Obituaries

Arletta Joyce Elrod, 80
7/1/2009
Mrs. Arletta Joyce Elrod, 80 years of age, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2009 in the Coleman County Medical Center.

Visitation will be Thursday, July 2, 2009 from 6:00 to 7:00pm at Walker Funeral Home.

Services will be Friday, July 3, 2009 at 10:00am in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw Officiating, Interment will follow in the Dewey Cemetery in Lawn, Texas under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Joyce was born October 5, 1928 in Keene, Texas to Ethel Brown Bishop and Cecil Bishop. She worked many years for Jenwright Sewing Factory, then worked as an Office Clerk at the Overall Memorial Hospital in Coleman before retiring. Joyce was a Baptist, and later in life a homemaker.

She is survived by a daughter and son in law- Marsha and Kenneth Bean of Clyde, Texas; a son and daughter in law Dewayne and Luana Saverance of Coleman; 2 brothers and sister in law- Auther and Alice Bishop of San Antonio, Texas, and Bob Bishop of Westminister, California; 6 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Joyce was preceded by her parents, and husband Jake Elrod.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Holiday Hill Alzheimer's Unit at the Holiday Hill Nursing Home.

Ola Dee Johnson Jarvis, 62
6/29/2009
Ola Dee Johnson Jarvis, 62, died Monday, June 29, 2009 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Graveside funeral service will be held 11:00am Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Ola Dee Johnson on July 4, 1946 in Coleman, Texas, a daughter of Amos L. and Rosa Belle Francis Johnson. She grew up in Coleman and Odessa, attending school in Odessa. On March 5, 1984 she married J. B. Jarvis in Cross Plains. She had lived in Coleman for the past 25 years, moving to Brownwood in 2009. She was a restaurant cook and a member of Canaan Baptist Church in Loraine, Texas.

Survivors include her husband, J. B. Jarvis of Brownwood; one daughter, Ola Dee Lobstein and husband Earnest O., Sr. of Breckenridge; one son, Billy J. Vest, Jr. of Ft. Worth; 8 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Hubert Floyd Johnson and wife Anita of Conroe, Roy L. Johnson and wife Kathleen of Spring, Claud Johnson and wife Kathy of Odessa; two sisters, Rosa Lee Deason of Rising Star, Virginia Gookin and husband Dennis of Tulsa, Oklahoma; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Robert Johnson.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Jimmy L. Brooks, 68
6/29/2009
Mr. Jimmy L. Brooks age 68 of Bangs, passed from this life surrounded by family and friends, Sunday June 28, 2009 at his residence.

Services will be on Monday, June 29, 2009 at 3:00pm at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Brother Don Harmes officiating, under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Jimmy was born May 6, 1941 in Coleman, Texas to Lena Wilson Brooks and Raymond Brooks. Surviving are two daughters, Cindy and Lavonda, numerous grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, 4 brothers, 1 sister, many nieces, nephews, and friends. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters and 3 brothers.

Felix Earl Jones, 97
6/29/2009
Mr. Jones passed away peacefully in Kingsland on Sunday, June 28, 2009. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan Street, Coleman, Texas.

Services for Felix Earl Jones, 97, of Kingsland will be at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00pm Wednesday, July 1 with his family officiating. Burial will follow at Glen Cove Cemetery.

Mr. Jones was born February 7, 1912 in Coleman County, Texas to Edwin Clitus Jones and Sara Verluna May Jones. He graduated from Eden High School. Mr. Jones married Imarene Ragsdale on August 21, 1937 in Coleman. The couple's first residence was in Glen Cove where Felix farmed. In 1942, Felix and Imarene moved to Canadian, Texas for a few months while Felix worked for the railroad. Later that year, they returned to Coleman where Felix worked for the Post Office. In 1944, the couple moved to Tahoka, where Felix was a partner with his brother Vernon in the grain elevator business. In 1955, the Joneses moved to Pecos where Felix farmed. In 1962, they moved to Idalou where Felix owned automatic laundries until his retirement in 1977 when they moved to Kingsland. In 1997, Felix and Imarene moved back to Coleman. They were living there when Felix lost his beloved Imarene in April 8, 1999.

Mr. Jones was an avid gardener, often giving away much of what he raised. He loved making a home for his wife and four children and having them visit often. He was a member of the Kingsland Church of Christ, where he had once served as a deacon.

Mr. Jones was preceded in death by Imarene, his beloved wife and mother of their four children; and also Bethel Clark, whom he married in 2000.

Mr. Jones is survived by his son and wife, Bobby and Gail Jones of Kingsland; three daughters and their husbands; Kathryn and J.T. Benton of Buda, Bonnie and John Whittle of Kingsland, and Helen and Larry Bozeman of Idalou; thirteen grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; one sister, Aleene Gallaway of Coleman and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be grandsons; Barry Jones, Brent Jones, Wade Benton, Chad Benton, Kirk Whittle, Stan Whittle, Derek Bozeman and Heath Bozeman.

The family suggests memorials to a charity of your choice.

Please sign his on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

 Barbara Wanda (Bobbie) Horne McMinn, 86
6/25/2009
COLEMAN - Barbara Wanda (Bobbie) Horne McMinn, 86, of Coleman died Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral services will be 10:30am Monday, June 29, 2009 at First Baptist Church in Coleman with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be from 4:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday, June 28, 2009 at the funeral home.

On November 28, 1922, Barbara Wanda (Bobbie) Horne McMinn was born to Simon P. and Lucille Pauley Horne, natives of Coleman County. At age five, Bobbie moved with the family to Coleman.

Bobbie graduated from Coleman High School, earned a Bachelor’s Degree from North Texas State and Master’s Degree in Library Science from Peabody Institute in Nashville, Tennessee. She returned to North Texas State University to work in the library. Here, she met and married Phil McMinn. While Phil was working on a Doctorate Degree at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, she began the most important part of her life, motherhood.

Bobbie and Phil returned to Texas two weeks after the birth of their only son. Bobbie taught school in Mertzon and Mozelle before starting her career at Coleman I.S.D. She retired after 44 years with the Coleman Independent School District.

Bobbie was never idle. She was past-president of Delta KAPPA GAMMA, a member of the Retired Teachers Association, Master Gardener, an election judge and long-time member of First Baptist Church in Coleman where she served as Sunday School Teacher. All these things she loved, but her passion was her family.

She is survived by her son, John Petty and wife Diann McMinn of Winters; three grandchildren, Casey McMinn of Abilene, Stacy McMinn of Lubbock; Scarlet Van Zandt of San Angelo; five great grandchildren, Jacob McMinn on Winters, Lexis and Lilly McMinn of Lubbock and Chloe and Hunter Van Zandt of San Angelo. She is also survived by her beloved brother, Max Horne and his wife Billie, of Coleman. Her love was extended to her nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bobbie was frugal with herself but generous with family and friends. She never put on "airs," but she was always a Lady with Class.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Imogene Rushing, age 85
6/24/2009
Imogene Rushing, age 85, of Coleman and former long-time Odessa resident, died Tuesday, June 23, 2009 in Coleman.

The body will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at Bell Cemetery in Palestine, Texas. Arrangements were made by Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

She was born Imogene Bell on August 26, 1923 in Loco, Oklahoma, the daughter of Steven and Beatrice Pipkin Bell. She grew up in Gladewater, Texas where she graduated from high school. On September 28, 1940 she married L. D. "Buck" Rushing in Shreveport, Louisiana and they celebrated 68 years of marriage. He preceded her in death on November 28, 2008. During World War II, Imogene worked as a welder on Liberty Ships out of San Francisco. From 1946 to 2008 she and Buck lived in Odessa where they were members of the Calvary Baptist Church and the Jeans and Queens Square Dancing Club. She also served for many years as secretary for a bowling league in Odessa. After retirement, she and her husband traveled extensively.

Survivors include two daughters, Beverly Allen and husband David of Humble and Carolyn Stevens and husband Randy of Coleman; five grandchildren, Brandon Stevens of Odessa, Bryan Stevens of Fort Worth, Justin Allen of The Woodlands, Colin Allen and Stephanie Allen both of Humble; two great-grandchildren, Dalton and Case Stevens of Odessa.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Fl. 17, Chicago, Illinois 60611-7633.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Rev. James Ford, 82
6/23/2009
Rev. James Ford, age 82, of Santa Anna died Monday, June 22, 2009 in Brownwood.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 24 at the Santa Anna Assembly of God Church with Rev. Gaylon Morris officiating and assisted by Rev. J. D. Fry. Burial will follow in the Trickham Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be held on Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan Street, Coleman, Texas. His body will at the Santa Anna Assembly of God Church beginning at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday.

James Ford was born October 29, 1926 in Trickham, Texas, the son of Marion and Tavy Stacy Ford. He grew up in Trickham and attended school there, graduating from Santa Anna High School. On June 3, 1945 he married Mildred Wagner and she preceded him in death in February 1996. He married Charlene Brown Caviness on May 13, 2002 in Fort Worth. Brother Ford pastored the Santa Anna Assembly of God Church for 47 years. He also owned and operated Ford Welding. He was a member of the Ministerial Alliance.

Survivors include his wife, Charlene Ford of Santa Anna; two sons, Ted Ford and wife Diana of Lingleville, Joe Ford and wife Nance of Brownwood; one step-daughter, Billie Ann Crye and husband Donnie of Coleman; two sisters, Judy Straughan and husband Morris of Conroe and Mary Jackson of Meadowlake; five grandchildren, Scotty Ford and wife Brandi of Bridgeport, Brent Ford and wife Ann of Alvin, Tonya Jurado and husband Johnny of Dublin, Barbie Benne and husband Tony of Brownwood, Vickie Howard and husband Mark of Arkansas; two step-grandchildren, Wesley Crye and wife Ashlee of Roanoke, Cory Crye and wife Michelle of Roanoke and 15 great-grandchildren

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mildred, and a sister, Peggy Ford Miller.

Memorials may be made to the Santa Anna Assembly of God Church, P. O. Box 87, Santa Anna, Texas 76878 or the donor's favorite charity.

Please sign his on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Rachel Kerby, 94
6/22/2009
Rachel Augusta Kerby age 94 of Santa Anna passed away Sunday, June 21, 2009 at 8:30pm at Coleman County Medical Center.

Services will be Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at 11:00 am at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Marvin Hale officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Monday, June 22, 2009 from 6 till 7pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

Rachel was born November 10, 1914 in Tah Le Quah, Indian Territory, Oklahoma to the late William Asa and Amanda Barbara Cook Sissom. She was raised in Coleman County and graduated from Glen Cove Schools. On July 26, 1947 Rachel married Clarence Herbert Kerby in Abilene, Texas and they celebrated thirty six years of marriage. Clarence preceded her in death in 1983. She was a resident of Abilene until moving to Santa Anna in 2001. Rachel was a homemaker and member of the Northside Church of Christ. She enjoyed sewing, gardening and fishing and was a loving mother and grandmother.

SURVIVORS:  4 Grandchildren - Jimmy & wife Felicia Ellerbe of Santa Anna, Texas, Bryan & wife Amanda Ellerbe of Santa Anna, Texas, Mike & wife Lisa Ellerbe of Palestine, Texas, Mark & wife Sonya Ellerbe of Midland, Texas; Sister – Bill Roland of Early, Texas; 10 Great Grandchildren; 5 Great Great Grandchildren.

Rachel was preceded in death by daughter Barbara Ellerbe and by 8 Sisters & Brothers.

LaVerne Parrott
6/21/2009
LaVerne Parrott died Friday, June 19, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 22 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating and assisted by Rick Marshall. Burial will follow in the Valera Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be held on Monday at 1:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan, Coleman.

She was born near Valera, Texas to the late Warnock Simmons and Ruby Forman Simmons. She was a life-time resident of Coleman County. LaVerne was the third generation of two early day pioneer families of the Valera community - the Lon and Mary Forman family and the Jim and Annie Simmons family.

She grew up near Valera and attended Valera School and graduated from Centennial High School in 1937. On March 3, 1940 she married Hardy Parrott, her high school sweetheart, and they celebrated 62 years of marriage. LaVerne was a member of First Baptist Church of Coleman and the Auditorium Sunday School class. She was a former Sunday School teacher and had been a member of the Baptist Church for 67 years.  She retired from the First Coleman National Bank in 1982.

LaVerne enjoyed collecting. She had a coin collection, antique wire collection and an exquisite doll collection.

Survivors include one son, Tim Parrott of Coleman; one sister, Lorena Cullins of Coleman; two grandsons, Cody Parrott of Coleman and Trent Parrott and wife Anjolyn of Flower Mound; one great-grandson, Trey Parrott, and one step great-grandson, Garyon Pechacek, both of Flower Mound; several nieces and nephews, including Alan Kinney and wife Bamba of Round Rock, Texas, Sharon Cullins Roberts and husband John Roberts of Granbury, Roi Sue Parker and husband Ray of Lorenzo and Dee Simmons and wife Sandra of Midland; several cousins and an aunt and uncle, Anita and Paul Smith of Coleman.

Memorials may be made to the Bill Franklin Center, P. O. Box 766, Coleman, Texas 76834 or the Coleman Country Club, c/o Lang Martin, P. O. Box 128, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

Virginia Matassa
6/20/2009
Virginia Matassa, was born on August 17, 1920, in Whon, Texas to Bert and Hettye Turney, passed away on June 17, 2009, in Dallas.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at Sparkman/Hillcrest Northwest Hwy. Chapel. Entombment will follow at Hillcrest Mausoleum.

She attended Tarleton State University. She was one of the first salesladies for Mary Kay and then began her 40 year career in Real Estate as an investor. Virginia was an avid gardener. She loved traveling and being on her family farm in Whon.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Leonard Matassa; two sons, Martin Matassa, Jr. and Danny Matassa; two granddaughters and their spouses, Danielle and Dr. Robert Wills and Jennifer and Jeremiah Phillips; five great-grandchildren, Megan, Madison, Jake, Kaitlyn, and Lucas.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; son, Richard Matassa; grandson, Neil Matassa; sisters and brother, Hope Turney, Bob Armbrust, Pat Chilton, and Rex Turney.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Alzheimer's Association Alzheimer's Association Alzheimer's Association.

