'Wise County Messenger' Obituaries
2014
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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.)

Adams, Mark Lee
1960-2014

Published Saturday, August 23, 2014
Mark Lee Adams, 54, a computer programmer, died Monday, Aug. 18, 2014, in Boyd.
Funeral was Aug. 22 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur, and burial followed at Boyd Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jackie Adams, Jordan Adams, Walter Richardson, Michael Deits, Jonathan Drummond and Catherine Pate.
Mark was born March 8, 1960, in Lockney to Jackie Leroy and Linda (Durham) Adams. He married Ritha Sahusilawane Feb. 2, 2002, in Decatur.
He is survived by his wife, Ritha Adams of Boyd; sons Jackie and Jordan Adams of Boyd; grandson Brycen Adams of Boyd; mother Linda Jansen of Chickasha, Okla.; sister Kimberlee Drummond and husband, Robert, of Ninnekah, Okla.; and nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father.

Adams, Wanda Lee Adams
1934-2014

Published Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Wanda Lee Adams, 80, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Nov. 16, 2014, in Decatur.
No services are planned.
Wanda was born May 5, 1934, in McCamey to Letha (Holcomb) and Marce Luther Bertran. She was a homemaker who loved to paint and spend time with people. She also loved spending time with her pug dog, Banjo. She was a past member of the Aurora Baptist Church.
Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; husband Gerald Wesley Adams; son Rodney Adams; brother Marce Luther Bertran Jr.; and sister Wilma Hughes.
Survivors include sons Ronnie and Wayne Akins; daughter Janice Carlock; sister Rose Hooper; her special granddaughter Ashley Adams and six other grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Adcock, Jo Celeste
1931-2014

Published Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Jo Celeste Adcock, 83, a retired secretary, died Friday, Aug. 15, 2014, in Decatur.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Jo was born July 28, 1931, in Round Pond, Ark., to Roy and Gracie (Graves) Mooneyham. She married Leiland Adcock Aug. 18, 1950, in Comanche. Jo was a secretary for Mitchell Energy until her retirement.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Leiland Adcock of Chico; son Jerry Adcock of Chico; daughter Margie Davis of Euless; four grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; sister Ranelle Carter of Fort Worth; other family members; and many friends.

Aden, Ann Nooe
1942-2014

Published Saturday, August 2, 2014
Ann Nooe Aden, 72, a retired sales representative, died Sunday, July 27, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was July 31 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating.
Ann was born May 6, 1942, in Harrodsburg, Ky., to Morgan and Margaret (Cannon) Nooe. She received her bachelor of science degree from the University of Kentucky and married James Aden May 28, 1993, in Fort Worth.
She loved animals, the Kentucky Derby and her family – especially her grandkids.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother.
Ann is survived by her husband of 21 years, Jim Aden of Lake Bridgeport; daughters Paige Wagner and husband, Pete, of Azle, Megan Stibora and husband, Mike, of Arlington; grandchildren Adam Johnson and wife, Brianna, of Arlington, Sarah Wagner and Beth Wagner, both of Azle; and nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorials may be made to SPCA at www.spca.org or MADD at www.madd.org.

Admire, Traci
1976-2014

Published Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Traci Admire, 38, of Runaway Bay, died Monday, Dec. 1, 2014, in Cordenons, Italy.
Funeral is 1 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 18, at White’s Funeral Home in Azle, with her father, the Rev. Bill Lawson officiating.
Traci was born Aug. 3, 1976, in Pawhuska, Okla. She was a loving mother and wife, daughter and friend.
Shortly after moving to Texas, Traci met her future husband, Dustin Admire. They were married Aug. 8, 2008, and a few months later began their journey as an Air Force family. After moving to Italy, Traci found a new passion – performing in musical theater.
She never met a stranger and had a smile for everyone. She loved Jesus and wanted everyone else to know and love Him as well.
She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, J.E. and Waunie Loper, her paternal grandfather, Fred Steinberg, and aunts Vickie Loper Kampstra and Tammy Loper Durand.
Traci is survived by her husband of six years, Staff Sgt. Dustin Admire; sons Dakota and Kiowa Burnett; mother and stepfather Debbie and Kerry Edmiaston; father and stepmother Bill and Carol Lawson; brothers Jamie Loper and Billy Lawson; sisters Tina Beyer and Courtney White; paternal grandmother Minnie Steinberg; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Alderman, Carl Douglas
1938-2014
Published Saturday, June 7, 2014
Carl Douglas Alderman, 75, of Rhome, died Saturday, May 31, 2014, in Haslet.
Service was June 6 at Faith Temple in New Fairview with Pastor Windell Splawn Jr. officiating. Alpine Funeral Home in Fort Worth handled the cremation.
Carl was born Sept 3, 1938, in Shreveport, La. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force and worked in the telecom business for more than 40 years as a project manager and a site manager.
He is survived by his wife, Gloria Alderman; parents Myra Crain and Mr. Stennett; sons Paul Alderman and Matt Alderman; daughters Debra Alderman and Laura Alderman; sister Billie Alderman; grandchildren Jeremy Alderman, Ryan Goodwin, Angelina Anguish, Aaron Anguish, Sarah Geddess, Samantha Howard and Casey Howard; and five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by brothers L.A Alderman and Leroy Alderman; and sister Susie Alderman.

Alexander, Eddie
1963-2014

Published Saturday, April 26, 2014
Eddie Alexander, 51, of Springtown died Monday, April 21, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at The Rock Church in Runaway Bay with the Rev. Tim Jenkins and Matt Edwards officiating. Burial will follow at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville.
Pallbearers will be Byron Dial, Bill Moore, Jason Satterfield, Todd Hasty, C.J. Daniel and Josh Brigham.
Eddie was born March 10, 1963, in Miami to Edson and Darlene (Petit) Alexander. He married Diana Daniel Nov. 28, 1992, in Euless. He was a buyer for Air Methods Corp. and a member of the The Rock Church in Runaway Bay, where he served as worship leader.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edson Alexander Sr.
Survivors include his wife of 21 years, Diana Alexander of Springtown; sons Daniel and Andrew Alexander of Springtown; his mother, Darlene Pogue and husband, Wayne, of Waxahachie; brothers Jeff Alexander and wife, Stephanie, of Bedford and Michael Alexander and wife, Alicia, of Granbury; sister Julie Miller and husband, Rick, of Krum; his grandmother, Dorothy Hickman and husband, Berl, of Ocala, Fla.; mother-in-law Janet Daniel of Bedford; father-in-law Bill Daniel of Haltom City; brother-in-law Paul Daniel of Bedford; aunt Robin Barkley and husband, Richard, of Ocala, Fla.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to The Rock Church in Runaway Bay or Faith Community Church in Paradise.

Alexander, Lawrence E.
1953-2014

Published Saturday, December 27, 2014
Lawrence E. Alexander, 61, of Azle died Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at Alexander’s Midway Chapel in Springtown with burial following at Jay Bird Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Lawrence was born Sept. 28, 1953, in Waxahachie to J.T. Alexander and Betty Compton Robinson. They both preceded him in death. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Darla Alexander; children Jason Alexander, Michael Alexander and wife, Jennifer, Joni Stubblefield and husband, James, and Coty Alexander and wife, Casie; sisters Debbie Alexander and Loretta Caso; grandchildren Tyler, Jake, Emily and one on the way (Lainie).

Alford, Pamela
1955-2014

Published Saturday, September 20, 2014
Pamela Alford, 59, of Boyd, died Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2014, in Bedford.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at the First Baptist Church of Fort Worth, with a reception to follow.
Pam was born July 14, 1955, in Fort Worth to J.R. Swindell and Peggy Connally.
She was proceeded in death by her sister, Brenda Swindell, and her mother, Peggy Perkins.
Survivors include daughter Brenda Beadle and husband, Donny; sons Sean Eddings and wife, Ana, Jeremy Alford and wife, Robin, and Josh Alford; grandchildren Joe, Courtney, Rylend, Jerend, Jace, Rayner and Jessica; great-grandchild Ayden; father J.R. Swindell and mother, Shirley; sister Sheryl McKay and husband, Ricky; brother Danny Dean and wife, Vicky; sisters Debbie Phillips and husband, Gary, and Rhonda Owen and husband, Craig.

Allison, Robert 'Bob'
1931-2014
Robert "Bob" Allison
Published Saturday, December 13, 2014
Robert “Bob” Allison, 83, died Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Fort Worth with burial at Greenwood Memorial Park.
Robert was born Oct. 23, 1931, in Paradise and was warehouse receiving manager with Montgomery Ward for 45 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; two sisters; parents-in-law; brother-in-law; and sisters-in-law.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Dorothy Allison; sons David Allison and wife, Nita, Rodney Allison and wife, Beverly, and Rickey Allison and wife, LaVonda; grandchildren Justin and Kord Allison and Chissica Godfrey and husband, Ray; step-grandsons Jeromy Walden and wife, Stephanie, Scott Walden and Kelley; great-grandchildren Chelsea, Chase, Emily, Triseton and Blaine; step-great-grandchildren Chloe, Cameron, Cager, Miranda and Nicholas; numerous nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law Gerald and Harold Pierce; sister-in-law Evelyn Allison; church family; and beloved dog Foxy.

Alvarado, Richard
1931-2014

Published Saturday, September 20, 2014
Richard Alvarado, 82, of Boyd, died Friday, Sept. 19, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur. Chaplain Dan Bellar will officiate. Burial will follow in Azleland Cemetery north of Azle.
Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Richard was born Nov. 5, 1931, in Port O’Connor to Thomas and Amelia (Reiz) Alvarado. He married Gail Ludwick June 9, 1989, in Azle. Richard proudly served his country and retired from the United States Marine Corps after 20 years of service. He was a member of West Parkway Baptist in Azle.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister.
Survivors include his wife of 25 years, Gail Alvarado of Boyd; son Byron Alvarado and wife, Anna, of Fort Worth; daughter Cassandra Oliphant and husband, Stuart, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Irene, Lillian, Alexandria, Ava, Ella, Amy, Deana, Kallie and Kambree; stepdaughter Kay Crowell and husband, Kelley, of Poolville; stepson Casey Smith of Springtown; five great-grandchildren; sister Linda Thomas and husband, Bill, of Granbury; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Alvey, Terry Randal
1954-2014

Published Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Terry Randal Alvey, 60, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, March 16, 2014.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Terry was born Feb. 17, 1954, in Wichita Falls to Bernice (Kent) and J.W. Alvey. He was a guard for the prison system. He loved music and was a member of the Green Fuzz Band. He also loved telling jokes and traveling, especially to Mexico.
He is survived by his mother, Bernice Bessire; sister Tammy Young; half-sister Tonya Boggs and husband, Clint; half-brothers Jason Alvey and Mark Bessire; sons Josh and Shane Alvey; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father; stepfather Bill Bessire; son Keith Alvey; maternal grandparents Leola and Bernice Kent; and paternal grandparents Lula and James Alvey.

Armstrong, Lou Etta
1922-2014

Published Saturday, March 1, 2014
Lou Etta Armstrong, 91, of Paradise, died Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was Feb. 28 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Mark Stevens and Glenn Waldon officiating. Burial was at Paradise Cemetery.
Lou Etta was born June 17, 1922, in Bridgeport to Bertie (Anderson) and Albert Tackel. She loved to read and crochet and was an avid fan of the Texas Rangers and NASCAR. She enjoyed spending time with her family and playing cards.
She is survived by her son, James Ray Armstrong; daughter Joyce Smith and husband, Rick; sisters Dean Beaty and Audrey Russell; grandchildren Landon Smith and wife, Ashley, Dr. Heath Smith and wife, Andrea, Chance Smith and fiance , Tasha, Richard Coomer and Alisha Fennell; great-grandchildren Colin, Landry, Harper, Kyle and Blake; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Porter Armstrong; her parents; brothers William, Glenn, Roy and Ray Tackel; sister Ann Caruthers; and great-granddaughter Emma Smith.

Arnold, Coleene
1935-2014
Published Saturday, March 8, 2014
Coleene Arnold, 78, died Tuesday, March 4, 2014, in Bowie.
A memorial service will be held at a later date with arrangements handled by White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Coleene was born Nov. 1, 1935, in Hillsboro to William Coy and Lillie Mae (Kemp) Burk. After growing up in a farming family, she owned and operated a beauty salon in North Richland Hills in the 1970s. In the 1980s, Coleene owned a restaurant in East Texas, and in 1988 retired to Bowie with her husband, Buddy.
Coleene enjoyed gardening and will be remembered for her devoted years of life as a wife, mother and grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lillie Burk; husband Buddy Arnold; and sister Jean Defrates.
Coleene is survived by her brother, William Coy “Sonny” Burk and wife, Ellen, of Decatur; children Mark Arnold of Bowie, Jamie Arnold of Fort Worth, Randy Arnold and wife, Hollie, of North Richland Hills and Kelli Saporito and husband, Joe, of Bowie; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Bowie Memorial Hospital’s staff and Hospice of Rural Texas.

Arrington, Dorothy June
1940-2014

Published Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Dorothy June Arrington, 74, a retired electronics inspector, died Monday, Dec. 8, 2014 in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 at Hilltop Assembly of God in Boyd. Rev. Bill Fitch and Chaplain Phillip Weitner will officiate and Jimmy E. Arrington, Rodney Taylor, John Taylor, Chuck Berg, Billy Baker and Wayne Parker will serve as pallbearers. Burial will be in Boyd Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Dorothy was born March 15, 1940 to Earl and Willie (Allcorn) Hunter in Fort Worth. She married James D. Arrington Nov. 2, 1957 in Marietta, Okla. Dorothy was a member of the Hilltop Assembly of God Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Juanita Keener and Rose Crow; and brother Bobby Hunter. Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Rev. James Arrington of Boyd; son Jimmy Earl Arrington and wife, Dawn, of St. Louis, Mo.; grandchildren Charles, Tara and Travis of Highland, Ill.; three great-grandchildren; sister Carla Winnett and husband, Wilburn, of Sulphur Springs; other family members and many friends.

Askey, Billy Alvin
1931-2014

Published Saturday, February 15, 2014
Billy Alvin Askey, 82, a retired storekeeper for T.U. Electric, died Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014, in his hometown of Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at the First Baptist Church of Decatur with the Rev. Ken May officiating. Burial will be at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Paul Askey, Blake Tucker, Jeff Bakker, Jason Holmes, Darrel Romine and Jim Bob Little. Honorary pallbearers are Jimmy Cunnius, Ross Mueller, Glenn Rhine, Tommy Cunnius, Dan Rhine, W.M. Lewis and the Adult 6 Sunday School Class of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
Bill was born Oct. 12, 1931, to William Alvin and Mildred (Davenport) Askey in Decatur. He married Joyce Elaine Phillips April 1, 1960, in Decatur. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Decatur for more than 60 years.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joyce Askey of Decatur; daughter Phyllis Jordan and husband, Gary, of Rainbow; son Phillip Askey and wife, Rebecca, of Sanger; grandchildren Krista Askey of Dallas, Austin Jordan of San Antonio and Kayla Askey of Sanger; brother Bob Askey and wife, Nelda, of Dalhart; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Jonnie Greer.

Bailey, Clinton Dane
1933-2014

Published Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Clinton Dane Bailey, 80, a retired inspector, died Thursday, June 5, 2014, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 4 p.m. Sunday, June 22, at the Decatur Church of Christ with Mike McDowell officiating.
Clinton was born Nov. 16, 1933, in Harrison, Mich., to Clinton Phillip and Rosyland (Gould) Bailey. He married Myrle Berry Nov. 10, 1973, in Michigan and was retired from General Motors after more than 30 years of service. Clinton also served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict.
Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Myrle Bailey of Rhome; sons Keith M. Bailey of Plymouth, Mich., and Mark R. Bailey of Flint, Mich.; daughters Kimberly A. Kloska and Susan M. Bailey, both of Flint, Mich., and Barbara J. Arndt of Rhome; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bailey, Gary Engel/Bailey
1957-2014

Published Saturday, February 8, 2014
Gary Engel, 56, a former reporter for the Wise County Messenger, died Monday, Feb. 3, 2014, at his home in Sanger.
Engel was born March 18, 1957, in Chanute, Kan., where he graduated from high school. He attended Oklahoma State University and worked in broadcasting under the name Gary Bailey, which he continued to use after he moved into print journalism.
He came to Wise County in 1987 as news director of KWCS radio station in Bridgeport and also worked briefly for KJZY near Slidell.
He joined the Messenger staff July 16, 1989, as a sports writer and left in July 1993 for a job at the Arlington News. He later worked for Today Newspapers in DeSoto before returning to the Messenger in 1995, where he worked for just over a year covering the police and criminal justice beat.
Bailey’s work – including coverage of the trial of former sheriff Leroy Burch – earned numerous awards for the Messenger.
His newspaper career also included stints at the Brenham Banner-Press, the Schulenberg Sticker, the Hereford Brand and the Hood County News in Granbury, and most recently he worked at the Woodward (Okla.) News.
Former Messenger employee Denny Deady said enthusiasm was Bailey’s defining characteristic.
“He had tremendous enthusiasm for his work, for the coaches he dealt with during his tenure as sports editor, for his many friends and for life in general,” Deady said. “If you were his friend, he cared as deeply about your family as he did about you.”
Margaret Vyers, a former reporter for the Messenger, said Bailey loved the variety that came with his job.
“I remember Gary’s enthusiasm and excitement regardless of whatever tasks he was assigned,” she said. “He simply loved the job.
“Like most of us, he loved the diversity of the work – hard news, sports, human interest stories, photography.”
She cited the August 1990 crash of a small airplane near Alvord where the occupants survived. Bailey’s meticulous notes and reporting told the story of a near-miraculous escape from death.
“Gary never hesitated to embrace any challenge a story commanded to get the best information before the public,” she said.
Phyllis Norwood, another friend, said Bailey loved good food, music – especially the band Kansas – and was a huge fan of Texas Rangers baseball and OSU football.
Funeral arrangements are pending with Howard Funeral Home in Sanger.
Engel was preceded in death by his mother, Helen King.

Baker, Donald D.
1937-2014

Published Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Donald D. “Blue Goose” Baker, 76, a truck driver, died Tuesday, July 15, 2014, in Chico.
No service is scheduled at this time.
Donald was born Nov. 16, 1937, in Edmore, Mich., to Bernard and Isabella (McBride) Baker. He married Linda F. Woods in 1982 in Wise County.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his son, Jim Baker and wife, Debbie, of Traverse City, Mich.; daughter Tammy Serrano and husband, Robert, of Temecula, Calif.; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister Mary L. Brown and husband, George, of Muskegon, Mich.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Baker, Edna McPhail
1918-2014

Published Saturday, July 26, 2014
Edna McPhail Baker, 95, died Tuesday, July 22, 2014.
Burial will be in Atlanta, Ga.
Edna was born Oct. 16, 1918, and grew up in North Carolina, picking cotton and hanging tobacco in the barns. She was valedictorian of her high school class and after high school, she became a Registered Nurse and joined the Army.
She met Frank H. Baker while stationed in San Juan, Puerto Rico. They were married in the 400-year-old chapel at El Morro. Later she worked as an office/surgical nurse for an ophthalmologist, then got her certification as an audiologist and opened her own business, Baker Hearing Aids in Macon, Ga.
She lived the last 10 years of her life in Texas but always considered Macon her home and Vineville United Methodist her church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank H. Baker; and youngest child, Lee Baker.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Edna and J.C. Guthmiller of Chico; grandsons Andy and Matthew Schoppert of Dallas and Scott and Kim Schoppert; daughters June of Austin and Wendy and Frank Baker of Atlanta and their children, Kensey and Harrington; granddaughters Rosy Baker of Los Angeles and Wynn Baker and their mother, Barbara Woods, of Frisco; sisters Christine Smith of Geneva, Ala., and Willodene Stevenson of Fayetteville, N.C. Others who loved her are Judd and Jaclyn Guthmiller and sons Jakob and Mitchell, of Volga, S.D., Chad and Amber Guthmiller and their daughters, Savana, Summer and Skye, of Scotland, S.D.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ed Cook Class at Vineville United Methodist Church, 2045 Vineville Ave., Macon, GA 31204.

Ball, Elfriede Werner
1940-2014

Published Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Elfriede “Elfie” Werner Ball, 73, died Friday, July 11, 2014, surrounded by family and friends.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with burial under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Elfie was born July 25, 1940, in Vollmerhausen, Germany, to Fritz and Hilda Werner. She was the eldest of two daughters and is survived by a sister, Freia, along with her husband, Wilfried Buermann, of Kassel, Germany. As a young girl, Elfie loved to be in the family bakery in Wellerode. In 1954, she and her family moved to Kassel where she went to school, worked in clothing stores and modeled for department stores. She left Germany at 19 to move to the United States to further her education at Columbia University in New York.
Although she left her home country, she visited Germany many times. She lived in San Antonio and Houston, then moved to Dallas where she lived for more than 33 years. While in Houston, she worked at American General Insurance as an executive secretary and as secretary to the board for many years. She was also elected assistant treasurer of AG Capital Management and was on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange when the American General Bond Fund was first traded.
Elfie was known by many for her kindness and thoughtfulness. She would often show up with baked goodies or delicious homemade chocolates. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, she fought a valiant battle with that and other illnesses. Her will to live, faith in God and the loving prayers of family, friends and many supporters helped her be strong until the end of her life.
Elfriede is survived by her husband, George Standley Ball Sr. to whom she was married for 40 years; children Patricia “Patty” Janca and her husband, Steve, of Victoria, and George S. Ball Jr. of Dallas; grandchildren Steven Janca and Lauren Janca Hoerig and her husband, Ryan, all of Victoria; and her first great-granddaughter, Harper Lee Hoerig, who is due in November.  She also has one nephew, Ralph Buermann, his wife, Susanne, and their children, Johannes, Christoph and Sophia; and a niece, Yvonne Buermann, and her daughter, Michele, all of Kassel, Germany.

Ball, Joe Wayne
1940-2014

Published Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Joe Wayne Ball, 74, died Saturday, Sept. 20, 2014, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Gary Demmitt officiating.
Joe was born July 18, 1940, in Ryan, Okla., to Lois D. and Roberta Mae (Cleveland) Ball. He was one of 16 children. He married Judy Watson Nov. 17, 1963, and was a loving family man who raised five children of his own.
Joe loved to raise a large garden and give his vegetables away. He also enjoyed farming and working on a dairy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Sammy and L.D. Jr.; and sisters Wanda and Ann. Joe is survived by his wife of 51 years; daughters Kimberly Martin and husband, Rickey, of Bridgeport, Kathy St. John and husband, Monty, of Bridgeport and JoAnn Bradford of Bridgeport; sons Temple Ball and wife, Betty, of Springtown and Jimmy Ball and wife, Tracey, of Runaway Bay; grandchildren Stephanie Taylor, Keaton and Keisha St. John and Chad Bradford; great-grandchildren Alexia, Paige, Linzey and Santana; brothers Donald, Clovis, David, Jerry and Dorman; sisters June, Peggy, Sandy, Norma, Shirley and Brenda; and other friends and family members.

Balser, Shirley Gay
1946-2014
Published Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Shirley Gay Balser, 68, of Hurst, died Sunday Aug. 10, 2014, in Bridgeport.
No services will be held.
Shirley was born Aug. 6, 1946, to Charles and Sylvia (Burton) Delozier in Switchback, W.Va. She was a homemaker and a Jehovah Witness.
She is survived by sons Anthony Balser and Christopher Balser, and daughter Angela Martin and husband, Samuel, all of Indiana; niece Carrie Brady and husband, Charlie, of Hurst; nephew Richard Delolozier of Euless; several grandchildren and a host of friends.

Bane, Rick
1952-2014

Published Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Rick Bane, 62, a self-employed insurance salesman, died Sunday, March 30, 2014, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 5, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd. Visitation is 1 to 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Rick was born Feb. 11, 1952, to Archie Sr. and Helen (Spears) Bane in Houston. He married Judy Garrett Nov. 18, 1972, in Arlington. Rick was a member of the Bridgeport area Chamber of Commerce.
He was preceded in death by his father, Archie Bane; and brothers Archie Bane Jr. and Curtis Ray Bane.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Judy Bane of Paradise; daughter Trina Vanlandingham and husband, Mark, of Roanoke; son Rick Bane Jr. of Paradise; grandchildren Ty, Fisher, Nash and Bodey; his mother, Helen Bane of Grapevine; brother Dee Bane and wife, Brenda, of Boyd; sister Laurie Underhill of Grapevine; and other family and friends.

Bare, Mitchell Ryan
1977-2014

Published Saturday, November 29, 2014
Mitchell Ryan Bare, 37, of Fort Smith, Ark., died Friday, Nov. 21, 2014, in New Martinsville, W.Va. Funeral was Nov. 28 at Smith Funeral Home in Anadarko, Okla, with Bobby Richardson officiating. Burial was in the East Bridgeport Cemetery with Clayton Armstrong officiating.
Mitchell was born Oct. 8, 1977, to Delbert Bare and Janet Aguilar Williams. He grew up and attended school in the Caddo County area. He also attended school in Clarksville, Ark. Mitchell was a cowboy and a bull rider. He recently started a career in the oilfield industry and worked for Alpha Hunter Drilling.
Mitchell married Delilah Meyer Oct. 20, 2014, in Decatur. He attended church at River Fellowship in Alma, Ark. Mitchell was loved by many, especially his family, and will be greatly missed.
Mitchell was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jesse Aguilar and Earlene Opitz. He is survived by his wife, Delilah Bare, of Bridgeport; his father, Delbert Bare, of Fort Smith, Ark.; his mother, Janet Williams, of Ozark, Ark.; brothers Caleb Bare of Sherman, Daniel Bare of Muscatine, Iowa and Jordan Bare of Fort Smith; sisters Courtney Norman of Lorena and Halli Holt of Russellville, Ark.; other relatives and many friends.

Barkley, Kenneth Joe
1972-2014

Published Saturday, June 14, 2014
Kenneth Joe Barkley, 41, died Saturday, June 7, 2014, in Clear Creek, Colo.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Pastor Ed Eddington officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Russ Knepper, Mike Mazock, Joseph Barkley, Joe Miller, Greg McKowen, Ryan Tenberg, Naamon Barkley, Donnie Austin and Jim Newbrough.
Joe was born Dec. 22, 1972, in Lawton, Okla., to Frank and Barbara (Haskett) Barkley. He worked as a mechanical startup specialist for The Energy Corp. of Denver.
Survivors include his partner, Doris Wisniewski of Chico; sons Joseph Barkley and wife, Anna, of Kenedy, and Ryan Tenberg and wife, Bethany, of Knippa; daughters Sarah Barkley of Kenedy and Madison Barkley of Uvalde; grandchildren Bella Donna Barkley and Kaylee Tenberg; parents Frank and Barbara Barkley of Chico; sister Monica Barkley of Mineral Wells; his grandmother, Mary Haskett of Chico; aunts Penny Grooms and husband, Chiggar, Linda Felder and husband, Jimmy, Teresa Newbrough and Mary Shurtz; and numerous other family members and friends.

Barksdale, Peggy
1937-2014

Published Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Peggy Barksdale, 76, a homemaker, died Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at First Baptist Church in Justin with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Justin Cemetery under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Pallbearers are Gary Barksdale, Jeff Barksdale, Doyle Barksdale, Danny Meeks, Alan Hunter and David Rodenburgh. Peggy was born Dec. 15, 1937, in Saint Paul, Minn., to Floyd and Irene (Lagore) Long. She married Floyd Barksdale, who preceded her in death in 2002. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Bill and Dale Long.
Survivors include her daughter, Cheila Demmitt and husband, Gary, of Bridgeport; sons Gayland Barksdale and wife, Caroline, of Falls Church, Va., and Arnie Barksdale and wife, Cindy, of Chico; grandchildren Shannon, Kara, Haylee, Clint, Allie, Grant and Cambrie; sister Norma Jean Meeks of Justin; and other family members and friends.

