Obituaries
10/31/2023
Grant Junior Rector, 78 of Center, Texas, died at his home in Center on October 28, 2023. He was born to the late Leon Rector and Algae Garrett Rector in Center, Texas on November 8, 1944.
Grant is survived by:
Daughters:
Vickie Brooks of Spring, Texas
Beneka Bennett of Center
Son, Michael Barnes of Houston, Texas
Three grandchildren and numerous other relatives and friends.
Funeral services for Mr. Grant Junior Rector will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 4 at the St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church located at 617 Hopkins Street in Center, Pastor Freddie Wilson presiding. Visitation and viewing will be prior to the service from 10am – 11am at St. Paul. Interment is at Westview Cemetery in Center, Texas 75935.
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.
10/31/2023
Nell Polley, 88, of Center, passed away Sunday, October 29, 2023, in Lufkin.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bro. Joel McMahon will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born November 14, 1934, in the Patroon Community of Shelby County, Nell is the daughter of Ivey Alexander and Maureen Sims Alexander.
A strong willed, faith-filled lady, Nell loved her family, friends, and Church. Nell shared good humor and a big smile with everyone she met. She could light up a room and always enjoyed telling a good joke. While at home, you could find Nell riding in her golf cart, working in the yard, tending to her dogs and beautiful flowers. She also enjoyed sitting on her back porch drinking tea while watching the birds and deer. She enjoyed going shopping and getting her nails done with her best friend Sue Russell and her daughter Charlotte.
Nell adored time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved the Christmas season and would often begin shopping and decorating months in advance. Chevy Chase’s Christmas Vacation was her favorite movie and she loved watching it with family over and over again every Christmas.
Nell was a lifelong member of The First United Methodist Church where she served on various committees. In her early years she enjoyed going fishing and hunting with O.H. at the camp house and traveling to the valley to visit family.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Charlotte Sparks and husband H.B.
Son, Mike Polley and wife Raj
Grandchildren:
Ashley Golden and husband D.D.
Hillary McElroy and husband Collin
Radha Polley
Nikhil Polley
Anjali Polley
Great-grandchildren:
Gavin Golden
Mason Golden
Connor McElroy
Tucker McElroy
Olivia Jamie McElroy
Beloved dogs, Bo and Bear
Preceded in death by husband, O.H. Polley; parents, Ivey Alexander and Maureen Sims Alexander; sister, Nedra Tillman; and brothers, Waymon Alexander, James Alexander, and Jack Alexander.
Pallbearers will be Collin McElroy, D.D. Golden, Nikhil Polley, Gavin Golden, Robert Hughes III, and Mark Madeley.
A special thank you to caregivers, Francis Ann Jeans, Lee Posados, and Sheila McCollister.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/27/2023
Junior Lee Williams, 74 of Joaquin, passed away Sunday night, October 22, 2023 in Logansport, Louisiana. He was born in Joaquin (Ashton Hills) on April 13, 1949 to the late Andrew Lee Williams and Accie Williams. He grew up in Ashton Hill area. Junior graduated from Joaquin High School. Junior accepted Christ at an early age.
Funeral service is at 11am Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church, Center, Texas. Visitation is 10am until 6pm on Friday, October 27, 2023 at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center, Texas. Interment is at Carroll Cemetery, Shelbyville, Texas with Rev. James Earl Williams.
He married Josephine Dickerson and to this union four children was born. He was drafted into the United States Army, after his honorable discharge, he moved his family to Houston, Texas. He resided in Houston, Texas. He resided in Houston, Texas with his wife Josephine Williams and children.
Junior and his brothers started a business, “Williams Tree Services,” which he operated for over forty years.
He was a dedicated son, father, husband, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.
He is preceded in death by father, Andrew Lee Williams; mother, Accie Williams; sons, Tyson Price and Bobby Williams; and ten siblings.
He leaves to cherish his memories:
Daughters:
LaSonya Lee
Kenyatta Williams
Farah Williams
Michelle Williams
Sons:
Christopher Williams
Andrew Lee Williams, Jr.
