Obituaries
05/27/2020
Tommy Ray West, 89, of Center, Texas passed away on May 15, 2020 in Center, Texas. Born November 27 1930, in Zwolle, Louisiana, Tommy is the son of the late Tom West and Ida Meshell West. A memorial service will be held at 11AM on Saturday, May 30, 2020 in sanctuary of First Baptist Church of Center.
Tommy Ray West was born on a farm outside of Zwolle, Louisiana. He spent most of his life in Zwolle where he graduated from high school in 1948. He loved playing baseball and basketball, and played both for Zwolle High School. Immediately after graduation, he enlisted in the US Air Force. He was sent to Germany just after WWII had ended and his enlistment was for two years. Because of the situation in Europe at the time, his enlistment was extended two more years. He was stationed in Rhein Main, Germany where they were carrying out what they called “The Berlin Air Lift”. This was a program in which food was being flown into the people there, because they had no food available.
He was assigned to the finance office during this time and the work there defined his life’s work as an accountant. He returned to the states and discharged from the Air Force in about 1952. Upon his discharge, he immediately enrolled in Northwestern State College and in the spring of 1953, he met Alice Zenter. In January, 1955, after he graduated, they were married.
Upon graduation, he was hired by Atlas Doors and worked there for six years. During this time, the company was sold and became E.L. Bruce. In 1961, he moved his family to Louisiana for nine years. E.L. Bruce called him to return to Center to work for them again. He remained there until his retirement in 1993. He worked for the company for a total of 39 years.
Tommy is survived by:
His loving wife of 65 years, Alice West
They had four beautiful sons who also survive him:
Ronald (Ronny) West and wife, Connie of Georgia
Danny West and wife, Susan of Center
Troy West and wife, Kim of Azle
Kerry West and wife Florence of Center
11 grandchildren
14 great grandchildren
Sister, Margie West Homer of Kent, Ohio
A host of family and friends that will miss him dearly
He is preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Ida Meshell West; brothers, Ted West and Marvin West; and grandson, Cody Josiah West.
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.
05/27/2020
Leon Parrott, 83, of Center, Texas passed away on May 25, 2020 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Born August 30, 1936, in Stroud, Oklahoma, Leon is the son of the late Maurice Parrott and Colleda (Williams) Parrott. His wishes were to be cremated and no service will be held.
Leon retired from Boiler Room Engineer at Boeing Aircraft. He was for sure a simple man. Simple the way the Ten Commandments are simple. The way the truth is simple. He was an excellent skeet shooter and he loved doing it. Leon was soft-spoken, so humble, and always ready to manufacture some fun. He lived with a n innocent strength and a sweet freedom. Leon liberated, never holding back in the unmistakable affection he felt for so many people. He love Wichita Kansas but was happy to move to Center, Texas. He worked for and, in time, led causes given over to making his hometown an ever better place to live, serving on many boards, and being a part of many community organizations. In fact, in the dwindling dreams of his last three years, Leon Parrott, stood forthright with his family and friends, no attempt whatsoever to hide the slow progress of his affliction. But the old Leon sparkled through, warming and lighting the room, even as darkness walked closer. At the end, his laughter, the only speech that mattered.
He is survived by:
Loving wife of 46 years, Mary Parrott
Children:
Rebecca Ross and husband Dave
Patricia Parrott
Rajina Parrott
Stepchildren:
Sandra Cambron
Vicky Fletcher and husband Jeffrey
Kenny Chapman and wife Tracy
20 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-granchildren
Brother, Terry Parrott
Sister, Luella Huson
Numerous nieces and nephews
A host of family and friends, not to forget his dogs, Stormy and Maleno, that will miss him dearly.
Leon is preceded in death by his infant daughter, Victoria Lynn Parrott; and parents, Maurice and Colleda Parrott.
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.
05/26/2020
Gwendolia (Gwen) Worsham passed away May 23, 2020, in Bryan, Brazos Co., TX., at age 93. She was the second child born to William D. (Dewey) Worsham and Mamie Stone Worsham and she was born Aug 6, 1926, in Joaquin, Shelby Co., Tx.