Barnard, Cecil
1934-2014

Published Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Cecil Barnard, 80, a retired machinist, died Sunday, June 22, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was June 24 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with Rick Davis officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 1.
Pallbearers were Michael Martin, Tommy Lambert, Bill Barnard, Randy Martin, David Lambert and Bob Barnard.
Cecil was born May 21, 1934, in Angleton to Willie and Bessie (George) Barnard.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Kenneth Barnard.
He is survived by his sisters, Billie Lambert of Boyd and Dorothy Martin of Boyd; brother Johnny Barnard and wife, Doris, of Decatur; sister-in-law Georgia Barnard of Blue Mound; friend Evelyn Martin of Springtown; and other family members and friends.

Bass, Randy
1949-2014

Published Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Randy Bass, 64, a self-employed machinist, died Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Fred Bellah officiating.
Randy was born Nov. 14, 1949, in Eldorado, Ark., to Bill and Betty (McCauley) Bass. He married Connie Bridges June 26, 1986, in Decatur.
Randy owned and operated CCR Machine.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 30 years, Connie Bass of Bridgeport; daughter Crystal Watkins and companion, D.J. Bradley, of Bridgeport; sister Susan Zisakis and husband, Gus, of Boulder City, Nev.; brothers Richard Bass and wife, Carrie, of Perris, Calif., Ron Bass and wife, Sue, of Little River, S.C., and Jeff Bass of Mena, Calif.; mother-in-law Doris Bridges of Paradise; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Baugh, David William
1961-2014

Published Saturday, March 8, 2014
David William Baugh, 52, of Paradise, died Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2014, in Mansfield due to complications of diabetes.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Sunday, March 9, at Flatwood Baptist Church in Decatur with the Rev. Doug Acklie officiating.
David was born Sept. 23, 1961, in Newton, Kan., to William and Deanna (Anderson) Baugh. He married Teresa Davis Oct. 15, 1994, in Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his father and a brother.
Survivors include his wife, Teresa Baugh of Paradise; daughters Eryn Baugh and Reygan Baugh of Paradise; mother Deanna Baugh of Kansas; a brother; two sisters; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

BeCraft, Brian Hall
1988-2014

Published Saturday, June 7, 2014
Brian Hall BeCraft, 26, of Waco, died Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at his residence.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7, at Montalba Baptist Church with burial to follow at Concord Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Herrington/Land of Memory Funeral Home in Palestine.
Visitation is 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.
Brian graduated from Boyd High School in 2007. He lived in Waco and was working at the Baylor Stadium. Brian was known for his bright smile and willingness to help.
He is survived by his parents, Jeff and Deborah BeCraft of Rhome; brother Daniel Shane BeCraft; daughter Francis Summer Becraft; aunts and uncles, Patricia Dian BeCraft of Montalba, John and Mildred BeCraft of Tennessee Colony, Kenneth Wayne BeCraft of Montalba and Betty Calk of Montalba; and numerous cousins.

Bedgood, James Earl
1932-2014

Published Saturday, April 12, 2014
James Earl Bedgood, 82, died Tuesday, April 8, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service was April 11 at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery with Brent Nordan officiating.
James was born March 17, 1932, in Plaquemine, La., to George Harvey and Gladys Lucille (Deere) Bedgood. He married Peggy Sue Heel June 27, 1959, and they were married 47 years until her passing in 2007.
James was a captain in the United States Air Force and later retired from the Federal Aviation Administration.
He is survived by his sons, Ronald Bedgood of Boyd and Jimmy Bedgood and wife, Leslie, of Trophy Club; grandchildren Kimberly Pruitt, Alan Bedgood, Rachel Langston, Madison Bedgood, Summer Bedgood and Seth Bedgood; 12 great-grandchildren; a brother; and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and a great-grandson.

Belcher, Mary Gene
1957-2014
Published Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Mary Gene Belcher, 56, a homemaker, died Thursday, Jan. 30, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Mary was born April 4, 1957, in Fort Worth to Mary Lee Thompson. She married Clay Douglas Belcher Nov. 1, 1976, in Weatherford. Mary was a Baptist.
She was preceded in death by her father, Carol Rothlis; and her sister, Susan Worton.
She is survived by her sons, James McConnell of Rhome and Christopher McConnell of Paradise; daughter Melanie Belcher of Springtown; brother Robert Rothlis of Keller; sisters Chris Seeton of Rhome and Brenda Murray of Springtown; eight grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; her mother, Mary Rothlis of Springtown; and other family members and friends.

Belew, Ralph
1932-2014

Published Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Ralph Belew, 82, a rancher, died Saturday, June 14, 2014, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Thursday, June 19, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home with David Singleton officiating.
Ralph was born June 14, 1932, in Chico to Ruben and Clara (Patterson) Belew. He married Adela Elizabeth (Behncken) Aug. 3, 1961, in Elizabeth City, N.C. Ralph was a Baptist and a member of Wise County Veterans Group.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Adela Belew of Decatur; son Paul Belew of Decatur; grandson Zachary Belew; daughter-in-law Marilyn Belew; one brother; four sisters; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Bell, Judy
1950-2014
Published Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Judy Bell, 63, died Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service was Jan. 20 at Red Top Cemetery in Young County under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home of Graham.
Judy was born March 10, 1950, in Comanche to Albert William and Tommie Pauline (Edwards) Haase. She grew up in Wise County and married Tex Bell March 27, 1973, in Tyler. She was a bookkeeper.
Survivors include her husband, Tex Bell of Arlington; mother Tommie Haase of Loving; sister Paula Kitchen and husband, Bill, of Fort Worth; brother-in-law Rex Bell and wife, Cynthia, of Granbury; sister-in-law Judy Stultz of Fort Worth; nephew Ty Kitchen of Fort Worth; and niece Christie Bell of Fort Worth.

Bellone, Joseph Charles
1926-2014

Published Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Joseph Charles Bellone, 88, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014 after a brief illness.
Services were Dec. 6 in Bridgeport.
Mr. Bellone was a loving, Christian man, a strong and solid father and a devoted and loving husband who will be greatly missed.
He was born in Long Branch, N.J., in 1926 and graduated from Long Branch High School, where has was known as “Joey.” In high school, he enjoyed soccer, basketball, track and being a lifeguard at the shore.
At the time of his graduation, World War II was still underway, and Mr. Bellone enlisted in the Civil Air Patrol. He attained the rank of sergeant, flying from training and staffing bases in the U.S. to a base in Cuba, training with new pilots to keep the huge B-29s from bouncing off the runways.
After the war, Mr. Bellone attended Monmouth College in New Jersey for two years, then finished his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration at New York University. He put this degree to good use as an administrator in the Eatontown, N.J., school system.
During this time, he met his bride-to-be, Julia Buckshaw, while roller skating at the Jersey shore. The couple married in 1952 and had one son, Michael, currently of Decatur. The family settled in Long Branch, moving to West Long Branch in the early 1970s.
After retiring from a successful career in sales for corporations such as PPG (wholesale paint division and wholesale glass division), the couple moved to Palmyra, Va., where they spent the next 20 or so years enjoying retirement, gardening, working around the house and going on road trips to Texas to see their grandson, Ryan. In the later years, they also enjoyed their six great-grandchildren.
Mr. Bellone enjoyed woodworking, ice boat racing, singing in his church choir, gardening, road trips and while in New Jersey, cultivating the perfect lawn. He also enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, country music and a good dinner at Howard Johnson’s.
He is survived by his son, Michael, and his wife, Karin; Michael’s son, Ryan, of Melbourne, Fla., Karin’s daughter, Jenni, son Jeff, and great-grandchildren Colin, Josh, Daisy, Justin, Teagan and Quinn.
In the twilight of his life, Mr. Bellone battled Parkinson’s disease for many years, never losing the will to keep on fighting. Later, he would continuously and fiercely look after Mrs. Bellone when she no longer could look out for herself. And in the last few months, he adopted his daughter-in-law’s mom into his “cared for” circle.

Bellone, Julia Ann
1924-2014

Published Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Julia Ann Bellone, 90, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Nov. 21, 2014, at her home, surrounded by loved ones.
Funeral arrangements were pending at press time with Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Mrs. Bellone was born in Jersey City, N.J., and graduated from Snyder High School in Jersey City, where she participated in drama, sports, choral society, prom committee and yearbook. She was a Snyder High air raid warden and won the Palmer Method of Penmanship Award.
During World War II, she moved to Long Branch, N.J., to attend a special U.S. Army volunteer wartime nursing school program. She went on to graduate from nursing school in three years and was employed by Monmouth Memorial Hospital as an emergency room nurse for almost 20 years.
It was during this time, while roller skating, that she met the man who would become her loving friend and husband for the next 62 years – Joseph.
The couple had one child, Michael, and resided over the years in Long Branch, West Long Branch, N.J., Palmyra, Va., and recently, Bridgeport.
Mrs. Bellone was a loving wife and mother, devoting herself to her husband, home and child for more than 60 years. She worked tirelessly to ensure her family not only had the necessities of life, but also enjoyed the many blessings life had to offer.
Her hobbies and interests included cultivating, caring for and harvesting a garden, harvesting berries both in her backyard and along country roads, walking, road trips, games, cooking and cookbook collecting.
In her later years as a resident of assisted living centers, she won the hearts of her caregivers. She proudly displayed a certificate from a physical rehab program that proclaimed her the “Most Funny Patient” of the year. Mrs. Bellone and her family fondly thought of one such caregiver, Judith, as a semi-adopted daughter.
Mrs. Bellone will be missed greatly, and her family will continue to celebrate her contributions to them, this world and her preparation for the next life.
She is survived by her loving husband, Joseph; son Michael of Decatur; and grandson Ryan Joseph, who is currently attending college in Florida. Also surviving Mrs. Bellone are Michael’s wife, Karin and her children Jennifer and Jeff and grandchildren Colin, Daisy, Joshua, Justin, Teagan and Quinn.

Belvin, Margaret Evelyn
1928-2013
Published Saturday, January 4, 2014
Margaret Evelyn Belvin, 85, of Sunset, died Monday, Dec. 30, 2013, in Krum.
Graveside service was Jan. 3 at Evergreen Cemetery in Paris with Sam Bolton officiating. Burial was under the direction of Mulkey-Mason, Jack Schmitz and Son Funeral Home in Denton.
Margaret was born July 21, 1928, in Bairdstown to Joel and Ruby (Poteet) Bolton. She married Jerrell Stricklin June 16, 1949. He died July 21, 1996. She then married R.B. Belvin March 29, 2002, in Alvord.
She was a homemaker and a member of the Baptist church.
Margaret is survived by her husband, R.B. Belvin of Alvord; son Bryan Stricklin of Denton; daughters Bonnie and husband, Mike Edwards, of Paradise and Lori and husband, Thomas Jajacate, of The Woodlands; sisters Helen and husband, Horace Greer, of Cortez, Colo., Doral and husband, Dale Emery, of Denton, Joann and husband, Lloyd, of Wisconsin, and Sue and husband, Don Newsom, of Plainview; and brother Buddy Bolton of Paris.
She was preceded in death by sisters Rachell Bolton and Sally Starks; brothers Hubert Bolton, Vester Bolton and Shorty Bolton; sisters and brothers-in-law B.H. Bolton of Grand Prairie, Karen Fruen of Tom Bean, John Belvin of Milpitas, Calif., and Billie Levinson of Anaheim, Calif.
Online condolences may be left at www.mulkeymasondenton.com.

Bench, William Earl 'Bill'
1947-2014

Published Wednesday, February 19, 2014
William Earl “Bill” Bench, 66, of Decatur, died Friday, Feb. 14, 2014, in Denton.
Bill was born Oct. 7, 1947, in California to Eugene and Barbara (Taylor) Bench. He was a longtime resident of Beatrice, Neb., before moving to Texas in August 2013, where he was a resident of The Heritage Place Nursing Home in Decatur. He was a retired OTR truck driver and ran many years for DonCo Carriers out of Oklahoma City.
He is survived by daughters Becky Young of Nebraska and Tammy O’Grady of Missouri; sisters Melida Miller of Chico, Tari Petersen of Utah and Linda Tarver, Virginia Bench and Mary Smith, all of Nebraska; brothers Lee Bench of Nebraska and Albert Taylor of California; and numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, George Bench.

Benham, Phyllis Ann
1959-2014
Published Saturday, December 27, 2014
Phyllis Ann Benham, 55, a certified nursing assistant, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014, in Bridgeport.
No service is scheduled.
Phyllis was born July 5, 1959, in Doyline, La., to Phillip and Chloe (Coburn) Gullett. She married Craig Benham April 15, 1985, in Haughton, La.
Survivors include her husband of almost 30 years, Craig Benham of Bridgeport; goddaughter Ashley Martinez; mother Chloe McCrary of Lake Bistineau, La., and her mother-in-law, Peggy Benham of Bridgeport.

Bernal, Stacey Michell
1979-2014

Published Saturday, June 28, 2014
Stacey Michell Bernal, 34, of Decatur, died Saturday, June 21, 2014, in Denton.
Funeral was June 24 at the First United Methodist in Brady with the Rev. Keith Simpson officiating. Burial was at Rest Haven Cemetery in Brady, under the direction of Leatherwood Memorial Chapels. Pallbearers were David Land, Michael Land, Kody Waddill, Darrell Barron, Justin Hafer and Leo Bernal.
Stacey was born Nov. 8, 1979, in Brady to Billy Dale Waddill and Dianne (Land) Waddill. A graduate of Brady High School, she married Rodrigo “Rocky” Bernal Dec. 2, 2006, in Brady.
She had lived in Decatur since 2009, and she was director of childcare services at Learning Ladder in Decatur. Stacey was a member of Crossroads Church in Decatur.
She is survived by her husband, Rocky of Decatur; sons Kaden R. Bernal and Karson R. Bernal of Decatur; father Billy Dale Waddill of Stephenville; mother Dianne Hardman and husband, Joey, of Brady; grandparents Harold and Grace Hardman of Richland Springs; brother Heath Hardman and wife, Lauren, of Stephenville; and sister Lindsey DeLaCruz and husband, Anthony, of Stephenville.
Contributions in memory of Stacey Michell Bernal may be made to Crossroads Church, 1400 Deer Park Road, Decatur, TX 76234 or Hope From The Heart, P.O. Box 1207, Brady, TX 76825.

Bias, Lance Aaron
1986-2014

Published Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Lance Aaron Bias, 27, of Rhome, died Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014 after a two-year battle with leukemia.
Funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 15, at Full Armor Biker Church in Alvord, with burial under the direction of Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home.
Lance was born Oct. 6, 1986, in Shamrock and worked as a diesel mechanic and in the oilfield before he got sick. He loved to ride four-wheelers and motorcycles and to spend time with his daughter, niece and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, William Bias; and grandmother Stella Kohli.
He is survived by his mother, Karen Bias of St. Marys, Ohio; daughter Zephanie Bias of Decatur; brother Chris Bias and wife, Kristin, of Decatur; sisters Felicia Scott and husband, Grady, of Decatur, and Amber Reardon of Decatur; grandparents Pauline Bias of Wellington and Richard Kohli and wife, Gloria, of Waverly, Tenn.; niece Marissia Bias; and nephews Noah Reardon and Nickolas Scott.

Bigley, Donna Lee Carper
1944-2014

Published Saturday, March 29, 2014
Donna “Momma Bigley” Lee Carper Bigley, 69, a homemaker, died Wednesday, March 26, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Sunday, March 30, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Decatur with Bishop Richard Gillespie officiating. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur. Pallbearers are Gary Bigley, Babe Bigley, T.M. Bigley, Frank Carper, John Carper and Tino Pequeno.
Donna Lee was born Aug. 14, 1944, in McLean, Va., to Woodrow Wilson “Willie” and Betty (Owen) Carper. She was a mom or “Gee Gee” to everyone, loved animals and was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Encee Owen and Gary Wayne Carper; son Shelly Bigley; and son-in-law Stephen Blaylock. Survivors include daughters Callie Jo Hartsock and husband, Randy, Laura Lee Blaylock, and Beth Jackson and husband, Billy, all of Decatur; sons Johnny Lee Carper and wife, Lisa, of Fayetteville, Ark., Frankie Lynn Carper and wife, Laura, of Sterling, Va., T.M. Bigley and wife, Rhonda, of Cleburne, Babe Bigley and wife, Jennifer, of Aubrey, and Gary Andrew Bigley and wife, Sara, of Aubrey; 29 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Bilderback, Billy Omer
1941-2014

Published Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Billy Omer Bilderback, 72, a school administrator, died Monday, July 14, 2014, in Mansfield.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial is at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is noon Wednesday, prior to the service at the funeral home.
Billy was born Sept. 7, 1941, in Weston to Desota O’dell and Ola Opal (Peebles) Bilderback. He married Sharon Katleen Winder Sept. 7, 1963, in Decatur. Billy retired from Arlington ISD after 20 years of service. He was a Baptist.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Sharon Bilderback of Arlington; sons Timothy Bryan Bilderback of Arlington and Michael Billy Bilderback of Plano; grandson Johnathan Logan of Plano; and many friends.

Bishop, Jonnie Cortez
1918-2014

Published Saturday, August 2, 2014
Jonnie Cortez Bishop, 95, a retired seamstress, died Monday, July 28, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, at Sweetwater Cemetery with Gerre Joiner officiating. There is no visitation.
Jonnie was born Nov. 20, 1918, in Mingus to Sam and Myrtle Jo (Newberry) Chisolm. She married George Wayne Bishop in 1941 in Mingus, and she was an avid seamstress.
Jonnie was preceded in death by her parents; a son; a brother; and three sisters.
She is survived by her son, Tom Bishop and wife, Jean, of Decatur; grandchildren Sam Bishop and wife, Militza, of Decatur, Laura Moore of Rhome, Bobby Bishop and wife, Kim, of Celina, and Alex Bishop of Denison; great-grandchildren Bryan, Kinley, Nicholas, Alexis, McKenzie, Rolla and Delaney; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Bisidas, Larry Bisidas
1947-2014

Published Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Larry Bisidas, 67, a water well driller, died Monday, Nov. 17, 2014 in Denton.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the First Baptist Church of Decatur. Dr. Bill Hughes will officiate.
Pallbearers will be Kenny Grantham, Rodney Quinn, Dillon Quinn, Jayme Bisidas, Buddy Harris and Randy Griffeth. Honorary pallbearers are Robert Hilton, Charles Harris, R.D. Bishop and Tim Whitehead.
Burial will be in Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home of Decatur.
Larry was born Feb. 24, 1947 to Tony and Ruth (Pope) Bisidas in Coleman, Ala. He married Janice Reed July 3, 1964 in Lovington, N.M. Larry was an owner and operator of Bisidas Water Wells B&B for 45 years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father; brother Tony Edward Bisidas and sisters Reba Whitehead and Shelba Roberts.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Janice Bisidas of Decatur; daughters Tresa Quinn of Decatur, Janette Flake of Decatur and Sherry Grantham and husband, Kenny, of Decatur; grandchildren Ashtin Dominguez and husband, Dustin, Dillon Quinn, Chloe and Lexi Flake, Madison and Tyler Grantham; great-grandchild Axel James Dominguez; sister Bonnie Kemp of Decatur; his mother, Ruth Bisidas of Decatur; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends

Blank, Nancy Huff
1936-2014

Published Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Nancy Huff Blank, 78, a homemaker, died Sunday, June 22, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Thursday, June 26, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz officiating. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Nancy was born May 24, 1936, in Oil City, Pa., to Merl and Eleanor (Pierce) Huff, and she married Franklin D. Blank April 25, 1959, in Holyoke, Mass.
She was a member of the Wise County Historical Society, the Antique Car Club and the Chisholm Trail Antique Farm Machinery Club. She loved to travel, and she and Frank visited many places all over the world.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Janice Hamill.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Frank Blank of Decatur; sons David Blank and wife, Christa, of Carrollton and Robert Blank and wife, Angelia, of Krum; daughter Dawn Scheffer and husband, David, of Krum; grandchildren Garrett, Nathan, Katelyn, Rebeccah, Matthew, Daniel and Ashley; brother Jim Huff of Oil City, Pa.; and other family members and friends.

Blanks, Mary Neal
1917-2014
Published Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Mary Neal Blanks, 97, of Bridgeport, died Friday, June 20, 2014.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 27, at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth. Visitation is 9 to 10 a.m. Friday at Mount Olivet prior to the service.
A memorial service will also be held 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, at Ascension and St. Mark Episcopal Church in Bridgeport with a reception preceding the service.
Mary Neal Blanks was born Jan. 28, 1917, in Joshua to George and Edith Bandy. She lived in Fort Worth for 62 years and Bridgeport for four years. Mary Neal was a former member of Riverside Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; granddaughter Patrice Haas; three sisters; and two brothers.
Survivors include her son, Randy Blanks and wife, Cathy, of Lufkin; daughter Sherry Haas and husband, David “Butch,” of Paradise; grandchildren Cyndee Neal and husband, Leroy, of Euless, David Haas and wife, Holly, of Carrollton, Wyndee Salazar of Paradise, Kitty Harris and husband, Mark, of Cisco, Beth Harrison and husband, Clay, of Granbury, Anna McKinnon and husband, Al, of Grand Prairie and Holly Shadden and husband, Rusty, of Spring Branch; 25 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Blase, Nora Lou
1924-2014

Published Saturday, January 25, 2014
Nora Lou Blase, 89, died Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. David Blase officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Johnny Blase, Don Lyles, Ron Patterson, Mike North, John North and Johnny Scheuermann.
Nora was born May 6, 1924, in Lewisville to Sam Cornelius and Callie Elizabeth (Hicks) Patterson, and she attended first through 10th grades in Decatur. She married Charles Alvin Blase Oct. 1, 1939, in Denton, and they operated dairy farms at Decatur, Rhome, Boyd, Greenwood and Alvord for 23 years before retiring in 1979. Nora was a member of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her husband in June of 2000; her parents; and all seven of her siblings and their spouses.
Survivors include her sons, David Blase and wife, Anna, of Nashville, Ark., and Olin Blase and wife, Janelle, of Decatur; grandsons John Blase and wife, Meredith, of Monument, Colo., Shawn Blase and wife, Tonja, of Texarkana, and Curtis Blase and wife, Candi, of Runaway Bay; and seven great-grandchildren.

Blaylock, Frances Jean
1940-2014

Published Saturday, March 8, 2014
Frances Jean Blaylock, 73, died Thursday, March 6, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Monday, March 10, at Smyrna Cemetery near Sunset with Pastor Shane LeJeune officiating. Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Frances was born Nov. 20, 1940, in Centerville, Tenn., to Paul and Frances (Bates) Thronberry. She married Gerald Blaylock in 1958 in Fort Worth.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
She is survived by her daughters, Rebecca Bright and husband, David, of Paradise and Tammy Blaylock of Decatur; son Rocky Blaylock and wife, Kathy, of Aurora; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sisters Paulette Thronberry and Judy Morehead; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Blaylock, Travis Blaylock
1946-2014
Published Saturday, October 25, 2014
Travis Blaylock, 68, died Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014, in Justin.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Smyrna Cemetery in Sunset with Jeff Jackson officiating. Burial will be under the direction of the White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the funeral home.
Travis was born Oct. 23, 1946, in Fort Worth to Elmo and Rosie (Ussery) Blaylock. He was a welder and a retired truck driver for Denton State School.
He married Debra Sept. 23, 1993, in Denton. He enjoyed baking pastries and was a devoted family man.
Travis will be remembered for his devoted years of life as a husband, father and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmo and Rosie Blaylock; and son Stephen Blaylock.
Survivors include his wife, Debra Blaylock of Justin; sons Chad and Brad Blaylock of Justin and Paul Baker and wife, Amy, of Caddo Mills; brother Bill Blaylock and wife, Theresa, of Sunset; 11 grandchildren; aunts Dolly Hill of Fort Worth and Lavern Pittman of Bowie; niece Mindy Jones and husband, Clay, of Bowie; and nephew Bryce Blaylock and wife, Kenda, of Casper, Wyo.

Blaylock, Winnie Charlene
1941-2013

Published Saturday, January 4, 2014
Winnie Charlene Blaylock, 72, died Saturday, Dec. 28, 2013, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Winnie Charlene Volkman was born Dec. 8, 1941, in Littlefield to Kermit Russell Volkman and Winnie Blanche (West) Volkman. She graduated from Muleshoe High School and married William Lewis Blaylock June 15, 1960, in Muleshoe. They were married for 46 years and had two sons, David Russell Blaylock and William Ottis Blaylock.
Charlene earned her degree in nursing and went on to earn a master’s degree from Texas Wesleyan University and become a Certified Registered Nurse of Anesthesia (CRNA). She came to Bridgeport in 1978. Charlene was a member of American Association of Nurse Anesthetists and Texas Association of Nurse Anesthetists.
After living in Bridgeport, Charlene was host to many of the Bridgeport Bulls football boys, and one was welcomed and decided to become a part of the family, John T. Blaylock. Charlene practiced anesthesia in many locations over the years but loved practicing most of all in the community and in or around Bridgeport among her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 46 years, William Lewis Blaylock; and her sister, Janie Shipp.
She is survived by her sons, Dr. David Russell Blaylock and wife, Brenda, of Decatur and William “Bill” Ottis Blaylock and wife, Leisha, of Chico; blended son John T. Blaylock and wife, Cynthia, of Harlingen; grandchildren Arin Blaylock, Brooklyn Blaylock, Joshua Blaylock and wife, Whitney, Jessi Harbor and husband, Joshua, Jacob Blaylock, John Ryan Blaylock and Zoey Blaylock; great-grandchildren Logan Blaylock and Elijha Blaylock; sister Wanda Pearlene Bray; brother Jerry Don Coulter; and other family members and friends.

Blythe, James C. ‘Jim’
1942-2014

Published Saturday, June 14, 2014
James C. “Jim” Blythe, 72, of Lake Kiowa, died June 13, 2014.
Visitation will be at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home in Gainesville at 6 p.m. Sunday. Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday at First Baptist Church in Gainesville. Interment will be 1 p.m. Thursday, June 19 at the DFW National Cemetery under the direction of Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home.
Jim was born Feb. 3, 1942 in Dumas to George William and Hazel Geneva (Wibbing) Blythe. He married his college sweetheart, Dianne DuBose, Aug. 15, 1965 in Abernathy.
Jim and Dianne lived in the Gainesville area for more than 39 years.
He graduated from McMurry College in Abilene and Baylor University School of Physical Therapy in Dallas. Immediately after graduation, he was commissioned into the U.S. Army, serving seven years as a physical therapist during the Viet Nam era. He was honorably discharged as a Captain.
Following his discharge, he established the Physical Therapy Center in Gainesville with partner Alan Trammell, and he continued to work there until his death. Jim was a member of Gainesville First Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Rose Ann Lambert.
Survivors include wife, Dianne; son Clint and wife, Tami, of Decatur; daughters Chrisanne Blythe of Kaufman and Lundyn of the home; grandchildren Layni and Zane Blythe of Decatur; brothers Don and wife, Barbra, of Fritch, Bill and wife, Jill, of Lake Kiowa, Ben and wife, Georgia, of Lake Kiowa; brother-in-law Larry Lambert of Dumas; brother-in-law Richard DuBose and wife, Joan, of Canton; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Bohannan, Pat
1943-2014

Published Saturday, April 19, 2014
Pat Bohannan, 70, a homemaker, died Wednesday, April 16, 2014, in Decatur.
No services are scheduled.
Pat was born Aug. 19, 1943, to Ernest and Effie (Smith) Smith in Modesto, Calif.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ernest Bohannan; son Jackie Cathey; brothers Eugene and Bobby; and sisters Frances and Sue.
She is survived her sons, Rodger Cathey and wife, Robin, of Boyd, and Gene Cathey of Runaway Bay; grandchildren Amanda, Rodger, Samantha and Deborah; great-grandchildren Lawson and Kayleigh; brothers Valdeen, David and Bill Smith; sisters Laverne and Dorothy; other family members and friends.