Brother, Robert A. Williams
Sister, Bertha Mae Jack
21 Grandchildren
Six Great-Grandchildren
One Great-Great-Grandchild
Special friend, Ruth Purdue
Host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
10/27/2023
Shirley Ruth Carter, 89, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on October 25, 2023, in Center, Texas. She was born on June 29, 1934, in Bebe, Texas, to the late Jesse Allen and Evelyn Ruth (McGinty) Allen.
Graveside service will be held at 11AM on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Shelbyville Cemetery, Shelbyville, Texas.
Shirley Ruth grew up in Gonzales County. She graduated from high school and married the love of her life, Bruce Carter, and the two spent many wonderful years together before his passing in 1986.They raised three girls. Shirley Ruth loved listening to music. She enjoyed reading and spending precious time with her grandchildren. Shirley Ruth loved the Lord and served him throughout the years. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Shelbyville.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Pegie Diane Whitaker of Austin, Texas
Cathy Carter Smith of Shelbyville, Texas
Kayla Carter Bartle and husband David of Whitehouse, Texas
Grandchildren:
Jason Patterson
Sean Patterson
Kris Maxwell
James “Bo” Smith and wife Chantel
Michael Bartle and wife Whitney
Joseph Bartle
Amanda Bartle Tackett and husband Steven Tackett
Caitlan Bartle
Cassidy Bartle
Great-grandchildren:
Cheyene Patterson
Dustin Patterson
Tiffany Patterson
Marshall Wayne Patterson
Triston Smith
Karista Smith
Rilynn Smith
Hayden Matthews
Caylen Matthews
Preston Tackett
Joe Bartle
Eli Bartle
Memphis Bartle
Niece and nephews:
Shirlene Darnold and husband Victor
Terry Allen and wife Jan
Michael Allen
Cal “Kip” Allen and wife Debbie
Great-niece and great-nephew:
Victor Darnold Jr. and wife Candice
Shirley Ruth is preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Carter; parents, Jesse and Evelyn Allen; brother, J.T. “Bubba” Allen Jr.; sister, Marilyn Allen; brother-in-law, Calvin Allen; sister-in-law, Iris Allen; and great-grandson, David Michael Patteron.
In lieu of flowers, family requests donations in loving memory of Mrs. Carter be made to Shelbyville Cemetery, P.O. Box 453, Shelbyville, Texas 75973.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/27/2023
Patsy Barnes Parmer, 84, of Tenaha, Texas, passed away on October 26, 2023, in Center, Texas. She was born on December 19, 1938, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to the late Lester Barnes and Flaudia (Permenter) Rogers.
Graveside service will be held at 2PM on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Oaklawn Memorial Park, Center, Texas, with Bro. Steve Noble officiating.
Patsy was born in Shreveport, Louisiana. She graduated high school and married her best friend, Billy Lee Parmer. They made their home in Shelby County. Together they raised two sons, Kyle and Dirk. The two spent over 29 years together before his passing. She enjoyed life, spending time family especially the grandchildren.
She is survived by:
Sons:
Kyle Parmer and wife Sara
Dirk Parmer
Grandchildren:
Addison Deanna Parmer
Grace Marie Parmer
Michael Lee Parmer
Katherine Mercy Parmer
Samuel Joseph Parmer
Patsy is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Parmer; father, Lester Barnes; mother, Flaudia Rogers; and step-father, Neal Rogers.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/27/2023
Corbet Jones, age 73, of Broaddus, Texas, passed away Monday, Oct. 23, 2023. He was born July 22, 1950, in Shelby County, Texas, and was a lifelong area resident. He was a logger and U.S. Army veteran.
He is survived by:
Wife of 50 years, Margie Bryan Jones
Sons:
Shane Bryan and wife Kimberly
Chad Jones and wife Wendy
Grandsons:
Matthew Bryan
Carson Jones
Connor Jones
Granddaughter, Ashlyn Bryan
Brothers:
Kenneth Jones and wife Emma
Isaac Jones and wife Julie
Sister, Charlene Willey and husband Nathaniel
Sisters-in-law:
Jeannie Williams and husband Jimmy
Gloria Purvis
Several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Reba Jones; brother, Robert Jones; grandparents, Nick and Mary Jones and Isaac Dewey and Emmer Eddins; parents-in-law, Marion and Helen Bryan; and a brother-in-law, Jerry Purvis.
