Wise County Messenger Obituaries
2017
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The following obituaries are in alphabetical order by last name.
  (use the "searcher" on page https://www.wisecountytexas.info/ to find names, 
or Control+F to find names in the text below.)

Ragle, Tommy George | 1939-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Tommy George Ragle
Tommy George Ragle, 78, died Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017.
Funeral was Nov. 13 at Newark Church of Christ. Burial followed at Aurora Cemetery.
Tommy was born Sept. 10, 1939, in Olney to George and Hazel Ragle. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and was a collector of military memorabilia and knives. He was a faithful member of Newark Church of Christ for decades, where he was known to always be a helping hand. He loved his church. Whether it be mowing or making a repair, he was there to help. Even in the last days, he prayed for those that were in need.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Pat; children Julie Maceyra, Martha Martin and Mark Long; grandchildren Amber, Steven, Joshua, Rebecca and Miranda; and great-granddaughter Evie.  

Ranta, Carin Lynn | 1966-2017
Published Saturday, May 13, 2017
Carin Lynn Ranta, 50, of Haslet, died Thursday, May 4, 2017, in Kaufman.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. Jerry Hood officiating.
Carin was born Nov. 9, 1966, in Cherry Point, N.C., to Donald and Dolores (Robinson) Ranta. Carin was an equine worker on a horse ranch. She was a member of the Baptist church.
She is survived by her mother, Dolores Ranta of Haslet; sisters Kim Brown of Haslet, Janet Shoppell and husband, Paul, of Grandview, Dawn McConnell and husband, Darrin, of Boyd, Della Hart and husband, Michael, of Richland Hills and Amanda Ranta of Haslet; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Rasco, Alice (Thomarrson) | 1934-2017
Published Saturday, April 22, 2017
Alice Rasco, 82, of Cottondale, died Tuesday, April 18, 2017.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at the First Baptist Church of Cottondale with the Rev. Charles Pugh officiating.
Alice was born Oct. 31, 1934, to Roy and Nanny (King) Thomarrson. She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Cottondale. She enjoyed cooking, reading, crocheting and watching cooking shows.
Alice is preceded in death by her husband, W.L. “Bill” Rasco; her parents; and one brother.
She is survived by her children, Mark Rasco and wife, Carol, Bruce Rasco and wife, Vera, and Kim Herbert and husband, Jim; sister Earlene Carnley; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rather, James Roland ‘Jim’ |
Published Wednesday, June 14, 2017

James Rather
James “Jim” Roland Rather, 73, died Sunday, June 4, 2017, in Katy.
Jim was born Feb. 3, 1944, in Comanche, Okla., to Jessie Frances Bennett and Samuel Roland Rather. He married Karoline March 23, 1987. Jim and Karoline settled in Houston in 1996 and then later in Katy.
Jim was a Vietnam War veteran who served his country for many years, in the U.S. Navy and as a member of the 101st Airborne in the U.S. Army. He was a retired truck driver, avid hunter and fisherman.
He was a simple man who loved the simple things in life — his family and his dogs, Jada and Foo-Foo. Jim loved his kids with all his heart. He tried to make sure his entire family felt loved and special at all times, especially when he would make “surprise” visits to take his kids to dinner. He believed in letting his children find their own way but was never more than a phone call away with advice.
Jim is survived by his wife; son Dusty Rather of Katy; daughters Jamie Rather Baird and husband, Jason, of Alvord, Jennifer Rather of Alvord, Joy McDowell of Katy and Kristi Rather and her partner, Kelley Gildersleeve, of Clarksville, Tenn.; grandchildren Tyler Hicks, Aubrey Baird, Selma Dunn and Emiliee Dunn, all of Alvord, Michelle Manuel and husband, Lawrence, and Jacquelene Fox and husband, Jason; and great-grandchildren Javon, Cameron and Kennedie Manuel of Katy and Chelsea Fox of Norge, Okla.

Rawle, Jerry Elton ‘J.R.’ | 1934-2017
Published Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Jerry Rawle
Jerry “J.R.” Elton Rawle, 82, of Celeste, died Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, in Greenville.
Service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19, at Legacy Pointe Central Baptist Church in Whitesboro with the Rev. Joe Patterson officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.
Jerry was born Oct. 23, 1934, to W.D. and Oma Jewel Nikirk Rawle in Decatur, where he was raised and attended school. He married Joy Elaine Rutherford Jan. 28, 1955. Jerry was a longtime employee of Hobbs Trailer in Dallas and later retired from National Trailer Sales.
Jerry and Joy lived many years in Grapevine where they were faithful members of Bethel Baptist Church for more than 30 years before retiring to live at Lake Texoma.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Faith Patrick and husband, Douglas, of Haltom City and Angela Wilson and husband, James, of Celeste; sister Melba Jean Rawle Haney and husband, Edwin, of Decatur; sister-in-law Billie Rawle of Decatur; grandchildren Glenna Patrick, Jerri Watts and husband, Michael, Stephen Wilson and wife, Jeri, David Wilson and wife, Bethany, and Paul Patrick; great-grandchildren Mimi Watts, Walker Wilson and Timothy Wilson; and several nephews and nieces.
Memorial donations may be made to Legacy Point Central Baptist Church, P.O. Box 247, Whitesboro, TX 76273.

Raygoza, Vida | 2015-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Vida Raygoza
Vida Raygoza, 2, of Decatur, died Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, at Cooks Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth.
Graveside service was Sept. 22 at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Vida was born June 10, 2015, in Decatur to Felipe Raygoza and Samara Ortega Raygoza.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Saul Raygoza.
She is survived by her parents; sister Miriam Raygoza; grandparents Maria and Ignacio Ortega and Isauro and Carmen Raygoza; uncles Jose Ortega, Valente Ortega, Salvador Raygoza and Francisco Raygoza; aunts Christina Ortega, Mayra Ortega, Maura Ortega and Lennis Raygoza; and numerous cousins.

Read, Harold | 1928-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Harold Read
Harold Read, 89, of Paradise, died Friday, Nov. 3, 2017, in Paradise.
Funeral was Nov. 7 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jim Taylor officiating. Burial followed at Paradise Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Ryan Ooten, Rick Read, Gary Barnett, Jason Read, Bud Read and Tom Bridges.
Harold was born Aug. 9, 1928, in Paradise to John Dixon and Irene (Pike) Read. He marred Dorotha Morehead March 9, 1952, in Chico. He served his country in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea and Japan. He was awarded the Korean Service medal with four bronze service stars, Bronze star with “V” devise, Japan Army occupation medal, and a Combat Infantry badge. Once he was out of the Army, he returned to Paradise, where he drove a truck for Austin Powder Co. and later retired after 32 years of driving for the company.
He was preceded in death by his parents; great-grandson Braylon Shetter; brothers Earnest Read, J.D. Read, Marvin Read and Leon Read; sisters Lorene Read, Peggy Calvert and Pauline Carlton.
He is survived by his wife; sons Duane Read and wife, Marilyn, of Decatur and Mitchell Read and wife, Debbie, of Paradise; daughter Lori Dolak and husband, George, of Bedford; grandchildren Jason Read and wife, Tiffany, Amanda Shetter and husband, David, Melissa Read, Scott Read, David Scott Herrera and fianc e, Christy, and Sam Dolak; 15 great-grandchildren; brother Bill Read and wife, Bobby, of Paradise; sisters Patsy McClure and husband, David, of Mesquite and Geneva Hudson of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Reedy, Billie Rita (Hurford) | 1934–2017
Published Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Billie Rita Hurford Reedy, 82, of Alvord, died Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017, in Decatur.
Reedy
Billie Reedy, May 1963
Funeral was Aug. 21 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Decatur with Bishop Richard Gillespie officiating. Graveside service followed at Murray Cemetery.
Morrison Funeral Home of Graham handled arrangements.
Billie was born Dec. 5, 1934, at Woodson to Alma Nita (Gardner) and William Ball Hurford. She married Elvie Leon Reedy Dec. 24, 1951. In addition to being a homemaker, Billie was active in church service and loved family history research, spending thousands of hours, along with her husband Leon, documenting their family trees, preserving and identifying old photographs, writing letters, and visiting libraries and cemeteries.
She excelled in both academics and sports, serving as captain of her high school baseball, volleyball and basketball teams. Billie was part of the Breckenridge Belles Softball Team that went to the National Women’s Softball Tournament in Phoenix in 1950. She also enjoyed needlework and sewing, making many beautiful quilts and sewing most of her girls’ dresses when they were young, as well as many of her own.
She loved to read and was very organized, making her home a pleasant and inviting place for all. In addition, her dry wit, her loving concern for those around her and her love for the Lord endeared her to family and friends.
Billie was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Gary Thomas Hurford and William Ball Hurford Jr.; and sister Helen Dolores (Hurford) Sullivan.
She is survived by her husband of 65 years; children Lavonda and Jerry Johnson, Steve and Ruth Reedy, Lana and Stephen Dahlbo, Jay and Laura Reedy and John and Mabel Reedy; brothers Don Michael Hurford Sr. and Ronald Kim Hurford; 21 grandchildren; and 42 great-grandchildren.

Resendis, Jade Alexis Tiago | 1999-2017
Published Wednesday, March 15, 2017
 
Jade Resendis
Jade Alexis Tiago Resendis, 17, died Saturday, March 11, 2017, in San Antonio, Texas.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2017, at Fairview Cemetery. The family will receive friends 10 a.m. to noon prior to service at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Rev. David Lowrie will officiate.
Jade was born on April 7, 1999 in San Antonio.
She is survived by her adopted parents, Luis and Cleusa Resendis of Rhome; biological mother, Adela Arguello of San Antonio; sisters, Lucette Resendis of Rhome, Faith of Oklahoma, Serenity of San Antonio; brothers, Henry of San Antonio, Xavier of San Antonio; and a host of friends.

Rhea, Tommy | 1946-2017
Published Saturday, July 15, 2017

Tommy Rhea
Tommy Rhea, 70, of Runaway Bay, died Tuesday, July 11, 2017, in Runaway Bay.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with Dr. Tommy Brumett officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Tommy was born Dec. 4, 1946, in Borger to Joe and Wanda (Derrick) Rhea. He married Carolyn Juanita Moore Oct. 28, 1970, in Borger.
Tommy retired as a special education director of Wise County schools. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, the Masonic Lodge and Bridgeport Lions Club. He was a former Runaway Bay City Council member and played Buffalo Bill Cody in the Off 380 Player’s production of “Annie Get Your Gun.”
Tommy is survived by his wife of 46 years; daughter Autumn Carpenter and husband, Chris, of Kingwood; son Dylan Rhea and wife, Briana, of Costa Mesa, Calif.; grandchildren Aidan and Charlie Carpenter; his mother; nephew Russell Rhea and wife, Denise, of Borger; and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Decatur Library Foundation or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, bit.ly/2tUfD0E.  

Rhine, Bettye (Stevenson) | 1926-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017
Bettye Stevenson Rhine, 90, of Decatur, died Tuesday, June 20, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 24 at Oaklawn Cemetery with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating.
There is no set visitation.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Bettye was born Oct. 1, 1926, in Vernon to Jesse and Gladys Stevenson. She married Thurman Charles Rhine July 27, 1946, in Dallas. Bettye was a member of the First Methodist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brothers Ray and Bill Stevenson; and sisters Bobbie Johnson and Ruby Stevenson.
She is survived by her daughter Manda Conklin and her husband, Kenneth, of Norman, Okla.; son Stephen Rhine and wife, Christian, of New Orleans, La.; granddaughters Paige Parkinson and husband, Josh, of Portland, Ore., and Katie Conklin-Kidder and husband, Matt, of Oklahoma City, Okla.; grandsons Austin Rhine of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Grayson and Zakk Rhine of New York, N.Y.; great-grandsons Anson and Sebastian Rhine of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Whit Parkinson of Portland, Ore.; and sister Rita Bedford of White Settlement.

Rhine, Jerry Ray | 1946-2017
Published Saturday, March 4, 2017

Jerry Rhine
Jerry Ray Rhine, 70, of Justin, died Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, in Justin.
His ashes will be buried at Pleasant Grove Cowboy Cemetery in a plot next to his mother, Frankie Miller Smith.
Jerry was born Sept. 8, 1946, in Decatur. He was the third child of six born to Arthur Claude Rhine Jr. and Frankie Lee Miller.
He graduated from Pampa High School in 1965 and started an apprenticeship as a sheet metal worker and was a member of Sheet Metal Local 68. He worked in this field for 43 years until his retirement in 2008. He was a talented metal fabricator and enjoyed tinkering with metal and wood during his retirement, creating unique gifts for his family and friends.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Charles, Ronnie and Art; and his sister Claudia Marion.
He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Joy and Gary Cogburn; daughters Stacey Kay Rhine Brown and Geri Beth Rhine Smith; son-in-law Matthew Smith; grandchildren Katelyn, Conner and Cameron Burks and Benjamin, Jared and Samuel Smith; and many nephews and nieces.

Rhoades, Rex Wayne | 1950-2017
Published Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Rex Rhoades
Rex Wayne Rhoades, 66, of Alvord, died Friday, July 28, 2017, in Decatur.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Rex was born Oct. 17, 1950, in Amity, Mo., to Wayne and Connie (Baker) Rhoades. He married Lynn Knagge June 23, 1998, in Bullhead City, Ariz. He was a retired truck driver.
Rex was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years; son Dustin Rhoades of Missouri; daughter Crystal Estrella and husband, Brandon, of Arizona; grandson Raine Estrella of Arizona; sister Jo Smith of Bowie; and other family members and friends.

Rhodes, Nicholas Chance | 2000-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

Nicholas Rhodes
Nicholas Chance Rhodes, 17, of Boyd, died Thursday, July 6, 2017, in Cottondale.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 11 at First Baptist Church in Boyd with Brothers Terry Terry, Charles Pugh, J.D. Weido and Jacob Luman officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the First Baptist Church in Boyd.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers will be Colby Cox, Jacob Robinson, Kaleb Cook, Dakota Moon, Arturo Licea, Reggie Contreas, Ethan Holley, Rendy Lamance, Matthew Carrizales and Ashton Smith.
Nicholas was born Jan. 24, 2000, in Fort Worth to Mark and Katy (Kemper) Rhodes. He played football and was a powerlifter at Paradise High School. Nicholas was a member of Friendship Baptist Church. He loved fishing and hunting.
He was preceded in death by his mother; and grandfathers Sonny Rhodes and Robert Kemper.
He is survived by his parents, Terry and Cindy Terry of Boyd; his father, Mark Rhodes of Alabama; sister, Maddilyn Terry of Boyd; grandmother, Joyce Tennesen of California; grandparents, Mary and Robert Parker of Alabama, Don and Vicki Booth of Louisiana and Laurin Terry of San Antonio; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and many, many friends.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the memorial fund at Wells Fargo in Boyd.

Riederer, Mark Anthony | 1961-2017
Published Saturday, October 21, 2017

Mark Anthony Riederer
Mark Anthony Riederer, 55, of Justin died Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Service is 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at St. Rita Catholic Church in Fort Worth. Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Mark was born Oct. 19, 1961, in Omaha, Neb., to Michael and Edythe (Marreel) Riederer. He married Linda Henry Sept. 25, 1990, in Hurst. Mark was an engineer for Verizon.
He was preceded in death by his mother.
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Linda Riederer of Justin; sons Eli Riederer of Denton and Anthony Fontana of Justin; grandchild Gabriel Fontana of Justin; his father, who lives in Fort Worth; sisters Dawn Melman and husband, Rick, and Amy Riederer of Joshua; brother Sean Riederer; niece Crystal (Riederer) Bambeck of Roanoke; nephews Zachary Melman and Christian Melman; and many friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Boy Scout Troop 931, 205 N. Jackson Ave., Justin, TX 76247 or St. Rita Catholic Church, 5550 E. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth TX 76112.  

Riley, Casper | 1927-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Casper Riley
Casper Riley, 89, of Forestburg, died Tuesday, March 21, 2017, in Forestburg.
Funeral was March 25 in the Becker-Rabon Funeral Home with the Rev. Juan F. Rodriguez officiating. Burial with military honors followed at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Lawton, Okla.
Casper was born July 10, 1927, in Lawton to James Benson “Shake” and Ethel Orene (Cowley) Riley. He was raised in Lawton with his six brothers and three sisters.
If you knew the Riley family, you had at one point been on the receiving end of one of their many pranks. Casper carried on that family tradition throughout his life and never lost the joy of getting one over on you or giving you a good laugh.
In 1945, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served until the end of World War II. After his service, he worked for People’s Ice Co. He delivered 100-pound bags of ice to businesses all over Lawton.
Casper married Patsy Anderson Aug. 11, 1951, in Lawton. They remained married until her death in 1996.
In 1960, they moved to Dallas where Casper went to work for the Mobil Oil Co. until he got his own service station in Irving that he operated for 27 years. After his retirement, the couple moved to Springtown. He was always there for any friend or relative who needed a job or help to get on their feet. Many times he even opened up his home for those in need.
Casper was mechanically inclined and often tinkered with anything he could take apart and put back together. He was very good at this.
In his later years, he loved to garden, but his world revolved around his grandsons and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; son Johnny Riley; nine siblings, including Walter Riley and wife, Francis, Verlon Riley, Gruman Riley and wife, Irene, Kenneth Riley and wife, Dorothy, Troy Riley, Leo Riley, Opal Moore and husband, Pee Wee, Tressie Rhodes and husband, Tink, and Mildred Ellis and husband, Jimmy.
He is survived by son Steve Riley and wife, Valerie, of Forestberg; grandsons Jacob Riley of Texas, Jeff Riley and Maxine of Portland, Ore. and Jeremy Riley and Bree of Ozona; great-grandchildren Christian Riley, Noble Riley, Gigi Riley and Shake Riley; and numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Roberts, Jerry David | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, October 28, 2017

Jerry D. Roberts
Jerry D. Roberts, 73, died Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, in Decatur.
He was born May 10, 1944, in Lewisville to France and Margie V. Calvert Roberts. Jerry worked for Bluff View Dairy and the City of Lewisville, where he retired after 29 years in August 2010.
Jerry married Betty Roberts Jan. 30, 1965, in Lewisville.
He is preceded in death by his father; half-brother George; and half-sister Oda Rocket.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Marca Jane Nowlin and husband, Richie and Erica Jane Puckett and husband, Mark; sons Jeffrey David and Jerry Dana Roberts; grandson Colton Nowlin; mother; sister Jean Roberts Hamilton and husband, Jim; brother-in-law Bob Lovgren and wife, Sandy; nieces Samantha Crawford and husband, Lee and Margaret Lovgren; nephews Jimmy Hamilton and wife, Heather and Carl Lovgren.
Jerry dedicated his body to UT Southwestern to help in research.  

Roberts, Joyce Janette (French) | 1947-2017
Published Saturday, May 6, 2017

Joyce Roberts-French
Joyce Janette Roberts-French, 69, died Wednesday, April 12, 2017, in Grapevine.
Memorial service is 4 p.m. Sunday, May 7, at Chisholm Park, 2200 Norwood Dr., in Hurst with the Rev. Troy Stewart officiating.
Joyce was born Aug. 6, 1947, in Fort Worth to Mannie Belle and Homer Lee French. Joyce was not only a bubbly, happy person, but also a wonderful daughter, a caring sister, a nurturing mother and a loving wife. She retired from Aircraft Supply and was an avid Elvis Presley fan.
Joyce is survived by her daughters, Tammy Roberts, Robin Roberts-Taylor and husband, Tori, and Angie Roberts-Contreras and husband, Xavier; grandchildren Zakery, Steven, Tristen, Chris, Felix, Chance, Alexis, Gabriel and Gage; and numerous extended family members and friends.

Roberts, Katherine Clewell (Voris) | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, November 4, 2017
Katherine Clewell Roberts, 77, of Decatur, died Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur in handling arrangements.
Katherine was born June 15, 1940, in Santa Paul, Calif., to Carl and Juanita (Tinkle) Voris. She married Kelly Roberts July 1, 1988, in Tucson, Ariz. Katherine retired as a loan officer. She was a devoted Jehovah Witness.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and son David Poole.
Katherine is survived by her husband of 29 years; son W. Guy Poole of Grass Valley, Calif.; grandchildren Emily Poole and Wyatt Poole; sister Elizabeth Marie Buchroeder of Pine Mountain Club, Calif.; and numerous nephews and friends.  

Robertson, Elizabeth Gail (Beeman) | 1951-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017

Elizabeth Robertson
Elizabeth Gail Beeman Robertson, 65, died Monday, June 19, 2017.
Funeral services were Friday, June 23 at Opal Cemetery in Wise County.
Gail was born July 10, 1951, to William “Bill” and Delores Phillips Beeman. She graduated from Everman High School and worked together with her husband for 34 years at Sam’s Vinyl Tops in Fort Worth and Boyd. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother and sister.
Gail is survived by her devoted husband of 34 years, Sam W. Robertson Jr.; her mother; daughter Miranda Rangel; son Sam W. Robertson III; brothers Bob, Steve and Marty Beeman; and sister Julie Beeman.

Robinson, Wayne W. ‘Mike’, Jr. | 1947-2017
Published Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Wayne Robinson Jr.
Wayne W. “Mike” Robinson Jr., 69, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, June 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Services were Tuesday, June 6 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Bro. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Pallbearers were Ryan Senft, Marc Senft, Berni Kratky and Gary Neal.
Mike was born Sept. 18, 1947, in Fort Worth to Wayne W. Robinson Sr. and Lucille (Whiteman) Robinson.
He enjoyed being outdoors hunting and fishing. Mike had belonged to the PRCA since 1965.
He also loved spending time with his grandkids.
He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Robinson; and sister Trisha Senft.
Mike is survived by his wife, Tammy (Smith) Robinson of Bridgeport; brother Don Robinson and wife, Robin, of Fort Worth; mother Lucille Kratky of Fort Worth; daughter Candice Robinson of Mineral Wells; stepson Gary Neal of Bridgeport; stepbrother Berni Kratky Jr. and wife, Sarah, of Watauga; brother-in-law Marc Senft; nephews Ryan Senft and Nolan Senft of Fort Worth; and grandchildren.

