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

Abbott, Patsy Sue (Ratcliffe) | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Patsy Abbott
Patsy Sue Abbott, 81, of Chico, died Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral was Feb. 7 at the First Baptist Church in Chico with the Rev. Carl McCann officiating. Burial followed at Chico Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Josh Abbott, Zack McCain, Nick McCain, Ian McCann, Chris Tull and Lance Simmons.
Patsy was born Jan. 5, 1936, in Graham to James Miller and Myrtle Ann (Carson) Ratcliffe. She married Robert Abbott May 27, 1956. She was great volleyball player in her younger years and a huge fan when her daughters played the sport.
She loved shopping, but most of all she loved spending time with her grandkids and great-grandkids. Before her retirement, Patsy was a bookkeeper for the city of Chico.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband; son Robert Abbott; daughters Susan McCann and husband, Carl, and Laura McCain and husband, Rick; brother John Ratcliffe; sister Dolly Nunley; seven grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Abernathy, Edna (Brown) | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, August 12, 2017

Edna Abernathy
Edna Abernathy, 86, of Decatur, died Thursday, Aug. 10, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at Oaklawn Cemetery with Phillip Whitner officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Edna was born May 27, 1931, in Erick, Okla., to William and Molly (Elms) Brown. She married William “Bill” Abernathy. She graduated college and earned her bachelor’s degree in social work.
Edna retired form Child Protective Services after many years. She also worked as a substitute teacher.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her infant son; seven sisters; and two brothers.
Edna is survived by her daughter, Nancy Chenoweth and husband, Mark, of Decatur; son William Abernathy and wife, Deborah, of Burden, Kan.; grandchildren Jenny Branton, Katy Chenoweth, Stacey Higdon and husband, Daniel, William L. Abernathy and wife, Chasity and Desiree Abernathy; great-grandchildren Kendyl Higdon, Morrigan Branton, William Barrett Abernathy and Harper Higdon; sisters Bernice Baker and Florence Boggs; and other family members and friends.

Adair, Mary ‘Maw Auntie’ Scewilla (King) | 1920-2016
Published Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Mary Adair
Mary “Maw/Auntie” Scewilla King Adair, 96, of Paradise, died Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, in Paradise.
Funeral was Jan. 3 at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home in Groves. She was laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves.
Mary was born Feb. 27, 1920, in Port Arthur and was a longtime resident of Groves. She was a loving mother, grandmother and aunt. She was also a faithful servant of God. She and her husband, Duffy (who served many years as a Drainage District Commissioner for Jefferson County), held many prayer meetings in their home and helped start Church On The Rock in Mid-County. She spent many years faithfully praying for the military, her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, M.J. “Duffy” Adair; mother Mary Hill King; father William Jennings King; brothers William Jennings King Jr., Cecil King and Tommy King; sister Leona Mae LeTulle; and grandson Dion Frederick.
Mary is survived by her son, Danny Adair and wife, Melissa; daughter Jeanne Adair Tatum; son Sam Adair and wife, Janis; grandchildren Dana, Stephen, Dustin, Katie, Jonathan, Danny, Raygan, Brad and Bill; foster grandchildren Sheldon and Cedrick; brother Jack R. King and wife, Doris; her longtime caregiver, honorary daughter and friend, Mercedes Reyes; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Adams, Vessie (Waldrip) | 1928-2017
Published Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Vessie Adams
Vessie Adams, 88, of Boyd, died Thursday, March 2, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was March 6 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with burial at Boyd Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Jerry Vaughn, Joshua Cole, Jason Adams, Stephen Adams, Corey Byers and Allen Cole.
Vessie was born May 26, 1928, in Boyd to Dee Jay and Lillie Viola (Hanner) Waldrip. She was a lifelong resident of Boyd. Vessie was a member of the Family Worship Center in Decatur. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Kenney Adams Jr.; and brothers Earnest Waldrip, Raymond Waldrip and Willie “Bill” Waldrip.
She is survived by her sons, Pete Adams and Randy Adams and wife, Karen, of Boyd; grandchildren Jason Adams and wife, Katie, of Boyd, Teresa Vaughn and husband, Jerry, of Fort Worth, Stephen Adams of Arlington, Staci Sanders and husband, Ray, of Boyd, Alinda Cole and husband, Allen, of Fort Worth and Reba Connolly and husband, John, of Justin; brother Albert Waldrip of Haltom City; sister Velma Hammett of Waxahachie; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Aden, James Darrell | 1936-2017
Published Saturday, July 22, 2017

James Aden
James Darrell Aden, 81, of Lake Bridgeport, died Sunday, July 17, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is noon Saturday, July 22 at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gerre Joiner officiating.
Family will receive friends 10 a.m. to noon prior to the service.
James was born June 8, 1936, in Dattor, Ark. to William and Viola (Kimble) Aden. He was a member of the Cowboy Church in Bridgeport. He was a retired foreman for Trassway.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Mary Aden; wife Ann Aden; and brother Leo Aden.
He is survived by his daughters, Judy Mickelson and husband, Mark, of Rockford, Ill., Paige Wagner and husband, Pete, of Weatherford and Megan Stibora and husband, Mike, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Jason Yielding and Kirsten, Stacy Mickelson, Matthew Artz, Tony Mickelson, Sarah Wagner, Elizabeth Wagner and Adam Johnson; great-grandchildren Addelin Yielding, Averie Guinn, Eithan Johnson, Maddie Johnson and Paisley Johnson; brothers Ted Aden and wife, Chris, of Sullivan, Mo. and Jack Aden and wife, Nancy, of Fenton, Mo.; sisters Joyce Ann Aden and Billie Jean Brooks of Steelville, Mo.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Alaniz, Bonita J. (Darter) | 1950-2017
Published Saturday, January 28, 2017

Bonita Alaniz
Bonita J. Alaniz, 66, of Azle, died Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, in Weatherford.
Funeral was Jan. 31 at Christian-Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Victor Sullivan officiating. Burial followed at Azleland Cemetery in Azle.
Pallbearers were Russell Cole, Kenneth Cole, Steven Ballejo, Billy Fowler, Phillip Dooley and Brandon Lyles.
Bonita was born Feb. 21, 1950, in Fort Worth to Joe Ben and Thelma Mae (Wood) Darter. She worked for Tandy Electronics as an assembly line leader for many years. Bonita was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many. She had a Christian background growing up, which she followed throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers Joe Arvin Darter and Joe Ben Darter.
Bonita is survived by her daughters, Candy Gail Prezas of Corpus Christi, and Sandy Annette McCauley and husband, Roger, of Azle; grandchildren Victoria Alaniz of Corpus Christi, Craig McCauley of Tulsa and Joseph Prezas of Corpus Christi; and great-grandson Joshua Perez of Corpus Christi.
She is also survived by sisters Janie Hughes of Cleburne, Doris Cole of Fort Worth, Deann Fowler and husband, Johnny, of Fort Worth, Mary Collins and husband, Mike, of Azle and Sandra Darter of Fort Worth; along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Allen, Bonnie Lee (Coats) | 1919-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Bonnie Allen
Bonnie Lee Allen, 97, of Decatur, died Friday, March 31, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was April 4 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Bonnie was born April 2, 1919, in Ryan, Okla., to R.L. and Georgia (English) Coats. She married Bill Allen April 30, 1938, in Duncan, Okla. Bonnie retired from teaching at Decatur Elementary. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one brother; and one sister.
She is survived by her daughters, Dianne Arnette Stanley and husband, Tommy, of Fort Worth and Linda Dollins of Arlington; grandchildren Eric Arnette and wife, Kristie, of Athens, Adam Arnette and wife, Claudia, of Dallas, Chad Arnette and wife, Caroline, of Fort Worth and Lori Price and husband, Steve, of Richardson; eight great-grandchildren; two nieces; one nephew; and friends.

Allen, Patricia Ann (McKinstry) | 1934-2017
Published Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Patricia Ann Allen
Patricia Ann Allen, 83, of Decatur, died Friday, Dec. 22, 2017.
Funeral is 2 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 28, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur with burial at Albuquerque, N.M.
Patricia was born Dec. 15, 1934, in Marion, Ohio, to Thomas and Minnie (Post) McKinstry. She was married to Jimmy Lee Allen Sr. Patricia was a Christian and loved her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband; and brother Don McKinstry.
She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Zoppe and husband, Brian; sons Jim Allen Jr. and wife, Catalina, and Jerry Allen and wife, Stacy; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Allison, Norma Jean (Frame) | 1940-2017
Published Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Norma Jean Frame Allison
Norma Jean Frame Allison, 76, of Decatur died Monday, Oct. 30, 2017, in Denton.
Service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, at Community Church in Decatur.
Norma was born Nov. 26, 1940, to Jim and Mildred Frame in Amarillo.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Jim Allison of Decatur; son Kerry Allison, and wife, Misty; their children Shawnie, Abby, Alex, James Dean and Charly Kay of Post Oak; son Kyle Allison and wife, Allison; their children Jake, Jared and Kylee of Decatur; brother Lyndon Frame and wife, Mary, of New Braunfels; and numerous family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Missions Around the World, P.O. Box 973, Decatur, TX 76234.

Amador, Omar |
Published Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Omar Amador
Omar Amador, 54, of Decatur, died Monday, June 12, 2017, in Jonesboro, Ark.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Thursday, June 15, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Ryan Sergio Amador, Ernesto Breceda Jr., Jose Ramirez, Dale Simpson, Sergio Amador and Steve Ford.
Omar was born April 13, 1963, in San Miguel, Tamaulipas to Joaquin Amador and Ofelia (Ramos) Amador. Omar was a retired construction worker.
He was preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his children: daughter Stephanie Amador Ramirez of Chico and son Ryan Sergio Amador, daughter Summer Amador, son Jessie Amador and son Chase Bolin, all of Jonesboro; grandsons Ernesto Breceda Jr., Adrian Omar Breceda and Andrew Breceda, all of Chico; his mother; three brothers; and five sisters.

Amyotte, James Arnold | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, August 26, 2017

James Amyotte
James Arnold Amyotte, 74, of Rhome, died Thursday, Aug. 17, 2017, in Rhome.
A service for family will be held at a later date.
James was born Feb. 11, 1943, in Omaha, Neb., to Russell and Mary Amyotte. James was a Vietnam veteran.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Janet; daughters Mary Hughes and husband, David, Marcy Wilson and husband, David, and Laura Stark and husband, Scott; three sisters, all of Indian River, Mich.; one brother, also of Indian River; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Andress, Robert Elton ‘Bob’, Sr. | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, March 4, 2017

Robert Andress
Robert Elton “Bob” Andress, 85, died Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017, in Houston.
Funeral was Feb. 27 at Memorial Oaks Funeral Chapel in Houston.
Bob was born July 8, 1931, in Wheeler to William Kennedy and Clara Hale Andress. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1948 to 1952, then became a CPA for Gulf Oil, where he retired in the 1980s.
Bob married Jakie Banack Nov. 6, 1953. Both were active members of Tallowood Baptist Church for 46 years.
Bob was an avid sports lover and enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren compete through the years. He was known for his military service, his love for his family and his faith in the Lord. All who knew Bob enjoyed his sense of humor and charming smile.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years; daughters Robin Andress Corrigan and husband, Ed, and Rori Kaye Whittlesey and husband, Thomas; son Robert Andress Jr. and wife, Sandra; grandchildren Paula Whittlesey, Krystian and Myron Dunford of Germany, Sarah Ruth Whittlesey, Nicolas Andress and Carrie Whittlesey.
He is also survived by his brothers, Leroy Andress and wife, Katherine, and Milton Andress; sister JoAnn Boyett and husband, Jerry; brother-in-law Emerson Banack and wife, Rosemarie; and many nieces and nephews.

Arellano, Carlos | 1988-2017
Published Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Carlos Arellano
Carlos Arellano, 29, of Decatur, died Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Mass of Christian burial is 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, at Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Decatur with burial at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday with a rosary at 7 p.m. at the family home, 407 Private Road 4215, in Decatur.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers include Rene Arellano, Alonso Arellano, Juan Martinez, Jose Angel Martinez, Jon Barragan and Blake Doty.
Arellano was born May 8, 1988, in Jerez, Zacatecas, Mexico, to Aureliano and Margarita (Martinez) Arellano. Arellano worked as a welder.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Maria Reyes Luevano.
He is survived by his parents; brothers Rene Arellano and wife, Maria, of Decatur and Alonso Arellano of Decatur; sister Margarita Arellano of Decatur; two nieces; two nephews; and friends.

Arispe, Danny | 1950-2017
Published Saturday, April 1, 2017

Danny Arispe
Danny Arispe, 66, of Denton, died Sunday, March 26, 2017, in Denton.
Memorial service was March 31 in the Chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton with the Rev. John Lindsay officiating.
Danny was born Dec. 28, 1950, in Winters to Joe and Nellie (Cortez) Arispe. He married Vanessa Suarez in 2001 in Denton. She is incredibly thankful to have shared a beautiful, loving partnership with him for more than 15 years.
Danny was known for his upbeat attitude and wonderful sense of humor. He valued his family and his friends. His Breakfast Buddies (you know who you are) were a huge part of his life, as was his best friend of almost 50 years, Bob Smith. Danny enjoyed working and repairing whatever was damaged, whether it was a tractor, a car or someone’s day. His customers always became his friends. Danny’s sidekick, Puppy Frank, rode with him everywhere and enjoyed every second. Everyone who was around Danny enjoyed every second as well. He is going to be missed so much by so many.
Danny was preceded in death by his brother, Baby Joe.
He is survived by his parents; his wife; daughters Vanessa Pyatt of Tennessee, Adriana Moore of Tennessee, Natalie Arispe of Denton and Stephanie Payne of Krum; son Joe Arispe of Denton; sisters Mali Gracy of Sherman, Sarah Jones of San Antonio and Carmen Whitaker of Denton; and grandchildren Christian, Cooper, Creed, Cyler, Caven, Casen, Jocelyn, Joel, Ethan and Zachary.

Armstrong, James Ray ‘Kiowa Baker’ | 1949-2017
Published Wednesday, January 25, 2017

James Armstrong
James Ray Armstrong, AKA “Kiowa Baker,” 68, died Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, in Paradise.
Memorial service is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, in the Womens Building at the Wise County Fairgrounds, 3101 FM 51 South, in Decatur.
James was born Jan. 9, 1949, in Paradise to Porter Thomas and Louetta Tackle Armstrong. He was an avid shooter and master electrician by trade. He served in the U.S. Navy and enjoyed Old West reenactments. He was known to many as Kiowa Baker.
James was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife, Robbin Fennell; daughter Alisha Fennell and fianc , Scotty Hopko; son Richard Coomer; sister Joyce Smith and husband, Rick; grandchildren Kyle and Blake Cagle and Bailey and Hunter Coomer; nephews Landon, Heath and Chance Smith.

Arnn, Scott Allan | 1970-2017
Published Saturday, April 15, 2017

Scott Arnn
Scott Allan Arnn, 46, of Boyd, died Monday, April 10, 2017.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, at Pleasant Grove No. 2 Cemetery in Boyd.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown.
Scott was born May 5, 1970, in Los Angeles.
He was preceded in death by his father, John Thomas Arnn; and his grandparents.
Scott is survived by his wife, Donna Keene-Arnn; son Christopher Arnn; daughter Camille Arnn; stepdaughter Preslee Rodriguez; and extended family members and friends.

Arrant, Chizue June | 1938-2017
Published Saturday, December 2, 2017

Chizue June Arrant
Chizue June Arrant, 79, of Azle, formerly of Decatur, died Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.
The family is having an open house to celebrate and honor her life 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at 7161 Rucker Street in Azle, before she is returned to Japan.
Alexander’s Midway in Springtown is handling arrangements.
Chizue was born Jan. 10, 1938, in Tachikawa, Japan. She married Bill Arrant Sept. 14, 1966.
She is survived by her husband of 51 years; son Billy Arrant Jr.; and a brother and a sister in Japan.

Atkins, Jo Evelyn (Hodges) | 1948-2017
Published Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Jo Evelyn Atkins
Jo Evelyn Atkins, 69, of New Braunfels, died Friday, Dec. 22, 2017.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27, at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Jo Evelyn was born July 12, 1948, in Decatur to Thomas and Tommie Ann Hodges. She married John David Atkins Dec. 17, 1966. Jo Evelyn was a member of the First Baptist Church in New Braunfels. She was a wife, mom, bookkeeper, stenographer and a sales associate at Walmart in New Braunfels.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her father; and brother, Truitt Hodges.
Jo Evelyn is survived by daughter, Christy Jo Patton and husband, Danny, of Shiner; son Carl Waymon Atkins and wife, Sheila, of Haslet; grandson John Dalton Patton of Shiner; mother Tommie Ann Hodges of Alvord; brother James Hodges and wife, Michelle, of Alvord; sisters LaWayne Hauser and husband, Karl, of Fort Worth, Margaret Gilbreath and husband, Cleddy, of Gainesville; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Baggett, Donna M. (Wissel) | 1939-2017
Published Saturday, November 25, 2017

Donna M. Baggett
Donna M. Baggett, 78, of Decatur died Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017.
Funeral is 11 a.m., Monday, Nov. 27, at Mount Olivet Chapel, 2301 North Sylvania Ave. in Fort Worth. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Mount Olivet.
Donna was born Aug. 20, 1939, in Nampa, Idaho, to Clare and Nina Wissel. She worked for Tandy Corp. and for 16 years at Tarrant County College.
She is survived by her husband, Charles L. Baggett; son John and wife, Nickie; daughter Kesia and husband, Ken; and grandchildren Dakota and Kacie.

Bailey, Edwin Earl | 1963-2017
Published Saturday, February 18, 2017

Edwin Bailey
Edwin Earl Bailey, 53, of Blue Mound, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017, in Blue Mound.
Memorial service will be at a later date.
Edwin was born Nov. 19, 1963, in Fort Worth to Edward and Millie (Gifford) Bailey. He was a self-employed mechanic.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his sisters, Marlene Rachuig and husband, David, of Blue Mound and Rena Garrett of Aurora; brother Edward Bailey Jr. and wife, Kim, of Arlington; nieces and nephews Jayson, Brandi, Malinda, James, Chris, Edward III (Eddie), David and Daniel; great-nieces and great-nephews Cade, Shane, Shyanne and Kaitlyn; uncle Ray Gifford; aunt Anita Bailey; and many, many friends.

Bailey. Leslie Faye (Miller) | 1970-2017
Published Saturday, May 6, 2017

Leslie Bailey
Leslie Faye Bailey, 47, of Terrell, died Monday, May 1, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 10, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with Don Purcell officiating. Burial will follow at Belew Cemetery in Aubrey.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Alix Evans, Timothy McClellan, Jamie Hudgins, Jim Serven, Joey Roman and Louis Johnson.
Honorary pallbearer is James Abshire.
Leslie was born April 15, 1970, in Euless to Franklin and Margie (Terry) Miller. She loved her family, horses, shopping and living life. Leslie was a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents.
She is survived by her son, Travis Kyle Bailey of Sunnyvale; her parents; brother Glen Miller of Newark; uncles Leonard Miller and wife, Cathie, of Bowie, Denny Miller and wife, Shirley, of West Virginia, David Miller and wife, Roxie, of West Virginia, Richard Terry of Burleson and Charles Terry of Euless; aunt Dreama Andrews of West Virginia; and other relatives and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the veteran’s program at Equest.org.

Ball, Judy (Watson) | 1945-2017
Published Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Judy Ball
Judy Ball, 71, of Bridgeport died Sunday, April 16, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Friday, April 21, at Balsora Baptist Church with the Rev. Glenn Connell officiating.
Judy was born April 23, 1945, in Muenster to Maxine and Temple Watson. She was the oldest of two children. She married Joe Wayne Ball Nov. 17, 1963. They were married for 51 years. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, who raised five children and one grandchild.
She was a member of the Balsora Baptist Church. Judy loved her flower beds, gardening, being outside and enjoying family time, especially with her children and grandchildren.
She was a hard worker and worked more than 20 years with Bridgeport ISD as a custodian and numerous years at Wise Health System as a floor tech and in housekeeping.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and daughter Kimberly Kay Struthers.
She is survived by her children, Temple Ball and wife, Betty, of Springtown, Kathy St. John and husband, Monty, of Bridgeport, Joann Bradford of Bridgeport and Jimmy Ball and wife, Tracey, of Runaway Bay; close family friend Ricky Martin of Bridgeport; and grandchildren Stephanie Fox and significant other, Tony Rodriquez, Keaton and Keisha St. John and Chad Bradford.
She’s also survived by great-grandchildren Alexia, Paige, Linzzy and Santana Rodriquez; five brothers-in-law; five sisters-in-law; sister Kay Fisher of Cameron; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Ballard, Jerry | 1942-2017
Published Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Jerry Ballard, 75, of Runaway Bay, died Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, in Runaway Bay.
Graveside service was Oct. 30 in Eternal Oaks Cemetery at Runaway Bay with Dr. Craig Erb officiating.
Jerry was born Aug. 5, 1942, in McCall Creek, Miss., to Eddie and Veda (Coglin) Ballard. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He was also a retired truck driver with Texas Mail.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Judy Ballard; and family.
Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 1204 12th St., Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Banks, Benny Bruce | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, February 4, 2017

Benny Banks
Benny Bruce Banks, 84, of Reno, Nev., died Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Reno.
Memorial service was Feb. 3 in Reno.
Benny was born May 3, 1932, in Poolville to Alvin and Gladys Banks. He was loved by all and will be missed beyond words. He loved life and lived it to the fullest.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Louellia Brewer and Joyce Slate; and brothers Eugene and Ray Banks.
Benny is survived by his children, Denise Banks and husband, Don Apodaca, Dennis Banks and wife, Susan and Darryl Banks and wife, Napua; grandchildren Jason McGuigan and wife, Amber, Jeremy McGuigan and wife, Melissa, Garrett Banks and wife, Tiffany, Davis Banks and wife, Cori Mansfield, and Brittney Banks and husband, Stephane.
He is also survived by great-grandchildren Jordin and Zachary McGuigan, Beckett Banks and Hayden Sangbe; bonus great-grandchildren Quentin, Roman and Hunter Porterfield, Tim Langley and Maikai Kaufman; brothers Dean Banks and wife, Shirley, and Jerry Banks and wife, JoAnn; sister Nona Rick; and many nieces and nephews.

Barber, Brent Carey | 1963-2017
Published Saturday, April 22, 2017
Brent Carey Barber, 53, of Boyd, died Friday, April 21, 2017, in Boyd.
Graveside service is 7 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. James Arrington officiating.
Brent was born June 10, 1963, in Plainview to James Allen and Virginia (Zorns) Barber.
He was preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his daughter, Tessa Denton of Seattle; son Jeff Denton of Seattle; mother Virginia Arrington and husband, James, of Boyd; brother Brad Barber and wife, Lonnie, of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; aunts Florence Greenfield of Boyd and Elizabeth Milner and husband, Elbert, of Bedford; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Barclay, Amy Nicole | 1973-2017
Published Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Amy Barclay
Amy Nicole Barclay, 44, died Monday, Aug. 14, 2017.
Memorial service was Aug. 26 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur.
Amy was born May 15, 1973.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Frank and Modena Roberts of Decatur and Johnny Barclay of Alvord.
She is survived by her sons, Jordan and Jeremy Lingle of Alvord; mother Shirley Stewart of Decatur; father Larry Barclay and wife, Judy, of Forestburg; grandmother Bobbye Barclay of Alvord; sister Kellye Souther and husband, Danny, of Alvord; brothers Kenny Lynn of Bridgeport and Tommy Souther of Keller; nieces and nephews Hunter and Clayton Lynn of Sherman and Austin Souther of Alvord; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Barger, Timothy Don East | 1996-2017
Published Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Timothy Barger
Timothy Don East Barger, 20, of Decatur, died Sunday, Feb. 19, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Timothy was born April 25, 1996, in Denton to James and Melanie (Bliss East) Barger. Timothy worked as a stocker at Wal-Mart.
He is survived by his parents; sisters Brittany Barger and fianc , Scott Bevers, of Lewisville and Cloey Barger of Bangs; niece Caylin Sweeten of Lewisville; nephew Ayden Bevers of Lewisville; grandparents Loyd and Marilyn East of Gainesville; and friends.

Barlow, Larry, Rev. | 1942-2017
Published Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Larry Barlow
The Rev. Larry Barlow, 75, of Bowie, died Monday, June 26, 2017.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Thursday, June 29, at the First Baptist Church in Bowie with the Rev. Mike Henson officiating. Graveside service is 10:15 a.m. Friday, June 30, at DFW National Cemetery with the Rev. Tom Merritt officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Larry was born Jan. 18, 1942, in Fitchburg, Mass., to Lee Adrian and Grace Smith Barlow. The family moved to Texas in 1954. He graduated from Wayland Baptist College with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1968, and in 1973, Larry received his master’s of divinity from the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
He later went on to earn his doctorate of theology from California Graduate School in 1984 and a master of arts in education from New Mexico State University in 1997.
As a Southern Baptist preacher, Larry was the pastor of churches in Oklahoma, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico for 40 years. He taught special education in Anthony, N.M., for several years. In 2008, he retired from the pastorate and moved to Bowie to be near his sister, Pamela Barlow, DVM.
Larry was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Bowie where he led the singing for his Sunday school class and also sang in the choir. He and his wife, Janet, were involved in many of the activities with the senior adult group.
Larry was also active with the Senior Citizens Center, Friends of the Library and the Hospice Store in Bowie. He was a big science fiction fan and loved to garden. He and his wife loved to go on family cruises.
Larry is survived by his wife of 55 years; daughter Karyn Barlow of Rio Rancho, N.M.; granddaughter Kaitlyn Barlow of Albuquerque, N.M.; sisters Sandy Rewis and her husband, Earl, of Richmond Hills, Ga., Pamela Barlow of Bowie and Vanessa Akin and her husband, Pogo, of Stafford, Va.; sister-in-law Judy Hughes and husband, Hal; niece Kathy Hughes of Austin; and nephew Clint Hughes and wife, Jessica, of Oakdale, Minn.
Memorial donations may be made to the Building Fund of the First Baptist Church or to the American Cancer Society.

Barnett, Raymond | 1948-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Raymond Barnett
Raymond Barnett, 68, of Sunset, died Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017, in Denton.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 25, at First Baptist Church of Alvord with Bill Cleveland, Chuck Eubanks, Roger Jones and Dan Campbell officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery.
Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Jordan Sherwood, Cody Burdine, Colby Burdine, Seth Weatherly, Cary Simmons and Benny Simmons.
Honorary pallbearers are Emma Sherwood, Andrew Hutto, Jackson Hutto, Jason Barnes, Heath Barnes and Keith Meyer.
Raymond was born Oct. 31, 1948, in Bowie to Carl and Vivian (Simmons) Barnett. He married Melba Jean Pierce April 12, 1968, in Alvord. Raymond retired as a heavy equipment operator for TXI. He was a member of the Union Hill Baptist Church in Alvord. Raymond was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Marion Barnett.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years; daughters Christie Sherwood and husband, Jack, of Alvord, Alyssa Hutto of Alvord and Jeanna Moreno and husband, Randy, of Flower Mound; grandchildren Jordan Sherwood, Emma Sherwood, Andrew Hutto and Jackson Hutto; sister Betty Ann Barnett Weatherly and husband, Harvey, of Chico; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Barnett, Victor King | 1948-2017
Published Saturday, August 5, 2017

Victor Barnett
Victor King Barnett, 68, died Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2017.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8, at Shannon Rose Hill Funeral Home, 7301 E. Lancaster in Fort Worth. Burial will follow.
Visitation is 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7, at the funeral home.
King was born Dec. 11, 1948, in Topeka, Kan., to Oscar and Mary Barnett. He was one of six siblings. At 18, he enlisted in the Air Force and fought in the Vietnam War.
After his service, he went back to school, graduated and became a proud alumnus of Texas Christian University. King later married his true love, Debbye Evans, June 5, 1993, and had three children.
Throughout his career, he retired from the Fort Worth Police Department, was a district attorney investigator, private investigator and had his own business in bails bonds. Victor held many titles, but his favorite was being a loving husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed playing golf, hunting and fishing.
King was liked by everyone because he was always in a good mood and helped anyone he met. He lived life by his own quote, “If you’re not having a good day, it’s your own damn fault.” So he always made sure to keep a smile on his face and have a good day. King will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings Margaret Barnett, Mary Welsh, Barbara Eckhardt and William Barnett.
He is survived by his wife; sons Gary and wife, Keylia, and Michael and wife, Muriel; daughter Tory Armstrong and husband, Daniel; grandchildren Lexi, Eli and Jake; and brother Charles Barnett and wife, Debbie.

