Shelby County Today

05/21/2025

Jeremy Lee Ford, age 50, passed away peacefully at home in Center, Texas, surrounded by his loving family on the morning of May 20, 2025 after a long battle with ALS. He was born August 27, 1974 to Johnny Ford and Alice Jacobs Ford.

“God is greater than your ups and downs.”

Devoted and loving are not strong enough words to describe the type of husband, father, carpenter, and follower of Christ that he was. Jeremy and his wife Dayna were the picture of enduring and unconditional love. Jeremy spent his final years living a life of faith, humility, strength and grace. Through Jeremy’s illness, he continued to be a strong presence in the lives of his friends and family, never once getting pulled in to the bottomless pit of hopelessness and despair, rather choosing to spend his remaining days loving his family, mending broken relationships, strengthening his faith in the plan that was laid out for him, and spreading the word of God to his family and friends. Jeremy was a warrior, not only against his illness, but a warrior for Christ. Jeremy took great comfort in his church and often spoke of the love that he felt surrounded by when he was at Sunday services. Jeremy continued attending regularly, even until the end of his life.

He worked tirelessly to mend and repair broken relationships, offering forgiveness and seeking forgiveness in return. Jeremy learned to humble himself before God and before others to make sure that he lived a life worthy of God’s love, and what a miracle it was to watch! With deep humility and compassion, he led by example—first for the Lord, then for his family and friends. Jeremy’s heart for God shaped every decision he made and every step he took in his final years. Although the loss of our husband, father, son and friend are profound, let us find comfort in knowing that Jeremy is resting in his eternal home, and that we will all be reunited again one day in all of God’s glory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Ford, and his bonus father, Melvin Waller.

Jeremy leaves behind:

Loving wife, Dayna

First wife, Belinda

Cherished daughter, Olivia

Three “bonus” children—Kaleb, Brooklyn, and Debbi—whom he loved as his own

Mother, Alice Ford

Brother, John Ford and wife Shellie

Sister, Jennifer Shahan and husband, Matt

A host of aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

In keeping with Jeremy’s wishes, there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers or gifts, Jeremy asked that all donations be directed to his family to help with final expenses and to provide for his children moving forward. Jeremy was a devout follower of Christ and before his passing, requested prayers for his family during this extremely difficult time. The world is a better place because Jeremy was a part of it.

Donations may be made directly to the family: Zelle: 936-371-5388, CashApp: $day14382, Venmo: @Ford-Dayna, PayPal: @day14382.

05/20/2025

Michael Jerome Cleveland, 58 of Center, Texas, passed away May 15, 2025 in Houston. He was born on July 14, 1966 to the late Alton Watts and Margaret Cleveland.

Services are scheduled for 2:30pm on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church with Pastor Anthony Jackson officiating and Reverend Donell Golatt delivering the eulogy.

Michael, commonly known as Jerome, was a member of the Center High School class of 1985. He had faith in our Lord and Savior, and a distinct interpretation of the Bible compared to many others. A dedicated father of four daughters and one son, he was also a grandfather to twelve. He shared a special connection with one grandson, Mikee, with whom he spent considerable time.

Those who preceded Jerome in death include his parents, Alton Watts and Margaret Cleveland; brothers Marcus Cleveland and Christopher Cleveland; sisters Komecia Cleveland and Kemi Cleveland; and granddaughter Brynlee Ratcliff

Jerome leaves behind:

Brothers:
Tyrone Cleveland
Patrick Cleveland

Children: 
Daughter, LaKendra Hill (Mike)
Daughter, Shymone Ratcliff
Daughter, Shakeria Barnes (LaKeith)
Daughter, Mukinsely Barnes
Son, Jerome Ratcliff (Baneka)

His legacy continues through his grandchildren:
Mikevius Lane
Justyce Ratcliff
Jayceon Harris
Amika Hill
Dallas McCollister
Au'Breyah Lacy 
Michael Hill 3rd
BreIda Ratcliff
Channin Cotton
Bre'Lyn Ratcliff
Kamaree Evans

Numerous Nieces, Nephews, and Friends

Active pallbearers are Murphy Buckley, Shanki Lister, Johnnie Suell, Montreal Buckley, Michael Hubbard, and Mikevius Lane. Honorary pallbearer are Lamillican Johnson, JaDarren Cartwright, LaJuan Cole, Adric Watts, and TyDarren Harper.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Funeral Home in Center, Texas.

05/19/2025

Janie Parkman passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and wife.

