Cherokee County, Texas

OBITUARIES DECEMBER 2007

Charlie B. Arnold

 Services for Charlie B. Arnold, 98, of Chandler, will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville, with Pastor Tommy Weems officiating, under the direction of Chandler Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery. Mr. Arnold died Dec. 12, 2007, at Chandler Nursing Home. He was born Dec. 7, 1909, in the New Hope community of Jacksonville. He lived in Jacksonville for 85 years and Chandler for 13 years. He retired as a truck driver for the city of Jacksonville. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mart and Altha Arnold. Survivors include his wife, Ruby Arnold of Chandler; his daughter, Shirley S. Martin and husband Harold of Chandler; his sisters, Marie Cotton of Lufkin and Louise Milam of Houston; and his grandson, Larry Taylor. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2007, at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to the Hospice of East Texas. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/14/2007 - 12/15/2007.

 Verdie Mae Talley Banks

 Rusk – Services for Verdie Mae Talley Banks, 96, were held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, December 11, 2007, at Wallace Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk with Brother Don Copeland officiating. Burial was at Mt. Zion Cemetery under the direction of Wallace Thompson Funeral Home, Rusk. Verdie Mae Talley Banks died Saturday morning, December 8, 2007 at Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. She was one of nine children born November 7, 1911 in Rusk County and was a lifelong resident of East Texas. She worked in the grocery business most of her life. She was a member of Memorial Missionary Baptist Church in Rusk. She was also a member of Order of Eastern Star Rusk/Alto Chapter #79. She loved to fish and garden. Verdie loved gospel music and sang alto in quartets for many years. Her love of life and positive attitude brought laughter to all who knew her. Survivors include her only child, Linda Sue Collins and husband Chuck, three Grandchildren, Edwin Kent Miller II and wife Nancy, Plano, Texas; Kelly Jo Miller Renault and husband Mark, Logansport, LA., and Kevin Banks Miller and wife Tonya, Canton, Tx., four Great-Grandchildren Michael Kelton and Kristen Miller, Bullard, Texas, Samuel Miller and Simon Miller, Canton, Texas). She was so pleased to get to know her red-headed (like her) Great-Great Grandson, Kaegan Kelton, Bullard, Texas. Grandsons served as pallbearers. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/12/2007 - 12/13/2007. 

Betty York Beebe

 Graveside services for Betty York Beebe, age 69, of Rusk are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 13, 2007 in Providence Cemetery with Rev. Kenny Knous officiating under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. Beebe died December 9, 2007 in a Jacksonville Hospital. She was born September 10, 1938 in Fort Worth, TX to Jack E. York Sr. and Jimedith Sanders York. She was a resident of Rusk for four years formerly of Galveston, TX. She was one of five first women truck drivers out of Fort Worth, TX in the United States. She was Baptist. Preceded in death by a son, Robert Eugene Beebe, brother, Jack E. York Jr. She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Josh Henry Beebe Jr. of Rusk, son and daughter-in-law, Joseph Lee and Doris Lynn Beebe of Groves, TX, grandson, Chase Justice Beebe of Groves, granddaughter, Rhiannon Leigh Beebe of Groves, son and daughter-in-law, Josh Henry Beebe III and April Michelle Beebe of Navasota, TX, grandson, Hunter Anthony Beebe of Navasota, granddaughter, MaKayla MaryAnn Beebe of Navasota, granddaughter, Elizabeth Paige Beebe of Navasota, grandson, Josh Douglas Beebe of Big Sandy, TX, sister, Joyce York Holmes of Midland, TX, and brother, Larry Robert York of Fort Worth. Family will serve as pallbearers. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/12/2007.

 Richard Antioco Benavides, Jr.

 Master Gunnery Sergeant, USMC Retired, left us on Nov. 30 to report for duty standing guard at the gates of Heaven. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Frankston. Burial will follow at Garden Oaks Memorial Cemetery, Berryville. Benavides was born Sept. 26, 1930, in Dallas to Richard Antioco Benavides, Sr. and Mary Rose Ortega. Benny joined the United States Marine Corps in March of 1950, retiring 30 years later in June of 1980. After leaving the Marine Corps, Benny worked in the Civil Service industry until retiring in 1993 and moving to Berryville. Since his retirement, he has been an active member of the V.F.W. post 5073 in Frankston TX and American Veterans Chapter 125 Berryville. He was a lifetime member of the Marine league “Piney Woods Detachment” and has been an active member of the Hilltop Baptist Church in Berryville. Richard is survived by his Beloved Wife, Betty, formerly of Fairfield; sisters Vi and Debra Franklin of Santa Maria, Ca., and MaryAnn Jordan, Berryville; sons; Richard D. Benavides, Sr. and wife Mim of Arlington., Michael and wife Angie of Fla.; step- daughters, Vanessa Smith and husband Bryan of Fairfield, Stephanie Hillman and husband Gene of Montalba; niece, Dana Large and husband Monte of Berryville; nephew, Albert Benavides and wife Rhonda and children; grand-daughters, Michelle Bottoms and Lisa Neptune of Fairfield, Anita of Ca. and Andrea of ND; grandsons, Phillip Aiken of Dallas, Aaron Neptune and Wife Amy of Fairfield and Great-grandson, Adam Neptune. He was preceded in death by his wives, Lois, Lucille and grandson, Richard D Benavides Jr. The family will receive visitors Friday, Dec. 7 from 6-8 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home, Frankston. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/6/2007 - 12/7/2007. 

Calvin Lawayne Boyd

 Funeral services for Calvin Lawayne Boyd, 46, of Jacksonville will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007, at Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville. The Rev. Orenthia Mason will officiate.

Burial will follow the service at Pine Grove Cemetery, under the direction of Williams Funeral Home, Jacksonville.

 Thelma Bradley

Services for Thelma Bradley, 84, of Dallas, formerly of Rusk, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007 at West Union Faith Ministry with reverends Jimmy Foreman, Marven Whitfield and minister Eric Foreman officiating. Burial will be in Rusk Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Williams Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Bradley died Monday, Dec. 10, 2007 in Dallas. She was born June 13, 1923 in Rusk. She attended Rusk public schools. She was a member of New Wavery Baptist Church and was a former member of Mount Olive Baptist Church. Survivors include her sisters, Artis J. Hoad of Rusk and Dorothy Rusk, of Sacramento, Ca.; and an aunt, Velma Williams of Dallas. Pallbearers will be Jeff Foreman, William Watson, Walter Session, Raymond Chandler, Fredrick Foreman and Eric Bradford. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/14/2007 - 12/15/2007.

