Obituary Archives - 2006   

 

Bob Bible
12/28/2006

BRIDGEPORT —
Bob Bible, Sr. 67, died Saturday, Dec. 23, 2006. Services will be at 1:00pm Thursday at Henderson Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Whon Cemetery, directed by Henderson Funeral Home.


CARL D. WHITE, age 68
12/23/2006

Carl D. White of Coleman passed away Saturday, December 23, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

CARL D. WHITE was born July 14, 1938 in May, Texas, a son of the late Clarence D. White and Pearl Jones White. He grew up and attended school in Coleman. On August 8, 1957 he married Goldie Wilkins in Coleman. Carl worked at Martin Brick Plant for 20 years and retired after 25 years from Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). He was a Baptist.

Survivors include his wife, Goldie White of Coleman; one son, Wayne White of Coleman; one daughter, Carlene Wiley and husband Buddy of Brady; three brothers, Junior White and wife Wilma of Coleman, Roger White and wife Sue of Kerrville, Otho White of Lafayette, Louisiana; one sister, Wanda Steffey and husband Jerry of Coleman; sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Steffey and husband Eddie of Lake Coleman, Jimmie Posey and husband James of Coleman, Becky Jean Matthews and husband Billy of Lake Coleman; seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, J. C. White and Jerry Don White; and his parents.

Memorials may be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 26, 2006 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


LaVerne Bean, 78
12/21/2006

CLYDE - LaVerne Bean of Clyde, died Wednesday at a local hospital.

Graveside services will be at 4:00 p.m. Friday at the Clyde Cemetery under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home.

Mrs. Bean was born June 7, 1928 in Novice to Earl and Ella (Bates) Clayton. She grew up in the Novice area and graduated from Novice High School. She was the widow of Ivan Leroy Bean, whom she married on November 9, 1945 in Wichita Falls. They moved to Clyde from Abilene in 1979. Mrs. Bean was a homemaker and a member of the Novice Baptist Church.

Survivors include three sons, Dwight Bean and wife (Bobbie) of Merkel, Kenneth Bean and wife Marsha of Clyde and Anthony Bean of Euless; one daughter, Glenda Wright and husband Glen of Kirkwood, TX; 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, one granddaughter, Tammy Bean and three sisters.


Peggy J. McCoy, 74
12/20/2006

Peggy J. McCoy of Houston died on December 16. She leaves behind her husband of 33 years, Pat McCoy, and daughters Tonya Jones and Debbie Harp, and a step-son. One sister, Gayla Lynch, one brother Sealy Smith, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at noon Wednesday, December 20, in the chapel of Earthman Resthaven, 13103 North Freeway.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00pm Thursday, December 21 at the Gouldbusk Cemetery Pavilion under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.


Faye Alice Whitley, 102
12/19/2006

Faye Alice Whitley, a life-long resident of Trickham and Bangs, Texas passed away on December 16, 2006 in Brownwood.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00am Tuesday, December 19, at the Trickham Cemetery, under the direction of Davis-Morris Funeral Home of Brownwood.

She was born Faye Alice Rutherford on June 16, 1904, in Trickham, Texas, to James G. “Gip” Rutherford and Mary Alice Watson Rutherford. She was the granddaughter of Thomas “T.C.” Watson and Alice Harris Watson, pioneers who came to Coleman County in the late 1800's.

Faye married Ezekiel Marvin Whitley of Callahan County and they resided in the Trickham and Bangs area their entire lives. Faye owned and operated a highly successful custom drapery company for over 20 years, and in the 1970s she operated an antiques and gift shop out of her home in Bangs.

She is survived by a brother, Bobby D. Rutherford of Fairfield, Texas; two granddaughters, Sheren Childs of Mansfield, Texas and Kathy Whitley of Garland, Texas; a grandson, Terry Whitley of Houston, Texas; two great-grandsons, Darren Childs of Mansfield, Texas and Jason Whitley of Santa Clarita, Calif.; a great-great- grandson, Derek Childs of Mansfield; two great-great- granddaughters, Kendall Reanne Childs of Mansfield and Hannah Elisabeth Whitley of Santa Clarita, Calif.


William N. (Bill) Warren
12/17/2006

William N. Warren, 75, of Longview, Texas formerly of Coleman passed away December 16, 2006 in a local hospital. He was born on December 26, 1930 in Aline, Georgia to Lewis and Ella Mae Harrel Warren. He served our country in the U.S. Navy stationed aboard the U.S.S. Boxer. He owned and operated Warren Motors in Coleman, Texas where his children graduated from high school and he served as past president of the Coleman Chamber of Commerce, past president of the Blue Cats Booster Club and was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Atlanta, Georgia.

He is survived by his wife Jean Brooks Warren of Longview, one son; Bill Warren and his wife Debbie of Longview, one daughter; Susan Carpenter and her husband Odis of Longview, four grandchildren; Cody Carpenter, Lacy Carpenter, Molly Warren, Abigail Warren, one sister; Mildred Thomas of Cottageville South Carolina and 6 nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 20, 2006 in the chapel of Lakeview Funeral Home in Longview, Texas. Entombment will follow in the mausoleum at Lakeview Memorial Gardens.


The family will receive friends from 6~8 p.m. Tuesday, November 19, 2006 at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.


Lemuel Byron Allen, 65
12/16/2006
A Memorial Service for Lemuel Byron Allen, 65, will be held at the Church of the Annunciation in Luling, at 11:00am Tuesday, December, 19. Visitation will be held at O’Bannon Funeral Home in Luling Monday, December 18, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Lem passed away at his home in Guadalupe County on Thursday, December 14, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Luling, on March 4, 1941, to Louis Fulshear Allen and Frances Gardien Allen. He was a graduate of Luling High School and attended Southern Methodist University and Texas Tech University.

On August 17, 1963, he was married to Susan Rogers in Coleman, Texas. A fifth generation Rancher, Lem was owner of the Lazy Eight Ranches in Coleman and Guadalupe Counties
and, for the past four years, had expanded the ranching interests to Santa Rosa, La Pampa, Argentina. He was a member of the Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and was a member and past Director of the Texas Hereford Association . He was very active in the ABBA F-1 program.

He was very active on the political scene for 40 years and served as the 2nd Chairman of the Texas Democratic County Chairmen’s Association in the 1970s. During this time he was elected to the National Democratic Executive Committee as one of the Representatives from Texas. He also served on the Texas Election Code Revision Committee. Lem was appointed to the Texas Ethics Commission in 1994, as a Republican representative, and served two terms. He served as Vice-Chairman of the Commission in 2001 and as Chairman in 2002.

He was very active in community affairs, and was well known by many Thumpers for the challenging and entertaining Car Rallies he helped put together for many years. He served several terms on the Vestry at the Church of the Annunciation –Episcopal. Lem was the epitome of a ‘family man’. Of all the things he did and was proud of, he should always be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, and son. He never met a stranger, and always had a kind word for everyone. For this, he was blessed with a list of friends too numerous to count.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Susan; his sons, Lemuel Byron ‘Lembo’ Allen, Jr. and wife, Kelly, of Luling, and Zachary Fulshear Allen and wife, Cathy, of Coleman; his mother, Frances Allen, of Seguin; and his granddaughter, Abigail, Allen, of Coleman.

The family requests that memorials be made to the Church of the Annunciation in Luling, the American Cancer Society, or the charity of one’s choice.


William R. "Bill" Laws, 78
12/15/2006

Bill Laws of Glen Cove died Thursday, December 14, 2006 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, December 17, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Don Kinder officiating, assisted by Rev. Burlie Taylor. Burial will be in the Glen Cove Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

He was born William Robert Laws on April 29, 1928 in Coleman, the son of William Bryan Laws and Rubye Lee Copeland Laws. He attended school in Glen Cove and Centennial and graduated from Wichita Falls High School. While attending Midwestern University in Wichita Falls, he worked for General Mills. He graduated from West Texas State, now West Texas A&M in Canyon with a Bachelor of Science Degree. During the Korean War, Bill was a civilian instructor in the Air Force at Amarillo Air Force Base. He married Linda Lee Hall on September 21, 1974 in Houston. Bill worked in the oil service business for over 30 years, first working as an engineer for Schlumberger, then moving into middle management positions for Dresser Industries. In 1976, Bill was hired as Vice-President of Operations of Geosource, Inc. and later became President and CEO of Geosource, which by then was a Fortune 500 Company. Bill restored old military aircraft and opened the Coleman War Bird Museum. In November, 2003 the Coleman Airport Terminal was named in his honor. In 2004 he was named Rural Citizen of the Year. Bill also served as the president of the Rotary Club, served on the Holiday Hill Board, Coleman County Medical Center Board, Central Colorado River Authority Board. He attended Glen Cove Baptist Church and Tuscola United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Lee Laws of Glen Cove; three sons, William Robert Laws, Jr. of Houston, John Randolph Laws of Ardmore, Oklahoma, Orrin Thomas Laws of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; one daughter, Linda Jo Maxwell of Santa Anna; one brother, John B. Laws of Amarillo; one half-brother, Glen Ray Laws of Tucson, Arizona and numerous grandchildren, step-grandchildren, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Family visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be sent to Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation, Inc., P. O. Box 353, Crosswicks, New Jersey, 08515 or Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.


Ricky Wells, 59
12/15/2006

Ricky Wells, born October 1, 1947 in Brownwood, passed away December 13, 2006 in Amarillo. He was reared in Richardson and served his country proudly in the United State Air Force where he received an honorable discharge. On July 31, 1982 he married the love of his life, Karen McAlpine, in Lubbock. He worked for the Federal Aviation Administration for 32 years and was highly respected in his career. He received several awards and recognitions, several from Washington D.C. He enjoyed animals, loved the outdoors and was an avid coin collector. He was a loving husband and touched countless lives with his kind heart. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his birth father, Marvin Wells, and his parents, Charles and Thelma Zellner. He is survived by: his wife, Karen, of Amarillo; one son, Mathew Mark Wells of Eldridge, Iowa; a sister, Brinn Well-Walker of Comfort; two brother, Rodney Zellner of Caddo Mills, Texas and Jim Bowen of Northcross, Georgia; 3 grandchildren, Brianna, Daniel and Braden of Eldridge, Iowa. Local survivors in Coleman include Sonny and Mert Wells and a host of relatives and friends.

Funeral services for Ricky Wells will be at 11:00am Saturday at the South Georgia Baptist Church in Amarillo with Lance Herrington, Associate Minister from the Paramount Baptist Church officiating.

The family will have visitation at Walker Funeral Home in Coleman from 7:00pm to 8:00pm Saturday, December 16. Local services will be at 2:00pm Sunday, December 17, at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion, under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.


Albert "Wallace" McKee, 91
12/14/2006

Albert "Wallace" McKee, a long time Coleman County resident, passed away in Austin, Texas on December 13, 2006.

Wallace was born on October 23, 1915 in Fisk, Texas to Pearl and James Walter McKee. He attended school in Brown Ranch and was in the first class of the newly organized Mozelle School in 1931. He married Idell Estes on June 12, 1937. They celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary this past summer.

Wallace and Idell owned and operated McKee Cleaners in Coleman and Santa Anna for 22 years. The have lived in Austin for the past 36 years.

Wallace is survived by his wife, Idell, his daughter Glenna Smith and husband, Steve; Kay Bitter and husband, Triple and his son Jerry McKee and wife, Shirley. He was preceded in death by his oldest son Gwin McKee. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Services celebrating the life of Wallace McKee will be held at Stevens Funeral Home on Saturday, December 16th, 2006 at 11:00am. Interment will be at the Brown Ranch Cemetery immediately following the service.

The family will be hosting a visitation at Stevens Funeral Home on Friday, December 15, 2006 from 6:00pm until 8:00pm.

Memorials may be made to Meals on Wheels or any Hospice organization.


Colonel Bruce E. Wallace, 83
12/15/2006

Colonel Bruce E. Wallace passed away on December 13, 2006, at his home in Midland, Texas. He was born in Bangs, Texas, on December 4, 1923. He graduated from Arlington High School in Arlington, Texas, in 1943 where he excelled in athletics lettering in football and track, and garnering honors as a Golden Gloves boxing champion. Colonel Wallace went on to have a remarkable and distinguished career in service to his country. One of this nation’s most decorated soldiers, Col. Wallace served his nation in three wars. He served as a tail-gunner with the 8th Air Corp in World War II, flying 46 missions over Germany. He was shot down three times. The third time was a bombing mission over Berlin on February 3, 1945, where, after crash landing behind enemy lines, he was captured by the enemy. While being transported to a second prisoner of war camp, Col. Wallace dispatched his captors and escaped, making it safely back to England. After the war, Col. Wallace returned home to Texas and entered Texas A&M University where he played quarterback on the Texas Aggie football team. In 1948 he married Janie Decker, his high school sweetheart. In December 1949, he served in Korea as a platoon leader with the 187th Regimental Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division. He made both combat jumps in the Korean Conflict. In 1957, Col. Wallace graduated from the Ranger Course and became Chairman of the Training & Special Projects Committee where he introduced the “pugil stick” and wrote the narration as Principal Instructor of the Ranger Demonstration presented to the President of the United States.

In 1960, he graduated from the Command and General Staff College and was selected to be a staff officer in the Office of the Army Chief of Staff and was also selected as a principal action officer for the National Military Command Center. Twice a week, he briefed the assembled Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Secretary of Defense.

In August of 1963, Col. Wallace was assigned to a tour of duty in Ethiopia during the reign of Haile Selassie where he was the only military liaison allowed in the country. In December 1966, Col. Wallace entered into his third war in service to his country. He was the Deputy Brigade Commander of the 1st Infantry Division at Cu Chi. He also served as commander of the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division before being transferred to the 9th Infantry Division as the G2 and G3. In July of 1967, he became the commander of the 3rd Battalion of the 47th Infantry. During this tour, he was severely wounded, and returned home.

From 1968 to 1970, Col. Wallace served as Operations & Plans Officer on the staff of the Commander, Joint Unconventional Warfare Task Force Atlantic at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, before returning for his second tour of duty in Vietnam. There he was assigned as the Senior Advisor to the Vietnamese 25th Infantry Division, and concurrently as the commander of the 25th Division Combat Assistance Team. During this time, his command and control helicopter was shot down by an SA-7 missile during the siege at An Loc. He evaded capture for more than a week, before rejoining his unit. In 1972, Col. Wallace assumed the duties of Chief of the Pacification Operations Branch of the Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. While there, he served as the Deputy Director for Operations of Counterinsurgency and Special Activities. In 1974, he served as President of the Airborne & Communications Electronics Board.

In 1978, he retired to Midland. He joined the High Sky Wing of the Commemorative Air Force, where he greatly enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow military historians. He was honored to be inducted into the American Combat Airman Hall of Fame in 2000.


He was preceded in death by his parents, Karl E. Wallace and Camille Shield Wallace. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Janie D. Wallace; daughter Sharon McMains and husband, Joel, of Jacksonville, Florida, and their children, Neely and J.P.; son Steve Wallace and wife, Lee, of Midland, and their children, Mark and Matthew; daughter Valerie Hale and husband, Alan, of Midland, and their children, Tyler, Ryan, and Megan; and siblings, Beryl Wilkinson, Karl Wallace, Jr., Lynn Bass of Midland, Wayne Wallace, and Niki Dameron-Smith, and their families.

In celebration of his life, a service will be held on Saturday, December 16th, at 11:00 a.m. in the Glass Chapel of the First Methodist Church in Midland. Interment will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the Santa Anna Cemetery in Santa Anna, Texas. The family requests that memorials be directed to the High Sky Wing of the Commemorative Air Force or the charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com.


Carl H. Mathews, 96
12/13/2006

LAWN -
Carl H. Mathews of Lawn died Monday, December 11, 2006.

Services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, December 14, in Lawn Baptist Church with Reverend Price Mathieson officiating. Burial will be in Midway Cemetery in Runnels County, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 5:30 -- 7:30pm, December 13, 2006, at the funeral home.

Carl was born October 1, 1910, in Coleman to Will F. and Bettie Jane Wright Mathews and moved to Goldsboro at an early age. He was an avid baseball player while in high school and later played on semi-pro teams in the area. He married Mary Jeanette Hamon June 28, 1930, at the Hamon Ranch in Goldsboro. He farmed and worked in the oil fields, moving to Albany in 1953, where he worked for J. D. Sandefer. While in Albany he and Jeanette were active members of the Albany Riding Club. In 1963, they returned to Lawn. In 1964, he opened and operated Carl?s Café and Laundrymat. He sold these businesses in 1970 and went to work for Taylor County. In 1980, he was elected constable of Taylor County and served for twelve years, retiring in 1992. He also worked for Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home until 1996. He was a 50 year member of the Lawn Masonic Lodge and was a member of the First Christian Church.


Survivors include one son, Billy J. Mathews of Goldsboro; one daughter, Jeanenne Jones and husband Allen of Abilene; one granddaughter, Teresa Harp and husband Randy of Euless; one grandson, Jimmy Jones and wife Kathleen of El Dorado, Kansas; five great-grandchildren, Amy, Mathew and Michael Harp, Shayla Swope, and Ashley Jones; several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Memorials may be made to Midway Cemetery Fund, c/o Glen Sansom, P. O. Box 206, Lawn, Texas 79530 or to Sears Methodist Hospice, 3233 S. Willis, Abilene, Texas 79605.


Bessie Parish, 98
12/11/2006

Bessie Parish of Santa Anna passed away Saturday at 10:20 PM at the Bangs Nursing Home.

Services will be Monday at 2:00 PM at Henderson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Howze officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction to Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

Bessie was born September 19, 1908 in Santa Anna, Texas to the late Doc Lindsey and Minnie Bess Martin Wallace. She attended the Leedy and Santa Anna Schools and was a member of the Assembly of God Church of Santa Anna. In 1928 Bessie married Everett John Parish in Santa Anna and they celebrated thirty six years of marriage. John preceded her in death in 1964. Bessie was a homemaker.

SURVIVORS - 2 Daughters - Bobbie and husband Tom Howard of Zephyr, Texas and Patsy Bible of Houston, Texas; 2 Sisters – Gladys Fletcher of Artesia, NM; Inez Rouse of Center Point, Texas; 2 Brothers – Joe Wallace of Santa Anna, Texas and Morris Wallace of Jal, NM; Daughter-in-law – Johnnie Parish of Tucumcari, NM; 8 Grandchildren; 17 Great Grandchildren; 3 Great Great Grandchildren. Bessie was preceded in death by her son Billy Joe Parish, Grandson Monty Bible and 3 Brothers – D. L. Vernon & Martin Wallace


M. D. Dean, 78
12/10/2006

M.D. Dean of Coleman died Saturday, December 9, 2006 at Coleman HealthCare Center.

Funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 12 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Joe Hailey officiating. Interment will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday in Lometa Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

M. D. Dean was born January 17, 1928 in Lometa, Texas, a son of Dayton Dean and Annie May Watson Dean. He grew up and attended school in Lometa. He joined the Merchant Marines, served two years, and then joined the United States Army where he served an additional two years. On August 22, 1974 he married Faye Windham in Altus, Oklahoma. M. D. had lived in Coleman since 1974, was a truck driver for 49 years, and a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Faye Dean of Coleman; his mother, Annie Dean of Lometa; two sons, Randy Dean and Ted Dean both of Brenham; two daughters, Nikki Dean of Buda and Jan Dean Mattox of Houston; three step-sons, Richard Hubbard of Coleman, Mike Hubbard of Coleman, Vince Hubbard of Grapevine; 17 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father and two brothers, Rex and Wayne.

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


Jane Brymner, 83
12/8/2006
Jane Brymner of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Thursday, December 07, 2006 at 1:50PM at Redstone Park Retirement in Brownwood, Texas.

Services will be Saturday at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. H. Ray Box officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Friday from 6 till 8 PM at Henderson Funeral Home.

