Obituary

Cherokee County, Texas

OBITUARIES NOV. - Dec. 2007

November 7, 2007

RUTH STEVENS GUNTER JENKINS

Funeral for Ruth Stevens Gunter Jenkins, 85, was at 2 p.m. Thursday at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Randall Birdsong officiating. Burial was in Lakeview Memorial Gardens in Longview.

Mrs. Jenkins died Oct. 29. She was born Feb. 26, 1922, in Turney to the late George David and Mary Alice Caveness Smith.

She was a school teacher for more than 30 years at Turney, Gaston and Pine Tree elementary schools. She was a member of the Jacksonville Garden Club, Cherokee County Retired Teachers Association, Wednesday Study Club and Ponta First Baptist Church where she served as church clerk.

Mrs. Jenkins was preceded in death by her parents, Dave and Alice Smith; a brother, David O'Brien Smith; her first husband, Harvey L. Stevens Jr.; second husband, Edwin D. Gunter; third husband, Carl Jenkins; and step-granddaughters, Jana Herrera and Sarah Solis.

Survivors are two sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas Kim and Kay Stevens of Jacksonville and Mark and Sharon Stevens of Flint; a sister, Oleta Smith Gray of Bonner Place; granddaughters, Stephanie and Kenny Sessions of Jacksonville, Jennifer Stevens and Kimberly Stevens of Seabrook; grandsons, Toby Kyle Stevens and Michael Stevens of Jacksonville; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Sean Anderson, Conner Sessions and Keira Stevens; step-daughters, Sarah Jenkins Edwards of Hughes Springs, and Carla Jenkins Zuecher of Daingerfield.

Pallbearers were Russell Smith, Bobby Dee Caveness, Louis Caveness, Willie D. Wilkinson, Bill Beranek, Larry Stegall and Jimmy Caveness. Honorary Pallbearers were Luman Holman, Tom Dean Stevens, R.L. McDonald, A.C. Jenkins, C.L. Newburn and Paul Haws.

DORA B. LUSK

Funeral for Dora B. Lusk, 85, of Maydelle was at 10 a.m. Thursday in the Wallace- Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Burial was in Mt. Hope Cemetery. Mrs. Lusk died Oct. 29. She was born May 22, 1922, in Palestine to the late William Rubin and Minnie Lou Kite Langston. She was a lifelong resident of Maydelle and a member of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

Survivors are one son J.R. Lusk of Jacksonville; three daughters, Dora M. Johnson and Darlene Lusk of Frankston and Bonnie Sides of Rusk; one brother, Curtis Langston of Porter; three sisters, Allie Croft and Mary Weaver of Palestine and Birdie Bowman of Muse; five grandchildren, Kevin Lusk of Jacksonville, Connie Jackson of Nacogdoches, Lenard Sides and David Sides of Rusk and Shannon Selman of Slocum; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Jamie Ramsey, Scotty Ramsey, Shane Selman, Corey Donner, Daryn Selman and Danny Mainer. Honorary pallbearers were LeeRoy Selman, Tommy Tory Selman, and Jason Selman.

WILLIE VANN JR.

Funeral for Willie Vann Jr., 76, of Tyler was at 1 p.m. Thursday at the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home with the Rev. Todd Peavy and the Rev. Howard Vann officiating. Burial was in Shiloh Cemetery.

Mr. Vann died Oct. 31. He was born Feb. 17, 1931, in Frankin to the late Will and Verna Mauk Vann. He had lived in Franklin most of his life and was retired from Crain Plumbing Co. in 1991. He owned and operated a cattle ranch in Franklin and was a member of the Franklin First Baptist Church. He served in the U.S. Army from 1958-60 during the Korean War.

Preceding him in death were his parents, one sister and four brothers. Survivors are his wife, Marva Black Vann of Tyler; a daughter and son in law, Teresa and Richard Wright of Caldwell; two sons and daughters-in-law, Ronnie and Cherlene Vann of Caldwell and Gary and Deanna Vann of Scurry; two step-sons, Paul Black of Whitehouse and Jerry Black of Tyler; four sisters, Alpha Dooly, Maudi Barnette and Mozelle Sanders, all of Franklin and Loretta Barnett of Milano; brother, Howard Vann of Bremond; grandchildren, Brandi Daughtery, Dallas Black, Brittney Beene, Nicholas Vann, Jeremy Black, Josh Black, Brooke Frachiseur and Jordan Black; two great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Nephews serving as pallbearers were James Ray Barnett, Rogan Dooly, Bill Vann, Barry Vann, Larry Sanders and Mike Barnett. Honorary pallbearers were Dr. Saade and Twin Oaks Nursing Home staff.

CLAUD EARLY HOOT

Funeral for Claud Early Hoot, 80, of Alto, formerly of Corrigan, was at 11 a.m. Friday in the Corrigan Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Lesley Wilkinson and the Rev. Claud S. Hoot officiating. Burial was in the Carmona Cemetery.

Mr. Hoot died Oct. 30. He was born Oct. 10, 1927, in Mt. Rose. He was a sawyer in the lumber industry and a Baptist minister. He pastored several churches for many years.

Preceding him in death by his wife of more than 59 years, Betty Jean Lott Hoot; his parents, John Hubbard and Bessie Murphy Hoot; a brother, Lloyd Hoot; and granddaughter, Mystie Michelle Isaacks.

Survivors are three sons and two daughters-in-law, Claud S. and Carol Hoot, Jerry and Mary Hoot and Rex Hoot, all of Corrigan, Texas; two daughters and sons-in-law, Martha and George Murphy of Corrigan and Mary and Tommy Selman of Alto; brother: H.L. Hoot of Hamilton; sister: Evelyn Capps of Cleveland; grandchildren, Pete Cowen, Sherman Hoot, Keri Bowman, Cassidy Mc- Clendon, Rose Hoot, Jeanie Selman, Julie McGuinty, Jerry Hoot Jr., John Hoot and Brandi Luce; great-grandchildren: Cheyenne Cowen, Dakota Cowen, Dylan Sturrock, Caleb Hoot, Reagen Faye McGuinty, Josh Hoot, Katie Hoot, Haley Luce, Coty Luce, Peyton Bowman, Zack Bowman, and Reagen Bowman and numerous relatives and friends. Pallbearers were Pete Cowen, Sherman Hoot, Josh Hoot, John Hoot, John McGuinty, Jason Bowman and Larry Burris. Great-grandsons were honorary pallbearers.

BUSTER BUCKINGHAM

Funeral for Buster Buckingham, 95, of Alto was at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Mitchell Taylor officiating. Burial was in New Hope Cemetery.

Mr. Buckingham died Nov. 1. He was born Oct. 30, 1912, in Deberry to Sam and Evie Buckingham. He had lived most of his life in Alto and was a Methodist. He worked many years as a night watchman for Bowman's Saw Mill in Alto. Preceding him in death were his wife, Pearline Buckingham; two daughters, Mary Griffin and Geneva Mitchell; sons, James Buckingham, Clyde Buckingham, twins, Jenny Lee and Ira Lee Buckingham; one sister and six brothers.

Survivors are four sons, Nathaniel Buckingham, Melvin Buckingham and Larry Buckingham, all of Alto and David Buckingham of Rusk; three daughters, Rosa Buckingham and Jackie Brown of Alto and Martha Hinton of Jacksonville; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Great-grandsons served as pallbearers.

OGRETA W. HUTTASH

Funeral for Ogreta W. Hutash, 84, of Jacksonville will be at 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Venson Roberts officiating. Burial will be in Resthaven Memorial Park.

Mrs. Huttash died Nov. 3. She was born Dec. 3, 1922, in Alto. She was a homemaker, a member of Central Baptist Church, Daughters of the American Revolution, Daughters of the Republic of Texas, charter member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, UDC-Magna Carta, AARP, two genealogical organizations, Cherokee County Historical Commission, Daughters of the Confederacy and the Ruth Class at Central Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Raymond G. Huttash in 1963; her parents, Hardie Wilson and Teague Gaston Wilson and her husband, Aulton J. Derrett in 1945.

Survivors are two daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Ann and Thomas Russell of Austin and Martha and Paul Ezell of Spring; a son, Ray Huttash of Denton; two sisters and brothers in-law, Imogene Schoen Rooks and Edgar Rooks of Emmons, Minn. and Sue and Joe Cruseturner of Kilgore; three grandchildren, Jamie Russell of Maui, Hawaii, Jennifer Russell of London, England and Benjamin Huttash of Denton; several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Benjamin Huttash, Thomas Russell, Paul Ezell, Joe Cruseturner, Al Navarro and Joe Paul Musick.