Charles Clark

Funeral Services for Charles Clark are scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Benny Walker and James Batton officiating. Interment will be in Old City Cemetery. Mr. Clark passed away Thursday, Dec. 6 in Tyler. He was born January 22, 1922 in Tecula to W.E. and Susie Ross Clark. Charles was in the Army during WWII, he was a Farmer and member of Taylors Chapel Community Church. He is survived by his wife, Ermal Clark; sons and daughters-in-law, Sam and Sharon Clark, of LaRue, Dane and Julie Clark, of Troup; daughters Donna Jordan, Kemp and Janet Clark, of Troup; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter; three sisters, Mary Shamblin, of Mount Selman, Emma Hall, of Plano and Martha and James Gray, of Grapevine and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Steve Tedder, Richard Tedder, Don Hamilton, Alex Hamilton, Roy Shamblin and Jimmy Bolton. The family will receive friends on Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/7/2007 - 12/8/2007 

Ethel Clewis

Services for Ethel Clewis, 72, of New Summerfield, will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007, at Grace Temple Church of God in Christ, with Elder Samuel Jones officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, under the direction of Williams Funeral Home.

Mrs. Clewis died Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007, in Jacksonville. She was born Feb. 26, 1935.

Irma O. “Benge” Coltellaro

 Funeral services for Irma O. “Benge” Coltellaro, 79 of Jacksonville, Texas are scheduled for Friday, December 21, 2007 at 2:00 P. M. at Autry Funeral Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. Leon Ross and Rev. David Smith presiding. Burial will follow at Jarratt Cemetery. Mrs. Coltellaro died Monday, December 17, 2007 in Jacksonville, TX. She was born September 23, 1928 in Ironton to Wesley Smith Benge and Laura Clayborne. She was a member of Craft Baptist Church and was a homemaker. Mrs. Coltellaro was preceded in death by husband Gabriel N. Coltellaro and son Kip D. Coltellaro. Survivors are sons and daughter-in-law Gabriel Sky Coltellaro, Jacksonville and Kim Wesley and Janet Coltellaro, Rockwall, grandchildren Gabrien D. Coltellaro, Nikki Rose Coltellaro, Roman Gabriel Coltellaro, and Tiffany Redmond, great grandchildren Valerie Redmond, Anthony Redmond, and Natalie Redmond. Pallbearers will be: Weldon Lightsey, Paul Galyean, Perry Morgan, Larry White, Scott Alexander, and Dwayne Partain. Honorary pallbearers will be: Leon Gaylor and Floyd Barrington.The family will receive friends Thursday, December 20, 2007 from 6:00 p. m. – 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/20/2007.

 Grace M. Douglas

 Memorials in her name may be made to the Charity of Choice.

Memorial services for Grace Douglas, 85, will be held Thursday, Dec. 13th at 10 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville, Texas. Mrs. Douglas passed away Thursday, Dec. 6th at Legend Oaks in Jacksonville. Grace Marcynthia Mullens was born on May 1, 1922 in Bristow, Oklahoma. After 30 years of raising her family and community volunteerism, Grace returned to college at East Texas State University and received a Masters Degree in Counseling. She moved to Everett, Washington where she began an 11 year career as Director of Counseling for Volunteers of America. During that time Grace served on nearly a dozen boards, task forces, committees and associations in the areas of adult education, mental health, childcare, the homeless and general human service program improvements. She retired to Ocean Shores, Washington, where she became active in the community and served on the board of the Ocean Shores Community Club. She moved to Jacksonville, Texas in 2005 to be closer to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mrs. Douglas was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Grace Mullens and her brother Chuck Mullens. Survivors include daughters Sharon Shuler and husband Rich of Johns Creek, Georgia, Cynthia Durrett and her husband Dennis of Jacksonville, Texas; sons Mac Douglas and wife Jana of Amarillo, Texas and David Douglas and wife Debi of the Kingdom of Bahrain; grandchildren Scott Shuler and wife Carrie of Roswell, Georgia; Joel Shuler and wife Lisi of Austin, Texas; Natalie Dawson and husband Von of Jacksonville , Texas; Ashley Durrett of Houston, Texas; Jennifer Daniel and husband Bryan of Amarillo, Texas; Rachelle Collins and husband Jonathan of Petersburg, Texas; Christen Douglas of Lubbock, Texas; Clark Douglas and Tyler Douglas of the Kingdom of Bahrain; great grandchildren Aiden and Nate Shuler; Von and Gracie Dawson; Preston and Brittan Daniel. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Hope, 595 S. Ragsdale, Jacksonville or the Crisis Center, 700 E. Cherokee, Jacksonville, Texas 75766 or the charity of your choice. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/12/2007.

Donna Dowling

Funeral services for Donna Dowling, 49, of Jacksonville, Texas are pending at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville.

Mrs. Dowling died Tuesday, December 18, 2007 in Jacksonville.

She was born in Jacksonville on December 22, 1957.

Joe Cecil “Stem” Durrett

Services for Joe Cecil “Stem” Durrett, 67 of Jacksonville are pending with Autry Funeral Home.

Mr. Durrett passed away on Tuesday, December 11th in Dallas. He was born December 2, 1940 to Thomas Durrett & Marie Fletcher in Jacksonville. He is survived by his wife Christa Fugett Durrett.