Janie lived a life filled with joy and dedication to her family. She found immense happiness with her husband, Hugh Parkman, as they spent their retirement days gardening and growing beautiful flowers together. Her passion and love for family and friends were what motivated her zeal for life.

She is survived by: 
Her son, Darrell Parkman, and his wife, Angela

Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: 
Dereka Binstock
Nicci Pedroni
David Binstock (Buckshot)
Dalton Parkman
Jacob Parkman
Travis Parkman

Great-grandchildren: 
Connor Rowe
Bennett Lee Binstock

Janie is preceded in death by her two daughters, Angela Smith and Sue Sancton, as well as her devoted husband, Hugh Parkman. 

We invite you to join us for a graveside service to honor and celebrate Janie's remarkable life. The service will be held at Ramah Cemetery on May 21, 2025, at 5:00 PM.

Thank you for your support and kind words during this difficult time. Janie's memory will forever live on in our hearts.

Janie Parkman
June 27, 1935 – May 18, 2025

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com

05/19/2025

Craig Mason Bigler, 72, of Huxley, Texas, was born September 13, 1952, in Corpus Christi, Texas. The sun set on his life’s greatest hunt on May 4, 2025, after he fought hard to bag a great comeback.

Known as “Big” to many, he lived life in a big way. From big man on campus at Sterling High School in Baytown, Texas, to working on many big projects in his long ExxonMobil career, to loving his big family, Craig’s zeal for life shown through to everyone he met. His passions for big game and big play were his trademarks. He lived life to the fullest and loved people well. Whether in his role as “Dad”, “Grandpa”, “Brother”, “Uncle Craig”, “Uncle Big”, or as the “self-appointed mayor of Huxley”, Craig loved cooking for a crowd, telling stories, laughing, being the designated photographer, talking about the Astros, and educating listeners on the animals he hunted with assorted weapons or with his camera. He loved his grandkids big. He truly was one-of-a-kind, and his absence leaves a huge void for those that knew and loved him.      

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde “Click” Bigler and Jeanette Ott Bigler, and brothers, Stanley Bigler and Keith Bigler.

He is survived by:

Companion, Debbie Jones

Daughters and sons-in-law:
Melody and Dan Brown
Misty and Patrick Faircloth

Son and daughter-in-law, Mason and Joanna Bigler

Sister, Priscilla “Prissy” Kearns

Brother and sister-in-law, Richard “Dicky” and Sharla Bigler

Grandchildren:
Nathan Brown
Joshua Brown
Adam Bigler
Scarlett “Sophie” Bigler
Logan Ellis

Great-grandson, Gideon Johnson

Numerous nieces and nephews 

Friends and family will have two opportunities to celebrate Craig’s life. The Huxley Celebration of Life will be at 1pm, Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 219 County Road 2496, Shelbyville, Texas, 75973.

The Baytown Celebration of Life will be on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4-6pm, at the Baytown Community Center Lone Star room.

05/17/2025

Libby Jones, 85, of Center, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM till 12:00 PM, Monday, May 19, 2025, at Watson and Son’s Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Watson and Son’s Chapel with Bro. Son Windham officiating.  Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center, Texas.

Libby was born to George Phillips and Winnie Livingston Phillips in Many, Louisiana, on August 24, 1939. She enjoyed drinking her coffee and watching soap operas, as well as spending time with her kids and grandkids. 

She is survived by:
Children:
Lisa Jacobs, and husband, Roy of Shelbyville
Vicky Shields, and husband, David of Center
Wayne Jones, and wife, Penny of Center
David Jones of Center

Grandchildren:
Leslie Pless, and husband, Rocky
Candice Eaves
Tiffany Shields, and fiancé, Michael
David Shields, and wife, Dandi
Nathan Jones, and wife, Rachael
Brant Jones, and wife, Annie
Lindsay Porter
Brent Jacobs, and wife, Leslie
Kylee Moore and husband, Cheyenne

21 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great-grandchildren

Sister, Georgia Snyder

Preceded in death by her husband, Harden Jones; great granddaughter, Elisabeth Pless; parents, George Phillips and Winnie Livingston Phillips; brothers, Earl Phillips, Willie Phillips, Hershel Phillips, Glenn Phillips; and sister, Rachael Hanson.

Pallbearers will be David Shields Jr., Nathan Jones Jr., Rocky Pless, Brant Jones, Jackson Parker, and Aiden Shields.

Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com

05/14/2025

Mark Jackson, 52, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on May 8, 2025, in Shelbyville. Born on March 22, 1973, in Center, Texas, Mark lived a life full of energy, laughter, and deep-rooted connections to his family.

