Wise County Messenger Obituaries
2015
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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.)

Hachtel, Earlene | 1934-2015
Published Saturday, September 12, 2015
Earlene Hachtel, 80, of Newark died Thursday, Sept. 10, 2015, in Decatur.
A private service will be held.
Earlene was born Dec. 26, 1934.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Hachtel.
She’s survived by son David Hachtel and wife, Lena of Newark; daughters Cindy Rasbury and husband, Kevin, and Lorie Stevenson and husband, Andy, all of Boyd; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Hale, James 'Jabo' | 1937-2015
Published Wednesday, April 8, 2015

James “Jabo” Hale, 77, of Chico died Sunday, April 5, 2015, at home in Chico.
Service is 10 a.m. Friday, April 10, at the First Baptist Church of Alvord with Dale Webster, Jamie Reed, Bobby Miles and Kelvin Miles officiating. Burial will follow at Cumby Cemetery in Chico.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers will be Jimmy Hale, Matt Curry, Bandy Griffin, Kyler Hale, Shawn Leach, Asa Hand, Andy Justice and Cody Burgett. There will be numerous honorary pallbearers.
Jabo was born Dec. 30, 1937, in Decatur to Wiley Ward and Nannie Lou (Lewis) Hale. He was a welder for 50-plus years and was a lifetime member of Chico FFA. He played the guitar and loved music and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
Jabo was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Natalie Hale; and brother Eddie Raymond Hale.
He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Lori Ann (Duke) Hale; sons Craig Oden, Clay McDonald, James W. Hale Jr. and wife, Nancy, Kyler Hale and wife, Cortnee, and Bandy Griffin and wife, Jennifer; daughters Chereta Hale, Stephanie Fitzner, Destanie Curry and husband, Matt, and Kaylee Leach and husband, Shawn; and foster children Benny and Shaya.
He is also survived by brothers Dale Hale and wife, Hattie, and Charles Hale and wife, Mary Beth; sisters Ann Miles and husband, K.C., Francis Jackson, Hazel Sherwood and husband, Jack, Betty Bently and husband, Davis, and Nancy Withers and husband, Travis; grandchildren Casey, Quirt, Ethan, Evan, Karliegh, Sarah, Lillian, Charlotte, Carsten, Hailea, Jaicea, Brennan, Shylea, Eric, Bryston, Colton, Justin, Keisha Yarbo, Kassidi Stephens, Ashliegh, Austin, Allie, Andy, Nathan and Katherine; and eight great-grandchildren.

Hale, Stephen Louis | 1952-2015
Published Saturday, April 4, 2015

Stephen Louis Hale, 62, of Decatur died Wednesday, April 1, 2015, in Decatur.
Service is 5 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at Mulkey-Mason Funeral Home, 740 S. Edmonds, in Lewisville.
Steve was born Aug. 5, 1952, in Dallas. He graduated from Irving High School in 1970 and served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1974. He graduated from North Texas State University and received his law degree from South Texas School of Law in 1981.
After finishing law school, he moved to Alaska and practiced there for several years. He returned to North Texas in 1986. He had a private practice, then served as assistant district attorney in Grayson County for a short while.
In 1992, Steve was elected Wise County attorney. He served one term before moving to Galveston to practice law. He moved back to Alaska in 2009 where he served as a public defender in the village of Kotzebue for three years.
Steve left the arctic in 2012 to return to North Texas to practice law. He had a small law practice off the Square in Decatur.
Steve loved to travel and had many adventures with friends and family. He made friends wherever he went and all will sorely miss his presence.
Steve was preceded in death by his father, Billy Sampson Hale; and nephews Kenny Lee Hale and Colin Warren Jones.
He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Guillory Hale; brothers Kenneth Doyle Hale and Terry of Irving and Glenn Warren Hale and Susan of Highland Village; sisters Edith Hale Flanagin and Bill of Walsenburg, Colo., and Joyce Hale Nichols and Hank of Parker, Colo., and eight nephews; four nieces; six great-nephews; and two great-nieces.
He is also survived by many dear friends, including special friend Shonda Mathews of Alvord.

Hall, Billy Eugene and Betty Jean (Acker) | 2013/2015
Published Saturday, February 21, 2015
A memorial service for Billy Eugene and Betty Jean (Acker) Hall will be 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22, at Destiny Life Church in Fate, Rockwall County.
Gene died Sept. 12, 2013, and Betty died Jan. 22, 2015. Both grew up in Boyd, where Betty’s father, D.E. Acker, was a Baptist preacher. He also preached for churches in Bethel and Alvord.
Betty’s mother, Maggie Acker, died in 2000. Gene was preceded in death by his father and mother, W.I. “Red” and Naomi Hall.
Gene and Betty were longtime residents of Mesquite. After his death, she moved to Van Alstyne.
They are survived by sons Dave Hall and his wife, Nancy, of Van Alstyne and Britt Hall and his wife, Angie, of Forney; Gene’s sister, Mary Jo Mellinger and her husband, Johnny, of Belton, Mo.; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Both were cremated.

Ham, Garland Ferris | 1930-2015
Published Saturday, February 7, 2015

Garland Ferris Ham, 84, of Aurora, died Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015, in Bedford.
A private graveside service was held at Aurora Cemetery.
Garland was born Feb. 28, 1930, in Van to James Arlander and Bertie (Crum) Ham. He married Lois McGoodwin June 1, 1949, in Rhome. He served his country in the United States Navy.
Garland was a lifelong Democrat who got involved in politics at an early age. He was one of the first employees of General Motors in Arlington – his badge number was 12 – and was one of the prime movers behind organizing the Arlington B-O-P (General Motors) employees, urging workers to attend a meeting of the United Auto Workers.
After two months of hard work with meetings and leaflets, 804 voted for unionizing and only 21 voted against. On March 30, 1954, Garland Ham was sworn in as the first president of Local Union 276, having just turned 24. He remains the youngest ever elected to that office. Years later, he was still active with the Union, and his advice was still sought by those who followed him.
He later became an international representative for the UAW out of Detroit as a Union organizer. At the time of his death he was retired from General Motors and the International Union.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Herbert Ham.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lois Ham of Aurora; daughters Sandra Scruggs and husband, Tommy, of Bedford, and Garlene Weaver and husband, Tommy, of Aurora; grandchildren Johnathan Weaver and wife, Danelle, Adrienne Weaver and husband, Daniel Bradford, Garrett Scruggs and Taylor Scruggs; great-grandchildren Payton Weaver, Coy Bradford and Eli Bradford; and numerous friends.
Memorials may be made to the Newark or Rhome Fire Departments.

Ham, James Roderick 'J.R.' | 1934-2015
Published Wednesday, April 8, 2015
James Roderick “J.R.” Ham, 80, of Dallas died Friday, April 3, in Dallas.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, at East Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Honorary pallbearers are Rick Ham, David Ray, Bill Ray, Charles Morrow, Bill Crider and Donald Tollison.
J.R. was born Sept. 4, 1934, in Decatur to Louis and Beatrice Ham. He spent his younger years on his families’ Texas ranches. In high school, J.R. moved to Oklahoma where he met the love of his life, Carol Young. They were married Aug. 14, 1955, in Fitzhugh, Okla.
He graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1957. J.R. moved his wife and young family to Garden City, Kan., in 1969 where he was instrumental in the development of the agriculture and cattle industries in western Kansas.
In 1976, J.R. survived a plane crash that left him with significant paralysis. Though many would have slowed down, he continued to thrive, work and enjoy life and add significant contributions to the community and to the lives of those around him. J.R. and Carol moved to Dallas in 2012 to be near family.
He did much for many, always without fanfare. J.R. believed in hard work and enjoying life. He loved his family with gusto.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
J.R. is survived by his wife and true love of 59 years, Carol Ham of Dallas; son Jay M. Ham and wife, Suzanne, of Fort Collins, Colo.; daughter Carrie Lee Kirby and husband, Jay, of Dallas; granddaughter Clara; grandsons Jack, Judson, Cooper and Cade; brother Rick Ham; and other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions can be made to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, www.johnwayne.org, 949-631-8400.

Hamilton, Lawrence James | 1940-2015
Published Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Lawrence James Hamilton, 74, of Rhome, died Sunday, March 8, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Saturday, March 21, at Hampton Inn and Suites Fossil Creek, 3850 Sandshell Dr., in Fort Worth. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Lawrence was born June 11, 1940, in Tampa, Fla., to Ethel Hamilton. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, and he was a mechanic for Capital Electric.
Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Norma Sue Hamilton; sister Marsha Green; and brother Edward Hamilton.
He’s survived by his wife, Lisa Hamilton of Rhome; sons Larry Hamilton and wife, Holly, of Lawrence, Kan., Jeffrey Hamilton and wife, Marilyn, of Blue Springs, Mo., and Timothy Arp of Decatur; daughters Stephanie Shawver of Ponder, Mary Arp of Electra and Lisa Baker of Forney; 14 grandchildren; brothers Jerrald and Tracy; sisters Vivian, Cindy and Debbie; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the fallen and wounded soldiers’ charity of choice.

Harber, Daniel David | 1946-2015
Published Saturday, March 21, 2015
Daniel David Harber, 69, of Decatur died Tuesday, March 17, 2015, in Decatur.
No services will be held.
Daniel was born Jan. 9, 1946, in Hoxie, Ark., to David and Vina (Robins) Harber.
He’s survived by his sister-in-law, Jessene Harber of Decatur; nephew James L. Harber Jr. of Decatur; niece Tish Harber DeLeon of San Antonio; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Harmon, Alma Jean | 1937-2015
Published Saturday, May 9, 2015

Alma Jean Harmon, 77, of Rhome died Sunday, April 26, 2015.
Funeral was May 1 at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home in Colleyville with burial at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park.
Alma Jean was born May 31, 1937, in Cushing, Okla., to Alva Crenshaw and Beulah Bidwell Crenshaw. She attended Oklahoma Baptist University and later graduated from The University of Oklahoma. She was a Baptist missionary in Mexico for many years. Alma then went to work for AT&T as a directory assistance operator and retired after 27 years of service.
She was preceded in death by her son, Daniel Harmon; parents Alva and Beulah Crenshaw; sister Janice Crenshaw; and brothers Daryl, Junior and Jimmie Crenshaw.
Alma is survived by her children, Stephen Harmon, Becky Harmon Oldham and David Harmon; grandchildren J.R. and Joey Oldham; and brothers Freddie and Mike Crenshaw.

Harmon, Alma Jean | 1937-2015
Published Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Alma Jean Harmon, 77, of Rhome died Sunday, April 26, 2015.
Funeral is 12:30 p.m. Friday, May 1, at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home, 5725 Colleyville Blvd., in Colleyville. Burial will follow at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Born Alma Jean Crenshaw May 31, 1937, in Cushing, Okla., to Alva Crenshaw and Beulah Bidwell Crenshaw, she attended Oklahoma Baptist University and later graduated from The University of Oklahoma. She was a Baptist missionary in Mexico for many years. Alma then went to work for AT&T as a directory assistance operator and retired after 27 years of service.
Alma is survived by her sons, David Harmon and Steven Harmon; daughters Rebecca Odom and Anita Linder; five grandchildren; and brothers Freddie Crenshaw and Michael Crenshaw.

Harris, Sammy | 1951-2015
Published Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Sammy Harris, 64, of Hot Springs, Ark., died Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015.
Funeral was Dec. 6 at Walnut Valley Baptist Church with Tim Forrest officiating. Graveside service was Dec. 7 at Nelson Cemetery in Reno.
Sammy was born March 19, 1951, in Lake Worth to Elvie Voil Harris and Velma Lou Brammer Harris. On Dec. 9, 1977, he married Patty Underwood. Sammy was a retired meat cutter and member of the Walnut Valley Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Michael Harris.
Sammy is survived by his wife, Patty Harris of Hot Springs; three children and their spouses, Amy and Wes Scheets of Jack County, Amber and Todd Compton of Hot Springs and Shane and Melody Harris of Springdale, Ark.; and grandchildren Wesley, Wendie, Branden, Brittany, Ava, Aimsley, Asa and Sam.
Memorials may be made to the Ethiopian Bible Ministry, Walnut Valley Baptist Church, 1698 N. Hwy 7, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909.

Hartsell, Timothy Allan | 1954-2015
Published Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Timothy Allan Hartsell, 60, of Decatur died Friday, March 13, 2015, in Forth Worth.
Funeral was March 16 at the First Baptist Church in Chico with the Rev. Charles Reed of Nocona officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 3 in Chico.
Pallbearers were Aaron Hand, Sean Phillips, Jeremiah Phillips, Joey Wilson, Ty Hartsell, Pete Hartsell, Pate Cayce, Eric Garcia, Chance Wilson and Rodney Cayce.
Tim was born July 22, 1954, in Bridgeport to Harlan Richard and Juanita (Faith) Hartsell. He was an analyst at Windrock. His hobbies included woodworking, fishing and yard work. On Sept. 8, 1972, Tim married Dorthy Newton.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws, Carmine and Lillie Faye Newton.
He is survived by his wife; son Pete Hartsell and wife, April; daughter Tesa Hartsell and fianc , Marshall Pittman; brothers Danny Hartsell and wife, Darla, and Lynn Hartsell and wife, Debbie; sisters Jane Cayce, Deanna Wilson and husband, Ron, and Debbie Hand and husband, Tim; grandchildren Eric Garcia, Madelyn Garcia, Destiny Hartsell, Kylie and Kelsey Hartsell.

Harvey, Peggy June | 1932-2015
Published Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Peggy June (Ewing) Harvey, 83, of Fort Worth died Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015, at Baylor Medical Center in Grapevine.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, at Rhome Church of Christ with Dan Schluter officiating. Roy Deaver, Bruce Steele and Randy Wilson will assist.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Terry Harvey, Bruce Steele, Jon Doshier, Randy Wilson, Jeremy Wilson, Corbin Wilson, Greg Williams and Derek Williams.
Peggy was born June 28, 1932, in Lake Worth to Orville and Edith (Kennedy) Ewing. She married Harold Harvey July 30, 1949, in Rhome. They were married 62 years until his death June 2, 2012.
Peggy obtained her master’s in education from North Texas University. She retired after 33 years of teaching for Birdville ISD, receiving Teacher of the Year numerous times. Peggy was a member of Rhome Church of Christ where she was a children’s Sunday school teacher for many years. She was also a member of the Rhome Women’s Club.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather Joe Hern; husband Harold Harvey; son Ronald Harvey; granddaughter Kendi Wilson; and sister Patsy Ewing Chance.
She is survived by her son, Terry Harvey and wife, Fiorella, of Lima, Peru; daughters Karan Wilson and husband, Randy, of Fort Worth and Donna Steele and husband, Bruce, of Trophy Club; grandchildren Jeremy Wilson, Corbin Wilson and wife, Xochitl, and Tara Doshier and husband, Jon; great-grandchildren Caroline Doshier, Cooper Doshier, Isabella Wilson and Lindsey Teter; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, former students and friends.

Hastings, James David | 1942-2015
Published Wednesday, April 29, 2015
James David Hastings, 72, of Decatur, died Friday, April 24, 2015, in Decatur.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
James was born July 10, 1942, in Decatur to Catherine (Troxell) and Jack Hastings. He graduated from Monterey High School in Lubbock. He was a retired business owner who was a photographer and enjoyed growing roses.
He was also an avid drag racer earlier in his life.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Diane; daughter Cynthia; mother Catherine Troxell Gonzalez; and father Jack Hastings.

Haynes, Charles Albert 'Buddy', Sr. | 1944-2015
Published Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Charles “Buddy” Albert Haynes Sr., 71, of Boyd, died Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, surrounded by his family and friends.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at Trinity Baptist Church in Boyd with Pastor Jonathan McLeod officiating, assisted by Pastor Eric Crawford. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers are Lee Waldrop, Burl Wagner, Charles Albert Haynes III, Arron Moore, Ernie Pewitt and George Hines.
Buddy was born March 11, 1944, in Paradise to Troy and Mary (May) Haynes. He grew up in Paradise on his family farm. He later moved to Boyd where he raised a family.
Buddy was employed by Womack Trucking in Bridgeport for 40 years. From 1976 to 1978, he was police chief in Trophy Club, then he decided to follow his passion and return to driving a rock truck. Everyone knew him by his CB handle, “Hot Rod.”
His hobbies were gardening, cooking, traveling to the Rocky Mountains and spending time with his kids and grandkids. Buddy also had a lifelong passion for muscle cars. He loved to volunteer his time working at South Wise Services food pantry in Boyd and playing dominoes with his friends at the Boyd and Rhome community centers.
Buddy was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, H.C. Haynes; sister Janie Williams; son Ricky Haynes; granddaughter Kelly Jo Haynes; and stepfather Vester Robey.
He is survived by his son, Charles Albert Haynes Jr. and wife, Margett, of Boyd; daughter Wendy Moore and husband, Arron, of Fort Worth; son James Edward Haynes of Boyd; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Haynes, Ruby Maxine | 1932-2015
Published Saturday, October 3, 2015

Ruby Maxine Haynes, 83, of Decatur died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will be at Little Prairie Cemetery in Caruthersville, Mo.
Visitation is 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Ruby was born June 4, 1932, in Cottonwood Point, Mo., to James and Sadie (Finley) Allen. She married J.E. Haynes Nov. 17, 1992, in Tiptonville, Tenn. Ruby retired from Wal-Mart as a clerk.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; and six sisters.
She’s survived by her husband, J.E. Haynes; his three children and their families all of Decatur; her son, Mike of Caruthersville, Mo.; daughter Denise of Houston; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Haynie, Barbara Jean | 1937-2015
Published Saturday, December 12, 2015

Barbara Jean Haynie, 78, of Cleburne, died Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015, in Cleburne.
Service will be 10 a.m., Monday, Dec. 14, at the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home in Cleburne with Dr. Joe Cathey officiating. Burial will follow at Rosehill Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Mike Apgar, Thomas Ellis, Jonathan Apgar, Thomas Jacobs, Jacob Hunt and Jessie Hunt.
Honorary pallbearer is Ray Jordan Jr.
Mrs. Haynie was born Oct. 28, 1937, in Weatherford to Fred and Annie Mae Taylor Jordan. She married Thomas Haynie Jr. Feb. 1, 1979, in Cleburne.
Mrs. Haynie worked at Miller Brewing Co., retiring with 15 years of service. She was also a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister and friend to many. Mrs. Haynie was a member of the First Baptist Church in Godley.
She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Jordan; mother and stepfather, Annie and T.V. Vanderveer; grandson Trey Joslin; great-granddaughter Journi Hunt; brother Kenneth Jordan; and stepdaughter Sabra Egra.
She is survived by her husband, Thomas Haynie of Cleburne; daughters Loretta Jacobs and husband, Tom, of Azle, Kayla Haynie of Boyd and Donna Apgar and husband, Mike, of Colorado Springs, Colo.; son Scott Cooper and wife, Christie, of Allen; stepdaughter Melinda Haynie of Alta Monte Springs, Fla.; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Other survivors include brother Raymond Jordan and wife, Marilyn, of Boyd; sister Millie Jordan of North Richland Hills; stepsister Margaret Ann Goodwin of Bakersfield, Calif.; nephew Ray Jordan Jr.; and other relatives and friends.

Haynie, Carter Pierce | 1987-2015
Published Saturday, November 28, 2015

Carter Pierce Haynie, 27, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating.
Visitation is 5 p.m. prior to the service at the church.
Carter was born in Bedford Dec. 27, 1987, to John Dean and Julie Pierce Haynie Balvin. Carter was a 2006 graduate of Bridgeport High School. He received his master welding degree from Tulsa Welding School and worked as a master welder in the oilfield industry.
He enjoyed hiking and snow skiing in the mountains and kayaking on the lake. Carter enjoyed anything outdoors and adventurous.
He is survived by his mother, Julie Balvin; father Dean Haynie; brother Austin Haynie; sisters Chloe Balvin and Brianna and Avery Haynie; and grandparents Art and Joan Pierce and Deanna Haynie.

Hearrell, Jerry Wayne | 1941-2015
Published Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Jerry Wayne Hearrell, 74, of Bridgeport, died Monday, Dec. 21, 2015, in his home after a short illness.
Services and visitation are Wednesday, Dec. 23, at his home in Bridgeport. Burial will follow at Willow Point Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Earl Green, Ken Dodson, Jimmy Cox, Steve Christian, Mark Jackson, Dru Jackson and Johnny Denton.
Honorary pallbearers are Glen Rose, Mike Grimada and Bill Oxford.
Jerry was born March 27, 1941, near Olney, Okla. He was well-known for his honesty, kindness and quick wit. Anyone associated with the title insurance industry beginning in the 1960s until the early 2000s would quickly tell you he was one of the best abstractors and closers of his time.
He started his title insurance career as a delivery guy for Rattikin Title Co., advancing up the ranks from abstracting to closing homes and multi-million dollar commercial transactions with Guardian Title Co. and First Land Title Co. in Grapevine, Burleson and Fort Worth.
He married Debbie Denton in 1984, and they started their own title company, Wise County Title Company in 1987 in Decatur. In 2003, they sold Wise County Title to a group of their employees and retired to their farm south of Bridgeport where they had lived since 1988.
Jerry was happiest farming and ranching and when he was on his tractor or riding his four-wheeler or Ranger around his place.
He dearly loved and cherished his two daughters, Kelly and Kristi, and he idolized his two grandchildren, Jesse and Mandy.
Jerry was an avid hunter and fisherman. He and several friends held a deer lease near Stephenville for more than 30 years, and they were well-versed in their many stories about the times they had and the “ones that got away.” He looked forward every year to the annual dove hunt in Dickens County, just outside of Spur.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Ulysses and Ruby (Dillingham) Hearrell; brothers Raymond and Ronnie; and sister Linda.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Debbie Hearrell of Bridgeport; daughters Kelly Olson and husband, Dan, of Walnut Springs and Kristi Hearrell of Granbury; grandson Jesse Olson and wife, Bethany, of Weatherford; granddaughter Mandy O’Hearn and husband, Joe, of Walnut Springs; great-grandchildren Karson and Kase O’Hearn and Gracelyn Olson; sisters Neoma Burk and Wanda Stephens of Van Alstyne; brothers Lissie and Alan Hearrell; and sisters Annette Tolbert, Penny Tolbert, Kim Reagan, Mary Lou Nichols, Charles Hearrell and Flora Ann Fink, all of Oklahoma.

Herman, Kelley Raye | 1992-2015
Published Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Kelley Raye Herman, 23, of Fort Worth died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Larry Michener officiating. Burial will follow at Sandhill Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Michael Williams, Donald Holland, Austin Cansler, Ben Herman, Scott Holland, Dusty Griffin and Zach Herman.
Kelley was born Jan. 13, 1992, in Fort Worth to Terry and Darla (Holland) Miller. She married Zachary Edward Herman Dec. 27, 2014, in Fort Worth. Kelley held a master’s degree in business administration and three bachelor degrees in political science, business administration and Academy of Freedom. She was currently a Texas A&M law student.
Kelley is survived by her husband, Zachary Herman of Fort Worth; her parents, Terry and Darla Miller of Decatur; sisters Lacey Sawyer and husband, Dana, of Fort Worth and Emiley Miller of Decatur; brother Luke Miller of Brownwood; grandparents Don and Ann Holland of Hurst, Peggy Moore of Arlington and Larry Miller and wife, Nancy, of Washington; nephew Boyce “Bear” Miller; niece Birdey Drue Sawyer and soon-to-be niece, Kelley Raye Parker; as well as aunts, uncles and many friends.

Hernandez, Silvestre, Sr. | 1949-2015
Published Saturday, October 10, 2015

Silvestre Hernandez Sr., 65, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015, in Decatur.
Mass of Christian burial is 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at Saint John’s Catholic Church in Bridgeport with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Cristian Hernandez, Nicholas Hernandez, Noah Hernandez, Victor Alvarez, Alberto Torres, Oscar Tovar, Juan Hernandez and Fernando Cantu.
Silvestre was born Dec. 30, 1949, in Jerez Zacatecas, Mexico, to Marcos and Ramona (Torres) Hernandez. He married Bertha Fernandez April 26, 1970, in Jerez Zacatecas. Silvestre worked for Acme Brick.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marcos and Ramona; and sister Juanita.
He’s survived by his wife of 45 years, Bertha Hernandez of Bridgeport; son Silvestre Hernandez Jr. and Londi Martinez and Raymundo Hernandez and wife, Donna; daughters Aurora Alvarez and husband, Victor, Avelia Torres and husband, Alberto, and Cindy Tovar and husband, Oscar; and grandchildren Cristian A. Hernandez, Nicholas Hernandez, Noah Hernandez, Nolan Hernandez, Nicole Hernandez, Victoria Alvarez and Anessa Torres.
Other survivors include brothers and sisters: Emilio, Samuel, Rafaela, Cruz, Daniel, San Juana, Patrocinio, Maria De Jesus, Luciano, Nicolas and Alicia; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Herzer, Margaret Maxine | 1928-2015
Published Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Margaret Maxine Herzer, 88, of Oklahoma, died Sunday, April 12, 2015.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 18, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with burial to follow at Preskitt Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Mrs. Herzer was a member of Decatur Freewell Baptist Church and a lifelong member of Sapulpa Nazarene Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas D. Herzer; and parents Claude and Molly Bassham.
She is survived by her daughters, Claudia L. Postlewait of Shepherdsville, Ky., and Paulette J. Davis of Decatur; son Larry Creek of Corpus Christi; sisters Cleo Belk, Raydean Moon and Nancy McDaniel; nine grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends.

Hickey, Neil Preston | 1945-2015
Published Saturday, September 5, 2015

Neil Preston Hickey, 70, of Runaway Bay, died Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2015, at home. Graveside service was Sept. 4 at Swisher Cemetery in Lake Dallas with the Rev. Phillip A. Weitner officiating.
Neil was born July 28, 1945, in Dallas to Doris (Richards) and Thomas Preston Hickey. He married Cindy Bragg July 30, 1977, in Lake Dallas. He loved spending time with family, golfing, fishing, hunting, working in the yard and anything that kept him outdoors.
Neil was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Tommy and Richard Hickey; and sister Sally Meeks.
He is survived by his wife of 38 years; sons Neil Hickey II of Denton and Michael Hickey and wife, Bambi, of Tyler; brothers George, Bobby and Lee Hickey; sisters Virginia Blackwell, Janie Rhoads and Rosie Smith; and grandchildren Jake, Nicholas, Andrew and Olly Belle Hickey.

Hicks, Archie Thomas, Jr. | 1938-2015
Published Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Archie Thomas Hicks, Jr. 76, died Tuesday, July 21, 2015, in Bowie.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Friday, July 24, 2015, in the drawing room of the White Family Funeral Home in Bowie. Burial will follow at Newport Cemetery. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the White Family Funeral Home.
Archie was born July 31, 1938 in Jack County to Archie and Ettie (Read) Hicks. He attended Bowie High School. He married Joyce Rhodes Dec. 9, 2005. He worked for Permian Corporation as a truck driver for more than 30 years and for Tepco Oil Company as a truck driver for several years. He did well testing for Beacon Resources and Tetra Technologies. He enjoyed farming, ranching, building and flying remote control airplanes, woodworking and riding motorcycles.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie Sr. and Ettie Hicks; first wife, Joyce Hicks; sisters, Sadie Tage; Janie Ford; and two infant sisters.
Archie is survived by his wife, Joyce Hicks of Bowie; children, Archie Hicks III and wife Janna of Fort Worth, David Hicks and wife Melody of Bowie, Barbara Reed of Bowie, Lindsay Hicks and wife Sandra of Corpus Christi, Tyan Niemi of Versailles, Mo., Dale Morris of Bells, Karen Davis and husband Lester of Bowie; 26 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; two sisters, Florine Deweber of Bowie, Mary Mitchell of Bridgeport; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society at P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.

