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

Adams, Lillie Cleo | 1916-2016
Published Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Lillie Cleo Adams, 100, of Fort Worth, died Saturday, June 25, 2016, in Azle.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. George Westby officiating.
Lillie was born Jan. 22, 1916, in Boyd to Thomas and Susie (McCaleb) Dean. She married James Adams Feb. 14, 1959, in Weatherford. She was a receiving clerk.
Lillie was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and son Johnny Mercer.
She is survived by her daughters, LaVenia Collier and husband, Steven, of Fort Worth and Jo Ann Russell of Fort Worth; son Tommy Mercer and wife, Kelly, of Fort Worth; eight grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends.

Adams, Margaret Jean | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Margaret Jean Adams, 82, of Decatur, died Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was Aug. 30 at Friendship Baptist Church with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove No. 2 Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Kassiddy Lester, James Lester, Charles Chapman, Sam Holcomb, Chris Holcomb and Adam Adams.
Honorary pallbearer was Robert Lacey.
Jean was born Aug. 23, 1934, in Boyd to Raymond “Doc” and Gracie Mae (Gaston) Vess. She married Charles “Sonny” Norris Adams Nov. 19, 1951, in Decatur. Jean retired from The Hills Nursing Home as a dietary nutritionist. She was a member of the Keeter Baptist Church in Keeter.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Danny Charles Adams; and sister Betty Kemp.
Jean is survived by her son, Bobby Ray Adams and wife, Pamela, of Azle; daughters Paula Holcomb and husband, Sam, of Saginaw, Kim Lester and husband, Baron, of Decatur and Sheila Tackett and husband, Coy, of Decatur; 15 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; brother Sonny Vess of Eureka, Calif.; sisters Peggy Keiper of Boyd and Darlene Evans of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Adams, Sandra | 1963-2016
Published Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Sandra Seymore Adams, 52, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, June 12, 2016, in Decatur.
Service is 1 p.m. Thursday, June 16, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, at the funeral home.
Burial will be at Concord Cemetery in Concord, Ark.
Sandra was born July 23, 1963, in Frankfurt, Germany, to Hermon and Marilyn (Kerlin) Seymore. She was an LVN.
She was preceded in death by her father; grandparents Leonard and Ada Seymore and Leo and Alpha Kerlin; ex-husband Mack Adams; nephew J.J. Robertson; and her beloved Corgi, Tucker.
She is survived by her mother; brothers David Seymore, Mike Seymore and wife, Debbie and Steve Seymore; sister Danita Seymore Noyes and husband, Charles; nephews Brian Roberts and wife, Stephanie, Brian Loper and wife, Misty, and Jesse Seymore; and great-nieces and nephew Olivia Robertson, Bristol Loper and Zac Windmann.

Adkins, Melba Jane | 1921-2016
Published Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Melba Jane Adkins, 94, of Paradise, died Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Jones Family Funeral in Bridgeport with the Rev. Frankie Garcia officiating. Burial will be in Alabama Friday.
Melba was born Oct. 24, 1921, in Fayette, Ala., to MacDonald and Vercie (Self) Berry. She was married to the Rev. Clatis Ray Adkins Sr.
Melba loved sewing, quilting and reading her Bible twice a day. She was a member of Fairview Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters; and five brothers.
Melba is survived by her son, the Rev. Clatis Ray Adkins Jr. and wife, Diane; daughters Jane Allan Adkins and Joyce Carol Whitworth and husband, Kerry; grandchildren Trudy Samsill, Amy Ramsey, Joshua David Adkins, Leah Rhein, Kara Joy and Karmen Leigh Ver Mulm; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild on the way.
Memorial donations may be made to Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC, 28201.

Ahlstrand, Robert A., Sr. | 1941-2016
Published Saturday, December 17, 2016

Robert A. Ahlstrand Sr., 75, from Newark, died Friday, Dec. 16, 2016, in Newark.
Memorial service is 6 p.m. Monday, Dec., 19 at Christian Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating.
Robert was born June 22, 1941, in Detroit to Henning and Agnes Ahlstrand.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife.
He is survived by his son, Bobby Ahlstrand of Decatur; daughters Patricia Dixon and husband, Calvin, of Fort Worth, Laura Meyer of Decatur and Victoria Ahlstrand and husband, Brandon Whisenant, of Newark; 15 grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Alexander, James Ashley | 1931-2016
Published Saturday, June 18, 2016
James Ashley Alexander, 84, of Decatur, died Saturday, June 11, 2016, in Weatherford.
Graveside service will be held in Harrison, Ark., at a later date.
James was born Nov. 9, 1931, in Refugio to James and Alma (Highsaw) Alexander. He married Edna L. Jackson April 13, 1975, in Harrison.
He proudly served his country in the United States Army, 1st Calvary, obtaining the rank of sergeant. He was the recipient of the Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation and a Purple Heart during the Korean War, and while stationed in Japan, he participated in the All Far East Track Meet, placing third in the 1500 meters.
James attended Central Bible College in Springfield, Mo., and was a former Assembly of God minister. While employed with Tyson Foods during the 1980s, he organized what would grow into the single largest USSSA sanctioned softball tournament in the United States. An avid gardener, he raised prize-winning roses and enjoyed a well-kept lawn.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Edna.
He is survived by his sons, Richard Alexander of Mesquite, Charles Alexander and wife, Nancy, of Montague, Mich. and Gary Alexander and wife, Donna, of Decatur; daughters Ruth Grant and husband, Ron, of Moorestown, N.J. and Deborah Johnson and husband, James, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Jonathan Morse and wife, Jessica, Jeremy Morse and wife, Patricia, Erik Alexander and Michael Grant; great-grandchildren Corwin, Jonas, Josiah, Aria and Jeremiah; and other family members and friends.

Allman, Bobby E. | 1937-2016
Published Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Bobby E. Allman, 78, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, July 10, 2016, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb officiating.
Bobby was born Nov. 12, 1937, in Baird, to Thurman Lee and Thelma Margaret (Evans) Allman. He graduated from Albany High School in 1956, where he earned awards such as All-State quarterback. He attended McMurry College in Abilene.
Bobby and his high school sweetheart, Lynda Lynch (he was a football player; she was a majorette) married July 22, 1957, in Albany. During their 58 years of marriage, the couple had two children, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Before moving to Bridgeport in 1985, Bobby, Lynda and children lived in Odessa, where he was a member of the First Baptist Church and a 32nd degree Mason in the Masonic Lodge.
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jimmy Allman and Davis Allman; and father-in-law and mother-in-law Ed and Florence Lynch.
He is survived by his wife; son Mark Allman and wife, Kathy; daughter Sherri Allman; grandchildren Jennifer Dehart and husband, Chris, and Matthew Allman; and great-grandchild Haylen Dehart.

Alvarez, Joseph Peter | 1931-2016
Published Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Joseph Peter Alvarez, 85, of Decatur, died Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016, in Decatur.
Joseph was born Sept. 6, 1931, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Joseph and Emma (Leppin) Alvarez. He married Lucy Eisler Dec. 31, 1972, in Las Vegas. Joseph retired from aeronautical engineering.
He is survived by his wife; son Claudio Alvarez; daughters Marcella and Carolina; stepsons Steven, Arthur and Edward Moss; 13 grandchildren; and friends.

Amey, Sherrie Gay Simpson | 1965-2016
Published Saturday, April 2, 2016
Sherrie Gay Simpson Amey, 51, of Decatur, died Wednesday, March 30, 2016, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, April 2, at Pleasant Grove No. 3 Cemetery in Chico with the Rev. Nichols Easley officiating.
Sherrie was born Feb. 15, 1965, in Denton to Royce and Lynda (Smith) Simpson. She was a commercial driver’s license operator.
Sherrie was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her daughters, Sabrina G. Amey of Decatur and Tiffany Amey of Audubon, N.J.; brothers Dale Simpson and wife, Michelle, of Paradise and Marcus Simpson and wife, Venetia, of Decatur; sisters Rhonda Taliaferro of Newark and Laurie Delgado of Decatur; grandsons Michael, Kameron, Braydon and Remington; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Anderson, Laurie Lewis | 1965-2016
Published Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Laurie Lewis Anderson, 50, of Newark, died Wednesday, July 20, 2016.
Laurie was born Nov. 13, 1965, in Houston to Joe and Cheryl (Shook) Lewis. She was a retired TKE Molder.
She was preceded in death by her mother; and one brother, Craig Lewis.
Laurie is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Anderson of Newark; son Robbie Anderson of Monteagle, Tenn.; granddaughter Rozlyn Anderson of Rhome; father; brother Zachary Lewis of Newark; and other family members and friends.

Andreasen, Earnest LaVern | 1945-2016
Published Saturday, October 15, 2016

Earnest LaVern Andreasen, 70, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 17, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Scott Strother officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16.
Earnest was born Dec. 22, 1945, in Bowie to Sigurd Jensen Andreasen and Gladys Leona Kellevig. On June 1, 1972, Earnest married the love of his life, Vada “Beth” Gilley. He lived a very full life joining the Navy at the age of 18, where he was stationed in Long Beach, Calif. He retired in 1966 as an E4 Third Classman. He was a member of the D.A.V. and past vice commander of the North Texas Honor Guard.
Earnest also enjoyed woodworking, camping and spending time with his family. He worked as a welder and diesel mechanic until his retirement.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Diane Andreasen, Sylvia Morton and Iona Truax; and brother Wayne Andreasen.
He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years; son Ronnie Andreasen and companion, Holly Brooks; daughter Christi Smith and husband, Michael, all of Bridgeport; brothers Tony Andreasen, Terry Andreasen and Dale Andreasen; sisters Arlene Johnson, Beverly Andreasen, Judy Andreasen and Betty Jackson; grandchildren Madison Andreasen, Garrett Smith, Cole Holley and Shirah Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Andreasen, Wayne Axel | 1938-2016
Published Saturday, February 27, 2016

Wayne Axel Andreasen, 77, of Bridgeport, died Monday, Feb. 22, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Feb. 26 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Charles Reed officiating. Burial followed at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Ronnie Andreasen, Doug Andreasen, Casey VanHoose, Michael Smith and Cody Adams. Wayne was born Feb. 27, 1938, in Richland County near Sydney, Mont., to Sigurd Jensen and Gladys Leona (Kallevig) Andreasen. He grew up to be very mechanical and was noted for being able to fix almost anything. But it was his smile that would light up any room. He married Nelta Marie Broom April 20, 1957, in Wichita Falls.
Wayne had lived in the area since 1960, where he owned a general machine shop and served Bowie and Bridgeport for 50 years. He was also in the trucking business for many years. Wayne was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Bowie. He loved spending time with friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Diane Kay Andreasen, Sylvia Elsie Morton and Iona Marie Truax; daughters Karen Lea Andreasen and Laura Beth Pittman; and grandson Donald Wayne.
He is survived by his wife, Nelta of Bridgeport; daughters Stacy Mitchum of Bridgeport and Marilynn Andreasen of Bridgeport; son Mike Andreasen of Argyle; grandchildren Angela Reid of Runaway Bay, Eric Hartsell of Bridgeport, Josh Hartsell of Bridgeport, Keith Lindsey of Bridgeport, Rose Schirato of Argyle and Melody Schirato of Argyle; great-grandchildren Shane Martinez, Ashlynn Nicole Rodriguez and Laura Elizabeth Hartsell.
Other survivors include siblings Dale Andreasen, Terry Andreasen, Earnest Andreasen, Tony Andreasen, Betty Jackson, Judy Andreasen, Beverly Andreasen and Arleen Johnson; numerous nieces, nephews and friends; and his four-legged companion, Jasmine.

Andrew, Ashley Marie | 1983-2016
Published Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Ashley Marie Andrew, 32, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, March 19, 2016, at home.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Thursday, March 24, at East Bridgeport Cemetery with Melvin Castleberry officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Ashley was born Sept. 24, 1983, in Weatherford, to Jackie and Elizabeth ‘Penny’ (Dennis) Andrew. A graduate of Bridgeport High School, Ashley had a smile that would light up any room. She loved riding four-wheelers and horses, camping, going to the lake, dancing and caring for babies.
She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Andy and Dorotha Andrew; and maternal grandmother, Francis Dennis.
Ashley is survived by parents Jackie and Penny Andrew of Bridgeport; fianc Porter Hodgson of Bridgeport; son ‘Little’ Jackie Hodgson; brothers Christopher Andrew and wife, Sally, of Bridgeport and David Andrew and wife, Joann, of Bridgeport; sister Stephanie Campbell and husband, Perry, of Keene; grandfather Clinton ‘Syl’ Dennis of Brock; special niece Shyann Andrew; niece Loyrie Gray; nephews Kaleb Andrew, Kyle Fisher, James Kinsey and Cayden Andrew; and great-nephew Corbin Andrew.

Apodaca, Isis Jasmin Godwin | 1975-2016
Published Saturday, May 21, 2016

Isis Jasmin Godwin Apodaca, 40, of Aurora, died Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at home.
A visitation service was May 20 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Jasmin was born Oct. 21, 1975, in El Paso to Jes s and Elva Apodaca. She married Timothy Godwin March 11, 2005. She was a graduate of Denver City High School and held a Bachelor of Science from Texas Tech University.
In her professional career, she was a 911 dispatcher, state trooper with the Texas Department of Public Safety, a Tarrant County deputy and a real estate agent.
Jasmin was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, an avid gardener, cook and baker. Interior design and architecture were her favorite pastimes. She was an incredible mother, wife, teacher and nurturer.
Jasmin is survived by her husband; parents; daughters Nicole and Kaitlynn; sons Damian and Kaleb; siblings Hazel, Lee and Mac Daniel; and her canine sidekick, Chanel.

Arrington, Bill G. | 1933-2016
Published Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Bill G. Arrington, 82, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Jan. 19 at the First Baptist Church of Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb and the Rev. Gary Dimmitt officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Bill Johnson, Don Younger, Jim Keen, Tommy Denton, Gary Everett, John Arrington and Blake Arrington.
Honorary pallbearers were Terry Carlton, Robert Burtnett, Dwayne Breshears and Price Everett.
Billy was born April 2, 1933, in Antioch Marshall County, Okla., to John and Jessie (Huebsch) Arrington. He married Shirley Ingram Jan. 1, 1956, in Madill, Okla. Billy proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955.
He was a plant superintendent at Liquid Energy Corp. for Warren Petroleum for 14 years and was on the Bridgeport City Council in the 1970s. Billy was a Mason for more than 50 years and a 32nd Scottish Rite.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Jerri Mauk.
Billy is survived by his wife of 60 years, Shirley Arrington of Bridgeport; sons Mitch Arrington and wife, LeeAnn, and Bruce Arrington and wife, Darline, all of Bridgeport; grandchildren Lindsey, Emily, Blake, Alyssa and John Arrington; sister Jane Purcell of Lafayette, La.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to the The First Baptist Church in Bridgeport or Decatur and The Pleasant View Baptist Church.

Arrington, Dee | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Dee Arrington, 88, of Runaway Bay, died Sunday, June 12, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Terry Tucker, Rich Morris, Carson Arrington, Rocky Richardson, Justin West and Tyler Stowe.
Dee was born Aug. 13, 1927, in Rotan to Willie and Ocie (Burton) Arrington. He married Betty Jo Frazier Dec. 6, 1947, in Stamford. Dee retired from Oxidental Oil and Gas after 33 years of service as an area fieldman. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport and the Masonic Lodge.
Dee was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Beverly Jean Arrington; brothers Alfred Arrington and R.C. Arrington; sisters Willie Faye Laird, Orella Callaway and Margret Mullins.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty Jo Arrington of Runaway Bay; son Ronnie Arrington and fianc e, Joan Decapio, of Fort Worth; daughter Paula Arrington West and husband, Michael, of Longview; son Kent Arrington and wife, Sue, of Dallas; 12 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at cancer.org, or call 800-227-2345; Alzheimer’s Foundation of America alzfdn.org or call 866-232-8484; or make a contribution to the charity of your choice.

Arrington, Gus O., Jr. | 1935-2016
Published Saturday, July 9, 2016

Gus O. Arrington Jr., 80, of Boyd, died Saturday, July 2, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was July 5 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Billy Fitch, assisted by the Revs. Phillip Weitner and James Arrington, officiating. Burial followed at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Mark McClung, Johnny Sanders, Audie Phillips, Harold Lisby, Elbert Milner and Brad Barber.
Gus was born Oct. 31, 1935, in Boyd to Gus and Flossie (Parsons) Arrington. He graduated from Boyd High School in 1954, then put himself through two years of college at North Texas State University. While he was out of school to earn enough money for additional education he was drafted into the U.S. Army. After he finished his service obligation, he began work at Bell Helicopter in an engineering liaison position. He was the driving force behind many projects, including the revolutionary process to create the lightweight rotor assembly on the V-22 Osprey Helicopter. He remained there until his retirement in 2001.
Gus was born in the heart of the Great Depression and his introduction to life, in a state of poverty, affected the way he forever viewed the world. After helping his father build a new family home, he settled into his life’s work of helping the rest of his family succeed in their lives.
Over the next 40 years, he saved most of his salary to build an education fund for his nephews and nieces. As each child graduated from high school, he would offer them enough assistance that they could get an education by working only part-time. In this manner, he put seven people through college. His only reward in this was seeing all of his nephews and nieces put into positions to succeed.
Gus was preceded in death by his parents; and his infant brother, Jack Nolan Arrington.
He is survived by his brothers, James Daniel Arrington and wife, Virginia, of Boyd and Eddie Raymond Arrington and wife, Carolyn, of Eureka Springs, Ark.; cousin Helen Parsons Fields and husband, Wayne, of Cottondale; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Ashcraft, Leroy Edward | 1931-2016
Published Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Leroy Edward Ashcraft, 84, of Decatur, died Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Alan Bates officiating. Burial will follow at Eakin Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Mance Stark, Eddie Wayne Bottom, Bobby Bouget, Bruce Colclasure, Marty Bingham, Chad White and JR Taylor.
Honorary pallbearers are Steven James and Rusell James.
Leroy was born Dec. 13, 1931, in Bolivar to Charlie and Ruth (Gray) Ashcraft. He married Margaret Mary Sterle June 3, 1995, in Decatur. He was a world champion cutting horse trainer, a pioneer of the cutting horse industry and a real cowboy. He attended Victory Family Church in Decatur and was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association, National Cutting Horse Association and American Cutting Horse Association.
Leroy was preceded in death by his parents; son James Ashcraft; brothers Clyde and Alton Ashcraft; and sister Annie Brucato.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years; daughters Gerry Jones of Keller, Connie Gage of Keller, Mary Ruth Ashcraft of Decatur and Sarah Jane Ashcraft of Decatur; sons Charlie Ashcraft of Sulphur Springs and Colton Ashcraft of Decatur; grandchildren Amy Rossow, Timothy Ashcraft, Michael Ashcraft, Krista Farquhar, Spencer Jones and Katherine Gage; and great-grandchildren Tiffany Ashcraft and Keegan Canada.
Other survivors include brother Troy Ashcraft; sisters Melva Heath, Alta Jo Smith, Thelda Flanery, Marie James, Ann Taylor and Jan Hilger; his previous wife and friend, Joyce Ashcraft; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Leroy Ashcraft Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o First State Bank, P.O. Box 1238, Decatur, TX 76234.

Badger, Sarah ‘Joann’ | 1930-2016
Published Saturday, April 16, 2016

Sarah “Joann” Badger, 86, of Boyd, died Sunday, March 27, 2016, in Azle.
Memorial service is 2 p.m., Saturday, April 30, at the First United Methodist Church in Boyd with the Rev. J.D. Allen officiating.
Joann was born March 14, 1930, in Dayton, Ohio, to William and Margaret (Corcoran) Minton. Joann retired from the former Olney Savings and Loan in 1987 and dedicated her remaining time to her family, church and community.
She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church where she has been a member for 50 years. During that time, she taught Sunday school, volunteered at the church’s after-school program and was a food bank volunteer. She enjoyed working at the Lord’s Acre for more than 30 years.
Joann was a very kind and gentle soul. She had a loving and generous heart and was always giving to others. As Joann’s last selfless act, she requested her body be donated for the advancement of science.
She is survived by her husband, Jamie Badger; sons Steven Badger and wife, Colleen, of Crowley, Danny Badger of Conroe and John Patterson and wife, Wendy, of Red Oak; daughter Teresa Bates and husband, Ed, of Springtown; brothers Charles Minton and Richard Schoof; sister Nancy Kreager; grandchildren Amy Crane and husband Corey, Katy Palmer, Stevie Willett and husband Jim, Kyle Adamcik, Kaden Patterson and Kendyl Patterson; and great-grandchildren Colton Crane and Willow King.

Bagwell, Kammey Rae | 1975-2016
Published Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Kammey Ray Bagwell, 40, of Azle, died Monday, May 2, 2016.
Memorial service was May 10 at Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise.
Kammey was born Oct. 28, 1975, in Seguin. She died in Fort Worth. Kammey’s passion was her family. She adored her mother and children and served them tirelessly.
She worked the last several years as the office manager for Dr. Muhammad Asim, a gastroenterologist at Wise Health System in Decatur.
Kammey was preceded in death by her brother, Rickey Jones, who died July 31, 1986.
She is survived by her mother, Neta Acuna of Boyd; son Keeten; and daughters Rikki and Isabel.

Bailey, Buddy Charles | 1933-2016
Published Saturday, March 19, 2016
Buddy Charles Bailey, 82, of Chico, formerly of Bridgeport, died Thursday, March 17, 2016, in Chico.
A private service is planned at a later date.
Buddy was born Dec. 11, 1933, in Bridgeport, to Bud and Myrtie (Early) Bailey. After attending college for two years, Buddy joined the Army and served his country for two years. He married Nita Mae Rankin Jan. 16, 1953, at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport and the Fort Worth Shriners organization. For many years he was a farmer and rancher in the Bridgeport area. Before retirement, Buddy was a hotel owner in Red River, N.M. for 20 years.
He enjoyed playing games such as dominos and canasta, picking up pecans, reading, and watching John Wayne movies.
Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Lavaine Green.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Nita Bailey of Chico; son Ricky Allen Bailey of Bowie; and daughters Cathy Ann Grimes of Chico, Elana Kay Bailey of Bridgeport and Heather Lynn Bailey of Krum; sister Shirley Stack of Bridgeport; seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Baker, Billy Wayne | 1944-2016
Published Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Billy Wayne Baker, 72, of Boyd died Friday, Feb. 19, 2016, in Boyd.
Funeral was Feb. 22 at Hilltop Assembly of God in Boyd with Billie Fitch officiating. Burial followed at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park.
Mr. Baker was born Jan. 12, 1944, in Lawton, Okla., to Harold and Margie Baker.
He is survived by his wife, Margie Baker; sons Jonathan, Daniel and Matthew; grandchildren Aaron Potter, Kallice Baker and Bethany Baker.

Baker, Calvin Marshall | 1941-2016
Published Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Calvin Marshall Baker, 74, of Alvord, died Monday, July 18, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Thursday, July 21, at the First Baptist Church of Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Bluebonnet Hills Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Clayton Caniford, Colby Caniford, Casey Talley, Brady Webb, Austin Hall and Montana Blackburn. Honorary pallbearers are Aubrey Cannon, Shane Cannon, Kamdyn Thomas and Karsyn Thomas.
Calvin was born Nov. 27, 1941, in Fort Worth to Glenn and Ina Lou (Hand) Baker. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas. He married Jeanette Johnson May 1, 1981, in Las Vegas. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord where he served as a deacon. Calvin was a retired general contractor and volunteered for Court Appointed Special Advocates and Meals on Wheels.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and grandson Coleman Kamper.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years; daughters Kelly Seffrin and husband, Joe, of North Richland Hills, Ashley Cannon of North Richland Hills, Heather Caniford and husband, Chuck, of Clifton, Rene Wooten and husband, Thomas, of Alvord, Shelly Hall and husband, Ronnie, of Fort Townson, Okla.; son Rick Clark and wife, Gina, of Alvord; 18 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister Wanda Fitzgerald and husband, Jackie, of California; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Ballard, Kimberly Denise | 1966-2016
Published Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Kimberly Denise Ballard, 49, of Rhome, died Tuesday, May 10, 2016, at her home.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Thursday, May 19, at Aurora Cemetery in Aurora with the Rev. Scott Ketchen officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 18, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Kimberly was born May 23, 1966, in Keller, to Johnny and Connie (McPherson) Roland. She married Freddie Ballard July 18, 1999, in Haltom City. Kimberly retired as a special needs elementary teacher. She was a member of the Twin Oaks Baptist Church in Watauga.
Kimberly was preceded in death by her grandson, Hayden Kane Bothwell.
She is survived by her son, Thomas Lee Bothwell Jr. and wife, Lauren, of Fort Worth; daughter Tamara Bothwell of Newark; stepdaughter Brandee Ballard of Fort Worth; grandsons Brennon Bothwell and Landyn Bothwell of Fort Worth; granddaughters Hayden Bothwell and Peytyn Bothwell of Fort Worth; brother Johnny “Bubba” Roland Jr. of Keller; and other family members and friends.

Barksdale, Jana Lee | 1961-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Jana Lee Barksdale, 55, of Grand Prairie, formerly of Bridgeport, died Monday, Nov. 21, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was Nov. 26 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Jana was born June 9, 1961, in Austin to Jerry and Ava (Lewis) Barksdale. She worked for Kinkos.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her brother, Andrew Barksdale of Bridgeport; sister Lynn Forsythe of Grand Prairie; and numerous extended family members and friends.

Barnett, Mary Elaine McFarlin | 1923-2016
Published Saturday, January 9, 2016

Mary Elaine McFarlin Barnett, 92, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, of congestive heart failure.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at Oak Grove United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Rev. Shelley McNew officiating.
Burial is 2:15 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11, at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas.
Pallbearers are Dwayne Kennedy, Butch Baker, Tom Kastler, Todd Barnett, Shane Howard, Brent Parker, Will Bartoo, Tristen Forsythe, John Austin, Michael Austin and Spencer Austin.
Nicknamed early on as “Sally” by her siblings, Mary was born April 5, 1923, in Rockwall County to John Watson and Jessie Elizabeth (Sisk) McFarlin. She attended Kilgore Junior College. Mary married John L. Barnett Sr. June 28, 1941, in Wichita Falls.
She was a skilled secretary in the most professional sense of the word, beginning her career during World War II while working in the Quartermaster’s office at Camp Maxey and Camp Fannin.
Mary was the first secretary for Christie Mitchell and Mitchell in Wise County, working in a rented room in the courthouse in the early 1950s. She continued in the oil and gas industry working for A&B Well Service before settling in as a legal secretary for Woodruff, Fostel, Wren and Simpson, eventually managing the firm’s Bridgeport office until her retirement in 1985.
Mary was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church. She was a founder of the County Council on Alcoholism and the New Beginnings Al-Anon group.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 62 years, John L. Barnett Sr.; and her son, William Mack “Bill” Barnett.
Mary is survived by her son, John L. Barnett Jr. and wife, Betty, of Decatur; daughters Mary Jean Howard and husband, Paul, of Decatur and Cynthia Wood and husband, Walter, of Decatur; grandchildren Todd Barnett and wife, Heidi, Shelly Parker and husband, Brent, Romney Forsythe and husband, Billy, Shane Howard and Alison Wood.
She is also survived by great-grandchildren William, Tristen, Mac, Bella, Ashlynn, Jack and Emma; great-great-grandchildren Abel and Leo; sisters Anne Thomas of Pasadena and Nancy Woodson of Wichita, Kan.; and numerous other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions can be made to any of the following charities: Wise Area Relief Mission, P.O. Box 1084, Decatur, TX 76234, 940-626-4676; The Wounded Warriors Project, woundedwarriorproject.org; or any local animal shelter.

