Cherokee County, Texas

OBITUARIES SEPTEMBER OCTOBER 2007

September 5, 2007

JOEL GLEN ZEILMAN SR.

Funeral for Joel Glen Zeilman Sr., 48, of Maydelle, was at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 29, at Boren-Conner Funeral Home with the Rev. Buck Newsom officiating. Burial was in Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Zeilman died Aug. 23. He was born Aug. 27, 1958, in Streator, Ill., and had lived in the Maydelle area since 1993, moving there from Fort Worth. He was a member of Long Point Christian Church in Illinois, and a former diesel mechanic.

He was preceded in death by son, Joel Glen Zeilman Jr., one niece and one great-nephew.

Survivors include a son, Nicholas Ryan Zeilman of Aviano Air Force Base, Italy; two daughters, Amber Leigh Zelman of Tyler and Ashlei Nicole Zeilman of Rusk; his parents, Robert Ray and Frances Dee Byrd Zeilman of Varna, Ill.; four brothers, Terry Zeilman of Las Vegas, Nev., Daniel Zeilman of Palestine, Steven Zeilman of Maydelle, William Zeilman of Long Point, Ill., Michael Zeilman of Springfield, Ill; two sisters, Kathryn Pillash of Piedmont, Ala., and Karen Berta of Varna, Ill.; three grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were nephews, Mark, Matthew and Jeremy Zeilman, Joshua Pillash and Jacob Berta and Mike Rogers.

VERLENE DUPLICHAIN BIRDSONG

Funeral for Verlene Duplichain Birdsong, 61, was at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Alto First Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Haley officiating. Burial was in the Duplichain- Black Cemetery in Alto.

Mrs. Birdsong died Aug. 29. She was born Sept. 3, 1945, in Port Arthur to Herman and Novelle Black Duplichain, who preceded her in death. She had lived in Alto for the last 20 years and taught at Alto Middle School for the last 18 years.

She was a member of the Ponta Baptist Church, where her husband serves as minister. She was a former member of the Alto First Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by a son, Adam Birdsong.

Survivors are her husband, Randall Birdsong of Alto; a son and daughter-in-law, David and Amy Birdsong of Whitehouse; a brother and sister-in-law, Greg and Betty Duplichain of Alto; two grandchildren, Noah and Hayden.

Pallbearers were Jason Duplichain, Jeffrey Duplichain, Paul Black, Jerry Black, Terry Black, Kerry Black, Jonathan Black and Kyle Griffith.

O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

MARY FRANCES PATCH BEARD

Mary Frances Patch Beard, age 84, of Jacksonville, died Aug. 28. The eighth child of the Rev. Wesley Fletcher Patch and Lillie Mae Baisden Patch, she was born on July 3, 1923 in Knox County, Tenn.

She is survived by her daughters, Carolyn Strong and Susan Jamail of Jacksonville and Cathryn Cooke of Texarkana, Tex.; grandchildren, Timothy Ewing of Houston, Leah Herrington of Honeygrove, Curtis Cooke and Brian Jamail of San Antonio; great-grandchildren; Emma and Mary Annalise Herrington, Lauren, Brady and Evan Jamail, Madeleiene Ewing and Avery Cooke. She is preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Marvin Beard.

A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler 75701.

CHARLIE SULLIVAN WAGGONER

Funeral for Charlie Sullivan Waggoner Sr., 79, of Los Angeles, Calif., formerly of Rusk, was at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4, at the Mt. Pleasant CME Church, Rusk with the Rev. Phal Carter officiating.

Burial was in Holly Springs Cemetery. Under the direction of Jenkins-Garmon Funeral Home in Henderson.

Mr. Waggoner died Aug. 27 in Los Angeles. He was born June 13, 1928, to Dee Waggoner and Velma Martin Waggoner in Rusk.

He was reared in the Rusk area and united with Holly Springs CME Church at an early age. He graduated from George W Bradford High School in Rusk and received a Bachelor of Science degree from Butler College in Tyler.

He married Corine Carter Oct. 25, 1948.

Mr. Waggoner resided in Tyler for several years before he and his family moved to Los Angeles, Calif., where he was employed as a supervisor for the City of Los Angeles Department of Power and Water for 37 years until retirement.

Mr. and Mrs. Waggoner relocated to Las Vegas, Nev. after his retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dee and Velma Waggoner; a son, Albert Waggoner and a brother, Chester Waggoner.