Funeral service will be held at 2PM on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Kevin Windham officiating. 

Visitation will be held from 5-7PM on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel. 

A proud graduate of Shelbyville High School’s Class of 1992, Mark went on to build a career with Patterson UTI as a motor man. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident in all he did. Whether on the job or out in the field hog hunting, Mark approached life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure.

Mark was known for his larger-than-life personality. He never met a stranger and had an uncanny ability to make people feel like old friends within moments. He was a jokester at heart—and he loved to aggravate those around him just enough to make them laugh. His humor was infectious and left lasting impressions on everyone he encountered.

He found joy in the outdoors—riding his boat across East Texas waters or tracking hogs through the woods. These moments brought him peace and allowed him to share his passions with those he loved most.

Mark was a member of East Hamilton Missionary Baptist Church—a place that reflected the values he held dear: faith, fellowship, and community.

To know Mark was to know someone who lived life to the fullest—who loved deeply, laughed loudly, hunted passionately, joked endlessly, and cherished every moment with those around him.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Mark’s love for his family ran deep. 

He is survived by his devoted wife,
Jennifer (Hanks) Jackson

Son,
Lane Wesley Jackson and wife Loren

Daughter,
Madison Jackson O'Rear and husband Justin

His mother,
Barbara Ann Risinger

Stepchildren,
Beaux Lindley
Madalyn Lindley
Sarah Lindley

Grandchildren,
Kaine Jackson
Spincer Cash O'Rear.

Brother,
David Jackson and wife Christy

Nephews,
Dawson Jackson
Ethan Jackson

Uncles, 
Douglas Jackson and wife Marcell
Jimmy Jackson and wife Patricia

Aunts,
Ruthie Folsom and husband Wayne
Rhonda Johnson and husband Terry

Numerous cousins; and a host of family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Don Spincer Jackson; paternal grandparents Will and Viola Jackson; and maternal grandparents Joe and Martha McCary.

Pallbearers serving will be Michael Andrews, Cecil Jackson, Clint Norton, Cody Folsom, Roscoe McSwain Jr., Jake Wagstaff, Ethan Jackson and Cole Cooper. 

Honorary pallbearers serving will be Larry Johnson, Douglas Jackson, Wayne Folsom, Judd Eddins, Chad Norton, Dawson Jackson, Terry Johnson, Hayden Greear, Chris Vaughn, John Askew, Landon Windham, Roger Jackson, Jerry Deason, and John Jackson, and coworkers from Patterson Drilling. 

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

05/13/2025

Lucille Garrett was born to the late J. B. Garrett, Sr. and Lottie Lee Barnes Garrett on July 23, 1960 in San Augustine, Texas. She entered into eternal life on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

Lucille accepted Christ at an early age. She attended New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. George Simon.

Lucille attended elementary and high school in San Augustine, Texas.

She graduated from San Augustine High School in 1978. She was the life of every gathering. She had a sense of humor that kept everybody laughing.

She worked various jobs and her final employment was with Tyson Foods until her health failed her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, J. B. and Lottie Lee Garrett; son, Charles Eric Lavon Garrett; granddaughters, Kayla Garrett and Vinshera Holman; six brothers, Charles Sanders, Joe Allen Cartwright, J.B. Garrett, Jr., Johnny D. Garrett, Jerry Garrett, James Garrett; and two sisters, Ella Louise Anderson and Billie Jean Garrett - Houston.

She leaves to cherish her memory:

Children:
Laquita Nicole Garrett-Clark ( Anthony)
Kevin Javance Garrett

Grandchildren:
Dysee Garrett
Adejha Clark
Avarion Clark
Ashton Clark

Great-grandson, Isaiah Garrett

Sisters:
Johnnie Faye Johnson
Sandra Garrett of San Augustine

Brother, Kenneth Garrett of Arizona

Brother-in-law, Walter Anderson, Sr.

Numerous nieces and nephews and other family members.

05/10/2025

Craig Mason Bigler, 72, of Huxley, Texas, was born September 13, 1952, in Corpus Christi, Texas. The sun set on his life’s greatest hunt on May 4, 2025, after he fought hard to bag a great comeback.