Graveside service will be held at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at Jackson Cemetery in Joaquin. Visitation will be held prior to service at Watson & Sons Funeral Home, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Gwen attended Joaquin Schools, played basketball, graduated at age 16 as valedictorian.
She moved to Houston to attend Business College. When at a downtown bus stop, she and a young Air Force serviceman caught each other's eyes. A whirlwind romance, attending dances at the Rice, USO, and other popular venues, led to matrimony October 23, 1944.
Gwen was a fearless young married woman, following an adventurous trek on her own to catch up with her husband at each training stop, first in California, then quickly to Tonopah, Nevada. He then deployed to England with the 8th Air Force. Happily he returned as the war ended; they first lived in Cincinnati, Ohio, then soon settled in Dallas in a mobile home park in the shadow of Mustang Stadium where he attended law school on the GI Bill.
Gwen was a devoted wife to Warren, supportive with each move in his career. They spent 15 years in Corpus Christi, then the rest of their married lives in Houston. They returned to where their romance had begun. Gwen was active in community civic club, election polling stations, school homeroom mother, Cub Scout den mother, Little League concessions and candy drive coordinator, Air Force Academy liaison auxiliary leader. She was a faithful member at Downtown Baptist, Corpus Christi, and Westbury Baptist, Houston.
Gwen also had diverse hobbies and personal interests. She treasured morning coffee with dear neighbors. Gwen was quite competitive, enjoying bridge club and, in later years, dominos. Daily she scoured the newspaper for current events and diligently worked Word Jumble and Sudoku.
Of Gwen's many qualities, her ability to adapt to any situation or challenge was enhanced by her love for people. Young children always brought out the sparkle in her eyes. She never seemed to meet a person with whom she could not communicate. She took interest in them personally and what was going on in their life.
Gwen and Warren enjoyed travel in retirement, as well as spending time with children and grandchildren, sharing many wonderful experiences. Warren's health declined, and he passed in 2014, after 69 years marriage. Gwen was "Always" (their favorite song) the one he adored.
In latter years, Gwen moved to Carriage Inn, in Bryan, where as expected, she became an active participant in her community. In her last year, at age 93, she battled back from heart surgery and two serious hospitalizations, each time a bit weakened, but thankful for the fullness of life.
Gwen is preceded in death by her husband, Warren Roquet; parents, Dewey and Mamie Worsham; her brothers, Levis and Billy Worsham; sister Marcelle Smith; and grandson Christopher Goodall.
She is survived by:
Son and daughter-in-law, Paul and Jeanine Roquet
Daughter and son-in-law, Katherine and Mark Wilson
Grandchildren:
Kevin Goodall
Amy Adkison and husband Andrew
Melissa Wood and husband Brian
Kristin Palafox and husband Stephen
Andrea Harper and husband Duce
Brandon Roquet
Eric Roquet
Great-grandchildren:
Ethan Palafox
William Adkison
Emma Adkison
Trevor Adkison
Olivia Palafox
Caleb Adkison
Brayden Wood
Jacob Adkison
Emmy Wood
Pallbearers: Brian Wood, Andrew Adkison, Duce Harper, Stephen Palafox, Kevin Goodall, Brandon Roquet, Eric Roquet, Ethan Palafox (sub. William Adkison)
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/24/2020
Porter Garland “Sonny” Dowling, 86, crossed over the river to rest beneath the shade of the trees on May 22, 2020, at his home in Logansport, Louisiana. He was born February 26, 1934, to Thomas Lawson Dowling and Doris Garland Dowling in Grand Cane, Louisiana.
Funeral services honoring the life of Porter Garland “Sonny” Dowling will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2020 at First Baptist Church Logansport. Officiating the service will be Bro. Ben Brittain with Rev. Nancy Wofford assisting. Interment will follow at O.E. Price Memorial Cemetery in Logansport. A visitation with the family will be held at the church on Sunday, May 24, 2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Logansport, LA. He was a member of Boy Scouts of America and was the first Eagle Scout in Troop 33 in Logansport. He graduated from Logansport High School in 1952 and graduated from Louisiana Tech University in September, 1959 with a B.S. in Forestry.