Bolin, Ray Nell
1927-2014

Published Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Ray Nell Bolin, 87, a dietitian, died Friday, Dec. 26, 2014, at her home in Blue Mound.
Funeral was Tuesday, Dec. 30 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd, with burial in Boyd Cemetery. Rev. Jeff Griffin officiated and Randy Harris, Tracy Harris, Tommy White, Travis White, Mark White and John Gilbert, Jr. served as pallbearers. Russell Mize was honorary pallbearer.
Ray Nell was born April 17, 1927 to George Thomas and Ida Mae (Mann) Stokes in Randolph. She married Abner Thomas Bolin Dec. 31, 1945 in Decatur. She was a member of the Aurora Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Abner; her son-in-law, John Y. “Mo” Gilbert; a sister; and five brothers.
Survivors include her daughters, Sandra Padgett and husband, Jim, of Blue Mound, Donna White and husband, Tommy, of Blue Mound, and Sharon Gilbert of Fort Worth; son Randy Carl Bolin and wife, Karen, of Burleson; sister Flora Capehart; 13 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; her cat, Spooks; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bordner, Frank George ‘Petie’
1923-2013
Published Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Services for longtime Bridgeport historian Frank George ‘Petie’ Bordner, 90, will be Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014 at 10 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Bridgeport, officiated by Father Thomas Dsouza.
Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, Jan. 1 from 6-8 p.m. at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Bordner passed away Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013 in Grapevine.
Petie was born Jan. 18, 1923 in Bridgeport to Pete and Helen (Galik) Bordner. Upon graduation from BHS, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II before returning to Bridgeport and marrying Alva Jewell Holt. He worked as an oilfield pumper with Mitchell Energy until his retirement.
Petie was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Bridgeport, and he enjoyed woodworking and traveling.
He may be best remembered as the local expert when it came to the history of the coal mines in Bridgeport. He was often a presenter during the annual Coal Miners Day program.
He is survived by daughter Melinda Manoushagian and husband Ralph of Bedford; grandchildren Beth Wykrent and husband Damon of Highland Village, and Andy Manoushagian of Los Angeles; and great-grandchildren Luke Wykrent and Molly Wykrent, both of Highland Village.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Alva Jewell Bordner, and his parents.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bridgeport Heritage Museum, 812-B Halsell St, Bridgeport, TX 76426, or to St. John’s Catholic Church, 1801 Irvin St, Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Boulware, Cleo Adella
1923-2014

Published Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Cleo Adella Boulware, 90, a lifelong resident of Bridgeport, died Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, in Decatur.
Service was Nov. 11 at the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport with burial at Thomas Cemetery under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home of Bridgeport.
Cleo was born Dec. 5, 1923, to Roy and Lora (Davidson) Poore. She was a retired bookkeeper for the Corner Drug Store in Bridgeport and a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport.
Cleo was also a member of the Eastern Star, the Bridgeport Garden Club and a state winner in the Ladies Golf Association.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband J.B. (Booty) Boulware; and son John Boulware. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and a great friend.
Cleo is survived by her son, Larry Boulware; daughter Paula Brussow and husband, Jerry; daughter-in-law Doris Boulware; sister Lora Beth Byrnes; MiMi’s kids Mary Ann Boulware, Jason Brussow and wife, Lori, Kevin Brussow, Robert Boulware and Marcie Boulware, Grand-MiMi’s kids Collin, Mika and Dillon Brussow; and extended family and friends.

Box, Becky Ann
1952-2014

Published Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Becky Ann Box, 61, of Boyd died Friday, Jan. 3, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at White’s Azle Chapel.
Becky was born Sept. 15, 1952, in Stamford to Herschel “Bud” and Edna Merlene Couch Box. A graduate of Angelo State University, she taught school for a short time, later becoming an editor for TV Listing Inc. But mostly Becky was a teacher of life. She was a beloved mother, sister, friend and grandmother.
Becky embraced her Indian heritage, was brave, loyal and humble. She was selfless, accepting and always a calm in any storm. She was a fun-maker, risk-taker and a do-what-it-takes mom. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
Becky was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Jennifer Sparkman; brother Buddy Box; sister Bette Lang; and aunt Zelma Faye Allen.
Survivors include her children, David Lee Sparkman Jr., Rebecca LeAnn Sparkman, Joseph Wesley Sparkman and Sandra Elizabeth Jackson; 10 grandchildren; brother Bill Box; sister and best friend Chris Dawson; very good friend Charlene Sheasley Tyler; a niece; two nephews; and many friends.
Memorials may be made to MADD or Battered Women’s Shelters of America.

Brantly, Wanda Faye
1933-2014

Published Saturday, October 4, 2014
Wanda Brantly, 80, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, died Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2014, in Arlington.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Balsora Baptist Church with the Rev. Glen Connell officiating. Burial will follow at Post Oak Cemetery under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Sid Brantly Jr., Mike Torok, Sid Brantly II, William Brantly, Jesse Lanham and Don Jones.
Wanda was born Oct. 25, 1933, in Newark to Lawrence and Kate (Gilmore) Washburn. She married Sidney Brantly Oct. 17, 1951, in Fort Worth. Wanda loved to paint, cook and occasionally contribute to the editorial section of the newspaper.
She was a longtime resident of Balsora and a member of the Balsora Baptist Church.
Wanda was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Albert and James Washburn; and sisters Viola Simmons and Ruth Johnston.
Survivors include her husband of 62 years, Sidney Brantly of Bridgeport; daughters Sabra Torok and husband, Mike, of Arlington; son Sid Brantly and wife, Viola, of Kentucky; grandchildren Kerri, Amanda Lynn, Miranda, Sid, Cameron, Cynda, Toleda and William; 12 great-grandchildren; sister Gail Rotan of Newark; brother Paul Washburn of Azle; and other family members and friends.

Brassfield, Robert ‘Earl’
1937-2014

Published Saturday, July 26, 2014
Robert “Earl” Brassfield, 77, formerly of Decatur, died Tuesday, July 22, 2014, in Fort Worth. Graveside service was July 25 at Jonestown Cemetery with burial under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Earl was born April 11, 1937, in Decatur to Floyd and Florene (Walker) Brassfield. He married Emma Baskin April 11, 2009, in Fort Worth, and he loved listening to country music. He also enjoyed his work as a mechanic.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Virginia Brassfield; his second wife, Lynette Brassfield; and three brothers. Survivors include his wife, Emma Brassfield of Fort Worth; sons Jerry Brassfield and wife, Marilyn, of McCurtain, Okla., Robert Brassfield and wife, Shorty, of Cisco, and Mark Brassfield and wife, Jehree, of Gorman; daughters Earlene Townsend and husband, Randy, of Henderson, Nev., Debbie Elem and husband, Mark, of Cisco, Mindy Hanes and husband, Dennis, of McCurtain, Okla., and Teresa Joseph of Seattle; stepchildren Thomas Cook of Fort Worth, Walter Cook and wife, Jamie, of Fort Worth, Lewon Horton of Fort Worth, John B. Cook of Fort Worth, and Byron Cook and wife, Charity, of Fort Worth; 20 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; brother Jerry Don Brassfield of Springtown; his favorite sister-in-law, Jean Ford of Springtown; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Brawley, Michael ‘Andy’
1990-2014

Published Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Michael “Andy” Brawley, 24, of Springtown, died Friday, July 25, 2014.
Memorial service is 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at Hilltop Family Church in Springtown. Arrangements are under the direction of Alexander Midway Funeral Home in Springtown.
Andy was born May 24, 1990, in Weatherford to Scot and Jill Brawley. His life was centered around his son, Beckham, his family and his family at the sale barn. Andy saw the good in everyone he met, was a friend to many and loved by all.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward Brawley, Carl Moore and Bea Moore; and uncle Lane Moore.
He is survived by his son, Beckham; parents Scot and Jill Brawley; brother Chad Brawley; grandmother Carlyn Davis; aunts and uncles, Lynda and Howard Morris, Darlene Woodle and Tracy Brawley and companion Ross Odell; godfather Micheal Thomson; cousins Amy and Hud Woodle and Kristi Morris; and best buddy, Pete Burkhalter.

Brazier, Nora Eloise
1919-2014

Published Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Nora Eloise Brazier, 95, of Chico, died Sunday, July 20, 2014.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 23, at Chico Cemetery with Pastor Rick Neatherly officiating.
Nora was born April 15, 1919, in Chico. She attended Chico schools, graduated from the University of Texas in 1949 and went on to earn her master’s degree in social work in 1951.
Nora served as a WAVE in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. She was one of the first WAVE volunteers and was assigned to basic training in the Bronx and Stillwater, Okla., with her final duty assignment in Gulfport, Miss.
After leaving the Navy, Nora was a social worker with the Texas Department of Public Welfare until her retirement in 1979.
She was preceded in death by her brothers, James, George and Wesley Brazier; and sisters Mertie Brazier, Mattie Brazier, Julia Strandtman and May Crawford.
Survivors include her nieces, Donna Barkley, Jane Sward and Marilyn Hadley; and other family members and friends.
Memorials may be made to the Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Chico or to the Chico Community Volunteer Fire Department, 102 N. Weatherford, Chico, TX 76431.

Brewer, Jimmy Dale
1955-2014

Published Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Jimmy Dale Brewer, 59, a retired delivery man, died Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, in Bridgeport at Stagecoach Rehabilitation.
Memorial service was Dec. 8 at the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating.
Jimmy was born Aug. 31, 1955, in Bridgeport to E.J. “Bill” and Nellie Katherine “Mollie” (Dethloff) Brewer. A lifelong resident of Bridgeport, he worked for Hartsell Feed Store, Gifford Hill Rock Crusher, Chico Crushed Stone, Dnya Mud Drilling, A&T Bearing and the Bridgeport Index.
At a very young age, Jimmy Dale followed his family and joined the First United Methodist Church of Bridgeport. He remembered the church’s first Thanksgiving Dinner and helped the church every year prepare the meal for Wise County residents.
In 1989, Jimmy Dale received the gift of life through a kidney transplant allowing him to help his family, his church and his community for the past 25 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Charlie Roscoe Brewer.
Survivors include brother Billy Jay Brewer and his wife, Leanna, of Bridgeport; sisters Nellie Redwine and husband, James, of Chico and Roxie Rumbaugh and husband, Joe, of La Grange; four nephews; two nieces; nine great-nephews; eight great-nieces; one great-great-niece; and other relatives and friends.
Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Bridgeport or a charity of your choice.

Bridges, Lou Vee
1928-2014

Published Saturday, May 31, 2014
Lou Vee Bridges may have impacted more lives in Wise County than anyone you’ve never heard of.
Bridges, 85, who died Sunday, May 25, 2014, in Decatur, was a board member of Wise County Water Control & Improvement District No. 1, and secretary-treasurer of the National Watershed Coalition (NWC), based in Chandler, Okla.
A Paradise resident, she worked tirelessly for the creation of flood-control structures throughout the county to protect farmland, roads and lives during catastrophic flooding.
“Most people didn’t realize what all she did,” said Precinct 2 Commissioner Kevin Burns, immediate past-chairman of the National Watershed Coalition.
“Wise County’s system of dams, the protection of landowners’ rights, property, farmland – that is Lou Vee’s legacy. I was very fortunate to get acquainted with her, fortunate she let me know what was going on.”
Lou was born June 21, 1928, in Boyd to William and Annie (Albritton) Bridges. She married Bob Randall Pruden, who preceded her in death. She was a member of the Paradise Methodist Church.
As an administrative assistant for the U.S. and European divisions of General Electric, Bridges was legendary for her ability to motivate people and get things done.
Dr. Dan Sebert, executive director of the NWC, gave the eulogy at her service, which was Thursday at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport.
“She took a lot of people by surprise, and she knew that,” he said. “It was part of her method. People would think they were stopping to meet a sweet little lady, and when they left they’d have a sore arm from it being twisted, and a list of things they needed to do – things they were afraid not to do because they promised that sweet little lady they would.”
Burns said her work with GE was in the rocket propulsion division for the space program.
“She had a lot of office and supervisory experience,” he said. “She was really something.”
Her involvement with water projects started when she helped shelve a Corps of Engineers project near Boyd in the 1980s. The idea was to build a big flood-control dam that could have inundated 45,000 acres of farmland during a heavy rain.
“It would have taken out most of the farmland between Lake Bridgeport and Boyd,” Burns said.
Instead, there are now 108 flood-control structures throughout the county, most of them with 3 to 5 acres of coverage that would swell to 12 to 15 acres at flood stage.
“It’s a simple system, but it works well to prevent our roads from washing out,” Burns said. “Lou Vee really had a lot to do with that. She made my job easier as a commissioner, because these structures protect my roads so well. They protect roads, lots of farmland and lots of lives during significant rains.”
Bridges worked closely with former U.S. Congressman Charlie Stenholm, but she was fearless about approaching anyone who could help Wise County.
“Lou Vee has affected state budgets, congressional budgets and executive branch budgets for years – and all for our benefit,” Burns said. “She was very active in the political arena in that way.
“She was very passionate about it,” he added. “It was impressive to watch her work.”
Sebert said she was still active in the NWC when she died.
“People would ask me how long she was going to serve in that office, and my answer was, ‘As long as she wants to.'” he said. “She still had hotel reservations and travel plans when she died, and she expected to be able to do those things.
“She had a lot of energy for a woman her age – and she had a lot of friends who helped her get where she needed to be to make good things happen for Wise County.”
He said it’s due in large part to her efforts that Wise County is his “poster child” for interagency cooperation as he travels the nation promoting soil and water conservation.
“The things that have gone on in Wise County, the cooperation among the county, the Soil & Water Conservation District, the Water Board, the Water Control & Improvement District and other organizations – that’s her legacy,” he said. “She’d get people by the ear and help them find the right path to do the right thing, and they appreciated it.”
Rev. Gary Sessions officiated the service, and Gary Potts, Mike Overton, James McGilvray, Dickie Clement, Darnel Willis, Cody Gillispie, Burns and Paul Wood served as pallbearers. Burial was in Paradise Cemetery.
Bridges is survived by members of her extended family, and numerous friends.
Donations may be made to Wise County Animal Shelter or the charity of your choice.

Brooks, Della Lee
1933-2014

Published Saturday, November 22, 2014
Della Lee Brooks, 81, of Chico, died Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Chico Cemetery with Pastor Ed Edington officiating. Della was born Oct. 29, 1933, in Barnsdall, Okla., to Leo Lindsay and Esther (Crow) Hill. She was a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary and loved to bake and crochet. She encouraged others and was a good friend to many.
She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son; and grandson Brent Lemond.
Della is survived by her husband, Cecil Brooks of Bridgeport; daughter Rhonda Wilson and husband, Ron, of Whitehouse; sisters Vivian Welch of Pawhuska, Okla., and Wanda Weigart of Chico; grandchildren Ryon and Dustin Wilson; great-grandchildren Abigail and Gavyn Wilson; nephews Bradley, Kendall and Gregory North; niece Sherry Welch; and numerous great-nephews and nieces.
Memorials may be made to www.veteransinc.org.

Brown, Billy J.
1927-2014
Published Saturday, September 27, 2014
Billy J. Brown, 87, of Decatur died Monday, Sept. 22, 2014.
Service is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30, at Victory Family Church in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Greenwood Funeral Home, 3100 White Settlement Rd., in Fort Worth.
Billy was born Aug. 4, 1927, in Whitesboro. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by twin daughters, Debra and Denise Brown; and son Phillip Brown.
He’s survived by daughter Regina Muscara; granddaughter Nicole Johnson; grandson James Harwell; sister Barbara Jolley; and brother Wesley Payne.

Brown, Etna Champion
1918-2014

Published Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Etna Champion Brown, 96, died Saturday, May 3, 2014, in Brownwood after a long illness.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, at the First Baptist Church at Alvord with Pastor Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home of Decatur.
Pallbearers are Luke Culwell, Wade Brown, Jases Brown, Douglas Boswell, Josh Reich and Caleb Reich.
Etna Theo was born March 8, 1918, at home near Alvord to Charles Roy and Grace Elnora (Sims) Champion. She was named by her grandfather, Charley Champion, after his two favorite aunts.
Etna grew up on the farm in the Elm Community during the Great Depression. The family worked hard but enjoyed visiting and going to gospel singings. The Depression taught her to be content and live a simple, frugal life.
In 1929, Etna received Christ as her Savior after reading a little book of John given to her by her Sunday school teacher. She was baptized in the Alvord Baptist Church. Her faith sustained her throughout her life.
Etna graduated from Alvord High School in 1935 and went on to John Tarleton Junior College (now Tarleton State University) for one year, majoring in home economics. She later worked as a receptionist, in retail, and as a nurse’s aide – but her life’s work was as a homemaker. Her greatest joy was cooking and setting a beautiful table for her family.
In her later years, Etna played dominoes, kept her yard and sang in the church choir and at local nursing homes. She lived at home until the age of 92 with the help of her son, Royce, and daughter-in-law JoEllen, until she moved to Songbird Lodge in Brownwood.
She is survived by her daughter, Gayle Reich and husband, John Wayne, of Blanket; sons Freddie Ross and wife, Nancy, of Sun City, Ariz., Roger Wilson and wife, Kris, of Glenwood Springs, Colo., and Royce Brown and wife, JoEllen, of Alvord; grandchildren Marc Ross, Becky Ross, Luke Culwell and wife, Paige, Stacy Loftin and husband, Dustin, Kalie Reich, Josh Reich and wife, Mary Ruth, Caleb Reich, Wade Brown and wife, Andrea, Jases Brown and wife, Stacey, Katrina Amato and husband, Ryan, Elizabeth Thompson, Douglas Boswell and Tiffany Brown; 20 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and a brother, C.W. Champion.
Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Alvord Building Fund.

Brown, Phillip Brandon
1957-2014
Published Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Phillip Brandon Brown, 56, died Monday, Jan. 20, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Phillip was born Sept. 27, 1957, in Fort Worth to Billy Junior and Betty Sue (Ames) Brown.
He is survived by his father, Billy Brown of Decatur; sisters Reggie Muscara of Decatur and Doris Douglas of Kansas; brother Bruce Barker of Fort Worth; and several nieces and nephews.

Brumley, Dale
1935-2014

Published Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Dale Brumley, 78, of Runaway Bay, died Sunday, May 11, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at the Paradise Church of Christ. Another service is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at Canyon Hills Church of Christ in Canyon.
Dale was born July 10, 1935, in Erick, Okla., to William and Ellie (Driggars) Brumley. He married Darlene Ford June 28, 1957, in Lefors. Dale owned and operated an industrial sales and service business.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Dale is survived by his wife of 56 years, Darlene (Ford) Brumley of Runaway Bay; daughters Tamara Hegwood and husband, Wesley, of Goodwell, Okla., Terri Brumley Barnwell of Amarillo and Trudy Hartson and husband, Hudson, of Lubbock; sons Troy Brumley and wife, Amy, of Wichita, Kan., and Tony Brumley and wife, Cindy, of Canyon; 24 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; sisters Loretta Burris and husband, Tom, of Whitney and Patsy Reece of California; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bryant, Delwyn Ludy
1950-2014

Published Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Delwyn Ludy Bryant, 64, died Saturday, May 17, 2014, at his home in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Brother Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Delwyn was born Jan. 10, 1950, in Hughes Springs to Lawana (Harris) and Melvin Ludy Bryant. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from November 1968 to July 1970. He liked watching and shopping on TV.
He is survived by his son, Jason Bryant; his mother; brothers Jerry, Johnny and Doyle Bryant; and one grandchild. He was preceded in death by his father.

Bullard, Bobby Joe
1936-2014

Published Saturday, January 18, 2014
Bobby Joe Bullard, 77, of Newark died Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, in Weslaco.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 20 at Aurora Baptist Church in with burial in Aurora Cemetery. The Rev. Jimmy Withers will officiate.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers include Daren Hayden, Loren Hayden, Branden Hayden, Johnny Bullard, John Bullard and Austin White. Honorary pallbearers include Tanner Hayden, Race Hayden and Colten Hayden.
Bobby was born June 29, 1936, to Burley and Virginia (Pike) Bullard in Fort Worth. He married Synda Schupbach July 4, 2007, in Wise County.
Bobby was a member of Aurora Baptist Church and the Mid-Cities Anglers Club. He retired from Bell Helicopter after more than 40 years of service.
He loved to fish, play golf, travel, shoot pool and dance. From the words of his grandson “his dance moves were legendary.” Bobby will be remembered most for his love for people, laughter and enjoying life to the fullest.
He was preceded in death by his parents; the mother of his children, Vaneta McDonald Bullard, in 1985; and his daughters, Deborah Youngblood and Sandra Bullard. Bobby is survived by his wife, Synda Bullard, of Newark; son Johnny Bullard and wife, Susie, of Azle; daughters Vickie Long of Avoca, Iowa, and Barbara White and husband, Jack, of Weatherford; stepchildren Debra Patterson and husband, Gary, of New Jersey, Pixie Rippy of Crowley, Derek Newman and wife, Kim, of Lebanon, Mo., Loren Hayden and wife, Rachell, of Garland, Daren Hayden and wife, Becky, of Saginaw and Brandon Hayden and wife, Angie, of Mesquite; nine grandchildren; 10 step-grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends. Memorials may be made to Aurora Baptist Church in Bobby’s name.

Burk, Carolyn ‘Suzy’
1949-2014
Published Saturday, January 18, 2014
Carolyn “Suzy” Burk, 64, a retired restaurant manager, died Sunday, Jan. 12, 2014, in Fort Worth.
No services are scheduled.
Suzy was born April 23, 1949, in Fort Worth to William and Norma (Harvey) Matthews.
She is survived by her daughter, Lindsay Clark of Fort Worth; sons Justin Burk and wife, Sandi, of Decatur and Cody Burk and wife, Emily, of Glendale, Ariz.; grandchildren Savannah, Colton, Ramsay, Caroline and Brady; her mother, Norma Matthews of Rhome; sister Melba Pitts and husband, Robert, of Aurora; and other family members and friends.
Memorials may be made to the Carolyn “Suzy” Burk Memorial Fund, Account No. 5061571211, at any Wells Fargo Bank location.

Burns, Marlene Elizabeth
1943-2014
Published Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Marlene Elizabeth Burns, 70, a retired veterinary assistant, died Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014, in Decatur.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Marlene was born Aug. 1, 1943, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Richard and Mary (Zager) Bourne. She married Robert Henry Burns Jr. on April 13, 1975, in Burlington, Wis.
Survivors include her husband, Bob Burns of Paradise; sons Lee Shepard and wife, Kelly, and Jason Shepard and wife, Jennifer, both of Sun Prairie, Wis.; grandchildren Brendan, Cassie, Mara, Kaden and Kyler; brother Michael Bourne of Menominee Falls, Wis.; and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Marvin Bourne.

Burris, George Rex
1935-2014

Published Saturday, December 27, 2014
George Rex Burris, 79, of Happy, formerly of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, in Amarillo.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, at DFW National Cemetery in Irving. Colton Burris will officiate.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers will be Cody Burris, Blair Braden, T.J. Burris, Colton Burris, Keaton Hughes and Evan Hughes.
George was born Nov. 8, 1935, and he attended 13 different schools growing up. He was drafted in August of 1954 and served two years in the U.S. Army. He served in the Korean Conflict as a Nike Hercules crewman.
After the war, George had a varied career and life. He owned and operated five barber shops and was the owner of the Bullies Corral in Bridgeport. He also was a dairyman, owned a water well drilling service, owned a heavy equipment/construction business from 1979 to 1990 and was a pilot. He was raised to Master Mason Jan. 8, 1959, and he became a 32nd degree Mason in 1964 in Dallas.
For three-and-a-half years, he was a member of the Paradise school board. He also chartered the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Bridgeport, and he taught a high school Sunday school class for 15 years.
George supported God’s missions. He drilled a water well in India, dedicating it to his parents and helped to bring Russian Jews to Israel. He supported orphans in Israel and contributed to an Indian school in South Dakota.
George is survived by his wife, Sue Burris of Happy; daughters Debbie Braden and fianc, Doug Dick, of Los Alamos, N.M., and Sheri Hughes and husband, Leslie, of Decatur; son William Burris and wife, Monette, of Bridgeport; grandsons Cody Burris, Tylor Braden, Evan Hughes, Blair Braden, Colton Burris, T.J. Burris and Keaton Hughes; nine great-grandchildren; and sister Fern Anderson of California.

Bybee, Bradley Lee
1955-2014

Published Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Bradley Lee Bybee, 59, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, April 29, 2014, in Dallas.
Services are pending with Localcremation. Burial will be at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
Bradley was born Jan. 16, 1955, in Evanston, Wyo. He was a Vietnam veteran, serving in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne.
He is survived by his wife, Nora Bybee; sons Jeremy Stevens, Brandon Bybee, James Robinson and Richard Robinson; brother Kaysee Bolin; sister Debra Volkoff; and grandchildren Dylan Stevens, Brandi Stevens, Jeremy Stevens Jr, Bradley Stevens, Emmanora Stevens, Nicholas Robinson, Cayte Robinson and Joel Robinson.
Both of his parents, Isabell Stevens and Levar Stevens, preceded him in death.

Bynum, Barry
1945-2014
Published Saturday, August 2, 2014
Barry Bynum, 69, of Bridgeport, died Monday, July 28, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at Jim Ned Cemetery in Runaway Bay with Melvin Castleberry officiating.
Barry was born June 30, 1945, in Olney. He was a U.S. Army veteran and served in Vietnam. He was employed at Jerry’s GMC in Weatherford for 24 years, and he married Brenda Bynum July 29, 1988.
Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Bynum.
Survivors include sons Chad Bynum and wife, Jennifer and Jason Johnson and wife, Lindsey; daughters Kristie Claunch and husband, Billy, and Melissa Succetti; brother George Bynum; sister Janie Keesee and husband, David; and grandchildren Chera Claunch, Kyle Claunch, Madison Andreasen, Aislee Bynum, Krimsen Succetti and Lakota Mason.
Memorials may be made to the Bridgeport Band Booster Club at any First Financial Bank.