Jane was born November 17, 1923 in Englewood, California to the late William George and Willetta Lamar Eidson Williams. She was raised in California and was a resident of Brownwood most of her life. She graduated from Lowell High School in San Francisco and attended Daniel Baker College. Jane was a Navy Veteran of World War II and a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and a member of the Baptist Church. She worked as a bookkeeping supervisor with Wells Fargo Bank and owned a Drapery Shop.

Survivors include: Close Personal Friend – John Hensley of Santa Anna, Texas; Daughter – Willetta and husband Norman Anderson of Santa Anna, Tx; Son – Donnie and Joanna Thompson of Brownwood, Texas
10 Grandchildren; 25 Great Grandchildren; 1 Great Great Grandchild

Jane was preceded in death by her son Michael Thompson in 1995
.


Jeanette Arnold, 73
12/4/2006

Jeanette Arnold of Bay, Arkansas, died Saturday, December 2, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center in Coleman, Texas. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 6, 2006 at Roller-Farmers Union Chapel in Jonesboro, Arkansas with Rex Holt, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in the Oaklawn Cemetery in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

She was born Perri Jeanette Holt on December 27, 1933 in Bay, Arkansas, the daughter of Troy Holt and Hattie Spurlock Holt. She grew up and attended school in Arkansas. She married Bob Arnold and he preceded her in death. She was a homemaker and a member of Bay United Methodist Church.

Survivors include three sons and daughters-in-law, Kerry and Lisa Hall of Bronte, Texas, Kevin and Sherry Hall of Kingsland, Texas, Steve and Cindy Hall of Coleman, Texas; three sisters, Nina Morrison of Arkansas, Betty Sue McInturf and Isabel Thompson, both of California; one brother, Joe Holt of Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Brian Hall, Kim Graves, B.J. Hall, Zac Hall, Cody Evans, Tina Hall, Troy Hall and one great-grandson, Tatum Hall.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 5, 2006 at Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home in Arkansas.

Memorials may sent to Holiday Hill Nursing Home, 245 State Highway 153, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Local arrangements were handled through Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.


Wanda Rasco, 76
11/29/2006

Wanda Faye Rasco of Abilene joined her husband in the presence of the Lord on November 29, 2006. Wanda was born in Eastland County on April 15, 1930. She was joined in marriage to Charlie Hampton Rasco on October 2, 1948. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Charlie, son Joe Heath, seven great-grandchildren, two brothers and three sisters, and one nephew. She was survived by her son and wife, Doyle and Pamela Rasco of Abilene; grandchildren, Angela, Jason, Scott, Amanda, and Karlissa; nine great-grandchildren; one brother and three sisters; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be at 7:00pm on Saturday at Stevens Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be officiated by her grandson Scott Rasco at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman on Sunday December 3, at 2:00pm.


W.T. "Tuffy" Hamon, 88
11/28/2006

W.T. "Tuffy" Hamon of Coleman, died Monday, November 27, 2006 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 2, 2006 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with his son, Rodney Hamon officiating and assisted by Joe Hailey. Burial will follow in the Glen Cove Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

He was born September 23, 1918 in Coleman County, Texas, a son of Edwin Cravens Hamon and Mary Landis Johnson Hamon. He grew up in Glen Cove and attended school at Centennial. On October 10, 1940 he married Ida Myrtle Wiginton in Coleman. He served in the United States Army. During his liftime, Tuffy was a cowboy, an oil field tool pusher and iron work construction. He lived in Coleman County and moved to the city of Coleman in 1968. He was a member of Elm Street Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Ida Myrtle Hamon of Coleman; two sons and daughters-in-law, Raymond and Mary Hamon of Coleman, Rodney and Peggy Hamon of Burleson; a grandchild raised by Tuffy and Myrtle, Dolly and husband Richard Cody of Glen Cove; three sisters, Clara May Olhausen of Clyde, Mary Betty Ramsey of Clyde, Alice Ann Wilson of Goldthwaite; seven grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, one great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Randall Hamon, two brothers, Joe Bailey Hamon and Lamar Hamon; one sister, Ruth Barmore.


Mrs. Glen Berry, 90
11/28/2006

Mrs. Glen Berry of Coleman died Tuesday, November 28, 2006 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Graveside services will be 4:00 p.m. Friday, December 1, 2006 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Berry was born Daphnea Allene Croft on August 22, 1916 in Gouldbusk, the daughter of Orvil Walter Croft and Civilia Oatman Burleson. He preceded her in death on December 10, 1997. She grew up and attended school in Coleman County. She married Ancel Glen Berry on December 7, 1936 in Coleman. She worked for Jinright Manufacturing and was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include one daughter, Barbara Dawson of Coleman; one son, Billy Glen Berry of Odessa; one brother, Darrell Croft of Coleman; two sisters, Nadell Schulle of Coleman, Maxine O’Grady of Magna, California; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.

V
isitation is THURSDAY from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.


Pauline Powers, 93
11/28/2006

Pauline Powers of Coleman, died Monday, November 27, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 29 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel
with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating and assisted by Rick Marshall. Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Pauline Powers was born April 29, 1913 in Gouldbusk, Coleman County, Texas, a daughter of the late William C. Revel and Palma Frasier Revel. She grew up in the Elliott Community and attended school at Shields. On April 29, 1929 she married Otis Powers in Santa Anna and he preceded her in death in 1992. She had lived in Coleman for a number of years, was a member of First Baptist Church, a former member of NARFE. She was a retired real estate agent.

Survivors include one brother, Weldon Revel of Canyon, Texas; two sisters, Willie C. Gilbreath of Coleman, Gerene Rowe of Lubbock; five nieces and two nephews; special friends, Rafael and Eulogia Arellano of San Antonio.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Coleman or the donor's favorite charity.

Family visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.


Ruby Stoup Watters, 93
11/27/2006

Ruby Watters of Coleman died Sunday, November 26, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Joe Hailey officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Ruby Stoup on January 4, 1913 in Cook County, Texas, a daughter of the late Edward Darwin Stoup and Nova Lou Scoggin Stoup. She moved with her family to Coleman in 1922, attended school in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School in 1935. On December 2, 1941 she married William Arthur Watters in Coleman and he preceded her in death on December 27, 1987. She was a housewife and a member of Elm Street Church of Christ.

Survivors include four sisters, Pearl Kile of Coleman, Dorothy Chastain of Justin, Margaret Wilson of Clyde, Peggy and husband Pat Jacobi of Fort Worth; two brothers, Alvie Stoup and William and wife Mavis Stoup of Coleman; sister-in-law, Lorene McElroy of Austin; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister, Hugh, Earl, Carl, Fred Stoup and Bessie Adian.

Family visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.


Anna Fae Laws George, age 84
11/26/2006

Anna Fae Laws George died Friday, November 24, 2006 in Seminole.

Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 27 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel
with Rev. Marvin Gregory officiating and assisted by Rev. Pat McClatchy. Burial will follow in the Glen Cove Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Anna Fae was born in Floyd County June 3, 1922 to John W. and Rubie King Burgett. She attended schools in Floyd County, Texas and in McKenzie and Jellico, Tennessee. She graduated from high school in Floydada, Texas in 1939. She moved with her family to Santa Anna in 1939, attended Tarleton, North Texas, and Hardin-Simmons, receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree and Master of Education Degree.  She married Clarence D. Laws August 20, 1945 in Santa Anna. He died December 3, 1993. She married Walter George in 1995. He died in April 2002.

She was an Elementary school teacher for 28 years in Glen Cove and Coleman West Ward. She was an Educational Diagnostician for 12 years working in San Saba, Brady Co-op, Coleman, Ballinger-Winters Co-op and Kermit-Wink-Loving Co-op.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John W. and Rubie Burgett and husbands, Clarence Laws and Walter George.

She is survived by two sisters, Elaine McMurry and husband Bill, of Greensburg, Kansas, LaJuana Henning and husband Vernon, of Seminole, Texas and several nieces and nephews. Her brother, Quentin Burgett of Weatherford, died Sunday, November 26, 2006.

Memorials may be sent to Memorial Hospice, 1004 Hobbs Highway, Suite 2, Seminole, Texas 79360 or Memorial Place Assisted Living , 300 NW 8th Stree, Seminole, Texas 79360 or your favorite charity.


Judy Jackson, 65
11/25/2006
Judy Jackson age 65 of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Thursday, November 23, 2006 at 9:50 AM at the Coleman County Medical Center. 

Services will be Tuesday at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Mackey officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

Judy was born March 4, 1941 in Shields, Texas to the late L. V. Miller and Zelma Jackson. She was raised in Coleman County attending Humphrey High School. Judy was a member of the St Willow Baptist Church and worked as a home health care attendant.

Survivors include 4 Daughters-Mary Miller of Santa Anna, Texas; Danette Wright of Santa Anna, Texas; Patricia & husband Joe Coleman of Santa Anna, Texas; Brenda Richards of Santa Anna, Texas; Son – Herbert Jackson of Coleman, Texas; 2 Sisters - Gail Kirven of Santa Anna, Texas; Katie Barker of Elgin, Texas; 10 Grandchildren. Judy was preceded in death by her daughter Zelpha Smith.

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


J. B. Smith, Jr., 77
11/24/2006
J.B. Smith of Coleman died Thursday, November 23, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 26, 2006 at the First United Methodist Church with Dr. Jeffrey Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the White Chapel Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

J.B. was born August 19, 1929 in the Anderson Community in Coleman County, the son of Joe Bailey Smith and Ima Cox Smith. He grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War and married Julia Eva Draper on July 29, 1954 in Coleman. She preceded him in death on December 11, 2003. J. B. lived in Coleman County all of his life, where he was a rancher and farmer and was awarded the American Farmers Degree from the Future Farmers of America in 1950. He was a member of the Texas Farm Bureau, Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Future Farmers of America and a member of the First United Methodist Church.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda and Michael Lagow of Dallas, Malinda and Charles Carter of Coleman; one granddaughter, Krista Carter of Arlington; nieces and nephews, Judy Rasbury of Mesquite, Larry Robinson and Joe Robinson, both of Coleman, Gary Draper and Charlene Draper Lindsey, both of Richland Springs, Teddy Draper of Dripping Springs and many great nieces, great nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife and one sister, Nora Lee Robinson Bevel.

Family visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to the Julia Smith Scholarship Fund, c/o Coleman County State Bank or the Coleman High School Future Farmers of America.


Nancy L. Hughes, 75
11/20/2006

Nancy L. Hughes of Copperas Cove passed away Friday, November 17, 2006 at her residence.

Graveside services will be Tuesday at 2:00 PM at the Santa Anna Cemetery. Local arrangement with Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

Nancy was born on November 7, 1931 to the late Roy and Mildred Holt. She attended schools in Sanderson, Coleman, Centennial and graduated in 1948 from Santa Anna High School. Nancy received her BA from Texas Women’s University and a MS from American Technological University. She worked as a post librarian in 1952 and has lived in Copperas Cove since 1963. She was a retired Library Director with Copperas Cove ISD and owned Dove Gift Shop for six years.

Survivors include: Son Marty & wife Barbara Hughes of Goldthwaite. Nancy was preceded in death by Husband – Major Martin Hughes; Daughter – Lynda Hughes; Brother – Roy D. Holt, Jr
.


Ora Mae McClure Weathers, 86
11/19/2006
Ora Mae McClure Weathers of Santa Anna passed away Saturday, November 18, 2006 at 4:35 PM at the Coleman County Medical Center.

Services will be at 11:00am Tuesday at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Bruce Hess Officiating. Interment will follow at Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna
. The family will receive friends on Monday from 5:30 till 7:00 PM at Henderson Funeral Home.

Ora Mae was born February 9, 1920 in Coleman County, Texas to the late Benton Herbert and Mary M. Rogers McClure. She was raised in Coleman County attending the Liveoak Schools. On February 25, 1938 Ora Mae married Elwayne Weathers in Eastland County, Texas and they celebrated sixty-two years of marriage. Elwayne preceded her in death in 2000. She was a resident of San Angelo from 1950 till 2003 then moving to Santa Anna. Ora Mae was a member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed sewing, reading and gardening and was a homemaker.

Survivors include:
Daughter – Wanda & husband Robert Neier of Santa Anna, Texas
Son – Bobby & wife Fayne Weathers of Hallettsville, Texas
Brother – Arthur McClure of Bowie, Texas
Several Nieces and Nephews; 3 Grandchildren; 5 Great Grandchildren; 5 Great Great Grandchildren
Ora Mae was preceded in death by her sister Berta Holland and brother Elmer McClure


Nelda June Hunter, 67
11/19/2006

Nelda June Hunter of Putnam, Texas passed away on Saturday, November 18, 2006 at Hendrick Hospice in Abilene, Texas.

A grave side service will be held at 3:OO p.m. on Monday, November 20, 2006 at Ross Cemetery in Baird, Texas directed by Parker Funeral Home of Baird, Texas. Rev. John Stanislaw will officiate.

Nelda was born on May 11, 1939 in Coleman, Texas to Fisher Hagler and Hattie Craig Hagler. She had lived the last seven years in Putnam moving there from Crowell, Texas. She has worked as a public school cafeteria manager, done home health care, and worked at the Abilene State School for three years, and later becoming a homemaker.She was a Baptist. She married Al Hunter at Rocky Creek Baptist Church in Brown County on August 12, 1956.

Survivors include: her husband - Al Hunter of Putnam; 1 daughter - Rhonda Vestal and husband Chris of Baird; 2 sons - Terry Hunter and wife Treva of Baird and Ricky Hunter and wife Tammy of Fort Worth; 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild; 2 brothers - Glen Hagler of Coleman and Jimmy Hagler of Clyde; numerous nieces and nephews.


Charlsie Jean Parker, 77
11/19/2006

Charlsie Jean Parker died Saturday, November 18, 2006, at an Abilene medical center.

The daughter of Nettie (Graves) and William Keeney, she was born on March 12, 1929 in Coleman, Texas, where she also married Clifford Durard Parker on February 27, 1949. After moving from Coleman to Abilene in 1956, she worked for Timex Corporation before becoming self-employed in day care, a career which lasted 20 years. Later she worked at the Rose Park Senior Citizens Center, and was a member of Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). She was also a member of Broadview Baptist Church in Abilene.

Mrs. Parker was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Durard Parker, in 1998, and her parents.

Survivors include a son, Ronnie Parker and wife, Judy, and a daughter, Darlena Wright and husband, Dale, all of Abilene; two grandchildren, Phillip Hill and Kimberly Hill; and one great- grandchild, Brady Mullings. She is also survived by a brother, Donald Keeney and wife, Rita, of Santa Anna
, and three sisters, Billie Moore of Lubbock, Patsy Martin of Clyde, and Betty Alford of Abilene.

Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Monday at Broadview Baptist Church with Rev. David Cason officiating. Burial will follow at 3:30 p.m. in Glen Cove Cemetery near Coleman, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory. The family will receive friends from 5 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Broadview Baptist Church Building Fund, 2500 South 27th St., Abilene, TX 79605.


Juanita Ray Landers, 94
11/19/2006
LAWN – Juanita Ray Landers, 94, died Friday, November 17, 2006, in a Coleman hospital.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 20, 2006, in First Baptist Church in Lawn with Reverend Price Mathieson officiating. Burial will be in Dewey Cemetery, directed by Fry - Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 -- 8:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Juanita was born March 3, 1912 in Silver Valley to James Jacob and Mary Jane Cypert Ray. She married Albert Wright Landers December 23, 1933 in Silver Valley. A master chef, she liked nothing better than having her family gather to enjoy the favorite foods she always prepared. She worked twenty-five years in the school cafeteria in Lawn, retiring in 1976. She had many interests, but her main hobby was quilting. She grew up in a hard-working family and remembered learning to quilt sitting on a bucket to be able to reach the quilting frames. Her later quilts were works of art. Juanita was a happy, fun-loving, fiercely independent individual, and will be missed by all who knew her. She was a member of Lawn Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death were her parents, five brothers, four sisters, her husband and one daughter-in-law, Gayle Landers.

Survivors include four sons and daughters-in-law, Bobby and Rose Ann Landers of Georgetown, Wesley and Leda Landers of Ft. Worth, Tommy and Betty Landers of Carrollton, and Clifford and Lorry Landers of Corpus Christi; two daughters and sons-in-law, Beth and Buddy Card of McCamey and Betty and Mike Richards of Melbourne, Florida; thirteen grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews; and many friends.

Memorials may be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center, 4601 Hartford Street, Abilene, TX 79605-9989 or Lawn Senior Citizens, P. O. Box 14, Lawn, TX 79530.


Ernestine Gregory Geyser, 80
11/14/2006

RICHLAND HILLS - Ernestine Gregory Geyser of Richland Hills, Texas passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2006 in Richland Hills.

Graveside services will be at 1:00pm Friday at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Bruce Hess officiating with local arrangements under the direction of
Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

Ernestine was born January 26, 1926 in Santa Anna, Texas to the late Ernest W. and Virgie England. She was raised in Santa Anna where she graduated from Santa Anna High School. Ernestine was a member of the Baptist Church and a retired office manager for Pancho’s Mexican Buffet.

SURVIVORS: Daughter -Linda & husband Ron Caram; 3 Step Sons - Bill, Phil & Jim Geyser; Granddaughters - Rachel Hart, Meredith Caram & Allison Caram; 3 Great Grandchildren. 


G. D. (Pete) Sudberry, 85
11/12/2006

G.D. (Pete) Sudberry of Abilene died in Columbus, Ohio on November 9, 2006.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 14, 2006 at North's Memorial Chapel, 242 Orange Street, Abilene, Texas with Less Thomasson officiating. Burial will be in Elmwood Memorial Park, directed by North's Funeral Home. Visitation will be Monday evening from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at North's Memorial Chapel, 242 Orange St.

Mr. Sudberry was born April 4, 1921 in Venus, Texas, but grew-up mostly in Winters, Texas. He married Mary Lou McFerrin in Slaton, Texas on May 5, 1940. Shortly thereafter they moved to Abilene and lived in Abilene the majority of their 61 years of marriage. Mr. Sudberry served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army in Company A 109th Infantry; during WWII he was in combat overseas in Northern France and Western Germany. He was the recipient of the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Expert Infantryman's badge. He owned and operated Sudberry Automotive in Abilene, Texas for more than 25 years before his retirement. In 1981 he received the President's Award from the Abilene Bowling Association and in 1989 was inducted into the Abilene Bowling Association's Hall of Fame. He loved the Lord and his acts of kindness and love to others reflected God's commands.

Survivors include a son, Bill Sudberry and his wife, Trish of Coleman, TX; a daughter, Sharon Stanaland and her husband Rick of Gahanna, Ohio; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Uganda Mission Fund in c/o Northwest Church of Christ @ 1141 N. Willis St, Abilene, TX 79603 or your favorite charity.


Florence Van Camp, 93
11/11/2006

Eva Florence Van Camp, age 93 of Gurdon, Arkansas, died Thursday, November 9, 2006. Florence was born November 6, 1913 in Clark County, Arkansas, the daughter of Ollie Edward “Bud” and Katie (Parker) Dodgen. She was one of five sisters and three brothers. She married Carl Hammonds in 1931. He died in 1976. She married second Ben Van Camp in 1980. He died in 2005. Florence was a retired sales clerk for Austin’s Variety Store and Dew-Orr Department Store in Gurdon and Arkadelphia. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Gurdon.

Survivors include one brother, Charlie Dodgen of Caddo Valley, Arkansas; one step-son, Jimmy Van Camp of Pineville, Louisiana; one step-daughter, Nellwyn Grilliette of Longview, Texas; and a host of nieces and nephews, who knew her as “Auntie” and loved her dearly. Local survivors include a sister-in-law, Esther Terry; nephews Ralph and Bruce Terry; and great-niece Brenda Wilkinson, all of Coleman.

Services will be held Sunday, November 12, 2006 at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Gurdon, Arkansas with Rev. James Raines officiating. Burial will follow in Decipher Cemetery near Gurdon. Horne Funeral Home of Gurdon is in charge of arrangements.