Hicks, Shirlene | 1942-2015
Published Saturday, April 4, 2015

Shirlene Hicks, 72, of Jacksboro died Tuesday, March 31, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was April 3 at the First Baptist Church in Jacksboro, and burial followed at Oakwood Cemetery.
Shirlene was born July 26, 1942, in Sanger to Lee and Opal (Booe) Amyx. She married William L. “Bill” Hicks Jan. 2, 1963, in Marietta, Okla. Shirlene was a teacher and school counselor for 37 years.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Jacksboro, Retired Teachers Association and Delta Kappa Gamma. She was a loving, loyal and dedicated mother, wife, sister, Nana and friend.
Shirlene was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and her brothers, Thomas Amyx and Lee Amyx Jr.
She is survived by her children Leslie Holman and husband, Larry, of Jacksboro, Larry Hicks and wife, Donnette, of Decatur and Lisa Richardson and husband, Jim, of Jacksboro; brother Don Amyx of Denton; sisters Rosene Sebastian and Cherry “Pie” Beard, both of Sanger; grandchildren Alexis Holman, Brooke and Breanne Cathey, Parker, Wilson and Larrison Hicks, Jaden, Harlee and Hadlee Richardson; and many other extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Bill and Shirlene Hicks Scholarship Fund, c/o Jacksboro National Bank, P.O. Box A, Jacksboro, TX 76458.

Hill, Doris Helen | 1937-2015
Published Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Doris Helen Hill, 77, an accountant, died Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015 in Corinth.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29 at East Bridgeport Cemetery, with Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Doris was born Jan. 29, 1937 to Clarence and Ruby (McIntire) Black in Bridgeport. She married Savannah Lee Hill, who preceded her in death.
Doris was an accountant for Acme Brick for more than 30 years.
She was also preceded in death by her parents and her son, Bruce Hill.
Survivors include sons Lee Hill of Ranger and Doug Hill of Bedford; brothers Richard Black and wife, Debra, of Decatur, Sam Black and wife, Sue, of Chico, other family members and friends.

Hilton, Walter 'Bug' | 1976-2015
Published Saturday, July 18, 2015

Walter “Bug” Hilton, 39, of San Antonio, formerly of Alvord, died Monday, July 13, 2015, in San Antonio.
Graveside service was July 17 at Greenwood Cemetery with the Rev. Mark Jones officiating. Pallbearers were Chad Davis, A.J. Meloni, Jerry Taylor, Mick Taylor, Chris Smith, Wayne Meadors, Matt Louderbach, Trey Diaz, John Alvarado and Wade Jones.
Bug was born June 19, 1976, in Bowie to Leon and Sharon (Taylor) Hilton. He married Mary Mika Huey April 18, 2006, in San Antonio. He was a superintendent.
Bug was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Mika Huey-Hilton of San Antonio; daughter Brooklynn Hilton of San Antonio; son Keith Hilton of San Antonio; stepdaughter Ray-Ann Truesdell of San Antonio; and grandson Hunter Orluk of San Antonio.
Other survivors include brothers Gary Hilton of Alvord and Buddy Hilton; sisters Amy Rice of Beaumont and Tina Smith of Paradise; father-in-law J. David Huey of Decatur; mother- and father-in-law, Melanie and Mark Jones; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Hitchcock, Ralph Edwin | 1927-2015
Published Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Ralph Edwin Hitchcock, 88, died Friday, July 17, 2015, in Boyd.
Funeral was Tuesday, July 21, 2015, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church No. 2 in Keeter with Dale Noska officiating. Burial will follow in Azleland Memorial Park in Azle.
Pallbearers included Jimmy Denton, Jamie Denton, Mark York, Clint York, Charles Newberry and Keith Hulsey.
Ralph was born on May 31, 1927, to Isaac and Rosie (Yocham) Hitchcock in Eden. He married Vernell Willson March 18, 1951, in Lancaster. Ralph was a member of the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church No. 2 and an aviation machinist and employee of Bell Helicopter for more than 25 years. He was a veteran of the United States Navy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cynthia Denton; and brother, Harrell Lee Hitchcock.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Vernell Hitchcock of Boyd; daughter, Cheryl York and husband Mark of Fort Worth; son-in-law, Jimmy Denton of Azle; grandchildren, Jamie Denton and wife Norma of Boyd, Shannon Coomer and husband Jason of Italy, Wendy York of Orange County, Calif., and Clint York of River Oaks; sisters, Neta Self, Wanda Hammack and husband Steve, Pat Jones and husband Bobby, Pauline Yates and husband Larry; other family members and a host of friends.

Hobbs, Patricia Jane 'Pat' | 1942-2015
Published Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Patricia Jane “Pat” Hobbs, 72, of Bridgeport died Friday, Jan. 23, 2015, in Henrietta after a lengthy illness.
Funeral was Jan. 26 at Bible Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Dale Webster officiating. Burial was at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pat was born Aug. 1, 1942, in Bridgeport to Joseph W. and Ethel (Reeser) Anderson and lived in Bridgeport most of her life. She married Bill Hobbs May 20, 1957, in Decatur, and together they raised five children.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bill Hobbs; daughter Dorothy Hankins; great-grandson James Moody; brothers Clovis Anderson and Johnny Anderson; and sisters Dorothy Loveday, Lywahan Mann and Barbara Bradish.
Survivors include sons Billy Mack Hobbs and wife, Kelley, of Granbury, Joseph Frank Hobbs and wife, Debbie, of Bridgeport, and Randy Wayne Hobbs and wife, Jodie, of Henrietta; daughter Patrice Carol Crenshaw and husband, Rocky, of Oklahoma City; son-in-law Bob Hankins; brother Joe Anderson of Lake Bridgeport; 21 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Hobson, Kodi Dawn | 2015
Published Saturday, June 6, 2015
Kodi Dawn Hobson, the infant daughter of David and Jennifer Hobson of Rhome, was born and died Friday, May 29, 2015, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with Chaplain Kevin Drake officiating. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Kodi was preceded in death by her grandfather, James Dewayne Hobson; and great-grandparents Jean Putt and Frank and Marie Putt.
She is survived by her parents; grandparents Rocky and Myla Putt of Roanoke, Shirley Ann Hobson of Mineral Wells, and Mama Ruth Hobson of Jack County; great-grandmother Virginia Ann Collom of Mineral Wells; aunts Johnann Osteen of Malakoff and Terrin Smith of Grand Prairie; uncles Brandon and Michael Hobson of Jack County; and other family members.

Hodges, Amber Rucell | 1984-2015
Published Saturday, February 21, 2015

Amber Rucell Hodges, 30, died Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2015.
Graveside service was Feb. 20 in Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville.
She is survived by her mother, Kathy Boston, and husband, Jeff; brother Duane Peace and wife, Crystal; grandparents Billy Burchell and Sandra Burchell; and a large extended family.

Hodges, Royce Edward 'Cotton' | 1939-2015
Published Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Royce “Cotton” Edward Hodges, 76, of Alvord died Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015, in Alvord.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015, at First Baptist Church of Alvord with burial in Hopewell Cemetery.
Rev. Bill Cleveland will officiate. Pallbearers include Joshua Pinkerton, Jeremy Meador, Justin Meador, Jordan Hodges, Jacob Nethery and Gabriel Jones. Honorary pallbearers are Ryan Woods and Ty Woods.
Royce was born on March 14, 1939, to Earl and Beulah (Kuykendall) Hodges in Decatur. He was united in marriage to Donna Robinson on March 26, 2008 in Decatur. Royce was a dairyman and rancher. He retired from Austin Powder. He was a member of Fundamental Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Calvin Hodges, Ronald Hodges and an infant brother.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Hodges of Alvord; his son Danny Hodges and wife Gina of Alvord; his daughters, Denise Pinkerton and husband Mark of North Richland Hills, Debra Meador and husband Ricky of Alvord, and Dianna Woods of Decatur; his step-children, Erica Villarreal and husband Andrew of Elgin, Rocky Weber and wife Kimberly of Virginia; his grandchildren, Amanda Nethery and husband Jacob, Joshua Pinkerton and wife Jennifer, Jeremy Meador and wife Jessica, Justin Meador and wife Naudia, Jordan Hodges and Bailey, Caitlyn Jones and husband Gabriel, Ryan and Ty Woods; his step grandchildren, Jordan, Tia and Graham Weber; 10 great grandchildren, Caden and Parker Nethery, Emma and Ethan Pinkerton, Jaidyn, Jaycee, Tensley and Tatum Meador, Brantley Hodges, and Rylen Hicks; his sisters, Thelma Clower of Alvord, and Anita Hale of Joplin; his brother, Jimmy Hodges and wife Melva of Decatur; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
Expression of sympathy can be made to the American Diabetes Association, 4100 Alfa Rd. Ste 100, Dallas, TX 75244.

Holifield, Wendy Ann | 1966-2015
Published Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Wendy Ann Holifield, 49, of Rhome, died Sunday, Aug. 16, 2015, in Decatur.
No services will be held at this time.
Wendy was born Jan. 12, 1966, in Sacramento, Calif., to Robert and Marlena (Shinn) Huckabay. She married Jonnie Holifield Dec. 29, 2013, in Decatur. Wendy was a phlebotomist.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Ashley Wass; and her mother.
She is survived by her husband, Jonnie Holifield of Rhome; father Robert Huckabay and wife, Darlene, of Michigan; sister Sue Nix and husband, Cameron, of Lewisville; son Edward Wass and wife, Ashley, of Michigan; stepsons David Holifield and John Holifield and wife, Jamie; grandchildren Alana, Dante, Micah, Kayla, Kaiden and Payton; and many friends.

Hoots, Coreen Marie | 1977-2015
Published Saturday, November 28, 2015

Coreen Marie “Corey” Hoots, 37, of Rhome, died Monday, Nov. 23, 2015, at home.
Service is 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Decatur with pastor Ron Fox officiating. Visitation is 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the church prior to the funeral.
Corey was born Dec. 22, 1977, in Santa Ana, Calif., to Victoria (Hill) and James Sterling Quinn. She was a homemaker and a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church.
Corey was preceded in death by sons Andrew Hoots, Fisher Hoots and Adam Hoots Jr.
She is survived by her husband, Adam Hoots; daughters Samantha Bednorz, Meghan Bednorz, Nichole Hoots, Paige Gober, Ashlynn Hoots and Selah Hoots; son Hunter Gober; sister Kathryn Weingarten; brother Bryon Williams; mother Victoria Nauck; father James Quinn; granddaughter Raelynn McLaughlin; and nieces Amanda and Lillian Weingarten.

Hopkins, Rosemary Violette Wieske | 1966-2015
Published Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Rosemary Violette Wieske Hopkins, 49, of Boyd, died Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, in Biggers Funeral Chapel in Lake Worth.
Rosemary was born Sept. 5, 1966. She grew up in Lake Worth and most recently lived in Boyd with her husband, Eric, and her mother and father until his passing. She worked in the endoscopy unit of Wise County Medical Center and was loved by her friends and family. Rosemary spent much of her free time doting on her grandbabies who were the light of her life.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her father, James Coffey, in October of this year, and died with her only son, Chase Lee Wiggins.
She is survived by her husband, Eric Hopkins of Boyd; mother, June Coffey; daughter-in-law, Priscilla Williams; granddaughter, Destiny Wiggins; grandson, Tristian Wiggins; uncle, Gerald Hopkins; brother-in-law, Vance Hopkins; and nephews, Austin and Lucas Hopkins; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Hornberger, Patsy Marie | 1942-2015
Published Saturday, March 7, 2015
Patsy Marie Hornberger, 72, of Decatur died Friday, Feb. 27, 2015, in Decatur.
No services will be held.
Patsy was born May 20, 1942, in Sweetwater to Harvey and Ethel (Green) Blailock.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Patsy is survived by her sons, Michael Hornberger of Cordova, Tenn., and Roger Hornberger and wife, Katherine, of Prattville, Ala.; daughters Debra Hornberger of Cordova and Sherry Tatum and husband, Ken, of Prattville; brother George Blailock of Palestine; sister Carolyn Tidwell and husband, Don, of Decatur; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Houston, Delores Bell-Smith | 1933-2015
Published Saturday, February 21, 2015

Delores Bell-Smith Houston, 81, of Paradise, died Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015, at her home surrounded by her family.
A celebration of life is 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Northwood Church in Keller.
Delores was born Oct. 7, 1933, and was a former resident of Hoagland, Ind.
She was preceded in death by Samuel Houston.
Survivors include her longtime companion, Wallace Krewall; children Linda (Raymond) Fournet, Cindy Goss, Bobbie (Gary) Blakely, Barry (Cathi) Smith, Lisa (Gregg) Minnis and Nancy (Mike) Kee; 14 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to Solaris Hospice in Decatur or Northwood Church.

Howard, Hazel | 1917-2015
Published Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Hazel Howard, 98, of Decatur, died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral service is 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, at Greenwood Baptist Church in Greenwood, with Reverend Charles Taylor and Danny Taylor officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Greenwood. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Pallbearers are A.C. Griffin, Frank Maxwell, Neal Fortenberry, Rex Maxwell, Dale Burks, and Benny Rutherford.
Hazel was born on Feb. 6, 1917, to Joe and Mary Anna (Vaughn) Truitt in Greenwood. She married James Arnold Howard on Oct. 7, 1933, in Decatur. Hazel was a member of Greenwood Baptist Church and a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James Arnold Howard; her son-in-law, Wayne Lovejoy; and several brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her son, Willie Joe Howard of Alvord; her daughters, Adell Clark of Fort Worth, Mattie Graham and husband, C.D., of Aledo and Maurine Lovejoy of Argyle; her sister, Mary Jo Leake of Decatur; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and friends.

Howerton, Faye | 1936-2015
Published Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Faye Howerton, 79, of Alvord, died Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, at Alvord Cemetery in Alvord with Reverend Bill Cleveland officiating. Family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Pallbearers are Benny Simmons, Donny Lawson, Ricky Peden, Ricky Allen, Larry Howell, and Allen Murphy.
Faye was born on June 28, 1936, to Alfred and Mabel (Spinks) Maxey in Austin. She married Albert Wayne “Bud” Howerton in July, 1948 in Gainesville. Faye retired from Pac A Sac after 20 years of service as a bookkeeper. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Alvord.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, “Bud” Howerton.
She is survived by her sons, Kenneth Howerton and wife, Mona, of Sunset and Kevin Howerton and wife, Celina, of Paradise; her daughter, Terri Freeman and husband, Marlon, of Alvord; her sister, Dorothy Tomerlin of San Angelo; her granddaughters, Paige, Hailey, Jayne, Wendi, Allyson, Rylee, and Kaycie; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Hoyl, Doris Lucille | 1925-2015
Published Saturday, August 29, 2015

Doris Lucille Hoyl, 90, of Decatur died Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31, at the funeral home.
Honorary pallbearers are members of the Wise County Veterans Group.
Doris was born Aug. 3, 1925, in Punta Gorda, Fla., to Charles and Goldie (Wharf) Jones. She married Cecil Hoyl Jr. Jan. 27, 1945, in Tampa, Fla. She was a retired bookkeeper and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur.
Doris is survived by her husband of 70 years, C.B. Hoyl Jr. of Decatur; sons Bryan Hoyl and wife, Jane, of Sunset and Randall Hoyl and wife, Darlena, of Decatur; granddaughter Leslie Ann Hoyl of Decatur; and many friends.

Huddleston, Helen | 1938-2015
Published Saturday, January 24, 2015

Helen Huddleston, 77, of Boyd died Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015, in Weatherford.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church No. 2 in Boyd with the Rev. Dale Noska officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Johnny Sanders, Johnny Luster, Patrick Newberry, Richard Newberry, Steve Ellis and Keith Hulsey.
Helen was born Jan. 5, 1938, in Boyd to Johnnie and Flora Nell (Arrington) Early. She married Floyd Huddleston Feb. 5, 1959. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church No. 2 and the Eastern Star. Helen worked over the years as a sales clerk at several businesses in Boyd.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Floyd Huddleston; her sister, Roberta Newton; and her brother, Johnnie “Richard” Early.
She is survived by her son, Bill Huddleston and wife, Pam, of Decatur; grandchildren Chad Huddleston and wife, Kristen, of Decatur and Kimberly Herrera and husband, Jafid, of Krum; great-grandchildren Layton, Addyson and Brynlee; sister Evelyn Newberry and husband, Charles, of Decatur; and other family members and friends.

Hughes, Martha Lou | 1921-2015
Published Saturday, July 25, 2015

Martha Lou Hughes, 93, of Decatur died at her home Thursday, July 23, 2015.
Memorial service is 2:30 p.m. Sunday, July 26, at First United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Rev. Dr. Brian Bosworth officiating. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur will be open for viewing from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.
Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Tom Steffan, Brock Smith, J. E. Carson, David Dodson, Gary Cocanougher, Chuck Heaberlin, Jim Richards and Eric Vincent.
Martha was born Nov. 18, 1921, in Sulphur Springs to Alma Caldwell and Emmett Thornton, a former county attorney in Hopkins County. She was the second child of four, having an older brother Dozier and younger sisters Mary and Carolyn, all of whom preceded her in death.
Following her primary and secondary education in Sulphur Springs, Martha attended North Texas State Teachers College (now the University of North Texas) and obtained her degree in library science in 1943. While in school, she met William Augustus “W.A.” Hughes Jr. and following his service in the U. S. Navy in the South Pacific during World War II, they married in 1945.
The couple moved to Waco, where W. A. completed his law degree at Baylor University and Martha worked at the Waco Public Library. Although that marked the end of her “paid” career as a librarian, she continued as a professional librarian for 48 years as a volunteer.
She was a driving force behind the creation of the Decatur Public Library in 1967 and served as a member of the library board for 48 years. Until shortly before her death she volunteered at the Decatur library each Monday.
Martha and Althea Forbis, both attorneys wives, convinced the Decatur City Council to form a library board in 1967. Several years later Hughes and Forbis joined forces with the Rev. Albert Tyl of the Assumption Catholic Church to begin planning a local library.
Part of their fund-raising efforts included the filming of a coffee commercial that starred Hughes among others. That effort involved 400 Wise County residents following a fictional pied piper across the courthouse square. The weeklong filming earned $5,000 for the fledgling library.
The city donated an abandoned building at the corner of Church and Pecan Streets and by 1970 the first Decatur Public Library was in business with Hughes, Forbis and other volunteers manning the check-out desk. Martha served as a full-time volunteer librarian from 1968 to 1976.
By the mid-1980s, the library needed expansion and this time the library board decided to build a new building on Farm Road 51 South at Thompson Street. The library has had four full-time directors since it opened. In 2012, the Decatur Library was named one of the best small libraries in the nation.
Martha’s first library in Decatur was at her church, First United Methodist, which she started in 1959. It was recently dedicated in her honor.
In addition to her volunteer work, Martha was an avid gardener and a “ready-to-go” traveler, enjoying many trips throughout North America, Eastern and Western Europe, Central and South America, Russia, Africa and Australia.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, District and Appellate Court Judge W. A. Hughes Jr. on Jan. 6, 1989; a son, Carter C. Hughes, on Sept. 11, 1996; a brother Dozier Thornton; and two sisters, Mary Pearce and Carolyn Murray.
She is survived by her son, Dan T. Hughes of Fort Worth; daughter-in-law Becky Hughes of Denton; two grandchildren, Gus Hughes of Denton and Nelan Hughes of Taylors, South Carolina.

Hull, Charles Lee | 1931-2015
Published Saturday, July 11, 2015

Charles Lee Hull, 83, of Denton died Tuesday, June 30, 2015.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the First United Methodist Church in Denton. A family graveside service will be held earlier in the day at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, July 13, at DeBerry Funeral Directors, 2025 West University, in Denton. Honorary pallbearers will be longtime pharmacist friends and former co-workers Tom Faught, Doyle DeMoss, Bob Benton, Alton Trull and James Garner.
Charles Lee Hull (affectionately “Charlie” to his grandkids) was born Nov. 10, 1931, in Mineral Wells, to Marjory Frances Bone and Charley Lee Hull. Charles was raised in Decatur, where his parents owned City Pharmacy on the downtown square. He graduated from Decatur High School in 1949 and was the quarterback of the football team, a co-captain of the basketball team and ran the mile for the track team.
Charles fell in love with his wife, Molly Sue Davenport, at a high school dance. She left that dance with his letter jacket, and they married two years later on April 10, 1950.
Charles earned his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from the University of Texas at Austin in 1954. He began his pharmacy career with Skillern’s Drug Store in Dallas, where he once bravely jumped on the back of an armed man attempting to rob the store and held him until police arrived.
In 1960, Molly and Charles moved to Denton, where he opened a Skillern’s Drug Store to anchor the newly-built Denton Center. The store later became Revco Drug and then Eckerd’s. Charles retired in 1994. In his 40 years as a pharmacist, he mentored many young pharmacists. Charles loved his work and remained close with his fellow pharmacists, as well as many loyal customers, throughout his life.
After retirement, Charles accompanied Molly on numerous weekly visits to members of the First United Methodist Church of Denton who were either home or hospital-bound. Charles was a devoted member of First United Methodist for 55 years. During that time, he was active in the Bungalow Sunday School Class, the Over the Hill Gang, and the Trippers.
Charles was a kind, compassionate man, viewed by many as a surrogate father or grandfather. He loved children, and they loved him in return.
Charles was an ideal father who loved to play with water pistols and rubber dart guns. He was a master architect of Lincoln Log villages and riverboat rafts made of tables and quilts. He was an enthusiastic playmate who never lost his childhood sense of fun.
He will be remembered by family and friends for his mischievous sense of humor, his love of reading, puzzles and games, and his avid support for the Texas Longhorns.
Charles was preceded in death by parents Marjory Frances Bone and Charley Lee Hull; and his brother, James Bone Hull, who died at 17, his senior year in high school.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Molly Hull; children Melissa Hull Hinshaw and husband, George, Melinda Hull Bradley and husband, Joe, James Arnold Hull and wife, Cheryl, and Melanie Hull Watson and husband, Gary; granddaughters Molly Hinshaw Higgins, Madison Bradley, Blair Bradley, Emily Hull, Aubrey Hull, Megan Watson Boyden and Kelly Watson; sister Helen Hull Kearby and husband, Mason; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made in Charles’ name to the First United Methodist Church of Denton or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Hunn, Mary Pultz | 1935-2015
Published Saturday, August 15, 2015

Mary Pultz Hunn, 80, of Rhome died Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015.
Graveside service was Aug. 14 at Dido Cemetery.
Hunn, a Wise County resident for 47 years, was preceded in death by her husband, Tony “Bob” Hunn; son Jim Bob Bynum; and brother Johnny Pultz.
She is survived by daughter Shirley Bohanon and husband, Bobby; sisters, Emma Heath and Margaret Richardson; grandchildren, Teresa Richardson and husband, Brad, Terry Bohanon and wife, Deanna, Nick Bynum and Christopher Bynum; great-grandchildren, Terry Bohanon Jr., Ryann Bohanon, Alexus Bohanon and Brady Richardson; great-great-grandson, Aiden Bynum; six nephews; three nieces; and a large extended family.

Hunt, Ashley Joelynn | 1992-2015
Published Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Ashley Joelynn Hunt, 22, of Alvord died Friday, March 6, 2015, in Alvord.
Funeral was March 13 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Willie Hack officiating. Burial followed at New Harp Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Brian Carpenter, Malcolm Hardy, Joel Holbrook and Carl Foster.
Ashley was born Oct. 8, 1992, in Eastland to Joel and Patricia (Carpenter) Hunt. She was a waitress at Big Green Tractor Cafe, a mother and a loved community member.
She is survived by her daughter, Catherine Renee Williams; mother Patricia Annette Smith of Alvord; honorary mothers Chelsa Thigpen, Augusta Hall and Tonya Graybill; father Joel Hunt; brothers Max Smith and Donovan Hunt; sisters Jocelynn and Codi Graybill; grandparents Wayne Carpenter and wife, Georgia, of Alvord and Doug Hunt and wife, Lillian, of Utah; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Hunter, John Casper | 1921-2015
Published Saturday, June 27, 2015
John Casper Hunter, 94, of Boyd died Monday, June 22, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Mike Fletcher, Justin Hunter, Nick Holloway, Shawn Shoemaker, Alec Hunter, and David Musick.
Honorary pallbearers are Milton Hemlich, Stephen Backstrom and Jeff Burch.
John was born June 2, 1921, in Memphis to Efton and Ida Mae (Beck) Hunter. He married Pauline Judge Feb. 26, 1949, in Mineral Wells and was a proud veteran of the United States Army.
John was a retired stock clerk for General Dynamics/Lockheed Martin and was a member of the Silver Creek Baptist Church. He was a loving husband and father and a devoted Christian.
John was preceded in death by his parents; wife Pauline Hunter in 2007; grandson Jacob Thomas Hunter; brother Andy Hunter; and sisters Ava Erwin, Ola Mae Urban, Alma Lee Glissen and Arlie Anderson.
He is survived by sons Charles E. Hunter and wife, Yolanda, of San Antonio, Louis Paul Hunter and wife, Betty, of Boyd and Alton E. Hunter and wife, Vicki, of Boyd; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; brothers Louis R. Hunter and Eldon Hunter; sister Louise Johnson; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Hunter, Roy Dean | 1941-2015
Published Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Roy Dean Hunter, 74, of Chico, died Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2015, in Chico.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29, at Jim Ned Cemetery in Runaway Bay.
Roy was born May 21, 1941, in Fairfield to Joe and Jewell (Austin) Hunter. He married Lois McDaniel June 22, 1968, in Bowie. Roy was a front-end loader operator for Pioneer Aggregate.
Roy was preceded in death by his parents; grandson Andrew Chase “Bubba” Walker; and brothers Tom Hunter and James Hunter.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Lois Hunter of Chico; daughter Robin Ann McKinney and husband, Willie Jack Vincent, of Chico; son Greg Gee and wife, Katie, of Chico; daughter Deana Leija of Boyd; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his twin brother, Hollis Hunter and wife, Jean, of Vernon; and other family members and friends.

Ince, Kennedie Paige | 2015
Published Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Kennedie Paige Ince, the daughter of Dustin Ince and Jaquelynn Carmean of Bridgeport, was born and died Friday, March 20, 2015, in Decatur.
She weighed 13.6 ounces and was 11 inches long.
She is survived by her parents; and grandparents Tracie Howard of Bridgeport and Patrice Ince of Lake Bridgeport.

Irvin, Mack Thomas 'Tommy', Jr. | 1948-2015
Published Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Mack Thomas “Tommy” Irvin Jr., 66, died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, in Boyd.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, at Azle First Assembly of God Church with Tim Stephens officiating. Burial is 9:15 a.m. Friday in DFW National Cemetery.
Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Tommy was born April 29, 1948, in Baytown to Mark Thomas Sr. and Violet Irene (McDonald). He married Debra Brown Nov. 11, 1972, in Springdale, Ark. He spent 25 years helping addicts, alcoholics and people with trauma in their lives, retiring as a self-employed therapist/counselor.
Tommy loved God, and he was a godly man. He respected others and was an avid animal lover, a wonderful husband and a good brother-in-law.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Danny Michael Irvin.
Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Debra Irvin of Boyd; brother-in-law Billy Bruce Snyder of Briar; and other relatives and friends.