Barnett, Patricia Joyce | 1940-2016
Published Saturday, July 2, 2016
Patricia “Pat” Joyce Barnett, 76, of Weatherford, died Thursday, June 23, 2016.
Visitation and memorial service will be announced at a later date through Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Patricia was born May 2, 1940, in Sanger to James W. and Rosie Mae (Hammons) Ary. She graduated from Denton High School in 1958. Patricia married Erwin King Barnett Jr. March 9, 1963, in Gainesville.
While Patricia assisted throughout her life in her family’s businesses in various positions, her true calling was one of a consummate wife, mother and homemaker. As a mother of two active girls, she volunteered freely at their schools, working with special needs children and assisting teachers and coaches at various fundraisers, field trips, sporting events and activities in any way she could. She was a member of the Slidell Young Homemakers and became an active 4-H leader in Wise County.
In her later years, she became quite the gardener. People would often stop to talk about or photograph her flowerbeds. Patricia was especially proud of her roses that she would lovingly care for through the hot Texas summers.
Patricia had an unwavering faith in God. Baptized in 1954 at the Pearl Street Church of Christ in Denton, she became very involved with churches in Denton, Aubrey, Greenwood, Decatur, Springtown and Weatherford, teaching Sunday school and VBS, visiting members in the hospital or nursing homes and assisting in numerous fundraising events, collecting goods for the local community and Africa. When a member of the congregation or community was ill or passed away, she was one of the first to ask if she could do anything for the family. She was always willing to give her time to those in need.
Pat was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, King Barnett; parents Rosie Mae Gable and James W. Ary; and brothers Teddy Lane Ary and James Robert Ary.
She is survived by her daughters, Kathy Spriggs and husband, Neil, of Kinburn, Ontario, Canada, and Sandra Miller and husband, Chris, of Weatherford; brother Eddie Ary and wife, Laura, of Denton; sister-in-law Camille Underwood of Lake Charles, La.; grandchildren Brian Shannon of Bowling Green, Ky., Kristian and Alastair Spriggs of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and Andrew and Ashley Musick of Weatherford; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends who will also miss her.

Barrett, Vernon Don | 1948-2016
Published Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Vernon Don Barrett, 68, of Alvord, died Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, in Alvord.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Revs. Billy Wayne Blakeney and Veronica Greanead officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Honorary pallbearers are Jasper Neilsen, John Peterson, Arnaldo Rodriguez, Charlie French, Larry Foreman, Michael Wayne Riddle, Michael McAlister and Doug Munson.
Vernon Don was born Feb. 10, 1948, in Lamesa to Vernon Ray and Dovie (Eastham) Barrett. He married Kerry Blakeney May 16, 1987, in Las Vegas. Vernon Don proudly served his country in the United States Army in the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles. He was a retired machinist for Halliburton Energy Services.
Vernon Don served as the Alvord Chamber of Commerce president and was recently on the Alvord Planning Committee. He attended the First United Methodist Church in Alvord where he also sang in the choir.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters Dovie Ray Maupin, Joyce Daniels, Linnie Fair and Ruth Wynell Barrett.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Ruth Dana Brooks of Grapevine; son Blakeney Ray Barrett of Alvord; grandson Dustin Brooks; six nephews; one niece; and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, 1001 E. 101st Terrace, Suite 220, Kansas City, MO 64131, 816-931-2600.

Bartolon, Pedro Angel | 2016
Published Wednesday, August 10, 2016
Pedro Angel Bartolon, infant son of Elizabeth Sandoval and Eyder Bartolon of Bridgeport, was born and died Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016, in Decatur.
He is survived by his parents; grandmother Norma Hernandez; grandfather Ventura Sandoval; grandmother Susana De Leon; grandfather Roel Bartolon; and numerous other family members.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.

Beaman, Robert Warren | 1931-2015
Published Saturday, January 2, 2016

Robert Warren Beaman, 84, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, at Hawkins Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Reverend Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow in Thomas Cemetery. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Robert was born on Jan. 14, 1931, to Robert and Lola (Lindsey) Beaman in Bridgeport. He married Martha Craft March 8, 1965, in Sierra Blanca. He was the owner and operator of R.W. Trucking Inc.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Ruth Woods and her husband, Charles.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Martha Beaman of Bridgeport; his daughters, Sandra Reed and husband, Bill, of Springtown and Deborah Greenwood and husband, Jeff, of Ardmore, Okla.; his sons, Mark Beaman and wife, Dora, of Thackerville, Okla. and Robert Gregory and wife, Penny, of Bridgeport; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Bean, Margaret Nell | 1944-2016
Published Saturday, July 23, 2016

Margaret Nell Bean, 72, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, July 17, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, July 23, at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Craig Erb officiating. Burial will follow in East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Family will receive friends one hour prior to service.
Margaret was born June 29, 1944, in Bridgeport to John and Jennie (Brock) Bean. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents Eula and Otis Bean; sister Mary Lee Burdine; brother-in-laws John Boldin, Leonard Brown and Nolan Williams.
She is survived by her half-sisters, Eula Sue Boldin of Grand Prairie and Betty Williams of Watercrest at Mansfield; niece Sherry Mitchell; nephew Timmy Burdine; and other cousins and many friends.

Bejaran, Benigno S. | 1945-2016
Published Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Benigno S. “Benny” Bejaran, 70, of Boyd, died Friday, Feb. 12, 2016, in Boyd.
Funeral was Feb. 15 at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Bo Johnson officiating.
Mr. Bejaran was the associate pastor of Living Word Tabernacle in Bridgeport, and he was a welder.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Bejaran; sons Robert “Bobby” Bejaran of Odessa and Edward Bejaran and wife, Laura, Benigno “Benny” Bejaran Jr. and wife, Toni, Jessie Bejaran, Joe Angel Bejaran, Micky “Bisley” Garcia and wife, Kristi, and Ruben Garcia Jr. and wife, Valerie, all of Monahans; 19 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by brothers Merehildo Bejaran and Eugenio Bejaran, both of Monahans; sisters Josie Madrid of Odessa, Amalia Tarango of Pecos, Paula Alvidrez of Seminole, Belia Rodriguez of Odessa; and several nieces and nephews.

Benham, Peggy Lemens | 1937-2016
Published Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Peggy Lemens Benham, 79, of Bridgeport, died Friday, June 24, 2016, in Wichita Falls.
Funeral was June 28 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Thomas Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dylan Benham, Ellis Benham, Rusty Benham, Adam Benham, Stephen Benham and Rob Ratliff.
Peggy was born Feb. 2, 1937, in Rainbow to Henry and Nellie (Barclay) Lemens. She married Frank Ellis Benham Dec. 27, 1952, in Glen Rose. Peggy was a seamstress for Sue Ann Inc.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers O.Z., Jimmie and Don Lemens.
Peggy is survived by her sons, Craig Ellis Benham of Bridgeport, Stephen C. Benham and wife, Tammie, of Henrietta and Lonny Benham and wife, Rita, of Bridgeport; daughter Treva Byrne and husband, Jimmy, of Iowa Park; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.
Memorials may be made to Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department and Hospice House of Wichita Falls.

Benham, William | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, September 28, 2016

William “Bill” Benham, 82, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Sept. 23 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Terry Latham officiating. Burial was at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Lynwood Harvick, Leon Wilkerson, Brent Singleton, Monty Fitzgerald, Jay Singleton and Rick Morales.
Honorary pallbearers were Roy Boswell, Jim Clater and Andy Mendoza.
Bill was born June 17, 1934, in Pine Springs, Okla., to Doyle and Zada (Dillingham) Benham. He married Donella Ruth Latham April 2, 1955, in Wellington, Kan. He was a retired auctioneer and diesel mechanic.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years; daughters Debbie Singleton and husband, Brent, of Bridgeport, Karen Harvick and husband, Lynwood, of Balsora and Brenda Wilkerson and husband, Leon, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Jay Singleton, Kasey Walraven and Marissa Hughes; great-grandchildren Isabella and Kelsey Singleton; and other relatives and friends.

Bennett, Freda Mae | 1930-2016
Published Saturday, April 2, 2016

Freda Mae Bennett, 86, of Boyd, died Saturday, March 26, 2016, in Willow Park.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, April 2, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry and Jesse Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Freda was born Jan. 12, 1930, in Boyd to Dewey Aron and Lena Margaret (Wallace) Wilson. She married Jewel Wayne Bennett in Weatherford. Freda was the owner of Freda’s Beauty Salon and Nature’s Health Store for more than 40 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Boyd and the Eastern Star.
Freda was preceded in death by her parents; husband Wayne; daughter Teresa Harrison; sisters Virginia Gilbert, Ina Joan Wilson and Diane Wheeler; and brother Roy Wilson.
She is survived by her son, Tony Harrison of Springtown; granddaughters Kelli Clark and husband, Tony, of North Richland Hills and Denise Moody Milam and husband, Stephen, of Springtown; great-grandchildren Brittany Palmer Lamance and husband, Todd Boone, of San Antonio, Brandy Branson, Brandon Branson and Brenna Brooke Branson, all of Springtown, and Mackenzie Clark, Cameron Clark, Addison Clark and Evan Clark, all of North Richard Hills; sister Kathryn Darden of Fort Worth; and numerous other family members and friends.

Bentley, Clatie Sue | 1932-2016
Published Saturday, June 11, 2016

Clatie Sue Bentley, 83, of Aransas Pass, formerly of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, June 7, 2016, in Aransas Pass.
Services will be 2 p.m., Monday, June 13 at Cates Street Church of Christ in Bridgeport. Burial will be in East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 12 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
She was born July 6, 1932, in Springtownon to Fred William and Nora Nevada (Stevens) Hall. Sue worked for more than 20 years as a cook for Chico ISD. She was a member of Cates Street Church of Christ.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son Jerry Isbell; daughter Ruby Walton; brothers Thomas Eugene Hall and Lewis Edward Hall; sister Fay Gilley; first husband James Isbell; and second husband James Dawson Bentley.
Sue is survived by son Freddie Isbell of Aransas Pass; step-daughter Loranella Cooper of Decatur; brother Perry Hall of Decatur; eight grandchildren; and numerous other family.

Berg, Veda Lanell | 1930-2016
Published Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Veda Lanell Berg, 85, of Decatur, died Saturday, May 14, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service was May 15 at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. Jerry Galloway officiating.
Veda was born Sept. 26, 1930, in Alvord to William and Ethel (Hanna) Jones. She married Edward “Eddie” Berg in December of 1951 in Decatur. She was a Baptist.
Veda was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
She is survived by her sons, Chuck Berg and wife, Gail, of Chico and Donnie Jolley and wife, Eileen, of Lubbock; daughters Brenda Brandy and husband, Rick, of Mansfield and Judy Adkins and husband, Mark, of Bridgeport; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; brother Elvin Jones of New Castle; sister Arlene McLellan of Granbury; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Berrier, Ron | 1954-2016
Published Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Ron Berrier, 61, of Decatur, previously of Grand Prairie, died Monday, Sept 5, 2016.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at Donnelly’s Colonial Funeral Home, 606 West Airport Freeway, in Irving. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens, 1413 East Irving Boulevard, in Irving.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, at the funeral home.
Ron was born Oct. 7, 1954, in Dallas to Billie Clarence and Grace Genelle Gilliam Berrier. He worked at C.B.R.E. Richard Ellis as a maintenance worker for more than 20 years.
Ron was preceded in death by his father; brothers Danny and Eddie Berrier; and sister Norma Lincoln.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Brenda; sons Jeremy McCombs and wife, Michele, of Aubrey and Zachary Berrier and wife, Ashley, of Decatur; grandchildren Dagan, Cade, Landon, Tifani, Gracie and Audrey; mother Grace Conner of Irving; brothers Clifford Berrier and wife, Linda, of Krum and Terry Berrier of Irving; sisters Donna Bacak and Lorie Sheppard, both of Irving; and several nieces and nephews.

Besidas, Ruth Beatrice | 1919-2016
Published Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Ruth Beatrice Bisidas, 96, of Decatur, died Sunday, April 17, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Drs. Van Gardner and Bill Hughes officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Jeremy Davis, Toney Kemp, Buddy Harris, Jayme Bisidas, Tim Whitehead and Joe Leake.
Ruth was born June 24, 1919, in Cullman, Ala., to Arther and Cora (Shackles) Pope. She married Tony James Bisidas May 4, 1936, in Falksville, Ala. Ruth was a member of the Family Worship Center.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 52 years, Tony Bisidas; sons Eddie Bisidas and Larry Bisidas; and daughters Shelba Roberts and Reba Whitehead.
Ruth is survived by her daughter, Bonnie Kemp and husband, Stanley, of Decatur; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bible, Debbie Annette | 1964-2016
Published Saturday, July 9, 2016

Debbie Annette Bible, 51, died Wednesday, June 29, 2016, in Bernice, La.
Memorial service was July 3 at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur.
Debbie was born July 17, 1964, in Clifton to Charles Augusta Jr. and Louis “Jean” Jackson Bible. She spent her first three years there until the family relocated to Decatur in 1967. Debbie was a member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church and attended Decatur elementary, middle and high schools. In the mid 1980s, she also attended Vogue School of Cosmetology.
Debbie worked on and off through the years as a grocery store attendant, a cook, a housekeeper, caregiver and many other oddsjobs. She loved butterflies and crosses, arts and crafts, painting, jewelry, music – including karaoke – and perfumes. She brought joy to everyone she knew and never met a stranger. Debbie would make you talk to her whether you wanted to or not.
She had a giant smile and bright, expressive eyes that always hinted at mischief, a straight forward manner and the uncanny ability to evoke laughter from anyone, anywhere. She was always the life of the party, the fun person, the family comedian.
Debbie exhibited a unique outlook on life. She never got in a hurry for anything and was as slow as Christmas. She was one-of-a-kind.
Debbie was preceded in death by her father; and grandparents Charles Augusta Bible Sr., Esther Oliver Bible and Oran “Jeff” Jefferson.
She is survived by her daughters, Laycee Pittman and husband, Neil and Ashtyn Bible; son Cebryn Bible; grandsons Caiden Jennings and Camden Jennings Pittman; granddaughters Samantha Pittman, Madison Pittman and Bailye Pittman, all of Coalgate, Okla.; mother Louis Jean Bible of Decatur; brothers DaLane Bible and wife, Tessa, and Dean Bible Sr., both of Decatur; sisters Darlene Bible of Lake Worth, Darenda Kirby and husband, Delbert, of Cedar Hill, Deanna Delgado and husband, Luis, of Decatur and Cyril Bible of Oakland, Calif.; special friend Darin Karch of Spearsville, La.; and uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Bishop, Charles Glen | 1961-2016
Published Saturday, March 12, 2016

Charles Glen Bishop, 54, of Decatur, died Tuesday, March 8, 2016, in Denton.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Monday, March 14, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Decatur.
Charles was born June 8, 1961, in Garvin, Okla., to Joe and Linda (Parten) Bishop. He retired as an assistant executive foreman from Devon Energy after many years of service.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Charles is survived by his daughters, Chelsea Marshall and husband, Derek, of Bridgeport, T.K. Bishop of Austin and Macy Bishop of Denton; grandsons Nolan Marshall and Hayes Marshall; brothers Sonny Bishop, Tommy Bishop and Joe Bishop; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Blalock, Carnelia Grace ‘Connie’ | 1939-2016
Published Saturday, April 9, 2016

Carnelia “Connie” Grace Blalock, 76, of Bridgeport, died Monday, April 4, 2016, in Plano.
Funeral was April 7 at the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport with burial at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Connie was born June 28, 1939, in Bridgeport to Aubrey and Opal (Johnston) Tackel. She married Buddy Blalock May 2, 1959, in Bridgeport. Connie was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Buddy Blalock; and son Erick Blalock.
She is survived by her son, Jeff Blalock and wife, Shanna, of Bridgeport; granddaughters Amanda and Ericka; great-granddaughters Jalyn, Rayli, Reese and Bexley; great-grandsons Dane, Aiden and Ashton; brother John Tackel of Garland; and other family members and friends.

Blevins, Betty J. | 1931-2016
Published Saturday, August 27, 2016

Betty J. Blevins, 85, of Bridgeport, formerly of Locust Grove, Ark., died Monday, Aug. 22, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service is 3 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 27, in Locust Grove Cemetery in Locust Grove.
Honorary pallbearers are Kenny Nash, Bryan Anderson, Shane Blevins, Todd Drake, David Seymore and Dickie Joe Drake.
Betty was born Aug. 5, 1931, in Batesville, Ark., to Leo and Alpha Mae (Tatum) Kerlin. She was a homemaker and rancher and enjoyed going north of the Red River on occasion.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Dwight Blevins; nephew Chad Blevins; and nieces Teresa and Vicki Harmon.
Betty is survived by sisters Billie Harmon and Marilyn Seymore; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Blythe, Margaret Caroline | 1918-2016
Published Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Margaret Caroline Blythe, 97, of Decatur, died Monday, March 21, 2016, in Decatur.
Celebration of life is 11 a.m. Thursday, March 24, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with Danny Russell, Robert Bishop and Misty Spring officiating.
Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Brian J. Bassham, Reese Moreno, Michael Bassham, Mark Gober, Michael Gober and Kyle Massie.
Honorary pallbearers are James W. Blythe, Cody Webster and Patrick Kelley.
Margaret was born Oct. 21, 1918, in Terre Haute, Ind., to Luther and Dessie (McKinsie) Rainbolt. She married James M. Blythe Jan. 30, 1936, in Crown Point, Ind.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; husband James Marion Blythe; grandson David Blythe; sisters Juanita Slawson, Lucille McKay and Barbara Barnhart; brothers James Rainbolt and Lawrence Rainbolt; son-in-law Alvin Bassham; and daughter-in-law Leah Blythe.
She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Blythe Bassham of Bowie; sons James L. Blythe and wife, Ann, of Azle, Lawrence D. Blythe of Louisiana and Robert D. Blythe and wife, Arlene, of Kennedale; grandchildren Ray Bassham and wife, Patty, Rebecca Bishop and husband, Robert, Brian Bassham, Jill Beran and husband, Sudir, and James W. Blythe and wife, Christy; 12 great-grandchildren; 20 great-great-grandchildren; and one great-great-great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Boase, Reba Parish | 1917-2016
Published Saturday, July 9, 2016

Reba Parish Boase, 98, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, July 7, 2016, in Tomball.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Monday, July 11, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Sam Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Reba was born Sept. 27, 1917, in Bridgeport to Tom and Flora (McCurry) Parish. She married James Boase April 7, 1940, in Bridgeport. Reba was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 50 years; and siblings Cleburne Parish, Terrell Parish, Vernon Parish, Denver Parish, Ruby Ludington and Ruth Coffman.
She is survived by her daughter, Beverly Kay Copeland and husband, Dan; son Scott Edward Boase and wife, Donna; daughter Beckye Ann Roach and husband, David; grandchildren Wesley Covington, Chad Edward Boase, Brent Carter Boase, Brittany Tania Crawford, Leslie Roach, Natalie Roach and Travis Roach; great-grandchildren Arbrianna Covington, Aidan Boase, Austin Boase, Taylor Boase and Avery Crawford; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Kingdom Come Ministries, P.O. Box 94555, Lubbock, TX 79493.

Boland, Robert James | 1936-2016
Published Saturday, April 30, 2016

Robert James “Bob” Boland, 80, of Decatur, died Tuesday, April 26, 2016.
Funeral was April 29 at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with burial at Alvord Cemetery.
Bob was born April 22, 1936, in Freeport, Ill., to Joseph and Fern (Cheeseman) Boland. He was owner and operator of his own business, Briar Energy Corp., and was a member of Texas Alliance of Energy Producers.
Mr. Boland was an active member of the First United Methodist Church where he taught Sunday school.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Joe Boland, Leo Boland and Brian Boland; and sisters Pat Pfab, Ann Doyle and Mary Fangman.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Charlotte Smith Boland; daughter Jennifer Bethune and husband, Jonathan; granddaughter Haylee Bethune; brothers Tony Boland, Barney Boland, Bill Boland, Mike Boland, Jack Boland and Kenny Boland.
Memorials may be sent to Wise Area Relief Mission or Decatur Cares.

Bomar, Laura Lou Johnston | 1926-2016
Published Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Laura Lou Johnston Bomar, 89, of Austin, died Friday, Aug. 26, 2016, at home.
A private family memorial was held at the Bomar’s Westlake home.
Laura was born Sept. 13, 1926, in Cameron to Ted and Laura Johnston. She graduated from Pecos High School in Pecos in 1943 at the age of 16. She graduated from Texas Technological College in Lubbock in 1946.
Laura and her girlfriends wanted to move to South America to work as airline stewardesses. Since she was not 21, she had to have her parents’ permission – which they did not give. She then took a job with the dean of students at Texas Tech.
While working at Tech, she had a blind date with a World War II aviator, Charles Bomar, who had recently returned from the Pacific. Sixty-eight years later, they still laughed about their first date.
Laura raised four children through the usual childhood illnesses, emergency room visits, broken bones, “discussions with teachers” and unusual pets (a donkey in the front yard and a tree climbing dog) with grace. She gave her children the encouragement needed for all four to graduate from college and succeed in life.
After a 27-year career raising children, she finally got to travel the world. She and her girlfriends traveled to Israel, China and Nepal. Charlie and Laura visited the ancient sites of Mexico and Peru, traveled throughout Europe and sailed the ports of the Mediterranean.
When the Westbank Community Library first opened in a small room in the local bank, Laura was one of the first volunteers. Later she became a longtime docent at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. She was named Volunteer of the Year due to her highly informative tours and enthusiasm for the museum.
Laura was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Kenneth Johnston and his wife, Rose, Dorothy Stepken and Ted Johnston.
She is survived by her husband; children Mike Bomar of Corvalis, Ore., Christie Nalle and husband, Bill, of Austin, Ann Ferguson and husband, Tom, of Chico and Pat May and husband, Dale, of Bellville; grandchildren Jordan Nalle and wife, Rachel, Josh Ferguson, Rachel Wheeler and husband, Stephen, Beth Ferguson, Dave May and wife, Erica, and Topher May; great-grandchildren Addison and Teak Nalle, Charlie May and Chandler Windham; sister-in-law Betty Self; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden Collector’s fund, 605 Robert E. Lee Road, Austin, TX 78704.

Boswell, Frances | 1923-2016
Published Saturday, March 5, 2016
Frances Boswell, 92, died Monday, Feb. 15, 2016, at home.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, March 12, at Wesley Chapel Cemetery in Bluff Dale.
Frances was born June 3, 1923. She and her husband, H.D. Boswell, moved to Decatur 30 years ago from Stephenville. Frances spent her life caring for her husband and children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, preparing fabulous meals and creating a garden paradise at home in Seven Wires. She will be missed.
Frances was preceded in death by her husband, H.D.; and sister Flo.
She is survived by her six children; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one sister; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Online condolences may be made at stephenvillefh.com.

Boswell, Kathy Howard | 1950-2016
Published Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Kathy Howard Boswell, 66, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, June 19, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 23, at Pleasant View Baptist Church with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Jonathan Holder, Todd Mara, Jeff Howard, Jake Moody, Jasper Winn, Jarrod Cross, Jason Nelson and Ryan Meals.
Kathy was born April 18, 1950, in Denton to Joe and Katherine (Holder) Howard. She married Jim Boswell March 20, 1973, in Sanger. Kathy owned and operated Cleaning by Kathy. She was a lifetime member of the Bridgeport Riding Club and a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church.
Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings Edith Smith, Jimmy Joe Howard, Kenneth Howard, W.C. Howard, Carroll Howard, Larry Howard and Don Howard.
She is survived by her sons, Heath Boswell and wife, Lisa, of Bridgeport and Kelly Boswell and wife, Frances, of Bridgeport; daughter Amy Conditt and husband, Ben, of Linden; grandchildren Little Kelly, Shaye, Kaden, Cooper, J.W., Kenya, Kazin, Kimora, Karli, Cody, Delanie and Haylie; great-granddaughter Lynzee; brother Buck Howard and wife, Jean, of Sanger; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Bouldin, Joyce Dell | 1938-2016
Published Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Joyce Dell Bouldin, 78, of Arlington, died Saturday, July 16, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday July 20, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Poolville Cemetery.
Joyce was born March 1, 1938, in Alvord to Thomas and May Dell (Beachum) Brownlee. She was a nurse’s aide for Weatherford Care Center until she retired. Joyce was a Baptist and loved gardening.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughters Dana Matlock and Paula Thornal; son Shawn Bouldin; brother Tommy Brownlee; and sisters Geneva Graham, Wanda Morrison, Reatta Clem, Lillie Paden, Mattie Elnora Reason, Katherine Jones and Ella Mae Brownlee.
She is survived by her spouse, Mount Ollan Bouldin; daughters Faye Sulipeck of Decatur, Kimberley Haile and husband, Craig, of Decatur, Tina Kramer of Glendale, Ariz., and Keitha Ramsey of Arlington; sons Billy Joe Everett of Azle and Shane Bouldin and wife, Lee, of Frankston; grandchildren Kooky, Dena, Shawnda, Rhonda, Jerrad, Nikki, Dee, Mathew, Cindy, Cassie, Rebecca, Anthony, Gabby, Kenzie, Kelsey, Max and Maddie; 12 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Bowlin, Bernadette Alice | 2016
Published Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Bernadette Alice Bowlin died Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, in Carrollton.
Mass of Christian burial is 10 a.m. Thursday, March 3, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Coppell. Burial will follow at West Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the grand foyer at Rolling Oaks Funeral Home in Coppell with rosary at 7 p.m.
Bernadette hailed originally from New Jersey. She and her late husband, James Preston Bowlin, lived in Runaway Bay for many years. She then became a resident of Irving.
She was a loving mother and grandmother.
Bernadette is survived by children James Bowlin of Austin, Patricia Bowlin of Coppell and John Bowlin of St. Louis, Mo; grandchildren Matthew Bowlin of Surf City, N.C., Amy Hadley of Austin, Russell Bowlin of Victoria and Kathryn Jordan of Tacoma, Wash.; great-grandchildren Liam Hadley and Amelia Jordan; and sister Dorothy Freudenberger of Hampton, N.H.