Survivors are his wife of 58 and a half years, Corine Waggoner; two sons, Jerry Waggoner and Charlie Waggoner Jr.; three daughters, Shirley Waggoner, Patricia Zulic and Jacqueline Waggoner all residing in California; 12 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Verline Johnson; three brothers, Dee Waggoner Jr., John Wesley Waggoner and Hubert Waggoner, all residing in Texas; an uncle, several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Nephews were pallbearers.

JAMES CLAYTON (MOOSE) HUDNALL

Funeral for James Clayton (Moose) Hudnall, 46, of Alto, will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at the Alto Community Fellowship Church with Ron Rose officiating. Burial will be in Cook Cemetery at Linwood.

Mr. Hudnall died Saturday. He was born Oct. 30, 1960, in Rusk to Harold Ray and Deloris Landsiedel Hudnall. He lived in Rusk many years, where he attended school and played football. He had resided in Alto for the past 20 years. He was employed by Union Pacific Railroad and for Randy Sturrock. Preceding him in death were his mother Deloris Hudnall and brother, David Swofford. Survivors are his parents, Harold and Peggy Hudnall of Alto; a daughter, Chelsia Hudnall of Rusk; a son, Cody Hudnall of Alto; three sisters and a brother-in-law, Karen and Jeff Measner of Graham, Wash., Marica Parker of Paris and Allison Bays of Alto; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Karen Parker of Tracey, Minn. and Mark and Nancy Hudnall of Rusk.

Pallbearers will be Gary Seay, Ricky Dannelley, David Parker, Randy Sturrock, Tim Germany, Terry Tolbert, Ronnie Smith and Billy Mack Cornelious. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Boyd, Bobby Reese, Andrew Seay, Richard Rowley, John D. Hudnall, Rex Hudnall and members of the Blue Lake Hunting Club. O.T. Allen & Son was in charge of arrangements.

  ALENE FOCKE

Funeral for Alene Focke, 89, of Rusk was at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 1, in the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Charles Haley officiating. Burial was in Shiloh Cemetery.

Mrs. Focke died Aug. 30. She was born Nov. 22, 1917, in Holly Springs Ark. to the late Charles Alvis and Lela Pearl Bryant Jordan. Mrs. Focke was a resident of Rusk 17 years and a homemaker.

Preceding her in death were her husbands, Thomas Henry Sisco and Robert Corder Focke; a son, Wayne T. Sisco, three brothers and one sister.

Survivors are two daughters and a son-in-law: Linda L. Jones of Rusk and Sandra and Terry Kroll of Bryan; granddaughter, Tanya Kroll of Maple Grove, Minn.; three grandsons, Shawn Kroll of Bryan, Byron Jones of Lufkin and Scott Jones of League City; a son-in-law: Clay Jones of Rusk; four great-grandchildren, a sister-in-law, Bea Jordan of Chidester, Ark., numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Byron Clay Jones, Scott Allen Jones, Nolan Jones, Terry Kroll, Clay Jones, Alvis Lee Jordan and Joe Carranza.

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

ROGER DALE STAFFORD
 

Graveside service for Roger Dale Stafford, 55, of Rusk, was 2 p.m. Sunday in Walker Chapel Cemetery near Reklaw with the Rev. Dan Rankin officiating. Mr. Stafford died Aug. 30. He was born March 9, 1952, in Casa Grande, Ariz. He was a resident of Rusk most of his life and was reared in Reklaw. He was a member of Atoy Baptist Church and a self-employed carpenter. Preceding him in death were a son, Brandon Scott Stafford; father, Sidney Dewey Stafford; and two nephews, Nathan Sidney Stafford and Jesse Lee Irby. Survivors are his wife of 26 years, Jackie Stafford of Rusk; his mother, Mary Evelyn Irby of Rusk; four children, Christopher Brawley, Misty Tyler, Roger Brawley and Sidney Joseph Stafford, all of Rusk; a sister, Rebecca Cummins of Rusk; three brothers, Dewey Lynn Stafford of Rusk, Larry Gene Stafford of Houston and Jesse Keith Irby of Rusk; two step-brothers, Danny Irby of Lawton, Okla. and Donny Irby of Wichita Falls; 11 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Chris Brawley, Roger Brawley, Sidney Stafford, Tony Tyler, Brent Oliver and Steven Stafford. Wallace-Thompson Funeral was in charge of arrangements.

MARGARET LEE KENT
 

Graveside service for Margaret Lee Kent, 88, of Jacksonville was at 4 p.m. Sunday at Resthaven Memorial Park with Sean McRight officiating.