Robert Earl Ellis

 Robert Earl Ellis died on Dec. 4 from complications arising from a para-gliding accident in Utah. Rob was born April 12, 1953 in Port Arthur, the son of Herbert G. (deceased) and Lawanda L. Ellis of Jacksonville, Texas. He was the eldest brother of Reed Ellis of Dallas and Russell Ellis of Rusk. When he was three years old, his father took a job with Aramco, and the family moved to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia where Rob grew up. He returned to the United States in 1967 to attend high school at the Allen Military Academy in Bryan, Texas. After graduation in 1969, Rob joined the United States Navy where he served 25 years, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer. During his career in the Navy he served two tours in Vietnam, as well as sailing with both the Pacific and Mediterranean Fleets. The last 15 years of his navy career were as an Explosives Ordinance Disposal (EOD) technician. In this position he was responsible for the hazardous work of disarming and disposing of weapons and explosives, a job at which he excelled. He eventually became an instructor for the Navy’s EOD School in Indianhead, Maryland where he helped develop new methods and instructional material for the school. After retirement from the Navy, Rob returned to the Jacksonville area and started his own business developing and building low-cost rocket motors for the model rocketry community. During his entire life, Rob was never still, always building or inventing new things. Up until his death he never stopped loving life at full tilt. He was an avid sailor, scuba diver, pilot, parachutist, marksman, and inventor. But no matter where his work took him, or how busy he was, he was always the bedrock of his family. He was the source of strength and consistency for his parents and brothers as well as an ideal and exceptional role model for his three nephews and his two nieces. Rob leaves behind his mother, Lawanda L. Ellis of Jacksonville; brothers and sisters-in-law, James Russell and Dixie Ellis of Rusk, Reed and Lucy Ellis of Dallas; uncle and aunt, Billy and Pat Ellis of Nederland, aunt Virginia Richardson of Lufkin, aunt Geraldine Watson of Silsbee, aunt Faye Lane of Tyler; nephews, Erich, Stephen, and Robert Ellis, and nieces, Lara and Teisha Ellis. Rob will be buried near his father at a Graveside service at Earle’s Chapel Cemetery on Sunday, Dec. 9, at 2 p.m. under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. No formal visitation is scheduled. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/7/2007 - 12/8/2007.

Earl Bradford Fails

 Funeral services for Earl Bradford Fails, 70, of Troup, Texas are scheduled for Saturday, December 22, 2007, 1:00 P. M. at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville, Texas with Rev. Douglas Cummins and Rev. Joe Ballard officiating. Burial will follow at the Mixon Cemetery. Mr. Fails died Tuesday, December 18, 2007 in Tyler, TX.He was born in Freestone County, TX. on October 13, 1937. Mr. Fails was a member of Mixon Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. He was a tool and die maker. He was preceded in death by grandsons Billy Earl Crutsinger and William Jack Fails, daughter Tonya LeAnne Partin, brothers Carl and Jim Billy Fails, and parents William and Laura Fails. He is survived by spouse Patty Sherian Fails, Mixon, daughters and sons-in-law Pamela Earlene Staples, Denton, Annecye’ Fae and John Beasley, Mixon, Julie Allison and Pat Bartton, Mixon and Amy Camille and Kevin Huckabee, Mixon, grandchildren Jennifer Huckabee, Amande’ Morse, Lyndsey Fabinski, Chancie Petty, Kendal Huckabee and AnTonya Bartton, great grandchildren Lauren Morse, Justin Kye Petty and Grasen Morse, brothers and sisters Vernon Fails and Toby Fails, both of Fairfield, Gertrude Paslay, Kemp and Linda Sliger, Jacksonville, and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be: Darren Partin, Aaron Laube, Eddie Paslay, Dennis Partin, Vernon Ray Fails, Jr. and Joe Edd Partin, Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be: Kevin Huckabee, Robert Fails and Larry Massey. The family will receive friends Friday, December 21, 2007 from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at the funeral home in Jacksonville, TX. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/20/2007.

 Laura Ayn Felder

Graveside services for Laura Ayn Felder, 62, of College Station, will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Shiloh Cemetery near Alto, with the Rev. Bob Lewis officiating.

Mrs. Felder died Tuesday in College Station. She was born April 20, 1945, in Houston. No formal visitation has been scheduled.

Derek Gilbert

Memorial services for Derek Gilbert are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2007 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel with the Revs. David Hallum, and Shawn Burch officiating. Derek died Saturday Dec. 22, 2007 in Jacksonville suddenly at the age of 44. He was born Oct. 29, 1963 in Dallas. He was a Baptist and worked in Houston for Amazing Siding. Survivors include his parent Derrell and Charlotte Gilbert of Bullard; sister and brother-in-law Kelly and Cory Fowler of Bullard; a brother and sister-in-law, Daniel and Vicky Adelstine of Columbus, Ga. Honorary Pallbearers will be Morgan Gilbert, Alec Gilbert, Eric Burch, Jeff Joyce, Brad Joyce and Cory Fowler The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, Dec. 26, from 1-2 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/26/2007 - 12/28/2007.

Julian Earl “J. E.” Gilliam

Funeral services for Julian Earl “J. E.” Gilliam, 81, Troup, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2007 at the Church of Christ, in New Summerfield with Andy Cox presiding. Burial will follow at the McDonald Cemetery, New Summerfield. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Gilliam died Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007 in Tyler. He was born March 2, 1926 in Ponta. He served in the U. S. Army during World War II and received a Purple Heart. He was a member of the Church of Christ, Ponta. He was a lifetime member of V.F.W., and member of American Legion # 418 in Troup, TX. Mr. Gilliam was employed by Smith Auto Parts in Troup for 20 years Mr. Gilliam is preceded in death by his parents, Wayne Ottis Gilliam and Sudie Bell Gray Gilliam and brother, Billy Gene Gilliam. He is survived by wife, Sherma Gilliam, of Troup; son, Bill Sanders, of Tyler; daughters and sons-in-law, Judy and Dean Jones, of Jacksonville and Trudy and Ronnie Case, of Lindale; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Joe Merchant, of Jacksonville. The family will receive friends on Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007 from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Hospice HomePlace 4111 University Blvd. Tyler, TX. 75701. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/9/2007.