Mrs. Roseleen Metts, 90
11/13/2006

Roseleen Metts, a lifetime resident of Coleman, was born October 4, 1916 in Fisk, Texas and passed away in the Hendricks Medical Center in Abilene. Roseleen was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Chester and Etta Ballard, and was a housewife and a seamstress. She was married to the late Mr. Harvey Metts in Coleman and he has preceded her in death. She was a member of the Central Baptist Church.

She is survived by: three sons and daughters-in-law - Stanley and Nelda Metts of Macom, Missouri, Woodrow and Bettie Metts of Tuscola, Texas and Harlan and Georgeanne Metts of Azle, Texas; six sisters - Mrs. Melba Wesson of Brownwood, Texas, Alene Cope of Coleman, Aleta Trice of Corpus Christi, Clara Row of Midland, Texas, Jean Goze of Ft. Worth, Texas Joan Stanton of Silsbee, Texas; four brothers, James Ballard of Coleman, Bill Ballard of Big Springs, Chester Ballard of Brownwood Wiley Ballard of Midland; 10 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren.

Family received friends at the funeral home on Saturday evening from 6 to 7 p.m. with services at 2 p.m. on Sunday, November 12, 2006 at the Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bill Ballard and Rev. Bill Schoneman officiating. Interment followed at the Brown Ranch Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.


Francis Elizabeth Mendoza Merkley, 52
11/9/2006

Francis Elizabeth Mendoza Merkley of Coleman died Thursday, November 9, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Frances Elizabeth Mendoza Merkley was born December 3, 1953 in Coleman, Texas, a daughter of Santos Mendoza, Sr. and Estella Nunez Mendoza. She grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School in 1973. She served in the U. S. Navy from 1976-1981. After living in Dallas and Utah for several years, she returned to live in Coleman and was a teller at Santa Anna National Bank. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was a CCD teacher.
 

Survivors include one son, David Joseph Merkley of Coleman; one daughter, Lisha Elizabeth Merkley of Coleman; four sisters, Gabriela Dela Rosa of Coleman, Terry Dulin of Coleman, Rosemary Alldredge of Early, Margaret Mitchell of Coleman; five brothers, Santos Mendoza, Jr. of Coleman, Cornelio Mendoza of Coleman, Edward Mendoza of Bangs, Ricky Mendoza of Coleman, Benny Mendoza of Coleman; numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Johnny Mendoza.

Prayer Service will be held Friday at 7:00 p.m. in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral Mass will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 11 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Santiago Udayar officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.


Raymond W. Dunn
11/8/2006
Raymond W. Dunn, of Midland and former Coleman resident, passed away Tuesday, November 7, 2006. He was born May 22, 1916 to George H. Dunn and Sarah Ann Shamblin Dunn in Shields, Texas. Raymond was raised and educated in Coleman, Texas. On March 9, 1941, he married Ozell Jackson in Coleman. Raymond proudly served his country during World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corp. A Baptist minister, Raymond was pastor at numerous churches. His last two pastorates were Broadway Baptist Church in Sweetwater, Texas from 1960 until 1976, and from 1976 until his retirement in 1981 he was pastor of Hallmark Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Cleo Dunn, Velma Helton, and Doris Tillman.

Raymond is survived by his wife, Ozell Dunn of Midland, TX; daughter, Judy Connell and her husband, Jimmy, of Midland, TX; daughter, Jana Daniel and her husband, Robert, of Plano, TX; brothers, Berlie Dunn of Midland, TX; George Dunn of Grand Prairie, TX; grandson, Jeff Stewart and his wife, Debra, of Midland, TX; granddaughter, Joy Haley and her husband, Jon, of Burleson, TX; granddaughter, Jill Young and her husband, Aaron, of Midland, TX; granddaughter, Jami Todd and her husband, Mike, of San Angelo, TX; eight great-grandchildren, and one niece and numerous nephews.

The family will receive friends at Ellis Funeral Home, Thursday, November 9, 2006 between the hours of 6:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. A visitation will also be held from 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon Saturday, November 11, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 2:00 P.M. Friday, November 10, 2006 at Kelview Heights Baptist Church. Graveside services will be 12:30 P.M. Saturday, November 11, 2006, at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion in Coleman, Texas.

Honorary pallbearers will be Marvin Zahn, Bill Buskirk, Mike Casbeer, Manning Banks, Charlie Lytle, Bill Cannon, Bobby Roman and Lee Catalano. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. To place on-line condolences visit www.mem.com. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Midland, P.O. Box 2621, Midland, Texas 79702.


Carmen Donham, 89
11/7/2006

Carmen Donham of Santa Anna passed away Sunday, November 05, 2006 at 5:25 PM at the Abilene Regional Medical Center.

Services will be at 11:00am Saturday at First Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Hess, Rev. Raymond Jones & Rev. John Stanislaw officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery with Eastern Star services, under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

The family will receive friends Friday from 5-7:00PM at Henderson Funeral Home.

Carmen was born April 12, 1917 in Elk City, Oklahoma to the late George Alva & Olla May Reed. She was raised in Weatherford, Oklahoma where she graduated from high school and continued her education graduating from LVN school. On October 22, 1933 Carmen married A. D. Donham, Jr. in Weatherford, Oklahoma and they celebrated twenty nine years of marriage. A. D. preceded her in death in 1962. Carmen was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Eastern Star where she was Past Worthy Matron, Past Deputy and Ada. Carmen received a life member award for 56 years from the Eastern Star Santa Anna Chapter. She was an LVN retiring in 1980 and a homemaker.

SURVIVORS - 2 Sons - Larry Donham of Andrews and Marty Donham of Santa Anna; Brother – Glen O. Lewis of Plano; 6 Grandchildren; 12 Great Grandchildren. Carmen was preceded in death by her daughter, Janice Cozart, in 1989

PALLBEARERS - Glen Donham, Michael Donham, Stephen Donham, Bo Morgan, Tyler Morgan, Phillip Wristen, Dominick Sparacino, Lance Rasch.
HONORARY PALLBEARERS - Vernon Rowe, Pete Rutherford, Elgean Harris, Freddie Dodson, Harold Fahlender, R. C. Smith.


Anne Cockrell, 68
11/6/2006

Mrs. Anne Cockrell was born in Arkansas September 23, 1938 and passed away in Abilene Regional Hospital November 5, 2006. Anne was married to Jack Cockrell September 18, 2001 and had lived in Coleman since 1979. She was a restaurant manager and member of the Harmony Baptist Church. She is survived by husband, Jack Cockrell of Coleman; daughter and son-in-law Lynn and Dick Thompson of Coleman; two sons - Sam and Sheree Beauchamp of Pueblo, Colorado; step children - Janet Sullins of Odessa, Glen and Doris Hollingsworth, Philip Smith, David and Dorothy Hollingsworth, Ron Hollingsworth, and Becky and Jon Wiginton; several grandchildren. Memorials to the Harmony Baptist Church or Hospice of the Big Country.

Family will receive friends at Walker Funeral Home Tuesday evening 6 to 7pm.

Graveside services will be Wednesday at 2:00pm at the Brown Ranch Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.


J.D. Howard, 83
11/6/2006

MIDLAND - J.D. Howard, 83, died Saturday, Nov. 4, 2006. Graveside service will be at 2:00pm today (Monday, Nov. 6) in Santa Anna Cemetery in Santa Anna. Arrangements are by Ellis Funeral Home.


Zula Mae Armour Ford, 96
11/5/2006
Zula Mae Armour Ford of San Angelo died Friday, November 3rd, in San Angelo. She was born on February 15, 1910, in Coleman County, Texas, to James W. and Alice Lee Armour. On April 19, 1930, she married Wade O. Ford, with whom she lived until his death in 1994. Five children were born to them, including one daughter, Daphene, who died at 15 months of age.

She is survived by two sons, C.J. Ford and his wife, Joyce, and Wade L. Ford and his wife, Betty Sue; two daughters, Charlene Cauley and her husband, Leo, and Betty Butts and her husband, Don, all of San Angelo; one brother, Frank Armour of Coleman; 13 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nephews and nieces. She worshipped at Northside Church of Christ.

Funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 6, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel in San Angelo
. Graveside service will follow in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens directly after funeral service.


Bonnie Jameson, 88
10/29/2006
Bonnie Jameson of Coleman passed away Friday, October 27, 2006 at 3:20 AM at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, Texas.

Services will be Sunday at 2:00 PM with Rev. Bill Roberts officiating. Interment will follow at the White Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

Bonnie was born on January 27, 1918 in Sanger, Texas to the late Wiley and Mollie Vaughan. She was a lifetime resident of Coleman County where she attended Watts Creek Schools. On June 15, 1939 Bonnie married Woodrow Jameson in Coleman and he preceded her in death. During World War II she worked in the ship yard in California. Bonnie was a member of North Coleman Baptist Church and owned and operated City Cleaners in Coleman and Santa Anna retiring in 1985.

SURVIVORS - 3 Daughters - Rebecca Richmond of San Angelo, Texas, Marie Stobaugh of Plano, Texas, Karen Jameson of Plano, Texas; Son – Randall Jameson of Abilene, Texas; 6 Grandchildren; 1 Great Great Grandchild; Bonnie was preceded in death by son Leonard Wiley Jameson in 1982.
 


Sammy Kenney, 59
10/28/2006
Sammy Kenney of Spur died at his residence in Spur, Texas on October 25, 2006.

Funeral service will be held 4:00 p.m. Saturday, October 28, 2006 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rocky Alexander officiating and eulogy given by Danny Menges. Interment will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Sammy Kenney was born August 30, 1947, a son of the late Eugene and Effie Kenney. He grew up in Ira and Snyder where he attended school. He lived in Eastland for several years, moving to Spur in July 2006. He was employed as an oil field truck driver. He was a member of Bible Baptist Church.

Survivors include one daughter, Lee Ann Kenney of Snyder; five sisters, Doris Clinkinbeard of Cisco, Betty Menges of Longview, Patsy Alexander of Eastland, Louise and husband Leo Shields of Santa Anna, Shirley and husband John Taylor of O’Brien; one grandson; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins. He was preceded in death by one brother, Raymond Williams, and one sister, Dorothy Jackson.


Bettie Ruth Blue Henderson, 84
10/28/2006
Bettie Ruth Blue Henderson of Santa Anna passed away Thursday, October 26, 2006 at 4:01 PM at Bangs Nursing Home in Bangs, Texas.

Services will be Monday at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Hess and Rev. Raymond Jones officiating. Interment will follow at Santa Anna Cemetery with Dr. J. W. Sellers officiating under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:00 till 2:30 PM at Henderson Funeral Home.

Bettie Ruth was born June 7, 1922 in Santa Anna, Texas to the late Nathan Hardy and Mae Allen Blue. She was reared in Santa Anna where she graduated from Santa Anna High School and continued her education at Sul Ross and Northwestern University. On March 26, 1943 Bettie Ruth married Oran Clay Henderson in Cherokee, Oklahoma and they celebrated thirty-five years of marriage. Oran preceded her in death in 1978. Bettie Ruth has been a resident of Santa Anna since 1980 previously living in Flat, Texas and Snyder, Texas. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, DAR, Eastern Star and Self Culture Club. She retired in 2000 as a medical secretary with Dr. Chris Stephens and Scott and White Hospital.

Survivors include - Daughter – Orabeth McIver of Santa Anna;  2 granddaughters - Betsy & husband Ray Jones of Santa Anna, Sally McIver of St. Louis, Missouri; 2 Grandsons - Reece & wife Kallie McIver of Brady, Grady Clay & Brandi McIver of Santa Anna; 7 Great Grandchildren - Genia, Jaylie, Mary, Will, Daniel, Chase and Ellie.  She was preceded in death by her brother, John Hardy Blue, in 2004.


Barbara Farley, 66
10/24/2006
Barbara Farley, a lifetime resident of Coleman County and the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Clark, was born November 12, 1939, in White Chapel. She passed away in Abilene Regional Hospital on October 22, 2006.

Barbara was a graduate of Coleman High School and a member of the Coleman Church of Christ. She was an assistant at the Bowen Drug Store. She married Bob Farley in Santa Anna, Texas, December 10, 1957. She is survived by husband Bob Farley of Coleman, two sons, Bret Farley of Coleman, and Scott Farley of Sonora, Texas; two grandchildren, Shyler Farley of Santa Anna, Texas, and Felicia Farley, of Sonora. Three sisters and brothers-in-law: Jean and Sherwood Downey of Coleman; Thelma and Cecil Hoggs, of Midland, Texas; and Dorothy Tunis of Selada, Missouri.
 
Funeral services will be at 10:00am Tuesday, October 24, 2006, at the Walker Funeral Chapel in Coleman with Mr. Donald Williams officiating. Interment will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.


Alma Lee Scranton, 85
10/24/2006
Alma Lee Scranton of Federal Way, Washington passed peacefully on Thursday, October 19, 2006 in Federal Way, Washington.

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 28, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman, Texas. Burial will be in the Rough Creek Cemetery in Novice, Texas, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Family visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

She was born Alma Lee Cooper on May 22, 1921 in Coleman, Texas, the youngest of 12 children of Albert and Ida Cooper. She graduated from Howard Payne College in 1944. In 1950, she moved to Longview to work at First Baptist Church where her brother, J.M. Cooper, was pastor. She served for many years in various capacities in the church and in its Day Care. She met Art Scranton on a blind date after being an "unclaimed blessing" for 37 years, and they married in 1958. Alma Lee was always a sports fan, with a special interest in college football and her beloved Mariners.

Alma Lee is survived by her son, Steve and his wife Debbi; her two grandchildren, Kate and Maddie; brother Mel Cooper and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Art Scranton in 1992.


Lora L. Russell, 95
10/23/2006
Lora L. Russell of Santa Anna passed away Sunday, October 22, 2006 at 12:05 AM at the Holiday Hill Nursing Home in Coleman.

Services will be Wednesday at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Hess officiating. Interment will follow in the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

She was born Lora Lois Early in Collin County, Texas on June 10, 1911 to the late John Andrew and Eula Tackett Early. Lora was reared in Brown and Coleman Counties and attended the Woodland Heights and Buffalo Schools. On May 26, 1931 she married Leonard Eugene Russell in Coleman County and they celebrated forty-two years of marriage. Leonard preceded her in death in 1973. Lora resided in Crane for 46 years working for Crane ISD then moving to Santa Anna in 1983 She was a member of the First Baptist Church and a homemaker.

SURVIVORS - 2 Daughters - Billie Haught of Coleman and Carmaleta and husband Donald Johnson of Irving; Son – John Frank and wife Ronni Russell of Brady; Sister-in-law – Joe Early of De Soto.
10 Grandchildren; 16 Great Grandchildren; 2 Great Great Grandchildren
Lora was preceded in death by a daughter – Lois Havner in 1998 and Son – Bobby Jack Russell in 2000.

Family requests memorials be made to Holiday Hill Nursing Home of favorite charity.
Pallbearers – Deacons of First Baptist Church Santa Anna
.


Sherry Teressa Isom, 58
10/22/2006
Sherry Isom of Abilene died Thursday, October 19, 2006, at a local medical center.

No services will be held due to her body being cremated.

Sherry was born on May 21, 1948 to Mr. and Mrs. Cullen in Coleman, Texas
. She was married to Gordon Isom for twelve years. Sherry was a private family caregiver. Sherry was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents; her husband {March, 2006}; her uncles, and her aunts. She is survived by her mother-in-law, Alberta Isom, of Abilene, Texas. Special thanks to all of the Professional Health Care Providers at Hendrick Medical Center, Dr. Torres, Dr. Heaven, Dr. Hudman, and their staff.

Memorials may be sent to the donor’s favorite charity.


Nelma Crump, 79
10/20/2006
Nelma Crump of Coleman died Thursday, October 19, 2006 at Clyde Nursing Home in Clyde.

Graveside services will be 4:00 p.m. Sunday, October 22, 2006 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Reverend Bill Schoneman officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.


Mrs. Crump was born February 22, 1927, the daughter of Luther O’Shields and Mary Bessie Dawson O’Shields. She grew up and attended school at Lawn. On January 27, 1951, she married J.L. Crump in Coleman. She worked as nurse’s aide at Holiday Hill Nursing Home for 17 years and was a member of Central Baptist Church.

Survivors include her husband, J.L. Crump of Clyde; one daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Dwayne Justice of Abilene; one son and daughter-in-law, Tommy and Debora of Clyde; one sister, Neoma Collins of Clyde; one brother, Vaughn O’Shields and wife, Ruth, of Lawn; five grandchildren, Lauren Sherrod of Abilene, Jared Justice of Abilene, Nathan Justice of Abilene, Corey Turnell and wife, Susan, of Clyde, Tyler Crump of San Angelo; two great-grandchildren, Aiden McCann of Clyde, Julie Sherrod of Abilene and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by five brothers and sisters.

Family visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
 


Lela Bynum, 92
10/23/2006
Lela Bynum of Santa Anna died Thursday, October 19, 2006 at the Bangs Nursing Home in Bangs.

Graveside services were at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 22, 2006 at the Coleman City Cemetery with Sam Wilson officiating, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Bynum was born on April 11, 1914 in Colt, Arkansas, the daughter of John Austin Moore and Mattie E. Ford Moore. She grew up in Arkansas and moved to California in 1942, where she worked in a factory, making water and gas meters. She moved back to Arkansas in 1999 and to Santa Anna in 2000. She married Charles Bynum in June, 2001 in Coleman and was a member of the Full Gospel Church.

Survivors include her husband, Charles Bynum of Santa Anna; one son and daughter-in-law, Charles and Sharon Isbell of Bangs; one brother, Bud Moore of Turlock, California; two sisters, Doris Turley of Mt. Ida, Arkansas, Kathleen Faulk of Springfield, Missouri; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two sisters and five brothers.


Mrs. Esther Slate, 93
10/19/2006
Esther Slate, the daughter of the late Rev. Brady and Dessie Slate, born May 31, 1913 in Gouldbusk, Texas, passed away in Holiday Hill Nursing Home Wednesday, October 18, 2006. Esther was a graduate of Gouldbusk High School and of Southwest Teachers College, receiving a B.S. degree from Howard Payne and a Masters Degree from North Texas State College. She taught at Hardin, Gouldbusk and Mozelle schools. In 1948 she moved to White Settlement and was in the school systems there for 30 years, retiring as a school system supervisor. She was a member of the Congregational Methodist Church of Gouldbusk, Texas.

Esther is survived by three brothers: Brady Slate, Jr., of Dallas, Texas; Johnny Slate, of Texas City, and Archie Slate, of Coleman.

The family will receive friends at Walker Funeral Home Friday evening from 6:00pm to 8:00 pm.

Funeral services at 2:00pm Saturday, October 21, 2006, in Walker Funeral Chapel with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating. Burial will follow in the Gouldbusk Cemetery.


Joseph Scott Knight, 79
10/18/2006
SANTA ANNA, TEXAS -- Joseph Scott Knight, a retired carpenter, passed away Thursday, October 12, 2006, at his daughter’s home in Arlington.

A private funeral service will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Coleman County Medical Hospital or Pottsboro Church of Christ.

Joseph Scott Knight was born February 12, 1927, in Terrell, Texas. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean War. Joseph retired from Civil Service as foreman of the carpentry shop at Webb Air Force Base. He was a member of Santa Anna Presbyterian Church and Big Spring Presbyterian Church where he was also an elder. Joseph was also a member of the Masonic Lodge in Santo. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Ollie and W.B. Knight, and brother, Barton Knight.

Survivors: Wife, Marilyn Scott; sons, Scott Knight and wife, Hilde, and Gregg Knight and wife, Karen; daughters, Joan Ridgeway and husband, Fred Fielder, and Ruth Knight; grandchildren, Jennifer Fielder, Matt and Mark Ridgeway, Lisa Pina, and Megan and Landon Knight; niece, Pamela Jordan and husband, J.D.; and, cousins, Robbie Ellis, James Ellis, Ida Sue Stephenson, Betty Ruth York and Mary Jo Maddox.