Mrs. Kent died Aug. 30. She was born April 22, 1918, in Mineral Wells.

She was employed by the Carrolton Farmers Branch ISD and was a member of the Southside Church of Christ.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Everett Leonard Kent; and son, Steve Kent.

Survivors are a daughter, Susan Drury of Houston; a daughter-in-law, Gail Kent of Jacksonville; two grandsons, Will Kent of Jacksonville and Gabe Drury of Houston; and several nieces and nephews. Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

September 12, 2007

OPAL I. THOMPSON
Graveside service for Opal I. Thompson, 95, of Tyler, formerly of the Corinth community near Jacksonville was at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4, at Jarratt Cemetery with the Rev. James Blaylock officiating.

Mrs. Thompson died Sept. 1. She was born Jan. 8, 1912, in Dialville. She worked for 30 years at Marja Brassiere Co. and Henson-Kickernick. She was a member of the Corinth Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Frazier Thompson; a daughter, Norma Cupp; and two granddaughters, Laurie Ann Thompson and Sarah Kathryn Thompson.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, Ted and Carol Thompson of Tyler; four grandchildren, Don Cupp of Tyler, Jean Cupp of Hartley, Traci Wilson of Conway, Ark. and Lisa Dodd and husband, Greg of Rockton, Ill; eight great-grandchildren, Caroline Dodd, Alex Dodd, Colin Dodd and Kylie Dodd, all of Rockton, Will Wilson of Conway. Kayla Wilson of Hot Springs, Ark., Andrew Waldson of Arlington and Angie Gallaway and husband, Jonathan of Fort Worth; great-grandson, Peyton Chandler Gallaway of Fort Worth; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Corinth Baptist Church. Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

 EVA CUMMINS

Memorial services for Eva Mae Cummins, 89, of Rusk will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, in the Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Don Copeland officiating.

Mrs. Cummins died Aug. 6, in a Rusk nursing home. She was born May 12, 1918, in Salado, Ark. to the late Earl and Zenobia Reichardt. She was a resident of Rusk since the 1970s. She was a Baptist and a homemaker. Preceding her in death was her husband Ezra Cummins in 2001.

She is survived by her son Michael Cummins and wife Melinda Moses of Houston; four grandchildren, Michael Cummins Jr., Bonita Cummins, Byron Cummins and Mindy Jones, and three great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews. If desired, memorials may be made to M.D. Anderson Hospital 1515 Holcombe Blvd Pmb. 72 Houston, TX 77030.

CHRISTOPHER COLE MINCHEW

Graveside services for Christopher Cole Minchew, infant son of Chris and Heather Minchew of Maydelle, was at 1 p.m. Monday at Mount Pisgah Cemetery, Oakwood, with the Rev. Kevin Wilmont officiating.

The infant was born and died Sept. 9.

In addition to his parents, survivors include a brother, Hunter Minchew, Maydelle; grandparents, Sondra and Kirk Stanley of Jacksonville, Deborah and Earnest Minchew of Maydelle, Judy and Billy Minter of Palestine; and great-grandparents, Linda Goff, William Popham, Helen and Harold Slate, all of Palestine.

Arrangements were under direction of Bailey & Foster Funeral Home, Palestine

THOMAS BRADFORD COOK

Funeral for Thomas Bradford Cook, 74, of Frankston was at 3 p.m. Friday at the Frankston First Baptist Church with Olin Boles, Chris White, J.A. Griffin and Darin Wood officiating. Burial was in Frankston City Cemetery.

Mr. Cook died Sept. 3. He was born Jan. 11, 1933. He graduated from Frankston High School and Stephen F. Austin State University. Mr. Cook spent 47 years in public education, 40 of those at the Frankston ISD, the other time spent at Mount Enterprise.

He served as teacher, coach and principal. As head coach at Frankston High School he led the Indians to a District 18A championship, a bi-district win over Blooming Grove, a regional victory over Overton and a trip to the state Class A quarterfinals against Mart. He was selected an East Texas Coach of the Year for his and the team's accomplishments.

He was preceded in death by brother, Otis (Poncho) R. Cook.

He is survived by wife of 54 years Naomi Ruth Cook; children, Tommy D. Cook and wife Lisa of the Woodlands and Gena L. Cook Stoke and husband Aaron of Round Rock; grandchildren, Jesse L. Cook, Minnie A. Cook Baker and husband Matt, and Anissa L. Stoke; great-granddaughter Brooklyn R. Baker; and a sister Juanita Conaway of Frankston.