Memorial may be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blv., Tyler 75701.

WILLIAM H. (BUD) HODGES

Funeral for William H. (Bud) Hodges, 82, of Wells was at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday in the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Jim Maddox officiating. Burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery.

Mr. Hodges died Saturday. He was born April 11, 1925, in Cherokee County to James E. and Edna L. Chandler Hodges. He lived most of his life in the Wells area and was a Pentecostal. He last attended the Living Water Church in Wells. He owned and operated Hodges Logging with his son for more than 30 years and also worked as a welder at Lufkin Industries for 16 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran and received two purple hearts for his service while in Germany. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Mary Lou Vinson, Edna (Babe) Goodwin and Barbara Sue Church; and a son-in-law, Garland Parise.

Survivors are his wife of 65 years, Pauline Hodges of Wells; two daughters and a son-in law, Ann and James Barron of Alto and Alice Parise of Lufkin; three sons and two daughters in law, W. C. (Dub) and JoAnn Hodges, Harvey and Glenda Hodges and Arnold Ray Hodges, all of Wells; two brothers and sisters-in-law, James (Bo) and Trudy Hodges and Charles (Nunk) and Sara Hodges, all of Wells; 15 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; a special sister-in-law and her husband, Linda and Johnny Woodard of Nacogdoches; a special nephew and his wife, Johnny Ray and Glenda Goodwin of DeQuincy, La.

Grandsons were pallbearers and great-grandsons honorary pallbearers.

JOANN HOPKINS

Funeral for JoAnn Hopkins, 69, of Jacksonville was at 10 a.m. Monday at the Autry Funeral Home chapel with Dr. Pete Freeman officiating. Burial was in Jarratt Cemetery. Mrs. Hopkins, died Nov. 2. She was born April 3, 1938, in Broaddus, She was a member of the Broaddus First Baptist Church and a homemaker.

Preceding her in death were a daughter, Jennie Lee Pryor and a brother, Junior Stanley.

Survivors are her husband of 50 years, Joe Dan Hopkins of Jacksonville; two daughters and sons-in-law, Nannette and John Thigpen of Jacksonville and Danita and Vernon Hudnall of Huntington; a brother, Max Edward Stanley of Lufkin; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Neillie Jack and Rudolf Sanders of Angleton and Norma Rhea Stanley of Broaddus; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Philip Hudnall, Colt Hudnall, Anthony Thigpen, Wayne Miller, J.W. Smiley and John Robert Zeigler.

WILLIAM ORNAN WHATLEY JR.

Funeral for Willam Ornan Whatley Jr., 93, of Jacksonville, was at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Dan Middleton officiating. Burial was in Old Jacksonville City Cemetery.

Mr. Whatley died Nov. 3. He was born Nov. 16, 1913, in Jacksonville. He was a retired postal carrier in Jacksonville and a member of the Mount Selman United Methodist Church.

Preceding him in death were a step-daughter, Nancy Sheets Kitchens and a step-grandson, Tim Kitchens.

Survivors are his wife of 42 years, Elsie Bonner Whatley of Jacksonville; a son, William O. III and Sherry Whatley of Grapeland; a daughter, Dorothy M. Little of Tyler; a step-son and step-daughter-in law, Weldon and Sandra Sheets of Celeste; a grandson, David Little of Jacksonville; a granddaughter, Laurie Little of Tyler; two step-grandsons and a step-grand-daughter-in law, Michael and Sherie Sheets and Wade Sheets, all of Celeste; three step-granddaughters and step-grandsons, Shona and Louis Domgard of Norman, Okla., Suzanne and Craig Herring of Dripping Springs and Amanda and Andy Keymann of Steeleville, Mo.; eight great-grandchildren, Colt Herring and Laurel Herring of Dripping Springs, Griffin Domgard of Norman, Okla., Kailey Keymann of Wesley Keymann of Steelville, Mo., Elizabeth Sheets of Celeste, Katelyn Kitchens of Austin and Lincoln Shaw of Tyler; and a niece, Patricia Steward of Corpus Christi. Pallbearers were David Little, Michael Sheets, Wade Sheets, Andy Keymann, Randy Bonner, Daryl Bonner, Mike Young and Neal Young.

JUNE WRIGHT

Funeral for June Wright, 80, of Jacksonville was at 4 p.m. Tuesday in the Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Dennis Harvey and the Rev. Phillip Warren officiating. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Park.

Mrs. Wright died Nov. 3. She was born June 18, 1927, in Jacksonville and worked at the JISD cafeteria. She was a member of the Texas Retired Teachers Association. Preceding her in death were her husband, Arthur C. Wright and a brother, Ed Pearman.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, Ernie and Dianne Wright of Bullard; two daughters and sons-in-law, Carmella and Jerry McClain of Jacksonville and Sabrena and Randy Burns of Mesquite; a sister, Leota Dixon of Jacksonville; her friend and companion, Little Bit; six grandchildren, Jennifer, Suzanne, Traci, Cami, Aaron and Chelsea; and four great-grandchildren, Sarah, Hannah, Jarrett and Thomas.

Pallbearers were Randy Burns, Aaron Burns, James Foy, Sean Barr, Paul Blanton, Ross Lowrance and Wayne Bolton. Memorials may be made to the Richard D. Klein Animal Shelter or Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler 75701.

November 14, 2007

NANCI HOUSE

Graveside service for Nanci A. House, 73, of Jacksonville, was at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Corine Cemetery with the Rev. George Folmar officiating.

Ms. House died Nov. 4, in Jacksonville.

She was born Jan. 19, 1934, in Arkansas City, Kan., moved to Frankston in 1954 and to New Mexico in 1975. She returned to Jacksonville in 1991 and retired as a freelance artist.

She was preceded in death by her mother and stepfather, Kathleen and Arthur C. Bacon; her father, Howard G. Stewart; grandmother, Jenni Mable Floyd; grandfather, John Floyd; son, Floyd Jeffery House; brother, David Gordon Bacon; sisters, Arta V. Taylor and Jennifer Bacon; uncle, John Floyd; aunt, Jana Floyd; and son-in-law, John Wimmer,

Survivors include a daughter, Janet Wimmer of Jacksonville; a son, Randy House of Lake Palestine; a sister, Cynthia Kenneburg of Peoria, Ariz.; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Honorary pallbearers were Lloyd Grayson, Charles Dickerson and John Brubaker.

Autry Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

ISLA LUCILE BOYD

Memorial service for Isla Lucile Boyd, 86, of Tyler, formerly of Nederland, was at 11 a.m Saturday, Nov. 17, in Centennial, Colo. A graveside service was held at Oakland Memorial Park in Center at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 10.

Miss Boyd was born Nov. 15, 1920, in Mercedes, to the Rev. James Cleveland Boyd and Isla Mae Splawn Boyd. She died Nov. 4 in Jacksonville.

She was a career educator having taught in several school districts in Texas, retiring from the Port Arthur ISD. She was a college graduate and a World War II Air Force veteran, serving from 1942-45. She was honorably discharged with a rank of corporal. After retirement, she volunteered in the Nederland Independent School District. She was a long time member of First Baptist Church in Nederland, where she was a member of the Silvertones. Survivors are a sister, Elizabeth Carr of Centennial, Colo., and local relatives, Jim and Mary Brown. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, 1911 Nederland Ave, Nederland 77627. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

DUSTIN PAUL DUDLEY

Funeral for Dustin Paul Dudley, 20, Tecula, was at 2 p.m. Saturday at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. David Hallum and the Rev. Johnny Davis officiating. Burial was in Tecula Cemetery. Mr. Dudley died Nov. 6. He was born Jan. 27, 1987, in Jacksonville. He attended the Baptist church and Church of the Nazarene.

He was a 2005 graduate of Jacksonville High School and welding school in Oklahoma. He was employed at Tri-County Sale Barn for several years, was active in FFA.

Preceding him in death were his great-grandparents, Lewis Moore, Guydon Moore and Hollis and Carmen Dudley.