Jackson, Billy Ray | 1931-2015
Published Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Billy Ray Jackson, 83, of Decatur died Monday, June 15, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 17, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Dennis Hudson officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Larry Dill, Charles Dill, Terry Harris, Gary Gage and Willie Gordon.
Billy was born Nov. 28, 1931, in Montague County to Ted and Laura (Hunter) Jackson. He married Nadene Moore Feb. 14, 2012, in Fort Worth. Billy retired from Bell Helicopter. He was an engineer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Eva Jo Jackson.
He is survived by his wife of three years, Nadene Gage of Fort Worth; daughter Janice Bird and husband, Randy, of Longview; son Elvin Jackson of Decatur; grandchildren Brionne Jackson, Jeremy Jackson, Scarlet Danner and Amber Bird; great-grandchildren Brelynn, C.J., Jackson and Cash; sisters Qunida Gage, Jewel Dill and Shirley Brogdon; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jackson, Bobby Don | 1951-2015
Published Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Bobby Don Jackson, 63, died Friday, March 6, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was March 9 at the First Baptist Church in Boyd. Burial followed at Keeter Cemetery in Boyd under the direction of White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Don was born Dec. 13, 1951, in Fort Worth to Virgil and Joan (Lisby) Jackson. He graduated from Tarleton State University in 1976 with an agriculture teaching degree and married Karen Bridges April 7, 1978, in Boyd.
He owned DJC Construction and enjoyed all of his customers and friends he made from his business. Don and Karen lived in Boyd until 2004 when they moved to Bellevue and bought the Bowie Livestock Commission in Bowie. Don was known to all as someone who loved life and enjoyed talking and teasing.
He loved all of his friends and acquaintances. Don liked to rope and loved horses and cattle. His good humor, laugh and ability to enjoy life made him a unique person.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Joan Jackson; and uncles Jay Jackson and Bill Jackson.
Don is survived by his wife, Karen Jackson of Bellevue; son John Jackson and wife, Kelly, of Bowie; grandchildren Ashley Jackson, Jeremy Jackson and Jaci Jackson Gay; sisters Paula Sydow and husband, JC, of Boyd and Pamela Galloway of Boyd; sister-in-law Rhonda Ellis and husband, Richard, of Bowie; and nieces and nephews Sarah Galloway, Allie Galloway, Miranda Darlin, Samuel Galloway, Ben Cozby, Corey Feldhaus, Christopher Feldhaus, Chad Bennett and Jeffrey Bennett.

Jackson, Glenda Ann | 1952-2015
Published Saturday, May 16, 2015
Glenda Ann Jackson, 63, of Decatur died Saturday, May 9, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was May 14 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Jeff Tackett officiating.
Glenda was born Jan. 15, 1952, in Decatur to Floyd and Vera (Meador) Moore.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Eddie Moore.
Glenda is survived by daughters Christi Tribble and husband, Brian, of Decatur and Tresha Pinkerton and husband, Jeff, of Decatur; son Colby Wayne Jackson of Decatur; grandchildren Lauren, Ashton and Breton Tribble and Riley and Ashlynn Pinkerton; great-grandchildren Carter, Gavin and Ember; sisters Elizabeth Frazier and husband, James, Melba Roberts and husband, Bimbo, and Paula Foreman and husband, Jerald; brother Bobby Ray Moore and wife, Ester; sister-in-law Lois Moore; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jackson, Glenda Ann | 1952-2015
Published Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Glenda Ann Jackson, 63, died Saturday, May 9, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was May 14 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Jeff Tackett officiating.
Glenda was born Jan. 15, 1952, in Decatur to Floyd and Vera Moore.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Eddie Moore.
Glenda is survived by daughters Christi Tribble and husband, Brian, of Decatur and Tresha Pinkerton and husband, Jeff, of Decatur; son Colby Wayne Jackson of Decatur; grandchildren Lauren, Ashton and Breton Tribble, and Riley and Ashlynn Pinkerton; great-grandchildren Carter, Gavin and Ember; sisters Elizabeth Frazier and husband, James, Melba Roberts and husband, Bimbo, and Paula Foreman and husband, Jerald; brother Bobby Ray Moore and wife, Ester; sister-in-law Lois Moore; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jackson, Margaret N. | 1946-2015
Published Saturday, July 4, 2015

Margaret N. Jackson, 68, of Springtown died Monday, June 15, 2015, in Springtown.
Private service was June 26 at Lynn Creek Cemetery.
Margaret was born July 12, 1946, in Kermit.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert A. Jackson; parents Charlie and Mary Beck; two brothers; and two sisters.
She is survived by sister Pat Johnson and spouse, Perry; children Robin Russell and spouse, Nathan, (Anna) Shelly Jackson Counts, Delaina Hiett and spouse, Shane, and Bill Jackson and spouse, Cindi; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Jackson, Ronnie W. | 1940-2015
Published Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Ronnie W. Jackson, 74, of Bridgeport died Saturday, June 20, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was June 22 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Charles Clary officiating. Burial followed at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Scotty Cantrell, John Dillinger, Rusty Brown, Mike Taylor, Rick Denney and Sam Womack.
Ronnie was born Oct. 2, 1940, in Bridgeport to Floyd and Dorothy (Stubblefield) Jackson. He married Veta Alexander Jan. 23, 1999, in Bridgeport and served his country in the United States Navy. Ronnie worked as a corrections officer for Wackenhut then worked for Ruidoso Downs from 2001 until his retirement in 2012. Ronnie was a retired volunteer fireman for Bridgeport and Balsora and was a member of the J-J Country Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; great-grandson Taylor Owen; and brother Bob Jackson.
Ronnie is survived by his wife, Veta Jackson of Bridgeport; daughters Shelly Robinson and husband, Donald, of Paradise, Paula Spence of Springtown, Denise Bollom and husband, Gary, of Boyd and Liz Owen of Fort Worth; son Bud Jackson of Bridgeport; grandchildren Mallory Owen, Karly Carlson, Chris Robinson, Devon Spence-Herron, Garrett Bollom, Nathan Owen, Tiffany Renner, Wacey Jackson and Braden Jackson; 11 great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions can be made to a charity of choice.

Jenkins, Kendyll Lee | 1965-2015
Published Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Kendyll Lee Jenkins, 50, of Hagerman, N.M., died Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, in Lubbock.
Funeral Service will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Mr. Jenkins was born in Hobbs, N.M. on May 12, 1965, to Howard J. Jenkins and Joyce Faye Kendrick Jenkins. He was a stone mason, deer hunter, fisherman, a wonderful cook, and a loving father.
He was preceded in death by his father, Howard J. Jenkins; and sister, Angela Joy Jenkins.
He is survived by son, Landon James Jenkins; daughters, Carlee Faye Jenkins and Kenzie Jacklyn Jenkins of Brandon, Miss.; mother, Joyce Faye Jenkins of Aurora; brother, Larry Jenkins and wife, Linda, of Keller; sisters, Judy Gray of Keller, Nella Jenkins of Aurora, Rhonda Hendrix and husband, Bobby, of Texarkana and Tonya McDonald and husband, Shannon of Grand Bay, Ala.; mother of his children, Jackie Knight-Jenkins of Brandon, Miss.; special friends, Alicia Dunnahoo and Aiden Dunnahoo; and a number of other relatives and friends.

Jennings, Betty Lee | 1939-2015
Published Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Betty Lee Jennings, 75, of Bridgeport died Monday, Aug. 31, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bridgeport with Pastor Gerald Epperson officiating.
Betty was born Nov. 21, 1939, in Decatur to Reba (Raven) and S.G. Holland. She was a retired executive assistant. Betty was an Elvis enthusiast who enjoyed birding and gardening, but her primary hobby was her family and grandchildren.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.
She is survived by her sons, Alan Rountree and Steven Rountree; daughter Traci Lee Dielmann; brother Charlie Gamble and wife, Wanda; grandchildren C. Austin Rountree, Shelby Lee Castillo, Tanner Christian Dielmann and Daniel McClure; and great-grandchildren Ellen Rose and Lillian Thaya.
Memorial donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Jennings, Oleta Cleo | 1929-2015
Published Saturday, May 9, 2015

Oleta Cleo Jennings, 86, of Arlington died Sunday, May 3, 2015, in Arlington.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Opal Cemetery in Wise County with Gerre Joiner officiating. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Oleta was born March 4, 1929, in Cottondale to Carl and Myrtle (Boren) Isabell. She married John B. Jennings on July 2, 1947, in Fort Worth. Opal was an executive secretary for the Tarrant County Tax Assessor and was a member of the Texas Poets Society and the Red Hat Society. She was a retired secretary.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Catherine Beavers; and brother C.A. “Lucky” Isabell.
She is survived by her husband of 67 years, John Jennings of Arlington; son Johnny Jennings and wife, Marcia, of Arlington; grandchildren Jonathan and Josie Jennings of Arlington, Christopher Beavers of Arlington and Amy Beavers of Longview; and other family members and friends.

Jobes, Harry Duane | 1946-2015
Published Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Harry Duane Jobes, 68, of Boyd, died Feb. 9, 2015 in Decatur.
Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur. Funeral is 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 at the Coker-Hawkins Chapel.
Duane will be buried in Junction with a visitation from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13 at the Kimble Funeral Home. A graveside service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14 at the Junction City Cemetery.
He was born May 3, 1946 in Kerrville and was the fifth generation of a ranching family in Kimble and Gillespie Counties. Duane had a lifelong interest in rodeo, horses and cattle. His close friends knew him simply as “Cowboy.”
Duane was preceded in death by his father, Noble Jobes and mother, Blanche Duderstadt Jobes.
He is survived by his daughter, Angela Nicole Jobes, and her children Ethan, Loren and Luke Duncan; loving companion, Sheri Brooks; and his brother, Harold D. Jobes and wife Cheryl.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Johnson, Albert Simon | 1922-2015
Published Saturday, June 13, 2015

Albert Simon Johnson, 92, of Alvord died Wednesday, June 10, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 12 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville.
Pallbearers were Rick Clark, Brady Webb, Casey Talley, Chase Daniels, Matthew Lane and Sean Kirkpatrick.
Albert was born Sept. 12, 1922, in Yukon, Okla., to Y.J. and Annie (Nials) Johnson. He married Cortez Goza Sept. 25, 1940, in Marlow, Okla., and served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a manager for Jet Engine Co. for 17 years. Albert was a Baptist.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Cortez Johnson; daughter Sharon Joyce Johnson; grandson Wesley Warren; and great-grandson Coleman Kamper.
He is survived by his son, Al Johnson and wife, Sharon, of Alvord; daughters Janice Eichman and husband, Bill, and Jeanette Baker and husband, Calvin, all of Alvord; nine grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Johnson, Chance Arron | 1981-2015
Published Saturday, February 21, 2015

Chance Arron Johnson, 33, a loving son, brother and grandson, died Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2015, in Rhome.
Graveside service is 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21, at Memory Gardens in Weatherford, with burial under the direction of Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown.
Chance was born Sept. 27, 1981, in Fort Worth.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Rice.
Survivors include his mother, Pam Rice; brother Chase Rice; sister Chandler Rice; grandparents Johnny and Mary Johnson and Al and Jean Rice; and three nephews.

Johnson, Cortez 'Tez' | 1921-2015
Published Wednesday, April 8, 2015

Cortez “Tez” Johnson, 93, of Alvord died Monday, April 6, 2015, surrounded by her family.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Chapel in Colleyville. Burial will follow at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park.
Visitation is 2 to 3 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Tez was born Cortez Goza Dec. 24, 1921, in Marlow, Okla., to Rease Edward and Georgia Lakin Goza. She married Albert Johnson Sept. 25, 1940, in Marlow.
She was a dedicated and loving wife, mother and grandmother.
Tez was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon Joyce Johnson; brother Eugene Edward Goza; son-in-law W.C. Warren; and great-grandson Coleman Kamper.
She is survived by her husband of 74 years, Albert; children Janice Eichman and husband, Bill, Jeanette Baker and husband, Calvin, and Al Johnson and wife, Sharon, all of Alvord; nine grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Johnson, Perry Adam | 1937-2015
Published Saturday, August 15, 2015

Perry Adam Johnson, 77, of Chico, a retired mail carrier, died Monday, Aug. 10, 2015, in Corinth.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, 2015, at Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Chico, with burial in Chico Cemetery. Family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Rev. Mike Miller will officiate. Pallbearers include Embry Hines, Dan Stack, Kenneth Manning, Chuck Blanks, Paul Simmons and John Barnard.
Perry was born on Nov. 11, 1937, to A.D. and Grace (Hunter) Johnson in Chico. He was united in marriage to Patsy Beck on Oct. 17, 1959, in Jacksboro. Perry was a rural mail carrier for the United States Postal Service until his retirement. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Perry was a member of Morris Memorial United Methodist Church. He was a Mason.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Roland and Teddy Johnson.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his wife of 54 years, Patsy Johnson of Chico; his sons, Russell Johnson and wife Sheryl of Chico, Patrick Johnson and wife Golda of Bellevue; his grandchildren, Jayme Johnson, Andrea Roe, Rusty Johnson, Cody Johnson, Adam Johnson, Cortni Campbell, Heather Scherb, Aden Johnson and Britney Crye; 13 great-grandchildren; his brother, Larry Johnson of Jacksboro; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

Jolley, Ellen Ann | 1940-2015
Published Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Ellen Ann Jolley, 74, a retired teacher, died Tuesday, March 3, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2015, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church. Family will receive friends 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday at the church.
Father Thomas Dsouza will officiate.
Ann was born on Dec. 12, 1940, to James and Mary (Burroughs) Robson in Shreveport, La. She was a member of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 48 years, Ed Jolley; and her son, Joseph Jolley.
She is survived by her sons, Edward Jolley and wife Cindy of Marlborough, Massachusetts and John Jolley and wife Teri of Marlborough, Mass.; her daughter, Mary Jolley of Decatur; her grandchildren, Megan O’Flaherty, Brett Jolley, Joseph Jolley, Charlotte Jolley, Vincent Jolley, and Amelia Jolley; her sister, Judy West of Tomball; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
Family wishes that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Raquel’s Wings for Life or Relay for Life.

Jones, Alice Irene | 1940-2015
Published Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Alice Irene Jones, 75, of Newark died Friday, Sept. 4, 2015, in Azle.
Graveside service was Sept. 8 at Bluebonnet Cemetery in Colleyville with Scott Strother officiating.
Alice was born June 5, 1940, in Rochester to Mae Belle (Romines) and Virgil Neece. She worked in tile manufacturing. She loved spending time with her family, and they were truly her hobby. Alice will live on in loving memory in their hearts forever.
She was preceded in death by her husband, W.R. Jones, in May 1999; her parents; brother C.A. Neece; sister Becky Storm; and grandson Kenneth Ray Doyle.
Alice is survived by her daughters, Judy Chandler of Newark and Sherry Buggar and husband, John, of Fort Worth; son Ray Jones and wife, Felicia, of Newark; grandchildren James Buggar and wife, Kirstie, Kristi Butler and husband, Kenny, Amanda Henson and husband, Joe, Tabatha Jones and Ray Jones and wife, Tiffany; 11 great-grandchildren; sister Betty Gartman and husband, Dois; and brothers Donald Wayne Neece and Virgil Neece Jr.; sister-in-law Julie Neece; and brother-in-law Edward Storm.

Jones, Sylvia 'Laverna' | 1926-2015
Published Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Sylvia “Laverna” Jones, 88, a homemaker, died Friday, Jan. 23, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 27 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with Bill Cleveland and Brett Cottrell officiating. Burial was at Alvord Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Wayne Hobbs, Douglas Jones, Pat Campbell, Allen Campbell, Philip Grundy and Ricky Tow.
Laverna was born Feb. 13, 1926, in Alvord to John and Jessie (McElroy) Perkins. She married Jesse Jones Jr. June 11, 1941, in Decatur. Laverna was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Survivors include her sons, Roger Jones and wife, Luella, of Alvord, and Dwain Jones and wife, Rosemary, of Sunset; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Jordan, Gerald Thomas | 1934-2015
Published Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Gerald Thomas Jordan, 80, of Bridgeport died Monday, Aug. 31, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, at Pleasant View Baptist Church with the Rev. Gary Demmitt and Robert McPherson officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Jack Watson, Gary Green, Kermit Stephens, John McCauley, Johnny Ray Smith and Charlie Barnett.
Gerald was born Oct. 26, 1934, in Fort Worth to John and Irene (Caffey) Jordan. He married Frances McPherson Aug. 6, 1960, in Paradise. Gerald earned a bachelor of arts degree and his medical technician certification. He was a medical lab director.
Gerald served 20 years on the Bridgeport School Board and was a member of Masonic Lodge No. 587, Eastern Star of Chico and Scottish Wright. He was a Gideon.
Gerald was a member of Hermleigh Church of Christ in Hermleigh.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Gerald is survived by his wife of 55 years, Frances Jordan of Bridgeport; son John Jordan and wife, Tammy, of Bridgeport; daughter Jodie Castaneda and husband, Javier, of Cottage Grove, Wis.; grandsons Cason Jordan and wife, Nicole, Mason Jordan, Alexander Castaneda and Colton Klyce; granddaughters Cassandra Castaneda, Elizabeth Castaneda, Gabriella Castaneda and Halee Klyce; and other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Gideons of Wise County, 615-564-5000.

Justice, Darwin Roger | 1931-2015
Published Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Darwin Roger Justice, 84, of Alvord died Saturday, July 11, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 16, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Michael Kelly, Austin Carr, Gerrit Justice, Jonathan Justice, Jeff Davis and Randy Cox.
Darwin was born March 3, 1931, in Decatur to Buford and Eula (Emerson) Justice. He soon left home after joining the U.S. Air Force to serve his country. Darwin was stationed in Everett, Wash., where he met his wife Darlene. They married Oct. 15, 1954, in Everett.
Darwin graduated business school, and they began their journey, living on and off in Washington. The couple lived in Bedford, where he worked for GTE as a Yellow Pages salesman for 29 years. They eventually settled in Alvord once their children were married. Darwin was a member of the Alvord Assembly of God Church.
All that knew Darwin knew that his great love was for Jesus and his family. Though he took his faith seriously, he had quite a humorous side to him. And as he would say to this … “Well, yeah!”
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Darwin is survived by his wife of 60 years, Darlene Justice of Alvord; sons Duane Justice and wife, Tina, of Newark, and Dan Justice and wife, Sharon, of Saginaw; daughter DeeAnn Carr and husband, Randy, of McKinney; brother Don Justice and wife, Bonnie, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Kayla, Gerret, Ashlee, Aliya, Jonathan, Emily, Luke, Joanna, Michael, Austin and Caitlyn; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Keath, Adrin S. | 1941-2015
Published Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Adrin S. Keath, 73, of Nocona died Thursday, March 5, 2015, in Wichita Falls.
Funeral was March 8 at the First United Methodist Church in Boyd with the Rev. J.D. Allen officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery under the direction of Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers were Matthew Keath, Perry Jennings, John Jennings, Lynn Adams, Hector Morales and Sam Connally. Honorary pallbearers were Mary Adams and Betty Brinkerhoff.
Adrin was born July 21, 1941, in Boyd to Grady and Martha (Smith) Keath. He was a retired United States Air Force captain and a member of the Methodist church.
Adrin was preceded in death by his parents; and his son, Adrin Shaw Keath Jr.
He is survived by his sons, Travis Keath and wife, Pattie, of Dallas and Colby Keath and wife, Holly, of Watauga; grandchildren Matthew, Tatum and Olivia; brothers Walter Earl Keath and wife, Sonia, of Arlington, Edwin Lee Keath and wife, Mary, of Dayton, Md.; sister Betty Jean Jennings and husband, Wayne, of Ringgold; and other relatives and friends.

Kee, Peggy Jean | 1936-2015
Published Saturday, February 14, 2015
Peggy Jean Kee, 78, of Sunset, died Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at the First Baptist Church of Sunset.
Peggy was born Oct. 17, 1936, in Oklaunion to William Casey and Ada Mae (Gibson) Selby. She married Howard Wayne Kee Aug. 29, 1952, in Electra. They were married for 62 years and are members of Jack County Cowboy Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and sisters.
She is survived by her husband, Howard Kee of Sunset; sons Edward Kee and wife, Jean, of Alexandria, Va., and Larry Kee and wife, Irene, of Springtown; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Keene, Spencer | 1930-2015
Published Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Spencer Keene, 85, of Boyd, died Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, in Azle.
There will be no funeral service. A private family burial took place on Tuesday, Dec. 29. at Pleasant Grove No. 2 Cemetery.
Spencer was born Oct. 11, 1930, in Louisiana.
Spencer was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys Wolfe Keene.
He is survived by his daughters, Paula Moss and husband, Weldon, of Springtown, Patti Mark and husband, Randall, of Boyd and Donna Keene and husband, Scott Arnn, of Boyd; brother, James Keene of Crowley; grandchildren, Katherine Mark of Boyd and Preslee Rodriguez of Abilene.

Keith, Charles Dennis 'Denny' | 1950-2015
Published Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Charles Dennis “Denny” Keith, 64, of Bowie died Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at Southside Baptist Church in Bowie. The family has selected cremation.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Denny was born May 21, 1950, in Pampa to Billy and Margie Keith. He graduated from Lefors High School in 1968 and attended West Texas State University (now West Texas A&M) in Canyon.
Denny worked for Cities Service Gas Co., which became Targa Resources, from 1970 until his death. He could almost always be found at various lakes fishing with friends, hunting with family at his deer lease or visiting with guests who always received a warm smile and great conversation.
Denny was preceded in death by his father, Billy Keith.
He is survived by his mother, Margie Keith, of Bowie; brother Dwight Keith and wife, Karen, of North Richland Hills; and sister Denise Imke and husband, Charles, of Alto, N.M.
He is also survived by his son, Mitch Keith, and wife, Candace, of Coppell; daughter Allyson Terry, and husband, Jason, of Bellevue; grandchildren Dayton, Eli, Avery, Bailey and Broc; and one niece and one nephew.

Keith, David 'Ed' | 1942-2015
Published Saturday, August 8, 2015

David “Ed” Keith, 73, of Weatherford died Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2015.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at Tin Top Cemetery in Weatherford.
Ed was born in Fort Worth May 8, 1942. Over the years, he worked at the Dallas Times-Herald as an apprentice pressman, a custom homebuilder and owned his own lumber company, Keller Building Supply.
He was a loving father, “Papal” and great-“Papal” who will be greatly missed.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents; brother Raymond Keith Jr.; and sister Nancy Ruth Garrington.
He’s survived by daughter Tammy Thomas and husband, Rusty; granddaughter Lauren Thomas; and great-granddaughter Rory Thomas.
Memorials may be made to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Wounded Warriors.

Kelly, Marilyn M. | 1936-2015
Published Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Marilyn M. Kelly, 79, of Rhome died Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service will be held at a later date.
Marilyn was born April 28, 1936, in Sharon, Pa., to James and Pauline (Meyer) Watson. She was a retired hairdresser.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Chuck; and sister Paula.
She is survived by her son, Steve Kelly and wife, Cheryl, of Noel, Mo.; daughter Andrea Maddox and husband, Bill, of Rhome; sisters Alma Adams and Joyce Hettrick; brother Jim Watson and wife, Ann; grandchildren Ronnie Landreth, Billy Maddox and wife, Rachel, Dusty Maddox and wife, Asia, Christa Kelly and Aaron Kelly; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Kemp, Joyce Ann Parsons | 1937-2015
Published Saturday, April 4, 2015

Joyce Ann Parsons Kemp, 77, of Bridgeport died Thursday, April 2, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 4 p.m. Sunday, April 5, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jon Story officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Billy Story, Scotty Story, Michael Cheves, Travis Kemp, Chad Wolfe and Taylor Story.
Honorary pallbearers are Bobby Van Hoose, Michael Cheves II, Joseph Sutton, Brandon Carter and David Story.
Joyce was born Oct. 10, 1937, in Bridgeport to Thurman and Gwen (McDaniel) Parsons. She married Jerry Kemp Nov. 8, 1974, in Ryan, Okla. Joyce was a homemaker and a member of the Bible Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Saundra Ramirez; daughter Carolyn Cheves; and granddaughter Dawn Leann Story.
She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Jerry Kemp of Bridgport; sons Rayford Story and wife, Deborah, of Bridgeport, Buddy Story of Bridgeport and Jerry Russell and wife, Becky, of McKinney; daughter Elisa Van Hoose and husband, Bobby, of Bridgeport; 19 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
She is also survived by her brother, Thurman Butch Parsons of Nocona; sister Martha Mask and husband, Wayne, of Bridgeport; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Kerr, Eleanor Burdick | 1926-2015
Published Saturday, July 4, 2015

Eleanor Burdick Kerr, 89, of Paradise died Tuesday, June 30, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday, July 6, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jessie Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Brandon Thompson, Derek Uselton, James Stoker, Timmy Stoker, Matt Privett and P.J. Neu.
Honorary pallbearers are Alex Enlow, Thomas Heard and Boyd Everitt.
Eleanor was born Jan. 22, 1926, in St. Petersburg, Fla., to George and Elsie (Humphries) Heard. She retired from Southwestern Bell after 35 years of service. She was a member of The Pioneer Club with Southwestern Bell and the Athens Craft Show.
Eleanor was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Bill Hodge; and sisters Shirley Burdick Brown and Maddline Patricia Scarbrough.
She is survived by her granddaughter, Kelly Beth Hodge of Rockwall; great-grandson Aidan Hodge; niece Sharla Beth Everitt Enlow and husband, Jeffery, of Houston; nephew Boyd Edward Everitt of Houston; great-nieces Susan Harris of Fort Worth, Tina Thompson of Paradise, Stephanie Heard of Paradise, Denise Bashur of El Paso and Carissa Everitt of Houston; great-nephews Alexander Enlow of Houston and Eric Everitt of Houston; eight great-great-nieces and nephews; and two great-great-great-nieces and nephews; and other family members and friends.

Kersten, Lawrence E. | 1934-2015
Published Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Lawrence E. Kersten, 80, of Runaway Bay, died Friday, Feb. 6, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at St. John the Baptizer Church in Bridgeport with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Rosary is 5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at the church.
Lawrence was born May 23, 1934, in Detroit to Erwin Charles and Gertrude (Kennedy) Kersten. He married Paula Jean Siehl Jan. 30, 1954, in Detroit. He was a retired sales manager for General Motors AC/Delco Division and enjoyed outdoor activities such as golf, fishing – particularly fly fishing – and gardening. He also enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his grandkids.
Lawrence was very civic-minded. He was named Man of the Year in Runaway Bay, was a past president of the Runaway Bay HOA, precinct judge for the Republican Party, a volunteer for Wise Regional Health System and a member of the Elks.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Kathy Israel.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Paula Kersten of Runaway Bay; daughters Pamela Green and husband, Denis, of San Marcos, Laura Belcher and husband, Jack, of Paradise, and Lisa Ellerbrook of Weatherford; son Loren Kersten and wife, Tana, of Haslet; brother John Kersten of Canton, Mich., sister Mary Kies of Elmhurst, Ill.; nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Kimbrell, Carolyn Kay (Martin) Bagley | 1946-2015
Published Saturday, May 2, 2015

Carolyn Kay (Bagley) Kimbrell, 68, died Tuesday, April 28, 2015.
Funeral was May 1 at DeBerry Funeral Directors Chapel in Denton. Burial followed at Jackson Cemetery in Krum.
Pallbearers were Brian Andrus, Steve Gramling, Gary Phillips, Kelly Spalding, Jeff Prose and Jeff Morris.
Carolyn was born Dec. 7, 1946, in Sulphur Springs to Leon and Melva (Lewis) Martin. She attended Como and Bridgeport schools. She was employed by Bagley Farms of Krum.
Carolyn is survived by sons Jerry Bagley and wife, Ann, of Krum, Terry Bagley and wife, Sherri, of Krum and Larry Bagley of Las Vegas.
She is also survived by longtime companion and caregiver Ronnie Scott and friend and “adopted” family member Judy Burke; grandchildren Terry Bagley II, Jason Bagley, Warren Bagley and Wade Bagley; great-grandchildren Brayden, Blake, Josie and Jax Bagley, all of Krum; sisters Linda Trammell of Bridgeport, Barbara Owens of White Oak and Judy Martin of Crowley; and brother Randy Martin of Paradise.