Bowyer-Sowell, June | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, October 19, 2016

June Bowyer-Sowell, 81, of Chico, died Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was Oct. 18 at Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Chico with the Rev. Mike Miller officiating. Burial followed at Chico Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Jake Sowell, Clayton Sowell, Scott Bowyer, Aaron Jones, Deroy Bennett, Colby Byers, Jimmy Counts, Hunter Renick, Aden Johnson, Lucas Scherb, David Stine and Ryan Campbell.
June was born Oct. 16, 1934, in Great Bend, Kan., to Daniel and Helen (Otte) Eckert. She married Eugene Bowyer Jan. 25, 1953. They were married 55 years, until his passing in 2008.
She married Sidney Sowell Feb. 14, 2012, in Chico. She was a longtime member of Morris Memorial United Methodist Church, and she was a retired sales clerk for Chico Dry Goods and Wise Furniture.
June was preceded in death by her parents; husband Eugene Bowyer; daughter Sandra Jones; infant twin sons, Ronald and Donald Bowyer; brother Gene Eckert; and sister Darlene Dueser.
She is survived by her husband; sons Bill Bowyer and wife, Laina, of Decatur, Doug Bowyer and wife, Belinda, of Chico, Steve Bowyer of Houston, Danny Sowell and wife, Judy, of Keller and Terry Sowell and wife, Debbie, of Hurst; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister Charlene Engleman and husband, Rod, of Great Bend; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Bramlet, Darlene York | 1938-2016
Published Saturday, October 8, 2016

Darlene York Bramlet, 77, of North Richland Hills, formerly of Boyd, died Thursday, Oct. 6, 2016, in Arlington, after a long illness.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 10, at the First Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the church. Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Darlene was born Dec. 30, 1938, in Clovis, N.M., to Edd and Izora York. When she was young, her family settled in Graham, where she graduated from high school in 1957. She grew up with five older brothers. During her illness, she spoke a lot about her dad. He was a huge influence in her life.
She moved to Fort Worth after graduation and lived in the Waggoner Mansion when it was a boarding house. However, her working life was cut short when she married her high school sweetheart, Pat Bramlet in 1958. They spent a few years in the Navy and then he went to work for American Airlines. Pat’s career path took them to Chicago, Tulsa and finally back to Texas. They moved to Boyd because they wanted to raise their four daughters in the country.
In the early ’70s, Darlene started a career with Home Interiors and Gifts. This career choice changed her life. She discovered a love of decorating that, combined with her ability to connect with people, made her a top performer. In time, she became a manager for Home Interiors. This step gave her the opportunity to enhance the lives of her customers and the displayers who worked on her team. After Home Interiors, she went to work for Kelly Services. There she became branch manager. She believed anyone who wanted a job should have one.
Darlene had a lifelong faith in Jesus. She served in the church in various functions and was a member of the Riddle Evangelistic Association board for many years. Even toward the end of her life, her faith never left her. She would tell us: “This one thing I know, Jesus loves me.”
Darlene had a way of bringing everyone into her circle and making them feel valued and important. She never met a stranger and recognized the best in everyone she met. She loved to laugh, give parties and socialize with friends and family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Pat Bramlet, and four brothers.
Darlene is survived by her daughters and their families, Debra and Michael Lasher, Tanya and Ronald Neill and daughter Elizabeth, Renee and Chris Wolfe and their children Ben and Marissa and Melissa and Norman Pickett and their son Dylan; son and daughter-in-law Codee and Rhiannon and their son Jackson; her brother and his wife, Jerry and Wilma York; and two sisters-in-law, Queenell and Almeta York. She is also survived by many other relatives that loved her dearly.
Memorial donations may be made to the Patricia Gail Smith Memorial Scholarship for a deserving student at Boyd High School. There are two ways to donate: a check made out to Debra Lasher can be sent to 8309 Forrest Oak Dr., North Richland Hills, TX 76182 or go to gofundme.com/2t49uh8.

Brammer, Billy Ray | 1931-2016
Published Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Billy Ray Brammer, 84, of Burleson, died Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016, in Burleson.
Funeral is 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, at Greenwood Chapel, 3100 White Settlement Rd., in Fort Worth. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Greenwood Chapel.
Billy was born Nov. 9, 1931, to Walter Curtis and Alice Nesmith Brammer. He grew up in Rhome and Boyd, where he enjoyed life with his extended family. He was baptized and became a member of First Baptist Church of Rhome as a young adult.
Billy was always a high achiever, adventurous and lived life to the fullest. He attended the University of Texas at Arlington before service as a paratrooper in the 11th Airborne. His career as a master bricklayer served him well, winning many awards with his endeavors.
Billy was one of the founding fathers of martial arts in the Fort Worth/Dallas area, earning a black belt in several different styles. He earned his 10th Degree in American Karate in 2000. Among his many recognitions were Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame 2013, Masters Hall of Fame 2013 and the Universal Martial Arts Hall of Fame 2015. His karate families and students have grown exponentially over the years, and he is well-respected and loved among his peers.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sister Ruth Harlen Frye; and brothers Kenneth Brammer and Curtis Harold Brammer.
He is survived by his sister, Gloria Ann Dustman of League City; nieces; nephews; cousins; and friends.

Branch, Kenneth John | 1936-2016
Published Saturday, May 14, 2016
Kenneth John Branch, 79, of Fort Worth, died Wednesday, May 11, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Sunday, May 15, at Sycamore Baptist Church with the Rev. Casey Lewis officiating.
Kenneth was born Oct. 15, 1936, in Decatur to J.R. and Flora (Hachtel) Branch. He married Susan McColloch in Decatur. Kenneth retired from the U.S. Navy. He was a member of the Chapel Wood Baptist Church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter.
He is survived by his wife; sons Claudio Branch of Arlington and John J. Branch of Dallas; sisters Laune Pitts and husband, Charles, and Judy Kay Branch of San Antonio; nine grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bridges, Deborah Lynn Reid | 1959-2016
Published Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Deborah Lynn Reid Bridges, 56, of Decatur died Thursday, March 10, 2016, in Decatur.
Graveside service was Monday, March 14, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating.
Deborah was born Aug. 23, 1959, in Decatur to Tommy and Dorothy (Cocoanougher) Reid. She married David Bridges, the love of her life, Aug. 29, 1987, in Decatur. Deborah owned her own beauty salon in Decatur for many years.
When Debbie and David were blessed with two children, she decided to become a full-time mother. She was devoted to her husband and their children, and she enjoyed spending time with them at the lake and coast.
Debbie was a friendly, loving soul who never met a stranger.
She was preceded in death by her father, Tommy Lee Reid.
Debbie is survived by her husband of 28 years, David Bridges of Decatur; daughter Sara Xan Bridges of Decatur; son Alex Reid Bridges of Decatur; her mother, Dorothy Cocanougher Reid of Decatur; and sisters Allee Moulder and husband, John, of Weatherford and Darla Albro and husband, Doug, of Decatur.
She is also survived by mother-in-law Xan Bridges of Gulf Breeze, Fla.; niece Jessica Ward of Gulf Breeze, Fla.; lifelong friends David and Michelle Brown; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bridges, Richard Dale | 1943-2016
Published Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Richard Dale Bridges, 72, of Poteau, Okla., died Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016, in Fort Smith, Ark.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 16, at Cottondale Cemetery with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating.
Richard was born Nov. 25, 1943, in Bridgeport to Wright and Alta (Lawrence) Bridges. He married Shirley Riddle Aug. 2, 1982, in Waurika, Okla. Richard served in the United States Army and was a Mason. He was a retired oilfield worker.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Billy and Benny Bridges; Jimmy Dunlap; and sister Peggy Arwine.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Sandy Lambert and husband, Jim, of Boyd and Cindy Jessup of Boyd; son Chris Bridges of Boyd; stepson Ken Simco of Wichita Falls; grandchildren Jeremy Lambert and wife, Kim, Robert Lambert and wife, Stephanie, Brittany Haarmeyer and husband, Lance, Slade Bridges and Ian Bridges; five great-grandchildren; sisters Emily Tackel and Pat Conn; his friend of 45 years, Daniel Enox; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Brown, Elvis Herman | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Elvis Herman Brown, 82, of Truce, died Friday, Nov. 4, 2016, in Truce.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9, at Christian Missions Church, 2381 U.S. 380, in Jacksboro with the Rev. Eugene Weldon officiating. Burial will follow at Truce Cemetery.
Elvis Herman was born May 18, 1934, in Truce to Archie Clifton and Georgia Ann (Dove) Brown. He retired after 35 years from the Texas Department of Transportation. He was then employed by Rhome Engineering as an inspector, followed by 21 years as a course certification instructor for the Texas Asphalt Pavement Association.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Flora Mae (Douglass) Brown; daughters Stephenia Brown-Tilghman of Fort Worth, Delia Brown-Ferguson and husband, Derek, of McKinney and Melissa Perez and husband, John, of Richardson; sister Louise Wigington; grandchildren Labresa Tilghman Howell and Warren, Trenton Brown Tilghman and Shayli, Eric Perez, Lauren Perez, Kyle Ferguson and Lexi Ferguson; great-grandchildren Jameson Howell and Tate Brown Tilghman.
Memorials may be given to the Truce Cemetery Association, Attn: Gary Spradling, 14177 State Hwy 59, Bowie, TX 76230.

Brown, Honora | 1915-2016
Published Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Honora Brown, 100, of Bridgeport, formerly of Ardmore, Okla., died Friday, July 1, 2016.
Celebration of life is 11 a.m. Thursday, July 7, at First Presbyterian Chapel in Ardmore. Memorials may be made to Loaves and Fishes at First Presbyterian Church in Ardmore, Okla.
Honora Horn Stromberg Brown was born Nov. 1, 1915, in Ardmore, to Fred and Laura Horn. She grew up in Ardmore and graduated from AHS, as did her brother Webster and sister Virginia. In 1936, she married Stanley Stromberg. They lived in Ardmore, Odessa and Hobbs, N.M. He died in 1960. She married Harley Brown in 1979. He died in 1994.
Honora was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she served as deacon, elder and president of the women’s association for several years. She volunteered at the soup kitchen regularly. She was a member of the Hospital Auxiliary since 1971 and served as president for two terms. Honora accumulated 7,500 volunteer hours. She was a member of the American Contract Bridge League where she achieved the distinction of Silver Life Master. She taught bridge lessons at the YWCA for several years. She was a member of the YMCA where she socialized with a wonderful group of swimmers.
Honora liked to play bridge and mahjong, knit, swim, watch soaps and spend time with family. She helped many people by sponsoring scholarships, giving financial assistance, providing coats for elementary students, and cooking, cooking, cooking.
Honora is survived by son Jon Stromberg and wife, Jimmie; daughter Bunny Perry and husband, Richard of Runaway Bay; step-daughter-in-law Patty Brown; five granddaughters; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

Brown, Michael Dale | 1990-2016
Published Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Michael Dale Brown, 25, of Decatur, died Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Michael was born Sept. 6, 1990, in Lewisville to Ronald Brown and Linda (Flores) Sanders in Lewisville.
He is survived by his father, Ron Brown; mother Linda Flores-Sanders and husband, Allan, of Decatur; son Mason Brown of Chico; brother Cody Brown of Denton; sister Lacey Brown of Alvord; grandmothers Ina Flores of Decatur and Claudine Brown of Alvord; grandfather Joe Flores of Decatur; his aunt and uncle, JoAnna and Steve Bogle; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Brown, Shawn Robert | 1998-2016
Published Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Shawn Robert Brown, 18, died Sunday, July 24, in Decatur.
Service is 10 a.m. Thursday, July 28, at Hope Lutheran Church, 4795 East Hwy 199, Springtown with Pastor Josh Richard officiating.
Shawn was born Feb. 17, 1998, to Gloria and Brian Brown of New Fairview. He attended Springtown High School. Shawn was an avid fan of basketball, football, Pokemon, magic and bacon.
He worked as a manager at Arby’s in Decatur.
He is survived by his parents; brother Shane Brown and fianc e Meagan Walton; nephew Oliver Brown of Paradise; grandmothers Janice Powell of New Fairview and Laura Brown of Fort Worth; partner in crime and cousin Summer Childress and a score of extended family and friends.

Bryant, Lawana Faye | 1929-2016
Published Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Lawana Faye Bryant, 87, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Oct. 14, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Oct. 18 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Rocky Johnson officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Tyler Hunter, Robert Hill, Rolf Zoerkendoerfer and Clayton Green.
Lawana was born July 7, 1929, in Gilmer to James and Sallie (Richardson) Harris. She married Melvin L. Bryant April 16, 1946, in Gilmer. She was a member of the Pleasant View Baptist Church and was a medical aide.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Delwyn Bryant; granddaughter Kelly Renee Bryant; brothers Elwyn and Billy Harris; and sisters Sue Richardson and Joy Mae Harris.
She is survived by sons Doyle Bryant and wife, Johanna, Jerry Bryant and Johnny Bryant and wife, Martha, all of Bridgeport; grandchildren Rolf, Bettina, Peggy, Jason, Jerry Jr., Amanda, Brittany and Brad; great-grandchildren Katie, Lewis, Andrew, Christopher, Autumn, Justin, Mischea, Mason, Hunter, Sophia and Alex; sisters Shirley McDonald of Emory and Eva Flemming of Rowlett; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Buchanan, Justin Ray | 1984-2016
Published Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Justin Ray Buchanan, 31, of Decatur, died Sunday, July 24, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 27, at Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise with burial at Diamond B Cemetery on his family land.
Pallbearers are Danny Neighbors, Jonathan Ryle, Todd McCormick, Eddie Fortenberry, Jim Lamirand, Craig Gordon, Mike Moyers and Brandon Moyers.
Honorary pallbearers are Frank Thornton, Brent Williams and Phillip Askey.
Justin was born Sept. 22, 1984, in Decatur to Clifford Ray and Cheryl Loraine (Norris) Buchanan. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree from Midwestern State University in 2008. He was a die-hard University of Texas football fan and a dispatcher for Transmundo Management.
He is survived by his parents; sisters Cheri Boyd and husband, Derrick, of Decatur, Lisa Bell and fianc , Jesse, of Stephenville and Amy Buchanan of College Station; brother Clif Buchanan and wife, Jana, of Navasota; nieces Whitley and husband, Kyle, Ashtyn, Emily, Ainsley and Finley; and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, 800 W. Magnolia Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76104.

Buckner, Helen | 1930-2016
Published Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Helen Buckner, 86, of Chico, died Saturday, June 11, 2016, in Bowie.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, June 18, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Cumby Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Curtis Buckner, Todd Buckner, Mark Buckner, Jeff Buckner, Willford Buckner and Brian Sheppard.
Helen was born May 17, 1930, in Idalou to Curtis and Bessie (Sims) Sheppard. She married Harlan Buckner March 21, 1953, in Denton. Helen was a teacher in Bridgeport ISD until she retired. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Wallace Sheppard.
She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Harlan Buckner of Chico; daughter Jan Fletcher and husband, Craig, of Lebanon; son Randel Buckner and wife, Delinda, of Chico; grandchildren Stephanie Buckner, Whitlee Stewart and husband, Chaz, Curtis Buckner and wife, Whitney, Wes Fletcher and Britlee Fletcher; great-grandchildren Maddy, Creese, Cullen and Juliet; sister Cletabel Irvin of Denton; and other family members and friends.

Burge, Hope Carrol | 1964-2016
Published Saturday, April 2, 2016

Hope Carrol Burge, 51, of Rhome, died Wednesday, March, 16, 2016, in Rhome.
Hope was born April 27, 1964, in Yale, Okla., to Leonard and Delores (Garrett) Carrol. She married Harold Gene Burge May 13, 2000, in Eureka Springs, Ark. Hope worked as a claims specialist for TransAmerica Life Insurance Co.
She was preceded in death by her father, Leonard Carrol; mother Delores Garrett; and sisters Pamela Smith and Lynn Pruitt.
She is survived by her husband of 15 years, Gene Burge of Rhome; sisters Sandra Ridling of Alexander, Ark., Debbie Smith of Wright, Wyo., and Connie Lambert of Alexander, Ark.; brothers Ben Smith of Pampa and Joe Smith of Gillette, Wyo.; four stepchildren; five step-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Burgin, Donald R. | 1947-2016
Published Saturday, May 14, 2016

Donald R. Burgin, 68, of Bridgeport, died suddenly Friday, May 6, 2016, while vacationing in Gunnison, Colo.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Don was born May 31, 1947, in Gladewater to S.H. and Frances (Pugh) Burgin. He married Virginia Martinez Jan. 30, 1970.
He was a Bridgeport High School graduate, Class of 1965, and a graduate of UT Arlington with a bachelor’s degree.
Don proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969 and went to Vietnam.
He was employed at Chico Crushed Stone, LaFarge and owned the car washes in Bridgeport for 30 years.
Don was one of the original organizers of the Wise County Toy Run and was actively involved for the first 10 years.
He considered Colorado his second home. He enjoyed the scenery, looking for wildlife, fly fishing, jeeping and the campfires at night.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Kathy Potteiger.
Don is survived by his wife of 46 years, Virginia Burgin of Bridgeport; son Michael Burgin and fianc e, Nichole Broussard, of Youngsville, La.; daughter Rachel Sims and husband, Terrell, of La Vernia; and grandchildren Shelby Burgin, Mason Sims, Reed Burgin and Marshall Sims.
Donations may be made to the Bridgeport Public Library or the charity of your choice.

Burk, Jerry Thurman ‘J.T.’ | 1949-2016
Published Saturday, July 16, 2016

Jerry (J.T.) Thurman Burk, 66, of Richland, died Sunday, July 10, 2016, in Dallas.
Funeral service was Thursday, July 14, at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with burial following at Sweetwater Cemetery.
Jerry was born Aug. 19, 1949, in Decatur to Marshall and Leona Spain Burk. He was a retired teacher and coach. Over the last two years, he became an aspiring author with novels soon to be published. He was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Corsicana.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and son Scott Miller.
He is survived by wife Joyce Terrell Burk; sons Matthew Burk and wife, Rose, Sandon Miller and wife, Stephanie and Wayne Westbrook and wife, Mary; daughters Sabra Miller, Sheryl Davis and husband, James and Bethany Aguado and husband, Phillip; brother Steve Burk of Decatur; 21 grandchildren; and numerous other family and friends.

Burkhart, Robert | 1942-2016
Published Saturday, April 9, 2016

Robert Burkhart, 74, of Kernville, Calif., died Wednesday, March 30, 2016, in Mount Mesa, Calif.
Memorial service is 11 a.m., Saturday, April 16, at the First Baptist Church of Kernville with the Rev. Ben Ritchy officiating.
Robert Bradley Burkhart was born March 25, 1942, in Palmdale, Calif., to Irwin and Alice Burkhart. The Burkharts made their home in Antelope Valley where Bob grew up and later attended John Brown Military Academy in La Jolla, Calif. In 1957, the family moved to the Owens Valley where Bob attended and graduated high school in Lone Pine, Calif. He then continued his education at Cal Poly at San Luis Obispo.
Bob joined the Navy as a Sea Bee (Construction Battalion) where he had three tours in Vietnam. He was wounded and was awarded many medals, including a Purple Heart. Bob retired as Chief Petty Officer from the Navy in 1989.
In 1957, the Burkharts bought two Pack Stations – Sequoia Kings Pack Trains of Onion Valley and the Kennedy Meadows Pack Trains and Jordan Hot Spring on the Kern Plateau.
Bob helped run the businesses by taking groups and families on vacation trips into the High Sierras and the Golden Trout Wilderness. During the winter seasons, the Pack Station loaned out some of their stock to Cal Poly for equestrian studies, and Bob performed construction jobs around the Kern River Valley.
In 1975, the Burkharts leased the old Onyx Store and ran it as a family business until they retired from both businesses in 1986. Bob went on to operate the Main Market in Kernville, meanwhile studying and receiving his building inspector’s license. He went on to inspect many schools around the state from Mojave to Mammoth, including the Kern River Valley area.
In 2014, the Kern River Valley Chamber of Commerce awarded Bob “The Man of the Year” Award. Bob was very active in the Kern River Valley, First Baptist Church of Kernville, Boy Scouts, Salvation Army, Rotary, Odd Fellows, Truck Stop Ministries and many other organizations.
He was a very loving and giving person to everyone he met. He will be greatly missed.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Irwin and Alice Burkhart; wife Kay Burkhart; ex-wife Yvonne Fisher; sister Lois Jean Burkhart; infant baby boy Burkhart; daughter Roxanna Burkhart; and grandson Devon John Tavernier.
He is survived by his sister, Carol Logsdon and husband, Archie, of Wofford Heights; son Schuyler (Leigh) Burkhart and, wife, Jennifer of Decatur; Charlene Tavernier of Ridgecrest; Sheila Burkhart of Death Valley; ex-wife Barbara Jo Price of Texas; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family members.

Burnham, Gareth Dee | 1940-2016
Published Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Gareth Dee Burnham, 75, of Decatur, died Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 7, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy., in Dallas with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating.
Gareth was born Sept. 12, 1940, in Los Angeles to Royal and Edith (Ford) Burnham. He married Theresa Torres Aug. 17, 2011, in Phoenix. They met each other at age 12. Gareth served his country and retired from the U.S. Air Force. He loved to fish and enjoyed photography.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Karen Willard.
He is survived by his wife, Theresa Burnham of Decatur; daughters Karen Cumberland of Mississippi and Kristy Burnham of Mississippi; grandchildren; one great-grandchild; five stepchildren; and friends.

Bynum, Brenda Diane Arant | 1954-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Brenda Diane Arant Bynum, 62, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Private graveside service is at Jim Ned Cemetery with Melvin Castleberry officiating.
Brenda was born Jan. 12, 1954, to Annie and Alan Arant. She married Barry Bynum July 29, 1988.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
Brenda is survived by her children, Kristie Claunch and husband, Billy, Melissa Succetti, Chad Bynum and wife, Jennifer, and Jason Johnson and wife, Lindsey; brothers Roy Provence, Travis Provence and Mark Arant; sister Sheila Woodworth; grandchildren Chera Nichols, Kyle Claunch, Madison Andreasen, Aislee Bynum, Krimsen Succetti and Lakota Mason.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Wise County Toy Run.

Caffey, Jo Ann | 1936-2016
Published Saturday, May 21, 2016

Jo Ann Caffey, 79, of Boyd, died Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at home.
Funeral was May 20 at New Hope Baptist Church in Boyd with the Rev. Kevin Caffey officiating.
Pallbearers were Jason Caffey, Colton Garrett, Clay Caffey, Justin Caffey, Joe Maxwell, Jimmy Wilkinson and Derek Wood.
Jo Ann was born Dec. 25, 1936, in Ennis to Clyde and Ruby (Moore) Woods. She married Bobby Caffey Dec. 9, 1953, in Rockwall. Jo Ann was a homemaker and housewife.
Once you met Jo Ann – known as Granny, Grunt or Momma, to her family – you would never forget her. She had a way of making everyone feel special. She taught those around here to love unconditionally and had faith, strength and wisdom.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents; and grandson Will Caffey.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years; sons Billy Caffey and wife, Kari, of Springtown and Jimmy Caffey and wife, Connie, of Haslet; daughter Debbie Garrett and husband, Rick, of Fort Worth; seven grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cain, Addie Ruth | 1921-2016
Published Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Addie Ruth Cain, 94, of Decatur died Friday, Feb. 19, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was Feb. 22 at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Chris Brown and the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating. Burial followed at Rest Haven Memorial Cemetery in Gainesville.
Pallbearers were Jay Bowers, Bryan Wolf, Michael Cain, Justin Beamis, Stephen Wolf, Matthew Cain, Nathan Bowers, Jeffry Wolf and Karl Bowers.
Addie was born May 4, 1921, in Saint Jo to William and Zena (Warner) Martin. She married Rufus Pershing Cain May 5, 1939, in Ardmore, Okla. Addie was a member of American Gold Star Mothers. She was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her husband, R.P. Cain; son Jimmy Ray Cain; grandsons Robert Wolf and Dwaine David Cain; and great-granddaughter Marti Wolf.
She is survived by daughters Patti Bowers of Decatur, Carolyn Wolf and husband, James, of Decatur, Phyllis Bobo and husband, Paul, of Whitehouse, Paula Beamis and husband, Scott, of Richardson and Margaret Cain of Carrollton; son Kenny Cain and wife, Mary, of Krum; 19 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; eight great-great-grandchildren; brother Bill Martin of Gainesville; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cain, Cornelia Jernigen Pinkerton | 1923-2016
Published Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Cornelia Jernigen Pinkerton Cain, 93, of North Richland Hills, died Monday, June 6, 2016, in Haltom City.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Saturday, June 11, at Oaklawn Cemetery with the Rev. Bill Hughes officiating.
Visitation is 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Cornelia was born March 23, 1923, in New Orleans to William Jernigen and Agnes (Beall). She married Pete Cain in Las Vegas. Cornelia was a member of the Rendon Church of Christ. She was an electronic assembler.
Cornelia was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Emmett Fate Pinkerton; second husband Pete Cain; and son Kenneth Pinkerton.
She is survived by her sons, Charles Pinkerton and wife, Ginger, of North Richland Hills and Rick Pinkerton and wife, Linda, of Lubbock; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and numerous other family members and friends.

Callan, John Joseph ‘Joe’ | 1973-2016
Published Saturday, December 10, 2016

John Joseph “Joe” Callan, 43, of Decatur, died Monday, Dec. 5, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was Dec. 9 at the First Baptist Church in Decatur with Mike Wheat of County Line Cowboy Church and Arena officiating.
Pallbearers were Cannon Jones, Kevin Dennis, David West, David Cobb, Jimmy Miller, Ronnie Barnes, Richard Norris and Steve Neeley.
Joe was born Feb. 23, 1973, in Garland to John and Linda (Novak) Callan. He married Nia Nolen Dec. 12, 2012, in Decatur. Joe was a salesman in fire prevention. He was an avid team roper and a natural salesman. He never met a stranger and made new friends everywhere he went. Joe loved his wife, his kids and his family.
He was preceded in death by his son, Johnny Callan.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Alexis Callan of Jacksboro; son Beau Spears of Decatur; mother Linda Heitzman and husband, Rick, of Sachse; dad John Callan and wife, Verna, of Kerrville; brother Christopher Callan and wife, Erin, of Kerrville; and other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Los Creek Cemetery, c/o Jimmie Kozart, 8625 US Hwy. 38 West, Jacksboro, TX 76458; or Callan Family Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1238, Decatur, TX 76234.

Callan, Johnny | 1999-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Johnny Callan, 17, of Jacksboro, died Saturday, Nov. 26, 2016, in Palo Pinto County.
Funeral was Nov. 29 at Jacksboro High School gymnasium with the Rev. Frank Hefner, Rev. Eugene Weldon and Rev. Jerry Fulton officiating. Burial followed at Los Creek Cemetery.
Johnny was born Feb. 2, 1999, in Fort Worth to Kerri LeDoux and Joe Callan. He attended Jacksboro High School where he served his FFA chapter as president; was the Area IV FFA president and was a Ford Leadership Scholar at the state level. He would have been the valedictorian for the Class of 2017.
Johnny was loved and treasured by all who knew him. He was passionate, committed, dedicated and talented at everything he did. Most of all, Johnny was caring, compassionate, kind and loving. Words cannot describe the incredible person he was. He will be missed and loved forever.
He is survived by his mother, Kerri LeDoux and husband, Gus; father Joe Callan and wife, Nia of Decatur; brothers Grant LeDoux and Beau Spears; sister Alexis Callan; grandparents Jimme and Lelia Cozart, Johnny and Verna Callan and Rick and Linda Heitzman.

Calvert, Peggy | 1940-2016
Published Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Peggy Read Calvert, 76, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 30, at Immanuel Baptist Church with the Revs. Louis Horton and Kevin Walker officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Jim Hooper, Sam Echavarria, Rick Read, Tim Kline, Craig Shaw and Chuck Robert.
Honorary pallbearers are Troy Hooper, Tyler Hooper, Tucker Hooper and Trevin Hooper.
Peggy was born Sept. 10, 1940, in Paradise to John and Irene (Pike) Read. She married Charles Franklin Calvert Jan. 21, 1956, in Bridgeport. Peggy was a member of the Immanuel Baptist Church in Decatur. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels and Solaris Hospice. She was a retired nurse.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her daughter, Pam Horton and husband, David, of Decatur; son Mark Calvert of Decatur; grandson Brenden Horton of Decatur; granddaughter Misty Meyer and husband, Tom, of Idaho City, Idaho; sisters Patsy McClure of Mesquite and Geneva Hudson of Decatur; brothers Bill Read and Harold Read of Paradise; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Wise Area Relief Mission and Immanuel Baptist Church Bus ministry.