Survivors are his father and step-mother, Phillip Paul and Carrie Dudley of Price; his mother and step-father, Melissa Kay Dudley of Tecula and Tony Lawson of Ft. Worth; grandparents, Carolyn Covey of Tecula,, Sammy Covey Sr. and Gail of Gladewater, Milburn and Loma Dudley of Jacksonville; great-grandparents, C. L. and Mila Biddy of Chandler; a brother, Justiss Dudley of Price; three sisters, Lauren Dudley, Destiny Dudley and Kylie Dudley, all of Price; his girlfriend, Courtney Rodriguez. Pallbearers were Jake Stephenson, Cam Carr, Dale Cavazos, Jeff Sewell, Robert (Little Randy) Fields, Eric Smith, Theotis Whitaker and Ramiro (Ram) Rodriguez. Honorary Pallbearers were Obie Bostwick, Bubba Carr, Randy Hollingsworth, Joey Willis, Brent Dickson, Randy Fields, Wayne Toole and Jachin Webster.

ILENE GLAZE WHEELER

Funeral for Ilene Glaze Wheeler, 72, of Frankston, was at 10 a.m. Saturday, at Autry Funeral Home chapel in Frankston with the Rev. J. A. Griffin officiating. Burial was in Frankston City Cemetery.

Mrs. Wheeler died Nov. 7. She was born May 11, 1935, in Frankston. She was a member of the Frankston Assembly of God and a homemaker.

She was preceded in death by granddaughter Sara Wheeler. Survivors include husband John Wheeler of Frankston; two sons and daughters in law, Johnny Clate and Brenda Wheeler and Don Frank and Misty Wheeler, all of Frankston; three daughters and sons-in-law, Shirley Gail and Harry Follbaum of Mesquite, Linda and Alton Rodgers of Frankston, and Jeannine and Jack Douglas of Jacksonville; two brothers, Norman Clate Glaze of Sunnyvale and Samuel Charles Glaze of Dallas; 14 grandchildren; one great-grandchild and nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Dana House, Hayden Mitchell, Jason Smith, Ronnie Smith, Steve Fisher, Zachary Johnson and Clayton Follbaum.

DAVID LYNN CHERRY

Graveside service for David Lynn Cherry, 60, of Lufkin, formerly of Alto was at 2 p.m. Sunday at Old Palestine Cemetery. Mr. Cherry died Thursday. He was born March 5, 1947, in Alto. He was co-owner of Lyons Gas in Lufkin since 1986 and a buyer for Lindsey Fur Co., a farmer and produce broker. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam War.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Lee Cherry and Lolas Lindsey Cherry; brother R. L. Cherry; sister, Mary Jo Brooks.

Survivors are a sister and spouse, Jeanie and Gary Dominy of Alto; granddaughter, Clare Childers; former wife, Sheryl Cherry of Dallas; stepson, Clint Childers of Pollock, step-daughter, Kelly Childers of Dallas and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Marion Lindsey, Bob Williams, Gary Dominy, Mike Hathorn, Payton Brooks, Dwight Lyons, Steve McCarty and Donald Wayne Carter. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

EDDIE JOHNSON

Memorial service for Eddie Johnson, 81, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Sunday at Resthaven Cemetery.

Mr. Johnson died Nov. 7. He was a long-time insurance agent and civic leader in Jacksonville. He started Johnson Insurance Agency in 1950 in his living room. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he served as deacon, elder, commissioner to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, president of the Men's Council and the Boy Scout committee. He served in the Army in World War II, was president of the Kiwanis Club and commander of the American Legion.

He joined the Masonic Lodge at the age of 21 and recently received his 60 year diamond pin. He held every degree a Mason can ask to receive in Scottish Rite, York Rite, Chapter and Council, Commandery and Shrine.

He was elected to the Jacksonville City Council at the age of 26 where he served two terms during which term Jackson Street was widened, work began on construction of the overpass and the construction of Lake Jacksonville. He was the only non-Baptist member of the board of directors of Newburn Hospital and the only non-Methodist member of the Lon Morris College board of directors.

Mr. Johnson is survived by his wife, Mary Johnson of Jacksonville; two sons and a daughter-in-law, John E. and Brenda Johnson of Covington, La. and Alan R. Johnson of Jacksonville; four granddaughters and their husbands, Jacqueline and Kyle Hollowell of Frisco, Candace Johnson of Dallas, Leigh Anne and Duane Barber and Heather and Tyson Metzig, all of Jacksonville; their mother and her husband, Kay and Sterling Steelman of Jacksonville; eight great-grandchildren; and his dog, Daisy Mae. If desired memorials may be made to The Hospice of East Texas, 4110 University Blvd, Tyler 75701 or Cancer Foundation for Life, P.O. Box 8257, Tyler 75711.

MARIE KIRKPATRICK

Funeral for Marie Kirkpatrick, 82, of Jacksonville was at 10 a.m. Monday, at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Richard Boone officiating. Burial was in Jarratt Cemetery. Mrs. Kirkpatrick died Thursday. She was born July 13, 1925, in Jacksonville. She was a homemaker, Baptist and member of Order of Eastern Star No. 108, Jacksonville.

She was preceded in death by her husband, A. P. Kirkpatrick, and an infant son.

Survivors include a daughter Nancy Kirkpatrick of Tyler and several nieces and nephews.

Donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Wright City, P. O. Drawer B, Arp 75750.

DAN HAYNES

Funeral for Dan Haynes, 77, of Emerald Bay was at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the Frankston Assembly of God with the Rev. Michael Griffin officiating. Burial was in Wofford Cemetery.

Mr. Haynes died Thursday. He was born Aug. 29, 1930, in Jacksonville. He graduated from Frankston High School and served in the U. S. Air Force during the Korean War as a medic.

He received his Bachelor of Science in Education from Stephen F. Austin University in 1960. He also attended LSU School of Banking. He was director of Stephen F. Austin Alumni Board from the 1970s to 2005, serving as president from 1982-84 and on many committees.

In 1985 Gov. Mark White appointed him to the board of regents of his alma mater, Stephen F. Austin. He served as vice-chairman of the board from 1986-87 and chairman of the board 1987-89. He also received the distinguished alumni award from Stephen F. Austin University. He served on the board of the Texas Bankers Association and was elected as treasurer of TBA for one year. During his term on the board in 2005 he was recognized by the Texas Bankers Association for 50 years of banking service. His banking career took him to Timpson, Big Sandy, Tenaha, Italy, Hamilton, Burnet, Bullard and Frankston. He was president of Banking in Burnet, Bullard and Frankston. He was a member of Sharon Shrine Temple and 32 degree Mason and member of the William Foster Lodge in Frankston. He also served as a director on Emerald Bay club board.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Leatha Etheridge, and adoptive parents, J. B. (Julian) and Carrie Haynes; and a sister Aretas Acree.

Survivors include his wife Stella Haynes of Emerald Bay; son and daughter-inlaw, Jason and Tracy Haynes of Baytown; son and friend, Jud Haynes and Cara Watson of Leander; grandson, Seth Haynes of Baytown; a brother and sister-in-law, Bobby and Dorothy Grantham of Longview; sister Jeanette Jones, Jacksonville.

Pallbearers were Curtis Sparks, Bobby Sisco, Bobby Sitton, Bobby Grantham, Willard Baker and Jerry Burks. Honorary pallbearers were Robert Smith, Paul Beauchamp, Billy Bacon, Gerald Dower, Steve Gamble, Paul Randolph, Bill Alstrin & John Tracy.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Dan and Stella Haynes Scholarship Fund, Stephen F. Austin Alumni, P. O. Box 6096 Nacogdoches 75962 or Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd. Tyler 75701. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

November 21, 2007

GLADYS SESSIONS HATHORN

Funeral for Gladys Sessions Hathorn, 90, of Wells, was at 2 p.m. Nov. 14 at Falvey United Methodist Church with the Rev. Joe Beran and the Rev. Stanley Nabona officiating. Burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery.

Mrs. Hathorn died Nov. 11. She was born Feb. 19, 1917, in Wells to Joseph Absolum (Rube) and Elizabeth (Hattie) Carr Sessions. She was a homemaker and a member of Falvey United Methodist Church.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Silvin Hathorn; grandson, Mitchell Hathorn; 11 brothers and sisters.

Survivors include two daughters, Sylvia Ricks and Janet Martin; a son, Mike Hathorn; six grandchildren; and seven grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to Falvey United Methodist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 40, Wells, 75976, or Rube Sessions Memorial Library, P.O. Box 120, Wells 75976.

Arrangement were under the direction of Gipson Funeral Home.

BERDIS IRENE (PETE) CREEKMORE

Funeral for Berdis Irene (Pete) Creekmore, 87, of Wells, was at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Falvey Memorial United Methodist Church with the Rev. Joe Beran officiating. Burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery.