Rodriguez, Emilio G. | 1929-2017
Published Saturday, June 4, 2017

Emilio Rodriguez
Emilio G. Rodriguez, 87, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, May 28, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Mass of Christian burial was June 2 at St. John the Baptizer Catholic Church in Bridgeport with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers were Jeremy Rodriguez, Samual Rodriguez, Paul Hamblin, Bill Hamblin, Matt Spencer, Joshua Bridwell and Andrew Simecek.
Honorary pallbearers are Elizabeth Rodriguez, Bethany Rodriguez, Lisette Rodriguez, Stephanie Spencer and Iliana Rodriguez.
Emilio was born June 1, 1929, in Van Horn to Aus and Isidora (Gonzales) Rodriguez. He married Aurora “Rita” Escajeda May 29, 1948, in Van Horn. Emilio retired from Gifford Hill (Hanson) rock quarry as a plant operator. He was a member of St. John the Baptizer Catholic Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; daughter Eva Rodriguez; son Sammy Rodriguez; granddaughter Tiffany Lee Elizondo; sisters Lily Foster and Margarita Cortez; and brother Aus Rodriguez Jr.
Emilio is survived by his sons, Emilio Rodriguez Jr. and wife, Karen, of Red Oak, Jimmy Rodriguez and wife, Irene, of Dallas and Bobby Rodriguez and wife, Corina, of Bridgeport; daughter Eva Simecek and husband, Joe, of Duncanville; grandchildren Elizabeth and Bethany Rodriguez, James and Lisette Rodriguez, Stephanie Spencer and husband, Matt, Andrew Simecek, Jeremy Rodriguez and wife, Hannah, and Robert, Iliana and Samuel Rodriguez; sisters Lisa Bonilla and Becky Reyes; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Roebuck, Don K. | 1951-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Don K. Roebuck, 65, of Chico died Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, in Bridgeport.
No service is scheduled at this time.
Don was born Aug. 3, 1951, in Dallas to Donald and Vonnie (Raines) Roebuck. He was a retired employee of the Dallas Morning News.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Don is survived by his mother, Vonnie Roebuck; and brother Rick Roebuck, both of Chico.

Rogers, Curtis, Sr. | 1963-2017
Published Saturday, August 26, 2017

Curtis Rogers Sr.
Curtis Rogers Sr., 54, of Pampa, died Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, in Pampa.
Mass of Christian burial was Aug. 25 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Jacksboro with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Burial followed at Oakwood Cemetery in Jacksboro.
Pallbearers were Bennett Rogers, Riley Rogers, Justin Rogers, Jason Thoymartin, David Neustupa, Rusty McDonald, Gary Sefcik and Dewey Robbins.
Curtis was born May 22, 1963, in Quincy, Ill., to William Rogers and Shirley Moore. He was an oilfield drilling supervisor.
He is survived by his parents; son Curtis Rogers Jr.; daughters Zelphany Rogers and Kellie Rogers; brothers Kent Rogers and Craig Rogers; sisters Kimberly Burk, Karen Brooks and Kelly Rogers; and grandchildren Caleb James and Luna May.

Rogers, Donald Eugene, Sr. | 1938-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Donald Rogers Sr.
Donald Eugene Rogers Sr., 78, of Paradise, died Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, in Paradise.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Terry Terry officiating. Burial will follow at Cottondale Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Pallbearers are grandsons Ross Houston, Chris Kuhlman, Clay Colburn, Michael Watts, Justin Lingle, Dustin Rogers and Jayden Rogers.
Don was born Nov. 6, 1938, in Fort Worth to Grover John Jr. and Mary Emma (Mooney) Rogers. He married Ruby Nell Walker Jan. 19, 1962, in Weatherford. Together they have four children, 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Don was a veteran of the Unites States Air Force. He served his country for four years, then spent an additional six years in the Reserves. After the military, Don worked for Bell Helicopter. He retired after 35 years of service. Don helped organize and form the Cottondale Volunteer Fire Department where he served as chief and assistant chief for more than 15 years. He was also on the Bell Helicopter volunteer fire team for 30 years.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; infant granddaughter Elizabeth Rogers; and sisters Donna Gayan and Doris Pryatt.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years; children W.A (Tony) Rogers of Paradise, Terri Leigh Durand and husband, Bob, of Krum, Donald Eugene Rogers Jr. and wife, Kathy, of Mineral Wells and Karen Sue Colburn and husband, Scott, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Cody, Stephanie, Sonya, Shawn, Dustin, Michael, Mary, Emily, Kate and Clay; and great-grandchildren Jayden, Raleigh, Kaydence, Carter, Jameson, Kylee, Jaxson, Lennox, Everette, Benett, Kaydence and Cameron. Other survivors include brother Jerry Rogers of Boyd; sister Janice Davis of Fort Worth; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rogers, Jerry Lee | 1950-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017

Jerry Rogers
Jerry Lee Rogers, 66, of Boyd, died Wednesday, June 14, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Saturday, July 8 at First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating. A potluck dinner will follow. Please bring a dish or dessert.
Jerry Lee Rogers was born July 30, 1950, in Fort Worth, to Grover and Mary Rogers.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Donald Rogers; sisters Donna Gayan and Dorris Pratt.
He is survived by his wife, Ellen Rogers, of Boyd; son John Rogers and wife, Linde, of Boyd; grandchildren Dale Hopwood and wife, Chelsie of Jackson, La., Shawney Rogers of Decatur, Brian Hopwood of Boyd, Karlee Rogers of Bastrop, Jackson Harris of Fort Worth, Haylee Rogers of Boyd and Richard Rogers of Boyd; great-grandchildren Sara, Hudson, Hope, William and Brayden; and sister Janice Davis of Fort Worth.

Rose, Dean Arthur | 1963-2017
Published Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Dean Rose
Dean Arthur Rose, 53, of Boyd, died Thursday, Sept. 7, 2017, in Boyd.
Dean was born Nov. 7, 1963, in North Battlefield, Saskatchewan, Canada, to Johnny and Elanor (Landry) Rose. He married Heather Renee (Dobbs) Rose Aug. 31, 1996, in Hearne.
Dean was a rancher and welder. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Boyd where he served his church as a deacon.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years; son Dillion Rose of Boyd; daughter Cheyenne Rose of Boyd; his parents; brother Roger Rose and wife, Courtney, of Iola; sister Debbie Rose of College Station; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

Rotton, Agnes Laverne (Mitchell) | 1932-2017
Published Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Agnes Rotton
Agnes Laverne Rotton, 85, of Boyd, died Sunday, July 2, 2017, in Boyd.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 8, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. Melanie Gonzales officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Barry Brown, Kent Spencer, Adrian Proudfoot and Jack Proudfoot.
Honorary pallbearers are members of the Boyd Fire Department.
Laverne was born Feb. 22, 1932, in Kingsland, Ark., to Wallace E. and Mary Jewell (Graves) Mitchell. She married Lewis Edward Rotton April 24, 1957, in Boyd. Laverne was known as RoRo to the many children that she cared for through the years. She was a member of the Hilltop Assembly of God church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 58 years; sisters Mary Kathleen Fergason, Gwendolyn Douglass, Polly Jeanette Mitchell and Wanda Newton; brothers Arnold Edward Mitchell and Ronald Maxwell Mitchell.
Agnes is survived by her sisters, Doris Lisemby of Florida and Helen Goggans of Arkansas; brother James W. Mitchell of Victoria; extended family members; friends; and caregivers.

Rotton, Lewis Edward | 1921-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Lewis Rotton
Lewis Edward Rotton, 95, of Boyd, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017.
Funeral was Jan. 10 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Steven Bernard officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Barry Brown, Ralph Guillott, Adrian Proudfoot, Jack Proudfoot and Kent Spencer.
Lewis was born Nov. 20, 1921, in Fort Worth to Emma Lee (Whetsel) and James Ben Rotton. When Lewis was three days old, he was stricken with a form of polio. The doctors told his parents to prepare themselves because he wouldn’t live through the night. He always said, “I’m here because of the power of prayer.”
Lewis loved life. His strength, stubbornness and love for the Lord and strawberry milkshakes sustained him 95 years.
In December 1956, his preacher introduced him to Laverne Mitchell of Kingsland, Ark. They married April 24, 1957. They built their marriage on trust, devotion and many prayers. He referred to Laverne as his one and only true love – a love that will last an eternity.
Lewis proved many times you can do anything you set your mind to. He retired from Wyatt’s Cafeteria in Haltom City.
Lewis was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers Jack and Pete Rotton.
He is survived his wife; sisters-in-law Doris, Helen and Wanda and husband, Marion; brother-in-law James Mitchell and wife, Bonnie; numerous nieces, nephews and many beloved friends who thought of him as family.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Plus, 1903 Doctors Hospital Drive, Suite 1, Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Ruban, Stephan Benard | 1971-2017
Published Saturday, February 4, 2017
Stephan Benard Ruban, 45, of Rhome, died Monday, Jan. 30, 2017.
Memorial service was held at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Stephan was born March 11, 1971, in Jersey, Channel Islands, United Kingdom, to Ernst and Therese Ruban. He was a pilot captain, and he was awarded an FAA airmen certification.
Stephan loved working on vehicles, working out at the gym, RC vehicles, woodworking, sewing, welding and gaming. He will be missed dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Stephan is survived by his son, Brendan Ruban of Golden; daughter Anna Ruban of Decatur; brothers Andy Ruban and Tony Ruban, both of the UK; granddaughter Adelyn Burkhart of Decatur; and a very special dear friend Katrina Graniczny.

Rudy, Neva (Fox) | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Neva Fox Rudy
Neva Fox Rudy, 73, of Fort Worth, died Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Paducah, Ky.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner and Blake Boyd officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Jerry Watson, Erik Low, Henry Cox “Rance” Rudy III, Albert Fox and Byron Rudy.
Neva was born Jan. 3, 1944, in Decatur to Joe and Tommie (Riggs) Fox. She married Henry Cox Rudy II Aug. 23, 1966, in Decatur. Neva retired as a court reporter.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 51 years; son Rance Rudy and wife, Robin, of Chandler, Ariz.; daughter Leigh Goodwin and husband, Ron, of Burleson; grandchildren Erik Low and Breece Low; sister Shirley Watson and husband, Jerry, of Decatur; brother Albert Lee Fox and wife, Pamela, of Owensboro, Ky.; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Rush, Robert E. ‘Bob’ | 1947-2017
Published Saturday, September 9, 2017

Robert Rush
Robert E. “Bob” Rush, 70, of Bowie, died Monday, Sept. 4, 2017, in Decatur, from complications arising from the stroke he suffered in August 2016.
At Bob’s request, there will be no services.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Bob was born Feb. 27, 1947, in Long Beach, Calif., to George S. and Thelma (Stainer) Rush.
Bob married Versel Diane Wall March 2, 1991, in Wichita Falls. He moved to Bowie in 1995, where he lived until his death.
Known as someone who could fix anything mechanical, Bob had many stories about the jobs in his life, including working in TV/radio repairs when he was 16 and also a traveling dolphin show. He eventually retired from Bowie Industries. He was also a stay-at-home father while his daughter, Sydney, was growing up.
Bob was an ASE certified mechanic, a licensed ham radio operator and an expert jerky maker. Late in life, he became an avid fan of Wahoo! and Uno.
Bob was preceded in death by his father; his mother; his beloved stepfather, Verne Bruegman; and sister Margaret Woeller.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Sydney Renee Rush of Groves; son Morgan Rush of Los Angeles; daughter Danielle Hackbush and grandson Andrew Hackbush, of River Oaks; sister Carol Skelton and family of Wichita Falls; brother Russell Bruegman and family of Wichita Falls; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Denise Bell and husband, Darrell, of Bowie.
Memorial donations may be made to Backdoor Theatre of Wichita Falls or to the Salvation Army earmarked for the Hurricane Harvey Relief Effort.

Russell, Catherine Faye (McAmis) | 1923-2017
Published Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Catherine Russell
Catherine Faye McAmis Russell, 93, of Decatur, died Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, in Kilgore.
Funeral was Jan. 24 at Decatur Church of Christ with Mike McDowell officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Russ Fothergill, Rob Fothergill, Gary Murph, Kenneth Murph, David McAmis and Doug Pierce.
Honorary pallbearers were Garland Lipsey, Gordon Ploeger, Wes Simmons, Alan Sessions and David Pierce.
Catherine was born Jan. 22, 1923, in Tolar to James and Della (Hufstedler) McAmis. Her mother died when she was 3, and her father worked on the railroad while his sister cared for Catherine, her brother and sister and five cousins. After her father’s death when she was 13, Catherine, her brother and younger sister lived on their own in Lamesa.
She married H.C. Russell Sept. 14, 1940, in Lamesa. They operated cotton and cattle farms near Lamesa and Brownfield until 1955. When her daughter started school, she worked in the school cafeteria in Welch.
After moving to Decatur in 1955, Catherine worked at Russell’s Department Store and Renshaw Drug. She was a member of the Decatur Church of Christ for more than 60 years. Catherine volunteered with Wise Regional Hospital Auxiliary.
She was an excellent seamstress, who also knitted and crocheted beautiful work. Her handmade quilts are family treasures. Catherine was a loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved her extended family and regularly hosted family get-togethers.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings J.D. McAmis and Jimye Cooley; half-brother Ray McAmis; her cousins with whom she was raised, Thelma Perkins, Lucille Murph, Glenn Pierce, Betty Parker and Billie Fitch.
Catherine is survived by her daughter, Cathy Fothergill and husband, Richard, of Kilgore; grandsons Russ Fothergill and wife, Cassie, of Belton and Rob Fothergill and wife, Stephanie, of Decatur; great-grandchildren Grace Catherine and Samuel Cole Fothergill of Belton and Riley Kay and Reid Ransom Fothergill of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Boles Children’s Home, Decatur Church of Christ or the charity of your choice.

Russell, Doris Jane (Johnson) | 1944-2017
Published Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Doris Russell
Doris Jane Johnson Russell, 72, of Boyd, died Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, in Boyd.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating. Burial will follow at Jaybird Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Jonathan H. Russell Sr., Ronnie D. Russell, Johnny T. Russell and Jonathan H. Russell Jr.
Honorary pallbearers include Brandt Brooks and Dexter Hickman.
Doris was born July 19, 1944, in Louisville, Ky., to Glen and Gladys (Murphy) Johnson. She married Bobby Neal Russell Sr. April 23, 1962, in Fort Worth.
Doris was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and several brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her daughters, Corey Brooks and husband, Andy, of Boyd, Cynthia Hickman and husband, Shane, of Boyd and Donna Prichard and husband, Alan, of Weatherford; sons Jonathan H. Russell Sr. and wife, Denise, of McKinney, Johnny T. Russell of North Richland Hills, Ronnie D. Russell of Azle and Bobby Russell Jr. and wife, Sandy, of Plano.
She is also survived by sisters Michelle Parks and husband, Rick, of Azle, Connie Baker of Mineral Wells, Jeanette Nichols and husband, Robert, of Weatherford and Dorothy Mooney and husband, Curtis, of Weatherford; brothers John T. Johnson of Crowley, Glen Johnson Jr. of Weatherford and Charles Johnson and wife, Mary, of Granbury; granddaughter Amanda Kerr and husband, Justin, of Fort Worth; 18 grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Russell, Leslie E. | 1958-2017
Published Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Leslie E. Russell
Leslie E. “Fast Eddie” Russell, 59, of Chico died Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at Alpine Funeral Home in Fort Worth.
Eddie was born Jan 4, 1958, in Fort Worth. He grew up in Euless and lived in Chico and was a member of UBMC in Chico.
Eddie was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and papa.
He was preceded in death by his son, Charles E. Russell; parents L.A. Russell and Mary Russell; sisters Lela Wright, Linda Colbert and Barbie Russell; and brothers Charles Faries and Ricky Russell.
Eddie is survived by his wife, Barbara Russell of Chico; stepmother Virginia Russell of Rockport; brother Tommy Russell of Lipan; sisters Patty Mouton of Theriot, La., and Beth Hughes of North Richland Hills; daughter Hope Salazar of Fort Worth; stepsons Henry Davis, Earl Pickard and Jon Delgado; and stepdaughters Jenny Castleberry and Theresa Jaillet; and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Russell, Louise (Hyles) | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, February 25, 2017

Louise Russell
Louise Hyles Russell, 88, of Boyd, died Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, in Weatherford.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. Sharkey Nelson officiating.
Louise was born Nov. 4, 1928, in Big Spring to Fred and Mattie (Railsback) Hyles. She married Robert Auford Russell Sr. Aug. 9, 1947, in Hico. Louise owned The Mud Dobber ceramic shop and loved selling Avon. She was a resident of Boyd for 53 years.
Louise was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers Ray Hyles and Henry Edward Hyles.
She is survived by her sons, Robert A. Russell Jr. and wife, Judy, of Boyd and Ronnie Ray Russell of Big Sandy; daughter Cindy Clark and husband, David, of Boyd; grandchildren Forrest White of Boyd, Nicole Hollingsworth and husband, Kelly, of Plainview, Hillary Gutierrez and husband, Dominic, of Rock Springs, Wyo., Megan Russell and Rob Vela of Manor, Victoria McCall and husband, Ken, of Weatherford, Robert C. Russell of Midland and Rosline Laake and husband, Greg, of Gilmer.
She is also survived by great-grandchildren Thomas J., Randi A., Kylie Patrice, Olivia, Cooper, Rylee, Samantha, Nolan and Dorothy; brothers Vernon Hyles and Lloyd Dale Hyles and wife, Judy, of Hico; sisters Lorretta Finstad and husband, Buster, of Haltom City and Clara Grace Burnette of Aledo; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Russell, Wesley Don | 1968-2017
Published Saturday, October 28, 2017

Wesley Don Russell
Wesley Don Russell, 48, of Bridgeport, died Sunday Oct. 22, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Service was Oct. 27 at Bethel Baptist Church in Nocona with the Rev. Mike Miller officiating.
Pallbearers were Mike Winchell, Keith Love, Brian Luenser, Scott Nobile, Matt Green and John Womack.
Wesley was born Nov. 26, 1968, in Nocona and was a graduate of Nocona High School class of ’87. Immediately after graduation, Wesley enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served for five years as an electronics and hydraulics engineer and fought during Desert Storm. Wesley was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church and served the church in numerous roles. He was vice president of manufacturing at Aquasana, a company he confounded in 1997. An average day for Wes at work included troubleshooting problems, designing new products, overseeing all manufacturing, warehouse shipping, and operations. He also spent time developing injection mold technology and held an executive rolefor K&D Plastics, International Purity and Branson Ultrasonics.
Wes loved the outdoors. He was often found swinging a golf club, “yankin’ a black bass” or cooped up in a deer stand at 5 a.m. He was preceded in death by his parents, Don L. and Brenda Russell; and grandparents Alfred L. Russell and Elbert and Lillian Horner.
He is survived by his daughters, Taylor (20) of Lubbock, Gabrielle (14) of Bridgeport, and Piper (8) of Bridgeport; sister LaDonna Turner of Hico; nephews Tom Hancock of Fort Worth and Tyler Turner of Hico; brother Derek Kewley of Columbia, Mo.; grandmother Zerita Russell of Nocona; and girlfriend Marilyn Belew of Arlington.

Sain, Vanita Jeanette (Coffee) | 1937-2017
Published Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Vanita Sain
Vanita Jeanette Coffee Sain, 80, of Marlow, Okla., died Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, in Duncan, Okla.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Randy Sutherland officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Gaylord Kennedy, Travis Provence, Randy Kleam, Bruce Fleetwood, Kris Blundell, Aaron Linden, Tyeler Cooper and Charlie Cooper.
Honorary pallbearers are Don Hulsey, Dawayne Kennedy, William Lee Slagle, Spencer Mullins, David Sain and Patrick Robbins.
Vanita was born Feb. 1, 1937, in Paradise to Edgar and Hattie (Slagle) Coffee. Her occupations included: admissions at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Okla.; 3-M Corporation; and Duncan Savings and Loan. She retired from Halliburton where she was an accounts payable clerk. Vanita was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Duncan, Okla.
Vanita was preceded in death by her husband, Sterling Kirby in 1969; and her husband, J.L. Sain in 2012.
She is survived by her son, Greg Kirby and wife, Rhonda, of Duncan, Okla.; grandchildren Kaci Blundell and husband, Kris, of Marlow and Apryl Linden and husband, Aaron, of Marlow; great-grandchildren Kyah Blundell, Kiera Blundell, Alexi, Andrew and Ava Linden; sister Cheryl Bost and husband, Jim, of Bridgeport; niece Melanie Cooper and husband, Charlie; great-nephews Tyeler and Cody; and other family members and friends.  

