Obituaries
01/31/2024
Barbara Ann Anderson, 69, of Timpson, Texas, passed away January 31, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Timpson, Texas. She was born on July 17, 1953, in Center, Texas, to the late Thomas W. Livingston and Pauline (Williams) Livingston.
Graveside service will be held at 2PM on Friday, February 2, 2024, at White Rock Cemetery with Bro. Fred Wilcox officiating.
Barbara had two important things in her life: God was first, then family. If she wasn’t reading her Bible, she was listening to the Bible on CD. Her faith and trust in God never wavered. She loved reading. She traveled all over the world simply through her books. Sometimes she enjoyed the trips so much that she would read some books, 3,4, and even 5 times. She loved to write short stories as well. Her children and loved ones will always remember her cooking. From the cakes, brownies, rice krispy treats, and fudge, but a few of the best dishes were chicken and dressing, potato salad, hamburger soup, and milky way cake.
She is survived by:
Son, Jason Anderson
Daughter, Renee’ Prince
Special Nephew, Stacy Valentino
Grandchildren:
Dakota Barr
Nathan Barr
Christapher Anderson
Blake Prince
Great-grandchildren:
Kaleb Anderson
Phoenix Barr
Sisters:
Evon Green
Linda Griffin
A host of aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, Witmar “Marty” Lamar Anderson; parents, T.W. and Pauline Livingston; maternal grandparents, Thomas Allen and Eva Beatrice (McCauley) Williams; and paternal grandparents, Roy and Ola (Adams) Livingston.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/29/2024
Annie Louise (Cottle) Hayden (April 7, 1931 to January 27, 2024) passed quietly at Pine Grove Nursing home in Center from the afflictions of old age at 92. She was a follower of Jesus and has now gone to Him.
Born April 7, 1931 in Shreveport Louisiana to Loia Ethel (Menefee) and John Bunyan Cottle. In 1956 Annie married Bill Gunter Hayden. Bill served in the US Navy in WWII and was a successful salesman and entrepreneur, establishing Hayden Honda in 1969 in Center Texas. Bill died in 2000. They had one son, John Wiley Hayden, in 1957.
Annie, known by her middle name Louise, attended Center High School graduating in 1948. During summers she worked for her father as a photographer's assistant, printed photos, colorized black and white photos, and occasionally did portrait photography at her father's Cottle Portrait Studio at 124 Wheeler Ave in Center. After high school her first job was at her father's studio. The following year in 1949, she worked as secretary at Elliott & Waldron Abstract Co. In 1951 she worked for JW Holsey as secretary/notary until 1959. Her longest employment was at E L Bruce company from 1959 to 1971, a national producer of wood flooring with a plant in Center Texas. In 1972 she joined her husband at Hayden Honda which expanded to Hayden Distributors in 1983. On her own, at age 62 Annie Louise started Hayden Insurance Agency in 1993 which she successfully ran for two decades. With her husband she travelled to Japan in 1970 and 1972, and Europe in 1974.
She is survived by:
Son, John
Daughter-in-law, Denise
Grandchildren: Ian, Sean and Anita
Grand-daughter-in-law, Renee
Great-grandchildren: Seamus, Tess and Anaximander
Close friend, Sue Gill, who became like a daughter.
Also survived by Alyne McDaniel, her cousin. They were like sisters their entire lives.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Interment will follow at Newburn Cemetery in Shelby County.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/26/2024
Edna Ruth Shofner Birdwell, 82, of Center (formerly Nacogdoches), went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 25, 2024, in Nacogdoches. She was surrounded by her family.
Services will be held on Monday, January 29, 2024, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Mangum Funeral Home in Center. Bro. Dathan Triplett of Revival Tabernacle will officiate.