Kime, J.C. | 1927-2015
Published Saturday, November 28, 2015

J.C. Kime, 88, of Boyd, died Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service was Nov. 25 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with Mike Wheat officiating.
Pallbearers were Chuck Whatley, Joe Ben Whatley, Junior Whatley, Tim Fleming, Dickey Cundiff and Greg Fuller.
J.C. was born Oct. 13, 1927, in Perry, Okla., to Charlie and Lillie (Klinglesmith) Kime. He lived in Perry until he joined the U.S. Navy in 1945. He married Sue Ivy June 13, 1960, in Gainesville.
J.C. worked for several companies before finally owning his own business – Kime Drill Stem Testers. After 50 years in the oilfield, he moved to the Lake of the Arbuckles where he and his wife started and ran Kime Grocery and Cafe.
In 1990, he went back to work in the oilfield as a salesman for Can-Ok Oil Tools in Chickasha, Okla. He retired from there in 2001 and moved to Texas, where he inherited the Begley family and many friends.
J.C. was the biggest OU fan in the world and enjoyed showing off his newest OU hat or T-shirt, especially to a Longhorn fan. He never met a stranger, and if you met him, he gave you no choice but to love him.
J.C. was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and one sister.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sue Kime; children Jayme DeClark of Oklahoma City, Bruce Kime of Stillwater, Okla., and Jayci and Ben Begley of Boyd; grandchildren Steven and Katelyn Stands, Kaylea Thomas and Mariah Begley; great-grandchildren Jaidan, Chance and Kaiyah Stands; his extended Begley family; all his girls at Senior Care; his roommate, Randy Allen; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

King, Anita Hall | 1930-2015
Published Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Anita Hall King, 85, of Richland Hills died Saturday, June 27, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Anita was born Jan. 3, 1930, in Bridgeport to Harry and Laura (Martin) Hall. She was a a retired tax consultant.
Anita was preceded in death by her parents; and her daughter, Donna Love.
She is survived by her son, John King of Richland Hills; grandchildren Kagan Love and Parker Love; and many friends.

King, Charles Gordon 'Chock' | 1940-2015
Published Saturday, March 7, 2015

Charles Gordon “Chock” King, 75, of Alvord died Tuesday, March 3, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with pastors Darwin McHenry and Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Hopewell Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Kevin Richards, Mark Matthews, Mickey King, David King, Russell King and David Sherman.
Chock was born Jan. 7, 1940, in Alvord to William Martin “Red” and Emma Lucy (Choate) King. He served his country in the United States Army for 28 years, including three tours in Vietnam.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers William C. King and Melvin C. King; and sisters Earlene Wilson and Mary Margaret King.
Chock is survived by sisters Betty Ball and husband, Donald, of Bridgeport, Judy Walters and husband, Buddy, of Ty, Ga., Barbara Pierce and husband, Garry, of Bridgeport, Susan Raines of Alvord, and Cheryle Matthews and husband, Charlie, of Alvord; brothers James King of Alvord, Bobby King and wife, Janell, of Keller, Beau King and wife, Doris, of Colleyville, and Richard King of Alvord; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alvord Public Library, Alvord Veterans Park, First Baptist Church of Alvord or Meals on Wheels.

Klein, Ryan Whitmore | 1975-2015
Published Saturday, October 24, 2015

Ryan Whitmore “Whit” Klein, 40, died Thursday, Oct. 15, 2015, in Montague County.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at the First Baptist Church in Forestburg. Arrangements are being handled by White Family Funeral Home of Bowie.
Whit was born April 19, 1975, in Grand Rapids, Mich., to Robert and Terry (Warren) Klein. He graduated from Paradise High School in 1993 and served his country in the United States Marine Corps for four years. He attained the rank of corporal before being honorably discharged.
Whit also served the people of Texas for six years as a state trooper before resigning to work for Devon Energy. He married Chloe Anderson May 21, 2006, in Kawela Bay, Hawaii.
Whit enjoyed skydiving, ranching, hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and working at his job. He was committed to sharing his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Whit was a beloved husband, father, son, and brother.
Whit was preceded in death by his grandparents, Walter and Frances Klein; and grandfather Bill Dennison.
He is survived by his wife, Chloe Klein of Forestburg; son Nicolas W. Klein of Forestburg; daughter Avery S. Klein of Forestburg; father Robert Klein and wife, Diane, of Coppell; mother Terry L. Klein Tackett and husband, Cliff, of Bowie; sisters Shannon A. Mossotti and husband, Robert, of Sunset and Abigail J. Klein of Los Angeles.
He is also survived by nephews Connor and Collin; father- and mother-in-law, Larry and Andrea Anderson of Forestburg; brother-in-law Chad Anderson of Forestburg; grandmother Letha Skinner and husband, Lloyd, of Bridgeport; and grandmother Pansy Sims of Forestburg.

Klement, Edna Haverkamp | 1927-2015
Published Saturday, August 29, 2015

Edna Haverkamp Klement, 87, of Muenster died Thursday, Aug. 27, 2015.
Mass of Christian burial is 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 31, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Muenster with Father Ken Robinson officiating. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery.
A rosary and vigil will be 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30, at Scott Funeral Home in Muenster.
Pallbearers are Kody Klement, Kameron Klement, Brandon Grewing, Chad Hess, Joe Haverkamp and Jeff Graves.
Edna Anselma Haverkamp Klement was one of four children born to Joe B. and Laura (Berend) Haverkamp. She was born Nov. 20, 1927, in Gainesville. Edna married Martin Klement Sept. 16, 1947, in St. Mary’s Church in Gainesville. They were the proud parents of four children.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Laura Haverkamp; husband Martin Klement; daughter Karlyn Martin; and brothers Alfred, Julius and Anthony Haverkamp.
She is survived by her children, Karl and Kim Klement of Decatur, Kellye Hess of Muenster and Kirk Klement of Muenster; son-in-law James Martin of Muenster; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Kline, Virginia Lea | 1930-2015
Published Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Virginia Lea Kline, 84, of Decatur died Friday, March 27, 2015, in Dallas.
Funeral was March 31 at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Rev. Brian Bosworth and Zack Landis officiating. Burial followed at Roselawn Cemetery in Denton.
Virginia was born Sept. 16, 1930, in Houston to Tom and Jennie (Bowers) Champion. She married Jack Kline June 3, 1950, in Decatur.
Virginia graduated from Texas Woman’s University and upon her graduation, she was employed by TWU. She worked for Bristol General Hospital in Dallas and was employed by Denton State School for 20 years before her retirement as a medical records administrator.
Virginia was a volunteer with the ladies auxiliary at Wise Regional Health System in Decatur, and she was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her husband.
Virginia is survived by her sons, Michael Jack Kline and wife, Gail, of Lewisville, Jack Kline Jr. and wife, Bonnie, of Sanger and James Timothy Kline and wife, Marlene, of Keller; sister Charlene Cooper of Fort Worth; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law GiGi Dacus; and other family members and friends.
Memorials can be made to the First United Methodist Church in Decatur.

Koger, LeeOla B. | 1954-2015
Published Wednesday, January 7, 2015

LeeOla B. Koger, 60, a homemaker, died Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015, in Las Vegas.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Sunset Cemetery with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating.
LeeOla was born Feb. 4, 1954, in Dallas to Johnny and Clayton (Simpson) Burleson.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Survivors include her sons, Nathan Koger and wife, Loretta, of Bryson and Bennie Koger of Sunset; grandchildren Kaitlynn, Hailey and Riley Koger, Nicola Eversole, Zoie and Ashton Polk, Javan, Dailyn, Ryan and Lilly Koger; her mother, Clayton Simpson; and other family members and friends.

Koger, Rylie | 2007-2015
Published Saturday, September 12, 2015

Rylie Koger, 7, of Alvord died Monday, Sept. 7, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Sept. 11 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed at Alvord Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Robert Harsh, Ronnie Harsh, Rex Powers and Jesse Butler.
Honorary pallbearers were Jim Joling, Doug Sessums, Herald Gillespie and Curt McKee.
Rylie was born Oct. 29, 2007, in Fort Worth to Nathan Koger and Tiffany Matthews. In her seven short years, she overcame many battles with a rare genetic disease that led to numerous hospitalizations and treatment programs.
Despite her struggles, she enthusiastically participated in Sonflower Camp and played special needs baseball. She was a typical young lady and enjoyed shopping, especially for shoes.
Rylie was also involved in animal rescue and adopting out homeless dogs and cats. She received awards and honors in school, including the President Award and Academic Achievement. Rylie had the opportunity to enjoy the activities in which all children participate for as long as the genetic disease was held at bay.
She is survived by her mother, Tiffany Matthews; father Nathan Koger; sisters Kaitlyn Koger and Hailey Koger; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Kuykendall, Jerry | 1929-2015
Published Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Jerry Kuykendall, 86, of Decatur died Friday, June 19, 2015, in Decatur.
A private graveside service was held with the Rev. Jack Gatewood officiating.
Jerry was born March 4, 1929, in San Antonio to Oscar and Ruby Kuykendall. He married Sue Stutts July 20, 1951, in Houston. Jerry retired from Ingersol Rand as a service manager, and in his retirement, he was a driver for James Woods Motors. Jerry was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sue Kuykendall of Decatur; daughter Ginger Flynt and husband, Richard, of Decatur; sons Pepper Kuykendall and wife, Dianna, of Midlothian, and T.J. Kuykendall and wife, Vicky, of Decatur; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many friends.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Decatur, Missions Department; or Cook Childrens Hospital, NICU.

Lambert, Paul Edward | 1930-2015
Published Saturday, January 17, 2015

Paul Edward Lambert, 84, died Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 1 in Decatur.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the church.
Pallbearer are Jeremy Lambert, Robert Lambert, Jason Lambert, Tommy Lambert, David Lambert, Ricky Thornton, Tim Lambert, Steve Lambert, Mike Lambert, Danny Lambert and John Lambert.
Paul was born June 26, 1930, in Sycamore to John and Ida (Smith) Lambert. He married Joann Byford Oct. 25, 1952, in Decatur, and he served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict.
Paul was a dairyman, a rancher and a farmer at Lambert Dairy. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Boyd.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Gilbert, John and T.H. Lambert.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Joann Byford Lambert of Boyd; sons Chuck Lambert and wife, Julie, of Springtown and Jim Lambert and wife, Sandy, of Boyd; grandchildren Jeremy Lambert and wife, Kim, Robert Lambert and wife, Stephanie, Jason Lambert, Jenna Lambert and Jessica Lambert; great-grandchildren Hunter, Connor and Lena Lambert; brother William Lambert and wife, Marie, of Boyd; sister Dorothy Grey and husband, Billy, of Newark; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Donations may be made to the First Baptist Church, 140 North FM 730, Boyd, TX 76023.

Laux, Donald J. | 1927-2015
Published Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Donald J. Laux, 88, of Newark, died Monday, Oct. 19, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with entombment at 1 p.m. at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
Donald was born Mar. 6, 1927, in Appleton, Wis., to Gordon and Rose (Garrity) Laux. He married Yoko Tsumita Apr. 1, 1973, in Tokyo, Japan.
After World War II, Donald joined the Merchant Marines, carrying supplies to Europe. He then entered the Air Force where he served in Korea and Vietnam and retired in 1971. Donald was a member of VFW Post 10374.
He worked at General Dynamics in Fort Worth for 13 years as an aerospace engineer inspector and retired from that position.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Patrick and Randy; sister-in-law Emily; and sister Bonita Damro.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Yoko Laux; son Donald Laux Jr. and wife, Barbara, of Wisconsin; daughters Tammie Nelson and husband, Bob, of Wisconsin, and Debra McMullen of Wisconsin; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
He is also survived by brothers Dave Laux and wife, Judy, of Wisconsin, Gordy Laux and wife, Lois, of Mexico, Joe Laux and wife, Pam, of Florida and John Laux of Wisconsin; sisters Kathy Fondow and husband, Larry, of Wisconsin and Mary Murphy and husband, Tom; sister-in-law Corky Laux of Wisconsin; and other family members and friends.

Lawrence, Bettie | 1940-2015
Published Saturday, November 7, 2015
Bettie Lawrence, 75, of Rhome, died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Rock Island Family Church in Boyd.
Bettie was born April 8, 1940, in Sherbrooke, Nova Scotia. She was an endearing, loyal friend and helper to all.
From the quilting guild to the WCS Alumni, the Green’s Tea to the Heritage Society, the Solitaires to TASSD, the Willsboro Congregational Church to her family and friends; her absence will be greatly felt. She will be missed by many.
Bettie is survived by her brother, Toy W. Rodenhiser and wife, Barbara; daughters Sue McClure and Kevin, and Beth Hayes and husband, Jeff; and grandchildren Jason, Jordan and Evan Hayes.

Lee, Norman Bruce | 1949-2015
Published Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Norman Bruce Lee, 65, of Forestburg, died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, in Denton.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at New Harp Cemetery with the Rev. Mike Haverland officiating.
Bruce was born Sept. 12, 1949, in Decatur to Jasper and Catherine (Poteet) Lee. He was an assembly line worker for Peterbilt.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Paula Putnam.
Survivors include his sisters, Virginia Lee Dexter and husband, Gary, of California, Cathy Lee Moseley and husband, Johnny, of Forestburg, Linda Putnam MacAhan and husband, Charles, of Saginaw, and Becky Putnam Harwell of Forestburg; brothers Charles Lee and wife, Barbara, of Coppell and James Putnam and wife, Katherine, of Gainesville; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Leming, Tammy Michelle Cash | 1968-2015
Published Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Tammy Michelle Cash Leming, 47, of Jacksboro, formerly of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015, in Weatherford.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Terry Mitchell officiating.
Tammy was born Aug. 11, 1968, in Bridgeport to Joyce Ruth (Stutt) and Clifton Walter Cash Jr. She was an American sign language teacher and communication and science disorder specialist. Tammy graduated from Bridgeport High School, received a degree in business and drama from Weatherford College and earned a master’s degree in deaf education at Texas Woman’s University.
Tammy attended Jacksboro Church of Christ, sang in school and church choirs and was a member of the American Sign Language Association, the American Sign Language Club, Wise County Singing Ladies, Texas State Teachers Association, Future Educators of America, drama club, speech club and band. Tammy received the PTA National Honor Golden Key Award, was a member of the national dean’s list for five years and received a master in American sign language award. She enjoyed needlepoint, drama, performing in local plays and visiting Casa Manana in Fort Worth.
Tammy married Lonny Leming Dec. 22, 2004, at Walt Disney World.
She was preceded in death by an infant son; grandparents Margaret Vera (Mann) and Kit Jay Stutt and Dollie Lois (Hulsey) and Clifton W. Cash Sr.; great-grandmother Sara Ruth Neel Mann; and aunt Patricia Lee Cash Cougar.
She is survived by her husband; son Landyn Neel Leming; parents; and brother Kevin Jay Cash.

Lindop, Charles Wayne, Sr. | 1933-2015
Published Saturday, September 26, 2015

Charles Wayne Lindop Sr., 81, of Runaway Bay died Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Sept. 24 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed at Midlothian Cemetery.
Charles was born Dec. 3, 1933, in Ovilla to Lester and Grace (Mitchell) Lindop. He graduated from high school in 1952. Charles retired as a foreman from Proctor and Gamble.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Peggy Jean Lindop in 2003; and son Johnny Lindop in 2008.
Charles is survived by his brothers, Lester Lindop and wife, Pat, of Irving and Don Lindop and wife, Ollive Lee, of Ovilla; son Charles Wayne Lindop Jr.; several grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Lindsey, Mary Catherine | 1933-2015
Published Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Mary Catherine Lindsey, 81, died Friday, Oct. 30, 2015, in Bowie.
Graveside service was Nov. 2 at the Bellevue Cemetery in Bellevue.
Mary was born Nov. 26, 1933, in Lewisville to Garrett and Nancy (Cloud) Wells. She graduated from Texas Women’s University in Denton with an LVN degree. Mary worked for Parkland Hospital, Denton State School and later Bellmire Nursing Home.
She married Jimmy Lindsey May 26, 1996, in Bowie. Mary enjoyed sewing, baking, crafts and music.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Garrett and Nancy Wells; husband Jimmy Lindsey; brothers Jim Wells, Clarence Wells and Rufus Wells; and sister Lizzy Adams.
Mary is survived by her children, Sue Trimmer and husband, Wayne, of Fort Worth, Dale Litchfield of Bowie, Edward Boyd of Wichita Falls, Billy Wayne Lindsey and wife, Teresa, of Bridgeport, Larry Edwin Lindsey and wife, Darlene, of Bridgeport and Pamela Gayle Lindsey of Bowie; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Little, Anna Lee | 1930-2015
Published Saturday, July 18, 2015

Anna Lee Little, 85, of Portland, formerly of Paradise, died Sunday, July 12, 2015, in Portland.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 18, 2015, at Preskitt Cemetery in Decatur with Gary Little officiating.
Anna was born May 24, 1930, in Bridgeport to David and Ida (Holt) Dunn. She married Marion Edward Little and was a retired farmer.
Anna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Greg Little; and 13 brothers and sisters.
She is survived by son Gary Little and wife, Mary, of Ransom Canyon; grandchildren Curtis McLain and wife, Sandy, Christi Little, Ryan Adamson and wife, Tiffany, and Alexandra Little; five great-grandchildren; sisters Ruby Hedge of Morgan Mill and Faye Zuber of Montana.

Little, Callen Jace | 2005-2015
Published Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Callen Jace Little, 9, of Decatur died Saturday, June 13, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Thursday, June 18, at Grace Fellowship in Paradise with burial at Sweetwater Cemetery. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Michael Little, Matthew Little, Chad Huddleston, Brian Stephens, Gabe Cocanougher and Taylor Everett.
Callen was born Nov. 7, 2005, in Denton to Michael and Tasha Little. He had a love of the outdoors, especially swimming and being in the water. Callen was loved by many family and friends and always loved to make others smile. He had a very deep love of the Lord and understanding of scriptures for such a young man. Callen was a happy boy and brought so much joy to all those around him.
He is survived by his parents, Michael and Tasha Little of Decatur; sister Blayne Little; grandparents Jim Bob and Christy Little of Decatur, D’Ann Little of Decatur and Bob and Paula Woisard of Alvord; great-grandparents Maxine Little of Decatur, Stanley and Janice Pitts of Decatur, Eleanor Woisard of Lewisville and G.W. and Ava Brummell of Pittsburg; and many friends.
Memorials may be made to GoFundMe.com/CallenLittle.

Lloyd, Willie Mae | 1930-2015
Published Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Willie Mae Lloyd, 84, of Decatur died Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, at Moore Funeral Home and Cemetery, 1219 N. Davis Dr., in Arlington.
Willie Mae was born Sept. 24, 1930, in Vernon.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny Lloyd. Willie Mae was the last survivor of nine brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Mahaffey and husband, Ronnie, of Las Vegas, N.M.; son Dale Tanner and wife, Dana, of Plano; and granddaughters Laura and Kayla Tanner of Plano.

Lobaugh, Donald Wayne | 1959-2015
Published Saturday, July 25, 2015

Donald Wayne Lobaugh, 56, died Sunday, July 19, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Friday, July 24, 2015, at Boyd Church of Christ with Steve Weeks officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Tim Sipes, Tim Reed, Ryan Reed, Robert Demases, Danny Lambert, Mark Starnes, Ryan Starnes and Shane Starnes. Honorary pallbearers were Randall Clark, Chris Wallace, Matt Mitchell and Peanut Partin.
Donald was born on Feb. 16, 1959, to Doyle Wayne Lobaugh and Paula Jene Smith Phillips in Abilene. He married Tonya Snodgrass Sept. 18, 1981, in Euless. Donald was a process analyst for Integris/Poco Graphite in Decatur. He was a member of the Boyd Church of Christ and veteran of the U.S. Army.
He is survived by wife of 33 years, Tonya Lobaugh of Decatur; sons, Jared Lobaugh and wife, Andrea of Virginia Beach, Va., Brent Lobaugh of Decatur; grandsons, Taylor and Jase Lobaugh of Virginia Beach, Va.; parents, Paula Phillips of Camarillo, Calif. and Doyle Lobaugh of Cedar Hill; brother, Bob Lobaugh of Oklahoma; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and a host of friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials be made to CASA of Wise County, 300 E. Pecan Street, Decatur, Texas 76234.

Loftin, Nancy Eula May | 1932-2015
Published Saturday, October 24, 2015

Nancy Eula May Loftin, 83, of Decatur, died Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015, in Denton.
Graveside service was Oct. 23 at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Coalinga, Calif.
Nancy was born Aug. 8, 1932, in Atoka, Okla., to Charles Aaron and Eula (Miller). She married Allen Loftin Aug. 19, 1953, in Arcata, Calif.
Nancy was an accomplished artist. She served as deputy president of West Coast Rebecca’s Lodge and president of Senior Gleener’s of California. Nancy taught Sunday school for many years in California. She was a Baptist and a retired registered nurse.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Allen Loftin; son Johnny Dale Greggs; grandson Allen Dale Smith; and her brother.
She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Sanders and husband, Mike, of Decatur; son Billy Charles Greggs of Lakewood, Fla.; grandchildren Shane Smith and John Paul Greggs; great-grandchildren Karl, Jimmy, Brittney, Shalynne and Timmy; sisters Betty Hendrickson and Mildred Nelson; her brother, Mike Nelson; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Loney, Zackery Samuel | 1998-2015
Published Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Zackery Samuel Loney, 17, of Paradise died Friday, July 3, 2015, in Grand Canyon, Ariz.
Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Monday, July 13, at the Paradise High School gym.
Zackery was born March 30, 1998, in Dallas to Scott and Margart Loney. He loved to travel, play basketball and tennis and was an avid video gamer. Computer applications and chemistry were some of his interests.
Zackery was a member of the National Beta Club. He was also a Student Council officer, class officer, “A” Honor roll student and a UIL academic contest participant. Zackery would have been a senior this year at Paradise High School.
He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Lawrence A. Donnelly and Bill Loney; great-grandparents Bill and Viola Loney; and great-grandfather Leroy Weidman.
Zackery is survived by his parents, Margart D. Loney and Scott C. Loney; brothers Nicholas Loney and Christopher Loney; and grandmothers Margaret S. Collins and Joan Loney.
Memorial donations may be made to Paradise High School for the Zackery Loney Memorial Scholarship.

Longbotham, Jack Henry, Dr. | 1930-2015
Published Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Dr. Jack Henry Longbotham, 85, of Clyde, died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2015, in Brownwood.
Funeral was Dec. 4 at the First Baptist Church in Fort Davis with burial at Hillcrest Cemetery in Fort Davis.
Jack was born June 5, 1930, in Snyder to Bernard Sr. and Connie Longbotham. He married Elisabeth Prude Sept. 10, 1955, at Prude Ranch in Fort Davis. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Texas Tech University in 1952, and a master’s degree from Sul Ross University in 1957.
Jack was a county Extension agent in El Paso before moving back to Snyder and beginning his career in education. He was high school counselor at Snyder High School before deciding to further his education and pursue a doctorate degree from Texas A&M.
He moved his family to College Station when his youngest child was 18 months old. In 1968, he received his PhD from Texas A&M.
While attending A&M, he was a member of the college rodeo team, director for the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association and an assistant professor. Following his time at Texas A&M, he moved his family to Georgetown and worked for the Texas Education Agency in Austin for several years. He then moved to higher education and begin teaching at Southwestern University in Georgetown.
In 1971, the family moved to Clyde after he accepted a position at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene. While at HSU, he served as professor and dean of the education department for 28 years.
Jack was a veteran of the Korean War and served in the United States Navy. He held memberships in the American Quarter Horse Association, Texas Hereford Association and Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Associations. He was a lifetime member of the American Hereford Association.
Jack loved the Lord and served Him faithfully throughout his 85 years. Jack was a loving father – patient, gentle and kind. He loved each of his four children completely and equally. He had 19 grandchildren and was interested in each one of their lives.
Jack’s keen sense of humor was enjoyed by those who knew him well and loved him. He was a wise rancher and enjoyed his cows and horses very much. He also enjoyed spending time on his Brown County ranch in Zephyr and his farm in Snyder in Scurry County. “Dr. Jack” enjoyed watching his children grow up showing steers, competing in rodeos and showing horses.
He was preceded in death by his twin brother, John Robert (Bob) of Snyder at the age of 15; his parents, Bernard Sr. and Connie Longbotham of Snyder; sister Geraldine Longbotham Bowers of Midland; brothers Bernard Longbotham Jr., Charles Longbotham and Billy Longbotham, all of Snyder; and his son, Jeffrey Paul Longbotham of Midland.
Jack is survived by his wife, Elisabeth Prude (Libo) Longbotham; children Jack Longbotham Jr. of Abilene, Beth Longbotham High of Victoria and Becky Longbotham Rodriguez of Bridgeport; as well as 19 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Looney, Melba J. | 1940-2015
Published Saturday, March 14, 2015

Melba J. Looney, 74, of Boyd died Tuesday, March 10, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was March 13 at Hilltop Assembly of God Church in Boyd with Rev. Bill Fitch officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery under the direction of Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers were Randy Elledge, Kenny Looney, Rick Taylor, Jafid Herrera, Gerald Neighbors and Chuck Berg.
Melba was born on Dec. 20, 1940, in Yantis to Ezra and Maydell (Crump) Elledge. She married Lee Troy Looney on Nov. 16, 1957 in Yantis. Melba held many jobs but was a homemaker most of her life. She was a member of the Hilltop Assembly of God Church.
Melba was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Robin Kay Fry; her granddaughter, Jennifer Fry; and her brother, Dave Elledge.
Melba is survived by her husband of 57 years, Lee Troy Looney of Boyd; her daughters, Pam Huddleston and husband Bill of Boyd, and Debra Taylor and husband Raymond of Marshall; her grandchildren, Chad Huddleston and wife Kristen of Decatur, Kimberly Herrera and husband Jafid of Krum, Robert Fry of Lone Star, Steven Fry of Longview and Jason Fry and wife Ashley of Troy, Mo.; her great grandchildren, Layton, Addyson, Brynlee, Landon, Caleb, Alexia Rose and Steven; her brother, Royce Elledge and wife Jeannine of Boyd; her sister, Sandy Russell and husband Ben of Vicksburg, Miss.; and other family members and a host of friends.

Lott, Janice K. | 1946-2015
Published Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Janice K. Lott, 69, of Decatur, died Thursday, Oct. 8, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was Oct. 12 at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with Pastor James Crawford officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Janice was born Sept. 13, 1946, in Galesburg, Ill., to A.J. and Carol (Peal) Varner. Her hobbies included her love for reading, bowling and puzzles.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Larry D. Peterson.
Janice is survived by her husband, Charles M. Lott; sons Larry D. Peterson, Christopher J. Peterson and Charles D. Lott; and six grandchildren.

Low, Nell | 1945-2015
Published Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Nell Low, 70, died Thursday, May 1, 2015 in Decatur.
Services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, 2015 Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise, officiated by Pastor Rick Cooper. Burial will follow at Crafton Cemetery, and members of the Bridgeport Police Department will be pallbearers.
Nell was born January 15, 1945 in Jacksboro. She enjoyed baking, being with her grandchildren and family, and reading her Bible.
She is survived by her son Todd Low and his wife Emily; mother Nita Ogle; brothers Jerry Rogers and wife Becky, and Eddy Rogers; sister Terry Shields and husband Gary; grandchildren Erik Low, Breece Low, Abby Patchett, Cole Remington and Cade Remington; and family.
Nell was preceded in death by father, Ray Ogle, and son Scott Low.

Lowe, John C. | 1919-2015
Published Saturday, April 18, 2015

John C. Lowe, 95, of Rhome died Tuesday, April 14, 2015.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, April 18, at Grace Baptist Church in Newark with burial to follow at Dido Cemetery. Greenwood Funeral Home in Fort Worth is handling arrangements.
John was born Dec. 25, 1919, in Lindale.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Nettie Ann Lowe; daughter Virginia Arnold; and son Donald G. Lowe.
He is survived by daughters Joyce Stierwalt and Pat Gary; sons Jimmy Lowe, Bill Lowe, J.C. Lowe Jr., Larry Lowe and Darrell Lowe; 23 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.

