunts:
Margie Bennett of Center
Mozell Smith of Center
Uncle, Jim Yarbrough of Center
Services are under the direction of Hicks Mortuary and Community Funeral Home of Tyler.
12/02/2020
Anthony Darwin Caraway, 60 of Timpson, passed away Monday, November 30, 2020 at his residence in Timpson
Visitation is 11am until 6pm Friday, December 4, 2020 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Timpson. Funeral service is at 12 noon on Saturday, December 5 at First Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church of Timpson. Interment is at Smyrna Cemetery in Timpson with Bishop Cedric Grace officiating.
He is survived by:
Son, Doyle (Marketta) Johnson of Timpson
9 Grandchildren
Sisters:
Berdie Richards of Timpson
Annie Hooper of Dallas
Cathy Caraway of Timpson
Mattie Caraway of Spring
Lisa Caraway of Timpson
Brothers:
Jr. Caraway of Timpson
Charles Caraway of Round Rock
Jerry Caraway of Mansfield, LA
Reggie Caraway of Timpson
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Timpson, Texas.
11/30/2020
Betty Jo Webb, 80, of Center, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 29, 2020, in Garrison.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 3, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Bobby Bressman officiating. Visitation with limited family present will begin prior to the service at Noon. Private family graveside will be at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. The family requests social distancing be observed.
Betty was born in Hemphill, Texas, on July 19, 1940, to Carter Arnold and Connie White. She graduated from Hemphill High School in 1958. She married Robert Stephen Webb on February 9, 1963. Steve and Betty made their home in Center. They spent 50 years together until his death in 2013. Over the years, all the neighborhood kids could be found playing around the Webb’s house.
Betty started a career in banking and loved her job and customers. She worked at Farmers State Bank for 34 years until retirement. She loved the Lord and was a member of First Baptist Church of Center. Betty also served on Housing Authority Board of City of Center for over 20 years.
Betty loved her family and friends dearly. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and watching them grow. She always looked forward to a visit from her friends to catch up. She was an avid reader and loved a good book. Betty touched many lives and will be missed by everyone.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Barry Webb and wife Michelle of Crystal Beach, TX
Darren Webb and wife Wendi of Lago Vista, TX
Sister, Linda Horton of Hemphill, TX
Brother-in-law, Millard Smith of Hemphill, TX
Sister-in-law, Mildred Webb of Center, TX
Grandchildren:
Emily Webb of Fort Smith, Arkansas
Taylor Webb of Lago Vista, TX
Mallory Webb of Lago Vista, TX
Trace Greer of Nacogdoches, TX
Tatum Greer of New Braunfels, TX
Great-grandchildren:
Charlotte Webb of Lago Vista, TX
Averi Greer of Nacogdoches, TX
Addison Greer of Nacogdoches, TX
Numerous nephews, nieces, and a host of family and friends.
Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Steve Webb; parents, Carter Arnold and Connie White; sister and brother-in-law, Billie Ruth and Alvin Ferguson; sister, Johnnie Mae Smith; brothers-in-law, Eugene Webb and Joe Horton.
Pallbearers will be Michael Spells, Allen Metcalf, George Stubblefield, Randy Smith, Chris Mayfield, and Eric Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Keith Webb, Robert Ferguson, Kenneth Ferguson, and Ronald Ferguson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Affinity Hospice, 203 Hurst St., Center, Texas 75935, or First Baptist Church 117 Cora Street, Center, Texas 75935.
Barry and Darren would like to thank the staff at Garrison Nursing Home for taking great care of their mother during her time there.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
11/30/2020
Noble Ruth Ross, 89, of Logansport, Louisiana, passed away Monday, November 30, 2020, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 2, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, December 3, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Coy Hicks officiating. Interment will follow at Tennessee Community Cemetery in Tenaha.