Known as “Big” to many, he lived life in a big way. From big man on campus at Sterling High School in Baytown, Texas, to working on many big projects in his long ExxonMobil career, to loving his big family, Craig’s zeal for life shown through to everyone he met. His passions for big game and big play were his trademarks. He lived life to the fullest and loved people well. Whether in his role as “Dad,” “Grandpa,” “Brother,” “Uncle Craig,” “Uncle Big,” or as the “self-appointed mayor of Huxley,” Craig loved cooking for a crowd, telling stories, laughing, being the designated photographer, talking about the Astros, and educating listeners on the animals he hunted with assorted weapons or with his camera. He loved his grandkids big. He truly was one-of-a-kind, and his absence leaves a huge void for those that knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde “Click” Bigler and Jeanette Ott Bigler; and brothers, Stanley Bigler and Keith Bigler.

He is survived by:

Companion, Debbie Jones

Daughters and sons-in-law:
Melody and Dan Brown
Misty and Patrick Faircloth

Son and daughter-in-law, Mason and Joanna Bigler

Sister, Priscilla “Prissy” Kearns

Brother and sister-in-law, Richard “Dicky” and Sharla Bigler

Grandchildren:
Nathan Brown
Joshua Brown
Adam Bigler
Scarlett “Sophie” Bigler
Logan Ellis

Great-grandson, Gideon Johnson

Numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends and family will have two opportunities to celebrate Craig’s life. The Huxley Celebration of Life will be at 1pm, Saturday, May 24, 2025. The Baytown Celebration of Life will be on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 4pm-6pm, at the Baytown Community Center Lone Star room.

05/08/2025

Bruce Yarbrough went to walk the streets of heaven on April 26th, 2025, in Lockhart, Texas.

Graveside service will be Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11am at Cold Springs Cemetery, 3941 County Road 289, Garrison, Texas 75946.

Through his battle with illness in recent years, he looked forward to moving on to be with Jesus and those that went before him. Born July 28, 1950, to Eugene “Shorty” Yarbrough and Lucille Christopher Yarbrough on a ranch on the Attoyac River in Grisby Community, on the Shelby County line. His family later relocated to the Huber Community, between Center and Timpson, where he was raised on a dairy and poultry farm, the youngest of six kids.

He was a member of First Baptist Church in Center, Texas where he served as a deacon. He was also a Gideon and would speak at various churches in the area. He was a member of Promise Keepers, which played an influential part in his Christian walk, where he met with a group of men for prayer, bible study and accountability for many years. Although he would be the first to admit his shortcomings, he would be the first to tell you that in Christ, all things are possible.

Bruce graduated from Center High School in 1968. In 1970 he married his high school sweetheart, Debra Lawson. He continued his education at Stephen F. Austin University, graduating in 1973 with a double major in accounting and business management. He went on to work for Herider Farms (now Pilgrim’s) as office manager for the Nacogdoches and Lufkin processing plants and held several management positions until leaving his work there. He purchased his first convenience store in 1977, called N & Out Food Store. He later acquired several more stores in San Augustine, Gary, and Center, among them being Kwik & EZ and Shady Oaks Food & Feed in Center. His stores were known for the “Bruce Burger.” In 1997, after twenty-one years in the convenience store business, Bruce became a Farmers Insurance Agent where he received many awards and accolades. He later became a licensed real estate agent, and then broker, at Town & County Real Estate until his retirement.

Bruce was active throughout his life, from childhood baseball to tennis in high school. As a young adult he was the pitcher for the Orange Crush men’s softball team, with his friends, winning many trophies and Championships.

Bruce was passionate about experiencing God's creation outdoors, spending much of his spare time fishing, hunting, riding his four-wheeler, and being on a tractor brush hogging on his property in the Antioch Community, or working cattle while telling stories and making jokes with his father-in-law, Billy Lawson, and sons, Cade and Nathan. He taught his sons when they were young to love the outdoors.

He loved nothing more than to sit around a firepit with his family telling stories and entertaining his grandchildren, Cole, Mallory, and Dillon, who were the joy of his life. The grandkids loved entertaining their Poppy. He would take them on many nature walks with their custom-made walking sticks that he made for them, afterward he would take them to the James Store to get ice cream.

Bruce is survived by:

Children:
Cade and Traci
Nathan and Micki

Grandchildren:
Cole
Mallory
Dillon

Sister, Lagene Smoke and Jerry

Former wife and friend, Debra

Sisters-in-Laws:
Francis Yarbrough Williams
Jean Yarbrough

He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Preceded in death by both parents; brothers, Troy, Kenneth, Joe, and Spencer; and sister-in-law, Elaine Yarbrough.

There will be a graveside service at Cold Springs Cemetery in Garrison, Texas at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers it would be appreciated donations be made to: Cold Springs Cemetery, P.O. Box 726, Garrison, TX 75946.