MacGuire, Alane Sauder | 1953-2015
Published Saturday, March 14, 2015
Alane Sauder MacGuire, 62, a member of the Waggoner family, died Sunday, March 1, 2015, after battling cancer.
There will be a private burial at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur. Memorial service is 11 a.m., Saturday, March 28, at the Church of the Transfiguration on 29th Street between Madison and Fifth Avenue in New York City.
Alane, also called “Lanie,” was born April 10, 1953, in Wichita Falls but has lived most of her adult life in Manhattan and in Lawrence, Long Island, N.Y.
She attended Hockaday School and graduated from Wichita Falls High School. She graduated from the University of Texas, obtaining an MBA from Columbia University, as well as an MSW from NYU. Alane also studied at the Jungian Institute in New York and was a leading Jungian psychoanalyst. She began a private therapy practice, which lasted more than 20 years, and she worked tirelessly as a board member and president of the C.G. Jung Institute of New York. She was a member of the Jungian Psychoanalytic Association.
Even though a committed New Yorker, there was no taking the Texan out of her, and she returned to the family ranch frequently.
Her maternal great-grandfather, J.W. Patterson, was the first county judge of Wise County and her other great-grandfather, J.T. Waggoner, was the first county treasurer of Wise County. She was very close to her maternal grandmother (Marie Waggoner), who was married to J.L. Waggoner, son of J.T. Waggoner. J.L. Waggoner, over several decades, amassed what is known today as the Waggoner-Sauder Ranch.
Alane is survived by her sons, Pierce and Rhoads MacGuire; her mother, Johnnie Marie Waggoner Sauder; brother John W. Sauder and wife, Cheryl, and their children: Jay Sauder and wife, Sara, and son Henry; and Grace Storan and husband, Bart, and sons Leo and Jack; and sister Suzanne Sauder-Winston and her sons, Leland and Alexander Winston.
Memorial donations may be made to the Church of the Transfiguration (www.littlechurch.org), Dr. Dean Bajorin’s Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (www.bcan.org) or Calvary Hospice/Hospital (www.calvaryhospital.org).

Madden, Reta Von | 1937-2015
Published Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Reta Von Madden, 77, died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 13 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Ken May officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were the Adult 8 couples Sunday school class from the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
Reta was born Sept. 12, 1937, in Martha, Okla., to William Otis and Katie Adeline (Read) Lankford. She graduated in 1955 from high school in Altus, Okla., and attended DeKalb College in Clarkston, Ga., where she received her associate degree in accounting.
She married Jack William Madden Sept. 8, 1956, in Altus. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur and was a retired client services accountant.
Reta was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers Ira Maxelle Lankford and Billie Joe Lankford.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Jack Madden of Decatur; daughter Belinda Rae Madden Talley and husband, Ron, of Burleson; son Jay William Madden and wife, Hope, of Paradise; grandchildren Nate Talley, Payton Madden and Catie Madden; brother Donald Lynn Lankford; sisters Aletha Lou Walls, Barbara Darlene Pursifull and Janice Faye Vorderbrug; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church in Decatur for missions.

Malone, Bobby Wayne | 1960-2015
Published Saturday, September 26, 2015

Bobby Wayne Malone, 54, of Decatur died Monday, Sept. 21, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Sycamore Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Taylor officiating.
Bobby was born Oct. 16, 1960, in Bridgeport to Allen and Wilda (Tally) Malone. He worked as a production plant operator in petroleum.
He was preceded in death by his son, David Malone.
Bobby is survived by his mother, Wilda Malone of Decatur; sons Darrell Malone of Decatur and Keith Maxey of Decatur; daughter Tamra Bell of Bowie; brothers James Malone of Decatur, Kevin Malone of Decatur and Benny Malone of Decatur; 12 grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Malone, Bobby Wayne | 1960-2015
Published Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Bobby Wayne Malone, 54, of Decatur died Monday, Sept. 21, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Sycamore Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Taylor officiating.
Bobby was born Oct. 16, 1960, in Bridgeport to Allen (Gene) and Wilda (Tally) Malone. He worked as a production plant operator in petroleum.
He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Malone; and son David Malone.
Bobby is survived by his mother, Wilda Malone of Decatur; sons Darrell Malone of Decatur and Keith Maxey of Decatur; daughter Tamra Bell of Bowie; brothers James Malone of Decatur, Kevin Malone of Decatur, Benny Malone of Decatur and Bryan Malone of Oklahoma; 12 grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Maltzman, David | 1963-2015
Published Saturday, November 21, 2015
David Maltzman, 52, of St. Louis and formerly of Decatur, died Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015, in St. Louis.
Memorial service will be at a later date.
David was born Oct. 20, 1963, in St. Louis to Michael and Sandra Maltzman.
He and his wife, Holly, lived in Decatur in the early 2000s, and David served as a volunteer firefighter in Wise County.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Sherry Maltzman.
He is survived by his wife, Holly Maltzman; daughter Heather Tipton of Pottsboro; sons Jacob and Aaron Maltzman of Fort Worth; brothers Stephen and Jeffery Maltzman of Fort Worth; and grandchildren Jeremiah and Josiah Tipton.

Manire, Lonnie Ray | 1936-2015
Published Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Lonnie Ray Manire, 78, of Bridgeport died Saturday, May 2, 2015 in Bridgeport.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 5 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport, officiated by Jerry Galloway. Burial followed in West Bridgeport Cemetery. Pallbearers were Chris Robinson, Mike Carlson, Tyler Tapps, Kenny Robinson, Tim Robinson and Wacey Jackson.
Lonnie was born July 15, 1936 in Forestburg to Harry and Jewel (Cook) Manire. He was a member of Cates Street Baptist Church in Bridgeport. He enjoyed yardwork and being outside.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sarah Jackson; sons Lonnie Manire, Jr., and Bud Jackson; daughters Cindy Manire and Shelly Robinson; brother Harold Manire and wife Penny; grandchildren Tyler Tapps, Nathan Roberson, Thomas Tapps, Chris Robinson, Karly Carlson, Wacey Jackson, Braden Jackson, and McKenzi Knight; and six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

Manning, Ronnie Wayne | 1956-2015
Published Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Ronnie Wayne Manning, 58, of Boyd died Friday, July 3, 2015, in Boyd.
A private gathering for Ronnie will be scheduled at a later date.
Ronnie was born Sept. 17, 1956, in Dallas to G.W. and Betty (Nichols) Manning. He married Sherri Elaine Georg April 9, 2011, in Boyd. Ronnie worked as a director of engineering at Winston Hospitality.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Ronnie is survived by his wife, Sherri Manning of Boyd; sons Tony Manning and wife, Natasha, of Arizona and Chris Ramsey and wife, Kaycee, of Paradise; daughter Amanda Ramsey of Bridgeport; and grandchildren Brooke Manning, Peyton Manning, Zane Wood, Jake Ramsey and Brylee Ramsey.
He’s also survived by his brother, Mike Manning and wife, Josee, of Boyd; sisters Jackie Browning and husband, Nathan, of Seagoville and Denise Brown of Tyler; uncle Melvin Manning and wife, Bessie, of Durant, Okla.; his special brother and best friend, Rodger Brown of Gun Barrel City; in-laws Charles and Judy Georg of Bulverde; and other family members and friends.

Martin, Chester Lee | 1961-2015
Published Saturday, September 12, 2015

Chester Lee Martin, 54, died Thursday, Sept. 10, 2015.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, at New Hope Cemetery in Boyd. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown.
Chester was born April 20, 1961, in Fort Worth to James and Letha Martin.
He was preceded in death by his father; daughter Melanie; son Chester Jr.; and brothers Donald C. and Ronald C. Mitchell.
He is survived by his mother, Letha; siblings Deborah Blue, Hadie VanDuren, James Martin Jr., Rodney Martin and wife, Margaret, Joel Martin and Johnny Martin and wife, Autumn; grandchildren Shyla, Cheyene, Theresa and Brian Jr.; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Martin, R.V. 'Sonny' | 1929-2015
Published Saturday, March 7, 2015

R.V. “Sonny” Martin, 85, of Bridgeport died Wednesday, March 4, 2015, in Gustine.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Larry Potts officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Bud Read, Terry Cobb, Ricky Martin, Bill E. Martin, Hershel Stinnet and David Duncan.
R.V. was born Sept. 12, 1929, in Bridgeport to Walter and Pearl (McDaniel) Martin. He married Nancy Stepps Nov. 22, 2008, in Bridgeport. R.V. owned and operated Bridgeport CB sales and service for 15 years.
Later he started Martin Trucking, which he owned and operated for 33 years. R.V was a member of the Cates Street Baptist Church. He loved golfing, dancing and woodworking.
R.V. was preceded in death by his first wife, Edna Lucille Setser Martin; his second wife, Wilda Marie Dunn Martin; and sister Geneva Ruth Church.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Martin of Alvarado; sons Danny Martin and wife, Pearl, of Azle and Johnny Mack Martin of Bridgeport; daughter Sissy Rogers and husband, Roy, of Gustine; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters Betty Marie Cobb of Paradise, Bobby Jean Read of Paradise, Shirley McNeil and Reba Faye McKeever of Bridgeport; brother Billy Jack Martin of Bridgeport; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Martinez, Ma. Cristina | 1976-2015
Published Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Ma. Cristina Martinez, 39, died Saturday, Oct. 10, 2015, in Dallas.
Mass of Christian burial is 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Decatur with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Visitation is 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur. Rosary is at 7 p.m.
Pallbearers are Feliciano Martinez, Hector Fernandez, Armando Fernandez, Roberto Fernandez, Fernando Fernandez and Valente Fernandez.
Cristina was born July 6, 1976, in Jerez, Zacatecas, Mexico, to Aucensio and Natalia (Carrillo) Fernandez. She married Feliciano Martinez March 23, 2002, in Jerez. Cristina was a housewife.
She’s survived by her husband of 13 years, Feliciano Martinez of Decatur; sons Daniel and Omar Martinez; daughter Lesly Martinez; parents Aucensio and Natalia Fernandez; and numerous brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mason, Vernon | 1918-2015
Published Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Vernon Mason, 97, died Tuesday, June 2, 2015.
Graveside service with military honors was June 5 at Shannon Rose Hill Memorial Park.
Vernon was born May 10, 1918, in Ponder to Wilbur and Rosie Mason. He graduated from Rhome High School in 1936 and joined the Civilian Conservation Corps before joining the U.S. Army. He was a veteran of World War II, Texas 36th Infantry Division, and was awarded the Soldiers Medal for action during the invasion of southern France. He also served in North Africa and Italy.
Vernon married Opalene Shipley of Bridgeport. He was a member of Handley Church of Christ for more than 50 years and retired from General Dynamics in 1983. He loved fishing, traveling, singing and playing guitar.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents; wife Opal; son-in-law Harv Kuoppala; and brother W.A. Mason.
He is survived by daughters Verna McMains and husband, Phil, of Georgetown, Beverly Kuoppala of North Richland Hills and Jerri Hill and husband, Bruce, of Frisco; sister Wanda St. John of Chico; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Massey, Brian Keith | 1982-2015
Published Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Brian Keith Massey, 33, of Newark died Friday, June 12, 2015, in Bowie.
Memorial service is Thursday, June 18, at Harwood Park Pavilion in Bridgeport with Ron Graham officiating.
Brian was born Feb. 15, 1982, in Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jim Massey; and aunt PeeWee (Suzanne) Hudgins.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Massey; parents Diana Lisa Massey and husband, Shawn Phares, of Newark and Derle Shafer of Azle; stepsons Barron, Gauge and Nicolii of Montague; stepdaughter Arieiana of Montague; brothers Bradley and Chris Shafer of Azle; stepsisters Harlie, Hanna and Halle Phares of Springtown; grandmother Mary Massey of Rhome; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Mattes, Lenora C. | 1923-2015
Published Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Lenora C. Mattes, 92, of Decatur, died Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015, in Decatur.
A memorial service will be held at Fairlawn Cemetery in Vandalia, Ill. at a later date.
Lenora was born July 20, 1923, in Vandalia. She was a homemaker and a member of the Decatur Hospital Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing bridge and bingo.
Lenora was preceded in death by husband Harold E. Mattes of Decatur; and her son, Capt. Stanley H. Mattes of Naples, Italy.
She is survived by daughters Clara (Jo) McKinney and husband, Col. Dan R. McKinney, and Pamela Rouleau and husband, David; grandchildren Missy and Gary Johnson, Rick and Diana McKinney, David and Marine McKinney, Mia and Gil Russo, Stan and Danelle Rouleau and Jeff and Michelle Rouleau.
She is also survived by great-grandchildren Haley Johnson, Mathew Johnson, Westin McKinney, Rylee McKinney, Chase Russo, David L. Rouleau, Braden Rouleau, Ethan Rouleau and Olivia Rouleau.

Matthews, Ronnie | 1956-2015
Published Saturday, June 20, 2015

Ronnie Matthews, 58, of Boyd died Tuesday, June 16, 2015.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at Springtown Church of Christ with burial to follow at Jaybird Cemetery in Springtown.
Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown is handling arrangements.
Ronnie was born Dec. 21, 1956, in Bakersfield, Calif., to Charlie and Mary Jones Matthews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Roger and Charles Shannon Matthews.
He is survived by his wife, Leilani Matthews; parents Charlie and Mary Matthews; sons Sean Matthews and Jacob Matthews; daughters Cassandra Minyard and husband, Wesley, and Samantha Matthews; sister Sharon Latta and husband, Rick; and grandchildren Sean Jr. and Jaydon.

Maxey, Tommie Sue | 1937-2015
Published Saturday, May 30, 2015

Tommie Sue Maxey, 77, of Decatur died Thursday, May 28, 2015, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. Don Spain and Dr. Cecil Maxey officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Tommie was born Sept. 20, 1937, in Fort Worth to Tom and Opal (McClellan) Colston. She married Jackie Maxey May 28, 1954, in Fort Worth. She was a homemaker.
Tommie was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Jackie Maxey of Decatur; sons Michael Maxey and wife, Libia, of Mexico, Ricky Maxey of Decatur and Mark Maxey of Decatur; daughter Kathi Maxey of Fort Worth; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Maxwell, Kenneth Gerald | 1931-2015
Published Saturday, May 30, 2015

Kenneth Gerald Maxwell, 84, of Paradise died Monday, May 25, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Revs. Gary Maxwell, Melvin Strong and Dwayne Maxwell officiating. Burial will follow at Cottondale Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Kyle Miller, Marcus Miller, Trace Reed, Paul Torres, Dennis Maxwell and Jesse Pruitt.
Kenneth was born March 17, 1931, in Stigler, Okla., to M.T. and Johnnie (Moore) Maxwell. He married Nova Audrey Ray June 7, 1952, in Uma, Ariz. He retired from General Motors and then worked for Wal-Mart for an additional 10 years. Kenneth was a member of the United Pentecostal Church in Bridgeport.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 50 years, Nova Maxwell; son Kenneth Dale Maxwell; his brother, the Rev. Glen Maxwell; and sister Fearl Dean Flood.
He’s survived by his daughter-in-law, Cheryl Shetter of Paradise; grandsons Jerry Maxwell and wife, Sandy, of Paradise, Joe Maxwell and wife, Valerie, of Paradise and Chris Maxwell of Oklahoma; 13 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sisters Shirley Ridgeway and husband, Abe, of Tulsa, Okla., and Faye Tucker and husband, J.D., of Adrian, Mich.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Maynes, Richard Brayton | 1933-2015
Published Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Richard Brayton Maynes, 82, died Friday, May 15, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at Governor’s Ridge, 300 E. Devereaux, in Decatur. Coffee and tea will follow in the Governor’s Ridge private dining room. An early dinner will be at the home of Robert and Cherry Clifford, 2011 Wild Horse Rd., in Decatur.
Brayton was born March 24, 1933, in Cortez, Colo., where he lived until joining the Army. He served in Korea. Later he settled in Arlington with his mother and brothers. He married Bette Jo Miller Dec, 21, 1956, and raised his family in Dallas. He retired from Texas Instruments in 1995.
Brayton and his wife then moved to Richland Chambers Lake in Corsicana. He loved to travel and went to every state with his wife via RV for several years. He also was a talented artist and board member of the local chapter of the American Gourd Society. His favorite pastime was carving.
Brayton was known as a soft-spoken, generous man who was kind to all. He raised his family at Grace Bible Church under Dwight Pentecost in Dallas. He later served as elder at a number of Presbyterian churches in the Dallas and Corsicana areas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Iro Maynes and Hazel Marie Maynes; and his younger brother, Albert Maynes.
Richard is survived by wife Bette Maynes; children Cherry Maynes Clifford and Shannon Maynes; grandchildren Lesli Shaw, Brandon Maynes, Cassie Maynes, Taylor Shaw and Cory Maynes; and great-grandchildren Talon Shaw and Fenix Maynes.
Brayton loved animals and in particular dogs. Memorials may be made to Allie’s Haven Animal Rescue, www.allieshaven.org, or by mailing a check to Allie’s Haven, 116 E. Bozeman Lane, Fort Worth, TX 76108.

McBride, Larry B. | 1944-2015
Published Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Larry B. McBride, 70, a retired truck driver, died Friday, Feb. 27, 2015 in Decatur.
Memorial is 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, 2015, at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport.
Larry was born on June 2, 1944, to Parker and Rosa Lee (Nunn) McBride in Plainview. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Gary McBride, Dale McBride, and Gale McBride.
He is survived by his partner, Vertreesa Rutherford of Paradise; his sons, Weston McBride and wife Kassanera of San Antonio, and Dustin McBride; his granddaughters, Rachael and Jennalyn; his brothers, Bart McBride and wife Karen of Tulia and Lamar McBride of Vigo Park; other family members and a host of friends.

McCarley, Troy Lee | 1925-2015
Published Saturday, October 10, 2015

Troy Lee McCarley, 90, of Paradise died Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2015.
Funeral was Oct. 9 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen. Burial followed at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen.
Troy was born Aug. 2, 1925, in Collin County to John McCarley and Nettie (Hollis) McCarley. He married Delia Faye McCarley Aug. 11, 1945, in Sherman and retired from General Motors in Arlington after 33 years in the materials department.
Troy enjoyed farming and ranching. He was the founder of Texas Westerneers Riding Club and the National Association of Riding Clubs and Sheriff’s Posses and belonged to the Cockrell Hill Riding Club. He created the “Six Flags over Texas Drill,” which won many awards.
Troy was preceded in death by his wife, Delia Faye McCarley; and brother J.R. McCarley.
He’s survived by his son, Ronnie McCarley and wife, Susie, of Runaway Bay; daughters Pam Walsh and husband, H.L., of Paradise and Kim Redfearn of Decatur; grandchildren Jimmy McCarley and wife, Kathy, of Azle, Buffy Strange and husband, Casey, of Azle and Ryan Meals and wife, Jennifer, of Paradise; and three great-grandchildren.
He’s also survived by brothers Woodley McCarley of Blue Ridge, Lloyd Wayne McCarley and wife, Arlene, of Kansas and Rickey McCarley of Decatur; sisters Helen Sue Morrison of Mount Pleasant, Carol Short of Blue Ridge, Freida Welborn of Mount Pleasant and Charlotte Trimble of Plano; and several nieces and nephews.
Leave online condolences at tjmfuneral.com.

McClesky, Bernadine | 1943-2015
Published Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Bernadine McClesky, 72, of Newark died Friday, May 8, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 13, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Ryan Christopher officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Rex Sanders, Taylor Myers, Phillip Tillery, Clayton Hall, Keith McClesky and Leonard McClesky Jr. McClesky was born Jan. 12, 1943, in Lamesa to Clifford and Pearl Tarlton. She married Cecil McClesky June 1, 1973, in Lubbock. She retired from Tracor Westronics.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Bernadine is survived by her husband of 41 years, Cecil McClesky of Newark; sons William Myers of Idaho, Allen Myers of Arlington and Steven Myers of Alabama; daughter Katheryn Peterson of Arlington; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sisters Paula McClesky of Newark and Kay Hunt of Arkansas; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

McCollum, Obereta June| 1932-2015
Published Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Obereta June McCollum, 82, of Bridgeport died Saturday, June 6, in Bridgeport.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Obereta was born June 17, 1932, in Clovis, N.M., to Earl and Mattie (Hodges) Villers. She served her country in the U.S. Army. Obereta married E.J. McCollum Jan. 1, 1973, in Ennis, and she was a member of the Fundamental church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son, Jerry Lambeth; and brother Gerald Villers.
Obereta is survived by her sons, Gary Bishop and wife, Melody, of Denver and Douglas Lambeth and wife, Renee, of Ennis; daughters Sharon Keahey of Bridgeport, Carrie Wilson and Bert Sowells of Red Oak and Terry Hernandez of Ennis; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many friends.

McComb, Glenn Rollins | 1941-2015
Published Saturday, February 28, 2015

Glenn Rollins McComb, 73, died Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at his home in Rhome.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, March 7, at Alexander’s Midway Chapel in Springtown.
Glenn was born March 26, 1941, in Lampasas to Helen Jones Badalati and Vernon McComb. They both preceded him in death, along with brothers Vernon and Charles McComb, sister Von Thomas and nephew John Burge.
Glenn was retired from State Farm Insurance, as an adjuster. He loved showing his 1950s Mercury and flying. He was a member of the Heritage Creek Pilots’ Association.
Glenn is survived by his sisters, Doris Prestage and Mary Finto; stepson Jamie Morton and Samuel Self; brother-in-law Ron Thomas; three nieces; and three nephews.

McDaniel, Sherry Dalynn | 1968-2015
Published Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Sherry Dalynn McDaniel, 47, of Boyd died Thursday, July 2, 2015, in Azle.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Revs. Mark Autry and Jeff Tackett officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Brent Wilson, Brian Wilson, Joel Alexander, Robby Wilson, Jimmy McDaniel, Ray Sanders, Robert Leija and Steven Brady. Honorary pallbearers are Braden Shipp, Garrett Moore and Flinton Sage.
Sherry was born April 19, 1968, in Bridgeport to Eddie and Lois (Tackett) Moore in Bridgeport. She was a Baptist and a homemaker.
Sherry was preceded in death by her father, Eddie Wayne Moore on April 11, 2015.
She’s survived by her partner, Wes Morrow of Reno; daughter Kristi Blaine Hataway and husband, Justin, of Saginaw; sons Wyatt and Francis Morrow of Reno; grandchildren Brailey Shipp, Braiden Shipp and Jaycee Hataway; mother Lois Moore of Boyd; brother Dwayne Moore and wife, Cheryl-Ann Smith, of Boyd; and other family members and friends.

McDonald, Ruth | 1915-2015
Published Saturday, May 23, 2015
Ruth McDonald, 99, of Decatur died Monday, May 18, 2015, in Decatur.
No services will be held.
Ruth was born Aug. 29, 1915, in Gainesville to Leonard and Virginia (Haney) Burleson. She was a Baptist and a retired file clerk. Ruth enjoyed learning and taught herself Spanish, and she stayed informed on all current events. Ruth’s friends and the staff at the Hills were close to her heart.
She married the love of her life, Jess McDonald, right as World War II started. As a new bride, she was put on a train from Corpus Christi to Wichita, Kan., to be with her new family. They were one big family in no time, but Ruth loved Texas and her Jess, so she came back as soon as possible.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Jess McDonald.
Ruth is survived by her nieces, Arliene Irby of Keller and Judy Jenkins of Port Orange, Fla.

McGaha, Jackie | 1930-2015
Published Saturday, June 20, 2015

Jackie McGaha, 85, of Bridgeport died Monday, June 15, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service was June 19 at Greenwood Cemetery in Greenwood with the Rev. Glenn Connell officiating.
Jackie was born June 4, 1930, in Stony to Leonard and Ida (Worrell) Stone. She married James McGaha Sept. 4, 1949, in Wise County and was a member of Bridgeport Baptist Temple. She was a homemaker.
Jackie was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Ida Stone; her husband, James McGaha; daughter Janice Eberhart; granddaughter Toni Goins; four brothers; and two sisters.
She is survived by her daughter, Judy Littrell and husband, Rockey, of Bridgeport; son James McGaha of Bridgeport; four grandsons; three granddaughters; seven great-grandsons; three great-granddaughters; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

McGahey, Larry | 1949-2015
Published Saturday, March 28, 2015

Larry McGahey, 65, of Boyd died Thursday, March 26, 2015, in Denton.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, March 30, at Watts Funeral Home, 200 S. First St., in Madill, Okla., with burial to follow at Powell Cemetery in Powell, Okla.
Visitation is noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers are Randy Whorton, Michael Davis, Wayne Davis, Dustin McGahey, Josh Ayala, Nicholas Ayala, Matthew Ayala, Bradley Brandon, Wyatt Brandon and Andrew Tobin.
Larry was born July 10, 1949, in Madill, Okla., to Elbert and Estell (Cryer) McGahey. He married Judy Elizabeth Traylor Sept. 25, 1967, in Fort Worth and was a retired welder and mechanic.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents; sons Larry Jason McGahey and Freddy Partin; and sister Judy Brandon.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Judy McGahey of Boyd; daughter Gayla Whorton and husband, Randall, of Boyd; daughters-in-law Mandi McGahey of Boyd and Jennifer Partin of Springtown; grandchildren Zackory Partin and Braeden Jason McGahey; brother Terry McGahey and wife, Carlema, of Decatur; sisters Letha Davis and husband, Raymond, Charlene Burns and Debbie Tobin and husband, Andy, all of Fort Worth, and Dana Ayala of Granbury; and other family members and friends.

Meador, William Dayton | 1931-2015
Published Saturday, October 31, 2015

William Dayton Meador, 84, of Decatur, died Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015, in Dallas.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, at DeBerry funeral home in Denton with the Rev. Bill Kimblery of Forestburg Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton.
Pallbearers are Brian Owen, Keith Owen, Brandon Meador, Ryan Meador, Ronnie Meador and Scott Lawrence.
William was born June 14, 1931, in Argyle, to Robert Leonard and Annie Vaughn Meador. He married Delores Ann Owens in Denton. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, was owner of Meador Refrigeration and a member of Forestburg Baptist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents and wife.
William is survived by his daughter, DeAnn Owen and husband, Tom, of Coppell; sons, Dale Meador and wife, Jacki, of Denton, David William Meador and Holley Caley of Decatur; sister Juanita Baker of San Antonio; brother Vaughn Wayne Meador of Denton; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Meier, Lindy Annabelle | 1997-2015
Published Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Lindy Annabelle Meier, 18, of Alvord died Saturday, Sept. 19, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Sept. 22 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Ken Hering officiating. Burial followed at Sunset Cemetery in Sunset.
Pallbearers were Caleb Caviness, Michael Glass, Chad Langham, Lyndell Berry, Paul Callahan and Christopher Mancha.
Lindy was born Sept. 10, 1997, in Dallas to Michael and Robin (Raymon) Meier. She attended the youth group at the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
Lindy was preceded in death by her grandmother, Faye Haynes.
She is survived by her parents, Michael and Robin Meier of Alvord; brothers Raymon, Gregg and Jacob Meier of Alvord; grandparents Robert and Linda Raymon of Alvord; and numerous cousins and friends.

Mercer, Elaine | 1934-2015
Published Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Elaine Mercer, 81, of Bridgeport died Friday, Nov. 13, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Celebration of life is 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, at Pleasant View Baptist Church.
Elaine was born March 13, 1934, in Decatur to M.L. “Buster” Brown and Alseone (Rowe) Brown. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Elaine loved cooking and passing down recipes for her favorite dishes to her kids and grandkids. She was retired.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents; brother Charles Brown; and grandson Tim Cobb.
She is survived by her son, Jim Mercer and wife, Tina, of Bridgeport; son Juan Mercer and wife, Debra; daughters Becky Watkins and husband, Michael, of Sanger, Marla Smith and husband, James, of Bridgeport and Marsha Cantrell and husband, Rocky, of Bridgeport; sister Joyce Kuykendall; 14 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; two great-great-granchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Merrill, Lena C. | 1919-2015
Published Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Lena C. Merrill, 95, an insurance clerk, died Monday, Jan. 26, 2015, in Decatur.
No services will be held.
Lena was born Nov. 17, 1919, in El Paso to Gustavo and Teresa (Janke) Catsaron. She married Clyde Merrill in El Paso, and he preceded her in death.
She is survived by her brother, William Karstin of El Paso; grandson Tom Gillett of Portland, Ore.; niece Carolyn Wiggs of Sunset; and great-nieces Laura Wiggs of Houston and Wendy Hyatt of Keller.