He joined the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1956 and volunteered for active duty. He served on the USS Lake Champlain and was released from active duty in May 1958 to complete college.
On June 7, 1958, he married the love of his life, Marilyn Lurline Siler. After graduating from Louisiana Tech University he and Marilyn moved to Arkansas where he worked for Dierks Forests in Winthrop. In 1964 they moved to Winnsboro, Louisiana and then to Chatham, Louisiana working for Tremont Lumber Company managing the company’s 4 management districts. In 1970, they moved the family home to Logansport, Louisiana opening Hunt Lumber Company’s office in Logansport and managing their company lands west of the Red River. He formed Dowling Forest Services in 1974 specializing in consulting forestry for private landowners and operating a pulpwood yard shipping to Nekoosa Paper Company in Ashdown, Arkansas. In 1985 he formed Southern Forest Management and continued to manage private timber lands and consulting forestry work.
Porter participated in many community activities including being a Scoutmaster, Member of the Lions Club, Frontier Days Association, volunteer coach of Logansport’s Junior High girls’ basketball team in 1974 and 1975, Police Chief of the Town of Logansport, founding member of West DeSoto EMS, Member of Sons of Confederate Veterans since 1996 serving as the commander of the James Hamilton Beard Camp #1856 for many years. He also served on the board of Waterworks District No. 1 of DeSoto Parish for several years.
He was known by Sonny, Porter, Daddy, Dad and Grandaddy. He was a loyal fan of LHS Tiger football and loved the Louisiana Tech bulldogs. But his greatest joy came from time spent with family and especially his grandchildren and great-grands. They were the light of his life – only outshown by the love of his life – his darling Marilyn.
Left behind to cherish his memory are:
Children:
Laura Lee Stewart and Wes of Onalaska, TX,
Lisa Cummings and Ike of Joaquin, TX
Casey Dowling of Bossier City, LA
David Dowling and Kelsea of Logansport, LA
Grandchildren:
Crystal Smith
Tiffany Brittain and Ben
Cole Henington and Stacy
Bradley Cummings and Kayla
Matthew Henington
Curt Cummings and Rebekah
Christopher Dowling
Caitlyn Moton and Brandon
Nick Dowling
Cullen Dowling
Addison Dowling
Trinity Dowling
Noah Dowling
Great-grandchildren:
Mallory Arbuckle
Zach Smith
Lariat Brittain
Emily Smith
Chandler Brittain
Alyssa Cummings
Bryson Mortenson
Ryland Brittain
Rylee Dowling
Macy Henington
Aisley Cummings
McKennon Cummings
Sam Henington
Tegan Dowling
Saylor Cummings
Grayson Dowling
and one more on the way
Along with a host of friends, cousins, family and members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Marilyn Siler Dowling; son, Lance Cullen Dowling; and his parents.
Honoring Porter as pallbearers will be his grandsons. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be his great-grandsons and members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans.
The family would like to thank Dr. Atilla Balogh, Dr. Paul Cole, the nurses and staff of LA Home Care and Superior Hospice for their care.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, the Sons of Confederate Veteran’s Museum, P.O. Box 59, Columbia, TN 38402 or the Sons of Confederate Veterans Sam Davis Youth Camp, c/o Bruce Cunningham, Director, PO Box 131, Decatur, TX 76234.
Services under the direction of Kilpatrick's Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Logansport, Louisiana.
05/22/2020
Carolyn Hooker Scull, 81, of Tenaha, passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2020, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 24, 2020, at First Baptist Church in Tenaha with Pastor John Whitworth and Bro. Joe Bob Alexander officiating. Interment will be held at Woods Cemetery in Panola County.