Camp, Larry Wayne | 1953-2016
Published Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Larry Wayne Camp, 62, of Fort Worth died Tuesday, March 29, 2016.
A private memorial service will be held. Arrangements are being handled by simplecremation.org.
Larry was born Feb. 13, 1953, in Fort Worth. He graduated from Paradise High School and enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Larry is survived by his mother, Mary Ayers; sisters Rosemary Payne and Peggy Polk; nieces Cindy Davis, Cecilia Vindiola and Stacy Farr; and nephew David DJ Farr.

Campsey, Guinn | 1926-2016
Published Saturday, June 18, 2016

Guinn Campsey, 90, of Jacksboro, died Thursday, June 16, 2016, in Jacksboro.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, June 18, at Coker Funeral Home in Jacksboro. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
Guinn was born March 23, 1926, in Jacksboro to Lon and Mable Campsey. He served his country proudly in the United States Army during the Korean War. Guinn was a Boy Scout Troop Master and even had a troop in Germany. He received the Silver Beaver Award for Distinguished Service to Boyhood from the Longhorn Counsel.
Guinn married Laura Beth Gregg and was a rural mail carrier for 30 years, retiring in 1997. He was active in local and regional areas serving on the FHA Loan Association Board, Texas Water Conservation District Board, Jacksboro ISD School Board and the Federal Land Bank.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Connie Sue Campsey; parents; sisters Maureen Clerihew, Beatrice Morton and Christine Nelson; and grandson Beau Hamby.
Guinn is survived by his wife, Laura Beth Campsey of Jacksboro; sons Rick Campsey and wife, Mitzi, and Brad Campsey, all of Jacksboro; grandchildren Carly Hamby, Chris Amburn and Chad Amburn; and great-grandchildren Kristian Bailey, Makayla Amburn, Nykole Chasteen and John Allen Amburn.

Cantrell, Marsha Loyce (Mercer) | 1957-2016
Published Saturday, July 16, 2016

Marsha Loyce (Mercer) Cantrell, 59, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, July 13, 2016.
Services are at 10 a.m. Monday, July 18, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport, with the Rev. Melvin Castleberry officiating. Burial will follow in Willow Point Cemetery in Balsora.
Pallbearers are Brian Munn, Ricky Carter, Kyle Rodgers, Michael Hebert, Mike Smith and Mike Canada.
Honorary pallbearers are David Hart and Marvin Evans.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 17, also at Jones.
Marsha was born June 14, 1957, in Bridgeport to Marvin and Elaine (Brown) Mercer. Marsha married Mitchell Rock ‘Rocky’ Cantrell in October, 1978. The couple remained in Bridgeport until her death.
She was a homemaker whose infectious smile and mischievous nature endeared her to many. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, and helping others, whether it be her extended family or animals of all kinds, particularly those that had been abandoned.
She was preceded in death by her parents; twin stillborn daughters; father-in-law Ernest Cantrell; grandparents Buster and Elsie Brown; and grandmother Esta Opal Mercer.
She is survived by her husband of 37 years; daughters Bridgette Miramontes and husband, Alejandro, Samantha Huckabee Gripp and husband, Josh; numerous children and grandchildren she brought in along the way; brothers Jim Mercer and wife, Tina and Juan Mercer and wife, Deb; sisters Marla Torres and Becky Watkins and husband, Mike; mother-in-law Christine Cantrell; brothers-in-law Scott Cantrell and wife, Connie and Todd Cantrell and wife, Bridy; grandchildren Javier, Ethan and Sidney Macias, Hali and Vandon Miramontes and Jaydon, Alyvia and Shae Gripp; and nieces and nephews.
Donations may be made to the Wise County Animal Shelter.

Cardona, Rene Velis | 1954-2016
Published Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Rene Velis Cardona, 61, of Alvord, died Friday, April 29, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 6, at DFW National Cemetery with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating.
Rene was born June 13, 1954, in Crosbyton to Rustino and Francis (Velis) Cardona. He married Anna Lee Flanry May 10, 1996, in Eureka Springs, Ark. Rene served his country in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and sister Rosa Cardona.
Rene is survived by his daughters, Melissa Cardona Walker and husband, Chris, of Fort Worth and Amy Williams of Dallas; son Heath Martin King and spouse, Brad, of Burleson; sisters Sylvia Martinez and Elida Garza; brothers Wiley Cardona and wife, Juanita, and Ruben Cardona and wife, Cindy; grandchildren Dorian, Elijah, Amariah, Mariah and Zachary; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Carlton, Larry Millard | 1947-2016
Published Saturday, June 18, 2016

Larry Millard Carlton, 69, of Decatur died Sunday, May 22, 2016, at his home in Decatur.
He has generously donated his body to the UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
Larry was born March 23, 1947, in Carrollton to Maxine and Opie Carlton. He moved to Decatur in 1985 and was an avid sports fan who enjoyed following Decatur Eagle football.
Larry retired from TD Industries of Dallas where he dedicated 34 years to a job that he loved in commercial heating and air.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Mickey Carlton.
Larry is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Dorothy, of Decatur; son Jim Carlton of Decatur; daughter Kim Farrow and husband, Kevin, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Shayler Carlton Shepard, MaKenna Farrow and Trinity Farrow; siblings George Carlton of Decatur and Barbara Carlton Waddell of Carrollton; sister-in-law Joyce Carlton of Carrollton; many loving nieces and nephews; and special friends Eric and Jeffrey.

Carpenter, Jimmy Loyd | 1933-2016
Published Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Jimmy Loyd Carpenter, 83, of Paradise, died Saturday, June 25, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, at Pleasant View Baptist Church with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Gary Green, Grady Cowling, Jim Duncan, Scotty Duncan, Dennis McMurry and Donny Gillespie.
Jimmy was born May 9, 1933, in Bridgeport to Jim and Agnes (Martin) Carpenter. He married Dean Cowan Nov. 15, 1952, in Bridgeport. Jimmy was a farmer and worked for Bridgeport Road Construction.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Jackie Lynn Carpenter; and brother Harold “Red” Carpenter.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dean Carpenter of Bridgeport; son Bucky Carpenter and wife, Eddi, of Bridgeport; daughter Jennge Flowers and husband, Mike, of Bridgeport; and grandchildren Jason Carpenter and wife, Loren, of Grapevine and Jamey Carpenter of Bridgeport.
He is also survived by great-grandchildren Brendan and Maddee; brothers Bobby Carpenter and wife, Jeanetta, of Chico and Jesse Paul Carpenter and wife, Judy, of Lake Bridgeport; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Carrillo, Angel | 1942-2016
Published Saturday, December 31, 2016

Angel Carrillo, 74, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016, in Keller.
Mass of Christian burial was Dec. 30 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church of Decatur with Father Thomas Dsouza and Deacon Art Casias officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Ruben Carrillo, Bobby Carrillo, Angel Carrillo, Manuel Carrillo, Beto Fernandez and Fernando Carrillo.
Angel was born Sept. 15, 1942, in Palmas Altas-Jerez, Zacatecas, Mexico to Fernando Carrillo and Maria Mendiola. He married Leonor Mares Dec. 30, 1966, in Jerez, Zacatecas. Angel retired from Lehigh Hanson as a production operator.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers Isidro Carrillo and Antonio Carrillo.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years; sons Ruben Carrillo and wife, Erika, of Keller, Angel Carrillo Jr. and wife, Maria, of Decatur and Bobby Carrillo of Decatur; grandchildren Andrea Celine Carrillo, Angel “Trey” Carrillo III and Andrew Carrillo, all of Decatur, and Ruben Angel Carrillo and Lauren Sofia Carrillo, of Keller; brothers Manuel and Trinidad, both of Decatur; sisters Angela Carrillo of Bridgeport, Margarita Sierra of Decatur, Guadalupe Caldera of Mexico, Natalia Fernandez of Decatur and Maria Carrillo of Mexico; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Carrillo, Eli Manuel | 2016
Published Saturday, October 1, 2016

Eli Manuel Carrillo, infant son of Luis and Anahi Carrillo, died Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Rosary is 7 p.m. Thursday Oct. 6, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Eli was born Sept. 19, 2016.
He is survived by his parents; brother Sebastian Lane Carrillo of Rhome; grandparents Conception Garcia of Zacatecas, Mexico, Manuel Carrillo of Zacatecas, Patricia Salazar of Distrito Federal, Mexico, and Ricardo Valle of Distrito Federal.

Cate, Lou Ann Cross | 1946-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Lou Ann Cross Cate, 70, of Decatur, died Saturday, Nov. 26, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was Nov. 29 at Grace Baptist Church in Decatur with Drs. Van Gardner and Bill Hughes officiating. Burial followed at Thurmond-Fairview Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Randy Cross, David Cross, Brent Cross, Junior Boyd, Jose Zuniga, Johnny Zuniga, Juan Calderon, Ramon Saavedra and Robert Gonzales.
Lou Ann was born July 14, 1946, in Decatur to Hoyt Parker Cross and Eva Lou (Boydston) Cross. She married Lloyd Wayne Cate May 13, 1967, in Decatur. Lou Ann worked at McDonalds as a cashier for 33 years. She was a member of Grace Baptist Church in Decatur.
Lou Ann was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister Pat Fennell; and brothers Bob, Bud and Sonny Cross.
She is survived by her daughter, Gina Zuniga and husband, Johnny, of Slidell; grandsons Jose and Austin Zuniga of Slidell; granddaughter Cate Zuniga of Slidell; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cates, Joseph Erwin ‘Joe’ | 1931-2016
Published Saturday, February 27, 2016

Joseph Edwin “Joe” Cates, 84, of Fort Worth, died Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at Arlington Heights United Methodist Church, 4200 Camp Bowie Blvd., in Fort Worth. Private burial is at Greenwood Memorial Park.
A reception for family and friends will be held at Shady Oaks Country Club, 320 Roaring Springs Road, immediately following the memorial service.
Joe was born March 19, 1931, in Krum to W.R. “Bill” and Mary Ann “Mamie” Hughes Cates. The family moved to the Oak Grove community where Joe was a member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church. After graduating from Decatur High School, Joe attended Dallas Baptist College and was an active Navy reservist. He graduated with a BBA from Texas Christian University in 1959. In 1960, Joe entered a partnership along with Melvin Haas and Jack Roach and formed Skyline Industries Inc., an aerospace manufacturing firm operating in Fort Worth. The partnership remained intact for more than 50 years.
The Cates, Haas and Roach families have enjoyed these many years with love, support and friendship. Joe retired in 2008 when Skyline sold to Goodrich Industries.
Joe was on the board of directors and served as president at Shady Oaks Country Club. He also served on the board of directors at Ridglea Country Club, where he held continuous membership since 1959.
Joe was an avid golfer and for many years was considered the golf rules “guru” at Shady Oaks. He was also partly responsible for designing the first graphite golf shaft.
Joe was a loving husband and father and a good friend to many. He will be sorely missed by all.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Betty Jean Hill and Mary John Fleming; and both business partners Melvin, who died in 2006, and Jack, who died in 2012.
In addition to his wife of 41 years, Shay, Joe is survived by his children, Joseph Cates Jr. and wife, Marianne, Patti Cates Montague and husband, Jene, Michael Cates and Melanie Cates-Clapp; grandchildren Jordan Montague, Jason Montague, Lauren Cates, Maxwell Cates, Trey Cates and Madison Clapp; great-grandson Dylen Montague; brother W.R. “Billy Bob” Cates Jr.; and dear nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
Memorial donations may be made to Arlington Heights United Methodist Church or Ronald McDonald House.

Chadwick, Norma Dene | 1933-2016
Published Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Norma Dene Chadwick, 83, of Edmond, Okla., died Friday, Sept. 2, 2016.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at Don Grantham Funeral Home in Duncan, Okla., with the Rev. Bryan Hetherington officiating. Burial will follow at Duncan Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be John Andrews, Hunter Cook, Thomas Hays, William Howe, Chad Jones and Brent McClain.
Norma was born May 16, 1933, in Chickasha, Okla., to Norma (McCaslin) and Thomas Howe Sr. She graduated from Duncan High School in 1951 and married Doyle Chadwick Nov. 4, 1951. She taught kindergarten at the First Baptist Church in Duncan and worked as a draftsman for Howell Engineering and Halliburton Oilfield Services, both in Duncan.
In 1980, she and Doyle moved to Arbroath, Scotland, where he worked for Halliburton. They traveled extensively throughout Europe during their seven years in Scotland. After retirement, they built a home near Lake of the Arbuckles and continued to travel, in particular aboard cruise ships. They moved to Touchmark, Okla., in 2012.
A woman of strong faith, she taught Sunday school and Vacation Bible School, sang in the church choir and served as church pianist, most recently at Chickasaw Trail Baptist Church in Davis, Okla. She was well-known for her “Maxine” character at church fellowships.
Norma was an accomplished seamstress and made clothes for herself, her children and grandchildren (and their dolls). They have fond memories of selecting fabrics or T-shirts for the quilts she made for their 21st birthdays. She also did all types of hand-stitching, including cross stitch. Family get-togethers were always filled with good food (including “lake” cookies and chocolate cake with white icing) and lots of fun games, which Norma often invented.
Norma was preceded in death by her parents; and a granddaughter, Alesha Chadwick Henley.
She is survived by her husband of almost 65 years; children Richard Chadwick and wife, Sharon, of Davis, Cheryl Morris and husband, Terry, of Duncan and Karen Hays and husband, David, of Edmond; grandchildren Chad Jones and wife, Hillary, Briane McClain and husband, Brent, and Marti Cook and husband, Hunter, all of Edmond, and Thomas Hays and wife, Jordan, of Norman; great-grandchildren Yasmine and Hayden Jones, Wyatt McClain and Holly Cook, all of Edmond; sister Carole Cordell; and brothers Thomas Howe Jr. and Ronnie Howe.
Memorial contributions may be made to Chickasaw Trail Baptist Church, 2825 Chickasaw Trail, Davis, OK 73030.

Cheves, Joyce Alyeen Armes | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Joyce Alyeen Armes Cheves, 88, died Thursday June 2, 2016, after a life well lived with and for her family.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Sunday, June 12, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Joyce was born Dec. 26, 1927, in Boonsville. She lived most of her life in Bridgeport and Fort Worth.
Joyce was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to her family. She worked in banking and retail and was also owner of Joyce’s fashion shop in Bridgeport for more than 20 years.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Norris Devawn Cheves; parents Vera and Chester Armes; brother Jimmie G. Armes; mother-in-law Iva Elizabeth Nimmo Cheves Dumas; and brother-in-law John Q. Cox.
Joyce is survived by her daughters, Kay Cheves Walker and husband, George, of Cedar Hill, Cindy Cheves Meyers and husband, Fred, of Bridgeport and Marsha Cheves Scroggins and husband, Mike, of Fort Worth; and sisters-in-law Donilla Cheves Cox of Chico and Marye Nella Armes of Decatur.
She is also survived by grandchildren Matt Meyers and wife, Laurie, Meredith Meyers Coffman and husband, Jody, Sunni Scroggins Roppolo and husband, Nick, Lauren Scroggins Shaw and husband, Brian, Eli Walker and Kelly, John Walker and wife, Crystal, Christin Scroggins Sawyer and husband, Robert and Michael Scroggins Jr.; as well as great-grandchildren Joe and Jacob Roppolo, Bransen and Colt Meyers; and Averie, Jace and Jack Coffman.
Memorials may be made to Pleasant View Baptist Church, 886 CR 1326, Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Cheves, Norris Devawn | 1926-2016
Published Saturday, April 23, 2016

Norris Devawn Cheves, 89, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, April 19, 2016, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Memorial is 2 p.m. Sunday, April 24, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Norris was born Sept. 25, 1926, in Willow Point, but he lived most of his life in Bridgeport and Fort Worth. He served in the U.S. Army and retired from Bell Helicopter after 35 years of service. Norris was a skilled craftsman, who took pride in all that he did. He loved cars, motorcycles, woodworking, golf and books. He was a dedicated husband and father to his family.
Norris was preceded in death by his mother, Iva Elizabeth Nimmo Cheves Dumas; mother and father-in-law Vera and Chester Armes; and brothers-in-law Jimmie G. Armes and John Q. Cox.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Joyce Armes Cheves of Bridgeport; daughters Kay Cheves Walker and husband, George, of Cedar Hill, Cindy Cheves Meyers and husband, Fred, of Bridgeport and Marsha Cheves Scroggins and husband, Mike, of Fort Worth; sister Donilla Cheves Cox of Chico; and sister-in-law Marye Nella Armes of Decatur.
He is also survived by grandchildren Matt Meyers and wife, Laurie, Meredith Meyers Coffman and husband, Jody, Sunni Scroggins Roppolo and husband, Nick, Lauren Scroggins Shaw and husband, Brian, Eli Walker and Kelly, John Walker and wife, Crystal, Christin Scroggins Sawyer and husband, Robert and Michael Scroggins Jr; and great-grandchildren Joe and Jacob Roppolo, Bransen and Colt Meyers and Averie, Jace and Jack Coffman.
Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Baptist Church, 886 CR 1326, Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Christian, Gregory William | 1961-2016
Published Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Gregory William Christian, 54, of Decatur, died Saturday, July 9, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 13, at the First Baptist Church in Decatur with the Rev. Tyler White officiating. Burial will follow in Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Scott White, Colton White, Reggie Hickerson, Jason Bridgeman, Jerry Caddell, Colby McGee, Justin Morris and Jeremy Watson.
Greg was born Oct. 7, 1961, in Decatur to Hayes and Jeannette (Snow) Christian. He owned and operated Certified Glass Co.
He is survived by his mother, Jeannette Christian of Decatur; son Cody Christian and wife, Julie, of Decatur; daughter Carley Jones and husband, Jason, of Decatur; brother Jamie Christian of Falconhead, Okla.; sisters Angela Caddell and husband, Jerry, of Runaway Bay and Amy White and husband, Scott, of Decatur; granddaughters Riley Christian, Macey Jones, Reese Christian and Kenley Jones; and other relatives and friends.

Church, Bruce Alan | 1952-2016
Published Saturday, August 13, 2016
Bruce Alan Church, 64, of Bridgeport died Wednesday Aug. 10, 2016, in Dallas.
Service is pending.
Bruce was born March 9, 1952, in Mesa, Ariz. to Don and Geneva (Martin) Church.
He is survived by sons B.W. and Canton Church; brother Mike Church; sisters Lisa Dunaway and Sharon Duncan; and grandchildren Ashlyn and Breeze Church.

Clark, Alexandria Marie | 2014-2016
Published Saturday, October 29, 2016

Alexandria Marie Clark, 23 months, of Decatur, died Sunday, Oct. 23, 2016, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at the First Baptist Church in Bowie with the Rev. Mike Henson officiating.
Alexandria was born Nov. 4, 2014, in Jacksboro to Roy and Amanda (Beauchamp) Clark.
She is survived by her mother; her father; sisters Angalina Desarae Beauchamp and Gabriella LeeAnn Clark of Alvord; grandparents Juan and Brenda Berrios of Sunset, Earl Beauchamp of Colorado, Patsy Walker of Fort Worth and Michael and Stephanie Clark of Saint Jo.

Clark, James Walter | 1931-2015
Published Wednesday, January 6, 2016

James Walter Clark, 84, of Alvord, died Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 2 at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial followed at Alvord Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Jordan Clark, Kyle Pace, Luc Enochs, Ryan King, Austin Hall and Roger Meeks.
James was born Oct. 25, 1931, in Alvord to John and Elsie (Allen) Clark. He married Patsy Morris Dec. 9, 1949, in Rossville, Ga.
James retired from the Texas Highway Department. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
He was preceded in death by his parents; seven brothers and sisters; and his grandson, Joshua Charles Clark.
James is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Patsy Clark of Alvord; sons Stephen Ray Clark and wife, Virginia, of Alvord and John Walter Clark and wife, Leslie, of Alvord; daughter Loretta Jean Clark of Alvord; grandchildren Bridy Cantrell and husband, Todd, Natalie Funderburgh and husband, Billy, Jordan Wayne Clark and wife, Kim, Kaylon Withrow and husband, Jeff, Lacey Chestnut and Morgyn Calloway.
He is also survived by six great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; sister Velma Parson; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Clayton, Raymond E. | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Raymond E. Clayton, 81, of Paradise, died Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016, in Paradise.
Funeral is 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 26, at Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise, with the Revs. Rocky Johnson and B.J. Rutledge officiating. Burial will be at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Wesley Clayton, Leamon Caudle, Tommy Tyler, Burch Wallace, Kenneth Buckner and Bucky Manoushagian.
Raymond was born Dec. 12, 1934, in Boise City, Okla., to Ennis and Lorrean (Mayhan) Clayton. He married Martha Valree Hubbard Dec. 1, 1956, in Hamlin.
He received his Master’s degree in education and taught middle school math and science for 31 years.
Raymond enjoyed the outdoors and his many hobbies included raising goats, landscaping, farm management and just being around animals. He designed and built trailers and was a creative handyman around his farm, always looking for better ways to design and build tools to perform daily tasks.
Raymond enjoyed baking cookies every week for several years for Grace Fellowship Church, where he and Martha were members, and he became lovingly known as the Cookie Man.
He loved his family and loved spending time with his grandchildren, but really loved his great-grandchildren.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Ennis and Lorrean Clayton, son Brad Clayton and sister Peggy Cody.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years; son Jim B. Clayton and wife, Cindy, of Paradise; sisters Vernie Nordstrom of Wichita Falls and Ella Vogle of Glencoe, Okla.; grandchildren Clasidy Caudle of Paradise and Wesley Clayton of Sumter, S.C.; and great-grandchildren Candence Morris, Leia Caudle, Amelia Clayton and Barrett Clayton.
Memorial donations may be made to Grace Fellowship Church, 2964 W Hwy. 114, Paradise, TX 76073 or your favorite charity.

Clements, Bonnie Ruth Cate | 1947-2016
Published Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Bonnie Ruth Cate-Clements, 68, of Decatur died Saturday March 12, 2016, in Denton.
Bonnie was born Oct 21, 1947, to Willie “Keg” and Nadyne Burk-Cate. She graduated from Northwest High School in 1966.
Bonnie married Carl Don Clements Aug 21, 1976, in Denton. They were married 30 years until he died in 2007. Together they ran several mail routes in North Texas. She was like a mom to many and was there in a moment’s notice.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, Don; daughter Erica; parents; brother Lloyd Wayne Cate; nephew Justin Harrison; and great-nephew Ethan Lannon.
She is survived by her nieces and nephews Gina Zuniga and husband, Johnny, of Slidell, Danielle Volking and husband, Daniel, of Fort Worth, Chelsey Hendrix and husband, Matt, of North Richland Hills, Brandy Benson of Richland Hills, Alissa Benson of Hurst, Holli Rogerson and husband, Jared, of Idaho, Daniel Clements, Crystal Clements, Eric Clements and Cody Clements, all of California, and Cydnie Pillion, Andrea Pettit and husband, Jake, Ashley Lannon and husband, Aaron, and Nataile Birchett, all of Arizona.
Other survivors include great-nieces and great-nephews Jose, Cate and Austin Zuniga; Nate and Kayley Volking; Jordan, William, Pamela, Lowell and Louella Hendrix; Zayden Benson; Leyton Benson; Anderson, Kendrick and Garrett Pillion; Ellie, Ryley and Talon Pettit; Kacie, Clara, Harper, Caleb, Holden Lannon and Vivian Birchett, and Alana, Kyra, Kalla and Peyton Rogerson; sisters-in-law Lou Ann Cate of Decatur, Carrie Birchett and husband, John, of Arizona and Monette Hansen and husband, Robert, of Hurst; brother-in-law Kirk Clements and wife, Geri, of California; and many cousins and friends.

Clements, Stuart | 1964-2016
Published Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Stuart Clements, 51, died Monday, Feb. 8, 2016, at home in Keenesburg, Colo.
Memorial service was Feb. 15. Peggy Clements and Carl Kaker spoke.
Stuart was born Oct. 14, 1964, in Dallas and moved with his family to Runaway Bay in 1972. He graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1983.
Stuart loved his children. He raced cars, had great adventures, loved friends and loved his dogs.
He is survived by children Cassadee and Jackson Clements and Annie Hodges; mother Judith Clements; siblings Peggy Clements, Theresa Clements-Lemman, Susan Clements, Julianne McCabe, Ava Jan Clements and Braden Clements; and 14 nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to the Wise County Animal Shelter.

Clower, Jo Anne | 1971-2016
Published Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Jo Anne Clower, 44, of Bowie died Friday, March 18, 2016, in Bowie.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 23, at Nocona Cemetery.
Jo was born July 11, 1971, in Bridgeport to Al and Bettye (Mock) Yeargin. She attended Nocona High School.
Jo worked for 10 years as an insurance agent in Fort Worth for State Farm. She also worked for Energy Service Co. and Bra-de Oil and Gas Co. in accounting and later for St. Peter Lutheran Church as a receptionist.
Jo married Shawn Clower Dec. 31, 2002, in Nocona.
She was preceded in death by her father, Al Yeargin; brother Jeff Yeargin; grandparents Walt and Jo Mock and Bill and Rose Yeargin; and fathers-in-law Tommy Clower and Ronnie Fowler.
Jo is survived by her husband, Shawn Clower of Bowie; daughter Kimber Grace Clower of Bowie; mother Susie Russell of Nocona; brother Jay Yeargin of League City; mother-in-law Brenda Fowler of Bowie; brother-in-law Tracy Clower and wife, Susan, of Bowie; sister-in-law Shea Rutherford and husband, Ty, of Bowie; and niece and nephew, Kaysen and Kaden Rutherford.
Memorial donations may be made to the Bowie Mission.

Cobb, Kimberly Foreman | 1965-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Kimberly “Kim” Foreman Cobb, 51, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at Sweetwater Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Kim was born March 18, 1965, in Bridgeport to Dennis and Jerry (Gilliland) Foreman. She married Billy Cobb.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband; brothers Todd Foreman of Paradise and Brian Foreman of Paradise; nephew Raff Foreman of Paradise; and other family members and friends.