Mrs. Creekmore died Nov. 10. She was born Aug. 20, 1920, in Cherokee County to the late Elbert and Janie Grubbs Shumaker. She graduated from Wells High School and attended beauty school in Dallas. She was a beauty operator in Wells and in Tyler for many years. She was a former member of Wesley Methodist Church and current member of Falvey Memorial United Methodist Church, where she was in the choir and women's groups. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ned Creekmore; sister, Rubena; and brother, PeeWee.

Survivors include two daughters, Cindy Stone of Plano, and Janice (Cissy) Gilliam of Wells; three grandsons; five great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Kelly Shumaker, Brandon Shumaker, Rick Stone, Justin Stone, Brent Dew and Billy Joe Creekmore.

Arrangements were under the direction of Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home of Lufkin.

JERRIE DEMENT

Funeral services for Jerrie Dement, 43, of Gallatin, was at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16, at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Robin Parsons and the Rev. R.S. Dyess officiating. Burial was in Lone Dove Cemetery.

Mr. Dement died Nov. 13. He was born, May 3, 1964, in Lakeview, Ore. to Jackie and Sherrie Dement. He moved to Gallatin with his family in 1965 and had resided in the Gallatin and Ponta area since that time. He was a 1982 Rusk High School graduate and was self employed as a dirt contractor and heavy equipment operator. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kennie Dement and grandparents, Carl and Cora Dement, John W. Lybrand and Sis and V.L. Rentle.

Survivors include wife, Cheri Dement, of Gallatin; his parents, Jackie and Sherrie Dement, of Gallatin; children, Kailey and Keegan Dement of Weatherford; step-children, Heidi and Eli Whitaker of Gallatin; a brother, Willie Wallace of Gallatin; a sister, Liddie Amazeen, of Corsicana; nieces and nephews, Aaron, Nikki, Luke and Lance Dement of Rusk and Ben and Addie Amazeen of Caldwell; and great niece, Andi Dement of Rusk.

Pallbearers were David Talancon, Pete Terry, Phillip Munsinger, Dale Tylich, Dennis Jones and Donnie Wilcox.

Honorary pallbearers were Aaron, Luke and Lance Dement, Ben Amazeen, Chance Loden, Willie Wallace and Mark Hayes.

SHANE NOLEN

Graveside service for Shane Nolen, 35, of Frankston, was at 3:30 p.m. Friday at Wofford Cemetery with the Rev. G.C. Folmar officiating.

Mr. Nolen died on Tuesday, Nov. 13. He was born Dec. 4, 1971, in Jacksonville to Tom and Brenda Nolen. He was a certified paint and body man.

Survivors include wife, Rachel Nolen of Frankston; a son, Ryan Shane Nolen of Frankston; his parents, Tom Nolen of Frankston and Brenda Nolen, of Jacksonville; a brother, Christopher Nolen of Jacksonville; a sister, Pam McDaniel of Seagoville; his grandparents, E.A. and Ruth Nolen of Frankston and aunts, uncles and cousins. Pallbearers were Clyde Jones, Gene Schmidt, Doug Dunn, Ricky Shane McDaniel, Chris Nolen and Tommy Dean McDaniel.

CRAIG CARPENTER

Funeral for Creighton (Craig) Keith Carpenter of Jacksonville was at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Richard Spencer and the Rev. John Cole officiating. Burial was in Still Waters Memorial Garden.

Mr. Carpenter was born Oct. 31, 1937 and died Nov. 17.

Craig was originally from Arkansas, where he attended the University of Arkansas earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and his Certification for orientation and mobility instructor for visually impaired and guide dogs.

He worked as a high school football and basketball coach. He was a certified OTM instructor for Arkansas Enterprises for the blind.

He was an entrepreneur in a Colorado hunting business, recreational therapist at TDCJ-UTMB, charter driver trainee and instructor and most recently a bus driver for Laidlaw Transit SW student transportation for JISD.

Survivors are his wife, Sally Carpenter; son, Chuck Carpenter; brother, Boots Carpenter; sisters-in-law Annette Thompson and Patricia Perry, Linda Carpenter; brother-inlaw, Robert Coffman; daughter in-law Cynthia Carpenter, and grandchildren, Steven and Kristen Carpenter. He was a father to Jennifer Rawlinson and Lynnette Januzi.

OLLIVIA BRUNT COOKE

Funeral for Ollivia Brunt Cooke, 78, of Tool, was Nov. 18 at Tomlinson Funeral Home chapel in Seven Points with Don Bentley officiating. Burial was in Tool Cemetery.

Mrs. Cooke died Nov. 13. She was born Sept. 21, 1929, in Lawton, Okla. to the late Jesse Ervin and Era Ollivia Brunt.

She was a member of the Seven Point Church of Christ. Preceding her in death were her parents and a brother, Bruce Brunt.

Survivors are her husband, Melvin Eugene Cooke; a daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Clyde Bower; a son and daughter in-law, Charles and Janet Earle; two sisters and a brother-in law, Bessie Marie and Hank Brown and Mary Reno Minot; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

ELTON SESSIONS

Funeral for Elton (Buddy) Sessions, 56, of Jacksonville was at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Ben Terry and the Rev. Louis Dickey officiating. Burial was in Myrtle Springs Cemetery.

Mr. Sessions was born Nov. 15, 1951, in Cherokee County. He died Nov. 17. He was a retired truck driver with Henderson Clay Products. He attended the Church of Christ.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mamie Sessions; and sister, Virginia Sue Armstrong. Survivors are his father, Pearl Elton Sessions of Ponta; sons and daughters-in-law Michael and Lorie Sessions, Wesley and Jennifer Sessions of Kilgore; daughter, Stephanie Sessions of Edmond, Okla.; four brothers, Donald Guinn, Kenneth Sessions and Jimmy Sessions, all of Jacksonville and Lee Roy Sessions of Ponta; four sisters Margaret McKinley of Henderson, Mary Martin of Whitehouse, Eva Rocha of Ponta, and Ella Faye Martin of Flint; six grandchildren; mother of his children, Vivian Sessions of Henderson; and special friend, Lynette Berry.

Pallbearers were Richard Overman, Thomas Overman, Keith Kuykendall, James Jones, Dewayne Bobbitt and Pete Terry.

SWEETIE BELLE RUFUS

Funeral for Sweetie Belle Rufus, 94, of Rusk, was at 1 p.m. Saturday at Mount Hebron Columbium Presbyterian Church with Claudell Anderson officiating. Burial was in Mount Moriah Cemetery.

Mrs. Rufus died Nov. 10. She was born June 26, 1913, in Rusk and attended Fred Douglass High School in Jacksonville. She was a homemaker and member of Mount Hebron Columbium Presbyterian Church and East Texas Council of Governors, Community Action Program and Elderly Nutrition Program. She was preceded in death by her husband, three sisters and two brothers.

Pallbearers were Bobby Donnell Christopher, Travis Sanders, Alver Dee Sessions, Walter Session, Ronnie Ragsdale and Derrick McDuff. Honorary pallbearers were William Taylor III, William Taylor IV, Colquitt Sanders, Greg McDuff, Christian McDuff and Claudell Anderson. Arrangements were under the direction of Mercy/ McGowan Funeral Home.

November 28, 2007

SUNSHINE LARGENT

Funeral for Melba Sunshine Scott Largent, 82, of Rusk, was at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21, at the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Terry Nied and the Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Burial was in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Mrs. Largent died Nov. 17. She was born Dec. 3, 1924, in Jacksonville to the late Emmett E. and Bertie Dickson Scott. She was a resident of Rusk most of her life. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church where she served as secretary since 1965. She retired from Rusk State Hospital in 2002 after many years of service. Preceding her in death were her husband, William P. Largent in 2003; son, Loel Largent; granddaughter, Roberta Mosenthiem; and sister, Janie Parks. She is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Noel and Joanie Largent of Whitehouse and William Gregg and Frances Largent of Desoto, Mo.; a brother, Emmett Scott Jr. of Rusk; a sister, Lawanda Smith of Arlington; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Pallbearers were Rodney Wallace, Kurt Mosenthiem Jr., Tim Scott, Perry Largent, Joshua Largent and Eugene Wallace.