Messick, James David | 1953-2015
Published Saturday, October 17, 2015

James David Messick, 62, of Lake Bridgeport died Saturday, Oct. 10, 2015, in Lake Bridgeport.
Visitation was Oct. 14 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
James was born Aug. 16, 1953, in Dallas to Douglas Keith and Molly Mae (Reed) Messick. He was a retired oil field worker.
James was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter, Heather Messick.
He’s survived by his sons, Adam Messick and wife, Wendy, of Lake Bridgeport, Nathan Messick and wife, Tiffany, of Bowie, and Coledan Messick of Lake Bridgeport; sister Debra Thomassom and husband, Larry, of Wylie; brothers Bruce Messick and wife, Susan, of Paradise and Jerry Thompson and wife, Kathie, of Grass Valley, Calif.; grandchildren Steph, Joey, Jacob, Lindsey, Heather and Whitney; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Miller, Gary Andrew | 1947-2015
Published Saturday, January 17, 2015

Gary Andrew Miller, 67, an independent oilfield consultant, died Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, in Dallas.
Visitation is 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. Burial will follow at Eternal Oaks Cemetery in Runaway Bay.
Pallbearers are Hadd Miller, Ryan Woodson, Jon Ashpaugh, Hayden O’Neal, Neal Ashpaugh and Larry Ashpaugh.
Gary was born Sept. 4, 1947, in Cherokee, Okla., to Hazel Robbins. He married Kathy Ashpaugh June 14, 1977, in Alva, Okla. Gary proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He was an avid outdoorsman and fisherman.
He was preceded in death by his mother.
Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Kathy Miller of Runaway Bay; daughters Kimberly Kae Gartrell of Laverne, Okla., Zoe Ann Luella O’Neal and husband, Jack, of Woodward, Okla., and Leslie Faye Woodson and husband, Ryan, of Denver, Colo.; son Hadd LaRoy Miller and wife, Pamela DaVon, of Runaway Bay; grandchildren Mercedes Renae, Ali Michelle, LeEsta Ann, Zachary Dean, Hayden Ryan, Kailene Rain, Van Bleau, Roman (Noodle) Cass, Hobie Cyrus and Sophia DeVon; great-grandson Zandryn Ray; and other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

Milligan, Nelda Bernice | 1931-2015
Published Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Nelda Bernice Milligan, 83, of Decatur died Saturday, March 7, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was March 10 at The River Church in Decatur with Greg Mohr officiating.
Nelda was born Oct. 15, 1931, in Decatur to Thomas Lamar and Mildred (Cooper) Gentry. She attended Weatherford Junior College and received her associate’s degree. Nelda married Dee Loyd Milligan Jan. 11, 1947, in Decatur, and they were married 55 years. He preceded her in death in 2002. She was also preceded in death by her parents and brother Billy Tom Gentry.
Nelda was a retired educational secretary.
She is survived by her sons, Richard David Milligan of Denton, Paul Loyd Milligan and wife, Patsy, of Woodland Park, Colo., Mark Lee Milligan of Fort Worth and Max Dee Milligan of Fort Worth; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and friends.

Milton, Jackie Lee, Sr. | 1932-2015
Published Saturday, April 4, 2015

Jackie Lee Milton Sr., 83, of Bridgeport died Wednesday, April 1, 2015, in Joplin.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at Joplin Baptist Church with the Rev. Loury Drew Nero officiating. Burial will follow at Joplin Fairview Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Jake Smith, Hank Cherryhomes, Thomas Cherryhomes, Clay Waymire, Jack Sawyer and Louis Montgomery.
Jackie was born Jan. 21, 1932, in Littlefield to Robert and Ruby (Davis) Milton. He married Florence Knight Nov. 16, 1951, in Whitedeer. Jackie served his country in the U.S. Marines and received the National Defense Service medal. He was a radar equipment foreman at General Dynamics and was the CEO on the Flightline.
Jackie was a member of the Joplin Baptist Church, and he was a Mason.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jackie is survived by his wife of 63 years, Florence Sarah Milton of Joplin; sons Jackie Lee Milton Jr. of Joplin and Richard Jerome Milton of Sandia; daughters Molly Kay Stingley and husband, Todd, of Denton, Emily Ann Felts and husband, Barry, of Granbury, and Janice Lynn Smith and husband, James, of Wills Point.
He is also survived by grandchildren Thomas Roy Cherryhomes, William Henry Cherryhomes II, Heather Renee Sherman, Lauren Amber Felts, Jake Smith, Jessica Smith and Zack Hunter Stingley; great-grandchildren Macy Sherman and Nina Sofia Cherryhomes; sisters Sue Williams of Houston and Beth Moveno and husband, Joe, of Port Arthur; and other family members and friends.

Mitchell, Dorothy Lynelle | 1922-2015
Published Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Dorothy Lynelle Mitchell, 92, of Fort Worth died Friday, Feb. 13, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, at Shannon Rose Hill Chapel in Fort Worth with the Rev. Ashley Hood officiating. Burial will follow at Shannon Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation is noon to 2 p.m. the same day.
Pallbearers are Christopher Mitchell, Kyle Mitchell, Matthew Mitchell, John Pirtle, Corby Self and Candace Self.
Born Dorothy Lynelle Hancock, June 12, 1922, in Dallas. Dorothy graduated from Dallas Technical High School in 1940 with a concentration of commercial and graphic art.
Dorothy, known as “Dottie Babe” by her closest girlfriends, married Norbon Eugene (Gene) Mitchell, also of Dallas, in June of 1942.
During the War Years, Dorothy, worked for the Navy as an X-ray technician at Hensley Field, Dallas. Upon war’s end, Dorothy and Gene moved into “Trailorville” on the campus of Southern Methodist University, along with hundreds of other GI families.
While Gene attended classes at SMU, Dorothy took time to take several SMU art classes, too. Before Gene graduated in 1951, Dorothy’s little family had grown to four children, which presented challenges, unique to the time and place for the GI families of Trailorville.
In 1956, the Mitchell family moved from Dallas to Fort Worth where they took up roots and were all proud to be called Fort Worthians. Dorothy was a loving and attentive mother and homemaker, though to help make ends meet from time to time, she did find work as a sales clerk at the Fair department store. She also worked for a while at the Arlington News doing artwork in their advertising department. On several occasions, she was a helping hand to Gene on many of his endeavors, doing artwork, sales calls and anything else to help out.
Above all else, Dorothy was an artist. Her nature was to see everything in life as components of color and form and to recognize the beauty of all things. She lived for a few years in New Mexico in the 1980s, spending all her time there studying art and painting.
Dorothy was also very musical, teaching herself to play the piano. In later years, she delighted all the members of the family with her handmade birthday and Christmas cards.
Dorothy was a child of God and raised her family in the loving arms of the church. Throughout her lifetime, her faith never wavered, even during her final days.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Mitchell; daughter Jeannie Pirtle; sister Rosa; and parents Virgil and Virgie Hancock.
She is survived by her daughter, Rose Mitchell of Fort Worth; sons Bob Mitchell and wife, Gilda, of Rhome and Bill Mitchell and wife, DeNell of Shreveport; son-in-law Tom Pirtle of Fort Worth; and grandchildren Corby Self Sr., Candace Self, John Pirtle, Chris Mitchell, Kyle Mitchell, Heather Mitchell Willden, Teresa Mitchell Schneider and Matthew Mitchell.
She is also survived by great-grandchildren James Self, Corby Self Jr., Pierce Mitchell, Olivia Mitchell, Garrison Mitchell, Sariah Willden, Grace Schneider, William Schneider, Jacob Mitchell, Lynell Mitchell; niece Sarah Ashford Watkins; and nephews Mike Ashford and Lee Ashford.

Montford, Vivian Janett 'Jan' | 1929-2015
Published Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Vivian Janett “Jan” Montford, 86, of Bridgeport died Monday, Dec. 14, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour before the service at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are David Montford, Jarrod Montford, James Money, Jim Bost, Clayton Byrd and Tommy Roberts.
Jan was born July 4, 1929, in Bridgeport to James and Thelma (Hawkins) Chilton. She married Billy Montford Jan. 26, 1946, in Bridgeport. Jan worked for the Bridgeport Clinic as the Medicare clerk until her retirement. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport.
Jan was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 66 years, Billy Montford; sister Ola Bost; brother-in-law C.E. Bost; nieces Judy Bost and Donna Sue Byrd; nephew C.E. Bost Jr.; and great-nephew Donald Lee Money.
She is survived by her sisters, Maxine Gregory of Tuscon, Ariz., and Effie Thomas of Bridgeport; nephews Jim Bost and wife, Cheryl, of Bridgeport, Dwight Gregory of Jackson, Miss., Dwayne Gregory of Tuscon, Ariz., Freddy Thomas of Lubbock and David Montford and wife, Beth, of Bridgeport; nieces Judy Money and husband, James, of Bridgeport, Susan Gregory of Tuscon, Ariz., and Jeanna Floyd and husband, Ronnie, of Arkansas; and other family members and friends.

Monthie, Odell Willie, Jr. | 1960-2015
Published Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Odell Willie Monthie Jr., 54, of Haslet, died Wednesday, March 11, 2015, in Rhome.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Thursday, March 19, at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Odell was born June 28, 1960, in Waco to Odell Sr. and Hazel (Winkle) Monthie. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army and was a diesel mechanic.
Odell was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Jeana Lichnovsky.
He is survived by his son, David Monthie and wife, Priscilla, of Haslet; daughters Nicole Monthie-Gregory and husband, Steve, of Rincon, Ga., and Rachel Monthie of Choctaw, Okla.; grandchildren Kane, Kylee, Terry, Alyssa and Lily-Ann; sisters Doris Monthie-Kemp and husband, Michael, of Longview and Kimberly Bailey and husband, Melvin, of Irving; numerous nieces and nephews; and other family members and friends.

Moody, Louis Melvin 'Shorty' | 1962-2015
Published Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Louis Melvin “Shorty” Moody, 53, of Chico passed away Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015, at home after a long battle with cancer.
Services were held Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015, at 10 a.m. at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport, officiated by Ronnie Geeslan. Burial followed in Jim Ned Cemetery at Runaway Bay.
Born on Feb. 20, 1962, he was the fifteenth child of Louis and Nona Moody.
Shorty was an easygoing man who loved life, family and all that nature had to offer. He enjoyed fishing at Lake Arrowhead, taking the grandchildren for buggy rides, hunting dove, brush-hogging, playing dominoes, visiting with family and helping out the neighbors.
Shorty enjoyed working outdoors, regardless of the weather. After earning a living in concrete and roofing, he went to work for Wise County at Precinct 2, working his way up to Lead Man on the road construction crew. He also raised cattle, farmed and enjoyed working on vehicles of all types.
Shorty married Myra, the love of his life, on Jan. 21, 2000, in Decatur. Together they lived on a small farm on the outskirts of Chico, where they raised their children to love God, respect nature and help those in need.
Shorty was preceded in death by his parents; brother Glenn; and triplet sisters Mae, Fay, and Kay.
He is survived by his wife, Myra Tiller Moody; his dog, George; daughter Jaye van Acht and husband Vince; sons Chris Tiller, John Johnson, and Jody Tiller and wife Rachel; grandchildren Elijah “Little Man” Tiller, Noah Tiller, Abel Tiller, Grey van Acht and Saul van Acht.
He also leaves behind four brothers: James Moody, Leon Moody and wife Teresa, Gene Moody, and Dale Moody and wife Nita; eight sisters: Thelma Thompson and husband Kenneth, Nora Lee Hood and husband Lott, Rosie Thompson and husband Jim, Doris Jenkins, Sherry Brown, Hattie Hale and husband Dale, Nancy McCasland and husband Mike, and Carandy Guinn and husband Johnny; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, his co-workers at Precinct 2, and enough friends to fill the Chico High School football stadium on homecoming night. He was loved and respected by all, and will be forever missed.

Mooney, Hazel Rose | 1917-2015
Published Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Hazel Rose Mooney, 97, of Decatur died Monday, July 6, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Ron Fox officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Sam Godbey, Paul Stevens, Josh Godbey, Harold Stevens, James Plowman and Brock Barnett.
Hazel was born Oct. 19, 1917, in Smithville, Okla., to Curby and Hestor (Tilley) Cheek. She married Paul Rose Jan. 26, 1935, in Alvord, and they had five children together.
She married Roy Phillips in 1978 and Earl Mooney in 1987. Hazel was preceded in death by her husbands, Paul Rose in 1965, Roy Phillips in 1981 and Earl Mooney in 1998.
She retired from Texas Instruments and was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Decatur.
Hazel is survived by daughters Paula Ellis of Weatherford and Cherrie Townsend and husband, Steve, of Hurst; son Richard Rose of Phoenix; sister Eunice Uberman of Fort Worth; grandchildren Marqueta Bouldin, Melinda Plowman, Harold Stevens, Paul Stevens, Susan Hicks and Sam Godbey; 15 great-grandchildren; 18 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to her husbands, Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; her infant son in 1955; her oldest daughter, Joy Godbey in 2010; sisters Letha McClain, Ora King and Maxine Drummond; and brothers Arthur Cheek, Ivan Cheek, Dennis Cheek and Nolan Cheek.

Moore, Eddie Wayne | 1949-2015
Published Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Eddie Wayne Moore, 66, of Boyd died Saturday, April 11, 2015, in Boyd.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Revs. Mark Autry and Jeff Tackett officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Steven Edwards, Steven Roberts, Jason Foreman, Joel Alexander, Kenneth Earl McCauley and Derek Lambert.
Eddie was born Jan. 20, 1949, in Decatur to Floyd and Vera (Meador) Moore. He graduated from Decatur High School.
Eddie married Lois Tackett June 2, 1967, in Boyd. He owned Eddie’s Tire Shop in Boyd and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Boyd.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Eddie is survived by his wife of 47 years, Lois Moore of Boyd; daughter Sherry (Dalynn) McDaniel and partner, Wes Morrow, of Reno; son Dwayne Moore and wife, Cheryl Ann, of Boyd; grandchildren Kristi Hataway and husband, Justin, of Saginaw, Brittany Moore, Courtney Moore, Garrett Moore, Kaylee Ann Moore, Flinton Sage Moore, Wyatt Morrow and Francis Dillion Morrow; great-grandchildren Brailey, Braiden and Jaycee; brother Bobby Moore and wife, Ester, of Decatur; sisters Elizabeth Frazier and husband, James, of Cundiff, Glenda Jackson of Decatur, Melba Roberts and husband, James (Bimbo), of Decatur, and Paula Foreman and husband, Jerald, of Bridgeport; and other relatives and friends.

Moore, Nelda Ruth | 1942-2014
Published Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Nelda Ruth Moore, 72, of Decatur, died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at her home.
Funeral was Jan. 11 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Nelda was born April 3, 1942, in Minden, La., to James Frank and Lilly Clifford (Holley) Clary. She married Frantz Ernest Moore Jr. Oct. 7, 1959, in Marshall.
She was a Century 21 real estate agent for 15 years in Irving. The couple moved to Decatur in 1998, and she and Frantz later became members of Victory Family Church in Decatur. Nelda was the kind of person who was always there to lend a hand. She was an antique collector and loved thrift-store shopping.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers William Charles Clary, John Ray Clary and Richard Glen Clary; sister Pamela Elaine Clary-Wiser; and grandson Thomas Iven Sorrell Jr.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Frantz Moore of Decatur; sister Mary Jo Smith of Tyler; daughter Grace Moore of Decatur; sons Frantz Butch Moore of Hawkins and Marshall Moore of Cadillac, Mich.; granddaughters Shalon Coursey and husband, Chet, of Decatur, Lisa Rice and Christy Bunk; and Morgan, Daiden, Alex, Kaili, Rhylee and five other great-grandchildren.

Moore, Rosie Ruth Qualls | 1943-2015
Published Saturday, July 4, 2015
Rosie Ruth Qualls Moore, 72, died Wednesday, July 1, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Sunday, July 26, at VFW Post 4376 in Seven Points. Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown is handling arrangements.
Rosie was born May 8, 1943, in Waxahachie to Johnie and Sadie Qualls. They preceded her in death along with her husband, Leonard; and son Johnnie.
She is survived by her brother, Floyd Qualls and wife, Debbie; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Morales, Gonzalo Martinez | 1958-2015
Published Saturday, May 9, 2015

Gonzalo Martinez Morales, 56, died Thursday, April 30, 2015, after a lengthy illness.
Service was May 5 at Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Burial was at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Morales was born Aug. 12, 1958, in Hereford to Concepcion and Mary Martinez Morales. He attended Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio, and graduated in 1981 with a degree in Latin American studies.
He then completed seminary studies at Assumption Seminary in San Antonio and was ordained May 18, 1985, at St. Philip the Apostle Church in Lewisville by Bishop Joseph Delaney.
Morales served at St. Patrick Cathedral, Immaculate Conception in Denton, Assumption of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary in Decatur, St. John the Baptizer in Bridgeport, St. Mary in Jacksboro, St. Joseph and Most Blessed Sacrament in Arlington, Our Lady of Lourdes in Mineral Wells, St. Francis of Assisi in Graford, St. Frances Cabrini in Granbury, St. Rose of Lima in Glen Rose, Holy Angels in Clifton and Our Lady of Guadalupe in Morgan.
He also served as director of vocations for the diocese from 1989 to 1995.
Morales was preceded in death by his father, Concepcion Morales Sr.; and brothers Oscar and Arthur Morales.
He is survived by his mother, Mary Morales; brothers Elio, Esuial and Edward Morales; sisters Amelia Martinez and Eileen Limas; and their families.
Memorials may be made to The Father Gonzalo Morales Memorial Burse for Seminarians, in care of The Advancement Foundation of the Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth, 800 W. Loop 820 South, Fort Worth.

Moreau, Harriet June | 1938-2014
Published Saturday, January 3, 2015

Harriet June Moreau, 76, of Bellevue, formerly of Alvord, died Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014, in Nocona.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at Bellevue Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery under the direction of White Family Funeral in Bowie.
June was born June 13, 1938, in Decatur to Arthur J. and Hazel B. Whitaker. She worked hard all of her life and enjoyed socializing and going to senior dances. June encouraged others to enjoy life, too. She was always known as the beautiful lady even while she was very ill.
June was active in the Bellevue Church of Christ, senior citizens dances and all events of her community.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands, Willard Moreau and Johnny K. Griffith; and a brother, James Whitaker.
June is survived by her son, Johnny Griffith and wife, Melody, of Alvord; daughters Marianne Langford and husband, Bob, of Nocona and Georgia Headley of Bridgeport; stepson Gary Moreau and wife, Charolette, of Rockwall; stepdaughters Carla Cotton of Vashti and Lisa Moreau of West Hollywood, Calif.; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to Solaris Hospice at 800 Highway 59 N., Bowie, TX 76230.

Morgan, Ann Shands | 1928-2015
Published Saturday, November 14, 2015

Ann Shands Morgan, 87, formerly of Decatur, died Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015.
Funeral is 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with Monte Martin and Zak Landis officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Visitation is at the church one hour prior to the funeral.
Pallbearers are Morgan Stone, Jordan Stone, Ryan Stone, Carl Morgan, Wesley Jack Morgan, Jim Morgan and Robert Morgan.
Ann was born Feb. 13, 1928, in San Marcos to Henry G. “Pete” and Janie (Hopson) Shands. She married Jack Garrott Morgan June 12, 1948, in Denton. Ann was a former member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur and a missionary.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Jack Morgan.
She is survived by her sons, Robert Shands Morgan of Wichita Falls and James William Morgan and wife, Cathy, of North Richland Hills; daughters Margaret Jane “Meg” Morgan of Tyler and Nancy Ann Martin and husband, Monte, of Hoover, Ala.; sister Jane Shands England and husband, John, of Dallas; sister-in-law Linda Brownlee and husband, Woody, of Garland; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Morgan, Lynn | 1941-2015
Published Saturday, January 17, 2015

Lynn (Young) Morgan, 73, died Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 15 at Grace Baptist Church in Decatur with Dr. Van Gardner and Bill Hughes officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Clay Bramlett, Drew Ward, Chris Bramlett, Thomas Nowers, J.D. Fee and Curtis Young.
Lynn was born Oct. 23, 1941, in Fort Worth to Melvin and Lila (Barnett) Morgan Sr. She loved sewing, dancing and taking care of her grandchildren. Lynn was a member of Grace Baptist Church in Decatur.
She especially enjoyed her 42-year career as a Certified Nurse’s Aide and developing close relationships with her patients.
Lynn was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Terry “Lynn” Debo; and brother Richard Mabry.
She is survived by her daughter, Kelly Bramlett and husband, Clay, of Decatur; grandchildren Stacey Simmons, Chelle Verstrate, Brittany Fee, J.D. Fee, Ayden Bramlett and Abby Bramlett; brothers Lonnie, Bill and Melvin Morgan; sisters Betty Hargrove and Elizabeth Shaw; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Morrison, Talmage Hiram, Jr. | 1921-2015
Published Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Talmage Hiram Morrison Jr., 93, of Alvord died Wednesday, June 3, 2015.
Funeral is 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, at Bean Massey Burge Funeral Home. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery.
Talmage was born Oct. 20, 1921, in Santa Monica, Calif., to Talmage and Birdie Morrison.
He graduated from Washington High School in 1939 and entered the U.S. Navy July 3, 1940. Talmage served during World War II and the Korean War, and he retired as a captain on June 30, 1967.
Talmage was a fun-loving man who was the founder of the Dallas Running Club and the Dallas Marathon. He was very social and loved to play his ukulele. Talmage formed a small band that traveled to nursing homes and played for residents.
He is survived by his children, Mike Morrison and Beverly Speece and husband, Gary; grandchildren John Price and wife, Amy, Michael Price, Major Steven Speece and wife, Alexandra, and Molly Speece; and great-grandchildren Gabe Speece, Isabella Price and Adeline Price.

Morrow, Betty Lou | 1935-2015
Published Saturday, December 19, 2015

Betty Lou Morrow, 80, of Bridgeport, formerly of Chico, died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Ronnie Morrow officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Betty Lou was born March 1, 1935, in Chico to Andrew and Bessie (Huckabe) Wallace. She was a woman who loved to cook and quilt and had a passion for reading, but her greatest delight was spending time with her grandchildren.
Betty Lou was preceded in death by her parents; husband Glinn Edward Morrow; brother Andrew Carroll Wallace; daughter Sherlyn Lynn Hale; and daughter-in-law Kathy Morrow.
She is survived by her sons Ronnie Morrow and wife, Jelaine, of Kountze and Joe Morrow of Bridgeport; sister Rosie Pollard of Chico; grandchildren Shannon Weyler, Lori Gee, Chad Morrow, Kim Vandver, Shawnita Weyler and Trent Hale; and seven great-grandchildren.

Morrow, Katherine Rehna Ooten | 1954-2015
Published Saturday, September 12, 2015
Katherine Rehna Ooten Morrow, 61, of Bridgeport died Friday, Sept. 11, 2015, in Decatur.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Katherine was born July 13, 1954, in Denton to Janice (Shirley) and Floyd Ooten. She married Joe Morrow April 7, 1973, in Bridgeport. She loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.
Katherine was preceded in death by her father, Floyd Ooten; mother Janice Allen; stepfather Bill Allen; grandparents Walter and Lillian Shirley and Elmer and Seleta Ooten.
She is survived by her husband of 42 years; son Chad Morrow and wife, Freda; daughter Lori Gee and husband, Leon; brother Richard Ooten; and grandchildren Sarah and Nichole Gee.

Morse, Gretchen Lucille | 1932-2015
Published Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Gretchen Lucille Morse, 82, of Decatur died Friday, July 24, 2015, in Decatur.
Services will be held at a later date in Fresno, Calif. Service time and place will be posted at www.hawkinsfuneralhome.com.
Gretchen was born Dec. 22, 1932, in Sulphur, Okla., to Otto and Geneva (Carlyle) Newsom. She married George Delbert Morse Feb. 3, 1951, in Las Cruces, N.M. Gretchen was a member of Decatur Garden Club and the Wise Regional Health System Auxiliary.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Delbert Morse of Decatur; daughter Gay Morse Witrado and husband, Charlie, of Fresno; sons Delbert Lee Morse of Decatur, Ricky Morse and wife, Cathy, of Riverdale, Calif., Kevin Morse and wife, Leslie, of Tulare, Calif., and Keith Morse and wife, Carol, of Caruthers, Calif.; sister Sue Brock of Fresno; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and friends.

Mosley, David Wayne, Jr. | 1983-2015
Published Saturday, April 25, 2015

David Wayne Mosley Jr., 31, died Monday, April 20, 2015, in Rhome.
Funeral was April 23 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
David was born Sept. 6, 1983, to David Sr. and Angela (Matus) Mosley in Graham. He was a cook at Tater Junction, and he also worked for Turner Construction.
David was preceded in death by his mother, Angela; his maternal grandparents, Betty and Paul Matus; and his paternal grandfather, Willie Mosley Jr.
He is survived by his father, David Mosley Sr. of Graham; brother Blaine Clay of Camp Lejune, S.C.; grandparents Don and Barbara Lambert Mallory of Rhome; grandmother Joanna Gallegos and husband, Jess, of Grand Junction, Colo.; brother Brandon Mosley of Elbert; sisters Amanda Mosley of Olney and Tabitha Mosley of Bryson; uncles and aunts Mike and Barbara Blakely of Eastland, Melvin and Rhonda Matus of Fort Worth, Willie Mosley III, and wife, Melissa, of Albany, Laura Mosley Skaggs and husband, Clay, of Comanche, Amy Mosley Biggar and husband, Kevin, of Decatur, Marnie Mosley Jordan and husband, William, of Rhome, Marty Smith and wife, Katie, of Azle, and Jason Smith and wife, Anita, of Weatherford; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Mote, Barbara Ann | 1943-2015
Published Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Barbara Ann Mote, 71, of Bridgeport died Friday, June 5, 2015, in Decatur. Graveside service was June 9 at Greenwood Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Childers officiating.
Barbara was born Nov. 6, 1943, in Dallas to Bernadine (Vermillion) and L.A. Johnson. She was a retired teacher who taught music in Wise County for more than 13 years. Barbara graduated from East Texas Baptist College in Marshall with a music education degree and was a member of the Presbyterian Church and the Chrysanthemum Club. She also served on the Bridgeport School Board and was choir director for First Presbyterian Church in Bridgeport for a number of years. Barbara was proud of her family.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Bernadine McBride; and father L.A. Johnson.
Barbara is survived by her sons, David Mote and wife, Alyssa McIntosh, and Robert Mote and wife, Kim; brothers Warner McBride of Waco and Larry Johnson of Dallas; sister Nova Thompson of Kyle; and grandchildren Morgan and Tanner Mote and Cash Isom. The father of her children is Wells Robert Mote.

Motsenbocker, Ralph | 1926-2015
Published Saturday, March 21, 2015

Ralph Motsenbocker, 88, of Decatur died Wednesday, March 18, 2015, in Denton.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, March 22, at Grace Baptist Church with Dr. Van Gardner officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Jay Harmon, Ralph Hunt, Zach Motsenbocker, Roger Sage, Dick Belt and Bryan Shobar. Honorary pallbearers are David Saling and Davis Hunt.
Ralph was born Sept. 5, 1926, in Paradise to John and Ollie (Holt) Motsenbocker. He married Ernesteen (Teen) Davis May 21, 1946, in Wichita Falls and was a school superintendent. He worked for the Idalou school district for thirty-six years before retirement and was a member of Grace Baptist Church.
Ralph had an extraordinary zest for life and loved spending all his free time with the love of his life, Teen, and his family. He enjoyed water and boating activities and was an avid gardener. During his 36 years as an educator, he made countless positive influences on students, parents and other teachers, many of who considered him their role model.
Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, Teen. They had been married 66 years.
He’s survived by daughter Kim Saling and husband, David, of Decatur; son Kirk Motsenbocker and wife, Cheryl, of Flower Mound; grandsons Zachary Motsenbocker and Ralph Hunt; granddaughters Ashlyn Motsenbocker and Alesha Shobar and husband, Bryan; great-grandson Davis Hunt; great-granddaughter Vivienne Shobar; sisters Lavonne Singleton of Bridgeport and Oleta Nix of Round Rock; and numerous nieces, cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society Wise County Unit, PO Box 428, Decatur, TX 76234 or Amen X-Press 501(c)(3) at 3519 S. Murvil St., Decatur, TX 76234.