Bates, George W. | 1921-2017
Published Wednesday, March 1, 2017

George Bates
George W. Bates, 95, of Decatur, died Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Thursday, March 2, at Victory Family Church, 400 W. U.S. 380 in Decatur with his son, the Rev. Allen Bates, of Victory Family Church, officiating. Burial will follow at the Archer City Cemetery under the direction of Aulds Funeral Home.
Visitation is 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, at Coker-Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
George was born Nov. 26, 1921, in Lubbock to Owen Mackafee and Nanny Moore Bates. He attended school in Holliday. George married Cleota Smith Feb. 7, 1942, in Walters, Okla. He worked for Gifford-Hill American Pipe Co. for 45 years as a field superintendent and traveled all over Texas until his retirement in 1990.
In 1989, George moved to Decatur. He was a charter member of Victory Family Church in Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife. He was also preceded in death by daughter Gloria Purdy, on April 28, 2011; and son George L. Bates on Feb. 16, 2017.
George is survived by his daughters, Diane Sartain and husband, Jim, of Eagle Mountain Lake and Evelyn Ryan of Decatur; son Allen Bates and wife, Velda, of Decatur; son-in-law Jack Purdy of Sherman; and daughter-in-law Mary Ann Bates of Clay County.
He is also survived by grandchildren Bryon Sartain and wife, Pam, of De Soto, Darin Sartain of Colleyville, Robby Sartain of Saginaw, Janet Price and husband, Alan, of Bowie, Gabriele Bates of Grand Prairie, Misty deMelo and husband, James, of Carrollton, Wesley Sisk and wife, Becky, of Farmersville, Richard Bates and wife, Cortny, of Wichita Falls, Joshua Purdy and wife, Stephanie, of Corpus Christi, Christy Ryan of Denton, Chris Bates and wife, Kate, of Decatur, Jennifer Ryan of Poteau, Okla., and Jessica Cobb and husband, Cody, of Decatur; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Victory Family Church, P.O. Box 32, Decatur, TX 76234.

Bean, Paul E. ‘Dad’ | 1945-2017
Published Saturday, June 10, 2017

Paul Bean
Paul E. “Dad” Bean, 71, of Boyd, died Wednesday, June 6, 2017, in Decatur.
Visitation was Thursday, June 8 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Paul was born Aug. 22, 1945, in Hillsboro to William “Willie” and Annie (Green) Bean. He married Deloris Kilgore May 11, 1966, in Colorado Springs, Colo. Paul proudly served his country in the United States Army. He retired from Affiliated Auto Salvage after 28 years of service as an auto mechanic.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and brother Bill Bean.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years; sons Eddie Bean and wife, Kathryn, of Azle, Willie Bean and wife, April, of Boyd and Heath Shires of Boyd; daughter Dianna Harrell of Fort Worth; grandchildren Regan, Kalynn, Willie II and Devin; great-grandchildren Karsyn and one on the way; sisters Laura Reed and Peggy Reed; brother Donald Bean; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Beaver, Kaely Ashton | 1999-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Kaely Beaver
Kaely Ashton Beaver, 17, of Alvord, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in Alvord.
Funeral is 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with Dr. Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial will follow at Jonestown Cemetery in Alvord.
Visitation is 1 hour prior to the service.
Pallbearers are Norman Sanders, Tony Tucker, Barry Sanders, Leon Sanders, Ted Maxwell, Jack Rutledge, Ken Hering and Cody Yzaguirre.
Kaely was born Aug. 2, 1999, in Decatur to Robert and Debora (Tucker) Beaver. She was member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Kaely is survived by her mother, Debora Drake and fianc , Billy McElhaney Jr., of Decatur; brothers Kalyb and Keygun Beaver of Alvord; grandparents Jack and Rita Tucker of Alvord; uncle Tony Tucker and wife, Kim, of Haslet; and numerous cousins and friends.

Beck, Sandra Ann | 1968-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Sandra Ann Beck, 49, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Nov. 10, 2017, in Weatherford.
Memorial service was Nov. 13 at New Hope Fellowship Church in Chico with the Rev. Lionel Young officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport handled arrangements.
Sandra was born April 21, 1968, in Fort Worth to Paul and Barbara (Keen) Beck.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Sandra is survived by her son, Robert Beck; granddaughter Liliah Beck; her mother; brother Wayne Beck; nieces Catlyn and Hannah Marie Beck; and other family members and friends.

Benavente, Maria Angeles | 1959-2017
Published Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Maria Benavente
Maria Angeles Benavente, 58, of Bridgeport, died Saturday, June 3, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Maria will lie in state 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 7 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
She was born April 12, 1959, in Allende, Coahuila, Mexico to Jesus and Angelica (Palomares) Villarreal. Maria was a member of St. Johns Catholic Church in Bridgeport. Her hobbies included casino gambling, bingo, cooking and taking care of her grandkids. Her family voted her Best Mom of the Year.
She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Jose Homero Benavente; son Jose Homer Benavente Jr.; daughters Rosa Linda Lopez and husband, Heraclio Rodriquez and Christina Hernandez and husband, Miguel; grandchildren Priscila Lopez, Mikah Benavente, Heraclio Rodriquez Jr., Lynda Rodriquez, Juliey Maria Hernandez, America Hernandez and Jose Homero Benavente III; and her huge and loved family.

Bentley, Romona Marie (McGuire) | 1960-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Romona Marie Bentley
Romona Marie Bentley, 57, of Bowie died Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017, after battling cancer.
Memorial service will be held at a later date at Bluebonnet Memorial Park in Colleyville.
White Family Funeral Home in Bowie is handling arrangements.
Romona’s devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace. She touched many lives with her kind and loving spirit. Being an animal lover, she had a special place in her heart for her fur-babies.
Romona was preceded in death by her father, Jerry McGuire; and mother Hannelore McGuire.
She is survived by her husband, Tim Bentley; sons Wesley Hall and wife, Ashley, and Taylor Hall; brother Steve McGuire and wife, Linda; sister Loreanne Kurtz and husband, Richard; mother-in-law Phyllis Tauber; sister-in-law Dee Ann Russell and husband, Cary; brother-in-law Cecil Bentley and wife, Christi; and nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members.

Bergstrom, Polly (Ezell) | 1923-2017
Published Saturday, April 15, 2017

Polly Bergstrom
Polly Ezell Bergstrom, 93, of Sweetwater, died Thursday, April 13, 2017, in Sweetwater.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating.
Visitation is 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Polly was born May 5, 1923, in Wichita Falls to Jess and Annabelle (Rutherford) Ezell. She married Wilbert J. Bergstrom June 28, 1941, in Denton. Polly retired after 50 years with General Motors. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
Polly is survived by her son, Jon E. Bergstrom and wife, Karan, of Sweetwater; grandson John Derrick Bergstrom and wife, Carrie; great-grandson Evan Bergstrom; and great-granddaughter Emme Bergstrom; granddaughter Denise R. Blake and husband, Jason; great-grandsons Jaden Blake and Ryan Blake; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Berrier, Ashley Dawn (Stehle) | 1984-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Ashley Dawn Berrier
Ashley Dawn Berrier, 32, of Decatur, died Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Nov. 7 at the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Ashley was born Nov. 16, 1984, in Dallas to Chris Noell and Robyn Stehle. She married Zach Berrier June 30, 2007, in Duncanville. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
Ashley was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jimmy and Peggy Collier, Florence and Grady Willis, and Judy Stehle.
She is survived by her husband; daughters Tifani, Gracie and Audrey Berrier; father Chris Noell and wife, Susanne, of Red Oak; mother Robyn Stehle and husband, Russ, of Walters, Okla.; sisters Payton Stehle of Walters, Okla. and Hailey Phillips and husband, Franklin, of Red Oak; brother Bryan Trahern and niece, Ava, of Red Oak; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Bessire, Bernice Lee (Kent) | 1934–2017
Published Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Bernice Lee Bessire, 83, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Aug. 18, 2017, in Decatur.

Bessire
Memorial service was Aug. 22 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Bernice was born April 27, 1934, in Iowa Park to Bernice Jackson and Leola (Warnick) Kent. She married Billy Joe Bessire Oct. 26, 1962, in Archer County.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Randy Alvey; grandson Keith Alvey; brother Carl Kent; and sister Joy Morrison.
She is survived by her daughter, Tammy Young of Bridgeport; son Mark Bessire of Bridgeport; grandchildren Chandra, Shane Billy, Dawn, Josh, Rachel, Jacob, Jeremy and Ashley; 17 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bethurum, Brett Alden | 1961-2017
Published Saturday, October 14, 2017

Brett Alden Bethurum
Brett Alden Bethurum, 56, died Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, in Venus.
Memorial service was Thursday, Oct. 12 at First Baptist Church in Decatur with the Revs. David Lowry and Gerre Joiner officiating.
He was born Oct. 3, 1961, in Arlington. He attended Gunn Junior High School and graduated from Bowie High School in Arlington in 1979. Brett played trumpet for the Bowie Volunteers Marching Band and he received a band scholarship from Texas Christian University.
Brett’s love of music evolved into the acoustic guitar and electric guitar. He played in numerous bands including Country Mile, Not Exactly Dylan and Slim Pickens for more than 25 years. Brett’s constant companions were his dogs Hazel and Tate, plus many others over the years. Brett was full of humor and always had a beautiful smile. Brett enjoyed the outdoors and spending time in his backyard in the evening playing his guitar.
He is survived by his two daughters, Haley Axsom and her husband, Kalo, of Natchitoches, La. and Ellisha Doolen of Tucson, Ariz.; parents Jerry and Barbara Bethurum of Decatur; sisters Lisa A. Bethurum of Decatur and Faith Bethurum of San Marcos; and brother Captain Grant Bethurum and his wife, Maria, of Odenton, Md.
He is also survived by nieces and nephews Rob Holder and his wife, Stephanie, of Keller, Crystal Raesley and her husband, Matt, of Keller, Arin Satterthwaite of Marble Falls, Ian Satterthwaite of San Marcos and Kai S. Bethurum of Odenton, Md; and great-nephew Hayden V. Wofford of Keller.

Bise, Sandra Kay (Soulsby) | 1951-2017
Published Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Sandra Kay Soulsby Bise
Sandra Kay Soulsby Bise, 66, of Newark, died Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, in Newark.
Memorial service is 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, in Alexander’s Midway Chapel in Springtown.
Sandra was born March 16, 1951, in Akron, Ohio, to Frank K. and Mary K. Reichart Soulsby. She was a loving mother, sister and grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald J. Bise, Sr.; and brother Harry Soulsby.
Sandra is survived by her children, Sandra Barker and husband, Kelly, Donald J. Bise Jr. and wife, Pamela, and Quinten Bise and wife, Nan; brothers Warren Soulsby and wife, Debbie, and Bill Soulsby and wife, Rene; and grandchildren Elizabeth, Aiden and Michael.

Bishop, Joe Keith | 1957-2017
Published Saturday, March 4, 2017

Joe Bishop
Joe Keith Bishop, 59, of Rhome, died Wednesday, March 1, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, March 4, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Donald Wann officiating. Burial will follow at Loving Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Wade Bishop, Dustan Fennell, Doug Throckmorton, Jonas McEntire, Michael Fennell and Vincent Porter.
Joe was born Aug. 16, 1957, in Willcox, Ariz., to Joe and Linda (Parten) Bishop. He married Brenda Kay Kinsey Nov. 22, 1986, in Decatur. Joe worked as a correctional officer. He served his country in the United States Navy.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years; son Tommy Throckmorton of Oklahoma; daughter Jessica Bishop of Paradise; brothers Tommy Bishop of Decatur and Sonny Bishop of Fort Worth; sister Doris Schwieger of Rhome; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Bomar, Charles Lorance | 1922-2017
Published Saturday, June 10, 2017

Charles Bomar
Charles Lorance Bomar, of Austin, died Saturday, June 3, 2017, in Austin.
A joint memorial service for Charlie and his late wife, Laura, will take place at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 24 at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, 605 Robert E. Lee Road in Austin.
Charlie was born in 1922 in Vernon to Robert and Ruby Bomar. He attended Texas Technological College for two years before enlisting in the Army Air Corps in 1942. He was a P-47 pilot in the Philippines and Okinawa. He finished his military career in 1946 flying P-38s on security missions in Korea. After the war, Charlie returned to Texas Tech and graduated with a degree in industrial engineering. It was during this time that he married Laura Lou Johnston of Pecos and started working for the Texas Concrete Block Company in Lubbock. E.G. Kingsbury purchased the company in 1953 and renamed it Featherlite Corporation. Charlie retired as the company president after 22 years.
For the next 35 years, he enjoyed various careers as a land developer, water works owner and operator and real estate entrepreneur. His true passion was his ranch in Uvalde County, which was his home away from home. Charlie enjoyed hosting hunting trips at his ranch for his friends and family until his retirement in 2012. He killed his last mountain lion at the age of 89.
Charlie was a thoughtful and generous man. He charmed Featherlite into donating land in Liberty Hill to create the Lions Foundation Park. Charlie even convinced the company to donate funds to help with the construction of the park. He also volunteered his time to help the Liberty Hill ISD and the city of Liberty Hill design a sewer system for the school district.
Charlie had a soft spot in his heart for children who were not as blessed with good health as his own children and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years in August 2016.
Charlie is survived by his children and their spouses, Mike Bomar of Corvallis, Ore., Christie and Bill Nalle of Austin, Ann and Tom Ferguson of Chico and Pat and Dale May of Bellville; grandchildren Jordan Nalle, Josh Ferguson, Rachel Wheeler, Beth Ferguson, Dave May and Topher May; great-grandchildren Addison Nalle, Teak Nalle, Rylan Wheeler, Charlie May and Chandler Windham; sister Betty Self; sister-in-law Martha Bomar; and numerous cousins.
In lieu of flowers, Charlie would prefer memorial donations to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Houston. Donations may be mailed to the attention of Jocely Lybrand, 6977 Main Street, Houston, TX 77030.

Bond, Inez LeVelle (Fisher) | 1927-2017
Published Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Inez Bond
Inez LeVelle Fisher Bond, 90, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, March 16, 2017, in Chandler, Ariz.
LeVelle requested no funeral service. Her children will celebrate her life with a graveside service 1 p.m. Saturday, March 25, at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
LeVelle was born March 10, 1927, in Paradise to Iva Holt (Ritter) and John Rueben Fisher. She loved telling people she “was born in Paradise and has lived somewhere South ever since”.
LeVelle was a true Texan and lived a life she loved with humor and grit. She graduated from Bridgeport High School and Texas Woman’s University. She was married to Howard Bond for 25 years and had three children. LeVelle was a retired teacher.
Her fondest memories were of growing up in Wise County and spending time with her cousins at her grandparents’ farms in Bridgeport.
LeVelle is survived by her children, Mark Bond and wife, Lea, Teresa Bond and Linda DeHoff and husband, Gary; grandchildren Kara Bond, Brenna McAllister, Austin Bond, Anthony Wallace and Christopher DeHoff; great-grandchildren Ian McAllister and Quinn McAllister; and brother Carroll Fisher.
Memorial donations may be made to Neighbors Who Care, 10450 East Riggs Road, Ste. 113, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248.

Borsheim, Gerald Arthur | 1931-1959
Published Published Saturday, Aug. 19, 2017

Gerald Borsheim
Gerald Arthur Borsheim, 85, of Rhome, died Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, at Aurora Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Withers officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Gerald was born Sept. 5, 1931, in Decorah, Iowa, to Alva and Ida (Owen) Borsheim.
He married May Jeanette Bell Sept. 19, 1959, in Waterloo, Iowa. Gerald was a retired machinist with John Deere. He was a member of the Aurora Baptist Church. Gerald was a member of the Masonic Lodge. He served his country in the United States Army.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Gerald is survived by his wife of 57 years; daughter Teresa Barton and husband, David, of Rhome; grandson David Barton Jr. and wife, Amy, of Rhome; great-grandchildren Kennadee and Ganyn Barton of Rhome; brothers Al Borsheim, Donnie Borsheim and Kenny Borsheim, all of Lacrosse, Wis.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorials may be made to Aurora Baptist Church Youth Camp.

Bounds, Jimmy Yale, Sr. | 1935-2017
Published Saturday, May 27, 2017

Jimmy Bounds Sr.
Jimmy Yale Bounds Sr., 81, of El Reno, Okla., died Thursday, May 25, 2017, in El Reno.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, at the First Baptist Church, 541 Mercy Dr., in El Reno with the Rev. Charlie Blount officiating. Burial will follow at El Reno Cemetery.
Jimmy was born Sept. 23, 1935, in a log cabin in Chico to Joe and Hertha Bounds. He married the love of his life Oct. 5, 1953. He began working for the Rock Island Railroad in 1953 and retired from the Union Pacific Railroad in 1992.
During his career he served as a telegrapher, appointive agent, legislative representative, division safety officer, train master and manager of train operations. A hard worker and engaged citizen, Jimmy was the first president of the Chamber of Commerce in Chico, where he also served as a volunteer firefighter and member of the Lions Club.
He spent time as an El Reno city councilman and as a volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce and the American Cancer Society. He also served on boards with the Rock Island Credit Union and Redlands Community College Foundation. Jimmy was instrumental in creating an El Reno chapter of the Don Watrus Telegraph Club, as well as Hero’s Plaza in downtown El Reno.
Jimmy was kind, loving and generous. Of all his activities and achievements, family was the most important to Jimmy, and he would tell anyone who would listen that he had the best family in the world.
Jimmy was preceded in death by parents; and brother Larry.
He is survived by his beloved wife Shirley of 63 years; sons Jim Bounds and wife, Liz, of San Antonio and Michael Bounds and wife, Debbie, of Yukon, Okla.
Jimmy is also survived by his grandchildren, Cliff Bounds and wife, Bethany, Emilee Bounds and wife, Haleigh, and Bailey Bounds; and great-grandchildren Dresden and Anaiah Bounds.
Memorial donations may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association to further research and support for individuals with Charcot-Marie Tooth at mda.org/donate.

Bounds, Murtie Pearl (Patterson) | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Murtie Bounds
Murtie Pearl Bounds, 73, of Springtown, died Thursday, May 11, 2017, in Springtown.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Bobby Bowden officiating.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Honorary pallbearers are the Tarrant County Sherriff’s Posse.
Murtie was born July 6, 1943, in California to Thomas and Ruby (Corbin) Patterson. She was a member of the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Posse and the Wolf Pack. Murtie was the best nana in the world. She was a member of the Western Star Cowboy Church in Springtown.
Murtie retired from Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd in 2015 and spent the rest of her time here on earth doing what she loved, taking care of her horses and other animals. Anyone who knew Murtie knew how much she adored her horses and could always tell a good story about them. She was a woman of strength, honesty and integrity.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Damon Bounds; grandson Jordan Adams; and brothers Earl D. Thomas, Lloyd Thomas and Tommy Patterson.
Murtie is survived by her sons, Kenneth Grant of Fort Worth and Joe Wilmoth of Irvine, Calif.; sisters Earlene Mize of Memphis and Jimmie Boss of Amarillo; daughters Christi Wilson of Houston, Jenny Calles and husband, Johnny, of Pearland, Penny York and husband, Chuck, of Pearland, Shami Long of Justin, Karen Taber of Weatherford and Michelle Van Winkle and husband, Paul, of Fort Worth; her very good friend, R.D. Morgan of Springtown; numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-grand nieces and nephews, and friends.

Boydston, Emodine (Spain) Atkins | 1927-2017
Published Wednesday, June 21, 2017

Emodine Boydston
Emodine Boydston, 90, of Decatur, died Friday, June 16, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral service was Tuesday, June 20 at Cornerstone Baptist Church. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
She was born June 11, 1927, in Decatur to Clyde and Christine Rawle Spain. She married Waymon Atkins Jan. 15, 1946. They had three children, John David, Gaylon Lynn and Janice Kay. Waymon was killed in a car accident April 25, 1967. Emodine married Raymond Boydston Sept. 16, 1975.
Emodine loved working in her yard and garden. She was an accomplished seamstress and created beautiful things with her sewing. Her family meant everything to her and she loved having them around. She was an excellent cook and known far and wide for her famous banana pudding. Emodine was a lifelong member of Cornerstone Baptist Church and actively served in various ministries throughout the years. She always had a warm hug for everyone, a glowing smile and a twinkle in her eye.
Emodine was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband; her second husband; son John David Atkins; sisters Leona Burk and Alma Maxey; and brother Warren Spain.
She is survived by her sons, Gaylon Atkins and wife, Mary Jane, of DeLeon and Wayne Boydston and wife, Gay, of Joshua; daughters, Janice McCandless and husband, Darrell, of Decatur and Beverly Gutierrez of Fort Worth; granddaughters, Christy Jo Patton and husband, Dannym, of Shiner, Rain Genthner and husband, Scott, of Lantana, Malia Gutierrez of Beaumont and Amy Vann and husband, Mark, of Fort Worth; grandsons, Carl Atkins and wife, Sheila, of Haslet, Chet Atkins of Saginaw, Burt Atkins and wife, Jordan, of Deleon, Camron McCandless and wife, Kayla, of Decatur, Frank Gutierrez of Kirbyville and Kip Boydston and wife, Theresa, of Burleson; great-grandchildren Keaton, Kass and Kileigh Vann, Dalton Patton, Cal and Jade Genthner, Blayze, Jerney, Ridge and Trale McCandless, Audry, Emily, Cole and Mallory Atkins, Zoe and Zachary Boydston, Reba and Kellar Atkins and Lili, Austin and Logan Gutierrez; sister Idnel Stone of Decatur; brothers Clyde Spain Jr. and wife, Mavis, of Decatur and Don Spain and wife, Dean, of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Boyett, Margaret Joann (Andress) | 1940-2017
Published Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Margaret Joann Andress Boyett
Margaret Joann Andress Boyett, 77, died on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017.
Memorial service is 2 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 30, at Gateway Church, 4209 Basswood Blvd., in Fort Worth.
Margaret was born May 24, 1940, in Sunset. She married Jerry Boyett Jan. 8, 1960.
She was preceded in death by brother Elton Andress.
Margaret is survived by her husband; son Mark Boyett; daughters Melissa Boyett Lange and Melanie Boyett Hutchinson; seven grandchildren; and brothers Leroy Andress of Conroe and Milton Andress of Boyd.
Memorial donations may be made to Universal Health Resources, P.O. Box 8795, Fort Worth, TX 76124.

Boykins, Richard L. | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, November 4, 2017

Richard L. Boykins
Richard L. Boykins, 73, of Alvord, died Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 6, at the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
Visitation is at the church one hour prior to the service. Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Richard was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord. He worked as a heavy equipment operator at TXI for 25 years. He was also a security guard with Wise Health System for seven years, as well as a volunteer. He loved to play games and spend time with his family.
Richard was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Boykins; and great-grandson Lane Dawson.
Richard is survived by his wife of 47 years, Nancy Boykins of Alvord; daughters Peggy Wilson and husband, Chester, of Decatur, Carmen Whatley and husband, Kelly Dawson, of Poolville and Ammy Groves and husband, Joshua, of Alvord; grandsons Nathen Dawson and wife, Kharysa, of Alvord and Stephen Whatley and girlfriend, Taylor Gardner, of Chico; great-granddaughter Elizabeth Dawson of Alvord; sister Nancy Huff and husband, Howard, of Tomahawk, Wis., Brenda Burrow and husband, John, of Merriel, Wis.; brother Kenneth Boykins of Tomahawk, Wis.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bramlett, Billy Ray | 1925-2017
Published Saturday, December 16, 2017

Billy Ray Bramlett
Billy Ray Bramlett, 92, of Decatur, died Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at the First Baptist Church in Decatur with David Lowrie and Van Gardner officiating. Burial will follow at Preskitt Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Mason Hudson, Michael Reeves, Joshua Reeves, Sean Reeves, Brenden Kerby and Trey Wadlington.
Honorary pallbearers are Kevin Pate, Richie Pate, Steve Pate, Joey Rodell, Jeff Rodell and John Rodell.
Billy was born Oct. 3, 1925, in Decatur to Bill and Ola Bell (Collier) Bramlett. Billy was a musician and retired state barber inspector. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur. Billy served his country in the United States Army.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Gwendolyn Joy Bramlett; and son Rodney Moore.
He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Ren Bramlett Claxton of Fort Worth and Stacie Rae Bramlett Hudson and husband, Michael “Buba,” of Decatur; son Clint Mathew Moore of Buffalo; grandchildren Michael Reeves, Joshua Reeves, Mason Hudson, Eric Hudson and Gwendolyn Harper; great-grandchildren Sean Reeves, Madison Reeves and Makena Reeves; and numerous extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Wise County Veterans Group and Relay for Life of Wise County.

Bridges, Dorothy Euline (Tabner) | 1932-2017
Published Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Dorothy Bridges
Dorothy Euline Bridges, 84, of Boyd, died Sunday, June 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 7 at Cottondale Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Pugh officiating. Burial will follow at Cottondale Cemetery. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers include Jerry Taylor, Ronald Tinder, Jimmy Cox, Harold Remmelle, Deon Carpenter and Gene Remmelle.
Honorary pallbearers are Sammy Erwin, Don Gentry, Merlin Remmelle and Bill Read.
Dorothy was born July 4, 1932, in Duke, Okla. to Clarence and Lillie (Stokes) Tabner. She married Melvin Bridges Oct. 4, 1949, in Decatur. She was a retired banker.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
She is survived by her two daughters, Rhonda Ellis and husband, Richard, of Port Aransas and Karen Jackson of Bellevue; grandchildren Jeff Bennett and wife, Monica, Chad Bennett and wife, Chasity, Miranda Braden and husband, Tacoma and John Jackson and wife, Kelly; 10 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild and one due any day; and sister Nadine Mara of Decatur.

Bridges, Orvalda (Walker) | 1938-2017
Published Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Orvalda Bridges
Orvalda Bridges, 78, of Decatur, died Sunday, July 16, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 19, at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery with the Rev. Mike Wheat officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Orvalda was born Dec. 12, 1938, in Decatur to Orval and Vera (Rhine) Walker. She married Billy Bridges April 27, 1968, in Decatur. Orvalda was member of Crafts Circuit and TOPS. She was on committees for the Wise County Old Settlers Reunion and Relay for Life.
Orvalda was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her son, Wendal Bridges and Kristi and Brooklyn Force of Decatur; grandson Justin Bridges and wife, Jessica, of Decatur; sisters Mary Ella Wilson and husband, Rodney, of Greenwood, Truman Whittington and husband, Gary, of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Relay for Life in Decatur.

Brock, Ernest Clifford ‘E.C.’, Jr. | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, May 13, 2017

E.C. Brock Jr.
Ernest Clifford (E.C.) Brock Jr., 73, of Tolar (Justin), died Monday, May 8, 2017.
Funeral was May 12 at Triple Cross Cowboy Church in Granbury with burial at Bluebonnet Cemetery in Colleyville.
E.C. left a legacy of love for all that knew him. He spent his early years building metal buildings, playing semi-pro volleyball and fast-pitch softball. He coached little league baseball and girls softball. He taught school for 25 years at Northwest ISD.
EC was a member of the North Texas High School Rodeo Association for 40-plus years. He picked up broncs for more than 35 years, hauled bulldogging horses and hazed for hundreds of up-and-coming rodeo stars. E.C. served eight years on the NTHSRA board of directors, two of which he served as president. His favorite saying was, “The most important things in life are family, good friends and great horses, and not necessarily in that order.”
E.C. was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Lela Brock; and sister Stella Sparks.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda Smith Brock; children Brenda Moe and husband, Mike, Sandy Smith, Les Brock and wife, Rilla, and Kelly Pickens and husband, Scott; and grandchildren Melinda Nolen and husband, Chase, Buck Mattern, Emily Matlock and husband, Colton, Kristin Smith, Taylor Brock, Bailey Brock, Raelynn Brock, Les Brock Jr. (Bub) and Lela Pickens.
Other survivors include 12 great-grandchildren; sisters Vertalee Coleman and husband, John, Ellen Lovett and Jean Morrow; and numerous nieces, nephews and adoptees.
E.C. believed every child deserves a chance. Memorial donations may be made to the NTHSRA Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 79500, Saginaw, TX 76179.

Brock, Wanda Denise (Hubbard) | 1953-2016
Published Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Wanda Brock
Wanda Denise Brock, 63, of Somerville, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, in Burleson County.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Caldwell with the Rev. David Kauffman officiating. She will be cremated.
Wanda was born Oct. 8, 1953, in Tampa, Fla., to Ray and Lavada Marie Hubbard. She was a Baptist and enjoyed making candles and jewelry, watching movies, visiting with friends over a cold one, sitting by a warm fire or watching the sunset at the beach. She loved her dogs and horses as much as people, and she never met a stranger.
Wanda was preceded in death by her son, Gary Bailey; infant daughter Jennifer Bailey; and brother Jody Whitfield.
She is survived by her mother, Marie Smith of Rockdale; daughter Tanya Mynar and husband, Darrell, of Rockdale; grandchildren Dakota Mynar, Derrick Mynar and wife, Shelby, Mason Bailey, Cruz Gonzalez, Rowdy Menchaca, Hallie Parker and Karley Parker; daughter-in-law Danielle Smith of Somerville; brother Shane Whitfield of Florida; sisters Katherine Hovis, Diane Whitfield, Marlena Vernon, Tiffani McLendon and Leslie Baggett, all of Florida; father Ray Whitfield and wife, Marie; and husband Larry Brock of Caldwell.
Memorial donations may be made to an account that has been set up to help cover Wanda’s funeral expenses. Go to gofundme.com/wanda-brocks-final-expenses.