Cairns, Dora May
1932-2014

Published Saturday, June 21, 2014
Dora May Cairns, 82, of Newark died Monday, June 16, 2014, in Newark.
Funeral was June 20 at Renewal Fellowship Church in Boyd with the Rev. Jerry Hood officiating. Burial followed at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Richard Alarcon, Paul Bukak, Thomas Cairns, Ed Benoy, Lee Draper and Thomas Tidwell.
Dora was born June 11, 1932, in Sidon, Miss., to Wheeler and Ellie Mae (Pennington) Lindsey. She married Darin Thomas Cairns Sept. 27, 1961, in Yuba City, Calif., and she was a retired lab technician, having worked for StyroChem. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Darin; son Wayne Morris; and grandson Daniel.
She is survived by son Roger Cairns and wife, Shari, of Newark; grandchildren Cassy, Rachel, Thomas, Richard, Kaitlin, Jonathan, Michael and Christopher; great-grandchildren Jazmyne, Alex, Gabby, Noah, Gabriel, Gauge, Levi, Preston and Payton; brother Peck Lindsey; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Calder, Freda Doris
1922-2014
Published Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Freda Doris Calder, 92, a retired aeronautical assembly worker, died Monday, Sept. 1, 2014, in Alvord.
No services will be held at this time.
Freda was born Feb. 4, 1922, in Mills, Colo., to Jess and Zela (Hollis) Massey. She married Guy Calder Nov. 19, 1939, in Regency.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Survivors include her daughter, RaeAnn Warren and husband, David Sr., of Alvord; grandchildren Lisa Medina and husband, Roland, of Carrollton, David Warren Jr. and wife, Michelle, of Alvord and Wes Warren and wife, Nicole, of Flower Mound; nine great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; brother Wayne Massey of Fredericksburg; and sister Floree Shannon of Teague.

Campbell, Lula Mae
1929-2014

Published Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Lula Mae Campbell, 85, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, May 3, 2014, in Springtown.
Graveside service was May 6 at East Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. Burial was under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Lula was born April 25, 1929, in Davis, Okla., to Tom and Sarah (Smith) White. She married John Earl Campbell May 29, 1948, in Weatherford. Lula was a retired house mother for Denton State School. She was a talented seamstress and owned and operated Lue’s Cleaners.
Lula was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 60 years, John Earl Campbell; son Tommy Ray Campbell; brother Clyde White; and sisters Juanita Henson and Mary Vanhoose.
She is survived by her son, Larry Campbell and wife, Lecia, of Springtown; daughter Linda Motley and husband, Travis, of Midlothian; grandchildren Cynthia Threadgill, Meloney Campbell, Kevin and Stewart Motley, Brian Campbell, John Ryals and wife, Denee, Heather Shields and Tee Latham and wife, Melissa; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Caraway, Wesley Clifton
1954-2014

Published Saturday, April 5, 2014
Wesley Clifton Caraway, 60, a maintenance worker, died Tuesday, April 1, 2014, in Chico.
Graveside service was April 4 at Sweetwater Cemetery with the Rev. Louis Horton officiating. Burial was under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Wesley was born March 9, 1954, in Decatur to Claude and Maggie (Shuret) Caraway. He was a street maintenance worker for the city of Decatur for 17 years and was a member of the Immanuel Baptist Church.
Survivors include his brothers, Marshall Caraway of Chico and Phillip Caraway and wife, Wendi, of Chico; sister Patsy Davis and husband, Donald, of Weatherford; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cardona, Anna Lee
1941-2014

Published Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Anna Lee Cardona, 72, a homemaker, died Friday, April 11, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, at First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating.
Anna was born Dec. 1, 1941, in Nampa, Idaho, to Carl and Eva (Blades) Flanery. She married Rene Velis Cardona May 10, 1976, in Eureka Spings, Ark., and loved spending time with her family. She was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Alvord.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her husband, Rene Cardona of Alvord; son Heath King of Denton; daughters Melissa Cardona-Walker of Euless and Amy Williams of Alvord; grandson Dorian Ashby of Little Elm; brother Troy Flanery of California; and other family members and friends.

Carlton, Linda Ann
1943-2014

Published Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Linda Ann Carlton, 70, of Boyd, died Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014, in Decatur.
Visitation is 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday and noon to 2 p.m. Friday at Greenoaks Funeral Home in Fort Worth. The religious service will be 2 p.m. Friday with Stephen M. Young II officiating. Burial will follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park.
Linda was born April 9, 1943, in Providence, R.I. She worked as an electrician for Case Electric and a concierge at Holiday Inn. She was an active volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America from 1981 to 1994, and in 1992, she received the highest volunteer honor, the Silver Beaver, for her honorary and dedicated service to the Scouts.
She is survived by her brother, Raymond Grenier; children Barbara Whitson, Joyce Barras, Loren Smith and wife, Robin, Douglas Carlton and wife, Tracy, and Terri Voiselle and husband, Alan; grandchildren Eugene, Ryan, Christopher, Jeremy, Douglas, Tristian, Justin, Morgan, Kelly, Taylor and Allie; and great-grandchildren Beckett, Evan, Lincoln and Carson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Ruth Grenier; husband Gene Carlton; and son Michael Carlton.

Carroll, Melvin Joseph, Jr.
1955-2014
Published Saturday, February 1, 2014
Melvin Joseph Carroll Jr., 58, of Bowie, died Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2014, in Wichita Falls.
A mememorial service will be held at a later date. Falls Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Melvin was born June 14, 1955, in Fort Worth to Melvin J. Carroll Sr. and Era Mae Carroll. They preceded him in death.
He is survived by sons Melvin Joseph Carroll III, Travis Carroll, Sammy Carroll, Joshua Verhovshek, Jason Barrett and Cole Carroll; daughters Amber Carroll, Jenny Riley and Maegan White; brothers Billy Carroll, Paul Carroll and Charlie Carroll; sister Dona Carroll; grandchildren Benjamin Reid, Kadence Reid, Jasmine White, Logan Carroll, Heidi Carroll, Landrie Carroll, Elaine Verhovshek, Ashlyn Barrett and Phoenix Barrett.

Carter, Ann
1930-2014

Published Saturday, July 19, 2014
Ann Carter, 84, a homemaker, died Tuesday, July 15, 2014 in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Friday, July 18 at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport, with burial in Chico Cemetery. Rev. Gary Sessions officiated and Leslie Hardin, Priscilla Hardin, Chief John Hobbs, Holly Brooks, Doug Blanks and Terry Hand served as pallbearers.
Ann was born March 30, 1930 to Richard and Anna (Hentchel) Prause in Grulish, Czechoslovakia. She married Ralph Carter Dec. 29, 1953 in Hammelburg, Germany.
Ann was preceded in death by son Michael Carter and daughter Linda Blanks.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ralph Carter of Chico; daughters Wendy Denney of Louisiana, Joyce O’Dell and husband, Wayland, of Balsora; grandchildren Kelcey, Jeremy, Jerod, Haley and Leland; sister Bergitta Prinze of Germany; other family members and a host of friends.

Carter, Rose Alice Gray
1913-2014

Published Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Rose Alice Gray Carter, who with her husband, Gene, owned the Wise County Messenger from 1960 to 1973, died Saturday, May 3, 2014, in Arlington at the age of 100.
Funeral was May 6 at Greenwood Funeral Home’s Arlington Chapel with burial at Elmwood Cemetery in Bowie.
Rose was born May 13, 1913, to Oscar A. and Ocie Hardison Gray in the Lone Star community in Montague County. She was one of seven children. She graduated from Bowie High School in 1930 and attended North Texas State College (now UNT).
On July 29, 1933, Rose married Ernest Eugene “Gene” Carter, who started his weekly newspaper career with The Bowie Blade. On Sept. 13, 1934, their only child, Peggy, joined the family, and they remained in Bowie until 1937, when Gene began working for the Muenster Enterprise.
In 1941, Gene accepted a position with the Baylor County Banner in Seymour. During the next 19 years, they became co-owners of the Banner, and Rose began her career as business office manager in charge of advertising, sales and whatever else was needed – a job she loved.
In 1960, they bought the Wise County Messenger in Decatur and published it until their retirement in January of 1973, when they sold the newspaper to the current owners, Roy and Jeannine Eaton.
After retirement, the Carters moved to Arlington and spent their free time traveling in their Airstream trailer, exploring parts of the U.S. during extended absences from home.
A lifelong, strong Baptist lady and “Jesus person,” Rose and Gene were active members of the First Baptist churches of four towns. Family ties were of utmost importance in both the Gray and Carter families, and Rose’s house and cooking were family favorites. One niece dubbed her the “matriarch” of the family.
As Gene’s health began to decline, Rose became the consummate caregiver for 10 years – sometimes to the detriment of her own health. They had been married 68 years when Gene died Feb. 10, 2002. She remained in her own home until 2006, when she chose to move to Bethesda Gardens assisted living.
She celebrated her 100th birthday there last year with a beautiful party and passed away just 10 days short of 101.
Rose was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Bill, Weldon and Charles Gray; sisters Nina Combs and Martha Willett; and “one life, one love forever” husband, Gene.
She is survived by a brother, Paul Gray; daughter Peggy Marshall and husband, Worth; stepsons Mark and Greg Marshall; stepgrandchildren Matthew, Kate, Ben and Nick Marshall; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be sent to Mission Arlington, 210 W. Center St., Arlington, TX 76010 and Community Hospice of Texas, 6400 Western Place, Suite 105, Fort Worth, 76107.

Cash, Thomas Green
1936-2014

Published Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Thomas Green Cash, 77, of Grandview, died Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Service is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Chapel with the Rev. Stanley Lohse officiating. Burial will follow at 3 p.m. at Paradise Cemetery in Paradise. Visitation is 9 to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service.
Mr. Cash was born July 4, 1936, in Fort Worth to Clarence Marlin Sr. and Mary Matilda Barnett Cash. He worked for Fort Worth ISD and retired as a master plumber. Mr. Cash was an avid gardener and loved to play dominos. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge in Cleburne and was of the Baptist faith.
Survivors include his companion of eight years, Billie and Sassy Muse of Burleson; foster daughter Robin Holland of Cleburne; sisters Lucille Coursey of Bridgeport, Matilda Newton and husband, Lewis, of Bridgeport and Cleola Green and husband, Dwight, of Dallas; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Mr. Cash was preceded in death by his parents; brothers C.M. Cash Jr. and Harold Ray Cash; and sister Nellie Nichols.
To sign the guestbook, go to www.cpcleburne.com.

Cash, Timothy James
1985-2014

Published Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Timothy James Cash, 28, of Sarasota, Fla., died Thursday, March 20, 2014, in Sarasota.
Graveside service was March 27 at Paradise Cemetery Deon Nichols officiating.
Timothy was born Oct. 5, 1985, in Tucumcari, N.M., to James Earl Cash and Pamela Kay Wilkerson. He lived in Paradise for a time as a child and was a chef. He enjoyed fishing, cars and video games.
He leaves behind his companion, Ashley Gean Walling; parents James and Brandy Cash of Alvord, and Randy and Pamela King of Muleshoe; brother Shane Earl Cash of Maryland; sisters Kala Ann Cash and Sera Nicole Cash of Alvord; grandparents Mary Ruth Cash of Paradise, Mary Carolyn Harrison of Lazbuddie, and Bill and Gloria Tennison of Alvord.
Timothy was preceded in death by his brother, Kirt Christopher Cash; and grandfathers Kenneth Harrison and C.B. Cash.

Castleberry, Bob V.
1946-2014
Published Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Bob V. Castleberry, 67, died Wednesday, July 2, 2014.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, July 12, at the East Mound Church of Christ in Bridgeport. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Harvey-Douglas Funeral Home in Ardmore, Okla.
Bob was born Nov. 3, 1946.
He is survived by his sons, Melvin, Alton, Michael and Daniel; and sister Betty Skaggs.

Cates, James Gordon
1925-2014

Published Wednesday, June 25, 2014
James Gordon Cates, 89, a retired inspector, died Sunday, June 22, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 24 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Bob Boland, Joe Lambert, Ronnie Walker, Larry Avant, Joseph Greene and Wayne Stone.
James was born June 15, 1925, in Decatur to Joe C. and Emma Jane (White) Cates. He married Laura Marie Dutile Aug. 17, 1959, in Decatur.
He served his country in the U.S. Army and retired from General Dynamics after 40 years of service. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Decatur.
James was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Laura Cates of Decatur; son Joe Greene of Decatur; two grandsons; and many friends.

Cates, Virginia Wilkerson
1924-2014
Published Saturday, March 15, 2014
Virginia Wilkerson Cates, 90, a retired restaurant owner, died Tuesday, March 11, 2014, in Haltom City.
No service is scheduled.
Virginia was born Jan. 25, 1924, in Rhome to William and Lilly (Slimp) Collins. A former owner of restaurants in Boyd and Rhome, Virginia was a great cook and was said to have made the best German chocolate cakes. She also loved to crochet, tat and was a loving mother and grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Earl Cates; and sisters Florence Beltch and Patricia Stokes.
Survivors include her son, James Wilkerson and wife, Linda, of Haslet; grandchildren James Darin Wilkerson and wife, Yong Chu, of Bedford, Karen Gayle Uzobuife and husband, Pascal, of Haslet, and Andrew Paul Wilkerson of Fort Worth; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and other family members and friends.

Caudill, Jerry Wayne
1951-2014

Published Saturday, June 28, 2014
Jerry Wayne Caudill, 62, of Wichita Falls, died Tuesday, June 24, 2014, in Wichita Falls.
Funeral was June 27 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Melvin Castleberry officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Shane Givens, Heath Caudill, Terry Caudill Jr., Jarrod Caudill, James Dominey and Mike Ferguson.
Jerry was born Aug. 8, 1951, in Vernon to Pauline Lameta (Knight) and J.B. Caudill. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, calf roping and ranching.
He is survived by his children, Scott Caudill, Pam Caudill Stevens, Calvin Caudill, Terry Caudill and Robert Parr; brothers Terry Caudill and Danny Stinson; sister Helen Wakefield; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother James E. Caudill; and sister Donna Music.

Chance, Patsy Ewing
1937-2014

Published Saturday, January 25, 2014
Patsy Ewing Chance, 76, died Monday, Jan. 20, 2014, in Bedford.
Funeral was Jan. 23 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Forrest officiating. Burial was at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Greg Williams, Derek Williams, Jackson Basting, Shannon Hippler, John Basting and Bruce Steele.
Patsy was born March 24, 1937, in Decatur. She graduated from Northwest High School in 1955 and married Bill Chance July 1, 1974, in Ardmore, Okla. Patsy was retired from Decatur Lumber Yard and Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Edith Hern; her husband, Bill Chance on June 9, 2009; and her son, Ron Williams.
Survivors include son Greg Williams and wife, Jennifer Rosenbaum, of Gainesville; daughters Ronna Wilson and Shannon Hippler of Many, La., and Patti Basting and Jeff Melton of Boyd; grandchildren Derek, Kelsey, Jessica, Emily and Jackson; sister Peggy Harvey of Fort Worth; nieces Karan and Donna; nephew Terry; other family members and a host of friends.

Clark, Donald Joe
1962-2014

Published Saturday, September 27, 2014
Donald Joe Clark, 52, of Chico died Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014, in Chico.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 29, at the Chico High School football stadium with burial at Thomas Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Donald was born March 21, 1962, in Muleshoe to Joe and Jean (Dane) Clark. He was a 1980 graduate of Chico High School and was a construction inspector whose hobbies included being an auctioneer, rodeo announcer and an avid music and NASCAR fan.
This was his 22nd year as the Voice of the Chico Dragons, and since May 2013, he was a member of the Chico school board.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents and sister Anita Whitson.
Donald is survived by his wife of 30 years, Lori (Verner) Clark; sons J.D. Clark and Jesse Clark and wife, Alecia; father Joe Clark and wife, Cheryl; mother Jean Greer and husband, Gerald; sister Amanda Vargas and husband, Jay; grandchildren Natalie, Cain, and Hayes Clark; and numerous other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to any Chico ISD student organization.

Clark, Mary Kathleen
1944-2014

Published Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Mary Kathleen Clark, 69, a retired dietary worker at Decatur Community Hospital, died Monday, Feb. 10, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Louis Horton officiating. Burial will follow at Sycamore Cemetery. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Pallbearers are Doug Stutt, Jim Bob Hampton, Justin Beck, Josh Rowland, Mark Rhoudes and James Clark.
Mary was born Nov. 3, 1944, in Decatur to John Thomas and Susan Catherine (McGregor) Driskell. She married A.J. Clark Sept. 15, 1995, in Decatur and was married 15 years at his death in 2010. Mary was also preceded in death by her parents and three brothers. Mary was a member of the House of Prayer Church in Newark.
She is survived by her daughters, Angela Ward of Clarksville, Tenn., and Debbie Tanner and husband, Derwin, of Decatur; sons Jerry Beck and wife, Shannon, of Paradise, and Michael Beck and wife, Sreybonn, of Richland Hills; grandchildren Victoria, Brittney, Justin, Crystal and Elizabeth; great-grandchild Aliah; sisters Dottie Howell of San Antonio, Evelyn Mizell of Houston and Nadine Thompson of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Clark, Robert Glen ‘Bob’
1931-2014

Published Saturday, February 15, 2014
Robert Glen “Bob” Clark, 82, a longtime worker with the Gideons in Decatur, died Saturday, Feb 8, 2014. Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at Lucas Funeral Home in Hurst.
Bob was born Aug. 8, 1931, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Harlow and Lillian Clark, the first of three sons. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
First and foremost, Bob was a Christian who loved the Lord with all his heart. He was a catastrophe insurance adjuster and worked all over the U.S. when there was a hurricane or other disaster. His purpose in life was to serve the Lord, his family and the policyholders who had suffered loss from disasters such as Hurricanes Andrew and Katrina.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; brother Tommy; and granddaughter Jennifer Stephens. Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Flo Clark; sons Randall and Ronald; daughters Kristine deCastilho, Keri Vaughn, Kelli Stephens and Karla Alexander; grandchildren Craig, Joshua, Michaila, Danielle, Ary, Trinity, Thomas, Jason, Stephanie and Clayton; great-granddaughter Nevaeh; and brother Kenneth of Des Moines, Iowa.
Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, Union Gospel Mission or Gideons International, P.O. Box 317, Decatur, TX 76234.

Clemans, Opal C.
1915-2014

Published Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Opal C. Clemans, 98, a homemaker, died Thursday, Dec. 11, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was Dec. 15 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Danny Russell officiating. Burial followed at Cottondale Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Coy Cleveland, Melvin Meadows, Joe Tax, Jim Taylor, Seth Foster and Jimmy Gentry. Honorary pallbearers were Larry McBride and Sam Erwin.
Opal was born Dec. 28, 1915, in Cottondale to Robert and Nora (Helton) Carter. She married Charles L. Clemans June 13, 1944, in Fort Worth. Opal was a member of the Cottondale Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister Ruby Carter; and brothers Marice Carter and Herbert Carter.
She is survived by her son, W.R. “Bob” Clemans of Paradise; grandson Jason Clemans and wife, Christina, of Paradise; granddaughter Jodi Messenger and husband, Tommy, of Paradise; great-grandchildren Jana and Andrew Messenger and Katelyn Clemans; and many other family members and friends.

Cleveland, Carolyn Kay
1936-2014

Published Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Carolyn Kay Cleveland, 78, a retired teacher, died Friday, Dec. 12, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was Dec. 16 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Danny Russell, Sam Starr and Robert Taylor officiating. Burial followed at Cottondale Cemetery. Pallbearers were Todd Meadows, Jim Garrett, Seth Foster, Jay Foster, Mark Neely and Coy Cleveland. Honorary pallbearers were Melvin Meadows, Raymond Meadows and Marvin Crawford.
Carolyn was born Nov. 10, 1936, in Goose Creek to Elzie and Luella (Kay) Hollaway. She married Gerald Cleveland March 29, 1956, in Baytown. He preceded her in death in 2013. Carolyn attended Abilene Christian College and retired from Santa Fe High School as a teacher. She was a Bible class teacher for preschool for 50 years and served as secretary for the Paradise Economic Development Corp.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.Survivors include her daughters, Patti Tax and husband, Joe, of Paradise and Lori Rhodes and husband, David, of Grand Prairie; son Jerry Cleveland and wife, Linda, of Santa Fe; grandchildren James,  Nathan, Eric, Jacob, Miranda, Ashley, Victoria, Jonathan and Katie; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

Cleveland, Juanita Irene Bailey
1920-2014

Published Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Juanita Irene Bailey Cleveland, 93, of Paradise, died Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, in Decatur. Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Danny Russell officiating. Burial will follow at Cottondale Cemetery.
Juanita was born April 9, 1920, in the oil fields of Burkburnett to Maude (Vandiver) and Leonard Bailey. The Baileys, along with baby son R. J., left Keeter in the fall of 1919 and moved to Burkburnett. They planned to make as much money as they could and move back in a few years.
In 1922, son Leon Vaughn was born, and in 1925, twin girls Dorothy and Doris were born. Conditions were harsh in the oil boomtown, and for a while they lived in a tent by the railroad tracks because housing was so scarce. Juanita told of her father taking off his wet overalls when it was so cold they were frozen and would stand alone in the corner.
In the fall of 1927, the Baileys moved back to Wise County, and Juanita started school in Boyd. In 1931, brother Gene Winford was born.
Juanita met Floyd Cleveland of Cottondale in 1938 at a party in the Garvin Community Center. They were married Oct. 10, 1939, in Springtown. They moved to a three-room house Floyd’s dad and their family had built for them near Cottondale. Floyd and Juanita raised watermelons, peanuts and cattle and made a good living. Their son, Coy, was born Aug. 19, 1940, and daughter Shirley was born Aug. 22, 1943. The family always had plenty, and Juanita, being a good cook, fed and helped many people in the community. There was never one too many at mealtime.
She carried many people around in her 1941 Ford coupe, which she called “the chicken coop.” On May 14, 1963, Juanita proudly became a grandmother, and from then on she was known as Granny.
She is survived by her two children; five grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; three brothers; and two sisters.

Coats, Larry Ralph ‘Bear’
1954-2014
Published Saturday, March 8, 2014
Larry Ralph “Bear” Coats, 59, died Tuesday, March 4, 2014, at home in Cedar Park.
Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, March 8, at The Journey Bible Fellowship in Leander, with Jeramy Chapman officiating.
Larry was born Nov. 9, 1954, in Decatur, the first son to Verda Pearl and James Ralph Coats.
He attended Decatur High School where he played football, ran track and participated in the speech club. He graduated in 1973.
He married Lisa June Lykes in 1987 in Denton.
Larry enjoyed gardening, sports and spending time with his family. He spent many years in the optical business. He was a member of the Austin Chapter of Texas Association of Sports Officials and Austin Basketball Chapter of the Texas Association of Sports Officials.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Coats.
Survivors include his wife, Lisa Coats; daughters Cara Harper and husband, Christopher Harper, and Abigail Coats; son Jared Coats; mother Verda Coats; sister Carla Finnel; brother Cliff Coats and sister-in-law, Shelly Coats; mother-in-law Sue Lykes and father-in-law June Lykes; sister-in-law Laine Gage and brother-in-law Brian Gage.
Larry requested memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.

Cobb, Charles Bryan, Jr.
1954-2014

Published Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Charles Bryan Cobb Jr., 60, of Paradise died Monday, June 30, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Thursday, July 3, at Sweetwater Cemetery with Pastor Jack Skidmore officiating. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Charles was born June 7, 1954, in Haskell to Charles Bryan Cobb Sr. and Mary Jo Ann Page. He married Donna Vaughan Aug. 13, 1993, in Decatur. He enjoyed riding horses, showing cattle and woodworking. He was known for smoking briskets and sausage, as well as making his own barbecue sauce.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Donna Cobb of Paradise; sons Jason Cobb and wife, Lana, of Springtown and Caleb Page and wife, Lindsay of Junction City, Kan.; daughters Bethany Cobb of Decatur, Krystal Whited and husband, Randy, of Aurora and Samantha Jo Cobb of Paradise; grandchildren Hailee, Hannah, Chelsea, Kadince and Kabella; mother Mary Jo Ann Page and husband, Phillip, of Springtown; brother Billy Cobb and wife, Kim, of Bridgeport; and nieces, nephews and friends.

Coble, Norma Lee Montgomery
1929-2014

Published Saturday, February 22, 2014
Norma Lee Montgomery Coble, 84, of Runaway Bay died Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Graveside memorial service is 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. The Rev. Bill Sparks of Mission Hospice will officiate.
Norma was born April 27, 1929, in Watauga, Okla., to Virgil and Edna (Stevenson) Montgomery. She married Roy Lee “Pee Wee” Coble May 10, 1947, in Amarillo. Norma was the office manager for the Runaway Bay Chamber of Commerce and a member of the First Baptist Church of Runaway Bay and the American Camping Association.
She generously gave her time volunteering for several organizations, including Camp Fire Girls. The community of Runaway Bay honored Norma by naming the civic center after her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Roy Lee “Pee Wee” Coble; brother Gene Sions; sisters Joy Brandley and Rose Hart; and her daughter-in-law, Shirley Coble. She is survived by her daughter, Leighan Cupples and husband, Phil, of Mansfield; her sons, Lynn Roy Coble of Arlington and Dennis Coble and wife, Denise, of Mansfield; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister Anita Steinle of Runaway Bay; brother Walter Montgomery of Virginia; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Coble, Norma Lee Montgomery
1929-2014

Published Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Norma Lee Montgomery Coble, 84, of Runaway Bay died Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2014, in Fort Worth. Graveside memorial service is 1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. The Rev. Bill Sparks of Mission Hospice will officiate.
Norma was born April 27, 1929, in Watauga, Okla., to Virgil and Edna (Stevenson) Montgomery. She married Roy Lee “Pee Wee” Coble May 10, 1947, in Amarillo. Norma was the office manager for the Runaway Bay Chamber of Commerce and a member of the First Baptist Church of Runaway Bay and the American Camping Association.
She generously gave her time volunteering for several organizations, including Camp Fire Girls. The community of Runaway Bay honored Norma by naming the civic center after her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Roy Lee “Pee Wee” Coble; brother Gene Sions; sisters Joy Brandley and Rose Hart; and her daughter-in-law, Shirley Coble. She is survived by her daughter, Leighan Cupples and husband, Phil, of Mansfield; her sons, Lynn Roy Coble of Arlington and Dennis Coble and wife, Denise, of Mansfield; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sister Anita Steinle of Runaway Bay; brother Walter Montgomery of Virginia; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cocanougher, Vera M.
1916-2014

Published Saturday, August 23, 2014
Vera M. Cocanougher, 98, a bookkeeper, died Friday, Aug. 22, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, under the pavilion at Oaklawn Cemetery with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating.
Vera was born May 8, 1916, in Sanger to Charlie and Dorthula (Habern) Cocanougher. The family moved in 1919 to Decatur and established the Cocanougher Feed Store, where she worked for nearly 50 years until she retired, greeting everyone who came into the store.
Vera was a lifelong, dedicated member of the Decatur First United Methodist Church and was its oldest living member. She was active in the United Methodist Women’s Guild, attended Sunday school and church regularly and made many anonymous contributions. Vera was a former president and charter member of the Decatur Woman’s Club, and after retirement, she spent many hours as a pink lady at the Wise Regional Health System.
When Vera was a senior at Decatur High School, the school had to close due to lack of funding, so she went to live with her sister in Denton so she could graduate on time. Later, Decatur High School presented her class with diplomas. A kind, gentle and thoughtful person, she will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Glenn Cocanougher, Mary Fay Cocanougher, Marion Cocanougher and Marie Cocanougher.
She is survived by her nephews, Allen Cocanougher, Charles Cocanougher and Bonnie Glenn Cocanougher; nieces Dorothy Cocanougher Reid and Marie Sue Cocanougher Murray; and many friends.