John Wiginton
6/18/2009
Mr. John Wiginton, 62 years of age and a lifetime resident of Coleman, passed away June 18, 2009 at his residence in Coleman.

Family visitation will be held Sunday, June 21, 2009 from 6:00-8:00pm at Walker Funeral Home.

Service will be Monday, June 22, 2009 at 2:00pm in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Joe Hailey officiating with Military honors. Interment to follow in the Coleman City Cemetery.


John was born May 1, 1947 in Coleman and was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Raymond and Elizabeth Savage Wiginton. He was a graduate of Coleman High School and a member of the Elm Street Church of Christ. He served his country in the army. John Wiginton married Miss Becky Hollingsworth in Coleman on February 25, 1972. He was manager of the Coca-Cola plant for 15 years and was with the American National Life Insurance Company for 15 years.

Survivors include wife Becky Wiginton of Coleman; daughter and son-in-law Carrie and Speedy Holloway of Coleman; Son and daughter-in-law Brian and Heather Wiginton of Ft. Worth, Tx; two brothers and their wives - Joel and Cathey Wiginton of Abilene and Dan and Diane Wiginton of Cincinnati; two grandchildren - Terren and Kirah Holloway both of Coleman.

John was preceded in death by his parents and infant daughter - Ami Wiginton.

Roger Walker, 63
6/15/2009
Roger Ray Walker left this earth for his heavenly home after a long and courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, June 14, 2009. His strong faith helped him face his battle.

Services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Santa Anna on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at 11:00am. The graveside service will be at the City of Llano Cemetery at 4:00pm.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00-8:00pm on Tuesday, June 16 at the Davis-Morris Funeral Home in Brownwood. The family requests that in lieu of flowers you make donations to the American Cancer Society or the education endowment to the school of your choice.
 

Roger was born on January 3, 1946 as the only child of Ray and Lucille (Moore) Walker in Brady, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents. Roger is survived by his wife, Kathy McInnis Walker of 33 years. He met his best friend and love of his life in San Angelo in 1974. They were married on September 8, 1975. His pride and joy were his three children and the grandchildren they had given him: a daughter, Kista Stahl and husband Steve of Mansfield, sons J.T. and wife Kate of Garland, and son Matt and wife Camie of Taylor. Four grandchildren: Brenner and Bryce Stahl of Mansfield, Cade Walker of Taylor, and Addison Walker of Garland.

Roger spent his youth in Llano. After graduating from Angelo State University, he enjoyed his 39 years in education in Fredericksburg, San Angelo, Eden, and Santa Anna as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. He will be remembered for his love of learning and teaching.

He is also survived by two aunts: Pauline Hasse of Mason and Earlene Turner of Austin.

Brothers-in-law: Mike McInnis and wife Barbara of Waco, Jay McInnis and wife Robbie of Austin, and Jim Whiteley and Patsy. He is also survived by four nephews and numerous cousins.

Condolences, memories and tributes can be left for the family at www.mem.com

Johnny C. Bartts, 77
6/15/2009
Johnny C. Bartts, 77, of Coleman, died Friday, June 12, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

A graveside funeral service will be 2:00pm Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at the White Chapel Cemetery with Rev. Mike Kerzee officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Johnny C. Bartts was born March 31, 1932 in Kempner, Texas, the son of James Bartts and Willie Taylor Bartts. He grew up at Center Point and married Mary Ellen Kuykendall. He worked as a nurseryman, growing trees. He moved to Coleman in 2006 and was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Bartts of Cedar Park; one daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Don Bridenstine of Coleman; one son and daughter-in-law, David Dewayne and Paula Bartts of San Antonio; four sisters, Rosemary Flora of Lometa, Marie Roberts of Lampasas, Gloria Jean Jeffers of Hamilton, Martha Jo Smith of Kerrville; four grandchildren, Anthony Coffman, Carl Coffman, Cecilia Ramirez, William Ramirez and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.

Please sign his online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Gary Bob Cash, 74
6/15/2009
Mr. Gary Bob Cash, 74 years of age, of Coleman passed away June 15, 2009 at his residence.

Memorial and Masonic services will be held Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at 2:00pm at Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating.

Gary was born November 11, 1934 in Coleman, the son of the late John and Agatha Hamilton Cash. He was married to Miss Glenda Nobles January 30, 1970 in Brownwood, Texas and had lived in Coleman since 1974. He served in the Marines and Air Force, was a member of the Coleman Masonic Lodge and had retired from carpentry.

Gary is survived by wife Glenda Cash of Coleman and two sons and daughters in law - Gary Hamilton and Kristen Cash of Wautaga, TX and Bob Cameron and Melanie Cash of Cedar Park, TX; three grandchildren - Molly and Kylie Cash of Cedar Park and Shelbee Cooper of Wautaga, TX.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country.

Margo J. Barstow, 52
6/15/2009
Margo J.Barstow age 52 of San Antonio, Texas passed away Friday, June 12, 2009 AT 4:08PM at her residence in San Antonio.

Services will be Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at 11:30am at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Rick Turner officiating. Interment will follow with services under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, June 16, 2009 from 6 until 7pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

Margo was born August 2, 1956 in Manchester, Connecticut to the late James and Irene Meuth Brennan. She was a lifetime resident of San Antonio where she graduated from Jefferson High School. On January 22, 1977 Margo married Gary Barstow and they celebrated thirty one years of marriage. Margo was a member of the Bandera Road Community Church and a homemaker.


SURVIVORS:  Husband – Gary Barstow of San Antonio; Texas, Daughter – Jennifer Barstow of San Antonio, Texas; Son – Christopher Barstow of San Antonio, Texas; 4 Sisters – Trudy Mattson of San Antonio, Texas, Bernice Ledwig of San Antonio, Texas, Mary Brewer of Spokane, Washington, Kathy Castillo of San Antonio, Texas; 3 Brothers – Timothy Brennan of LaCoste, Texas, Buddy Brennan of Devine, Texas, Robert Brennan of Grand Rapids, Michigan; 2 Grandchildren; Number of Nieces & Nephews.

Mary Rehm Esslinger
6/11/2009
Mary Rehm Esslinger age 65 of Rockwood, Texas passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at 7:20am at her residence in Rockwood.

Services will be Saturday, June 13, 2009 at 11:00am at Rockwood Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Dean officiating. Interment will follow at the Rockwood Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Friday, June 12, 2009 from 5:30 till 7pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

Mary was born July 1, 1943 in Santa Anna to the late Tony & Alice Lily Rutherford Rehm. She was raised in Rockwood where she attended Rockwood Elementary and graduated in 1961 from Santa Anna High School. She studied at Tarleton State University and graduated from North Texas State University with a BS in education/Spanish and studied summers in Monterrey, Mexico. She taught Spanish in Ft Worth ISD, Midland ISD and Santa Anna ISD. Mary was a member of the Trinity Presbyterian Church where she served on various committees.

SURVIVORS:  Daughter – Kyndall & husband Cliff Ross of Brownwood, Texas; 2 Sons – Kurt Esslinger of Chicago, Illinois, Tony & wife Edrea Esslinger of Midland, Texas; Grandson – Gunnar Witcher of Brownwood, Texas; 3 Sisters – Neva & husband Gene Smith of Richardson, Texas, Bobbie Robicheaux of Ft Worth, Texas, Vita & husband Roger Gilpin of Laredo, Texas; Brother – Wade Rehm of Gorman, Texas.

Family requests donations be made to Santa Anna School Alumni Scholarship Fund.

Eddie Dean Slayton
6/10/2009
(Reprinted from www.brownwoodbulletin.com at request of family)
Sept. 19, 1942-June 5, 2009

After a courageous battle with cancer, Eddie D. Slayton, 66, of Blanket, passed away Friday morning, June 5, 2009, at his home in Blanket with loved ones by his side

In the end, we will not be sad, but we will use this time to celebrate. We will celebrate the victories in his life and the many lives that he touched. We will celebrate the long awaited reunion between a man and his one true love. Everyone who met Eddie knew of his love of life and his compassion for people. He opened his heart and home to numerous people over the years. It is because of his huge heart that our family has become more than just blood. We are a great many people connected by love.

An informal memorial service was at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 7, 2009, at the Blanket Church of Christ.

For inquiries regarding donations you may call (325) 748-3049, or stop by the Slayton home in Blanket at 413 S. Broadway to visit with the family.

Mr. Slayton was cremated under the direction of Heartland Funeral Home.

Friends and family members are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net .

Annie Mae Merritt
6/8/2009
Funeral services for Annie Mae Merritt, age 63, of Coleman, formerly of Dime Box and Brownwood, will be at 2:00 PM, Monday, June 8, 2009 in the Davis-Morris Funeral Home Chapel with Annie Scurlock officiating. Interment will follow in Greenleaf Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday afternoon from 4:00 until 6:00.

Annie Mae died Friday, June 5, 2009 in Abilene Regional Medical Center.

She was born on February 25, 1946 in Hoboken, Georgia to John and Irene (Altman) Merritt. She worked for several years for Brownwood Manufacturing and also worked as a Certified Nurse’s Aid.

Annie Mae is survived by her six children, Allan Bowen of Rosharon, Cynthia Wade and husband Billy of May, Fred Bowen and wife Trudi of Arizona, John Bowen of Georgia, Nicole Dennis and husband Howard of Coleman, and David Bowen of Brownwood; ten granddaughters, Bridgette, Cynthia, Samantha, Briana, Jamie, April, Michele, Katelynn, Jenny, and Rachel, a great-grandson, Billy, that brought sunshine to her life this past year. She is also survived by her siblings, Martha Merritt of Georgia, Margaret Herrin of Georgia, Bettie Hutchins of Georgia, Margie Warrick of Dime Box, Johnny Merritt of Mississippi, Noah Merritt of Mississippi, Jimmy Merritt of Louisiana, and Jack Merritt of Georgia.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a granddaughter, Crystal Dawn Bowen, a brother, Hubert Merritt, and two sisters, Virginia Merritt and Cora Bell Crawley.

Condolences, memories, and tributes can be left for the family at www.mem.com

Evelyn V. Elkins, 83
6/5/2009
Evelyn V. Elkins, of Coleman, died Tuesday, June 2, 2009 in Brownwood.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, June 6 at 2:00 p.m. in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Mike Kerzee officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Evelyn V. Elkins was born May 13, 1926 in Upland, California, a daughter of Henry Clifford Bickmore and Violet G. Olsen Bickmore. She grew up in the Upland, California area and attended school there. On November 13, 1943 she married Winston Elkins in Chino, California. Following her marriage and while her husband was in the military, she lived in San Pedro, California, Hastings, Nebraska, Corpus Christi and Oceanside, California. After his military service ended, she lived in Coleman County and Corpus Christi before moving to Bisbee, Arizona for 21 years and then in Phoenix, Arizona for 21 years. She returned, with her husband, to Coleman in 1988. While living in Phoenix she was a lab technician at St. Joseph's Hospital. Evelyn was a volunteer with the Pink Ladies at Coleman County Medical Center. She was affliated with First United Methodist Church in Coleman.

Survivors include her husband, Winston B. Elkins of Coleman; one son, Dan W. Elkins and wife Sammy of Dewey, Arizona; two daughters, Margaret E. Meisterhans of St. David, Arizona and Pamela J. Gregory and husband Charles of Cordes Lakes, Arizona; two brothers, Henry Clifford Bickmore, Jr. of Delano, California and Robert Lee Bickmore of Pixley, California; two sisters, Phyllis Olden of Phalen, California and Nita McPherson of Chico, California; three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by a son, Clifford Elkins, in 1994.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 852, Coleman, Texas 76834 or Coleman Healthcare Center, 2317 S. Commercial, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Visitation will be held Friday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

John Donald "Don" Fellers, 70
6/3/2009
EVERMAN -- John Donald "Don" Fellers, 70, passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2009, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Service: 2 p.m. Friday, June 5, 2009 at First Baptist Church of Everman, 501 W. Barron.

Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 4, 2009 at Mayfield Kiser Funeral Home, Fort Worth.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Everman Baptist Church Food Bank.
 

Don was born May 22, 1939, and raised in Trickham To Sylvester Matthew Fellers and Clara Mae Wells. After graduation from Santa Anna High School, he moved to Fort Worth, where his sisters were. He was drafted into the Army and served two years in Germany and two years in the reserves. He then worked for Fort Worth Steel & Machinery Co., General Dynamics and then went into Iron Working, starting his own business until his retirement in 2002.

His greatest hobby was his antique tractors and tractor pulling. Nothing took the place of his love for his sons and grandchildren. His sense of humor and jokes will not be forgotten. He loved his morning coffee buddies.

The family wishes to thank the wonderful care received by Huguley Hospital staff and at Community Hospice in Burleson during his short stay.

He was preceded in death by his parents and niece, Melinda Horner of Honey Grove.

Survivors: His wife of 44 years, Marilyn; sons, Cody Fellers of Joshua and wife, Melia, and Kevin Fellers of Burleson and wife, Deshea; grandchildren, Garrett, Amber, Seth and Aidan Fellers; sisters, Sybil Eubank and husband, James, of Santa Anna, Catherine Watts and husband, Gene, of Everman and Ollie Peacock and husband, Charles, of Burleson; brothers, Byrl Fellers and wife, Brenda, of Burleson and Sylvester "Red" Fellers and wife, Pat, of Santa Anna; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Hulan Howard Harris, 81
6/3/2009
Hulan Harris was born July 22, 1927 in Burkett, Texas. His parents Quinn and Lillian Harris are deceased. Also preceding him in death is a son Ricky Dan Harris.