Brooks, Guy Hayes | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, December 16, 2017

Guy Hayes Brooks
Guy Hayes Brooks, 85, of Sunset, died Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Newcastle Cemetery in Newcastle.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Guy was born Sept. 6, 1932, in Newcastle to Andrew and Johnnie Lee (Yarbrough) Brooks. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Guy was a member of Wise County Veterans and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He was a retired aircraft mechanic.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Guy Brooks Jr.; brothers James and Joe Brooks; and sisters Ophilia Kessler and Rea Donahue.
He is survived by his daughter, Peggy Manion and husband, James, of Granbury; son Gregory H. Brooks of Euless; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister Billie Jacobson of Eden; brother Pooch Williams of Newcastle; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Brown, Bobby Lloyd ‘Rusty’ | 1953-2017
Published Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Bobby Lloyd Brown
Bobby Lloyd “Rusty” Brown, 64, of Bridgeport, died Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral was Dec. 12 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Rusty was born Feb. 20, 1953, in Lake Bridgeport to Bonnie Foster and Marie (Preskitt) Brown. He married Elaine Burk Dec. 17, 1971, in Rhome. He was a retired oilfield salesman.
Rusty was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Gary, Mike and Jim Brown; and sister Sissy Steagall.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years; son Eric Scott Brown and wife, Tonja, of Bridgeport; daughters Kayla Bridges and husband, Jimmy, of Weatherford and Mendi Pittman and husband, Jeff, of Runaway Bay; and grandchildren James, Kacy, Kalyb, Jesye, Hannah, Zane, Maddi, Tanner and Laney.
Other survivors include great-grandsons Kayden and Beckett; sisters Barbara McDaniel, Tiny Atkins and Rayanne Gentry and husband, Brad; brother Tommy Brown; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Brown, Dora Elizabeth (Green) | 1930-2017
Published Saturday, April 8, 2017

Dora Brown
Dora Elizabeth Green Brown, 86, of Newark, died Monday, April 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service was April 7 at Pope Cemetery in Briar with the Rev. Mike Boaldin officiating.
Dora was born Aug. 24, 1930, in Fort Worth to Leslie Marvin and Jewell Earlene (Stanley) Green. She married Robert Lee Brown May 27, 1950, in Newark. Dora was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She loved to cook, bake and was an avid crafter.
Singing was her passion and she did so every chance she got. Dora retired from BH&W where she was an accounting manager.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Gregory Brown; granddaughter Shaessa Burns; brother Buddy Green; and sister Earlene Green Hachtel.
She is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Burns and husband, Mike, of Stephenville; daughter-in-law LaDonna Brown of Newark; and grandchildren Jeremy Brown, Kristi Brown, Tessa Snodgrass and Sherri Proffitt.
Other survivors include great-grandchildren Coltin, Sierra, Scarlett, Savannah, Summer, Ashton, Melayne, Landry, Jay, Kylan, Gage, Jaden, Ashton, Raelyn, Julie, Peyton, Brooke and Jacob; brothers Jimmy Green and wife, Brenda, Beryal Green and Chris Green; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Brown, Gregory Lee | 1956-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Gregory Brown
Gregory Lee Brown, 60, of Newark, died Saturday, April 1, 2017, in Newark.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Gregory was born Nov. 11, 1956, in Fort Worth to Robert and Dora (Green) Brown. He married LaDonna Hood May 27, 1983, in Forth Worth. Gregory retired after 34 years as a machinist at Lockheed Martin.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Gregory is survived by his wife of 35 years; son Jeremy Brown of Newark; daughter Kristi Brown of Weatherford; grandchildren Gage, Jaden, Ashton, Raelyn, Julie, Peyton, Brooke and Jacob; his mother; and sister Cheryl Burns and husband, Mike, of Stephenville.

Brown, James ‘Jim’ | 1917-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

James Brown
James “Jim” Brown, 99, of Irving, died Saturday, July 1, 2017.
A funeral service was held Friday, July 7 at First United Methodist Church in Irving with interment at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur. Browns Memorial Funeral Home in Irving handled arrangements.
He was born Nov. 16, 1917, in Spartanburg, S.C. to George Thomas and Ruth Kathleen Brown. Jim proudly served his country as a first lieutenant in the United States Army, 90th Infantry Division during World War II. Jim was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in active ground combat on the front lines in Germany in 1944. He was also awarded the Purple Heart after being severely wounded in action near the Saar River, losing his left arm and two fingers on his right hand. Upon returning from the war, Jim married the love of his life, “Boosh,” March 14, 1945, and they remained devoted to each throughout their marriage of over 72 years. Despite his disability, Jim loved to play tennis, became an avid golfer and was affectionately referred to as the “one-armed bandit” by his golfing buddies. Jim was a longtime Rotarian and former President of Irving Rotary Club, lifelong member of Las Colinas Country Club and active member of First United Methodist Church in Irving. Jim openly professed his faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a man of exceptional character and was treasured by all who knew him.
Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather (“Pops”), great-grandfather, brother and friend to many. Jim is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Catherine Elizabeth; and brothers, Edward Dean and George Melton Brown.
He is survived by his wife, Emma Ruth “Boosh” Brown; daughter, Carol Lynn Brown; son, James Marvin Brown Jr. and wife, Christy; son Robert Dean Brown; grandchildren, James, Kathy, Alex, Nicole, Daniel and Adrienne; great-grandchildren Robyn and Jayden; and numerous extended family and lifelong friends.

Brown, Peggy Joyce ‘Nannie’ (Goodloe) | 1933-2016
Published Saturday, January 7, 2017

Peggy Brown
Peggy Joyce “Nannie” Brown, 83, of Paradise, died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Paradise.
Memorial service will be private.
Peggy was born Sept. 25, 1933, in Olney to Herbert and Lula Mae (Bryant) Goodloe. She worked as manager at a horse ranch caring for race horses before she began working in the Paradise ISD cafeteria.
Peggy collected things just to collect things that caught her eye. She was always willing to help others. The great happiness in her life were her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She truly enjoyed spending time in their company.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; brother Dickie Goodloe; and sister Billie Reeves.
She is survived by her sons, Wayne Brown of Paradise and James Brown and wife, Cheryl, of Waco; daughters Danita (Dani) Noble and husband, Lannie, of Paradise and Sherry Thompson and husband, Jeff, of Springtown; brother Dan Goodloe and wife, Golda, of Jefferson; sister Martha Bradford and husband, Lee, of Lincoln, Neb.; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

Brown, Thomas Jennings | 1930-2017
Published Wednesday, October 11, 2017

Thomas Jennings Brown
Thomas Jennings Brown, 87, of Decatur, died Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11, at the First Baptist Church in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church.
Thomas was born May 22, 1930, in Decatur to Jennings Crisp and Agnes (Duffey) Brown. He married Linda Louise Stutt in 1980 in Decatur. Thomas retired from Texas Department of Transportation as an engineer. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur and served his country in the United States Army.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife.
Thomas is survived by his son, Tony Brown of Fort Worth; daughter Shelby Ivy and husband, Rick, of Ponder; stepdaughter Stephanie Martinez of Decatur; grandchildren Christopher and Austin Brown; stepgrandchild Zachary Martinez of Krum; brother Claude Duffey Brown of Fort Worth; brother-in-law James Stutt of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Brynie, Alice Violet Little | 1939-2017
Published Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Alice Violet Brynie, 77, of Decatur, died Wednesday, April 5, 2017, in Decatur.
Alice was born Dec. 15, 1939, in Oregon. She retired as a hotel housekeeper.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband James Weldon Little; son Marcus Little; and daughter Joyce Lynne McGovern.
She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Mosley and husband, Dennis, of Decatur; son Edwin Joseph Little and wife, Nancy, of Grand Prairie; grandchildren James, Josh, Kasey, Brittany, Jennifer, Christina and Bryan; great-grandchildren Brylie, Bailey and Hannah; and friends.

Bull, Robert Walter | 1931-2017
Published Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Robert Walter Bull
Robert Walter Bull, 86, of Sunset, died Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Robert was born Sept. 14, 1931, in Saint Jo to Robert Wesley and Melinda (Thuler) Bull. He married Virginia Shannon March 1, 1950, in Matador. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord where he also served as a deacon. Bobby was a retired truck driver and farmer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Wesley Bull; sister Carolina Doran; and grandson Bobby Bull.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years; sons Michael Bull and wife, Vickie, of Alvord, Robert Lee Bull and wife, Janice, of Bowie and Joe David Bull and wife, Cathy, of Amarillo; grandchildren Walter, Chris, Christeena, Mindy, Shane, Maddison and Morgan; 21 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; brother Leroy Bull and wife, Peggy, of Amarillo; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Bull, Virginia Lee (Shannon) | 1934-2017
Published Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Virginia Lee Bull
Virginia Lee Bull, 83, of Sunset, died Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27, at First Baptist Church Alvord with Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers include the deacons of the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
Virginia was born June 30, 1934, in Northfield to Roy Lee and Zona M. (Berry) Shannon. She married Robert Walter Bull March 1, 1950, in Matador. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord. Virginia was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and grandson Bobby Bull.
She is survived by her sons, Michael Bull and wife, Vickie, of Alvord, Robert Lee Bull and wife, Janice, of Bowie and Joe David Bull and wife, Cathy, of Amarillo; grandchildren Walter, Chris, Christeena, Mindy, Shane, Maddison and Morgan; 21 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; sister Barbara Ann Shannon of Amarillo; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Bullard, Veada Loudada (Buckmaster) | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, September 30, 2017

Veada Loudada Bullard
Veada Loudada Bullard, 85, of Rhome, died Monday, Sept. 25, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service was Sept. 28 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Gerre Joiner officiating.
Veada was born May 20, 1932, in Kenefick, Okla., to Walter and Edna (Boyle) Buckmaster. She married Phillip Bullard Nov. 10, 1956, in San Antonio.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sons Don Wheeler and Michael Bullard; and numerous brothers and sisters.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years; daughters Karen Stokes of Boyd and Mona Hankins and husband, Tooter, of Boyd; grandchildren Joshua Smith and wife, Shawna, of New England, N.D., Jason Stokes, Kyle Hankins of Fort Worth, Jeffrey Hankins of Arlington and Nicholas Wheeler of Grapevine; and other relatives and friends.

Burdick, Earline Virginia (Hudson) | 1925-2017
Published Saturday, December 16, 2017

Earline Virginia Burdick
Earline Virginia Burdick, 92, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at West Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Seth Hudson officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Earline was born June 1, 1925, in Bridgeport to Newt and Annie (Woodard) Hudson. She married Eddie Burdick July 9, 1946, in Bridgeport. Earline was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brothers Chesley Hudson and Edgebert Hudson.
She is survived by her nieces; her nephew; other relatives; and friends.

Burdock, Bill, Judge | 1942-2017
Published Wednesday, May 24, 2017

Judge Bill Burdock
Judge Bill Burdock, 75, of Boyd, died Thursday, May 18, 2017.
No services are planned. A memorial/reception will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, May 27, at the First United Methodist Church in Boyd.
The judge was born April 28, 1942, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, to George and Edith Burdock. After graduation from high school in Des Moines, he proceeded to learn the trucking business. He was an over-the-road driver and member of the Teamsters local 147.
After a few years driving a truck, Mr. Burdock enrolled in Utah State University. He graduated with honors in 1967. He served briefly in the United States Army, then enrolled in law school at Southern Methodist University. After graduation, Judge Burdock was hired by the Tarrant County district attorney’s office and worked his way up to felony prosecutor.
After leaving the district attorney’s office, Mr. Burdock opened a law practice in Saginaw. In 1982, he threw his hat in the ring and ran for Justice on the Second Court of Appeals. He was successful in his election and served as judge until his defeat for re-election. He then ran for newly created 371st District Court in 1990, waging a successful write-in campaign.
Judge Burdock served as a visiting judge throughout Texas and was municipal judge for the cities of Blue Mound, Rhome, River Oaks, Lake Worth and Edge Cliff Village. He was attorney for the cities of Haslet and Blue Mound and Lake Country Municipal Utility District.
Judge Burdock also served the public by being on Saginaw City Council and Eagle Mountain Saginaw School Board.
He is survived by his wife, Lee Burdock; children Burke Burdock and wife, Caitlyn, of Saginaw, Anthony and wife, Bridgid, of Sacramento, Calif., Aileen Burdock of Hollywood and Bryan Burdock of New York City; stepchildren Stacey Smith of Azle and Travis Smith of Springtown; grandchildren Madison, Sophie and Grace of Saginaw, Megan Weeks of Kemp and Skylar McCombs, Brecken Smith and Eli Nester, all of Bentonville, Ark.; and great-granddaughter Adalynn Weeks of Kemp.
Memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Boyd.

Burks, Gloreeta Inez | 1935-2017
Published Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Gloreeta Burks
Gloreeta Inez Burks, 81, died Friday, March 3, 2017.
Service was March 7 at Greenwood Baptist Church. Burial followed in Greenwood Cemetery.
Gloreeta was born April 2, 1935, in Greenwood to Mildred L. and W. Dee Burks. After graduating from Slidell High School, she earned a business degree and then a nursing degree from Texas Woman’s University. She followed her passion of nursing by moving to Tyler where she worked for a private physician for several years and then at East Texas Medical Center Hospital in the Step-Down Trauma Unit until her retirement.
She was a passionate wrestling fan and crossword puzzle enthusiast. Her hobbies included sewing, all types of needlework and being involved with her two nieces and two nephews as well as with her great-niece and great-nephews. A generous person, she gave freely of her time and efforts to her family and friends and will forever be missed.
She was proceeded in death by her parents; and nephew Patrick Dee Burks.
Gloreeta is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Lawrence Dee and Judy Burks; brother and sister-in-law Oscar and Barbara Burks; brother Dale Burks; sister Marilyn Grigsby; nieces Leslie Moore and Laurie Leigh Wilkerson; nephew Brannon Burks; two great-nieces and three great-nephews; two great-great-nieces and two great-great-nephews; and many cousins and friends.

Burks, Patrick Dee | 1978-2017
Published Saturday, February 4, 2017

Patrick Burks
Patrick Dee Burks, 38, of Lewisville, died Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, in Lewisville.
Service is 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at the First Baptist Church of Sanger. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service.
Patrick was born Sept. 25, 1978, in Denton to Oscar and Barbara Burks. Salutatorian for Valley View High School’s Class of ’97, Patrick went on to get a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from the University of North Texas and followed it by graduating from Grayson County College Police Academy.
He developed a love for 911 dispatching and worked for the UNT Police Department before accepting a position with the Lewisville Police Department more than 13 years ago. Patrick expanded his 911 role to include a weekly, published update on coming city events and supporting radio connections for the Lewisville Fire Department. He was a much loved son, brother, uncle, nephew, grandson and friend.
Patrick is survived by his parents; grandmother Pat Head of Spring Branch; brother and sister-in-law Brannon and Sarah Burks; nephew Janssen Burks of San Antonio; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and his extended family of friends and colleagues in the world of public safety in Denton County.

Burr, Marion Margaret (Paul) | 1920-2017
Published Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Marion Margaret Paul Burr
Marion Margaret Paul Burr, 97, of Runaway Bay, died Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at Eternal Oaks Cemetery in Runaway Bay.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Sid Wagner, Terry Smith, Ryan Macomb and Jason Macomb.
Marion was born March 13, 1920, in Houston to Clyde and Lillian (Steven) Paul. She married Allen Burr July 10, 1963, in Houston. Marion earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Houston and taught fourth grade until her retirement.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter Barbara Macomb; and great-grandchild Rylan Macomb.
Marion is survived by sons Paul Burr of Runaway Bay, John Burr and wife, Ruth, of Houston and Jack Burr and wife, Susan, of Rockport; daughter Beverly Wagner and husband, Sid, of Carrollton; grandchildren Kristin Smith, Ryan Macomb, Jason Macomb, Debbie Personette, Cindy Merrick and Kimberly Vincent; great-grandchildren Sydney Smith, Avery Macomb, Morgan Macomb, Robert Merrick, Sam Merrick, Emma Vincent and Bradly Vincent; great-nephew Ron Pettit; and other family members and friends.

Burton, Rebecca Denise | 1967-2017
Published Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Rebecca Burton
Rebecca Denise Burton, 50, formerly of Wise County, died Friday, March 31, 2017, in Oklahoma City.
Service was April 4 at Resthaven Funeral Home in Oklahoma City.
Becky was born Feb. 6, 1967, in Oklahoma City. She was a strong, fearless and determined woman that was headstrong. She never married, preferring to wait for the right man. She was very picky, but to her friends she was loving and caring.
Becky loved her cats, AC/DC, camping, dancing and vacationing with her friends. She worked as a legal secretary for many years, later moving on to other types of professions in the legal field.
Becky had many nicknames, all unique to each friend, but all called Becky a “best friend.” Her smiling face and happy personality will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Rebecca is survived by her brother, Billy Burton and wife, Nikki; nephew Ian Cook; and many friends.

Byers, Ione Marie (Williams) | 1949-2017
Published Saturday, September 30, 2017

Ione Marie Byers
Ione Marie Byers, 68, of Chico, died Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017, in Chico.
Service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Kevin Casey officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Josh Crawford, T.J. Milam, Zack Fennell, Scott Rackley, C.J. Kittrell and James Kittrell.
Marie was born Jan. 10, 1949, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Percy James Williams II and wife Eva Leona (Caron). She was a homemaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers James Williams III, Wayne Brashier and Hershell Brashier; sisters Cathy Tarpley and Jennie Brashier; daughter Leona Martinez; and grandson Jeremy Martinez.
Marie is survived by her husband of 52 years, George Junior Byers; brother Shelby Williams and wife, Trina; grandchildren Jessica Grizzell and husband, David, and Josh Martinez and wife, Jackie; and four great-grandchildren.

Byers, Linda Lee (Maddux) | 1946-2017
Published Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Linda Byers
Linda Lee Byers, 70, of Chico, died Friday, Jan. 13, 2017.
Graveside service was Jan. 17 at Chico Cemetery with Brother Jeff Baker officiating.
Linda was born March 4, 1946, in Jacksboro to Woodroe and Bertie ‘Stockmun’ Maddux. She married Jurden Wayne Byers Nov. 20, 1967, in Decatur. She was a housewife who enjoyed her family, fishing, reading and playing dominoes. Linda also loved going to garage sales and spending time with her grandkids.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; a daughter; and a great-grandson.
Linda is survived by her loving husband of 49 years; daughter Ronda Mitchum and husband, Lee, of Chico; son J.W. Byers and wife, Patty, of Chico; brother Glen Maddux and wife, Linda, of Paradise; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Caldwell, June (King) | 1932-2017
Published Saturday, November 18, 2017

June Caldwell
June Caldwell, 85, of Chico, died Tuesday Nov. 14, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral was Nov. 17 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Ed Edington officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove No. 3 Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Barry Luckie, Mike Luckie, Cyle Dickinson, Steve Misner, Dale George and Larry Mader.
June was born Feb. 27, 1932, in Chico to Thurston and Alma (Redwine) King. She married James Caldwell May 26, 1950, in Fort Worth. She worked for GTE until her retirement. June was a member of the First Baptist Church in Chico.
She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter Melissa; and sister Geneva Scott.
She is survived by her husband of 67 years; son Larry Caldwell and wife, Debbie, of Sanger; daughter Helen Capps and husband, James, of Chico; son Glynn Caldwell and wife, Sherry, of Chico; grandchildren Candi, Mello-dee, Justin, Stacy, Michael and Jessica; great-grandchildren Grayson and Gauge; and other family members and friends.

Campbell, Carolyn L. (Waxler) | 1938-2017
Published Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Carolyn L. Campbell, 79, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017.
Service is 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 2, at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport with Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery next to the church.
Carolyn was born Aug. 7, 1938, in Memphis, Tenn., to Homer and Ottiss (Russell) Waxler. She married James Campbell of Beatyville, Ky. She was a housewife and enjoyed spending time with her family. Her hobbies included crafts and singing in the church choir.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and brothers Ray and Terry Waxler.
She is survived by her sons, James R. Campbell and wife, Donna, and Brian R. Campbell; brothers Leonard and Johnny Waxler; sister Mary Timberman; grandchildren Ashley Bennett and Corey Campbell; and one great-grandchild.

Cannon, Rosemary Jeanne | 1946-2017
Published Saturday, April 22, 2017

Rosemary Cannon
Rosemary Jeanne Cannon, 70, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, April 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Rosemary was born Aug. 2, 1946, in Santa Monica, Calif. She was a dog groomer and the owner of Waggin Tails pet salon, a member of the Decatur 8ers Square Dancers Club and All Wise Choir. She loved singing, dancing, watching movies, riding motorcycles, surfing and spending time with her grandchildren.
Rosemary was a professional singer and member of the a capella group The Rich-Tone Chorus of Dallas and international group Rich-Tone Sweet Adelines. She also enjoyed singing opera.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her husband, Buck Cannon; daughter Cynthia Manuel; her mother; and her brother.
She is survived by sons Arthur Manuel and wife, Amanda, of Chico; and Lance Perkins of Louisiana; grandchildren Fiona and Vivian of Chico; and a dear friend, Emily Manning of Chico.

Cansler, Gene Paul | 1940-2017
Published Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Gene Cansler
Gene Paul Cansler, 76, of Bridgeport, died Monday, Jan. 23, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Mike Wiltcher officiating. Burial will follow at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Freddy Winebrinner, Joshua Winebrinner, Zackery Winebrinner, Jimmy Brian, Cameron Brian and Lane Brian.
Gene was born Nov. 3, 1940, in Bridgeport to Earl and Dollie (Houchins) Cansler.
Gene was a man devoted to his wife and held a deep love for his grandchildren. He was an avid storyteller who also enjoyed fishing and cooking.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; wife Thelma (Pollock) Cansler; son Bobby Winebrinner; and brother Terry Silveria.
He is survived by children Angie Cunningham, Gene Cansler Jr., Sandi Winebrinner, Freddy Winebrinner and wife, Bobbie Jo and Terresa Price; and siblings Linda Freeman and husband, Jimmy, R.E. “Buck” Houchins, Kenneth “PeeWee” Cansler and wife, Barbara, Sherry Crowell and husband, Tom, Rick Cansler and Lynn Cansler.
He’s also survived by grandchildren Bobby, Tamara, Missy, Rachael, Michele, Olivia, Joshua, Zackery, Tabbitha, Amy, Brian and James; and numerous great- and great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Carlton, Tommy Curtis | 1959-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Tommy Carlton
Tommy Curtis Carlton, 58, of Bridgeport died Friday, Feb. 10, 2017.
The family will hold a private service at a later date.
Tommy was a faithful husband for 37 years to his wife, Sharon, a father of three and Pappa of seven. He was skilled with his hands and was an expert welder, woodsman and custom knife maker.
Tommy loved animals and was a lifelong rancher. He was especially fond of his many dogs and made sure they were pampered every day. Tommy was a cowboy. He loved horses, buffalo and rodeos. He was an avid pocket knife collector and enjoyed watching old westerns. His favorite place this side of heaven was Estes Park, Colo.
As a resident of Bridgeport since his birth Feb. 1, 1959, Tommy had deep ties to the community. He graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1977. In his younger years, he was a bull rider and vice president of the Bridgeport Riding Club.
He was a private man but always quick to help out anyone in need. He loved his grandchildren fiercely and called daily to check on everyone. He was known for giving pocket knives as gifts and made sure his grandson received the Smoky Mountain Knife Works magazine each month.
Tommy was preceded in death by his grandparents, Clifford and Bertha Elliot and J.O. and Ruth Carlton; and grandson Carver Swift.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughters Amanda and husband, Paul Johnson, of Rhome and Adrian and husband, Kyle Swift, of Decatur; son Cody Carlton of Bowie; grandchildren Alex and Brody Johnson, and Everett, Kyser, Witten and Garner Swift; parents Tom and Betty Carlton of Bridgeport; sisters Barbara Stewart and Lynda Bridwell and husband, Doug, of Bridgeport; and nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Wise County Animal Shelter or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Carrell, Howard Patrick, Sr. | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, August 2, 2017
Howard Patrick Carrell Sr., 74, of Bridgeport, died Friday, July 21, 2017, in Denton.
Memorial service is 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 12, at Harvest Time Church in Bridgeport.
DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton is handling arrangements.
Howard was born June 6, 1943, in New Madrid, Mo., to Joseph and Pearlie Mae (Carson) Carrell. He married Dorothy Jean Sosebee in 1984.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Linda Carrell; sisters Linda Dry and Josphine Quest; and brother Bobby Carrell.
Howard is survived by his wife of 33 years; daughters Vivian Bryle, Shana Carrell and Rebekah Joy Maxwell; sons Roy Jack Hunter-Lena Jr., Howard Patrick Carrell Jr., John Cooper Carrell and Weston Disbrow III; sisters Pheobe Milsap and Josephene; brother Jimmy Carrell Sr.; 12 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Carter, Randy Lee | 1951-2017
Published Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Randy Carter
Randy Lee Carter, 65, of Chico, died Sunday, May 28, 2017, in Chico.
Randy was born Nov. 30, 1951, in Floydada to Robert and Elois (Hardin) Carter. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was employed with John Peter Smith Hospital for 17 years and Wise Health System for the last seven years. He was an LVN and retired Navy medic.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his brother, Ozie Carter and wife, Cindy, of Chico; niece Connie Garcia and husband, David, of Bridgeport; great-nephew Cooper Garcia of Bridgeport; and friends.

Cash, James A. | 1935-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017

James Cash
James A. Cash, 81, of Boyd died Monday, Feb. 13, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, at Boyd Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
James was born June 30, 1935, in Decatur to Felix and Mattie Lou (Smith) Cash in Decatur. He was a retired Union Ironworker – Local 263.
James was a member of the Baptist Church in Briar and the Azle VFW. He was a lifetime resident of Boyd and served his country in the United States Army.
James was an avid hunter and fisherman. He had a great sense of humor and his greatest joy was making people laugh.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Paulie Cash; stepson Jeff Hutton; and sisters Jolene Franklin and Gladys Rickman.
James is survived by his daughter, Julie Cash Gaskill and husband, Nick, of Boyd; brother Winford Cash and wife, Alice, of Boyd; sisters Maudine Presley of Boyd and Nelda Bennett and husband, Tommy, of Rhome; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Veronia Rose of Poolville; stepson James Hutton and wife, Peggy, of Arlington; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cates, Keanon Burton | 1922-2017
Published Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Keanon Cates
Keanon Burton Cates, 95, of Fort Worth, died Friday, July 14, 2017.
Graveside service is 11 a.m., Saturday, July 22, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Greenwood Funeral Homes in Fort Worth is handling arrangements.
Burton was born March 28, 1922, on his grandparents’ farm near Decatur. He grew up in West Texas and graduated from Plains High School. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps in England during World War II and returned to Decatur and married Janice Cates Aug. 8, 1947.
After moving to Fort Worth, Burton attended Texas Wesleyan University until returning to active duty, building a career in the Air Force. He served in Korea and Vietnam. Burton retired from the Air Force June 30, 1970, as a lieutenant colonel.
Burton was preceded in death by his sister, Velda Wall and husband, Woody; brothers-in-law and their wives, Bill and Reta Martin and Paul and Mary Martin.
He is survived by his wife; nieces and nephews Galen Nippert and husband, Mike, Joe Wall, Keith Wall and wife, Nancy, Marjorie Seward and husband, Robert, Shanna Russell and husband Rodger, Patrick Martin and wife, Susan, and Mike and Steve Martin; great-nieces Courtney Nippert and Mallory, Jacquelyn and Katherine Wall; and numerous extended family members.

Cervantes, Maria G. Lopez de | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, October 21, 2017

Maria G. Lopez de Cervantes
Maria G. Lopez de Cervantes, 85, of Fort Worth died Friday, Oct. 13, 2017, in Decatur.
Mass of Christian burial was Oct. 18 at St. John the Baptizer Catholic Church in Bridgeport with burial at East Bridgeport Cemetery. Father Thomas Dsouza, Deacon Art Casias and Deacon Mauricio Hernandez officiated.
Pallbearers were Eddy Cervantes, Rolando Cruz, Samuel Cervantes, Samuel Cervantes Jr. and Raphael Cruz.
Maria was born Nov. 7, 1931, in Las Tinajas Apulco, Zacatecas, Mexico, to Donaciano Lopez and Gabriela Garcia. She married J. Socorro Cervantes, who preceded her in death. Maria was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fort Worth.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Miguel Cervantes, brother Jesus Lopez; and sister Preciliana Lopez.
She is survived by her daughters, Maria Cervantes Diego and Samuel Cervantes, Anabertha Cervantes, Edelmina Cruz and Santos, and Ofilia Lopez and Jose Juan; 15 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and other family members and friends.