JIMMY F. STRAWTHER

Funeral for Jimmy F. Strawther, 73, of Rusk was at 2 p.m., Saturday in Wallace Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Burial was in Lowes Chapel. Mr. Strawther died Nov. 20 and was born Jan. 3, 1934, in Buena to Ebern Mitchell and Martha Ann Gill Strawther. He had lived in Rusk since 1978. He formerly resided in Dallas and Louisiana. He was a private in the U.S. Army during the Korean war. He was a member of Eastside Baptist Church. Preceding him in death were his wife, Betty Strawther in 2005; brother, Robert W. Strawther; and sister, Billie Joyce Beasley. Survivors are two sons, Jimmy L. Strawther of Rantoul, Ill. and Willie J. "Skeeter" Strawther of Rusk; a daughter, Paula S. McWilliams of Shreveport, La.; a sister, Johnnie M. Kemp of Beaumont; five grandchildren, 21 nieces and nephews, and 26 grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Pallbearers were Greg Westfall, Steve Rainwater, A.J. Strawther, H.O. Windell, Burt Hathaway and Daniel Duran.

MINNIE (OLA BEA) MURPHY

Funeral for Minnie (Ola Bea) Murphy, 89, of Jacksonville was at 10 a.m. Saturday in Wallace- Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Don Copeland, the Rev. Harold Davis, the Rev. Calvin Gould and the Rev. Bernie Hutson officiating. Burial was in Salem Cemetery.

Mrs. Murphy died Nov. 21. She was born Sept. 20, 1918, in Sardis to James and Vivian Inez Phifer Bowman. She was a resident of Jacksonville since 1989 and was formerly of Rusk. She was a member of Salem Missionary Baptist Church. She retired from Scott's Manufacturing in Rusk after many years of service. She was a gardener and seamstress.

Preceding her in death were her husband, R. L. Murphy in 2001; two brothers, C.A. (Fish) Bowman and James Donald (Luke) Bowman; and a sister, Mable Pearson.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, James and Tommie Murphy of Jacksonville; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Inez and Max McKnight of Jacksonville, Marcia Culver of Longview and Julia and Billy Davis Jr. of Jacksonville; eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews including special nieces and nephews whom she considered as her own children including Juanita, Freddy, Linda, Mildred Jo, Wanda and Johnny.

Pallbearers were Ricky Murphy, Tracey Hendrix, Timothy Hutson, Brandon Hutson, Micheal Hutson, P.J. Davis, Jeremy Davis and Mark Wilson. Honorary pallbearers were the Rev. Bernie Hutson, Stephen Hutson and Matt Wilson.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler 75701.

ELZIE H. JENKINS

Funeral for Elzie H. Jenkins, 86, of Tyler was at 11 a.m., Monday in the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home chapel with Dr. Phil Lineberger and Dr. E. M. Hay officiating. Burial was in Cedar Hill Cemetery. Mr. Jenkins died Nov. 19. He was born Aug. 2, 1921, in Gallatin to the late William and Emma Garner Jenkins. He grew up at Rusk and married his childhood sweetheart, Ouida Hamilton, in 1942. During World War II he was commissioned as an officer and served with the 82nd Airborne Division. After graduating from the University of Texas he had a career in the life insurance business in Dallas. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Dallas and taught a men's Bible school class. He retired from the American General Life Insurance Company as regional vice-president. He moved to Arizona and was a golfer, a Rotarian, and active in the First Baptist Church of Sun City West, Ariz. As his health began to decline, he returned to East Texas. Survivors are his wife of 65 years, Ouida Hamilton Jenkins of Tyler; brother in law and sister-in-law, John and Joy Conway of Fort Worth; a nephew, Jon Mark Conway and his wife, Hayley and their son Will of Fort Worth; a niece Kathryn Conway Hansen, her husband Erik and their son Alex of Fort Worth.

Pallbearers were John Conway, Jon Mark Conway, Erik Hansen, Gene Goodman, Herschel Garner, Dr. Mike Harris, Ralph Gillham and John Larry Porter. Honorary pallbearers were James Lazarz and Jack Kassane. If desired, memorial may be sent to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler 75701.

FINNIEGENE NORWOOD

Graveside service for Finniegene Norwood, 80, of San Antonio was at 10 a.m., Tuesday, at Cedar Hill Cemetery with Robby Arrington officiating. Mrs. Norwood died Nov. 23. She was born Dec. 1, 1926, in Rusk to F.C. and Jewel Clayton Norman.

Mrs. Norwood was a resident of San Antonio for one year formerly of Rusk. She was a member of Rusk Church of Christ. She retired in 1986 from Rusk State Hospital after 40 years.

Preceding her in death were her husband J.H. (Hemby) Norwood in 2002. She is survived by one son, Jay Norwood of San Antonio; a daughter, Sara Woodruff of Jacksonville; stepdaughter, Ann Counts of Mt. Pleasant; special friend, Sam Lee of San Antonio, six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.

Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

December 5, 2007

CARL THOMPSON

Graveside service for Carl Richard Thompson, 69, of Coosada, Ala., formerly of Rusk, was at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 30, at the Bethlehem Cemetery in Notasulga, Ala. with the Rev. Mark Brumbeloe officiating.

Mr. Thompson died Nov. 28 at Baptist Medical Center in Montgomery, Ala. He was born Sept. 29, 1938. He was a long-time Rusk State Hospital employee and active in the Texas State Employees Union. He was a Democrat.

Survivors are a sister, Charlotte Causey of Coosada; a brother, Dudley Thompson of Prattville, Ala.; a half-brother; two half-sisters; and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements were under the direction of Corbitt Funeral Home in Tuskegee, Ala.

MARY MCNEILL

Funeral for Mary McNeill, 90, of Frankston, was at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Frankston Assembly of God Church with the Rev. Michael Griffin officiating. Burial was in Garden Oaks Memorial Park in Berryville.

Mrs. McNeill died Nov. 25. She was born Sept. 1, 1917, in Frankston to George Lafe and Leora Overton Henderson. She was a homemaker and a member of the Frankston Assembly of God Church.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Henry H. (Runt) McNeill. Survivors are three sisters, Myrtle George and Evelyn Mayo, both of Jacksonville, and May Bell Adams of Chandler; and several nieces and nephews. Nephews served as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were Bob Whitehurst and Bill Whitehurst. Autry Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

HERBERT JEWELL JAYROE

Herbert Jewell Jayroe, 81, died Nov. 30. He was born Nov. 20, 1926. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Park and his family will celebrate his life at a private family gathering.

He was preceded in death by his parents: J.H. and Cora Jayroe; one brother, Lowell A. Jayroe; and two sisters, Naomi Woodruff and Hazel Coggins.

Survivors are a sister-in-law, Frances Acker Jayroe and nieces and nephews, Pam Lake, Karen McDaniel, Tim Jayroe and Rodney Jayroe.

Due to a childhood illness, Mr. Jayroe, known to his family as "Uncle Herbie," was said to be forever young, keeping the child alive in all of his family.

Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

December 12, 2007

WILLIAM CARROLL PARTIN

Funeral for William Carroll (Bill) Partin was at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Jacksonville with the Reverend Jack Thrift officiating. Burial was in Still Waters Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Partin died Dec. 3. He was born Jan. 25, 1939, in Jacksonville to William Ellis and Ella Eubanks Partin. Mr. Partin graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1957 and married Sandra Kay Applegate March 3, 1962, in Patricia.

He was in the Air Force in Cunsoun, Korea during the Cuban Crisis in 1962. He served in the nursing home ministry in Tyler, Rusk, Jacksonville, Houston, Galena Park, Channelview, North Shore, Crosby, Alvin, Pasadena and Troup and at the Star of Hope and Open Door Missions in Houston and Rock of Ages Prison Ministry at the Hodge and Skyview units in Rusk. He was an ordained deacon in Galena Park at the 2nd Baptist Church and Union Grove Baptist Church in Troup, before he served at Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Mr. Partin was a journeyman electrician and was employed at ARMCO Steel in Houston for 17 years as a foreman. He was also a policeman for four years in Galena Park.

Survivors are his wife, Sandra Kay Partin of Jacksonville; two sons, Thomas Partin of Whitehouse and Billy Dwane Partin of Tyler; daughter, Karole Lujean Crouch of Chandler; three sisters, Sunny Shelly, Starmie and Armeda; a sister in law, Helen Joyce Smith of Floresville; five grandchildren, Jonathan Adam Sterling, Robert William Partin, Geoffry Lynn Partin, Christopher Andrew Partin, Brooke Ashley Partin; and one great-granddaughter. Pallbearers were Mike McDuff, Thomas Lynn Partin, Billy Dwane Partin and Jonathan Adam Sterling. Honorary pallbearers were the Christian Motorcycle Association.

Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

ROBERT EARL ELLIS

Graveside service for Robert Earl Ellis was at 2 p.m.. Sunday at Earle's Chapel Cemetery.

Mr. Ellis died on Dec. 4. He was born April 12, 1953 in Port Arthur, the son of Lawanda L. Ellis and the late Herbert G. Ellis.

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 Allen Military Academy in Bryan.

After graduation in 1969, he joined the 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. He eventually became an instructor for the Navy's EOD School in Indianhead, Md. where he helped develop new methods and instructional material for the school.

After retirement he returned to the Jacksonville area and started his own business developing and building low-cost rocket motors for the model rocketry community.

Survivors are his mother: Lawanda L. Ellis of Jacksonville, brothers and sisters-in-law: James Russell and Dixie Ellis of Rusk and Reed and Lucy Ellis of Dallas; uncles and aunts, Billy and Pat Ellis of Nederland, Virginia Richardson of Lufkin, Geraldine Watson of Silsbee, Faye Lane of Tyler; nephews, Erich, Stephen, and Robert Ellis; and nieces, Lara and Teisha Ellis. Arrangements were under the direction of Autry Funeral Home.

MARJORIE ANN SAMPLES

Memorial service for Marjorie Ann Samples, 54, of Bullard was at 1 p.m. Sunday at the Mount Selman United Methodist Church. Mrs. Samples was born June 10, 1953, and died Dec. 2. Preceding her in death were her parents, Ben and Lena Marie Carlile; daughter, Stephanie Samples; son, Charles Samples Jr.; and brother, George Carlile.

Survivors are her husband, of 35 years, Charles Samples; a sister and brother-in-law, Glenda and Rodney Roper of Tyler; two brothers and sisters in law, Thomas and Jackie Carlile of Noonday and Freddie and Lisa Carlile of Whitehouse. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Mount Selman United Methodist Church. Autry Funeral Home directed.

MARVIN L. CARTER

Funeral for Marvin L. Carter, 68, of Los Angeles, Calif., formerly of Rusk, was at 11 a.m. Thursday at Mount Hebron Baptist Church in Henderson with the Rev. Tony Zinnah, the Rev. Jerry Williams and the Rev. George O'Neal officiating. Burial was in Holly Springs Cemetery at Rusk.

Mr. Carter died Nov. 27 in Los Angeles, He was born Sept. 10, 1939, in Rusk to the late Pete and Margreette Lenzy Carter. He graduated from George W. Bradford High School, attended Butler College in Tyler and was a member of Delmar Baptist Church. He served in the Air Force and settled in Los Angeles. He worked for the City of Los Angeles Water and Power Department, retiring as a supervisor in 1995 after more than 30 years. He was a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

He was preceded in death by son, Scott Carter; five brothers, John Wesley Carter, Pete Carter Jr., Travis Carter Sr., Howard Carter and Charles Carter; and sister, Virginia Nunley. Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Norma Jean Ellis Carter of Los Angeles; daughter, Farah Carter Spainhour of Atlanta, Ga.; sisters, Geneva Taylor of Dallas, Corine Waggoner of Las Vegas, Nev. and Myrtle Garmon of Henderson; brothers, James Carter of Mineola, George Carter of Atwater, Calif., Tommy Carter of Dallas, and Vernell Carter of Washington, D.C.; one grandson; nieces, nephews and other relatives. Nephews served as pallbearers. Jenkins-Garmon Funeral Home of Henderson was in charge.

BILL RAINES

Funeral for Bill Raines Jr., 77, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Saturday at Earle's Chapel United Methodist Church with the Rev. David Kennedy officiating. Burial was in Earle's Chapel Cemetery.

Mr. Raines died Dec. 1. He was born on March 17, 1930, in Marshall to William and Marianna Raines.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, William H. Jr. and Cheryl Raines of Houston; a daughter, Elizabeth Earle Raines of Cypress; and a brother, Morgan Van Raines of Scotland. Arrangements were under the direction of Autry Funeral Home

CHARLES CLARK

Funeral for Charles Clark was at 10 a.m. Saturday at Autry Funeral Home chapel, with the Rev. Benny Walker and James Batton officiating. Burial was in Old City Cemetery.

Mr. Clark died Dec. 6. He was born Jan. 22, 1922, in Tecula to W.E. and Susie Ross Clark. He served in the Army during World War II. He was a farmer and member of Taylor's Chapel Community Church.

Survivors are his wife, Ermal Clark; two sons and daughters in-law, Sam and Sharon Clark of LaRue and Dane and Julie Clark of Troup; two daughters, Donna Jordan of Kemp and Janet Clark of Troup; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter; three sisters and a brother-in law, Mary Shamblin of Mount Selman, Emma Hall of Plano and Martha and James Gray of Grapevine; several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Steve Tedder, Richard Tedder, Don Hamilton, Alex Hamilton, Roy Shamblin and Jimmy Bolton.

VERDIE MAE TALLEY BANKS

Funeral for Verdie Mae Talley Banks, 96, was at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Wallace Thompson Funeral Home with the Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Burial was in Mt. Zion Cemetery.

Mrs. Banks died Saturday. She was one of nine children. She was born Nov. 7, 1911, in Rusk County. She worked in the grocery business most of her life. She was a member of Memorial Missionary Baptist Church in Rusk and the Order of Eastern Star Rusk/Alto Chapter #79. She sang alto in quartets for many years.

Survivors include her only child, Linda Sue Collins and husband Chuck; three grandchildren and spouses, Edwin Kent Miller II and Nancy Miller of Plano, Kelly Jo Miller and Mark Renault of Logansport, La., and Kevin Banks and Tonya Miller of Canton; four great-grandchildren, Michael Kelton and Kristen Miller of Bullard and Samuel Miller and Simon Miller of Canton; and great-great-grandson, Kaegan Kelton of Bullard. Grandsons served as pallbearers.

LETHA FAYE FITZPATRICK WATTS

Graveside service for Letha Faye Fitzpatrick Watts, 86, of Arlington was at 10:30 a.m. Monday. at McKnight Cemetery, Cushing. Mrs. Watts died Dec. 5. She was born on February 14, 1921, in Atoy to Lee and Voris Parmley. She was a member of the Church of Christ and a retired employee of Continental Airlines. Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Charles and Ellen Fitzpatrick of Arlington; three grandchildren, Charles Neil Fitzpatrick III, Dena Kay Peterson and William Keith Fitzpatrick, and five great grandchildren. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

JULIAN EARL (J.E.) GILLIAM

Funeral for Julian Earl (J. E.) Gilliam, 81, of Troup, was at 2 p.m. Monday with Andy Cox presiding. Burial was at the McDonald Cemetery.

Mr. Gilliam died Thursday. 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 Ponta Church of Christ, a lifetime member of the VFW and member of American Legion No. 418 in Troup. Mr. Gilliam was employed by Smith Auto Parts in Troup for 20 years.

He was preceded in death by parents, Wayne Ottis Gilliam and Sudie Bell Gray Gilliam; and brother, Billy Gene Gilliam.

Survivors are his wife, Sherma Gilliam of Troup; a son, Bill Sanders of Tyler; two 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 and several nieces and nephews; and a sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Joe Merchant of Jacksonville; Memorials may be made to Hospice HomePlace, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler 75701. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

ETHEL CLEWIS

Funeral for Ethel Clewis, 72, of New Summerfield was at 1 p.m. Sunday at Grace Temple Church of God in Christ with Elder Samuel Jones officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery.

Mrs. Clewis died Dec. 4. She was born Feb. 26, 1935. She was a member of the Grace Temple Church of God in Christ.

Survivors are her husband, Arthur Clewis of New Summerfield; a brother, L.C. Clewis of California; and a sister and brother-in-law, Kathryn and Royce Stewart of New Summerfield.

WILMA CLAFLIN

Funeral for Wilma Claflin, 88, of Pasadena, formerly of Alto was at 12:30 p.m. in the Grand View Funeral Home chapel at Pasadena. Burial was in Grand View Memorial Park.

Mrs. Claflin died Dec. 2. She was born June 5, 1919, in Alto to the late James Author and Jessie Adora Mayes.

Survivors are three daughters and two sons-in-law, Grace Grissom, Alice and Tom Wokaty and Nell and Russ Mitchell; a son and daughter in law, James William and Jean Cook; a sister, Mamie Vickory; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and other family members.

JEWEL WILLIAMS LEE

Funeral for Jewel Williams Lee, 87, of Northshore, was at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home with the Rev. Odis Bryan officiating. Burial was in Old Palestine Cemetery.