Hulan is survived by his wife, Sue, of the home in Bella Vista, AR; a daughter Vicki Heitt, of Rogers, AR; grandson, Christopher Heitt of Brooklyn, NY; brother Grady Harris and Ovella of Coleman, Texas; many nephews, nieces, and their families of Texas. An extended family of Oklahoma - William and Debbie Cossey, Andrew, Aaron, and Harley; Kent Cossey; Darron Cossey and Megan, Kasey and Kristy Cossey and Kaden, Justin and Susan Cossey Rainwater and Chance. Sister-in-law Sharon of Bentonville, AR; brother-in-laws Jack Hill of Oakland, GA and David James of Canton, NC.

Hulan was of the Protestant faith. He was baptized by his brother, Grady, at the family farm. After a year battle with cancer, and other health issues, Hulan passed away June 1, 2009 at the Circle of Life Care Center in Springdale, AR.

For Hulan, love of life was the ultimate experience. For his country, he proudly served in the US Navy, during WWII. His desire to improve public education, and, be a responsible part of that accomplishment was a continual priority. Dedication for youth to achieve was demonstrated by his years of service with the Texas State Fair, the Forth Worth Stock Show, and the Texas State Educational Programs. He was a Teacher and State Supervisor for the Texas State Department of Education for many years.

Hulan was a remarkable person with true values, every day living to the fullest, with a most caring and kind word for one and all. Strangers were not permitted to remain in Hulan's space because, he made everyone welcome as a friend. He gave the warmth of friendship, with an attitude of respect to all with whom he was associated.

A great Texas smile and a recognizable laugh were the HHH trademarks. This, very memorable, to all his Fuzzy Corner friends and lifetime bosom buddies.

The family closed the final season of Hulan's life with his interment in the Burkett Community Cemetery, Burkett, Texas. Inurnment will be June 4, 2009 at 2:00pm with Walker Funeral Home of Coleman in charge of arrangements.

Will Evelyn Leddy, 90
6/2/2009
Will Evelyn Leddy age 90 of San Angelo, Texas went to be with the Lord Monday, June 1, 2009 at her residence in San Angelo.

Services will be Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 2:00pm at First Baptist Church Chapel in San Angelo with Rev. Dick Schultz & Stephen Leddy officiating. Interment will follow at Fairmount Cemetery directed by Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, June 3, 2009 from 5 till 7 pm at Johnson Funeral Home in San Angelo.

She was born August 8, 1918 in Ennis, Texas to the late Walter Lockhart and Nellie Lee Robinson Matthews. Will Evelyn was raised in Ennis where she graduated from Ennis High School in 1936 and later attended Angelo State University. On January 28, 1940 she married Joseph Dale Leddy in San Angelo and they celebrated fifty five years of marriage. Dale preceded her in death in 1995. She has been a resident of San Angelo since 1940 as a homemaker and member of the First Baptist Church where she was a member of WMU and a Sunday school teacher.

SURVIVORS: 2 Daughters – Debbie Montgomery of Del Rio, Texas, Martha & husband Dick Schultz of Brownwood, Texas; 2 Sons – Stephen & wife Charlotte Leddy of Ft Worth, Texas, Mark & wife Vickie Leddy of San Angelo, Texas; Brother-in-law – Hollis & wife Nancy Leddy of San Angelo, Texas; Numerous Cousins, Nieces and Nephews; 10 Grandchildren; 27 Great Grandchildren

Will Evelyn was preceded in death by Father & Mother-in-law – M. L. & Mabel Leddy; Son-in-law – Neal Montgomery; 2 sisters and 2 brothers.

Bobby Kirkpatrick, 72
6/1/2009
Bobby Kirkpatrick, 72, of Coleman, died Saturday, May 30, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral services will be 2:00pm Tuesday, June 2, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Jay Kincaid officiating. Interment with Military Honors will be in the Talpa Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be from 6:00pm to 8:00pm Monday, June 1, 2009 at the funeral home

Bobby Kirkpatrick was born April 13, 1937 in Kaufman County, the son of A.C. Kirkpatrick and Bertha Horton Kirkpatrick. He grew up and attended school in Big Spring. He served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1962. On April 5, 1974, he married Elouise White in Big Spring. They moved to Coleman in 2000 from Houston, where he worked as a sales contractor for Loomis. He also worked in sales for E.L. Farmer, E.B. Walton and White Testers.

Bobby was a man that never met a stranger...and always had a story to tell. He lived and loved to be with family and friends at the coffee shop, playing dominoes, camping at the lake and fishin’. He’ll see you all there!

Survivors include his wife, Elouise (Shorty) Kirkpatrick of Coleman; his children, Dale Dunnam of Temple, Todd Dunnam and wife, Wendy, of Victoria, George (Ude) Kirkpatrick of Kermit, Debbie Alvarado and husband, Frank, of Wyoming, Dina Wingfield and husband, Greg, of Grand Island, Nebraska; two brothers, Billy Kirkpatrick and wife, Marie, of Roscoe, Danny Kirkpatrick and wife, Judy of Coahoma; two sisters, Evelyn Berry and husband, Duane, of Katy, Jerry Tabor and husband, George, of Fort Worth; one sister-in-law, Barbara Kirkpatrick of Coleman; his mother-in-law, Louise White of Snyder; 15 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and many nieces, including Debbie Smith of Coleman who was a wonderful caregiver for last few years and nephews and cousins from the French and Horton families.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Danny and Jeff and five brothers, George, Don, Paul, Leroy and Charles and his father-in-law, L. B. White..

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.

Please sign his guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Madaline Smith, 87
5/31/2009
Mrs. Madaline Smith, of Goldsboro, Texas, passed away May 29, 2009 in the Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.

Services will be at 2:00pm Monday, June 1, 2009 at the Midway Cemetery with Rev. Rick Hargrove officiating. He is minister of Gateway Baptist Church.  Services are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Memorials can be made to Gateway Baptist Church. Pallbearers will be Dale McKinney, Maury Bates, David Hale, Randy Speck, Shay Smith and David Atkins.

Madaline was born August 30, 1921, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Clarance Bruce. She was a graduate of Content High School, Class of 1939. She was a ranch lady and member of Gateway Baptist Church. She married the late Claud Smith August 3, 1940 in Winters and he preceded her in death in 2007.

Survivors include: son and daughter-in-law - Oscar and Fritzi Smith of Goldsboro; two grandchildren - Monique Sadler of Lawn and Shay Smith of Goldsboro; four great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Lena Mae Ohlhausen, 92
5/30/2009
Lena Mae Ohlhausen, of Bangs, Texas passed away Friday, May 29, 2009 at 1:40 AM at Songbird Lodge in Brownwood, Texas.

Services will be Sunday, May 31, 2009 at 2:30 PM at Rocky Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Rick Justice. Interment will follow at Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

Lena was born December 5, 1916 in Rockwood, Texas to the late Jim and Alma Kathryn Behrens Ramsey. She was raised in Whon and McCullock County where she attended the Voca School. On September 9, 1939 she married Charlie Henry Ohlhausen in Brady, Texas and they celebrated forty-three years of marriage. Charlie preceded her in death in 1982. Lena has been a resident of Bangs since 1958 moving there from Mason County. She was a housewife and a member of the Rocky Creek Baptist Church where she served as a devoted nursery worker.

SURVIVORS

Daughter – Kathy & husband Tommy McMillan of Coleman, Texas
Son – Charles Ray Ohlhausen of Bangs, Texas
5 Sisters
5 Brothers
Granddaughter – Krystal McMillan of Irving, Texas
2 Grandsons – Todd & wife Sherry McMillan of Santa Anna, Texas
Wayne & wife Mary McMillan of Albuquerque, New Mexico
4 Great Grandchildren

Ernest E. “Buck” McGonagill, 80
5/26/2009
Mr. Ernest E. “Buck” McGonagill, 80 years young of Coleman, passed from this life at Abilene Regional Hospital on Monday May 25, 2009.

Services will be Friday May 29, 2009 at 2:30pm at Walker Funeral Home, with interment to follow in the Gouldbusk Cemetery under the direction of Walker funeral Home.

Visitation will be Thursday May 28, 2009, 6:00 to 8:00pm at Walker Funeral Home. Memorial Dinner will be at the Coleman Masonic Lodge on Friday at 12:00 Noon.

Buck was born November 9, 1928 in Lakewood, New Mexico to the late Ernest C. McGonagill and Leta Brown. He enlisted in the U. S. Army on September 21, 1950 and served until September 23, 1952, obtaining the rank of Corporal. He married Margaret Ann Evans on May 25, 1955; she preceded him on May 16, 2009. Buck was a member of the Lakewood Baptist Church of Lakewood, New Mexico, a member of the Masonic Lodge, Past Master, District Governor, and recipient of the Golden Trowel Award. Buck graduated from Sul Ross State University with a Bachelor of Science degree and a Teaching Certificate; he taught at several districts, before retiring from the Panther Creek ISD. He was a member of the following; Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, International Association of Turtles, American Quarter Horse Association, National Cutting Horse Association, and Texas State Teachers Association, the ANRS & Rodeo Exes Association from Sul Ross State University.

He is survived by a son and daughter in law- Clay and Crissy McGonagill of Coleman, sister- Zippy Helbert of Carlsbad, New Mexico, and grandson Coby McGonagill of Coleman, numerous friends and acquaintances.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to ANRS & Rodeo Exes P. O. Box 539 Fort Stockton, Texas 79735 or the charity of your choice.

Buford Albert Dodgen, 81
5/25/2009
Buford Albert Dodgen, 81, of Tower Plaza, Kentucky died May 22, 2009.

A memorial service will be held in Santa Anna at a time to be announced.

Services will be 2:30 pm Wednesday at Camp Nelson National Cemetery with Pastor Chris Rieber officiating. Arrangements by Betts and West Funeral Home.

He was born in Mule Shoe, TX, son of Albert and Lilly Harris Dodgen. Buford grew up in Santa Anna, Texas where he attended school. He is a U. S. Marine Veteran of WWII.

Survivors include seven children, Marsha Kay Butt, Linda Lori Bobst, John Albert Dodgen, Joe Blake Dodgen, James Arthur Dodgen, Peggy Sue Paulson, Jack Allen Dodgen, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a special niece, Sandra Youree of Santa Anna, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Lilly Harris Dodgen of Santa Anna, Texas, one brother J.B. Dodgen of Colorado, and one sister Thelma Box Dodgen of Crane, Texas.

Online guestbook at www.BettsandWestfuneralhome.com 

Bobbie Dodson, 79
5/23/2009
Bobbie Dodson, 79, died Friday, May 22, 2007 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home.

Graveside funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, May 24 at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rick Marshall officiating.

There will be a visitation at the pavilion immediately following the service. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

Bobbie Dodson was born October 9, 1929 in Valera, Texas, a daughter of the late Arthur and Lola Crosby Dodson. She grew up in Coleman County and attended school at Echo and Crossroads. Bobbie was a life-long resident of Coleman County and a homemaker. She was a member of First Baptist Church and the Lydia Sunday School Class.

Survivors include one brother, Henry and wife Margie Dodson of Coleman; one sister, Shirley Hunter of Burkett; six nieces and nephews; several great-nieces and great-nephews; two aunts, Alma Wright of Lovington, NM and Dorris Morgan of Fort Worth.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Howard Dodson.

Memorials may be made to the Coleman County Youth Activity Center, P. O. Box 766, Coleman, Texas 76834 or Holiday Hill Nursing Home, P. O. Box 392, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Neoma Collins, 82
5/20/2009
Neoma Collins, 82, of Coleman, died Monday, May 18, 2009 at Clyde Nursing Home in Clyde.

Graveside funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2009 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Bro. David Humber officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Neoma Collins was born February 21, 1927 in Lawn, the daughter of Luther O’Shields and Mary Bessie Dawson O’Shields. She grew up and attended school in Lawn. She married Lewis Walker on January 27, 1951 in Coleman. He preceded her in death in 1961. She later married William Collins in 1967. He preceded her in death in 1996. Mrs. Collins graduated from nursing school in Brownwood and worked at Holiday Hill Nursing Home in Coleman as an L.V.N. for 20 years. Growing up, Mrs. Collins and her twin sister, Nelma, sang on the radio as the "Famous O’Shields Twins" and even recorded two records. Their brother, Vaughn, played the guitar and fiddle for them. In later years, Mrs. Collins became a member of the Humane Society and helped stray animals.

Survivors include one brother and sister-in-law, Vaughn and Ruth O’Shields of Lawn; one brother-in-law, J.L. Crump of Clyde; several nieces and nephews including, Susan Justice of Abilene, Tommy Crump of Clyde, Gary O’Shields and Shannon O’Shields, both of Lawn and several cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, and six brothers and sisters, Ed O’Shields, Lois Pierce, Herman O’Shields, Bill O’Shields, Nelma Crump and Juanita Young.

Family visitation will be from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Jim Claiborne, 90
5/19/2009
Jim Claiborne, 90, of Clovis, New Mexico, died Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at Retirement Ranch in Clovis.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21 at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Services will at 10:00am Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at 16th & Pile Church of Christ in Clovis with Jim Gammon officiating.

A graveside service will be at 10:00am Friday, May 22, 2009 at Coleman Cemetery Pavilion in Coleman, Texas with Adam Comeaux, minister of Elm Street Church of Christ in Coleman, officiating.  Arrangements are under the direction of Steed-Todd Funeral Home in Clovis, NM and Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.

He was born April 20, 1919, in Trinidad, Colorado to James Ernest & Carmel Harmon Claiborne. He married Maurine E. Moseley March 21, 1938 in Coleman, Texas. He served in the Army Air Corp during World War II. He moved to Clovis in 1953 and owned and operated Claiborne Refrigeration until his retirement in 1974. He was a member of 16th & Pile Church of Christ and a lifetime member of Sertoma. He was a loving father, grandfather & great grandfather. He loved to fish and to go elk hunting.

He is survived by one daughter, Ann Emerson and husband Al of Centennial, Colorado; three grandchildren, Ryan, Christina and Randy; four great-grandchildren; one brother, Harold and wife Vi Claiborne of Coleman, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Maurine and his second wife, Charlene; two brothers, Curtis and Raymond; one sister, Evelyn Johnson.

Casket bearers will be Ryan Emerson, Raymond Johnston, Ed Inman, Bob Norris, Garvin Chandler & Lee Stevenson. 