Collins, Neoma Ruth
1928-2014

Published Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Neoma Ruth Collins, 86, a retired factory worker, died Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was Sept. 30 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. David Isbell officiating. Burial followed at Lone Star Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dennis Brooks, David Newton, Charles Newton, Phillip Brooks, Randy Tidmore and Tommy Brooks.
Neoma was born Sept. 19, 1928, in Wise County to William Alfred and Sally Myrtle (Dickenson) Newton. She married Guy Leeross Collins Oct. 7, 1988, in Fort Worth. Neoma was a member of Eagle Drive Baptist Church.
Neoma was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two brothers, and a sister.
She is survived by her daughters, Debra Jean Fox and husband, Henley, of Decatur, Alice Sherrod of DeLeon, Paulette Hart and husband, Terry, of Fort Worth and Gail Kapavik of Benbrook; son Larry Morrow and wife, Judy, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Russell Fox, Tressa McCormick, Debra Warbrittion, Dixie Bryan, Kayla Nichols and Cody Morrow; eight great-grandchildren; sisters Annie Mae Brooks, Lou Ellen Lum and Flora Jean Frazier; brother Melton Newton; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Cook, Clarence Dalton
1920-2014

Published Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Clarence Dalton Cook, 94, died Thursday, June 26, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was July 1 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Dr. David Burrows and Dr. Craig Erb officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Clarence was born Feb. 12, 1920, in Athens to Heron and Matie (Hobson) Cook. He married Eula Mae Reeves May 29, 1943, in Jacksboro.
He had been a resident of Bridgeport since 1949 and retired from Acme Brick after 32 years of service. He was an avid gardener and shared the bounty of his garden and orchard with family, friends and fellow workers for many years.
Clarence was an enthusiastic follower of the Rangers, Cowboys, Mavericks and Stars.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Eula Mae Reeves Cook of Bridgeport; daughter Norma Anderson of Bridgeport; son Danny Cook and wife, Ada Marie, of Decatur; grandchildren David Anderson and wife, Susan, of Grand Prairie, Daniel Anderson and wife, Melissa, of San Antonio and Deborah Anderson of McKinney; great-grandchildren Christopher, Amallia, Rachel and Gracie; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Hettie Lee Alcorn, Versie Hinds, Addie Robbins and Annie Lyons; and brother Henry Cook.
Memorial contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church of Bridgeport Food Bank.

Cooke, James Edward
1933-2014
Published Wednesday, June 18, 2014
James Edward Cooke, 80, of Oklahoma City died Thursday, June 12, 2014, at Integris Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City.
Memorial service is noon Friday, June 27, at Springtown Cemetery.
James was born June 19, 1933, in Marysville, and he graduated from Boyd High School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and was the former owner of a company that manufactured well heads and valves that were sold throughout the Middle East. After retirement, he worked at several other small jobs.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Violet (Davison) Cooke; wife Frances Elizabeth (Barker) Cooke; son James William Cooke; and sisters Gloria Kemp and Jackie Morgan.
Survivors include his son, Bart Cooke and wife, Charyl, of Yukon, Okla.; daughter Samantha Cooke of Yukon, Okla.; brothers J.D. Cooke and wife, JoAnn, of Fort Worth, and LeRoy Cooke and wife, Sue, of Boyd; grandchildren Austin and Ashlyn Cooke, both of Yukon, Okla.; and numerous other relatives and dear friends.

Copeland, Frances Charlotte
1947-2014

Published Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Frances Charlotte Copeland, 67, of Alvord died Wednesday, June 25, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was June 30 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Bill Cleveland officiating.
Frances was born June 13, 1947, in Oceanside, Calif., to Francis and Ella (Smith) Wagher. She was a homemaker who enjoyed spending time with her family, particularly watching her grandkids play sports.
Frances is survived by sons John Deweese of Round Rock, Karl and Pam Deweese of Wilmington, N.C., Jerry Copeland of Corpus Christi and Frank and Raegan Copeland of Fort Worth; daughter Charlotte and Billy Fitzgerald of Decatur; brothers Joel and Lisann Wagher of Temple, George and Beverly Herr of Granbury and Ed and Linda Wagher of California; grandchildren Dane, Kylee, Kathy, Kody, Wyatt, Brandon, Kristiana, Jordan, Taylor, Kim, Brandy, Mandy and Justin; and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by son James Copeland; husbands Jerrell Lee Copeland and Robert Hicks; mother Ella Herr of Fort Worth; father Francis Wagher; brother Bill Beaver of California; and sister Dolly Coker of North Carolina.

Cortes, Christina Marie
1978-2014
Published Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Christina Marie Cortes, 36, of Lakeside, died Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014, in Weatherford.
Memorial service was Nov. 8 at Victory Christian Center in Azle with burial under the direction of Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Christina was born March 4, 1978, in East Meadow, N.Y., to Adalberto and Sandra (Fox) Cortes. She was married to Phillip Gray and worked as a veterinary technician.
She was preceded in death by her father, Adalberto Cortes; and her grandparents.
Survivors include her husband, Phillip Gray of Lakeside; sons Tristin Gray, Logan Cortes-Gray, Jordon Gray and Joshua Gray, all of Brady; daughter Macaela Gray of Brady; mother Sandra Negron of Boyd; brothers Eric Cortes and wife, Bridgette, of Staten Island, N.Y., Charles Cortes and wife, Bobbie Jo, of East Rockaway, N.Y., and Luis Cortes of Long Island, N.Y.; sister Lynn Anne Cortes of Long Island; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Couch, Kelly Wade
1961-2014
Published Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Kelly Wade Couch, 53, a truck driver, died Friday, Nov. 7, 2014, in Decatur.
No service is scheduled at this time.
Kelly was born Oct. 27, 1961, in Tahoka to Herman and Francis (Abbney) Couch. He married Kelli Ingram July 1, 2001, in Lubbock.
Survivors include his wife of 13 years, Kelli Couch of Rhome; daughters Amber Couch of Lubbock and Chelsea Sherrob of Kingsville; three grandchildren; brothers John Couch of Azle and Spud Couch of Weatherford; sisters Tonya Oldham of Lubbock and June Ann Beaty of Lubbock; and other relatives and friends.

Counts, Gerald Lynn
1924-2014

Published Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Gerald Lynn Counts, 90, a decorated World War II veteran and former prisoner-of-war, died Wednesday, April 30, 2014, at his home in Bridgeport.
Funeral was May 6 at Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home in Mineral Wells with burial at Perrin Memorial Cemetery.
Gerald was born April 13, 1924, in Wise County to Lawrence Earl and Mattie Lorene Counts. He was the oldest of three children whose parents were farmers, and during the Great Depression, they did not suffer from hunger.
Gerald graduated from high school in Perrin and enrolled in Texas A&M University – but shortly thereafter, he withdrew and joined the U.S. Army. He was in the 1st Division, C Company, 506th Regiment of the 101st Airborne. He parachuted into Normandy on the night before the D-Day invasion and also jumped into Holland and fought in the Battle of the Bulge.
It was during that battle, on Dec. 20, 1944, that the Germans launched an attack that led to the capture of the Medical Company, all of the surgical teams and all of the wounded, who were located in western Bastogne. Gerald was among those captured, and he was a prisoner with about 1,200 others in the barracks at Limburg.
Gerald was held prisoner for around six months. He did not have the uniform he wore during the war because it was burned in Belgium when he was freed by the British. He still had his many decorations, however, including two Bronze Stars (one for his jump into Normandy and one for his jump into Holland), a Purple Heart, a Presidential Unit Citation, The Good Conduct Medal, The medal for prisoners of war and his various campaign medals.
Gerald lived a full and enjoyable life on his own terms. He served as a highway patrolman in El Paso, worked as a chef, worked for the railroad and later worked at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit, owning grocery stores and other businesses.
He is survived by daughters Donny Gillum and husband, Tom, and Carolyn Gillum and husband, Ted; grandchildren Brent Gillum and wife, Amanda, and Heather Garner and husband, Kyle; great-grandchildren Caitlin, Cassidy, Braedan, Gabby, Tyson, Matt, Grant, Jax, Jace and Ellison; sister Joy Counts; brother Pat Counts and wife, LaRue; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Gerald was preceded in death by his wife, Marueen Counts; his parents; and a granddaughter, Renee Gillum.

Coursey, Delois Forsyth
1936-2014

Published Saturday, December 27, 2014
Delois Forsyth Coursey, 78, of Bridgeport died Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, in Springtown.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery. Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Delois was born July 7, 1936, in Park Springs to Dewey and Viola (Moore) Forsyth. She married Charles Kennedy Sr. March 28, 1953, in Bowie, and he preceded her in death. She married Jimmy Coursey July 26, 1997, in Weatherford. He also preceded her in death Sept. 10, 2001. Delois was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church and was a retired massage therapist.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Charles Kennedy Sr.; her second husband, Jimmy Coursey; and her sister, Virginia Dennis.
She is survived by sons Charles “Chuck” Kennedy and David Kennedy, both of Springtown; grandchildren Michelle and husband, Daniel, Adam and wife, Tasha, Melody and husband, Ryan, Amy, and Daniel and wife, Nicole; four great-grandchildren; sister Marie Love of Bridgeport; and several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Coursey, Joe Lee
1932-2014

Published Saturday, January 11, 2014
Joe Lee Coursey, 81, died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014, at his home in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Jan. 10 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Pastor Joey Vick officiating. Burial followed at Thomas Cemetery.
Joe Lee was born July 2, 1932, in Bridgeport to Kossie Lee and Leta Mae (Hudson) Coursey. He was an inspector for the highway department.
He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and on June 29, 1956, he married Francis Lucille Cash. He was an active member of Cuba Baptist Church in Bridgeport for many years and also served as a deacon.
Joe Lee is survived by his wife of 57 years, Lucille Coursey of Bridgeport; daughter Frances Jolene Spicer of Bridgeport; brothers Billy Don, Travis and Larry Coursey, all of Bridgeport; sisters Peggy Klasky of Richardson, Q’zella Lewis of Navasota, Lynda Byrd of Bridgeport and Sherry Lemon of Bridgeport; grandchildren Nathan Lee Spicer, Aaron Ryan Spicer, Daniel Ray Coursey and Stacy Jo (Coursey) Munoz; and great-granddaughters April, Janet, Danielle, Tabitha, Melina and Maylee. He was preceded in death by his parents; son David Coursey; and brother Jimmie.
Memorials may be made to a church of your choice or donated toward the expense of his headstone.

Cox, Frances
1927-2014

Published Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Frances Cox, 86, of McKinney, died Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014.
Funeral was Feb. 17 at Greenwood Chapel in Fort Worth with burial at Greenwood Memorial Park.
Frances was born Aug. 30, 1927, in Bridgeport to Frank and Grace Still, the eighth child in a family of nine children. She was a beautiful and loving wife, mother and grandmother and an accomplished pianist and organist who served the Lord in several churches.
Frances was known for her intercessory prayer, encouraging words, caring personality and giving ways. She was a kind, sweet lady who will be sorely missed.
Survivors include her husband of 69 years, James Robert Cox; sons James Wayne Cox and wife, Merlene, of Groesbeck and the Rev. Robert Lyn Cox and wife, Rhonda, of Chico; grandchildren Angela Sommer, Melissa Klauss, Bobby Cox, Jamie Dunlap, Lori Cox and Bryan Cox; step-grandchildren Abby Teigland and Andrew Dixon; 15 great-grandchildren; sister Marie Grimes; and numerous nieces, nephews, family members and lifelong friends.

Cox, Pearl Naomi
1921-2014
Published Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Pearl Naomi Cox, 93, the oldest resident of Slidell, died Monday, Aug. 4, 2014, in Decatur.
No service is planned at this time.
Pearl was born Jan. 31, 1921, in Mount Morris, Mich., to Isaac and Lola (Jessop) Smith. She married Dick Telford Cox June 20, 1942, in Kirksville, Md. Pearl was a retired nurse.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dick Cox; four brothers; two sisters; and a grandson.
She is survived by her daughters, Sharon McFarlane of Slidell and Shirley Cox of Denton; son Lary Cox of Alvord; sister Wanda Moen of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; grandchildren Tom McFarlane, Ann Bartis, Jody Boyce, Juanita Johnson, Heath Cox and Christie Vasquez; 16 great-grandchildren; and 17 great-great-grandchildren.

Cross, David Ray
1937-2014
Published Saturday, December 13, 2014
David Ray Cross, 77, of Sanger, died Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014, in Denton.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Era Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of DeBerry Funeral Directors of Denton.
David was born Aug. 30, 1937, in Hood to Ted and Laura Cross. He married Patricia Forester April 15, 1960, in Gainesville and was a salesman for the Dr. Pepper Bottling Co. He was a member of the National Guard.
David is survived by his wife, Patricia Cross of Sanger; and brothers R.D. Cross of Era and Daniel Cross of Sherman.

Culpepper, Doris Ann Crawley
1931-2014

Published Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Doris Ann Crawley Culpepper, 83, a retired administrative assistant, died Tuesday, July 1, 2014, in Denton.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Saturday, July 12, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Visitation is 2 to 3 p.m. prior to the service Saturday at the funeral home.
Doris was born March 29, 1931, in Chicago to William and Lois (Risor) Crawley. She married Eddie Culpepper Feb. 14, 1948, in Paragould, Ark., and was a retired administrative assistant for Decatur Hospital.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Eddie Culpepper; brothers Donald, Gilbert, Darrell, Bob and Robert Crawley; sisters Betty Dolinshek, Marion Brown and Baby Crawley; and grandson Kelly Matthis.
She is survived by her daughters, Kay Matthis and husband, Conrad, of Granbury; Linda Powers and husband, Doyle, of Fort Worth, Brenda Porter and husband, Les, of Denton, Sandra Jaurez and husband, John, of Krum; son James Culpepper and wife, Karen, of Bridgeport; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Margaret Culpepper, Judy Culpepper,

Cummings, Kenneth Dale 'Kenny'
1969-2014

Published Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Kenneth Dale “Kenny” Cummings, 44, owner/operator of Pay It Forward Roofing, died Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2014, in Wichita Falls.
Funeral is 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at Victory Family Church in Decatur with Pastor Alan Bates officiating. Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers will be Billy Burr, Eugene Flynn, Stephen Henry, Buddy Bell, Wade Brown and Joshua Cummings.
Kenny was born July 20, 1969, in Bowie. He attended Tarleton State University where he played basketball. He served in the United States Navy and was a member of Victory Family Church.
He is survived by his wife, Lee Ann Cummings, daughter Bridgette Lee Cummings, and sons Joshua Thomas and Nicholas Dale Cummings, all of Decatur; brothers Billy Burr of Bowie and Wes Cummings and wife, Betty, of North Richland Hills; and nephew Eugene Flynn of Dallas.

Cunningham, Brenda T.
1952-2014

Published Saturday, October 4, 2014
Brenda T. Cunningham, 62, died Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014, in Decatur.
Memorial service was Oct. 3 at the First United Methodist in Decatur with Dr. Brian Bosworth and Zack Landis officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Brenda was born Aug. 23, 1952, in Dallas to Neil and Bobbie (Mosley) Thomas. She graduated from Athens High School and Sam Houston State University with an Master of Business Administration in 1978.
Brenda married Jim Cunningham Nov. 25, 1981. She worked in human resources for various entities including the city of Huntsville, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Xerox, Pro Travel, Mead, Children’s Hospital and Boeing. Brenda also served on the Texas Master Gardener Association (TMGA) executive committee for many years and was president in 2012.
Brenda bravely fought and overcame breast cancer in 2010 and remained entrenched and active in the TMGA at the state level until her passing. She had been an active master gardener in Dallas County for 15 years.
Brenda is survived by her husband, Jim Cunningham of Sunset; daughter Nikki Hudiburgh and husband, John, of Frisco; son Ryan Cunningham and wife, Andrea, of Plano; grandchildren Charlie Cunningham of Plano, Cora Cunningham of Plano and Finley Hudiburgh of Frisco; mother Bobbie Thomas of Mabank; sister Linda Gamble of Forney; and her little puppies, Bo and Rolo.
Memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265-0309.

Darnell, Sherry Lee
1952-2014

Published Saturday, January 18, 2014
Sherry Lee Darnell, 61, a homemaker, died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at the home of Dusty Darnell, 824 Mirike Dr., in Fort Worth.
Sherry was born March 20, 1952, in Fort Worth to William and Oleta Ulhorn. She married Roy Darnell Sr. June 18, 1984, in Decatur. He preceded her in death Dec. 28, 2009. She was also preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her daughter, Paula Roberts and husband, Reggie, of Fort Worth; sons Roy Darnell Jr. of Palestine and Willie Darnell and Paul Ray Darnell, both of Fort Worth; grandchildren Dusty, Peggy, Travis, Bobby, Billy and Regina; great-grandchildren William and Aleyna; and other relatives and friends.

Davidson, Gary Alan
1947-2014

Published Saturday, September 27, 2014
Gary Alan Davidson, 67, of Rhome died Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Service was Sept. 25 at Azleland Memorial Park and Cemetery with Jim Bob Mitchell officiating. Pallbearers were Rocky Davidson, Michael Davidson, Clifford Davidson, Dave Tefft, Gene Fisher, Steve Ruffatto and Jeff Ruffatto.
Gary was born Jan. 25, 1947, in Sidney, Mont. He married Karen Ruffatto Aug. 3, 1968, in Sidney. He was retired.
Gary is survived by his wife, Karen Ruffatto-Davidson; mother Helen Davidson of Mesa, Ariz., sons Michael Davidson of Cary, N.C., and Clifford Davidson of Castle Rock, Colo.; daughters Stephanie Mistry of Carrollton and Michelle Rose of Rhome; sisters Linda Edam of Mesa, Valerie Tefft of Rhome and Madeline Satra of Great Falls, Mont.; brother Rocky Davidson of Carrollton; and grandchildren Joshua, Jude and Samuel Mistry of Carrollton, Raina, Seth and Brynn Davidson of Castle Rock, and Phoenix Rose of Rhome.
Memorials may be made to Yeshiva HaNateev through his wife.

Davila, Emiliea Casillas
1934-2014

Published Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Emiliea Casillas Davila, 80, a homemaker, died Saturday, Dec. 13, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was Dec. 16 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Margarito Lara officiating. Burial followed at Mexican Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Benito Jose Davila, Joe Don McDaniel, Paul Michael Rodriquez, David Nicholas Rodriquez, Ryan Don McDaniel, William Riley Davila, Benisio Davila, Robert Harley Davila, William “Hank” Williams and James “Bubba” Williams. Honorary pallbearers were Ennis Davila Jr. and Carlos Davila Jr.
Emiliea was born March 10, 1934, in Bridgeport to Carlos and Josephine (Gurrola) Casillas. She married Benisio Davila Aug. 26, 1951, in Dallas.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son Benisio Davila Jr.; great-granddaughter Paige Davila; sisters Mary Sue Garces, Mikela Rios and Victoria Martinez; and brothers Serasin Casillas, Martin Casillas and Carlos Casillas. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Benisio Davila of Bridgeport; daughters Trinidad Cortez of Bridgeport and Lisa Hall and husband, Billy, of Decatur; sons Robert Davila and wife, Laura, of Alvord, Louis Davila and wife, Cassandra, of Bridgeport, Carlos Davila of Bridgeport, Joe Davila of Bridgeport, Ennis Davila of Bridgeport and Benito Davila of Bridgeport; 29 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Davis, Elsie L.
1945-2014

Published Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Elsie L. Davis, 68, of Azle, died Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Service was Feb. 15 at the First Baptist Church of Cottondale with Bro. Charles Pugh officiating. Burial followed at Wilson Prairie Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers were Randy Bishop, Dalton Hatcher, Brad Atkison, Alan Fullbright, Dalton Bishop and Leamon Caudle.
Elsie was born Aug. 14, 1945, to Henry Thomas and Inist (Cox) Pruitt in Haslet. She was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Boyd. She enjoyed sewing and crafts.
Elsie is survived by son Daryl D. Davis of Dallas; daughters Cindy Darlen Clayton and husband, Jim, of Paradise, and Katrina L. Hatcher and husband, Jim, of Azle; sister Janean Wirtz of Decatur; brother Donald Roberts of Fort Worth; grandchildren Chasidy Caudle and husband, Leamon, Wesley Clayton and wife, Melissa, Amanda Fullbright and husband, Alan, Briana Atkison and husband, Brad, Dalton Bishop and Dalton Hatcher; great-grandchildren Cadence Morris and two on the way, Avery and Archer Fullbright.

Davis, James Lawrence, Jr.
1939-2014

Published Wednesday, December 31, 2014
James Lawrence Davis, Jr., 75, a retired rancher, died Saturday, Dec. 27, 2014 in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31 at Slidell Baptist Church with burial in Slidell Cemetery. Bobby Cates and Charles Taylor will officiate, and Shawn Barnhart, Isaac Davis, Dustin Davis, Rodney Yard, Danny Juarez and Ralph Amyx will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearer is Tony Martinez.
James was born April 3, 1939 to James and Lola (Hubble) Davis Sr. in Oklahoma City. He married Elma Kay Loyd May 12, 1960 in Alvord. James retired from being a rancher and dairyman.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Elma Kay Davis of Slidell; sons Jimmy Davis of Slidell and Jeff Davis and wife, Lisa, of Chico; daughter Kathleen Barnhart of Slidell; brother Bill Davis of Slidell; grandchildren Shawn, Sarah, Isaac, Dustin and Taylor; and great-grandchild, Caysen.

Davis, Mack Donald
1929-2014

Published Saturday, October 11, 2014
Mack Donald Davis, 84, died Monday, Oct. 6, 2014.
Service was Oct. 10 at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel in Fort Worth, with burial in Laurel Land Memorial Park of Fort Worth.
Mack was born Oct. 18, 1929, in Bowie to Louis and Rosa Davis. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Davis.
Survivors include his loving wife of 24 years, Lilly Ruth; children William Davis, Terry Davis, Lewis Coomer, Debra Whatley and Shirley Hood; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and family members and friends.

Davis, Wayne
1937-2014

Published Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Wayne Davis, 76, died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Virgil Faires officiating.
Wayne was born Feb. 27, 1937, in Thornberry to Louis and Grace (Freeman) Davis. He graduated from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls with a bachelor’s degree in history. As a college athlete, he played both basketball and baseball. Wayne is still ranked seventh overall for average scoring in a single season 1958-59.
After graduating, he completed Officer Training School in Fort Eustes, Va., where he became a captain in the U.S. Army Transportation Corps. Following the military, he played semi-professional basketball for the Dallas Drillers. In their 1960-1961 season, the team was undefeated.
Wayne married Sandra Power June 23, 1962. After a career in marketing and sales for International Harvester in Dallas, he opened his own dealership in Oklahoma where the family lived for more than 40 years. As one of the top dealers, Wayne was placed on the Massey Ferguson Dealer Counsel for the United States and Canada. He won many sales campaigns over the years, earning travel across the U.S., Europe and Africa for himself and his family.
He also continued to compete for many years in recreational basketball and softball and was inducted into the Oklahoma Softball Hall of Fame.
Survivors include his wife of more than 51 years, Sandra Davis; son Brad and wife, Tera, of Decatur; daughters Lisa Furey and husband, Jim, of Denver, and Jane Wood and husband, Joel, of Ann Arbor, Mich.; grandchildren Laura and Colin Furey, Jack Wood and Will and Cole Davis; sister Betty Shipp of Burkburnett; and brother Raymond Davis of Thornberry. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials may be made to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinson.org.

Dean, Staci Aliette
1978-2014

Published Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Staci Aliette Dean, 35, died Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, in Fort Worth.
A memorial service will be 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
She is survived by her daughter, T-Aria Johnson, and son William Dean, both of Sunset; parents Ronald and Debbie Dean of Sunset; brother Bill Dean and wife, Candice, of Fort Worth; grandparents William and Beverly Went of Arizona and Thurman and Ginette Dean of Florida; nephew Tristan Dean of Fort Worth; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

DeGraw, Dori Anna
1968-2014

Published Saturday, January 25, 2014
Dori Anna DeGraw, 45, of Kingston, Okla., died Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014 in Oklahoma City.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 10 a.m. at Kingston Methodist Church in Kingston, Okla. Bro. Paul McDowell will officiate. Arrangements are under the direction of Brown’s Funeral Home Chapel in Madill, Okla.
Dori was born Jan. 25, 1968 in Tulsa, Okla. to Jack and Mary DeGraw. She enjoyed being with family and friends, but most of all she enjoyed being with her 15-year-old daughter, Alie.
She worked at Michelin in Ardmore for five years and worked at Decatur and Harris Methodist Hospitals as an X-ray technician for more than 25 years. She had an abundance of friends, including a special friend, Ethan. She will be missed by many people.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Mary DeGraw.
Survivors include her daughter, Alie DeGraw, and brother Jerald DeGraw.

DeLeon, Ygnacio
1948-2014

Published Saturday, February 22, 2014
Ygnacio DeLeon Jr., 65, of Rhome died Monday, Feb. 10, 2014.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Ygnacio was born Feb. 12, 1948, in Lamesa.
Junior, as he was known to family and friends, was a caring man. He loved his family and would do anything for them. He grew up on and around a farm, and he loved working with farm equipment. He was a hardworking person who believed in helping others. He will be greatly missed.
Ygnacio was preceded in death by his mother, Jacinta Urrabazo DeLeon; father Ygnacio DeLeon Sr.; and sisters Oralia Lopez and Elvira Rodriguez.
He is survived by his son, Jon Paul DeLeon and wife, Christina and grandchildren Alexis and Marc, all of Rhome; siblings Elisa Zaragoza (Francisco) of San Jacinto, Calif., Eloisa Martinez (Martin) of Brownfield, Eliseo DeLeon (Consuelo) of Fort Worth, Victoria Leija (Juan) of Brownfield, Grabilla Leija of Brownfield, Valentine DeLeon of Roanoke and Rosendo DeLeon (Rosalinda) of San Antonio; and 51 nieces and nephews.

DeLong, Jayne Elizabeth
1945-2014
Published Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Jayne Elizabeth DeLong, 69, a homemaker, died Monday, July 14, 2014, in Decatur.
No service will be held.
Jayne was born June 24, 1945, in Lodi, Calif., to Stewart and Margaret (Sinclair) Patrick. She was married to David McGinnis. Jayne enjoyed taking care of her home.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Survivors include her husband of 23 years, David McGinnis of Decatur; sons Patrick Roberson and wife, Heather, of El Paso and Eric Roberson of Arlington; grandchildren Hailey, Ashgin, Katelin, Lydia and Jordon; sister Margaret Jones of California; brother John Patrick of California; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Demory, Denise
1954-2014

Published Saturday, December 20, 2014
Denise Demory, 60, a loving and devoted wife and mother, died Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014 in Decatur.
No service is scheduled.
Denise was born April 1, 1954 to Glenn and Mary Lou (Nix) Taylor in Lovington, N.M. She married Lloyd Demory Feb. 2, 1970 in San Diego. She was a Dachshund breeder.
She was preceded in death by her father, Glenn Taylor; son Chad Jason Demory; grandson Cole Michael Jennings and nephew Eric Clayton.
Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Lloyd Demory of Boyd; daughter Taya Chancey and husband, Jay, of Boyd; grandchildren Cameron Jennings, Spencer Brown and Zane Brown, all of Boyd, and Jason Demory of Lovington; mother Mary Lou Taylor of Lovington; sisters Adonna Dow and husband, Jim, of Lubbock, and Stacy Varin and husband, Scott, of The Woodlands; brother Gary “Butch” Taylor and wife, Diana, of Otterbein, Ind.; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dickson, Randall Brett
1956-2014

Published Saturday, June 14, 2014
Randall Brett Dickson, 57, of Sunset, died Tuesday, June 10, 2014, in Stephenville.
Graveside service was June 12 at Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Danny Russell officiating. Burial was under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Randall was born Nov. 1, 1956, in Lubbock to William and Barbara (Kimbrough) Dickson. He was a Baptist and a rancher for many years.
He is survived by his father, Bill Dickson of Alvord; sisters Karen Ausbrooks and husband, Bill, of Ardmore, Okla., and DeAnn Powell and husband, Bob, of Sunset; nieces Mary Kathryn Powell of San Angelo and Rebekah Powell of Sunset; and many friends.