She is survived by:
Son, Del Birdwell, and wife, Joanna of Center
Grandchildren:
Bethany Birdwell Arnett, and husband, Matt of Holden, Louisiana
Brynna Birdwell Talavera, and husband, Taylor Talavera of Nacogdoches
Levi Birdwell, and fiance, Kloye Sonmor of Center
Great-granddaughter, Maren Mae Arnett of Holden, Louisiana
Sisters:
Linda Henderson, and husband, Joe of Tennessee Colony
Kathi Howard, and husband, Dewey of Center
Sister-in-laws:
Rosa Lee Vaughn Shofner of Center
Beth Rogers, and husband, Jerry of Athens
Linda Wade, and husband, Stanley of Sacul
Brother-in-laws:
Jack Birdwell, and wife, Joyce of Nacogdoches
Lamar Birdwell, and wife, Judy of Madisonville
Numerous nieces and nephews
She is preceded in death by her husband, Bryant Haden Birdwell; parents, Martin Lee Shofner and Bessie Mae Fleming Shofner; brothers, James Richard Shofner and Delbert Shofner; sisters, Billie Jean Livingston and Mary Reichel; sister-in-laws, Carol Shofner, Betty Cole; brother-in-laws, Leon Livingston and Jerry Reichel, Bobby Birdwell, Joe Birdwell, Jim (Birdie) Birdwell; father and mother-in-law, Lawrence Birdwell and Wanda Fountain Birdwell; niece and nephew, Janet and Mike Wilburn.
Edna was born in Center to Martin Lee and Bessie Mae (Fleming) Shofner on March 10, 1941. She was one of seven children and loved her family very much. She graduated from Center High School with the class of 1959 and spoke highly of the many dear friends that she attended school with. She attended Massey Business College in Nacogdoches following her high school graduation. She married Bryant Haden Birdwell of Cushing on March 13, 1965, and the two made their home in Nacogdoches, Texas with their son, Bryant (Del) Birdwell. Edna loved Bryant dearly, and they were married for 53 years before he went to be with Jesus in April 2018. Edna worked for Stone Fort National Bank for 30 years and went on to work for Stephen F. Austin State University until her retirement.
Upon retirement, she stepped into the full-time role of “Nanny”--her favorite and most cherished title of all–to her three grandchildren. She was exceedingly proud of them and enjoyed talking about them to everyone she came in contact with. She left them with fond and lasting memories of days spent gardening, sewing, cooking, canning, shelling peas and shucking corn, frequenting bookstores, galavanting around Nacogdoches “Mall” on any given Saturday, and a fridge that was always full of Cokes. She was the best Nanny and a true “jack of all trades.” Her easy going temperament, patience, and willingness to teach will forever be etched into the hearts of her grandchildren.
One of Edna’s dearest friends recently penned the following:
“Her nature was kind, loving, affirming, and supportive. She seemed to always think of others before herself.”
She was known by many as a constant and faithful friend, a loving and kind mother, wife, and sister, an adoring grandmother, and a true Christian. We will miss her until we all meet again.
"We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." II Corinthians 5:8
If you would like to make a charitable contribution in memory of Mrs. Edna, please make it to Center Christian Academy, P O Box 427, Center, Texas, 75935.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/26/2024
Tay Tay, 66, of Center, Texas, passed away on January 23, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Center, Texas. She was born on January 1, 1958, in Myanmar.
Funeral service will be held at 12PM on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, with Ler Mey Paw officiating. Visitation will be held from 6-8PM on Friday, January 26, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home.
She is survived by her husband, Sein Win.
10 Children
Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
01/26/2024
Keith Tyrone Suell, 56, passed away Monday, January 22, 2024. He was born on December 13, 1967 to the late Bertha Lee Netherly and William Daniel.
Bertha Lee and Jimmy Netherly united in marriage in 1971; Keith was then loved and raised as Jimmy’s biological son. Keith joined Blount Chapel Baptist Church at an early age and was baptized by Rev. L.A. Thomas of Shreveport, Louisiana.
He was a graduate of Center High school and joined the United States Air Force.
Keith had a passion for youth basketball and baseball, he coached for many years in the South Carolina AAU League.
He also had a passion for music and was the faithful disc jockey at many family gatherings by bringing his own equipment and many genres of music.
Keith was preceded in death by his mother; Bertha Netherly and grandmother; Hannah B. Suell. He leaves to cherish in his memory:
Kayla and Darian Suell, both of Columbia, South Carolina
Granddaughter, Jaelynn Suell of Columbia, South Carolina
Brothers:
Michael Netherly (Evette) of Center
Kip Dixon of Mckinney, Texas
Parents, Jimmy and Mary Netherly, of Center
Aunts:
Johnnie Mae Whitaker, who helped raise Keith like her own son
Austrene Edwards of Houston, Texas
Nephews:
Ryan Netherly
Myles Netherly
Caleb Dixon
Daniel Dixon
Josh Dixon
He also had a loving host of cousins and friends; including best friend; Lon Ratcliff of Dallas, Texas.
The memorial service for Keith Tyrone Suell will be held Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at 12pm at Watson and Sons.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/25/2024
Santania “Tiny” Richards, 37, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024. She was born September 30, 1986 to Joe Fletcher and Monica Osby.