Johnny Horace Row
5/19/2009
Johnny Horace Row, 82, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on May 15, 2009, at his home in Deming, N.M.

He was born in Gouldbusk, Texas, on March 12, 1927, to John Wesley Row and Mary Alice Garrett Row. He grew up there and in 1945, he was drafted into the Navy and was honorably discharged in 1946. He married Claudette Kenyon in September 1953, and had one daughter, Debra. They divorced in 1960. He married Luanna Helene Olsen in September 1963, and had two children, Johnny Brian and Sabra Lyn.
He had lived in the Deming area since the early 1960s and was a local water well driller. Many knew him as one of the long-time coffee drinkers at the big round table at the local truck stop. He retired from the drilling business in 2005.

Johnny is survived by three children; Debra Kay Row, Johnny Brian Row and his wife, Mimi; and Sabra Lyn Alt and her husband, Steve; two sisters: Betty Jane Hemphill and Donna Marie Haynes and her husband, Jerry; Brother-in-law Bill Fain. Nine Grandchildren: Jason, Jenna, Ethan, Charis, Cecilia, Gideon, Malachi, Jonah and Silias and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Preceding him in death was his wife, Luanna Helene Row, his parents, John Wesley and Mary Alice Row, a brother, Bobby Glynn Row and his wife, Ruth Louise Row, a sister, Bonnie Joann Fain, two brother-in-laws: Bill Brown and Zeno Hemphill.

Many thanks to Dan and Mary at Ambercare Hospice. They were truly a blessing to us at this time.

No services are planned. Entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapels, 811. S. Gold Ave., Deming, NM 88030, (575) 546-9671.

Margaret Ann McGonagill, 74
5/17/2009
Mrs. Margaret Ann McGonagill, 74 years young, passed from this life Saturday, May 16, 2009 in the Brownwood Regional Medical Center in Brownwood, Texas.

A Memorial Service will be Wednesday May 20, 2009 at 3:00pm in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating. A memorial dinner will take place immediately following. Inurnment will be under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

Margaret Ann was born August 11, 1934 in Mertzon, Texas to the late Samuel Evans and Amanda Adele Ramsel Evans, she held a Bachelor of Science Degree from Sul Ross State University, was a teacher for many years, a life member of Texas State Teachers Association, member of Beta Sigma Pi, a Christian and a Methodist. Margaret married Ernest E. “Buck” McGonagill on May 28, 1955 in Mertzon and they shared 53 years together. They moved to Coleman County in 1979.

She is survived by her loving husband “Buck”, a son Clay and his wife Crissy McGonagill of Coleman, a sister Dorothy Moore of San Miguel, Mexico, and one grandchild, Coby McGonagill, numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

In Lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to:
C.O.P.D. Foundation
2937 SW 27th Avenue, Suite 302
Miami, FL 33133 or your favorite charity.

Amie Marie Rambo, 31
5/16/2009
Amie Marie Rambo, of Coleman, died Friday, May 15, 2009 in Abilene, as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Funeral services will be at 2:00pm Monday, May 18, 2008 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dick Schultz officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Amie Marie Rambo was born on March 28, 1978 in Santa Anna, the daughter of Charles Rambo and Neva Simpson. She grew up in Coleman and attended school in Coleman and Panther Creek. She also volunteered her time with the Matthew 25 Ministries in Coleman.

Survivors include one son, Collin Duett of Coleman; her parents, Charles Rambo of Coleman and Neva Simpson of Coleman; three brothers, Michael Rambo and wife, Lucinda, of Coleman, Joshua Rambo and wife, Jennifer, of Santa Anna, Zachariah Rambo of Abilene; her grandmother Charlene Barnett of Coleman; two nephews, Jayden Rambo of Santa Anna, Dawson Rambo of Santa Anna; two nieces, Jolie Rambo of Santa Anna, SeAera Rambo of Santa Anna and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

She was preceded in death by one grandfather, Jackie Barnett, Sr.; her grandmother, Geneva Simpson and a step-grandfather, Leslie Dickson.

Family visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday at Stevens Funeral Home.

Please sign her online guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

Jerry Marks, 71
5/15/2009
Jerry Marks, of Voss, died Friday, May 15, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Sunday, May 17, 2009 at Stacy Cemetery in McCulloch County with Ed Marks officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Jerry Marks was born October 28, 1937 in Lamesa, the son of Jess Marks and Cleytus McHenry Marks. He served in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1958. On January 1, 1957, he married Robbie Highnote in Morton. He moved to Voss in 2001 from Morton, where he worked as a welder, was a member of the Masonic Lodge and a member of Missionary Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Robbie Marks of Voss; one son, Michael Marks of Voss; one daughter and son-in-law, Shanna and Mitchell Valentine of Lubbock; three brothers; two sisters; 6 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Family visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday at Stevens Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to God’s Learning Channel, P.O. Box 61000, Midland, TX 79711-1000.

Please sign his online guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

Jean H. Justice, 84
5/13/2009
Jean H. Justice, 84, former resident of Coleman, died Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Mercy Memorial Hospital in Healdton, Oklahoma.

Graveside services will be 10:00am Friday, May 15, 2009 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Jean H. Justice was born July 20, 1924 in Coleman, the daughter of Guy Hipsher and Ethel Starnes Hipsher. She grew in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School. She also attended Howard-Payne University and the University of Texas-Pan American. She taught school in the Cherokee School District in Oklahoma and was also a Nurse. She married Lee Marks Justice in 1942 in Cross Plains. He preceded her in death in 1943 Cross Plains. She later married Hubert Edward Walker in 1956 in Richland Springs. He preceded her in death in 1997. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Order of the Eastern Star and First Baptist Church.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Susie Walker of Juniata, Nebraska; one daughter and son-in-law, Mishelle and Morgan Armstrong of Wilson, Oklahoma; one sister, Elfreda Boomhower of Carey, North Carolina; one brother, Glen Reed Hipsher of Edinburg; three grandchildren, Marcus Smith of Longview, Megan Davis Walker of Phoenix, Arizona, Austin Glen Walker of Juniata, Nebraska; 11 step-grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by one son, Glen Davis Walker in 1981.

Memorials may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association, 919 N. Michigan Avenue, Ste. #1100, Chicago, Illinois 60611-1676.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Gregory Dale Ancinec
5/12/2009
Gregory Dale Ancinec, age 59, of Levelland passed away Friday, May 8, 2009. 

A celebration of life service will be at 4:00pm on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at the George Price Funeral Chapel in Levelland. 

The viewing will precede the service starting at 2:00pm.  Burial will follow in the City of Levelland cemetery.

He was born to Joseph and LaVerne Ancinec in Littlefield on July 11, 1949.  He moved with his parents to Plains in early 1953.  He attended Plains Schools and graduated in May, 1967.  His summers were filled with work at the family farm and as a teenager, and he lifeguarded at the Plains Swimming pool.  Later in life he owned and worked as a custom grain harvester.  He attended South Plains College and then entered the Methodist School of Nursing and graduated in 1971.  He was employed as an RN and Director of Nursing (DON) at many hospitals and nursing homes in Texas.  At the time of death, he was employed as an Interim  DON, RN Consultant with Senior Living properties.  Gregg was interim DON at Coleman Health Care Center at the time of his death.  Greg was saved at age 12 and baptized at the Plains First Baptist Church.  He was born again and baptized in the Holy Spirit in Durango, Colorado in 1974 and began a journey of a spirit-filled life.  He lived for God and family.  Gregg and Rhanell Strickland were united in marriage on August 23, 1968 in the First Baptist Church of Plains. 

Gregg is survived by his wife, Rheanell; daughters, Chand Ancinec and Shelby Hines, Kiri and Shane Parker, Elizabeth Ancinec and Steven Ellis, all of Levelland; a brother, Brad Ancinec and wife Vicki; a sister, Gail Holley and husband Jerry, both of Plains; the loves of his life, grandchildren, Taylor, Bailey, and Axton. 

Gregg was predeceased by his infant brother, Bobby; infant son, Shad; and his grandson, Ethan.

Ann Suttle Tarry Flack
5/11/2009
Ann Suttle Tarry Flack of Houston died on Mother’s Day Sunday, May 10, 2009.

The family will receive friends for a visitation Tuesday, May 12, 2009 from two until five o’clock in the afternoon at the Bradshaw-Carter Home, 1734 West Alabama Street, Houston, TX 77098.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at eleven o’clock in the morning at Glenwood Cemetery.

Mrs. Flack, the daughter of Allie Kate and James Pride Tarry, was born on July 2, 1921 in Meridian Mississippi. She was a graduate of Wichita Falls High School and The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics. She was a member of Chi Omega sorority, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church and River Oaks Country Club. She was a board member of Holly Hall retirement home and the River Oaks Rose Club. As a member of the lunch bunch, she loved being with dear friends.

Mrs. Flack was predeceased by her parents, her husband Joe Fenley Flack in 2001, their daughter Joan Elizabeth Rudolph in 2004 and her sister Katherine Edwards in 2008.

She is survived by her son Joe Fenley Flack, Jr. and wife Patty of Austin and her daughter Kate Scott and husband W.W. “Woody” of Houston; her grandchildren John Robert Scott and wife Bethanne, Anne Scott Ebert and husband Andy, Joe Fenley Flack III and wife Ashley, John Peter Flack, Jennifer Rudolph and fiancé David Mire, Ben Rudolph and wife Leeann, Patrick Rudolph; her son-in-law Baker Rudolph; her great grandchildren Christopher, Woodrow, Brandon, Scott, Thomas, Kate, Scott Ebert, Burke, Kirkland Rudolph, Mary Ellie, Fenley Flack, and Ewan Rudolph. She is also survived by her loving sister’s children Robert, Katherine, and Mark.

The family is grateful to Gulf Coast Hospice and Michelle Estes West for her devotion, service, and loving care over the past four years. In lieu of flowers, memorials in her honor may be made to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77027. We are grateful to God for Ann T. Flack’s long life and for every act of kindness extended to her.

Henry D. Barkemeyer, 76
5/11/2009
Mr. Henry D. Barkemeyer, 76 years of age, a longtime resident of Coleman passed away May 10, 2009 at the Coleman Healthcare Center. 

Family visitation Monday, May 11, 2009 at 9:00am until services at 10:30am in the Walker Funeral Chapel with commital and Rev. Don Northway officiating.  Interment will follow later in the Coleman City Cemetery.

Henry was born November 21, 1932 in Milan Co., Cameron, Texas and was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry D. and Olivia Jergens Barkemeyer and was a member of the Bible Baptist Church of Coleman. He was married to Martha Conway and she preceded him in death in 1982.  He later married Gladys Wanda McQueen in Coleman.  Henry had worked for the Coleman Brick Plant for many years and is survived by wife Gladys Wanda Barkemeyer and three brothers - L.C. of Cross Plains, Robert and sister in law Thelma of Coleman, and William of Temple.  He was preceded in death by a son.

Ophelia Proctor, 80
5/9/2009
Ophelia Proctor, 80, of Bangs and formerly of Coleman, died Saturday, May 9, 2009 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Graveside services will be 1:00pm Monday, May 11, 2009 at the Coleman City Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Family visitation will be from 3:00pm to 5:00pm Sunday, May 10, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home.

Ophelia Proctor was born November 16, 1928 in San Angelo, the daughter of Eddie Barrington and Annie Mae Brooker Barrington. She grew up and attended school in Junction and Brady. She married Barney B. Proctor in 1949 in Big Spring. He preceded her in death on May 28, 1966. She worked as a Nurse’s Aide for Ranger Park Inn in Santa Anna and Girling Health Care in Brownwood. She lived in Coleman for many years and moved to Bangs in 2008.

Survivors include her children, Marvin Jackson, Jr. and his wife, Janie, of Lake Brownwood, Linda Sue Baggett and husband, Rich, of Brownwood, Steve Douglas Proctor and wife, Diane, of Brownwood, Brenda Nell Rambo and husband, Curtis, of Bangs; one sister, O’Nell Hunt of Barnhart; 18 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews, including Gwendolyn Bahena of Santa Anna.

She was preceded in death by her husband, two children, Ronnie Lee Proctor, Barbara Ann Donahower; three sisters, Lavada Barrington, Frances Ayers, Nadine Tenery and one grandson, James Edward Hammonds, III.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Geneva Lynn Perez, 20
5/8/2009
Geneva Lynn Perez age 20 of Coleman, Texas passed away Friday, May 8, 2009 at the Coleman County Medical Center following an automobile accident.

Services will be Monday, May 11, 2009 at 11:00am at Henderson Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Paula Crist officiating.  Interment will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery with Henderson Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

The family will receive friends Sunday, May 10 from 6:00 till 7:30pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

Geneva was born December 30, 1988 in Snyder, Texas to Uvaldo and Ines Hernandez Perez. She was raised in Coleman where she attended the Coleman Schools. Geneva was a waitress employed with Sonic Drive-in.

SURVIVORS:  Son – Brandin Perez of Coleman, Texas; Father & Mother – Uvaldo & Ines Perez of Coleman, Texas; Paternal Grandmother – Delores DeLeon of Houston, Texas; Several Aunts, Uncles & Cousins

Carolyn Bartley, 55
5/4/2009
Mrs. Carolyn Bartley, 55 years young of Coleman, passed away Monday May 4, 2009 at the Coleman County Medical Center.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 6, 2009 from 6:- 8: 00pm at Walker Funeral Home.

Funeral Service will be Thursday, May 7, 2009 at 10:00am in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel. Private Interment will be in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

Carolyn was born May 12, 1953 to Harold Wilson and Gladys Jo Outlaw in Brownfield, Texas. She married Jimmy Bartley on October 7, 1995 in Coleman. Carolyn is survived by her Husband Jimmy Bartley of Coleman, a son Steven Lane Monroe of Coleman, a sister Sharla and husband Glen Dyer of San Angelo, 2 granddaughters, Tori and Megan Monroe, both of Coleman. She was preceded in death by her parents and 1 sister, Judy Calvin.