Mrs. Ross was born August 3, 1931, in Shelby County, to Mood Anderson Woodfin and Ruth Arbith Despine Woodfin.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Brenda Doggett of Logansport, Louisiana
Joyce Atwater of Washington State
Grandchildren: John Paul, Larry, Jamie, and Michelle
Sister, Doshia Ann Hamilton of Joaquin
Brothers:
Virgil Joe Woodfin of the Tennessee Community of Shelby County
Jerry B. Woodfin of Gary
Herbert C. Woodfin
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her husband, Glenn Edwin Ross; son, Paul Hollis Luman Jr.; and parents, Mood Anderson Woodfin and Ruth Arbith Despine Woodfin.
Pallbearers will be Jerry B. Woodfin, John D. Woodfin, James C. Woodfin, Andy Woodfin, Guy Woodfin, and Jeff Woodfin.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
11/30/2020
Marie Virginia Nail Humphries-Haltom, 96, of Crosby, passed away Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at her residence.
Marie was born December 7, 1923 in Center, to parents; Frank Dilliard and Ima Daisy Holt Nail, and has resided in the Crosby area since 1956. She was a graduate of Center High School, a former secretary for Crosby ISD, and held membership with Crosby United Methodist Church and Women’s Aglow Fellowship. Marie was also a licensed minister and volunteered at local nursing homes as well as Plane State Jail in Dayton. Marie also enjoyed quilting, gardening, and fellowship with others.
Mrs. Haltom was preceded in death by her parents: Frank and Ima Nail, husbands: Joseph Alton Humphries and James Hubert “Red” Haltom, sons: Ronnie Humphries and Michael Humphries, stepson: Tony Haltom, and brother: Blake Nail.
She is survived by:
Her son, Joe Lynn Humphries and wife JoAnn
Daughter, Valerie Avonne Haltom and life partner Cindy Bowling
Daughter-in-law, Judy Humphries
Grandchildren:
Sarah Humphries
J.R. Humphries and wife Tess
Susan Humphries
Richard Haltom and wife Melissa
Amy Strickland and husband Lynn
Allen Haltom and wife Mandy
Joyce Bowling
Roy Bowling
Great-grandchildren:
Loxley Humphries
Roscoe Humphries
Katalina Mendez
Zander Westergard
Kayce Strickland
Emma Haltom
Kindal Moreau
Her devoted caregivers:
Maria Rojas
Carin Loeser
Heavenly Martinez
Numerous other relatives, and friends
The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, at he Crespo & Jirrels Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 2, 2020, at the Crespo & Jirrels Funeral Home Chapel in Baytown. Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, at the Antioch Cemetery in Center.
11/30/2020
Brigadier General Benard Wayne Gann, age 80, returned to his Heavenly Father on November 20, 2020. Ben was a great American patriot, husband, father, grandfather, and brother. We weep at the loss and at the same time are grateful to God that such men lived. He was a true hero.
Ben was born December 28, 1939 in Nacogdoches, Texas. He attended Center High School where he was an accomplished student and athlete. In 1962 he earned his BBA from Baylor University where he met his future wife, Genelle Amason of Corpus Christi.
In 1963, he began his Air Force career. He attended Air Command and Staff College, Air War College, and received a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Troy State University. He was an accomplished pilot and leader who accrued 6,000 flying hours. He served three tours of duty in Vietnam and Panama, commanded two combat bomb wings, and rose through the ranks to Brigadier General. Because of his courage and humility, he was admired and respected by those with whom he served. General Gann was awarded many commendations including the Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the prestigious Defense Distinguished Service Medal.
In 1995, Ben, Genelle and their family moved to Tyler, Texas, where he became a financial advisor. He was very involved in the community and in the church he loved, Marvin United Methodist.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Genelle, their son Scott, granddaughters, Deven and Avery; son Mason, his fiancé, Doctor Angela Smith, twin grandsons, Miles and Matthew; daughter, Ashley Lowrance and husband, Jason, grandchildren, Wyatt, Everett and Catherine; his sister, Edwina Samford, nephews, Randall and Jeffrey, niece, Sherry Oliver and husband, Ben.