Born August 27, 1938, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Carolyn is the daughter of the late Raymond Haywood Henderson and Leatha Stanley Henderson. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Sam Houston State University and a founding member of Zeta Tau Alpha of SHSU. Carolyn was a member of Tenaha Businessmen’s Association, Child Welfare Board, and Tenaha Beautification Community. She also served as Camp Grandma for Royal Family Kid’s Camp. Carolyn was a member of First Baptist Church in Tenaha. She loved spending time with her kids and grandkids.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Sharon Hooker Macioce and husband Rob of Smithville
Shanon Hooker of Spring
Grandchildren:
Cody Wayne Barton and wife Jennifer of Tenaha
Jacob Wayne Killingsworth and wife Vanessa of Springtown
Matthew Macioce of San Antonio
Sarah Elizabeth Ramon and husband Dalton of Tenaha
6 great-grandchildren
Sister, Linda Kellar and husband Bobby of Smithville
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She is joined in death by her husband, John Scull and is preceded in death by her husband, Ben Hooker; parents; and brother, Stan Henderson.
Pallbearers will be Jeff Weesner, Mitch Norton, Stephen Harrell, Ben Dial, Johnny Harrington, and Brack Harrison. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Walker, Keith Martin, Royce Perry, Dave Harrell, and Joe Hollis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church in Tenaha and Woods Cemetery Association.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/22/2020
John Dale Scull, 73, of Tenaha, TX, passed away on Wednesday, May 20th 2020 in Center, TX.
Funeral service will be held May 24th at 2:00 p.m., at First Baptist Church in Tenaha with Pastor John Whitworth and Bro. Joe Bob Alexander officiating. Interment will be held at Scull Family Cemetery in Tenaha.
John was born February 19, 1947 in Corpus Christi, TX to Drue Dale Scull and Clay Esther Scull. He was a member and deacon at First Baptist Church in Tenaha and also served on the board of trustees at East Texas Baptist University for over 20 years.
He is survived by:
His two sons:
John Drue Scull and wife Suzanne Scull of Tenaha
Terry Stephen Scull and wife Alison Scull of Center
Daughter, Dee Ann Scull Starr and husband Greg Starr of Texarkana
Nine grandchildren:
C.D. Scull and his wife Layne Scull of Longview
Alayna and Molly Scull of Tenaha
Caroline, Sarah, and Laura Anne Scull of Center
Daniel, Abi, and Katie Starr of Texarkana
Sisters:
Priscilla Hill of Ft. Worth
Jodie Wright and husband Mike of Friendswood
5 nieces and 1 nephew.
He is joined in death by his wife, Carolyn Hooker Scull and preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Erma Dee Scull.
Pallbearers will be Keith Martin, Frank Kilpatrick, David Anderson, Steve Roan, Carmelo Dominguez, and Scott Moore. Honorary pallbearers will be FBC Deacons, Royce Perry, Jeff Weesner, and Delmer Rochelle.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church in Tenaha and East Texas Baptist University, 1 Tiger Drive, Marshall, TX 75670.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/22/2020
Helen Laverne Cates Fenton, 89, of Center, passed away Friday, May 22, 2020.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 24, 2020, at Good Hope Cemetery in Center with Bro. Harold Hanson presiding.
Born January 12, 1931, in Corrigan, Mrs. Fenton is the daughter of the late Fayette Cates and Mary Grigsby Cates. She and her husband owned and operated Fenton Air Conditioning. Mrs. Fenton loved the Lord and her church, Lone Star Baptist, where she was a member for 57 years.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Spencer Fenton and wife Tonya of Shelbyville
Bill Fenton and wife Judy of Center
Daughters-in-law:
Caryn Fenton of Center
Linda Fenton of Nacogdoches
Grandchildren:
Brian Fenton
Kevin Fenton and fiancé Lexie Summers
Max Fenton
Hannah Galaviz and husband Mike
Daphne LaRock and husband Danny
Cody McDaniel
Mike Fenton
Samantha Miller
Jim Adams and wife Kim
Christy Stanley
Melissa Masi
James Paul Fenton and wife Jessica
David Fenton and wife Carrie
Arin Fenton
Keith Askew and wife Michelle
Faitha Mayfield and husband Josh
Angela Cruse and husband Duane
21 great-grandchildren
And a host of close family friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Roy Fenton; sons, Jimmy Fenton, Jeff Fenton, and Johnny Fenton; daughter-in-law, Jackie Fenton; grandson, Clint Fenton; and brother, Fayette Cates Jr.