Sanders, Allan Wayne | 1968-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017

Allan Sanders
Allan Wayne Sanders, 48, of Decatur, died Tuesday, June 20, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Friday, June 23 at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel Decatur with the Rev. David Kelly officiating.
Allen was born Oct. 13, 1968, in Fort Worth to Earl and Lillian (Tramel) Sanders. He married Linda Flores August 13, 2012, in Bridgeport. Allen worked as a ranch hand. He served his country in the United States Army.
He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Brown.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Lacey Brown and husband, Colby, of Alvord; son Cody Brown of Denton; grandchildren Maddox Wright and Mason Brown; his mother; brother Josh Sanders and wife, Natasha, of San Angelo; mother-in-law Ina Flores and father-in-law Joe Flores; his father and wife, Janice, of Paradise; sister-in-law JoAnna Bogle and husband, Steve, of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Sanderson, Irene C. (Norwood) | 1919-2017
Published Saturday, April 15, 2017

Irene Sanderson
Irene C. Sanderson, 97, of Newark, died Tuesday, April 11, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was April 14 at Newark Church of Christ in Newark with Mike Boaldin and John Henderson officiating. Burial followed at Aurora Cemetery.
Irene was born May 5, 1919, in Knox County to James and Celestie (Deathrage) Norwood. She married Eugene C. Sanderson Jan. 22, 1938, in Seymour. Irene was a member of the Newark Church of Christ.
She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. Irene was known as Mamaw not only to her own grandchildren, but also to most of the children in Newark. For many years she not only took care of her family, but was also a babysitter for numerous others.
She was always so happy to see family and friends and showed her sweet spirit through her warm and loving smile. While she had a great love for cooking, baking and gardening, her main passion was quilting. Most people that knew her had a quilt handmade for them. Irene loved her family and truly enjoyed having all of them together for holidays, vacations and 42 tournaments.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son James Joe Sanderson; great-grandson Dylan Joseph Blair; sister Leona Jones; brothers Sammy, Roy, Alvin, Elmer, Earl Owen, Carl and Joe Bob Norwood.
Irene is survived by her sons, Virgle Sanderson of Newark, Clinton Sanderson and wife, Mollie, of Boyd, Gerald Sanderson and wife, Jodi, of Springtown, Ronald Sanderson and wife, Sharon, of Granbury and Mike Sanderson and wife, Sharon, of Haslet; and daughters Billie Burkett and husband, Billy, of Jacksboro and Becky Bricker and husband, Joey, of Poolville.
She’s also survived by daughter-in-law Joann Sanderson of Graham; 18 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren and one on the way; sisters Neoma Henderson of Burleson, Lillie Etta Webb of Bennington, Okla., and Lois Riggs of Monroe, Okla.; sister-in-law Wanda Norwood of Bridgeport; brother Billie Norwood and wife, Willie, of Graham; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Saulter, Wanda Jane ‘Janie’ (Cearley) | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

Wanda Saulter
Wanda Jane “Janie” Saulter, 84, of Boyd, died Wednesday, May 17, 2017, in Boyd.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 20, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Zachary Ashmore, Bobby Brown, Andrew Cearley, Carson Johnnene, Ricky Mannin and Robert Martin.
Wanda was born Aug. 14, 1932, in Flatwood (Paradise) to Elias and Jewell (Flannery) Cearley. She married Warren Saulter July 21, 1951, in Oklahoma. Wanda Jane Saulter, or Janie as most people knew her, was a force of nature, a kind, energetic and faithful woman. Much of her family treasure the fond memories of gathering for the holidays at her home. She brought family, and friends who were like family, together with her remarkable cooking and hospitality.
Not only was she loved for her sweet smile and warm disposition, but she extended that sincerity to all. Many people knew that about Janie, nobody was ever a stranger to her. If you didn’t see her striking up a conversation and laughing with someone, you found her tending to her beautiful yard.
On Sundays, morning and night, and Wednesday evening, she would be at the First Baptist Church of Boyd, where she was a devout Christian saved by grace, the longest member and oldest living. She was a talented crafter, a stay-at-home mother, and while raising a family, she dressed them well by sewing their clothing herself. But she didn’t stop there. She served the community by sewing for the public as well. She even crafted uniforms for the school’s cheerleaders and majorettes.
Her husband Warren recalls her younger days when she played basketball, where she was a fast and capable player, as well as being a cheerleader. He also remembers with fondness their shared love for bluegrass music and festivals. Most importantly, she became an excellent mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Calvin, R.N., Jude, Cotton and Winfred “Wink” Cearley; and sister Imodene Moody.
Wanda is survived by her husband of 65 years; daughter Rene Ashmore and husband, Gene, of Boyd; son Wade Saulter and wife, Jill, of Keller; grandchildren Brandy Pierce, Blake Howard and Zachary Ashmore and wife, Kristen; great-grandchildren Braylyn Starrett, Carson Johnnene, Rayann Johnnene, Jasmine Ashmore, Garion Ashmore and Jansen Ashmore; sisters Billie Horton of Springtown and Genelle Brown of Sunset; brother Bobby Cearley and wife, Martha, of Azle; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Scheller, Ricky Lee | 1957-2017
Published Saturday, January 7, 2017

Ricky Scheller
Ricky Lee Scheller, 59, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 6 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Ricky was born Aug. 6, 1957, in Hobbs, N.M., to B.F. and Jessie (Eary) Scheller. He married Mary Srader Feb. 9, 1978, in Bridgeport. Ricky was a custodian at James Woods Motors.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister; and his brother.
Ricky is survived by his wife of 38 years; daughter Virginia Scheller of Decatur; sons Alvin Herrington and wife, Kristi, of Snyder, Damon Scheller and wife, Glenda, of Decatur and Randy Scheller and wife, Valerie, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Alvin Jr., Makayla, Abbey, Brynn, Stephanie and Brittanie; three great-grandchildren; two sisters; three brothers; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Schoenthal, Karl Clifford ‘KC’ | 1963-2017
Published Saturday, November 11, 2017

Karl Clifford Schoenthal
Karl “KC” Clifford Schoenthal, 54, of Paradise, died Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, in Paradise.
Mass of Christian burial is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14, at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Richland Hills with burial at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
KC was born April 28, 1963, in Littleton, Colo., to Frank and Edith (Bilton) Schoenthal. He married Tracie Ann Portman Dec. 20, 1986, in North Richland Hills. KC was a police officer for 31 years at Bedford, Haltom City, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, Rhome and was currently with River Oaks Police Department. He served his country as a rifleman in the United States Marine Corps for three tours of duty in Beirut, Lebanon, earning many commendations. KC loved spending time with his family and fly fishing.
He was preceded in death by his mother.
KC is survived by his wife of almost 31 years; daughter Cassie Krejci and husband, Ryan, of College Station; son Chance Schoenthal of Caldwell; granddaughter Callie Krejci of College Station; his father; brother Chris Schoenthal and wife, Lynn, of Grand Prairie; and aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Reel Recovery, P.O. Box 192, Azle, TX 76098 or reelrecovery.org.

Scott, Cory Lee | 1992-2017
Published Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Cory Scott
Cory Lee Scott, 24, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Feb. 4 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Charlie Crider officiating.
Cory was born Dec. 26, 1992, in Sayre, Penn., to Brian Scott and Karen Benson. He was a dock manager.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
Cory is survived by his wife, Cayli Jeffrey Scott, daughter Layci Jeffrey, and son Cameron Scott, all of Bridgeport; his mother; his father; brother Gregory Card; twin brothers Adam and Kenny Scott; sister Katie Scott; sister Samantha Pond; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Scott, Lawrence Walter | 1945-2017
Published Saturday, December 9, 2017

Lawrence Walter Scott
Lawrence Walter Scott, 72, of Boyd, died Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17. For directions, call Deborah Taylor, 940-395-2453.
Hawkins Funeral home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Lawrence was born Oct. 6, 1945, in Ithaca, N.Y., to Lawrence and Alice (Gable) Scott. Lawrence was a truck driver for Eagle.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Gail Scott; and son-in-law Paul Taylor.
He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Taylor of Denton; sons Wayne H. Scott and wife, Terri, of Port Aransas and Raymond W. Scott and wife, Shannon, of California; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his wife, C.J. Scott of Gainesville; sister Mary Scott of Ithaca, N.Y.; and friends.  

Scroggins, Garlin Glenn | 1923-2017
Published Saturday, April 15, 2017

Garlin Scroggins
Garlin Glenn Scroggins, 93, died Tuesday, April 11, 2017, in Denton.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15, at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie with burial to follow at Salona Cemetery.
Garlin was born Oct. 22, 1923, in Bellevue to Floyd and Maud (Perry) Scroggins. He graduated from Bowie High School and then attended North Texas Agriculture College in Arlington. Garlin served his country in the United States Army during World War II. He moved back to Bowie where he met and married Bonnie Williams Aug. 21, 1946, in Henrietta.
They moved to College Station to finish his bachelor’s degree in agriculture education and then back to Bowie where he taught veteran ag classes. In 1951, he went to work for Paradise Independent School District as an ag teacher. While in Paradise, he took summer classes at Texas A&M and earned his master’s degree.
Garlin also taught ag for Northwest Independent School District in 1959. From 1960-1964, he was an ag teacher at Bridgeport Independent School District, and in 1964, they moved to Denton where he worked as an Area 5 supervisor for ag education.
In 1968, they moved to Austin, and he became FFA executive secretary and eventually director of ag education for the Texas Education Agency.
Garlin retired in 1983 and moved to Montague while building their home in Bowie. After his retirement, he raised cattle in the Bowie area.
Garlin was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; one sister; daughter Caron Martin; and granddaughter Paige Nicole Martin.
He is survived by his wife; children Gary Scroggins and wife, Becky, of Decatur, and Cathy Browning and husband, Bob, of Keller; son-in-law Terry Martin of Denton; grandchildren Michelle Hickox and husband, Rob, of Plano, Chris Martin and wife, Karmen, of Denton, Matthew Browning and wife, Jennifer, of Prosper, Justan Browning and wife, Joelle, of Lantana, Nathan Martin and wife, Jaime, of Fort Worth, Todd Scroggins and wife, Danielle, of Decatur, Colin Martin of Denton, Alyse Corbin and husband, Neil, of Lake Dallas; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sellars, Richard West | 1935-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Richard West Sellars
Richard West Sellars, 82, of Santa Fe, N.M., died Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017, after a struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
There will be no funeral, but a memorial service will be held in early 2018. His ashes will be buried in the Sellars family plot in Decatur at a later date.
Richard was born in Decatur in 1935 and was the son of wildcatter oilman Robert Thompson Sellars Sr. and schoolteacher Johnnie Mae Blankenship Sellars. He knew the security of a multigenerational network of relatives and friends in that small town. He left there to attend Baylor University, graduating with a degree in geology in 1957. After a few years as an independent oilman in Jackson, Miss., he realized his interests actually lay more in history, geography and literature. He furthered his education in these fields at North Texas State University and the University of Missouri – Columbia, earning a PhD in Western History in 1972.
Although his original goal was to teach on the college level, he immediately found employment with the National Park Service upon receiving his degree. Soon he wholeheartedly embraced a career that afforded not only intellectual analysis of NPS historical and natural park units, but also interesting travel. He visited at least 350 of these sites. From 1979 to 1988, he headed the Southwest Cultural Resources Center in Santa Fe, overseeing programs in history, archaeology and historic architecture for the Southwest Region and Servicewide programs in submerged cultural resources. Richard served as acting superintendent at Pea Ridge National Military Park and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. He was also a consultant with the Dallas County Historical Foundation on preservation and interpretation of the Texas School Book Depository and Dealey Plaza in Dallas, site of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, leading to the establishment of today’s Sixth Floor Museum.
But it was in writing and lecturing that he found the greatest satisfaction. His articles on American history and cultural and natural resource preservation appeared in numerous publications, and he frequently taught courses on preservation philosophy, policy and practice and historic preservation at National Park Service training centers and various universities. He is best known as the author of “Preserving Nature in the National Parks: A History,” published in 1997 by Yale University Press and the chief catalyst for a major initiative by the National Park Service to revitalize natural resource management in the parks.
After his retirement in 2008, he worked on a history of cultural resources management in the National Park Service, which remains unfinished. His achievements were recognized by the National Park Service and related organizations with the Eastern National Authors Award in 1997, the George P. Hartzog award and the U.S. Department of the Interior Meritorious Service Award in 2008 and the George Melendez Wright Award for Excellence in 2011. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to preservation principles and devotion to the National Park Service.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Robert Thompson Sellars Jr.
He is survived by his sister, Sally Florian and her husband, James; sister-in-law Sharon Sellars; cousins Ben Man, John Sellars and Elaine Hyland; nieces Amanda Callinan, Melinda (“Tenna”) Florian and Kathryn Sellars; nephews Jason Florian and Trevor Stevenson; three great-nieces; and his wife of 40 years, Judith Stevenson Sellars.
Memorial donations may be made to the George Wright Society, P.O. Box 65, Hancock, MI, 49930-0065; Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), 962 Wayne Avenue, Suite 610, Silver Spring, MD, 20910; or The Food Depot, 1222A Siler Road, Santa Fe, NM, 87507-4107.  

Sessions, Bobbie L. (Lays) | 1939-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Bobbie Sessions
Bobbie L. Sessions, 77, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, April 1, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, at Alvord Cemetery with Jeff Bakker officiating.
Bobbie was born Sept. 14, 1939, in Corpus Christi to Harold and Nina (Evans) Lays. She was a retired secretary, a mother and nawnaw. Bobbie was a member of the First Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her son, Alan Brewster and wife, Kathryn, of Runaway Bay; daughters Leslie Clark and husband, John, of Alvord and Kelly Martin and husband, Chris, of Chico; grandchildren Lacey Chestnut and fianc , Tyler Newton, Morgan Callaway, Jordy Clark and wife, Kim, Kaylon Withrow and husband, Jeff, Jacie Green, Katy Valle and husband, Jorge, Cara Martin and fianc , Jay Matney, Colton Martin, Kimberly Sagers and husband, James, Angelique Carroll and Chad Campbell.
She is also survived by sister Birdie Blackman and husband, Wayne; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Shaw, Marcella Vernice (Cavins) | 1926-2017
Published Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Marcella Shaw
Marcella Vernice Shaw, 90, of Decatur, died Saturday, July 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, July 15, at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery with the Rev. Van Gardner officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Marcella was born Dec. 1, 1926, in Love County, Okla., to Alfred “Cap” and Hattie (Whisenhunt) Cavins. She married Curtis Oman Shaw Jr. March 25, 1931, in Mineola. She was a member of the Immanuel Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Vernon Gale Darter in December 1945 and Curtis O. “Jiggs” Shaw Jr. in January 1999.
Marcella is survived by her sons, Marvin Ray Darter and wife, Dianne, of Fort Worth and Dorrell Craig “Scooter” Shaw and wife, Ann, of Decatur; daughter Venna Debra “Debbie” Gardner and husband, Van, of Decatur; grandchildren Nicole Darter Tittle, Audria Shaw Clark, Toby Craig Shaw, Kimberly Shaw Irwin, Katie Lynn Shaw, Van William Gardner II, John Cody Gardner and Brett Andrew Gardner; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Shawn, Billy Lee | 1942-2017
Published Saturday, March 11, 2017

Billy Shawn
Billy Lee Shawn, 74, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, March 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, March 11, at Balsora Baptist Church in Balsora with the Rev. Glenn Connell officiating. Burial will follow at Willow Point Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Tommy Noble, Tre Noble, Loyd Jordan, Paul Wood, Wacey Beck and Robert Grantham.
Honorary pallbearer is Orvil Stone.
Billy was born June 24, 1942, in Bridgeport to James and Della (Gray) Shawn. He married Freda Susan Smith Nov. 5, 1961, in Bridgeport. Billy worked as a dairy farmer for Oscar Womack Dairy until his retirement. He was a member of Balsora Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and his brothers, James Shawn Jr. and Bobby Shawn. Billy is survived by his daughters, Tammy Renner and husband, William, of Chico, Terri Shawn of Boonsville and Karen Noble and husband, Alfred, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Tommy and Tre Noble; brothers Gerald Shawn and wife, Peggy, of Bridgeport, Donnie Shawn and wife, Helen, of Abilene and Marvin Gray of Alvord; sisters Linda Ferguson of Bridgeport, Gracie DeLay of Bridgeport and Sarah Jackson of Bridgeport; and other family members and friends.  

Shelley, Rose Ann | 1939-2017
Published Saturday, April 8, 2017
Rose Ann Shelley, 78, of Decatur, died Thursday, March 30, 2017, in Decatur.
No service is planned. The family will have a private celebration of her life.
Rose Ann was born Jan. 5, 1939, in Denver.

Shepherd, Peggy Jean (Garrett) Womack | 1941-2017
Published Saturday, March 25, 2017

Peggy Shepherd
Peggy Jean Garrett Shepherd, 75, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, March 21, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was March 24 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Revs. Glenn Connell and Paul Seagraves officiating. Burial followed at Boonsville Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Hunter Ross, J.T. Cox, Brian Cox, Terry Ross, Sonny Coleman and Dwayne Garrett.
Honorary pallbearers were Ricky Garrett, Kelly Garrett, Tim Garrett, Willie Garrett, Scott Cheves, Kevin Garrett, Randy Coleman and Mike Cheves.
Peggy was born Aug. 25, 1941, in Bridgeport to Luther and Gertrude (Morton) Garrett. She was a farmer and rancher.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gary Womack; son Gary Wayne Womack; brothers Carlton, Jimmy, Paul, Billy Jack, Clarence, Tommy and Eddie Lee; and sisters Lavina Coleman and Eileen Cheves.
Peggy is survived by her daughter, Kellye Ross and husband, Terry, of Boonsville; granddaughter Amanda Cox and husband, Brian, of Boonsville; great-grandchildren Hunter Ross and J.T. Cox; and other family members and friends.

Shepherd, Robert Dewayne, Jr. | 1964-2017
Published Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Robert Shepherd Jr.
Robert Dewayne Shepherd Jr., 53, of Alvord, died Thursday, July 20, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Friday, July 28, at the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Robert was born June 25, 1964, in Stockton, Calif., to Robert Shepherd Sr. and Barbara Shepherd. He graduated from BHS high school in Bakersfield, Calif. He was a manager at Mattress Depot where he worked for Rob and Liz Gaylord for the past year. He thought of Mattress Depot employees like family.
Robert was preceded in death by his Grandpa Haney; his father; and brothers Ronnie Wayne Shepherd and Charlie Shepherd.
He is survived by his Grandma Haney of Alvord; his mother; sister Monica Gahagan of Alvord; nieces Michelle Carlon and husband, Casey, of Bowie, Tiffany Gahagan of Sunset and Ashley Gahagan of Bakersfield; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; two pets he called his boys, Chopper and Johnny Cash; and numerous loving family and friends.  

Sherrick, Michael Edwin | 1953-2017
Published Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Michael Sherrick
Michael Edwin Sherrick, 63, of Decatur, died Sunday, June 25, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 4 p.m. Saturday, July 1, at the Sherrick Home.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Michael was born July 16, 1953, in Springfield, Mo., to Earnest Edwin and Martha Elizabeth Roberts Sherrick. He was a lover and supporter of the nation of Israel. He also worked closely with Royal Rangers in the early years mentoring young men in God’s word.
Michael graduated with his associate’s degree from Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie. He was a loving husband, son and father.
He is survived by wife Rana Sherrick; sons David Deal of Fort Worth and Jonathon Deal of Louisiana; granddaughters Haley Deal of Arkansas and Brittany Deal of Decatur; grandsons Seth Deal of Decatur and Hayden Deal of Denton; father Earnest Sherrick and wife, Lou, of Fort Worth; mother Martha Sherrick of Fort Worth; sister Teresa Sherrick of Keller; and niece Autumn McNamara of Dallas.

Shurbet, Steven Vernon | 1947-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Steven Vernon Shurbet
Steven Vernon Shurbet, 70, of Chico, died Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service was Nov. 4 at Wise County Park on Lake Bridgeport with Larry Duffie officiating.
Steven was born Jan. 2, 1947, in Montague County to Austin and Leta (Trout) Shurbet. He married Blanca Bartolome Oct. 28, 2002, in Bowie. He proudly served his country and retired from the United States Army.
Steven was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Tony Shurbet and Clay Gene Shurbet; and sister Belinda Shurbet.
He is survived by his wife; son Ethan Shurbet of Chico; daughter Stephanie McGarvey of Decatur; grandchildren Josephine McGarvey, Ava Walker, Johnathan Oshunkentan and Ryan Oshunkentan; sister Tracy Duffie and husband, Larry, of Vernon; nieces Kasi Scoughton and Karli Mitchell; nephew Cody Mitchell; best friend Scott Kestner and wife, Misti, of Decatur; and other family members and friends.

Simmons, Betty Ruth (Rawlings) | 1937-2017
Published Wednesday, September 6, 2017

Betty Simmons
Betty Ruth Simmons, 80, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Aug. 31, 2017.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Betty was born May 6, 1937, in Vernon to W.E. and Sally (Glenn) Rawlings. She married John R. Simmons, who preceded her in death April 13, 1987.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; six sisters; and three brothers.
Betty is survived by her son, Johnny Simmons and Elisa VanHoose of Bridgeport; daughter Venessa Prater of Wichita Falls; grandchildren Sydney Prater and Tabatha Lea Simmons; great-granddaughter Sadie Simmons; and other family members and friends.

Simmons, Martha Jane (Headley) | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Martha Jane Simmons
Martha Jane Simmons, 74, of Poolville died Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at the Boonsville Cemetery. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Martha was born April 25, 1943, in Talladega, Ala., to Lonzy and Odelle (Pate) Headley. She loved cooking, gambling and spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sons Joe Dennis Long Jr., Ricky Lee and Henry “Hank” Walton; and brothers Carl and Richard Headley.
Martha is survived by her loving husband of 27 years, Bobby Simmons; sons Lynn Long and wife, Jaslyn, Tim and Donnie Walton and Jason Simmons and wife, Samantha; daughter Alice Dees and husband, Daniel; sisters Lucy Chapin and Jean and Flossie Hunter; 38 grandchildren; 67 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Simons, Faye (Roberts) | 1938-2017
Published Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Faye Simons
Faye Simons, 78, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Sept. 8, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Larry Potts officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Darrell Fisher, Gary Simons, Larry Simons, Ron Brown, Chris Liebel and Donald Roberts.
Honorary pallbearers are Kirk Eason and Richard Roberts.
Faye was born Nov. 19, 1938, in Madill, Okla., to Lonnie and Rosetta (Putman) Roberts. She married Thomas Weldon Simons Dec. 23, 1955, in Dallas.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her twin brother, Ray Roberts; brothers Earnest Roberts and Earl Roberts; and sisters Thelma Simons, Vivian Miller, Wanda King, Mary Simons and Loretta Okerlund.
She is survived by her daughters, Sharon Liebel and husband, Paul, of Chico and Marilyn Simons and husband, Jerry Oroke, of Bridgeport; sons Thomas Wayne Simons and wife, Nancy, of Monmouth, Ore., Billy Ray Simons of Bridgeport and Ronnie Boyd Simons and wife, Karen, of Flint; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
She is also survived by brother Lonnie Roberts of Marshall; sister Alma Joyce Ward of Clinton, Okla.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Simpson, F.A. |
Published Wednesday, June 14, 2017

F.A. Simpson
F.A. Simpson, 90, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was June 4 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Kevin Casey officiating. Burial followed at Cundiff Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Scott Allen, Bill Miles, Robert Miles, Lee Largent, Audie Largent, Leslie Hill and Fred Moore.
F.A. was born Aug. 5, 1926, in Chico to Fineas Archie and Connie Ellen (Long) Simpson. He married Barbara Darlene Pittman Oct. 16, 1948, in Decatur. F.A. served his country in the United States Army. He was a retired mechanic.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; brothers Billy Bob Simpson and Vernon Joe Simpson; and sisters Berneice Miles and Anna Simpson.
F.A. is survived by his son, Gary Simpson and wife, Kye, of Amarillo; daughter Diane Brady and husband, Mike, of Amarillo; grandchildren Lane Simpson and wife, Chelsea, Shane Simpson, Roxanna Simpson and David Brady; seven great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sisters Patsy Harrison and Dorothy Largent; and other family members and friends.

Sims, Jimmy David ‘J.D.’ | 1941-2017
Published Wednesday, September 6, 2017
Jimmy David “J.D.” Sims, 76, of Colleyville, died Saturday, Sept. 2, 2017, in Southlake.
Service is Saturday, Sept. 9, in Colleyville.
Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home in Colleyville is handling arrangements.
J.D. was born Feb. 9, 1941, in Nocona to David Samuel and Lou Sims. He was a mechanic and gunsmith and was the owner of Performance Jet Boats in Dallas for 28 years and co-owner of S&S Precision in Argyle for 12 years.
He was preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his wife, Janis Davis Sims; his mother; sons David Sims and wife, Sharon, and Danny R. Sims and wife, Sharlene, all of Decatur; daughters KaSondra Hughes and husband, Bobby, of Decatur and Maggie Perez and husband, Ray, of Aledo; brothers Gary Sims and wife, Pam, of Garland, Danny B. Sims and wife, Vicki, of Abilene and Michael Sims of Fort Worth; six grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to any of the following Hurricane Harvey relief effort charities: Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund; texasdiaperbank.org; Central Texas Food Bank; or Americares.org.