Funeral service is 2pm Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Timpson First Assembly of God, 652 Houston Street, Timpson, Texas 75975, with Pastor A.L. Shaw Eulogist. Visitation is 11am until 7pm on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Timpson. Interment is at Timpson Cemetery in Timpson.
She was a member of First Smyrna Baptist Church and Clayton Temple Church of God in Christ in Timpson, Texas at a young age. She later committed to Davis Memorial Church of God in Christ in Nacogdoches, Texas as an adult.
Tiny was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Ruth Mae Osby and Annie Mae Fletcher; grandfathers, Mike Osby, Sr. and George Fletcher, Jr..
She is survived by:
Father, Joe Fletcher
Mother, Monica Osby
Daughters:
Jariyah Marshall
Jakourtlynn Patton
Son, Jakobe Patton
Sisters:
LaRuth Osby of Nacogdoches
Kierra Osby of Nacogdoches
Kenya McGuire of Nacogdoches
Cura Richards of Nacogdoches
A’hkeyrah Fletcher of Longview
Brothers:
Brandon Davis (Krystal) of Cedar Hill, Texas
Darius Fletcher of Dallas
Shaquille Fletcher of Garrison
Five Aunts, favorite, Anita Tutt
Five Uncles, favorite, Mack Osby
Favorite cousin, Aretha Page
God-Sister:
Tarnisha Piro
Tiwaneka Grace
Chanetta Mims
Aunt Ollie Mack
Aunt Ludene Driver
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
01/25/2024
Mr. Johnny Johnson, 74, of Carthage, Texas departed her life on Friday, January 19, 2024, at Carthage Healthcare Center in Carthage, Texas. He was born on July 28, 1949, to the late Robert Johnson and Eliza Jackson in Shreveport, La. Mr. Johnson’s Graveside service will be held at Westview Cemetery, at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 27, 2024. Rev. Joe Mitchell will be the eulogist.
Mr. Johnson is survived by:
Sons:
Chris Johnson of Florida
Johnny Johnson II of Carthage
John Johnson (Janett) of Carthage
Grandchildren:
Johnny Ray Johnson III and Alessandrian Johnson of Carthage
Visitation: Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Hicks Chapel at 12:00 Noon.
Interment: Westview Center, Texas
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
01/23/2024
Bobbie Lamerle Richards Gary, 92, of Center, Shelby County, went to be with the Lord on January 22, 2024.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 26, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Rev. Carroll Jones will officiate. Interment will follow at Mount Bethel Cemetery in Panola County.
She was born September 7, 1931, to parents, Robert “Bob” and Sallie Bishop Richards. Bobbie (Lamerle to her family) grew up on the family farm in the Arcadia Community of Shelby County the youngest of four sisters. She and her husband had no children. Bobbie was more like a sister to her nieces and nephews than an Aunt. She walked with them and the community children two miles to and from Cooper School, later graduating from Timpson High at sixteen years of age.
Bobbie married Glyn W. Gary on August 7, 1948. They moved to Fort Worth, Texas. She loved to tell the story about renting an apartment, sleeping on pallets on the floor and sitting on apple crates until they both found work with the Kimble Food Company. The owners basically adopted them and they were like family. It was not long before they were on their feet and doing quite well, Thank you.
They later moved to Tyler, Texas, where Glyn was Manager of the Brookshire Food Store and Bobbie went to work for a financial company as a bookkeeper. After a few years the company asked Glyn to move to Longview, Texas, to manage the Brookshire Food Store there and Bobbie began working for Trailmobil. We cannot tell Bobbie’s life story without telling a part of Glyn’s story. He surrendered to the Ministry, 1962 and resigned as Manager of Brookshire’s. He entered the Texas Baptist Institute and Missionary Baptist Church of Hughes Springs, Texas. At this time, Bobbie resigned her job with Trailmobil, thus began her life as a Pastor’s wife. She and Glyn served several churches before he was called to be a Missionary Pastor organizing the Tanglewood Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, Texas.
Bobbie was very involved in the church where ever Glyn served as Pastor. She had earlier studied piano and played for the services. She hosted many events in their home and continued to do so after his passing. During this time she continued her private bookkeeping for small business.