Mrs. Joe (Aletta) Hammonds, 88
10/17/2006
Mrs. Joe (Aletta) Hammonds of Brownwood, Texas passed away Monday October 16, 2006 at Songbird Lodge in Brownwood.
 
Graveside Services will be 2:30 P.M. Thursday at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion
with Rev. Ken Cunningham officiating. Interment will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

Family Visitation will be Wednesday from 7:00 -8:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

She was born Aletta Mae Eddy in Aldon, Oklahoma on July 6, 1918 to the late Hiram and Sarah Marks Eddy. Aletta was raised in Oklahoma where she attened the Apache, Oklahoma schools. On June 15, 1948 Aletta married Joe T. Hammonds in Coleman and they celebrated forty-six years of marriage. Joe preceded her in death in 1994. She has been a resident of Brownwood since 1966 moving there from Coleman and a member of the First Baptist Church of Santa Anna. Aletta was a housewife.

Survivors include: 4 Daughters - Pat & Husband Del Stacy of Mansfield, Texas, Betty Jo & Husband Sonny Doden of Dallas, Texas, Betty Lee & Husband Price Buchanan of Meridanville, Alabama, Brenda & Husband Brad Wilkinson of Coleman, Texas; 1 Son - Lloyd Hammonds of Brownwood, Texas; 15 Grandchildren; 11 Great Grandchildren; Several Nieces and Nephews. Aletta was preceded in death by a son Glen Hammonds in 1986.


L. B. Shifflett, 60
10/16/2006
L.B. Shifflett, 60, of Novice died Monday, October 16, 2006 at his residence. Mr. Shifflett was born August 4, 1946 in Garza County, the son of Lawrence Bruce Shifflett and Oleta Mae Blassinghame Shifflett. He grew up in Loving County and married Rita Tidwell on January 21, 1966 in Mentone. He worked for Michael Shelby Oil as a production foreman and moved to Novice in April, 1987. He was a member of the Novice Volunteer Fire Department and Talpa Cowboy Church.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Shifflett of Novice; two sons, Scott Shifflett and Greg Shifflett, both of Novice; one daughter Kelly Posey and husband Danny of Lingleville; two brothers, Joe Shifflett of Abilene, Wally Shifflett of Texas City; one sister, Mary Franklin of Kermit; one grandson, Parker Posey of Lingleville and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Iva Lee Murphy and Birdie Lee.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, October 19, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Atoka Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Memorials may be sent to the Novice Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary or the Class of 1966 Scholarship Fund, c/o Southwest Bank, Attn: Barbara Dudley, Wink, Texas.


Shelly Green, 28
10/16/2006
Comanche -
Shelly Renee Green was born on October 27, 1977 in Eastland, Texas to Coy Green and Joy Maston Reid. She was a certified nurses aide and was employed at Forrest Ridge Care Center in Hamilton, Texas. She passed away on Friday, October 13, 2006 on Highway 281, six miles north of Hamilton.

Survivors include: two sons - Dylan Wade Penn and Ethan Kyler Penn of Crane, Texas; father - Coy Green of Dublin, Texas; mother and step-father - Joy and Wallace Reid of Proctor, Texas; sister and brother-in-law - Tressie and Chris White of Decatur, Texas; brother and sister-in-law - Jess and Kim Green of Tolar, Texas; grandparents - Margie and Paul Green of Cisco, Texas and Wynell Maston of Eastland; four nephews - Kelby, Calvin, Kaleb and Colton White of Decatur, Texas; one niece - Prestyn Ann Green of Tolar; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Services were at 2:00pm (Monday) October 16 in Comanche Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Sardis Cemetery in Comanche County.


George A. Smith, 80
10/11/2006
George A. Smith of Coleman died October 7th in Cameron, Texas. Born May 16, 1926 in Coleman, he was a graduate of Coleman High School, the son of the late George and Grace Netherton Smith. He was a World War II veteran and retired road construction worker. He was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survived by: One sister - Marguerite Taylor of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Funeral Services were at 2:00pm Wednesday, October 11, at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Louise Strength officiating under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.


Dale Kell, 66
10/9/2006
BAIRD - Dale Robert Kell of Baird died Saturday, October 07, 2006 at a local hospital.

Visitation will be on Monday, October 9, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday in the funeral home chapel, with Leroy Mason officiating.

 Dale is survived by his wife, Kathryn Kell of Baird; two daughters, Brenda Mills (David) of Abilene, Penny Schumann (Rodney) of Novice, Texas; one brother, Roger Kell (Pat) of Wickenburg, Arizona; two sisters-in-law, Angene Trunnell and her family, Marilyn Benfield (Raymond) and their family; four grandchildren, Erin and Tara Notgrass of Abilene, Peyton and Morgan Schumann of Novice, and two nieces, Roberta Gaines and Rebecca Kell.

Memorials may be made in honor of Mr. Kell to the Shriners Burn Hospital, 815 Market Street, Galveston, Texas 77550; the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 1132, Fairfax, Virginia 22038; or to the donor's favorite charity.


Dr. Lee Hemphill, 98
10/8/2006
Dr. Lee Hemphill, a longtime educator and Vice-President Emeritus of Hardin-Simmons University, died on Saturday, October 7, 2006, at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene, Texas.

The son of Charles Wade Hemphill, Sr. and Wagie Ellen Carter Hemphill, he was born on November 2, 1907, in Coleman, Texas, where his father was president of First Coleman National Bank. Lee graduated valedictorian from Coleman High School in 1925, and from Hardin-Simmons University, magna cum laude, in 1929. He received a Master of Divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1936, Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Howard Payne University in 1952, and Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Hardin-Simmons University in 1958. In 1935, he was ordained a Baptist minister, and served as pastor at Novice, Texas, Silver Valley, Texas, and Plainview Baptist Church in Colorado City. His first full-time pastorate was First Baptist Church, Dayton, Texas, where he served from August 1936 to January 1943. He served as pastor at First Baptist Church, Littlefield, Texas, from February 1943 to May 1959, leading the church to build a parsonage, a new sanctuary and an educational building. The chapel was named the Lee and Lunelle Hemphill Chapel in their honor
.
Dr. Hemphill came to Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene in 1959, serving as Vice-President for Development until 1975, and as Vice-President Emeritus until his death. In April 1993, Dr. Hemphill was named the Former Staff-Administration Member of the Year by the Former Faculty, Staff, Administration Fellowship at HSU, and in 1998, was named recipient of the Outstanding Philanthropy Award by the Texas Association of Development Officers. He received the Keeter Award for outstanding service to Hardin-Simmons University in 1967. He was a former member of the Abilene Rotary Club and was active in Habitat for Humanity of Abilene. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Abilene, and taught the Victory Bible Class for a number of years. Dr. Hemphill was preceded in death on March 22, 1987 by his first wife, Lunelle Nix Hemphill, whom he married on August 26, 1935, in Lamesa, Texas. He married Koreen J. Logsdon on February 18, 1989, in Abilene. Koreen Logsdon-Hemphill preceded Lee in death on January 26, 2002. Three brothers, three sisters and his son-in-law, Milford Prichard, also preceded him in death.

Survivors include one son, Hilton Hemphill and his wife, Carolyn, of Dallas; one daughter, Rosa Lee Prichard of Abilene; and one sister, Ruth Wittenburg of San Angelo. Dr. Hemphill is also survived by six grandchildren, Lou Ann Draper and husband, Paul, of Abilene, Marlon Prichard and wife, Sherry, of Seminole, Harlton Hemphill and wife, Wendy, of San Antonio, Dr. Hayden Hemphill and wife, Misha’l, of Texarkana, TX, Carter Hemphill of Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Clayton Hemphill and wife, Theresa, of Raleigh, NC; ten great-grandchildren, Corban and Walker Hemphill of San Antonio, Aubrey, Caleb, Rachel and Mollie Hemphill of Texarkana, TX, Daniel Draper of Abilene, Grace Prichard of Seminole, and Avery and Parker Hemphill of North Carolina; and cousins, nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday at First Baptist Church, Abilene
, with Dr. Jesse Fletcher and Dr. Craig Turner officiating. Interment will be in Elmwood Memorial Park directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Hardin-Simmons University, P.O. Box 16100, Abilene, TX 79698.


Ruth Viola Maedgen
10/6/2006
Ruth Viola Maedgen was born December 12, 1921 and passed away on October 5, 2006, in Dallas at the age of 84. She was preceded in death by her parents and beloved husband, Howard Maedgen.

Ruth is survived by three daughters; Jean Spears of Arp, Mary Newman of Terrell, and Sue Spears of Balch Springs; and one son, James Maedgen of San Angelo. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

The family invites friends to join them for a catered lunch Saturday from 12:00-1:30 at the Valera Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

A graveside service will follow at 2:00pm Saturday at the Valera Cemetery Pavilion with Loyd Hopper officiating. Burial will follow under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Valera Cemetery Association or the donor's favorite charity.


James A. Steffey, 84
10/6/2006
Mr. James A Steffey of Coleman passed away October 5, 2006 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home.

Son of the late Arthur and Annie Kelley Steffey, he was born May 8, 1922 in Coleman. On May 21, 1968 he married Quilla Mae Swinford. A self-employed appliance repairman, he also worked in the oilfield and for a chemical plant before retiring in 1975. A resident of Coleman Co. most of his life, James was a member of the North Coleman Baptist Church and a veteran of WW II. He was a very active member of the VFW.

Survivors include his wife Quilla Mae Steffey of Coleman; one son, Eddie and wife Mary Jane Steffey of Lake Coleman; three step-daughters, Doris and husband Jack Bradley of Pflugerfille, Deloria and Husband J. R. Hughes of Cross Plains, and Lenora and husband Glen Long of Early; three sisters, Wilma and husband Junior White of Coleman, Ruby Sumerour of Canyon, and Thelma and husband Robert Barkemeyer of Coleman; three brothers Jerry and wife Wanda Steffey, Richard and Wife Mary Steffey all of Coleman, and Arnold and wife Laura Lee of Golinda. Also surviving are 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by two brothers; Doyle and Arthur Steffey, and two sisters, Fannie Mae Calhoon and Hazel Snow.

Funeral services will be Sunday at 2:00 pm at the Walker Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Bill Roberts officiating. Burial will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery with military honors under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

The family will receive friends on Saturday from 6:00pm - 7:00pm at the funeral home.


ANITA PONS, 62
10/2/2006
Anita Pons of Coleman, died Sunday, October 1, 2006 at her residence. A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, October 7, 2006 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Brian Powers officiating.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. 

She was born on June 10, 1944 in Seattle, Washington and was raised in Washington state.  On December 18, 1971 she married Alexandre C. Pons in Honolulu, Hawaii.  She lived in Hawaii and Oregon and moved to Coleman in 1978.  She was a homemaker and a member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses. 

Survivors include her husband, Alexandre C. Pons of Coleman; one brother, Dennis Hitch of Rogue River, Oregon; an aunt, Frances Neese of Oregon; three cousins, Brad Schafer of Coleman, Calista Cettel and Sheli Cox both of Oregon. 

Memorials may be made to Jehovah’s Witnesses, 123 Santa Anna Avenue, Coleman, Texas 76834.


Ida Grace Casey, 95
10/1/2006
Ida Grace Casey of Coleman, died Sunday, October 1, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 3 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Jeffrey Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Family visitation will be held on Monday from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Ida Grace Stevens on March 1, 1911 in Coleman, Texas, a daughter of Orval Lee Stevens and Mary Elizabeth Murphy Stevens. She grew up in Coleman and attended school at Indian Creek. On January 2, 1932 she married Richard A. Casey in Stanton, Texas and he preceded her in death on August 17, 1997. Mrs. Casey worked during World War II as a butcher at M System and Piggly Wiggly and later worked at Coulson's Drug Store and Hargett's Man's Shop. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the Nichols Bible Class.

Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Marie and Neil Hudson of Coleman; one son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Robena Casey of Seminole; one brother and sister-in-law, Clifford and Marie Stevens of Coleman; three nephews, Vernon Glaze of Abilene, Alan Stevens and wife Nancy of Flower Mound, Robert Stevens and wife Leslie of College Station; two nieces, Lynn Cooper and husband Jeff of Corinth, Rita Ann Berry and husband Dale of Goldthwaite; five grandchildren, Linda Thaxton and husband George of Stamford, Daniel Hudson and wife Shelby of Dallas, David Hudson of Bedford, Tracy Lee Casey and wife Jami of Brownfield, Richard H. Casey of Seminole; five great-grandchildren; great-nephews and great-nieces. 

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 852, Coleman, Texas 76834 or Holiday Hill Nursing Home, 245 Highway 153, Coleman, Texas 76834.


LOUIS JONES, 56
9/30/2006
PLANO - Louis Jones of Plano, Texas passed away Friday, September 29, 2006 at Medical Center Plano.

Services will be Monday at 11:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints in Plano with Bishop Brian Rast officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

He was born Louis John Jones on June 24, 1950 in Plainview, Texas where he was raised and attended the Plainview schools. Louis had been a resident of Coleman and Lewisville and resided in Plano since 1995. On September 5, 1995 he married Barbara Dyer in Ft Cobb, Oklahoma and they have celebrated 11 years of marriage. Louis was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ Ladder Day Saints and was a professional truck driver.

SURVIVORS: Wife – Barbara Jones of Plano, Texas; 4 Daughters - Della & husband J. D. Delgadillo of Novice, Texas, Christie Zunica of Lewisville, Texas, Carla & husband David Shane of Mustang, Oklahoma, Tracy & husband James Martin of Sachse, Texas; 2 Sons - Jody & wife Alisha Byerly of The Colony, Texas, Brian Klein of McCloud, Oklahoma; Father & Mother – Billy Ray and Artie Bramblett, Sr. of Lewisville, TX; Sisters – Debbie Presley & Kayla Peno; Brothers – Billy Ray Bramblett, M J Presley, Paul Presley, Rusty Bramblett, Kenneth Bramblett; 15 Grandchildren; 1 Great Great Grandson; Several Nieces and Nephews.


BLANE GREGORY HULL, Infant
9/30/2006
Blane Gregory Hull, infant son of Bobby Hull II and Darla Traylor Hull, died September 29, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center.

Graveside funeral service will be held 2:30 p.m. Monday, October 2, at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Sam Wilson officiating. Interment will be in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Blane Gregory Hull was born September 29, 2006 in Coleman. Survivors include his parents, Bobby and Darla Hull of Coleman; grandparents, Dalton and Cyndi Traylor of Coleman, Bobby and Tammy Hull of Santa Anna; great-grandparents, Garnalee and James Marshall of Santa Anna, Rick and Jeanette Conklin of Menard, Tommy Sutton of Menard, Ruby Hull of Coleman, Mary Sawdon of Santa Anna; one aunt, Vanessa Hull of Oklahoma.


Fannie Mae Calhoon, 88
9/29/2006
Fannie Mae Calhoon of Coleman passed away September 28, 2006 at Abilene Regional Hospital. Daughter of the late Arthur Leonard and Annie Kelley Steffey, she was born August 28, 1918 in Collin Co., TX. On April 26, 1947 she married Mural Calhoon in Santa Anna. He preceded her in death February 21, 2006. Fannie Mae was a retired housewife and a member of the North Coleman Baptist Church. She is survived by one daughter, Nancy and her husband Urban Delima of Leander; one son, Robert and his wife Judy of Clyde; three sisters, Wilma White of Coleman, Ruby Sumerour of Canyon Lake, and Thelma Barkemeyer of Coleman; and four brothers, James, Jerry and Richard Steffey all of Coleman, and Arnold Steffey of Golinda. Also surviving are 3 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Fannie Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Mural; two brothers, Doyle and Arthur Steffey; and one sister, Hazel Snow.

Funeral services will be Sunday October 1, 2006 at 2 pm at the North Coleman Baptist Church with the Rev. Bill Roberts officiating. Committal services will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 6-7 pm at Walker Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials are made to the North Coleman Baptist Church.


David L. Mercer, 88
9/28/2006
David L. Mercer of Coleman, Texas passed away Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 12:35AM at Coleman County Medical Center in Coleman.

Services will be Saturday at 10:30 AM at Henderson Funeral Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw and Rev. Jeff Dean officiating. Interment will follow at Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman. The family will receive friends from 5:00 till 6:00 PM Friday at Henderson Funeral Home.

David was born on January 26, 1918 in Talpa, Texas to the late Hayden Anderson and Bonnie Beatrice Huey Mercer. He was raised in Talpa graduating from Talpa High School in 1935. David was a veteran of World War II serving with the Army 8th Air Corp, 116th bomb wing. On June 5, 1954 David married Billie Maurine Stepp in Coleman and they have celebrated fifty-two years of marriage. David was an active member of the First Baptist Church and Coleman City Councilman serving for 16 years. He was an auto parts clerk with Clarks Auto Parks retiring in 1994.
Survivors: Wife – Billie Mercer of Coleman, Texas, 3 Nephews – Tim and wife Lenora Mercer of Vancourt, Texas; Mac and Marion Mercer of Port St Lucie, Florida; Ray and wife Belliene Mercer of College Station, Texas; Niece – Dixie Mercer of Nacogdoches; Several Great and Great Great Nieces and Nephews. David was preceded in death by three Brothers - Elton, Herman & Dixie Mercer.


Mary Lou Chambers, 87
9/27/2006
BROWNWOOD -- Mary Lou Chambers of Brownwood, passed away peacefully in her home with her loved ones present on September 25, 2006. Private Graveside services will be held in Cross Cut, Texas.
Mrs. Chambers was born on January 30, 1919 to George and Rena Dibrell in Coleman. She married Clifton Harold Chambers on November 20, 1938 in Cross Plains, Texas. Nana was a loving wife, devoted mother, dedicated grandmother, and an enthusiastic great grandmother; but, she was so much more. Nana loved taking care of other people's needs above her own. She volunteered for many years as a "Pink Lady" in Monahans, Texas. She had a passion for all animals and no stray ever went unfed at Nana's house. Nana was the greatest listener and always had a way of making you feel you were the only one that mattered. Nana was preceded in death by: her parents, George and Rena; her husband, Clifton; her sister, Dorothy Stringer; and her brother, Frank Dibrell. Survivors include: her daughter, Jeana Moss and husband Reagan of Brownwood; her son, Ronnie Chambers and wife Betty of Abilene; her five grandchildren, Kevin Moss, Sam Moss, Cassie McQuitty, Chad Chambers, and Case Chambers; and her threee great grandchildren, Luke Moss, Matthew Moss, and Lance Moss.