A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Trinity Baptist Church, located at 310 FM 83 East in Broaddus, Texas, with Bro. Don Lofton and Bro. Gerald W. Sowell officiating. VFW and American Legion members will present military honors.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
10/25/2023
Pamela Jeanette Moore Garrett, age 59, of San Augustine, Texas, departed this physical life on October 20, 2023, at the Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Texas. She was born December 20, 1963.
Funeral Service Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 11am located at Mt. Horeb Baptist Church 426 CR 102, Center, TX 75935 in the Bland Lake Community. Interment in the Haley Bush Cemetery. Pastor Bradley Hale, Officiating
Survived by:
Children:
Bria Simone Muriel (Jonathan) of Forney, TX
Brian Gary Garrett of Garland, TX
Granddaughter, Emerie Elise Muriel
Siblings:
Mary Kennedy Green of Dallas, TX
Frederick Moore (Mary) of Nacogdoches, TX
Barbara Moore Burrell (Antoine) of Houston, TX
Bobby Lewis Jones of Nacogdoches, TX
Former Spouse, Gary Garrett of Rockwall, TX.
As well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made to the:
Hospice of East Texas 4111 University Blvd, Tyler, Texas 75701.
www.hospiceofeasttexas.org/
Services under the direction of Garner and Son Mortuary.
10/24/2023
Frances Jean Denby, 89, of Huntington, will have funeral services Friday, October 27, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Highway Missionary Baptist Church in Huntington with Bro. Lamar Denby and James Denby officiating. A graveside service will be held at West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelby County at 2:00 p.m.
Mrs. Denby was born on September 18, 1934, in Hemphill, Texas, to the late Rex Carl White and Atrell Lilly (Wright) White, and died Monday, October 23, 2023, in Huntington.
Mrs. Denby was a member of Highway Missionary Baptist Church in Huntington. She worked alongside her husband in his business and was also a dedicated Sunday School teacher, president of the Ladies Auxiliary, and VBS Director of the West Hamilton Baptist Church. Mrs. Denby was a wonderful cook and loved to cook and bake cakes for family reunions and other family events. She enjoyed gardening, especially tending to her flower beds. Mrs. Denby was a great seamstress and a master of crochet. Mrs. Denby was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Above all, she loved the Lord, her family, and her church. Everyone was welcomed in Mrs. Denby’s home, and she was well loved by her family, church family, and the community.
Mrs. Denby is survived by:
Son, Lamar Denby, Jr. and wife Roxanne of Huntington
Son, James Denby and wife Debbie of Huntington
Daughter, Shelia Kirkland and husband Dale of Huntington
Son, Michael Denby and wife Florence of the Goober Hill Community
Grandchildren:
JoAnna Sheffield
Daniel Denby
Robert Denby
Jason Denby
J.R. Gallier
James Caleb Denby
James Lamar Denby
Lacie White
Alicia Ebarb
Ashley Jowell
Nicholas Denby
Michael Ryan Denby
Cristal Eberlan
Christina Adaway
Todd Boudreaux
27 great-grandchildren
3 great-great-grandchildren
Sisters:
Mary Lou Adams
Betty Ann McGowan
Carlyon Joyce Erwin
Jane Hill
Daughter-in-law, Brenda Denby
Along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Henry Lamar Denby, Sr.,; daughter, Patricia Ann Wade; son, Clarence Gene Denby; great-granddaughter, Whitley Kate Jowell; and brothers, Billy Joe White, Rex “Dink” White, Charlie White, and Fred White.
Pallbearers will be James Caleb Denby, Robert Denby, J.R. Gallier, Daniel Denby, James Lamar Denby, and Michael Ryan Denby.
Honorary pallbearers will be Hunter Elliott, Tanner Elliott, Micha Denby, Aaron Denby, Dailon Miller, and Nicholas Denby.