Bobbie depended on her strong faith to help her through some trying times. Glyn had surgery for a pituitary tumor in 1978. He came through surgery with vision only in one eye and very little left in the other. He lost all vision in December of 1980. He was bedfast from July of 1981 until the early part of 1983, not realizing what was happening around him. Bobbie took care of Glyn at home while working full time in the office of Shelby Savings Bank. A miracle of the Lord allowed him to regain his strength and mind but not his vision, he continued preaching to different churches until June of 1986. Bobbie quit her job and was there every step of the way helping him continue his Bible Study and sermon preparations by putting his scripture and notes on tape. He would listen to those tapes until his sermon was committed to memory. Many in the Shelby County area will remember attending his sermon at the Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. Bobbie standing by his side helping with his notes and tape, as he sat and preached in June 1986 at Longview Missionary Baptist Church for “Glyn Gary Day”. Brother Glyn Gary was called home to be with the Lord, January 2, 1987. A collection of Glyn’s sermons were published in book form and tapes and put in the library at the Texas Baptist Institute and Seminary for the study of future Ministers.
After Glyn’s death, Bobbie went back to work for Shelby Savings Bank, soon building a new house. When it was time to move to that new house, the men employees at the bank volunteered their Saturday afternoon and moved her. She loved to cook and her chocolate pie was famous with her fellow employees. After retirement, Bobbie spent time in her yard, cooking and continued working for her Lord.
Bobbie checked herself into the Lakeside Village Assisted Living in Center, where Kay Powell and the staff took special loving care of her for many years. They saw that she had her morning 5 o’clock coffee while everyone else was asleep. In June of 2023, she had a stroke and the staff at Lakeside could no longer take proper care of her. She had to be moved to Focused Care Nursing Home in Center, where of course, the staff and Heart to Heart Hospice Care took special care of her.
She is survived by:
Nieces and nephews:
Jerry Pate, and wife, Debra of Center
Virginia Goodrum of Jacksonville
Fay Socia of Nacogdoches
Verbon Pate, and wife, Elizabeth of Center
She is preceded in death by husband, Glyn W. Gary; parents, Robert Henry “Bob” Richards and Sallie Louanna (Bishop) Richards; sisters, Lillie Mae Pate and husband Verbon Sr., Laura Anna Bell Deason and husband Cecil, and Era Wren Ramsey Adams and husbands James P. Ramsey and Robert Adams; also, a host of nieces and nephews.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/20/2024
Marilyn Dee Haywood Welch Griffin, 89, of the Stockman Community of Shelby County, went to be with the Lord on January 19, 2024. She was born November 5, 1934, to Jim and Stella Haywood.
Miss Marilyn loved her family, friends, and loved life. She never met a stranger. Marilyn was a door greeter for Wal-Mart in Center for many years. If she met you once, she recognized you forever as one of my customers. She was loved by a big family and many friends. Marilyn had many little sayings that each one of her children, grandchildren, and friends will remember of her.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Claudine Moore, Ardell Bardwell, Hester Blackwell, James Haywood; son, Bobby Welch; three grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
Marilyn is survived by:
Daughters:
Delois Blackwell of Nacogdoches
Rebecca and Bobby Strong of Carthage
Sons:
Larry and Francine Welch of Springs, Colorado
Jimmy and Marilyn Welch of Stockman
Seven grandchildren:
Delisa Carroll
Terry Welch
Chris Welch
Jamie Welch
Anthony Welch
Buddy Strong
Robert Strong
Many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of friends
Services will be at 2pm, Thursday, January 25, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Blair Cemetery in Timpson. Officiating the services will be Bro. Robert Strong and Buddy Strong.
Pallbearers will be Joshua Strong, John Strong, Austin Eldridge, and Anthony Welch.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
01/20/2024
On Thursday, January 18th, 2024, we bid a heartfelt farewell to a cherished wife, beloved mother, and adored grandmother, Ona Delores Pritchet, lovingly known as Dorothy. Born on the Summer Solstice of June 21, 1944, in Dallas, Texas, to Rheinhardt Herman Engelke and Ona Mary Leona Burnette, Dorothy brought warmth and joy to the lives she touched.
Dorothy found her lifelong love in Homer Lewis Pritchet, and on May 24th, 1973, they embarked on a journey of 50 years together. The James Community of Center, Tx, became the canvas of their shared memories and the haven they called home.
Preceded in death by her parents and granddaughter Kara Miller, Dorothy's legacy lives on through the love she showered on her family.