Joe Riley Caldwell, 34
9/24/2006
Joe Riley Caldwell died Wednesday, September 20, 2006 in Anchorage, Alaska. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 24 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Elwood Caldwell officiating and assisted by Rev. John Stanislaw. Burial will follow in the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Joe Riley Caldwell was born August 3, 1972 in Abilene, Texas, a son of Jim and Linda Riley Caldwell. He grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School in 1990. He attended Alvin Community College. On May 21, 1994 he married Wynndi Watson in Angleton. He lived in Angleton until 2000, moved to Coleman for one year, and to Alaska in 2002. He was an electrician. Survivors include his wife, Wynndi Caldwell of Anchorage, Alaska; one son, Trevor Joe Caldwell of Anchorage, Alaska; his parents, Jim and Linda Caldwell of Coleman; one sister and brother-in-law, Cathy and Zac Allen of Coleman; one brother and sister-in-law, Jim B. and Kelli Caldwell of Arlington; four nephews and five nieces; aunts and uncles, Joe and Susie Riley of Brownwood, Elwood and Darlene Caldwell of West Columbia; mother-in-law, Sherry Watson of Anchorage, Alaska; sisters-in-law, Mitzi Watson of Brownwood, Tracy Rainer of Eagle River, Alaska. Family visitation was held on Saturday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


MARIAN LUELLA BYNUM KENNEDY,84
9/19/2006
Marian Luella Bynum Kennedy, born in Brownwood Texas on July 6 1922, and living in Coleman passed away on Monday September 18 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home. Marian was the 2nd oldest of nine children. Upon graduation from Brownwood High School at the age of 15, she entered Daniel Baker College. She later graduated with honors from Howard Payne University with a Degree in Education. In 1941 she married Leman Kennedy and began her first career as a farmer/rancher and later a mother. There was nothing she could not do. She told her children they could do anything if they wanted to do it. Many times, she repaired the plumbing, plowed the fields, sewed her children's clothes, made quilts, knitted sweaters and crocheted blankets. Marian taught herself , Leman and friends to play bridge, a game she played until she was no longer physically able. Forty-two was another venture she and Leman enjoyed with various relatives and friends. She enjoyed water skiing and snow skiing, which she took up at the age of 61. She was active in civic activities and organizations and donated her time and money to numerous causes in America. She began a second career teaching school after her children were grown, having taught in Coleman, Talpa and Mozelle schools. Her parents, Thomas Bynum Sr. and Doris Ridley Bynum , preceded her in death as well as her husband Leman who died in 1995 after 54 years of marriage. She was also preceded in death by 4 brothers, Thomas Jr., Thaddeus , Theodore and George and by two sisters, Theresa Bynum Green and Jean Bynum Schickram. Surviving are 4 children, Nancy Kennedy McDuffie and spouse Richard of Lexington , KY, Melton Kennedy and spouse Anna of Coleman, Carolyn Kennedy Yeatman, and Pamela Kennedy Freitag and spouse Jay of San Angelo; one sister, Joyce Bynum Sunnywale, CA; one brother, Richard Bynum of San Francisco, CA. She is also survived by 10 grand children, 16 great grandchildren, 1 brother-in-law, 1 sister-in-law several nieces and nephews and so many wonderful friends. Funeral services will be held at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman on Thursday, September 21st at 3:00 pm with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating with burial in the Trickham Cemetary. The family suggests that memorials be made to Hospice of the Big Country, West Texas Rehabilitation Center, the Coleman Public Library or the charity of your choice. The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Marian’s dear friend Val Garza and his wife Betty for their support and comfort to her for so many years. Family visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 20 at Stevens Funeral Home from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.


PHILLIP EARL BATES, 59
9/19/2006
MOODY - Phillip Earl Bates of Moody, Texas passed away Saturday, September 16, 2006 in Waco, Texas. Services will be Wednesday at 10:00 AM at the Oak Crest Funeral Home in Waco with Rev. Billy Pedigo officiating. Graveside services will be Wednesday at 3:30 PM at the Santa Anna Cemetery with local arrangements by Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. Phillip was born on May 23, 1947 in Santa Anna to the late Fred and Ester Maroney Bates. On August 24, 1991 he married Karen Kay Stone in Crawford, Texas and they celebrated fifteen years of marriage. Phillip was a Christian and attended Baylor University. He was an Army veteran and worked for Allen Samuels for 40 years. Survivors include: Wife – Karen Bates of Moody, Texas; Son – Matthew Storrs of Austin, Texas; Sister – Carolyn and husband John Pricer of Crawford, Texas; 3 Brothers – Alton and wife Rosa Lou Bates of Andrews, Texas; Johnny and wife Wanda Bates of Abilene, Texas; Ronald and wife Betty Bates of Mart, Texas; 5 Grandchildren; Several Nieces and Nephews. Family request memorials be made to Providence Hospice, 4830 Lakewood Dr, Waco, TX 76710.


LARRY FINDLEY, 51
9/19/2006
Larry Findley of Coleman died Sunday, September 17, 2006. Memorial services are 2:00pm Tuesday, September 19, at the Walker Funeral Home Chapel, 401 Commercial Ave, Coleman.


GLENDA "DIANNE" SINDT, 59
9/19/2006
BROWNWOOD - Glenda ''Dianne'' Sindt died Friday, Sept. 15, 2006, in Lewisville. Service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 19, in Davis-Morris Funeral Home chapel with burial in Santa Anna Cemetery. Survivors include daughters Paula Michele Sindt of Dallas and D'Lise Sindt of Lewisville; brother Gordon Copeland of Alaska; and sister Paula Blanton of Santa Anna.


JOHN J. MILLER, 84
9/17/2006
John J. Miller of Early, died Friday, September 15, 2006 at the Veteran’s Hospital in Temple. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Miller was born December 19, 1921 in San Saba County, the son of Lawson Prezzy Miller and Ethor Smith Miller. He served in the United States Army for three and a half years and married Dorothy Phillips on April 19, 1947. She preceded him in death on in August, 1992. He was a mechanic. Survivors include one daughter, Shirley West of Brownwood; one sister, Mary Weekly of Coyote; five grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two brothers, one sister, one son, John J. Miller, Jr., one daughter, Jeanine Crouch and one grandson, John Thurman. Memorials may be made to the American Caner Society.
Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, September 18, 2006 at the funeral home.


A. J. BOWEN, 93
9/17/2006
A. J. Bowen of Novice died Saturday, September 16, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, September 18, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Larry Adams officiating, with James Priddy assisting. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Bowen was born June 28, 1913 in Oklahoma on the Turkey Track Ranch, the son of Seth G. Bowen and Ethel Smith Bowen. He grew up in Brownwood, May and Gouldbusk and served in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. He married Carlon Lee Gunn on April 4, 1940 in Abilene. She preceded him in death in 1989. He was a rancher and worked in the oil field business and was co-owner of G & L Tool Company in Abilene. He was a member of the Oddfellows Lodge and the Novice Baptist Church. Mr. Bowen is survived by one daughter, Connie Stevens of Abilene; one son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Lori Bowen of Novice; three grandchildren, Stefanie Harden and husband James, of Wichita Falls, Michelle Stevens of Winters, Shane Bowen and wife Carrie of Lawn; four great-grandchildren, Courtney Harden, Chase Harden, Tyler Stevens, Parker Bowen and one son-in-law, Jerry Stevens of Lawn. He was preceded in death by two sisters. Family visitation will be Sunday, September 17, 2006 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.


FRANCES ARLENE BUCKNER, 84
9/16/2006
WEATHERFORD -- Frances Arlene Buckner 84, of Weatherford passed away on Thursday, September 14, 2006 at a local nursing home. Frances was born November 18, 1922 in Coleman, Texas where she lived until moving to Weatherford. She was a Civil Service worker, Bank Secretary, and a member of the Oak Ridge Baptist Church. Survived by a brother; L.M. Bedell and wife Faye of Weatherford, two nephews, Glen Bedell of Willow Park, and Larry Bedell of Zephyr Hills, FL.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, September 18, 2006 at Oak Ridge Baptist Church. Burial will be at Coleman Cemetery in Coleman, Texas. There will be a visitation at Galbreaith Pickard Funeral Chapel in Weatherford on Sunday, September 17, 2006 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.


DORA C. VANPELT, 81
9/15/2006
Dora C. VanPelt of Coleman died Thursday, September 14, 2006 at her residence. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 16, 2006 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church
. with Father Santiago Udayar officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was born Dora Cardinas on October 1, 1924 in Del Rio, Texas, the daughter of H.L. and Simona Hernandez Cardinas. She grew up in the Burkett area and married C. R. VanPelt on February 15, 1951 in Coleman County. He preceded her in death on May 28, 1983. Mrs. VanPelt was a homemaker and a member of Sacred Heart Carholic Church. She is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Frank and Kim VanPelt of Shields, Wayne and Kimberly Vanpelt of Coleman, Eddie and Paula VanPelt of Novice; three daughters and sons-in-law, Mary and Raymond Harmon of Coleman, Peggy and Mathew Goodman of Mesquite, Johnnie Dillard of Coleman; one sister-in-law, Billie Cardinas of Coleman; 22 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers, John Cardinas and Victor Cardinas; two sisters, Lili Torres and Mary Vasquez and one great-granddaughter, Jordan Micayla Barnett. A Rosary will be at 7:00 p.m. Friday, with family visitation following until 9:00 p.m at the funeral home.


ROY A. AUTRY, JR., 85
9/14/2006
Roy A. Autry, Jr. of Coleman died Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at his residence. Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 15, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Autry was born April 16, 1921 in Blanket, the son of Roy A. Autry Sr. and Cecil Parker Autry. He grew up in Cross Plains and Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School. He served in the United States Army, in the 552nd Battalion and received five Battle Stars. He married Martha Jean Harwell on April 14, 1946 in Coleman. He was the co-publisher of the Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice with his brother, Milton Autry, for 34 years, was a board member of the Coleman Country Club and a member of the First Baptist Church. Mr. Autry is survived by his wife, Martha Autry of Coleman; two daughters and son-in-law, Alana and Stan Brudney of Coleman, Tracy Autry of Coleman; one son and daughter-in-law, Brett and Barbara Autry of Coleman; one sister, Othrene Steffens of Brady; four grandchildren, Brice Brudney and Beau Brudney both of Coleman; Leah Autry of Ft. Worth, Evan Autry of Austin; four great-grandchildren, Shi Brudney of Coleman, Brianna Brudney of Abilene, Madison Brudney and Blake Brudney both of Coleman and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Milton Autry and his parents. Pallbearers will be Brice Brudney, Beau Brudney, Evan Autry and Michael Autry. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Tyson, Dr. Larry Thompson, Bill Stephenson, Lang Martin, Jr., and Kevin McMahon. Memorials may be made to the United Christian and Presbyterian Church, 1609 South Commercial, Coleman, Texas 76834; Coleman County Youth Activity Center, c/o P. O. Box 796, Coleman, Texas 76834 or the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, 200 East College Avenue, Coleman, Texas 76834.


MARY N. YORK, 80
9/15/2006
SAN ANGELO - Mary N. York, 80, died Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2006, in a local nursing home. Graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are by Robert Massie Funeral Home.
Survivors include her daughter, Ann Nichols of Coleman.


JANE WILLIAMS HAYS, 73
9/14/2006
Mrs. Jane Williams Hays of Coahoma died Tuesday afternoon in a Midland hospital. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday in the Iatan Cemetery with Rev. James Edwards officiating under the direction of Kiker-Seale Funeral Home. Mrs. Hays was born to Charlie and Frankie Prater Williams on January 4, 1933 in Coleman County. She married Dois Hays on June 3, 1951 in Carlsbad, New Mexico. She was a Methodist. She is survived by: her husband of 55 years, Dois Hays of Colorado City; one daughter, Juanita Kelly of Seattle, Washington: one son, William and wife Margie Hays of Odessa; daughter in law, Sylvia Webb of Eastland. Sister, Betty Ake of Comanche, Brother John Sparks of Kingman, Arizona, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.


MARGARET SAUNDERS, 78
9/11/2006
Margaret Saunders of Coleman died Monday, September 11, 2006 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday at First United Methodist Church with Dr. Jeffrey Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the White Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was born Margaret Weatherred on October 6, 1927 in Coleman, Texas, a daughter of John Sumter Weatherred and Louise Dibrell Weatherred. She grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School. On October 8, 1945 she married Donald Saunders in Coleman and he preceded her in death on December 17, 1997. Margaret was a life-long resident of Coleman, a bookkeeper and a member of the First United Methodist Church. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Tommy and Kathy Saunders of Coleman; two sisters, Mary Louise McMahon and husband Joe of McKinney, Helen Cross of Coleman; one brother, Sumter and wife LaVerne Weatherred of Coleman; numerous nieces and nephews; a close friend, Lera Guthrie of Santa Anna. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 852, Coleman, Texas 76834 or White Chapel Cemetery Association, c/o Karen Mitchell, 114 N. Blanco, Coleman, Texas 76834. Family visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


SALOME BEAUMONT STEVENS McHORSE, 96
9/11/2006
Salome Beaumont Stevens McHorse, faithful servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, departed this life on Sunday, September 10, 2006, at her family home in Coleman at the age of 96. She was a granddaughter of early county pioneers J.E. and Ann Campbell Stevens who came to Coleman in 1889 to establish a mercantile, lumber and funeral business. The Campbell family was among the first American settlers in Texas territory, arriving in the late 1820's.

She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Coleman where the funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 14 at 10:30 am with Dr. Jeff Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be her four grandsons, her two granddaughters, Joe Johnson and Scott Gardner.
Salome was born at her home on June 6, 1910, the fifth child of the six children of William James and Sarah Lenora Stevens. All of her siblings have preceded her in death: Joe Stevens, Mary Alice Stringer, Frances Dibrell, Sarah Lu Gardner and James Stevens. She loved to play the piano, sew and ride horses. While in college, she participated in the women's barrel race, an event just becoming part of the Coleman rodeo. At the age of 16, she graduated from Coleman High School, and in 1931 graduated from Texas Women's University in Denton with a degree in library science. For several years she taught school at Echo.

On June 8, 1934, Salome married Curtis Ray McHorse at 8 AM in the living room of her family home. The couple moved to Dallas where Curtis worked for the Atlantic Richfield Oil Company. In 1949, they moved to Jackson, Mississippi, with the company. After several years there, Mr. McHorse became an independent land broker where they continued to live and rear their children. During her 32 years in Jackson, Salome McHorse was very active in Capital Street Methodist Church as a Sunday school teacher, accompanist and a member of the Council on Ministries. She was involved in the local Girl Scout chapter as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader during the years her daughters were growing up. On a civic level, Mrs. McHorse served as citywide chairman of the U.S. savings bond drives for several years. Salome McHorse participated frequently in the PTA and held several offices in that organization. She loved to sew for her daughters and granddaughters and created fashionable outfits for many occasions.
Upon the death of her husband in 1981, Salome moved from Jackson to Coleman to live with her sisters in the family home. She was an active member of First United Methodist Church where she taught the Nichols Bible Class. She was a member of the United Methodist Women and the Administrative Council of the church. Salome was actively involved in the Captain W.M. Buchner Chapter of the DAR. Through the years she assisted many young people to receive higher education.

Salome McHorse is survived by her three children: Dr. Tom and Kay McHorse of Austin, Lynn and Dr. Sam McLellan of Temple, and Gail Hester of New Orleans. Grandchildren are Edward McHorse and Kevin McHorse of Austin, Paul McHorse of the Woodlands, Amanda Hester and Will Hester of New Orleans and Sarah Kathryn Hester of Atlanta. She is also survived by seven great-grandchildren, a nephew, Bill Gardner of Longview, a cousin, Frances Vivian Clark of Sweetwater (now of Topeka, Kansas) and several great nieces and nephews. The family is very grateful for those people who cared for her in her final years are Ruby Trevino, Dovie Garrrett, Jo Hankamer, Marvis Goodwin, Bertha Andrews and Sandra Watson. She is also survived by many people whose lives she touched, shared in and helped in significant ways.

The family will receive friends at the Stevens Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Wednesday evening, September 13. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 852, Coleman, Texas 76834 or a charity of your choice.


ETHEL JANE SMITH, 89
9/8/2006
Ethel Jane Smith of Coleman died Thursday, September 7, 2006 at Coleman Healthcare Center. Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 10, in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Ethel Jane Smith was born April 13, 1917 in Bell County, Texas and attended school there. She moved to Coleman 12 years ago, had worked as a sales representative for a cosmetics company and Girling Home Health. She was a member of North Coleman Baptist Church. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Ed and Rheta Smith of Coleman; one daughter and son-in-law, Gail and James Fox of Killeen; 5 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren; one sister, Winnie Sills of Pasadena; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son, Lawrence Smith. Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.


OLLIE PEMBROKE, 91
9/8/2006
Ollie Pembroke of Santa Anna passed from this life on Wednesday, September 6, 2006 at 4:20 PM in Bangs following an automobile accident. Services will be Sunday at 2:30 PM at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Hess officiating. Interment will follow at Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. Family visitation will be Saturday from 5:00 till 6:00PM at Henderson Funeral Home. She was born Ollie Odell Dickerson on September 10, 1914 in Oklahoma to the late Lewis Walker and Katie Smith Dickerson. Ollie was raised in Montague County, Texas where she attended the Bonita Schools. On February 23, 1936 she married Paul Pembroke in Montague County and they celebrated forty-nine years of marriage. Paul preceded her in death in 1985. She was a resident of Santa Anna since 1943, a member of the First Baptist Church and Trickham 84 Club. Ollie was a Licensed Vocational Nurse in Brownwood and Coleman and a homemaker. SURVIVORS Son – Lowell & wife Sylvia Pembroke of Salona Beach, California; 2 Sisters – Butch Starnes of Decatur, TX and Irene Webster of Arlington, Texas; Brother – Dudley Dickerson of Decatur, Texas; Granddaughter – Diane Evans of Santa Maria, CA; Great Granddaughter – Erica Evans of Santa Maria, CA; Deacons of First Baptist will serve as pallbearers.


CHARLES NOLEN, 73
9/8/2006
SAN ANGELO —
Charles Ray Nolen, 73, of San Angelo, former Coleman resident, died Thursday, Sept. 7, 2006. Funeral service will be at 2:00pm Saturday, Sept. 9, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel in San Angelo with the Rev. Nathaniel Hankins of First United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will follow in Fairmount Cemetery. Mr. Nolen was born Nov. 17, 1932, in Rankin, Texas, to B.H. Nolen and Ethel Lane Nolen. He graduated from Hobbs High School in 1951 and attended Texas Tech University. Charles served in the U.S. Air Force and later became a rancher, an oilman and was a pioneer in the cable television industry. Mr. Nolen married Melinda Moses on June 1, 1963, in Coleman. He was a member of First Methodist Church. Survivors include his wife, Melinda Nolen of San Angelo; a son, Ben Nolen and wife Dana of San Angelo; a daughter, Lindy Moyers and husband Dwayne of South Lake; a sister, Lane Laughlin and husband Eddie of Brownwood; two grandchildren, William and Michael Nolen; and his aunt, Velma Lane Barron, all of San Angelo; and several nieces and nephews. The family requests that memorials be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center, Hospice of San Angelo or West Texas Boys Ranch.


In loving memory of
BETTIE GLENN NEAL  1939 - 2006
9/7/2006
Bettie fought bravely against cancer and inspired everyone around her with her strength of spirit and resolve. She spent her last year with her daughter and family in the Houston area while pursuing treatment at M.D. Anderson Hospital. A six year resident of San Antonio, Bettie’s greatest desire was to return there to be with her wonderful students and colleagues at Wheatley Middle School and her many friends and family in San Antonio. Bettie earned her Bachelor of Science degree from North Texas State University with a major in Education and a minor in English. She later completed Advanced Studies in Linguistics at Sam Houston State University. Bettie earned certifications in Elementary Education, English as a Second Language and Special Education. Bettie dedicated herself to the education of her students for three decades in Texas schools including Collinsville, Magnolia, Palacios, Floresville, Cotulla and San Antonio, as well as the American School of Anaco, Venezuela. She also established and operated the Bettie Neal Real Estate Company from 1990 to 1995 in the Resort of Walden on Lake Conroe, Montgomery, Texas. Bettie was born in Coleman County, Texas to beloved parents Bertha and Glen McQueen. She is survived by her mother and her only brother Roy McQueen, longtime residents of Snyder, Texas. Bettie leaves behind three daughters, their husbands and her grandchildren. They are Jutuan and Jim Farr of The Woodlands, whose children are Brian Farr of Austin, and Lauren Barker and her husband Richard Barker of Houston; Kendall and Dayton Schrader of San Antonio and their daughter Sterling; Tina and Troy Tope of Plano and their daughter Taylor and son Travis. She also leaves behind close relatives Barbara Palcewski of San Antonio, Lara and Andrew Martinez of Cotulla, Stephen and Megan Glynn-Palcewski of San Diego, and Joyce, Bobby, Timothy and Robert Haney of Boswell, Oklahoma. She was predeceased by her father Glen and great-nephew Thor, son of Stephen and Megan. Bettie was a loving mother, a dedicated teacher and a faithful friend. She will be dearly missed. Services will be held Saturday, September 9th at 10:30 AM at Brown Ranch Cemetery. Processional will begin at 10:00 AM at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan St., Coleman, TX. Donations may be made in Bettie’s memory to www.smiletrain.org  - a charity close to her heart.