Sims, Laura B. ‘Jack’ (Coker) | 1920-2017
Published Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Laura Sims
Laura B. “Jack” Sims, 96, of Bonham, died Monday, Jan. 2, 2017, in Bonham.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Pallbearers are Mark Sims, Danny Sims, Donnie Parrish, Dusty Spencer and Ronnie Coker.
Laura was born Jan. 29, 1920, to Jess and Josephine (Knight) Coker. She married William Hubert Sims April 20, 1944. She was a member of the Kings Highway Baptist Church in Fort Worth.
Laura was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and son Dannie Sims.
She is survived by her son, Tom Sims and wife, Vickie, of Bonham; grandchildren Mark Sims of Fort Worth, Kimberly Parrish of Watauga, Angelia Sims of Fort Worth and Danny Sims of Tyler; great-grandchildren Aleece and Jaxon; brothers Jesse Coker and Samuel R. Coker, both of Rhome; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Singleton, Mary Lavonne (Motsenbocker) | 1921-2017
Published Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Mary Singleton
Mary Lavonne Singleton, 96, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, July 30, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the East Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Potts officiating.
Honorary pallbearers are members of the Bridgeport Police Department.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Mary was born May 29, 1921, in Bridgeport to John and Ollie (Holt) Motsenbocker. She grew up on a farm along the Trinity River between Bridgeport and Paradise, where in her words, she lived an idyllic life, along with her five siblings.
During the Depression, her family would often travel to West Texas to pick cotton. At 12 years old, Mary picked as much cotton as most grown men. On Jan. 9, 1941, Mary married the love of her life, Ray Singleton, in Alvord. Shortly thereafter, Ray’s Army unit was deployed to the war in the South Pacific, where he subsequently became a prisoner of war for 42 months. Mary never gave up on Ray, saying she always knew he would make it home.
After the war, Mary and Ray made their home on their small Happy Hollow farm in Bridgeport, raising four children there. Mary loved nature and everything about it. She loved to bird-watch, walk through the woods with her dog Bo and admire the colors of spring and fall foliage. Even well into her 90s, Mary would ask Melanie to drive her around the countryside so she could continue to observe the beauty of God’s earth.
She loved her husband and children and made them a home that was warm, loving and fun. For more than 96 years, she lived her life in service to her Lord, using her love, kindness and humor to be a witness for God’s love.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters Barcilee Chapman and Doris Cocanaugher; brothers Joe Motsenbocker and Ralph Motsenbocker; and grandson Brandon Ray Singleton.
She is survived by daughter Melanie Singleton of Bridgeport; sons Jeff Singleton and wife, Laura, of Bella Vista, Ark., Randy Singleton and wife, Judy, of Bridgeport and Brent Singleton and wife, Debbie, of Bridgeport.
Other survivors include sister Oleta Nix and husband, Joe, of Austin; grandsons Jay Singleton of Plano and Carl Stephens and wife, Rachel, of San Antonio; granddaughters Ashley Watts of Denton, Tammie Seymore and husband, Brian, of Bulverde and Arin Stephens of Little Rock, Ark.; and great-grandchildren Bella, Kelsey, Jonathan, Alice and Marcus.  

Slimp, Doyle Ray, Rev | 1936-2017
Published Saturday, June 10, 2017

Doyle Slimp
The Rev. Doyle Ray Slimp, 81, of Decatur, died Monday, June 5, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was Friday, June 9 at First Baptist Church with Clyde Harold Slimp, the Rev. Ray Cobb, and the Rev. Eddie Miligan officiating. Burial followed in Oaklawn Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Doyle was born April 28, 1936, in Rhome to Shade and Dovie (Lambert) Slimp. He married Martha Sue Taylor June 8, 1956, in Decatur. Doyle was a retired minister for over 40 years and also retired machinist for Bell Helicopter. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Wayne Slimp and James Slimp; and sister Elaine Andress.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years; son Rick Slimp and wife, Karen, of Decatur; grandchildren Jeremy Slimp of Decatur, Eric Slimp and wife, Samantha, of Fort Worth and Kayla Slimp of Dallas; great-grandchildren Kaidan and Marcie of Decatur and Madelyn Slimp of Fort Worth; mother-in-law Oleta Dethloff of Decatur; brother Clyde Slimp and wife, Patsy, of Decatur; brother-in-law Milton Andress of Boyd; sister-in-law Raylee Slimp of Boyd; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Slimp, Joshua Paul | 1983-2017
Published Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Joshua Slimp
Joshua Paul Slimp, 34, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, July 16, 2017, in Grapevine.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 21, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with Randy Slimp officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Patrick Cox, Josh Jones, Jody Slimp, Micah Slimp, Matthew Slimp and Jacob Slimp.
Josh was born March 22, 1983, in Fort Worth to Danny and Tina (Ferguson) Slimp. He proudly served his country as a lance corporal in the United States Marine Corps. In the spring of 2006, Josh married the love of his life, Casey Holley, and together they shared 11 wonderful years of marriage.
Josh loved being a WATCHdog at the Bridgeport Elementary school. He also enjoyed hunting hogs, shooting guns, coaching youth basketball and playing video games with his kids.
Josh was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bobby and Verda Slimp and J.C. Ferguson.
He is survived by his wife; son Hagen Lane Slimp; daughter Kyndal Reese Slimp; his parents; brothers Jody Slimp and wife, Morgan, Micah Slimp and Ashley of Alvord and Matthew Slimp and wife, Kayla, of Bowie; and grandmother Claudette Ferguson of Newark.

Small, Dorotha Mae (Mckeever) | 1921-2017
Published Saturday, November 18, 2017

Dorotha Mae Small
Dorotha Mae Small, 96, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 20, at Decatur Church of Christ with Rick Ross officiating. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Eric Vincent, Doyle Low, David Isham, Cary Obidinski, Shane Small and Kevin Small.
Dorotha was born Sept. 4, 1921, in Paris to George and Eula (Medcalf) Mckeever. She married Albert Henry Small June 22, 1940, in Irving. Dorotha retired as a high school attendance clerk. She was a member of the Decatur Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers; and one sister.
She is survived by her sons, George Small and wife, Pam, and Curtis Small and wife, Margie, of Weatherford; daughters Alma Jean Fenton of Tyler, Audrey Dyer and husband, John, of Decatur and Cindy Buckholz and husband, David, of Granbury; sister Melba Gotcher of Fort Worth; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends.

Small, Jovita T. (Tisalona) | 1928-2017
Published Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Jovita Small
Jovita T. Small, 88, died Friday Feb. 17, 2017, after a short bout with pneumonia.
A private graveside service for family will be held Saturday, Feb. 25, at Edgewood Cemetery in Lancaster.
Jovita was born Feb. 24, 1928, in Bom Bang, Luzon, Philippines to Santiago and Gabina Tisalona. She was one of 13 children. She met and married her husband, Joseph D. Small Jr. March 30, 1947, while he was on duty in the Philippines with the U.S. Navy. They were married 64 years.
After they married, they lived in Joseph’s hometown of Indianapolis. In 1951, they moved their family to Lancaster. Jovita was a homemaker, and Joseph worked for LTV. In 1961, they moved to Arlington.
Joyen, as she was known by some, was an accomplished golfer, winning numerous tournaments with the Lake Arlington Women’s Golf Association. She was also a prolific bowler with the Plaza Twilight League.
Joyen surpassed her skills in sports by being a talented designer and seamstress. She was well known for her amazing dance recital costumes, her wedding and bridesmaids dresses and the custom clothing she sewed for her four daughters throughout their lives. Joyen was selected in 1972 to design and sew costumes for the trainers, entertainers and marine mammals at the Seven Seas Marine Park in Arlington.
In 1982, Joseph and Joyen purchased 15 acres in Paradise and built their retirement home. They were avid square and round dancers.
Jovita was preceded in death by her husband; infant daughter Patricia; and eldest daughter Anita.
She is survived by daughters Peg Looney and husband, Dennis, Pam Foster and husband, Nathan and Linda Small; son Michael Small and wife, Patty; grandchildren Jovita Roy, Patricia Harvey, Robert Henderson, James Hazelwood, Jeremey Katrycz, Mistie Lyons, Reyna Arndorfor and Robert West; 17 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Smith, David Lafayette | 1926-2017
Published Saturday, August 12, 2017
David Lafayette Smith, 90, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017, in Bridgeport.
No services are planned.
David was born Nov. 18, 1926, in Rhome.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Mack Smith; and sons Mike Smith and Randy Smith.
He is survived by his sons, Mark Smith of Mexico and Bobby Smith and wife, Diane, of Bridgeport; daughter Sharron Rutherford and husband, Bruce, of Burleson; multiple grandchildren; and multiple great-grandchildren.

Smith, David Lenord | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, January 21, 2017

David Smith
David Lenord Smith, 72, of Denton, died Monday, Jan. 16, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service was Jan. 20 at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton with the Rev. Ronald Brown officiating.
Pallbearers were Brandon Good, Jason Good, David Smith, Mathew Good, William Smith and Michael Smith.
David was born Aug. 21, 1944, in Denton to Travis and Elsie (Smith) Smith. He was a retired truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughters, Cathryn Mae Smith and Lora Lee Smith.
David is survived by his son, David Smith and wife, Crystal, of Bridgeport; grandsons David and Michael Smith of Bridgeport; great-granddaughter Kady Morgan of Huntsville; sister Kathleen Parsons of Denton; and other relatives and friends.

Smith, Gladys Joy (Horner) | 1925-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Gladys Smith
Gladys Joy Smith, 91, of Alvord, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, in Bowie.
Funeral was Jan. 10 at the First Baptist Church of Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed at Briar Branch Cemetery in Alvord.
Pallbearers were Ricky Horner, Walter Bull, Rusty Hand, Davey Edwards, Tommy Edwards and Johnnie Smith.
Gladys was born March 4, 1925, in Decatur to Cecil and Clara (Cunningham) Horner. She married Clyde Smith July 17, 1945, in Decatur. Gladys was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord since 1950.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brother Guy Horner Jr.
She is survived by her daughter, Anna L. Heller and husband, Lynn, of Alvord; sons Phillip W. Smith of Alvord and Clyde McDonald “Mack” Smith II of Alvord; grandchildren Lora Hawley and Brian Whaley; great-grandchild Brennen Smith Whaley; brother Travis Horner; sisters-in-law Oleta Horner and Mary Rutherford; brother-in-law C.P. Smith Jr.; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Smith, Joe Todd | 1963-2017
Published Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Joe Smith
Joe Todd Smith, 53, of Bowie, died Saturday, March 18, 2017, in Nocona.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Lupe Batterton officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Dean Smith, Eddie Smith, Rodney Davis, Paul Carroll, Robert DeSoza and Eric Carroll.
Honorary pallbearer is Ty Harrell.
Joe was born Sept. 23, 1963, in Colorado City to Joe and Cheryl (Lewis) Smith. He worked as a ranch hand.
Joe was preceded in death by his mother.
He is survived by his father; his wife, Dona Carroll of Bowie; son Joe R. Smith and wife, Keri, of Aurora; daughters Dezerea Smith of Marietta, Raven Smith of Idaho and Flesha DeSoza and husband, Robert, of Bowie; seven grandchildren; brothers Eddie and Dean Smith; sister Amy Davis; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Smith, Judy Kay (Brown) | 1946-2017
Published Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Judy Kay Brown Smith
Judy Kay Brown Smith, 71, of Decatur, died Friday, Nov. 17, 2017.
Funeral was Tuesday, Nov. 21 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with burial in Oaklawn Cemetery. Pallbearers were nephews Matt Brown, Thomas Burkhardt, Larry Woods, Scott Thomson, Jonathan Mason and Chris Fraker.
Honorary pallbearers were nephews Mark Brown, Monte Smith and Rory Smith.
Judy was part of the founding families of Wise County and a longtime resident of Decatur. She was born July 17, 1946. She graduated from Decatur High School in 1964, and after meeting her future husband Alton L. Smith at the Whispering Wheels skating rink, married him April 30, 1966, in her parents’ home. Later Judy and Al had two children. They returned in 1980 to make Decatur their family’s home. Judy eventually retired from the state of Texas. When she wasn’t crocheting or making sure every single person around her had food in their belly, she shopped the aisles of Wal-Mart, always on the hunt for a bargain or some town gossip.
Throughout her life, she loved this town and the people in it, leaving us with the sincerest gratitude to have been a member of it.
She is preceded in death by her father Lawrence Brown, a member of the famed Lost Battalion; and her mother Marjorie Buchanan Brown of the Buchanan dairy family.
Judy is survived by her loving husband of over 51 years; daughter Shannon Smith Green of Lake Bridgeport; son Sean Smith and his husband, Carter Covington, of Los Angeles, Calif.; granddaughter Hailey Green; grandson Cormac Covington-Smith; brother Pat Brown and wife, Jenny, of Plano; and many adoring extended family members and friends.
In lieu of flowers, please make charitable donations in her name to the Wise Hope Crisis Center and Solaris Hospice.

Smith, Larry Dean | 1952-2017
Published Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Larry Smith
Larry Dean Smith, 65, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Paradise.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jeff Honeycutt officiating. Burial will follow at Roberts Branch Cemetery in Jacksboro.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Jason Smith, Cody Anderson, Bobby Richey, Frank Conteras, Clayton Green and Bo Smith.
Honorary pallbearers are Tim Vera, Bill Lewis, James Owen, Michael Gage and Jason Alvey.
Larry was born Feb. 4, 1952, in Jacksboro to Jasper and Della Mae “Johnnie” (Brisco) Smith. He married Pamela Kay Koerner March 8, 1997, in Bridgeport. Larry was a member of the United Body of Christ Church in Paradise. He was a retired meter technician for Devon.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Larry is survived by his wife of 20 years; son Jason Smith and wife, Sherry, of Decatur; daughters Tracey Melendrez and husband, Rey, of Cedar Creek, Kayla Prock Jones and husband, Doug, of Decatur, Jeanie Dahlen of Alvord and Misty Hillary and husband, Patrick, of Euless; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his mother; brother Ronnie Smitha and wife, Lindsey, of Bridgeport; sister Connie Shawn and husband, Jerry, of Boyd; and numerous extended family members and friends.

Smith, Ronnie Leon | 1942-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

Ronnie Smith
Ronnie Leon Smith, 74, of Decatur, died Monday, July 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service was Friday, July 7 at Prairie Mound Cemetery with the Rev. Kris Hogan officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Honorary pallbearers were Bart Gavit, Nathan Gavit, Brad Ash, Ben Hogan and Deuce Hogan.
Ronnie was born Nov. 8, 1942, in Argyle to Harlin and Muriel (Jennings) Smith. He married Debbie Gavit Jan. 4, 1985, in Denton County. Ronnie was a retired auto mechanic for more than 40 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Argyle.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 32 years; sons, Ronnie Smith Jr. and wife, Kristine, of Coppell, Robert Dale Smith and wife, Karen, of Oregon, Kris Hogan and wife, Amy, of Southlake and Ben Hogan of Decatur; daughter, Rhonda Ash of Colorado; brother, Doyle Smith and wife, Judy, of Keller; sister, Wilda Hensley of Junction; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Smith, Tracy Ann (Mazur) | 1971-2017
Published Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Tracy Smith
Tracy Ann Mazur Smith, 45, of Greenwood, died Thursday, June 29, 2017, in Greenwood.
Memorial service was July 7 at DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton.
Tracy was born July 27, 1971, in Dallas to James A. and Paula “Cherylene” Long Mazur. Tracy worked as a staff accountant for Aleatris Stanley CPA PLLC for many years. She loved serving as county chair of the Wise County Democratic Party in Texas.
Tracy was preceded in death by her mother; and brother James “Jake” Mazur.
She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Coley Smith of Greenwood; son Evan Smith of Hurst; her father; sisters Sheree Davis of Frisco and Jackie Mazur of Krum; sister-in-law Trina Smith; father-in-law Larry Smith; nieces Alex Mazur and Rayanne Geletko; nephews Brad Hall, Ryan Hall, David Martinez, Jakob Geletko and Andrew Parks; one great-niece; several aunts and uncles; and cousins.

Smith, William Allen ‘Bill’ | 1952-2017
Published Saturday, January 14, 2017

William Smith
William Allen (Bill) Smith, 64, of Waco, formerly of Runaway Bay, died Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, in Waco.
Service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Bill was born June 18, 1952, in Kermit to Allen and Billie Ruth (Martin) Smith. He was a retired truck driver. He served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1971 to 1975. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Teamsters, U.S.O. and Wise County Veterans Group.
Bill was also a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bridgeport. He married Linda Rose Gonzalez Feb. 11, 1983, in Bridgeport. He loved the Dallas Cowboys, his family, traveling and genealogy. Bill was a person who was always ready to help anyone in need.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Claude Smith.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Ashley Nicole Bradley and husband, Rick; sisters Nola Fraley and husband, Michael, and Debra O’Bryant; sister-in-law Dolores Gonzalez; nephews Richard O’Bryant and wife, Stephanie, and Dustin Fraley and wife, Stephanie; and numerous extended family members.

Solomon, Ruby Frances (Bragg) | 1929-2017
Published Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Ruby Frances Solomon
Ruby Frances Solomon, 88, of Decatur, died Monday, Oct. 30, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at Aurora Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Withers officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers are Michael Solomon, Zack Bone, Vernon Solomon, Lucas Solomon, Kyle Solomon and Ward Robinson.
Honorary pallbearers are Donny Worthington, Kyle Copp, Brad Adcock and Ronnie Shockey.
Ruby was born June 11, 1929, in Cedar Hill to Lawrence and Mamie (Tulley) Bragg. She married Felix Vernon Solomon June 6, 1947, in Kaufman County. Ruby was a member of Aurora Baptist Church for more than 60 years. She retired from being a secretary at Northwest ISD after many years of service.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sons Michael and Rick Solomon; sisters Jo Kimsey, Evelyn Pinson and Onida Kimsey; and brother Eldred Bragg.
She is survived by her sons, Terry Solomon and wife, Terrie Lynn, of Aurora and Steve Solomon and wife, Margie, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Michael Solomon and wife, Mellissa, of Trophy Club, Stacie Robinson and husband, Ward, of Peaster, Zack Bone of Fort Worth, Vernon Solomon of Aurora and Lucas Solomon of Aurora; great-grandchildren Morgan Robinson, Micah Solomon, Kyle Solomon, Rickie Robinson, and Carter, Aden, Ellis and Grace Boclair; sister Betty Solomon of Azle; and other relatives and friends.  

Sparks, Norman Neil | 1934-2017
Published Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Norman Sparks
Norman Neil Sparks, 83, of Boyd, died Friday, June 23, 2017, in Boyd.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 28, at Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas.
Visitation is 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at Aria Cremation Service and Funeral Homes in Irving.
Norman was born March 24, 1934, in Friars Point, Miss. He married Linda Louise Sparks Nov. 2, 1981.
Norman was proud to serve our country in the Navy, and then as a police officer in Long Beach, Calif. He attended Long Beach City College and retired from the Internal Revenue Service. He loved his family, enjoyed hunting and fishing in his younger years and had a love for animals – especially his standard poodle Beauson III.
Many people called him “Sparkie.” He was at peace with the Lord at the time of death. He was a Mason.
Norman was preceded in death by his mother, Pearlie Mae Knight Hudson; father Vernon Sparks; and sisters Dorothy (Dotty) Hancock and Betty Sparks Warbritton.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Brenda Sparks Minix and husband, Tim, Marie Garza and Tammy Lynn Shank; grandchildren Troy A. Minix, Amy N. Minix and Ryan T. Thompson; and sister Kay Sparks Littrell.

Speights, Lisa Elaine (Thomas) | 165-2017
Published Saturday, December 16, 2017

Lisa Elaine Speights
Lisa Elaine Speights, 52, of Roanoke, died Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017, in Roanoke.
Graveside service is noon Saturday at Paradise Cemetery with the Rev. Cody Thomas officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Justin Speights, Eric Whitford, Kurtis Brunson, Gary Speights, Kelton Gayoso, Austin Kim and Keith McGee.
Lisa was born Nov. 20, 1965, in Grapevine to J.W. “Bud” and Dovie Florene (Fine) Thomas. She married Johnny Ray Speights Aug. 26, 1983, in Denton and was a retired assistant manager.
Lisa was preceded in death by her father; her husband; son Rusty Speights; sister Charlotte Morgan; and brother Jerry Thomas.
She is survived by her son, Justin Speights and wife, Patrisha; daughters Sherry “Becky” Whitford and husband, Eric and Cara Joyce Brunson and husband, Kurtis Lee; grandchildren Morgan, Hannah, Dovie Lynn, Addison and Allison; her mother; brothers Bobby Thomas, James Randall Thomas and David Miaso and wife, Donna; sisters Linda Dennis, Brenda Thomas and Neta Gayoso; and nieces, nephews and friends.

Spikes, Tom | 1939-20017
Published Saturday, December 9, 2017

Tom Spikes
Tom Spikes, 78, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Service is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12, at the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb officiating. Burial will follow at the East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Brent Blackburn, Kyle Ostwinkle, Will Rush, Ben Rush, James White and Jim Fisher.
Honorary pallbearer is James Jackson.
Tom was born April 18, 1939, in Monette, Ark., to Wayland and Lucille (Parmer) Spikes. Tom married Sandra Rush in 1982 in Memphis, Tenn. He served in the U.S. Army and was a member of the First Baptist Church. He was a truck driver by trade.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; son Brian Spikes; and brother Bobby Spikes.
He is survived by his wife; son Bob Spikes of Ramona, Calif.; stepdaughters Laura Blackburn and husband, Mark, of Runaway Bay and Hope McCord and husband, Gary, of Bartlett, Tenn.; stepson Todd Rush and wife, Anita, of Olive Branch, Miss.; grandchildren Ashley Spikes, Macayla Spikes, Brent Blackburn, Stephanie Ostwinkle, Malory McCord, Macee Rush, Will Rush and Ben Rush; and great-grandchildren Emma, Jackson, Blake and Ava Blackburn.