Special memorials may be made to Highway Missionary Baptist Church Building Fund, 212 S. Main St., Huntington, Texas 75949.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Huntington Health and Rehab and to Hospice in the Pines.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, October 26, 2023, at Highway Missionary Baptist Church in Huntington.
Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.
10/24/2023
Mary Aliece Mobley, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the age of 85 in Houston, Texas. Best known by her friends and family as Aliece, she was born October 28, 1937, in Joaquin, Texas as the eldest child of La Verne Meador English and William Turner English.
Aliece leaves to mourn her:
Surviving sons:
Michael Ray Mobley
Daniel Scott Mobley
A host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly and who cherished her in turn.
The bright smile and easy laugh she shared so freely will be deeply missed.
She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings Jesse English and Collene Weber, and two of her sons - Larry Wayne Mobley and Thomas Alton Mobley.
Aliece loved to cook for family and friends, so much so she began curating recipes and dishes into her own personal cookbook. These recipes will continue to be passed down to make snacks, full meals, and desserts for everything from ordinary dinners to holiday celebrations. Her specialty was Red Velvet Cake, frequently served at birthday parties and family gatherings.
Fond of traveling with family and close friends, two of Aliece’s favorite places to visit were Branson, Missouri for its country music shows and Lake Charles, Louisiana to challenge the one-armed bandit at the slot machines. She was often seen with a book in hand as she was an avid reader and lover of mystery novels.
In her early career, Aliece worked as an office manager with the Downtown Houston YMCA. Over the next twenty-five years, she would apply her skills towards First City National Bank, serving as office manager for their large corporate customers. Not yet ready for retirement, Aliece moved on to San Jacinto College North to provide her expertise as an administrative assistant, staying in their employ for over fifteen years before retiring in 2011.
A special thank you to the staff of Houston HCA Northwest Hospital and its in-patient rehabilitation facilities, Fall Creek Nursing Home, Brookdale Willowbrook Skilled Nursing, Brookdale Cypress Station Senior Living, and Eickenhorst Funeral Services for their comfort and care the previous months and to our friends for their support through difficult times.
10/24/2023
Jean L. Lee, 76, of Center, passed away Monday, October 16, 2023, in Tyler.
Memorial graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., November 25, 2023, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born August 29, 1947, Jean is the daughter of Florene Mena and Eugene Lanning.
She is survived by:
Children:
Sharon Bock and husband Richard
James Lee Jr. and wife Angela
Ricky Lee and wife Lorinda
Teresa Fletcher and husband Eddie
Denise McCauley
Grandchildren:
Kim Sheton and husband Jacob
Donald Lee and wife Jessica
Amber Lout and husband Sawyer
Ricky Lee Jr. and wife Whitnee
Shanan Lee
Brandon Lee and wife Anna
Yolanda Alcudia and husband Aldemir
Jonathan Sullivan and wife Erichica
Christian Lee
Charity Lee
Ethan Lee
Brayden Lee
Trinity Lee
Bryson Lee
Easton Lee
Coden Lee
MaKenna Lee
Peter Bock
Michael Bock
Devin McCauley
Great-grandchildren:
Shyanne Lee
Erica Lee
Allissa Lee
Kyleigh Lee
Bobby Hendricks III
Nevaeh Lee
Colton Lee
Aidan Sullivan
Jerry Sullivan
Leah Sullivan
Alexis Lout
Katelyn Lout
Lane Lout
Tristan Lee
Tate Lee
Tanner Lee
Grayson Lee
Audrey Lee
Zoey Robinson
Brian Trejo
Jazmin Trejo
Juliana Trejo
Julia Alcudia
Adrian Alcudia
Kris Shelton
Branson Sheton
Khloe Bock
Emma Bock
Great-great-grandchildren:
Asher James Hendricks
Isaiah James Trejo
Sister, Theresa and husband Martin
Preceded in death by husband, James Lee Sr.; parents, Florene Mena and Eugene Lanning; sisters, Lucille and Betty Barnes; brother, Eugene Lanning Jr.; and grandchildren, Kaley Lee and Salazar Sullivan.