Chaffin, Bryan Steven | 1998-2017
Published Saturday, April 15, 2017

Bryan Chaffin
Bryan Steven Chaffin, 18, of Newark, died Tuesday, April 11, 2017, in Newark.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15, at First Baptist Church in Newark with the Rev. Alan Six officiating.
Bryan was born Dec. 24, 1998, in Reyosa, N.M., to Willard and Celia (Zurita) Chaffin. Bryan was a senior at Northwest High School. He played football in middle school and high school. Bryan loved music and played the trombone in the marching band. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Newark. Bryan was an avid video game player and wanted to design and develop games after graduation. He was always making those around him laugh.
Bryan was preceded in death by his grandparents, Willard and wife Alice Charline Chaffin.
He is survived by his parents; sisters Debra Cruz and husband, Santos, of New Braunfels and Regina Reeves and fianc , Rick Tennyson, of Stephenville; brother Jeffery Chaffin and wife, Tiffany, of Cypress; grandparents Jacinto and wife, Catalina Zurita, of Mexico; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.

Chang, Ying | 1922-2017
Published Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Ying Chang
Ying Chang, 95, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 8 a.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at Hawkins Funeral Home with burial to follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, and Sunday, Oct. 29, at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Pierre Moua, Victor Moua, Fouatchao Moua, Chris Moua, Gregoire Moua and Yi Moua.
Ying was born Feb. 12, 1922, in Xiengkhoung, Laos.
She is survived by her family, Cheu Chou Moua, Kou Moua, Soua Moua, Yi Moua and Ly May Nao Moua of Decatur.

Chapman, Carl Glenn | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Carl Chapman
Carl Glenn Chapman, 73, of Decatur, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, in Decatur.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur.
Carl was born Feb. 12, 1943, in Michigan to Ellsworth Arthur and Edna (Starr) Chapman. He married Catherine Clemens March 21, 1964, in Decatur. He was a self-employed machinist at Carl’s Machine Shop for more than 20 years and was a United States Air Force veteran.
He is survived by his wife; daughters Kurrie Murphree and husband, Patrick, of Decatur and Jeannette Ward and husband, Johnny, of Paradise; son Glenn Chapman and wife, Christy, of The Colony; sisters Gay Racette of Marlette, Mich., and Joy Chapman of Attica, Mich.; granddaughters Jacklyn Murphree, Jennifer Ward, Jordan Ward, Baylee Murphree Niblett and Kaitlynn Chapman; grandsons David Murphree and Trevor Chapman; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Jackie Murphree Scholarship Fund, 609 Medical Center Dr., Suite 1100, Decatur, TX 76234.

Charles, Thomas Randolph ‘Tom’ | 1982-2017
Published Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Thomas Charles
Thomas Randolph Charles, 34, of Chico, died Monday, March 6, 2017, in Chico.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Visitation is 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday.
Tom was born July 27, 1982, in Salmon, Idaho, to Robert Keith and Janie (Berry) Charles. He served his country in the U.S. Army as a helicopter mechanic and later served in the Louisiana National Guard. He married Christina McDaniel March 19, 2004, in Leesville, La. The couple moved to the Wise County area in 2010, where Tom worked as an aviation mechanic.
He enjoyed target shooting, listening to classic rock music and spending time with his son playing video games.
Tom is survived by his wife; daughter Sierra Lyking of Azle; son Patrick Charles of Chico; his parents; and sister Tracy Anderson of Eden Prairie, Minn.
Memorials may be made to the Thomas Charles Donation at Wells Fargo Bank in Decatur.

Chase, Dorothy S. ‘Dottie’ (Schryer) | 1937-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Dorothy S. Chase
Dorothy S. “Dottie” Chase, 80, of Willard, Ohio, died Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017, in Willard.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10, at the Grace United Methodist Church in Willard with the Revs. Luigi Perez and Doug Winner officiating. A private family burial will take place at a later date.
Visitation is 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at Secor Funeral Home in Willard.
Dorothy was born in 1937 in Northville, Mich., to Roy Herbert and Thelma Dyce (Thornton) Schryer. She was a 1954 Willard High School graduate, a wife and mother. Dottie was dedicated to her Lord, Jesus Christ, and used her talents to help others. She counseled new Christians around the world, as well as giving her time and talent to her local church wherever she lived.
She was also a volunteer for many organizations: a reporter for the Sandusky Register and Good News, executive secretary for the Willard Chamber of Commerce; a computer bookkeeping consultant; a member of the 20th Century Club in Justin; and a charter member of Renew. When she had free time, Dottie enjoyed reading, tennis, bridge, word searches, puzzles, shopping and bowling. She once bowled a 300! Dottie enjoyed her family most of all.
She was preceded in death by her parents; stepmother Juanita Alice Rickett (Schryer); brothers-in-law Charlie Reel, Bob Chase, Dennis Vance and John Chase and his wife, Judy (Faust) Chase.
Dottie is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Richard Ralph Chase; son Rick Chase and wife, Jean, and their children, Brad Chase and Amy Chase Ashley and husband, Joel; daughter Ginny Chase; sister Virginia Reel; brother George Schryer and wife, Gail; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Stein Hospice of Sandusky, Grace United Methodist Church in Willard, Justin United Methodist Church in Justin or the Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA).

Cheek, Troy Chelise | 1940-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Troy Cheek
Troy Chelise Cheek, 77, of Rhome died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017, in Rhome.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 15, at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. Rocky Johnson officiating.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Troy was born Jan. 15, 1940, to Frank and Lula (Crawford) Cheek. He married Elsie Sinclair Sept. 14, 1981, in Tarrant County.
Troy retired from American Airlines after more than 20 years of service. He was a member of Grace Fellowship Church.
Troy is survived by his wife of 35 years, Elsie Cheek; son Jimmy Cheek; daughter Karloyn Self; stepdaughter Janice Lutz; grandchildren John Cheek, Joy Cheek, Jessy Wilkerson and Grace Arbuckle; sisters Joyce Slokom, Janet White and Jerrie Nolan; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Chesnut, John ‘John Boy’ | 1959-2017
Published Wednesday, February 15, 2017
John “John Boy” Chesnut, 56, died Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017, in Bowie.
A graveside service will be held at a later date. White Family Funeral Home in Bowie is handling arrangements.
John Boy was born July 25, 1959, in Bowie to John Thomas and Glenda Faye (Haney) Chesnut.
He was preceded in death by his father, John Thomas Chesnut; and grandmother Ruth Haney Dunaway.
John Boy is survived by his mother, Glenda Haney Anderson and husband, Wiley, of Chico; stepmother Joan Lafferty Chesnut of Garber, Okla.; brother Tony Lynn Chesnut of Crafton; sisters Beverly Chesnut O’Dell and husband, Rick, of Chico, Sandraw Chesnut Williams of Bridgeport and Judy Anderson of Chico; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cheves, Vicki Diane (Jones) | 1951–2017
Published Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Vicki Diane Jones Cheves, 66, of Bridgeport, died Sunday, Aug. 20, 2017, in Decatur.

Cheves
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Vicki was born Feb. 20, 1951, in Loraine to D.E. and Mayme Jo (Heflin) Jones. She married the love of her life, Tony Cheves, in Balsora July 14, 1985. They were married for 32 wonderful years.
Vicki lived life to the fullest. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, fishing, gardening, baking and raising cattle with her husband.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Vicki is survived by her husband; sons Michael Anthony Cheves Jr. and wife, Kristie, Mark Cheves and wife, Jenny, and Joseph Louvat and wife, Elizabeth; daughters Melissa Moore and husband, David, and Kristina Kinkaid and husband, Bill; brother Vance Jones and wife, Tensie; grandchildren Shelby Cheves, Marty Stewart, Michael Cheves III, Emma Moore, Libby Moore, Gracie Moore, Raviyah Anderson, Addison Moore, Noah Louvat and Juniper Louvat; and great-grandchildren Zach Soule and Michael Cheves IV.
Memorial donations may be made to Buckner Missions, 700 N. Pearl St., Ste. 1200 Dallas, TX 75201, 800-442-4800; or St. Joseph’s Indian School at stjo.org, 800-341-2235.

Childress, William Walter ‘Bill’ | 1939-2017
Published Saturday, March 11, 2017

William Childress
William “Bill” Walter Childress, 78, of Rhome, died Wednesday, March 8, 2017.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 13, at the Church of Christ in Rhome with Roy Deaver officiating. Burial will follow at Boyd Cemetery. Visitation is 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd. Pallbearers are Chris Pennington, Ross Pennington, Jim Walling, Mark Anderson, Tony Byrne and Weston Boyd.
Bill was born Sept. 18, 1939, in Justin to Ann Wallace Blackburn. He was a member of the Church of Christ in Rhome. Bill worked at Centennial Cable, Vecta Furniture and McDonald Technologies. He will be missed by so many. Bill was a courageous man who lived out his faith as he supported the Rhome Library and the senior citizens of Rhome and other areas of southern Wise County. He was never afraid to speak up and defend the neglected and abused, the homeless or the hurting. Bill loved Rhome and worked fervently to see it grow into a harmonious place where families could raise their children in safety and community. He encouraged the citizens to have pride in their heritage, to honor those who came before them, and his special passion was the pictorial history he was developing at the Rhome Library. He had hoped to get it collected into a book someday. Bill would no doubt love for everyone to come by the library and see his picture collections.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; Joe T. and Leona (Wallace) Childress.
He is survived by his sons, Scott Childress and wife, Michelle, of Minnesota and Jeff Childress of Kyle; granddaughters Taylor Childress of Minnesota and Sophia Childress of Kyle; his birth mother, Ann Wallace Blackburn of Fort Worth; sisters Camille Boyd of Fort Worth, Kathy Ward and husband, Tom, of Houston and Melissa Kendrick and husband, Ken, of Benbrook; along with many nieces, nephews and friends. Memorial donations may be made to the Rhome Public Library.

Clark, Helen Marie (Garrett) | 1925-2017
Published Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Helen Clark
Helen Marie Garrett Clark, 92, of Conroe, died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, March 4, at the DeBerry Funeral Directors Chapel in Denton with the Rev. Cliff Feeler officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at DeBerry.
Pallbearers are Cody Lewis, Jacob Elmore Lewis, Gary Powell and David Guzman.
Marie was born Jan. 6, 1925, in Lamesa to Nancy and James Lige Garrett, one of nine children. After graduating from Lamesa High School, Marie worked her way through college as a secretary and model, earning a Bachelor in Business Administration from Hardin-Simmons University in 1949.
She eventually married, adopted three boys and devoted herself to family life in Decatur. There she enjoyed knitting and having coffee with friends, playing “42,” attending her boys’ football games and involving her family in the many activities at the First Baptist Church.
After sending her sons off to college, then watching them begin families of their own, Marie moved to Denton. On July 24, 1994, she married Benjamin F. Clark, whom she adored until his death. She and Ben were members of the First Baptist Church in Denton where she was active in Bible study and the “Huggers and Helpers” Sunday school class.
During these years, Marie most cherished the many hours spent with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be remembered as a woman of grace and charm, a stickler for grammar, fashion, decorum and table manners, and, most importantly, a loving grandmother and mother, unwavering in her love for her sons and their families.
Marie was preceded in death by her parents; husband; six sisters; and two brothers.
She is survived by her sons, William Marion Lewis Jr. and life partner, Amy Gilmour, of San Antonio, Robert Kendall Lewis of Alvord and Derrick Winston Lewis and wife, Linda Rae, of Conroe; and grandchildren Carrli Tenille Woodard and husband, Eric, Micah Renea Powell and husband, Gary, William “Cody” Marion Lewis III, Cassi Marie Hilliard and husband, Derek, Blake Allison Lewis, Jacob Elmore Lewis, Jade D’Ann Garner and John Gideon Ezell Lewis.
She is also survived by great-grandchildren Trinity Alexis Nivens, Caidyn Marie Powell, Corbyn Layne Powell, Hailyn Paige Hilliard, Brittyn Shae Woodard, Addisyn Grey Hilliard and Kaison Scott Shipp.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association North Central Texas, 2630 West Freeway, Suite 100, Fort Worth, TX 76102, 800-272-3900, alz.org/northcentraltexas/.

Clark, Pansey Dean (Willeby) | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, February 4, 2017

Pansey Clark
Pansey Dean Clark, 76, of Burkburnett, died Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017.
Service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Eugene Weldon officiating. Burial will follow at Wilson Prairie Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Marvin Durham, Warren Durham, Richard Beverage, Bobby Lowery, Derrek Skinner, Garry Skinner and Dustin Clark.
Pansey was born Sept. 20, 1940, in Caney, Okla., to Vechil Lewis and Mary Elizabeth (Thompson) Willeby. She worked for Integra Care in Bridgeport and Mineral Wells for 12 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sons Larry Dean Skinner, Harry Lee Skinner Jr. and Melton Odell Clark Jr; daughter Misty Gayle Holder; brothers Houston Willeby, Leroy Willeby and Lewis Willeby; sisters Ruthie Mae Love, Mary Sue Durham and Loriena Faye Kilpatrick; and her stepfather, Ben Mincher. Pansey is survived by her spouse of 21 years, Melton Odell Clark Sr. of Burkburnett; daughter Nicki Barton and huband, Kevin, of Wichita Falls; son Johnny Skinner and wife, Julie, of Waurika, Okla., and Terry Clark and wife, Tressie, of Burkburnett; sister Corina Beverage of Nocona; several grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

Clark, Prentiss Dwayne | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, January 21, 2017
Prentiss Dwayne Clark, 76, of Fort Worth died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service was Jan. 18 at Greenwood Cemetery with the Rev. Steven Baxley officiating.
Pallbearers were Rusty Moore, Ron Gray, David Eckhardt, Tom Buckman, Tom Rutledge and Phil Lumpkin.
Prentiss was born June 3, 1940, in Antlers, Okla., to Francis and Iva (Phares) Clark. He married Anna Adell Howard Oct. 10, 1960, in Fort Worth. Prentiss worked at Bell Helicopter in maintenance for 33 years. He was a member of the Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years; sons Dennis Clark of Fort Worth and David Clark of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; daughters Janice Carter of Fort Worth and Judy Pena of Fort Worth; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brother Barney Clark of Fort Worth; sister Eula Mae Chappell of Oklahoma; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Clarke, James Roydan | 1944-2016
Published Saturday, January 7, 2017

James Clarke
James Roydan Clarke, 72, of Bridgeport, died Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016, in Bridgeport.
Graveside service will be held at a later date.
James was born April 13, 1944, in Sewickley, Penn., to James R. and Avis (Downs) Clarke. He served in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1968 during the Vietnam War, where he was a member of the First Squadron, Fourth Cavalry and was awarded a Purple Heart.
James was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport and enjoyed fishing and target shooting.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Loretta Clarke.
He is survived by friends.

Cocanougher, Allen Howell | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, November 18, 2017

Allen Howell Cocanougher
Allen Howell Cocanougher, 89, of Decatur, died Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Nov. 13 at the First United Methodist Church of Decatur with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery. Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Allen was born Oct. 20, 1928, five miles north of Decatur on the family farm to Glenn Howell and Gertrude (Mecaskey) Cocanougher. Allen graduated from Decatur High School in 1945. He attended Decatur Baptist College and Texas A&M University.
Allen enlisted and served in the Special Veterinarian Corp of the U.S. Air Force at Kimpo Air Force Base, Korea during the Korean War.
Upon his return to civilian life, he married Sue Jean Roberts, who preceded him in death in 2011. They had been married for more than 50 years.
After returning from his service in the Air Force, he began his career with Cocanougher Feed Co., which he helped expand until being sold in 1994. At that time Allen and his sons co-founded Funimation Productions. Funimation imported, distributed and managed the television cartoon “Dragon Ball Z” and other children’s programs.
In 2005, he was instrumental in the family acquisition of several ranches in the Delaware Basin of West Texas. In recent years, he and his grandson, Bobby, invented and filed for a patent design, which is a modification of the internal combustion engine.
Allen was a lifetime member of the First United Methodist Church of Decatur and was a long-standing local benefactor. He served on the board of the Wise Area Relief Mission, and he and Sue Jean provided financial support for many area youth to attend college to further their education. He was a substantial supporter for the Decatur Community Hospital, which included the purchase of several dialysis machines. Allen was also helpful in acquiring the old TXU electric building, which was refurbished into the Wesley Center for the youth and family of the First United Methodist Church of Decatur. He would strive to find a way to help anyone who came to him for assistance.
Allen was a 50-year member and a Master Mason at Decatur Lodge No. 447 and was a member of the Scottish Rite. He was very active throughout his life, and at 80 years old, he won his division of the Fit-N-Wise triathlon.
Allen is survived by sons Robert Cocanougher and wife, Deanya, and Daniel Cocanougher and wife, Nola; grandchildren Jennifer Belle Cooper and husband, John, Robert Allen (Bobby) Cocanougher Jr., Danielle Marie Cocanougher and Ellen Jean Cocanougher; brother Bonnie Glenn Cocanougher, and wife, Regina; sisters Dorothy Lynn Reid and Marie Sue Murray; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Wise Area Relief Mission, the First United Methodist Church of Decatur or the Decatur Public Library.

Cole, Jessie Mae (Hardee) | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, May 27, 2017

Jessie Cole
Jessie Mae Cole, 88, of Decatur, died Thursday, May 25, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 27, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Bob Ross officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Bodie Cole, Chris Fletcher, Jerry Myers, Wayne East, Berl McCasland and Jerl McCasland.
Jessie was born Oct. 12, 1928, in Goree to Samuel and Maudie (Covington) Hardee. She married Willie Clyde Cole Sept. 6, 1947, in Decatur. Jessie was a member of the Church of Christ in Greenwood. She enjoyed being a mother and grandmother.
Jessie loved gardening and canning vegetables and taking pictures of things she loved. She loved her sports – Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys and the Mavericks.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brothers Ed and Frank Hardee; and sister Jonnie McCasland.
Jessie is survived by her sons, Sammy Cole and Clyde Cole, both of Greenwood; grandchildren Courtney Fletcher and husband, Chris, and Bodie Cole and wife, Shannon, all of Greenwood; great-grandchildren Mylee and Macklyn Fletcher and Cash Cole and one on the way; sisters Hattie Fulton and Willie Lee Morgan; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Greenwood Cemetery, 477 FM 1204, Decatur, TX 76234 or Greenwood Church of Christ, 867 CR 1170, Decatur, TX 76234.

Cole, Robert ‘Bob’ | 1934-2017
Published Saturday, February 11, 2017

Robert Cole
Robert “Bob” Cole, 82, of Decatur died Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur with the Rev. Terry Brown officiating.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Robert was born June 1, 1934, in Fayetteville, N.C., to Lewis and Betty (Bulla) Cole. He married Billie Brown in Oklahoma City. Robert retired from Peterbilt as an assembly line worker. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and two brothers.
He is survived by his daughters, Barbara Banks of Riverside, Calif., and Rhonda Carr of Las Vegas; sons Jim Cole and wife, Debbie, of Decatur and Bruce Cole of Riverside; sisters Patsy Cole of Muskogee, Okla., Linda Hebb and husband, Randy, of Muskogee and Gerry McDonaugh of Little Washington, Penn.; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Collins, Ricky Paul | 1957-2017
Published Saturday, April 1, 2017

Ricky Collins
Ricky Paul Collins, 59, of Rhome, died Wednesday, March 29, 2017.
Memorial services will be 3 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at the Living Word Teaching Center in Rhome and in the afternoon on Saturday, April 8, at the Sugarhill Community Center in Sugarhill.
Ricky Paul Collins was born June 22, 1957, to John Paul and Mary Belle (Thompson) Collins.
He grew up in Sugarhill with numerous cousins and friends. After graduating Mount Pleasant High School in 1975, he joined the Navy and traveled the world.
After briefly working as an ironworker, Ricky started operating cranes, a life he loved and was dedicated to for close to 35 years. After moving to Fort Worth, he met Paula Taliaferro and became the father to daughters, Crystal and Nicole. The couple was then blessed with the birth of sons John Paul and Christopher.
In 1997, Ricky and Cathie Tucker went on a blind date. They spent the next 15 years together, building a wonderful life together in Wise County.
Ricky was a jack of all trades – a farmer, rancher, builder, entrepreneur, outdoorsman, inventor, humanitarian, independent thinker and a passionate Libertarian.
He was preceded in death by his parents; stepson Sean Bishop; niece April Collins; nephew Jayson Trainer; and beloved dog, Fozzy.
Ricky is survived by ex-wives and longtime friends Cathie Tucker of Rhome and Paula Taliaferro of Fort Worth; daughters Crystal Taliaferro of Pleasonton and Nicole Parks of Boyd; sons John Paul Collins and Christopher Collins of Rhome; grandkids Stormie, Autumn, Tyson, Maddux, Harley, Chason, Ziayn and Zeneca; brothers Lester Collins and wife, Amanda, of Arlington; Chico Collins and wife, Ann, of Mt. Pleasant; many cousins and close friends; and his Border Collie sidekick, Roxxie.

Colston, Holman | 1947-2017
Published Saturday, May 27, 2017

Holman Colston
Holman Colston, 69, of Rhome, died Tuesday, May 23, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, May 27, at the First Baptist Church in Sanger. Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Holman was born Sept. 13, 1947, in Guymon, Okla., to Raymond and Mary Evelyn (Sampson) Colston. He was a retired electrician from All Phase Electric in Lake Dallas. Holman loved spending time fishing with the kids and grandkids.
Holman was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Charlie James Colston and Paul Wayne Colston; sister Mary Lois Ford; and grandson J.T. Rockafellow.
He is survived by his sons, Bruce Colston and wife, Melinda, of Rhome, Doug Colston and wife, Wendelyn, of Krum and Phillip Colston and wife, Erica, of Rhome; daughter Valerie Rockafellow of Rhome; grandchildren Tyler, Jacob, Matthew, Austyn, Nicholas, Autumn, Jaden, Emma, Averie and Kristin; great-grandchildren Aubree Rose, Karlyle, Paxton and Kyle; brothers Raymond Jr., Lowell, Edward Lee and Roy Colston; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Compton, Cynthia (Wyatt) | 1951-2017
Published Saturday, September 30, 2017

Cynthia Compton
Cynthia Compton, 66, of Chico, died Thursday Sept. 28, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 3, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Cynthia was born Feb. 2, 1951, in Houston to Joe and Elavee (Deiss) Wyatt. She married Robert Compton May 15, 1999. She worked as a warehouse inventory control specialist and in her spare time, Cynthia enjoyed refurbishing old furniture.
She was preceded in death by her father; and sister Brenda Wyatt.
Cynthia is survived by her loving husband of 18 years; son Travis Bigham; daughters Shelia Simmons and Tracy Goldstien; mother Elavee Wyatt; brothers William and Joe Wyatt Jr.; sister Jackie Barret; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Cook, Eula Mae (Reeves) | 1924-2017
Published Saturday, November 11, 2017

Eula Mae Cook
Eula Mae Cook, 93, of Bridgeport, died Sunday Nov. 5, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Dr. Craig Erb officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Deborah Anderson, David Anderson and Daniel Anderson.
Eula Mae was born Sept. 16, 1924, in Jacksboro to Andrew and Gladys (Briscoe) Reeves. She married Clarence Cook May 29, 1943, in Jacksboro. Eula Mae worked as a surgical technician for Bridgeport Hospital for 30 years until her retirement. She was a past president of Certified Surgical Technologist of Greater Fort Worth No. 32 in 1994 and 1985, past president of Senior Citizens Site Committee on Aging; past board member of Wise County Committee on Alcohol and Drug Abuse; and a past member of Happy Times Ukulele Band. Eula Mae was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters Lillie Christell and Pauline; and brother Linford Reeves.
She is survived by her son, Danny Cook and wife, Ada, of Decatur; daughter Norma Jean Anderson of Bridgeport; grandchildren David, Daniel and Debra Anderson; great-grandchildren Rachel, Gracie, Molly and Christopher; and other family members and friends.

Costa, Terrence Michael ‘Terry’ | 1951-2017
Published Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Terrence Michael Costa
Terrence “Terry” Michael Costa, 66, of Justin, died Friday, Oct. 20, 2017, in Justin.
Memorial service will be held at a later date.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Terry was born Feb. 27, 1951, in Chicago to Clarence and Mary (Conron) Costa. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He was a woodworker and craftsman.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Mary Miramontez.
He is survived by his sisters, Maura Costa of Evanston, Ill., Caralyn Costa Antoniazzi and husband, Meliton Palafox, of Chrisney, Ind., and Carita Costa of Rhome; brother Ed Costa and wife, Mary, of Maui, Hawaii; and other family members and friends.

Cowan, Chesta Geraldine (Lucy) |
Published Wednesday, June 14, 2017
Chesta Geraldine Cowan, 90, died Friday, June 2, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 6 at the Tage Church. Burial followed at Tage Cemetery.
White Family Funeral Home in Bowie handled arrangements.
Chesta was born Nov. 2, 1926, in Pattawatomie County, Okla., to Sam and Clara (Templar) Lucy. She graduated from Muleshoe High School. Chesta married Cloys Cowan June 3, 1947. She was a Girl Scout leader for many years in Muleshoe.
Chesta enjoyed sewing, cooking, reading, flowers and gardening, and collecting angels. She was one of the most giving and caring people you could meet and was a friend to many. Chesta will be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brothers Hiley Lucy and Rufus Lucy; sister Tessie Duke; and sons-in-law Marvin Horton and Ricky Pigg.
Chesta is survived by her daughters, Jeri Tage and husband, Bill, of Decatur, Delores Horton of Bowie, Joan Jones of Wharton, Susan Salter and husband, Kevin, of North Dakota and Clara Trahern of Bowie; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister Willie Reeder of Oklahoma City; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cowan, Robert Clifford ‘R.C.’, Jr. | 1951-2017
Published Saturday, June 4, 2017

Robert Cowan Jr.
Robert Clifford “RC” Cowan Jr., 65, of Alvord, died Tuesday, May 30, 2017, in Alvord.
Celebration of life is 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 12, at Trinity Fellowship Church in Decatur with the Rev. Frankie Garcia officiating.
RC was born Oct. 26, 1951, in Stamford to Robert and Cleo (Graham) Cowan. He married YoVonna Marshall Jan. 26, 2001, in Lubbock. RC retired from 45 years of sales experience in numerous fields, including insurance credit processing and energy management systems. RC had a passion for prison ministry, which he fulfilled 10 years in men’s and women’s prisons. He was a member of the Trinity Fellowship Church in Decatur.
RC was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Pat Gafford.
He is survived by his wife of 16 years; sons Ryan Cowan and wife, Kerista, of Grandview, Tyler Cowan and wife, Paige, of Keller; son Sonny Lance Wimberly of Alvord; grandchildren Ella, Kaitley and Finn Cowan; sister Charlotte Krause and husband, David, of San Antonio; mother-in-law Mary Marshall of Alvord; brother-in-law Rodney Marshall and wife, Nancy, of Champaign, Ill.; sister-in-law Pam Caldwell and husband, Steve, of Vernon; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Cox, Gladys Faye (Talent) | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, December 9, 2017

Gladys Faye Cox
Gladys Faye Cox, 74, of Chico, died Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the First Baptist Church in Alvord with the Rev. Bill Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Bradley Beasley, Joel Johnston, Brayden Johnston, Eddie Talent, Charles Talent and Leon Talent.
Gladys was born Jan. 2, 1943, in DeKalb to Clarence and Lida (Cook) Talent. She married Jimmy Cox Jan. 12, 1979, in Decatur. Gladys was a former employee of Decatur ISD and worked for Walmart until her retirement. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Alvord.
She was preceded in death by her parents; stepson Tony Cox; sister Doris Nut; and brother Charles Talent.
She is survived by her husband of 38 years; sons Jimmy Johnston and wife, Sandy, of Arlington, Tommy Johnston of Lubbock, Curtis Beasley of Paris and Roger Beasley and wife, Patsy, of Kennedale; stepson Robert Cox and wife, Diane, of Chico; and brothers Ed Talent and wife, Louis, of Watauga, Leo Talent and wife, Janet, of Watauga and Leon Talent of Destin, Fla.
Other survivors include sister Joy Follis of Brownwood; grandchildren Joel Johnston, Bradley Beasley, Victoria Johnston, Amber Cox, Ashlie Aguliar, Travis Cox and Bonnie Kemnitz; great-grandchildren Emma, Penny and Bradley Beasley Jr., Braden Johnston, Journey Brown, Gabriela Aguliar and Danny Aguliar Jr. and Susanna Chambers; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cox, Larry B. | 1947-2017
Published Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Larry B. Cox
Larry B. Cox, 70, of Rhome, died Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6, at Speedway Christian Fellowship with Bret Shisler officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Larry was born Oct. 12, 1947, in Independence, Va., to Bayse and Ruby (Haga) Cox. He married Carolyn Dolly Oct. 22, 1966, in Maryland and had just celebrated 51 years of marriage.
Larry and Carolyn met at Valley Baptist Church when they were 12 years old. They grew up together in the church but went to separate schools. In Larry’s younger years, he did farm work. After he and Carol married, he worked at Grumman Aerospace setting up the first computers that were used to die cut the engine mounts of the F-111 airplane.
Larry and Carol had two children, Phil Cox and Melissa Webb. Both were raised in Fawn Grove, Pa., and the family moved to Texas in 1984. The couple worked hard and stayed busy with their own company. As their family grew with grandchildren, Larry was always there cheering them on at the race track, football games, wrestling tournaments, color guard events and band events. He loved being involved with his family. Larry’s hobbies were racing, football and spending time with his soulmate. He was a member of the Baptist church.
He was preceded in death by his mother; sister Nancy Cox Gentry; brother-in-law Clyde Gentry Jr.; brother Howard and wife, Mable Cox; stepbrother Tom Rose; and brother-in-law Ted Wrubleski.
Larry is survived by his wife; son Phil Cox and wife, Amy, of Rhome; daughter Melissa Webb and husband, Mark, of Ponder; grandchildren Mark William Webb Jr. and fianc e, Kalli Baker, of Victoria, Jordan Webb and wife, Lexi, of Krum, Ashley Cox of Rhome, Amber Cox of Rhome; great-grandchildren Avery, Jadi and Liam; sister Bonnie Nell Cox Wrubleski Wilson and husband, Bob, of Street, Md.; and many nieces and nephews.