SUE MANN, 86
9/7/2006
Sue Mann of Coleman died Thursday, September 7, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 9 at the First United Methodist Church with Dr. Jeff Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Sue Mann was born July 9, 1920 in McCulloch County, Texas on the family ranch near Rochelle, the daughter of Richard Samuel Moseley and Della McCall Moseley. She grew up in Rochelle and graduated from Rochelle High School. She attended Tarleton and graduated from Texas Woman's University with a bachelor's degree. On June 2, 1943 she married Morris D. Mann in Brady and he preceded her in death on July 4, 2006. After Dr. Mann set up his medical practice in Coleman in 1948, she was the bookkeeper for him for many years, as well as a homemaker and mother. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church. Survivors include five sons and daughters-in-law, Bob and Sue Mann of Austin, Charles and Gloria Mann of Lampasas, Tom and Candy Mann of Coleman, Bill and Pat Mann of Coleman, Jim and Carol Mann of Arlington; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to the Coleman Library, 400 Commercial, Coleman, Texas 76834, the First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 852, Coleman, Texas 76834, or the donor's favorite charity. Family visitation will be held Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


THOMAS H. "TOM" DAVIS, 80
9/7/2006
SAN ANGELO — Thomas H. “Tom” Davis of San Angelo went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 5, 2006, in San Angelo. Graveside service will be at 1:00pm Friday, September 8, in the Coleman City Cemetery with Tommy King officiating. Tom was born April 18, 1926, in Coleman County, Texas, to his parents, Wes Davis and Willie Bryant Davis. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in March 1944 and served until September 1945. He was awarded the Purple Heart. Tom became a professional bull rider on the National Rodeo Circuit for several years after his separation from the Marine Corps. He then met and later married Billie Fenton on March 4, 1951. Tom and Billie then moved to Fort Worth, where he went to work for the Fort Worth Stockyards. He and his wife moved to Hurst, where he went to work for P&R Cattle Company and then established himself as an independent cattle buyer. In 1968, Tom and Billie moved to San Angelo, Texas, and he went to work for Producers Livestock Auction Company. He then moved to Ozona and went to work at the Delta Gas Plant and retired. Tom is survived by his loving family — two daughters, Patti Riddle of Knoxville, Tenn., and Belinda Davis of Cedar Park; two grandchildren, Amber Purser of South Carolina and Thomas Riddle of Knoxville, Tenn.; four sisters, Juanita Mills, Wanda Dorman, Charlene Mobley and Willifae Pauley; and numerous nieces and nephews. Tom was a loving father and grandfather and had many, many friends who will dearly miss him. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Nicole and Jay Valandingham and family for tirelessly and selflessly caring for our father in his last days, and we appreciate their friendship and spiritual encouragement.


BETTY JO ANTILLEY HUBBELL, 79
9/8/2006
Betty Jo Antilley Hubbell died Wednesday, September 6, 2006 at her home in Coleman. Graveside services will be Saturday, September 9, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. in the Eula Cemetery, under the direction of Girdner Funeral Home of Abilene.
Mrs. Hubbell was born May 14, 1927 in Elmdale. She was raised in the Elmdale and Eula Area. As a young adult, she moved to Dallas and worked in the accounting department for Lone Star Gas Co. for 48 years. After her retirement, she moved back to Eula and had only recently moved to Coleman. She was preceded in death by: a son, Rickey Hubbell, and a sister, Bonnie Jordan. Survivors include: daughter, Nita Bruner, of Coleman; sister, Bobbie Hotchkiss of Abilene; and brothers, Dan Antilley and Chester Antilley, both of Eula. A meal will be served after the service at the Eula Baptist Church.


MAMIE PACK WELCH, 78
9/5/2006
Mamie Pack Welch of Coleman died Monday, September 4, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 7, 2006 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.
  Mamie Pack Welch was born October 31, 1927 in Muscogee, Oklahoma, a daughter of Henry and Ella Pack. She grew up in Texas in Maple and Estacado. She attended school at Lorenzo. She moved from Odessa to Coleman in 1951. She was married to Jack Birdwell and he preceded her in death in 1965. She later married Gerald Welch in Fort Worth. Mrs. Welch was a homemaker and a mother. She was a member of First Baptist Church.
  Survivors include her husband, Gerald Welch of Coleman; two sons, Jack and wife Jennifer Birdwell of Big Spring, Danny Birdwell of Monahans; one brother, D. M. Pack of Slaton; two sisters, Helen Manning of Knox City, Clair Allred of Odessa; one step-son, Mike Welch of Odessa; six grandchildren, Mitch Birdwell, Jason Birdwell, Cindy J. Walsh, Joe Joe Birdwell, David Birdwell, Reese Row; seven great-grandchildren, Becca Birdwell, Jackie K. Birdwell, Jacob Birdwell, Hannah Birdwell, Ezekiel Birdwell, Luke Birdwell, Laralei Row; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Family visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


AUDRIETTE MCNAIRY, 60
9/4/2006
Audriette McNairy age 60 of Dallas, Texas died Friday, September 1, 2006 in a Dallas hospital. Services will be Tuesday at 10:00 AM at Singing Hills Funeral Home in Dallas with graveside services at 4:00 PM at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion, Coleman, Texas. Local services under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman. Audriette was born June 1, 1946 in Coleman to the late Hugh Glen and Catherine Holloway Thomas. She was raised in Coleman where she attended the Humphrey High School. Audriette has been a resident of Dallas since 1964 and was a Baptist. SURVIVORS: 4 Sons - Eric & wife Traci McNairy of Cedar Hill, Texas, Derrick & wife Carla McNairy of Dallas, Texas, Otis Minafee of Dallas, Texas, Karl Spencer; Sister – Celestine Ford of Dallas, Texas; Brother – Ricky Thomas of Dallas, Texas; 9 Grandchildren, 1 Great Grandchild, Local Great Aunt – Ella Mae Bailey of Coleman, Texas; Great Uncle – Roy Holloway, Jr. of Dallas, Texas; Numerous Cousins, Nieces & Nephews. Audriette was preceded in death by 2 sisters – Theresa & Annie Marie Thomas .


JOHN CAMPBELL, 53
9/4/2006
SAN ANTONIO - John Campbell, of San Antonio, died Sunday, August 27, 2006 in San Antonio. Memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 5 at the First Unitarian Universalist Church in San Antonio. Graveside committal service will be held in the family plot on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at Coleman City Cemetery in Coleman, Texas under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman, Texas. John Campbell was born August 15, 1953 in San Antonio, Texas, the son of Harry G. Campbell and Mary Estelle Burleson Campbell. He grew up in San Antonio where he attended San Antonio College, UTSA and St. Mary's. John was employed at Southwest Research for 28 years as a Senior Engineering Technologist. He designed and help build a new piece of equipment that gauged metal fatigue under extreme conditions. He also did work on the Space Shuttle tiles, testing on design specs for the first Stealth bomber and the Mars rover. He had earned a Kempo Black Belt, with the thesis titledA Method to Study and Quantify the Physics and Power of Striking Blows”.
Survivors include two sons, Thomas Campbell and Ryan Campbell both of San Antonio; three cousins, Mike Burleson of Burnet, Kelly Burleson of Dripping Springs and Andrea Burleson of Barrington, Illinois; one aunt, Toni Burleson of Burnet and a second cousin, Flip Flippen and family of College Station. Prior to the service in Coleman, there will be a family visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan Street, Coleman, Texas 76834.


HERMAN EUGENE "DOODLE" HAMON, 91
9/2/2006
LAWN   Herman Eugene 'Doodle' Hamon, 91, died Friday, September 01, 2006, in an Abilene hospital. Services will be 3:00 p.m., Sunday, September 3, 2006, in Lawn Church of Christ with Mike Hardaway and Roy Meyer officiating. Burial will be in Counts Cemetery, directed by Fry - Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 -- 8:00 p.m. today at the funeral home. Doodle was born March 31, 1915, in Goldsboro to James H. and Mary Ollie Warnica Hamon. He attended schools in Goldsboro and Novice. He married Mary Ann Montrose January 2, 1951, in LaMarque. Until his death he continued to live in the home he was born in and was a farmer in the Goldsboro area. He was a member of the Lawn Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Jeanette Mathews, Janie V. Burnes and Freeda Hamon; three brothers, Hubert Hamon, Earnest “Bill” Hamon and John Paul “Pete” Hamon; a grandson, Randel Coxe; and a great-granddaughter, Shayla Coxe. Survivors include his wife, Mary Ann Hamon of Goldsboro; one daughter, Shirley Geraldon of Goldsboro; one son, Richard Hill of Cisco; one sister-in-law, Marie Hamon; one brother-in-law, Carl Mathews; two nieces, Jeanenne Jones and Darlene Talbot; one nephew, Billy Jim Mathews; seven grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and several cousins. Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1862 Hickory, Abilene, Texas 79601 or to Lawn Church of Christ Building Fund, P. O. Box 176, Lawn, Texas 79530.


LORENE GRAY, 90
8/31/2006
Lorene Gray, 90, of Coleman, died Thursday, August 31, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 2 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Jeffrey Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Burkett Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Lorene Gray was born October 5, 1915 in Burkett, Texas, a daughter of Arch B. Harris and Mary Lou Colvin Harris. She grew up and attended school in Burkett. On November 5, 1934 she married Lon M. Gray in Coleman County and he preceded her in death on August 15, 1997. Lorene lived in Burkett until 1979 when she moved to Coleman. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Chapel Sunday School Class, the Bettie Morris Circle and the Chancel Choir. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Don and Colleen Gray of Hurst; one daughter, Sue Frizzell of Coleman; five grandchildren, Martha Terry of Keller, David Gray of Hurst, Tammy Edgerton of Victoria, Randy Price of Azle, Tracy Price of Lawton, Oklahoma, currently serving in the military in Kuwait; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; one sister, Irma Tomlinson of Clarendon. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Virgie Adams and Elsie Porter; one brother, A. B. Harris. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Coleman, Texas, or the Coleman County Humane Society. Family visitation will be held on Friday from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


RUSSELL DEAN JOHNSON, 53
8/28/2006
Russell Dean Johnson, age 53, died at his home in Coleman County on August 28, 2006 while battling cancer. Funeral service will be held 3:00 p.m. Thursday, August 31 at First Baptist Church in Coleman with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating and eulogy given by Mark Sanderson. Burial will follow in the Silver Valley Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Russell Dean Johnson was born June 24, 1953 in Parker County, Texas, a son of Minor Johnson and Nancy Curtis Johnson. Russell was raised by Ed and Patsy Graves on the Walking 3 Ranch in Coleman County. He graduated from Novice High School in 1971 and attended Tarleton State University. On July 21, 2001 he married Donna Perry Carter in Coleman. Russell was a rancher and a member of the Coleman Rodeo Association. He was a member of the United States Team Roping Association and won the National Finals in October 2005. He was a former member of the Novice School Board. Survivors include his wife, Donna Johnson of Coleman; one daughter and son-in-law, Sherri and John Merrill of Coleman; three step-daughters, Kristina Carter, Lindsay Carter both of Austin and Chelsea Carter of Abilene; one grandson, Jansen Merrill of Coleman; two brothers, Fred Johnson and wife Kim of Coleman, Roy Johnson of College Station; one sister, Minor Jean Johnson of Stephenville; several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice, 1900 Pine Street, Abilene, Texas 79602. Family visitation will be Wednesday 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.


LINDA MAE MEECE, 61
8/23/2006
Linda Mae Meece, of Coleman, went to be with the Lord on August 21, 2006. Graveside services for Linda, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 25, at Eastlawn Memorial Park in Brownwood with Reverend Jeff Moore officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Netherton Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Netherton Funeral Home. Linda passed away Monday morning at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Linda was born on November 9, 1944, in Lansing, Michigan to Frank and Dorine Mannuzza of Washington. She had been a resident of Coleman and Brown Counties for most of her life. She was a very loving mother and a very loving grandmother. She also had just recently become a great grandmother. Her grandchildren knew her as Memaw. Linda was a homemaker and especially enjoyed crocheting where she had made several things for her friends and family and earned several first place ribbons for her work. Linda was also a special friend to everyone who knew her. She will be missed greatly by her children and grandchildren and friends. Survivors include her children and their families: Lisa and Kirk Cavanaugh of Coleman, and their children, Chelsea, Cody and Tiffanie and their son, Hagen; Sheila and Jeff Greer of Early, and their children Josh and Austin; Dianna Krischke and Robin Hogue of Early, and their children, Kris, Tiffanie, Chelsea and Chase; Michael and Linda Krischke of Liberty Hill, and their children, Jimmy, Jody, Lane and Cassidy; and a sister Mary Roberts of Washington. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Dorine Mannuzza and her brother Jerry Mannuzza. The family would like to thank the ICU Staff at Brownwood Regional Medical Center for the care provided to Linda during her stay. Also a special thank you to Dr. Narendra Nigalye, and Dr. Dan Locker for the loving care and support they gave her.


OTELLIA "TELA" SIMONTON, 83
8/21/2006
Otellia "Tela" Simonton, loving mother and grandmother, passed away at the age of 83 Sunday evening, August 20, 2006 at her residence in Coleman, Texas. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.
Burial will follow in the Brown Ranch Cemetery, Fisk, Texas. Tela was born June 7, 1923 in Fisk to William and Lena Jones. She married Fred Simonton on December 3, 1940 . He preceded her in death on November 26, 2004. They lived in Coleman County their entire lives. She was employed for many years with the Mozelle School. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, one sister and her husband of almost 64 years. She leaves behind five children, Wahlasha Richards of Coleman, Spencer Simonton and wife Cynthia of Bedford, Nicky Simonton and wife Donna of Fisk, Fredye Utley and husband, Lindy of Paducah and Debbye Proctor and husband Bill of Burnett. Also surviving are 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Memorial donations may be sent to West Texas Rehabilitation Center or Hendrick Hospice. The family wishes to extend their appreciation to the staff of Hendrick Hospice of Abilene for their kindness and support during Tela’s brief illness.


DORTHA JANICE DICKSON, 83
8/21/2006
Dortha Janice Dickson of Valera died August 19, 2006 at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Visitation will be held at Walker Funeral Home in Coleman on Tuesday, August 22, 2006 from 7 to 8 p.m.
Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at the Valera Cemetery Pavilion. Pastor Arthur A. Allen will officiate, assisted by Rev. Kermit Sorrells, and services will be under the direction of Walker Funeral Home. Mrs. Dickson was born April 18, 1923 in Glen Cove to the late William Thomas Nixon and Lula Louisa (Mulanax) Nixon. She grew up in Valera and graduated second in her class at Centennial High School in 1939. She worked at the Coleman Flying School after graduation, where she met Billy Jack Dickson. They married in 1945 in Austin and celebrated 60 years together on September 16, 2005. They returned to Coleman County in 1980 after living for many years in San Angelo, Greenville, Hondo, San Antonio, and they attended Valera Methodist Church. Mrs. Dickson was a loving wife, mother, and homemaker who also enjoyed sewing, reading, music, and gardening, and she worked daily along side her husband on their Valera farm and orchard for over 20 years. She especially loved to take something old and improve it. She leaves behind a loving family including: her husband, Billy Jack Dickson of Valera; four children, Connie (Clif) Hill of Mobile, AL, Jerry (Nancy) Dickson and Mark (Becky) Dickson of San Antonio, and DeeAnn (Bruce) Looney of Fredricksburg; seven grandchildren; two brothers, Harold (Melba) Nixon and Dewayne (Tommie) Nixon of Abilene; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mrs. Dickson was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Imogene (Nixon) Gerth, and a granddaughter, Summer Dawn Dickson. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Big Country, Abilene.


PATSY RUTH JAMISON MILLER, 81
8/18/2006
Patsy Ruth Jamison Miller of Coleman died August 16, 2006 at her home in Coleman. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, August 21 at First United Methodist Church with Dr. Leonard Radde officiating and assisted by Dr. Jeffrey Miller. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Patsy J. Miller was born June 27, 1925 in Amarillo, Texas, the daughter of Tom E. Jamison and Clarence Dodd Jamison. She grew up in Coleman, graduated from Coleman High School and Texas Tech University. Patsy was raised in and a member of the First United Methodist Church and a member of the Dunson Sunday School Class. She married J. P. "Bub" Miller, Jr. on May 15, 1946 in Fort Worth, Texas. They moved to South Dakota in 1947 where they owned and operated Miller Ranch until 1972. When they first moved to South Dakota they had no running water or electricity and Patsy learned to make do with the situation. She and Bub were instrumental in getting rural electricity to that area of South Dakota. Patsy started teaching at Cooper Country School in 1953 and taught in the Meade County School District in Sturgis, S.D. until 1965. She was the Rural School Principal for several years. They moved back to Coleman, Texas in 1972. Patsy worked at the Coleman County State Bank for many years. She was also the founder and first president in 1974 of the Circle C Cowbelles (now Circle C Cattlewomen). Survivors include two sons, John P. Miller of Red Owl, S.D. and Tom C. Miller and wife Vivian of Red Owl, S.D.; grandchildren Thomas Ryan Miller, Jeff D. Miller and wife Ashlee of Coleman, Mary Catherine Miller of Rochester, NY, Noelle Heinert of Powell, WY; great-grandchild Baxter Heinert; two sisters-in-law, Ann Hargett and husband James of Coleman and Billie Marie Miller of Coleman; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, J. P. "Bub" Miller, Jr., her parents and brother, Tom Jamison. Family visitation will be held on Sunday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home
. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church Choir Fund, P. O. Box 852, 500 W. Live Oak Street, Coleman, Texas 76834.


S. G. CHRISTIAN, 74
8/16/2006
S.G. Christian of Coleman died Wednesday, August 16, 2006 at his residence.
Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 18, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with James Bailey officiating, assisted by Bob Garner. Graveside services will be 3:00 p.m. Friday at the Richland Springs Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Christian was born January 25, 1932 in Richland Springs, the son of D. N. Christian and Edna Marie Carrell Christian. He grew up and attended school in Richland Springs and served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1953. On July 5, 1963, he married Ruth Ann Henderson in Coleman. He worked for Shell Pipeline, retiring after 25 years and moved to Coleman in 1994, where he invented and marketed the Bodoodle. He was an avid hunter and in 2005 was inducted into the Bow Hunter’s National Hall of Fame. He also enjoyed playing the banjo. Survivors include his wife, Ruth Ann Christian of Coleman; his children, Brenda Perrone and husband Joe, of Hammond, Louisiana, Sherry Rainey of Coleman, Lee Ann Crnko and husband Joe, of Spring, Kathy Rindhage and husband Mike of Friendswood, Danny Christian and wife Brenda of Lakewood, Florida; one brother, Gene Christian and wife Veda, of Coleman; grandchildren, Joey Perrone, Jeff Perrone, Heidi Veverica, Heather Perrone, Carson Rainey, Emily-Kate Crnko, Garrett Rindhage, Rae Ann Rindhage, Jessica Christian, Dori Christian; six great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.