Cocanougher, Charles Marion, Dr. DVM | 1932-2016
Published Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Prominent Decatur business and civic leader Dr. Charles Marion Cocanougher DVM, 84, died Friday, March 25, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 30, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating. Private burial is at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Cocanougher was born Jan. 11, 1932, in Decatur to Marion and Lucille (Stallings) Cocanougher. He married Jo Ann Gary Aug. 28, 1954, in Fort Worth.
Cocanougher graduated from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine in 1955. He was a member of the Corps of Cadets and played the trumpet in the Fighting Texas Aggie Band. He was voted Who’s Who on campus at Texas A&M, and in 2010, Dr. Cocanougher received the “Outstanding Alumni Award” from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine.
He started his veterinary practice in Decatur and then was called into military service and served in the United States Air Force as a captain and base veterinarian. He was also in the Air Force Reserve.
Cocanougher started a manufactured housing park, Meadow Lake Village, and Decatur Self Storage. After his retirement from his veterinary practice, he continued to manage those two businesses.
Cocanougher was an active member of his community and his church. He was a lifelong member and held many leadership roles at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur and was president and rodeo secretary of the Wise County Sheriff’s Posse for many years.
Cocanougher was instrumental in founding the Decatur Public Library and served as a board member for many years. He served on the Decatur City Council and was a past president of the Decatur Chamber of Commerce. He was instrumental in bringing the Poco Graphite manufacturing plant to Decatur.
Cocanougher was named Decatur Citizen of the Year in 1985. He was a member of the Decatur Rotary Club and past chairman of the Wise County Appraisal District. He was also past chairman of the Wise County chapter of the American Heart Association.
Cocanougher served on the board of the Texas Veterinary Medical Association and was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Education and mentoring were important to Cocanougher. He created and funded a National Honor Society Scholarship at Decatur High School in memory of his aunt, Faye Cocanougher. He was a past president of the Decatur Eagle Athletic Club and a lifelong fan of Texas Aggie sports.
Cocanougher and his wife also supported Texas A&M Veterinary Medical School students by endowing several scholarships through the Texas A&M Foundation. Both served on the Texas A&M Veterinary School Development Council.
Cocanougher was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jo Ann Cocanougher of Decatur; sons Gary Cocanougher and wife, Susan, of Decatur and Scott Cocanougher and wife, Alison, of Shelbyville, Tenn.; daughters D’Ann Moore and husband, Mark, of Dallas, Beth Short and husband, David, of Tyler and Mary Kay Battaglia and husband, John, of Madison, Wis.; 11 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Pallbearers are Benjamin Moore, Matthew Moore, Austin Battaglia, Alex Battaglia, Autumn Battaglia, John David Short, Charlie Short, Blake Cocanougher, Ethan Cocanougher, Chris Anne Cocanougher, Elizabeth Irons and Kyle Irons.
Honorary pallbearers are James C. Richards, Ed Cooper, Dr. Hal Reese, Arnie Deaton, Lee Larson and Raymond Galvin.
Memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Decatur or to the Decatur Public Library.

Cochran, Edward | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Edward “Benton” Cochran, 89, of Lane, Okla., died Friday, Oct. 21, 2016, in Lane.
Service is 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 27, at Lane Baptist Church with the Rev. John Howard officiating. Brown’s Funeral Service in Atoka, Okla., is handling arrangements.
Honorary pallbearers are his Sunday school class: Doyle Sheffield, Clyde Frost, Richard Betts, Sam Hearrell, Larry Sheffield, Robert Foran, Jessie Goodson, Jerry Stephens, Charles Roberson and Dan Stubblefield.
Benton was born Oct. 16, 1927, in McAlester, Okla., to Robert and Etha Beatrice (Donaldson) Cochran.
He attended Harmony Elementary, graduated from Atoka High School and then attended Oklahoma Christian University. He was a welder fabricator. He also worked on electronics. Benton was a “fix-it” and one of the best engineers and fabricators known.
Benton married Virgie Yarbrough, who preceded him in death May 23, 1971. He later married Gerri Moore, who preceded him in death June 6, 2002.
He married Bonnie Louise (Drinkard) Riley Jan. 24, 2010, at Lane Baptist Church.
Benton was a member of Lane Baptist Church and Lane Senior Citizens. He enjoyed inventing, building anything and helping others. Benton loved attending and going to church.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Virgie Yarbrough; wife Gerri Moore; and granddaughter Susan Smith.
He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Riley Cochran of Lane; daughters Nancy Smith of Midwest City, Okla., Jennifer Defenbaugh and husband, Danny, of Kemp and Linda Pease of Claremore, Okla.; sons Wes Cochran and wife, Tressa, of Harrah, Okla., and Danny Cochran and wife, Sherri, of Lane; stepson James Riley and wife, Cassandra, of Lane; nephews Doss Phillips and Delbert Gibbs, both of Texas; niece Gina Gibbs of Texas; 18 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins and friends.

Coleman, Annie Lavina | 1926-2016
Published Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Annie Lavina “Mawmaw” Coleman, 90, of Bridgeport, died Monday, Sept. 12, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Larry Potts officiating. Burial will follow at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Butch Garrett, Ricky Jack Garrett, Dwayne Garrett, Tim Garrett, Kelly Garrett, Mike Cheves and Scott Cheves.
Lavina was born June 6, 1926, in Bridgeport to Luther and Gertrude (Morton) Garrett. She was the oldest daughter of 10 children. Lavina married John H. Coleman June 16, 1946, in Bridgeport. They had three children, Johnny (Sunny), Sheri and Randy. Lavina was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
She was a homemaker and a room mother and was always involved in her children’s school activities. She loved to cook and never knew who was coming home for lunch with her kids. She traveled all over the United States following her husband who worked in the aircraft industry and made many friends over her lifetime.
After John died, Lavina enjoyed going to events with her friends. She was involved with her church Sunday school as long as her health allowed. She also enjoyed dancing at the Senior Citizens dances where she was always the life of the party and in charge of bringing the German chocolate cake.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings Tommy, Jimmy, Paul, Billy Jack, Aileen (Susy), Clarence, Carlton and infant Eddie Lee.
Lavina is survived by her sons, Johnny (Sunny) Coleman and wife, Barbara, of Bridgeport and Randy Coleman of Lake Bridgeport; daughter Dr. Sheri Coleman of Houston; seven grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; her baby sister, Peggy Garrett Shepherd of Boonsville; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Collins, F.M. ‘Pat’ | 1933-2016
Published Saturday, June 11, 2016
F.M. “Pat” Collins, 82, of Alvord, died Sunday, June 5, 2016, in Wichita Falls.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with Tom Wacaster and Chester Cullum officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 13, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Eric Vincent, Ronnie Corbell, Ronnie Collins, Dennis Lee, Caleb Wood and Zack Wood.
Honorary pallbearers are Tom Thompson, Dale Burks, H.L. Ross, Ronnie Choate and Bob Hussey.
Pat was born June 27, 1933, in Alvord to Zack and Velar (Anderson) Collins. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He married Marilynn Vaughn Dec. 29, 1963, in Chico. He was a longtime farmer and rancher, who loved to play dominoes in his spare time.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents; and brother J.W. Collins.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years; sons Barry Wood of Bridgeport and Kevin Wood of Alvord; sister Viola Beggs; brother-in-law Ralph Vaughn and wife, Lorna, of Corsicana; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Bridgeport Church of Christ.

Collins, Serenity Nickole Diane | 2016
Published Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Serenity Nickole Diane Collins was born and died Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016, in Decatur.
Graveside service was Sept. 27 at Aurora Cemetery in Aurora.
She is survived by her parents, Rickey and Erica (Laughlin) Collins; brothers Joe and James; sister Meleena; and grandparents, aunts and uncles.

Compton, Bettie Sue | 1923-2016
Published Saturday, March 19, 2016

Bettie Sue Compton, 92, of Runaway Bay, died Thursday, March 17, 2016, in Bridgeport.
A private service will be held at a later date.
Bettie was born in Kenton, Tenn., to Bernie and Virginia (King) Kerr on July 27, 1923. Bettie was a high school graduate and attended a business college for two years. She married Roy Compton Feb. 14, 1944, in Zanesville, Ohio. They were married for 72 years.
She was an avid baseball fan and followed the Texas Rangers, the Los Angeles Angels and the Chicago Cubs. She loved to cook.
Bettie was preceded in death by a son, Roy Glenn Compton.
She is survived by her husband Roy Compton of Runaway Bay; sons Steve Craig Compton of Sanger, James King Compton of Las Vegas, Nev. and Jeffrey Marvin Compton of New York City, N.Y.; brother Arthur C. Kerr of Asheville, N.C.; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Conners, Mary Beth | 1921-2016
Published Saturday, April 9, 2016

Mary Beth Conners, 94, of Hurst, died Thursday, April 7, 2016, in North Richland Hills.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Monday, April 11, at Legacy Church of Christ, 8801 Mid-Cities Blvd., in North Richland Hills. Burial is at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Rd., in Hurst.
Mary Margaret Elizabeth (James) Conners was born April 29, 1921, in Waurika, Okla., the third child of William Montgomery and Helen Lucille (Davis) James. She attended Melrose School until it was incorporated into the Waurika school system. She then attended Waurika schools, graduating salutatorian of the class of 1941.
Mary married Gene Carter Conners June 21, 1941, in Waurika. They moved to Bridgeport in February 1948 and lived there until 1960 when they moved to Fort Worth. They moved to Hurst in 1962 and lived there until 1987. Mary lived the remainder of her life in North Richland Hills and Hurst.
She was a longtime member of the Church of Christ, having been baptized in Bridgeport around 1950.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; son Jimmie Gene Conners; sisters Willie Lucille James, Alma Lavera Johnston and Helen Wilson Odell Fortner; brother David Lawrence James; half-brothers Andrew Clayton James, James (Jimmie) James, Amos Emmit Roland James, Noble Raymond James and Frank Montgomery James; half-sisters Mattey E. James, Marthia Egalie James and Eva (James) Hurst; and former husband, Gene C. Conners.
Mary is survived by her daughter, LuRee Proctor and husband, Bill; grandchildren Gina Marie (Proctor) Jeffries and husband, John, Troy Gene Conners, Jeffrey Leon Conners and wife, Becky, and Richand Andrew Proctor and wife, Madelon.
Other survivors include great-grandchildren Joshua Michael Steinhauer, Justin DeForrest Jeffries, Jacob Anthony Conners, Lindsay Renee Conners, Emily Madelon Proctor, Abigail Rebekah Proctor, Samantha Jayne Proctor and Caroline Billye Proctor; sister Lois Pricilla Thurman; brothers Henry Clay (Jack) James and Benjamin Browning James; and many nieces and nephews.

Cooper, Jackie Frederick ‘Jack’ | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Jackie “Jack” Frederick Cooper, 82, of Azle, died Monday, Sept. 19, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service will be held at a later date. Ashes will be buried at Cottondale Cemetery.
Jackie was born July 9, 1934, in Wyeville, Wis., to Frederick Bryant and Alice Emma Orvis Cooper. He was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church of Boyd. He served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1961.
Jackie worked for Portland Cement before becoming a greeter for Wal-Mart prior to his retirement. He enjoyed attending the dances at the Senior Center in Springtown. He also liked to play golf and bowl.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Janet Melvin; and brother Gerald “Jerry” Cooper.
He is survived by his daughter, Jackie Sue Long of Paradise; brothers Robert “Bob” Cooper and wife, Rose, and Donnie Adams; sisters Cathy Fischer and husband, Bob, Mary Jane Melvin and husband, Ron, and Beverly Mosel and husband, Jim, all of Madison, Wis.; grandchildren Joseph Long and wife, Theresa, of Springtown, Adam Long and wife, Heather, of Clarksville, Tenn., and Jackie Jackson and husband, Olen, of Springtown; and great-grandchildren Aisley, Austin, Madison, Ethan, Micah, Aerial and Gweneth.

Counts, Jimmy ‘Pat’ | 1934-2016
Published Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Jimmy “Pat” Counts, 81, of Runaway Bay, died Friday, April 1, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was April 5 at the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb officiating. Burial followed at Gibtown Cemetery.
Pat was born Oct. 13, 1934, in Perrin to Lawrence Earl and Mattie Lorene (Smith) Counts. He married Virgie LaRue Cox July 16, 1955, in Gibtown. Pat worked in dental sales until he retired. He proudly served his country in the United States Army.
He was a member and a deacon of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport and a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 1082 in Perrin.
Pat was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Gerald Counts.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, LaRue Counts of Runaway Bay; daughter Cindy Schmidt and husband, Steve, of Chickasha, Okla.; granddaughter Kali Schmidt of Oklahoma City; sister Joy Counts of Weatherford; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Crittenden, Tammie Dianne | 1970-2016
Published Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Tammie Dianne Crittenden, 45, died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 11, at the Montague County Cowboy Church in Montague. Burial will follow at Montague Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Tammie was born Feb. 27, 1970, in Shreveport, La., to Benjamin and Dorless (Beshea) Murray. She graduated from Huntington High School in Shreveport, where she excelled in track and went to state. Tammie moved to North Texas where she worked at Wise Health System in Decatur for 18 years.
She married Daymon Crittenden Oct. 14, 2003. Tammie was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was a caring and loving person who put others before herself. Tammie enjoyed going to her kids sporting events. She was an avid LSU and New Orleans Saints fan.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Dorless Murray; grandparents; and nephew Zachary Murrah.
Tammie is survived by her husband, Daymon Crittenden of Alvord; children Benny Kyle Malone of Alvord, Deshea Woods and husband, Josh, of Muenster, Josh Malone of Alvord, Kyle Crittenden and wife, Meagan, of Noble, La., Kade Crittenden and wife, Kaitlyn of Alvord, Trent Crittenden of Cisco, Shelby Young of Alvord, Treigh Barnhill of Alvord and Seth Gifford of Alvord; grandchildren Brett Crittenden, Colt Crittenden, Blakelee Crittenden and one on the way (Eli Woods); brother Benjamin Murray of Bowie; sisters Lisa Read and husband, Poopie, of Bowie and Pam Pound of Bowie; special friends Carla Hartley and Glenette Lewis; and numerous nieces, nephews and co-workers at Wise Health System.

Cross-Messier, Jackie A. | 1952-2016
Published Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Jackie A. Cross-Messier, 63, of Newark, died Friday, May 20, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Jackie was born Nov. 15, 1952, in Fort Worth to E.C. and Charlotte (Colvin) Barber. She was married to Alfred Messier for 20 years. Jackie was a member of the First Baptist Church in Newark.
She was preceded in death by her father; brother-in-law Danny Higginbotham; and her grandparents.
Jackie is survived by her husband; daughters Stacie Woods of North Carolina and Stephanie Warden of Decatur; grandchildren Cody, Emily and Matthew; great-grandson Wyatt; mother Charlotte McAllister of Avondale; sister Carolyn Higginbotham of Whitney; brother Brad Barber and wife, Tammy, of Mississippi; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Crownover, David Earl | 1944-2016
Published Wednesday, November 2, 2016

David Earl Crownover, 72, of Newark, died Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016, in Newark.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, at Aurora Cemetery with the Rev. Phillip Weitner officiating.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Pallbearers are Shawn Phares, Kirk Stanford, Scott Davis, Lance Sanders, Greg Spurgeon and Kevin York.
Honorary pallbearers are Carter James, Herman Andrew ‘Drew’ Chaisson III, Red Harelson and Herman A. Chaisson Jr.
David was born May 20, 1944, in Fort Worth to Arriel and Veda (Taylor) Crownover. He married Sarah June Johnston Jan. 9, 1965, in Newark. David was a peanut, cantaloupe and watermelon farmer. He retired from Lenox after 20 years of service as a machinist. He also worked as a machinist at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
David was preceded in death by his wife; parents; granddaughter Merrissa Crownover; brother-in-law Jerry Houser; and father-in-law Everett Eugene Johnston.
He is survived by his daughter, Cylinda Chaisson and husband, Herman A. Jr., of Newark; son Michael David Crownover and wife, Christie Lynn, of Dayton; grandchildren Herman Andrew “Drew” Chaisson III of Newark, June Christie Crownover of Dayton and Nikita Michaela Crownover of Dayton; great-grandchild Carter James of Newark; sister Jan Crownover Allen of Saginaw; mother-in-law Katherine Gargis Johnston of Newark; uncle Jim Taylor of Joshua; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Wise Health System Dialysis Center, 940- 626-1700.

Cruz, Raymond, Sr. | 1958-2016
Published Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Raymond Cruz Sr., 58, of Decatur, died Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016.
Funeral is noon Thursday, Feb. 25, at Chancellor and Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Visitation is 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Raymond was born Feb. 4, 1958, in Fort Worth to Mercedez and Eluteria Cruz. He was a painter for Trinity Industries where he worked for 28 years and was an adoring husband, passionate family man and a loving father and grandfather. Raymond was also a loyal Cowboys fan.
He was preceded in death by his father.
He’s survived by his wife of 38 years, Anna Cruz of Decatur; sons Raymond Cruz Jr. of Decatur, Marc Cruz of Decatur, Adam Cruz of Denton and Paul Cruz of Decatur; daughters Crystal Enyart and husband, Joseph, of Denton, and Michelle Youngblood; six grandchildren; seven sisters; and two brothers.

Cunningham, Don Vincent | 1931-2016
Published Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Don Vincent Cunningham, 84, died Sunday, July 31, 2016.
Funeral is 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at Highland Baptist Church in Denton with burial to follow at the historic Walnut Grove Cemetery in Prosper.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton.
A seventh generation Texan, Don was born Aug. 10, 1931, in Amarillo to William Vincent Cunningham and Tennessee Velma “Patsy” Caudle. Reared in Abernathy, he helped his father run the Cunningham Cotton Gin, still operating today as City Gin. He attended Hardin Simmons University for two years and played in the renowned Cowboy Marching Band.
In 1951, during the Korean War, he enlisted in the Air Force. He was selected to attend flight school and commissioned as a pilot in 1953. Trained as a fighter pilot, he was assigned to fly the all-weather interceptor F-86D. He flew with the 321st Fighter Interceptor Squadron from Truax Air Base, Wis., and received the National Defense Service Medal.
Returning as a first lieutenant, Don finished his Bachelor of Business Administration at Hardin Simmons and began flying for Central Airlines. While with Central and Braniff Airlines, he flew the DC-3 and Lockheed Electra before starting his Masters of Business Administration at Baylor University.
At both Hardin Simmons and Baylor he sang in the a cappella choir under the legendary Dr. Euell Porter. He married Maryetta Fewin of Columbus, Kan., in 1960. He began flying for Eastern Airlines in 1963, and in 1988, completed 25 safe years as a captain.
While with Eastern, he flew the DC-9, B-727 and L-1011 aircraft. After retirement from Eastern, he joined the FAA as a flight safety inspector until his second retirement in 1993. He worked with the Texas Baptist Men to build the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in Alberta, Canada. Don was a charter and life member of the F-86 Sabre Pilots Association, American Legion, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Wise County Veterans Group, Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association and Wood Turners of North Texas.
He will always be remembered for his faithful Christian witness, his quiet, gentle love and deep appreciation for simple things. He was a consummate man of his word, characterized by true and sacrificial giving. An anchor for his family, church and country because of his first love, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Don is survived by his wife of 56 years; children Laurel Cunningham, Bruce Cunningham and Donna Westbrook; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, P.O. Box 1890, Amarillo, TX; Wise County Veterans Group or Highland Baptist Church of Denton.

Curran, Michael David | 1947-2016
Published Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Michael David Curran, 69, of Fort Worth, formerly of Alvord, died Sunday, May 15, 2016, at home.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 18, at Biggers Funeral Home, 6100 Azle Ave., in Lake Worth. Burial with military honors will follow at 2 p.m. at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
Michael was born Jan. 3, 1947, in Fort Worth, to David and Eddie Faye Curran.
He married Betty Norman July 8, 1967. Michael served in the U.S. Air Force from 1967 to 1971. Post-military he was a varsity basketball coach from 1979 until he retired in 2003. He coached at Alvord, Bryson, Graford and Fort Worth Brewer.
Michael is survived by his wife, Betty Curran; daughter Shelly Avalos and husband, Danny; son Scott Curran and wife, Chaney; brother Randy Curran and wife, Annette; grandchildren Victoria and Cole Avalos; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Czechowicz, Edward Joseph | 1942-2016
Published Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Edward Joseph Czechowicz, 73, of Boyd, died Monday, March 7, 2016, in Boyd.
No service will be held.
Edward was born July 18, 1942, in Schenectady, N.Y., to Walter and Patricia (Nieazienska) Czechowicz. He married Virginia Otis July 12, 1969, in Elmont, N.Y. Edward retired as a deportation officer from the Immigration and Naturalization Service after 35 years of service.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Walter Czechowicz.
Edward is survived by his wife of more than 46 years, Virginia Otis Czechowicz of Boyd; sons Bradley and Xochiti Czechowicz of Justin, Kevin and April Czechowicz of Keller and Matthew and Leah Czechowicz of Fort Worth; grandchildren Lauren, Viktor, Dylan, Ariane, Anastasia and Marek; sister Gloria Johnson; brother Lawrence Czechowicz; and numerous nieces, nephews and other family members and friends.
Donations may be made to Solaris Hospice.

Daffern, Esther Mae Duck | 1921-2016
Published Saturday, March 5, 2016

Esther Mae Duck Daffern, 95, died Thursday, March 3, 2016.
Funeral is 3:30 p.m., Saturday, March 5, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery.
Esther was born Feb. 7, 1921, near Park Springs to Kinnie Duck and Willie McKay Duck. She graduated from Park Springs High School and attended Decatur Baptist College. She was a baker for nearly 40 years at American Bakeries Co./Taystee Bread.
Esther married Robert Jack Daffern May 27, 1949, in Fort Worth, and they raised two children together. Esther’s pride and joy were her children and grandchildren, and she enjoyed cooking for them, especially holiday dinners. She also created many beautiful latch hook rugs, enjoyed playing dominoes and cards and cheering for local sports teams.
Esther was preceded in death by her husband; parents; five brothers; and one sister.
She is survived by her son, Kenny Daffern; daughter Linda Heck and husband, Frank; grandchildren Liz Confiliano and husband, Jim, Mark Heck and Valerie Heck; sister Louise Duck; longtime friend and neighbor Judy Talley; and numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Dale, Edmond D. | 1948-2016
Published Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Edmond D. Dale, 67, of Cuero, died Monday, June 13, 2016.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Friday, June 17, at Westside Cemetery in Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb officiating.
Edmond was born Oct. 8, 1948, in Tennessee to Cowboy and Eunice Dale Rogers. He married Jacquelyn Jordan Dec. 31, 2015, in Wimberley. He was a United States Army veteran, having served in Vietnam.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Edmond is survived by his wife; daughters Amanda Enriquez and husband, Chico, of Paradise and Amanda Kloss and husband, Michael, of Dale; son Jeffrey Jordan of San Marcos; sister Sissy Alcorn and husband, Ronnie, of Aurora; and grandchildren Maranda, Alexis, Lillian, Clayton, Samantha, Caden and Marshall.

Damron, Danny | 1959-2016
Published Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Danny Damron, 56, of Jacksboro, died Thursday, July 21, 2016, in Wichita Falls.
Service was July 25 at Coker Funeral Home in Jacksboro with the Rev. Eugene Weldon officiating. Burial followed at Robers Branch Cemetery.
Danny was born Nov. 19, 1959, in Jacksboro to Billy Dan and Charlotte Ann (Thomas) Damron. He was an oilfield operator.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Samantha Aultman; and sister Glenda Damron.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Sue Gann Damron; daughters Amy Esparaza and husband, Danny, of Abilene and Angela Damron of Abilene; stepsons Clint Watson and Billy Sims, both of Paradise; stepdaughters Sheila Phelps and husband, Mike, of Paradise and Angela Harris and husband, Jackie, of Alvarado; brother Donny Damron and wife, Lori, of Huntsville, Ark.; sister Debra Pitts of North Richland Hills; 21 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Dauenhauer, Larry Lee | 1947-2016
Published Saturday, December 3, 2016
Larry Lee Dauenhauer 69, of Chico, died Friday, Dec. 2, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 5, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jeff Baker officiating.
Larry was born Oct. 14, 1947, in Vallejo, Calif., to Tony and Anna (Treibish) Dauenhauer. He loved being outdoors and riding his motorcycle at every opportunity. He was also an avid hunter and fisherman.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents; and son Steven Dauenhauer.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy; sons Ricky Dauenhauer and wife, Chantal, Bobby Dauenhauer and wife, Christy, and Jason Dauenhauer and wife, Mallory; daughters Breanna Dauenhauer and Annie Lutenbaker; sister Mary Abeyta; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Davidson, Donald Worth, Jr. | 1945-2016
Published Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Donald Worth Davidson Jr., 71, of Roanoke, died Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016, in Roanoke.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Donald was born April 20, 1945, in Decatur to Donald and Evelyn (Workman) Davidson. He was passionate about breeding and showing Afghan Hounds. He enjoyed figure skating and performed in ice shows. He was involved with macaw and bird enthusiast groups and was a rabid Texas Longhorn fan. Donald was a former hairdresser at Lou Lattimore’s in Dallas and a retired cosmetology director.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Donald is survived by his sister, Alice Ellen Davidson Schur and husband, Donald, of Hondo; niece Deena Schur Everest and husband, David, of Houston; nephew Bradley Schur and wife, Rachel, of Benbrook; and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association.

Davila, Benisio ‘Benny’ | 1930-2016
Published Saturday, July 2, 2016

Benisio “Benny” Davila, 85, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, July 2, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Margarito Lara officiating. Burial will follow at Mexican Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Benito Jose Davila, Paul Michael Rodriguez, David Nicholas Rodriguez, Ryan Don McDaniel, William Riley Davila, Robert Harley Davila, Jon Davila, James “Bubba” Williams and Benisio Davila.
Benny was born Aug. 23, 1930, in Ennis to Enos and Trinidad (Gonzales) Davila. He married Emiliea Casillas Aug. 26, 1951, in Dallas. He was a retired foreman for Acme Brick.
Benny was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; son Benisio Davila Jr.; brothers Domingo Davila and Raymond Davila; and sisters Ermina Davila and Betty Salazar.
He is survived by his daughters, Trinidad Cortez of Bridgeport and Lisa Hall and husband, Billy, of Oklahoma; sons Robert Davila and wife, Laura, of Alvord, Luis Davila and wife, Cassandra, of Bridgeport, Carlos Davila of Bridgeport, Joe Davila of Bridgeport, Ennis Davila of Bridgeport and Benito Davila of Bridgeport; 29 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Davila, Martha Patricia | 1964-2016
Published Saturday, May 21, 2016

Martha Patricia Davila, 52, of Decatur, died Tuesday, May 17, 2016.
Mass of Christian burial was May 20 at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur.
Martha was born Jan. 8, 1964, in Mexico to Francisco Ramos and Maria Del Refugio Gonzalez. She was a homemaker and loved taking care of her family. She loved to bake and also enjoyed making quilts and crocheting.
Martha is survived by her husband of 35 years, Gerardo Davila; mother; sons Gerardo Davila and Carlos Davila; daughter Ana Davila; brothers Guadalupe Ramos and Rogelio Ramos; sisters Maria de Lourdes, Olga Lidia Ramos Gonzalez and Aracely Ramos Gonzalez; and three grandchildren.

Davis, Douglas Alan | 1939-2016
Published Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Douglas Alan Davis, 76, of Newark, died Sunday, May 1, 2016, in Lake Worth.
A graveside service will be held this summer when family and friends can gather at Dido Cemetery. The date and time will be announced on Facebook.
Alan was born Sept. 18, 1939, in Dallas County to Bill and Lois (Thomas) Davis.
After serving in the Air Force, he was a volunteer fireman for the Haltom City Fire Department. He worked many years for Dr Pepper, and most recently used his carpenter skills and sales knowledge building small play houses and storage buildings.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters Ann Hall and Carolyn Krebbs.
Alan is survived by his children, Michael Alan Davis, Melanie Alayne Childers, Martha Anette Cooper and wife, Gina, and Mark Adrian Davis, all of Springfield, Mo.; stepdaughter Cindy Reedy of Newark; grandchildren Nathan, Jennifer, Windy, Asa, Mark Jr., Jamie, Tandi and Leo; and step-grandson Christopher. He is also survived by great-grandchildren MacKayla, KayDee, Samuel, Kennedy, Chevelle, Arsen, Emily, Helayna and Aurin; step-great-grandson Dallas; great-great-grandchild Aurora; and sister Patricia Krebbs of Newark.
Alan was Uncle Butch to many nieces and other family members and a few friends and neighbors.