Spiller, William Charles ‘Charlie’ | 1924-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017

William Spiller
William Charles “Charlie” Spiller, 92, of Bridgeport died Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, in Bridgeport.
A private service was held. The Rev. Jack McAsey officiated.
Charlie was born Aug. 16, 1924, in Marion, Ill., to William and Ida (Sutton) Spiller. He married Betty “Mickey” McVay Aug. 31, 1947, in Springfield, Mo. Charlie held a bachelor’s degree in engineering and worked as vice president and division manager for Mitchell Energy for 15 years. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, and he was a member of Emmanuel Church in Fort Worth.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mickey Spiller of Bridgeport; daughters Jane Ann Luxton and husband, Ernie, of Weatherford and Patricia Lee Ford and husband, Tom, of Rosanky; son Charles Arthur Spiller and wife, Naomi, of Cape Fair, Mo.; grandchildren Lauren Segura and husband, Kellen, Camden Spiller and wife, Sarah, Riley Spiller and wife, Anna, Camille Austin and husband, Andrew, Emily Spiller, Emerson Spiller, Bradi Anne Spiller and Mack Spiller and wife, Heidi; seven great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Spindle, Verna Ruth (Pharr) | 1925-2017
Published Saturday, August 5, 2017

Verna Spindle
Verna Ruth Spindle, 92, died Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, in Gainesville.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at First Baptist Church of Valley View. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery.
Coker Funeral Home in Sanger is handling arrangements.
Ruth was born Jan. 10, 1925, in Pickton to Edd and Dora Ethel Alford Pharr. The family moved to Valley View, where she met Clifton Horace Spindle. He became her soul mate, best friend and the love of her life. They married Nov. 16, 1940, and their union lasted 70 years.
Though she spent most of her life devoted to raising her children and helping on the farm, she had one stint in her later years working in the justice of the peace office in Valley View where she spoiled the highway patrolmen of Cooke County with her infamous cream pies.
Ruth loved spending time at their cabin on Lake Texoma and at their winter home in Port Isabel. She also loved traveling with Clifton in their RV. They were equally avid fishermen and dropped a hook every chance they got.
Ruth was always at the ready for wicked games of dominos and Skip-Bo. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting and painting. Her favorite pastime, though, was family gatherings and spoiling her many grandchildren.
Ruth was a kind and gentle soul. She had a loving and generous heart and always opened her arms to others. She had a quick wit, a devilish smile and an infectious giggle. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; grandson David McFarlin; granddaughters Ashli Spindle and Courtney Smith; son-in-law Teddy Barclay; grandson-in-law Roman Juarez; and granddaughter-in-law Beth Straubmueller.
She is survived by her daughters, Jeanette Doty of Denton, Sue Luthi and husband, Dick, of Gainesville, Annette Straubmueller and husband, Mort, of Corinth, Kay Barclay of Valley View and Joye Williams and husband, Mack, of Sanger; son Cliff Spindle and wife, Trina, of Valley View; 38 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren.
Other survivors include brother-in-law Floyd Spindle; sisters-in-law Joann Belz and Frances Helton; special nephew Howard Ashcraft and wife, Frieda; and lifelong special friend (little sister), Evelyn Anne Calhoun.
Memorial donations may be made to the ALS Association (alsa.org) or to a charity of choice.

St. John, Raymond Eugene | 1934-2017
Published Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Raymond Eugene St. John
Raymond Eugene St. John, 83, of Chico, died Monday, Oct. 9, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Robert Cox officiating. Burial will follow at Cumby Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Carvel St. John, Mark St. John, Chad St. John, Trustin St. John and Larry Marshall.
Raymond was born Aug. 24, 1934, in Bowie to James Wesley and Annie (Rich) St. John. He married Cora Martin April 30, 1954, in Weatherford. Raymond was a truck driver for Coffman Tank Truck until his retirement. He was a member of the Living Waters Church in Chico and a member of the Moose Lodge in Fort Worth.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Cora St. John; daughter Patricia Hill; and sisters Mary Jo and Wanda.
He is survived by his sons, Dawayne St. John and wife, Lois, of Bowie, Randell St. John and wife, Christi, of Montague and David St. John of Chico; grandchildren Carvel, Mark, Chad, Trustin, Chris, Krystal, Tamara and Leah; 15 great-grandchildren; brothers Dan, Jerry, James, Rubin, Bobby and Alvin; sisters Shirley, Linda, Ethelene, Helen and Lois; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Standefer, Laverna Frances ‘Fran’ (Parker) | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, November 4, 2017

Laverna Frances Standefer
Laverna Frances (Fran) Standefer, 76, of Boyd, died Monday, Oct. 30, 2017, in Decatur.
No service is planned at this time.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Laverna was born Nov. 1, 1940, in Woody to Cleo and Mary (Foster) Parker. She was a retired caregiver.
She was preceded in death by her mother; and brother Bob Burkett.
She is survived by her son, Terry Doyle Standefer and wife, Melinda, of Lake Dallas; daughter Nedinah Kay Davis and husband, Craig, of Odessa; son Randy Ross Standefer of Odessa; grandchildren TJ Standefer of Euless, CJ Davis and wife, Amanda, of Odessa, Megan Riley and husband, Patrick, of Lewisville, Lauren Davis of Odessa, Kirsten Nelson of Odessa and Randy G. Standefer of Odessa; great-grandchildren Kylee, Haylee and Rylee Davis, Mckenzie Willenborg Riley and Lucy Riley; brothers Steve Parker of Odessa and Charles Burkett of Brownfield; sister Jan Burkett of Boyd; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Steagall, Cherry Sue (Brown) Rose | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Cherry Sue Steagall, 73, of Paradise, died Sunday, April 2, in Paradise.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, at Paradise Cemetery.
Cherry was born July 25, 1943, in Bridgeport to Bonnie Foster ‘Tommy Boy’ Brown and Blanche Marie Preskitt Brown. She was a nurse whose hobbies included reading.
Cherry was preceded in death by husbands Donley Rose Jr. and Sam Steagall; her parents; and brothers Jim Brown, Gary Brown and Mike Brown.
She is survived by daughters Doni Caruthers and husband, Skeet, of Paradise, Pattie Davis and husband, Jeff, of Bridgeport, Tracie Smith and husband, Jerry, of Paradise and Samantha Steagall of Paradise; brothers Tommy Brown of Bridgeport and Rusty Brown and wife, Elaine, of Bridgeport; sisters Barbara McDaniel and husband, Austin, of Bridgeport, Rayanne Gentry and husband, Brad, of Paradise and Carolyn Akins of Denton.
She is also survived by grandchildren Colton Caruthers, Ashlee Smith, Kaylee Brown, Sammy Davis and Kaitlynn Smith; and great-grandchildren Zoey Brown, Barrett Cobb and Asher Caruthers.

Steinhauer, Nancy Catherine (Moore) | 1948-2017
Published Saturday, July 1, 2017

Nancy Steinhauer
Nancy Catherine Moore Steinhauer, 68, of Paradise, died Wednesday, June 14, 2017, in Paradise.
Memorial service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 8, at Church of the Living God in Cottondale with the Rev. Jack Skidmore officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Nancy was born Aug. 22, 1948, in Fort Worth to Leonard and Viola (Pahmeyer) Moore. She married James Steinhauer Nov. 27, 1976, in Fort Worth. She was a foster mother to more than 100 children in Wise County and was a licensed cosmetologist.
Nancy was a member of the Church of the Living God in Cottondale.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and daughter Tiffany Chance.
She is survived by her sons, Steven Wayne Quinlan and wife, Ann, of Granbury, Christian Steinhauer of Rhome and Casey Steinhauer of Rhome; grandchildren Ryan Cole Quinlan and Shyla Kaye Quinlan of Granbury and Annabella Grace Chance of Paradise; sister Annie Lee Turner of Argyle; a niece, stepchildren, extended family members and friends.

Stephens, Lasca Thelma (Franklin) | 1923-2017
Published Saturday, March 11, 2017

Lasca Stephens
Lasca Thelma Franklin Stephens, 93, of Denton, died Thursday, March 9, 2017.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at the First Christian Church of Denton.
Lasca was born Oct. 25, 1923, in Pocasset, Okla., and raised in Verden, Okla., on the family farm. Over the past week numerous visitors have described her as funny, amazing, gorgeous, incredible, strong, quick-witted, peaceful, talented, strong-willed, classy, compassionate, giving, helpful and generous.
Lasca was a true pioneer woman, helping to raise livestock and crops while tending to her sick mother and aunt early in life. She received a scholarship to business school at Oklahoma City University and later attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. She never attended nursing school, but she helped nurse many people back to health throughout her life.
During World War II, she supported war efforts by working for the Chickasha Flying School. She was faithful in serving her church, volunteering for the VFW women’s auxiliary, American Legion, the Lady Elks and the Christian Women’s Fellowship. She helped support and advocate for natural alternative healthcare by promoting acupuncture and chiropractic care. She was proud to be the first female in Grady County, Okla., to wear pants to work, and she actively supported rodeo and the sports in which her family was involved.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. H.L. Stephens; parents Milton Bryan and Thelma Franklin; siblings Carol Muske, Milton “Buddy” Franklin and Sharon Rife; and great-granddaughters Hope and Faith Horner.
She is survived by her children, Carla “Susie” Wood McCarley and husband, Ronnie, Thomas “Woody” Wood and wife, Charlotte, Raymond Walker and wife, Mary, Dr. Kay Arthur and husband, Barney, and Patricia “Trish” Hill and husband, Steve Hedrick; grandchildren Jimmy McCarley and wife, Kathy, Buffy Strange and husband, Casey, Shawn Wood and wife, Ashley, Ryan Walker and wife, Katie, Natalie McKensie, Cody Arthur, Katy Arthur, Tracey Lowry and husband, Josh, Sam Bowman and Casey Bowman.
She is also survived by great-grandchildren Micah and Tripp McCarley, Colton Wood, Alyssa and Ayden Arthur, Elisabeth and Seth McKensie, Hunter and Fisher Horner, Delaney and Thatcher Lowry, River VaQuera and Grace Bowman; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Stokes, Billie Jo (Waters) | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, December 23, 2017

Billie Jo Waters Stokes
Billie Jo Waters Stokes, 85, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 23, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Doug Bridwell and Tim Green officiating. Burial will follow at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Todd Stokes, Tim Green, Juan Mercer, Jeff Green, Tracy Martin and Randy Powell.
Honorary pallbearers are Tony Green, Chris Romines and John Maddux.
Billie was born Oct. 12, 1932, in Parker County to Blan and Ethel Marie (Cox) Waters. She married Morris Stokes April 16, 1954, in Bridgeport. Billie was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport. She was a former retail store clerk and homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters Ann Pierce, Nona Kinnibe and Wanda Sipes; and brothers Dickie Waters and Jim Waters.
She is survived by her son, Stephen Stokes and wife, Samantha, of New Fairview; daughter Vicki Holder of Bridgeport; grandchildren Jonathan Holder, Mary Beth Holder and boyfriend, Taylor Milici, Jason Stokes, Josh Smith and wife, Shauna, Scarlett Psutka and Victoria Nichols; great-grandchildren Fable and Rowan; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Stone, Glen Fred | 1945-2017
Published Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Glen Stone
Glen Fred Stone, 71, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Decatur.
A memorial service will be held at a later date
Glen was born Oct. 2, 1945, in Laurel, Neb., to Robert and Mildred (Anderson) Stone. He married Sandra Juracek Oct. 24, 1963, in Norfolk, Neb. Twenty-five years of his career was spent in special market sales for Brown and Williamson Tobacco, in both Norfolk, Neb., and Keller before moving to the Bridgeport area in 2001.
Glen was also a professional musician, both part-time and full-time, playing the drums for 40 years in numerous bands from coast to coast.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Gary Stone; and father-in-law Clarence Juracek.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years; sons Darrin Stone of Bowie and Damian Stone of Fort Worth; grandsons Chase Stone and Jaxon Stone, both of Fort Worth; sisters Rose Dymacek of Lincoln, Neb., Linda Longe of Unadilla, N.Y., and Loraine Earleywine of Lincoln; and brother Randy Stone of Lincoln.

Stone, Kenneth Wade | 1933-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Kenneth Wade Stone
Kenneth Wade Stone, 84, of Decatur, died Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Kenneth was born Feb. 8, 1933, in Fort Cobb, Okla., to Herman Levi and Ruby Alice (Martin) Stone. He was a two-year veteran in the United States Army. Kenneth married Shirley Hinton Aug. 27, 1955, in Globe, Ariz. He worked for Mt. Bell Phone Co. in Arizona and retired after 30 years of service. He and Shirley spent a lifetime split between Arizona and Texas, having fun sharing many adventures and creating countless memories.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; a brother; and a sister.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years; daughters Brenda Ferguson and husband, Rick, of Phoenix and Tammy St. John and husband, Ray, of Ava, Mo.; grandchildren Chris Stelzer and wife, Rachel, of Phoenix, Kendra Stelzer of Phoenix, Tonya St. John of Phoenix and Justin St. John of Springfield, Mo.; two nephews; and friends.

Tagle, Henry ‘Hank’ | 1947-2017
Published Saturday, November 18, 2017

Henry Tagle
Henry “Hank” Tagle, 70, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017, in Decatur.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Hank was born Feb. 8, 1947, in Aquilla to Enrico and Will Etta Tagle. He married Sandra Hughes May 18, 1985, in Fort Worth. He dearly loved his family and will be missed by everyone.
Hank is survived by his wife; sons Anthony Tagle and wife, Staci and Jonathan “Scott” Tagle; and grandchildren Jonathan Scott Tagle Jr., Anya Tagle, Gabe Tagle and Gwen Tagle.

Talley, Charles Sean ‘Sean’ | 1966-2017
Published Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Sean Talley
Charles Sean Talley, known to his loved ones as Sean, died Sunday, March 12, 2017.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Friday, March 17, at the Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise with burial at Sunset Cemetery. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 16, at the church.
Sean was born May 23, 1966. Not only will his immediate family be carrying out the legacy he created, but also his infinite amount of “best friends,” people from every walk of life. In his 50 years, he served many purposes. He was a role model, counselor, hunter, businessman, coach, father, son, husband, brother and most importantly a child of God. In all of these roles he served as a teacher, always wanting to share what he had learned.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa; three children, Jordan, Tatum and Hayden; his mother, Anne Wylie and husband, Bob; father Charles Talley and wife, Jean; sister, Lisa Groves; step-brothers, Mike and Shayne Talley; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Geri and Ralph Tuttle; brother-in-law Bill Tuttle and wife, Lori; and many nieces and nephews.

Talley, Craig | 1956-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Craig Talley
Craig Talley, 60, of Decatur, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at Decatur Church of Christ with Rick Ross officiating. Burial will follow at Preskitt Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Eric Gage, Andrew Gage, Zack Gage, Gabe Cocanougher, Nate Haynes, Robert Watts, Donnie Watts, Lynn Hachtel, Kirby Ellenberg and Joel Talley.
Craig was born Dec. 8, 1956, in Jacksboro to Alford and Grace (Powell) Talley. He married Emily Haynes June 12, 2010, in Decatur. Craig was owner of Talley Communications. He was a member of the Decatur Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife; son Daniel Talley of Boonsville; his parents; brother Phillip Talley and wife, Barbara, of Decatur; nephew Colt Talley and wife, Ashlei, of Lubbock; and extended family and friends.  

Taylor, Dorothy June (Easley) | 1926-2017
Published Wednesday, April 26, 2017

Dorothy Taylor
Dorothy June Taylor, 90, of Stoney/Ponder, died Thursday, April 20, 2017, in Corinth.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 26, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Dorothy was born Aug. 14, 1926, in Tarrant County to Newt and Sarah (Gargis) Easley. She married Floyd Taylor Aug. 3, 1943, in Boyd. Dorothy was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur. She was a member of the Eastern Star and was a retired co-owner of Taylor Chevrolet.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brother Harold Easley.
She is survived by her son, Dan Taylor of Corinth; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

Taylor, Leona (Stevens) | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, January 18, 2017
Leona Taylor, 80, of Decatur, died Friday, Jan. 13, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 17 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur.
Leona was born July 8, 1936, in Palo Pinto to Mary Martha and Jack Harold Stevens.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 50 years, Walter Taylor; sister Earlene; and stepdaughter Jolene Taylor.
She is survived by stepsons James Taylor and Robert Taylor; stepdaughter Janie Cunningham; sisters-in-law Lillie Sherman and Ola Taylor; niece Kathy McConnell; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Taylor, Sharon Kay (Allen) | 1949-2017
Provided by Hawkins Funeral Homes Wise County Messenger, December 30, 2017
Obituary Photo
Sharon Kay Taylor, 68, a homemaker, went to be with our Lord Saturday, December 23, 2017 in Weatherford.
Funeral is 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 29, 2017 at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport with private and family only burial in Willow Point Cemetery. Family will receive friends 1 hour prior to service Friday, December 29, 2017 at the funeral home.
Dr. Charles Wetherbee will officiate.
Sharon was born on October 24, 1949 to Audie and Angie Ilene (Thompson) Allen in Bridgeport, Texas. She was united in marriage to Mike Ray Taylor on May 22, 1968 in Gibtown, Texas. Sharon was a homemaker and a member of Victory Baptist Church in Weatherford, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her father, Audie Allen.
Those left behind to cherish her memory are her husband of 49 years, Mike Taylor of Weatherford; sons, Michael Bryant Taylor, Matthew Paul Taylor and wife Mary Ruth all of Weatherford; grandchildren, Lindsay Taylor and Kaylie Taylor; sisters, twin sister, Karon Gay May and husband Jim of Arkansas and Ila Alcorn and husband Don of Gibtown; sister in law Judy Ard and late husband Arlin of Weatherford; mother Ilene Allen of Perrin.  

Teal, Judy Jean (Cox) | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Judy Teal
Judy Jean Teal, 73, of Rhome, died Friday, May 12, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Friday, May 19, at Aurora Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Withers officiating.
Visitation is at the church one hour prior to the service. Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Judy was born Nov. 27, 1943, in Savannah, Okla., to Fred and Robbie (Bell) Cox. She married Charles Marvin Teal March 18, 1987, in Las Vegas. Judy retired from teaching. She was a dedicated teacher, having received a master’s degree in education, and was a member of Aurora Baptist Church. Judy loved to travel and had a passion for people.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Scotty Mac Nix; brothers Rauel Cox and Lavon Cox.
She is survived by sons WC Nix III and wife, Jennifer, of McKinney and Preston Loyd Nix and wife, Mary Elizabeth of Heath; daughter Tammy Jean Adcock and husband, Brad, of Newark; stepdaughter Sandra Pulliam of Georgia; and grandchildren Hunter Nix, Jade Nix, Hannah Adcock, Halyn Adcock, Preston Nix, Payton Nix, Palmer Nix, Presley Nix, Porter Nix, Paxton Nix, Kameron Nix and Kalison Nix.
Other survivors include daughter-in-law Kelly Nix; brothers Loy Cox and wife, Charlene, and Scott Cox; sisters Nancy Reese and Sarah Garrison; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Senior Care Center in Decatur or the Aurora Baptist Church.

Teo, Austin Andres | 1995-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Austin Andres Teo
Austin Andres Teo, 22, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 25, at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Austin was born Sept. 8, 1995, to Tracie Howard and Julio Teo in Salisbury, Md.
He is survived by his mother, Traci Howard and companion, Timmy Adams, of Bridgeport; his father, Julio Teo and wife, Suyapa, of Salisbury, Md.; brothers Matthew Rankin of Bridgeport and Angel Teo of Salisbury; sisters Jaquelynn Carmean of Bridgeport, Leslie Teo of Lewisville and Ivy Adams of Bridgeport; and numerous cousins, extended family members and friends.

Terrell, Dorris Jean (Collins) | 1930-2017
Published Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Dorris Terrell
Dorris Jean Terrell, 86, of Chico, died Tuesday, Jan. 3,2017 in Decatur.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at Crafton Cemetery with the Rev. Tom Merritt officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Dorris was born Nov. 29, 1930, to W.W. (Bill) Collins and Minnie (Upton) Collins. She married R.O. (Odom) Terrell Sept. 3, 1948. Together they owned and operated Terrell Dairy. She attended Crafton Baptist Church.
Dorris was preceded in death by her husband; and son Lanny Terrell.
She is survived by sons Kent Terrell and wife, Cammy, and Mitch Terrell and wife, Janet; daughter Vicki Wiley; grandchildren Kim, Brian, Royce and wife, Amber, Zach and wife, Emma and Tyler; great-grandchildren Shelby, Thomas, Layne and Hayden; and nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Crafton Cemetery.

Thatcher, Jeffery Lyle | 1971-2017
Published Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Jeffery Thatcher
Jeffery Lyle Thatcher, 45, of Decatur, died Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service will be held at a later date.
Jeffery was born Dec. 7, 1971, in Irving to Johnny and Billie Thatcher. He worked as a construction framer and had a love for martial arts and music.
Jeffery is survived by his mother; daughters Jadn Lyric Thatcher of Decatur and Anna Rae Thatcher of Houston; brother Jason Kyle Thatcher and wife, Buffie, of Decatur; and friends.
Memorials can be made to St. Jude’s, stjudge.org, or the charity of your choice.  

Thetford, Jerry Oscar | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, April 22, 2017

Jerry Thetford
Jerry Oscar Thetford, 77, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, April 18, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Kevin Casey officiating. Burial will follow at Boonsville Cemetery.
Jerry was born March 2, 1940, in Bridgeport to Joe and Mary (Castleberry) Thetford. He retired from General Dynamics and also worked for Acme Brick. Jerry was a Baptist. He always had a story to tell. Jerry farmed, ranched, traded, bought and sold cattle.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Sue Ann Thetford; and brother Joe Mac Thetford.
He is survived by his best friend, Todd Cantrell and wife, Bridy, of Bridgeport; numerous friends from the county, auctions, trade days, livestock auctions and the community throughout his life.

Thompson, Lula Darlene | 1975-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Lula Thompson
Lula Darlene Thompson, 42, of Silsbee, died Sunday, April 2, 2017, in Silsbee.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at Thomas Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Visitation is 6 to 8 pm Friday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Darlene was born March 1, 1975, in Decatur to Jerry Cordar and Linda Carpenter. She was a homemaker who enjoyed being outdoors and particularly working in her vegetable garden. She also loved spending time with her family pet.
Darlene was preceded in death by her father, Jerry Wayne Cordar; and grandparents James and Lula Romines and Clarence and Alice Cordar.
She is suvived by her husband, Alan Thompson; son James ‘Clint’ Cordar and wife, Lacey; daughters Bethany Chastain and Cheyenne Abreu and husband, Alex; parents Linda Carpenter and husband, Clarence; sisters Jerri Barnett and Chanda Avery and husband, Jay; grandchildren Lauralai Cordar, Avery Cordar, Malakai Abreu and Jessi Cordar.
Memorial donations may be made to Jones Family Funeral Home, 1401 Halsell St., Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Thornton, Ann ‘Granny Ann’ (Kammier) Gregg | 1930-2017
Published Saturday, March 11, 2017

Ann Thornton
Ann “Granny Ann” Gregg Thornton, 87, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, March 7, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Kevin Casey officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Ann was born Jan. 24, 1930, in South Bend, Ind., to Lawrence and Lucille (Older) Kammier. She married Isom Thornton Sept. 9, 2002, in Decatur. Ann was a member of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur. She was a member of the American Red Cross Abroad and was a retired nurse’s aide.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and grandson Timothy Gregg.
Ann is survived by her son, Ralph Wilson and wife, Sue, of Arizona; daughter Brenda Harris of Poolville; son Michael Gregg of Fort Worth; son Danny Gregg of Decatur; her grandchildren; and other family members and friends.  