She is survived by:
Devoted husband and soul mate, Homer
Four children:
Felton Gilmore and his wife MaryAnn
Cathy Dickerson and her husband Bob
Charlotte Halvorson and her husband Scott
Sheri Miller and her husband Matthew
Dorothy and Homer's love multiplied in the form of 15 grandchildren:
Mylinda White
Mylissa Capp
Jonathan Gilmore
Jeremy Gilmore
Justyn Gilmore
LaniNicole Russell
Jennifer Richards
Rey Soto
Lindsey Crandall
Brandon Halvorson
Derek Miller
Joshua Miller
Jared Miller
Kara Miller
Matthew Miller
Garrett Hoover
Additionally, they shared in the joy and love of 17 great-grandchildren.
Visitation to honor Dorothy's memory will take place on Saturday, January 20th, from 5 to 7 pm at the Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas. The Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, January 21st, at 2 pm, with Brother Johnny Lewis of the Antioch Baptist Church officiating.
In this time of sorrow, let us remember Dorothy not with tears for her departure but with smiles for the moments we shared. May her gentle spirit and enduring love remain eternally in our hearts.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/19/2024
Funeral services for Wandell Womack will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Tenaha with Dr. Andrew King officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, January 21, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Pallbearers will be Chip Roberson, Don Dial, Tommy Baker, Brack Harrison, Russell Rowe, and Reginald Parks. Honorary pallbearers will be Sean Pevoto and Bob Sanders.
Wandell Conner was born on January 27, 1929 to Callie and Drew Pierce Conner of Zavalla, TX. She was the second of five children. The family moved to Tenaha in 1941 where Wandell was involved in various extracurricular activities at school and in her church. She learned to sew at a young age and made her first full-sized quilt at eight years old. Wandell began dating Joe Dan Womack when they were 16 and 14, respectively, and they were married four days after his 18th birthday on July 14, 1949. They worked together at Tenaha ISD for many years and were beloved by generations of Tigers. Together they had four children: Becky, Lou Jane, Jerry, and Terrie. Through a full-time career and raising four children Wandell was still active in First Baptist Church, Tenaha, until she was unable to continue doing so. For many years she was involved in the sewing ministry and created many articles of clothing, quilts, and blankets for babies and adults alike. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
She passed away peacefully on January 18, 2024 after having a 95th birthday party with her family. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Wandell was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Dan Womack; their three daughters, Becky Womack King, Lou Jane Womack, and Terrie Womack; her parents; and her siblings, Gladys Nell Mathews, Maude Yvonne Rowe, Kenneth Conner, and Bert Conner.
She is survived by:
Son, and his wife, Jerry and Dina Womack
Son-in-law, Joe King
Granddaughters, grandsons-in-law, and three great-grandchildren: Bob and Katie Sanders and Ben; Sean and Jenni Pevoto and Joey; and Reginald and Megan Parks and Jenni; and sisters-in-law, Maxine Conner Strahan and Linda Conner; along with numerous nephews, nieces, other relatives, and friends.
The family would like to thank the incredible doctors and nurses of the Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center Marshall, 5th floor, and Magnolia Place Wellness and Rehabilitation Center for their support and care over the last few weeks.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Sewing Ministry at First Baptist Church, Tenaha.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/19/2024
Mary Ann Skinner, 81, of Joaquin, Texas, passed away on December 30, 2023, in Tomball, Texas.
Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., February 1, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas. Funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Watson & Sons Chapel. A private burial service will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Mary was born October 3, 1942, in Panola County, Texas. She graduated from Joaquin High School and lived in and around Joaquin all but the last few years of her life. She was married to William Edward Skinner Sr. of Joaquin, Texas, for 54 years. She worked at Headricks Drug Store in Logansport, Louisiana, for many years and then for Texas State Bank in Joaquin.
She is survived by:
Son, Robert G. Skinner of Magnolia
Granddaughters:
Bailey Skinner Bailey, and husband, Travis of Tomball
Reagan Skinner Arnold, and husband, Kobe of Magnolia
She is also survived by her son, William Edward Skinner Jr., and wife, Kim of Wasilla, Alaska
Granddaughters, Bobby and Keri
Mary is preceded in death by her father, George Davis Jr.; and mother James Vernie Lawhorn Davis, her husband, William Edward “Bill” Skinner Sr. of Joaquin, Texas; her three brothers, Billy, Johnny, and Wayne Davis of Shelby County, Texas; and sister, Vera Roberts of Tenaha, Texas.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/19/2024
Paul E. Bailey was born August 31, 1937, in Shelby County TX to parents LaClair and Evelyn Bailey. He passed from this life on January 17, 2024.