Davis, Jackie Nell | 1940-2016
Published Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Jackie Nell Davis, 75, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, April 16, 2016, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Melvin Castleberry officiating.
Jackie was born April 28, 1940, in Bridgeport to Elbert and Lodema (Saunders) Shanks. She married Floyd Allen Davis May 12, 1971, in Bridgeport. Jackie was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Gene Shanks; and sister-in-law Belle Shanks.
Jackie is survived by her husband of 45 years, Floyd Allen Davis of Bridgeport; daughter Saundra Whitener and husband, Derick, of Runaway Bay; other family members, Duania Nash, Autumn Hinkle and Allison McFarland and Tami Boggs; grandson Wyatt Whitener of Runaway Bay; great-grandson M.J. McFarland; sisters Joanne Beneke of Runaway Bay and Sue Hudson and husband, Johnny, of Paradise; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to Boonsville and Balsora Volunteer Fire Department care of: Paul Wood, 234 PR 3651, Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Davis, Kay Loyd | 1943-2016
Published Saturday, May 7, 2016

Kay Loyd Davis, 72, of Decatur, died Thursday, April 28, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was May 2 at the First Baptist Church of Slidell with the Rev. Bobby Cates officiating. Burial followed at Slidell Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Shawn Barnhart, Isaac Davis, Dustin Davis, Tony Martinez, Danny Juarez and Rodney Yard.
Kay was born Oct. 1, 1943, in Decatur to Virgil and Myrtle (Rosenburg) Loyd. She married James Lawrence Davis May 2, 1960, in Alvord. She worked at Mervyns and Dillards for many years.
Kay was a member of the First Baptist Church in Slidell, the Bull Terrier Club of Dallas and Tops. She loved her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters Melba Schroeder and Mary McCandless; and brothers J.T. Loyd, Virgil Loyd Jr. and Bill Grundy.
Kay is survived by her daughter, Kathleen Barnhart of Slidell; sons Jimmy Davis of Slidell and Jeff Davis and wife, Lisa, of Chico; grandchildren Shawn Barnhart, Sarah Davis, Isaac Davis, Dustin Davis and Taylor Davis.
She is also survived by great-grandchild Caysen Flippen-Barnhart; sisters Mildred Cauthen of Decatur, Martha Lindsey of Oklahoma City and Alice Lawson of Runaway Bay; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dawson, Calvin Monroe | 1924-2016
Published Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Calvin Monroe (Shorty) (Dido) Dawson, 92, of Chico, died Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, in Decatur.
Military graveside service was Oct. 31 at Dawson Family Cemetery in Chico with the Rev. Terry Brown of Bethel Baptist Church officiating.
His grandsons were honorary pallbearers.
Calvin was born Jan. 24, 1924, in Crowell to Calvin and Cynthia Cordelia (Millican) Dawson. A World War II veteran, Calvin joined the United States Army in 1942, three weeks after his 18th birthday. He served on the Ernest Hines, an Army-owned hospital ship stationed in the Mediterranean Sea until 1945.
Calvin retired from Cities Service Gas Co. in 1987. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church of Alvord and a founding member of the VFW post in Chico.
Calvin was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Marie Dawson; sons Jimmy Wayne, William Calvin and Jerry Lee Dawson; daughter Darlena Kay Farington; stepsons Guenn Peyton, Rodney and Stevie York; one grandson; one granddaughter; one great-grandson; one brother; and seven sisters.
He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Hudson Dawson; daughters Glenda Brooks and husband, Don, of Kemp, Barbara Moore of Chico, Tracy York and husband, Jerry, of Buffalo Springs and Leann Stack and husband, Josh, of Chico; stepdaughters Debbie Cole and husband, Jim and Brenda Heppe and husband, Clarence; stepsons Larry and Danny York; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Chico Chamber of Commerce Veteran’s Memorial Park fund.

Dawson, Fredrick Ray ‘Boomer’ | 1956-2016
Published Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Fredrick Ray “Boomer” Dawson, 60, of Decatur, died Saturday, April 9, 2016, in Denton.
Memorial service is 4 p.m. Friday, April 15, at Slidell Baptist Church in Slidell.
Frederick was born at Flow Memorial Hospital in Denton to Dennis and Patricia Upchurch Dawson. He was a mechanic and truck driver.
He is survived by his wife, Kay Dawson of Decatur; mother Patricia Davis of Decatur; daughters Jennifer Hodges of Carrollton, Tiffany Dawson of Ponder, Tabitha Wright of Moore, Okla., and Kayla Dawson of Humble; sisters Tana Dempsey of Decatur and Teresa Ellison of Decatur; five grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and was loved by many more.
Memorial donations may be made to tadsaw.org.

Dawson, Lane Remington | 2016
Published Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Lane Remington Dawson, a newborn, died Sunday, May 1, 2016, in Decatur.
A private family service was held.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Matthew Moore.
He is survived by his parents, Nathan and Kharysa Dawson of Chico; grandparents Tasha Harris of Chico, Victor Ramsey of Oregon, James Pollard of Chico, Carmen Dawson of Poolville and Kelly Dawson of Poolville; great-grandparents Michael and Habbina Harris of New Mexico, Richard and Nancy Boykins of Alvord and Edward Moore of Oregon; and numerous other family members.

Dawson, Merrill | 1938-2016
Published Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Merrill Dawson, 77, of Pantego, died Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016.
Merrill was born Oct. 11, 1938. She was a teacher for more than 30 years. She had a passion to teach, and she loved her children. She loved traveling, shopping and spoiling her grandkids.
Merrill was preceded in death by her parents, Wendell and Charlotte Rogers; and husband Dennis Herman Dawson.
She is survived by her daughter, Melissa Barrientes and husband, Mike; and grandchildren Isabelle and Sydney Barrientes and Marlo, Marli and Max Brandon.

Day, Patsy Jean (Baker) | 1943-2016
Published Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Patsy Jean Day, 73, of Decatur, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Wizard Wells Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Day officiating.
Patsy was born Oct. 6, 1943, in Aspermont to Earl and Zelma (Starrett) Baker. She married Charles Day March 19, 1960, in Aspermont.
Patsy was preceded in death by her parents; one sister; and three brothers.
She is survived by her husband of 56 years; son Lynn Day and wife, Cindy, of Brownwood; daughter Tammy Bradley of Rockwall; grandchildren Chandra, Shana, Chance and Dakota; great-grandchildren Stetson, Tyler, Ashton and Lainey; sisters Louise Conejo, Jaye Roberts and Mae Roberts; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

De Luna, Maria Nohemi | 1953-2016
Published Saturday, December 17, 2016

Maria Nohemi De Luna, 63, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Mass of Christian burial is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at Saint John the Baptizer Catholic Church in Bridgeport with Father Thomas Dsousa officiating.
Pallbearers are Jesus De Luna Jr., Ricky Hughes, Andy Moujouros, Jorge Lopez, Nacho Apolinar, Al Ortiz, Alex De Luna and Kostandino Moujouros.
Maria was born June 15, 1953, in Allende, Mexico, to Francisco and Maria De Jesus (Gonzales) Galvan. She married Jesus De Luna Dec. 28, 1973, in Allende. Maria worked for the Bridgeport Independent School District for 30 years. She was a member of Saint John the Baptizer Catholic Church.
Maria was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her son, Jesus De Luna Jr. and wife, Diana, of Bridgeport; daughters Diana Moujouros and husband, Andy, of Elmhurst, Ill., and Susie Hughes and husband, Ricky, of Abilene; grandchildren Alex De Luna, Valerie De Luna, Leonardo De Luna, Kostandino Moujouros, Viviana Moujouros, Sophia Hughes and Jesus Hughes; and other family members and friends.

Deaton, David | 1953-2016
Published Wednesday, December 7, 2016

David Deaton, 63, of Boyd, died Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016, in Boyd.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at the First Baptist Church of Boyd with the Revs. Terry Terry and Mark Autry officiating. Burial followed at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Kelly Fry, Rex Harris, Trey Lutrell, Dennis Tidwell, Mark Romine, Jack Argraves, Ronnie Brown and Jim Bradley.
Honorary pallbearers are Sam Gibbons, Tom Barton, Danny Willbanks, Blake Bost, Brian Dickey, Pete Lugo, Garrett Tidwell and Taylor Ponder.
David was born Jan. 19, 1953, in Decatur to Hugh and Zelma (Brammer) Deaton. He married Kim Jones April 4, 1985, in Boyd. David played football for the University of North Texas and the ’76 New York Giants. He graduated from Boyd High School in 1971 and later served on the Boyd School Board. David was a retired salesman.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years; son Dex Deaton and fianc e, Brynna Krough, of Dallas; brothers Paul Deaton and wife, Barbie, of Fort Worth and Joel Soller and wife, Ann, of Rhome; sisters Mary Beth Fennewald and husband, Rick, of Decatur and Carolyn Pittman and husband, Buddy, of Trophy Club; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Delgado, Felix Daniel Garcia | 1991-2016
Published Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Felix Daniel Garcia Delgado, 24, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, in Dallas.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial to follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Victor Garcia, Jose Garcia, Francisco Garcia, Pole Tovar, Bill Hunter, Mitch Hunter, Junior Limon and Tim Butler.
Felix was born July 16, 1991, in Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico, to Alfonzo and Maria (Delgado) Garcia He was a cook at Rock City Burger.
Felix was preceded in death by his grandmother, Juanita Huerta.
He is survived by his parents, Alfonzo and Maria Anita Garcia; siblings Victor Alfonzo Garcia and wife, Kimberly Garcia, of Poolville, Silvia Victoria and husband, Jose, of Hobbs, N.M., Jose Apolinar Garcia of Bridgeport and Francisco Javier Garcia of Bridgeport; grandparents Apolinar and Petra Delgado and Jose Garcia Olvera; and numerous cousins and friends.

Dempsey, Janice Ruth | 1938-2016
Published Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Janice Ruth Dempsey, 77, of San Angelo, died Saturday, June 11, 2016.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, at Belvedere Cemetery in San Angelo.
Janice was born July 6, 1938, in Newark to Nova Nell and Robert Herman Beauchamp. She graduated from Handley High and attended Abilene Christian College before graduating from Angelo State University, where she studied painting. Janice was a gifted artist and teacher. Her works hang in homes around Texas and beyond.
She married Jerry Hugh Arnold Aug. 1, 1963, and traveled around the world to have a daughter and a son in Taipei, Taiwan.
Karen and Mark remember their mother as a caring, loving mom, to whom life was a song cue. Her life lessons about the importance of art, finances, education and most importantly, family, have shaped their lives in more ways than they could articulate.
Janice is survived by her daughter, Karen Arnold; son Mark Arnold; daughter-in-law Amanda Arnold: grandchildren Lauren Arnold, Thomas Stuteville and Diettrich Arnold; and great-granddaughter Dixie Cox.
She is also survived by her sisters, Eileen Smith and Lou Ann Beauchamp and their families; as well as cousins, friends in the arts community and former students around the world.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Deweese, Ruth Lorene | 1944-2016
Published Saturday, February 13, 2016

Ruth Lorene Deweese, 71, of Boyd, died Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016, at her home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, at Friendship Baptist Church in Boyd with Terry Terry officiating. Burial will follow at Goshen Cemetery in Springtown.
Pallbearers are Ty Beauchamp, Cole Beauchamp, Dalton Deweese, Chad Pinson, Rob Rogers and Will Wilkerson.
Lorene was born May 3, 1944, in Wharton County.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ruth Steel; and daughter Sheri D. Rucker.
She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Jerry Deweese; daughter Lori Pinson and husband, Ken; sons Rob Beauchamp and wife, Stacey, and Doug Deweese and wife, Michelle; 11 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; brother Ken Steel and wife, Marla; and sisters Johnnie Shirlene Wilson and husband, Billy Terrell, and Joyce Huddleston and husband, Kelly.

Dickinson, Bennie Carroll | 1935-2016
Published Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Bennie Carroll Dickinson, 81, of Paradise, died Friday, June 3, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 7 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Steven Azzara officiating. Burial followed at Paradise Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dickie Dunn, Mark Dunn, Russell Chapman, Ricky Chapman, Carl White and Truman Read.
Bennie was born Feb. 27, 1935, in Chico to Vaughn and Lola (Hill) Dickinson. He married Nancy Cowley May 14, 1999, in Chico.
Bennie retired from the natural gas pipeline industry. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Paradise and was a longtime Sunday school superintendent. He was also a member of the Methodist Men’s Group.
Bennie was preceded in death by his parents; first wife Bobbie Dean Dickinson; son David Harold Dickinson; daughter Vonda Everhart; sister Peggy White; and stepdaughter Louise Cowley.
He is survived by his wife; son Joel Dickinson and wife, Kimberly, of North Richland Hills; stepson Ed Cowley and wife, Debbie, of Chico; stepdaughter Tammy Sosa and husband, Darren, of Chico; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister Anita Chapman of North Richland Hills; son-in-law Steve Everhart of Paradise; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Dickson, William Robert ‘Bill’ | 1933-2016
Published Wednesday, December 7, 2016

William “Bill” “Pappy” Robert Dickson, 83, of Ardmore, Okla., died Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016, in Ardmore.
Service is 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, at Alexander Funeral Home in Wilson, Okla., with the Rev. Danny Russell officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Harold Maughan, Chris Nava, Chuck Robinson, Willie Vance, Phillip Vance, Bobby Lowry, Ron Stanford and Ray Chaney.
Bill was born Aug. 26, 1933, in Wellington, to Winford Jewel and Oma Lee (Lowry) Dickson. He was raised in Hereford. He was flying at the age of 9 and graduated high school from Hereford. He then studied to be a radiologist, following his mother’s wishes but chose to be a career pilot, starting as a crop duster with Clovis Spraying Service of Hereford.
Bill married Barbara Jean Kimbrough June 26, 1953, in Hereford. He went to work for Central Airlines and later for Frontier Airlines, retiring as a captain in 1983. He loved ranching, having his ranch in Sunset.
Bill also had a love for Hereford cattle, enjoyed running a bulldozer and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Alvord. He was a member of Hereford Masonic Lodge No. 849 as a Master Mason.
He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; son Randall Brett Dickson; son-in-law Bill Ausbrooks; and brothers Jimmie Lee Dickson and James Dale Dickson.
He is survived by his daughters, Karen Kay Ausbrooks of Ardmore and Roberta Deann Powell and husband, Bob, of Sunset; special family friend who was like a daughter Agatha Hartman; brother Gene Dickson and wife, Jerry, of Carthage; grandchildren Mary Kathryn Nava and husband, Chris, of San Angelo and Rebekah Lauren Robinson and husband, Chuck, of Cisco; four-legged granddaughter Swiitie Ausbrooks; and great-grandchild Jett Royal Nava of San Angelo.

Dillinder, Harold G. | 1929-2016
Published Saturday, October 29, 2016

Harold G. Dillinder, 87, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Oct. 27, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31, at the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Craig Erb officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Harold was born Feb. 16, 1929, in Graham to Loyd and Fatine (Ribble) Dillinder. He married Betty Cox Jan. 3, 1954, in Ranger.
Harold proudly served his country as staff sergeant in the United States Air Force. He worked as an exploration supervisor for Enserch for 46 years until his retirement. Harold was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife.
He is survived by his daughters, Cheryl Manske and husband, Lynn, of Tomball, Vicki Lehmann and husband, Kevin, of Bridgeport and Carolyn Wright and husband, Randal, of Bridgeport; son John Dillinder of Bridgeport; grandchildren Chris, Leah, Brady, Valerie, Cory, Nik, Drexell and Lindsey; great-grandchildren Keaton, Layla, Isaac, Keegan and Kane; sister Louise Frasier of Refugio; sisters-in-law Delores Cheshire and husband, Jimmie, of San Antonio and Faye Cox of Ranger; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Food Pantry, 1204 12th St., Bridgeport, TX 76426 or Solaris Hospice, 2250 S. FM 51 #400, Decatur, TX 76234.

DoByns, Cecil | 1930-2016
Published Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Cecil DoByns, 85, of Chico died Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016, in Chico.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17, at Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Chico with the Rev. Mike Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Jim Bob DoByns, Clint DoByns, Chad DoByns, Bryan Mann, Nathan Lasiter and Jeremy DoByns. Honorary pallbearer is Cory DoByns.
Cecil was born May 3, 1930, in Fayetteville, Ark., to Wallace and Dollie (Harper) DoByns. He served his country in the U.S. Marines and married Dorothy Elaine “Watson” Lasiter Jan. 24, 1997, in Chico.
Cecil retired from Bell Helicopter after 29 years. He was a bonding inspector.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Frankie Mae DoByns; son Robert DoByns; son Lannie Lasiter; grandchild Terry Mann; and great-grandchild Dennis Caraway.
Cecil is survived by his wife, Dorothy Lasiter DoByns of Chico; son Earnest DoByns and wife, Cindy, and Clark DoByns, both of Sunset; daughters Carol Pittman and husband, Keith, of Decatur and Martha McClure and husband, Rusty, of Sunset; 22 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Donald, Allen Edward | 1962-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Allen Edward “Eddie” Donald, 54, of Paradise, died Friday, Nov. 25, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Bible Baptist Church, 184 Cuba Road, in Bridgeport.
Eddie was born April 11, 1962, in Dallas to Allen and Carol Donald. Most of his childhood and adolescent years were spent in Abilene until his family moved to Plano where he graduated from Plano Senior High School.
Eddie fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer and held many positions, but narcotics enforcement was his passion. Eddie was assigned to the governor’s narcotic task force where he received numerous accolades.
Nothing was more important or precious to Eddie than his family. By nature, he was a protector. The bond he had with his children was envied by all.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Eddie is survived by his wife, Kelley; children Sarah and Nathan; stepchildren Hope, John and Patricia; brothers Timothy and Paul; sister Elizabeth; and aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Dougher, Robert Paul ‘Bob’ | 1947-2015
Published Saturday, January 9, 2016

Robert “Bob” Paul Dougher, 68, of Rhome, died Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 5 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating.
Pallbearers were Chuck Boatner, Ed Malek, Howard Biel, James Macik, Teddy Privitt and Dennis Rhine.
Honorary pallbearers were the Wise County Veterans Group.
Bob was born Nov. 24, 1947, in Peckville, Pa., to Paul and Dorothy Burns Dougher of Archbald, Pa. He married Mary Ellen Quinn May 18, 1968, in Olyphant, Pa. He graduated Archbald High School and Lackawanna Junior College. He served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971 with an overseas tour in Korea.
Bob was a member of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur, an active member of Knights of Columbus (being a past Grand Knight) and a member of the Wise County Veterans Group. He was among the founding families of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Keller.
Bob was a retired U.S. Airways employee and an Argyle Police Department employee.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two infant brothers.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mary Ellen; daughter Patricia Scott (Randy) of Rhome; son Joseph P. Dougher of Dalhgren, Va.; granddaughter Nicole Scott; grandsons Bryant Scott, Joshua Dougher and Skyler Dougher; sister Dorothy Dougher Jones (Robert) of Archbald; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Doyle, Eric Dale | 1987-2016
Published Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Eric Dale Doyle, 29, of Paradise, died Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, in Paradise.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. George Watson officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Steven Goode, Zach Woodruff, Harley Baker, Rusty Johnson, Tyson Buck and Daniel Fisher.
Eric was born May 26, 1987, in Fort Worth to Dale and Cynthia (Goode) Doyle. He worked as a landscape contractor.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Dale Malcolm Doyle; and his grandfather, Donald Goode.
He is survived by his mother, Cindy Woodruff and husband, Kenneth, of Decatur; father Dale Doyle of Decatur; brothers Steven Goode of Decatur and Zack Woodruff of Decatur; sister Amber Adams of Paradise; grandmother Louise Goode; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Doyle, Louis Michael | 1958-2016
Published Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Louis Michael “Mickey” Doyle, 57, of Decatur, died Tuesday, April 26, 2016.
Memorial services will take place in Idaho later this summer.
Mickey was born Sept. 12, 1958, in Fort Worth to Lou and Louis Doyle. He was in the Class of 1977 at Richland High School, where he was an all-American athlete and natural leader. He was also active in the Boy Scouts of America, a member of troop 368 and was awarded Life Scout.
Mickey was a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington. Those that knew Mickey will remember him for his kindness and strength, his love and hilarious jokes, his principles and life’s devotion to God.
Mickey and his loving wife lived in Decatur for 20 years. There he created cherished friendships and was an active member in the community. His lifelong love of music was exemplified by playing guitar with friends and his involvement with worship at church.
Last year he was able to fulfill his dream of creating a home with his wife in the mountains of Idaho. He was a passionate outdoorsman and lived in awe of God’s beauty that they found there.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and nephew Phillip Marsh.
Mickey is survived by his wife, Leigh Ann Doyle; daughters Lyndsey Doyle and Brit Doyle; son Tyler Doyle; brother Rick Doyle and family; sister Pam Marsh and family; and four-legged companion, Augie Doyle.
He leaves behind countless friends and family that loved him here on this earth to carry on his memory.

Dumke, Martin Ross | 1946-2016
Published Saturday, April 2, 2016

Martin Ross Dumke, 69, of Aurora, died Tuesday, March 29, 2016, at home.
The memorial service will be private.
Ross was born May 31, 1946, in Fort Worth to Herman and Dorothy DuPriest Dumke. Ross was a retired technical engineer with Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport after 22 years of dedicated service, where he received several awards.
He was a HAM radio operator with a Federal Communications Commission license and member of the Wise County Storm Watchers Association. He was also a Mason.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Butch and Bill Dumke; and wife Diana Dumke.
Ross is survived by his wife of 13 years, Kasey Dumke; children Kathryn Lawler and husband, Lester, Tammy Lee and husband, David, Benjamin Dumke and wife, Amy, Dennis Dumke and wife, Erica, Daniel Webb and wife, Roxanna, Tricia A. Dratwick and husband, Jon and Robert Hickey; multiple foster daughters; sister-in-law Mary Beth Dumke; nephews Will and Robert Dumke; and numerous grandchildren and nephews, all of whom will miss him.

Dunn, Everson Lee | 1985-2016
Published Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Everson Lee Dunn, 30, of Paradise, died Thursday, March 24, 2016, in Paradise.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 30, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. James Snyder officiating. Burial will follow at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Roman Duran, Jason Walker, Chris Ramsey, Jesse Olmos, Justin Salach, Calvin Morales Jr., Rhannen Way and Dillon Underwood.
Everson was born Sept. 30, 1985, to Dickie and Reba (Ramirez) Dunn in Bridgeport. He married Bailey Simmons Sept. 30, 2009, in Decatur. Everson was a member of the Cottondale Volunteer Fire Department. He gave blood as often as possible to Carter BloodCare.
He is survived by his wife, Bailey Simmons Dunn of Paradise; daughters Jadyn and Kynlie Dunn of Paradise; parents Dickie and Reba Dunn of Bridgeport; grandparents Julian and Delores Ramirez of Bridgeport; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Dunn, Ronnie Allen | 1957-2016
Published Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Ronnie Allen Dunn, 59, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Ronnie was born April 3, 1957, in Abilene to Ed and Mary Ann (Spagnoli) Dunn. He married Tammy Sanders Feb. 24, 2007, in Decatur. Ronnie was a union welder.
He was preceded in death by his mother; and his grandson, Kain Payson.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Jill Payson and husband, Chris, of Aledo, Hayley Roberts of Saginaw and Myah Llanas and husband, Jose, of Bridgeport; sons Clint Bitner and wife, Jamie, of Decatur and Jeremy Bitner and wife, Nicki, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Abbie, Maggie, Amberlee, Brandon, Joshua, Dominik, Blair, Adam, Bryston, Gemma and Noah; brothers David Dunn of Wills Point and Lonnie Dunn of New Braunfels; his father; and other family members and friends.

Dutton, Juanita Ermina | 1922-2016
Published Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Juanita Ermina Dutton, 93, of Fort Worth, died Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10, at the Boyd Cemetery in Boyd.
Ms. Dutton was born July 26, 1922, in Boyd to Charlie and Doritha Leforse Dutton. She graduated from Boyd High School and attended Texas Christian University. She had lived in Fort Worth since 1941.
Ms. Dutton was a member of the Zonta International and was past president of the Zonta Club of Fort Worth. She was also a member of the Federation of Business and Professional Womens Club Inc., past president of Metropolitan BPW and past chair and president of District 11 BPW. She was also a member of the Board of Friends of Fort Worth Public Library, Lockheed/FW Management Club Retirees and The Woman’s Club.
Ms. Dutton worked for General Dynamics for 37 years, retiring in 1979 as a logistics engineer and data systems specialist.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Lt. Ioland E. Dutton, U.S. Army, World War II; and sister Ruth Christian.
She is survived by her nephew, Fred Christian; niece Dorothy Christian; and her beloved extended family.
Memorials may be made to Altamesa Church of Christ, 4600 Altamesa Blvd., Fort Worth, TX 76133.

Duvall, Joyce Fae | 1956-2016
Published Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Joyce Fae Duvall, 60, of Alvord, died Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016, in Decatur.
A memorial service is pending at this time.
Joyce was born Aug. 7, 1956, in Borger to James Edmond and Thelma Mae (Hudson) Bullard. She married Edmond Lee Duvall May 10, 2002, in Decatur. They were married 10 years until he died in 2012. Joyce was a member of Alvord Assembly of God and was a retired pharmacy technician.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother Kenneth Bullard; and granddaughter Alexis Yelton.
She is survived by her son, Chris Duvall of Benbrook; daughters Jeanie Littrell and husband, Eddie, and Nikki Butler and husband, Jessie, all of Alvord; grandchildren Chase, Tyler and Dusty Littrell, Dakota and Brendon Yelton, Barbara Littrell and Jessie and Brian Butler; great-grandchild Elizabeth Dawson and another on the way; brothers Riley and Larry Verden; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Dycus, Jennie Lee | 1921-2016
Published Saturday, February 6, 2016

Jennie Lee Dycus, 94, of Arlington, died Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016, in her home.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, at 1323 Fielder Church, 1323 W. Pioneer Parkway, in Arlington. Internment will follow at the East Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Jennie Lee Paschall was born April 27, 1921, to Ed and Nellie Paschall in Bridgeport, where she grew up with her brothers Frank and Dennis. She graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1936, Decatur Baptist College in 1938 and North Texas State Teachers College in Denton in 1940.
She taught grades one through four at Red Willow School, 6 miles northwest of Chico, before becoming the business instructor at her alma mater, DBC. Later, she would substitute teach in Fort Worth special education.
Jennie married Roger Dycus April 2, 1944, in the parlor of the girls dorm at DBC. Four years later they had a son, John.
To all of these elements in her life, her devotion never waivered.
If it’s possible to be born Baptist, then she was. Roger bought her a piano, hoping to hear the occasional “Memphis Blues,” but she was more inclined to “In the Garden.” And that was just fine.
On April 27, 2001, she joined, referring to her age, “Club 80.” For years, she sang in the senior choir and taught Sunday school at Fielder Road Baptist Church, where she remained active with the Triple L seniors outreach. Previously, she taught Sunday school and played piano at Southwayside Baptist Church in Fort Worth. She, Roger and John moved to Arlington in 1976.
Jennie gave freely of her time and other resources to Helping Restore Ability. She was a grateful donor to Dallas Baptist College and to pretty much any organization that asked.
If she met you, chances are she liked you. She answered the phone with a smile in her voice. She loved to laugh. She never complained.
Her son called her a national treasure. He’d be surprised if anyone disagreed.
Mrs. Dycus is survived by her son, John; and numerous nieces and nephews. Her husband, Roger, died in 1986.
Memorials may be made to the Arlington-based nonprofits, The Porch Light Foundation, visit mariannebearddo.org, and Helping Restore Ability, visit hratexas.org.