Pallbearers were Austin Thacker, G. V. (Bo) Ousley, Raymond Nichols, Jerry Beard, Mike Cook, Johnny Burks, Jim Smith and Robert Loper.

Honorary pallbearers were Troy House, Larry Weesner, Karla Dennis, Sarah Thacker, Joan Moseley, D.A. (Doodle) Beard, Mickey Kirkpatrick, Sonny Perry, James Turk Monday, Les Wells, T.L. Beard and Billy Bacon. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

LANELL LAKE

Memorial service for Lanell Lake, 78, of Bullard was at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Staton Family Center, Highway 204, Jacksonville, with the Rev. Dr. Samuel Hopkins Jr. officiating.

Ms. Lake died Aug. 30. She was born May 22, 1928, in Henderson. She was owner of Pazzazz Boutique in Jacksonville from 1986-99 and a real estate agent. She was a Baptist.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, Ray and Brenda Lake of Jacksonville; a daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Mike Zoller of Jacksonville; four grandchildren, Dawn Bacon, Cassie Bingham and Preston Lake, all of Jacksonville and Sky Beach of Bullard; three great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Wright, Branson Bacon and Taylor Bingham, all of Jacksonville; and several nieces and nephews. Thompson Funeral Home was in charge.

IDA ANN DAVIS

Funeral for Ida Ann Davis, 72, of Mabank, formerly of Reklaw, was at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 5, at Dickie Allen Funeral Home chapel in Cushing, with the Rev. Jerry Walles officiating. Burial was in McKnight Cemetery.

Mrs. Davis died Sept. 3. She was born July 12, 1935, in Cushing to the late Arvin and Wilma Fountain McKnight. She grew up in the Reklaw and Cushing area. She lived in Dallas for many years, where she was a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell. She was a Baptist.

Survivors include her husband, Leonard Davis of Mabank; a son, David L. Davis of Garland; two brothers, Rayford McKnight of Jacksonville, and Glendale McKnight of Reklaw; and a sister, Louise Mayfield of Dallas.

Pallbearers were Kody Killion, Klint Killion, Raymond Jimmerson, Don Wood and Doc Emery.

DELL BALLEW

Memorial services for Dellis (Dell) Donald Ballew Jr. 48, of Lindale, was at 1 p.m., Friday, Sept. 7, at the New Life Baptist Church in Tyler, with the Rev. Walter Jones officiating.

Mr. Ballew died Sept. 3. He was born Jan. 15, 1959, in Jacksonville, to Dellis Donald Sr. and Marva Beth Ballew.

He had lived in Lindale for three months, moving there from Sheridan, Wyo., where he lived for 10 years. He worked as a truck driver for Anderson Trucking Service.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Lisa Ballew of Lindale; two step-sons, John McMillan of Sheridan and Josh McMillan of Tyler; two step-daughters, Joni Jones of Wichita Falls and Trish Granger of Lindale; a sister, Sherri Clark of Utah; four grandchildren and several relatives living in the Rusk area.

Arrangements were with Hilliard Funeral Home, Van.

JESSE P. YBARRA

Funeral for Jesse P. Ybarra, 75, of Jacksonville, was at 2 p.m. Monday at Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Andy Fanette officiating. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Park.

Mr. Ybarra died Sept. 7. He was born May 12, 1932, in Wills Point. He was owner of Ybarra Carpet for 30 years. Preceding him in death were a son, Jesse Roy Ybarra and a grandson, Jason Gutierrez.

Survivors are his wife of 27 years, Teresa Aber of Jacksonville; former spouse, Connie Ybarra, and their children, Jesse Dino Ybarra and wife Beverly and Gilbert Ybarra and wife, Rosie, all of Tyler and Mona Ybarra and Rachel Ruiz, both of Tyler; former spouse, Gloria Ybarra of Irving and their children, Diana Miller, Annette Salinas, Ernest Ybarra and Gina Ybarra, all of Irving; a brother, Manuel Ybarra and wife, Alicia, of Dallas; two sisters and husbands, Vera and Sabino Sipriano of Dallas and Luisa and Anastacio Perez of Ohio; 11 grandchildren, Diana Posada, Alicia Villalobos, Ericka Becker, Marcus Becker, Andy Ayers, Ronnie Westbrook, Kayla Fernandez, Shayla Fernandez, Karolina Ruiz, Mario Ruiz and Krystle Rocka; 13 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Ricky Aber, Andy Ayers, Marcus Becker, Andrew Garcia, John Lugo, Majin Torres, Nestor Vinelli, Ronnie Westbrook and Daniel Ybarra. Honorary pallbearers were Danny Aber, Sebastian Posada and Mario Ruiz.