Tingle, Clara (Brown) | 1919-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017

Clara Tingle
Clara Brown Tingle, 97, of Burleson, died Monday, June 19, 2017, in Burleson.
Graveside service was Friday, June 23 at Cottondale Cemetery with the Rev. Barry Swindall officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd handled arrangements.
Clara was born Dec. 22, 1919, in Garvin to Thomas and Annie (Porter) Brown. She married James Y. Tingle Aug. 5, 1954, in Dallas.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 27 years; brothers Oswell, Porter, Morton and Forrest Brown; and sisters Nettie Morton and Virginia Brown.
She is survived by her daughter, Kathy Swindall and husband, Barry, of Burleson; grandchildren Damon Swindall and Keegan Blackstock and husband, Zack; great-grandchildren Cooper and Presley Blackstock; sister-in-law Ann Brown; nephew James Brown and wife, Nell; nieces Ann Robinson and husband, Richard, Anita St. Clair and Nancy Baker and husband, Buddy; and great-nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Toyer, Katherine Sue (Bryant) | 1960-2017
Published Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Katherine Toyer
Katherine Sue Toyer, 57, of Sanger, died Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017, in Sanger.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, at the Old Presbyterian Church, 401 7th Street, in Sanger.
Coker Funeral Home in Sanger is handling arrangements.
Kathy was born Jan. 12, 1960, in Paris, Ark., to Bobby and Pat (McClure) Bryant. She married Richard Hilton Toyer Jan. 14, 2003, in Rockwall. She was an employee of Wise Health System in the medical billing department and was a member of the Catholic faith. Kathy was affectionately nicknamed “Glitter Girl” by those who loved her.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband; daughter Tiffany Roxanne Hansard of Rhode Island; son Bobby Way Erp of Garland; and grandson Chance Erp of Garland.

Tracy, Sandra June (Haggart) | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, January 28, 2017

Sandra Tracy
Sandra June Tracy, 72, of Decatur, died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, in Decatur.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Sandra was born May 29, 1944, in Buffalo, N.Y., to George and Lorraine (Burgasser) Haggart. Sandra was a retired quality control inspector.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her daughter, Audra Swink and husband, Daniel, of Decatur; grandchildren Robert Melvin Jr. and wife, Kate, of New Hampshire and Jacqueline Melvin-Syed and husband, Rafi, of Fort Worth; great-grandchildren Robby, Joey and Brian; sisters Gail Armstrong, Deborah Ingalls and Pamela Marble; brothers Sonny Haggart, Butch Haggart and Jack Vogal Jr.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Travis, Correne (Layne) | 1935-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Correne Travis
Correne Layne Travis, 81, of Rhome, died Sunday, April 2, 2017, in Rhome.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, April 6, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Jerry Hood officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Visitation is noon to 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Milton D. Travis Jr., Danny Lee Travis, Kenneth L. Travis Sr., Gary L. Allen, Milton D. Travis III, Caleb Travis and Kenneth L. Travis Jr.
Correne was born Oct. 20, 1935, in Edo, Ky., to Delmon and Sarah (Varney) Layne. She married Milton Dewell Travis Sr. Oct. 10, 1953, in Detroit. Correne was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many. She was an avid reader and enjoyed gardening.
Correne was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter Elesia Sanders; son-in-law Richard Sanders; and grandson Randy Sanders.
She is survived by daughter Teresia Allen and husband, Gary, of Whitesboro; sons Milton D. Travis Jr. of Aurora, Danny Travis and wife, Leticia, of Grand Prairie and Kenneth Travis Sr. of Aurora; grandchildren Milton D. Travis III, Sheena Travis, Kaleigh, Kasey, Daniel Allen, Angelia Allen, Dawn Correne Morrow, Jason Wilson, Joni Sanders, Jamie Darlene Travis, Danny Lee Travis Jr., Adrian Zendajas, Luke Micheal Travis, Kenneth L. Travis Jr., Alicia Perry and Walter Travis.
She is also survived by 37 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; brother Charles Layne and wife, Mercedes, of Florida; sister Deloris Phillips and husband, Arnold, of Michigan; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Traylor, Gary W. | 1957-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

Gary Traylor
Gary W. Traylor, 59, of Rhome, died Wednesday, May 17, 2017, in Rhome.
Memorial service is 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Visitation is 5 to 7:30 p.m. prior to the service.
Gary was born Nov. 10, 1957, in Houston to Frank William and Mildred Louise (Prunty) Traylor. He married Sonya Heard Oct. 14, 1978, in Las Vegas. Gary proudly served in the United States Marines. He was a retired truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Tommy Traylor and Ronnie Linville; and sister Diane Bradbury.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years; sisters Julia Belt and husband, Coy, of Newark, Judy McGahey of Boyd and Rita Smith of Newark; brothers Sammy Traylor of Boyd and Frank Traylor of Fort Worth; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Trotter, J.D. | 1924-2017
Published Saturday, December 16, 2017

J.D. Trotter
J.D. Trotter, 93, of Bivins, died Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017, in Bivins.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18, at Aurora Cemetery in Aurora with Dwight Trotter and Burch Wallace officiating.
Visitation is 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
J.D. was born Oct. 26, 1924, in Coleman County to Delmar and Josephine (Kelley) Trotter. He served in the United States Navy from 1943 to 1945. As a young man, he earned The Presidential Unit Citation, A Sear Service Deployment Ribbon, the Navy Overseas Service Ribbon, The World War II Victory Medal, The Asian Pacific Campaign Medal, The American Campaign Service medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon for his courageous service during World War II on the USS Aaron Ward, including the rescue of his fellow seamen after the destruction of the destroyer by kamikaze pilots off the coast of Okinawa. He refused to abandon ship and was responsible for the rescue of untold numbers of his fellow servicemen from the Pacific Ocean. He served courageously, faithfully and selflessly.
J.D. was employed for 27 years until retirement from Bell Helicopter where he worked as an aircraft assembler.
He was preceded in death by his wives, Barbara Lou (Sammy) Jeffrey Trotter and Christine Brewer Trotter; and children Cecil Brennan Trotter and Candice Pierce.
He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Rheid Rice of Fort Worth; numerous children, stepchildren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; along with many other family members and friends.

Troutwine, Keith Pat | 1973-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Keith Troutwine
Keith Pat Troutwine, 43, of Alvord died Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017, in Alvord.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, at Alvord Cemetery.
Keith was born Nov. 6, 1973, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Steven and Robin (Monnahan) Troutwine. He married Amy Vanhorn July 23, 2011, in Alvord. Keith was a construction worker.
He was preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his wife, Amy Vanhorn of Alvord; daughters Summer Troutwine and husband, Deven, of Alvord and Bayline Whitaker of Alvord; sons Bishop Andrews of Hubbard, Ancle Whitaker IV of Alvord and Dakota Whitaker of Alvord; mother Robin Troutwine of Alvord; sister Samantha Herman and husband, Samuel, of Alvord; granddaughter Sophi Talamantes of Alvord; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Tull, James L., II | 1976-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

James Tull II
James L. Tull II, 40, died Tuesday, April 25, 2017, in Decatur.
There will be a private memorial service. For more information, contact the family. Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown is handling arrangements.
James was born Aug. 30, 1976, in Long Beach, Calif., to James L. and Kathleen Wise Tull.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Tiffany Tull; nephew Wesley Winters; grandfather Robert W. Tull Sr.; uncle Robert W. Tull Jr.; and stepfather Charles R. Kennedy.
He is survived by his mother, Kathleen Wise Tull; father James Tull and wife, Terri; sister Amber Winters and son, Zaden; grandparents Ed and Donna Wise and Lois Tull; stepsisters Tara and Bobbie; stepbrother Clay; aunts Susan Wise and Cherie Decker and husband, Bill; uncle David Wise; cousins Shawna and Kyle; and good friends Carla Williams and Laura McMasters.

Tynsky, Payten Jo | 2001-2017
Published Saturday, September 9, 2017

Payten Tynsky
Payten Jo Tynsky, 16, of Decatur, died Monday, Sept. 4, 2017.
Memorial service was Sept. 8 at the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Payten was born April 27, 2001, in Colorado Springs, Colo., to Kyle Tynsky and Judee Pennington. She was a junior at Decatur High School where she played junior varsity softball, was on the swim team and was a member of AVID.
She is survived by her parents, Kyle Tynsky and wife, Cassidy, of Decatur and Judee Pennington of Lyman, Wyo.; sisters Julianne and Jordyn Tynsky of Decatur; grandparents Sharon Tynsky of Erie, Colo., Larry Tynsky and wife, Nancy, of Rock Springs, Wyo., Terry and Joyce Jacobs of Kemmerer, Wyo., and John and Jo Pennington of Porum, Okla.; and many friends.

Underwood, Gary Clyde | 1956-2017
Published Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Gary Clyde Underwood
Gary Clyde Underwood, 61, of Newark, died Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is noon Wednesday, Dec. 13, at Aurora Cemetery in Aurora with the Rev. Mike Boaldin officiating.
Honorary pallbearers are James Jones, Jesse Jones, Michael Landry and Christopher Landry.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd handled arrangements.
Gary was born July 8, 1956, in Lake Worth to Albert and Ruby (Anderson) Underwood. He married Sherry Burch July 24, 1981, in Newark. Gary was a member of the First Baptist Church in Newark and the American Quarter Horse Association.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers Joe E. Underwood and Albert F. Underwood II.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years; daughter Stacy D. Chalmers and husband, Craig, of Eagle River, Ark.; son Gary C. Underwood II and fianc e, Susie Wachowiak, of Saginaw; grandchildren Kayleigh Chalmers, Lukas Wachowiak and Emma Rose Underwood; sister Naomi Landry and husband, David, of Suwanee, Ga.; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.  

Underwood, Olan Travis | 1925-2017
Published Wednesday, April 19, 2017
Olan Travis Underwood, 91, of Sanger, died Friday April 14, 2017, in Pilot Point.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, at the Bolivar Baptist Church with Dr. E. L. McNeal officiating. Coker Funeral Home in Sanger is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Lance Edgar, Scott Geron, Tyler Edgar, Ralph Amyx, Russell Rhodes and Danny Boynton.
Olan was born Oct. 7, 1925, in Bowie to Oscar E. and Mary Ellen (Hancock) Underwood.
He served his country as a United States Marine during World War II and went on to obtain his bachelor of science degree from Texas Wesleyan University. He married Billie Lambert Feb. 23, 1951, in Levelland. He was a member of the Bolivar Masonic Lodge No. 418 in Sanger.
In 1972, Travis accepted a coaching position at Sanger Independent School District and the following year became the principal at Sanger Elementary, a position he would hold for the next 17 years. He was devoted to the education of the children of Sanger and was a respected administrator. He served as the project representative for the district during the construction of the new high school and Butterfield Elementary.
Olan was preceded in death by his wife; sisters Wanda Rudd, Ruby Cook and Anelle Ballard; brothers Frank Alvin Underwood and Glen Underwood; and granddaughter Stacy Brady.
He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Woolard of Denton; son Bill Geron of Hurst; sister Nancy De Haven of Hurst; brother Stanley Underwood of Fort Worth; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to the Karen Hamilton Gunn Memorial Scholarship Endowment in honor of Stacy Brady, granddaughter of Mr. Underwood.

Viana, Sandra Lee ‘Sandy’ (Crain) | 1941-2017
Published Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Sandra Viana
Sandra (Sandy) Lee Crain Viana, 76, died Saturday, July 29, 2017.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 3, at Waco Memorial Park in Waco.
Pallbearers are Cooper Hering, Carson Hering, Joshua Post, Raymond Cardenas, Kevin Neil and Rick Briggs.
Sandy was born Jan. 11, 1941, in Skiatook, Okla., to C. Lee and LaRue Crain. She loved basketball and played for Skiatook High School. Following graduation, she attended secretarial school in Tulsa.
Sandy worked for American Airlines in Tulsa where she met Carl Viana. Carl and Sandy married Jan. 6, 1961. Together, they lived all around the United States, while Carl worked at Cape Canaveral, in Brazil and then back in Tulsa before he graduated from the University of Tulsa in 1967.
Their son, Darrell, was born in Melbourne, Fla., and their oldest daughter, Carla, in Norman, Okla. The family then moved to Garland where the youngest daughter, Cathy, was born, and all three kids attended school.
Sandy was active in church, and especially in Garland at Calvary Baptist. She was a beloved member of the staff and 2-year-old teacher at CBC Preschool for many years.
Carl retired from Texas Instruments after 20 years. He, Sandy and Cathy then moved to Hewitt where Sandy worked for Texas Farm Bureau and was active in First Baptist Hewitt. Following Carl’s death, Sandy moved to Alvord and participated in the lives of her grandchildren and the children’s department at First Baptist Alvord.
Carl and Sandy had seven grandchildren, who were the joy of their lives. Sandy loved the Lord and her family. Even in her last weeks of life you could hear her humming and singing her favorites hymns, “In the Garden,” “Old Rugged Cross” and “I’ll Fly Away.”
Sandy was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and sister Judith (Judy) Neil.
She is survived by her son, Darrell Viana and wife, Terri, of Garland; and daughters Carla Post and husband, James, of Palacios and Cathy Hering and husband, Ken, of Alvord.
Other survivors include grandchildren Monica Christine Viana Cardenas and husband, Raymond, of Lewisville, Joshua Carl and Lauren Elyce Post of Palacios and Cooper Alan, Carson Lee, Camdyn Elizabeth and Kayden Grace of Alvord; great-grandchildren Elijah and Easton Cardenas of Lewisville; brothers Jerry and Gene and their wives and families; and brother-in-law Wade Neil and his son and daughter and family.

Waddle, Wilma Jean Hicks | 1952-2017
Published Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Waddle
Wilma Jean Hicks Waddle, 64, died Sunday, Aug. 20, 2017.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 25, at the historical Grapevine Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Lucas Funeral Home in Grapevine.
Wilma was preceded in death by her father, LeRoy; and her two husbands, Roy Hicks Sr. and Hollis Waddle Sr.
She is survived by her mother, Vota Davidson; sister Beverly; children Roy Hicks, Amy Hurdsman and Kelly Martin; stepson Hollis Waddle Jr.; stepdaughters Shawna Waddle and Melissa Blake-Deane; her grandchildren; and many other family members.

Wade, Ruth (Allen) | 1925-2017
Published Wednesday, July 12, 2017
Ruth Allen Wade, 92, of Runaway Bay, died Sunday, July 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 4 p.m. Saturday, July 22, at Christ Fellowship Church of Lake Bridgeport.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Ruth was born May 7, 1925, in Long Point, Ill., to Lloyd and Daisy Allen. She was a member of the Christ Fellowship Church of Lake Bridgeport. She also loved gardening and writing letters to her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Kenneth Wade; brother; and sister.
Ruth is survived by her daughters, Laura Hightower and husband, Gary, of Runaway Bay and Peggy Brown and husband, Steve, of Fort Worth; and grandchildren Grant and Amanda Hightower.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.  

Waggoner, Guy L. ‘Ted’, Sr. | 1929-2017
Published Saturday, June 10, 2017

Guy Waggoner Sr.
Guy L. “Ted” Waggoner Sr., 88, of Boyd, died Wednesday, June 7, 2017, in Weatherford.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 10 at Perryman Cemetery with the Rev. Tony Richardson officiating. Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers include Mike Burch, Dustin Garland, Tony Richardson, Charlie Richardson, Jeff Biggars and Robert Lynn.
Ted was born March 15, 1929, in Mabank to Wiley D. and Cora Mae (Lightfoot) Waggoner. He married Jackie D. Tinney Nov. 8, 1952, in Galveston. He served his country in the United States Army and was a member of the Church of Christ. He was a retired auto body repairman and mechanic.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Doris Walling; and brothers Clarence and Delmar Waggoner and Durwood Heffington.
He is survived by his son, Guy L. Waggoner Jr. and wife, Glenda, of Graham; daughters Pamela Simmons and husband, George, of Haltom City and Susan Garland and husband, Mike, of Forestburg; grandchildren Michael, Rene, Amanda, Dustin, Leia, Tony, Charlie, Tamee, Tifanie, Trey and Megan; great-grandchildren Cameron, Maddie, Bodee, Cooper, Aislyn, Journey, Adley, Asher, Clover, Coral, Johnathan, Sienna, MacKenzie, Josh, Hunter, Katie, Anna, Guy, Emily, Cole, Phillip, Maylee, Zackery, Bryce, Alex, George, Mary, Myra and Matthew; brother Jess L. “Mutt” Waggoner of San Diego, Calif.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the local library or any worthy charity.

Walker, Annie Lee (Young) | 1934-2017
Published Saturday, November 25, 2017

Annie Lee Walker
Annie Lee Walker, 83, of Decatur died Tuesday Nov. 21, 2017.
Service was Nov. 24 at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel in Fort Worth. Burial followed at Laurel Land Memorial Park.
Annie was born Oct. 30, 1934, in Bridgeport to Cecil and Letha Young. She was a director of a nursing home.
She was preceded in death by her husband; son; daughter; three sisters; and parents.
Annie is survived by siblings Teresa Goley and husband, Mike, Ruth Starnes, Claborn and wife, Pat, Jimmy, Delbert and Tammy; grandchildren Billy Goodspeed, Rodney, David, Jason and Amber Underwood; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Walker, Cora Mae | 1941-2017
Published Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Cora Mae Walker
Cora Mae Walker, 76, of Boyd, died Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017, in Boyd.
Funeral was Dec. 26 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Bobby Evans officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Jordan Nichols, Sawyer Nichols and Jonathan Bridges.
Cora Mae was born March 27, 1941, in Red River County to Delbert Smith Jr. and Aline (Johnson) Walker. She married Caroll Don Walker Aug. 12, 1991, in Amarillo. She was a resident of Boyd and part of the community for more than 30 years. She was a retired bookkeeper and a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Boyd.
Cora was preceded in death by her parents; son David Scott Nichols; brother R.G. Smith; brother Delbert Smith; and sister Betty Smith.
She is survived by her husband of 26 years; daughters Cathy Roberts and husband, Eddie, of Robert Lee, Lori Nichols of Boyd and Misty Bridges and husband, Pete, of Paradise; son Caroll Wayne Walker of Fort Worth; grandchildren Jordan Nichols, Adrianna Nichols, Sawyer Nichols, Jonathan Bridges, Rebecca Bridges, Zachery Walker and Cameron Walker; great-grandchildren Kylie Nichols, Emma Huntley and Maverick Nichols; brother Jerry Smith of Glen Rose; sisters Pat Bartlett of Fort Worth and Helen Davis and husband, Richard, of Fort Worth; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Walker, E.L. ‘Spur’, Jr. | 1930-2017
Published Wednesday, September 27, 2017

E.L. Walker Jr.
E.L. (Spur) Walker Jr., 86, of Bryan, died Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017, in Bryan.
Service is 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29, at A&M United Methodist Church, 417 University Drive, in College Station. Burial will follow at The Aggie Field of Honor.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Memorial Funeral Chapel, 1515 South College Avenue, in Bryan.
Spur was born Sept. 22, 1930, in Decatur to Ruth Mauldin and Esper Lafayette Walker. He was an only child but had 13 aunts and uncles and more than 30 cousins, so he understood the dynamic of a large family.
Knowing the importance of a college education, Spur achieved his goal of attending the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas, now Texas A&M University, in the fall of 1949 and became a proud member of the Class of ’53, making lifelong friends. He was a member of the “A” Engineers – one of three who graduated out of an outfit of 35 – making it through the rigorous training and academics of the Corps of Cadets. While a cadet, he served as a cadet captain on senior court and was associate editor of Engineer Magazine.
Upon graduation with a bachelor of science in civil engineering, he spent three years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Fort Belvoir and Fort Leonard Wood attaining the rank of first lieutenant. In 1957, he took a position with the Texas Highway Department in Austin.
Spur attended Yale University Bureau of Highway Traffic in 1958, receiving a senior certificate in civil engineering. That led to a position as the first city traffic engineer for the city of High Point, N.C. His career then took him to the private sector and the position of consulting engineer, with Wilbur Smith Associates in Columbia, S.C., from 1963 to 1970. He was promoted to vice president and moved to run the office in Houston in 1970. As a licensed Professional Engineer in eight states, he gave oversight to a variety of projects.
Spur was involved in several professional organizations and served as president of the Southern Section of Traffic Engineers, organizing members from nine states. After 31 years of service, he retired in 1994 to golf, travel, attend Aggie football and baseball games and most of all enjoy time with his family.
He met the former Sara Lynn Dunlap in Missouri while she was attending Stephens College and Spur was in the Army. They married Oct. 2, 1955, in her hometown of Ridgely, Tenn. Sara and Spur began their life together traveling to the different towns for his career and began their family with the birth of their son David in 1962 and daughter Annette in 1966. The move to Houston in 1970 began a four-decade life where both Spur and Sara were very involved in their children’s lives as well as community and civic affairs, PTA, Boy and Girl Scouts, church and various organizations.
In 2013, Spur and Sara moved to Bryan to be closer to their daughter, Aggie sporting events and Class of ’53 reunions.
For many years, Spur organized the Muster program for his class to remember their fallen friends. Their Muster programs were presented at ranches, Hill Country resorts, on campus, on cruise ships or “wherever a few would gather.” Spur and Sara enjoyed reuniting with his former classmates and joining A&M United Methodist Church.
He was very proud of his wife, children and grandchildren, led a good life, was a devout Christian and loved his family. We will miss him truly and love him always.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Annette of College Station; son David and wife, Shelly, of McKinney; and grandchildren Ashley and Kyle.
Memorial donations may be made to A&M United Methodist Church in College Station.