Mowell, Maxine Louise | 1924-2015
Published Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Maxine Louise Mowell, 90, of Decatur died Tuesday, June 30, 2015, in Decatur.
No services will be held.
Maxine was born Dec. 16, 1924, in Commerce to Robert and Cornelia (Stallworth) Mowell. She retired from a secretarial position with the railroad.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Maxine is survived by her friends, Owen and Karen Grad of Austin.

Munn, Gary Lee | 1941-2015
Published Saturday, June 13, 2015

Garry Lee Munn, 74, of Boyd died Wednesday, June 10, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 12 at Boyd Church of Christ with private burial. Speakers were Mark Taylor and Doug Parr. Pallbearers were Ronnie Smith, Sam Connally, Johnny Mosely, Dennis Chenevert, Mike Hayes and Glenn Hodgkins.
Garry was born Feb. 27, 1941, in Decatur to Garry and Alma (Wilson) Munn. He was their only child. Garry graduated from Boyd High School and married his high school sweetheart, Carla Beauchamp, July 1, 1961, in Boyd. Garry and Carla are owners and operators of Munn Hardware in Boyd.
He was the song leader and a member of the Boyd Church of Christ. Garry was a loving husband, father and a devoted “Pap” to his grandchildren.
Garry was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carla Joan Munn of Boyd; daughter Gloria Jean Light of Nashville, Tenn.; sons Mark Munn and wife, Dana, of Paradise, David Munn of Boyd and Chris Munn of Boyd; five grandchildren; his church of Christ family; and other family members and friends.

Murphy, John Wesley 'Jake' | 1931-2015
Published Wednesday, August 19, 2015

John Wesley “Jake” Murphy, 84, of Fort Worth died Monday, July 27, 2015, at his home.
A celebration of his life is 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the family’s home.
Jake was born Feb. 19, 1931, in Kingsbury to John Will Murphy and Francis Benner Murphy. He attended elementary school in Kingsbury and high school in Rosenberg. Jake served in the U.S. Army before working as a tool pusher for Penrod Drilling Co. for 27 years.
He had lived in southern Louisiana, Newcastle and Chico, as well as Holland, Abu Dhabi and Brazil during his life. He enjoyed being outdoors. Hunting and fishing with his family and friends were some of his favorite pastimes.
Jake was preceded in death by his parents, John and Francis Murphy; brothers Bud Pace, Smokey Pace, Pat Murphy and Bill Murphy; sisters Vada Pace, Jo Albright, Myrtle Lee Thompson, Dorothy Howell, Doris Thompson, Evelyn Cheever and Eula Arnold.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Jody Murphy; stepchildren, Tracey Woods and Stacey Quinlan of Benbrook, Britt Woods of Bridgeport, Bob Woods of Richland Hills and Jett Woods and wife, Kellie, of Fort Worth; step-grandchildren Seth Woods and wife, Megan, Garrett Woods, Juliet Quinlan, Paige Parker, Gunner Woods, Tucker Woods, Kyle Parker, Tyler Woods, Ramsey Woods and Kinsley Woods; and step-great-granddaughter Cambree Woods.
He is also survived by his son, Wes Roberts and wife, Diedre, of College Station; grandchildren Will Roberts and wife, Vicky, of Mountain Home, Idaho, Matt Roberts and Becky Grimes of Callistoga, Calif., Becky and Joey Torres of San Benito and Courtney Roberts of Fairbanks, Ala. ; and great-grandchildren Julia, Ryan and Emma Torres and Anneliese Roberts.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312 or Community Hospice of Texas, 6100 Western Place, Fort Worth, TX 76107-9935.

Myers, Thomas Clay | 1938-2015
Published Saturday, May 23, 2015

Thomas Clay Myers, 76, of Bedford, a former Bridgeport ISD superintendent, died Monday, May 18, 2015, after a long battle with heart failure.
Funeral was May 22 at The Hills Church in Southlake with burial at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville.
Tom was born Oct. 21, 1938, in Tupelo, Ark. He attended Harding University where he met his wife of 55 years, Nancy. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University in 1961, his master’s degree from the University of North Texas in 1965 and his doctorate in education administration at North Texas in 1983.
By the age of 25, he had become principal of Fort Worth Christian School where he aided in getting the school accredited. He and Nancy then taught at their alma mater, Harding University, in the late 1970s. At the age of 37, he became superintendent of Valley View ISD where he helped the district return to full accreditation with the Texas Education Agency.
In 1980, he became superintendent of Bridgeport ISD, and in 1986, he began seven years of service as superintendent of schools in Keller ISD during its greatest period of rapid growth.
In 1988, he was chosen as Educator of the Month by Texas School Business magazine. He retired as superintendent of Gainesville ISD in 2000, and he and Nancy moved to Bedford.
Tom was a member of The Hills Church in Southlake. In past years, he served as a deacon of Eastridge Church of Christ in Fort Worth.
Tom is survived by his wife of 55 years, Nancy Banowsky Myers; son Andrew and wife, Helen; daughter Melissa Drake and husband, Zane; granddaughters Morgan and Bayley Drake; sister Sue Shirley and husband, Bernard; and many family members and friends.

Neal, Leroy 'Tooter' | 1960-2015
Published Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Leroy “Tooter” Neal, 54, a former resident of Wise County, died Friday, Jan. 16, 2015.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, at Burleson Memorial Cemetery. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Mount Olivet Funeral Home in Fort Worth.
Leroy was born April 25, 1960, in Fort Worth to Leo and Joanna Neal. He was preceded in death by his sister, Alita Neal, in 2002.
Survivors include his wife, Cyndee Neal; daughter Laci Gartman and husband, Ross; sons Anthony Neal and wife, Brenda, Kory Mitchell and wife, Vicky, Kyle Mitchell and Josh Davis and wife, Lisa; sisters Ann Neal and Frances Dalbey and husband, Rich; grandchildren Deme, Anthony, Wyatt, Brendan, Jackson, Aya and Noah; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nelms, Lillard J. 'Hut' | 1923-2015
Published Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Lillard J. (Hut) Nelms, 92, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30 at Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco with Pastor Dwayne Lamberson officiating. The service will include military honors.
L.J. was born April 19, 1923, in Cisco to Larkin Rite and Althea (Alley) Nelms. He married Ella Joe Cone March 15, 1946, in Cisco.
L.J. served in World War II in the European theater as a SSG in the 71st Infantry. During his tour of duty, he fought in many battles, including the Battle of the Bulge. Some of his awards include the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged on Nov. 1, 1945, from Camp Chaffee, Ark.
Following his military service, he worked as a Completions Supervisor for Enserch Exploration before retiring after 41 years of service. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
L.J. was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Ella Joe; his parents; seven brothers; and eight sisters.
He is survived by his sons, Robert Nelms and wife, Shirley, of Carrollton, Steven Nelms and wife, Elizabeth, of Carrollton, Phillip Nelms and wife, Jana, of Katy and Joe Wayne Nelms and wife, Paige, of Decatur; his grandchildren, Amanda, Jenni, Natalie, Lauren, Josh, Kendall, Kainen, Leslie, Devin and Kristin; 13 great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Norman, James C. | 1942-2015
Published Wednesday, March 25, 2015

James C. Norman, 72, of Alvord died Friday, March 20, 2015, surrounded by his loving wife, children and grandchildren.
Funeral was March 24 at Compass Christian Church in Grapevine with Gene Smith and Dr. Michael Feese officiating. Burial was at Lindale City Cemetery in Lindale.
Jim was born Nov. 7, 1942, in Harleton to James T. Norman and Mable Kate Taylor. He grew up in North Richland Hills, graduated high school from Peacock Military Academy in San Antonio and earned his bachelor of arts degree at Texas Christian University in 1964.
Following college, Jim served his country as an officer in the OSI division of the United States Air Force at Luzon in the Philippines. After resuming civilian life, he began a business career in residential property management and served as president of the Texas Apartment Association in 1979-80 while heading Norman Property Management.
Norman Services Corp. was established in 1988, under which Jim served as president of the Zig Ziglar Corp. for six years. His later years were spent as a business consultant, helping others build their brands and their businesses.
Jim was a born-again Christian and enjoyed sharing his faith. He hosted a Christian radio program, “Wise People,” for several years and led a faith-based Alcoholics Anonymous group at John R. Lindsey State Jail.
Jim’s natural good humor and wit, coupled with his intellectual curiosity and knowledge of scripture enabled him to be a popular Sunday school teacher at his home church, Mt. Zion Baptist, in Alvord. He also wrote a blog, The God Wall, at www.thegodwall.com.
Jim was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Phoebe Fair.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Julie Ziglar Norman; sons Larry A. Mayhan Jr. and James E. Norman and wife, Christi; daughters Cheryl (DeDe) Galindo and husband, Gus, Jennifer Haecker and Amey Fair and husband, Nathan; sister Anne Norman of Alvord; 13 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to Cure AT/RT Now, www.cureatrt.org or to Autism Speaks, www.autismspeaks.com.

North, Vivian Loraine | 1921-2015
Published Saturday, July 25, 2015
Vivian Loraine North, 93, died Friday, July 17, 2015, in Decatur.
Graveside service was Monday, July 20, 2015, at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 1 with Cotton Roberts officiating.
Pallbearers were Austin Bowles, Randy Eakman, Shawn Grundy, Rusty North, Clay North, Mitch Foreman, Robert George Applewhite, Olan Rhea Foreman and James “Bimbo” Roberts.
Vivian was born Oct. 16, 1921, to Finley Russell and Georgie Ann (Garman) Tribble in Tobe, Ark. She married John David North Nov. 16, 1936, in Wise County. She was a member of Anneville Baptist Church. She was a homemaker and raised a lot of children that were not her own. Everyone wanted to go to Aunt Vips for fried chicken, red beans, cornbread and fried potatoes.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John North; parents; daughter, Glenda Eakman; and two great-grandchildren.
Vivian is survived by son, Russell North and wife, Eva of Decatur; grandchildren, Patti North, Penny Bowles and husband, Austin, Rusty North, Shawn Grundy, and wife, Brenda, Marsha Foreman and husband, Jimmy, Terry Eakman and wife, Debbie, Randy Eakman and wife, Rhonda; 17 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

Oates, Michael Dwayne | 1949-2015
Published Saturday, July 11, 2015

Michael Dwayne Oates, 65, of Azle died Sunday, July 5, 2015, in Azle.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Monday, July 13, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with John Hooser officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Buddy Wheeler, Jerry Crawford, Gary Stepp, Sammy Morelock, Gerald Ray Oates and Gary Elliot.
Michael was born Nov. 23, 1949, in Bridgeport to James Henry and Sylvia Louise (Findley) Oates. He served in the United States Coast Guard for four years. He was an electrical engineer.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Kim Starnes.
He’s survived by daughters Tammy Oates of Azle, Kendra Dennis and husband, Ron, of Fort Worth, and Ashley Glick and husband, Gary, of Fort Worth; brothers Gaylen Oates and wife, Debra, of Paradise and Pat Oates and wife, Cristi, of Bridgeport; five grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Oftebro, Alaine Estes Hetherington | 1917-2015
Published Saturday, July 18, 2015

Alaine Estes Hetherington Oftebro, 97, of Runaway Bay died Tuesday, July 14, 2015.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Saturday, July 18, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Marlin.
Alaine was born Nov. 26, 1917. She and her first husband, Jimmie Hetherington, lived and raised their children in the Reagan/Marlin area. Jimmie preceded her in death, and she later married Bill Oftebro, who had also lost his spouse. They met on a cruise.
Alaine was a kind, fun-loving person and a really good listener – a trait that was appreciated by her verbose family. She loved God, her family, babies, a pretty yard and to dance. She even surprised her grandson with her knowledge of the many dance moves showcased on “Soul Train.”
Alaine was involved with her church activities, garden club, room mother activities and the Band Parents Club for her three children. For many of those years, she also worked as a bookkeeper for Lone Star Gas.
Alaine lived at The Forum in Dallas for many years. She loved the central dining room concept where she could meet, eat and enjoy visiting with her friends.
Her final year was spent at the Villagio in Plano, caught in the throes of increasing dementia, but her sweet disposition still shined.
Alaine was preceded in death by her parents, Elva Hodges Estes and Barney Robert Estes; her husband of 42 years, Jimmie Hetherington; her husband of 12 years, Bill Oftebro; siblings Gwen Estes Holiday (Joe) and Burnett Estes (Bettie); two nephews; and one niece.
She is survived by her children, Janis Hetherington Bennett (Gene), James M. Hetherington Jr. (Lilli) and Bonnie Hetherington Manley; grandchildren Ligeia, Kirk, Brent, Barry, Aaron and Heather; 19 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; five nieces; and Bill’s children, Susan, Julie and Peter.

O'Gorman, Peggy Sue Brackeen | 1962-2015
Published Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Peggy Sue Brackeen O’Gorman, 53, of Fort Worth, formerly of Newark, died Friday, Aug. 14, 2015.
Mass of Christian burial was Aug. 21 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in River Oaks. Burial followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth.
Peggy was born April 1, 1962, in Fort Worth to George Donald and Jeneva Bramlett Brackeen. She spent most of her life in her hometown of Fort Worth and was known for her positive attitude and faith in the Lord.
Peggy was always ready to minister to anyone in need of a word of encouragement and truth. Even though she faced many trials in life, Peggy never lost her faith in God.
She used her trials as an opportunity to be a blessing to others. Peggy dedicated every day of her life to lifting others up and helping them to forget about the issues in life, even if it was just for a minute.
She always had a contagious smile on her face, and Peggy was an example of God’s love, which she showed to everyone, every day.
Peggy is survived by her father George Donald Brackeen and mother Jeneva Bramlett Brackeen of Newark; husband of 33 years, Charles A. O’Gorman; sons Damion T. O’Gorman, Earl A. O’Gorman and wife, Whitney, and William A. O’Gorman; grandchildren Leo, Candy, Anthony, Alex, Andrew and Gage; and great-grandchildren Faby and Mason.
She is also survived by brothers David Brackeen, James Brackeen and wife, Susan, Allen Brackeen and wife, Cathy, Larry Brackeen and wife, Arlene, George Brackeen, Johnny Brackeen and wife, Katy, and Darrell Brackeen and wife, Laura; sisters Marsha Brackeen Tucker and husband, Glenn, Donna Brackeen Sharp and husband, Gary, Carroll Brackeen West and husband, Jesse; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, adopted children and friends.

O'Neal, Elizabeth 'Liz' | 1931-2015
Published Saturday, March 28, 2015

Elizabeth O’Neal, 84, died Thursday, March 26, 2015.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Revs. Larry Cornell and Chris Powell officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.
Liz was born Jan. 5, 1931, in Decatur to Leonard and Gladys Rose. She married Roy O’Neal Oct. 2, 1948, in Decatur. A memorable tradition back then was the groom pushed the bride in a wheelbarrow around the courthouse square, and he did just that. They were married 66 years when he preceded her in death July 8, 2014.
Roy and Liz were active members of Castleberry Baptist Church in Fort Worth, making many friendships that continued throughout the years.
In addition to Roy, Liz was also preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Sam Rose.
She is survived by daughters Patricia Young and husband, Verl, of Nocona and Roxie Gernand and husband, Roy, of Montgomery; sister Larue Washburn of Decatur; brother-in-law Coy O’Neal of Decatur and her sister-in-law Edith Rose of Haltom City; granddaughters Deana Melancon and husband, Ben, of Gainesville, Kimberly Gall and husband, Hugh, of Weatherford and Jennifer Follis and husband, Russell, of Weatherford; great-grandchildren Kaylee McDaniel, Payton Gall and Emmerson Follis; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to Castleberry Baptist Church.

Osburn, Wendell Allen | 1924-2015
Published Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Wendell Allen Osburn, 90, died May 10, 2015, at his home in Decatur.
His memorial service is 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, at Boyd Church of Christ with Clyde Slimp officiating. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at the church.
Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Leon Tovaas, Jim Coffey, Jason Osburn, Rodney Tovass, Dustin Osburn and Seth Slimp.
Wendell was born Oct. 3, 1924, in McKinney to Paul and Thelma Osburn. He married Naomi Tribble Dec. 30, 1950, in Gainesville and served in the U.S. Army during World War II, where he was awarded a Purple Heart.
He loved his family and worked hard to provide for them. Wendell was very strong in his faith. He was a member of the Boyd Church of Christ, where he served many years as an elder.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Naomi; his parents; two brothers; and two grandsons.
He is survived by his children, JoAnn Whittenburg and husband, Sam, Patsy Slimp and husband, Clyde, Virginia Elkins, Billie Murphy and husband, Randy, Richard Osburn and wife, Beth, Terry Osburn and wife, Sherry, Theresa Boulter and husband, Bruce, Charlene Hale and husband, Ricky, Molly Windle and husband, Jeff, and Thomas Osburn.
He is also survived by 26 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and his friend and caregiver, Anita Ratliff.
Memorial donations may be made to Disabled American Veterans, No. 70, in Decatur, Honor Flight or Boyd Cemetery Association.

Outlaw, James Leon | 1950-2015
Published Wednesday, June 24, 2015

James Leon Outlaw, 65, of Bridgeport died Tuesday, June 16, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service was June 20 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Glenn Connell officiating.
Leon was born May 22, 1950, in Clifton to James Edward and Berta Laverne (Morris) Outlaw. He was a toolpusher in the oilfield industry, and his hobbies included reading, watching TV and movies, listening to music, and spending time with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Berta Outlaw; son Eddie Outlaw; and sister-in-law Nina Outlaw.
Leon is survived by his wife of 41 years, Patty Outlaw of Bridgeport; sons Zachary Outlaw of Bridgeport and Bobby Outlaw of Amarillo; brothers Morris Outlaw and Jerry Outlaw and wife, Pat, of Runaway Bay; and grandchildren Adam Outlaw and Truly Outlaw of Bridgeport.

Ovalle, Bartolo | 1938-2015
Published Saturday, May 16, 2015

Bartolo Ovalle, 76, of Jacksboro died Saturday, May 9, 2015, at United Regional Medical Center in Wichita Falls.
Rosary was May 14 at Corley Funeral Home in Corsicana with Deacon Lewis Palos officiating. Mass of Christian burial was May 15 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Corsicana with Father Jason Cargo officiating, and burial followed at Calvary Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Michael Maldonado, Patrick Maldonado, Ryan Mattern, Logan Mattern, Michael Aguado and Fred Aguado. Honorary pallbearer was Pete Diaz.
Bartolo was born Aug. 24, 1938, in Barry to Selso and Inez Guerro Ovalle. He worked for many years in management of several department stores. He was a member of the Catholic church.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Ovalle; his parents; brothers Daniel, Domingo and Matilde Ovalle; and sister Henrietta Aguado.
Bartolo is survived by his wife, Jeanean Ovalle; daughters Connie Ovalle Mattern and husband, Scott Jolly, of Lewisville and Debbie Ovalle Sanchez and husband, Gelacio, of Dallas; stepdaughter Melissa Sandlin and husband, Mike, of Justin; and stepsons John Krenn and wife, Christine, of Grapevine and Shane Krenn of Houston.
He is also survived by grandchildren Michael Maldonado of San Antonio, Patrick Maldonado and wife, Yuri, of Carrollton, Richard Bender Jr. of Dallas, Iris Michelle Bender of Dallas, Logan Mattern and wife, Molly, of Anna, Ryan Mattern of Plano, Kylee Krenn of Burleson, Jayden Krenn of Houston, Haylie Krenn of Houston and Cole Sandlin of Justin; sister Santana Ovalle of Corsicana; brothers Christian Ovalle of Tyler, Albert Ovalle of Corsicana and Tom Ovalle of Corsicana; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
An online guest book is available at www.corleyfuneralhome.com.

Pack, Joyce | 1954-2015
Published Saturday, January 31, 2015

Joyce Pack, 60, died Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, in Granbury.
Graveside service was Jan. 30 at Azleland Memorial Park in Azle with the Rev. Jacob Withers officiating. Burial was under the direction of Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Joyce was born Jan. 28, 1954, in Waco to Roy and Ruby (Paschall) Pack. She was a nurse’s aide.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, James Pack.
She is survived by her son, Travis Sydow and wife, Stephine, of Edinburg, Va.; daughters Robbie Smith and husband, Terry, of Azle, Kellie Reynolds and husband, John, of Woodstock, Va.; grandchildren Megan, Isabelle, Reagan and Josie; great-grandchild Alexis; sister Jenny Caddell of Granbury; brothers Britt and Johnny Pack, both of Boyd; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Pannell, Doris Ann Wessels | 1927-2015
Published Saturday, October 24, 2015

Doris Ann Pannell, 87, died Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2015, in Plano.
Memorial service was Oct. 23 at Sonoma House in Carrollton, followed by a luncheon for family and friends. Mrs. Pannell’s ashes will be interred beside her late husband at DFW National Cemetery in a future, family ceremony.
Doris Ann Wessels was born Nov. 16, 1927, at home on the family farm in Runnels County to first-generation German Americans Edna Emma Minnie Kruse and John Johnson Wessels. She was the second of seven children, three of whom did not survive early childhood, and was raised as part of a widespread, but close-knit, community of hardworking German immigrant farm families in and around Ballinger.
She graduated from Ballinger High School in 1944 and attended (what is now) the University of North Texas in Denton, before moving to Dallas in 1948 to seek her fortune. The former Miss Wessels moved into an Oak Cliff boarding house for young ladies and, being ambitious, highly organized, quick-witted, diligent and reliable, soon got a job as an executive secretary for a vice president of Blue Cross.
Through friends, it was not long before she was introduced to a young veteran of World War II, Walter Wade Pannell. They quickly became inseparable and bonded in a marriage that endured more than 65 years, producing three children – Barbara Pannell Shields, William Wade Pannell and Judith Pannell Kockos – ending only with Mr. Pannell’s death in July of this year. She survived him less than three months.
Throughout her entire life, Mrs. Pannell exemplified the values of her Texas German heritage to work hard, waste nothing, create and build, socialize and celebrate life’s events with food, drink, music, dancing and laughter.
She was an award-winning quilt maker, and as a seamstress, she could glance at a Titche’s department store window and re-create the displayed dress for her teenage daughters from memory without a pattern. She crafted, embroidered and sewed innumerable blankets, doll’s clothes, costumes and items of every description to amaze and delight her children, grandchildren and their friends.
Mrs. Pannell was a talented cook and formidable housekeeper. Yet, she was the chief fun-maker for all children, an organizer of games and mischief and practical jokes, a Brownie Leader, a Camp Fire Girl Leader and friend and helper of Cub Scouts. She was a ruthless opponent at Wahoo and other games, taking on children of all generations. She did not like to lose.
Mrs. Pannell was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Wade Pannell; brother J.C. Wessels; sister Frances Wessels Miracle; and siblings Rufus Wessels, LeRoy Wessels and Peggy Wessels.
She is survived by her children, Barbara Pannell Shields, William Wade Pannell and Judith Pannell Kockos; her younger sister, Arlene Wessels Elkins; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1100 W. Parsonage St., Winters, TX 79567, (325) 754-4820.

Pannell, Walter Wade | 1924-2015
Published Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Walter Wade Pannell, 90, formerly of Wise County, died Thursday, July 30, 2015, in Carrollton, attended by his family and caregivers of Sonoma House.
Pannell was born on a farm near Wolfe City Sept. 3, 1924, to General G. Pannell and Olive Dees Pannell. Pannell was raised in rural Hunt and Fannin Counties and attended Trenton High School. At age nineteen, he volunteered to serve his country in World War II as a soldier in the United States Army. He was trained as a rifleman, assigned to the First Infantry Division and sent to fight in Europe against Nazi Germany. In the fall of 1944, a few miles east of the Belgian/German border, Pannell’s Big Red One Division was thrown against the forces of Generalfeldmarschall Walter Model in the longest engagement on German soil during the war – the Battle of H rtgen Forest. Pannell fought bravely and sustained grievous and extensive combat wounds, the scars of which he bore the rest of his life.
After his honorable discharge from the Army in 1945, Pannell returned to Texas, where he met and married Doris Ann Wessels, his wife of more than 65 years. Out of their marriage three children were born: a daughter, Barbara Pannell Shields; a son, William Wade Pannell; and another daughter, Judith Pannell Kockos. Pannell is survived by his wife and children, six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Pannell was known for his boundless energy, rugged independence and enthusiasm for hard work. He understood machinery and spent most of his working life employed by the DeVilbiss Company, traveling the world as a customer service representative, installing, trouble-shooting and fixing the company’s industrial equipment to keep its customers happy.
Pannell was also known for his skills at farming and fruit and vegetable gardening. He was generous with those skills and his time. When his wife’s father, who had farmed the land in Runnels County for a half-century, grew old and ill, Pannell spent his vacations working his father-in-law’s fields to keep the Wessels family farm going. After retirement from DeVilbiss, Pannell and his wife moved to Ballinger, the community of Pannell’s German immigrant family. There he worked tirelessly in the barns and fields of his wife’s cousins, solely for the pleasure of their company.
The Pannells ultimately returned to North Texas, settling first in Parker County and then Wise County, their last independent residence before coming to Sonoma House.
Pannell enjoyed listening to music of all kinds, but particularly big band arrangements and military marches. He was a devotee of WRR. He was an excellent baker and cook. Not content with working all day in the sun, he would busy himself with his wife in the kitchen. He could quilt and sew and often worked with his wife in making beautiful traditional quilts for family and friends. A man for all seasons, there wasn’t much he couldn’t do. When he could spare the time, he liked to fish.
Pannell’s wife and children wish to thank the caregivers of the Memory Unit of Sonoma House for their faithful service and many kindnesses shown to him during his last illness.
Pannell’s ashes will be interred with military honors in the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas 75211, on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2015, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Pannell’s memory to The Wise County Veterans Group.

Parker, Louise 'Wa' | 1927-2014
Published Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Louise “Wa” Parker, 87, a homemaker, died Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014, at her home in Decatur.
Memorial service is 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd. Visitation is 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home before the service.
Louise was born Oct. 3, 1927, in Grape Creek to Joe and Una (Johnson) Montgomery.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Billy Joe Dalton; her second husband, Jack Parker; son David Allen Dalton; brothers Joe, J.B. and twin brother Louis Montgomery; and sister Mary Lou Hopkin.
She is survived by her sons, Ronald L. Dalton of Decatur and Ken Dalton and wife, Brenda, of Boyd; grandchildren Duke Dalton and wife, Stefani, Clay Dalton and wife, Heather, Krisha Hesteande and husband, Shannon, and Alicia Dalton and companion, Mundo Orozco; great-grandchildren Kaid, Kenli, Brison, Lane, Hannah, Brock, Brice, Brett and Brooks; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Parnell, Jerry Lynn | 1961-2015
Published Saturday, December 5, 2015

Jerry Lynn Parnell, 54, of Newark, died Monday, Nov. 30, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at the Greater Community Church, 190 N. Main Street, in Rhome with Pastor David Thurman officiating.
Jerry was born Sept. 8, 1961, in Louisville, Ky., to Fred and Jean (Mitchell) Parnell. He was engaged to Patty Campbell. Jerry was a mechanic and a member of the First Baptist Church in Chico.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Jerry is survived by his fiancee, Patty Campbell of Newark; sons Josh Parnell of Rhome and Jimmy Campbell II of Weatherford; daughter Melinda Campbell of Newark; sisters Judy Hambrick and husband, Randy, of Boyd, Stacy Ratti of Missouri and Christine Thurman and husband, David, of Fort Worth; brothers Eugene Parnell and wife, Rosa, of Blanchard, Okla., and Mike Parnell and wife, Kathy, of Broken Bow, Okla.; grandchildren Hailey Parnell, Dakota Parnell, Shane Wolf Jr., Morgan Campbell, and Caden Campbell; and other family members and friends.