 Louise Hall

 Graveside services for Louise Hall, 77, of Jacksonville, are scheduled for Tuesday Dec. 4, 2007, at 10 a.m. at Larissa Cemetery Jacksonville, with Rev. Mickey Wagoner presiding. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Hall died Saturday, Dec. 1, 2007 in LaRue. She was born in Jacksonville on June 12, 1930 to Jack and Elsie Dorsett, and was later married to James Conrad Hall in 1950. Mrs. Hall was a member of Beall Chapel Baptist Church and a homemaker. Louise was preceded in death by her husband and parents and also a son Thomas Leslie Hall; brother Jack “Sonny” Dorsett, Jr.; and sister Imogene Dorsett Medley. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Brenda K. Hall of Jacksonville; grandson Conrad Hall of Jacksonville; granddaughters Jodie M. Splawn of Athens and Amanda M. Thomas of Conroe; great grandchildren Colby Marie Splawn of Athens and Kaitlan Beaux Hall of Jacksonville; brother and sister-in-law Howard and Shirley Dorsett of Mesquite; sister-in-law Sue Dorsett Hodges of Jacksonville; and niece Carol Birdwell of Wiley. Pallbearers will be James Michael Tarrant, Eric Jack Tarrant, Nicky Joe Tarrant and Randy Ragsdale. The family will receive friends Monday Dec. 3, 2007 from 6 -8 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Special thanks to Hospice of Cedar Lake. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/3/2007 - 12/4/2007.

 Ethel Jewel Harris

 Services for Ethel Jewel Harris, 92, of Bullard, will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007, at Corinth Baptist Church in Bullard, with Rev. Davis officiating, under the direction of Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Burial will be at Corinth Cemetery.

Viewing will be 1-6 p.m. The family will receive friends at 6-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2007, at the funeral home.

 Eva Marie Helm

 Funeral services for Eva Marie Helm, 42, of Lufkin and formerly of Jacksonville will be held Sunday, Dec. 9 at 2 p.m. at the O.T. Allen and Son Funeral Home in Alto with Pastor Mike Williams officiating. Burial will be in the Meador Cemetery in Jacksonville. Helm died Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 in Lufkin. She was born Oct. 12, 1966 in Kountze to Albert Gene and Katy Lee Murray Helm. She lived in Jacksonville for many years and had lived in Lufkin for four years. She was a homemaker and had worked as a nurse's aide in a Lufkin nursing home. She was preceded in death by her father, Gene Helm and daughter, Reveka Serrato. Survivors include her mother, Katy; daughter, Alisha Castilo of Longview; sons, Ryan Serrato of Dallas and Stephen Serrato of Palestine; sisters, Peggy Juarez of Jacksonville, Leann Helm of Kilgore, Sacora May of Fred and Kelly Juarez of Jacksonville; brother, Grady Matthew Helm of Spurger; granddaughter, Alexia Monsiuais; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Saturday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home in Alto. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/9/2007.

 Jose Carmen Hernandez

Funeral services for Jose Carmen Hernandez, 56, of New Summerfield, are scheduled for Monday, Dec. 10, 2007 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Jacksonville with Father Mark Kusmirek presiding. Burial will follow at Union Chapel Cemetery, New Summerfield. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Hernandez died Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007 in Tyler. He was born in La Mesa Alta, GTO, Mexico on May 31, 1951 to Jose Hernandez and Maria Suarez Hernandez. He was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Jacksonville and a plant farm employee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Hernandez and Maria Suarez Hernandez. He is survived by wife, Jovita Gudelia Hernandez, of New Summerfield; son and daughter-in-law, Juan Manuel and Jeanne Hernandez (Alonzo), of New Summerfield; daughters and sons-in-law, Ana and Arturo Paredes, of New Summerfield, Alicia and Francisco Balderas, of New Summerfield, Camelia and Edgar Calvillo, of Jacksonville, Gloria Hernandez, of Ponta and Rosalinda Hernandez, of New Summerfield; brothers and sisters-in-law, Cristino and Honorina Hernandez, of New Summerfield, Leopoldo and Manuela Hernandez, of Naples, Fla.; sisters and brothers-in-law, Josefina Hernandez, of Arlington, Yolanda and Pueblo Sanchez, of Mexico and Maria Luisa and Andres Mendoza, of Mexico; 17 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Rene Suarez, David Suarez, Miguel Suarez, and Guadalupe Mata. The honorary pallbearers will be Leopoldo Hernandez, Cristino Hernandez, Juan Manuel Hernandez and Tim Tipton. Rosary will be Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007 at 7 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/9/2007.

 Hubert Holman

 Funeral services for Hubert Holman, 97, of Henderson, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007, at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Mount Enterprise, with the Rev. Greg Lynn, Elder Roy McClelland and Brother Kelvin Dansby officiating. Burial will be in Mount Zion Cemetery in Mount Enterprise, under the direction of Jenkins-Garmon Funeral Home in Henderson.

Mr. Holman was born Aug. 10, 1910, in Mount Enterprise. He died Dec. 2, 2007, at ETMC-Jacksonville.

Public viewing will be 1-6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, 2007, at the funeral home. Family visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. at the funeral home.

 Roberta "Bobbie" Hurt

 Roberta "Bobbie" Hurt, was born to Eugene and Jennie (Horn) Holmes on March 22, 1924, in Cisco, Texas. She died Nov. 29, 2007, at Grace Living Center at the age of 83. Memorial services were held at 10 a.m., Friday, Dec. 7, 2007, at First Christian Church in Norman with Rev. David Spain officiating. Arrangements handled by Havenbrook Funeral Home of Norman, Okla.

In lieu of flowers, Mrs. Hurt requested that contributions be made to the First Christian Church Building Fund, 220 S. Webster, Norman, Okla. 73069; the American Cancer Society, 625 N. Meridian, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73116; or the charity of your choice.

 Kenneth Dwain Jennings

Funeral services for Kenneth Dwain Jennings, 66, Jacksonville, TX. are scheduled for Friday, December 21, 2007 at 10:00 A. M. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. James Farmer presiding. Burial will follow at Union Grove Cemetery, Troup. Mr. Jennings died Wednesday, December 19, 2007 in Tyler, TX. after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on October 20, 1941 in McPherson, KS. to Ray William Jennings and Minnie Lou Dowdy Jennings. He was a member of Lake Area Church, Frankston and was an oil field roughneck. He was preceded in death by father Ray William Jennings, brother William Leon Jennings and granddaughter Holly Cheree’ Jennings. Survivors are wife Charlotte Jennings, Jacksonville, mother Minnie Lou Bland, Jacksonville, sons and daughters-in-law Rocky and Naomi Jennings, Rusk, Kenneth R. and Paula Jennings, Longview and Charles and MaLon Jennings, Tyler, daughter and son-in-law Brenda and John Smoker, Lindale, brothers Bob Jennings, Sedan, KS. And Dan Jennings, New Summerfield, sister Jackie Carter, Longview, 15 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be: Brandon Jennings, Brad Smoker, Chris Smoker, Kevin Jennings, Kodi Jennings, Blake Reid and Josh Jennings. Honorary pallbearers will be: Jose Reyes, Ramond Dunford, Wayne Duke and Stephen Reed. The family will receive friends Thursday, December 20, 2007, 6-8 p. m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/20/2007.