Walker, Maurice (Allen) | 1916-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Maurice Walker
Maurice Walker, 100, of Weatherford, died Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017.
Visitation was Nov. 13 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Maurice was born Dec. 19, 1916, in Park Springs to Mat and Mary (Mauldin) Allen. She was former co-owner of Gail’s Caf in Bridgeport. She loved to cook, dance and sing.
Maurice was preceded in death by her parents; husband H.L. Walker; brother Floyd Allen; sister La Vern Earp; and daughter Gail Pugh.
She is survived by son Charles Walker and wife, Kay; daughters Charlsa Smith, Patricia Posey, Kathy Kintz and husband John, Marilyn Carver and Pamela Horton and husband, John; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Wall, Velda Keith (Cates) | 1927-2017
Published Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Velda Wall
Velda Keith Wall, 89, died Friday, Feb. 24, 2017.
Funeral was Feb. 28 at Richland Hills Christian Church. Burial followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Decatur.
Velda was born Sept. 9, 1927, in Decatur to Keith and Nancy Cates. She was a teacher in Birdville Independent School District for more than 30 years and taught Sunday school for more than 40 years. After retirement, she enjoyed genealogy research and volunteering as a docent at The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
Velda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Woody Wall Jr.; and grandson Brian Nippert.
She is survived by her sons, Joe Wall and Keith Wall and wife, Nancy; daughter Galen Nippert and husband, Michael; grandchildren Courtney, Mallory, Jacquelyn and Katherine; brother Keanon Burton Cates and wife, Janice; and friends and extended family members.
Memorial donations may be made to Richland Hills Christian Church or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Walls, Richard Allen | 1946-2017
Published Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Richard Walls
Richard Allen Walls, 71, of Alvord, died Friday, March 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 8, at Alvord Cemetery.
Richard was born Feb. 3, 1946, in Lubbock to Walter and Gladys Tatum Walls. He was a truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Richard is survived by sons Buddy Walls and Jared Caldwell and wife, Megan; daughter Alice Richardson; nephew Ed Morris; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Wampole, Mary Kathryn (Kokott) | 1952-2017
Published Saturday, August 26, 2017

Mary Wampole
Mary Kathryn Wampole, 64, of Arlington, died Monday, Aug. 7, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m., Friday, Sept. 1, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur.
Mary Kathryn was born Aug. 30, 1952, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Eugene Frank and Agatha Louise (Sauer) Kokott. She enjoyed playing digital solitaire, gardening and cooking. She also liked to watch westerns and crime TV, as well as birds and squirrels in her yard.
Mary Kathryn was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by brothers Al Kokott and wife, Sharon, Chuck Kokott and wife, Cynthia, and Will Kokott; son Joe Jing; daughter Erica David and husband, Chris; grandchildren Juliet and Catherine David; and longtime companion George Robertson.  

Waters, Bonnie Lee (McDaniel) | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017

Bonnie Waters
Bonnie Lee Waters, 73, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, May 11, 2017, in Ajijic, Mexico.
Graveside service was Friday, June 23 at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home Bridgeport handled arrangements.
Bonnie was born Aug. 1, 1943, in Bridgeport to Herbert and Jewell (Miller) McDaniel. She married Jimmie Ray Waters Dec. 9, 1967, in Los Angeles, Calif. She was a loving wife and mother who gave her all to family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her sons, Jimmie Ray Waters of Odessa, Timmie Lee Waters, Michael Bradley Waters of Madison, Ala., Timmy Dean Waters of Coahoma and Monte Ray Waters of Albuquerque, N.M.; 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Watson, Bessie Bell (Serrett) | 1931-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Bessie Bell Watson
Bessie Bell Watson, 86, of Decatur, died Friday, Nov. 10, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 17, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with burial to follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Bessie Bell was born April 10, 1931, in Hamburg, Ark., to Leslie J. and Bessie Serrett. She attended Hendrix College and then graduated from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La., with a major in music education and a minor in piano and organ. Bessie Bell married her beloved husband, Randall, Dec. 27, 1953, in Hamburg.
She began her music career when she was 14 years old playing piano at the Methodist and Catholic churches in Hamburg. As the family moved about the country, she continued to find a place to serve the Lord with music. For the last 15 years, she has been the pianist at Rhome United Methodist Church. As passionate as she was about music, her children and family always came first.
Bessie Bell was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Billy Serrett and John Leslie Serrett; and sister Louisa “Sis” Britton.
She is survived by her husband of 65 years; sons David Watson of Galveston and Randy Watson of Decatur; daughter Beth Addington and husband, Paul, of Decatur; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or a charity of choice.

Watson, Gary Max | 1956-2017
Published Saturday, October 28, 2017

Gary Max Watson
Gary Max Watson, 61, of Springtown, died Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017, in Weatherford.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at Hilltop Assembly of God Church in Boyd with Bro. Bill Finch officiating. Burial will follow in Medlin Cemetery in Trophy Club.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Gary was born May 21, 1956, in Denton to Max and Martha (Dudley) Watson. He married Patsy Jane Gwartney June 10, 1999, in Lewisville. Gary was a member of the Hilltop Assembly of God Church in Boyd. He was a construction supervisor.
He was preceded in death by his father; son Jason Watson; and brother Steven Watson.
He is survived by his wife; son Gary Lynn Watson of Weatherford; daughters Jessica Watson Schulte and husband, Brent, of Grandbury, Ashley Watson of Weatherford and bonus daughter Sabrina Bell and husband, Russell, of Oklahoma City, Okla.; bonus son Wesley Clepper and wife, Misty, of Hico; five grandchildren; five bonus grandchildren; 10 bonus great-grandchildren; his mother; brothers Larry Watson and wife, Liz, of Grapevine, Michael Watson and wife, Becky, of Justin and Chris Watson and wife, Lisa, of Weatherford; sister Sharon Spaulding and husband, Mac, of Arkansas; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Watts, Jack D. | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Jack Watts
Jack D. Watts, 80, of Benbrook died Monday, Jan. 30, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Jack was born May 10, 1936, in Vernon to Alvie and Nell Watts. He married Mary Helen Watts who preceded him in death April 25, 1983.
Upon graduation from Texas Technical College, Jack began his professional career in June 1958 at Convair (which became General Dynamics and is now Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth division).
While working on the F-111 program, Jack developed the basis of a highly effective and revolutionary algorithm for a weapons delivery system, which was an industry first. Not only did this system go on to win numerous weapons competitions, it is also still in use today on both the F-16 and F-35. The balance of the aircraft industry has never duplicated its sophistication.
Jack was chief engineer responsible for the design and development of the F-16’s legendary air-to-ground delivery system. From the spectacular and successful Israeli attack on an Iraqi nuclear reactor in 1981 through Operation Iraqi Freedom and beyond, Jack’s innovations helped the F-16 achieve its reputation for being the world’s most accurate air-to-ground fighter in aviation history.
Throughout his career, Jack was involved in every aspect of air-to-ground weapon delivery system engineering from development of the initial algorithm to the final flight test analysis. Jack was one of a select few individuals who could claim to have had a profound impact on products that are a vital part of our country’s national defense today.
Jack retired from Lockheed in 2003 after 45 years of continuous service, having worked on the B-58, F-111, F-16, A-12, IDF, F-22, T-50 and F-35 programs.
Jack’s many travels included Bermuda, Spain, Italy and Alaska. Jack enjoyed life and loved his family and friends.
He is survived by his sister, Linda Watts Lantz of Bridgeport; and other special family members and friends, Don, Vivian, Teresa, Paul, Leon, Adyrus, Cathy, Terri, Bob, Chad, Lisa, Steve, T.J., Tim, Bobby, Dale, Sharon, Vera, Diane, Jennifer and Kelly.

Weatherly, Jerry Lynn | 1942-2017
Published Saturday, September 2, 2017

Jerry Weatherly
Jerry Lynn Weatherly, 75, of Azle, died Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2017, in Reno.
Graveside service was Sept. 1 at Azleland Cemetery in Azle with the Rev. Ian Mostert officiating.
Jerry was born April 29, 1942, in Clarksville to C.H. and Dorothy (Vaught) Weatherly. He was a member of the International Association of Machinists. Jerry was a retired tool maker for Lockheed Martin. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 32 years, Billy Pierce of Azle; daughter Tanya Hanson and husband, John, of White Settlement; granddaughters Dayna Lynn and Lauren Cordell; grandson Michael Cordell; his mother; and brother Richard Weatherly of Azle.
He’s also survived by great-grandchildren Luke and Owen Free; stepchildren Rhonda Bell and spouse, Kelli Clark, of Azle and James Pierce of Azle; five step-grandchildren; his 10 step-great-grandchildren; four step-great-great-grandchildren; and extended family members and friends.  

Webb, Janice Marie (Stillings) | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, April 1, 2017

Janice Webb
Janice Marie Webb, 76, of Decatur, died Tuesday, March 28, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Friday, April 7, at Decatur Church of Christ.
Janice was born May 9, 1940, in Star City, Ark., to Edwin and Hazel (Carrington) Stillings. She married Greely Webb Jr. Sept. 5, 1957, in Fort Worth. She was a member of the Decatur Church of Christ.
Janice was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 59 years; daughters Phyllis Helzer and husband, Gary, of Waco, Jeannie Williams and husband, Brian, of Garland and Sharlotte Vise and husband, Brad, of Southlake; grandchildren Meagan, Samuel, Barrett, Landon, Alex and Morgan; three great-grandchildren; sister Audrey Hickman and husband, Bob, of Keller; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Webb, Ruth Lee (Chisholm) | 1937-2017
Published Saturday, February 4, 2017

Ruth Webb
Ruth Lee Webb, 79, of Newark, died Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, in Newark.
Ruth was born Feb. 3, 1937, in Tulsa, Okla., to Inman and Irene Chisholm. She grew up the youngest of two and attended Northwest High School in Justin. She married William B. (Bill) Webb in 1959, and the couple had three children. Ruth worked at Motorola Inc. until her retirement.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and sister Margaret Roeber.
She is survived by her daughters, Christine Beaty and Stacey Reedy; son Curtis Webb; nine grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and longtime family friends Cheryl Gomas and her son, Jamie Shahwan.
The family requests no flowers or donations. Laurel Land Funeral Home in Fort Worth is handling arrangements.  

Wedgeworth, Shawn Kevin | 1967-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017

Shawn Wedgeworth
Shawn Kevin Wedgeworth, 49, of Gilmer, died Saturday, June 17, 2017, in Gilmer.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 25 at the Friendship Baptist Church in Boyd.
He was born Aug. 14, 1967, in Corpus Christie and graduated from Decatur High School in 1986.
Shawn loved life and loved strumming his old trusty guitar and listening to his son sing his favorite songs.
Shawn loved family and the Lord more than anything in the world.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Clyde and Martha Wedgeworth of Tyler and Charles and Eloise McKay of Jacksonville; and a lady he admired more than anything for her love of God, his great-granny, Mary Jane Minton of Jacksonville.
Shawn is also preceded in death by several uncles and his cousin Josh Wedgeworth.
He is survived by his father Roger Wedgeworth of Thornton; mother and stepfather Linda and John Lange of Hawkins; his children, Julianne Brook Scroggins and husband, Cole, of Haslet and Colton Wedgeworth of Paradise; and grandchildren Rylan Wedgeworth, Crew Wedgeworth and Cash Scroggins.
Shawn is also survived by brothers Casey Wedgeworth, Jared Lange and stepbrother Christopher Zavala.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Old Paint (’78 Chevy) left in care of his children.

Welch, Sharilee Eleanor (Fox) | 1942-2017
Published Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Sharilee Eleanor Welch
Sharilee Eleanor Welch, 75, of Decatur, died Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Decatur.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Sharilee was born Aug. 26, 1942, in San Antonio to Patrick and Alice (Brod) Fox. She was retired from business administration.
Sharilee was preceded in death by her parents; and her five brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her son, Brice Welch and wife, Debbie, of Santa Rosa, Calif.; daughter Susan Runge and husband, Randy, of Tulsa, Okla.; grandchildren Ashley, Brenna, Cassandra and Madelynne; sisters C.J. Moore and Sharon Abelow; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and longtime friends Larry and Charlotte Hannah of Decatur.

Wells, Amanda Caroline | 1984-2017
Published Saturday, March 11, 2017

Amanda Wells
Amanda Caroline Wells, 33, of Azle, died Monday, March 6, 2017, in Arlington.
Visitation is 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Amanda was born Jan. 5, 1984, in Alabaster, Ala., to Bruce Wells and Elizabeth (Rhoudes) Thorn.
She is survived by her father, Bruce Wells and wife, Sherry; mother Elizabeth Thorn and Robert Bond; sisters Kathy Grimes and Rachel Carter and husband, Chris; brother Bruce Wells Jr.; stepbrothers Ricky Kennemer and John Bond; her stepsister Candace Bond; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Wells, Judie (Held) | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, March 25, 2017

Judie Wells
Judie Held Wells, 73, of Roanoke, died Sunday, March 19, 2017, in Keller.
Memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Judie was born April 5, 1943, in St. Louis, Mo., to Walter and Dorothy (Magerstaedt) Held. She married Leroy Joe Wells May 27, 1958, in St. Louis. Judie attended the University of Missouri and received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. She retired after 30 years as a daycare director.
Judie was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her son, Robert J. Wells and wife, Nancy, of Roanoke; grandsons Dylan J. Wells of Roanoke and Christian Mattingly of Colorado Springs, Colo.; granddaughter Franchesca Natal of Roanoke; great-grandsons Aiden and Zander Natal of Roanoke; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

West, Curtis Arnold | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, April 15, 2017

Curtis West
Curtis Arnold West, 73, of Runaway Bay, died Tuesday, April 11, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was April 14 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Graveside service is 3 p.m. Monday at West Family Cemetery in Vinton, La.
Curtis was born Dec. 3, 1943, in DeRidder, La., to Arnold and Elva (Arledge) West. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Curtis was a member, a deacon and a Sunday school teacher at Balsora Baptist Church. He was a retired mobile equipment supervisor for Hansen.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers Randall, Dale, LeRay and Billy Burton West.
He is surivived by his wife of 52 years, Marie West, of Runaway Bay; son Billy West and wife, Angie, of League City; daughters Rhonda West Burge and husband, Mark, of Arlington and Kalyn Flanagin and husband, Ben, of Bridgeport; and grandchildren Lindsay West, Alaina Burge, Lydia Burge, Matthew Burge, Liam Flanagin and Seamus Flanagin.
He is also survived by brothers Larrie West of Vinton and Bruce West and wife, Lurla Fae, of Vidor; sisters Mary Powell and husband, Phil, of Garland, Gwen Clark of Vinton and Jan Vaclavik and husband, Terry, of Vinton; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Weston, Orville Eugene | 1952-2017
Published Saturday, April 8, 2017

Orville Weston
Orville Eugene Weston, 64, of Fort Worth, died Wednesday, April 5, 2017, in Dallas.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Stephen Attaway officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Thomas Truesdale, Christopher Truesdale, Dustin Weston, Travis Weston, Joe Jones and Gary Bethany.
Orville was born Sept. 9, 1952, in Bartlesville, Okla., to Orval and Mattie (Jackson) Weston. He married Brenda (Bumpass) Weston May 22, 1995, in Decatur. He was a mechanic.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Charolette Weston; and brother Glenn Weston.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years; son Todd Herman and wife, Bethany, of Newark; sons Joe Rosier and wife, Kim, of Boyd and Mike Rosier of Fort Worth; daughter Amanda Truesdale and husband, Keith, of Riley, Kan.; children Eugene Weston, Gary Weston and Lana Harris; 12 grandchildren; sisters Pat Housely and Judy Beamon and husband, Tom, all of Tulsa, Okla.; brother Wendell Weston and wife, Reba, of Tulsa; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Whitaker, Michael Raymond | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, January 21, 2017

Michael Whitaker
Michael Raymond Whitaker, 72, of Sunset died Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at the First Baptist Church of Alvord. Burial will follow at Smyrna Cemetery in Sunset.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Michael was born June 14, 1944, in Bowie to Wayne and Mary (Bradford) Whitaker. He graduated from Bryan Adams High School in Dallas and attended Tyler Junior College and the University of Texas as Arlington.
From 1967 to 1969, he served during the Vietnam War in the United States Army as a sergeant. He married Gloria Philipp Dec. 26, 1965, in Dallas. Michael worked for Collins Radio, Aviation Part Manufacturing and then for Philipp’s Hardware store in Dallas. He enjoyed going to auctions, flea markets and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Bill Whitaker.
He is survived by his wife; children Dawn Fuller and husband, Chester, of Chico and Roger Whitaker of Fort Worth; and grandchildren Micah Fuller, Jared Fuller and Daniel Fuller, all of Chico, Tiffany Whitaker of Forney and Chance Whitaker of Fort Worth.

White, Elmer Ray | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, November 4, 2017

Elmer Ray White
Elmer Ray White, 85, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Nov. 2 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Marc Moore officiating. Burial followed at Paradise Cemetery.
Elmer was born Nov. 25, 1931, in Bridgeport to Marvin and Minnie (Simpson) White. Elmer proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was an electrician for the city of Bridgeport and TXI.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Inez King White; grandson Brandon Cox; brother Don White; and sisters Neva Nell Lawrence, Laura Lee Thetford and Fay Shannon.
Elmer is survived by his son, Buddy White of Bridgeport; daughters Donna Pochyla of Runaway Bay and Brenda Wilkinson and husband, Doug, of Boyd; grandchildren Dusty McClung and wife, Shanna, Koby McClung and wife, Christel, Erica Graeter and husband, Ian, Kevin King, Casey King and Klint King; great-grandchildren Aiden, Kole, Kaden, Avery, Caleb, Sydney and Tanner; brothers John White of Cheyenne, Wyo., and Carl White and wife, Maxine, of Fort Worth; daughter-in-law Delynn King; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

White, Myrna Ruth (Sprague) | 1938-2017
Published Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Myrna White
Myrna Ruth White, 78, of Chico, died Friday, Aug. 4, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service was Aug. 7 at Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Chico with the Rev. Mike Miller officiating.
Myrna was born Dec. 23, 1938, in Alto to Walter and Vera Ruth (Dawson) Sprague. She married Roland White Dec. 3, 1954, in DeSoto, and they were married 62 years. Myrna was a member of Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Chico. She enjoyed sewing, reading, cooking and spending time with her family.
She was “Memaw” to every kid she came in contact with, especially in Chico. Myrna was known as the “coffee thief” among her children.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Myrna is survived by her husband; son Walter White and wife, Cindy, of Chico; daughters Barbara Kay and husband, Jimmy, of Chico, Teresa Kaiser of Bridgeport, Cynthia Bronson of Alvord and Janice Williamson of Eagle Mountain; sister Shirley Weaver of Chico; 16 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Kenneth Copeland Ministries or Morris Memorial United Methodist Church of Chico.

White, Willie | 1927-2017
Published Saturday, November 25, 2017

Willie White
Willie White, 89, of Fort Worth, died Sunday, Nov. 19, 2017, in Euless.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Robert White officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Pallbearers are Chris Kulhman, Andy White, Preston White, Chase White and Reece White.
Willie was born Dec. 18, 1927, in Oktaha, Okla., to Willis Arch and Rilla Mae (Stacy) White. He married Mary Reasoner in November of 1987 in Fort Worth. Willie worked for the Fort Worth Star Telegram for more than 40 years until his retirement.
He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport. Willie was a member of the Typographical Union and a lifetime member of the Bridgeport Masonic Lodge.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Darlene Faye Keeler; his wife; daughter Susan Moore and husband, Gary; son Willis Dale White Jr.; sisters Wanda Miller and Glyndyne Elson; and brothers Jack White and Earton Lee White.
He is survived by his daughter, Lea Ann White of Fort Worth; sons Robert White and wife, Pam, of Fort Worth and Archie White and wife, Jan, of Saginaw; stepsons Jerry Morrow and wife, Becky, of Bridgeport, Dale Morrow and wife, Lolita, of Fort Worth and Kenny Morrow and wife, Donna, of Paradise; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, dance partners and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Calvary Cathedral International, Ref: Willis White Outreach Fund, 1701 Oakhurst Scenic Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76111.

Whitehead, John Clifford | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, July 22, 2017

John Whitehead
John Clifford Whitehead, 84, of Boyd. died Wednesday, July 19, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral services was Friday, July 21 at Grace Baptist Church with Dr. Van Gardner and the Rev. Bill Hughes officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Jones Family Funeral Home-Decatur handled the services.
John was retired from Gifford-Hill after 20 years of service. He enjoyed bowling, camping, fishing and gambling. John was known for his work ethic and always made sure his family was taken care of.
John is survived by his daughter, Cindy Whitehead of Boyd; sons, Tim Whitehead and wife, Sherry, of North Richland Hills and Scott Whitehead and wife, Diana, of Azle; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and friends.

Wilkins, Krystal (Underhill) | 1985-2017
Published Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Krystal Wilkins
Krystal Underhill Wilkins, 31, died Sunday, Feb. 19, 2017, in Grapevine.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Tommy Putz officiating.
Visitation is 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Krystal was born Feb. 28, 1985, in Decatur to Don and Laurie Underhill. She married Michael Wilkins April 18, 2011, in McKinney. She was a young and loving mother, beloved sister and wonderful daughter.
Krystal struggled through a two-year battle with cancer. In typical Krystal spirit, she fought hard and maintained her sense of humor, never revealing the true level of pain she was experiencing.
Krystal had a generous, loving and caring heart, often giving her last dollar to those in need. She was always willing to help those less fortunate. With a rebel spirit, she could often be described as marching to the beat of her own drummer.
Krystal was preceded in death by her husband.
She is survived by her son, Tyler Wilkins; and Tyler’s father, John Nguyen.
She is also survived by her mother; her father and his wife, Treva, of Boyd; sister Ashley Underhill of McKinney; grandmothers Helen Bane of Grapevine and Shirley Underhill of Etna, Maine; nephews Steven, Aaron and Triston; and many friends.