Doty, Bobby Dale
1934-2014

Published Saturday, August 2, 2014
Bobby Dale Doty, 80, a retired machinist, died Thursday, July 31, 2014, in Paradise.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at DFW National Cemetery.
Bobby was born June 21, 1934, in Tekamah, Neb., to Thomas Earl and Margaret Olive (Robinson) Doty. He married Gloria Mae Shephard June 23, 1957, in Reno, Nev., and proudly served in the U.S. Navy. He was a Korean War veteran. Bobby retired from Lockheed after 30 years as a machinist. He was a Baptist.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Gloria Mae Doty.
Survivors include his daughters, Tamara Lynn Madrid and husband, Patrick, of Pflugerville, Jo Ann Doty of Paradise and Carol Marie Doty Shuker of Paradise; son-in-law Derek Shuker of Gainesville; grandchildren Ashley Doty, Anthony Madrid, Edward Madrid, Garrett Brewster, Collin Doty, Allie Madrid, Jena Doty McDaniel, Raven LeAnn Brewster and Trever Dale Shuker; great-granddaughter Aubree Dawn McDaniel; brothers John Doty and wife, Phyllis, of Locust Grove, and James Doty of San Jose, Calif.; sisters Alice Bauder and husband, Calvin, of Colleyville, and Linda Niccum and husband, Tom, of Santa Clara, Calif.; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Douglas, Frankie Louise
1925-2014

Published Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Frankie Louise Douglas, 89, of Decatur, died Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014, surrounded by all her girls.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Gooseneck Cemetery in Graham.
Frankie was born June 16, 1925, in Bunger, to Gertrude and Frank Sharp. She married Billy Bob Douglas Feb. 25, 1950, in Bunger. She attended the Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Nola Sharp, Marie Steadham and Mary Dell Crosthwait; and her husband, who died in 2008.
She is survived by her daughters and beloved sons-in-law Janet Fiel and husband, Larry, Julie McDonald and husband, Jim, Jackie Irick and husband, J.W., and Jerri Wilson and Alton Hendrickson; grandchildren Jeannie, Jodi, Mark, Kevin, Matt, Bonnie and Robert; great-grandchildren Kiran, Talya, Ian, Luke, Cohen, Landry, Charlotte and Sophie; and close friend of the family, Pablo Rivas.
Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Doyle is survived by his wife, Jean, of Conroe; brothers Waide Powell of Hobbs, N.M., and W.L. Powell of Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Odel, Ralph and James Powell.

Draper, Louie L.
1937-2014
Published Saturday, May 10, 2014
Louie L. Draper, 76, of Newark, died Tuesday, May 6, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, May 12, at Biggers Funeral Chapel in Lake Worth with burial to follow at Aurora Cemetery. Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Biggers Funeral Home.
Louie was born Sept. 9, 1937, in Fort Worth to William and Mildred Draper. He had been a resident of Newark for more than 40 years and was a retired delivery driver for Coca Cola Bottling Co.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Martha I. Draper on Jan. 29, 2012.
Survivors include his children, Ricky Draper and wife, Tinna, Lee Draper and wife, Cinda Ann, Teresa Youngblood, Kelly Griffin and husband, David, and Kimberly Smith and husband, Richard; brothers Dale Draper and Billy Draper; 17 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Drummond, Maxine Cheek
1931-2014

Published Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Maxine Cheek Drummond, 82, of Brownfield died Jan. 20, 2014.
A memorial service will be held in Dallas at a date yet to be determined.
Maxine was born Feb. 20, 1931, in O’Dell to C.A. and Hester Cheek. She was a member of the Church of Christ and Rebekah Lodge. She also volunteered her time at Senior Companions.
She married James B. Drummond Aug. 15, 1948, in Decatur. Maxine worked for Texas Instruments for 18 years as a material handler.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James B. Drummond; and her parents.
Maxine is survived by her son, David Drummond of Brownfield; four grandchildren; sisters Hazel Mooney of North Richland Hills and Eunice Uberman of Forth Worth.

Duck, Lela Fay Griffis
1920-2014

Published Saturday, November 22, 2014
Lela Fay Griffis Duck, 94, of Chico died Thursday, Nov. 13, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Nov. 16 at the First Baptist Church in Chico with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove No. 3 Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Rickey Denney, Stan Denney, Michael Duck, Willie Wilson, Dr. Jason Tibbels and Alex Plese.
Lela was born Jan. 25, 1920, at home in Crafton to C.W. “Charley” and Gertie Stockard Griffis. She remembered her parents telling her how everything was covered with ice that day.
“They could hear the galloping hooves of the doctor’s horse on the ice long before he arrived at their home,” she said.
Lela grew up in Crafton and attended school there. She married K.H. “Kinnie” Duck in Decatur Oct. 28, 1942, at Decatur Baptist College.
Lela came to know the Lord Sept. 1, 1952, in Park Springs where she lived and attended Park Springs Baptist Church. She joined the First Baptist Church in Chico on Oct. 5, 1963, and remained a member there. She was a homemaker most of her life, but as a young woman she worked in a florist shop in Lubbock and in the cafeteria at Harris Hospital in Fort Worth. She enjoyed cooking, working in her yard and vegetable garden, and sewing.
Lela was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters Elsie Griffis, Reba Richey, Oleta Bender, Nelba Ruth Culverhouse and Genell Hopkins; brothers Horace and James Carol Griffis; and sister-in-law Leona Duck Powers, who she loved as a sister.
She is survived by her children, Lana and Gary Handshumaker of Alvord, Darla and Danny Hartsell of Bridgeport, Benny and Linda Duck of Bridgeport, and Bobby and Beverly Duck of Decatur; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; her best friend, Ruby Partin of Chico; and other relatives and friends.

Dukes, Anna Pewitt
1918-2014

Published Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Anna Pewitt Dukes, 95, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Service was Feb. 16 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Pat Mannon and Joe Wayne Richardson officiating. Burial was at Wilson Prairie Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers were Ray Cook, Jimmy Pewitt, Leon Dethloff, Britt Doty, Kevin Pewitt and Brayden Garcia. Honorary pallbearers were Ronnie Pewitt, Billy Greenwood, Justin Dagley, Colter Doty, Kendall Dethloff, Kelton Dethloff, Jacob Morris, Terry Garcia, Greg Smith, Robert Bryan, Joe Bruce and James Johnson.
Anna was born July 28, 1918, in Lakewood, Colo., to Edward and Hazel Marie (Young) Furter. She was a wonderful cook and an avid gardener who loved spending time with family. She was a member of the Carpenter Street Church of Christ.
Anna leaves behind her children: Jim Pewitt and wife, Shirley, Melvin Pewitt and wife, Lanell, and Sylvia Ann Richardson and husband Joe, and daughter-in-law Pat Pewitt; stepchildren Johnny Dave Dukes and wife, Nelda, Bobby Dukes, Clyde Dukes Jr. and wife, Jane, Diana Chatham and husband, Tom, Cindy Starnes and husband, Jim, and Adeline Hammer and husband, Jack; 23 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren and a host of friends. Anna was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Claude A. Pewitt and Clyde Dukes; sons Claude E. Pewitt and Marvin Lee Pewitt; and stepson Jimmy Dukes.
Donations in Anna’s name may be made through Carpenter Street Church of Christ for missionary work in Nigeria and India, P.O. Box 98, Paradise, TX 76073.

Durham, Robert Alton
1921-2014
Published Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Robert Alton Durham, 92, a shipyard owner, died Sunday, March 23, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service is 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 27, at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. Robert was born Dec. 4, 1921. He married Dorothy McSpedden Jan. 27, 1960, in Denton. Robert owned and operated a shipyard in Freeport and proudly served his country as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army Air Corps.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dorothy Durham of Freeport; brother-in-law Thomas McSpedden of Frisco; and other family members and friends.

Edwards, Golda Dell Pockrus
1947-2014

Published Saturday, November 15, 2014
Golda Dell Pockrus Edwards, 67, of Sunset, died Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton. Burial will follow at Shiloh Cemetery in Corinth.
Golda was born Jan. 3, 1947, in Justin to James Howard Pockrus and Frances Pippin Pockrus. She was co-owner of G&H Trucking and a member of First Baptist Church of Argyle.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Hayward Edwards; and brothers James Alvan and Robert Eugene Pockrus.
She is survived by daughters Patricia DeAnn Dowell Hudson of Arlington and Juanita Kay Sepulvado of Aubrey; son William Edwards of Sunset; sisters Elois Brown and husband, James, of Shady Shores, Vera Justice and husband, Kenneth, of Arlington, Rebecca White and husband, Craig, of LeCompt, La.; brother John Pockrus and wife, Cynthia, of Argyle; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild, with two on the way.

Elliot, Howard D.
1933-2014

Published Saturday, April 12, 2014
Howard Elliott, 81, a retired painter, died Wednesday, April 9, 2014, in Boyd.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. Jerry Hood officiating.
Pallbearers are Chris Elliott, Chuck Bowen, Justin Garrett, Curtis White, Joshua Youngblood and Paul Herod.
Howard was born March 4, 1933, in Coleman County to Clarence and Cora (Russell) Elliott. He married Doris Smith Sept. 7, 1971, in Durant, Okla., and was a painter at Bell Helicopter. He served his country in the U.S. Army and loved playing his fiddle with his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Tommy Elliott; three brothers; and four sisters.
Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Doris Elliott of Boyd; daughters Pam Carnes-Porter and husband, Kelly, of Boyd, Vicki Reeves and husband, Keith, of Azle, Jeanette Garrett and husband, Randy, of Boyd; son Danny Youngblood and wife, Marilyn, of Weatherford; 12 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; brother Otis Elliott and wife, Eva, of Tolar; sister Ann Winsett and husband, Dewayne, of Godley; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Elliott, Douglas Delbert, Jr.
1947-2014

Published Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Douglas Delbert Elliott Jr., 67, a contractor who did several major renovations in downtown Decatur over the last 15 years, died Sunday, July 13, 2014, in Azle.
A wake was held July 19 in Azle.
He was born July 2, 1947.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Elliott; sister Rhonda McClure; brother Danny Elliott; daughters Tina Smith and Kimberly Elliott; stepchildren Randy Snow, Kim Dajani and John Dalton; and 11 grandchildren.

Ellison, Robert Earl
1952-2014
Published Saturday, December 6, 2014
Robert Earl Ellison, 62, an oilfield worker, died Thursday, Dec. 4, 2014, in Decatur.
Services will be held at a later date.
Robert was born May 17, 1952, in Mineola to Richard and Mertis (Simpson) Ellison. He married Lea Guin June 10, 1972, in Hallsville. Robert was a member of the Wise County Water Board.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Lea Ellison of Bridgeport; son Farrell Ellison of Bridgeport; grandchildren Eugene, Pamela and Kevin, all of Bridgeport; great-grandson Trenton; other family members and friends.

Emerson, Kenneth Durwood
1931-2014

Published Saturday, August 23, 2014
Kenneth Durwood Emerson, 83, of Highland Village, died Sunday, Aug. 17, 2014.
Graveside service was Aug. 20 at Flat Rock Cemetery near Alvord. Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at Lakeland Baptist Church in Lewisville.
Kenneth was born Feb. 24, 1931, in the Wise County community of Audobon, the son of Dom Pedro and Lena Ann Emerson. He attended Alvord schools, then attended Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls. He graduated from Decatur Baptist College and earned a degree from Southwest Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He married Cleta Joyce Boyd Dec. 12, 1946.
Kenneth entered the ministry full time in 1956 with the First Baptist Church in Byers, where he served for seven years. He moved to Eden Hills Baptist Church in Wichita Falls, serving as pastor six years, then served three years as assistant pastor under Dr. Landrum P. Leavel II at First Baptist Church in Wichita Falls.
He pastored an English language church in Walldorf, Germany, for three years. In 1972, while in Germany, he was elected president of the European Baptist Convention, serving a year. Returning to the states, Kenneth was pastor for 17 years at the Sharon Baptist Church in Wichita, Kan. While there, he served on various committees and was elected as vice president of the Kansas/Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists.
Kenneth also served for 10 years as a trustee to the New Orleans Baptist Seminary. In 1990, he moved to Arlington to pastor at University Baptist Church, serving 10 years before retiring after working 48 years as a pastor in five churches. In retirement, Kenneth and his wife moved to Highland Village and joined Lakeland Baptist Church of Lewisville.
He is survived by his wife, Cleta; sons Don Emerson and his wife, Becky, of Wichita Falls, and Gary Emerson and his wife, Sandy, of Carrollton; grandchildren Kenneth Faulkner and wife, April, Jennifer Frost and husband, Luke, Angela Emerson, Kaylee Emerson, Joyia Sifuentes and husband, Anthony, Judson Emerson, Garren Emerson and wife, Mary, and Clarissa Mapes; and great-grandchildren Kendra Faulkner, Julie Faulkner, Grant Faulkner, James Jones, Aaron West, Jakub Emerson, Katelyn Frost and Caleb Frost. He was preceded in death by a son, Ronald Lee, in 1997.

Erwin, J.D. 'Heavy'
1937-20104
J.D. "Heavy" Erwin
Published Saturday, December 13, 2014
J.D. “Heavy” Erwin, 77, a retired truck driver, died Monday, Dec. 8, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service was Dec. 12 at Paradise Cemetery with the Rev. Juanita Ransom-Bullard officiating. Arrangements were handled by Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
J.D. was born Aug. 30, 1937, in Paradise to F.L (Buck) and Lilia (Brown) Erwin. He served his country in the U.S. Army and was a lifetime member of the VFW.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son David Erwin; and granddaughter Cecilia Phillips.
Survivors include daughters Cecilia Phillips and husband, D.P. of Lovington, N.M., Sylvia Fletcher and husband, Jimmy, of Midland, and Helen Erwin of Eugene, Ore.; son Curtis Erwin of Sherman; grandchildren Michael Fletcher, Alyshia Fletcher, J.D. Erwin, Porscha Erwin, Curtis Erwin, Kelley Phillips and Kristin Phillips; great-grandchildren Jaxin Fletcher and Kaitlyn Fletcher; brothers Sam Erwin and wife, Ginger, of Paradise, and Keg Erwin; and other family members and friends.

Eslinger-Sawyer, Deborah Sue
1956-2014

Published Saturday, December 20, 2014
Deborah Sue Eslinger-Sawyer, 58, of Springtown, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014 in Fort Worth.
A memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Decatur. Pastor Ron Fox will officiate.
Deborah was born May 26, 1956, in Lubbock to Mary (Moore) and James Edward King. She was a homemaker who loved crocheting and sewing.
She was preceded in death by her father, James King; brother Mike King; and grandparents Emma Faye and George Wilkerson and Effie and Joe King.
She is survived by her sons, Michael Eslinger, Justin Sawyer and David Sawyer; daughters Stacy Eslinger, Kendra Wheeler and Shawnee Ahlstrand; mother Mary King; sister Pamela King; and grandchildren Layton Hill, Coby Huerta, Katelynn-Dayton-Brennon-Eslinger, Evangeline and Gabrielle Sawyer, Michelle New, Cheyenne and Lahana King, Chance King, Jessiecca, Phoebe, Zoi, Anastasiya, and Kenzie Simpson and Hannah.

Fain, Billy John
1941-2014
Published Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Billy John Fain, 72, died Friday, Jan. 31, 2014, in Denton.
Funeral was Feb. 4 at the Carter Lake Church of Christ of Bowie, with burial at Elmwood Cemetery under the direction of White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
B.J. was born Oct. 28, 1941, in Bowie to William and Mary (Langford) Fain. Along with his brothers, he had owned and operated Fain Brothers Welding Co. since 1973.
B.J. also worked in the maintenance department for Hanson Aggregates in Chico for many years.
He enjoyed pawn shopping, woodworking and spending time with his grandchildren. B.J. was a great support to his family and friends and was a member of the Carter Lake Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary Francis Fain; son Lee Wayne Fain; brothers Cowboy, James, Freddie and Charlie Fain and sister Doris Newport.
B.J. is survived by his children, Patrick Fain and wife, Gina of Spanish Fort, and Charity Fain and husband, Matthew Goddard of Portland, Ore.; grandchildren Tyler Hammons and wife, Brittany, Danica and Dylan Fain, all of Spanish Fort; Kaya and Lucas Goddard of Portland, Ore., and Logun Reaves of Denton; great-grandson Lundyn Hammons of Spanish Fort; brother Sam Fain of Springtown; sister Sue Whitaker of Ringgold; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Fenn, Lloyd Boyce
1937-2014

Published Saturday, February 1, 2014
Lloyd Boyce Fenn, 76, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, son and friend, died Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2014.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Decatur. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home. Pallbearers are Kevin Fenn, Walter Fenn, Thomas Antonucci, Larry Martin, Matthew Humble and Brett Butler.
Boyce was born July 17, 1937, in Pomerene, Ariz., to Walter Leroy and Emma Leona (Morris) Fenn. He grew up in Pomerene as the youngest of 10 children. He attended the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He continued his studies at the University of California Riverside where he earned master’s and doctoral degrees in soil chemistry.
During this time, Boyce met and then married his sweetheart, Lewella Arrington, in the Mesa Arizona LDS temple Jan. 31, 1962. Together they became the loving parents to six children. Boyce was a life-long faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He also had a distinguished career as a soil scientist for Texas A&M University.
Lewella predeceased Boyce two years ago on Feb. 2, 2012. He was fortunate to find happiness again in his second marriage to Roselyn Stevens of West Jordan, Utah, on June 22, 2012.
He is survived by his loving wife, Roselyn Fenn; children Walter Fenn and wife, Cheryl, Kevin Fenn and wife, Sheree, Tanna Antonucci and husband, Thomas, Erin Humble and husband, Matthew, Teresa Martin and husband, Larry, and Debra Butler and husband, Brett.  He is also survived by 26 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother Waldo Fenn; and sister Margorie Andersen of Pomerene, Ariz. Boyce was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Lewella; his parents; brothers Max, Golden, Jedde, Clarence and Toby; sisters Kathleen and Drucilla; and grandson Jacob Butler.

Fisher, Helen LaVerne Admire
1934-2014

Published Saturday, September 6, 2014
Helen LaVerne (Admire) Fisher, 79, died Monday, Sept. 1, 2014, at her home in Bella Vista, Ark.
No services are planned at this time.
Helen was born Nov. 25, 1934, on the family farm near Bridgeport, to Clarence H. and Audrie (King) Admire.
She graduated high school in Bridgeport in 1952 and completed Isbell School of Cosmetology in Fort Worth. She married Carroll G. Fisher Nov. 27, 1953, at the Methodist church in Bridgeport.
Helen moved with her husband’s career in oil exploration through various towns in West Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Southern California and an eight-year tour in Tripoli, Libya. They moved to Bella Vista in 2005.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Cindy Admire Fisher; brothers Robert Admire and Bill Admire; and sister Joan Admire.
She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Carroll; son Robert and his wife, Denise, of St. Peters, Mo.; daughter Barbara A. Farias and husband, Kevin, of Fall River, Mass.; grandson Alex W. Farias of Fall River; sisters Rosetta Richards of Arlington and Lola Neil of Benbrook; sisters-in-law Nell Admire of Bridgeport, LeVelle Bond of Chandler, Ariz., and Gayle Meteer of Wynnewood, Okla.; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Florance, Kenneth Paul
1929-2014

Published Saturday, September 27, 2014
Kenneth Paul Florance, 84, of Paradise died Monday, Sept. 22, 2014, in Paradise.
Funeral was Sept. 26 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Pete Putman officiating. Honorary pallbearers were Ryan Hammond, Mike Florance, Keith Florance and Kevin Florance.
Kenneth was born Nov. 3, 1929, in Burkburnett to James and Marie (Briarly) Florance. He married Carol Caine Sept. 25, 1959, in Cody, Wyo. He retired from Boeing as a heavy machine operator and was a member of the Cates Street Church of Christ. Kenneth proudly served his country in the United States Navy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol Florance; and his brother, John Florance.
He is survived by his son, Bryan Florance of Denton; daughter Leslie Florance of Lewisville; brother James Florance and wife, Delene, of Jacksboro; and other family members and friends.

Florence, Margaret Louise
1948-2014

Published Saturday, October 4, 2014
Margaret Louise Florence, 66, a retired employee of the U.S. Department of Labor, died Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014, in Arlington.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at West Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Gerre Joiner officiating. There will be no visitation.
Margaret was born Feb. 2, 1948, in San Francisco to Raymond O. and Margaret (Reilly) Florence.
She is survived by her father, Raymond O. Florence of Paradise; brother Raymond O. Florence Jr. of Fort Worth; niece Lauren Renee Florence of Arlington; nephew Garrett Allen Florence of Arlington; and other family members and friends.

Florida, Allie Belle
1924-2014

Published Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Allie Belle Florida, 89, died Friday, Feb. 21, 2014, in her hometown of Greenwood.
Funeral was Feb. 25 at the Greenwood Baptist Church with the Rev. Tracy Epting officiating. Burial followed at Greenwood Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Kenny Shaw, Roland Walker, Dale Burks, Donald East, Charles East, R.E. Florida III and Brent Gage. Allie Belle was born Aug. 20, 1924, to William Ramon and Maggie Ann (Eason) Mathis in Leo. She married John D. Florida Sept. 9, 1944, in Decatur.
She is survived by her daughter, Lanette Florida McClure and husband, Russell, of Greenwood; granddaughters Jennifer Noel McClure of Wichita Falls and Jessica Elise McClure of Greenwood; sisters Auga Lee East of Decatur and Vonceal Wallace of Weatherford; and nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and a son, Tex Noel Florida.

Folger, Frances Ellowayne
1934-2014

Published Saturday, February 8, 2014
Frances Ellowayne Folger, 79, died Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014, in Sunset.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, at Fort Sam Houston Cemetery in San Antonio. Visitation is 5 to 9 p.m. Monday at Trevino Funeral Home in San Antonio.
Frances was born Sept. 17, 1934, in Sulphur Springs to William and Nancy (Hobbs) Whitehead. She married Arvid Hartford Folger May 3, 1952, in Killeen.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and five brothers and sisters.
Survivors include her daughters, Judy Kay Rodriguez and husband, Raymond, of Laredo, Carol Urbano and husband, Raul, of Ponder and Nancy Edwards and husband, Buddy, of Sunset; sons Butch Folger and wife, Erica, of San Antonio and Steven Folger of New Braunfels; 13 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; brother Glen Whitehead and wife, Mary, of Sherman; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Forbau, Ida Margaret 'Teeny' Cartwright
1923-2014

Published Saturday, March 8, 2014
Ida M. “Teeny” Cartwright Forbau, 91, died Wednesday, March 5, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 8, at First United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Revs. Brian McPherson and Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Teeny was born Jan. 12, 1923, to Forrest and Flora (Kelly) Howard in Quanah. She married Charles Allen Cartwright Sept. 6, 1941. He died in 1961, and she married Bernhart “Bud” Forbau May 24, 1968, in Dallas.
Teeny was a retired Decatur elementary librarian. She also worked as a director at a senior center in Vernon. Teeny volunteered at Wise Regional Health System in Decatur, where she made more than 1,000 teddy bears for children who were hospitalized. She also collected hats for cancer patients.
Teeny loved watching all types of birds, especially purple martins, and could identify most of the birds surrounding her home.
Early on, Teeny sang in the choir at the Decatur Methodist Church and had a fine voice. Later, her voice changed so that family described it as similar to Edith Bunker. Teeny always called everyone on their birthday and sang happy birthday, and her grandchildren got quite a kick out of her Edith Bunker voice.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur for 74 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Jack “Junior” Howard; her first husband, C.A. Cartwright; son Jim Cartwright in 1971 during the Vietnam War; her second husband, Bud Forbau in 2009; and daughter Jane Cartwright in 1947.
She is survived by her daughter, Judy Cartwright Ratzlaff and husband, Roger, of Willow Park; grandchildren Jerl E. McKinney and wife, Cathy, of Kiowa, Colo., James A. McKinney and wife, Candi, of Willow Park, Jana M. McKinney Porter of McKinney, and Mark Ratzlaff and Laila of Fort Worth; great-grandchildren Catherine McKinney Larson and husband, Jed, Kelly McKinney, Jessica McKinney Mozjesik and husband, Brenden, James H. McKinney, Evan Porter and Lauren Porter; great-great-grandchildren Boaz Larson, Karah Larson, Jackson Mozjesik and Savannah Mozjesik; brother Bill Howard; other family members; and many friends.
Memorials may be made to Texas A&M Sul Ross Scholarship in memory of Jim Cartwright, Texas A&M Foundation, 401 George Bush Dr., College Station, TX 77840-2811.