Dyer, Velna Ruth ‘Cookie’ | 1945-2016
Published Saturday, January 9, 2016

Velna Ruth “Cookie” Dyer, 70, of Paradise, died Monday, Jan. 4, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Ms. Dyer was born Nov. 28, 1945, in Lufkin.
She is survived by her husband, George Lee Dyer; daughter Leean Bozeman and husband, Chris; sister Bina Melancon and husband, Leroy; and grandchild Adam Lee Coxwell and wife, Courtney.

East, James Borden | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, July 20, 2016

James Borden East, 88, of Decatur, died Sunday, July 17, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 21, at the First Baptist Church of Decatur with the Rev. Ken May and Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Sycamore Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Matt Exter, Mark Mascardo, Kenny Boner, Andrew East, Michael East, Jesse East, Harold Ray Walker and G.A. Walker Jr.
James was born Nov. 13, 1927, in Fort Worth to Jesse and Mamie (Chappell) East. James’s mother died when he was 8 years old. He and his siblings went to live at the Lena Pope Orphans’ Home where his father worked until his death five years later.
James’s father led him to the Lord when he was 11 years old. After James left the home, he joined the U.S. Navy in July 1946 and received an Honorable Medical Discharge a year later. He married Auga Lee Mathis Dec. 29, 1947, in Bloomington. They had four children: Rama Lynn, Charles, Donald and Alean and enjoyed nearly 69 years of married life.
Over the years, he worked as a tool pusher and driller on offshore drilling rigs, owned his own water well service, worked for American Airlines and worked for the Texas State Department of Highways and Public Transportation, from which he retired on March 31, 1990.
James was a member of the International Order of Odd Fellows in the ’60s and was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Dewey East and William East; sisters Ola Tinney and Sara Heisler; and great-grandchild Joy Lairamore.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Rama Lynn Smith and husband, Buck, of Berryville, Ark., and Alean East Zufall and husband, Robert, of Houston; sons Charles Steward East and wife, Holly, of Decatur and Donald Eugene East and wife, Linda, of Houston; grandchildren Amy Exter, Natalie Lairamore, Lana Boner, Alexis Mascardo, Rachel Ryder, Andrew East, Michael East, Jesse East and Maggie Zufall; 12 great-grandchildren; brother Eddie East and wife, Marilyn, of Gainesville; sisters Linnie East of Illinois and Ernestine Risk of Florida; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

East, Rougene ‘Jeanie’ | 1927-2016
Published Saturday, January 16, 2016

Rougene “Jeanie” East, 88, of Decatur, died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Bob Ross officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Pallbearers are John Barnes, Joshua Barnes, Jacob Barnes, Joe Martinez, Jeremiah Mohr and Kirby Word.
Jeanie was born March 26, 1927, in Plainview to Rex and Viola (Debord) Duggins. She married Dewey Lee East Oct. 11, 1947, in Amarillo. Jeanie was a homemaker who served in Wise County Hospital Auxiliary for 15 years. She was a member of Greenwood Church of Christ in Greenwood.
Jeanie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dewey Lee East; brother James Dalton Duggins; and sister Rexie Greer.
She is survived by daughters Janice Sweitzer and husband, Ray, of Victorville, Calif., and Judy Barnes and husband, Chris, of Decatur; son Wayne East and wife, Theresa, of Decatur; grandchildren Mikki Martizez of Decatur, John Barnes of Florence, Miss., Jessica Mohr of Rosenberg and Michael, Jonathan and Amberly Sweitzer of California; great-grandchildren Maci East, Jaela Mohr, Joshua Barnes, Jacob Barnes and Jonah, Joelle and Jesse Mohr; and friends.

Eberhardt, George James, Jr. | 1948-2016
Published Wednesday, December 14, 2016
George James Eberhardt Jr., 68, of Runaway Bay, died Wednesday Dec. 7, 2016, in Decatur.
A military burial will take place at Fort Hood at a later date.
George was born July 3, 1948, in Chicago to George and Lois (Steinecke) Eberhardt. He joined the U.S Army in 1978, retiring as a master sergeant general after 25 years of service.
He also received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and worked as an LVN. George was a member of the Sierra Club, the National Rifle Association and the American Civil Liberties Union.
He married Victoria Petak in Hopkinsville, Ky., in 1996.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Warren Eberhardt of San Antonio.
George is survived by his loving wife of 20 years; daughters Chandra and husband, John, of Lubbock and Chiara and husband, Joseph, of Irving; stepdaughter Trina of Kentucky; stepson Richard of Sherman; and grandchildren Aubin and Augustine of Irving.

Edwards, Shirley Dale | 1955-2016
Published Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Shirley Dale Edwards, 60, of Bridgeport died Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Kenneth Wood officiating. Burial will follow at Cottondale Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Rocky Loper, Bobbie Davidson, Lawrence York and Rodney Dunn.
Shirley was born Nov. 25, 1955, in Fort Worth to Hoyt and Helen (Gaundy) Davis. She married Ronnie Edwards Sept. 2, 1977, in Decatur. Shirley was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her dad, Hoyt Davis; sister Beverly Taylor; and grandson Jake Walkup.
Shirley is survived by her husband of 38 years, Ronnie Edwards of Bridgeport; sons Jason Edwards of Chico and Blake Edwards of Bridgeport; daughter Trina Gilfeirt and husband, Chris, of Kansas; grandchildren Marissa Edwards, Shelby Edwards and Chloe Edwards; sister Diane Adams and husband, Lonnie, of Paradise; father-in-law Gene Edwards of Bridgeport; brothers-in-law Terry Edwards of Argyle and Donnie Edwards and wife, Anita, of Bowie; and other family members and friends.

Ellis, Patricia Ann | 1951-2016
Published Saturday, May 21, 2016

Patricia Ann Ellis, 64, died Sunday, May 15, 2016.
Funeral was May 18 at White’s Funeral Home in Springtown with burial at Springtown Cemetery.
Patricia was born July 9, 1951, to Raymond Clarence and Mary Gertrude (Whitham) Davies.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Harold Ellis Sr.; and parents.
Patricia is survived by her children, Laurie Fabia, Leanne Nicholas, Tricia Mitchell, Thomas Harold Ellis Jr., Annette Widmer and Dawn Kortes; brothers Clayton Davies and Scott Bradfield; sisters Edith Wengler and Linda Cashion; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Elrod, Christine ‘Chris’ | 1932-2016
Published Saturday, January 16, 2016
Christine “Chris” Elrod, 83, died Thursday, Jan. 14, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, at the First Baptist Church in Sunset. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery.
Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Chris was born March 18, 1932, in Bay Springs, Miss., to Alvis and Earline (McBay) Parker. She graduated high school in Bay Springs. Chris was a homemaker and worked for Howard Wolf Manufacturing. She enjoyed fishing.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvis and Earline Parker; and four brothers.
Chris is survived by her husband, Wallace Elrod of Sunset; daughter Kathy Van Hoose and husband, Robert, of Chico; granddaughters Shanel Jones and husband, Cyle, of Muenster and Syndi Redder and husband, A.J., of Cottondale; great-granddaughter Ella May Redder; brother Mack Parker and wife, Becky, of Stringer, Miss.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ennis, Sarrah Nicole | 1992-2015
Published Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Sarrah Nicole Ennis, 23, of Pampa, formerly of Decatur, died Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015, in Gray County.
Service is 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 7, at Carmichael-Whatley Colonial Chapel in Pampa with Pastor Doug Yates of First Church of the Nazarene of Plainview and Pastor Jimmye Cole of First Church of the Nazarene of Pampa officiating.
Entombment will follow at Memory Gardens Mausoleum.
Sarrah was born Sept. 29, 1992, in Ventura, Calif. She had been a resident of Pampa, Decatur and Skellytown and graduated from Decatur High School in 2011. Sarrah was a 2013 graduate of the cosmetology school at Weatherford College and moved to Skellytown that same year.
She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She loved doing makeup, fingernails and hair. Sarrah was a member of First Church of the Nazarene.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, C.L. Ennis Jr., Peggie Ennis and Floyd Sperry; great-grandmother Beatrice Johnston; and uncle Judge Woodruff.
She is survived by her mother and stepfather, Tamera and David Sperry of Skellytown; her father and stepmother, Morgan and Rhonda Ennis of Decatur; sisters Tandy Ennis of Decatur, Tiffany Price of Denver, Colo., and Shylynna Sperry of Skellytown; brothers Morgan Ennis Jr. and wife, Starla, and Jeremy Mitchell and wife, Lindsay, all of Amarillo, Joshua Ennis and girlfriend, Sonia Martinez, of Decatur, and Chris Brewster, Jacob Hanifin and Jadon Hanifin, all of Fritch.
She is also survived by grandparents Ralph and Carolyn Wilson and Jean Sperry, all of Pampa, Rhonda Sperry of Borger, Pat Snyder of Decatur and Jerry Stover of Farwell; aunts Misty Ennis and Echo Fenscke, both of Broken Arrow, Okla., and Pam Woodruff of Pampa; uncles Joe Wilson of Pampa and Derek Ennis of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Memorials may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 6931 Arlington Road, 2nd floor, Bethesda, MD 20814.

Enright, Fred | 1935-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Fred Enright, 81, of Decatur, died Monday, Nov. 28, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Memorial is 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Fred was born March 25, 1935, in Olney to Johnnie and Eunice (Maguire) Enright. He married LaTonne Sewalt Jan. 27, 1962, in Ardmore, Okla. Fred was a retired coach and salesman.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Jack Enright; and son-in-law Phillip Hickman.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years; daughters Kellye Hickman of Decatur and Rene’ Fuller and husband, Kirk, of Decatur; grandchildren Royce, Bryce and Kyla Hickman and Chance and Kole Fuller; great-grandchild Halle Hickman; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Erskine, Hubert Ray ‘Bert’ | 1974-2016
Published Saturday, September 24, 2016

Hubert “Bert” Ray Erskine, 42, of Boyd, died Saturday, Sept. 17, 2016, in Fort Worth.
Service will be held at a later date.
Hubert was born Aug. 10, 1974, in Fort Worth to Stephen Erskine and Sharry (Blanton) Robertson. He married Leticha Ann Marie Wisener July 2, 2012, in Fort Worth.
Hubert was a machine operator for Anchor Fabrication. He was a loving husband, loved father, son, brother and friend to everyone who knew him.
Hubert was an extraordinary fisherman and hunter and was extremely generous. He was hardheaded but had a soft heart.
Hubert was preceded in death by his father; and brother Brian Robertson.
He is survived by his wife of four years; daughter Stephanie Erskine of Springtown; sons Jaron Erskine, Stephen Erskine, Remington Erskine and Hubert Erskine Jr., all of Boyd; his mother; brothers Brad Erskine of Springtown and Brent Erskine of Boyd; sister April Erskine of Poolville; half-brother John D. Sweaney of Fort Worth; grandchildren Athena Goodreau of Springtown, Brody Higginbotham of Springtown and Braeden Higginbotham of Springtown; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Esparza, Francisco | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Francisco Esparza, 88, of Bowie, died Wednesday, March 2, 2016, in Bowie.
Mass of Christian burial was March 5 at the St. William Catholic Church in Montague. Burial followed at Elmwood Cemetery.
Francisco was born March 9, 1927, in Aguascalientes, Mexico, to Macario and Petra (Silva) Esparza. He married Maria Sanchez in 1959, and they were married for 57 years. Francisco was a policeman in Zaragoza, Mexico, in his 30s. He and Maria moved to Texas where he worked as a ranch hand in Montague and Wise counties for more than 40 years.
Francisco was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and was known for his hard work. He was a cowboy who loved horses and was an avid gun collector.
Francisco was preceded in death by his parents, Macario and Petra Esparza; brothers and sisters, Porfirio Esparza, Bonifacio Esparza, Amalia Esparza, Josefina Esparza and Samuel Esparza; sons Francisco Rios and Samuel Esparza; daughter Gloria Ester Esparza; daughter-in-law Maria Rios; and son-in-law Margarito Hernandez.
He is survived by his wife, Maria Esparza of Bowie; children Juana Yolanda Castro and Beto Sanchez of Missouri, Elias Lira of Bowie, Jorge Lira and wife, Irma, of Bowie, Francisco Esparza and wife, Griselda, of Bridgeport, Norma Alicia Esparza of Decatur, Maria Gloria Hernandez of Bowie, Andrea Esparza Rivas and husband, Julio, of Denton, Macario Esparza of Bowie and Jesus Humberto Esparza of Decatur.
He is also survived by daughter-in-law Josefina Esparza of Mexico; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Esquivel, Ramiro De Leon | 1957-2016
Published Saturday, December 3, 2016

Ramiro De Leon Esquivel, 59, of Piedras Negras, Mexico, formerly of Decatur, died Friday, Nov. 25, 2016, in Piedras Negras, Mexico.
Graveside service was Nov. 28 at Our Lady of Refuge Cemetery in Eagle Pass with the Rev. Enrique De Leon officiating. Pallbearers were Ramiro De Leon, David De Leon, Andreas De Leon, Gilberto De Leon, Ricardo De Leon Jr. and Enrique De Leon Jr.
Ramiro was born Jan. 7, 1957, in Piedras Negras. He was a self-employed construction contractor.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Franscisca De Leon.
He is survived by his father, Juan De Leon of Eagle Pass; sons Ramiro De Leon Jr. and wife, Denisse, of Chengdu, China, and David De Leon of Decatur; and daughters Veronica Mares and husband, Manuel, Maria Ruiz and husband, Everardo and Ruby De Leon, all of Decatur.
Other survivors include brothers Juan Manuel De Leon of Utah, Enrique De Leon of Odessa, Gilberto De Leon of Belton, Andres De Leon of Borger and Daniel De Leon and Ricardo De Leon, both of Eagle Pass; sisters Maria Ramirez and Concepcion Flores, both of Hereford, Graciela Vasquez and Maricela Sanchez, both of Eagle Pass, Rosa Martinez of Borger, Blanca Wells of Virginia and Martha Mendoza of Wyoming; and grandparents Andres and Concepcion De Leon and Pedro and Julia Esquivel, all of Mexico.
He is also survived by his grandchildren, Iris, Miranda, Matthew, Victoria, Eunice, Priscilla, Caleb, Adrian, Nia and Analeigh.

Eubanks, Merle L. | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, June 8, 2016

Merle L. Eubanks, 89, of Bridgeport died Saturday, June 4, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service was June 7 in East Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Morris Freeman officiating.
Pallbearers were Nolan Eubanks, Hayden Eubanks, Chad Eubanks, Bradley Brite, Chris Brite and Billy Hamilton.
Merle was born Apr. 26, 1927, in Sunset to Robert and Loula Pearl (Emery) Lee. She married Marvin Eubanks June 19, 1947, in Salinas, Calif. She was a cook for many years, and her hobbies included watching Texas Rangers baseball.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Eubanks; son J.R. Eubanks; daughter Trenna Eubanks; grandson Aaron Huggins; and granddaughters Hannah Turowski and Hannah Eubanks.
Merle is survived by sons Don Eubanks and John Hedges; daughter LaDonna Eubanks; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Evans, Mary Frances | 1934-2016
Published Saturday, August 13, 2016

Mary Frances Evans, 82, a homemaker, died Thursday, Aug. 4, 2016, in Runaway Bay.
No service has been scheduled at this time.
Mary was born on June 28, 1934, to John and Ruby (Hawkins) Sublett in Yellville, Ark. She married John H. Foster III on June 28, 2000, in De Queen, Ark.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents.
Those left behind to cherish her memory are her husband of 16 years, John H. Foster III of Runaway Bay; her daughter-in-law, Katherine Foster of Chico; her special friends, Bob and Doris Ware of Paradise; her niece, Sandy Kay Blann and husband Joe; her great nieces, Rene Stewart and Mona Kickerson; her nephew, Mike Sublett; numerous cousins, other family members and a host of friends.

Everhart, Vonda Carol | 1962-2016
Published Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Vonda Carol Everhart, 53, of Paradise, died Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was March 1 at Paradise United Methodist Church with the Rev. Patti Mahaffey officiating. Burial followed at Paradise Cemetery.
Pallbearers were JD Everhart, Jeremy Dickinson, Tyler Everhart, Rick Chapman, Russell Chapman and Larry Coker.
Honorary pallbearers were Phillip Everhart and Ethan Blackwood.
Vonda was born July 31, 1962, in Bridgeport to Bennie and Bobbie (Dunn) Dickinson. She married Steven B. Everhart Nov. 20, 1988, in Paradise. Vonda was a member of the Paradise United Methodist Church.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Bobbie Dean Dickinson; and brother David Harold Dickinson.
She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Steven Everhart of Paradise; daughters Jennifer Bricker and husband, Jackie, of Poolville and Nikki Everhart of Boyd; son Aaron Everhart and wife, Cheyenne, of Paradise; grandchildren Libby, Landry, Jacklyn, Jadyn, Riley Bricker, Phillip and Caileigh Everhart; father Bennie Dickinson of Paradise; brother Joel Dickinson and wife, Kimberly, of North Richland Hills; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Farris, Alice Marie Ownbey | 1942-2016
Published Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Alice Marie Ownbey Farris, 74, of Newark, died Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016.
A private service is planned.
Alice was born July 14, 1942, in Grant Park, Ill., to Dewey and Mildred Smith Ownbey. She was a loving and faithful wife, mother, sister and grandmother,
She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister Peggy Lee.
Alice is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Samuel Farris; daughter Sandy Farris and partner, Pam Majka; son Samuel Farris Jr. and wife, Connie; brother Ronald Ownbey and partner, Shirley; and grandchildren Micah and Amanda.

Farris, Leola | 1924-2016
Published Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Leola Farris, 92, of Jacksboro, formerly of Alvord, died Saturday, Sept. 3, 2016, in Jacksboro.
Funeral was Sept. 6 at Bethel Assembly of God Church with the Revs. Victor Arellano and Therrol DuBois officiating. Burial followed at Lynn Creek Cemetery.
Pallbearers were C.W. Farris, Jacob Farris, Cody Denning, Roy McCasland and Trey Stamper.
Leola was born Jan. 4, 1924, in Alvord to Joseph and Addie Jane (Forrester) Newton.
She is preceded in death by her parents; and husband Linnial Vantley Farris.
She is survived by her son, Clinton Farris and wife, Melissa; daughters Patsy Stamper Woreford and Carrol Denning and husband, Rusty; sisters-in-law Wanda Sanford and Idella Armstrong; grandchildren Buffy, Trey, Melissa Lynn, C.W., Cody, Rachel and Jacob; and great-grandchildren Colt, Maddie, Haley, Vantley and Lane.
Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Community Wellness Center.

Ferrier, Robert Earl | 1936-2016
Published Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Robert Earl “Bob” Ferrier, 79, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Nov. 18, 2016.
Funeral was Nov. 22 at the Bible Baptist Church of Bridgeport with Dr. Dale Webster officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dustin Rainwater, Ryan Ferrier, Jimmy Sheppard, Hunter Blankenship, Corbin Coleman and Casen Hayes.
Honorary pallbearers were Jackson Lites, Blaine Sheppard and Jake Ferrier.
Bob was born Dec. 14, 1936, in Seymour to Robert and Lois (Glaze) Ferrier. He married the love of his life, Ruby Dolores Crenshaw, June 13, 1953. Bob was a longtime member of the Bible Baptist Church of Bridgeport and spent many years in the grocery business.
He was always on the go and loved to travel. He spent time reading and trading livestock and never wanted to miss a game of Wheel of Fortune on TV. Most of all, Bob loved spending time with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Gregory Earl Ferrier; daughter Velvet Lou Ferrier; two brothers; and two sisters.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years; son Scott Ferrier and wife, Joanne; daughter Cynthia “Cindy” McLendon and husband, Joe; sister Ruth Ferrier Little and husband, Charley; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Findley, Jerry Wayne | 1949-2016
Published Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Jerry Wayne Findley, 66, died Sunday, July 24, 2016 at home.
Memorial Service is 11 a.m., Saturday, July 30 at Springtown Church of Christ, 316 Church St., Springtown.
Jerry was born Sept. 1, 1949, in Abilene to Eugene Milton and Emma Sue Guthrie Findley. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Martha; children David Findley and wife, Janice, Heather Findley and Charles Findley; sisters Jean Bryant and husband, Earl, and LaJuana Peeples and husband, Pat; and grandchildren Alex and Ben.
In lieu of flowers donations will go to the Springtown Church of Christ After School Program.

Findley, Mary Helen | 1948-2016
Published Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Mary Helen Findley, 67, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Bo Jackson officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Don Younger, Eddie Gonzales, Jessie Paul Carpenter, Bill Reynolds, Gaylen Oats and Pat Oats.
Mary Helen was born Dec. 14, 1948, to Rex and Mada (Walker) Bird in Bridgeport. She married Travis Findley June 11, 1976, in Las Vegas. Mary Helen owned and operated Mada’s Dress Shop in Bridgeport until her retirement.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Mary Helen is survived by her husband of 40 years, Travis Findley of Bridgeport; son Matt Findley and wife, Ashley, of Richland Hills; stepdaughter Amy Turner and husband, Dean, of Providence Village; grandchildren Walker and Everest, Caleb and Rachel, and Daniel and Rebecca; brother Buddy Bird of Arlington; and other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Brent Woodall Foundation, a non-profit organization for children with autism and developmental disabilities, at woodallkids.org, 972-756-9170 or 3021 Gateway Dr. Suite 295, Irving, TX, 75063.

Finley, Tommy | 1955-2016
Published Saturday, February 27, 2016

Tommy Finley, 60, of Runaway Bay, died Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, in Runaway Bay.
Memorial is 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at The Rock Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Tim Jenkins officiating.
Tommy was born May 23, 1955, in San Antonio to Bill and Vivian (Lewallen) Finley. He married Sandra McKinney May 23, 2008, in Marietta, Okla. Tommy was retired from Renegade Well Service. He was a member of The Rock Church in Bridgeport.
Tommy was preceded in death by his dad, Bill Finley.
He is survived by his wife, Sandy Finley of Runaway Bay; daughters Ashleigh Hirtzel and husband, Michael, of Waxahachie, Fancy Finley and Jason Williams of Abilene and Holly Chapman and husband, Robert, of Levelland; son Chris Gilliam and wife, Stephanie, of Runaway Bay; grandchildren Shaleigh Hirtzel, Abby Hirtzel, Olivia Chapman, Jaxon Williams, Jayce Williams and Emeri Gilliam; sister Rachael Wilson of Andrews; mother Vivian Finley; brothers Billy Finley and Bobby Finley; and other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation, 30 E. 33rd St. New York, NY 10016, kidney.org.

Fischer, Harry W. | 1936-2016
Published Saturday, October 1, 2016

Harry W. Fischer, 80, of Kerrville, died Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2016.
There will be a memorial service with a Masonic ceremony at a later date with family and friends.
Harry was born May 7, 1936, in San Antonio to Bernard and Minnie (Baker) Fischer. He was a meat merchandiser. He was also a veteran, having served in the National Guard. Harry was a master Mason of the Masonic Lodge in Irving. He enjoyed hunting and golf and was a car enthusiast, as well as a gun collector.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Darline Fay Fischer.
Harry is survived by his son, Harry Fischer Jr. and wife, Michelle; daughters Debora Taylor and Donna Paine; grandchildren Natalee, Alec, Jordan, Nathan, Ashlynn and Brittany; and great-grandchild Ryan.

Flaherty, James | 1948-2016
Published Wednesday, May 25, 2016
James “Wishbone” Flaherty, 67, of Chico, died Thursday, May 19, 2016, in Decatur.
James was born July 9, 1948, in San Francisco to Daniel and Mary (Curravan) Flaherty.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Eileen Parrish.
James is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hostetter of Bowie; son Garth Flaherty of Weatherford; grandchildren Addy Conway of Bowie and Colton Russell of Fort Worth; nephews Michael Parrish of Chico, Danny Sherwood, Chris Sherwood and David Parrish; nieces Vickie Baxter, Janet Sturch and Mary Scheller; sister Jerri O’Neil; and numerous cousins and friends.

Fleming, Lorell | 1927-2016
Published Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Lorell Fleming, 88, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Scott Strother officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
There is no set visitation.
Pallbearers are Harold Miller, Christian Morrow, Terrance Morrow, Ethan Morrow, Nathan Osborne and Tyler Osborne.
Lorell was born May 29, 1927, in Big Spring to Eaul and Willa Mae (Robinson) Burleson. She married Edward Glen Fleming, who preceded her in death in 2008.
Lorell was also preceded in death by her parents; and brother Reese Burleson.
She is survived by her daughter, Melissa Osborne and husband, Gary, of Runaway Bay; grandchildren Shelena Kay Morrow, Angela McNally and husband, Chris, Nathan Osborne and wife, Chrissie and Danyell Miller; 11 great-grandchildren; brother Joe Burleson and wife, Laverne; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the contributor’s choice.

Flowers, Michael Eugene | 1950-2016
Published Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Michael Eugene Flowers, 66, of Paradise died Friday, July 29, 2016, in Paradise.
Graveside service is 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, at DFW National Cemetery. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Michael was born on Jan. 21, 1950, in Athens to Harvey and Henrietta (Conner) Flowers. He married Jennge Carpenter Feb. 14, 1987, in Paradise. Michael proudly served his country in the Army National Guard for 20 years and retired as a sergeant.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harvey Eugene Flowers; and father-in-law Jimmy Lloyd Carpenter.
He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Jennge Flowers of Paradise; mother Mary Flowers of Runaway Bay; sons Craig Flowers of Mabank and Stephen Flowers and wife, Jody, of Mabank; granddaughter Lauren Flowers; grandson Preston Flowers; mother-in-law Dean Carpenter; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Force, Frances Jesse | 1916-2016
Published Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Frances Jesse Force, 100, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2016, in Decatur.
A private service will be held at a later date.
Frances was born Feb. 1, 1916, in Soldier, Kan., to George and Myrtle (Hill) Johnson. She was a beautician and a homemaker who enjoyed fishing, gardening and being a grandmother. She lived a full life and witnessed many historical events throughout her lifetime.
She married Galen D. Force Oct. 23, 1935, in Kansas. The couple were married for 35 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter Georgia Daniels; great-grandson Grayson Garrett; three brothers; and six sisters.
Frances is survived by daughters Gail Lewis and Janet Garrett; grandchildren Dei Kelley, Donavan Daniels, William Garrett, Betty Kleam and Roger Lewis; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Ford, Dale Henry | 1931-2016
Published Saturday, December 10, 2016

Dale Henry Ford, 85, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Stephen Starnes officiating. Burial is 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, in Paducah.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
Dale was born Oct. 8, 1931, in Pine Bluff, Ark., to Jay Gum and Velve C. (Thompson) Ford. He was a corporal in the U.S. Army and served in the Korean Conflict.
Much of his career was spent working in the oilfield. Later he worked for many years for Poynor Industries in Bridgeport. Dale was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
He was a man of few words, with a great sense of humor. He enjoyed woodworking, crossword puzzles and playing guitar.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Eunice Oliver and Bernice Gregory and brothers Junior Ford and Albert Ford.
He is survived by his sister, Macie Ford of Paducah; and brothers Leslie Ford of Paducah and Grady Ford of Fort Worth.