Pallbearers will be Mrs. Fenton’s grandsons. Honorary pallbearers will be men of Lone Star Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Lone Star Baptist Church Memorial Fund.
A special thank you to Affinity Hospice for their loving care.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/20/2020
William “Bill” Howard Horton, 89, of Nacogdoches, Texas passed away on May 18, 2020 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Born January 9, 1931 in Timpson, Texas, to the late William Dottra Horton and Ruth Lee (East) Horton. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2020 at Tennessee Presbyterian Church with Bro. Levi Cohorst officiating. Interment will follow at Tennessee Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Timpson, Texas.
Bill was raised in Timpson and Nacogdoches. He joined the Army and served his country in the National Guard. He met the love of his life, Bobbi Wright, and the two were married. They raised their family in Nacogdoches. His passion for music led him to playing a steel guitar in a band most of his life. He was a welder by trade. Playing music, reading, and cooking on his pit were things he enjoyed doing later in life. He loved his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids very much. They brought joy to him.
He is survived by his grandchildren, Jeanne Guinther, Lindsey Vaughan, Caleb Horton, Regan Brock, Autumn Horton, Rebecca Bradford; and several great grandchildren.
Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Bobbi Horton; son, Michael Howard Horton; daughter, Jeanne Martin; and sister, Peggy Ruth Cook.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
05/19/2020
Nedra Mae Wood, 81, of Garrison, Texas passed away on May 16, 2020 in Garrison, Texas. Born November 10, 1938 in Tucsan, Arizona, to the late Howard Wood and Anna (Mustain) Wood. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Nedra was only a small child living during the depression when she lost her mother, then a little while later her father. She was graciously taken in by her aunt and raised just like her own. While she perservered through life, she was a very talented artist, creating many pieces of her own throughout the years. Nedra was a devoted, loyal friend. She loved to be outdoors and was an avid gardener. Her loving spirit and kind soul will be missed.
She is survived by her special friend, Sally Langston; and numerous cousins; and a host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Nedra is preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Anna (Mustain) Wood; aunt, Daisy Petty; cousin, JW Petty; and dear friend Joanna Stephens.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
05/18/2020
Kenneth Wayne Warr, 82, of Lafayette, Louisiana, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2020, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at Short Cemetery in Center.
Mr. Warr was born February 1, 1938, in Center, to Tilmon Warr and Gladys Hughes Warr. He served in the United States Army for two years and went on to earn his Bachelors of Science degree from SFA. Mr. Warr work as a real estate builder for 30+ years. He became a pilot and truly had a love for flying. He also enjoyed vintage cars. Mr. Warr was a member of Providence Baptist Church in Center.
He is survived by:
Brother, Gaylon Warr of Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Niece, Laura Walker of Center
Nephew, Steve Walker of Buna, Texas
Brother-in-law, Gen Walker of Center
Step-granddaughter, Wendy Bridges of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Step-son, Robert Bridges of Lafayette, Louisiana.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Jean Bridges Warr; parents; stepdaughter, Becky Bridges; and sister, Dolores Warr Walker.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/17/2020
Richard E. McGee, 78, of Lufkin died Sunday, May 17, 2020 at his residence.
Graveside services will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in the Jackson Cemetery in Joaquin with Pastor Marty Guidry, Brother Louie Lawson and Brother Willie Wooten officiating.
Mr. McGee was born September 3, 1941 in San Augustine, Texas to the late Jessie (Wagstaff) and John A. McGee.
Formerly of Conroe and Nacogdoches, Mr. McGee had resided in Lufkin since 1989. He owned and operated McGee Painting in Conroe for 25 years and later worked for Slaughter & Son in Lufkin for 18 years. He was an outdoorsman and loved fishing, hunting, and camping. Mr. McGee was a member of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. He loved the Lord and his church and enjoyed working in AWANAS.