Mrs. Lee died Saturday. She was born Aug. 8, 1920, in Alto to James Washington and Mattie Helen Brock Williams. She was a member of the Uvalde Baptist Church in Northshore and a homemaker. Preceding her in death were her husband, Ernest (Don) Sherman Lee Sr. and a grandson, Don Wesley Lee.

Survivors are two sons and a daughter-in-law, Ernest Lee Jr. and Robert and Carlene Lee; grandchildren, Christina and Stephanie; and four great grandchildren.

CHARLES EDWARD TOBIAS

Funeral for Charles Edward Tobias, 58, of Tyler, formerly of Alto was at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Alto Missionary Baptist Church with Elton DeMoraes officiating. Burial was in Old Palestine Cemetery.

Mr. Tobias died Saturday. He was born Oct. 12, 1949, in Jacksonville to Tom Edward and Mattie Lavon Creel Tobias. He was a member of the Tyler Seventh Day Adventist Church. He worked for Loggins Pluming Company. Preceding him in death were his brother, Jackie Hicks and his father, Tom Edward Tobias.

Survivors are his father and step-mother, Earl and Nell Hicks of Alto; his mother, Lavon Hicks of Wells; his wife, Mary Tobias of Tyler; three sons and daughters-in-law, Jason and Bridget Tobias of Lufkin, Chris and Lindsey Tobias of Lufkin and Edward and Ashley Anderson of Rusk; two daughters and sons-in-law, Denise and Michael Linton of Alto and Jennifer and Cody Baker of Rusk; a brother and sister-in-law, Tommy Gerald and Susan Tobias of Wells; a sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Wayne Montes of Wells; 15 grandchildren, Lucchesse, Destini, Logan, Brailey, Sarah, David John, Dakota, Kaley, Brayden, Allie, Alex, Addie, Camron, Skylar and Quinton. Pallbearers were Eddie Jones, Justin Jones, Mickey Johnson, Ricky Selman, Edward Creel and Howell Jackson. O.T. Allen & Son was in charge.

LILLIAN INEZ LANG

Funeral for Lillian Inez Lang, 82, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Sunday at was in Concord Cemetery.

Mrs. Lang died Dec. 6. She was born in Concord Aug. 19, 1925 to Delbert and Jeffie Hall Stewart. Mrs. Lang was a member of First Church of the Nazarene in Jacksonville. She graduated from Nan Travis Hospital Nursing School in 1974. She was a retired LVN.

Mrs. Lang was preceded in death by first husband, Howard White in 1944 and second husband of 38 years, Fuller Lang; son, Jimmie Lang; father, Delbert Stewart; mother, Jeffie Stewart Odom; and brother, Gable E. Stewart.

Survivors are her daughter and son-in-law: Pamela and Larry Poag of Katy; grandchildren and 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 and Hall and Romelda Stewart of Lufkin; and sister-in-law, Rose Stewart, Woodville. Pallbearers were James Blaine Stewart, Mark Stewart, Ronnie Smith, Tim Poag, Danny Petty and Bart Stewart. Honorary pallbearer was Kevin Stewart. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

BETTY YORK BEEBE

Graveside services for Betty York Beebe, 69, of Rusk will be at 2 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 13, at Providence Cemetery with the Rev. Kenny Knous officiating.

Mrs. Beebe died Dec. 9. She was born Sept. 10, 1938, in Fort Worth to Jack E. York Sr. and Jimedith Sanders York. She was a resident of Rusk for four years and was formerly from Galveston. She was one of five first women truck drivers out of Fort Worth in the United States. She was a Baptist.

Preceeding her in death were a son, Robert Eugene Beebe and a brother, Jack E. York Jr.

Survivors are her husband of 37 years, Josh Henry Beebe Jr. of Rusk; two sons and daughters in-law, Joseph Lee and Doris Lynn Beebe of Groves and Josh Henry Beebe III and April Michelle Beebe of Navasota; three grandsons, Chase Justice Beebe of Groves, Hunter Anthony Beebe of Navasota and Josh Douglas Beebe of Big Sandy; three granddaughters, Rhiannon Leigh Beebe of Groves and MaKayla MaryAnn Beebe and Elizabeth Paige Beebe of Navasota; a sister, Joyce York Holmes of Midland; and a brother, Larry Robert York of Fort Worth. Family will serve as pallbearers.

JOSE CARMEN HERNANDEZ

Funeral for Jose Carmen Hernandez, 56, of New Summerfield was at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 10 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church with Father Mark Kusmirek officiating. Burial was in Union Chapel Cemetery. Mr. Hernandez died Thursday. He was born in La Mesa Alta, GTO, Mexico May 31, 1951, to Jose Hernandez and Maria Suarez Hernandez. He was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church 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; five daughters and two sons-in-law, Ana and Arturo Paredes of Alicia, Francisco Balderas of New Summerfield, Camelia and Edgar Calvillo of Jacksonville, Gloria Hernandez of Ponta and Rosalinda Hernandez of New Summerfield; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Cristino and Honorina Hernandez of New Summerfield, Leopoldo and Manuela Hernandez of Naples, Fla.; sisters and brothers-inlaw, Josefina Hernandez of Arlington, Yolanda and Pueblo Sanchez and Maria Luisa and Andres Mendoza, all of Mexico; 17 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Rene Suarez, David Suarez, Miguel Suarez and Guadalupe Mata.

Honorary pallbearers were Leopoldo Hernandez, Cristino Hernandez, Juan Manuel Hernandez and Tim Tipton. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

December 19, 2007

CARRIE F. OSBORNE

Funeral for Carrie F. Osborne, 85, of Jacksonville, formerly of Frankston, was at 10 a.m. Saturday, at Autry Funeral Home Chapel in Frankston with the Rev. Michael Lewis officiating. Burial was in LaRue Cemetery. Mrs. Osborne was born on Oct. 5, 1922, in LaRue. She died Dec. 5. She was a member of First Christian Church.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Anthony Samuel Haynes and Lilly Emmaline Alexander; and husband, Randel W. (Jack) Osborne Sr. Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Randel W. Jr. and Janice Osborne of Blanchard, Okla. and Joe A. and Kathy Osborne of Jacksonville; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a brother and sister-in-law, James and Gwen Haynes of Athens; two sisters, Julia Hatter of Jackson, Tenn. and Alice Baggerman of Portland, Ore.; a sister-in-law, Gale Haynes of Murchison; and a brother-in-law, William (Square) Walker of Poynor; and several nieces and nephews,

Pallbearers were Chad Osborne, Nathan Osborne, John Cook, Roy Patton, Benji Haynes, Chase Boothe and Steven Simmons. Honorary pallbearers were Bill Hatter, Scott Taylor, Allen Taylor, Stan Haynes, Steve Haynes, Kelly Walker, Jerry Osborne, Mike Hatter and Curt Sadler.

JOE CECIL DURRETT

Joe Cecil Durrett, 67, of Arlington died Dec. 11 after a courageous battle with liver cancer.

Celebration of his life was at 2 p.m. Saturday at Autry Funeral home. Burial was in Pleasant Grove Cemetery. A second memorial service was at 7 p.m. Monday at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Arlington. His son Joe Patrick Durrett led the service.

Pallbearers were Vernon Thompson, Thomas Thompson, Arthur Thompson, Vaughn Tolber, Brandon Durrett and Austin Walton.

Mr. Durrett was born on Dec. 2, 1940, in Jacksonville to the late Thomas and Marie Durrett. In 1959 he married Jean Thompson Durrett who also preceded him in death in 1988. They had four children, Brenda Chain of Houston, Donna Walton and Lorna Rosales, both of Granbury and Joe Patrick Durrett of Arlington.

Other survivors are his second wife, Chris Fugett Durrett of Arlington and her daughters, Kimberly Phillips and husband James, and Liz Smith; sister and brother in law, Carolyn and Johnny Thompson of Maydelle; three nephews, three great-nieces, six great-nephews and 15 grandchildren.

Mr. Durrett retired from TXU in 1992 after 25 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Granbury. Memorials may be made to the American Institute of Cancer Research at (800) 843-8114.

DORIS EVELYN COFFEY DUBOSE

Funeral for Doris Evelyn Coffey DuBose, 75, of Rusk was at 2 p.m. Friday at the Richland Hills Church of Christ with Mike Washburn, Robby Arrington and Marshall Coffey officiating. Burial was in Bluebonnet Hills Cemetery at Colleyville.