Parson, Phillip Clark | 1950-2015
Published Saturday, September 5, 2015

Phillip Clark Parson, 64, of Alvord died Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery.
There is no visitation.
Phillip was born Sept. 17, 1950, in Lampasas to Karl and Naomi (Clark) Parson. He served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea and Vietnam during the Vietnam era. Phillip was a member of the First Baptist Church of Alvord. He was a machinist.
He is survived by his sons, Stephen Parson and Cameron Parson; daughters Jennifer Maxwell and Sharon Pflaster; mother Velma Parson; sister Pamela Al-Husaini; brother Karl Parson Jr; several grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Parson, Vesta Fern | 1934-2015
Published Saturday, February 21, 2015

Vesta Fern Parson, 81, died Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Feb. 18 at Zion Valley Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Alvord with Bill Cleveland and Barney Hudson officiating. Burial was at Alvord Cemetery under the direction of Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home.
Vesta was born Jan. 6, 1934, in Gilmer to Charles Edward and Gertrude Elizabeth (Cole) Parson. She was raised by her uncle and aunt, Bill and Etta McMath. Vesta was a longtime member of Zion Valley Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Alvord and was a retired sales purchasing agent for Markle Steel Co.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers; and three sisters.
She is survived by a sister, Lois Ann Bell of Belen, N.M.; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Parsons, Billie Dorothy | 1929-2015
Published Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Billie Dorothy Parsons, 86, of Alvord died Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, at home.
Funeral was Nov. 10 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial followed at Paradise Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dustin Anglin, Joe Webb, Gary Pittman, Justin Hamilton and Richard Kenyon.
Honorary pallbearers were Gerald Shawn, Billy Shawn and Michael Parsons.
Dorothy was born June 22, 1929, in Bridgeport to Marie Melvina (Kaker) and William Aulsie Holt. She was a homemaker who enjoyed spending time with all of her family, going on camping trips and attending her grandchildren’s birthday parties. She also enjoyed word search puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, playing dominoes, walking into town to run errands and talking and visiting with everyone she met.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, James; daughter Nelda Shawn; two brothers; and two sisters.
She is survived by daughters Melba Stutt of Alvord, Lois Pittman and husband, Gary, of Longview and Mildred Anglin and husband, Jeff, of Chaffee, Mo.; son Michael Parsons of Bridgeport; sisters Irene Murphy and husband, Johnny, of Joshua and Nellie Clark and husband, David, of Lawrenceburg, Ind.; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pate, Freddie Thomas | 1955-2015
Published Saturday, July 11, 2015

Freddie Thomas Pate, 60, of Jacksboro died Friday, July 3, 2015, in Jacksboro.
Funeral was July 10 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with Bill Cleveland and Morris Freeman officiating. Burial followed at Ball Knob Cemetery.
Freddie was born Jan. 31, 1955, in Jacksonville to Herschel Fred and Margaret Verlene (Hart) Pate. He married Teresa Simmons June 24, 1974, in Alvord and was a mechanic in the oilfield. He was a deacon in Live Oak Baptist Church and had also served as a deacon in Bethel Baptist. He was a member of Masonic Lodge No. 587 in Bridgeport.
Freddie was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Aaron and Stephen Pate; brother-in-law Bobby Weatherly; and nephew James Lee.
He is survived by his wife, Teresa Pate of Jacksboro; daughter Treva Renae Dutter of Wichita Falls; son Fred Franklin “Levi” Pate and wife, Nicole, of Abilene; and mother-in-law Treva Jane Simmons.
Other survivors include sisters Linda Tammen and husband, Bill, of Petrolia, Kathy Weatherly of Washington and Mary Murphy and husband, David, of Forestburg; brothers David Pate of Cottondale and Jeff Pate and wife, Cammie; grandchildren Shelley Sharp, Madilynn Dutter, Landry Pate, Logan Pate and Leean Pate; and many other family members that loved and respected him.
Memorials may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, P.O. Box 97075, Washington, D.C. 20077-7258.

Patterson, Tom 'Cowboy' | 1947-2015
Published Saturday, August 15, 2015

Tom “Cowboy” Patterson, 68, of Springtown, a mechanic and truck driver, died Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015, in Springtown.
Family will receive friends 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd. Memorial service is 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, at the Red Marble Church in Memphis, Texas.
Tom was born April 15, 1947, to Thomas and Ruby (Corbin) Patterson in Memphis, Texas. He was a member of the Western Star Cowboy Church and a member of Tip Top Riding Club in Fort Worth.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Earl Thomas and Lloyd Thomas.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his daughter, Cathy Patterson Peace and husband Freddie of Springtown; his grandchildren, Michiele Rodgers, Hanna Rodgers, Christopher Rodgers and wife Tisha; 4 great-grandchildren; his sisters, Murtie Patterson Bounds of Springtown and Earlene Mize of Memphis, Texas; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

Patton, Joe Lee | 1946-2015
Published Saturday, September 26, 2015

Joe Lee Patton, 69, of Bridgeport died Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service was Sept. 24 at Boonsville Cemetery with Matthew Norton officiating.
Joe was born July 11, 1946, in Amarillo to Lee and Mae (Brown) Patton. He worked for Verizon for 32 years and served his country in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Amateur Ham Radio Organization.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his daughters, Tammy Patton of Haslet and Misty Lang and husband, Ron, of Bridgeport; granddaughter Brytani Harkins and husband, Hunter, of Littlefield; grandson Joshua Lang of Bridgeport; sisters Lauretta Wright and husband, Dale, of Arizona and Lindy Fry of Fort Worth; brothers Wayne Patton and wife, Suzie, of Weatherford and Clayton Patton and wife, Pat, of Brownwood; and other family members and friends.

Pearson, Carl Ray | 1954-2015
Published Saturday, October 24, 2015

Carl Ray Pearson, 61, of Sunset, died Monday, Oct. 19, 2015, in Paradise.
Funeral was Oct. 23 at U-Turn World Ministries in Chico with Duane Tracy and Jerald Austin officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 3 in Chico with Kevin Alexander officiating.
Carl was born Jan. 27, 1954, in Kerrville to Irvin Carl and Alva Joyce (Austin) Pearson. He was a stonemason, and later became the computer fix-it man in and around Chico. He was a familiar face at U-Turn World Ministries, where he was a member, and he ministered to all who needed him.
Carl also enjoyed studying Bible prophecy and gardening. But, as busy as he was, his passion in life was his family.
Carl was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vernon and Elizebeth Pearson of Kerrville and Eddie and Jeanett Austin of Dallas; father Irvin Carl Pearson of Tow; brothers David Pearson of Ingram and Brian Pearson of Dripping Springs; father-in-law Bill Jessup; mother-in-law Patsy Argo; and sister-in-law Marsha Argo.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Deborah Sue (Jessup) Pearson of Sunset; son Jason Scott Pearson and wife, Sarah, of Sunset; daughters Amy Michelle Pearson of Sunset and Rebecka Ann Pearson and husband, Chris Barnett, of Sunset; mother Joyce Pearson of Tow; brother Jim Pearson and wife, Diana, of Kerrville; and sister Penny Pearson Britza and husband, Ian, of Perth, Australia.
He’s also survived by sisters-in-law Linda Pearson of Ingram and Cindy Pearson of Dripping Springs; and grandchildren Kyndal Pearson, Jeremiah Pearson, Jordan Pearson, Nathan Barnett and Gracie Barnett.

Perkins, Alvie Clarn, Sr. | 1931-2015
Published Saturday, October 17, 2015

Alvie Clarn Perkins Sr., 84, died Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2015.
Funeral was Oct. 16 at the Boswell Church of Christ in Boswell, Okla., with burial at Sugar Creek Cemetery, north of Soper, Okla.
Alvie, affectionately known as Big Al, was born July 23, 1931, in Johnston County, Okla., to Arthur and Selma Perkins. He married Glenda Kay Jordan Nov. 12, 1958. They had three children – Tamra Jeanine, Alvie Jr. (Skip) and MaLinda Kay.
Alvie was a meat cutter by trade and a coon hunter by night. He retired after 45 years in the grocery business. He also retired from coon hunting to take up wolf hunting with his good friend, Wayne Holder.
He loved his family and friends, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Alvie never met a stranger and enjoyed visiting with whomever crossed his path. He also had a huge heart for children.
Alvie is survived by his wife, Glenda; son Skip and wife, Julie, of Soper; daughters Tamra Cole and husband, Randy, of Boyd and MaLinda Perkins of Boyd; grandchildren Whitney Lamance and husband, Dusty, of Keeter, Jaelie Perkins of Checotah, Okla., and Sunshine Crittenden and husband, JR, of Fort Campbell, Ky.; and great-grandchildren Rendyn Clarn, Jett Ruel and Harper Macrae Lamance of Keeter and Trent Lane (JoJo) Crittenden of Fort Campbell. He is also survived by one brother, three sisters, and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Condolences may be sent to the family at praterlampton.com.

Perkins, Calvin R. | 1950-2015
Published Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Calvin R. Perkins, 65, of Rhome, died Saturday, Nov. 21, 2015, at his home in Rhome.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Windell Splawn officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Robert Baker, Todd Lillard, Shannon Lillard, Gerald Burchett, Michael Burchett, Jonathan Perkins and Joshua Perkins.
Calvin was born Oct. 15, 1950, at his childhood home in Justin to Francis Taylor and Essie Pearl (Roy) Perkins. He married Alice Pearce Sept. 28, 1973, in Roanoke.
Calvin was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Alice Perkins of Rhome; son Craig Perkins and wife, Tina, of Fort Worth; sisters Nadine Baker of Justin, Faye Snyder of Arlington, Wash., and Lanell Burchett of Gainesville; brother Marvin Perkins of Sanger; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Perry, Geneva Laverne | 1936-2015
Published Saturday, May 9, 2015

Geneva Laverne Perry, 78, died Thursday, May 7, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Joey Vick officiating.
Perry was born Aug. 18, 1936, in McGregor to George and Emma Geltmeyer.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three husbands, Adolph Stroter, Ron Ward and Ron Perry; and sons Dale Stroter and Ken Stroter.
She is survived by her daughter, Cindi Fair of Fort Worth; son Kurt Ward and wife, Deborah, of Fort Worth; stepson Tim Perry; stepdaughter Toni Perry; grandchildren Charmen, Jathan, Jesse, Shelly, Ronnie, Griselda and Brandi; 19 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Petty, Helen | 1940-2015
Published Saturday, February 7, 2015

Helen Petty, 74, died Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015, in Boyd.
Funeral was Jan. 31 at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Jeff Tackett and Pastor Mark Webb officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers were her grandsons, Steven Edwards, Charlie Winder, Joey Winder, Kenneth McCauley, J.J. Cooper, Brandon Withers and Stevie Brady.
Helen was born Feb. 18, 1940, in Sherman to Albert and Beulah (Dill) Tackett. She married William “Bill” C. Petty April 29, 1972, in Boyd. He preceded her in death Oct. 5, 2003.
Helen, a homemaker, was a loving mother, grandmother and friend and will be missed by all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Sandra Kay McCauley; and nine brothers and sisters.
Survivors include her sons, Kennith McCauley and wife, Petey, of Paradise and Jay Petty and wife, Pam, of Kerens; daughters Reba Rivera and husband, Jesse, of Boyd, Joy McCauley and partner, James Sheppard, of Venus, Kim Brady and partner, Tony Scifres, of Boyd, Debbie Moser and husband, Richard, of Gun Barrel City, and Carolyn Allen and husband, Jerry, of Colleyville; sister Lois Moore and husband, Eddie, of Boyd; brother Coy Tackett and wife, Cheryl, of Bridgeport; 17 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and other family members and friends.

Petty, Mary Ann | 1947-2015
Published Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Mary Ann Petty, 68, died Monday, July 20, 2015 at her home in Sunset.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2015, at Restland Cemetery in Dallas.
Mary was born Jan. 7, 1947, in Dallas to J.R. and Oleta (Reneau) Boyd. She married Royce Petty June 5, 1965, in Hurst, Texas. She was a homemaker who loved her family, animals and planting.
She was preceded in death by her father, J.R. Boyd.
She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Royce D. Petty, Sr.; sons, Royce D. Petty, Jr., Ron S. Petty and wife Kim; mother, Oleta Master; brother, Bob Boyd and wife Martha; grandchildren, Richelle L. Petty, Shelby L. Petty, and Stacey L. Petty.

Pittman, Jessica Jane | 2014
Published Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Jessica Jane Pittman, an infant, died Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd.
Jessica was preceded in death by her great-grandmother, Jessica Prince; and her great-grandfather, Jess Champbell.
Survivors include her mother, Debra (D.J.) Land of Boyd; her father, Trevor Pittman of Springtown; grandparents Chuck and Jessica Pittman of Springtown, Bonnie Land of Azle and Richard Couture of Florida; great-grandparents T.J. and Sharon Young of Azle, Don Prince of Newark, Thomas and Cindy Land of Comanche and Sherry Herndon of Fort Worth; uncles Blake Champbell and wife, Lindsey, of Fort Worth, Chase Pittman of Springtown, Haden Pittman of Springtown, Wyatt Pittman of Springtown, Cooper Pitt-man of Springtown and Joey Couture of Azle; aunt Gabbi Couture of Azle; cousins Trinity Delack of Azle, Paisley Heath of Springtown and Waberly Champbell of Fort Worth, as well as other family members.

Pitts, J.D. | 1928-2014
Published Wednesday, January 7, 2015

J.D. Pitts, 86, a retired production supervisor, died Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, in Tulsa, Okla.
Funeral was Jan. 5 at the First Baptist Church of Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove No. 3 Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Jeff Resler, Chris McCurry, Randy Neighbors, Danny Neighbors, Kevin Lumsden and Keith Bailey.
J.D. was born Nov. 14, 1928, in Chico to B.L. and Emma (Davidson) Pitts. He married Armetta Lumsden Jan. 1, 1949, in Sherman and retired from Mobil Oil as a production supervisor. He was a Baptist.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Susie Tucker.
Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Armetta Pitts of Chickasha, Okla.; daughter Diane Resler and husband, Roy, of Tulsa; son Gary Pitts and wife, Donna, of Elk City, Okla.; grandchildren Jeff Resler of Rogers, Ark., and Julie McCurry of Tulsa; great-grandchildren Abby Resler, Grant Resler and Mia McCurry; brother James Pitts of Kaufman; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Plumley, Donna Lynn | 1948-2015
Published Saturday, August 8, 2015

Services for Donna Lynn Plumley, 67, of Paradise were held Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport, officiated by Coach Jonathan Ryle. Lynn passed away Wednesday, Aug. 5 at home.
She was born in Mineola May 31, 1948, to Wellis and Otha Dee (McWhorter) Stinnett. She was a homemaker who enjoyed fishing, working outdoors, gardening, collecting rocks and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Lynn is survived by her husband of 30 years, Curtis Oliver Plumley; son Curt Plumley and wife Renee of Odessa; daughters Kimberly Brooks and partner Rodney Hartfield of Rockport, Mischea Read and partner Russell King of Alvord; brothers Jerry Clyde Stinnett and wife Kathy of Bridgeport, Don Stinnett and wife Patsy of Runaway Bay, Hershell Stinnett and wife Brenda of Paradise, and Keith Stinnett of Chico; sister Reta Stinnett of Bridgeport; grandchildren Ryen Plumley and Tyler Plumley of Odessa, Cody Watts and wife Amanda of Alvord, Kyle Brooks of Alvord, Emily-Kate Brooks of Rockport, Molli Read and Abby Read of Paradise; and three great-grandchildren.

Poe, Riley J. | 1925-2015
Published Saturday, November 7, 2015

Riley J. Poe, 90, of Decatur, formerly of Abilene, died Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Hawley Cemetery with Bob Connel officiating.
R.J. was born Aug. 22, 1925, in Sweetwater to Joel Vergil and Betty Leona Hope Poe. R.J. entered the Navy at 18 and served as a Seabee in World War II. Having served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, he traveled to every continent. He returned to Sweetwater after the war where he married Eva Ross June 12, 1948. They had three children. The family moved to Abilene where he worked at Dyess Air Force Base as a fire truck mechanic until his retirement as supervisor of fire truck maintenance.
R.J. served as a deacon and then an elder at Baker Heights Church of Christ and later at Oldham Lane Church of Christ. R.J and Eva moved to Decatur in 2006 to live with their daughter.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Joe H. Poe and Alfred Chapman Poe; and his sister, Leona Victoria Poe Harris.
He is survived by his wife, Eva Poe; sons Rodger J. Poe and wife, Janie, of Henderson and Tony Wayne Poe and wife, Madison, of Tuscumbia, Ala.; daughter Roxie Jan Poe of Decatur; grandchildren Rita Poe Alcantara and husband, Mickey, Riley J. Alcantara of Brenham, Kara Poe Ferguson and husband, Jordan, of Houston, Tiffany Poe Caldwell and husband, Jonathan, of Tuscumbia, Wesley Poe of Tuscumbia and Emily Poe Hoffman and husband, Cory, of Decatur.
He’s also survived by great-grandchildren Savannah Alcantara, Christian Sedeno, Karis McGinty, Henlee Ferguson, James Caldwell, Lillian Caldwell and Charlie Caldwell, as well as many nieces, nephews, greats, grands and in-laws.
Online condolences can be shared at northsfuneralhome.com.

Potts, Helen Louise | 1924-2015
Published Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Helen Louise Potts, 91, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Nov. 20, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Nov. 23 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. David Kelly officiating. Burial followed at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Reese Reed, Steven Potts, Brannon Potts, Jonathan Potts, Bryant Potts and Greg Potts.
Helen was born Feb. 27, 1924, in Electra to James and Alta (Moody) Marr. She married Sam Potts Dec. 22, 1945, in Fort Worth. Helen worked as an office administrator for Bridgeport Hospital, and she was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents; her mother, Jodi McClure; husband Sam Potts; son Chris Potts; granddaughter Lori Potts; grandson Chad Potts; brother J.B. Marr; and sister Julia Marr.
She is survived by her sons, Gary Potts and wife, Linda, of Paradise, Larry Potts and wife, Beverly, of Bridgeport, Joe Potts and wife, Kathy, of Weatherford, Robbie Potts and wife, Debra, of Binger, Okla., and Kyle Potts and wife, Tina, of Weatherford; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Potts, Virgie D. | 1925-2015
Published Saturday, August 15, 2015

Virgie D. Potts, 90, of Paradise died Thursday, Aug. 13, 2015, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 17, at Paradise Cemetery with Pastor David Kelly officiating. Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Virgie was born May 3, 1925, in Dublin to Hurman and Nellie Wilcoxson. Virgie married Paul Ray Potts June 28, 1946, in Fort Worth. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Paradise, and she retired from Lockheed Martin after 42 years.
Virgie was preceded in death by her parents; husband Paul Ray Potts; and sister Margaret Armstrong.
She is survived by her son, Paul M. Potts of Paradise; granddaughter Karen Potts of Webster, N.Y.; other family members; and many friends.

Powell, Rex Vilas | 1942-2015
Published Saturday, March 28, 2015

Rex Vilas Powell, 72, of Bridgeport died Monday, March 23, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was March 27 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jerry P. Galloway officiating. Burial followed at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville. Pallbearers were Jayson Sleeman, Keith Lilly, Chad Lilly, Tanner Sleeman, Spencer Sleeman and Cody Harper. Honorary pallbearer was Travis Woods.
Rex was born Oct. 27, 1942, in Alma, Ark., to Millard and Dollie (Whitlock) Powell. He married Charlotte Horn April 12, 1960, in Fort Worth, and he owned and operated a machine shop.
Rex was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Walter, Millard, A.B. and Larry Powell; and granddaughter Marissa Sleeman.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Charlotte Powell of Bridgeport; daughters Cheryl Sleeman and husband, Jay, of Newark and Melynda Lilly and husband, Mark, of Watauga; grandchildren Keith, Jayson, Krista, Chad, Shaina, Spencer and Tanner; great-grandchildren Gavyn, Chase, Ethan, Taylor, Landon, Peyton and Nathan; sisters Yvonia Saxton of Indiana and Regina Hudgins of Fort Worth; brothers Allen Powell of Alma, Ark., and Lennox Powell of Kansas; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Prater, Royce | 1941-2015
Published Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Royce A. Prater, 73, of Bridgeport died Thursday, March 19, 2015, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Friday, March 27, at Faith Baptist Church, 2882 U.S. 380, in Decatur.
Royce was born Aug. 21, 1941, in Selden to Annie Pearl (Doty) and Robert Lee Prater. He was a retired supervisor for Lennox Manufacturing and enjoyed leather craft, gardening, hunting and woodworking. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church in Decatur.
Royce was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Barbara A. (Sims); sons Scott Prater and wife, Carma, of Fort Worth and Lawrence Prater and wife, Trish, of Weatherford; daughter Beverly Harp of Bridgeport; sisters Pansy Wiese of Fort Worth, Bobbie Morin of Granbury and Sue Burnell of Fort Worth; seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Price, Norma E. | 1928-2015
Published Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Norma E. Price, 87, of Bridgeport, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2015, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Willie Vick, Jonathan Zapata, Jacob Curda, Danny Price, Kenny Jones and Marvin Read.
Norma was born March 2, 1928, in Daisetta to Henry and Annie (Epperhart) Palmer. She married Bufford “Bud” H. Price Oct. 21, 1950. She was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 37 years, Bud Price; brothers Cecil and Oran Palmer; and niece Jo Davis.
Norma is survived by nephews Charles Palmer of Marshall and James Palmer of Snyder; nieces Ruth Ward of Cleburne, Nita Zapata of Nacogdoches and Debbie Curda of Denton; and other family members and friends.

Priest, Evelyn C. | 1923-2015
Published Saturday, May 9, 2015

Evelyn C. Priest, 91, of Bridgeport died Wednesday, May 6, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 9, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Crestview Cemetery in Wichita Falls. Pallbearers are Mike Simpson, Ross Simpson, Alan Powers, Derrick Boyd, Allen Williamson and Keith McComis.
Evelyn was born Aug. 7, 1923, in Thalia to Richard and Fannie (Schultz) Johnson. She married Thomas “Fred” Priest Nov. 9, 1944, in Frederick, Okla. Evelyn was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bridgeport, and she served on the board at the Wichita Falls State Hospital, where she also volunteered. Evelyn was a retired nurse’s aide.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Thomas “Fred” Priest; son Tommy Priest; great-grandchild Mason Charles Laxson; brother Joe Van Johnson and sisters Mary Thompson and Linda Boyett.
Evelyn is survived by her daughter, Carole Laxson and husband, Butch, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Brad Laxson and wife, Mellissa, of Vernon, Melissa Nawrock and husband, Dwayne, of Lake Orion, Mich.; great-grandchildren Tyler Laxson, Steton Gilley and Ryan Hildebrand; brother Paul Johnson of Waxahachie; sisters Martha Gann of Fort Worth, Nell Jones and husband, Gordon, of Wichita, Kan.; and numerous other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to Wichita Falls State Hospital Volunteer Services Council, P.O. Box 300, Wichita Falls, TX, 76307 or ntshvolunteers.org.

Prince, Dennis Arthur | 1949-2015
Published Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Dennis Arthur Prince, 66, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2015, in Decatur.
At his request no service is scheduled.
Dennis was born Sept. 28, 1949, in Mitchell, S.D., to Roland Prince and Velma Beintema Tuecke. He was a loving husband, son, father, brother and grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Karen Prince; mother Velma Tuecke and husband, Louis; son David Prince and wife, Shyan; daughters Autumn Blaylock and husband, Lane, and April Gonzalez and companion, Chelsea; sisters Patty and husband, David, Jeannie, Joan and husband, Harold, Brenda and husband, Bob, and Linda; grandchildren Jager, Sasha, Sydney, Dalton, Ayva, Hiram, Mariha and Georgia.

Pymm, Linda Kay | 1952-2014
Published Saturday, January 3, 2015

Linda Kay Pymm, 62, of Chico, died Monday, Dec. 29, 2014, at her home.
Funeral was Jan. 2 at the Living Word Assembly of God Church in Alvord with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating. Burial followed at Alvord Cemetery.
Linda was born Nov. 8, 1952, in Canyon to James Leo and Katie (Ashley) Ponder. She loved going to church, attending women’s retreats and traveling. She was a member of the Living Word Assembly of God Church in Alvord.
Linda is survived by her brother, Thomas Ponder; sister Margie Moore; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Robert, Wayne and Sammy Ponder; and sister Lavada Bennett.

Quanz, Gail Lester | 1936-2015
Published Saturday, July 11, 2015

Gail Lester Quanz, 78, of Decatur died Thursday, July 2, 2015.
Graveside service was July 6 at Smithfield Cemetery in North Richland Hills with Mike McDowell of the Decatur Church of Christ officiating.
Gail grew up in Watonga, Okla., but joined the U.S. Air Force after high school graduation. He became an air traffic controller while in the Air Force and subsequently this became his life’s career.
Gail always deemed it a pleasure “to get to go to work.” After retiring from the FAA, he worked as a contract instructor at the Air Traffic Control Training Center near DFW. He battled Alzheimer’s disease the last few years and had lived at the Riverside Inn since November of 2014.
Gail was always willing to build, create, help and care for others.
He is survived by his wife, Ruby Quanz of Decatur; his children, Jamie Stallings of Midland, David Quanz of San Angelo, Chris Quanz of San Antonio and Karen Sterry of Heath.
He is also survived by stepchildren Teressa Mick of Granbury, Kevin Walters of Fort Worth and Chad Walters of Abilene; 21 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Quebe, Greg | 1954-2015
Published Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Greg Quebe, 60, of Decatur died Saturday, Sept. 5, 2015, in Denton. He fought a yearlong battle with cancer.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, at the First Baptist Church in Taylor with burial at Taylor City Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Matt Teichelman; Russell, Spencer and Merl Pryor; and Jack and Jason Seals.
Coaches and football players from the Class of 1973 are honorary pallbearers.
Greg was born Dec. 1, 1954, in Taylor to Joe S. Quebe and Joyce (Drawe) Quebe. He attended Taylor Public Schools, graduating in 1973. During his sixth grade year, he lived in Austin with his sister, Jeanie, and her husband, Doug Clark, and served as a Senate page during the term of Gov. John Connally.
Greg played football and was a three-year letterman for the Taylor Ducks. His senior year he was all-district offensive guard and Super Centex. He attended Texas A&M University where he loved all the great traditions there.
Greg married Vickie Snider June 14, 1975, at First Baptist Church in Decatur. They lived in College Station until 1978 and moved back to Taylor where he worked for Quebe Construction Co. Greg had other careers in law enforcement and sales.
In 1999, he and Vickie moved to Decatur, where they lived on the land that has been in her family since 1899.
Greg’s hobbies were hunting, fishing and camping. He loved his grandchildren and enjoyed giving them rides on the golf cart when they would visit. Charlie Brown and Buster Brown were his Yorkies, and they were at his head and side when he sat in his recliner.
Greg was preceded in death by his son, Jeremy Quebe; his mother, Joyce Drawe Quebe; and sister Jean Quebe Clark.
He’s survived by his wife of 40 years, Vickie Snider Quebe; father Joe Quebe of Decatur; sons Joey and wife, Amy, of Taylor and Nathan and wife, Holli; grandchildren Cameron, Will, Bella and Tori; sister Nancy Seals and husband, Jack; father- and mother-in-law Billy Joe and Lawana Snider; sister-in-laws Terrie Pryor and husband, Merl, and Teresa Snider; and nieces and nephews Matt Teichelman, Russell and Spencer Pryor and Jessica and Jason Seals.
Memorial donations may be made to Vickie Quebe, P.O. Box 654, Decatur, TX 76234 to defray medical expenses.