Survivors include:
Wife, LaDeva (Hanson) McGee of Lufkin
Children and spouses:
Carla and Dale Hite of Center
Richard Lynn McGee of Center
Alan and Robin Burnett of Lufkin
Dacia and Sid Ballow of Garrison
Grandchildren: Jessica, Wesley, Richard, Russell, Elyssa, Rita, and Stephen
Great-grandchildren: Allison, Riley, Aden, Kayden, and Jacob
Sister and brother-in-law, Kathleen and Lewis Butler of San Augustine
Brother-in-law, James Lane of Nederland
A number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by parents; sisters, Gertrude Lane and Mary Joyce McGee; and brothers, Kenneth McGee and John Calvin McGee.
Pallbearers will be Mr. McGee’s grandsons and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 595 Mt. Carmel Road, Lufkin, Texas 75904.
The family will welcome friends and loved ones at the cemetery from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday morning prior to the services.
Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com. Services are under the direction of Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.
05/16/2020
Mary Bell Anderson, 85, of Center, Texas passed away on May 15, 2020 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Born August 9, 1934, in Joaquin, Texas, Mary is the daughter of the late Wayne Lee Walker and Lottie Mae (Wilson) Walker. A private graveside service will be held with Bro. Bobby Bressman officiating at Pine Ridge Cemetery, Joaquin, Texas.
Mary is survived by:
Her husband, Timothy Anderson
Son, Chester Dawson and wife Linda of Center
Daughter, Vicki Jones and husband Tommy of Carthage
Brother, Paul Wayne Walker and wife Brenda of Stanley, Louisiana
Sister, Lillian Wallace of Center
Grandchildren:
Amanda Battles and husband Sean
Lee Jones and wife Leslie
Lindsay Smith and husband Eric
Jessica Page and husband Cory
Cody Dawson and wife Jessica
10 great-grandchildren
One great-great-grandchild
A host of family and friends that will miss her dearly
She is preceded in death by her first husband, JW Dawson; parents, Wayne Lee and Lottie Mae Walker; son, Charles Wayne Dawson; great-grandson, Tucker David Dawson; brothers, David Walker, Gerald Walker, and Roy Walker.
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.
05/15/2020
Robert Roy Ellis (Bobby) entered into rest on May 12, 2020.
Bobby was born in Houston on January 22, 1967 to Roy Howard Ellis and Pamela Meyer Ellis. Bobby graduated from Pearland High School and obtained degrees in AC/Refrigeration. He was HSE certified in Paint and Body. Bobby’s passion was cars. He loved taking old cars, and making them look brand new again.
If you couldn’t find Bobby in the shop, then you’d probably find him on the lake fishing. He enjoyed being on the water and outdoors. Bobby was an amazing artist. He had a true gift of bringing art to life on a canvas. He loved to challenge you to battle of Dominoes and he frequently won. His laughter was contagious and his smile could light up a room. “Heaven Needed You Most”
Bobby is survived by:
Sons:
Robbie of Vivian Louisiana
Jaxon “Jax” of Houston
Daughter, London Anne of Houston
Sisters:
Sondra Ellis-Fowee and husband Thomas of Houston.
Brandi Ellis-Garza and husband Ray of Center
Nieces and Nephews: Kirra, Michael, Brittany, Tailore, Timothy, Ray, and Brisais
Numerous great nieces and nephews
He is preceded in death by:
Wife: Angie Coutorie Ellis
Parents: Pamela Meyer Frazier and Roy Howard Ellis
Grandparents: Augusta Trinkle Perry and husband Carl and Henry Claude Meyer and wife Virginia
Honorary pallbearers are Tim Yeo, Jimmie Brown, Ray Garza, Thomas Fowee, Michael Neuwirth, Timothy Smith, Ray Neuwirth, and Damon Lopez-Franco.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/15/2020
Laney Parker, 15 of Center, passed away Wednesday, May 13, 2020, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, May 16, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 17, 2020, at First Baptist Church in Center with Bro. Bobby Bressman officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born August 13, 2004, Laney is the daughter of Brad and Erica Parker of Center. Currently a student at Center High School, she is actively involved in cheerleading, softball, and the theatre department. Her hobbies include competition cheer and athletics; however, she never wants to do anything that would hinder her cheer competitions. Laney is a giggle box; she loves to laugh, especially at her parents. Everyone around her loves making TikTok videos, which make her laugh even more. You can often find Laney in the kitchen baking cakes and brownies. Above all, she loves being with her family and friends. She attends First Baptist Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Parents, Brad and Erica Parker of Center
Sister, Lexi Parker of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Grandparents:
Glenda Hooper of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Joe and Cindy Welch of Center
Great-grandparents:
Tommy and Gracie Stockstill of Center
Joy Hooper of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Many extended family members and a host of friends.