 Florence “Cricket” Kelley

 A private graveside service is scheduled for Florence “Cricket” Kelley, 83, of Jacksonville, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. Ms. Kelley died Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2007 in Jacksonville. “Cricket” was born on March 4, 1924 in Dialville, to John Avery Fitts and Ada Jane Bryant. She was a homemaker. Survivors include son John Jay Lynch, of Trinity; daughters Paula Massey, of Jacksonville and Jan Chandler, of Gallatin; nine grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, two brothers, four sisters and several nieces and nephews In lieu of flowers memorials maybe made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N Michigan, Floor 17, Chicago, Ill. 60601. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/27/2007 - 12/28/2007.

Richard (Dick) F. Klein

 Richard (Dick) F. Klein, former resident of Covina and Apple Valley California and Bullard Texas, passed away December 8, 2007 at the age of 76.   Born in Maywood, California, he served in the US Army during the Korean War, was President and Founder of Klein Products located in Ontario California and Klein Products of Texas located in Jacksonville, Texas. Prior to his passing, Dick was a longtime distinguished member of the Rotary Club of Ontario and volunteer Lieutenant for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s department.He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy E. Klein and son, Richard D. Klein, both in 1992.  He will forever be remembered and loved by his wife, Eileen K. Klein; sons, Scott E. Klein and Barry K. McManus; daughters, Bonnie L. Giron and Barbara L. Klein; brother, Jack W. Klein; sisters, Dorothy L. Schmertz and Eleanor Baker; his 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.   A visitation will be held from 6 to 8pm Thursday, December 13, with a funeral service to celebrate his life on Friday, December 14 at 10 am both at White's Funeral Home. Concluding services and interment will be at Live Oak Memorial Park, Monrovia.   In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Nevada Cancer Institute, 10000 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 260, Las Vegas, NV  89135. Please call (702) 821-0000 for their contribution forms. White’s Funeral Home, 404 E. Foothill Blvd., Azusa (626-334-2921) assisting the family. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/12/2007.

 Lillian Inez Lang

 Funeral services for Lillian Inez Lang, 82, of Jacksonville, are scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007, 2 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville, with Rev. Andy Cox presiding. Burial will follow at the Concord Cemetery. Mrs. Lang died Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007 in Katy. She was born in Concord. on Aug. 19, 1925 to Delbert and Jeffie Hall Stewart. Mrs. Lang was a member of First Church of the Nazarene, Jacksonville. She was an outstanding student at Nan Travis Hospital Nursing School and graduated in 1974. She was a retired L.V.N. Mrs. Lang was preceded in death by her first husband, Howard White in 1944 and her second husband of 38 years, Fuller Lang; son, Jimmie Lang; father, Delbert Stewart and mother, Jeffie Stewart Odom; and brother, Gable E. Stewart. She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Larry Poag, of Katy; grandchildren and their spouses, Tim and Lisa Poag and Renee and Danny Petty; eight great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; brothers and sisters-in-law, D. L. and Alice Stewart, of Troup, Hall and Romelda Stewart, Lufkin and sister-in-law, Rose Stewart, Woodville. Pallbearers will be James Blaine Stewart, Mark Stewart, Ronnie Smith, Tim Poag, Danny Petty and Bart Stewart. The honorary Pallbearer will be Kevin Stewart. The family will receive friends Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007 from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/9/2007.

 Harvey Ray Latimer II

Memorial services for Harvey Ray Latimer II of Chandler will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2007, at Mt. Selman United Methodist Church with Rev. Diane Craver officiating, under the direction of the family. Harvey went home to his Lord on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007. He was born Sept.22, 1954, in Aruba to the late Harvey Latimer and Patsy Thomason Latimer. He attended schools in Libya and Spain before his family moved back to the U.S. He spent close to thirty years in the plastic injection molding industry. In 2006, he left his supervisory position at Myco Plastics in Jacksonville when his life was changed by cancer. Harvey was a very spiritual man who loved God, life and his family. He leaves many wonderful memories of his entertaining sense of humor and his everlasting faith. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Teresa Latimer of Chandler; sons, Chris Latimer of Tyler, Nathan Latimer of Tyler and Seth Latimer of Chandler; daughters, Fawn Cowart and husband T.C. of Whitehouse and Angela Defoore and husband Scott of Brownsboro; sister, Sherre Thurman and husband Stan of Troup; six grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, Texas 75701.Arrangements by Hilliard Funeral Home, Van. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/5/2007.

 LaVerne Joyce Lindsey

 Funeral services for LaVerne Joyce Lindsey, 79 of Frankston, Texas are scheduled for Friday, December 21, 2007 at 10:00 A. M. at Autry Funeral Chapel, Frankston with Rev. J. A. Griffin and Rev. James Farmer presiding. Burial will follow at Frankston City Cemetery. Mrs. Lindsey died Wednesday, December 19, 2007 in Jacksonville, TX. She was born June 28, 1928 in Frankston to the late Len and Ester Henderson. She was a member of Frankston Assembly of God and was a caretaker. Mrs. Lindsey was preceded in death by parents and sister Amanda Adams. Survivors are sons Curtis Grubbs, Coffee City, and Edward Grubbs, Frankston, daughters and sons-in-law Shirley and David Nolen, Frankston and Debra and David Harrell, Frankston, brother Bobby Jack Henderson, Frankston, 8 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be: Danny Shires, Justin Tippett, Trent Nolen, Ronny Nolen, David Harrell, and David Nolen. The family will receive friends Thursday, December 20, 2007 from 6:00 p. m. – 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Frankston. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/20/2007.