Williams, Billy Ray, II | 1994-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Billy Ray Williams II
Billy Ray Williams II, 22, of Decatur, died Monday, Nov. 6, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was Nov. 11 at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Rev. David Lowrie officiating. Burial followed at Aurora Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Pallbearers were Ross Pennington, Ty Watson, Logan Deaton, Colton Foster, Bradley Tedrow and Tyler Foster.
Honorary pallbearers were Shannon Swayzer, Jeremy Austin, Noah Austin and Verl Tedrow.
Billy was born Dec. 19, 1994, in Olney to Billy and Rebecca (Cooper) Williams. He worked as a telecommunications tech.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Flakey Jo Cooper and Eddie Cooper.
Billy is survived by his mother, Rebecca Williams of North Lake; father Billy Williams Sr. and wife, Stacy, of Decatur; sisters Riley and Harper Williams; grandparents C.W. and Rita Williams of Paradise and Norma Cooper of Wichita Falls, Dean and Robbie Watson of Chico and Sammie Watson of Decatur; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Williams, Jimmie Dean | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Jimmie Dean Williams
Jimmie Dean Williams, 81, of Greenwood, died Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Greenwood.
Graveside service was Sept. 26 at Greenwood Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Michael Wilhelmi, Kirby Stubbs, Austin Stubbs, Cooper Gore, Ronnie Elliott and Colton Cassaday. Honorary pallbearer was Jeff Stubbs.
Jimmie was born May 24, 1936, in Whitesboro, Okla., to Luther and Hester Williams. He was the neighborhood handyman who always fixed different projects for local children. He dearly loved his family and dogs. Jimmie had a big heart, but he also had a big temper. He owned his own drywall contracting business for many years. He dearly loved his wife Linda, taking care of her until her death, and then he met Dana and successfully joined the two families.
Jimmie was preceded in death by his parents; wife Linda Kay Howerton; and son Gary Wayne Williams.
He is survived by wife, Dana Elliott-Williams; son Ronnie Elliott; and daughters Laura Williams Stubbs and husband, Jeff, Amy Gore, Melissa Williams Wilhelmi and husband, Michael, Sarah Stevens and husband, David, and Shellie Blakely.
He is also survived by grandchildren Kirby Adam Stubbs and family, Austin Lane Stubbs, Bailey Marie Brock and family, Cooper Gore, Colton Cassaday and Corbit Cassaday; beloved couple, Brandon Culbertson and Amy Brison; numerous family and friends; and dogs Bubba, Dottie and the rest of the pack.
Memorial donations may be made to Solaris Hospice, 2250 FM 51 South, Ste. 400, Decatur, TX 76234.  

Wilson, George Edwin | 1941-2017
Published Wednesday, April 26, 2017

George Wilson
George Edwin Wilson, 76, of Henderson, died Friday, April 21, 2017, in Tyler.
Funeral was April 25 at Crawford A. Crim Funeral Home in Henderson with the Rev. Mike Ledbetter officiating. Burial followed at Moyers Cemetery.
George was born Oct. 27, 1941, in Kilgore to Graham and Myrtle Collins Wilson. He graduated from Carlisle High School in 1959 and attended Kilgore College and Lamar University where he received a chemical engineering degree in 1963.
George began his engineering career at Cities Services Oil Co. In 1973, he went into private business and owned White Auto Stores in St. Francisville, La., and in Atlanta, Texas. In 1979, he returned to engineering and worked for Mitchell Energy in Bridgeport and Fort Worth as superintendent of drilling before retiring in 1998. He and Ladean moved “back home” to Henderson in 1999. George was proud of his independent daughters and made sure they could check their own oil, change a flat tire and understand the stock market before they left home. He adored his grandchildren and he led them by example on how to be hardworking, honest and grateful.
He enjoyed fishing, classic cars, playing baseball, traveling with his family, riding his motorcycle, working or piddling in his shop wearing his signature overalls, his many stray dogs and supporting his grandchildren in all of their endeavors.
George was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 54 years, Ladean Holland Wilson; daughters Dayna Wilson Cox of North Richland Hills and Aimee Wilson Morris and husband, Greg, of Whitehouse; grandchildren Brennan Wilson Cox of North Richland Hills and Lauren Ashlee Morris, Brooke Makayla Morris and Megan Marie Morris of Whitehouse. Memorial donations may be sent to Hospice of East Texas, the American Cancer Society or the Henderson Animal Shelter.

Wilson, Janis Eileen (Decker) | 1951-2017
Published Saturday, February 25, 2017

Janis Wilson
Janis Eileen Wilson, 65, of Haslet, died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, in Haslet.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, at Dido Cemetery in Fort Worth with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating.
Janis was born April 13, 1951, in Springfield, Ill., to Almeda (Beams) and Charles Decker. She married John (Johnny) Wilson March 2, 1990, in Hurst.
Janis enlisted and served in the United States Navy. Afterwards she worked in the computer industry where she met her husband. After retiring on her 50th birthday, she spent her time traveling, visiting with family and enjoying time with her grandkids.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Janis is survived by her husband of 26 years; daughter Andrea Sarginson and husband, Roger; son Luke Perry and wife, Michelle; stepdaughters Michelle Krogsgaard and husband, Larry, and Rachel Herrera and husband, Paul, grandchildren Tayah, Annabelle, Tucker, Rebecca, Cole, Kelsey, Chelsea, Kilah and PJ; great-grandchildren Brayden, Christian, Kenlie Rae and Taylin.
She is also survived her mother; sisters Bonnie Hunter and husband, Ray, Theresa Scott and husband, Steve, and Tracy Decker; brothers Steve Decker and wife, Nancy, Jeff Decker and wife, Diane, Rodney Decker and Kevin Decker and wife, Ginger; sister-in-heart Nancy Beams Bryant; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.  

Wilson, Marshall Dale | 1957-2017
Published Saturday, June 10, 2017

Marshall Wilson
Marshall Dale Wilson, 59, of Hurst, died Monday, June 5, 2017.
A funeral service was held Friday at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home. Marshall was buried at Plainview Cemetery in Krum.
Marshall was born Sept. 30, 1957, in Alexandria, La. to Marshall Edward and JoAnn Wilson. He was a man of God and a member of First Baptist Church in Hurst. He was very active with the church and volunteered with the church’s prison ministry. Marshall was kind-hearted, generous and a loving father to his two girls. He loved fishing, Rangers baseball and was a Longhorns fan. He was loved and will be missed by his friends and family.
He is preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his daughters, Amanda Gibbs and husband, Cade and Kelsey Wilson; granddaughter Willow Ingram; his mother; brothers Chester Ray Wilson and wife, Peggy and Dennis Wilson and wife, Janet; numerous nieces and nephews; and former wife Lizzy Nelson.

Winchell, Patsy ‘Pat’ (Simmons) | 1933-2017
Published Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Patsy “Pat” Winchell
Patsy “Pat” Winchell, 84, of Decatur died Friday, Oct. 13, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Oct. 16 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Ronnie Barnes Sr., Ronnie Barnes Jr., Buster Barnes, Logan Barnes, Dakota Smith, Ethan Barnes, Anthony Gildon and Andrew Gildon.
Pat was born April 17, 1933, in Eastland County to Thomas and Agnes Lorene Simmons. She married Billy Ed Winchell who preceded her in death Oct. 14, 1984.
She was also preceded in death by her parents and siblings Nomalee Spradling, Juanell Simmons, Rosco Simmons, Bobby Simmons and Bill Simmons.
She is survived by daughters Debbie Justice and husband, Terry, of Decatur, Vicky Barnes and husband, Ronnie, of Decatur, and Belinda Caylor and husband, Barry, of Arlington; sons Ricky Winchell of Livingston, Mike Winchell of Decatur and Joe Bill Winchell and wife, Pat, of Conroe; grandchildren Angela, Anthony, Andrew, Jeffrey, Buster, Amber, Lakrica, Ronnie Jr., Dylan, Mindy and Shelly; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Wojcik, Mary Lou (Mitchell) | 1945-2017
Published Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Mary Lou Wojcik
Mary Lou Wojcik, 72, of Hurst died Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017.
Mary Lou was born April 30, 1945, in Colleyville and graduated from Grapevine High School in 1963. She worked many years in the payroll department at Bell Helicopter before retiring in 2007. She loved her family and friends and made sure they knew how she felt.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnnie H. and Julie E. Mitchell; brothers Charles Kenneth Mitchell, Billy Mitchell and wife, Dorothy, and Johnnie (Junior) Mitchell and wife, Ruby; niece Linda Darlene; and nephews Troy Mitchell, Charlie Mitchell, Randy Tidwell and Terry Meadows.
Mary Lou is survived by her husband, John Wojcik; sons Robby V. Kizer and wife, Kelly, and Darrel L. Kizer and wife, Renee; stepdaughters Christine Silcox and husband, Danny, and Kimberly Swancy and husband, Doug; and stepson John Wojcik and wife, Yougin.
Other survivors include brother Melvin Mitchell and wife, Loretta; sisters Helen Louis Mitchell Tidwell Clark and Nancy Meadows and husband, Roger; 17 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.  

Wolfe, Jack Allen | 1946-2017
Published Saturday, May 27, 2017
Jack Allen Wolfe, 70, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, May 23, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, at Coker Funeral Home in Jacksboro.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 29, at the funeral home.
Jack was born Aug. 26, 1946, in Jack County to Ralph and Lula Mae Wolfe. He married Carol Sue Grzelachowski April 23, 1975, in Las Vegas. He graduated from Jacksboro High School and Tarleton State University and was a member of the Jermyn Baptist Church.
Jack was self-employed in the real estate industry. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and friend. He will be dearly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and brother James L. Wolfe.
He is survived by his children, Clint Wolfe and wife, Karrie, Kimberly Williams and husband, Stormy, and Pamela Wolfe; sister Colleen Grooms; brother Bill Wolfe; grandchildren Gracie, Madison, Jett and Zack; and many other extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Jermyn Baptist Church, P.O. Box 397, Jermyn, TX 76458 or to Lynn Creek Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 884, Jacksboro, TX 76458.

Womack, Jessie Lee (Swetnam) | 1928-2017
Published Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Jessie Womack
Jessie Lee Womack, 88, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, July 9, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 14, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at Boonsville Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Earl Green, Clayton Green, Orville Stone, Mike Henderson, Pete Henderson, and Jim Mercer. Honorary pallbearers are Robert Grantham and Mike Benton.
Jessie was born Oct. 17, 1928, in Olney to Jess and Lola Alta (Shawver) Swetnam. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport. Jessie married Weldon Womack Jan. 10, 1946, in Fort Worth. She was a member of the Bridgeport Garden Club. Jessie worked as a hairdresser at Helen’s Beauty Shop for numerous years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and sister Bobbie Lou Boner.
Jessie is survived by her son, Phillip Womack of Bridgeport; grandchildren Sandra Bryant and husband, Robert, of Perrin, Shane Womack of Bridgeport and Wayne Womack and Debra Seale of Houston; great-grandchildren Aimee Davis, Ethan Womack, Colton Womack, Pollyann Womack and Clara Womack; sister Ann Henderson of Bridgeport; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Woodruff, Mary Diane (Grimsley) | 1948-2017
Published Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Mary Woodruff
Mary Diane Woodruff, 69, of Springtown, died Thursday, July 6, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 15, at Springtown Fundamental Baptist Church with the Rev. Danny Marrow officiating. Burial will follow at Azleland Cemetery in Azle.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Mary was born June 30, 1948, in Fort Worth to Lloyd and Lucille Grimsley. She was a member of Springtown Fundamental Baptist Church in Springtown. Mary retired after 40-plus years as an office manager at David’s Patio. She was also a member of the Springtown Historical Society.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; and brother Bill Grimsley.
She is survived by her daughters, Liza Geary and husband, Danny, of Azle, Dannica Owens and husband, Randy, of Springtown, Marilynn Porterfield and husband, Steven, of Fort Worth and Joanne Downes and husband, Heinrich, of Springtown; grandchildren Patrick, Austin, Maddie, Nathan, Katie, Destini, Hannah, Landon, Gary and Shannon; great-grandchildren Elijah, Jaxton, Addilynn, Austin, RJ, Hailee and Piper; sister Darlene Mann and husband, Bobby, of Boyd; and nieces, nephews and friends.

Woodruff, Roy Nathan ‘Hollywood’ | 1939-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Roy Nathan Woodruff
Roy Nathan “Hollywood” Woodruff, 77, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Memorial gathering is 7 p.m. Saturday at his home, 104 Greathouse St., in Bridgeport.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Hollywood was born Oct. 24, 1939, in Wyatt, Mo., to John and Mary Bell (Kidd) Woodruff. He married Brenda Malmgren July 31, 1981, in Dyersburg, Tenn. He was a retired truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Hollywood is survived by his son, Kennith Woodruff and wife, Barbara, of Paradise; daughters Cheri Hamby and husband, Bob, and Terri Smith and husband, John, all of Licking, Mo., Brandi Woodruff and companion, Austin Sales, of Bridgeport and Traci Woodruff and fianc , J.D. Freeman, of Chico.
Other survivors include seven grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; brother Tommy Woodruff and wife, Sandy, of Bardwell, Ky.; family friend Teddy Morales of Bridgeport; sisters Cynthia Mosier and Phyllis Wright, both of Bardwell; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Woodyard, Janice F. (Satterwhite) | 1963-2017
Published Saturday, June 4, 2017

Janice Woodyard
Janice F. Woodyard, of Elk City, Okla., formerly of Wise County, died Thursday, June 1, 2017, of cancer.
Memorial service is 3 p.m., Sunday, June 4, at LifePointe Church, 120 S. Crowley Rd., in Crowley.
Janice was born in 1963 to James L. Davis and Dorothy Satterwhite. She was a manager and trainer for 7-Eleven and Murphy Oil stores.
She was preceded in death by her father; and sister Patricia Davis.
Janice is survived by her husband, Mike Woodyard; her mother; son Jacob Stephens; daughters Elizabeth Woodyard and Kaitlynne Woodyard; grandson Zeke Stephens; and siblings Theresa Goolsby, Debra Wright, Rick Davis, James Davis and Terry Davis.

Wright, Debra Ann (Garner) | 1957-2017
Published Saturday, July 22, 2017

Debra Wright
Debra Ann Wright, 59, of Weatherford, died Thursday, July 20, 2017.
Funeral services are 3 p.m., Sunday, July 23 at Galbreaith-Pickard Funeral Chapel at 913 North Elm Street in Weatherford.
Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Debra was born Aug. 20, 1957, in Gulfport, Miss. to Billy and Frances Yother Garner. She enjoyed fishing, reading, cooking and seeing the country while truck driving with her husband. Her family, especially her granddaughter, was her everything.
Debra is survived by her husband, Anthony Wright; children, Christina Cordell and John Wright, both of Weatherford; granddaughter, Jenna Cordell of Weatherford; her father; sister Lynn Garner of Bridgeport; and friends.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The National Multiple Sclerosis(MS) Society at nationalmssociety.org/donate.

Wyman, Marsha Colleen | 1979-2017
Published Saturday, March 4, 2017

Marsha Wyman
Marsha Colleen Wyman, 38, of Fort Worth, died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017, at Denton Regional Medical Center.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, March 4, at The Creek Church, 4901 N. Main Street in Fort Worth.
Marsha was born Jan. 23, 1979, in Tyler. Marsha was a fun and loving wife to Michael Wyman, a Double Oak police officer, and had an unconditional love for her two daughters, Samantha and Katherine Wyman.
Marsha had been a nurse for Wise Health System in Decatur since 2009. She was a natural – with a huge heart – who truly enjoyed helping others. She bonded with both colleagues and patients; treating both with warm friendship and respect. Through the chaos of a busy workday, Marsha always found the time to be an amazing mother and best friend to her two daughters, always guiding and shaping their lives. Marsha was the absolute love of Mike’s life, making him the man he is today by supporting him in every single way. She was his soulmate.
Marsha modeled selfless behavior, continually helping family and friends. Her wit, laugh, beautiful smile and bright blue eyes will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Marsha was preceded in death by father-in-law Craig Wyman; and nephew Jerry Sims.
Marsha is survived by her husband; her daughters; father George Graham; mother Dorothy Nix Bass; brothers Paul Sims and wife, Kim, and James Graham and wife, Crystal; sister Sherri Drackley; mother-in-law Kathy Wyman and Robert Magnus; brother-in-law Doug Wyman and wife, Aimee; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
The nurses of Wise Health System, along with the Double Oak police officers, have created a gofundme.com account to help offset the cost of Marsha’s medical expenses and funeral arrangements. To donate, go to bit.ly/wymanfam.

Yale, Helen Louise (Neighbors) | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Helen Yale
Helen Louise Yale, 73, of Alvord, died Monday, May 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, May 11, at the First Baptist Church Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Colton Redman, Crese Redman, Casey Selby, Hunter Yale, Danny Neighbors, Mike Shaw, Greg Shaw and Randy Neighbors.
Honorary pallbearers are Eddie Hale, Tommy Hampton, David Richey, Mike Lemond, Kevin Lemond, Rusty McClure and Frank Hobb.
Helen was born June 15, 1943, in Fort Worth to Lester and Louise (Garrett) Neighbors. She married Marion Yale June 15, 1961, in Alvord. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Joyce Shaw.
Helen is survived by her husband of 55 years; son Tim Yale and wife, Sheila, of Alvord; daughter Kim Redman and husband, Terry, of Alvord; grandchildren Chelsi, Colton, Crese, Caroline and Hunter; great-granddaughter Sailor Grace Redman; brother Melton Neighbors and wife, Doris, of Alvord; sister Loyce Garrett and husband, Pat, of Alvord; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Yarbrough, Ernestine (Loafman) | 1932-2017
Published Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Ernestine Yarbrough
Ernestine Yarbrough, 84, of Plano, died Friday, March 24, 2017, in Plano.
Funeral was March 28 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with speaker Scott Jensen. Burial followed at Garvin Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Matthew Yarbrough, Adam Yarbrough, Scott Jensen, Cory Yarbrough, Keenan Yarbrough, Isaac Jensen, Preston Biard and Anders Klarquist.
Ernestine was born July 5, 1932, in Fort Worth to Ernest and Fannie (Read) Loafman. She married Bobby Lee Yarbrough June 29, 1952, in Waco. Ernestine was a Baptist.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister Betty Campbell; and brother Billy Loafman.
She is survived by her sons, Robert Yarbrough and wife, Karen, of Trophy Club, Milton Yarbrough and wife, Debbie, of Mesquite and Alan Yarbrough and wife, Cindy, of Arlington; and daughter Betty Beth Jensen and husband, David, of Plano.
She is also survived by grandchildren Scott Jensen and wife, Sarah, of McKinney, Mary Biard and husband, Preston, of Frisco, Cassidy Klarquist and husband, Anders, of Wylie, Cory Yarbrough of Dallas, Sasha Binkley and husband, Eric, of Lewisville, Keenan Yarbrough of Trophy Club, Matthew Yarbrough and wife, Rhonda, of Kaufman and Adam Yarbrough and wife, April, of Forney; great-grandchildren Adian, Maverick, Sophia, Nolan, Parker, Isaac, Tatum, Korbin and Kaeden; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be sent to Parkinson’s of DFW or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Young, Alton T. | 1953-2017
Published Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Alton T. Young
Alton T. Young, 64, of Boyd, died Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6, at the First United Methodist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Jeanne Evans officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Richard Young, Jimmy Young, Jeffery Frame, Derek Frame, Alton Frame, Robert Walker and Theresa Young.
Honorary pallbearers are Bill Cockerell, Ronnie Young, Edward Milligan, Eddie Owens, Robert Valentine, Michael Garcia, Michael Milligan and Billy Cockerell.
Alton was born Sept. 22, 1953, in Decatur to Alton Sr. and Vivian (Applewhite) Young. He married Gale Lynn Grimsley June 16, 1970, in Conroe. He was a truck driver.
Alton was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather Richard Milligan; sister Janet Ruth Young; and brothers Tommy and Jimmy Arrington.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years; daughter Theresa Young and husband, Larry Robinson, of Azle; sons Richard Young and wife, Sara, of Azle, Jimmy Young and wife, Kim, of Boyd and Robert Walker and wife, Tammy, of Denton; 14 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Other survivors include brothers Ronnie Young and wife, Terri, of Boyd, Edward Milligan and wife, Jackie, of Haltom City and Michael Milligan and wife, Jennifer, of Watauga; sisters Gail Owens and husband, Eddie, of Boyd, Dianna Cockerell and husband, Bill, of Newark, Imogene Walker of Springtown, Cotton Wright and husband, Larry, of Springtown, Bertie Sellers and husband, Glenn, of Boyd and Billie Romine of Rhome; brother-in-law Gary Grimsley and wife, Sue, of Reno; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Young, Cecil V. ‘Cy’ | 1919-2017
Published Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Cy Young
Cy (Cecil V.) Young died Friday, March 24, 2017.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Friday, March 31, at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Cy was born Oct. 2, 1919, in Bowie. He graduated from Bowie High School as the first recipient of a fully-funded football and academic scholarship to Abilene Christian University. After receiving his degree in 1941, he coached and taught at Saint Jo High School for one year before enlisting in the Navy after Pearl Harbor.
Following boot camp in Virginia, he was attached to allied headquarters, planning the invasion of Italy in Algiers, North Africa. He received a promotion to lieutenant and returned to the U.S. for training in New York and California. Assigned to the USS Carteret, A.P.A. 70 as a boat officer, he served throughout the Pacific including Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
Always grateful for the GI Bill, Cy began work on his master’s degree at the University of Texas in Austin. He received his degree in 1952 at the University of North Texas.
Following his service, he resumed his coaching and teaching career. He coached in Highland Park, Graham and Decatur. He was the founder of the longest continually running track meet in the state of Texas – The Possum Kingdom Relays. He served as chairman of the Texas High School Coaching Association.
Throughout his career and into retirement, Cy remained active in many organizations. He was founder and president of the Bowie Education Foundation and Montague County Retired Teacher Association, where he served as president and legislative chairman. In 1991, he founded the Iwo Jima Survivors Association, a national organization including all branches of the service. He also worked with Rosa Ogawa of Tokyo and the Japanese survivors of Iwo Jima to join in the 1999 reunion in Wichita Falls.
Cy married Evelyn Cohron (1923-1973) in 1946 and Estelle Donald in 1981.
He is survived by his son, Randy Young of Dallas: daughters Jan Reddick and husband, Richard, of Ada, Okla. and Kay Lyon and husband, Rick, of Dallas; grandchildren Brandon Reddick and wife, Keiko, of Plano, Matt Reddick and wife, Emily, of Dallas and Katie Reddick of Norman, Okla.; and stepgranddaughter Angie Grimes and husband, Todd.
He is also survived by great-grandchildren Kai, Noa and Allen Reddick of Plano and MacKinnon Reddick of Dallas; step-great-grandchildren Riley and Jake Grimes; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Bowie Education Foundation, c/o Legend Bank, 101 W. Tarrant St., Bowie, TX 76230 or a charity of choice.  

Zedaker, Shirley Alice (Harthen) | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

Shirley Zedaker
Shirley Alice Zedaker, 85, of Decatur, died Thursday, May 18, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, at Fairview Cemetery with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 7 p.m. Monday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Shirley was born Aug. 29, 1931, in Detroit to Arnold and Ina (Crowmer) Harthen. She was a retired LVN. Shirley worked at the Wise County Heritage Museum for 15 years and was a member in the Decatur Garden Club.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Shirley is survived by her daughters, Susan Davis of New Fairview and Jane Skaggs and husband, Gary, of Decatur; granddaughters Kate Newby of Haslet, Lesley Skaggs of Decatur, Lisa Christensen and husband, Henning III, of San Antonio and Kitty Skaggs of Dallas; grandson Grant Davis of New Fairview; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.