Foreman, William ‘Bill’ | 1932-2016
Published Saturday, January 9, 2016

William “Bill” Foreman, 83, of Alvord, died Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, in Alvord.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at Alvord Church of Christ with Chester Cullum and grandsons, Chas Foreman, Jason Hess and Nathan Hess officiating.
Visitation is 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday at Alvord Church of Christ. Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Bill was born April 1, 1932, in Baltimore, Md., to David and Theresa (Gutcher) Foreman. He married Virginia Smith Dec. 24, 1952, in Lubbock. Bill joined the U.S. Air Force at 17 years old. He served his country and retired after 22 years of service.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Trudy Barnes.
Bill is survived by his wife of 63 years, Virginia Foreman of Alvord; daughters Sharon Driskill and husband, Wesley, of Alvord, Vicki King and husband, Mike, of Alvord and Debra Hess and husband, Alan, of Corinth; son Larry Foreman and wife, Bonnie, of Alvord; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many friends.
Memorials may be made to a veterans organization of your choice.

Foster, Anna Helene | 1931-2016
Published Wednesday, July 13, 2016
Anna Helene Foster, 85, of Azle, died Friday, July 8, 2016, in Azle.
Graveside service was Tuesday, July 12, at Sweetwater Cemetery with the Rev. Philip Whitner officiating.
Anna was born on March 18, 1931, in Yelm, Wash., to Francis and Anna (Sellan) Cohen. She married Paul Foster on Aug. 4, 1951, in Wickenburg, Ariz., Anna was a member of the Assembly of God Church. She was a retired school counselor.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her son, Paul Foster Jr. of Azle; daughter Rachel Lifson of Mount Pleasant, Mich.; sisters Mary Rogers of Fort Worth and Leah Rasnussen of Tacoma, Wash.; five grandchildren; brother David Cohen of Washington; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Foster, Connie Travis | 1931-2016
Published Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Connie Travis Foster, 84, of Boyd, died Monday, Jan. 11, 2016, in Dallas.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Victor J. Kollman officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery in Decatur. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Dr. Travis Foster, Dr. Eric Foster, Dr. Mark Foster, Shawn Foster, Neil Foster and Jeff Foster.
Connie was born Oct. 1, 1931, in Colorado Springs, Colo., to William and Ila (Russell) Foster. He married Lillian Laverne Holzman Oct. 10, 1952, in Dallas. Connie was a member of the Messiah Lutheran Church in Richardson and was a retired mechanical engineer.
Connie was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Laverne Foster; sons Dr. Travis Foster of Dallas, Dr. Eric Foster and wife, Bonnie, of Colleyville and Dr. Mark Foster and wife, Susan, of Ponder; grandchildren Caroline, Shawn, Neil, Jenny and Conner; brother Deryl Foster of Austin; nephew Jeff Foster of Austin; and friends.

Franco, Francisco Guadalupe | 1955-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Francisco Guadalupe Franco, 61, of Chico, died Monday, Nov. 28, 2016, in Chico.
Mass of Christian burial is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at Saint John the Baptizer Catholic Church in Bridgeport with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating.
Rosary is 6 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with visitation following the rosary.
Francisco was born Oct. 26, 1955, to Oscar and Refugio (Covarrubias) Franco. He married Yolanda Garcia Jan. 27, 1990, in Los Angeles. Franco was a member of the Catholic church, and he was a self-employed truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his wife of 26 years; son Julio Amador and wife, Claudia, of Bridgeport; daughters Jackeline Gomez and husband, Miguel Carvajal, of Los Angeles and Luz Elena Gomez of Los Angeles; grandchildren Alex, Ruby, Robert, Michael, Ryan, Matthew and Julissa; sisters Teresa Carrillo and husband, Alfredo, of Los Angeles, Malena Franco of Tijuana, Mexico, and Maria De Jesus Franco of Los Angeles; brothers Oscar Evodio Franco of Los Angeles and Martin Franco of Tijuana; his mother; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.

Funcannon, Karen Kay | 1951-2016
Published Wednesday, August 17, 2016
Karen Kay Funcannon, 65, of Paradise died Thursday, Aug. 11, 2016, at home.
No service is planned at this time.
Karen was born June 28, 1951, in Klute to Craig and Geraldine (Hughes) Jacobson. She was a registered nurse who worked in cardiac care before becoming a case worker for Aetna Life.
She had a green thumb and loved plants. In fact, she had one plant that she’d cared for for 40 years. She was also a music lover and a big fan of the group Queen.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Robert Funcannon of Paradise; brother Daniel Jacobson of Knoxville, Tenn.; and sister Kathy Vocelka of Houston.
Memorial donations may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Funcannon, Robert Lee | 1950-2016
Published Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Robert Lee Funcannon, 66, of Paradise, died Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, in Paradise.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Robert was born Feb. 20, 1950, in Lafayette, Ind., to Robert L. and Vera (Von Kannon) Funcannon. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English where he developed a lifelong love of words. He was a paralegal and salesman for Cargill before finding his avocation and vocation in the field of organic farming.
Robert was publisher and editor of “Living Naturally First,” a magazine for the organic enthusiast. He was a medicinal herbalist. He was instrumental in the establishment and advertising of farmers markets and co-ops. He was a Mason and a member of the Masonic Lodge Eureka No. 371.
Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Karen; his parents; and brother David.
He is survived by his sister, Alice Hodapp and husband, Chris, of Indianapolis.

Funderburgh, Natalee Jean and Billy Wayne | 1978-2016; 1970-2016
Published Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Natalee Jean, 38, and Billy Wayne Funderburgh, 45, died Sunday, June 26, 2016.
Services were held July 2 at Elgin Funeral Home in Elgin with the Rev. Rex Johnson officiating.
Billy was born Sept. 8, 1970, in Austin and was raised by his father, Fred “Buddy” Funderburgh. Natalee was born June 22, 1978, in Bowie to Loretta and Lee Ervin.
The couple married Nov. 17, 1998. Together they lived their life to the fullest. They loved each other dearly and spent all their time with one another – together is how they would leave this world.
Billy worked hard for his family as a supervisor for CaseHole Solutions. He loved UFC fights, Longhorn football and was well known with friends and family for his barbecue.
Natalee and Billy loved riding motorcycles, hanging out at the lake boating, listening to Fritz play guitar and just drinking beer and spending time with their friends and family.
Billy and Natalee were preceded in death by Billy’s daughter, Melody Funderburgh; Natalee’s father, Lee Ervin; Natalee’s grandfather, J.W. Clark; Billy’s uncles, JD, Freddy and Johnny; and Billy’s aunt, Joyce.
They are survived by Billy’s father and stepmother, Buddy Funderburgh and Sue Turner; Natalie’s mother, Loretta Clark of Alvord; Natalee’s two daughters, Karlee and Haylee Rogers; their two grandchildren, Hope and William; Billy’s five brothers, Fritz, Curtis, Ryan, Jason and Randall Funderburgh; Billy’s two sisters, Sherry and Erica; Natalee’s grandmother, Patsy Clark; and Natalee’s sister, Bridy Cantrell and her husband, Todd.
Other survivors include Natalee’s niece, Patricia; Billy’s aunts and uncles, Betty and Freddy Davee, Wanda and Jimmy Hamby, Elizabeth and Jim Walton of Taylor, Doris and Cliff Gourley and Gay and Billy Haehnel; and Billy’s and Natalee’s nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gage, Jimmy Bert | 1945-2016
Published Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Jimmy Bert Gage, 70, of Decatur, died Monday, Sept. 5, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, at CrossRoads Church in Decatur with the Revs. Don Spain, Terry Terry and Matthew Gage officiating. Burial will follow at Sweetwater Cemetery.
Pallbearers are David Souther, Tom Goode, Bill Adams, Steve Holland, Rusty Hand, Eddie Griffeth, Jay Davidson and Russell Rawle.
Honorary pallbearers are Arlon Cox, Jimmie Williams, Gene Reed, Stanley Kemp, Lloyd Scaff, Curtis Anderson and Don Singleton.
Jimmy was born Oct. 30, 1945, in Decatur to Willie Barton and Mary Faye Boydston Gage. He married Patricia Grace Souther June 14, 1962.
He was retired and enjoyed fishing and golfing. He loved his family and was immensely proud of his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He worked as a dairyman, for various propane companies in Wise County and in the oil and gas industry for more than 20 years with Devon Energy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Naomi Spain; brothers-in-law Travis Cobb and Johnny Garrett; and nephew Wil Goode, all of Decatur.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years; son Larry Gage and wife, Kristin, of Decatur; daughters Lisa Gage of Denton and Lori Gage of Decatur; grandson Matthew Gage and wife, Rebecca, of Decatur; granddaughter Kari Gage of Lewisville; great-grandchildren Billy, Drew, Jenna and Alli Gage, all of Decatur; sisters Verona Cobb of Decatur, Tonya Hale and husband, Ronnie, of Decatur; brother-in-law Don Spain of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Friendship Baptist Church Mission Fund, 1477 County Road 4698, Boyd, TX 76023 or the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, 2222 Welborn Street, Dallas, TX 75219.

Gallegos, Leticia | 1956-2016
Published Saturday, July 2, 2016

Leticia Gallegos, 59, of Decatur, died Thursday, June 30, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Sunday, July 3, at Iglesia Templo de Celebracion with the Rev. Filemon Gallegos officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the church.
Pallbearers are Eleazar Gonzalez, Aaron Gonzalez, Gilbert Regalado, Ceasar Gallegos, Eli Gallegos and Nazario Rivera.
Leticia was born Aug. 14, 1956, in Durango, Durango, Mexico, to Juanita Esparza. She married Ernesto Gallegos June 22, 1982, in Fort Worth. Leticia was a retired seamstress.
She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Ernesto Gallegos of Decatur; daughter Leticia Martinez and husband, Anthony P., of Fort Worth; son Ceasar Gallegos of Fort Worth; grandchildren Eleazar, Kaleb, Aaron, Cevanna and Tobiaz; mother Juanita Esparza and husband, Guillermo Dominguez, of Mexico; five brothers; five sisters; and numerous nieces, nephews, brothers, sisters-in-law, and friends.

Galvan, Bryan Anthony | 1994-2016
Published Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Bryan Anthony Galvan, 22, of Grand Prairie, died Friday Aug. 19, 2016.
Mass of Christian burial is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 24, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Cody Warden, Drake Carmichael, Daniel Longoria, Mauricio Baz, Jason Flores and Erick Flores.
Bryan was born June 25, 1994, in Arlington to Jesus and Vilma (Flores) Galvan. Growing up in Grand Prairie, he took on many interests as a young boy. Bryan enjoyed playing soccer, baseball and basketball (his favorite). He rooted for the Dallas Mavericks and was a Mavs Fan For Life (MFFL).
Bryan’s interests grew to include music, and it was here that he found his calling. He taught himself to play guitar, honed his skills as he grew older and started a band along the way – Akashic (formerly The Akashic Record). He was beloved among the DFW local music scene and thrived on playing gigs around the Metroplex.
In addition, Bryan also worked as a barista at a local coffee shop in Grand Prairie.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Rogelio Galvan; uncle Mario Flores; and cousin Giovanni Rangel.
Bryan is survived by his parents; brother Danny Galvan and fianc e, Alison, of San Antonio; grandparents Rosa and Oscar Flores of Decatur; grandmother Nina Galvan of Decatur; girlfriend Sarah Martin of Grand Prairie; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Garrett, Robert Neal | 1942-2016
Published Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Robert Neal Garrett, 74, died Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016.
Funeral was Sept. 26 at Parkside Baptist Church in Denison with Dr. Craig Canton and Dr. Jerry Coffman officiating. Burial followed at Thomas Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Robert was born May 11, 1942, in Bridgeport to Homer D. and Addine (Riggs) Garrett. He graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1960 and married his high school sweetheart, Jo Linda (Giles) Garrett in 1963. They had 53 loving years together. After a few years working in the oil field and at a rock crusher, he began working for Texas Power and Light (then TU Electric) in 1965. After working for more than 32 years in Sherman, Decatur, Mineral Wells and Euless, he retired in 1997.
After retirement, Robert and Jo Linda moved to Lake Texoma to enjoy lots of fishing. He had a great love for the Lord Jesus, was a deacon at church and taught children’s Sunday school for many years. He had been a member of the Optimist Club and was currently a member of Gideons International.
For more than 20 years, he was a football referee for pee-wee, junior high and high school. In retirement, he volunteered at Texoma Medical Center for many years. He deeply loved his family, friends and children. He was known for his outgoing personality, sense of humor – often found in pranks and practical jokes – and his love for laughter.
He was a great friend and fun classmate. Everyone wanted to be around him because he loved them unconditionally. He was an amazing husband, loving father and PaPaw, and his passing will leave a void that cannot be filled.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers David and Sam; nephew Michael Morin; father-in-law and mother-in-law, J.E. and Alma Faye Giles; sisters-in-law Sue Rowe and Nelda Lambert; and brother-in-law Jimmie Hefner.
He is survived by his wife; sons Barry Garrett and wife, Alyssa, of Decatur, Monte Garrett and wife, Tricia, of Weatherford and Scott Garrett of Palm Desert, Calif.; grandsons Wilson, Jackson, Giles, Anderson and Elliott; sister Martha Gray of McKinney; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to Gideons International or the building fund for the ROC at Parkside Baptist Church in Denison.

Gayler, Jerry Wayne | 1935-2016
Published Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Jerry Wayne Gayler, 80, of Alvord, died Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at the Alvord Church of Christ with Chester Cullum officiating. Burial will follow at Perryman Cemetery in Forestburg.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Rob Covington, Ricky Covington, Davey Covington, Gary Covington, Chris Covington, Keith Kelton, Gary Kelton and Mike Hatfield.
Jerry was born Sept. 27, 1935, in Dallas to Robert E. Lee and Elvena (Harrison) Gayler. He married Annette Covington June 28, 1954, in Rockwall. They were married 58 years until her passing in 2012. He married Linda Bishop Nov. 9, 2014, in Alvord. Jerry retired from General Motors where he was also a UAW Union Representative.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Annette Gayler; and son Tony Gayler.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Bishop Gayler; daughter Sherri Hartfield of Alvord; grandsons Jason Starr Gayler and wife, Jamie, of Alvord, Preston Hartfield and wife, Rebekah, of Tryon, Okla., Bradley “Bubba” Hartfield and wife, Anne, of Grand Prairie and Trevor Hartfield of Denton; granddaughter Heather Gayler Jack and husband, Justin, of Decatur; stepdaughter Jennifer Bishop Nations of Oregon; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Gilbreath, Paul | 1935-2016
Published Saturday, September 17, 2016

Paul Gilbreath, 81, of Runaway Bay, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2016, in Dallas.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Paul was born Aug. 24, 1935, in Amarillo to William and Josephine (Cazzell) Gilbreath. He married Delora Jean Tidwell Dec. 16, 1956, in Amarillo. Paul was a retired contractor, a retired volunteer fireman, a master Mason and a member of the Eastern Star.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Gary Gilbreath; daughter Lynn Gilbreath; and sisters Patty Daniel and Cecile Sweet.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Jan Latta and husband, Sam, of Wimberley; sons Kent Gilbreath of Lubbock and Terry Gilbreath of Daphne; daughter-in-law Jennie White of Albuquerque, N.M.; grandchildren Jennifer Frantzen and husband, Jerry, Nancy Rennaker and husband, Brian, Anthony Paul Latta and wife, Emma, Amy Muncy and husband, Scott, Scott Gilbreath and wife, Lofn, Grace Gilbreath and Patrick Gilbreath; great-grandchildren Miles, Henry, Jack, Isabella, Margaret, Alaina, Scotty, Rachel and Martin; brother Cecil Gilbreath and wife, Lynda; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice or Bridgeport Library, 2159 10th St, Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Gillaspy, Frances R. | 1939-2016
Published Saturday, June 18, 2016
Frances R. Gillaspy, 76, of Boyd, died Sunday, June 12, 2016, in Boyd.
Frances was born Nov. 24, 1939, in Farmersville to William and Ida (Fausett) Taylor. She was a retired bank bookkeeper.
Frances was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; and three brothers-in-law.
She is survived by her sister, Marquitta Hester of Aurora; nephew Paul Hester Jr. of Aurora; nieces Ann Dill of Fort Worth and Karen Duesterhaus of Littlefield; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Gillespie, Ronald Dale | 1959-2016
Published Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Ronald Dale Gillespie, 56, of Alvord, died Friday, April 22, 2016, in Alvord.
Service will be 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 28, at the First Baptist Church of Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating.
Mr. Gillespie was born Oct. 29, 1959, in North Richland Hills to Odell and June Gillespie.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Haley; and sister Lelia Childress.
He is survived by his wife, Debra Gillespie; parents; sons Michael Gillespie, Rodney Gillespie and Junior Gillespie; daughters Kimberly Snow, Heather Phillips and Jessica Gillespie; brothers Edward Gillespie, James Gillespie and Billy Gillespie; and 11 grandchildren.
A “celebration of life” tree will be planted at the Gillespie home.

Gnazzio, Anthony Michael | 1968-2016
Published Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Anthony Michael Gnazzio, 48, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Sept. 30, 2016, in Bridgeport.
No service is planned.
Anthony was born May 24, 1968, in New Orleans to Calvin Egbert and Valerie Gnazzio. He was the oldest son in the family. Anthony was a truck driver for most of his adult life.
He enjoyed working on cars and being in nature. He always went out of his way to crack a joke and make someone smile. He is dearly loved and missed. He was a wonderful brother and son.
Anthony was preceded in death by his father; a brother unknown; as well as his grandfather, Clement Gnazzio.
He is survived by his mother; son Dustin Wolff; sisters Shannon Gnazzio, Santina DiPaola and Krystal LeClaire; and brother Richard DiPaola.

Godsey, Ronnie Lee | 1949-2016
Published Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Ronnie Lee Godsey, 66, of Springtown, died Friday, Feb. 5, 2016, in Decatur.
A private service will be held.
Ronnie was born Nov. 10, 1949, in Sherman to Oleane (Hazelwood) and Jim Godsey. He was a Vietnam veteran who served his country in the Army. He was a Baptist. Ronnie enjoyed wood burning, horses, operating heavy equipment and especially, playing with his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Travis and Johnny; and daughter Tisha.
Ronnie is survived by his wife, Ann; sons Justin Godsey and wife, Robyn, and Kenneth Godsey and wife, Jodye; daughter Bobbi McEuen and husband, Tim; brother James Godsey and wife, Jane; sisters Frances Dickson and Sarah Godsey; and aunt Betty Hazelwood Martin.
He is also survived by grandchildren Haley, Taylor, Paitane, Courtney, Tadem, Laramie, Rhylee, Lance, Kayla, Kendall and Mason; grand-niece Evelyn; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Godwin, William Lando | 1926-2016
Published Saturday, May 14, 2016
William Lando Godwin, 89, of Sanger, died Monday, May 9, 2016, at his home.
Graveside service for the family will be held at Bluebonnett Cemetery in Colleyville.
Born Oct. 15, 1926, he was a longtime resident of Wise County. He served in the Army during World War II and retired from Bell Helicopter after 44 years.

Goines, Amos ‘Lugnut’ | 1939-2016
Published Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Amos “Lugnut” Goines, 77, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2016, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, at West Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Gary Sessions officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Amos was born June 12, 1939, in Panama, Okla., to Stirl and Claudia (Kilgore) Goines. He married Patricia Sanders Jan. 22, 1971, in Bridgeport. Amos served his country in the U.S. Army. He was Pentecostal and a retired truck driver.
Amos was preceded in death by his parents; and his daughter, Debbie.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years; daughters Annette, Kathy, Dorothy, Cynthia, Dawn, Theresa, Brenda and Patty Murr and husband, Timothy, of Bridgeport; sons Amos Moore, Sherman Goines and wife, Whitni, and William Goines and wife, Rebekah, of Bridgeport; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three sisters; three brothers; and other family members and friends.

Gomez, Maria | 1965-2016
Published Saturday, December 24, 2016

Maria Gomez, 51, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016, in Decatur.
Mass of Christian burial was Dec. 23 at St. John the Baptizer Catholic Church in Bridgeport with Father Thomas Dsousa officiating.
Pallbearers were Jose Gomez and Sergio Gomez.
Maria was born Dec. 13, 1965, in Allende, Coahuila, Mexico, to Jose and Marcelina Arredondo. She married Jesus Gomez Sept. 8, 1981, in Zaragoza, Coahuila, Mexico. Maria was a member of St. John the Baptizer Catholic Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Idalia Gomez; and sister Maria De Jesus Zamora.
She is survived by her husband, Jesus Gomez of Bridgeport; son Jose Gomez and wife, Alondra, of Leesville, La.; daughter Nancy Gomez of Bridgeport; son Sergio Gomez of Bridgeport; daughter Alondra Gomez of Bridgeport; daughter Valeria Gomez of Bridgeport; and other family members and friends.

Gonzales, Steve ‘Bear’ | 1975-2016
Published Saturday, May 28, 2016

Steve “Bear” Gonzales, 41, died Saturday, May 21, 2016.
Visitation was May 27 at Robert’s Family Funeral Home in Fort Worth.
Steve was preceded in death by his brother, Trinidad Gonzales; father Pete Jerry Gonzales; and mother Apolinaria Gonzales.
He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Perez Gonzales; brother Pete Gonzales and wife, Swanda, of Joshua; sisters Sarah Ann Walton and husband, Charles Lee, of Saginaw and Rachel Gonzales Castillo and husband, Cudberto, of Bridgeport; nieces Cynthia, Estela, Stephanie, Mona, Shirley, Kaiulana, Nicole, Jaydenn, Layken, Ily and Zoey; and nephews Charles Jr., Frank Paul Sr., Pete Jerry, Travis, J.J., Kevin, Jacob, Nicolas, Derrick, Frank Paul Jr., Christian, Kasen, Mason, Cayden and Lil Charlie.

Goodger, W.L. ‘Pat’ | 1925-2016
Published Saturday, July 30, 2016

W.L. “Pat” Goodger, 90, of Boyd, died Thursday, July 28, 2016, in Boyd.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, at the First Baptist Church of Boyd with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the First Baptist Church.
Pallbearers are Kris Taylor, Jeremy Goodger, McCade Goodger, Richie Simmons, Jorge Patino and Delores Patino.
Pat was born Nov. 7, 1925, in Boyd to William and Lossie (Wren) Goodger. He married Evelyn Lavelle Rasbury March 18, 1945, in Boyd.
Pat was a rancher at Goodger Farms. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Boyd, a founding member of the Wise County Sheriff’s Posse, as well as a member of both the Texas Watermelon Association and Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.
He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; granddaughter Caitlyn Kay Goodger; and sisters Nelda Gem Bassham and Emily Ann Tatum.
Pat is survived by his daughter, Judy Taylor and husband, Tim; son Bill Goodger and wife, Sherri; grandchildren Jeremy Goodger and wife, Patti, Shelley Simmons and husband, Richard, Kris Taylor and wife, Rachale, McKinley Goodger and McCade Goodger; great-grandchildren Sydney, Anna, Jacob, Jenna and Charley; and other family members and friends.

Greer, Wesley R., Sr. | 1941-2016
Published Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Wesley R. Greer Sr., 75, of Decatur, died Friday, Nov. 11, 2016, in Decatur.
Memorial service was Nov. 15 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating.
Wesley was born March 27, 1941, in Weatherford to Willie Wesley and Elva Laverne (Steedly) Greer. He married Martha Turner Feb. 9, 1972, in Decatur. They were married 29 years until her passing in 2001.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and brothers Bobby, Donald, Pat, Thomas and Jackie Greer.
He is survived by his sons, Johnny Pippin and wife, Tisa, of Decatur, Tim Pippin and wife, Laurie, of Decatur, Jeremy Fabela of Decatur, Randy Greer and wife, Angie, of Alvord and Robby Anderson and wife, Christy, of Bowie; daughters Edwina Hargrave and husband, David, of Decatur and Pamela Fabela of Fort Worth; 18 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; brothers Ricky Greer and Raymond Greer; sisters Mattie Sermons, Betty Greer, Beverly Jernigan, Jenny Mullane and Deborah Greer; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Gregg, John Ernest, Jr. | 1924-2016
Published Saturday, March 12, 2016

John Ernest Gregg Jr., also known as “Ernie” or “Sonny” to his Texas family, died Wednesday, March 2, 2016, in Denver. He had suffered a traumatic brain injury from a fall while raking pine needles in his front yard.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday, March 12, at the First United Methodist Church in Durango, Colo.
A memorial service for his Texas friends and family will be held in conjunction with the Gregg Reunion in Decatur in October 2016.
Ernie was born Aug. 5, 1924, in Marfa to J. Ernest Gregg Sr. and Mary Elizabeth Gregg. His father, originally from the Decatur area, was superintendent of schools in Marfa. Ernie graduated in 1942 from Marfa High School, where he played football and tennis and ran track. He attended Texas A&M University, graduating with honors in 1948 with a degree in mechanical engineering. His studies were interrupted by World War II, when he trained as a flight navigator with the Army Air Corps.
Ernie began his engineering career with the Bureau of Reclamation in Chico, Calif. During President Eisenhower’s administration, Ernie’s job was declared redundant – an event the family referred to as being “fired by Ike” or “FBI’ed.”
During this time, Ernie moved to his parents’ land south of Decatur where he helped build their retirement home. In 1953, the Bureau of Reclamation offered him a position in Durango, Colo., and Durango became his new home.
During his 33 years with the Bureau he worked on many water storage and irrigation projects. He retired from the Durango office as chief project engineer in 1979.
In 1975, after being a bachelor for many years, Ernie married Mary Ann Creek, a widow with three small children. They were an active family, participating in camping, backpacking, snowmobiling, canoeing, boating, scouting and competitive swimming.
After retirement, Ernie and Mary Ann enjoyed traveling. They visited Norway, Scotland, Ireland, the Holy Lands, Switzerland, Germany, Mexico and Alaska. They made camping trips in their RV in Colorado and across the western United States.
Ernie was a master gunsmith and enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fly fishing and bowling. He was a knowledgeable photographer, bird-watcher and gardener, taking great joy in the strawberries he could grow at 6,500 feet.
He earned his pilot’s license in the mid-’70s, using his Cessna 172 to transport his kids to swim meets, Girl Scout camps and family events. He often flew to Decatur to visit family and to attend the annual Gregg Reunion.
Ernie was a member of Kiwanis and the NRA and helped design and build an indoor gun club in Durango.
He was a wonderful father and husband, a devoted Christian and member of the First United Methodist Church of Durango for more than 50 years. Over the years, he held every office available to laymen in the church and was a longtime member of the Methodist Men’s weekly breakfast prayer group, where he perfected his recipe for biscuits and gravy and enjoyed his coffee.
Ernie is survived by his wife, Mary Ann of Durango, Colo.; sisters Elaine Boyer of Decatur and Mary Gregg of Denton; children Mark Creek of Flagstaff, Ariz., Jim Creek of Fort Collins, Colo., and Mary Jo Gerster of Golden, Colo.; and nieces Judy Boyer Deaton of Decatur, Jann Boyer Rainey of Hilton Head, S.C., and Ellen Boyer of Fort Worth.
Ernie was blessed with nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to Flight for Life or to the First United Methodist Church of Durango.

Griffin, Kenneth Albert ‘Kenny’ | 1958-2016
Published Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Kenneth “Kenny” Albert Griffin, 57, of Rhome, died Wednesday, March 16, 2016, at home.
Graveside service was March 22 at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. Keith Pepper, his brother-in-law, officiating.
Kenny was born Sept. 20, 1958, in Flagstaff, Ariz., to Kenneth and Mary Jo (Clark) Griffin. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Kenneth is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Pepper and husband, Keith, of Boyd; nephew Keith Pepper II of Fort Worth; niece Michelle Cernick and husband, Reese, and their children, Christopher, Autumn and Aurora Cernick, of Coupeville, Wash.; and numerous cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.