Jewel Booth Faith, 94
5/4/2009
Jewel Booth Faith, 94, of Decatur formerly of Chico passed away May 3, 2009 at Decatur.

Funeral Service will be Wednesday, May 6. 2009, 2:00pm at Jones Family Funeral Home Chapel, Bridgeport. Officiating will be Rev. Ken May. Pallbearers will be Les Gerron, Harold Oberg, Leonard Meeks, Mark Jones, G. A. Buckner and John Brown. Music will be by Tammy and Jerrol Higgins. Interment will be in Chico Cemetery.
 

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 5, 2009, 6-8pm at the funeral home.

Mrs. Faith was born January 27, 1915 in Chico to Ben and Vera Holden Booth. She was a former resident of Coleman for 35 Years and her only child Virginia Faith Brown was born and raised there. She was a third generation of the pioneer Booth family who settled in Chico in 1874. In March 2004 she donated land that had been in the family since the early 1920s for the youth of Chico. The park has five baseball and softball fields. It bears the name Jewel Park. She loved gardening, weather watching and watching cooking shows on TV. She was a homemaker and a member of the First Baptist Church of Decatur.

She is survived by her only child, Virginia Brown and son-in-law, Don of Runaway Bay; Grandchildren, Kris Brown of Chico, Velvet Oberg of Runaway Bay and Vikki Brown-Meeks of Houston, Texas; Six Great Grandchildren; Sister, Louise Gerron of Ennis, Texas. Preceded in death by parents, Ben and Vera Booth; husband of 51 years, Lloyd Faith.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Building Fund of First Baptist Church, 1200 W. Preskitt, Decatur, Texas 76423.

Mrs. Carolyn Bartley, 55
5/4/2009
Carolyn Bartley, of Coleman, passed away Monday May 4, 2009 at the Coleman County Medical Center.

Services are pending at this time with Walker Funeral Home.

MILLIE (MILDRED) MARTIN
5/3/2009
Born January 3, 1929 to farm workers Leah Dewald and Henry Feit in Fort Collins, Colorado. Her love of learning led her to leave her rural, farm worker family at fourteen years of age to support herself working at a bicycle shop and as a book keeper while she pursued her education. She literally walked across frozen lakes to get to school.

A Memorial Service celebrating Millie's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 8, 2009 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman.

Millie was preceded in death by her sister, Laura, and brother, Eddie. Moving to Reno, Nevada she became a computer programmer and Savings and Loans branch manager. She later became a realtor and was a member of the “Million Dollar Club.”

The late Tony Trigueiro, Reno, Nevada was her first husband with whom she had two sons, Dr. Craig (Betty) Trigueiro of Bradenton, Florida and Dwight (Joyce) of Sun Valley, Nevada. She has a grand daughter, Stephanie.

The late Kenneth Martin of Coleman County, Texas was her second husband. They moved to his family’s ranch. She has two step children; James Martin of Sterling City, Texas and Kathy (Paul) Houts of Sparks, Nevada.

While she worked to preserve the ranch, her real love of art blossomed. She became a very accomplished painter. Millie was a founding member and multi-time president of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County. It was her love of art and her many friends in the art community that sparked her soul. Millie loved them, and they loved her.

She moved to Bradenton in March 2008 to receive medical treatment while staying with Craig and Betty. Dwight came to join them as a care giver in her last month before she joined the Lord on April 29, 2009. Memorial services will be in Coleman, Texas.

Donations can be made in her behalf for the Millie Martin Patron Award at: The Fine Arts League of Coleman County, PO Box 376, Coleman, Texas 76834. www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com

RICK SIKES
August 5, 1935 - May 1, 2009

Rick Sikes, 73, died at his home in Coleman, Texas on May 1, 2009. Rick, born James Richard Sikes on August 5, 1935 in Coleman, was a man of many hats. From a Farm Boy to a Roughneck to a Texas Musician to a Convict to a Loving Husband and Father, Rick lived his life and played his music to the fullest.

His first love of music came before he could speak as he listened to Jimmie Rodgers with his family. Rick played music at every opportunity and always dreamed of being a cowboy musician. After growing up on a farm he started working in oilfields at the age of 17 and played with local bands on the weekends. He formed a band shortly thereafter, called "Rick Sikes and the Rhythm Rebels". Rick had his own music show at K-PAR TV in Abilene, Texas in 1964 and the Rhythm Rebels played all over the states of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and California. Rick had the distinct pleasure and honor of playing with Dean Beard, Tommy Overstreet, Bob Wills, Red Foley, Willie Nelson, Bobby Bare, Sonny James, Stonewall Jackson, Loretta Lynn and Jimmy C. Newman, just to name a few.
 

In 1971, Rick was arrested and charged with bank robbery. He was tried, found guilty and sentenced to 25 years and 50 years to run consecutively and sent to Leavenworth Penitentiary. Being a true rebel, he struggled greatly with being in prison, however, he came to follow the words of Teddy Roosevelt: "Always do the best you can with what you have where you are". Keeping with that positive outlook, Rick formed a band in prison called Rick Sikes and the Survivors. He wrote a song called "From the Bottle to the Needle", and was given permission to put together a recording studio. To this day, it is the only known recording studio inside of a Federal prison. He was released from prison in August 1985 and was married to Janice K. Smith, his longtime love, one week after his release. He opened his own business in Coleman called Sikes Signs and put all of his energy, creative abilities and talents towards building a home, raising two young girls, and making up for lost time. He did not pick up his guitar or actively pursue any music interests after getting out of prison, for many years. In 1999, his close friend, Roxy Gordon, and others including good friend, Steam Train Maury "King of the Hobos" (who named Rick the Music Man), pushed him to start playing and singing again.

Over the span of Rick's life he worked as an oilfield roughneck, dynamite blaster's assistant, carpenter, pipe-fitter, sign painter, and appliance repairman. Most recently he owned and operated Rijan, his own music store and recording studio. Rick has always been a "thinker" and a "doer" and spent his entire life coming up with different and creative ways to tackle projects. He became one of the first people in this part of the country to use a monitor on stage and in 1966, according to Ralph Emery, Rick and Dean Beard recorded and produced the first known country trumpet solo. Rick's most recently finished work includes CDs "Redemption" and "Etchings in Stone".

Rick is survived by his wife of 23 years Janice Sikes of Coleman; three sons James Sikes of Granbury, TX; Palmer Sikes of Las Vegas, NV; Ricky Sikes of Wichita Falls, TX; two daughters Deva Deaton of McKinney, TX; Crystal Klein of Littleton, CO; nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter Marie Taylor and his grandson Rusty Pendleton.

Rick's funeral services will be held at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas at 1:30 P.M. Sunday, May 3, 2009 followed by a wake at the family’s residence at 900 N. Neches in Coleman.

His family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations are sent to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605 or private family contributions may be made to the First Coleman National Bank.

W.A. Nance, Jr., 94
4/22/2009
W.A. (Dub) Nance, Jr., age 94, died Monday, April 20, 2009 in Andrews, Texas.

Memorial services for W. A. (Dub) Nance, Jr., of Andrews and formerly of Levelland, will be at 2:00pm, Thursday, April 23, 2009, at First Baptist Church, Levelland with Dr. Brian Hill, Minister of Music, officiating. Burial will be in City of Levelland Cemetery under direction of George Price Funeral Home, Levelland.

The family will receive visitors at the funeral home from 7:00pm until 8:00pm, Wednesday, April 22, 2009.

He was born on December 11, 1914 to William Alfred and Ruth Nance, and was a longtime resident and businessman in Levelland. He was married to Juanita Marie Harper October 17, 1939 in Odessa, Texas. He was a longtime Pharmacist of Levelland’s Palace Drug Store and was a member of the Texas Board of Pharmacy and received a certificate for 50 years of pharmaceutical service. He held various positions in of First Baptist Church, Levelland, Texas, served as a deacon, and sang in the Sonshine Choir . Former Chairman of the Mexican Mission committee and headed the building of the main mission building in 1950’s. He was a member of the original Texas State Guard and seventeen years in Volunteer Fire Department. Scoutmaster of Pack 636 for several years and chaired the Hockley County Polio Foundations. He was a member of Rotary International and the Kiwanis Club and director of the Hockley County Food Box. Past Director of the Levelland Country Club and former Director of the Levelland State Bank. He played an exhibition match once with Master’s Champion, Bryon Nelson. He was preceded in death by a son, William Kenneth (Hoppy) Nance in 1954.

Survivors include: his wife, Juanita Nance of Andrews; his children, Colley Jean Hanks and H.A. of Andrews, Mary Ellen Culpepper and husband David, and Dr. Brian Kenneth Nance and wife Eliza Glaze of Conway, South Carolina; a sister, Virginia Foster, of Clifton, Virginia, eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Family suggests that in lieu of flowers memorials may be given to either Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, First Baptist Church, Levelland, or Buckner Benevolences, P. O. Box 271189, Dallas, TX 75227.

To leave online condolences, please go to www.mem.com

Dorothy McIntosh, 88
4/21/2009
Funeral services for Dorothy McIntosh, 88, of Brownwood, will be held at held at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 23, 2009 at Coggin Avenue Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Greenleaf Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 22nd at Davis-Morris Funeral Home.

“Miss Mac” died Monday, April 20, 2009, in Abilene, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. For nearly 50 years she was the choral director at Brownwood High School, known for her love of music, dedication to students, strict insistence for manners and procedure and unparalleled success of the music program.

Dorothy and her twin sister Doris were born May 20, 1920, the daughters of Clyde and Ione McIntosh. Miss Mac’s sister, Doris Allen, survives. The sisters graduated from Brownwood High School in 1937, and Howard Payne College in 1941. In 2004, the sisters were honored at Howard Payne’s homecoming as “Coming Home Queens.”

Dorothy McIntosh received her master of arts degree from Hardin-Simmons College in Abilene in 1949. She lived all of her life in Brown County (80 years of it in the house where she was born) and was a life-long member of Coggin Avenue Baptist Church. She served as church organist and was a Sunday School teacher there for 44 years.

The 1941-42 school term, Miss Mac taught at Blanket, and was recruited to South Elementary to teach music and art the next school year. In the fall of 1948, Miss Mac was asked to start a high school choral music program as an accredited course. The courses premiere year, it had an enrollment of 88. In 1985, when Miss Mac retired, the enrollment had grown to 166.

Her thousands of students graduated out of her program well educated in music, but also better citizens and people. Miss Mac had “a stare that would stop you in your tracks,” they remembered, “but a smile to let us know we did a good job.”

Miss Mac received an honorary doctorate from HPU in 1995 and the Distinguished Alumni Award from HPU in 1985. Since 2005, she had been serving on the President’s Council at Howard Payne University. She also served 19 years on the HPU Board of Trustees, including a term as the board chair.

Besides her twin sister, Miss Mac is survived by her caregiver for the last five years, Marty Cloy; a niece Dorothy Kellogg of Alexandria, Va.; a nephew, Jack Allen of McLean, Va.; and two great-nephews, Allen and Stephen Kellogg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, and a brother.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to the Dr. Dorothy McIntosh Endowed Music Scholarship at Howard Payne University; P.O. Box 2369; Brownwood, TX 76804; or to the Building Fund of Coggin Avenue Baptist Church 1815 Coggin Ave, Brownwood 76801.

Condolences, memories, and tributes can be left for the family at www.mem.com

Doil Boothe, 55
4/20/2009
Mr. Doil Boothe, 55 years of age of Coleman, passed away April 19, 2009 at his residence in Coleman. 

Services will be Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at 11:00am graveside in the Garden of Memories in Stephenville, Texas. 

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 22nd at 4:00pm in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel of Coleman.

Doil was born June 24, 1953 in Clinton, Oklahoma.  He was the son of the late Mr. Jack Doil Boothe and Anna Lou Ellis Boothe of Brownwood.  He was a member of the Church of Christ and owner of Coleman Video Store. 

He is survived by:  mother Anna Boothe of Brownwood; one sister Rita Boothe of Dallas; two brothers and sister-in-law Steve & Linda Boothe of Brownwood and Travis Boothe of Plano; nieces Leslie Boothe and Lacye Boothe of the Metroplex; nephews Brady and Alicia Boothe of the Metroplex, Dustin Boothe of Austin, Danny, David and Jack Boothe of Plano.

Mary Kah Gordon, 86
4/19/2009
Mrs. Mary Kah “Nana” Gordon, 86 years young passed from this life on Saturday April 18, 2009 in the Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Services will be Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at the Union Presbyterian Church 700 Fisk Ave. Brownwood, Texas at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Mary Dalissio and Lyn Rice officiating.

Visitation will be Tuesday at the Church from 12:00noon until service time. Interment will be in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mary was born July 4, 1922 in Waco, Texas to H. L. Markland and Ruby McClain Markland, graduated from Waco High School in 1941 and then attended the University of Texas at Austin. She married W. Wayland Gordon on August 10, 1944 in Coleman, Texas; they had two children and moved to Brownwood in 1962 where she worked at Brownwood Regional Medical Center for 31 years. Throughout her years, she touched many lives and was loved by many. Mary was a respected and loved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and loving friend. Nana will continue to live in our hearts forever.

Survivors include: Husband W. Wayland Gordon, of Brownwood. Daughter: Gwenda Kah and Rick Aber, of Forney Tx, Son: H. Markland Gordon of Coleman and Letha Rice of Brookesmith, Granddaughters: Shea and Collin Walker of Coleman, Sara Kah and Chris Hausen of Austin, Robyn and Scott Trantham of Irving, and Robin Rice of Brookesmith, Grandsons: Jason and Julie Smith of Garland, Sean and Johanna Gordon of Brownwood, Bryan Aber of Dallas, Bradford and Felicia Smith of Addison, Great-granddaughters: Ryan Mason Walker, Mallory Trantham, Olyvia Trantham, Great-grandsons: Andrew Gunner Gordon, William Gage Gordon, Noah Edwin Smith, andWyatt Gordon Smith.
 

Doil Boothe, 55
4/19/2009
Mr. Doil Boothe of Coleman passed away April 19, 2009, at 55 years of age, at his residence.