CHARLEY MAY RICHARDSON FREEMAN, 79
8/14/2006
Charley May Richardson Freeman, of Lake Weatherford and formerly of Coleman, died Sunday, August 13, 2006 at a Fort Worth Hospital. Funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 17, in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel
with Rev. Billy Roberts officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was born Charley May Medcalf on May 17, 1927 in May, Texas, the daughter of Lee Roy and Ruth Anderson Medcalf. She grew up in Brown and Coleman Counties and attended school at Santa Anna and Buffalo. On May 20, 1944 she married J. P. Richardson in Santa Anna and he preceded her in death on March 10, 1987. She married A. L. Freeman on August 1, 1992 in Coleman, Texas Charley May lived in Coleman for many years, moving to Ft. Worth in 1992 and to Lake Weatherford in 2005. She was a homemaker. While living in Coleman, she was a member of North Coleman Baptist Church and at the time of her death was a member of First Baptist Church in Willow Park. Survivors include her husband, A. L. Freeman of Lake Weatherford; one daughter, Ruth Ann and husband Mark Godfrey of Jarrell, Texas; three sons, Max and wife Ann Richardson of Coleman, Charles Richardson of Midland, Bobby Richardson of Godley; one step-son, Leslie and wife Melinda Freeman of Fort Worth; one step-daughter, Linda and husband Jeff Bigham of Benbrook; One brother, Robert and wife Dean Bouchillon of Paradise; ll grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, and a granddaughter, Kim Jackson. Memorials may be made to West Texas Boys Ranch or the donor's favorite Charity. Family Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


ARVEL CULLINS, 80
8/15/2006
Arvel Cullins passed away on August 14, 2006, leaving behind a loving family. He was born September 15, 1925 on the Overall Ranch south of Valera. He attended Coleman and Mozelle schools, then graduated from Centennial. Immediately after graduating from high school he joined the Navy, serving on an aircraft carrier in the Pacific. Before moving to Coleman, the family lived at Lawn, Texas for 8 years, where Arvel was employed as a telegraph operator for the Santa Fe Railroad. Later, he went to work for Lone Star Gas, retiring after 32 years as a district superintendent. He was totally dedicated to his job, making sure every one had heat during cold, icy winters. Later in life he and Lorena enjoyed traveling the country in their trailer home, visiting family and friends. Arvel loved the Lord and was an active member of First Baptist Church of Coleman, where he served as deacon for the past 44 years and was a member of the Challenge Sunday School Class.  Arvel is survived by his wife Lorena Simmons Cullins, whom he married 63 years ago on March 21, 1943. He has one daughter, Sherry Roberts, and son-in-law, John of Granbury. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Randy Roberts and Rhonda Anderson and husband Tommy, both of Flower Mound, five great-grandchildren, Collin, Kelsey, Ryan, Miranda, Jake. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Edna Cullins. Funeral service will be held 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 16, at First Baptist Church in Coleman with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating and assisted by Rick Marshall. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.
Family visitation will be held Tuesday (today) from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund, Coleman, Texas or the donor’s favorite charity.


EMMA WATSON, 85
8/13/2006
Emma Watson, of Coleman, died Saturday, August 12, 2006 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 15 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. George Frasier officiating and assisted by Rev. Derek Triggs. Burial will follow in the Leaday Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was born Emma Joy Blair on January 10, 1921 in Concho County, Texas, a daughter of Frank and Flora Winkle Blair. She grew up in Concho County and attended school at Liberty Hill and Millersview. She was married to Anon Fenwick; he preceded her in death in 1946. She later married Raymond Watson and he died in 1965. Mrs. Watson moved to Coleman in 1961 and was employed at the sewing factory. She was raised a Baptist but had attended the Nazarene Church for the last several years. Survivors include two daughters, Joyce and husband C. R. Dalton of Coleman, Kay and husband Kenneth Foote of Odessa; five grandchildren, Tammy Blair of Lake Ivie, Becky Hatchett of Lamesa, Michael Barkemeyer of Coleman, Gregory Barkemeyer of Norfolk, Virginia, Letitia Palmer of Odessa; eleven great-grandchildren, Wesley Lowe, Camden Lowe, Brady Hatchett, Sheldon Lowe, Cassandra Barkemeyer, Ashlee Wells, Justin Barkemeyer, Alana Barkemeyer, Joshua Barkemeyer, Kasen Palmer, Zachary Barkemeyer; one sister, Adella Walden of Coleman. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Louie Blair and Gerald Blair. Family visitation will be held on Monday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


R. L. BAKER, 81
8/11/2006
R.L. Baker, 81, of Coleman and long-time Valera resident, died Thursday, August 10, 2006 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Funeral service will be held Monday, August 14 at 2:00 p.m. in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. L. A. Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow in the Valera Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. R. L. Baker was born December 28, 1924 in Hamilton, Texas, a son of Lark Baker and Esther Stubbelfield Baker. He grew up in Hamilton and Santa Anna and attended school in Hamilton. Mr. Baker served in the U. S. Army during World War II. On June 28, 1943 he married Jo Ann Williams in Coleman and she preceded him in death on February 5, 2003. Mr. Baker retired from Coleman County Precinct Three as a heavy equipment operator. He was Pentecostal. Survivors include five daughters, Carolyn and husband James Leonard of Brownwood, Brenda Dyer of Coleman, Linda and husband Lee Moore of Santa Anna, Gwen and husband Colin Hobbs of Valera, Patricia Smith of Coleman; two sons, Randy and wife Pam Baker of Coleman, Gary Dan and wife Judy Baker of Brownwood; 16 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Katherine Parsley of Midland, Lucille Botard of Hughs Springs, Wilma Chappel of Brownwood; one brother, R. V. Baker of Bangs. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a grandson, Gary Lee Moore, a daughter-in-law, Shirley Baker, a son-in-law, Dwane Dyer, two sisters and three brothers. Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity. Family visitation will be held on Sunday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


SAMBO MASSEY, 54
8/10/2006
Sambo Massey of Abilene, formerly of Coleman, died Thursday, August 10, 2006 at Hendrick Medical Center. Visitation will be held on Friday at 5:00 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 6:00 p.m. in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel
with Rev. Daniel Stovall officiating. He was born June 28, 1952 in Sacramento, California, a son of Billy Jack and Mary Leo Bowers Massey. He grew up in Coleman where he attended school. He worked in the oil field and attended North Side Baptist Church in Abilene. Survivors include two sons, Abel Massey and Billy Massey both of Fort Worth; one daughter, Mary Massey of Abilene; eight grandchildren, Claudia Massey, Trey Martinez, Dakota Mitchell, Landon Massey, Logan Massey, Hunter Massey, Michael Brown, Heavenly Brown; four sisters, Nancy Aguirre of Houston, Jan Frazier of Angleton, Cordelia Montgomery of Gonzales, Judy Strength of Coleman. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Tommy Massey.


GLYN OLIVER DOWNEY, 91
8/11/2006
Glyn Oliver Downey, the son of the late Patrick Wesley and Fannie Fern Wilson Downey, was born Sept. 12, 1914, in Leaday, Texas. He passed away Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2006, at his residence. Glyn was a graduate of Gouldbusk High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1937 and served at Randolph Field in San Antonio. He married Emma Nell Sing Griffith on Oct. 6, 1940, in Gouldbusk. After serving in World War II, he was stationed at Chenault Air Force Base, Ill.; Goodfellow Air Force Base, San Angelo; Hondo Air Force Base; Chambley Air Base, France; and Travis Air Force Base, Calif. He retired in 1964 after 30 years in the Air Force and moved back to San Angelo, where he was an original employee of Mooney Aircraft, which is now Mitsubishi Aircraft Company, where he was production foreman. After his second retirement, he returned to Gouldbusk, where he farmed and ranched. He moved to Coleman in 1995. He was a deacon at College Hills Baptist Church in San Angelo and Gouldbusk Baptist Church. He was a 50-plus year member of the Coleman Masonic Lodge No. 496. He was preceded in death by one brother-in-law and one sister-in-law. He is survived by his wife, Emma Nell Sing Downey of Coleman; one daughter, Beth Sexton of Coleman; one son, Don Downey of San Angelo; two sisters, Patsy Bartley of Coleman and Doris Dehnel of San Angelo; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Malcolm and Zelma Downey, and Sherwood and Jean Downey, all of Coleman. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11, at Tom G. Walker Funeral Home.
Service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, in Walker Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating. Masonic service will follow in Gouldbusk Cemetery Pavilion with interment in Gouldbusk Cemetery.


BENNY BARKER, 60
8/9/2006
Benny Barker, age 60, of Lake Ivie, died Tuesday, August 8, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 11, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel
with Brother Pat Horner and Brother Scott Shamburger officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Benny Barker was born December 22, 1945 in Coleman, Texas, a son of Eddie Mae Threadgill Barker and the late Lewis Barker, Sr. He grew up in Coleman where he attended school. He served in the U. S. Army from 1966-1971 and was in Viet Nam for 1 1/2 years. On February 17, 1968 he married Deborah Berry in Coleman. Benny lived in Hale Center for two years and Liberty Hill for three years. He worked in the oil field in Alaska and Saudi Arabia and for the City of Coleman for a number of years. In 1995 he moved to Lake Ivie. He loved to fish. He was a member of Grace Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Deborah Barker of Lake Ivie; two daughters, Ali Birdwell and husband Jason of Coleman; Jessica Shaer and husband Hassan of Baytown; his mother, Eddie Mae Barker of Coleman; seven grandchildren, Jacob Birdwell, Hannah Birdwell, Ezekiel Birdwell, Luke Birdwell, Benjamin Shaer, Samuel Shaer, Seth Shaer; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Lewis Barker, Sr. and his brother, Lewis Barker, Jr. Memorials may be made to any Viet Nam Veterans organization or the VA Hospital in Kerrville, Texas. Family visitation will be held on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


BUFORD BRANTON, 60
8/8/2006
Buford Branton of Coleman died Sunday, August 6, 2006 at his residence. No services are scheduled. His body will be cremated and interred at the Knox City Cemetery. He was born George Buford Branton on September 25, 1945 in Knox City, the son of George Milton Branton and Emma Parsons Branton. He grew up and attended school in Knox City and Abilene. He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He moved to Coleman in 1985 and was a retired truck driver. Survivors include his children, Connie Engler, Wanda Sue Branton, Susan Branton, Buforinia Branton, Susan Branton; one brother, Claud Branton and wife, Sandra of Freeport; two sisters, Georgiana Baldwin of Logansport, Indiana, Wanda Jean Clemons and husband, Jack L. of Logansport, Indiana; three grandchildren, one great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.


MARTHA DEAL, 83
8/6/2006
Martha Deal, 83, of Coleman, died Saturday, August 5, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral service will be held 11:00am Tuesday at First Baptist Church with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating and assisted by Rick Marshall. Burial will follow in the Brown Ranch Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was born Martha Mae Dalton on March 18, 1923 in the Elliott community in Coleman County, Texas, a daughter of T. J. Dalton, Sr. and Mattie Jones Dalton. She grew up in Mozelle, attended school at Elliott and graduated from Mozelle High School. She attended McMurry College in Abilene for a short while. On May 29, 1947 she married B. J. Deal at the Baptist parsonage in Coleman. Following their marriage, they lived in Gouldbusk for three years and then various towns in Texas, moving to Coleman in 1972. She was a homemaker, a member of First Baptist Church and the Esther Sunday School Class. Survivors include her husband, B. J. Deal of Coleman; one daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Don Taylor of LaPine, Alabama; two grandchildren, Kevin Taylor of Indianapolis, Indiana and NeOma Ruckel of Missouri; four great-grandchildren, Brandon Taylor, Jessica Taylor, Elizabeth Ruckel and Harrison Ruckel; one brother, N. T. Dalton and wife Yoshiko of Cheney, Washington; sister-in-law, Georgia Lynn Dalton of Mozelle; brother-in-law, Leland Martin of Brownwood; numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother T. J. Dalton, Jr., infant brother, Charles Morris Dalton; two sisters, Dorothy Martin and Sammy Joyce (Dolly) Harless. Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.
Family visitation will be held on Monday from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.


LUCILLE WILLEY PHILLIPS, 89
8/6/2006
Lucille Willey Phillips, age 89, of Belton, went home to the arms of Jesus after a short struggle with cancer on August 6, 2006.. At the time of her stepping through Heavens door, she was surrounded by her kids, grandkids and great grandkids. Lucille was born Lucille Strickland in Richland Springs Texas on December 19, 1916. In 1936 she married Rice W. Willey and they farmed in the Waldrip/Lohn Valley. Rice died in 1945 . In 1948 Lucille married Hollis B. Phillips of Brady and they farmed in the same valley. They lived in the Lohn area until 1974 and they sold the family farm and bought a farm in the Bonita Valley of Arizona. In 1977 Hollis retired from farming and after a while they settled in Granite Shoals Texas. They lived there until Hollis’ death in July 1993, at which time Lucille moved to Brownwood and the next year to Belton. Lucille loved her children and their children. She cared for many senior ciyizens in the Lohn area while raising her kids. She enjoyed visiting, quilting, reading and was also a freelance writer. Lucille is survived by her long time companion, Wesley Franks, of Belton, her three sons, Glenn Ray (Carol) Willey of Flatonia, Jeff B. (Mary Beth) Willey of Littlefield, R.C. (Becky) Willey of Blanket. She is also survived by five daughters, Nelda Blair of Belton, Karen Dutton of Euless, Carmen Melton of Bedford, Wanda Lancaster of Ft. Worth, and Kittie Preas of Bonita , Arizona. Lucille had 18 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren as well as great great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by one daughter, Glenna Fay Willey, three great son in laws, Jack Dutton, James Blair and Terry Preas. At Lucilles request, no service will be held, and a private cremation followed with her ashes to be scattered over Marion Cemetery in the Lohn area.


GEORGE EDWARD (ARK) McCARLEY, 85
8/2/2006
SAN ANGELO — George Edward (Ark) McCarley, 85, passed away Sunday, July 30, 2006, at Shannon Medical Center, after a brief illness. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 3, at Johnson’s Funeral Home in San Angelo with the Rev. Ken Dahlberg officiating. Burial followed in the Coleman City Cemetery. George was born Feb. 21, 1921, to Burk and Mable McCarley in Gifford, Ark. His family eventually moved to Coleman, Texas, where George met the love of his life, Dorothy. On July 3, 1940, he married Dorothy Belle Carnes. To this union was born one daughter, Georgia Belle; and three sons, George Edward Jr., Jack and Bill. Following their marriage, the McCarleys lived in Coleman for two years before moving to San Angelo in 1943. During World War II, George served in the Third Army under Gen. Patton and took part in the Normandy invasion. While in Europe, whenever an opportunity presented itself, George would travel by bicycle and saw much of Germany and France. After the war, George returned to Holsum Bakery, then went to work as a plumber and soon began his own plumbing business. Together, he and Dorothy owned and managed McCarley Plumbing Company from 1952 until their retirement in 1999. George is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Dorothy Belle McCarley of San Angelo; son Jack McCarley of San Angelo; son Bill and his wife, Marilyn, of San Angelo; his grandsons, Burk McCarley and wife Christy, Jack McCarley Jr., John Plum and Andrew Logan; granddaughters Rachelle Healer and husband David, Letitia Lack and husband Mark, Jennifer McCarley, and Alice Hildebrand and husband John; great-grandchildren Monica Garcia and husband Adam, Kristen and James McCarley, Jordan, London and Paris Lack, and Laqrisha and Anthony Roland; and great-great-grandchildren Maddie and Hunter Garcia, and Crystal Roland. He is also survived by his brother, Marvin McCarley, and wife Pat; sister Hazel Griffis of California; sisters and brothers-in-law Molly and Ted Wilson of California, and Dolly and Bill Sweet of Nevada; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Dorothy and Raymond Carnes of Coleman; sister-in-law Edith Carnes of Coleman; a special uncle, Stan George, and wife Lois; and numerous special nieces, nephews and friends. The family requests that memorials be made to Meals for the Elderly, 310 E. Houston Harte Expressway, San Angelo, TX 76903; or to a charity of your choice.


RAYMOND C. "RAY" TURNBOW, I
7/31/2006
Raymond C. "Ray" Turnbow, I, age 69 of Houston, passed away July 28, 2006. Ray was born September 15, 1936 in Andrews. He graduated from Hardin Simmons University in Abilene and had been employed in Railroad/Transportation management for many years. He was an avid golfer and fisherman, but his truelove was being a husband, father, grandfather and friend. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Naoma Yvonne Morgan Turnbow, parents Arthur and Hattie Turnbow and six siblings. Surviving are his sons, Raymond "Chay" Turnbow, II and wife Yvonne, Gary Turnbow and wife Michelle, Jeff Turnbow and wife Anita, Steve Turnbow and wife Sherry, grandchildren, Zachary, Nicholas, Joshua, Jason, Taylor, Tyler, Chealsea, Jordan and Hanna; mother-in-law, Lucille Morgan; brother, Alfred Turnbow; sister, Edith Brawley, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other family members and many friends. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 1, 2006 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Klein Funeral Home-Champion Forest in Houston
. Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 2, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. in the Klein Funeral Home Chapel-Champion Forest. A second visitation will be Friday, August 4, 2006 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman. Graveside services were held at 11:00 a.m. Friday at the Burkett Cemetery Pavilion. Pallbearers will be grandsons: Zachary, Nicholas, Joshua, Jason, Tyler and Jordan. Ray was a very generous and giving man, contributing to numerous charitable causes and events. For those desiring, contributions many made in his memory to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your Choice.


ERA V COLLINS, 101
7/31/2006
Era V Collins of Coleman died Friday, July 28, 2006 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home. Funeral services were at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 1, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mrs. Collins was born December 8, 1904 on the family ranch near Echo, the daughter of William Cowan Henderson and Effie Jane Keller Henderson. She attended a small school near the ranch and graduated from Coleman High School in 1921. She married Clyde M. Collins on June 9, 1923 in Coleman. He preceded her in death on August 7, 1977. She loved cooking and entertaining for her family and friends. She was an excellent gardener, growing strawberries and other fruits and vegetables and many varieties of flowers. After many years of aiding Clyde in the neighborhood grocery store, they moved to Snyder, where she was president of garden club and judged many flower shows. In 1974, they returned home to Coleman. She was a member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Coleman. Survivors include her daughter, Janice C. Roberts of New Braunfels; her son, Jack B. Collins of Houston; her grandchildren, Pam Blackwell and husband Bobby, of New Braunfels, Phil Collins, M.D. and wife Cecilia of Austin, Diane Daniels and husband Mike of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, Bryan Collins and wife Nina of McLain, Virginia, Jim Collins and wife Kathy of Houston; her great grandchildren, Nicole Jennings, P.A. and husband Kelly of Granbury, Courtney Abernathy and husband Kelly of New Braunfels, Callie Collins, Delaney Collins, Erin Collins all of Austin, Broderick Collins and Christopher Collins both of McLain, Virginia; one great-great grandson, Dylan Abernathy of New Braunfels and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, one daughter, Patsy Collins, one son, Fred Collins, six sisters and two brothers. Family visitation will be from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home
. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent Holiday Hill Nursing Home, 245 State Hwy 153, Coleman, Texas 76834 or the donor’s favorite charity. Era V, with great difficulty, gave up her home and car and moved to Holiday Hill in March, 2004. The family wishes to offer the Staff of Holiday Hill their heartfelt thanks and appreciation for their devoted and loving care of Era V. Through Era V’s love of her dogs, Chris, Kim and Buffy, she became endeared to Lynn Thompson, her angel and caretaker throughout her later years for which the family will be forever thankful.


JO LITTLETON, 87
7/28/2006
Jo Littleton, of Coleman, passed away July 27, 2006 at the Coleman Health Care Center. Daughter of the late Virgil and Francis Altizer Gordon, she was born October 6, 1918 in Longworth, TX. On August 6, 1960 she married Grady Littleton in Coleman. He preceded her in death on March 22, 1980. Jo was a member of the Elm Street Church of Christ and she served in the Coleman Hospital Auxiliary. She is survived by one sister, Johney Dell and her husband Leonard Williams of Abilene; niece, Georgene and her husband Randall Saverance of San Angelo; nephews, Gordon and his wife Debra McCullough of San Marcos, and Ray Max and his wife Jo Ann Williams of Garland. Also surviving are great and great-great-nieces and nephews; Denise, Victor, and Owen Grant of Colleyville; Kimberly, Kevin Kailee, and Kelsey Gunn of Cedar Hill, TX; Kevin, Shanna, Hayley, Coleton, and Weston Saverance, and Emilee and Michael Brinlee all of San Angelo. Funeral Services were Saturday July 29, 2006 at 10:30 am at the Walker Funeral Chapel with Joe Hailey, pastor of the Elm Street Church of Christ, officiating. Committal services will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman. The family request memorials are made to the Coleman Senior Center or the Elm Street Church of Christ of Coleman.