Cox, Winona June (Richey) | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Winona June Cox
Winona June Cox, 81, died Friday, Oct. 13, 2017 in Bridgeport.
Private graveside service was Oct. 17 at Chico Cemetery with the Rev. Randy James officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport handled arrangements.
Pallbearers were Justin Cox, Jacob Cox, Steven Cox, Jason Cox, Jesse Cox, Colby Moore and Nick Jones.
Winona was born Jan. 23, 1936, in Crafton to Gus and Opal May (Warden) Richey. She married Elmer Cox Dec. 22, 1956, in Chico.
Winona earned two bachelor’s degrees from the University of North Texas. She was co-owner of Chico Limestone and a retired supervisor for Texas Instruments.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Stevie Cox; grandsons Clint Cox, and Sammy Smith; and brother Buddy Richey.
She is survived by daughter Gina Cox Schaefer and husband, Steven; sons Eric Cox and wife, Brenda, Van Cox and wife, Sheila, Chris Cox and wife, Katherine, Shay Cox and partner, Matt Newman; seven grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Other survivors include sisters Janet Myers and husband, Bill, and Anna Hand and husband, Jimmy; brother Bobby Richey and wife, Francis; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cox-Wilson, Julia Lynn | 1956-2017
Published Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Julia Lynn Cox-Wilson
Julia Lynn Cox-Wilson, 61, of Chico died Friday, Nov. 10, 2017, at home.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2017, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jackie S. Karch officiating.
Pallbearers are Neil Richey, Amon Cox, Brad Boyd, J.D. Davila, Raleigh Cox, Ben North and Jerry Beaver.
Julia Lynn was born Jan. 25, 1956, in Bridgeport to Ernest E. and Jo Ann (Wiley) Cox. She was a homemaker, a member of the First Baptist Church in Chico, the Sonflower Camp and the Red Bud Ramblers.
Julia Lynn was the owner of Mother Buckers Rodeo Cattle, and she also enjoyed raising farm cattle. She crocheted, gardened, played music and loved being outside.
She married Kenneth Wilson Oct. 22, 1994, in Regency and loved her grandkids, especially being surrounded by them all.
Julia was preceded in death by her father, E.E. Cox.
She is survived by her husband; daughter Jennifer Haney; sons Cody South and wife, Heather, and Joey South and wife Gingi; grandchildren Mattie, Maycie, Martie, Amellia, Sarah, Colton, Aalana, Ty and Trevor; mother Jo Ann Manning and husband, Kenneth; brothers Eddie Cox and wife, Carmen, Ernie Cox, and Johnny Cox and wife, Sandy; sister Rebecca McDonald; mother-in-law Theo M. Wilson; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

Craddock, Sue Ann (McDaniel) | 1945-2017
Published Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Sue Craddock
Sue Ann Craddock, 72, died Monday, Sept. 4, 2017, in Decatur due to complications following lung cancer.
Service was Sept. 11 at Paradise United Methodist Church in Paradise. Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, in Andrews.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Sue Ann was born May 23, 1945, in Vincennes, Ind., to Graydon and Mary Jo (Sturgeon) McDaniel. She married Bill Craddock in 1975. The Craddocks lived in Anthony, N.M., Las Cruces, N.M., Enid, Okla., Garber, Okla., Mutual, Okla., Newcastle, Okla., Cypress, and Deming, N.M.
Sue Ann was always a rancher’s wife, while at the same time pursuing a career as an oil and gas executive. She entered into the oil and gas industry at El Paso Natural Gas in 1965 as a legal secretary and rose to the executive ranks by demonstrating her exacting perfection and attention to detail.
Her hard work was rewarded by success in the industry where she was highly recognized, ultimately culminating in the operation of Chisos Oil and Gas Inc. in Deming. She ran Chisos, achieving success year after year, working tirelessly and passionately until her death.
Sue Ann was a quietly generous woman, whose philanthropy reached throughout New Mexico, Texas and beyond.
She was a loving wife, nurturing mother and outstanding cook, preparing pounds of beans for ranch hands and family members for years, each pot stirred with love.
Sue Ann was preceded in death by her husband.
She is survived by sons David Craddock and wife, Michele, of Keller, Jay Craddock and wife, Patricia, of Bridgeport and Manuel Sandoval and wife, Charlotte, of Deming, N.M.; brother Bob McDaniel and wife, Vickie, of Princeton, Ind.; and grandchildren Amy McCauslin and husband, Mitch, Troy Craddock, Jamie Craddock, Cassady Craddock, Camryn Craddock, Travis Young, Cate Young and Aubree Sandoval; and her beloved, Alicia.
Memorial donations may be made to Cowboy’s For Cancer Research, P.O. Box 202, Dona Ana, NM, 88032.

Cravens, Ada Maurine (Green) | 1923-2017
Published Saturday, June 17, 2017

Ada Cravens
Ada Maurine Cravens, 93, of Decatur, died Saturday, June 10, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 14 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial followed at Yarnaby Cemetery in Achille, Bryan County, Okla.
Ada was born Sept. 22, 1923, in Bowie to Oscar and Mary (Mott) Green. She married D.R. Cravens Aug. 31, 1940, in Durant, Okla. She retired as a florist owner/operator and was a member of the Church of Christ in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Don Cravens; six sisters; and one brother.
Ada is survived by her daughter, Leesa Cravens and husband, Glenn Walker, of Decatur; son Dennis Cravens and wife, Brenda, of Cloudcroft, N.M.; grandchildren Kent, Vance, Lee, Darryl, Tracee, Sara, Erica, Beverly and Crystal; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; one great-great-great-grandchild; and her sister, Elizabeth Hall of Garland.

Creasey, Martha Marie (Scaling) | 1961-2017
Published Saturday, September 23, 2017

Martha Marie Scaling Creasey
Martha Marie Scaling Creasey, 55, of Greeley, Colo., died Monday, Sept. 18, 2017, in Greeley.
Memorial service is noon Saturday, Sept. 30, at St. John’s Anglican Church, 2401 College Avenue, in Fort Worth.
Pallbearers are Tom Austin, Jim Breitweiser, Benjamin Creasey, John Hubbard, Bill Scaling and Tom Scaling.
Honorary pallbearers are Bob Bosworth, Roland Creasey and Jim Pegg.
Martha was born Dec. 30, 1961, in Fort Worth to Charles William Scaling Jr. and Diane McMurray Scaling.
Originally from Bowie and Bellevue, Martha graduated from Bowie High School in 1980. She married Roland E. Creasey Jr. May 20, 1994. She attended Midwestern State University, was a volunteer at child development centers, enjoyed playing the piano and singing hymns. She had a giving heart and was a member of Emmaus Presbyterian Church in Greeley.
She was preceded in death by her father; and her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles William Scaling and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Charles McMurray.
Martha is survived by her husband; her mother, Diane McMurray Scaling Pegg; sons Benjamin Creasey, Abram Creasey and Gabriel Creasey; daughters Rebekah Creasey, Rachel Creasey and Abigail Creasey; brothers Bill Scaling and Tom Scaling; and sisters Bettie Scaling Bosworth and Mary Scaling Hubbard.

Crowley, Janet Caroline (Westfall) | 1935-2017
Published Saturday, October 7, 2017
Janet Caroline Crowley, 82, of Chico, died Thursday Oct. 5, 2017, in Bridgeport.
The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date.
Janet was born June 28, 1935, in Archibald, Ohio, to Clyde and Della (Price) Westfall. She married William Crowley n Eunice, N.M., in 1960. Janet was a homemaker and raised six children. She was affiliated with the Baptist church.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Janet is survived by her loving husband of 57 years; sons Harold Murdock and Gary, Marty and Brian Crowley; daughters Debbie DeKemper and Tina Smith; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cruz, Raymond, Jr. | 1978-2016
Published Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Raymond Cruz Jr.
Raymond Cruz Jr., 38, of Decatur, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 3 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur.
Raymond was born Aug. 4, 1978, in Fort Worth to Raymond Cruz Sr., and Anna Hernandez Cruz. He was a graduate of Alvord High School. He was working as a roustabout in the oilfield.
He was preceded in death by his father; and grandfathers Nicacio Hernandez Sr. and Mercedes Cruz Sr.
He is survived by his mother; sister Crystal Enyart and husband, Joe; brothers Adam Cruz, Paul Cruz and wife, Michelle Youngblood and Marc Cruz; grandmothers Lidia Flores and Eluteria Cruz; three nieces; three nephews; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Culps, Edith ‘Rumell’ (Lisby) Morgan Pitts | 1931-2017
Published Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Edith Culps
Edith “Rumell” Lisby Morgan Pitts Culps, 85, of Paradise, died Friday, Jan. 13, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was Jan. 17 at Bible Baptist Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Dale Webster officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Steve Pitts, Cody Bryant, Jason Sanders, Quinn McDaniel, Rowdy Payton and David Smith.
Honorary pallbearers were Mark Sanders and her great-grandsons.
Rumell was born Feb. 14, 1931, in Decatur to Otho Neil and Thelma (McDaniel) Lisby. She was a member of the Bible Baptist Church.
Rumell was preceded in death by her parents; son Stephen Carlos Pitts; sister Joan Jackson; and brother Bobby Neal Lisby.
She is survived by her daughters, Rhonda Lynn McIlroy of Bridgeport, Jayne Carol Pitts of Bridgeport and Connie Gayle Wood of Paradise; son Joe Daniel Morgan and wife, Lenora, of Mineral Wells; grandchildren Bryann Burton, Steve Pitts, Brandi McIlroy, Jason Sanders, Joey Dawn Harrelson, Rowdy Payton, April Smith, LaDusta Robinette, Cody Bryant and Mark Sanders.
Other survivors include 19 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sisters Martha Choate, Gwen Harms, Beverly Lindsey, Venita Egler and Sue Dodgen; brothers Ben Lisby, Jerry Lisby and Gerry Lisby; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cunnius, Kathy (Hamilton) | 1947-2017
Published Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Kathy Cunnius
Kathy Cunnius, 70, of Decatur, died Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at the First Baptist Church in Decatur with Gerre Joiner and David Lowrie officiating.
Visitation is at the church one hour prior to the service.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Kathy was born Feb. 27, 1947, in Centerville, Iowa, to Frank and Mildred (Green) Hamilton. She married Tommy Cunnius Aug. 2, 1975, in Decatur. She was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and son Brandon Kelton.
She is survived by her husband of 42 years; sons Brent Kelton and wife, Ashley, of Houston and Ryan Cunnius and wife, Amy, of Decatur; grandchildren Riley, Barrett, McCray, Casen, Ben, Gracie and Peyton; sister Penny Holt of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church in Decatur or Cornerstone Baptist Church in Decatur.

Davenport, William Dudley | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, April 1, 2017

William Davenport
William Dudley Davenport, 88, of Decatur, died Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at Heritage Place in Decatur, 605 W. Mulberry.
William was born Aug. 7, 1928, in California. He married Ella Vaughan. He was a retired Baptist minister.
William was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife; son William Davenport Jr.; and friends.

David, Callie (Watson) | 1950-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Callie David
Callie David, 66, of Rhome, died Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Ramada Inn in Decatur.
Callie was born Dec. 7, 1950, in South Carolina to Joe and Julia (Alexander) Watson. She married Tommy David July 1, 1984, in Dallas. Callie was an auditor for Ramada Inn.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister; and her brother.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years; daughter Christina Johnson of Minnesota; sons Leonard Johnson of Rhome, Larry Johnson and wife, Cathy, of Boyd and Lonnie Johnson and wife, Terri, of Krum; grandchildren Joseph, Callie Marie Johnson and Dakota Johnson; two great-grandchildren; sister Libby Leffingwell and husband, Fred; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA or an organization of their choice.

Davis, Garon Layne | 1998-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

Garon Davis
Garon Layne Davis, 19, died Sunday, May 14, 2017, in Jal, N.M.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, at Oak Street Baptist Church in Graham. Burial will follow at Medlan Chapel Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Morrison Funeral Home in Graham.
Garon was born Jan. 14, 1998, in Wichita Falls to Karri Mychele Willingham and Ricky Glenn Davis. He graduated from Chico High School and worked in the oilfield. Garon made an impact on everyone he came in contact with. He loved spending time with friends, family and Ebony.
He is survived by his father, Ricky Davis and wife, Misti, of Graham; mother Karri Miller and husband, John, of Olney; sisters Mazzy Miller, Maci Southerland, Emma Hamm and Allaynna Davis, all of Graham; brothers Hagen Davis of Sunset, Cody Davis of Graham, Brayden Southerland of Graham and Jazz Miller of Graham.
Other survivors include grandparents Mona Willingham of Wichita Falls, Robert and Maria Willingham of Olney, Roy and Cheryl Davis of Moran, Larry and Brenda Wenninger of Decatur and Martha Burns of Wichita Falls; and several other family members.

Davis, Mary Elaine (Suggs) | 1924-2017
Published Saturday, September 16, 2017

Mary Elaine Davis
Mary Elaine Davis, 93, of Enid, Okla., died Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, in Oklahoma City.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 19, at the First United Methodist Church in Decatur with Bill Legget and Dr. Brian Bosworth officiating. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at DFW National Cemetery.
There is no scheduled visitation Monday. Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers are Eric Carroll, John Davis, Paul Kuntz, Gary Boyd, Rob Davis and Chris Davis.
Mary was born June 25, 1924, in Lubbock to Roland and Lucille (Wood) Suggs. She married Lavaughn V. Davis March 22, 1963, in Abilene. Mary retired as a clerk for AT&T, and she was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Decatur. She was very involved in the community and a part of many organizations including the Federation of Women, the Decatur Rotary Club, the Decatur Committee on Aging, American Legion Auxiliary, Member of Democratic Party of Texas, the Wise County Historical Society and also was precinct chair of the Democratic Party in Garfield County, Okla.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister Barbara Peterson; and nephew David Peterson.
She is survived by her stepsons, Larry Davis and wife, Linda, of Flint, Tony Davis of Austin and Sam Davis and wife, Nina, of Austin; niece Diane Kliewer and husband, Don, of Enid, Okla.; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister Jane Miller of Burlington, Vt.; nephews Steve and Terry Miller of New York City; great-niece Christal Weber and husband, Dustin, of Lee’s Summit, Mo.; and friends.

Deaton, Anna Lee (McDaniel) | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, July 1, 2017

Anna Deaton
Anna Lee McDaniel Deaton, 89, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, June 28, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral was June 30 at Bible Baptist Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Dale Webster officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport handled arrangements.
Pallbearers were Larry McDaniel, Lynn Smith, Brice Aydelott, Raylen Read and Mike Deaton.
Honorary pallbearers were Wayne Mask, Charlie Deaton, Ricky Read and Bobby Carpenter.
Anna was born Feb. 7, 1928, in Wise County, the ninth of 16 chidren, to Richard Dow and Florance Winford (Sanders) McDaniel. She married the love of her life, Jessie James Deaton, Dec. 29, 1945. They made their home in and around Bridgeport.
Bridgeport is where a lifetime of wonderful memories was made. She loved her Lord, her mate, her church and her really large family. Anna was a charter member of Bible Baptist Church in Bridgeport, serving her Lord there for 71 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and siblings Pearl Maxine Martin, Artie Mae Weatherly, Essie Lou Grisham, Hubert Richard McDaniel, Gwendolyn Esta Parsons, Cecil Cordell McDaniel, James Sylvester McDaniel, Ellis Rvon McDaniel, Florance Bernice Dixson, Millard Leon McDaniel, Larkin Don McDaniel, Tommy Jack McDaniel and Bessie Nell Bode.
She is survived by her children, Patricia Sue Deaton of Bridgeport and Rebecca Jane Smith and husband, James, of Jacksboro; grandchildren James Lynn Smith and wife, Stacie, of Wellington, Valeria Rajane Read and husband, Rodney, of Bridgeport and Janice Lanell Inman and husband, David, of Jacksboro; great-grandchildren Jon Raylen Read, Victoria Lynn Aydelott, Donavon Brice Aydelott, Carter Lynn Smith and Jackson Lynn Smith; and sweet extras, Brooklyn, Blake and Christian.
Other survivors include sisters Cora Beth Read of Paradise and Janice Faye Garrett of Bridgeport; sisters-in-law Evelyn McDaniel of Bridgeport, Frankie Elam of Azle and Joyce McDaniel of Bridgeport; and nieces, nephews, other extended family members and friends.

Decker, Betty Louise (Cummins) | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, September 16, 2017

Betty Louise Decker
Betty Louise Decker, 86, of Decatur, died Sunday, Sept. 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16, at Aurora Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Withers officiating. Lunch with family and friends will follow.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Betty was born Feb. 16, 1931, in Laverne, Okla., to Carl and Othela (Pillow) Cummins. She married Buck Lloyd Decker Feb. 16, 1951, in Alva, Okla. Betty was a member of the First Baptist Church in Aurora.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 66 years; sons Michael Decker of New Hartford, Iowa, and Matthew L. Decker and wife, Mary, of Rhome; daughter Le Ann Baker and husband, Wade, of Clemmons, N.C.; grandchildren Trina, Shaun, Megan, Mason and Victoria; great-grandchildren Alexa, Devin, Alexis and Lucas; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Deering, Robert Earl | 1958-2016
Published Saturday, January 7, 2017

Robert Deering
Robert Earl Deering, 58, of Paradise, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2016, in Paradise.
Funeral was Jan. 4 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial followed at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Christopher Coan, David Deering, Blake Long, Nocona Skelton, Wayne Robinson and Justin Skelton.
Robert was born Aug. 16, 1958, in Bridgeport to Clyde and Mary (Maddux) Deering. He married Marsha Buckner July 19, 1988, in Bridgeport. Robert worked for Hanson Aggregates for 41 years. He was a load operator.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Perry Deering.
Robert is survived by his wife of 28 years; daughter Rhonda Rae of Paradise; son David Ray of Paradise; grandchildren Bladden Guinn, Marshall Ray Miller, Billy Ray Deering and Sadie Rae Deering; brothers Clyde Deering and wife, Carla, John Deering and Gary Deering, all of Chico; sisters Lane Deering of Chico, Sherry Deering of Paradise, Liz Long and husband, Blake, of Chico and Stella Deering of Fort Worth; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

DeLeon, Maria | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, July 1, 2017

Maria DeLeon
Maria DeLeon, 73, of Chico, died Monday, June 26, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was June 29 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Filemon Gallegos officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove No. 3 Cemetery in Alvord.
Maria was born Aug. 13, 1943, in Las Bocas, Jalisco, Mexico, to Juan and Guadalupe (Rivera) DeLeon.
She is survived by her sons, Victor, Hermenejildo, Guadalupe, Jorge, Cruz, Rodofo, Luis and Horacio DeLeon; and daughters Amelia Baez, Gabriela Flores, Angelica Baez and Adriana Coll.
Other survivors include grandsons Uriel, Daniel, Hermenegildo, Edgar, Edvardo, Mauricio, Moses, Guillermo, Victor Jr., Cruz Jr., Daniel, Martin, Everardo, Anthony, Jose Jr., Abraham, Rodolfo Jr., Alan, Leonardo, Alejandro and Emilio; granddaughters Lizbeth, Cynthia, Elizabeth, Maricruz, Gisselle, Deborah, Crystal, Jennifer, Valeria, Carla, Kimberly and Amsy; great-grandchildren Evelyn, Rebekah, Abigail, Monica, Haley, Damaso, Ezra and Gemini; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Denman, Lonnie Carl | 1943-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Lonnie Carl Denman
Lonnie Carl Denman, 74, of Chico, died Friday, Nov. 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Service was Nov. 7 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Pastor Robert Cox officiating. Burial followed at Pleasant Grove Cemetery No. 3 in Chico.
Lonnie was born Oct. 8, 1943, in Merkel to George Miller and Rosa Lee (Britton) Denman. He served in the U.S. Air Force, passing aviation tests and eventually achieving the rank of master sergeant. After active duty, he joined the Army Reserves, where he served until his military retirement in October of 2003.
Lonnie moved to Wise County in 1992 and worked for 26 years as an aircraft mechanic for Southwest Airlines in Dallas. He was a member of Living Waters Fellowship in Chico.
Lonnie was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Carolyn Kay Stevens and Margarite Rudd; and great-grandson Wyatt Mabee.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Attleine (Gregory) Denman of Chico; daughter Christina (Denman) Chavez of Alvord; brothers Edward Denman of Prescott Valley, Ariz., and Donald Denman of Mansfield, Ark.; sister Billie Ruth Patterson of Brownfield; granddaughters Brittney Mortensen of Euless, Breann Myers of Decatur, Lecresha White of Chico, Cesha Mabee of Bowie and Tabitha Moses of Alvord; great-grandchildren Christopher White, Elizabeth White, Alaina White, Adrian Myers and Sophi Mabee.

Dennis, Betty Ruth (Cox) | 1933-2017
Published Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Betty Dennis
Betty Ruth Dennis, 83, of West Tawakoni, died Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017, in Tyler.
Graveside service is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Boonsville Cemetery with the Rev. Mark Autry officiating.
There is no visitation. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Betty was born Nov. 12, 1933, in Bridgeport to J.D. and Mary (Hoppy) Cox. She married Winston Dennis March 19, 1959, in Fort Worth. Betty was a member of the Greater Vision Church in West Tawakoni.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother Robert Cox.
She is survived by her husband of 56 years; sons Terry Dennis and wife, Tracy, and Winston Dennis Jr.; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters Janice Winnett and Laura Jane Dixon and husband, Doyle; and other family members and friends.

Dennis, Elgree Odessa ‘Honey’ (Hammonds) | 1939-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

NAME
Elgree “Honey” Dennis died Tuesday, May 16, 2017.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, May 20, at West Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport with the Rev. Larry Potts officiating. Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Honey was born in Ryan, Okla., to Forrest and Cleo (Bailey) Hammonds. The first of three girls, she moved to west Oak Cliff (Dallas) with her family at six months of age.
She moved to Bridgeport and married Clinton Lee Dennis in 1981. They had 36 wonderful years of marriage.
Honey loved to fish, if they were biting, and she was an avid country music enthusiast. She taught herself to play the guitar at the tender age of 10 and could also play the piano, organ, accordion and bass guitar. She sang at her first funeral at the age of 8 and continued to sing with her church. She sang with her family at the BIG D Jamboree in Dallas starting at the age of 14.
Honey was preceded in death by her father; sister Wanda McCarty; niece Kathy Napier; and great-niece Christi.
She is survived by her husband; mother; daughter Debi Davis; son Michael Dennis and wife, Tarra; sister Margie Lane and husband, Ron; granddaughters Rachel Dickerson and Victoria and Emma Davis; and grandsons Brandon and Cody Davis and Sean-Mikael Dennis.
Other survivors include great-grandchildren Joey Lee, Alex Dickerson and Maria and John Henry Davis; nieces Tonyia Caraway and husband, John, Tammy Simpson and husband, James, Cindy Ward and husband, Rick and Cheryl Pinson; and nephew David Armstrong.

Derryberry, Homer Gene | 1939-2017
Published Saturday, March 4, 2017

Homer Derryberry
Homer Gene Derryberry, 77, of Granbury, died Wednesday, March 1, 2017, in Granbury.
Graveside service was March 3 at Boyd Cemetery.
Homer was born June 20, 1939, in Paris to Bryan and Johnnie (Nelson) Derryberry. He married Shirley Derryberry. Homer served our country in the United States Army. He was a retired drywall installer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Marie Jackson, Frankie Jo Gardner, Louise Reed, Nettie Mae Johnson and Jetyes Jo Boyter; and his brothers, Bryan Derryberry and Jimmy Dale Derryberry.
Homer is survived by his son, Bill Derryberry and wife, Brenda; grandchildren Tiffany Derryberry, Robert Derryberry and Amanda Derryberry; great-grandchildren Lily, Lane, Corbin, Ridley, Noah and Rider; and other family members and friends.

Derting, Helen Christen (Burns) | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, May 13, 2017

Helen Derting
Helen Christen Derting, 89, of Aurora, died Friday, May 12, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Monday, May 15, at Aurora Baptist Church with the Rev. Jimmy Withers officiating. Burial is 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, at Crawford Cemetery.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service on Monday at the church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Helen was born Jan. 4, 1928, in Emhouse to Calvin and Novie (Ellis) Burns. She married Beverly Gene Derting July 4, 1946, in Streetman. Helen was a member of Aurora Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brother Ray Burns; and sister Hazel Anglin.
She is survived by her sons, Steve Derting and wife, Janet, of Aurora, Brian Derting of Aurora, Curtis Derting of Aurora and Kevin Derting and wife, Melissa, of Leander.
Other survivors include grandchildren Stephen Derting and wife, Jennifer, of Azle, Josh Derting and wife, Rachel, of Azle, Beverly Derting of Martinsburg, W.V., Amy Christman and husband, Troy, of Kirksville, Mo., Elizabeth Luscomb and husband, Winfred, of Concord, N.C., Jennifer Derting of Grand Prairie, Erica Jensen and husband, Cory, of Leander, Lauren Derting of Kansas City, Mo., Brent Carter and wife, Lori, of Aurora and Brad Carter and wife, Deneen, of Bedford; numerous great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and other relatives and friends.

DeShane, Robert LeRoy | 1952-2017
Published Saturday, September 9, 2017

Robert DeShane
Robert LeRoy DeShane, 65, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017, in Decatur.
No service is scheduled at this time.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
Robert was born Aug. 3, 1952, in Borger to Keith and Helen (Cantrell) DeShane.
He was preceded in death by his father; sister Feneva Jaton; and stepfather Thomas Cryer.
He is survived by his mother, Helen Cryer of Bridgeport; brother Keith DeShane Jr. of Colorado; and other family members and friends.

Dickinson, Nancy (Grooms) Cowley | 1940-2017
Published Saturday, January 21, 2017

Nancy Dickinson
Nancy Grooms Cowley Dickinson, 76, of Chico, died Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at the First Baptist Church in Chico with the Rev. Jeff Baker and Judge Craig Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Visitation is 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Danny Price, Coit Harris, Dace Grooms, Dewayne Burgess, Warren Sosa and Glenn Grooms.
Honorary pallbearers are Everett Brooks and Nobie Tucker.
Nancy was born Aug. 17, 1940, in Ringold, Okla., to John and Raney (Brunson) Grooms. She married Curt Cowley April 21, 1967, in Bridgeport. Curt preceded her in death in 1994. She married Bennie Dickinson May 14, 1999, in Chico. Bennie preceded her in death in 2016. Nancy was a member of the First Baptist Church in Chico and a member of the Eastern Star.
She was the former owner of Grooms Florist and a retired purchasing agent for Poco Graphite in Decatur. Nancy was an avid supporter of Relay for Life, Chico Volunteer Fire Department and the Wise County Olympathon. Her hobbies included watching the Dallas Cowboys and fishing.
Nancy’s final gift in this life was to make someone’s life better through organ donation.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Curt Cowley; husband Bennie Dickinson; children Kendell, Donald and Louise Cowley; brother Jalmer Ray Grooms; sisters Geneva Dawson and Lillian Thompson; and stepdaughter Vonda Everhart.
She is survived by her son, Ed Cowley and wife, Debbie, of Chico; daughter Tammy Sosa and husband, Darren, of Chico; stepson Joel Dickinson and wife, Kimberly; son-in-law Steve Everhart of Paradise; grandson Travis Melton and wife, Ashley, of Bridgeport; and great-grandson Joseph Siebert of Chico.
Other survivors include sisters Gussie Marie Groves and husband, R.L., of Chico and Yvonne Burgess and husband, Scott, of Sanger; brother Eugene Grooms and wife, Willine, of Chico; numerous nieces and nephews, including special niece Regina Moody; and other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Chico Volunteer Fire Department, 102 N. Weatherford St. Chico, TX 76431.