She is preceded in death by her cousin, Blake Smith; great-uncle, T.J. Stockstill; grandfather, Curtis Hooper; great-grandfathers, George Hooper and Vernon Willis; great-grandmother, Ann Willis.
Pallbearers will be Jesse Hughes, Steven Hennigan, Jason Williford, Landon Vidrine, Will Lawson, Rick Kirkley, and Daniel Atchison. Honorary pallbearers will be Greg Hart, Brian Butler, Corey Causey, and Blake Butler.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/15/2020
Elmiria Ingram, 87, of Carthage, TX, departed her dear life on Sunday May 10, 2020. She was born to Charles and Gladys (Byrd) Ingram on October 31, 1932.
A viewing will be Friday, May 15, 2020, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Allen Dave Funeral Home and Cremation, Carthage, TX.
Graveside Services will be Saturday, May 16, 2020 at 11 a.m., at Shady Grove Cemetery in the Gary, TX.
She leaves to cherish her memories:
Daughters:
Louella (Edgar) Sanders of Center
Linda Ingram Johnson of Carthage
Alice (Howard) Lewis of Carthage
Youlandia Ingram of Dallas
Sons:
James (Yvonne) Ingram of Longview
Frank (Rachel) Ingram of Logansport
Larry (Jennifer) Ingram of Center
Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren
Brother, Ulyssie (Willie Mae) Ingram of Center
She was preceded in death by one daughter, Patricia Ingram, her parents, one sister and four brothers.
Services are under the direction of Allen Dave Funeral Home, Carthage, Texas.
05/15/2020
James Eugene Hicks passed away peacefully and unexpectedly at the age of 50 on Tuesday, May 12, 2020.
“Jim” was born on June 8, 1969 in Fremont, California to Charlotte Darlene and William Frank Hicks. He attended school in Tyler, Texas and Bakersfield, California.
Jim's passions included family, friends, music and cooking from his soul. He will be missed by many, and remembered for his kind smile, hearty laugh, and tremendous heart.
Jim is survived by:
His wife, Erica Hicks of Center and Tyler
His son, Nathaniel Hicks and wife Chelsea of Tyler
His Brothers:
Dale Jennings and wife Jani of Bellevue, NE
Dan Jennings and wife Susan of Morgan Hil, CA
Nephew, Shawn Elliott and wife Leah of Bakersfield, CA
Nephew, Daniel Jennings and wife Kate of Fairview Heights, IL
Nephew, Matt Jennings of Bakersfield, CA
Niece, Samantha Jennings of San Diego, CA
Nephews, Mike Jennings and Adam Jennings of San Jose, CA
Uncle, Bob Jones of O'Neals, CA
Aunt, Kathy Pasillas of Los Banos, CA
And many cousins and close friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Frank Hicks and Mother, Charlotte Darlene Hicks.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Hilliard Funeral Home in Van, TX, and there will be a celebration of his life at a later date.
05/12/2020
Joseph Lee Williams passed away unexpectedly at the age of 44 on Friday, May 8, 2020.
“Joey” was born on April 6, 1976 in Longview, Texas to Heidi Denby Bryan and Joe Neil Williams. He attended school in Queen City, Texas where he was better known to his friends as “Willie”.