10/24/2023
Selma Faye (Killen) Bush, 83, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on October 22, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. She was born on August 23, 1940, in McClelland, Texas, to the late George Franklin Killen and Mary Lee (Lovell) Killen.
Funeral services will be held at 2PM on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Chris Collins officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.
Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 1PM at Mangum Funeral Home.
Selma was born and raised in Shelby County. She graduated from Shelbyville High School. She married the love of her life, Joe Parrish Bush, in 1957, and the two shared many wonderful years together before his passing in 2018. They raised two children, Stevie and Cheryl. Selma was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with her family and the grandchildren. She also enjoyed making floral arrangements. Selma loved to cook and go to church when she was well. Although she was not able to go to church she watched as many church services on television as she could. She was a woman that loved the Lord and was longing for the time she could go be with him and her family.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Cheryl Kaul and husband Ralf
Grandchildren,
Brittany Smith and Brian Cobb, Brandi Smith
Great-grandchildren,
Alexxis Allender
Halle Adams
Selma is preceded in death by her husband, Joe Bush; son, Stevie Bush; parents, George and Mary Killen; grandfather and grandmother Killen; grandfather and grandmother Lovell; brother, Charlie Killen; sisters, Linda Killen, Glenda Killen, and Jerry Killen.
Pallbearers serving will be Ralf Kaul, Brian Cobb, Marlin Shofner Jr., Doug Gay, David Myers, Frankie Fitzgerald, and James Alvis.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all at Harbor Hospice for the love and compassionate care received. Nurse Chelsea extended exceptional care during this difficult time.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/21/2023
Katy Chambers passed away Saturday, October 21, 2023, at her residence at the age of 92 years, 3 months, 26 days.
She was born June 25, 1931, in San Augustine County, Texas, to parents Wylie Thornton and Maggie (Wells) Thornton and had been a lifelong resident of the area. She was a homemaker and dedicated member of Liberty Hill Baptist Church.
Her survivors include:
Children:
Donna Jones and Rusty Jones of Fred, Texas
Rhonda Thompson and Michael Riggins of Shelby County
Lane Chambers and wife Betty of Shelby County
Grandchildren:
Crystal Allen and husband Chad
Clint Chambers and wife Brandy
Heath Jones and Rebecca Wood
Brad Jones
Nicole Thompson and Jimmie Carter
Jessica Steptoe and husband Aaron
11 great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Viron B. Chambers; an infant son, Wylie Viron Chambers; a grandson, Lynn Benefield; her parents, Wylie and Maggie Thornton; and 11 siblings.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Monday, October 23, 2023, at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia in San Augustine, Texas.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon Monday, October 23, 2023, at the Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel with Pastor Frank Holrath officiating. Committal service and interment will follow at Liberty Hill Memorial Garden.
Pallbearers: Clint Chambers, Chad Allen, Heath Jones, Brad Jones, Jimmie Carter, and Aaron Steptoe.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFuneralHome.com for memories and condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
10/20/2023
Sherry Ann Yarborough Ward, 82, of Center passed away October 19, 2023, at home surrounded by her family.
Funeral service will be held at 2pm on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at Mangum Funeral Home with Brother LD Eddins officiating. Interment will be at Waterman Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at noon.
Sherry was born on March 30, 1941 in Shelby County to Charles Chester Yarborough and Creva Mae Abbott Yarborough. Sherry graduated from Center High School in 1958. That fall she enrolled at Stephen F. Austin and while working the front desk at the Fredonia Hotel, Sherry met Jimmy Ward, a dark- haired handsome cowboy from Tyler. After a brief courtship, they married on December 21, 1958.
Sherry and Jimmy made their home in Nacogdoches where their son Jason was born. A few years later they moved to the Waterman Community in Shelby County where their son John was born and several years later, their daughter Gina. They raised their children along with countless head of livestock and horses as Jimmy was a rancher and cattle buyer. Sherry and Jimmy had the opportunity of traveling to Europe, Alaska and British Columbia and even living at their place in Paonia, Colorado for a while.