Services are pending with Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

DAISY LORAIN COLE, 87
4/16/2009
Lorain Cole, 87, of Coleman, died Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at Clyde Nursing Center.

Graveside funeral service will be held 10:00am Saturday, April 18, 2009 at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Bryan Stokes officiating. Interment will be in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be held on Friday, April 17 from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan, Coleman, Texas.

Lorain Cole was born June 29, 1921 in Coleman, a daughter of Oscar and Birdie Fleming Barnett. She grew up in Coleman where she attended school. On December 24, 1945 she married William Scott Cole in Coleman and he preceded her in death on January 13, 2003. She was a life-long resident of Coleman, a homemaker, and a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include one daughter, Pat Balch and husband Gilbert of Baird; three grandchildren, Majetta Stokes of Hawley, Tiffany Rutherford of Lockhart and William Cole of San Angelo; four great-grandchildren, Olyvia Jackson, Trevor Jackson, Hank Stokes, Sally Stokes; daughter-in-law, Liz Cole of San Angelo; nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one son, Gary Cole on June 26, 2007; brothers and sisters, Artie Barnett, Alonzo Barnett, Bill Barnett, Josie Smith, Edora Crye.

Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels, P. O. Box 785, Coleman, Texas 76834 or Cowboy Heritage Church, Hayes Road, Clyde, Texas 79510.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Gerald Welch
4/13/2009
Gerald Welch, 81, of Coleman, died Sunday, April, 12, 2009 at Scenic Mountain Hospital in Big Spring.

Graveside services will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Gerald Welch was born April 30, 1927 in Haskell County, the son of Marvin Edward Welch and Mirta Delphia Amonett Welch. He grew up and attended school in Haskell. He served in the United States Army during World War II. He married Mary Lee (Jerry) Compton. and later married Mamie Pack Birdwell in Fort Worth. She preceded him in death on September 4, 2006. Gerald moved to Coleman in 1966 and owned Welch Chevrolet-Cadillac and later owned Welch Auto Sales. He moved to Big Spring in 2007 and was a member of First Baptist Church in Coleman.

Survivors include one son, Mike Welch of Odessa; one daughter, Michelle Welch Green of Silver Creek, Georgia; two sisters, Gloria Wolfe of Houston, Linda Thomas of Cloudcroft, New Mexico; two step-sons, Jack Birdwell and wife, Jennifer, of Big Spring, Danny Birdwell of Monahans; three half-sisters, Frankie Welch, Charlotte Welch, Linda Welch; six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mamie Welch and one son, Mark Welch on July 16, 2005 and one sister, Ladell Welch.

Please sign his online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Robert "Bob" Barstow, 85
4/09/2009
Robert ‘ Bob’ Barstow age 85 of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Thursday, April 09, 2009 at 9:15 am at the Holiday Hill Nursing Home in Coleman.

Services will be Saturday at 11:00 am at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Rodger Matthews officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 till 7:30 pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

Robert was born on March 23, 1924 in Ithaca, Michigan to the late Raymond and Jessie Curtis Barstow. He was raised in Lewiston, Michigan where he attended schools. On March 4, 1950 Robert married Vera Harman in Lapeer, Michigan and they have celebrated fifty-nine years of marriage. He has been a resident of Santa Anna since 1992 moving here from Weatherford. Robert was a Methodist, a member of the Elks Club and a retired restaurant manager and farmer.

SURVIVORS:  Wife – Vera Barstow of Santa Anna, Texas, 2 Daughters - Pat & husband Red Fellers of Santa Anna, Texas, Susie Voss of Santa Anna, Texas; 3 Sons - Mike & wife Debbie Barstow of Fort Worth, Texas; Randy Barstow of Ft Worth, Texas; Gary & wife Margo Barstow of San Antonio, Texas; 9 Grandchildren; 10 Great Grandchildren

R. B. McHorse, 92
4/9/2009
R. B. McHorse left this earthly home and entered his Heavenly home on Wednesday, April 8, 2008, at the age of 92 years. He was a resident of the Whitesboro Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Graveside services with Masonic Rites will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2009 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Gary Boyd officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

R.B. was born on May 15, 1916, to Marvin and Irene McHorse. He married Virginia Elizabeth Nix on January 1, 1940 in Hereford. Prior to moving to Whitesboro, in 1997 he was active in the First Baptist Church and Masonic Lodge of Coleman. He was a retired Post Master and had served as Past Master of the Masonic Lodge several times, having received 50 and 75 year service pins.

R.B. is survived by his daughter, Judy Sanges and husband, Earl, of Whitesboro, his son, Michael D. McHorse and wife, Elaine, of Gainesville, five grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and one niece, Susan Perdue of Lott.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, a son, William M. McHorse, a brother, Robert McHorse and one grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Building Fund of First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 983, Coleman, Texas 76834 or the Coleman Masonic Lodge, c/o Harold Skelton, 312 South Colorado, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign his online guestbook at: www.livingmemorials.com.

Addie Rose Gilliam, 91
4/6/2009
Mrs. Addie Rose Gilliam, 91 years of age, passed away April 6, 2009 in the Abilene Regional Hospital. 

Addie had lived in Coleman most of her life and the past year in Abilene with her son and daughter in law.  Addie was born in Coleman on October 28, 1917 and was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Aileene  White.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Coleman and is survived by:  son and daughter in law Edward and Gloria Gilliam of Abilene; three grandchildren - Fred McDonald and Garland Lindsey Gilliam both of Abilene and Gloria Maria Gould of Hurst; four great grandchildren.

Family visitation will be Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at 1:30pm.  Service will be at 3:00pm in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel with  Rev. Mike Kerzee officiating and committal services will be in the Chapel.  Interment will be in the Coleman City cemetery under direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Coleman.

Charlie Eppler
4/6/2009
Charlie Eppler passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by his family at Central Valley Medical Center.

Funeral services will be held Thursday April 9, 2009 in the Wales LDS church at 12 noon. Visitation prior to the service from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Interment in the Wales Cemetery.

As Charlie requested there will be a potluck dinner after the services at his home. All family and friends are invited to come and celebrate his life.

Survived by sons Vince (Susan) Eppler, Angel Fire, NM; Kurt (Renita) Eppler, Angel Fire, NM; Clint (Ellen) Dye, Levan, UT; and daughter Betty (Tom) Aust, Levan, UT; 11 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; sisters Betty (Byron) Calcote, Elizabeth Cook.

He will be remembered for his generosity, work ethic, dedication for his family, drilling and story telling. His interests were hunting, fishing, raising and feeding wild turkeys, chickens, and spending time with his best friend Scratchy (his dog). He raised 4 children and owned and operated Midway Perforating & Drilling Inc.

Preceded in death by his wife Marsha Eppler, dad Audrey Eppler and mother Myrtle Eppler.

Online condolences available at www.rasmussenmortuary.com .

Carroll R. Hodges, 95
4/6/2009
Mr. Carroll R. Hodges, 95 years of age of Santa Anna, Texas 300 CR 121 since 1983, passed away at his residence on Saturday, April 5, 2009.

Family visitation will be Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at the Lohn Tabernacle from 10:00 to 11:00am Wednesday with services to follow graveside at the Marion Cemetery at 11:30am on Wednesday, March 8, 2009.  The interment will follow under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mr. Hodges was born March 18, 1914 in Waldrip, Texas to Tom and Cora Hodges. He married Miss Nelda Opal Hester in Reno, Nevada March 22, 1942.  He was a rancher and a veteran of World War II.

Carroll is survived by his wife - Nelda of the home; four daughters and sons in law - Caroline and Ivy Cole of Liberty Hill, Dianne English and Kathy and Lee Doggett of San Angelo, Texas, and Nancy Hodges of Mertzon, Texas; two sisters - Nettie Andrews and Loretta McCree of Plainview, Texas. Two grandsons have preceded him in death - Bobby Lee and Dustin Lee Doggett. Also preceding him in death were his son in law Paul English and six brothers and five sisters.

Ona Jean Rowden, 74
4/5/2009
Ona Jean Rowden, of Coleman, died Saturday, April 4, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Graveside services will be 3:30 p.m. Sunday, April 5, 2009 at the Burkett Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. James Posey officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Ona Jean Rowden was born October 15, 1934 in Burkett, the daughter of Joe Tabor and Sarah Lu Jones Tabor. She grew up and attended school in Coleman. She married Joe H. Rowden in 1962 in Coleman. He preceded her in death in 1982. She worked at the Coleman County Sheriff’s Department for 15 years as a jailer and was a member of the Baptist church.

Survivors include one son Wayne Rowden and wife, Mary, of Coleman; one daughter, Donna Anderson of Odessa; one sister, Beulah Williams of Oakdale, Louisiana; one brother, George Tabor of Kennedale, Texas; six grandchildren, Misty Cole of Odessa, Chris Anderson and wife, Crystal, of Spring, Esley Anderson of Odessa, Cody Rowden of Odessa, Laura Rowden of Coleman, Stacy Rowden of Coleman; three great-grandchildren, Avery Anderson and Tucker Anderson, both of Spring, Dazzlynn Brooks of Coleman and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband and six brothers and sisters.

Please sign her online guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

James Tandy Bennett, 76
4/2/2009
James Tandy Bennett I, TSGT USAF Retired, 76 years young passed away from this Life at 5:25am Thursday, April 2, 2009 at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas.

Family visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, 2009 from 11:30am to 12:30pm at Southside Church of God, 406 Boswell in San Antonio. 

Funeral service will be at Southside Church of God at 12:30pm with Rev. Wm. Patrick Bennett officiating.  Interment will take place at 2:15pm in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas with Full Military Honors.  Arrangements are under the direction of Tom G. Walker Funeral Home of Coleman, Texas.

James was born July 10, 1932 in Golden Pond, Kentucky to Francis "Frank" Marion Bennett and Ida Lamkin Bennett.  He worked for Lang's Drug Store in Paducah before enlisting in the United States Air Force on July 17, 1951.  He met and then married Felicitas Alicia "Licha" Fuentes in San Antonio on July 10, 1953.  They shared 55 years together. 

Mr. Bennett is survived by his wife "Licha" of San Antonio; 3 daughters and sons in law - Betty Stuart of San Antonio, Peggy and Bob Baker of Orlando, Florida, Sharon Brown and Tommy Pritt of San Antonio; 4 sons and daughters in law - James T. Bennett II and Cheryl, Jack T. Bennett and Laura Dragoo all of San Antonio, Phillip E. Bennett of Chicago, Illinois and Rev. Wm. Patrick Bennett of Coleman, Texas;  19 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews; cousins; sister in law Delia Belmarez of San Antonio; brother in law David Fuentes of California; and friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers - Bill, Lacy, Maxie, Brandon, and Hollis, and 2 sisters - Pocahontas Nance and Francis Pulley, sister in law Julia Knable, and brother in law Carlos Fuentes. 

Jack Watters, 62
4/1/2009
Jack Watters age 62 of Midland, Texas passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at the Hospice of Midland Inpatient Unit in Midland.

Services will be Friday, April 3, 2009 at 9:00 am at the Inspiration Center in Midland with Rev. Jan Reed officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6 till 8 pm at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home.

Friday, April 3, 2009 from 6 till 8pm the family will receive friends at Henderson Funeral Home in Coleman.   Graveside services will be held Saturday at 11:00 am at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

Jack was born on August 8, 1946 in Coleman, Texas to the late John Melvin and O B Wheeler Watters. He was raised in Coleman attending the Coleman ISD and then joined the United State Air Force serving his country in Viet Nam. On April 12, 1967 Jack married the love of his life, Reba Jo Dieterich in Midland and they have celebrated over forty-one years of marriage. He was a contract welder and had worked for various companies in the Midland area, having worked at Tretolite Chemical on and off for seventeen years and for Patts Fabrication for the last ten years.

SURVIVORS:  Wife – Reba Watters of Midland, Texas; 2 Sons – Joe and wife Tammy Watters of Greenwood, Texas and Lance and wife Tiffany Watters of Lubbock, Texas; Three little angels (Grandchildren) - Jodilyn Watters of Greenwood, Texas, Landen Blake & Lawson Jack Watters both of Lubbock, Texas: Sister – Carol and husband Wiley Ballard of Midland, Texas; Two very special people – Ariel & wife Shay Elliott, Alisha & husband David Dunson; Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jack was preceded in death by his brother Max Watters.

The family requests donations be made to Hospice of Midland, P O Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702

Special thanks to Hospice of Midland, Richard Beebe, Tamy Cornish, Mandy Butler and our special angel, Frances Joe Young of Nurses Unlimited. 

Joe E. Greer- age 79
3/30/2009
Joe E. Greer, long time Coleman resident, passed away in Lubbock, TX on Sunday, March 29, 2009.

He was born in O’Donnell Texas, the son of Matthew and Mamie Troxell Greer on May 31, 1929. He was a mechanic and farmer in Coleman County and farmed many years in McLennan County.

He is survived by his wife, Billie, of Lubbock. A daughter, Kay Greer Lively and her husband, Roy, of Ropesville, TX. A son, Bobby Joe Greer and his wife, Colleen, of Cedar Park, TX. Four grandsons, Cody Tubbs of Austin, TX, Chad Tubbs of Lubbock, TX, Aaron Greer of Lubbock, TX, and Jordan Greer of Austin, TX.

A Memorial Service will be held at Lake Ridge Memorial Chapel at 2:30pm, Saturday, April 4th in Lubbock, TX.

David Severn Thompson, 74
3/30/2009
Mr. David Severn Thompson, 74 years of age, a lifetime resident of Coleman passed away March 30, 2009 in the Coleman Healthcare Center.

Services will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 11:00am at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Marvin Hale Officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

David was born December 24, 1934 in Coleman, Texas. He was married to the late Ruby Josephine Day in Coleman, who preceded him in death. He was a collector and is survived by two daughters and son in law - Jeanie Guerrero and Cindy and Chuck Watson all of Coleman; four sons and daughters in law - Rex Dale Thompson and Danny Glen and Gaylene Thompson all of Coleman, David Wayne and Michelle of Brownwood, Texas, Michael and Margie Thompson of Kermit, Texas; two sisters and brothers in law - Thelma and Charles Cowart of Brady Texas and Dean and J. R. Shirley of Abilene; one brother - Franklin Thompson of Brownwood, Texas; 14 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren. Two daughters have preceded him in death. 