NOVELLA "SUG" STEARNS, 88
7/24/2006
Novella ‘Sug’ Stearns, age 88 of Trickham passed away Saturday, July 22, 2006 at the Westview Manor in McGregor, Texas. Services were held Wednesday at 11:00 AM at the Trickham Union Church with Rev. Pat McClatchy officiating. Interment will follow at the Trickham Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. Sug was born October 1, 1917 in Coleman County, Texas to the late Walter Clinton and Millie May Storey Sharp. A lifetime resident of Coleman County she attended the Eureka and Santa Anna schools. On September 30, 1934 Sug married Granville King Stearns in Santa Anna and they celebrated fifty-three years of marriage. G. K. preceded her in death in 1987. She was a member of the Trickham Baptist Church serving as secretary for 50 years, the Trickham Quilting Club and Trickham 84 Club. Sug was a stock-farmer and homemaker. Survivors include: daughter-in-law Monyene Stearns of McGregor, Texas, granddaughter – Sabrina Pugh of McGregor, Texas, grandson – Clint Stearns of Bellmeade, Texas, 3 great-granddaughters. Sug was preceded in death by her son Sherman Stearns in 2005, one sister and one brother.


PATSY LANDERS BERRY, 77
7/23/2006
Patsy Landers Berry of Coleman died Sunday, July 23, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 26, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Joe Hailey officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. She was born Patsy Charlene Landers on March 21, 1929 in Littlefield, the daughter of Charles Urban Landers and Lucille Sykes Landers. She grew up in Oklahoma and Texas, graduating from Novice High School in 1946. She married Ross Ballard "John" Berry on April 2, 1947 in Brown County. He preceded her in death on February 3, 2005. She worked as a secretary for many years. She moved to Abilene in 1968 from Coleman, moving back to Coleman 2004. She was a member of the Elm Street Church of Christ. Survivors include her children, Johnny Carroll Berry of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Elizabeth Ann "Libby" Fuller of Tuscola, Charles Anthony "Tony" Berry of El Paso, Patricia Elaine "Patti" Scott of San Angelo; three sisters, Sybil Berry of Coleman, Pauline Stanley of Coleman, Nan Miller of Royce City; one brother, Charles Jack Landers of Auburn, Indiana; nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.  Pallbearers will be grandsons and grandsons-in-law: Travis Rhoads, Billy Scott, Chase Berry, Jonathan Berry, Clint Burkey and Blake Vincent.


ISAAC FLOYD KEENEY, 62
7/23/2006
Isaac Floyd Keeney of Coleman died Saturday, July 22, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Graveside services were held at 4:00 p.m. Monday, July 24, 2006 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Keeney was born march 7, 1944 in Coleman, the son of Ike Keeney and Ellie Mae Short Keeney. He grew up and attended school in Coleman. He married Doris Jeannette Low on July 5, 1974 in Coleman. He worked in sales and was also an electrician and plumber. He was a Baptist. Mr. Keeney is survived by his wife, Jeannette Keeney of Coleman, two sons, Sam Croft of Fort Worth, Jason Keeney of Coleman; five daughters, Lisa Dyer of Coleman, Jerrie Strength of Gatesville, Penny Boatright of Coleman, Christie Keeney of Coleman, Camilla Mason of San Antonio; two sisters, Carolyn Boyles of Coleman, Nancy Bevilles of Sawyer, Oklahoma; 16 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Honorary Pallbearers will be grandsons: Michael Dyer, Kevin Tate, Weston Boatright, Brandon Tate, Charlie Boatright and Brian Tate.


C. Q. BILLINGS, 83
7/22/2006
Carroll Quinton Billings, of Abilene, passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2006 at his residence. Services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 24, 2006, at St. James United Methodist Church in Abilene with Rev. John Sanders officiating. Burial will follow in Coleman Cemetery, under the direction of Community Memorial Funeral Home, 1443 N. 2nd St. Visitation will be Sunday, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. C.Q. was born on September 4, 1922, in Coleman County, TX to the late Carroll A. and Lucy (Hall) Billings. He graduated from Coleman High School and attended John Tarleton State College. He moved to Abilene from Coleman in 1952 and was a member of St. James United Methodist Church and a member of the Big Country Emmaus Community. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946; and retired from the Abilene Police Department after 25 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Lanell Billings in 1987; his second wife, Lucille Billings in 1996; and a sister, Margaret Withers. Survivors include a son, Jon Billings and wife, Pam, of San Antonio; Lucille's daughters, Joyce Jones and husband, Jansen, of Albany and Marilyn Howk and husband, Fred, of Grand Prairie; a brother, Clovis Billings and wife, Claris, of Coleman; grandchildren, Brian and Lanisa Billings, Greg and Jay Jones, Kami and Brandon Howk; several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to St. James United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 3100 Barrow St., Abilene, TX 79605.


RONNY KADING, 62
7/19/2006
Ronny Kading of Coleman died Wednesday, July 19, 2006 at his residence. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Sam Earp officiating, assisted by Dr. Jeffrey Miller. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Ronny was born March 8, 1944 in Pasadena, Texas, the son of Velma Jean Ray Kading and the late D.C. (Dick) Kading. He grew up in Coleman, attended school in Coleman and graduated from Talpa-Centennial High School in 1962. Ronny served in the National Guard for eight years. For over 25 years, he was a self-employed dairy farmer and was active in ranching his entire life. He also owned and operated a commercial parakeet operation. He married Lana Earp Korzenewski on March 9, 1996 in Coleman. After marrying Lana, Ronny was always willing to help at the funeral home in any way possible. In 2003, he and Lana purchased the Petal Patch Flower Shop. Ronny was an avid motorcycle rider and spent many enjoyable hours riding with his motorcycle buddies. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church. Survivors include his wife, Lana Kading of Coleman; son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Jenny Kading of Coleman; his mother, Velma Jean Kading of Coleman; sister and brother-in-law, Nikki and Ed Reynolds of Bastrop; two step-children, Tricia Hayes, and husband Brad, of San Angelo, Mark Korzenewski of Irving; two grandchildren, Kaeli Kading and Zachary Doyle, both of Coleman; aunt and uncle, Louise and Jim McCain of Nacogdoches; two cousins, Jane Morris of Helena, Alaska, Julie Garrison of Nacogdoches; three nieces and one nephew, Brandi New of Bastrop, Kocoa Higgins of Austin, Ashanti Reynolds of Bastrop and Jeffrey Higgins of Bastrop. He was preceded in death by his father, D.C. Kading, and his grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. J.E. Ray and Mr. & Mrs. Frank Kading. Memorials may be sent to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.
 


ROBERT "MAX" NIXON, 76
7/16/2006
SAN ANGELO - Robert “Max” Nixon was born to Roy and Ella J. Lasseter Nixon in Santa Anna, Texas, on March 29, 1930. He passed away on Friday, July 14, 2006. He was a 1947 graduate of Centennial High School in Coleman County. Services were held at 10:00am Tuesday, July 18, in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel in San Angelo, followed by burial at 2:00pm in Glenrest Cemetery in Big Lake.  Max’s parents; his brother, Curtis Realigh and sister-in-law Doris Nixon; and his sister, Jean Nixon Gardner and her son Bob Gardner, all preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by the mother of his children, Nancy. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Margaret Nossent Nixon; and his daughters, Terry Pool and Edie Joyce and her husband, Mike Joyce, all of San Angelo. He is also survived by stepchildren Debbie Young of San Angelo, Michael Young and his wife, Sonja Young, of Carlsbad, and Valerie Jones and her husband, Billy Jones of Bronte; iece Leslie Gardner Smith; two nephews, Michael Nixon and his wife, Martha Nell of Valera, and Steve Nixon and his wife, Margaret of Monahans; and sister-in-law Ann L. Nixon of Seguin. He also leaves grandchildren Renae Stolly and her husband, Jason of Frisco, and their two children, Jack and Nina, Dacey Roohani and her husband, Bobby of Randallstown, Md., Cpl. Robert Chace Adair, presently on active duty in the Marine Corps, Kristin Blake Adair, Haley Joyce of San Angelo, Megan Young of Carlsbad, and Leah and Ryan Jones of Bronte. Max was a member of First Baptist Church of Bronte and was a bookkeeper by profession. He also actively participated in the Nifty 50’s Group from Reagan County High School in Big Lake.


JAMES C. WOLF, 81
7/14/2006
James Wolf of Coleman died on Thursday, July 13, at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Funeral services were held at 10:00am Monday, July 17 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.  He was born March 14, 1925 in London, Texas. He married Hazel Bennett in Lovington, New Mexico December 28, 1950. He lived in Coleman County most of his life, was a truck driver and member of the 7th Day Adventist Church. Survivors include: his wife, Hazel, of Coleman; a daughter and son-in-law, Jamie and Mike Staha of San Antonio; three sons, Larry Lavaul, Jeff Wolf of Coleman and Douglas Wolf of Dalhart; 1 brother, Junior Wolf of Bright, Texas; 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.


W.S. 'SAM" TOMLINSON, 65
7/14/2006
SANTA ANNA - W.S. ''Sam'' Tomlinson died Thursday, July 13, 2006. Services were at 2:00pm Saturday, July 15, at Netherton Funeral Home Chapel in Brownwood. Interment will follow in Salem Cemetery.


W. A. (STEVE) STEVENS, 82
7/12/2006
W. A. (Steve) Stevens of Coleman, died Wednesday, July 12, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services were held at  2:00 p.m. Friday, July 14, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Stevens was born October 30, 1923 at Camp Colorado, in Coleman County, the son of Leonard W. Stevens and Frank Marion Alexander Stevens. He grew up and attended school at Camp Colorado. He served in the United States Army from 1945 to 1946. He married Iva Mae (Blackie) Taylor on June 12, 1946 in Coleman. He worked at Elkins Service Station, Dry Manufacturing and Taylor Motor Company until retiring in 1985. Mr. Stevens attended Community Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Blackie Stevens of Coleman; two sons and daughters-in-law, Ronald and Brenda Stevens of Brownwood, Gary and Doris Stevens of Clyde; one daughter and son-in-law, Charlotte and Larry Phillips of Odessa; two grandchildren, Christie James of Coleman, Justin Stevens of Brownwood; three great-grandchildren, Riley James, Dalton James and Hailey James, all of Brownwood and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and two sisters. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.


FRANCIS MIRL COX McWHIRTER, 57
7/12/2006
Francis McWhirter passed away at her residence in Coleman on July 8, 2006. Funeral services were held at 10:00am Wednesday, July 12, at the Rockwood Cemetery with Reverend Billy Roberts officiating. Services are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home. She was born December 22, 1948 in the Whon area, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin and Lola Frierson. Survivors include two daughters and one son; one sister, Cleo Coronado of Coleman; two sisters in Christ, Mona Green Cortez and Anna St. Clair Johnson, both of Coleman along with several nieces and nephews.


OLETA WILSON, 94
7/9/06
Oleta Wilson Thate of Coleman, died Friday, July 7, 2006 at Abilene Regional Hospital. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 9, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Joe Hailey officiating, assisted by Joe Pope. Burial was in the Burkett Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mrs. Thate was born July 1, 1912 in Silver Valley, the daughter of B. M. Wilson and Hettie Elizabeth Jones Wilson. She attended school at New Central and graduated from Coleman High School in 1930. On May 21, 1931, she married Richard Clyde Thate. They farmed and ranched in the Burkett area, raising Registered Rambouillet Sheep and Angus Cattle, were members of the Farm Bureau Breeder Feeder Association and the National Rambouillet Sheep Breeder’s Association. Mrs. Thate was active in the Live Oak Home Demonstration Club, serving as president until they disbanded in 1942, when several members went to work in defense plants during World War II. She was also a member of the Cross Plains Garden Club, until the death of her husband on February 25, 1984, when she moved to Coleman. She has been a member of the Coleman County Medical Center Auxiliary since 1986 and a member of the Church of Christ since the age of 14. Survivors include two nieces, Virginia Bethke and husband Monroe and Joyce Anderson and husband Mac, all of Coleman; two nephews, Ben Scott and wife, Debbie of Coleman, David Scott and wife, Amy of Christoval, one sister-in-law, Marjorie Wilson of Coleman; several great nieces and great nephews and great-great nieces and great-great nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers, G. W. Wilson, Ben Wilson and one sister, Billie Louise Scott. Memorials may be made to the Elm Street Church, Hospice of the Big Country or the donor’s favorite charity. Pallbearers will be Ben Scott, David Scott, Mac Anderson, Monroe Bethke, Jodie Anderson, Reave Scott and John Straughan. The family would like to thank her caregivers: Rosa De Los Santos, Pat Allen, Bobbie Kirby, Barbara Brown and Hospice of the Big Country.


CARTER GRAVES, 83

Carter Graves, 83, of Coleman, died Thursday, July 6, 2006 at his residence. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 10, 2006 at Mt. Calvary Church of God in Christ. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery. Mr. Graves was born April 5, 1923 in Waco, the son of James W. Graves and Mable Ratliff Graves. He moved to Coleman with his family in 1929. During World War II, he served in the United States Army, earning the EAME Campaign Medal with four Bronze Stars, American Theater Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. He married Ever Dee Saddler on September 11, 1945 in Coleman. She preceded him in death in August, 1983. He worked at First Coleman National Bank and Allen & Allen Insurance as a janitor for many years. He was a member of the Disabled American Veteran’s, Veteran’s of Foreign Wars and Mt. Calvary Church of God in Christ. Survivors include three daughters, Marva Ann Baker and husband, Tony, Jr., of Coleman, Patsy Kay Baker and husband, Nathaniel, Barbara Graves of Coleman; one son, James Willie Graves and wife, Teresa, of Santa Anna; seven grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter and one grandson. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, July 9, at the funeral home
. Memorials may be sent to the C.H. Hale Prostate Cancer Foundation, Inc., 1000 Post Street, Box 2, Coleman, Texas 76834.


ALFONSO TORRES SANCHEZ, 64

Alfonso Torres Sanchez, 64, of Coleman died Wednesday, July 5, 2006 at Hendrick Medical Center. Funeral services were at  10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 8, 2006 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Mr. Sanchez was born July 12, 1941 in Munzquiz, Coahaulia, Mexico, the son of Dionico Sanchez and Delores Torres Sanchez. He grew up in Mexico and attended school there. He married Lydia Rosales in 1966 in Coleman. He worked for Santa Fe Rail Road and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Survivors include his wife, Lydia Sanchez of Coleman; two daughters, Beatrice Bales and Irene Sanchez both of Coleman; two sons, Alonso Sanchez of Coleman, Alfonso Sanchez, Jr., of Rusk; two brothers, Victor Sanchez and Rudy Sanchez both of Coleman; four sisters, Mary Deleon of Santa Anna, Delores Mendoza, Linda Nunez and Aurelia Rosales all of Coleman; one uncle, Pedro Sanchez of Abilene, eight grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one daughter, Lucy Sanchez.


FLORA "PEGGY" KOENIG, 92

CROSS PLAINS — Flora "Peggy" Koenig, age 92, passed away Wednesday, July 5, 2006 at the Canterbury Villa of Cisco Nursing Home. Funeral services were at  2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 8, 2006 at the Higginbotham Chapel with Bob Pipes officiating; burial will follow in the Cross Plains Cemetery. She was born May 5, 1914 in Callahan County. She graduated from Cross Plains High School. She married Oscar Koenig February 23, 1932 in Coleman, Texas. She is survived by her two children, James Oscar Koenig and wife Lucille of Cross Plains; Georgia Ann Jennings of La Porte; two sisters, Jewel Martin of Abilene; Opal Blakely of Tucson, Arizona; 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.


CLAUD CONNOR BARRINGTON, 78

Claud Connor Barrington, formerly of Brownwood, Texas, passed away at his home in Crosby, Texas on the morning of July 1, 2006.  A graveside service was held on Saturday, July 8 at 11:00am at Greenleaf Cemetery in Brownwood with services under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman. He was born in Coleman County, Texas on January 8, 1928 to Marie and Cecil Barrington. An alumnus of Texas Tech and an accomplished and respected engineer retiring from FMC, he led an interesting and fulfilling life. As part of his work he enjoyed traveling to many places including Scotland, Singapore and Hong Kong. His favorite pastimes included flying, photography, diving, watching the Texas Tech Red Raiders, playing chess, debating politics and spending time with friends and family. He is preceded in death by both parents and one sister, Anna McReynolds. He is survived by his three children, Vicki Louise Campbell of Concan, Texas, Donna Gay Womack of Crosby, Texas and George David Barrington of Channelview, Texas; sisters Flora Young, Rita Faught, and Margaret Day; brother Charles Ray Barrington; eight grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Claud was a loving father, grandfather and faithful friend. His life has greatly impacted others and he will be missed.


MORRIS D. MANN, M.D., 85

Morris D. Mann, M.D. of Coleman died Tuesday, July 4, 2006 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services were held at  2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 6, 2006 at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Jeff Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Dr. Mann was born December 9, 1920 in Fort Worth, the son of Owen Duke Mann and Lucy Morris Mann. He graduated from Brady High School in 1937, the University of Texas at Austin in 1941 and Southwestern Medical Foundation Medical School in December, 1944. He married Sue Moseley on June 2, 1943 in Brady. During World War II, he served a nine month internship at Parkland Hospital in Dallas and served in the United States Air Force, serving in the Medical Corps from 1945 to 1947. After being discharged from the United States Air Force, Dr. Mann served a one year rotating residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Fort Worth. In 1948, Dr. Mann and Sue moved to Coleman and started a medical practice, that he continued for 44 years. Dr. Mann was honored as being named Coleman’s "Citizen of the Year" in 1956, was awarded the highest leader award, the Silver Beaver, from the Boy Scouts, served as president of the school board, was past president and the last charter member of the Rotary Club, received the Bluecat Top Cat award for his work as team physician for 28 years, served on the library board and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, where he was instrumental in the broadcasting of the morning worship service over the local cable network for many years. When Dr. Mann closed his office in 1992, then Coleman Mayor Woody Maddox proclaimed Sunday, October 11 as "Dr. Mann Appreciation Day." During this celebration, several people made presentations to Dr. Mann and Sue. These included two antique lights that are now erected in front of the hospital in their honor. Survivors include his wife, Sue Mann of Coleman; five sons and daughters-in-law, Bob and Sue Mann of Austin, Charles and Gloria Mann of Lampasas, Tom and Candy Mann of Coleman, Bill and Pat Mann of Coleman and Jim and Carol Mann of Arlington; one brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Dorothy Mann of Brady, 14 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Zachary. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 5, 2006 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.


GRACE BOZMAN, 91

Grace Bozman age 91 of Coleman passed away Tuesday June 27, 2006 at Holiday Hill nursing home. Grace was born March 31, 1915 in Baird, Texas to the late Lowrey and Clara Gilliam Blakley . Grace was a housewife and a member of the Methodist Church in Coleman.  Survivors include one sister Betty Blakley of San Angelo, Texas and one nephew Don Bozman of Kingwood, Texas.  Graveside services were held at 10:00am Thursday at the White Chapel cemetery with Dr. Jeff Miller of First United Methodist Church officiating. Internment will follow under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman. 


DENA VINSON, 34

DENA VINSON, age 34 of Coleman died Wednesday, June 28, 2006 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene. Graveside services were held at 10:00am Friday, June 30 at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Daniel Stovall officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Dena Vinson was born August 6, 1971 in Denver, Colorado, the daughter of Jerrell Vinson and Ray Pickett. She grew up in Coleman and graduated from Panther Creek High School in 1990 where she was a cheerleader. Dena worked as a cashier at Allsup’s Convenience Store and was also employed at Dairy Queen. She was Baptist. Survivors include her mother, Ray Pickett of Coleman; father, Jerrell Vinson of Marble Falls; daughter, Kali Ray Strickland of Coleman; one brother, Rickey Spurlock and wife Ruth of Columbia, Tennessee; two nephews, Scott Spurlock and Jeffery Spurlock both of Clarksville, Tennessee; one great-niece, Victoria Belle Spurlock of Clarksville, Tennessee; aunts and cousins. Family visitation will be held on Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice, 1900 Pine, Abilene, Texas 79601.