Diffenderfer, Paul | 1950-2017
Published Saturday, March 11, 2017

Paul Diffenderfer
Paul Diffenderfer, 67, of Paradise, died Wednesday, March 8, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, March 11, at the First United Methodist Church of Bridgeport. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery.
Paul was born Feb. 12, 1950, in Yazoo, Miss., to John and Hazel (Warren) Diffenderfer. He married the love of his life, Kieron Murphy, Dec. 23, 1981, in Bridgeport. Paul served the country in the United States Army. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, napping and spending time with family.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and brother John Robert.
Paul is survived by his wife of 35 years; son Shiloh Shannon; daughters Lisa Guinn and husband, Joe, Leah Moffit and husband, John, Lana Lamberson and husband, Marcus, and Laura Janese and husband, John; grandchildren Chase, Haley, Colton, Tyler, Kaylea, Hunter, Stephanie, Trey, Nate, Jared, Jack, Jessica, Jace, Collin and Kathryn; and great-grandchildren Brinley and John.

Dimock, Dan | 1935-2017
Published Wednesday, July 19, 2017
Dan Dimock, 82, of Decatur, died Saturday, July 15, 2017, in Decatur.
Dan was born June 3, 1935, in Wichita Falls.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Janie; and brothers Lee and Bert Dimock.
Dan is survived by brother Melton Dimock of Azle; sister Jo Dimock Knutson of Kingman, Ariz.; daughters Toni Ragusa Broadwater and husband, Jim, and Diana Dimock Allen and husband, Eddie; and grandson Clark Allen.
Memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Decatur.

Dodd, Billy J. | 1935-2017
Published Saturday, July 15, 2017

Billy Dodd
Billy J. Dodd, 81, of Boyd, died Monday, July 10, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Saturday, July 15, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with the Rev. Jonathan McLeod officiating. Burial will follow at Aurora Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Michelle Bricker, J.R. Fitzgerald, Beau Leewright, Josh Dodd, Kylee Phillips, Brodie Fitzgerald and Aspen Andrews.
Billy was born Sept. 8, 1935, in Desha County, Ark., to Isom and Etta (Owens) Dodd. He married Mary Lee Odom Sept. 25, 1954, in Mississippi. Billy was a member of Trinity Baptist Church. He retired from Roadway Trucking after 30 years of service.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Elbert Dodd.
Billy is survived by his wife of 62 years; son Danny Ray Dodd and wife, Sharon, of Boyd; daughters Rita K. Hickman and husband, Albert, of Fort Worth and Debi Leewright and husband, Randy, of Springtown; grandchildren Michelle Bricker and husband, J.R., Josh Dodd, Beau Leewright and wife, Amanda and Kylee Phillips; and great-grandchildren Ike, Aspen, Mandy, Brogan, Karen and Brodie.
Other survivors include sisters Lillie M. Williams of Tillar, Ark., Catherine Marshall of Tillar, Ark., Christine Parker and husband, Jerry, of Campbell and Ann Carisle and husband, Marcus, of Austin, Ark.; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Dodson, Ethel (Dunn) Chapman | 1935-2017
Published Saturday, June 17, 2017
Ethel Chapman Dodson, 81, of Decatur, died Thursday, June 15, 2017, in Decatur.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Ethel was born July 5, 1935, in Grayson, La., to Holmes and Gertrude (Bratton) Dunn. She retired from accounting in banking and was a member of the Victory Family Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Donna Armor; and husband Joe Chapman.
Ethel is survived by her daughters, Bea McWilliams and husband, Randy, of Decatur and Genae Bailey and husband, Dale, of Summit, Miss.; grandsons Peyton Armor and Clay Brown; granddaughters Sarah Brown, Katie May, Hollie Lambert, Sara Beth Sullivan, Britney Logue, Hannah Brazeau and Katelyn Atkinson; sisters Rachel Cruse of Sterlington, La., and Kay Ellerbe of Columbia, La.; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Donald, Mary Nell (Kerby) | 1940-2017
Published Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Mary Nell Donald
Mary Nell Kerby Donald, 76, of Sunset, died Monday, Feb. 6, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at the First Presbyterian Church of Bowie. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Mary Nell was born July 22, 1940, in Bowie to James and Willie (Cowart) Kerby. She graduated from Bowie High School in 1958 and then attended Texas Woman’s University.
She married Robert Donald Jan. 28, 1961, in Bowie. They lived in Houston, Richardson and later in Sunset. She worked in education, the banking industry, real estate and retired from the city of Bowie. Mary Nell loved baking red velvet cakes. She was active at the First Presbyterian Church of Bowie, where she was a member, taught Sunday school and sang in the choir.
Mary Nell was preceded in death by her parents; sister Paula Johnson; and stepmother Vera Kerby.
She is survived by her husband; sons James Larry Donald and wife, Lori, of Decatur and Robert William Donald of Bangkok, Thailand; grandchildren Cassie Donald Lyons and husband, Shaun, of Sachse, James Donald of Decatur, Karl Bieser of Decatur and Kelsea Bieser of Rhome; great-grandson Evan Lyons; nieces Amy Klassen of Midland and Kerri Schmidt of Tulsa, Okla.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is also survived by her 103-year-old aunt, Virginia Hearn of Wichita Falls.

Dousay, Myrtle Winifred (Phelps) | 1923-2017
Published Wednesday, July 19, 2017

Myrtle Dousay
Myrtle Winifred Dousay, 94, of Springtown, died Tuesday, July 11, 2017, in Springtown.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Sunday, July 23, at Springtown Seventh Day Adventist Church in Springtown with the Rev. Tony Gonzales officiating, along with Wayne Bolan.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Myrtle was born March 6, 1923, in Kinder, La., to Loyd and Etta Winifred (Hill) Phelps. She married Lonnie Anderson Dousay Aug. 15, 1941, in Oberlin, La. Myrtle was a member of the Springtown Seventh Day Adventist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Carl Dousay; and daughter Ethel “Boots” Dousay.
She is survived by her daughters, Dorothy Teal of Atlanta, La., Peggy Walker of Covington, Cathy Parker of Springtown and Sue Mack of Provo, Utah; son Richard “Dick” Dousay and wife, Jeanie, of Oregon; and multiple grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Drury, Robert Felix ‘Bob Old Timer’ | 1928-2017
Published Saturday, July 1, 2017

Robert Drury
Robert “Bob Old Timer” Felix Drury, 88, of Boyd, died Thursday, June 29, 2017, in Boyd.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Bob was born Oct. 14, 1928, in Bowie to Jessie and Lorinda (Spikes) Drury. He married Dorothy June Edwards June 14, 1947, in Weatherford. Bob was fun-loving and had a great sense of humor to those that knew him. He was a retired siding installer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Mary Stringer; and brothers Leonard and Jessie Drury.
Bob is survived by his wife of 70 years; sons Robert P. Drury Sr. of Boyd and Jimmy Drury and wife, Rebekah, of Dublin; daughter Debbie Buster and husband, Tommy, of Boyd; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Dudley, Clifford B. | 1941-2017
Published Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Clifford Dudley
Clifford B. Dudley, 76, of Decatur, died Friday, June 30, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 5, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Brian Bosworth officiating.
Pallbearers are Clark Waggoner, Robert Carte, Bryce Dudley, Buddy Davis, Gerade Telesko and Robert Carothers.
Cliff was born April 11, 1941, in Kansas City, Mo., to Clyde and Agnes (Hurlburt) Dudley. He grew up with his parents in the city, but he loved the cowboy life and spent as much time as possible at a relative’s ranch working with horses. He loved to hunt and fish with his father and spoke of it frequently.
Cliff played football and graduated from Wyandotte High School in Kansas City. He then went to college at Tulsa University in Oklahoma where he met Liz, and they were engaged.
Cliff joined the Army in 1963 and was based in Germany, assigned to intelligence during the Cold War. He spent his time undercover blending in with the civilian population while gaining information in preparation for a Russian invasion. Cliff was an E-5 sergeant. He left the Army in 1966 after his initial service.
Cliff returned to Tulsa and married Liz on Nov. 19, 1966. They spent a lot of time time camping, canoeing and fishing. They moved to Hutchinson, Kan., following Cliff’s job in the petroleum business. They had their only son, Warren, in 1972. Cliff had the strong urge to move to the country and live the cowboy life, so they did so in 1977, to a small ranch seven miles outside of Hutchinson. They bought horses and Cliff’s buddy, Billy Goat, and took in many stray cats and dogs, all while learning about ranching and raising Warren. Most time and vacations were spent showing horses, rodeoing or trail riding across Kansas. Cliff often volunteered at horse events as the announcer, gatekeeper or in some other capacity. Cliff and Liz moved to Decatur in 2010 to be near their son and his family in Fort Worth. They joined the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, and Cliff quickly became involved in the men’s Sunday school class, joined the Wise County Veterans Group (WCVG), volunteered at the elementary school and volunteered at a horse ranch.
It wasn’t long before Cliff was named commander of WCVG, a position he held for a couple of years. During that time he assisted with establishing the Wise County Veterans Museum in Bridgeport, activities at the Wise County Veterans Park, attending services and memorials at the cemetery, posting flags for holidays and speaking with youth in Decatur schools about military service. Cliff befriended many special people, but one was retired Special Forces whose wife is still in active service. They formed a unique friendship as they were a generation apart but spent time shooting and talking military whenever the chance arose. Cliff was a simple man with deep religious values and unwavering morals of service to others and American pride.
He did not let medical issues keep him down and went out on his terms before suffering through numerous procedures. Cliff is survived by his wife; son Warren and his wife, Vicki; and grandsons Bryce and Blake. Memorial donations may be made to the Wise County Veterans Group, P.O. Box 574, Decatur TX 76234.

Duncan, Brandon Lee | 1992-2017
Published Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Brandon Lee Duncan
Brandon Lee Duncan, 24, died Thursday, Nov. 16, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral services were Monday, Nov. 20 in the chapel of the White Family Funeral Home with Gregg Shaw officiating. Burial followed in Montague Cemetery.
Brandon was born Dec. 28, 1992, in Denton to Scotty and Melissa Duncan. He graduated from North Hills Private School in Millsap. He worked as a welder in West and in construction. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. His niece Audree meant the world to him.
He is preceded in death by his great-grandparents; and uncle Bruce Paul.
Brandon is survived by his parents; brother Chason Duncan and wife, Amanda, of Chico; niece Audree Duncan of Weatherford; grandparents Jim and Sue Duncan of Bridgeport and Elmer and Margaret Hunt of Bowie; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Duncan, Shirley (Swetnam) | 1936-2017
Published Saturday, February 18, 2017

Shirley Duncan
Shirley Duncan, 81, of Runaway Bay, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Friday, Feb. 17 at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Bridgeport with the Rev. Melvin Clay officiating. Burial followed in Perrin Memorial Garden in Perrin.
Pallbearers included Lance Petty, Davy Duncan, Kyle Jenkins, Justin Duncan, Cody Duncan, Tyler Duncan and Keith Jenkins.
Shirley was born Feb. 4, 1936, in Graham to Frank and Joe (Sims) Swetnam in Graham. She married Willie Duncan Nov. 5, 1950, in Jacksboro. Shirley was a retired secretary and member of the First Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son Tommy Duncan; sister Mickey Brock; and brother Carl Swetnam.
She is survived by her daughter, Kay Petty and husband, Jerry, of Weatherford; son David Duncan and wife, Sharon, of Runaway Bay; son Danny Duncan and wife, Lisa, of Fort Worth; daughter Kathy Counts of Fort Worth; daughter Sharon Woodard and husband, Kevin, of Azle; daughter Carla Morris and husband, Mike, of Weatherford; grandchildren Lisa Barousse, Lance Petty, Davy Duncan, Tina Turner and husband, Randy, Keith Jenkins and wife, Jamie, Amye Read, Kyle Jenkins and wife, Chelsey, Kayla VanBrunt, Cody Duncan and wife, Krystal, Justin Duncan and wife, Brittany, Tyler Duncan and wife, Becca and Kelby Duncan; 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and other family members and friends.

Duvall, Bobby Don ‘Bob’ | 1936-2017
Published Saturday, September 9, 2017

Bobby Duvall
Bobby “Bob” Don Duvall, 81, of Boyd, died Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2017.
Graveside service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at Opal Cemetery in Springtown.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Bob was born Feb. 18, 1936, in Garner to Bill and Ila Duvall. Bob was a strong, Christian man who served the Lord and loved the Lord completely. He worked as a civil engineer and retired from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Bob enjoyed fishing with his sons, watching college basketball, watching the birds and working in the yard and garden. He enjoyed being outside with his dog, Hoppy.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and son Steven Dauenhauer.
Bob is survived by his spouse of 33 years, Janet Duvall; children Scott Duvall and wife, Judy, Keith Duvall and wife, Annette, Bret Duvall and wife, Cheryl, Debbie Dauenhauer Tedder, Ricky Dauenhauer and wife, Chantal, and Bobby Dauenhauer and wife, Christy.
Other survivors include grandchildren Ashley and husband, Zack, Amy Megan, Ellerie and husband, Caleb, Jacob, Rachel, Caleb and wife, Lacy, Jare, Derek, Joni, Cameron and wife, Amber, Colby, Caston, Rebecca, Brooklyn, Brinklee, Caitlin and Payton; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings Doris Layne, Huelyn Duvall, Ruthie Baca and Carolyn Price.

Ebner, Royce Arlington | 1934-2017
Published Saturday, March 18, 2017

Royce Ebner
Royce Arlington Ebner, 82, of Rhome, died Wednesday, March 15, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service is 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Royce was born May 5, 1934, in Bethlehem, Penn., to Blanch Piparato. He married Leona Lane in Uma, Ariz. Royce lived in Rhome for 43 years. He served his country and retired from the United States Marine Corps after 22 years of service. Royce worked for the United States Postal Service for 23 years. He was a member of The Ranch Country Church in Briar. Royce was also a member of the VFW-Azle and the American Legion – Fort Worth.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; brother John Piparato; and grandson Colton Allen Ebner.
He is survived by his son, Guy Ebner of Rhome; grandchildren Clayton Ebner of Boyd, Stephanie Whitt and husband, Mark, of North Richland Hills and Guy Ebner Jr. of Boyd; great-grandchildren Ashtyn Whitt and Hayden Ebner; sisters Patricia Freedman and Bernice Todaro; brother Alfred Piparato; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Elliott, Jeanne Carol (Beals) | 1946-2017
Published Saturday, January 28, 2017

Jeanne Elliott
Jeanne Carol (Beals) Elliott, 70, of Runaway Bay, died Thursday, January 26, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Burial will be at a later date at DFW National Cemetery.
Jeanne was born July 1, 1946, in Emporia, Kan., to Harry E. Jr. and Maizie (Trail) Beals. She married William “Bill” Elliott Jan. 20, 1966, in Overland Park, Kan. Jeanne had a master’s degree in education, and she was a librarian for Dallas ISD. She was a member of Glenview Baptist Church in Haltom City and Balsora Baptist Church in Bridgeport.
Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband of 51 years; son Rick Eaton and wife, Jan, of Eldridge, Iowa; daughters Lori Norris and husband, John William, of Bridgeport and Jennifer Sanchez and husband, Mike, of Lewisville; grandchildren Lonnie Norris of Springtown, James Norris of Runaway Bay, Brittany Wilhoit and husband, Skyler, of Runaway Bay, Alex Hickman of Lewisville, Kiana Murphy of Lewisville, Brandon Norris of Bridgeport and Nate Sanchez of Lewisville.
She is also survived by great-grandchild Beckham Wilhoit of Runaway Bay; brother Ray Beals and wife, Kathy, of Emporia; and other family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Balsora Baptist Church, 940-748-2527.

Ervin, Jan (Fortenberry) | 1953-2017
Published Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Jan Ervin
Jan Fortenberry Ervin, 63, of Mineral Wells, died Monday, March 6, 2017, in Mineral Wells.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 8, at Boyd Cemetery with the Rev. Ed Rhoads officiating.
Jan was born Oct. 4, 1953, in Fort Worth to Willis and Janet (Sutherland) Fortenberry. She was a loving mom, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She was a medical transcriptionist.
She was preceded in death by her father; and brother Alan Fortenberry.
Jan is survived by her daughters, Loree Ingram and husband, Brett, of Mineral Wells and Jan Marie DeRoche of Colorado; son J.W. DeRoche and wife, Amy, of Mineral Wells; her mother; sisters Patti Fortenberry and Kaye Fortenberry, both of Boyd; brother Tony Fortenberry and wife, Rita, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Samantha, Stephanie, Sydnee and Garrett; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Eustace, Brian Michael | 1984-2017
Published Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Brian Michael Eustace
Brian Michael Eustace, 33, of Bridgeport, died Friday Nov. 3, 2017, in Rhome.
Service is 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise. Burial will follow at Eastside Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are George and Jose Cruz, Tracy Romines, Dustin Thomas and Fillberto and Jesus Ortiz.
Brian was born June 28, 1984, in Bridgeport to Mike and Sherry Eustace and has remained a member of the community since birth. He worked for Ace Pest Control and Connor Industries. His hobbies included playing video games, fishing with his dad and playing ball with his dog.
He is survived by his parents; sister Christal Overstreet and husband, Bryson, and their son Camden; grandparents Jack and Nita Eustace and Johnny and Sue McDuff; his beloved dog, Molly; and other family members and friends.

Evans, Betty Ann (Bailey) | 1941-2017
Published Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Betty Evans
Betty Ann Evans, 75, of Chico, died Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, in Chico.
Graveside service was Feb. 6 at West Bridgeport Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Fair officiating.
Betty was born May 30, 1941, in Belton to Milburn and Mary Margaret (Linder) Bailey.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband Frank Evans.
She is survived by her sons, Kelly Gillespie and wife, Lisa, and Tommy Hopkins; daughters Pamela Brown and husband, Leroy, and Tammey Carpenter and husband, Steve; 10 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Everhart, Lavona Lee (Kaker) | 1946-2017
Published Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Lavona Lee Kaker Everhart, 70, of Odessa, died Thursday, March 16, 2017.
Lavona was born Aug. 9, 1946, to Harry and Wilma (Bevill) Kaker. She retired from working in the administrative offices at Odessa College.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James William Everhart; son James Dewie; and her parents.
Lavona is survived by her sisters-in-law, Augusta Burton and husband, Wayne, of Odessa, Tammie Boehm of Jal, N.M., Linda O’Rear and husband, Jimmy, of Jal and Donna Everhart of Odessa; and grandchildren Devin and Ryann Everhart.

Evrard, Debbie (Brown) | 1960-2017
Published Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Debbie Evrard
Debbie Evrard, 56, of Fort Worth, died Sunday, May 7, 2017, in North Richland Hills.
Graveside service is 1 p.m. Thursday, May 11, at Pope Cemetery in Briar with the Rev. Mike Boaldin officiating.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd.
Debbie was born Dec. 17, 1960, in Fort Worth to Foy E. and Mableane (Taylor) Brown. She married David Carroll Evrard Jan. 15, 1988, in Fort Worth. Debbie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Debbie is survived by her husband of 29 years; sons Justin McConnell and wife, Casey, of Aubrey and Shawn Evrard of Fort Worth; daughter Tori Carrera and husband, Nolberto, of Fort Worth; grandchildren Arianna and Alexandra Carrera and Ashley, Madison, Wyatt, Aaron and Abby McConnell; brother Richard Brown and wife, Sandy, of Boyd; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Faqua, Mays | 1923-2017
Published Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Mays Fuqua
Mays Fuqua, 93, of Decatur, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Rhome Church of Christ with Roy Deaver officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton.
Pallbearers are Chris Fuqua, Kevin Fuqua, Rob Cartwright, Daryl Box, Jason Tibbels, Jason Wren, Todd Scroggins, Todd McCormick and Brent Watkins.
Mays was born Nov. 8, 1923, in Justin to Temple and Allene (Mays) Fuqua. After graduating from Rhome High School, he attended the A&M College of Texas (now Texas A&M) but World War II intervened. Mays entered combat with the 75th Infantry Division in Belgium in December 1944, which become known as The Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded a Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman Badge.
After Mays’ WW II service, he resumed his studies at Texas A&M. He received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural education and married Billie Moore, both on May 30, 1947, in College Station. Mays then taught high school vocational agriculture for more than 30 years and retired as assistant superintendent at Northwest High School. During that span, Mays earned his master’s degree and a counseling certificate from Texas A&M. A second career in manufacturing purchasing rounded out his working life.
Mays and Billie traveled, enjoyed children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They participated in many civic activities and volunteer organizations. Mays and Billie were longtime Aggie supporters and attended decades of football games. Throughout his life, Mays focused on helping others and making friends out of strangers.
He was a member of the Rhome Church of Christ and served as an elder for many years.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Mays is survived by his wife of 69 years; sons Ron Fuqua and wife, Jan, and Leon Fuqua and wife, Jan; daughter Suzanne Long; grandchildren Tiffany Box and husband, Daryl, Chris Fuqua and wife, Amanda, Kevin Fuqua, Molly and Bailey Long, Christy Cartwright and Rob Cartwright and wife, Sara; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters Geneva Bratton and Mary Helen Gadberry; brothers H.T. Fuqua and Verne Fuqua; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Wise Health Foundation Physical Therapy Department, Decatur or a charity of choice.

Fellers, James Harold ‘Shotgun’ | 1938-2017
Published Saturday, January 7, 2017

James Fellers
James Harold “Shotgun” Fellers, 78, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral was Jan. 5 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating.
James was born Dec. 29, 1938, in Decatur to Luther and Velma (Covington) Fellers. He married Ruth Odell in May 1969 in Decatur. James was a retired Decatur police chief. He served his country in the National Guard. James was a member of the Greenwood Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Shirley Rhoades.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years; daughters Carolyn Grady of Runaway Bay and Beverly Deaton and husband, Mike, of Lake Bridgeport; son Tommy Weatherly and wife, Melba, of Paradise; grandchildren Kevin Loraus, David Loraus, Shane Stegall, Steven Stegall, TJ Weatherly and Brady Weatherly; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; nephews Tony Dickey and wife, Sandra, of Decatur, Joey Dickey and wife, Kelly, of Alvord; niece Cathy Jackson and husband, Chris, of Decatur; and other relatives and friends.

Fennell, Jimmy D. ‘Jim’ | 1955-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

Jimmy Fennell
Jimmy D. “Jim” Fennell, 61, of Decatur, died Wednesday, June 28, 2017, in Canyon Lake.
Service was Friday, July 7 at Sweetwater Cemetery with the Rev. Clyde H. Slimp officiating.
Jim was born Dec. 26, 1955, in Bridgeport to David and Sue Fennell. He had many loving nieces and extended family. He was a loving son, brother, father and pawpaw.
He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, riding his Harley and working with his hands. He drove a truck, built swimming pools, was a mechanic, worked as a welder, delivered newspapers for the Messenger and much more, but his greatest and most proud achievement was his BBQ restaurant Skull Creek BBQ with a location in Wimberley and one in Canyon Lake. In the end he spent a lot of time working with wood, making canes and walking sticks and knives and wind chimes and much more. He wrote poetry to help others, and was a great man with a big heart and had a willingness to help with anything. He never met a stranger.
He is preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his mother; daughter, Andrea Taliaferro and husband, Brad, of Canyon Lake; brother, Bill Fennell and wife, Michelle, of Decatur; sister, Deb Jones and husband, Norman, of Weatherford; grandchildren Zackary Taliaferro, Matthew Faliaferro and Katlyn Taliaferro, all of Canyon Lake.

Fernandez, Valente, Jr. | 1993-2017
Published Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Valente Fernandez Jr.
Valente Fernandez Jr., 23, of Decatur, died Wednesday, March 22, 2017, in Phoenix, Ariz.
Mass of Christian burial is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 30, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church with Father Thomas Dsouza officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6-7 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with rosary at 7.
Pallbearers are Ramiro Martinez Jr., Lazaro Martinez Jr., Roberto Fernandez Jr., Roman Martinez, Luis Martinez and Armando Fernandez Jr.
Valente was born on May 4, 1993, in Roanoke to Valente Fernandez and Irene Escobedo. He married Jessica Enriquez June 18, 2012, in Decatur.
He is survived by his wife; daughter Valeria Fernandez; his father; sister Ivonne Fernandez; brother Emilio Fernandez; his mother; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Flesher, Ted Robin | 1948-2017
Published Saturday, July 1, 2017

Ted Flesher
Ted Robin Flesher, 68, of Decatur, died Tuesday, June 27, 2017, in Decatur.
Graveside service was June 30 at Oaklawn Cemetery with Gerre Joiner officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur handled arrangements.
Ted was born Nov. 6, 1948, in Fairbury, Ill., to Isaac and Elva (Nettleton) Flesher. He married Karen Mattie Brown Sept. 8, 1978, in Fairbanks, Alaska. Ted was a retired airline pilot.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Ted is survived by his wife of 38 years; daughters Robin Flesher of Decatur and Kellie Flesher of Decatur; brother Terry Flesher of Washington; sister Donna Crites of Idaho; mother Elva Flesher of Illinois; and friends.

Florence, Raymond Owen, Sr. | 1925-2017
Published Saturday, August 26, 2017

Raymond Florence Sr.
Raymond Owen Florence Sr., 91, of Paradise, died Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2017, in Paradise.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at West Bridgeport Cemetery.
There is no set visitation.
Ray was born Nov. 14, 1925, in Dill, Okla., to Ivy Owen and Viola Mildred (Stevens) Florence. He married Margaret Reilly July 17, 1946, in San Francisco. Ray graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington where he majored in social work.
In November 1942, he joined the United States Marines Corps and proudly served his country for 32 years as chief warrant officer. He fought and defended our country during World War II and the Vietnam war. Ray was a member of the Wise County Veterans Association and the Sons of Confederate Veterans of Wise County.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; daughter Margaret L. Florence; brother Donald C. Florence; and sister Carole Villaneuva.
He is survived by his son, Raymond Owen Florence Jr.; grandchildren Lauren and Garrett Florence; and other family members and friends.