Judy Dianne Rasbury, 55
3/30/2009
Judy Dianne Rasbury of Mesquite, TX passed away on March 28, 2009 in Dallas, TX.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 31, 2009 from 6 to 8 pm at Anderson Clayton Bros. Funeral Home in Terrell.

Services will be on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at 2:00 pm at Anderson Clayton Bros. Funeral Home Chapel in Terrell.

She was born on February 11, 1954 in Coleman, TX to the late Duane and Nora (Smith) Robinson. Judy graduated from Texas Woman’s University with a Bachelor degree in Music Therapy. She earned a Master of Music Therapy degree from Southern Methodist University in 1981 and a Master of Science from Amberton University in 1991. Judy worked at Terrell State Hospital for 27 years, serving most recently as Director of Adjunctive Therapy. Judy was a member of the Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Dallas, where she served as a Sunday School teacher. She was very involved in her daughter's Girl Scout troop and in the musical arts programs at her daughter's school. Judy will be remembered for her dedication, great sense of humor and for the love she showed her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents Duane and Nora Robinson. Judy is survived by her husband Don Rasbury of Mesquite, TX; one daughter, Amanda Rasbury of Mesquite, TX; two brothers, Joe Robinson and wife Karen of Coleman, TX, Larry Robinson and wife Elaine of Coleman, TX; one sister-in-law, Libby Rasbury of Normandy, TN; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be forwarded to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or the American Diabetes Association.

Patsy June Bartley, 80
3/28/2009
Patsy June Bartley, lifetime resident of Coleman and Coleman County, passed away March 27, 2009 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Family visitation will be from 5:00pm to 6:00pm Sunday evening at Walker Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be at 11:00am Monday, March 30, at Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kermit Sorrells and Dianne Cree officiating. Burial will follow at Coleman City Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to your favorite charity.

She was born June 4, 1928 in Gouldbusk, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Patrick and Fannie Wilson Downey. She was married to the late Billy Bartley in Coleman on July 26, 1947. He preceded her in death in 2001.  She was also preceded in death by brother and sister-in-law Glynn and Sing Downey and brother Malcolm Downey.

Patsy was a homemaker and housewife, teacher's aide, member and organist of Trinity Methodist Church of Coleman for many years. 

Survivors include: four sons and daughters-in-law - Mickey and Alyce Bartley of Goldthwaite; Jimmy and Carolyn Bartley of Coleman; Rickey and Rachel Bartley of Mesa, Arizona; Rev. Dr. Tracey and Kay Bartley of Granbury, Texas; brother and sister-in-law - Sherwood and Jean Downey of Coleman; sister and brother-in-law - Doris and Bob Dehnel of San Angelo;  sister-in-law - Zelma Downey of Coleman; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Vera Musick England Lewis, 86
3/28/2009
Vera Musick England Lewis, of Abilene, died Thursday, March 26, 2009 at an Abilene hospital.

Graveside funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 30 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Sam Earp officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Lewis was born November 24, 1922 in Oplin, Texas, a daughter of the late James Edward Musick and Thelma Counts Musick. She grew up in Texas. She was married to James B. Lewis, Sr. and he preceded her in death. She was a homemaker and a member of North Park Assembly of God Church in Abilene.

Survivors include one daughter, Judy Koopman of Rochester, NY; three sons, Robert (Don) England of Snyder, Mack Wayne England of Abilene, Charles Raymond Harriger of Abilene; three brothers, George Musick of Dunn, NC, Houston Musick and Jerry Musick both of Abilene; five sisters, Jean Caravas of California, Earlene Fowler of Las Vegas, NV, Lola Fay Johnson of Abilene, Shelby Joy Colvey of Jacksonville, FL and Charlon Cardenas of Plano; five granchildren; four great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Janice Lynn England in 2000.

Memorials may be made to North Park Assembly of God, 1902 Jameson, Abilene, Texas 79603.

Family visitation will be held Monday from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

Lorean Casey, 101,
3/28/2009
Lorean Casey died Friday, March 27, 2009 at Coleman Healthcare Center.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, 2009 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Lorean Casey was born June 28, 1907 to Joseph Slayton and Artie Mitchell Slayton. She grew up in Oklahoma and Texas. She was married to Audria C. Casey and he preceded her in death. She moved to Coleman in 1948, was a homemaker and a Baptist.

Survivors include sons:  Carol D. Burkey of Coleman, Johnny Burkey of Coleman, Ronald Burkey of Kerrville, Ammol Burkey of Lovington, NM; two daughters, Loretta Wildman of Kerrville and Betty Galindo of Yukon, OK; 24 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by three brothers and four sisters; six children, Leta Gay Burkey, Priscilla Burkey, Doris Tyson, Joann Holmes, Kay Olsen and Donald Burkey.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com. 

Belle Avants Farris, 102
3/25/2009
Belle Avants Farris, age 102, of Coleman, died Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2009 at Emmanuel Baptist Church with Rev. Dick Schultz officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan, Coleman, Texas.

Belle was born February 23, 1907 in Brown County, Texas, a daughter of Tom Edgar Avants and Mary Ann Schulze Avants. She grew up in Coleman and Brown Counties, graduating from high school in Whon. On July 1, 1928 she married J. E. Farris in Whon and he preceded her in death on December 20, 1973. She was a homemaker, a member of the Red Hat Society and Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Myrna Ellison and husband Charles of Coleman, Billie Ricke and husband Frank of Medicine Lodge, Kansas; one brother, Charlie Avants and wife Kathleen of Gouldbusk; one sister, Ella Mae Watson of Silsbee; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; several great-great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two sons, Jerry Farris in 1992 and Tom Farris in 2000.

Memorials may be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church, P. O. Box 289, Coleman, Texas 76834 or the donor's favorite charity.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Mary Funderburg
3/25/2009
Mary Funderburg, 77, of Coleman, died March 24, 2009 at her residence.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, March 26, 2008 at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, March 27, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mary Funderburg was born May 11, 1931 in Coleman, the daughter of W.B. Parkis and Ada Oneta Dowdy Parkis. She grew up in Coleman and attended school in Coleman. On December 29, 1948, she married Claudie Lee Funderburg in Coleman. He preceded her in death on November 16, 1984. Mary graduated from nursing school in Brownwood, and received her Licensed Vocational Nurse license. She worked at Sealy Hospital in Santa Anna, Twighlight Nursing Home in Bangs, Senior Citizens Nursing Home in Winters, Holiday Hill Nursing Home and Leisure Lodge, now called Coleman Healthcare Center. She was a member of First Baptist Church.

She is survived by one daughter and son-in-daughter Susan and J.D. Culpepper of Zephyr; three sons, Tommie Funderburg, Mike Funderburg and Stephen Funderburg, all of Coleman; two sisters, Geneva Morton and Sandra Steffey, both of Coleman; five grandchildren, Samantha Funderburg and Manolito Funderburg, both of Deerfield, Kansas, Eden Culpepper, Ciera Culpepper and Lacy Culpepper, all of Zephyr and two great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, and one son, David Funderburg on September 29, 2003.

Memorials may send to The Auditorium Class, c/o First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 983, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Amelia Grace Watson and Loren Finley Watson
3/23/2009
Amelia Grace Watson and Loren Finley Watson, twins born Monday March 16, 2009 at Harris Methodist Hospital in Ft. Worth, Texas entered Eternal Rest on Monday March 16, 2009. The twins are the daughters of Joshua Dayne and Casey Marie Price Watson.

Other survivors include paternal grandparents; Joe and Sharon Watson of Coleman County, maternal grandparents; David Price and Diane Smajstrla both of Vicksburg, Mississippi, aunts; Samantha Price of Champaign, Illinois, Millie Price of Vicksburg, Mississippi, uncles; Jason and wife Lula Watson of Coleman, Jeromy Watson of Coleman, Jeffrey Watson of Stephenville, and James Price of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

A private service was held on Friday March 20, 2009 at the Watson Property with Rev. Brad Dietz of Fellowship Baptist Church officiating and burial took place under the families favorite Oak Tree.

Arrangements were handled by Tom G. Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.  In lieu of flowers there has been a fund started at Citibank for Josh and Casey.

Timothy “Timmy” Allen Woolf, 23
3/23/2009
Mr. Timothy “Timmy” Allen Woolf age 23 of Coleman, Texas passed away on Friday March 20, 2009 at 11:30pm in Ben Taub General Hospital in Houston after complications from being hit by a car on December 18, 2008. Timmy was born February 3, 1986 to Lily Hopson and Walter Woolf Jr. Timothy is survived by his mother Lily of Coleman, his father Walter of Clute, One sister; Pamela Barrow of Paint Rock, Two brothers; Joshua and wife Sheridan Barrow, and Morgan Hopson of Coleman, His maternal grandmother Ruphina Hopson of Coleman and paternal grandparents; Karole and Irvin Woolf of San Angelo. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family held a simple private service on Sunday to remember Timothy as his wish was to be cremated.

Timothy has taken his final and most important trip. He has hitched a ride on a beam of light so that he might walk through the Pearly Gates of Heaven. Arrangements have been with Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Lee Brashear, 82
3/22/2009
Lee Brashear of Santa Anna, devoted wife, mother, and grandmother at age 82 passed away Saturday, March 21, 2009 at 5:05 AM at the Brownwood Regional Medical Center in Brownwood.

Services will be Monday, March 23, 2009 at 11:00am at the Northside Baptist Church with Rev. Marvin Hale officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Sunday, March 22nd from 6 till 8pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

She was born December 29, 1926 in Los Angeles, California to the late Oscar Frances and Gladys Maude Case South. Lee was raised in California where she attended school. On August 4, 1956 she married Albert Junior Brashear in Lovington, New Mexico and they have celebrated fifty-two years of marriage. Lee has been a resident of Santa Anna since 1993 moving here from Clyde, Texas. She was a life long Christian and member of the Northside Baptist Church. Lee was a homemaker and an award winning Avon Representation from 1995 to 2007.

SURVIVORS: Husband - Albert Brashear, Sr. of Santa Anna, Texas; 3 Daughters - Shannon Sims of Phelan, California, Mynna Swalm of Colorado, Diane & husband Andrew Neil of Brenham, Texas; 2 Sons - Gilbert & wife Dawn Brashear of Hobbs, New Mexico and Albert & wife Julie Brashear of Santa Anna, Texas; 19 Grandchildren & 2 Step Grandchildren; 25 Great Grandchildren; 9 Nieces and Nephews.

Lee was preceded in death by daughter - Sylvia Haskins in 1979 and daughter - Margorie Wheeler in 2002 and by 2 sisters and 1 brother.

Jurita Benge
3/17/2009
Jurita Benge, age 51 of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Monday, March 16, 2009 at 2:19pm at the Coleman County Medical Center in Coleman.

Services will be Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 11:00am at First United Methodist Church under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, March 18, 2009 from 6 till 7pm at Henderson Funeral Home.

She was born September 27, 1957 in Marita, Georgia to Margie Blankenship Benge and the late Fiern Benge. Jurita was raised in Georgia graduating from the Buckhead High School and continued her education at Business College. On October 11, 1988 she married Timothy Benge in Las Vegas, Nevada and they celebrated twenty years of marriage. Jurita had been a resident of Santa Anna for eleven years and was a member of the Methodist Church and a homemaker.

SURVIVORS: Husband – Timothy Benge of Santa Anna, Texas; Daughter – Marina Benge of Santa Anna, Texas; Son – Mark McKenzie of Santa Anna, Texas; Mother – Margie Mitchell of Atlanta, Georgia; 2 Sisters – Victoria Thomson of Atlanta, Georgia, Betty Sue Benge of Atlanta, Georgia.

Jose Luis Molina, Sr., 64
3/16/2009
Jose Luis Molina, Sr. age 64 of Coleman, Texas passed away Sunday, March 15, 2009 at 12:55 PM at Abilene Regional Medical Center in Abilene, Texas.

Services will be Wednesday at 2:00 PM at Henderson Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Coleman City Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6 till 7 PM at Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

Jose was born August 10, 1944 in Chihuahua, Mexico to the late Luis Molina Cardenas and Aortencia Islas Molina. He was raised in Mexico where he attended schools. On May 11, 1976 Jose married Sylvia Lopez in McAllen, Texas and they celebrated thirty two years of marriage. Jose has been a resident of Coleman for 29 years where he was an upholsterer and electrician also working at Holiday Hill in the maintenance department until his retirement.

SURVIVORS: Wife – Sylvia Molina of Coleman, Texas; 2 Daughters – Adriana Molina of Brownwood, Texas, Vanessa Molina of Coleman, Texas; 4 sisters – Luz Elva Dominquez of El Paso, Texas, Silvia Molina of Juarez, Chihuahua, Leticia Mata of Juarez, Chihuahua, Lefty Chica Mata of Coleman, Texas; 2 Brothers – Ruben Molina of El Paso, Texas, Jesus Molina of Coleman, Texas; 5 Grandchildren – Heath Dillan Rasco, David Clay Rasco, Emily Shea Rasco, Nicholas Aquinaga, & Roan Blake. Jose was preceded in death by his son Jose Luis Molina, Jr. June 7, 2008.

CDR W. D. (Bill) Powell, 88
3/12/2009
CDR W. D. (Bill) Powell, US Navy, Retired, was born on March 13, 1920 and was buried in a private ceremony at Glen Cove, Texas, on February 20, 2009.

CDR Powell was an active participant in World War II, Korea, and Viet Nam. In World War II, Bill served 18 months as an enlisted man in the Navy Construction Battalions. Bill returned home to his Bangs, Texas, family in 1943, having been injured and evacuated from Guam. On his return, Bill served as Pastor of small Southern Baptist churches in the area while attending Howard Payne College where he graduated with the Bachelor of Divinity in 1947. From there he enrolled in Golden Gate Theological Seminary in Berkeley, California where he earned a Master of Divinity degree.