After her boys were grown and Gina was starting school, Sherry immersed herself in her first love, art! She became a very accomplished artist and owned and operated Downtown Arts and Sherry Ward Fine Arts Studio for many years on the brick streets of Nacogdoches. Sherry’s work is displayed in many homes and museums throughout the US and she is a signature member of National Watercolor Society. She was a long- time member and often officer of Nacogdoches Art League and SFA Friends of the Arts. Along with several local artists she started the Gallery Walk in the 1980’s that continues to this day. Sherry was the driving force in establishing the permanent art exhibit at the CVB in Nacogdoches, depicting life in the Piney Woods. Sherry was able to convince many local artists the importance of donating their works for future generations to enjoy.
She was also an avid gardener. Many of her paintings over the years were florals, which showcased her love of gardening inherited from her mother.
Sherry gave her life to the Lord as a teenager and continued that walk until her passing. Sherry was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Survived by:
Husband, Jimmy Ward
Sons:
Jason Ward and wife Rhonda of Nacogdoches
John Ward and wife Bridgette of Center
Daughter, Gina Castro and husband Sergio of Hurst, TX.
Grandchildren:
Chad Ward
Landry Ward
Brady Ward
Colton Ward
Dillon Ward
Krista Collum Warren
Danbert Collum
Ten great-grandchildren:
Hayden
Connor
Slone
John Ray
Ronan
Slate
Darcy
Waverly
Kyla
Mason
She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Charles Yarborough, sisters Charlotte Bailey, Chestine Yarborough and Johnnie Sue Yarborough.
Pallbearers will be Jason Ward, John Ward, Sergio Castro, Chad Ward, Brady Ward, and Dillon Ward.
The family would like to recognize and give heartfelt thanks to her care givers, especially Vicky Sneed. They made it possible for her to stay comfortably in her home.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements
10/20/2023
Mike Fodge, 75, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on October 18, 2023, in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was born on September 14, 1948, in Sikeston, Missouri, to the late Charles Edward and Faith Ann (McCambell) Fodge. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas with Bro. Carroll Jones officiating. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:00 to 3:00 pm on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Taylor Funeral Home in Timpson, Texas.
Mike was born and raised in Sikeston, Missouri. He met the love of his life, Kay Greene, and the two were married on December 16, 1967. They were married for 51 years at the time of her passing in 2019.
Mike was a minister for 39 years. He pastored many churches, including Corinth Baptist, West Hamilton Baptist, and Fellowship Baptist. Mike absolutely adored his church family and was so grateful for their care for him. He enjoyed keeping his mind busy by doing puzzles, tinkering, and building models. Mike was super smart and knew so much trivia. He loved the pursuit of knowledge. He loved his family and found pleasure in spending time with them. Mike was devout in his faith and made sure his family knew the love of Jesus through his walk through life.
Mike is survived by:
Daughters:
Kalin Fodge
Sheila Harris and husband, DJ
Cheryl Fodge
Son, Charles Michael Glenn Fodge
Grandson, David Charles Harris
Sister, Patty Parker
Sister-in-law, Belinda Gay Morrow
Along with many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Edward and Faith Ann (McCambell) Fodge; and his loving wife, Kay Fodge.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
10/19/2023
Herbert Leon Wyatt, 65 of Center, passed away on October 10, 2023. He was born on April 11, 1958 to the proud parents Joe Nathan Wyatt and Shirley Jean Jackson.
Funeral service is 1pm Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Bright Morning Star Baptist Church, 623 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas 75935 with Pastor Anthony Jackson officiating and Pastor James E. Wyatt as Eulogist.
Herbert attended Center High School graduating in 1977 then proceeded to work in Center Plywood in 1978 for 19 years. He worked in Production and Sanitation for several years. He loved sports, played basketball, ran track, and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan (How about them Cowboys!)
He married the love of his life Lenola Bolton in 1980 and within this union two sons were born, Dwayne Lamont Wyatt and Derrick Lamarc Wyatt, and stepdaughter Deshun Gregory of Nacogdoches. He united at an early age with Bright Morning Star Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend W.J. Star.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joe Nathan Wyatt; sister, Willie Mae Wyatt; aunt, Gloria Dean Reed; and grandparents.