Visitation will be 10:30 am until 12:00 pm, Saturday, January 20, 2024 at Taylor Funeral Home. Graveside Service will be 12:30 pm at Blair Cemetery, Timpson, TX.
Paul graduated from Timpson High School in 1955 and attended Panola Junior College. He married Frances Collins on February 10, 1961. Paul was a long-time rancher and owner of Bailey’s Feed & Fertilizer. He was a member of Timpson Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Bailey had previously served on the Timpson ISD School Board.
He is survived by:
Wife, Frances
Children:
Son, David (Deborah) Bailey of Highland Village
Daughter, Vickie (Chris) Fontaine of Whitehouse
Also surviving are his grandchildren:
Kristen (Nick) Netsch
Kathryn Bailey
Garrett (Jordon) Bailey
Matthew Fontaine
Madison (Austin) Lusk
Great-grandchildren:
Annie Netsch
Hudson Netsch
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ann Flowers, and brother Ray Bailey
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20, at 10:30 AM (Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson) followed by a graveside service at Blair Cemetery with Pastor Levi Cohorst.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Garrison Nursing Home & Rehabilitation located at 333 FM 95 Garrison, TX 75946. The family would like to especially thank the staff at Garrison NH & R for their loving care and Heart to Heart Hospice for providing care in his final days.
01/18/2024
Shirlene Jones, 84, of Center, passed away Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Tyler.
Memorial graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center.
Shirlene was born March 14, 1939, in Abilene, Texas. She worked as the Program Director at Shelby County Outreach Ministries. Shirlene loved her family and was a very Godly woman. She was of the First Assembly of God faith.
She is survived by:
Grandchildren:
Michael J. White, and wife, Tera of Patroon
Josh White of Center
Tabitha Clifton of Beaumont
Christie Nash, and husband, Kevin of Timpson
David Yates, and wife, Tera of Center
LaTeasha Berli of Florida
Cole Jones of Florida
Stephanie Jenkins of Lufkin
Brandy Levitzki of Dallas
Ryan Moore of Tennessee
Preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Jones; children, Beverly Price, Kenny Price, Pam White, Terry Jones, and Wendy Hicks; and parents.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/17/2024
Barbara Lynn Jackson, 54, of Shelbyville, passed away Monday, January 15, 2024, in Shelbyville.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 19, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 20, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Center with Bro. Mike Belgard, Ricky Cartwright, and Pastor Desmond Ferguson officiating. Interment will follow at Bennett Chapel Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Born October 7, 1969, in Center, Texas, Barbara is the daughter of Lucille Cartwright Jackson Bazile and Lucky Gardner. She worked for Graves Bail Bonds for many years under the supervision of Leo Graves. After this milestone, she transitioned to Hope Community Medicine, where she has worked for many years under the leadership of Dr. Michael Belgard until her demise. Barbara also served as a licensed notary public, a beautician, and was a member of Order of Eastern Star. She loved to cook and I mean for everybody! No one left with an empty stomach. She loved her family, children, and her grandkids.
She is survived by:
Husband, Leon Jackson
Six special children:
Manuel D. Jackson
Jacobi Z. Jackson
Princess Tijah M. Jackson
Leonardo Jackson
Leondia Jackson Williamson
Nicole Jackson
Grandkids:
Manuel D. Jackson Jr. (Saint)
Madeline Jackson (Maddie)
Leah Williamson
Godson, Khaza King Henderson, whom she loved dearly
Also left to cherish her memory:
Siblings:
Deborah A. Jackson
Charlie Earl Jackson
Reta A. Perodin
Lorea A. Bonaparte
Lisa G. Jackson
Patrick Blount
Angela Gardner
Tasha Teamer
Tamesha Bazile
Penny Bazile
Best friend, DeAnne Garrett
Nieces:
MacKenzie Deloney
Anja Britton
Amanda Ashton
Arriana Bazile
Kim Gardner
Bridget Brook
Tyasia Blount
Lisha Garrett
Tiyana Blount
Jill Roberson
Nephews:
Elliott Phylow
Zuri Singleton
Ismael A. Jackson
Mason Jaron Roberson
Xavier Bazile
Tyarron Oliver
Ben Winslow
Reagan Hart
Nalond Waines
Zyreon Waines
Desmond Jackson
Mozell Roberson III
Also, a wealth of aunts and uncles - Cartwright and Grisby.