General Gann will be buried with military honors at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery with a private ceremony. A memorial service will be planned at a later date in Tyler, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eternal Flame Fund at Marvin UMC, 300 West Erwin St., Tyler, Texas 75702.
“Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth…I’ve trod the high untrespassed sanctity of space, put out my hand and touched the face of God.” From “High Flight” by John Gillespie Magee Jr.
11/30/2020
Octavius Eulalee Bowers Epps passed away peacefully in the presence of family on Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at Christus Good Shepherd Hospital, Longview, Texas at the age of 100 years and 8 months.
Octavius was born on March 15, 1920 in Center, Texas to John B. and Gertrude Hayden Bowers. She lived most of her life in Center, growing up on a large cotton farm just outside of town. She was a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church. She graduated as Salutatorian from Center High School in 1937. That summer she moved to Houston to attend Draughon’s Business School. Her first job was in the business office of a trucking company near the Houston Ship Channel. Shortly after the trucking company closed, she moved to San Augustine where she had accepted a job at REA (Rural Electrification Administration).
While living in San Augustine, she met Calvin Maurice Epps. They were married on January 4, 1942, and soon after they moved to the Corpus Christi Naval Base during World War II. They lived in a 4-plex apartment on the base where their first daughter was born. After being honorably discharged, they moved back to Center where their first son and second daughter were born.
In her 100 years, she saw her family’s transportation change from a wagon pulled by mules to automobiles, the Great Depression, World War II, and man landing on the moon. She even vacationed in all 50 states!
Octavius was an extraordinary woman of strong character with a deep faith in and love for her Lord and Savior. She raised her children to love Jesus as well. She was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and she loved the outdoors, especially hunting. We thank God for blessing our lives with the gift of this extraordinary lady, who was our dear Mother, Mother-in-Law, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Great-Great Grandmother, Cousin and Friend! She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Octavius was preceded in death by her parents, infant twin brother and sister, and her husband of 54 years.
She is survived by:
Children:
Vera Epps Seilhan of Longview
Calvin Lee Epps and wife, Pat of Houston
Leta Epps Sledge and husband, Scott of Austin
Grandchildren:
Melanie Fleeman
Scott Seilhan and wife Abby
Brendan Seilhan
Michael Epps and wife Patty
Stephanie Epps Baker and husband Curtis
Brian Epps and wife Rebecca
Daniel Sledge and wife Monica
Leslie Sledge Guillory and husband Adam
15 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.
Visitation is at First Baptist Church, 117 Cora Street, Center, Texas 75935 on Saturday, December 5th from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Brother Rick Webb, Buckner Westminster Place Chaplain, will officiate, and interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 1554 State Hwy.7 E, Center, Texas.
We would like to thank all the staff of Buckner Westminster Place of Longview for their care and support throughout her 12 years there.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions in Octavius’ name to Breast Cancer Research Foundation or the Benevolence Fund at First Baptist Church of Center.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
11/30/2020
Larry Reynolds passed away at his home in Center on Friday, November 27, 2020, just a few days after his 60th birthday.
A graveside service will be held at the Reynolds Cemetery in Dreka at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 4. Brother Lamar Denby, Jr. will officiate.
Larry was born on November 21, 1960 to Inez and G.B. Reynolds. He was a member of West Hamilton Missionary Baptist Church. He graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1979. He worked for Tyson Foods in Tenaha in the mechanic department for over 15 years which he loved. He would later miss his coworkers and his job when he had to leave the company due to Parkinson’s.
He will be remembered for his hearty laughter, his kind heart, and his love for his friends and family. He enjoyed listening to music (especially rock and roll), doing puzzles, going fishing, going to the beach, working on cars, hanging out with friends, and talking on the phone or in person to his sister, Paula.