His memories are cherished by:
Mother, Shirley Jean Singleton
Sons:
Dwayne Wyatt
Derrick Wyatt
Stepdaughter, Deshun Gregory
Sisters:
Jettie Evelyn Wortham (A.C.)
Jannette Carol Wyatt
Willie Mae Elizabeth Wyatt
Brothers:
Rev. James Edwards Wyatt (Simone)
Nathan Cornelius Wyatt
Lawrence Fitzgerald Johnson (Fish)
Uncle, Charlie Jackson, Jr.
Aunts:
Josephine Moore
Ethel Lee Bee
A host of cousins, friends, and other relatives.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
10/19/2023
Deborah J Jones went to be with the Lord on October 11, 2023.
Debbie was born on August 6th, 1952 in Corpus Christi, Tx to Johnny Harvey. She retired from Holly Farms and Tyson Foods, where she worked hard for 30+ years.
She is preceded in death by her mother, her grandmother, Myrtle Brown, her daughter Jacqueline m Gibbs, her brothers, Ronald, Douglas, and Rodney.
She leaves behind:
Son, Timothy Murphy (Constance)
Daughter, Tammie Smith
Grandchildren:
Laurel
Tristan
Nickolas
Mitchell
Skyler
Great-grandchild, Danyon
Sister Laura Kann (Cuero, Tx)
Brothers:
Richard Brown (Cuero, Tx)
Caleb Harvey (Paula) of Center, Tx
Mark Harvey (Sandra) of Great Falls Mountains of Montana
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She will be truly missed by her family and friends. A memorial will follow at a later date.
10/19/2023
Brent Warren Dance, 51, of Center, Texas, passed away on October 16, 2023. He was born on September 13, 1972, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Sammy Dance and Barbara (Warren) Dance.
A funeral service will be held at 2PM on Friday, October 20, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas, with Rev. Malcolm Monroe officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
A visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 1PM at Mangum Funeral Home.
Brent graduated from Center High School in 1991. He then attended Texas Tech University majoring in Business Administration and Finance. He graduated in 1995 with Cum Laude honors.
Brent worked at Shelby Savings Bank as a loan officer from 1995 until 1997 when he went into the ice and water distribution business. He built a new plant on Louisiana Street and the company known as Artic Ice and Clear Springs delivered ice and water to Shelby and its surrounding counties for the next 15 years. After selling Artic Ice and Clear Springs, Brent began working as a registered landman. He enjoyed the research and traveling throughout the East Texas area to lease minerals.
Brent was a member of the National Association of Registered Landmen, several organizations related to flying, and was a charter member of Pineywoods Flyers.
Brent was a lifelong member of the First Methodist Church, Center.
He is survived by:
Parents, Sammy and Barbara Dance
Son, Raymond Edward Dance
Brothers:
Spence Dance and wife Monica
Sammy Jefferson Dance and wife Judith
Nieces and Nephews:
Sierra Dance
Ashley Dance
Connor Dance
Aunts and Uncles:
Connie Mettauer and husband Joe Bill
Kathy Ross Warren
Numerous cousins and friends.
Brent is preceded in death by his grandparents, Carlton and Hulon Dance, Dr. and Mrs. Spencer Warren; uncles, William Spencer Warren, Thomas Charles Warren; and aunt, Donna Warren Holt.
Pallbearers serving will be Jeremy Eells, Joel Wagnon, O’Neal Jones, Greg George, Darin Borders, and Tristan Samford.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
10/19/2023
James Robert Holmes also known as Jim and Bobby to his family and friends, 78, of Houston, Texas, passed away on October 13, 2023. He was born on November 11, 1944, in Nacogdoches, Texas. Jim was a kind and loving man with an incredibly witty sense of humor. He had a strong work ethic and never spoke an unkind word about others. He was accepting of all people and had a deep love for his family.