Flusche, Nicholas Phillip | 1990-2017
Published Saturday, May 27, 2017

Nicholas Flusche
Nicholas Phillip Flusche, 26, died Wednesday, May 3, 2017. Mass of Christian burial was 10:30 a.m. May 10 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Muenster with Fr. Ken Robinson, Fr. Kyle Walterscheid and Fr. Phil Petta officiating. Burial followed at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Assisting during the funeral Mass were altar servers Jarod and Jacob Walterscheid and Keith Bezner, classmates of Nathan Flusche. Linda Sepanski gave the First Reading. The Second Reading was given by John Kintz. The Prayers of the Faithful were read by Linda Sepanski. Carrying the Gifts to the altar was Nicholas’ parents and brothers and sisters. Eucharistic ministers were Damian Krahl, E.J. Schad, Judy Maliska Flusche, Diane Grewing, Barbara LaChance and Annette Bayer. Music ministers were pianist Isaac Davis, flutist Rose Ganzon, and singers Jack White, Emily White, Christy Hesse, Mary Del Olmo and Shane Studdard. Songs included “Be Not Afraid,” “To You, O Lord,” “The King of Love My Shepherd Is,” “I Am the Bread of Life,” “Pastures of the Lord” and “On Eagle’s Wings.”
The local Knights of Columbus formed an honor guard during the service. Scott Funeral Home in Muenster handled arrangements.
Nicholas was born Aug. 10, 1990, in Bridgeport to Phillip and Brenda Krahl Flusche. He was the second oldest of their seven children. The Flusches lived in Decatur for eight years, in Gainesville for one year and moved to Muenster in May of 1995. Nicholas began his elementary education at Sacred Heart Catholic School in 1995. He attended Sacred Heart through fifth grade and graduated from Muenster ISD in 2008. He was enrolled in North Central Texas College in Gainesville in 2008-09. In the fall of 2009, Nicholas transferred to Texas State University in San Marcos to pursue a career in business. Nicholas lived most of his life in Muenster. While living there, he became well known for his athletic abilities. He loved playing basketball, lifting weights, riding bicycles and participating in motocross. During his freshman and sophomore years of high school, Nicholas was a running back for the Muenster Hornets football team. Nicholas later found his true passion for basketball, tremendously excelling in this sport. He was voted the district’s Most Valuable Player his senior year of high school. Upon graduation, Nicholas began working in the oil field for a family friend while attending NCTC. After moving to San Marcos, he found a local sales job for the company True Protection. Nicholas eventually became the top salesman of the company in Austin.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Martin Krahl; and grandparents James and Sally Flusche.
Nicholas is survived by his parents; sisters Jacqueline Flusche Burkepile and husband, Mat, of Denton and Adria Flusche and Kendra Flusche of Muenster; brothers Kevin Flusche of Denton and Zachary Flusche and Nathan Flusche, both of Muenster; nephew Mathew Burkepile of Denton; grandmother Nancy Krahl of Valley View; step-grandmother Judy Flusche of Decatur; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Fojtik, Carolyn Sue (Largent) | 1947-2017
Published Saturday, January 7, 2017

Carolyn Fojtik
Carolyn Sue Fojtik, 69, of Jacksboro, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, in Jacksboro.
Service is 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 9, at Christian Missions Church, 2381 U.S. 380 W., in Jacksboro, with the Rev. Eugene Weldon officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Visition is 9 a.m. Monday at the church. Coker Funeral Home in Jacksboro is handling arrangements.
Carolyn was born Jan. 29, 1947, in Wise County to Granvil O’Neil and Aura Mattie (Sullivan) Largent. She married Charles Fojtik Sr., who preceded her in death. She was a homemaker. She dedicated her life to her family. She loved her family dearly, and she will be missed.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brother Robert.
She is survived by her son, Charles Fojtik Jr. and wife, Joyce, of Jacksboro; daughters Ulonda Campsey and husband, Terry, of Bowie, Kimberly Allgood and husband, Ty, of Wichita Falls and Tanya Damron and husband, Billy, of Jacksboro; sisters Sandra Kay Lackey and husband, Tommy, and Shirley Smith and husband, Doyle Gene; grandchildren Jared, Emilee, Macy, Matthew, Mason and Khloe; and great-grandchildren John Bruin, Brantly, Kayley and Madison.

Foreman, Jimmy Dan | 1957-2017
Published Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Jimmy Dan Foreman
Jimmy Dan Foreman, 60, of Decatur, died Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Denton.
Funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, at the First Baptist Church of Decatur with Marvin Saunders officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Jimmy was born Feb. 11, 1957, in Bridgeport to Grady Leon and Janice (Roberts) Foreman. He married Marsha Eakman Aug. 15, 1975, in Bridgeport. He was a truck driver for Aggregate Haulers in Bridgeport.
He was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Penny Jackson.
Jimmy is survived by his wife of 42 years; sons Josh Foreman and wife, Laura, of Decatur, Olan Foreman and wife, Michelle, of Decatur and Mitch Foreman and wife, Kara, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Riley, Dylan, Kadence, Austin, Elizabeth and Memphis; his mother, Janice Phillips of Bridgeport; and stepfather Jackie Phillips of Bridgeport.
Other survivors include brother Jerald Foreman; sisters Ann Shaw, Beverly Williams, Sheri Able, Melissa McClendon and Christy Gunter; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Forrest, Betty Joyce | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, December 6, 2017
Betty Joyce Forrest, 81, of Cleburne, died Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Service is 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 6, at Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Chapel in Cleburne with the Rev. John Glover officiating. Burial will follow at Blum Cemetery.
Betty was born April 11, 1936, in Cleburne to Winston and Leona Borden Forrest. She was a school teacher, who retired with more than 30 years of dedicated service. She was also a church secretary for 10 years after teaching. Betty was active in The Father’s House in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers Larry Forrest and Gage Forrest.
She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Donna Forrest of Fort Worth and Jill Forrest of Dallas; nieces Laura Forrest Gassaway and Paige Ann Forrest; nephews Lloyd Douglas Forrest, Jeffery Winston Forrest and Todd Gage Forrest; three great-nieces; seven great-nephews; one great-great-niece; and many other cousins and extended family members.
Memorial donations may be made to a church or charity of your choice.

Fostel, John H., Judge | 1947-2017
Published Wednesday, June 7, 2017

John Fostel
District Judge John H. Fostel, 69, of Lake Bridgeport, died Friday, June 2, 2017, in Fort Worth. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 7 at Decatur Civic Center. Jones Family Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Judge Fostel had served as the judge of the 271st Judicial District that covers Wise and Jack Counties since 1995. He was a graduate of Irving High School, Texas Christian University and received his law degree from Texas Tech University. He came to Wise County following graduation from law school to the law firm of W.B. Woodruff in Decatur. John later became a partner in the law firm of Woodruff, Fostel, Wren and Simpson. Judge Fostel previously served on the board of directors of the State Bar of Texas. In 2014, the Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association (TCTLA) named Judge Fostel the recipient of the Charles J. Murray Outstanding Jurist Award. He was the only non-Tarrant county judge to receive this honor. John took on leadership roles in numerous youth sports and civic organizations. John loved his family and cherished his time spent with them.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kate Fostel; brother Mike Fostel; and niece Paige Fostel.
Judge Fostel is survived by his wife, Cathy Fostel, of Lake Bridgeport; sons Chris Fostel and wife, Gabby, of Odessa, Josh Fostel and wife, Katey, of Eula and Justin Cortez of Chico; daughter Meagan Hood and husband, AJ, of Decatur; grandchildren Karli Fostel, Eden Fostel, Wyatt Fostel, Layla Fostel, Laney Fostel, Jordy Fostel and Emma Hood; sister-in-law Martha Fostel; nephews Brett Fostel and wife, Cynthia and Clay Fostel and wife, Lauren; and other extended family and friends.
Family requests memorials be made to Decatur Cares, PO Box 1084, Decatur, TX 76234 or First United Methodist Church Food Pantry, 608 17th St., Bridgeport, TX 76426.

Foster, Lillian Laverne (Holzman) | 1932-2017
Published Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Lillian Foster
Lillian Laverne Holzman Foster, 85, of Richardson, died Friday, Aug. 4, 2017, in Richardson.
Funeral is 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with Dr. Victor Kollman officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Dr. Travis Foster, Dr. Eric Foster, Dr. Mark Foster, Shawn Foster and Neil Foster.
Laverne was born April 5, 1932, in Dallas to Dr. Jesse Arno and Lillie Platte Holzman. She was their youngest daughter. Dr. Holzman was a veterinarian in World War I. He worked with the city of Dallas as the city veterinarian in charge of the dairy department.
Dr. Holzman also established a veterinary practice specializing in small animals behind their home at 912 St. and Jefferson. The young girls had lots of pets and were particularly proud of a crow that talked and several distinctive goats.
When Laverne was young, she moved with her family to California after her father had accepted work with the U.S Department of Agriculture: Bureau of Animal Industry in the 1930s. He worked for the Bovine Tuberculosis Eradication Program, so they moved a lot as he worked, traveling from herd to herd throughout the state.
Laverne and her older sister excelled in multiple school districts in California, and they accelerated through their classes.
The family moved back to Texas in 1942. Tragically, her father died that December when Laverne was only 10. Her mother moved the girls back to their home on 8th Street and Jefferson where they raised chickens and doves. Laverne and her sister regularly attended Sunday school and church at First Methodist Dallas.
Laverne continued with her studies and graduated from Adamson High School, Class of 1950. It was there she met the love of her life, Connie T. Foster. She continued her studies at North Texas State College and then at Parkland School of Nursing in Oaklawn.
At that time nursing students were not allowed to marry during their training, but Laverne’s mother gave special consent for her to marry Connie Oct. 10, 1952, in Dickerson Chapel of First Methodist Church Dallas. They were married for 63 years. Laverne graduated from Parkland Hospital School of Nursing in 1954.
Connie and Laverne had three boys – Travis Arno, William Eric and Mark Lawrence. In 1964, the family moved to Richardson. Connie found a job working as an engineer for Texas Instruments on national defense projects. Laverne worked in nursing for many years at Richardson Medical Center, retiring in 1992.
All three of her sons graduated from J.J. Pearce High School in Richardson and went on to achieve doctorate degrees. Laverne enjoyed reading. She and her husband were regular members of Messiah Lutheran Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband.
Laverne is survived by her 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, Conner and Jenny; nephew Jeff Foster and wife, Christi, of Round Rock and their children Jacob and Jessica; and sister Dr. JoAnne Francis Battalgia of Denton.

Fowler, Billy O’brien | 1942-2017
Published Saturday, September 16, 2017

Billy O’brien Fowler
Billy O’brien Fowler, 75, of Decatur, died Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, in McKinney.
Burial will be in Lubbock.
Billy was born April 6, 1942, in Littlefield to Andrew Ivan and John Evelyn Garlington Fowler. He graduated from Texas Tech University in arts/advertising. He was a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the U.S. Navy.
Billy was a member of the National Horse Riding Association and Albert Sidney Johnston Sons of the Confederate Veterans. He was also a reenactor with Terry’s Texas Rangers.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents.
He’s survived by his wife, Dorothy Fowler of Decatur; daughter Rachel Wicks and husband, Don, of Allen; and grandchildren Devon and Allison Wicks of Allen.

Fox, Jackie (Parmely) | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Jackie Fox
Jackie Fox, 81, of Fort Worth, died Sunday, Dec. 24, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 28, at the First United Methodist Church in Alvord with Stephen Schwartz officiating. Burial will follow at Alvord Cemetery.
Visitation is at the church one hour before the service.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Jackie was born March 20, 1936, in Avery to Jack and Lela (Berkley) Parmely. She married Jimmy Darrell Fox Nov. 7, 1958, in Fort Worth. Jackie retired from General Dynamics/Lockheed in 1994 after 36 years of service where she worked as a contract administrator. She traveled the world in her later years, including many European countries, along with cities in Australia, China and Vietnam. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Alvord.
Jackie was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her sons, Robert Fox and wife, Sylvia, of Winter Haven, Fla., and Ben Fox and wife, Marci, of Orange Park, Fla.; grandchildren Kristen Fox of Denton, Stephen Fox of Boston, Erika Fox of Addison and Patrick Fox of Fort Worth; and friends.

French, Myrle Virginia (Hinshaw) | 1920-2017
Published Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Myrle Virginia Hinshaw French
Myrle Virginia Hinshaw French, 97, of Decatur died Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Pallbearers are Case French, Stephen French, Dereck Thetford, John Peterson, Gary Prescott and Clinton Null.
Myrle was born Dec. 1, 1920, in Sweetwater to Joseph and Ella (McDaniel) Hinshaw. She married Leslie Ferris French Feb. 28, 1942, in Lebanon, Mo. Myrle retired from Decatur High School where she was a teachers’ aide. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and sisters Ruby Hunter and Fern Jeeter.
She is survived by her sons, Robert Leslie French and wife, Sandra, of Keller and John Allen French and wife, Sandra, of Livingston; grandchildren Stephen W. French of Allen, Stefanie French Peterson of Fort Worth, Kristi French Thetford of Argyle and Case French of Colorado; great-grandchildren Audrey French, Zoey French, Michael Peterson, Addison Thetford and Landon Thetford; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Freund, Michael | 1951-2017
Published Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Michael Freund
Michael Freund, 65, of Conroe, died Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, in Conroe.
Service was Oct. 18 at Harvest Family Church. Burial followed at Garden Park Cemetery.
Pallbearers were David Freund, Anthony Staley, Ronald Staley, Bob Price, Stephen Kloesel and Joey Bergin.
Michael was born Nov. 26, 1951, in Clarksdale, Miss., to William Joseph and Ruby Balentine Freund. He was a graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi and of Northeast Louisiana University where he received his master’s in music education. He was a master trumpeter and instructor.
Michael was also a beloved band director of Alice ISD, Liberty ISD and Conroe ISD for 39 years where he served at several schools. He led his bands to numerous accolades and awards. He was a great inspiration to all of his students, and his legacy continues through them today.
Michael was an active member in his church, where he served on the worship team for many years. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend to many.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Linda Staley Freund; sons David Freund and wife, Jennifer, and Daniel Freund; sister Pat Killebrew; in-laws Ron and Frances Staley; brother Anthony and wife, Jayme Staley; grandchildren Keaton, Konner and Addison; and nephews Chris and Jon Killebrew, Tyce Willis and Andrew Staley.

Fuller, Lonnie Ray | 1959-2017
Published Saturday, June 17, 2017

Lonnie Fuller
Lonnie Ray Fuller, 58, of Springtown, died Tuesday, June 13, 2017, in Springtown.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Monday, June 19, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Phillip Weitner and Gary Veazey officiating. Burial is 2 p.m. at DFW National Cemetery.
Visitation is 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Dustin Marter, Steven Marter, Marc Rogers, Shawn Brady, Chris Brady and Rich Mesler.
Military honorary guard are David Hewet, David Harris, Ashley Aceveado, Drew Bell, Charlie Piatt and David Hewet Jr.
Lonnie was born May 16, 1959, in Dallas to Lee and Earline (Williams) Fuller. He married Linda Rogers Feb. 2, 1991, in North Richland Hills. Lonnie retired as a mechanic for Fort Wolters. He was a member of the Outreach of Love Church in Springtown.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years; his dad; stepmother Gail Fuller of Ore City; his mother; brother Ronnie Fuller of Arlington; daughter Callie Linda Jones Fuller of Chico; stepdaughter Michele B. Mesler of Paradise; stepsons Shawn D. Brady of Walker, La., Chris M. Brady of Hurst, Steven C. Marter of Los Angeles and Dustin N. Marter of Springtown; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gaede, Billy Ray | 1932-2017
Published Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Billy Gaede
Billy Ray Gaede, 85, died Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017.
Memorial service is 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13, at Alexander’s Midway Chapel in Springtown.
Bill was born Aug. 5, 1932, in Muleshoe to Raymond and Ruth Lovelady Gaede. He retired from the DFW Union Sheetmetal Workers and Lockheed. He attended Texas Tech where he played basketball, and he loved the Dallas Cowboys and TCU Horned Frogs.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Keith Gaede; and sister Ginger Foster.
He is survived by his wife, Margie; children Kathi Spiewak and husband, Joe, Sharon Glass and husband, H.O., Jerald Peel, Darryl Peel and wife, Brenda, and Gina Cromeans and husband, Kevin; brother Jim Gaede; 10 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Gage, Louis Wayne | 1949-2017
Published Saturday, February 25, 2017

Louis Gage
Louis Wayne Gage, 67, of Decatur, died Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Jim Mason, J.C. Mason, Johnny Coker, B.J. Cleveland, Corky Roberts and Larry Short.
Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Milan, Wiley Meador, Clay Bailey and Ryan Mitchell.
Louis was born July 17, 1949, in Decatur to Coke and Marie (Drygould) Gage.
He was preceded in death by his father and his mother.
He is survived by his brothers, C.L. Gage and wife, Patti, of Decatur, Steve Gage of Dallas and George Gage of Decatur; sister Marsha Gage of Decatur; nieces Traci Gage Peacock of Decatur and Katherine Gage of California; nephew Will Gage of Paradise; and numerous great-nieces and nephews and friends.
Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Gales, Maurine (Hancock) | 1918-2017
Published Saturday, January 28, 2017

Maurine Gales
Maurine Gales, 98, died Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017.
Graveside service is 2 p.m., Monday, Jan. 30, at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 2301 N. Sylvania Ave., in Fort Worth.
Visitation is 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Mount Olivet Chapel.
Maurine was born Aug. 26, 1918, in Tennison to Katy and K.B. Hancock.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd; daughter Jeannie Anderson; and son Floyd W.
She is survived by her son, Ted Gales and wife, Lana, of Boyd; 11 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Gall, Nena Ozell (Lyon) Hodges | 1925-2017
Wise County Messenger, December 30, 2017
Nena Ozell Lyon Hodges Gall, 92, of Reno, died Monday, Dec. 25, 2017, in Azle.
Funeral was Dec. 29 at Biggers Funeral Home in Lake Worth with burial at Azleland Cemetery.
Nena was born Jan. 16, 1925, in Chillicothe to Mary and Bill Lyon Jr. She grew up in Chico.
She married Lyle Roger Gall Dec. 22, 1956, in Fort Worth, and they recently celebrated their 61st anniversary.
Nena was preceded in death by her parents; and her first husband, Clovis Hodges.
She is survived by her husband; children Judye Good and husband, William, of Alvord, Shirley Sanders of Azle, Roger Hodges of Chico and Tim Gall of Azle; brother Derrell Lyon and wife, Jenny, of Chico; seven grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 16 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends

Galttana, Mary Lily (Barber) | 1923-2017
Published Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Mary Galttana
Mary Lily Galttana, 93, of Azle died Monday, March 6, 2017, in Azle.
Graveside service is 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 8, at Dido Cemetery in Fort Worth with the Rev. David D. Wilson officiating.
Visitation is noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday at Hawkins Funeral Home Chapel in Boyd.
Pallbearers include Gary Cole, Jeffery Parrott, Brian Prentice, Stony Prentice, Cody Prentice and Jeffery Tolbert.
Mary was born Dec. 29, 1923, in Tarrant County to John and Ida Lou (Hardee) Barber. She married W.C. Galttana Feb. 16, 1938, in Fort Worth. She was a retired homemaker.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband; son Curtis Ray Galttana; grandchild Blake Galttana; great-great grandchild Justin Good; and brothers Marvin and Tooter Barber.
She is survived by her sons, Billy Galttana and wife, Donna, of Boyd and James Galttana of Azle; daughters Kathren Ferguson and husband, Arthur, of Azle, Edith Rothrock and husband, William, of Weatherford, Virginia Melton and husband, Wayne, of Boyd and Mary Prentice and husband, Ralph, of Azle; 23 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Gann, Jo Ann (Quisenberry) | 1933-2017
Published Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Jo Ann Gann
Jo Ann Gann, 84, of Decatur died Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017.
Funeral was Oct. 24 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Gerre Joiner and Doug Vaughn officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Dale Rector, Jacky Carter, Tyler Gann, Kyle Curry, Ron Mosley and Luke Mosley.
Jo Ann was born May 4, 1933, to Wallace and Jessie (Lambert) Quisenberry in Decatur. She attended Decatur Baptist College and married Raymond Gann April 3, 1954, in Fort Worth. They were married 59 years until he died in 2013.
Jo Ann had worked for Denton County Electric Co-op, Decatur ISD, the First National Bank of Decatur and the Decatur Hallmark Store. She was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and brothers Ricky and Gary “Bud” Quisenberry.
She is survivied by her son, Joel Gann and wife, Cathy, of Cypress; daughter Amy Curry and husband, Jeff, of Coppell; grandchildren Austin, Allyson and Tyler Gann and Kyle Curry; and numerous extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Decatur, 1200 Preskitt Road, Decatur TX 76234; 940-627-3235; firstdecatur.us.

Gant, Bruce Alan | 1944-2017
Published Saturday, September 2, 2017

Bruce Gant
Bruce Alan Gant, 73, of Rhome, died Thursday, Aug. 24, 2017, in Rhome.
Memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 2, at Aurora Baptist Church.
Visitation is at the church one hour prior to the service.
Alexander’s Midway Funeral Home in Springtown is handling arrangements.
Bruce was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son and brother. He loved the Lord and never met a stranger. He made everyone smile.
He was preceded in death by a grandchild.
Bruce is survived by his wife of 54 years, Linda Vaughn Gant; children Melissa Jones and husband, Mike, Chuck Gant and wife, Carrie and Jordan Gant and wife, April; grandchildren Shelby Williams, Alix Nierman, Chase Gant, Collin Gant and Chisam Gant.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Garces, Cilfredo Q., Sr. | 1938-2017
Published Saturday, August 26, 2017

Cilfredo Garces Sr.
Cilfredo Q. “Sonny” Garces Sr., 78, of Paradise, died Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport with Bishop Fred Villa and Pastor Spain Trask officiating. Burial will follow at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Austin Culwell, J.B. Culwell, John Clifton, Josh Vidal, Pete Salazar, Bruno Acosta, Felipe Moncibaiz and Ed Martinez.
Honorary pallbearers are Shelton Garces and Cliff-Ryan Garces.
Sonny was born Sept. 15, 1938, in Beeville to Eliceo and Evarista (Quintanilla) Garces. For many years, he drove a truck for Bridgeport’s Acme Brick Co. It was in Bridgeport that he met and married Mary Sue Casillas. The couple were married for 44 years, until her death in 2014.
His hobbies included farming, spending time with family and friends and traveling.
Cilfredo was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; daughters Eva Ann Garces, Gloria Martinez and Emily Vidal; grandsons Andy Martinez and John Salazar Jr.; great-grandson Michael Wyatt Hernandez; brothers Pedro, Santos, Amado and Eliceo Jr.; and sisters Petra, Genoveva, Dominga, Juanita and Julia.
He is survived by daughters JoAnn Salazar and husband, Wally, of Bridgeport, Olga Evans and husband, Joel, of Mexia, Gloria Ramirez of El Paso, Norma Stith and husband, Ted, of North Dakota, Julie Torres of Bridgeport and Sally Salazar of Mexico; sons Cliff Garces and wife, Tracie, of Paradise, Tommy Salazar of Greenwood and Johnny Salazar Sr. of Bridgeport; brother Gilbert Garces of Eastland; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and other family members.

Garcia, Jane (Thompson) Moyers | 1930-2017
Published Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Jane Garcia
Jane Moyers Garcia, 86, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, July 27, 2017, in San Angelo.
Funeral was July 31 at Cates Street Church of Christ in Bridgeport with Scott Strother officiating. Burial followed at the Thomas Cemetery.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport handled arrangements.
Pallbearers were Brandon Moyers, Cason Moyers, Jerred Jobe, MaClaine Jobe, Lynn Kerr and Lance Kerr.
Honorary pallbearers were Mike Deaton and Richard Keller.
Jane was born Nov. 15, 1930, in Bridgeport, to Clyde and Dorothy (Whatley) Thompson. She was a lifelong resident and an outstanding member of the community. She was the former mayor of Lake Bridgeport, a Bridgeport school board member and West Wise Water board member.
Jane was married to James P. Moyers from 1949 until his passing in 1988. Together they owned and operated a dairy farm and the local sale barn. She enjoyed gardening and being a housewife, but she loved traveling the most – anywhere, anytime. She was always ready to go.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, James P. Moyers; son James E. Moyers; daughter Sandra Kay Moyers; and sisters Joy Ince and Lorreta Keller.
Jane is survived by husband Juan Garcia, with whom she shared the last 25 years of her life; sons Benny Moyers and wife, Gayla, and Mike Moyers and wife, Debbie; daughter Debra Moyers; stepsons Julio Ortaga and Darrell Lopez; and stepdaughter Lesia Marshall.
Other survivors include sister Marjorie Kerr; grandchildren Brandon, Marley and Cason Moyers, Amber Pierce, MaClain and Jerred Jobe, Sandy Manoushagian and Catie Gillespie; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to Christ’s Haven for Children.

Garrett, Ray Everett | 1951-2017
Published Wednesday, May 24, 2017

Ray Garrett
Ray Everett Garrett, 65, of Boyd, died Saturday, May 20, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 1 p.m. Friday, May 26, at the First United Methodist Church in Boyd with the Rev. J.D. Allen officiating. Burial will follow at the DFW National Cemetery sometime in June.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd is handling arrangements.
Ray was born June 17, 1951, in Pittsburg to Bruce and Mattie Lou (Tillery) Garrett. He married Marjorie Sue Winters Dec. 21, 1984, in Boyd. Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Boyd and was a retired air conditioning and heating technician.
Ray was preceded in death by his mother; sister Virginia Oswalt; and brother Randy Garrett.
He is survived by his wife of 32 years; son Mark Gonzalez of Boyd; daughter Kristina Hays and husband, R.J., of Briar; grandchildren Krissy Hays, Corbin Hays, Damian Gonzalez, Gabe Gonzalez and Kasen Gonzalez; sister Rosemary Larsen of Joplin, Mo.; and numerous nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.

Gaugh, Neita Ann (Long) | 1954-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

Neita Gaugh
Neita Ann Gaugh, 63, of Decatur, died Thursday, June 29, 2017, in Decatur.
Celebration of life will be held at a later date in Decatur and Overland Park, Kan.
Neita was born Feb. 17, 1954, in Maryville, Mo. to Harry and Jaunita (Kenny) Long. She worked for 20 years for Overland Park Parks and Forestry in Kansas as a horticulturist. Neita was an eight year ovarian cancer survivor who fought until the very end. She was fiercely loyal, honest and beautifully blunt – sometimes painfully so. She was always able to find the humor in every situation and made you see it also. Her infectious laughter and large smile will never be forgotten and missed by all who knew her. Neita’s spirit was bright when she was creating beautiful gardens, basking in the sun or surrounded by those she loved.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her daughters, Ashlee Bohn and husband, Cary, of Decatur and Mackenzie Atkins and husband, Jeremy, of Kansas; 10 grandchildren; and friends.

Geninatti, Devin McKenzie | 1999-2017
Published Saturday, January 28, 2017

Devin Geninatti
Devin McKenzie Geninatti, 17, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Devin was born Oct. 25, 1999, in Carrollton to John Geninatti Jr. and Shannon (Hamer) Hardy. He was a student at Bridgeport High School.
Devin competed in cross country and ran track. He ran his personal best time this year at district, running 17:15 to finish 18th and contributing to the Bulls advancing to the regional cross country meet. Devin finished 50th out of 176 runners at regionals.
He finished with a time under 19 minutes six out of eight times this season. Devin was the no. 5 runner among the top seven from Bridgeport. He was a two-time regional cross country qualifier.
Devin was preceded in death by his brother, Austin Tyler Geninatti; grandfather Linnie Hamer; grandmother Terrie Hamer; and grandfather John Geninatti Sr.
He is survived by his mother, Shannon Hardy and husband, Johnny Armstrong Sr., of Bridgeport; father John Geninatti and wife, Traci, of Greensboro, N.C.; sister Erica Geninatti of Bridgeport; brother Roger Johnson of Mesquite; sister Brittany Johnson of Garland; brother Johnny Armstrong Jr. of Bridgeport; and grandmother Vicki Pryor of Litchfield, Ill.
He is also survived by uncles Jeff Geninatti and wife, Trilby, of Ardmore, Okla., and Scott Hamer and wife, Misty, of Lake Dallas; cousin Jonte Geninatti of Ardmore; and extended family members and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to the Bridgeport High School Track Booster Club.

Geron, George Wayne | 1947-2017
Published Wednesday, September 20, 2017

George Wayne Geron
George Wayne Geron, 70, of Decatur, died Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Graveside service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20, at Geron Family Cemetery with Dwight Trotter officiating.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
Pallbearers include Clif Geron, Robby Geron, Jordan Geron, Joseph Geron, Lou Greiner and J.D. Claunch.
George was born Jan. 21, 1947, in Fort Worth to Charles and Alice (Rose) Geron. He married Diana Claunch June 3, 1967, in Fort Worth. George retired from being a plumbing contractor as a master plumber. He served his country in the United States Marines.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Joey Geron; and brother Larry Vaughn.
George is survived by his wife of 50 years; son Tim Geron of Decatur; grandchildren Jordan Geron of Decatur and Joseph Geron of Fort Worth; great-grandchild Christopher Geron; brothers Edward Geron and wife, Vita, of San Angelo and Michael Vaughn and wife, Jammie, of Decatur; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Getty, Marilyn Elizabeth (Jones) | 1931-2017
Published Saturday, June 24, 2017
Marilyn Elizabeth Getty, 86, of New Fairview, died Tuesday, June 6, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, June 30 at Faith Fellowship Church in New Fairview with the Rev. Windell Splawn officiating. Burial will follow at Thurmond Fairview Cemetery, also in New Fairview.
Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur is handling the arrangements.
Marilyn was born Feb. 22, 1931, in Los Angeles, Calif., to Archibald Bell and Elizabeth Jones. She lived in Orange County for most of her adult life and then in 2005 made a moving decision to go out to Texas to live near her eldest son Wayne and family. She has been a resident of Saginaw for several years and later moved to live with her eldest son Wayne and his wife Aida during the last five years of her wonderful life. Marilyn enjoyed the fun times of gardening and listening to country music. In her younger years, she enjoyed bowling, tennis, dancing and was a great concert pianist.
Marilyn is preceded in death by brothers Donald and Elliot Bell; and sister Arloa Pierce.
Marilyn is survived by her eldest son Wayne Getty and his wife, Aida, of New Fairview; son Ronald Kenneth Getty and his wife, Noreen, of Sparks, Nev.; and youngest son Raymond Getty and Monica of West Virginia.
She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jaimi Diane Myrben, Maelisa Marilyn Getty, Marcus Daniel Getty and Mylene Elizabeth Getty; and great-grandchildren Trinity and Caleb Myrben.