Mrs. DuBose died Dec. 11. She was born July 10, 1932, in Hawley in Jones County to Arvin Laville and Ila Paralee Anderson Coffey. She graduated from Anson High School in 1949.

She and her late husband, J.M. DuBose Jr. were married 42 years. She graduated with an Associate Degree from Fort Worth Christian Junior College, a BA from Texas Wesleyan and Masters of Education from North Texas University at Denton.

Mrs. DuBose was a classroom teacher in the Birdville ISD for 25 years teaching all grade levels. She retired in 1994. She was a member of the Retired Teacher's Association and a member of the Toastmasters International. She and her husband were members at Richland Hills Church of Christ, where he served as deacon for many years. She lived in North Richland Hills for 37 years and Rusk, 20 years.

Preceding her in death were her husband, J.M. DuBose Jr.; a son, John M. DuBose III; sister, Valta Davis Sullivan, and brother, Kendall Laville Coffey.

Survivors are two daughters and sons-in-law, Candis and James Blankinship of Rusk and Jonna and Dean Wilson of Rusk; two sons and daughter in-law, David and Brenda DuBose of North Richland Hills and Daniel DuBose of Colbert, Okla.; daughter-inlaw, Dianne DuBose of North Richland Hills; three sisters and a brother-in-law, Kois Wilkinson of Weatherford, Mary Hopkins of Anson and Linda and Larry White of Anson; four brothers and three sisters-in-law, Wayland and Jimmie Coffey of Hawley, John Coffey of Washington D.C., Don and Dorothy Coffey and David and Brenda Coffey, all of Abilene; 11 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were James L. Blankinship, David B. Blankinship, Eric Cowan, John A. Carroll, Ryan E. Mabry, Lance Dement, John Kirk and Luke Dement. If desired, memorials may be made to Boles Children's Home. Wallace- Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

HAROLD EDWARD HICKS

Graveside services for Harold Edward Hicks, 52, of Jacksonville, was at 2 p.m. Friday at Jarratt Cemetery with Davy Carter officiating.

Mr. Hicks was born March 19, 1955, in Pasadena and died Dec. 12. He was preceded in death by his father, G. W. Hicks. Survivors are his mother, Betty Lou Hicks, of Jacksonville; daughters and spouses, Latisha Hicks and Gregory Roland of Rusk and Candace and Jason Park of Jacksonville; four brothers and sisters-in-law, Jimmy and Joy Hicks of Lake Charles, La., Allen and Betty Hicks of Henderson; Billy and Linda Hicks of Lake Palestine and Michael Hicks and Nelsa McFadden of Jacksonville; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Barbara and Robbie Clary of Jacksonville and Diane Hicks of Houston; and four grandchildren.

Honorary pallbearers were James Clary Jr., Michael McLean, David McLean, Justin Hicks, Charlie Motes, Billy Hicks Jr. and James Hicks.

KENNETH TERRIAN MORGAN

Funeral for Kenneth Terrian Morgan, 37, of Alto, was at 2 p.m. Sunday at the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Kafee Andrews officiating. Burial was in New Hope Cemetery.

Mr. Morgan died Nov. 22. He was born Feb. 16, 1970, in Jacksonville.

He lived most of his life in Alto and was a member of the Church of Christ Church in Alto. He graduated from Alto High School and worked as a nurse's aide at Alto Care Center.

Proceeding him in death were his aunt, Janet Christopher; grandfather, L.C. Morgan; grandmother, Bulah Hackney; and step-mother, Wesley Hackney.

Survivors are his father, Kenneth Hackney of Alto; mother, Ann Morgan of Alto; wife, Mary Morgan of Arkansas; two sons, Aaron Morgan of Arkansas and George Hackney of Alto; three daughters, Shenana Morgan of Arkansas, Jasmine Tilley of Jacksonville and Destiny Morgan of Colorado; six sisters and a brother-in-law, Margric Skinner of Jacksonville, Gayla and Ronnie Matthews of Alto, Rhonda Neely of Tyler, Sheila James of Wells, Shamecia Falcon of Shreveport, La. and Janeen Tyler of Lufkin.

DANA LYNN WEST EVANS

Graveside services for Dana Lynn West Evans, 56, of Norton, will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Salem Cemetery near Rusk. A service was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Lange Funeral Home in Ballinger..

Mrs. Evans died Dec. 15. She was born June 6, 1951, in Palestine. She attended Ballinger schools and graduated from DeSoto High School and St. Edward University in Austin. She worked with several agencies for the state of Texas and most recently as payroll coordinator for Angelo State University

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Robin Williams and a brother, Phillip West.

Survivors include her husband, Alan Evans of Norton; two daughters, Vanessa Wood and Angela Morgan, both of Austin; a son, Andrew Williams of New York; her parents, Dan and Mona West of Rusk; a sister, Kyla Brimberry of Houston; five grandchildren; and one niece.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or a favorite charity.

December 26, 2007

MARIE NORRIS

Funeral for Marie Norris, 76, of New Summerfield, was at 1 p.m. Friday at Williams Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. W. D. Brown officiating. Burial was in Plainview Cemetery at Ponta.

Ms. Norris died Dec. 18. She was born Dec. 22, 1930, in Jones County. She was a Baptist.

Survivors are a sister, Clara B. Johnson of New Summerfield; several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Anthony Johnson, Tommy Cleaver, Byron Johnson and E.J. Henderson.

IRMA O. (BENGE) COLTELLARO

Funeral for Irma O. (Benge) Coltellaro, 79, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Friday at Autry Funeral chapel with the Rev. Leon Ross and the Rev. David Smith officiating. Burial was in Jarratt Cemetery.

Mrs. Coltellaro died Dec. 17. She was born Sept. 23, 1928, in Ironton to Wesley Smith Benge and Laura Clayborne. She was a member of Craft Baptist Church and a homemaker.

Preceding her in death were husband, Gabriel N. Coltellaro; and son, Kip D. Coltellaro.

Survivors are two sons and a daughter-in-law Gabriel Sky Coltellaro of Jacksonville and Kim Wesley and Janet Coltellaro of Rockwall; grandchildren Gabrien D. Coltellaro, Nikki Rose Coltellaro, Roman Gabriel Coltellaro and Tiffany Redmond; great grandchildren Valerie Redmond, Anthony Redmond and Natalie Redmond.

Pallbearers were Weldon Lightsey, Paul Galyean, Perry Morgan, Larry White, Scott Alexander and Dwayne Partain.

Honorary pallbearers were Leon Gaylor and Floyd Barrington.

KENNETH DWAIN JENNINGS

Funeral for Kenneth Dwain Jennings, 66, of Jacksonville was at 10 a.m. Friday at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. James Farmer officiating. Burial was in Union Grove Cemetery at Troup.

Mr. Jennings died Dec. 19. He was born Oct. 20, 1941, in McPherson, Kan., to Ray William and Minnie Lou Dowdy Jennings.

He was an oil field roughneck and a member of Lake Area Church at Frankston. He was preceded in death by granddaughter, Holly Chereé Jennings; father, Ray William Jennings; and brother, William Leon Jennings.

Survivors include his wife, Charlotte Jennings of Jacksonville; three sons, Rocky Jennings of Rusk, Kenneth R. Jennings of Longview, and Charles Jennings of Tyler; a daughter, Brenda Smoker of Lindale; his mother, Minnie Lou Bland of Jacksonville; two brothers, Bob Jennings of Sedan, Kan. and Dan Jennings of New Summerfield; a sister, Jackie Carter of Longview; 15 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Brandon Jennings, Brad Smoker, Chris Smoker, Kevin Jennings, Kodi Jennings, Blake Reid and Josh Jennings. Honorary pallbearers were Jose Reyes, Ramond Dunford, Wayne Duke and Stephen Reed.

PAULINE RAINWATER

Funeral for Pauline Rainwater, 86, of Jacksonville, was at 2 p.m. Thursday at Autry Funeral Home chapel with Philip Strong officiating. Burial was in Myrtle Springs Cemetery at Ponta.

Mrs. Rainwater died Dec. 18. She was born Sept. 16, 1921, in Missouri to the late James and Lilly Summers. She was a member of Southside Church of Christ in Jacksonville. Preceding her in death were her husband of 61 years, Silas Ross (S.R.) Rainwater, and two sons, Richard and Charles Rainwater.

Survivors are two sons, Roy Rainwater of Indiana, and Gene Rainwater of Missouri; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Luke Smith, Terry Brockelman, Mike Terry, Michael Terry, Shawn Smith and Jeff Hancock.