 Estacia Mason

 Estacia Mason, of Abilene, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007 at the age of 97. The visitation and funeral service will both be held in the chapel at Hillcrest Church of Christ. Visitation will be on Friday, Dec. 7, from 6-8 p.m., and the funeral service, with Bill Luttrell officiating, will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park. Services are under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Born in Sylvester, Texas on June 30, 1910, Estacia was the daughter of John Gray Morgan and Mattie (Chaffin) Morgan. After graduating from high school in Lott, she attended John Tarleton College in Stephenville. She then attended Baylor University in Waco and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Texas in Austin. Furthering her education, Estacia graduated from Texas Women’s University in Denton with a Master of Science Degree. On Nov. 22, 1938, Estacia married Robert Houston Mason in Hallettsville, Texas. She taught in the Carlisle Public School District for 26 years and was a Home Demonstration Agent for 3 years. In 1984, Estacia moved to Abilene from Jacksonville, Texas. She was a member of Hillcrest Church of Christ. Estacia was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Mason in 1988 and one brother and one sister. She is survived by her daughter, Marinell Watts and her husband Jim, of Abilene; three grandchildren, Paul Watts and his wife Susan, of Wichita, Kansas, Heather Tidmore and her husband Taylor, of Columbia, Missouri, Holly Grant and her husband Ben, of Warner Robins, Georgia; and five great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made in honor of Estacia Mason to Windcrest Alzheimer’s Care Center, 6050 Hospital Drive, Abilene, Texas 79606.Online condolences may be sent to: www.HamilFamilyFuneralHome.com Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/7/2007 - 12/8/2007.

 Judge Williard Mosley

Services for Judge Williard Mosley, 82, of Dallas, formerly of Jacksonville, will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007, at Pennel Chapel C.M.E. Church in Jacksonville, with the Rev. Tommy Starks officiating, under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery. Mr. Mosley died Dec. 7, 2007, in Dallas. He was born Dec. 12, 1924, in Jacksonville. He attended Pine Grove Public School, and was a member of Pennel Chapel C.M.E. Church. He was an Army veteran who served during World War II. Survivors include his daughter, Lu-Verl Davis and husband Harry of Dallas; his grandsons, Victor, Vincent and Van of Dallas; his aunt, Rosella Landon of Dallas; several nieces, nephews and other relatives. Pallbearers include, Gerald Porter, Justin Jones, Kirby Jones Jr., Lester Dennis, Cornell Boseman and Marcowenton Dennis. Visitation will be 6-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, 2007, at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/14/2007 - 12/15/2007.

Gloria Nell Neeley

 Services for Gloria Nell Neeley, 69, of Bullard are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007, at First Baptist Church of Gresham with the Rev. Roy Thoene and the Rev. Tom Pesnell officiating. Burial will follow at Teaselville Cemetery under the direction of Lloyd James Funeral Home. Mrs. Neeley passed away on Monday Dec. 3, 2007, at her residence. She was born on July 17, 1938 in Hamilton County to the late Willis Fredrick and Clida Cornelia Callaway Ganske. She was a homemaker, a member of First Baptist Church of Gresham and the Busy Bee Quilt Guild. She was preceded in death by her husband Harvie Neeley in 2004; granddaughter, Dana (Lackey) Gordon and sister, Dorothy (Ganske) Wright. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Glenda and Bryan Towery of Chandler and Nancy and Jerry Crook of Flint; sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Tammi Neeley of Jacksonville, Johnny Neeley of Bullard and Billy and Judy Neeley of Athens; brother and sister-in-law, Tommy and Barbara Ganske of Jacksonville; sister, Frances Allen of Smyrna, Ga.; special friend, Ruth Johnson of Flint, 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Kenny Winston, Edwin Link, Weldon Ganske, Greg Ganske, Ricky Neeley and Larry Wright. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, 75701 in lieu of flowers. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/6/2007.

Marie Norris

 Funeral services for Marie Norris, 76, of New Summerfield, will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21, 2007 at Williams Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. W.D. Brown officiating. Burial will be in Plainview Cemetery, Ponta under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Mrs. Norris died Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007 in Frankston Healthcare Center. She was born Dec. 22, 1930 in Jones County. She attended Jones County Public Schools. Survivors include her sister, Clara Johnson of New Summerfield and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers include Anthony Johnson, Tommy Cleaver, Byron Johnson and E.J. Henderson. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/19/2007 - 12/20/2007.

 Carrie Osborn

Funeral services for Carrie Osborn, 85, of Jacksonville, are pending with Autry Funeral Home. Osborn died Wednesday, Dec. 5.

Margie Mae Pond

 Margie Mae Pond was born Oct. 4, 1909 to Hiram Clifton Brown and Wilimina Brown in New Emmaus. Mrs. Pond was a homemaker and caregiver and spent most of her adult life in the community of Concord. Mrs. Pond was preceded in death by her brother Leon Brown and her husband Ernest Pond. Margie leaves behind two loving daughters and a son-in-law, Thelma Dain Senter of Granbury, and JoAnn and Lamont Stuart of Whitehouse; son and daughter-in-law Ernest Jr. and Tiny Pond of Troup; 12 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 36 great-great-grandchildren.  Mrs. Pond also leaves behind numerous friends and family, caretakers from Heart to Heart Hospice, Oakbrook Nursing Home and special friend and physician Dr. Rodney Wiseman. Margie was a loving and caring person who loved to fish with her grandsons, play 42 and to bake and cook for her family and friends. In her later years, Mrs. Pond resided in Oakbrook Nursing Home in Whitehouse. Pallbearers will be her grandsons and great-grandsons Gerald Senter, Dean Senter, Erik Pond, Jimmy Stuart, Steven Stuart, Kris Senter, Craig Stuart and Drew Kelly. Funeral services will be held Friday Dec. 28, 2007 at 2 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Henry Dial will officiate. Visitation will be Thursday Dec. 27, 2007 from 5-7 p.m. Burial will be at the New Emmaus Cemetery. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/26/2007 - 12/28/2007.