Jim is survived by:
Wife of 36 years, Marty Quick Holmes
Daughters:
Robin "Mandy" Holmes Brock (Tommy Brock)
Ashley Holmes McDonald (Mace McDonald)
Stepdaugthers:
Sheryl Quick Duport (Paul Duport)
Jennifer Quick Mills (Randy Mills)
Adored grandchildren who lovingly knew him by Paps/Pappy:
Alex, Drew and Jack Brock
Devin and Knox McDonald
Makai and Shae Duport
Tevai Minvielle
Akela and Nash Mills
He was a beloved brother to Janie Rains (Rex Rains) and Howard Holmes (Dee Holmes).
Jim also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Leonard and Corine Akridge Holmes of Center, Texas.
After graduating from San Augustine High School in 1962, Jim went on to pursue higher education graduating Panola College with an Associate of Science degree in May 1965. He served as a Medical Laboratory Specialist in the Army from 1965 to 1971, both on active duty and in the Reserve until his honorable discharge in December 1971. For his service, Jim received the National Defense Service Medal. Continuing his education, he received a Bachelor of Science degree in August 1974 from National Christian University. In February 1975 Jim was awarded his Medical Technologist Registration from the American Society of Clinical Pathologists Board of Registry.
He devoted his career to serving as the Director of Laboratory Services at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas, retiring after an exceptional 36 years of unwavering dedication and commitment. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he also made significant contributions as a member of the Board of Directors for Memorial Hermann Credit Union. Furthermore, he showcased his passion for sports and teamwork as the pitcher for the Memorial Hermann Softball Team.
In his free time, he found joy in watching the Houston Texans and Astros. He delighted in engaging in friendly competitions, playing games such as washers, cornhole and horseshoes with family and friends. He loved camping, traveling, and spending quality time with his wife, daughters, and grandchildren. He fondly remembered the camping trips he took with his wife and children. Jim was an incredible marksman with a rifle and enjoyed spending time in the country shooting with family. He was known to be a lockbox of random rare factoids that could have made him a formidable competitor should he have ever been on the show Jeopardy!
A celebration of life will be held at White Rock Missionary Baptist Church, located at 12545 Hwy 7 West, Center, Texas, 75935 on November 11, 2023, at 2:00 PM CT.
James Robert “Jim/Bobby” Holmes will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His kindness, intelligence, and loving nature will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In the care of Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home and Cemetery, Houston, Texas. Click here for online condolences.
10/18/2023
Noel D. Grant, 89, of Center, passed away Monday, October 16, 2023, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, October 21, 2023, at First Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ in Center, with visitation beginning at 10am. Pastor Richard Goodwin, Sr. will officiate. Interment will follow at Powdrill Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born September 6, 1934, in Shelby County, Noel is the son of Hoya Grant and Ruth Smith Grant. He loved working and loved his church, First Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ.
He is survived by:
Wife, Dot Grant of Center
Daughters:
Nolette Grant of Corpus Christi
Meg Morgana Grant and husband Tyrone Johnson of Center
Son, Hoya Grant of West Monroe, Louisiana
Grandchildren:
Cayenne Grant
Lance Lilly and wife Amanda
Koye Lilly
Tyler Lilly
Joshua Grant
Christina Grant
Kole Grant
Trent Grant
Great-grandchildren:
Evelyn Lilly
Ethen Lilly
Brother, Neal Grant and wife Jackie of the Arcadia Community of Shelby County
Niece and nephews:
Kerry Greer and husband Reed
Doyce Grant and wife Beth
Derek Grant and wife Ann
Greg Grant and wife Melanie
Preceded in death by his wife, Dale Grant; son, Shawn Grant; and parents, Hoya Grant and Ruth Smith Grant.
Pallbearers will be Lance, Koye, Tyler, Hoody, Cole, and C.J.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
10/17/2023
Kenneth Price, (74) of Port Arthur, Texas, died on October 16, 2023, in Beaumont, Texas. He was born to the late O. J. Price and Lucy B. Waltz Price in Center, Texas on July 11, 1949, in Center, Texas.
Kenneth is survived by his brother, Odis Price of Peoria, Arizona.
No service is scheduled for Mr. Price.
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.
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