Ford, Floyd Lee
1949-2014

Published Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Floyd Lee Ford, 65, died Saturday, April 26, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral was April 29 at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie, and burial followed at Newport Cemetery.
Floyd was born Jan. 2, 1949, in Newport to Foy and Janie (Hicks) Ford. He graduated from Bowie High School in 1967 and attended Ranger Junior College for two years. He was an avid bow hunter and enjoyed playing golf.
Floyd worked for several companies in Wise County, including Trinity Rock Crusher Co., Brazos Gas and Purvis Bearing. He was working for Targa Resources in Chico at the time of his death.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Foy and Janie Ford; son Floyd Alan Ford; brother Loyd Ford and sister Risa Black.
Survivors include daughters Amie Beltran and husband, Marcus, of Boyd, and Clairissa Ford of Fort Worth; fianc Michele Menetrier of Rhome; grandchildren Tyler Booker of Bellevue, Kaitlyn Myers of Fort Worth and Kyra, Kalynn, Camden, Jaden and Breden Beltran, all of Boyd; brother Wayne Ford and wife, Laura, of Burleson; sisters Carolyn Mayo and husband, Leonard, of Sunset; Janice Ford of Bowie; best friend Bill Conner of Wichita Falls; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Forman, Kathleen Brown
1926-2014

Published Wednesday, July 30, 2014
 Kathleen Forman, 87, died Sunday, July 27, 2014, at Denton Regional Medical Center.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Thursday, July 31, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. Brian Bosworth, pastor of Decatur’s First United Methodist Church, officiating.
A memorial service will also be held 2 p.m. Thursday at Denton Bible Church with Ed Jones officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Mulkey Mason Funeral Home in Denton.
Kathleen was born Nov. 1, 1926, in Decatur, the only child of Elbert (Cap) and Alma Christian Brown. She graduated from Decatur High School in 1943 and from Baylor University in 1948 with a bachelor of arts degree.
She married Ray Hugh Forman Jr. Oct. 27, 1951, and they were married 47 years before his death in 1999. Ray and Kathleen had two children, Elbert Ray and Ann, and raised them in Decatur before moving to Slidell in 1976. They enjoyed many years in the country before their final move to Good Samaritan Village in Denton.
Kathleen was active in her church, First United Methodist in Decatur and the Senior Bible Study at Denton Bible Church. She also enjoyed visiting the family land near Slidell, where young and old would gather for hunting, fishing, camping, grilling and fellowship. Together with several close friends, she was an active member of the unofficial P.O.W. (Poor Old Widows) Club, with whom she celebrated life’s little pleasures.
She is survived by her son, Elbert Forman and wife, Cheri; daughter Ann Swingler and husband, Jack; and grandchildren Kimberly Wolfe (Thomas), Lauren Cortez (Felipe), Otto Swingler and John Henry Swingler. The newest additions to her family, great-grandchildren Jocelyn and Logan Cortez and Genevieve and Jillian Wolfe, were her greatest joy. Contributions in her memory can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Fortune, Catherine M.
1953-2014
Published Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Catherine M. Fortune, 61, a homemaker, died Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014, in Decatur.
Catherine was born March 13, 1953, in Arlington to Bobby and Trudy (Young) Pierce. She married Tommy Fortune Feb. 8, 1973, in Fort Worth.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Bobby Pierce.
Survivors include her husband of 41 years, Tommy E. Fortune of Boyd; daughter Elonda Fortune of Arnold, N.D.; grandchildren D.J. Brooks and Tre Fortune; brother Ray Pierce of Fort Worth; sister Elonda Fay Patterson of Justin; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Foust, Geraldine 'Jerry'
1922-2014

Published Saturday, March 22, 2014
Geraldine ‘Jerry’ Foust, 91, died Wednesday, Mar. 19, 2014, in Mineral Wells.
Graveside service was March 21 at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Patillo with burial under the direction of Wiley Chapel in Lipan.
Geraldine Yvonne Lindsey was born July 3, 1922, in Whittier, Calif., to Robert Russell Lindsey and Rosa Edith Dyches Lindsey. She graduated from high school in 1940.
She attended and graduated from Howard Payne University and then attended Tarleton State University, where she received certification to teach LLD children. On May 25, 1947, she married Hubert Foust in the First Christian Church at Breckenridge.
Mrs. Foust taught 31 years in Sipe Springs, Cross Cut, Brownwood, Graford, Palo Pinto, Gordon and Lipan schools. She was active in local politics in Lipan and attended all the school board meetings. She believed that every child deserve an education.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Hubert Foust; and her brother, Robert Lindsey. Survivors include her son, Mark Lindsey Foust and wife, Melissa, of Lipan; daughter Sandra Foust Poynor and husband, Clay, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Trent Justin Poynor of Granbury, Tres Ryan Poynor of Bridgeport, Lindsey Elizabeth Poynor Reed of Lewisville, Marcus Foust of Lipan and Tanden Foust of Lipan; great-grandsons Malachi Poynor and Gavin Poynor; great-granddaughter Minneia Poynor: a niece and a nephew; cousins Barbara Ausborn of Irving and Sue Farmer of Corpus Christi; and many friends.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Fox, Tommie Riggs
1919-2014

Published Saturday, July 26, 2014
Tommie Riggs Fox, 95, formerly of Decatur, died Wednesday, July 23, 2014, in Fort Worth.
A private service will be held at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Dr. Jerry Watson II, Barry Watson, Byron Watson, Henry Cox Rudy II, Ron Goodwin, Jerry Watson, Henry Rudy and Bob Riek.
Tommie was born Feb. 18, 1919, in Denton to George Lewis and Mary Ann (Moody) Riggs. She married Joe Lee Fox in 1938 in Decatur. Tommie was a homemaker, worked in retail and helped her husband raise cattle.
Tommie’s greatest joy was time spent with her family; her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enthusiastically hosted and attended countless family events, dinners, birthday parties, piano/voice recitals, graduations, weddings and sports events. She enjoyed everything her children and grandchildren participated in.
Her family and friends especially looked forward to her homemade fudge, chocolate chip cookies and chocolate and coconut pies. Tommie loved being “Baba” to her granddaughter Leigh Jenai Goodwin and grandsons Dr. Jerry Watson II, Barry Watson, Henry Cox Rudy II and her great-grandchildren.
Tommie’s faith and love for the Lord was an important part of her life. She was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years; parents; and her brothers and sisters. Survivors include her daughters, Shirley Fox Watson and husband, Jerry, of Decatur, and Neva Fox Rudy and husband, Henry, of Fort Worth; son Albert Lee Fox and wife, Pamela, of Frankfort, Ky.; five grandchildren; great-grandchildren Erik Scott Low, Breece Aidana Low, Sylvia Rose Watson, Amelia Grace Watson, Lindsey Riggs Watson, Nathan Ernest Watson, Ethan Tyler Watson and Mary Elsie Watson; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Fraga-Solis, Porfirio
1960-2014

Published Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Porfirio Fraga-Solis, 54, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, Aug. 16, 2014, in Decatur.
Mass of Christian burial was Aug. 19 at St. John The Baptizer Catholic Church with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Burial was at Mexican Cemetery in Bridgeport under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Pallbearers were Isidro Fraga, Rene Rodriguez, Miguel Rodriguez, Cesar Salinas, Cesar Salinas, Carlos Davila, Juan Jose Fraga, Saul Fraga, Jose Rosas and Javier Fraga.
Porfirio was born June 9, 1960, in Zaragoza, Coahuila, to Alberto Fraga and Juana S. de Fraga. He married Guadalupe Rosas Feb. 16, 1985, in Decatur and worked as an oilfield roustabout.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Victor Alberto; and sister Celia Edelina. Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Guadalupe Fraga of Bridgeport; sons Julio Blas Fraga of Bridgeport and Isidro Fraga and wife, Claudia Reyes, of Louisiana; daughters Juanita Yadira Salinas and husband, Cesar, of Sanger, Gabriela Rodriguez and husband, Rene, of Pleasanton, Guadalupe Fraga and Yasmin Fraga, both of Bridgeport; grandchildren Kassandra, Cesar, Monica, Samuel, Isidro, Brisa, Miguel, Maria, Meredith, Natalie and Mia; his parents; brothers and sisters, Maria Adelita Mendoza, Juan Jose Fraga, Marta Alicia Rangel, Yesenia Davila, Jesus Humberto Fraga, Leticia Leyva, Aracely Rosas and Saul Fraga; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Franks, Joe Dean
1956-2014

Published Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Joe Dean Franks, 57, died Sunday, June 15, 2014, at his home in Bridgeport.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, at Thomas Cemetery in Bridgeport. Arrangements are under the direction of Jones Family Funeral Home.
Joe was born Dec. 11, 1956, in Wichita Falls to Martha Raye (Beauchamp) and Aubrey Dean Franks. He loved to bass fish and participate in bass tournaments. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
Franks was preceded in death by his mother; and his grandparents, Lucille and Daniel Beauchamp.
Survivors include sons Michael and Jason Franks, both of Bridgeport; father A.D. Franks of Bridgeport; sisters Lynn Franks Fair and Amy Franks Miller, both of Denton; brother Ray Franks of Bridgeport; granddaughter Edyee Franks; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
Memorials may be made to a charity of choice.

Frederick, Leo Aaron
1931-2014

Published Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Leo Aaron Frederick, 83, of Paradise, died Friday, Sept. 5, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas, with full military honors. Burial is under the direction of Jones Family Funeral Home of Bridgeport.
Leo was born June 18, 1931, in Pawhuska, Okla., to Gertrude Lee (Bessie) and Ralph Frederick. He quit school in order to serve his country and received his diploma and college credits through the military. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years.
He married Margery Lou McNamara Aug. 1, 1966, in Waco. After he retired from the military, Leo was a carpenter in the construction business. He and Margery moved to Wise County in 1978.
Leo enjoyed hunting, fishing and carpentry. He was a Mason and a member of Anchorage Lodge No. 17.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Alan Wayne Frederick; and grandson Bryce Taylor.
Survivors include his wife; sons David Frederick and wife, Mindy, of La Jolla, Calif., Aaron Frederick and wife, Kari, of Argyle, Thomas Taylor and wife, Brenda, of Justin, and Mark Taylor and wife, Donna, of Euless; daughter Diana Wallace and husband, Allen, of Fort Worth; sister Arlene Carroll of Pawhuska; 16 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

Ganus, Harold Eugene
1941-2014

Published Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Harold Eugene Ganus, 73, of Chico, died Friday, Sept. 12, 2014.
Funeral was Sept. 16 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Pastor Barney Hudson officiating. Burial was at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Mt. Pleasant.
Gene was born Sept. 5, 1941, in Fairfield, Ala., to Alpha Eloise (Meadows) and Harold Floyd Ganus. He married Peggy Sue Sistrunk Sept. 2, 1979, in Baytown. He served his country in the U.S. Navy and was a master mechanist who retired from LTV in Grand Prairie.
He also was a pastor and a member of Anconkee Ministries in Chico where he conducted church services at his home. Gene was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of the Alvord Masonic Lodge.
He was a musician who played the piano, wrote music and sang. Most of all, he was a loving husband and father who enjoyed spending time with his family.
Gene is survived by his wife; sons Brady Ganus of Bridgeport, Carey Ganus and wife, Anna, of Springtown, and Brandon Ganus of Chico; daughter Melody Mabe of Baytown; brother Paul Ganus of Garland; grandchildren Keaton, Ashton, Jordyn, Elijah and Brandon Ganus Jr., and Nathan Mabe; and great-grandchildren Aidan Pickering and Hunter Mabe.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

Garces, Mary Sue
1930-2014

Published Saturday, September 20, 2014
Mary Sue Garces, 83, of Paradise, formerly of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Sept. 18, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Shelton Garces, Kenny Salazar, Felipe Moncibiaz, Jim Bob Culwell, John Clifton, Austin Culwell, Joshua Vidal, Chris Martinez, and honorary pallbearer Cliff Ryan. Visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Jones Family Funeral Home.
Mary was born Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 1930 in Decatur to Carlos and Josephina (Burolas) Casillas. On Dec. 24, 1969 she married Cilfredo Q. “Sonny” Garces. She was a member of Cates Street Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
In years past, she was the owner of Mary’s Place Restaurant in Bridgeport. In addition to cooking, Mary loved to crochet and spend time with her grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughters Gloria Martinez and Emily Vidal; son-in-law Marcos Torres Jr; and grandson Andy Martinez.
Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Sonny Garces; sons Cliff Garces and wife, Tracie, Lupe Salazar Jr. and wife, JoAnn, John Salazar Sr., and Tommy Salazar; daughters Julie Torres, Sally Salazar, JoAnn Salazar, Olga Evans, Norma Stith and Gloria Ramirez; sister Emilie Davila; numerous grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

Garcia, Thomas
1931-2014

Published Saturday, May 10, 2014
Thomas Garcia, 83, died Tuesday, May 6, 2014, in Sunset.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 10, at Montague Catholic Cemetery with Father Richard Collins officiating. Burial is under the direction of White Family Funeral Home of Bowie.
Thomas was born March 11, 1931, in New York City to Thomas and Laura (Tubens) Garcia. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years and retired in 1968 as a gunnery sergeant.
Thomas received his masters in education at Florida International University in Miami. He was an instructor at Geo T. Baker Aviation College in Miami for 23 years, then worked as a case manager for the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Denton and was a substitute teacher for schools in Bowie and Wise County.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Ed Garcia.
Thomas is survived by his wife of 19 years, Pat Garcia of Sunset; children Tom Garcia and wife, Gingerlee, of Richlands, N.C., Laura Garcia of Sun City, Fla., David Fletcher and wife, LaDonna, of Krum, and Suzanne Hageman and husband, Randy, of Pratt, Kan.; grandchildren Thomas Garcia of Vallejo, Calif., Jonathan Garcia of Sun City, Fla., Dianna Garcia of Sun City, Fla., Kimberly Goodman and husband, Bobby, of Chandler, Katherine Fletcher of Krum, Rystal and Payton Hoeme of Pratt, Kan., and Caden Schowergerdt of Pratt, Kan.; great-grandchildren Tomas and Nicholas Garcia of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Isabel Garcia of Wilmington, N.C.; and the mother of his children, Felicia Garcia of Miami.

Gardner, Millie Bess
1925-2014

Published Saturday, November 1, 2014
Millie Bess Gardner, 89, a former longtime resident of Lake Bridgeport, and most recently of Wichita Falls, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014, surrounded by family.
Funeral was Oct. 19 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. She was buried next to her husband in Gibtown.
Millie, affectionately known to her grandchildren and many others as “Bomba,” was born March 30, 1925, in Peacock to Henry Elmer and Sally Schlaepfer.
She graduated from Peacock High School in 1943 and married Rayford Paul Gardner May 25, 1946, in Aspermont. They later moved to Gibtown, then in 1980 to Lake Bridgeport, where they were members of Lake Bridgeport Baptist Church.
Millie and Rayford were married 57 years before his death on Oct. 16, 2003. She died 11 years later, to the day.
She loved Rayford and she also loved Jesus, and her faith in him showed in everything she did. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; brothers James and Robert Schlaepfer; daughter-in-law Ann Gardner; and great-grandson Ethan Read.
She is survived by her son, Rayford Paul Gardner Jr. and wife, Linda, of De Leon; daughter Sally Jones and husband, James, of Wichita Falls; son Joe Gardner and wife, Cathy, of Chico; grandchildren Michelle (Thomas) Riggins of Iowa Park, Reggie (Tory) Gardner of Colorado City, D’Layna (Troy) Greg of Rhome, Heather (Johnny) Willis of Wichita Falls, Debbie (Todd) Morris of De Leon, Burette (Gabrielle) Douglas of Fort Worth, Brady (Maygan) Gardner of Sanger, Tiffany (Ed) Dixon of Wichita Falls, Alison (Brian) Read of Paradise, Stefani (Gareth) Price of San Antonio, Jeremy (Misty) Ingmire of Midland, Jason (Carrie) Solley of Fort Worth, Jeff (Freida) Solley of Bridgeport; 36 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; and many more who considered her family.

Garrison, Billy
1929-2014

Published Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Billy Garrison, 85, a car salesman, died Sunday, Aug. 3, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Oaklawn Cemetery with the Rev. Ken May officiating. Burial is under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Billy was born March 16, 1929, in Decatur to Jessie and Mary (Brown) Garrison. He married Barbara Ann Stem July 1, 1946, in Decatur and retired after more than 20 years as a car salesman.
Billy was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur. He enjoyed racing quarter horses after his retirement.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Barbara Ann Stem.
Survivors include his son, Richard Garrison and wife, DeLona, of Decatur; grandchildren Curren Wicker and husband, Brandt, of Decatur and Ryan Brown and husband, Asnley, of Decatur; great-grandchildren Camden, Carson, Caylen, Kampbell, Kortlen and Kynlie; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Garvin, Brenda Jean
1952-2014

Published Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Brenda Jean Garvin, 62, a physical therapist assistant, died Friday, Dec. 12, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Bro. Bill Hughes officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Brevon Blaylock, Christian Blaylock, Cody Yzaguirre, Lane Blaylock, Tyler Yzaguirre, Dylan Blaylock, Cason Blaylock and Joshua Garvin.
Brenda was born Oct. 16, 1952, in Decatur to Charles and Betty (Tadlock) Bradford. She married Bill Garvin Sr. Feb. 14, 1992, in Denton County, and she was a member of New Vision Ministries.
Brenda was preceded in death by her father, Charles Bradford; son Stephen Blaylock; daughter Shelly Blaylock; and brother David Bradford.
Survivors include her husband of 22 years, Bill Garvin Sr. of Decatur; daughter Tonya Grimes of Alvord; sons Chad Blaylock and Brad Blaylock, both of Justin, Billy Garvin Jr. of Bridgeport and Josh Garvin of Alvord; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her mother, Betty Bradford of Decatur; grandmother Arlie Weaver of Nocona; sisters Cyndie Bradford of Decatur and Dana Fowler of Boyd; daughter-in-law Laura Blaylock of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Garza, Esperanza ‘Hope’
1949-2014

Published Saturday, January 4, 2014
Esperanza “Hope” Garza, 64, died Thursday, Jan. 2, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, at Pleasant View Baptist Church with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Mexican Cemetery. Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Pallbearers will be Jacob Luevanos, Jesus Rodriguez, Jonathan Garza, Anthony Scott Smith, Oscar Luevanos, Ralla Hankins, Jr. Sparks, Braden Liner, Reynal Garza and Ruben James Dunlap.
Hope was born June 23, 1949, in Bridgeport to Frank and Victoria (Casillas) Martinez. She married Lorenzo Garza May 8, 1970, in Waurika, Okla., and was a housewife.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son Ray Garza; son-in-law Leonard Eugene Dunlap; brothers George, Raymond, Johnny and Phillip Martinez; and sister Josie Cant. Survivors include her husband, Lorenzo Garza Sr. of Bridgeport; son Lorenzo “Dirt” Garza Jr. and wife, Lisa, of Bridgeport; daughters Cynthia Rodriquez and Felix Mendoza of Fort Worth, Maria Garza and husband, Randall Smith, of Bridgeport, Cicilia “CiCi” Liner of Fort Worth, Veronica Garza P rez of Fort Worth, and Guadalupe Martinez and husband. Carlos Sr., of Fort Worth; 20 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers Anselmo Martinez and wife, Guadelupe, Daniel Martinez and Bobby Martinez; sisters Carmen Cox and husband, Eddie, Connie Rodriguez and husband, Raul, Carol Martinez, Paula Martinez, and Lilly Pe a and husband, John; and other family members and friends.

Gee, Paulette
1950-2014
Published Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Paulette Gee, 64, of Chico, died Friday, Nov. 14, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Nov. 17 at First Baptist Church of Chico with Pastor Ed Edington officiating. Burial followed at Chico Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Alex Hastings, Chaz Miller, Jackie Souther, Jackie Karch, Jordan Karch and Josh Richey.
Paulette was born June 20, 1950, in Ponder. She was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her son, Johnny Gee; and her grandmother, Minnie Page.
She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Leon Gee Sr.; sons Leon Jr. and Jerry Gee; daughter Kristi Gee-Bullion; parents Marie Page and Robert Byrd; grandchildren John Dylan, Heather, Sarah, Braden, Nichole and Kaiden Gee, Trinity Bullion, and Kourtnee and Cody Ireland; and great-grandchild Fable Gee.

Gentry, Anna Rita
1950-2013

Published Saturday, January 4, 2014
Anna Rita Gentry, 63, of Paradise died Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013, in Decatur.
Service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, at the First Baptist Church of Cottondale with Pastor Charles Pugh and Bro. Terry Terry officiating. Burial will follow at Cottondale Cemetery.
Visitation is at 1 p.m., prior to the service, at the church.
Anna was born Nov. 15, 1950, in Philadelphia to Rocco and Antoinette (Giangrande) DiDonato. She attended Brown Technical High School in Wilmington, Del. Throughout her four years there, she studied cosmetology. Upon graduation, she worked at the beauty salon in the local J.C. Penney department store.
After several years of working for others, she opened her own business in Wilmington, called Five Points Beauty Salon. This was by no means an ordinary place to have your hair styled. Because of Anna’s outgoing, kind and loving way, this was a place to meet and greet. All of her family, friends and friends of friends came here, as the atmosphere was all about love, gathering and food – yes, food, because everyone brought in homemade food, and Anna was always so happy to share. Her mother, ‘Nina,’ helped at the front desk, as well as her Aunt Rita. Mary, Anna’s sister, also worked there as a beautician.
Anna worked hard at her business for many years, but after her mother’s death, she decided she needed a change and came to Texas, which became her new home. Not long after her arrival, she met Glenn and was so happy to become part of his big family.
She became the glue that kept everyone together in Texas just as she had done in Delaware. She was a shining example of love, kindness and giving selflessly to her new community for the next 31 years. During these years, she ran the Boyd Automotive and Hardware Store and became a tax specialist.
Anna was a hardworking, dedicated businesswoman. In her “spare” time, her passion was cooking and sharing all wonderful homemade delights with others, especially all of her delicious Italian food.
She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Glenn Anthony Gentry of Paradise; son Sam Gentry and wife, Whitney, of Lubbock; daughters Nina Price and husband, William, of Boyd, and Shelley Schaffer and husband, Matthew, of Temecula, Calif.; brothers Vincent DiDonato of Smyrna, Del., and Rocco DiDonato of Newark, Del.; sister Mary Clement of Paradise; grandchildren Lexi Schaffer and Ashton Schaffer of Temecula, Calif., and Sawyer Gentry and Chandler Gentry of Lubbock; and numerous other family members and friends.
Anna was preceded in death by her parents; brother-in-law Francis Clement; uncle Sam Albano and aunt Rita Albano; and uncle Joe Strano and aunt Carmela Strano.

Gentry, Grace Juliann
1945-2014
Published Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Grace Juliann Gentry, 68, of Benbrook, died Sunday, Feb. 9, 2014, in Fort Worth.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 15, at the First Christian Church of Paradise.
Julie was born Aug. 2, 1945, in Fort Worth to Floyd and Correne Gentry. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Paradise.
She enjoyed horseback riding, barrel racing, antiquing, reading and gardening. She worked for many years at Lockheed, Sprint and Southwestern Bell. She was a breast cancer survivor.
She is survived by a son, Morgan Holt; grandson Tevin Holt; and extended family and friends, including Lydia Bridier, Jim Minx, Linda Bohou-Presma, Joyce Lewis, Darla Woolridge and Janet Finley.

Gerhart, Ronnie Lee, Sr.
1939-2014

Published Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Ronnie Lee Gerhart Sr., 75, a retired sheet metal journeyman, died Sunday, June 1, 2014, in Chico.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Ronnie was born March 9, 1939, in Indianapolis to Charles and Doris (Johnson) Fornshell.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Dave and George Gerhart.
He is survived by his daughters, Maria Ann Hoket and husband, J., of Chico and Tanya Hart and husband, Jim, of Gardenville, Nev.; grandchildren Leslie, Coltan, Raylon, Dameon, Alana, Marinia, Gabriel, Florence, Atlas, Kayson, Braxton, Austin, Aydan and Ian; brothers Donald Gerhart and wife, Robin, of Greenville, Pa., and Richard Gerhart and wife, Gloria, of Keystone Heights, Fla.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gerhart, Ronnie Lee, Sr.
1939-2014
Published Saturday, June 7, 2014
Ronnie Lee Gerhart Sr., 75, a retired sheet metal journeyman, died Sunday, June 1, 2014, in Chico.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Ronnie was born March 9, 1939, in Indianapolis to Charles and Doris (Johnson) Fornshell.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Dave and George Gerhart.
He is survived by his daughters, Maria Ann Hoket and husband, Patrick J., of Chico and Tanya Hart and husband, Jim, of Gardenville, Nev.; son Ronnie Lee Gerhart Jr. of Chico; grandchildren Leslie, Coltan, Raylon, Dameon, Alana, Marinia, Gabriel, Florence, Atlas, Kayson, Braxton, Austin, Aydan and Ian; brothers Donald Gerhart and wife, Robin, of Greenville, Pa., and Richard Gerhart and wife, Gloria, of Keystone Heights, Fla.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Geron, Beth Marlena
1956-2014
Published Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Beth Marlena Geron, 57, of Alvord, died Saturday, June 21, 2014 in Decatur.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Thursday, June 26 at Immanuel Baptist Church in Decatur. Rev. Louis Horton will officiate.
Beth was born Aug. 25, 1956 to Wally and Amy (Walker) Spaith in Cincinnati. She married Glen Melvin Geron April 23, 1983 in Decatur. Beth was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Glen Geron of Alvord; daughter Rolanda Patterson of Decatur; two grandsons, Daxx Patterson and Nathaniel Patterson; sister Jerriann Scott Brown of Ohio; brothers Rusty Scott of Massachusetts and Jerry T. Scott of Ohio; niece, nephew and a host of friends.

Gettys, Ronald Thomas
1948-2014

Published Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Ronald Thomas Gettys, 66, of Decatur, died Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014, at Baylor All Saints Hospital in Fort Worth, following a brief illness.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial will be at Oaklawn Cemetery under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers will be Martin Woodruff, Mason Woodruff, Murray Cude, Melton Cude, Derrick Boyd, Chance Overton, James M. Brummell, William Klose and Cliff Moon.
Ronny was born Sept. 1, 1948, in Decatur to Charles Thomas and Janice (Mann) Gettys. After graduating from Decatur High School he attended the University of Texas in Austin where he majored in architecture. Austin became his home. He married Janci M. Goodson in 1969, and they had two daughters, Shauna and Eryn.
During his career, Ronny worked with various architectural firms as a supervisor of architectural construction on buildings at the university in Austin, a Holiday Inn in New York and others. He also worked for Motorola in Austin. He was an associate with Graber, Simmons and Cowan Architect and worked with the Veterans Administration supervising the construction of veteran retirement homes in Texas.
Following the completion of the program, he joined Jay Barnes Architects of Austin as construction administrator. After his retirement, he returned to Decatur, where he lived with his friend from childhood, Nancy Brummell Boyd. She and Ronny sang in the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur. Ronny was also an accomplished pianist and worked with various civic and state committees in Austin.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his daughters, Shauna Tomme and husband, John, of Watauga, and Eryn Gettys of Austin; grandson Matthew Tomme of Watauga; sisters Charlotte Meador and husband, Frank, of Decatur and Leisa Waylett and husband, Manshadow, of Decatur; partner Nancy Boyd of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Giblin, Joel
1940-2014

Published Saturday, March 22, 2014
Master Chief Joel “Gib” Giblin, 73, retired military, died Tuesday, March 11, 2014, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, March 22, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with George Quillin officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to service.
Gib was born Sept. 21, 1940, in Baton Rouge, La., to Clancy and Louise (Lucus) Giblin. He married Donna Gener Oct. 9, 1963, in Houston.
Gib served his country in the U.S. Navy and retired after 34 years of service. He was a 33rd-Degree Mason of the Arlington Lodge and a member of the Wise County Veteran Group.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Donna Giblin of Decatur; son Daniel Giblin of Decatur; brother Gerald Giblin of Houston; sister Cheryl Hart of Houston; and other family members and friends.
Memorials can be made to the Wise County Veterans Group by calling 940-683-2382.

Gill, James Edward
1933-2014

Published Saturday, October 18, 2014
James Edward Gill, 81, a retired custodian, died Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service was Oct. 17 at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 1 in Decatur with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. Burial was under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
James was born July 11, 1933, in Dalhart to Marvin and Irene (Leonard) Gill. He was married to Racheal Eldridge and was a retired custodial worker for Imperial Fabrications in Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Racheal Gill; brothers Earl, Burl and John Gill; sisters Mary Otwell, Betty McCann, Darlene Gill and Sally Ruth Gill.
Survivors include his son, John W. Gill of Lake Bridgeport; daughters Sandra Gill and Richard Williams of Runaway Bay and Denise Stidham of Fort Worth; granddaughter Rachell DeLay; sisters Jo Ann Martin and husband, PeeWee, of Granbury, Linda Gill of Denton; and other family members and friends.

Gillespie, Linda Faye Holmes
1942-2014
Published Saturday, March 22, 2014
Linda Faye Holmes Gillespie, 71, the longtime librarian for the city of Rhome, died Wednesday, March 19, 2014.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Monday in Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Chapel in Colleyville. Interment will follow in Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park. Visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday.
Linda was born April 24, 1942, in Fort Worth, the daughter of Pete and Dorothy Holmes. She attended Keller High School, graduating in 1960.
That same year, Linda met Leon Gillespie, the love of her life, and they married Sept. 1, 1961. They had two children, Brent Lane and Jana Lyn.
A lifelong member of Chapter 326, Order of the Eastern Star, Linda loved and served the organization for over 50 years.
She is survived by her children, Brent Lane and Jana Lyn; a grandchild, Kyle Jaeger; sister-in-law Shirley Holmes; nephew Tommy Holmes Jr.; nieces Marla and Amanda Holmes; and oldest and dearest friends, C.W. and Charlotte West.