 Mrs. Leslie Grace Rafferty 

Memorial services for Mrs. Leslie Grace Rafferty 81, of Jacksonville will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Renfro Memorial Chapel at Boren-Conner Funeral Home with the Rev. Lester Foreman officiating. The funeral is under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Mrs. Rafferty died Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007, at a local hospital. She was born Dec. 19, 1925, in Plymouth, Mich. She lived the past nine years in Jacksonville and previously lived in Summerville, Texas. She was a Baptist. She was supervisor for Cigna Insurance Co. She was a member of the Summerville Eastern Star. She loved attending the Jacksonville Sneior Citizens dances and rarely missed a dance with her loving husband. She is survived by her husband, Bob Rafferty of Jacksonville; son, bob Rafferty and wife, Nikki, of Smithville, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/17/2007.

 Bill Raines Jr.

 Funeral services for Bill Raines, Jr., 77 of Jacksonville are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at Earle’s Chapel Methodist Church with Rev. David Kennedy officiating; burial will follow in Earle’s Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. Mr. Raines was born on March 17, 1930, in Marshall to William and Marianna Raines and died on Dec. 1, 2007 in Tomball. Survivors include a son, William H. Jr. and Cheryl Raines of Houston; daughter, Elizabeth Earle Raines, of Cypress and a brother, Morgan Van Raines, of Scottland. Visitation will begin on Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 with family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/7/2007 - 12/8/2007.

 Pauline Rainwater

 Pauline Rainwater, 86, of Jacksonville, passed from this life Dec. 18, 2007 at Gardendale nursing home. Funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday Dec. 20, 2007 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel Jacksonville with Phillip Strong presiding. Burial will be at Myrtle Springs Cemetery, Ponta. Mrs. Rainwater was born Sept. 16, 1921 in Missouri to the late James and Lilly Summers. Pauline was also a member of the Southside Church of Christ, Jacksonville she was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Silas Ross “S.R.” Rainwater; sons, Richard and Charles Rainwater. She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Roy Rainwater and wife Pam of Indiana, Gene Rainwater and wife Daisy of Missouri; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and many extended family and friends who loved her. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of East Texas, Tyler. Pallbearers are Luke Smith, Terry Brochelman, Mike Terry, Michael Terry, Shawn Smith and Jeff Hancock. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 17 at the funeral home, Jacksonville Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/19/2007 - 12/20/2007.

 Ida Roberts

 Funeral services for Ida Roberts, 79, of Jacksonville, will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2007 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be in Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville. Mrs. Roberts died Saturday in Jacksonville. She was born Jan. 7, 1928 in Monroeville, Alabama. She was a member of New Hope Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Jacksonville Chapter of The Order of The Eastern Star. Mrs. Roberts was a retired Machine Operator for Western Lithotech of Jacksonville. She is survived by Sons; Andy Andrews and Bill Andrews both of Jacksonville. 9 Grandchildren and 20 Great Grandchildren. Nieces and Nephews. Pallbearers are Jimmy Causey, Cole Lucian, Ronald Davidson, Ronny Morris, Mike Steel, and Mike Andrews. Visitation will be Monday from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/11/2007.

 Marjorie Ann Samples

Marjorie Ann Samples, 54, of Bullard, passed away Dec. 2, 2007, in Longview. She was born June 10, 1953. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, Charles Samples. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Lena Marie Carlile; a daughter, Stephanie Samples; a son, Charles Samples Jr.; and a brother, George Carlile. Marjorie is survived by a sister and brother-in-law, Glenda and Rodney Roper of Tyler; and two brothers and sisters-in-law, Thomas and Jackie Carlile of Noonday and Freddie and Lisa Carlile of Whitehouse. She also had numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held to honor her life at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007, at Mt. Selman United Methodist Church. Local arrangements have been under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Mt. Selman United Methodist Church Memorial Fund. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/7/2007 - 12/8/2007.

Ted Scott

 Funeral services for Ted Scott of Whitehouse are pending with Mercy-McGowan Funeral. Scott died Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 in West Wood Nursing Home, Troup.

Daniel George “Danny” Shaw

A gathering of family and friend for Daniel George “Danny” Shaw will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, 2007 at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Shaw passed away Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007 at a Tyler hospital. Danny was born in Tucson, Ariz. on Dec. 4, 1951 to George Washington and Florence Yeager Shaw. He worked at Federal Heath Signs as a lead man and was also a member of the IBEW Union 1151.He was preceded in death by his mother Florence Yeager Shaw. Mr. Shaw is survived by his wife, Alicia Shaw of Rusk; a son, Adam Shaw; three daughters, Maya Leanna Shaw, Alisa Green of Rusk, and Brandy Mayes of Wynona; two brothers, John William Shaw of Lovelady and Harold “Rocky” Allen Shaw of Tyler; and a sister, Cindy Shaw of Irving. Danny is also survived by three grandchildren, several nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/6/2007.

 James Edward Shoffner

 James Edward Shoffner was born July 12, 1946, in Jacksonville, Texas. Jim went to be with his Heavenly Father on November 27, 2007, in Sacramento, Calif. He had been battling cancer for several years. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Edward Martin (Dan) Shoffner; mother, Norma Tucker Shoffner; and sister, Sandra Shoffner. Jim is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Keith and wife, Ruth Ann; daughter, Jenifer and husband, Daniel; grandsons, Richy and Danny; granddaughter, Cimberly, Allison and Drew — all of Sacramento; brother, Dan Tucker Shoffner and wife, Ann; and sister, Marcele Wilson — all of Jacksonville; and brother, Normal Neal Shoffner and wife, Margaret, of Northern California. Jim was a parts manager for Ford agencies in California. He was an avid surfer and water skier and loved spending time at the beach with his family in California and Hawaii. Jim was a Baptist and member of East Parkway Bible Church in Sacramento and loved his church and the Rev. Billy Steen. Services will be held at East Parkway Bible Church on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/5/2007.

Bobbie Louise Dickey Smith

 Services for Bobbie Louise Dickey Smith, 75 of the Maydelle-Palestine area are pending with Autry Funeral Home.

Mrs. Smith passed away on Thursday, Dec. 6 in Tyler. She was preceded in death by her husband: Shelby Smith.