He is survived by:
Sisters:
Paula Harvey and husband, Caleb of Center
Phyllis Castillo and husband, Tony of Houston
Vicki Reynolds-Kutschinski of Kingwood
Nieces and Nephews:
Jenny Harvey
Adam Castillo
Olivia Castillo
Selina Kutschinski
Max Kutschinski
Anna Kutschinski
Lars Kutschinski
He is preceded in death by:
His parents, Inez and G.B. Reynolds
His niece, Christy Harvey
Services are under the direction of Mangum Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
11/28/2020
Susan Akridge Toomer, 62, of Woden, passed away Friday, November 27, 2020, at her home in Woden.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 1, 2020, at Center First UPC in Center with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. Bro. Andy Wilson and Bro. Barry Rankin will officiate. Interment will follow at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center.
Born August 10, 1958, Susan is the daughter of the late Luther Akridge and Edna Adkison Akridge. She was a member of Center First UPC in Center.
She is survived by:
Husband, Jimmy Toomer of Woden
Children:
Tonya Furnace and husband Russell of Dilley
Lacy Sherrill and husband Jonathan of Town Creek, Alabama
Eric Toomer and wife Kara of Jayess, Mississippi
Grandchildren:
Kayleigh Sherrill
Raegan Furnace
Kennedy Sherrill
Bailee Furnace
Easton Sherrill
Everett Toomer
Shepherd Toomer
Lottie Susan Toomer
Brothers:
Billy Akridge and wife Jan of Center
Gene Akridge and wife Zandra of Melrose
Numerous relatives and a host of friends.
Preceded in death by parents, Luther Akridge and Edna Adkison Akridge; sisters, Carolyn Fenley and Joyce Chandler; brothers, Jimbo Akridge, Benny Joe Akridge, and Danny Akridge.
Pallbearers will be Russell Furnace, Jonathan Sherrill, David Hailey, Joey Fountain, Shad Lout, and Chad Gibson.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
11/24/2020
Gloria Matlock, 60, of San Augustine passed away in her home on November 21, 2020.
Viewing will be tonight at All Families Mortuary and Cremation Services 1218 Albany Avenue, Lufkin, Texas from 6pm to 8pm.
Funeral Services for Miss Gloria Matlock will be at 1pm Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at Price Cemetery in San Augustine with the Rev. Bryan Gates officiating.
She is survived by:
Husband, Kenneth Matlock, Sr.
Daughter, Misty Matlock
Sons:
Kenneth Ray Matlock, Jr.
James Kennedy Matlock
Grandchildren:
Khadijah Edwards
Katera McCollister
Services are under the direction of All Families Mortuary & Cremation Services.
11/23/2020
Jimmie Arnold (80) of Center, Texas died, November 20, 2020 at his residence. Mr. Arnold requested cremation for his remains.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
He is survived by:
Wife, Mrs. Frankie Jo Arnold of 59 years.
Son, Jeffery Arnold of Center, Texas
Daughter, Marketta Arnold-Edmond (David) of Center, Texas
Grandchildren:
Markeisha Alonzo (Marco)
Brandon Brinson (Teresa)
Kristi Arnold
Isaac Trotty
Clineecia Trotty
4 Great-Grandchildren
Sister, Irma Bolton
Service entrust to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
11/23/2020
Jay Ballard, 84, of Joaquin, passed away Sunday, November 22, 2020, in Carthage.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 25, 2020, at Shepherd Hill Cemetery in Willis.
Born June 11, 1936, in San Augustine County, Jay is the son of the late Whit Ballard and Florence Warr Ballard. He was of the Catholic faith.
Jay is survived by:
Wife, Anna Ballard of Joaquin
Sons:
Jayson Ballard of Timpson
James Lucher and wife Gloria of New Waverly
Grandson, Steven Lucher and wife Kerrie
Brother, Stacy Ballard of Joaquin
Sister, Julaney Campbell and husband Kenneth of Burleson
A host of other friends and relatives.
Preceded in death by his grandson, Jason Lucher; parents, Whit Ballard and Florence Warr Ballard; brothers, Jimmy Ray Ballard and Lacy Coy Ballard; sister-in-law, Jean Ballard.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
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