Joey had a passion for fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors, which he was teaching to his grands. “Papa” will be greatly missed by Jaylen and Jayda Kiger, Isabella Shorter, Cassiel and Sydnei Lee.
Joey is survived by:
His wife, Erin Williams of Center
His mother, Heidi Denby Bryan and husband Shane of San Augustine
Brother, Mickey Alan Williams
Nephew, Alan Williams of Maud
He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Neil Williams; sister, Katrina Sims; grandparents, Weldon and Ruth Denby, Hardy Williams and Josephine Clayton.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Hanner Funeral Service and there will be a memorial service at a later date.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to your local Alcoholics Anonymous organization.
Online guest registry is available at www.hannerfuneralservice.com.
05/12/2020
Joan Beard passed away May 10, 2020 in Garrison, Texas. She was born in Nacogdoches County to Bert and Lena McDuffie.
She leaves behind:
Sons:
Mitch of Whitehouse
Kerry and wife, Terry of Garrison
Clay and wife, Tammy of Corsicana
Brother, Fred McDuffie and wife, Carolyn of Jasper
Granddaughters:
Caty Beard
Mallory and Maggie Beard
Shelby Richey
Sarah Beard
Grandsons, Micah and Mason Beard
Nephew, Michael McDuffie
Niece, Kimberly Sanchez.
She is preceded in death by her parents and one granddaughter, Kristian Beard.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the Garrison Nursing Home and Rehab Center and to Accolade Hospice.
A private graveside service will be held at Cold Springs Cemetery Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at 2pm. Pastor Rick Anderson officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Garrison United Methodist church or Garrison Nursing Home and Rehab Center.
The family is being served by Garrison Funeral Home in Garrison. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.garrisonfh.net.
05/11/2020
Tommy Harrison, 73, a lifelong resident of Center, passed away Monday, May 11, 2020, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2020, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.
Mr. Harrison was born August 4, 1946, in Center, to E.V. Harrison and Modell Smith Harrison. He retired from the City of Center. Mr. Harrison was a member of First Baptist Church in Center.
He is survived by his special friends, Casey and Colette Metcalf.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jerry Harrison.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/09/2020
Edgar Robert Billingsley, 94, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on May 9, 2020 in Lufkin, Texas. He was born on December 8, 1925 in Shelby County to Travis Lamar Billingsley and Oris Martha Ramsey Billingsley. Funeral Service will be at 3:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2020 at Taylor Funeral Home with Bro. Ronnie Sowell officiating. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Timpson.
A visitation will be held prior to service time from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2020 at Taylor Funeral Home.
Ed grew up in the Shady Grove Community of Timpson and graduated with the THS Class of 1943. In 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Ed valiantly served his country during WWII where he was stationed on a naval carrier that was attacked by a Japanese suicide mission. He married the love of his life, Lou Nell Jackson on August 7, 1949 and the two built a beautiful life together over the next 70 years. Ed worked for Diamond Shamrock before retiring in 1981 and returning to East Texas with his family. After he built his underground house in the park, he wanted to make the area more suitable and safe for people to visit. He began cleaning and clearing and worked tirelessly until it became a beautiful landscape for families to come. In his earlier years, he loved cruising the town on his Harley. Daddy B, as he was known by his children and grandchildren, was an avid golfer, but most days you could find him outside gardening or spending countless hours making precious memories with his family. He was a member of Good Hope Baptist Church.
Ed is survived by:
His beloved wife of almost 71 years, Lou Nell Billingsley
Son, Michael Billingsley and wife, Betty
Daughters:
Kathy Askins and husband, Billy
Tina Ornelas and husband, Rick
Sister, Elaine Amos
Seven grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren and soon to be one great-great-grandchild
He is preceded in death by his parents, Travis and Oris Ramsey; son, William “Bill” Joe Billingsley and sister, Edith Cross.
Pallbearers will be Ricky Askins, Randy Askins, Chris Ornelas, Justin King, Ethan Askins, Brian King, Jarrod Campbell and Brandon Mince.
The family is being served by Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.taylorfh.net.
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