Gilliam, Dale Edward, Jr.
1957-2014

Published Wednesday, May 24, 2014
Dale Edward Gilliam Jr., 57, of Mountain View, Okla., died Tuesday, May 20, 2014, in Dallas.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Nolan Warner officiating.
Dale was born May 12, 1957, in Tyler to Dale Edward Sr. and Janice (Shelton) Gilliam. He married Diane Looney March 20, 1991, and they were married 18 years until her passing in 2009. Dale was in law enforcement and served in the U.S. Air Force as a law enforcement specialist. He received the Air Force good conduct medal and longevity service award.
He was preceded in death by his father and his wife.
Survivors include his son, Dale Gilliam III and wife, Rachel, of Dallas; daughter Dawn Keller and husband, Thomas, of Decatur; son Denton Gilliam and wife, Dana, of Paradise; grandson Cameron Keller of Decatur; his mother, Janice Mulanax of Fort Worth; brothers Glen Gilliam and wife, Tracie, Barry Dunn and wife, Margie, and Gene Gilliam and wife, Amy; sisters Stacie Debellis and husband, Mike, and Sylvia Hallerman and husband, Clint; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Gilmore, Maudie Mae
1945-2014

Published Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Maudie Mae Gilmore, 69, a homemaker, died Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2014, in Newark.
Graveside service was Dec. 1 at Pleasant Grove No. 2 Cemetery with Chaplain Phillip Weitner officiating. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd handled arrangements.
Maudie was born Jan. 20, 1945, in Fort Worth to William and Maudie (Bailey) Tucker. She married Lelie Ray Gilmore and was a homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Leslie Ray Gilmore; and her parents.
Survivors include her daughter, Sharon Robinson and husband, Lowell, of Boyd; sons Cody Dean Gilmore and wife, Cleta, of Denton and Leslie Ray Gilmore of Newark; granddaughters Tiffany Sloas and husband, Jason, of New Fairview, and Lindsey Hope Robinson of Newark; great-grandson Jason Sloas Jr.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Godbey, Billy H.
1943-2014
Published Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Billy H. “Frog” Godbey, 71, died Saturday, April 26, 2014, at his home in Newark.
Funeral was April 29 at Biggers Funeral Chapel in Lake Worth. Burial followed at Aurora Cemetery.
Billy was born Jan. 30, 1943, in Fort Worth to Glen and Thelma Godbey. He was raised in Haslet and attended Northwest High School. Before his retirement, he was a shop foreman for J&L Tanks for more than 20 years.
Survivors include his wife, Charlotte Chapman; daughters Cindy Pockrus, Kim Hulsey and husband, David, and Lisa Durham and husband, Tiger; mother of his children, Leona Crain; stepchildren Curtis Hooks, Chris Hooks and Daniel Chapman and wife, Mary; mother Thelma Godbey; brothers Woody Godbey and wife, Regina, and Gabe Godbey and wife, Sandra; sisters Glenna Waggoner and husband, Kenneth, and Pam Warren and husband, Gerald; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Godwin, Landry Grace
2014

Published Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Landry Grace Godwin, infant daughter of Brandon and Jessica Godwin, died Saturday, June 28, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Visitaiton is one hour prior to the service.
Pallbearers are Bradley Fagan, Bryan Fagan, Albert Edwards and Lucas Dixon.
Landry was born June 23, 2014, in Decatur to Brandon and Jessica (Edwards) Godwin.
Survivors include her parents, Brandon and Jessica Godwin of Bridgeport; sisters Karlee, Aja, Emma and Natalie Godwin, all of Bridgeport; grandmothers Debbie Shepherd of Honey Grove and Gayla Fagan of Bridgeport; grandfather Albert Edwards of Honey Grove; great-great-aunt Mary Owens of Bridgeport; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Golike, Charles
1927-2014

Published Saturday, January 25, 2014
Charles C. Golike, 86, died Jan. 23, 2014, in Decatur.
A public memorial service will be held to celebrate his life at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25 in the Parlor Room of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
Charles, known as Chuck, was born May 22, 1927 to Homer and Nellie Golike of Bethalto, Ill. After graduating from Alton High School in Alton, Ill., he attended Northwestern Bible College in Minneapolis, Minn., participating in Bible learning, music, and playing catcher on the college baseball team.
He met his future wife, Lois Hawkey, there, and they were married June 15, 1948, in Alton, Ill. Chuck owned Go-Britt Kennels and enjoyed raising, training, selling, showing and bird hunting with his Brittany Spaniels. He had careers in construction and in managing large ranches in Colorado, Nevada and Texas. His love of horses was evident throughout his life.
Chuck professed faith in Jesus Christ as a child. He grew up attending church and continued as an adult in teaching God’s Word and in directing church choirs. While living in Grand Junction, Colo., he began his own radio program called “Let’s Hear” featuring local and visiting Christian musicians who sang, played a variety of instruments and shared their testimonies of faith in Christ and of God’s faithfulness in their lives.
Chuck’s own faith enabled him to respond to life’s difficulties with the conviction of the message of his favorite hymn, “It Is Well with My Soul.” He will be keenly missed as a loving husband, father, and friend.
He is survived by his wife, Lois Golike, and their three children (and spouses): Daniel (Terri), Gaile Thulson (Mark), and Kevin (Gloria); six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; brothers Harold and Don Golike; and sister Marie Ringhausen. He was preceded in death by his sister, LaVerne Golike; and brothers Albert and William Golike.

Golike, Lois Katherine
1927-2014

Published Saturday, August 30, 2014
Lois Katherine Golike, 87, died Thursday, Aug. 21, 2014, in Decatur.
A public memorial service to celebrate her life will be 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, in the parlor of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
Lois was born Feb. 21, 1927, to the Rev. Claude and Katherine Hawkey in Waterloo, N.Y., where Rev. Hawkey pastored the Waterloo Baptist Church. The family later moved to Michigan where the Rev. Hawkey pastored other churches, and Lois enjoyed visits to her grandparents’ farm, a place she remembered with great fondness throughout her life.
In high school, Lois participated in swimming and music clubs and assembled electric motors for wartime demand, earning money for college. After graduating from Owosso High School in 1945, she attended Northwestern Bible College in Minneapolis. As part of a summer ministry team, she traveled to the Colorado mountains to teach Vacation Bible School. While in college, Lois met her future husband, and she was married to Charles (Chuck) Golike June 15, 1948, in Alton, Ill.
Lois was a strong believer in Christ. She enjoyed singing in church and community choirs and was often called upon as a soloist. Her children and many others benefited from her involvement in children’s ministries and teaching as they grew up attending Evangelical Free Church near Princeton, Minn., where Chuck and Lois owned a small farm. She also sang on Chuck’s Christian radio show when the family moved to Grand Junction, Colo.
Through relocations to Nevada and Texas, Lois’ faith enabled her to create a home, find friends, change occupations and invest in the lives of others wherever she and Chuck lived. She enjoyed membership and activities with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and took up oil painting later in life, earning a novice blue ribbon at the North Central Texas College Art Show in Gainesville.
Lois’ husband, Charles Golike, died Jan. 23, 2014, in Decatur. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Ruth Esther Havens; and brothers Paul and Joseph Hawkey.
Lois is survived by their three children and their spouses, Daniel and wife, Terri, Gaile Thulson and husband, Mark, and Kevin and wife, Gloria; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Goode, Oran K.
1934-2014

Published Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Oran K. Goode, 79, a retired safety coordinator, died Sunday, May 18, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport, with burial in East Bridgeport Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Dr. David Burrows will officiate, and Nicholas Hardin, Ross Hardin, Tommy Newton, Randall Aaron, David Cave and Remington Lane will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be B.C. Green, G.B. Funk, Carl Cox, Roy Baucom, Tommy Denton, Dan Stack, Bill Arrington, Robert Meek, James White and Travis Van Hoose.
Oran was born Dec. 3, 1934, to Kossie and Lillie (Buckingham) Goode in Electra. He married Myrna Ross June 25, 1960, in Bridgeport.
Oran served his country in the U.S. Army and was retired from the TXI plant in Chico. He was a deacon at the First Baptist Church of Bridgeport and a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Bridgeport Historical Society and Bridgeport Cemetery Board. He served on the Bridgeport City Council from 1970-1976.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Myrna Ross Goode of Bridgeport; daughters Keila Goode Cave of Fort Worth, Kelli Goode Babin and husband, Jim, of Lewisville; grandson David Noah Cave; granddaughters Heidi Nicole Babin, Katie Marie Babin and Anna Grace Cave; sister Naomi Rawls of Decatur; other family members and a host of friends.

Goode, Richard Samuel, Jr.
1924-2014
Published Saturday, January 25, 2014
Richard Samuel Goode Jr., 89, of Gladewater, died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2014.
Graveside service was Jan. 18 at Gladewater Memorial Park with Larry W. Osborne officiating.
Richard was born Nov. 28, 1924 in Bridgeport. After graduating from Bridgeport schools in 1942, he served in World War II as a sergeant in the Army field artillery.
He attended Decatur (now Dallas) Baptist College for two years, then earned his bachelor of science degree in education at North Texas State (now the University of North Texas) in 1950. After working several jobs including gas company field work and insurance investigating, he landed his first classroom job in Orange in 1951.
He began teaching high school social studies in Gladewater in 1956 and spent 28 years there as a teacher, counselor and principal. He retired in 1984 after 34 years in public education. He also collected and sold antiques and formerly owned Main Street Treasures in Gladewater.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Samuel Goode Sr. and Mary Alice Moore; his first wife, Virginia Dillard Goode; and several siblings.
He is survived by his wife, Anne Goode of Gladewater; sons Rick Goode of Gladewater and Roger Goode and wife, Christy, of Cushing; three stepchildren, Dane Hufstetler of Longview, Shayne Dickson of White Oak and Delight Inocencio of Gladewater; four step-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the Richard Goode Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Gladewater ISD, 500 W. Quitman, Gladewater, TX 75647.

Gordon, Jennie Elizabeth
1935-2014

Published Saturday, March 22, 2014
Jennie Elizabeth Gordon, 79, a retired over-the-road truck driver, died Wednesday, March 19, 2014, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 22, at Greenwood Baptist Church with Gary Dietz officiating. Paul Moore, Pete Moore, Elvin Jackson, John Teague, Randy Bird and Terry Harris will serve as pallbearers. Burial is in Greenwood Cemetery.
Jennie was born Feb. 20, 1935, in Greenwood to Robert Elvin and Bessie Bell (Urquhart) Moore. She married William David Gordon Dec. 10, 1963, in Gainesville.
She is survived by her husband, Dave Gordon of Decatur; three daughters, Vivian Dietz and husband, Gary, of Greenwood, JoAnn Gordon of Greenwood and Sue Kiker and husband, Jim, of Maud, Okla.; two sons, Robert Bost of Greenwood and William Gordon of Maud, Okla.; 12 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sister Nadine Gage and husband, Bill Jackson, of Decatur; brother Homer Moore and wife, Pat, of Marble Falls; and nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers, R.E. Moore, Bob Moore, Earnest Moore, Jerry Moore and Oliver Moore; and two sisters, Urma Zell Denning and Eva Jo Jackson.

Gordon, Jo Anne
1957-2014

Published Saturday, September 13, 2014
Jo Anne Gordon, 56, a homemaker, died Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014 in Chico.
Services will be private. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling the arrangements.
Jo Anne was born Dec. 18, 1957 to Dave and Jenni (Moore) Gordon in Tyler.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Jenni Gordon.
Survivors include her son, John Gordon and wife, Marissa, of Midwest City, Okla.; sisters Vivian Deitz and husband, Gary, of Greenwood and Sue Kiker and husband, Jim, of Wolfe, Okla.; brothers Robert Bost of Greenwood and Willie Gordon of Maud, Okla.; her father, Dave Gordon of Maud, Okla.; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

Gorson, Robert Thomas, III
1972-2014

Published Saturday, March 22, 2014
Robert Thomas Gorson III, 41, a driver for AraMark, died Thursday, March 13, 2014, in Houston.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, March 23, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd with burial in East Bridgeport Cemetery. The family will receive friends 4-6 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Rev. Gary Sessions will officiate the service, and Joshua Adam Gowins, Jeff Gowins, Royce Blanks, Jason Henderson and B.J. Sides will serve as pallbearers.
Robert was born April 7, 1972, to Robert II and Paula (Slauson) Gorson in Fort Worth. He served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. He married Gina DeAnda April 19, 2004, in Santa Anna, Calif.
He is survived by his wife, Gina Gorson of Houston; his mother, Paula Slauson Gowins of Azle; his father, Robert Thomas (Bob) Gorson II and wife Myglo of Huntington Beach, Calif.; brothers Ronnie Gorson of Missouri and Joshua Adam Gowins and wife McKenzie of Hurst; sister Patsy Ann Gowins of Hurst; several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles; extended family members and a host of friends.

Gose, Joseph Monk
1914-2014
Published Saturday, January 11, 2014
Joseph Monk Gose, 99, formerly of Decatur, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2014, in Riverton, Wyo.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial will be at Oaklawn Cemetery. Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Joseph was born Sept. 28, 1914, in Alvord to Joseph Martin Gose, M.D. and Stella Monk Gose. He married Clara Harriet Volz, with whom he had four children: Roger Lamar Gose, M.D., Sylvia Jo Gose, Frank Joseph Gose, Ed.D., and Martha Ann Gose. Upon Clara’s death, he married Billie Stallings, and she preceded him in death in 2008.
Joseph lived most of his life in San Antonio, where he taught shop at Brackenridge High School, was principal of Harry Rogers Junior High and was an administrator within the San Antonio Independent School District. A talented craftsman, he built a home for his mother in Corpus Christi, designed and constructed an elaborate fort for his Wyoming grandchildren and generated several inventions.
Following retirement, he enjoyed being outdoors, especially with his grandchildren Roger Jr., Ben and Leah. Together they often hiked his beloved Three Mountain property in the Texas Hill Country. In his 80s, Joseph hiked the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming with his grandsons, carrying a backpack, fishing and sleeping on the ground with the “boys.”
He was a loving husband, a caring father and the world’s best grandfather.
Survivors include sons Roger Lamar Gose, M.D. and wife, Barbara, and Frank Joseph Gose, Ed.D. and wife, Sandra; grandchildren Roger, Jr., Ben and wife, Susan, and Leah Gose; and great-grandchildren Matthew Roger, Lillian Martha, William Joseph and Gage Evan.
Memorials may be made to The Gose Health Science Scholarship at Central Wyoming College, c/o Davis Funeral Home, 2203 West Main St., Riverton, WY 82501 or to the First United Methodist Church of Decatur, in memory of Joseph Gose in dedication to the Stained Glass Fund, P.O. Box 302, Decatur, TX 76234.

Gosvener, Robin
1954-2014

Published Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Robin “Rockin Robin” Gosvener, 59, a bartender, died Sunday, March 23, 2014, in Plano.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 29, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Doc Rogers officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Robin was born March 30, 1954, in Niles, Mich., to John and Antoinette (Vonomo) Ruth. She married John Gosvener May 6, 2005, in Bridgeport and was a bartender at Red’s Take 5 in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her father, John Ruth; and her daughter, Andrea Noecker.
She is survived by her husband, John Gosvener of Archer City; daughters Amy Noecker of Fort Worth, Alisa Smith of Bridgeport and Arika Rodriguez of Bridgeport; grandchildren Vincent, Nicholas, Dante, Ethan, Candice, Christopher, Antonio, Abel, Joss and Mason; her mother, Toni Ruth of Michigan; brothers Danny Ruth, Scott Ruth and Rodney Ruth; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Green, James Earl
1974-2014

Published Wednesday, May 14, 2014
James Earl Green, 39, of Grand Prairie, formerly of Bridgeport, died Sunday, May 11, 2014, in El Paso.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Friday, May 16, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Bro. Glenn Connell officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, at the funeral home.
James was born Dec. 4, 1974, in Decatur to Earl and Pansy Green. He married Valerie Stump May 3, 2008, in Aurora. He was a crane operator and absolutely loved running a crane. He also loved to hunt and fish and enjoyed listening to Texas country music. More than anything, James loved his family. He was a devoted Christian and actively preached his faith to others.
James is survived by his wife, Valerie Green of Grand Prairie; daughters Tierany Buster of Boyd, Ashlynn Stack of Euless and Jacie Green of Chico; his parents, Earl and Pansy Green of Bridgeport; his brother and sister-in-law Kenneth and April Green of Haslet; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Green, W. Harrell
1936-2014

Published Saturday, November 22, 2014
W. Harrell Green, 78, of Aurora died Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014, in Corinth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with Roy Deaver officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are David LeFors, Alan LeFors, Doyle Green, Jim Green, Randy Williams, Nicky Logan and Kyle Copp.
Harrell was born Sept. 13, 1936, in Gladewater to William and Julia (Hewitt). He married Deanna Brammer Dec. 31, 1955, in Weatherford. Harrell retired from Bell Helicopter after 34 years of dedicated service as a jig and fixture builder.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 56 years, Deanna Brammer Green; son Danny Green; and sisters Juanita LeFors and Shirley Dunaway.
Harrell is survived by his daughter, Pam Daggett of Aurora; son Roger Green of Rhome; grandchildren Laurence Daggett of Dallas and Kristi Daggett of Seattle, Wash.; brother Darrell Green and wife, Linda, of Rhome; sister Geneva Cordova and husband, E.C., of Alamosa, Colo.; and other family members and friends.

Greer, Donald Otis
1939-2014

Published Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Donald Otis Greer, 75, of Decatur, died Sunday, July 20, 2014, after a year-long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 23, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Malki Ary, Mark Ary, John Paul Ary, Jordan Harkins, Jeff Pinkerton and Wayne Broach.
Donald was born April 14, 1939, in Crosbyton to Bill and Laverne (Steddley) Greer. He married Margarett Averitt April 29, 1964, in Fairbanks, Alaska. He was a 20-year veteran of the United States Army and proudly served two tours of duty in Vietnam.
He was a lifelong member of VFW Post 10374, where he served as commander for several years.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Margarett Greer of Decatur; daughter Tammy Singleton of Newark; sons Quinn Greer and wife, Rhonda, of Alvord, and Lynn Greer and wife, Kim, of Decatur; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters Mattie Sermons, Bobby Greer, Beverly Jernigan, Jenny Mullane, Raymond Greer, Rickey Greer, Wesley Greer, Debra Fite and Betty Doyle; numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jackie Greer, Pat Greer and Thomas Greer; an infant sister, Judy Greer; and lifelong friend John Calvin Webb.

Greer, Robert Wayne
1944-2014

Published Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Chief Robert Wayne Greer, 70, died Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel in Fort Worth. Burial is 1 p.m. Friday at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Survivors include his loving wife of 53 years, Peggy Greer; children Elizabeth D. Strecker and Richard Wayne Greer; and grandson Blake G. Strecker of Nebraska.

Gregston, Troyce Eugene 'Geno'
1940-2014

Published Saturday, April 19, 2014
Troyce “Geno” Eugene Gregston, 74, of Boyd, died Monday, April 14, 2014, in Lake Worth.
No services are scheduled.
Geno was born Jan. 12, 1940, in Mineola to Edward and Opal (Vinson) Gregston. He was a retired Shepperd’s Dairy employee.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his son, Ernest Gregston of Denton; sisters Juanita Jackson of Boyd and Shirley Hare of Fruitdale; and other family members and friends.

Griffin, Maxine Thorell
1927-2014

Published Saturday, June 7, 2014
Maxine Thorell Griffin, 86, of Rhome, died Tuesday, June 3, 2014, in Plano.
Graveside service was June 6 at Aurora Cemetery with Pastor Carl L. Thorell officiating. Burial was under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Maxine was born Nov. 9, 1927, in Rhome to O.Z. and Dollie (Brammer) Thorell. She married Daniel Bert “D.B.” Griffin April 5, 1947, in Rhome, and they were married 62 years before his death in 2009.
Maxine enjoyed square dancing in her younger days with her husband and later playing 42 and bingo. She loved her family, her Lord and spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by sons Don Griffin of Rhome and Gary Griffin and wife, Dorothy, of Dallas; granddaughters Joanie Griffin Lester and husband, Steven, of Celina and Chelsie Griffin of Dallas; step-granddaughter Sabrina Lambert of Haltom City; great-grandchildren Wyatt Samuel Lester, Ainsley Maxine Lester and Enzo Lester; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters Juanelle Thorell and Geneva Burch; and brother Carl A. Thorell.

Griffith-Georgia, Joanie
1943-2014

Published Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Joanie Griffith-Georgia, 71, died Saturday, June 14, 2014, in Decatur.
Service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, at the Gospel Tabernacle Church of Jesus Christ in Ringling, Okla., with the Rev. Jimmy Morris officiating. Burial will follow at the Dixie Cemetery north of Ringling, under the direction of Alexander Funeral Home of Ringling.
Visitation is 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Eric Collins, Tommy Heard, Terry Griffin, Scott Shipman, Beau Beauchamp and Michael Cvelar. Honorary pallbearers are Charles Griffith and James Goode.
Joanie was born Feb. 10, 1943, in Lawton, Okla., to Burl Jasper Griffith and Bonnie Lucille (Apala) Griffith. She was raised at Pinto, attending school at Fox.
She married Michael Georgia Nov. 15, 1980, in Fort Worth. They made their home in Fort Worth and later moved to Rhome, where they have been residents since 1994. Joanie was a dedicated homemaker and wonderful wife. She loved working in her flower gardens and was always family-oriented. She was baptized at the Gospel Tabernacle of Ringling.
She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her loving husband, Michael Georgia of Rhome; daughters Daneen Collins and husband, Eric, of Oklahoma City, Bonnie Heard and husband, Tommy, of Keller, Tammy Johnson of Fort Worth and Kristie Robertson of Stroud, Okla.; son Michael Cvelar and wife, Jennifer, of Cleveland, Ohio; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; siblings Jean Shipman of Mansfield, Pat Griffin of Healdton, Okla., Charles Griffith of Ringling, Okla., Janis Januszewski and husband, Ski, of Desoto and Linda Gant of Oklahoma City; and numerous other family members and friends.

Grissom, Charles J.
1926-2014
Published Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Charles J. Grissom, 87, a retired phone lineman for Southwestern Bell, died Friday, Jan. 10, 2014, in Weatherford.
Graveside service was Jan. 12 at Alvord Cemetery with Gerre Joiner officiating.
Charles was born July 17, 1926, in Alvord to Thomas and Minnie May (Stonecipher) Grissom. He married JoAnn Boyd Dec. 27, 1946, in Decatur, and they were married 62 years until her passing in 2009.
He was also preceded in death by his parents; a brother; and grandson Chuck Grissom.
Survivors include his daughters, Shelly Smith and Suzy Grissom of Weatherford; sons Tommy Grissom and wife, Debra, of Waxahachie and Jim Grissom and wife, Debbie, of Wichita Falls; grandchildren Andrea, Josh, Kristy and Chris; seven great-grandchildren, including a newborn, Jaxson Smith; and numerous other family members and friends.

Groves, Larry Franklin 'T.A.'
1958-2014

Published Saturday, August 9, 2014
Larry Franklin “T.A.” Groves, 55, died unexpectedly Wednesday, Aug. 6, at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at the First Baptist Church of Chico. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers will be Rusty Hand, Dusty Tucker, Chris Davis, Matt Mitchell, Josh Groves and Jack Keller. Honorary pallbearers will be Eddie Cowley, Brian Green, Donnie Grooms, Eddie Cox, Coit Harris and Russell Johnson.
Larry was born Oct. 24, 1958, in Bridgeport and grew up in Chico. He graduated from Chico High School and Fort Worth Business School. He was an avid hunter and also loved farming and flying. He had his private pilot’s license and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Chico.
He is survived by his wife, Donna; his parents, R.L. Groves Jr. and wife, Gussie; and brother Glenn Groves and wife, Tammy, all of Chico; sister Karen Green and husband, Brian, of Decatur; children Kristi Byrd and husband, Alan, of Bridgeport and Chad Husky and wife, Ronda, of Jacksboro; grandchildren Dace Grooms, Braydan Byrd, Bryson Byrd and Joey Shawver; great-grandchildren Shyler and Shayla Shawver; mother-in-law Helen Leverette of Sherman; and many nieces and nephews.

Grundy, Eddy Lee
1950-2014

Published Wednesday, May 24, 2014
Eddy Lee Grundy, 63, a mechanic, died Monday, May 19, 2014, in Decatur.
Graveside service was May 23 at Alvord Cemetery with the Rev. Gary Dimmitt officiating. Burial was under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Pallbearers were Trey Tow, Thomas Tow, Alan Campbell, Craig Rawle, Tom Rawle and Paris Martin. Honorary pallbearer was Jonathan Van Den Biggelarr.
Eddy was born Dec. 6, 1950, in Decatur to Billy Gene and Hazel Irene (Taylor) Grundy. He married Cindy Ellen Jones Nov. 15, 1982, in Decatur. Eddy was a Baptist and worked as a mechanic for more than 50 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Bobby Grundy.
Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Cindy Grundy of Decatur; son Shawn Grundy and wife, Brenda, of Decatur; daughters Falon Grundy of Haltom City and Nicole McGar and husband, Brandon, of Decatur; son Phillip Grundy of Clinton, Okla.; grandchildren London Grundy, Hunter Grundy, Hadley Belle McGar and Mason Dunton; sister Billie Rawle of Decatur; and extended family members and friends.

Guevara, Enrique Reyes
1990-2014

Published Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Enrique “Ricky G” Reyes Guevara, 23, a Marine reservist, died Wednesday, June 18, 2014, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service was June 24 at East Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Eulojio Puebla officiating. Burial was under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Ricky was born Aug. 24, 1990, in Fort Worth to Juan Martin and Dora (Reyes) Guevara. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
He is survived by his parents, Juan and Dora Guevara of Bridgeport; brothers Juan Arnulfo Guevara and wife, Chelsi, of Bridgeport, Julio Guevara of Bridgeport and Luis Guevara and wife, Sonya, of Decatur; sister Jessica Guevara of Bridgeport; grandparents Arnulfo and Josefa Reyes of Bridgeport, Ismal Diaz and Guadalupe Olivo of Bridgeport; nieces Rainy, Alicia and Bioleta Guevara; nephews Cutter Guevara and Adan Guevara; and numerous cousins, other family members and friends.

Guinn, Euna Vay
1916-2014

Published Saturday, June 14, 2014
Euna Vay Guinn died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, in Decatur at the age of 97.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Graveside service is at 2 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery in Lipan.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Nate Gage, Luke Gage, Darren Guinn, Garret Guinn, Travis Taylor and Zane Lasater. Honorary pallbearers are Scotty Guinn, Will Gage, Shannon Hesteande and Trey Taylor.
Euna was born Nov. 7, 1916, in Lipan to Morris and Bertie (Dunaway) Smith. She retired from bookkeeping after more than 25 years of service.
She loved quilting and was a member of the Decatur Quilting Club. She was also an avid gardener and a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
Euna was preceded in death by her parents; her infant daughter, Betty Guinn; her husband of 40 years, Dozier Guinn; sister Oleta Adcox; and brother Ledford Smith.
She is survived by her sons, Jerrell Guinn and wife, Gay, of Graham and Danny Guinn of Denton; daughter Treva Underhill and husband, Don, of Boyd; sister Nola Jean Hubbard of Mineral Wells; grandchildren Scotty Guinn, Dawne Burgin, Shanda Taylor, Will Gage, Shannon Hesteande, Stephanie Guinn and Rhonda Floyd; 15 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many friends.