Because he was now a minister and father of two, Bill was exempt from further military service. He re-enlisted, however, as an officer and Chaplain because, as he described it, "I didn't want our boys returning home from war to be preached to by an "old guy" who hadn't been there with them and couldn't understand." At 28, Bill was one of a very few Naval officers who could wear with pride a Good Conduct Medal awarded to him as an enlisted man.

After his retirement in the 1960's and several strokes, Bill lived the life of a farmer in Glen Cove, Texas, where he worked in his daughter's pecan orchard while pastoring small area churches.

He is survived by his daughter Zona Marshall and her husband, Richard, as well as two grandchildren, six grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; brothers and a sister. He was preceded in death by his son, Billy, and his wife, Beth. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements were under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

James (Jim) Reed, 57
3/11/2009
James (Jim) Reed, 57, of Santa Anna went home to the Lord on Monday, March 9, 2009. 

A Memorial service will be held at the Feed Store Church in Santa Anna Saturday, March 14, 2009 at 1:00pm. 

Jim was born August 6, 1951 to the late Robert Hayes Reed and Emma Margaret Hopson.   He is survived by his daughters Wendy Herrod and Husband Scotty Herrod of Santa Anna, Trish Reed of Coleman, Misty Reed of Freeport and son Douglas Reed of Santa Anna; grandchildren - Sierra Jones, Laken Herrod, Jedidiah Herrod, James T. LeValley, Samantha LeValley, Angel Reed; sisters - Julia Rich, Jane Grace, and brother David Fowler. 

Jim was a wonderful father and will be greatly missed but his memory will live on through countless family and friends. 

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  John 3:16

R.V. Baker, 87
3/10/2009
R. V. Baker, 87, of Bangs, died Monday, March 9, 2009 at his residence.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 12, 2009 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Talpa Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

R. V. Baker was born January 15, 1922 in Hamilton, Texas, a son of Lark and Esther Stubblefield Baker. He grew up around Santa Anna and attended school there. During World War II, he served in the United States Army in the European Theater of Operations. On June 23, 1943 he married Margie Duggins in Coleman and she preceded him in death on January 19, 2003. Mr. Baker was a Master Plumber in the Dallas-Fort Worth area from 1959 to 1986, moving to Bangs in 1986. After moving to Bangs, he was employed for 20 years with the Bangs Housing Authority. He was a member of the Assembly of God Church.

Survivors include two daughters, Kathy Baker and Karen Baker both of Santa Anna; three sisters, Katherine Parsley of Midland, Lucille Botard and husband Marvin of Hughes Springs, Wilma Cooley of Brownwood; four grandchildren, Deanne Boss and husband Gary of Cabot, Arkansas, Shamey Glasscock of Santa Anna, Devin Brand of Tucson, Arizona, Kasey Hoffman and husband Hobey of Brownwood; seven great-grandchildren, Alison Boss, Kobey Hoffman, Braegan Glasscock, Kaitlyn Brand, Holdyn Hoffman, Remi Hoffman, Larkyn Glasscock; special buddies, Mike Reynolds, Clay Bowers, Richard Glasgow, Bryan and Becca Fellers; several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Solaris Hospice, 413 Center Avenue, Brownwood, Texas 76801.

Please sign his on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Kenneth G. Cason, 80
3/9/2009
Mr. Kenneth G. Cason age 80 of Coleman passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2009 in the Coleman Medical Center.

Services will be on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at 11:00am at the Burkett Cemetery Pavilion, Burkett, Texas with interment to follow under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mr. Cason was born June 13, 1928 in Burkett, Texas to Dewey Mack Cason and Maggie Sanders Cason. He is a Korean era U. S. Army Veteran. Survivors include; a daughter Debra Cason of Avondale, Arizona, a son Glenn Cason of Carmel, Indiana, 3 sisters, Berenda Brown, Clydene Comedy, and Maxine, a brother Mack Cason of San Saba, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Billie D. West.

James Allen Reed, 57
3/9/2009
Mr. James Allen Reed, 57 of Santa Anna passed away on Monday March 9, 2009 in Hendrick Medical Center of Abilene.

James was born August 6, 1951 in Andrews, Texas to the late Robert Hayes Reed and Emma Margaret Hopson. Mr. Reed is survived by three daughters - Wendy & husband Scotty Herrod of Santa Anna, Trish Reed of Coleman and Misty Reed of Freeport, Texas; One son Douglas Reed of Santa Anna; 2 sisters - Julia Pauline Rich of Rockport and Jane Grace of Andrews; 1 brother David Fowler of Andrews, and 6 grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Bill Russell, 83
3/6/2009
William "Bill" Oscar Russell, 83, was born September 10, 1925 in San Antonio, Texas and went to be with the Lord, March 5, 2009.

Graveside services will be held in Burkett, Texas Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 2:00pm. Arrangements are made by Tom Walker Funeral Home, Coleman, Texas.

Bill spent his youth in Cross Plains, Texas where he graduated high school in 1942, and met his future wife Wynola Thate.  Bill served in the Navy during World War II in the South Pacific. In 1952 he moved with his family to Waco, Texas where he was a manager with Waco Ready Mix until his retirement. He was a member of Columbus Ave. Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. As a "Baylor Alumni by Choice" he held past memberships in the Baylor Bear Club. He was also a past member of the Waco Lions Club, Rotary and Masonic Lodge.

Bill Russell is survived by daughter Nelia Lynn, son and daughter in law Daniel and Leslie Russell; grandchildren Courtney and Jeff Maia and Jennifer Russell, all of Dallas; and special friend Lottie Jo Kidwell of Waco. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Wynola.

Maudie Reasoner Vance, 99
3/5/2009
Maudie Mae Reasoner Vance, age 99, of Stephenville and formerly of Coleman and Shields, passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. at the Kindred Hospital of Fort Worth.

Services will be held 3:00pm Saturday, March 7, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church of Santa Anna, with Pastor Kathy Monroe officiating. Interment will be in the Shields Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 6, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home.

Maudie was born May 25, 1909 in Sydney, Texas, to the late Albert and Edna Reasoner. The family moved to Shields in 1911. Maudie attended Concho Peak Elementary School and graduated from Coleman High School in 1925. She attended Southwest Texas State Teachers College in San Marcos for two years and then taught at the Miller School in Leaday, Coleman County for two years. On May 28, 1928, she married Clyde Calvin Vance and lived in Shields. She was a homemaker, Mother, helped on the family farm, worked with her husband at the Vance Grocery/Post Office. Their grocery store was destroyed in 1941 by a tornado and the rebuilt only to have to burn down the next year. They moved in to Coleman in 1942 and then on to White Settlement, back to Coleman and then to Brady to work at the Air Base. In 1956, Maudie became a Licensed Vocational Nurse and moved to Amarillo ro work at the Amarillo Air Base Hospital. She retired in 1968. On May 29, 1983, Maudie and Clyde celebrated their 55th anniversary. Clyde died in January, 1984. Maudie was an active member of the Temple Baptist Church of Amarillo. In 2006, she moved to Stephenville to be closer to her children.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Verna and Fred Cross of Stephenville; her son and daughter-in-law, Cecil and Pat Vance of Santa Anna; seven grandchildren, Micky, Cathy, Jim, Tom, Terry, Teena and Tammy; seven great-grandchildren, Jeremy, Casey, Benjamin, William, Jordan, Nikki and Kyle and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Clyde, great-grandson, Erich, Taylor, three sisters and 2 brothers.

Pallbearers will be Micky Cross, Jim Cross, Terry Vance, Jordan Taylor, Benjamin Cross, William Cross, Jody Taylor and Jeremy Cross. Honorary Pallbearers will be Mark Alberthal, Art Walls and Matt Dickerson.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Shields Cemetery Association.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

RUSSELL Jack White Russell, 83
3/5/2009
RUSSELL Jack White Russell, a 49-year Corpus Christ, Texas resident, died March 1, 2009.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted by Seaside Funeral Home. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2009 between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm at Seaside Funeral Home.

A Memorial Service and celebration of his life will be held at St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 4:00 pm.
 

He was 83 years old. Jack, who was born in Coleman, Texas, October 31, 1925, played trumpet as a young man and served in the United States Army/Air Force during World War II. He was a waist gunner on a B-17. Afterwards, he became a Beta Theta Pi and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. Later, he became a charter member of the Abilene Bachelor's Club and spent many days sailing on area lakes with his buddies. After getting married and moving his family to Corpus Christi in 1960, Jack became an independent Petroleum Landman. He loved his work and rarely missed a day. He was a faithful member of St.Bartholomew Episcopal Church. Jack cherished his hunting trips, loved to sing and dance, enjoyed spending summer days on the beach with family and friends in Port Aransas, and was an avid tennis player and fan for most of his adult life. Dearly loved by Ann, his wife for 33 years, and his children, he will be remembered for his warm smile, sparkling blue eyes, and friendly, outgoing demeanor. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Bowers Russell, his wife Ann, and his brother Perry. He is survived by his brother Gene, his four children Ross S. Russell, Perry W. Russell, Charles E. Russell, and Barbara R. Safir, and ten grandchildren.

Lena Wallis, 86
3/5/2009
Lena Wallis, age 86, died Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home.

Funeral service will be held 11:00am Saturday, March 7, 2009 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Richard Hetzel officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Coleman.

Family visitation will be held on Friday, March 6, 2009 from 5:00 until 6:00pm at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan, Coleman, Texas.

Lena was born in Coleman on November 16, 1922, to Velma and Foy Knowles. She graduated from Coleman High School in 1939. After working for a couple of years as a telephone operator, she married B. W. Wallis in 1941. He preceded her in death on April 8, 1985..

Because of her abilities, work ethic, and love for people, Lena won several "Top Salesperson" awards. After moving back to Coleman, she went to work for Bowen Drug where she retired after 16 years at the age of 75. She so loved her many friends who came to Bowen Drug. She was considered a First Lady by those who knew her best because of her wisdom and charm.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers: Foy Wayne Knowles and Loyd Knowles; and four sisters: Louise Pridemore, Nellie Boyd, Barbara Gillis and Nancy Thate.

Lena is survived by one son: Dub Wallis and wife Shariann, two daughters: Darlene Woodard and husband Greg, Sharlene Hetzel and husband Richard; seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers are: Chad Woodard, Scott Woodard, Michael Taylor, Chris Weadock, Darrell Hillock, Jeff Ledyard, and Dave Pickney. Honorary pallbearers are the Bowen Drug bunch and the Staff at Holiday Hill.

Memorials may be made to Holiday Hill Nursing Home, P. O. Box 392, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Mary Ann Berry Wade, 82
3/1/2009
Mary Ann Berry Wade, 82, died Saturday, February 28, 2009 at the Coleman hospital.

Graveside services will be held Monday, March 2, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Donald Williams officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mary Ann Berry was born December 21, 1926 in Santa Anna, Texas to Henry and Bertha Berry. Mary Ann was the 7th child and only daughter. Mary Ann married Dan Wade in 1971 in Kerrville, Texas. They lived in Corpus Christi, Texas until 1982 when they returned to Coleman. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1984 and six brothers, Clifford, Artie, Glen, Curtis, Cecil and John Berry.

She was a member of the Elm Street Church of Christ.

Survivors include a step-daughter, Annie Dempsey of Ocean Shores, Washington, and a sister-in-law, Sybil Berry of Coleman; numerous nieces and nephews, including local nieces Barbara Dawson, Deborah Barker, Sue Burleson and Libby Fuller. Local nephews are Jimmie Berry, Mike Berry and Gary Don Berry.

Memorials may be made to the Coleman Senior Citizen Center, 916 S. Concho Street, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Amelia M. DeLeon, 76
3/1/2009
Mrs. Amelia M. DeLeon, 76, of Santa Anna, died Saturday, February 28, 2009 at her residence.

Funeral Mass will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Romanus Arinze Akamike officiating. Burial will follow in the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Prayer Service will be held Monday, March 2, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.

She was born April 28, 1932 in Santa Anna, the daughter of Eleno G. Martinez and Teres Perez Martinez. She grew up in Santa Anna and attended school there. In 1950 she married Alejando DeLeon, Sr. in Coleman and he preceded her in death on December 22, 2007. Mrs. DeLeon worked for several years at the sewing factories in Brownwood and Coleman. She later worked as a seamstress at Dickie's in Fort Worth. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Guadalupe Society.

Survivors include three sons, Bobby DeLeon and wife Cheryl of Lakeland, Florida, Eddie DeLeon and Sherri Moreno of Santa Anna, Alex DeLeon, Jr. and wife Shana of Santa Anna; one daughter, Mary Patrick and husband Perry of Santa Anna; 20 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a son, Tony Adam DeLeon, her parents and her husband.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at
www.livingmemorials.com

Marie Mills, 90
3/1/2009
Marie Mills, of Gonzales and former Coleman resident, died Friday, February 27, 2009 at Hill Country Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Gonzales.

Graveside services will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at the Coleman Cemetery Pavilion in Coleman, with Rev. Tim Penney, Associate Pastor and Students, First Baptist Church of Gonzales, officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan, Coleman, Texas.

Marie Mills was born February 20, 1919 in Dallas, the daughter of Elantlas Monroe Barnes and Linnie Norah Short Barnes. She attended school at Junction. She married Jack Mills on September 4, 1937 in Coleman. He preceded her in death on January 31, 1989. She worked at Overall-Morris Memorial Hospital, now Coleman County Medical Center for many years and moved to Gonzales in 2002. She is a member of Concho Baptist Church, Coleman, Texas.

Survivors include two sons, Jackie Lynn Mills and wife, Sherry, of Gonzales; Gary Richard Mills and wife Melissa of Abilene; two sisters, Mavis Goodwin of Fort Worth and Dean Caldwell of Bonham; six grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack, one daughter, Mary Michelle Brooks.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m Monday at Stevens Funeral Home.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com.

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