Gholson, Bill R. | 1942-2017
Published Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Bill R. Gholson
Bill R. Gholson, 74, of Bridgeport, died Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service is 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29, at the Cundiff Baptist Church, on Farm Road 1810, in Jack County.
Bill was born Nov. 16, 1942, in Goldthwaite to parents Roy Felix Gholson and Doris Rae (Shaw) Parker. After graduation from Goldthwaite High School in 1961, Bill completed two years of college before serving our country as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He moved to Bridgeport in 2000, where he was self-employed as an environmental engineer. He married Mca Jean (Rodgers) Gholson July 26, 2003, in Bridgeport.
Bill enjoyed being outdoors, hunting and golfing and was also a jack-of-all-trades. He loved Christmas and spending time with his family.
Bill had been a member of Cundiff Baptist Church since 2010, where he was very involved in church council, activities and maintenance.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Charlie Rae Young.
Bill is survived by his wife of 14 years; daughters Shawna (Gholson) James and husband, John, of Temple, Marilyn (Gholson) Hall and husband, Billy, of Odessa, Julie (Holland) Payne and husband, Andy, of Iowa Park and Jayla (Holland) Stuntz of Bossier City, La.; son Michael Holland and wife, Lisa, of Crown Point, Ill.; sister Rebecca Vinyard of Fullerton, Calif.; and beloved family friend Bradley Roberts of Saginaw.
He is also survived by granddaughters Hannah (Hall) Luxton, Cheyenne Hall, Schuyler Stuntz, Presley Payne, Kirsten Payne and Gianna Holland; grandsons Benjamin Hall, Dustin James, Clifton James, Blake James, Wyatt Payne, Timothy Payne, Kyle Payne and Levi Payne; 11 great-grandchildren; and “the boys,” Chigger and Tinker Toy.

Gibson, Arlene Dolores (Sorensen) | 1942-2017
Published Saturday, April 29, 2017
Arlene Dolores Gibson, 74, of Bowie, died Wednesday, April 26, 2017, in Decatur.
Arlene was born Aug. 8, 1942, in Cement, Okla., to Vernon and Helen (Talbert) Sorensen. She married Arlet Gibson in 1963 in Alabama. Arlene was a retired register nurse.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband.
She is survived by her daughter, Tressa Gibson of Bowie; sons Michael Gibson and wife, Angele, of New Orleans and Phillip Gibson of Denver; four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and friends.

Gibson, Charles Gene | 1930-2017
Published Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Charles Gene Gibson
Charles Gene Gibson, 86, died Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Decatur.
Service is 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at White’s Funeral Home in Springtown with burial to follow at Springtown Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Charles was born Dec. 3, 1930, in Hugo, Okla., to Odas Gibson and Lena Mae Andrews. He was a loving, kind man who never met a stranger. Charles worked hard his whole life, enjoyed gardening and his horses. He served in the U.S. Marines and fought in the Korean War. He loved people and enjoyed helping his neighbors. He had a sharp mind until the end of life.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents; wives LaNell Gibson and Oma Gibson; brothers Jerry Gibson and Mack Gibson; and sister Carolyn Mitchell.
He is survived by his brother, Kenneth Gibson and wife, Lena; sisters Helen Colvin, Geraldine Spears, Donna Spears and husband, Jerry, Beverly Edwards and husband, Johnny, and Elaine Beasley and husband, Steve; several nephews, nieces and loving family members, as well as Terry Dunn and Vance Ginn; sister-in-law Jimmie Gibson; Jim Yule; Tom Meadows; and a close group of friends.

Gilbert, Billy Martil, Jr. | 1953-2017
Published Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Billy Gilbert Jr.
Billy Martil Gilbert Jr., 63, of Rhome, died Friday, March 17, 2017, in Decatur.
Visitation was March 21 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Billy was born Aug. 7, 1953, in Houston to Billy and Ruth (Holden) Gilbert. He married Mary Ann Burns Aug. 25, 1983, in Rhome. Billy was a foreman for commercial construction.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years; daughters Tabitha Martin and husband, Randy, of Springtown and Tammy Lane and husband, Larry, of Malakoff; son David Gilbert and wife, Courtney, of Alvarado; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his mother; sisters Connie Carter and husband, John, of Mabank, Sheree Graves and husband, Ronnie, of Kemp and Lori Clark and husband, Andy, of Mabank; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Givler, Leon Jay, Col. | 1930-2017
Published Saturday, May 6, 2017

Leon Givler
Col. Leon Jay Givler, 86, of Jacksboro, died Wednesday, May 3, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 3 p.m. Saturday, May 6, at Coker Funeral Home in Jacksboro with the Rev. Larry Shields officiating.
Leon was born June 11, 1930, in Ephrata, Pa., to Harold and Esther Givler. He graduated from Ephrata High School in 1948 and then attended Wyomissing Polytechnic for two years. He finished his education with a master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado.
Leon joined the army in 1952. After four years as an enlisted soldier, he attended Officer Candidate School, rising to the rank of full colonel.
Leon played five sports at post level and achieved all star in all five. He served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars and retired after 29 years of service. Leon was passionate for growing roses and sharing them with the community. He enjoyed golfing and card games, wrote one book and was in the process of writing a second. He married Mary Geer in 1960.
Leon was accomplished at many things and considered being a father of six as his greatest achievement. In 2013, Leon and Mary moved to a retirement community in Granbury, where he enjoyed various activities and many new friends.
Leon was preceded in death by his parents; and son Mike Fowler.
He is survived by his wife; children Kathy Branscom of Jacksboro, Rosanne Mitchell and husband, Michael, of Tonto Basin, Ariz., Perry Geer and wife, Terry, of Granbury; Mike Givler and wife, Margaret, of Weatherford and Pam Givler of Fort Worth; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; twin brother Lloyd; brother Donald; sister Joanne Kestner; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Glaser, Elizabeth Joan (Geng) | 1927-2017
Published Wednesday, June 7, 2017

Elizabeth Glaser
Elizabeth Joan Glaser, 89, of Decatur, died Saturday, June 3, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral mass will be 11 a.m. Friday, June 9 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church.
Family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday with a 6:30 rosary at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Joan was born Sept. 24, 1927, in St. Paul, Minn. to Francis and Martha (Illa) Geng. She married William Hugo Glaser Feb. 20, 1946, in St. Paul. They were married 59 years until his passing in 2005. She lived in White Bear Lake, Minn. for more than 50 years until moving to Decatur in 2014.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; granddaughter Angela Maliska; three brothers; and a sister.
She is survived by her daughters, Joan Berger and husband, Ken, of Boulder City, Nev. and Judy Flusche of Decatur; grandchildren Renee Fandrich and husband, Michael, Miles Maliska and wife, Pamela and Jennifer Ritchie and husband, Ben; 10 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sister Madonna McCollum; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Gober, Clemuel Parks ‘Clem’ | 1927-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

Clemuel Gober
Clemuel Parks Gober, 89, died Sunday, July 2, 2017, in Brownwood.
Services for Clem were Wednesday, July 5 at Rocky Creek Baptist Church with the Rev. Rick Justice officiating. Burial followed in the Rocky Creek Cemetery.
Heartland Funeral Home of Early handled arrangements.
Clemuel, better known as just plain Clem, was born Sept. 28, 1927, in San Saba County to Emmett and Effie Gober. He attended elementary school at Holt. He received a high school diploma from Richland Springs High School after serving time in the United States Navy during World War II. In the Navy, he was stationed in San Diego, Calif. and Seattle, Wash. where he studied aviation mechanics. This led to his long career in mechanics in the automotive field. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1946 and returned to Texas working with his father in the family store and on the family farm, eventually moving to San Antonio to work for W.W. Auto Parts, the beginning of a life selling and repairing automobiles.
He eventually became involved only in the automotive aftermarket. Some of the companies in this field employing Clem were: Gates Automotive, Perry Shankle, Terry Automotive, Exchange Parts, John Carter and Associates and Maremont Marketing and Bear Equipment. In 1978, Clem bought and managed Tubbs Auto Parts in Monahans. The store was renamed Clem Auto. Clem loved his God, his family, and his country. He will be greatly missed.
Clem was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lieutenant Colonel Lowman Gober; sister, Charolette Voncille Kolaja; and brother-in-law David Nehr.
He is survived by brother, Delman Gober and wife, Teri; sisters, Pat Nehr and Sharron Alston and husband, Roy; sisters-in-law, Barbara Gober and Anita Brown.
Clem is also survived by his wife, Bonnie Jean; sons, Barry Parks Gober and wife, Debbie and Bradley Gene Gober; grandaughters, Shayna Jean and husband, Marvin Warren, Brittany Jean and husband, Calvin Beatty, Brooke Loraine and husband, Wade West; grandsons, Robert Amos and Jason Norton and wife, Teri; great-granddaughters, Ashleigh Ashworth, Hayleigh Beatty, Rosalie and Delilah Jean West; and great-grandson, David Bradley Beatty.

Gomez, Ramon Fraga | 1943-2017
Published Saturday, January 28, 2017

Ramon Gomez
Ramon Fraga Gomez, 73, of Decatur, died Monday, Jan. 30, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with the Rev. Carlos Cardenas officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Ramon Armando Gomez, Sergio Gomez, Jorge Gomez, Ruben Bernal, Norberto Aguilar, Rodolfo Reseniz, Juan Perez and Enrique Gomez.
Ramon was born Nov. 1, 1943, in Zaragoza, Coahuila, Mexico, to Manuel and Maria (Fraga) Gomez. He married Alicia Martinez Nov. 7, 1965, in Zaragoza. Ramon was a retired dairy farmer and laborer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and daughter Maria Orvanita.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years; sons Ramon Armando Gomez of Krum, Sergio Gomez and wife, Irene, of Decatur and Jorge Gomez and wife, Danielle, of Decatur; daughters Sonia Bernal and husband, Ruben, of Decatur, Laura Gomez and Rodolfo of Decatur, Maira Aguilar and husband, Norerto, of Decatur, Olga Perez and husband, Juan, of Decatur; numerous grandchildren; brothers Enrique, Mario and Jaime Gomez; sisters Marilu Gomez and Maria Gomez; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Goode, Barbara (Burnham) | 1937-2017
Published Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Barbara Goode
Barbara Goode, 79, of Decatur, died Thursday, June 22, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service was June 26 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Decatur.
Barbara was born July 20, 1937, in Bloomfield, Conn., to William Hamilton Stewart and Ruth Blanche Burnham. She was active in the Decatur and Bridgeport Senior Citizens Centers and always checked on her friends when they were sick or in need. Barbara never forgot important life events of her family and friends. She also loved to travel.
Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Earl Goode; son Todd Goode; grandson Wil Goode; and brother Dan Stewart.
She is survived by daughters Robin Leewright and husband, Kent, and Jody Lingle and husband, Bob; son Tom Goode and wife, Conda; grandchildren Ruth Allen, Rhea Hayes, Charli Gaut, Carla Mae, John Lingle, Jannette Lingle, Jamie Braden and Jessy Goode; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Goolsby, William Franklin | 1930-2017
Published Saturday, April 1, 2017

William Goolsby
William Franklin Goolsby, 87, of Boyd, died Tuesday, March 28, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Funeral is 1 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Boyd with burial at Azleland Cemetery in Azle.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
William was born March 15, 1930, to Charles and Margaret (Scruggs) Goolsby. He married Patricia (Brown) Goolsby Sept. 3, 1952, in Dallas. William was a member of Boyd Masonic Lodge No. 479. He was a retired copy machine repairman and airplane mechanic.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; sister Pauline Foster; and brothers Charles, Bob and Paul Goolsby.
William is survived by his son, Charles R. Goolsby of Rockville, Md.; daughter Barbara June Goolsby of Boyd; granddaughter Lisa Michelle Williams and husband, Terry, of Weatherford; great-granddaughters Alexis Nicole Williams and Haylie Madison Williams of Weatherford; along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gordon, Vicki Rene (Grooms) | 1961-2017
Published Saturday, October 14, 2017
Vicki Rene Gordon, 56, of Chico, died Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17 at Chico First Baptist Church with Bros. Kenneth Woods and Lionel Young officiating. Burial will follow in Norwood Crafton Cemetery.
Family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers include Terry Hand, Mike Jones, Shane Hedricks, and Doug Bowyer, Patrick Johnson and Richard Singleton.
Honorary pallbearers are Elliot Mercer and Taylor Hood.
Vicki was born Aug. 11, 1961, in Bridgeport to Eugene and Willine (Pirtle) Grooms. She married Curtis Lynn Gordon Jan. 6, 2001, in Crafton. Vicki was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church. She sponsored and supported the Chico FFA. She was a secretary for Chico High School.
Vicki was preceded in death by her brother, Donnie Grooms.
She is survived by her husband; daughter Callie Gordon of Chico; her parents; daughters Rebecca Rasbeary and husband, Danny, of Fort Worth, Jenni Gordon of McCallen and Jill Gordon of Denton; son Cody Gordon and wife, Katie, of Longbeach, Miss.; grandchildren Alex Solis, Chelsea Rasbeary, Bryce Rasbeary, Dakota Brandt, Seth Brandt, Easton Gordon, Callen Gordon and Emery Gordon; nephew Dace Grooms; and other family members and friends.
Memorial contribution can be made to the Chico FFA Scholarship Fund at the First State Bank in Chico.

Gowdy, Kevin Gene | 1972-2017
Published Saturday, September 9, 2017

Kevin Gowdy
Kevin Gene Gowdy, 45, of Rockwall, died Friday, Sept. 1, 2017, in Rockwall.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur.
Kevin was born July 15, 1972, in Amarillo to Kenneth and Susan (Jeffers) Gowdy.
He was a teacher. He was also a loving and devoted father who enjoyed coaching his son’s football team, teaching them the craft of freestyle on the bicycle and watching his daughter excel in her theatrical and dance performances.
He graduated with honors from Steven F. Austin and was an accomplished artist. He loved teaching his students the joy of artistry.
Kevin is survived by his father, Kenneth Gowdy and wife, Donna, of Rhome; mother Susan Wagner and husband, Jim, of Houston; son Aeden Gowdy of Wiley; daughter Kennedy Gowdy of Wiley; sister Kendra Eberle and husband, Bob, of Arriba, Colo.; sister Kamie Littlefield and husband, Kevin, of Houston; brother James Wagner and wife, Amy, of Twenty Nine Palms, Calif.; and other family members, students and friends.

Goynes, F. Robert | 1949-2017
Published Wednesday, May 10, 2017

F. Robert Goynes
F. Robert Goynes, 67, of Chico, died Friday, May 5, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at the First Baptist Church in Chico with the Rev. John Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Chico Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Pallbearers are Bill Nelson, Cory Green, Chan Horne, Jose Rivera, Wayne Clark, Salvador Quiroz, Billy Melton, Chris Levaya and Justin Knox.
Honorary pallbearers are the Texas Baptist Men, Royal Ambassadors and Sprint employees.
Robert was born Nov. 9, 1949, in Baton Rouge, La., to Francis Robert and Flora Mae (Parker) Goynes. He married Cynthia Sherman Oct. 28, 1972, in Osage City, Kan. Robert retired from Sprint Telephone in 1995 after 18 years, then worked as an electrician in all phases of electrical work for 18 years and retired from ROC Services in 2014.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Chico, the Texas Baptist Men and Royal Ambassadors (RA’s) for more than 39 years. Robert was also involved in the RA track meet for 33 years. He was a member of Woodmen Life for 50 years and served as president of Chapter 2 Fort Worth. He was active in his community and churches wherever he lived.
Robert is survived by his wife of 44 years; sons Robert M. “Bobby” Goynes and wife, Angela, of Wichita Falls and William K. “Billy” Goynes and wife, Angie, of Bridgeport; grandchildren Abigail Abner and Danielle and Natalie Goynes; sister Roxie Goynes of Baton Rouge; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to TBM/RA’s, 5351 Cantron Dr., Dallas, TX 75227 or First Baptist Church Chico, P.O. Box 545, Chico, TX 76431.

Gray, James A. ‘Jim’ | 1963-2017
Published Saturday, July 8, 2017

James Gray
James A. “Jim” Gray, 53, of Chico, died Tuesday, July 4, 2017, in Decatur.
Services will be held at a later date.
Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur is handling arrangements.
James was born Aug. 14, 1963, in Bangor, Maine to Roland and Marjorie (Cummings) Gray. James was a concrete mixer hauler.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister Lynn Gray.
He is survived by his daughters, Amy Gray of Dallas and Amber Lara and husband, Alberto, of Dallas; brothers, Thomas Gray of Beaumont and Steve Gray of Minnesota; and friends.

Green, Bonnie Joyce (Watson) | 1930-2017
Published Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Bonnie Joyce Watson Green
Bonnie Joyce Watson Green, 87, of Bridgeport, died Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, in Bridgeport.
Funeral is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 28, at Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport with the Rev. Gary Demmitt officiating. Burial will follow at Thomas Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements. Pallbearers include Jarrod Montford, Brian Whaley, Lance Morrow, Rodney Morrow, Cason Jordan, Mason Jordan, Lukas Barber and Wendell Wiggins.
Honorary pallbearers are Kaleb Cook, Parker Cook and James David Green.
Bonnie was born Feb. 21, 1930, in Crafton to Oscar Raymond and Roxie Gladys (McGuire) Watson. She married Robert “Bo” Green July 17, 1948, in Bridgeport. Bonnie was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and sister Mary Reasoner.
She is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Montford and husband, David, of Bridgeport, Karen Cook of Bridgeport, Juanita Mundy and husband, Von, of Flower Mound; son Clayton Green and wife, Debbie, of Bridgeport; and grandchildren Katie Whaley and husband, Brian, Jarrod Montford and wife, Cassie, Jennifer Green, Lance Morrow and wife, E.J., Rodney Morrow and wife, Angie, Cason Jordan and wife, Nicole, Mason Jordan, Kaleb Cook, Parker Cook, Kelsey Barber and husband, Lukas, and Hanna Mundy.
Other survivors include great-grandchildren Brennen, Lane, Zane, Makane, Roston, Ryder and Palmer Joy Lou; sisters Lois Morrow of Bridgeport and Reba Nell Leake and husband, Jack, of Decatur; brothers Leon Watson and wife, Linda, of DeSoto and Harold Watson and wife, Dorothy, of Bridgeport; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Memorial donations may be made to Pleasant View Baptist Church in Bridgeport or a charity of choice.

Green, Michael Dee ‘Mike’ | 1946-2017
Published Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Michael Green
Michael Dee (Mike) Green, 71, of North Richland Hills, died Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, in North Richland Hills.
Service was Aug. 7 at Greenwood Chapel with Paul Davis officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Greenwood Cemetery.
Mike was born June 18, 1946, in Marion, Ind., to William T. and Delight Dee Oyler Green. He received his associate’s degree from McClendon College in Waco.
Mike served with the First Cavalry Division as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam from 1967-1968 and as an instructor at Fort Wolters from 1968-1969. He earned the Bronze Star, Air Medal with 36 Oak-Leaf clusters, the National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and a Good Conduct Medal. He was a member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association.
Mike retired from Quick Wash Coin Services after 30 years as a supervisor.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Linda Sue McMullen Green; and son Jasper Lynn Green.
He is survived by his loving wife of seven years, Patricia Woolaver Green; sons Thomas Delbert Green, Kalynn Deon Green and Michael Shae Green and wife, Marianne; grandchildren Brandon and wife, Stephanie, Cindel, Kaylie, Darrion, Matthew, Jeremy and Blaze; cousin Sue Burnsworth and her husband, Larry, of Marion; and many other friends and family members.
To make a memorial donation, contact Cornerstone Assistance Network, canetwork.org.

Greenwood, Bobby John, Jr. | 1965-2017
Published Saturday, May 6, 2017

Bobby Greenwood Jr.
Bobby John Greenwood Jr., 52, of Chico, died Tuesday, May 2, 2017, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service is 2 p.m. Saturday, May 6, at New Hope Fellowship Church in Chico with the Rev. Lionel Young officiating.
Visitation is one hour prior to the service at the church. Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport is handling arrangements.
John was born April 11, 1965, in Decatur to Bobby John Sr. and Ann (Meyer) Greenwood. He married Thresa Henson May 20, 1989, in Decatur. John was a truck driver for C & J Energy. He was a member of New Hope Fellowship Church.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years; sons Justin Greenwood and girlfriend, Erica Izuora, of Grapevine and Tyler Greenwood and girlfriend, Harley Moore, of Chico; his parents; and other family members and friends.

Greenwood, Cora Mae (Stephens) | 1936-2017
Published Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Cora Mae Greenwood, 80, died Tuesday, May 9, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Thursday, May 11, at the Forestburg Church of Christ. Burial will follow at Perryman Cemetery in Forestburg.
Visitation is 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at White Family Funeral Home in Bowie.
Cora was born Sept. 29, 1936, in Arkansas to Henry and Karen (Gambil) Stephens. She graduated from Bowie High School in 1955. Cora married the love of her life, Troy Greenwood, Oct. 4, 1955.
She and Troy farmed and ranched in Forestburg where they settled. She worked for Haggar Slack Co., Russell Newman and Fry Brandt sewing factories. She enjoyed reading and quilting and was a member of the Forestburg Church of Christ. Cora will be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister Ora Dovie Wallin; and grandson Richard Keating.
Cora is survived by her daughter, Leresa Greenwood of Alvord; grandchildren Brandi Keating of Lewisville and Mary Keating of Alvord; and nephews Rodger Rhyne of Huffman and Donny Cox of Lubbock.

Greer, Gerald Tom | 1942-2017
Published Saturday, July 15, 2017

Gerald Greer
Gerald Tom Greer, 75, died Thursday, July 13, 2017, in Bowie.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Saturday, July 15, at the Old Country Church in Bowie. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery.
White Family Funeral Home in Bowie is handling arrangements.
Gerald was born May 26, 1942, in Park Springs to Tom and Maggie (Adams) Eubanks. He graduated from Chico High School in 1960. Gerald served his country in the United States Army from 1964 to 1966. He worked for Mitchell Energy for 20 years until his retirement. Later he went to work for Hanover Compression Co. He enjoyed coaching pony league baseball and was a Boy Scout troop leader until 1994. Gerald loved bird hunting, fishing, singing and playing bass guitar.
He was preceded in death by his mother; father; stepson Donald Clark; and stepdaughter Anita Clark Whitson.
Gerald is survived by his wife, Jean Greer of Bowie; children Tonya Harris of Copperas Cove; William Greer and wife, Kim, of San Angelo; Todd Greer and wife, Kathy, of Stephenville; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; twin sister Gerry Sturtz and husband, Bill, of Richmond; and three nieces.
Memorial donations may be made to the Bowie Mission.

Greer, Judy (Hatley) | 1950-2017
Published Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Judy Greer
Judy Greer, 66, of Decatur died Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017.
Graveside service was Jan. 24 at Pleasant Grove No. 1 Cemetery in Decatur.
Judy worked in environmental services in the health care industry. She loved collecting pictures of her family and doing craft projects. She enjoyed life and loved her family.
Judy was born Aug. 1, 1950, in Decatur to Dillard Hatley and Dorothy Vess. She married Thomas Gene Greer Oct. 15, 1976.
Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister Linda William Carson; brothers Alvin Hatley and Buddy Hatley; and brothers-in-law Raymond Hays, Thurman Hays and Bruce Hays.
She is survived by her daughter, Julie Christian and husband, Kenneth; son Larry McCormick and wife, Misty; son Thomas Greer; sisters Nancy Hays, Melissa Hays, Anita Hays and Wanda Smith; and brothers Joe Hatley and wife, Martha, Timmy Hatley and Jimmy Wilson.
She is also survived by grandchildren Heather Shirley, Kyler Christian and wife, Ailyn, Whitney McCormick, Logan McCormick, Reese Monfort, Kaden Monfort, Peyton Monfort and Heath Giles and wife, Crista; great-grandchildren Brittany, Austin, Preslie and Karter; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Greer, Mary Helen (Swingler) | 1931-2017
Published Wednesday, September 6, 2017

Mary Greer
Mary Helen Greer, 86, of Decatur, died Monday, Sept. 4, 2017, in Decatur.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 8, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Decatur with Rick Ross officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Timothy Garcia, Kyle Stephens Jr., Ronald Willis, Bart Mueller, Devon Willis and Blake Tucker.
Mary was born July 14, 1931, in Bremond to A.J. and Nora (Dowdy) Swingler. She married Jackie Stephens Nov. 3, 1951, and was married 46 years until his passing in 1997. Mary was a member of the Decatur Church of Christ. She owned and operated a dairy farm and worked for 1st National Bank in Decatur for 20 years. Mary married Carl Thomas Greer Jan. 21, 2002, in Gainesville.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband; and sisters Pat Sellmand and Ann Ward.
Mary is survived by her husband; son Russell Stephens and wife, Rebecca, of Decatur; stepdaughters Sue Newcomb of Decatur and Cara Gail Willis and husband, Ronald, of Decatur; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Griffin, Scott |
Published Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Scott Griffin
Scott Griffin, 48, died Thursday, June 1, 2017, in Decatur.
Memorial service was June 11 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport.
Scott was born Aug. 28, 1968, in Fort Worth to Hal and Carol (Pointer) Griffin. He was a truck driver.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Scott is survived by his son, Samuel Griffin of Paradise; brother Harley Griffin and wife, Kathleen, of Paradise; grandmother Marie Pointer of Hamilton; nephews Ryan Griffin, Jake Griffin and wife, Teaaira, and Layne Griffin; and extended family members and friends.

Grill, Charlie, Jr. | 1946-2017
Published Saturday, December 23, 2017

Charlie Grill Jr.
Charlie Grill Jr., 71, of Chico, died Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral is 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27, at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with burial at East Bridgeport Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Jimmy Vanhoose, Charlie Deaton, Butch Bridges, Bobby Odell, Paul Liebel and Rick Walton. Honorary pallbearers are Rick Mitchum and Doyle Smith.
Charlie was born Oct. 16, 1946, in Decatur to Charlie Sr. and Helen (Petralis) Grill. He married Linda Sue Bird June 16, 1966, in Chico. Charlie served his country in the United States Army. He worked for Devon for 30 years until his retirement and then five years for ROC. Charlie was a member of the VFW Commander 10700 for 10 years, a member of the Masonic Lodge and served on the Chico Volunteer Fire Department.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Charlie is survived by his wife of 51 years; daughter Jariece Davis of Chico; grandchildren Clint Davis and wife, Crystal, Taylor Davis and wife, Amber, Ashley Davis and Dustin Davis and wife, Tessa; great-grandchildren Dylan, Azia, Eli, Lacy, Hayden, Kaydn, Hunter, Braxton and Bristol; great-great-grandchildren Fable, Rowan and Able; sister Donna Pope and her husband of Granbury; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Grooms, Donnie Eugene | 1959-2017
Published Saturday, May 20, 2017

Donnie Grooms
Donnie Eugene Grooms, 57, of Chico, died Wednesday, May 17, 2017, in Chico.
Funeral was May 19 at Hawkins Funeral Home in Bridgeport with the Rev. Jeff Bakker officiating. Burial followed at Norwood Crafton Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Travis Cox, Monty Forbus, Bill McCasland, Willy Jack Vincent, Gene Moody and Mike McCasland.
Honorary pallbearers were Lynn Gordon, David Goode, James Moody, Ernie Cox, Levi Forbus and Ed Cowley.
Donnie was born Dec. 22, 1959, in Bridgeport to Eugene and Willene (Pirtle) Grooms. He was a member of the Crafton Baptist Church and was an equipment operator.
Donnie is survived by his son, Dace Colton Grooms of Chico; his parents; sister Vicki Rene Grooms and husband, Lynn Gordon, of Chico; niece Calli Gordon of Chico; special friends in the Sturch family; and other family members and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to Crafton Volunteer Fire Department.

Groves, Winford E. |
Published Wednesday, June 14, 2017
Winford E. Groves, 81, of Denton, died Friday June 9, 2017, in Denton.
Funeral was June 11 at Jones Family Funeral Home in Bridgeport. Burial followed at Eastside Cemetery.
Winford was born April 19, 1936, in Bridgeport to Raymond L. and Elsie G. (Martin) Groves. At the young age of 19, Winford met and married the love of his life, B.C. Cowan, and together they shared 62 years of wonderful memories.
Winford served his country in the U.S. Army and was a math teacher for most of his life. He also enjoyed woodworking, gardening, fishing and playing cards and board games.
He was preceded in death by his nephew, T.A. Groves.
He is survived by his wife; his beloved dog, Sophie; brother R.L. Groves Jr. and wife, Gussie; sister-in-law Sue Nichols; grandson Ian Founds; nieces Donna Groves and Karen Groves and husband, Brian; and nephew Glenn Groves and wife, Tammy.