Jack Hix Tench

 Funeral services for Jack Hix Tench, 70, Reklaw, are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 28, 2007 at 10 a.m. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Father Mark Kusmirek presiding. Burial will follow at Walkers Chapel Cemetery, Reklaw. Mr. Tench died Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2007 in Reklaw. Jack was born on Aug. 2, 1937 in Aliquippa, Penn., to Walter Baxter Tench and Willie Faulkner Tench. He joined the Air Force on Sept. 2, 1954 and served in Aircraft Maintenance. He was discharged Sept. 1, 1962. On July 14, 1956 he married the love of his life Dorothy Lee Pavalock at All Saint’s Catholic Church in Houston. Jack worked for General Electric in Houston for 28 years and retired at the age of 48, moved to Reklaw, and built his own house from lumber he milled himself. Although raised Baptist, he attended Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church with his wife Dorothy. Jack considered himself a Christian, above all. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Cory V. Lunsford. Jack is survived by his wife Dorothy Lee Pavalock Tench; daughters and sons-in-law Jacqualine Ann and Terry Lunsford and June Marie and Lynn Rader; grandchildren Mandy Lee and Calvin Carpenter and Kimber Lynn Lunsford; sisters and brothers-in-law Flossie Tench Harris, Dora and Oliver Trotter, Ruby and William Brown and Linda and Telford Tanksley, all of Georgia and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Terry Lunsford, William Brown, Calvin Carpenter and Lynn Rader. The family will receive friends Thursday, Dec. 27, 2007, 2-4 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Sorrow’s Catholic Church Building Fund, 1023 Corinth Rd., Jacksonville, TX. 75766 Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/27/2007 - 12/28/2007.

 Robert L. Tyler

Services for Robert L. Tyler, 67, of Jacksonville, will be 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10, 2007, at Rising Star Baptist Church, with the Rev. Milton Parson officiating. Burial will be in Ragsdale Cemetery under the direction of Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville.

Mr. Tyler died Sunday, Dec. 2, 2007, in Jacksonville. He was born Nov. 10, 1940, in Jacksonville. He was a lifetime resident of Cherokee County.

Public viewing will be 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007, at the funeral home

David Upchurch

 Funeral services for David Upchurch, 53, will be Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2007, 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church with Dr. Allen Reed officiating. Burial will be immediately following at Sunset Memorial Park. Mr. Upchurch was born Oct. 2, 1954, in Port Arthur, to Emmett and Imogene Upchurch, and died Nov. 30, 2007, in LaSalle County. Mr. Upchurch attended First Baptist Church, and was a member of Safari International, the former chairman for the Nacogdoches Historical Landmark Preservation Committee and an avid hunter. A devoted husband and loving dad, Mr. Upchurch was a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University and a member of the Alumni Association. Surviving Mr. Upchurch is his wife, Jeanne Donnell Upchurch; his daughters, Keri and Taylor of Nacogdoches; his parents, Emmett and Imogene Upchurch of Longview; his brother, Dana and wife Blair of Jacksonville; his sister, Kathy Stephens and husband Richard of Longview, and numerous nephews and nieces. Mr. Upchurch was preceded in death by his first wife, Kay Justice Upchurch. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund, 411 North Street, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961.Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 3, 2007, from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Services are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.

 Letha Faye Fitzpatrick Watts

Graveside services for Letha Faye Fitzpatrick Watts, 86 of Arlington are scheduled for Monday, Dec. 10, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. at McKnight Cemetery, Cushing, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville.

Mrs. Watts was born on Feb. 14, 1921, in Atoy to Lee and Voris Parmley and died on Dec. 5, 2007 in Arlington.

No formal visitation is scheduled.

Gerri Shaw Weatherby 

Gerri Shaw Weatherby, 83, died Friday, November 30, 2007, at the Austin Heart Hospital in Austin, Texas. The daughter of Bertha (Taylor) and Millard Shaw was born December 2, 1923, in Lamesa, Texas. Gerri graduated from Abilene High School and attended Hardin Simmons University from 1940 to 1942 and North Texas State University from 1942 to 1945 where she majored in Voice and Choral Music. Gerri taught at Lon Morris Junior College in Jacksonville, Texas, from 1945 to 1947 and 1949 to 1952. She taught at Hardin Simmons University from 1955 to 1960 and in the Abilene public schools from 1961 to 1970, at which time she moved to Richardson, Texas, and taught in the Richardson School District from 1970 to 1973. She resigned in 1973 and went into different business endeavors, which included first Expansion Director for Lady Love Cosmetics. Gerri’s gift to music included the following accomplishments: Performing at age 4 with her sister, Dottie Parker, on a National Live Radio Broadcast and they also won the Amateur State of Texas contest at ages 12 and 13; Choral Director of the Abilene Barbershop Chorus from 1948 to 1949; Soloist for the Air Force Overseas Tour of the Cowboy Band from Hardin Simmons University from 1957 to 1958; Selected for the Pilot Program of the Arts and Humanities during the summer of 1966 at the University of Texas at Austin; Chaperone for the Pilot Program of the Performing Arts, London, England, in the summer of 1972; Gerri Shaw Weatherby and her splendid choirs composed of talented artists will long linger in the minds of those recipients of her recitals and performances. Gerri was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Millard Shaw Jr. and Guy W. Shaw. Survivors include her daughters, Gerrianne Cheek and husband, Rocky, of Spring Branch, Texas, and Annetta Jean Simpson and husband, John, of Flower Mound, Texas; sister, Dottie Shaw Parker of Abilene and sister-in-law, Dolores Shaw of Abilene; four grandchilden, Angela, Amy, Rocky James and Morgan and seven great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 7, 2007, at the First Baptist Church in Abilene, Texas. Dr. Don Benton, a beloved friend, along with Dr. Phil Christopher will be officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home located at 542 Hickory. Memorials may be made to the Shaw Music Scholarship Fund at Hardin Simmons University, P.O. Box 16100, Abilene, Texas 79698 or the Lon Morris College, Music Department, Jacksonville, Texas. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 12/5/2007.

Aaron Yarbrough

 Graveside services for Aaron Yarbrough, 21, of Alto are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 28, 2007 at Old Palestine Cemetery, Alto, with the Rev. Jim Maddox officiating. Aaron passed away Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2007, in Lufkin. He was a member of Assembly of God Church in Lufkin. Survivors include his parents Dennis and Linda Yarbrough of Alto. No Visitation is scheduled. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 12/27/2007 - 12/28/2007.