Preceded in death by brother, Tremaine Bazile; and honorary father, Clemon Jackson.
Pallbearers will be Trent Hass, Cody Foshee, Canyon Holmes, Kurtrick Allen, Jordan Williams, H’Leighen McClelland. Honorary pallbearers will be Leon Jackson, Jacobi Jackson, Manuel Jackson, Melvin Durrell, Elliott Phylow, Zuri Singleton, and Ismael A. Jackson.
The family would like to thank you all for your warm thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
Services are lovingly fulfilled by Watson & Sons Funeral Home, 1554 State Highway 7 East, Center, Texas 75935.
Repass will be at Bennett Chapel Missionary Baptist Church.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/18/2024
Waundlyan J. Gardner, 82 of Houston, Texas, passed away. Mrs. Gardner is the wife of Thomas A. Gardner, a native of Center, Texas.
Funeral services will be held at 10am on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Holy Trinity located at 14513 South Post Oak Road, Houston, Texas 77045. Visitation is 9am to 10am on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Holly Trinty in Houston, Texas. Interment is at Houston National, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas 77038 (Monday, January 22, 2024, at 12:30pm.)
Waundlyan is Survived by:
Husband, Thomas A. Gardner of Houston
Sons:
Christopher (Gwen) Hardemon of Houston
Craig D. (Simone) Gardner of Houston
Kevin Gardner of Houston
Daughter, Jackie Opara of Houston
Brother and Sister-in-laws:
Rev. Billy E. (Margie) Gardner of Lufkin
Ester M. Singleton of Longview
Myrtis McClelland of Center
Jerry W. (Sheryl) Gardner of Ft. Worth
Frederick (Stella) Gardner of Center
Uncle, Lucky (Wilda) Gardner
Services announced by Hicks Mortuary of Center, Texas and McCoy and Harrison Funeral Home of Houston, Texas.
01/17/2024
Joy Paige Campbell, 88, of Center, passed away Monday, January 15, 2024, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Dr. Andrew King will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born February 26, 1935, in Center, Joy is the daughter of Roy Paige and Erma Askew Paige. She was a member of Tenaha Church of Christ.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Sonya Campbell Anthony, and husband, Mitchell
Stacy Campbell Spruiell, and husband, Greg
Son, Steven Campbell, and wife, Alesia
Grandchildren:
Lindsey Blackshear, and husband, Wil
Carrie Anthony, and fiancé, Jeremy
Justin Campbell, and wife, April
Shane Campbell, and wife, Ashley
Blake Campbell, and wife, Magon
Chase Campbell, and wife, Jade
Alexandria (Alex) Spruiell
Elizabeth (Liz) Spruiell
Jesse Spruiell and wife Shelby
Great-grandchildren:
William Blackshear
Mason Blackshear
Eli Blackshear
Presley Campbell
Kross Campbell
KwadeCampbell
Kroix Campbell
Stihl Campbell
Colt Campbell
Case Campbell
Caroline Campbell
Walker James Spruiell
Brothers-in-law
John Campbell, and wife, Ginny of Atlanta, Georgia
Jerry Campbell, and wife, Melody of Lewisville
Kenneth Campbell, and wife, Molly of Timpson
Sisters-in-law:
Earline Austin of Shreveport, Louisiana
Rosemary Campbell of Shreveport, Louisiana
Numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews
Pallbearers will be Justin Campbell, Blake Campbell, Wil Blackshear, Shane Campbell, Chase Campbell, and Jeremy Hancock.
Preceded in death by husband, Tommy Campbell; parents, Roy and Erma Askew Paige, brothers-in-law, Curtis, E.C., Jim, Otto, and Buster Campbell, Maxie and Jo Campbell, Glenn and Inez Campbell, and Coy and Irene Campbell; sisters-in-law, Sue Davis, Eula “Bootsie” Worsham, Billye Cather, and Margie Campbell.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/15/2024
Lance Lee Parks, 47, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2024, in Longview, Texas.
Graveside service was held at 2pm, Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Spann’s Chapel Cemetery in Center with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.
Born November 8, 1976, in Center, Lance is the son of Jimmie Devo Parks and Ima Jean Spann Parks. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by:
Wife, Tonya Parks
Son, Devin Waller
Brother, Charles Parks and wife Sherry
Sisters:
Shelby Fowler and husband Ricky
Rose Parks
Nieces and nephews:
Kevin and Samantha Rushing
Gabriel and Darlene Parks
Rachel and Josh Chase
Sarah Parks and Edgardo Marrufo
Joshua Parks
Shannon and Brad Denby
James and Nina Tyre
Tina and Jaime Pardo
William Jody Windham
John and Briget Parks
Angie and Corey Sigler
Adam Ramirez and Ashley
Tori Ramirez and Jacoryan
Numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.
Lance is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie Devo Parks and Ima Jean Spann Parks; sister, Susan Parks Windham; and brother, Jimmie Devo Parks Jr..
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/15/2024
Mae Lee Roberts Adams (86) of Tenaha, Texas, departed her life on January 12, 2024, at Focused Care Nursing Facility in Center, Texas.
Mrs. Mae Lee Roberts was born on April 19, 1937, to the late Beamon Roberts and Jennie Lee Williams Roberts in Tenaha, Texas.
Funeral service will be held at St. John Baptist Church in Tenaha, Texas, at 11:00 AM on January 17, 2024. Rev. Claudell Anderson will be the eulogist. Interment at St. John Baptist Church Cemetery Tenaha, Texas.
Mae Lee Adams is survived by:
Children:
Daughters:
Cristy Byndom (Keith) of Center
Vee Allsbrooks (Mitchell) of Rusk, Texas
Son, Clovis Adams Jr. (Sharon) of Tenaha
Sisters:
Karolyn Carraway of Dallas
Betty Rhodes of Dallas
Brother, Ketral Roberts (Dean) of Dallas
Five Grandchildren: Chase, Mallory, Christopher, DaKota, and Aiden
Four Great-grandchildren
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and other relatives.
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
01/12/2024
Suzanne Hancock Ihlo, 82, of Center, Texas passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 11th surrounded by family.
The funeral service for Suzanne Ihlo will be held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Mangum Funeral Home in Center, Texas. Visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. also at Mangum Funeral Home. Pastor Malcom Monroe of the First Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Suzanne was born February 13th, 1941, to Vance Earl Hancock and Gladys Imogene Hancock. As a native of Shelby County, she graduated from Center High School in 1958 before attending Baylor University. Although her wanderlust took her in many directions, she spent most of her life here in Center, Texas among family and friends. She was an active member of the community where she enjoyed being a part of many organizations including Bridge Club, Reading Club, Beta Sigma Phi sorority, and the Daughter’s of the American Revolution chapter in Nacogdoches, as well as the Washington chapter in Galveston, TX. In her most recent years Suzanne embarked upon new adventures in Galveston, Texas. She always looked forward to her participation and outings with the Women’s Association of Galveston Country Club and her neighborhood Book Club. Some of her favorite pastimes were walking on the beach, collecting shells and sea glass, riding her golf cart through the neighborhoods, and visiting with her many friends.
As a longtime member of The Methodist Church in Center, Texas she served on various committees. After several years of dedication and hard work, one of her proudest moments was securing a historical marker for the First Methodist Church Cemetery, one of the oldest in the county, dating back to 1861.
Throughout her life, Suzanne was known to be outgoing, fun loving, and faithful. She had an indescribable way of making everyone she met feel comfortable, welcomed, and loved. Suzanne had a great sense of humor and was friendly to all in her presence. Mindful of the family legacy passed on to her from her mother and grandmother, Suzanne inherited a gift for southern charm and hospitality. Her greatest joy was the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
She is survived by:
Children:
Roy Blackshear and Liz Burke
Pat Blackshear Porter
Kristi Ihlo LaVerdure and Maurice LaVerdure
Janan Ihlo Pigg
Grandchildren:
Alicia Pigg
Wil and Lindsey Blackshear
Madeline and Logan Luzzo
Mackenzie Porter
Grant and Maddie LaVerdure
Grayson LaVerdure
Great Grandchildren:
William Blackshea
Mason Blackshear
Eli Blackshear
Siblings:
Buddy Hancock
Martha Jean Hancock Golden
Preceded in death by husband, William G. Ihlo; parents, Vance Hancock and Imogene Carriker Hancock; and son-in-law, Gilbert Scott Porter.
Suzanne was loved deeply by her family and countless friends. She will be in our hearts forever and always.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to First Methodist Church, 211 Porter Street, Center TX 75935
Pallbearers are Billy Ihlo, Maurice LaVerdure, John Henry Holloway, Wil Blackshear, Logan Luzzo, Grant LaVerdure, and Grayson LaVerdure.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
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