JAMES RAYMOND GEORGE
 

Funeral for James Raymond George, 49, of Henderson will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday in the Dickie Allen Funeral Home chapel in Cushing with the Rev. Edward Richardson officiating. Burial will be in New Salem Cemetery.

Mr. Geroge died Saturday. He was born Nov. 15, 1957, in Rusk County to Lonnie Raymond and Ruby Biggs George. He lived most of his life in Rusk County and was a Baptist. He worked on an oil rig and was a U.S. Army veteran.

Preceding him in death were his parents; a brother, Jay Deason and two nephews, Travis Wilkerson and Jerry Deason Jr. Survivors are four sisters, Wanda Myers of Longview, Debra Richardson of Ashdown, Ark. Laura Gros of Henderson and Viola Legnon of Jacksonville; two brothers, Jack Deason of Baker, La. and Jerry Deason of Henderson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Travis White, Jimmy Reeves, Mike Linthicum, Johnny Miller, Scott Bryant, Kyle Lanham, Mark Richardson and Jeremie Tennison.  

September 19, 2007

MARGARET GENEVA FARMER

Margaret Geneva Farmer, 87, of Jacksonville, died Sept. 10. She was born Sept. 9, 1920 in Dry Prong, La., to Fellix Dempsey Iles and Alice Corine Wilmore. The family plans a memorial service at a later date.

Survivors are her husband of 58 years, Jack Benson Farmer of Jacksonville; a son and daughter-in-law, Charles and Gail Farmer of Austin; three daughters and sons-inlaw, Mary Alice and Chuck Larsen of Graham, Peggy and John Ervin of Jacksonville and Marco Island, Fla. and Susan and Rocky Paramore of Bastrop; seven grandchildren, Benson Larsen of Forney, Jennifer Larsen of Rockwell, Jack Grimes and Leigh Christie of Austin, Wendy Clark of Alto, Adam Grimes of Austin and Benson Grimes of Jacksonville; and 11 great-grandchildren; a brother, Alfred Leroy and Martha Iles, Pineville, La.; numerous nieces and nephews.

VIOLET AURORA (SUSIE) POND

Funeral for Violet Aurora "Susie" Pond, 86, of Jacksonville, was at 10 a.m. Thursday in the Autry Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Ronny Hart officiating. Burial was in Gossett's Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Pond was born on July 30, 1921, in the Brushy Creek community. She died Sept. 11.

She was a seamstress and designed purses. She was a member of the Lookout Valley Church of the Nazarene.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Julian Pond; grandson, Brandon Hicks; brother, Joe Webb; and sister, Rosa Nell Jenkins.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Walter and Janet Pond of Rockdale; a daughter and son-in-law, Marilyn and Robert Russell of Lufkin; grandchildren, Duane Pond and D'Wayla Hicks; great-grandchildren, Kyler Erickson and Kolten Pond; six brothers, Donald Webb of Garland, Robert Webb of Gatlin, Tenn., Cecil Webb of Trinity, William Webb of California, Jack Webb of Dallas and Jerry Webb of Aurora, Calif.; a sister, Betty Carsile of Mont Bellview; several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Steve Grimes, Ryan McDaniel, Noland Scruggs, Rock Spraggins, Jerry Scruggs and James Sides.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Alliance, 3613 S. Broadway, Tyler 75701, or the charity of choice.

PAULINE RITTER

Funeral for Pauline Ritter, 85, of Jacksonville was at 10 a.m. Sept. 14 at Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Ron Hart officiating. Burial was in Still Waters Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Ritter died Sept. 10. She was born on August 8, 1922 in Jacksonville. She was a retired secretary, homemaker and attended the Lookout Valley Church of the Nazarene.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Jesse David and Mary Jane Alexander Spraggins, and her husband, D.J. Ritter.

Survivors include a daughter, Kathi Smith of Jacksonville; a granddaughter, Belinda Dodd of Plano; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Ottis and Lottie Spraggins, J.D. and Pat Spraggins and Jim and Janice Spraggins, all of Jacksonville; numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Rock Spraggins, Gary Tipton, Kenny Jones, David Spraggins, Jimmy Spraggins and Anthony Constant. Memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd, Tyler 75701.

JAMES EARNEST MCCARTY

Funeral for James Earnest McCarty, 77, of Nederland, was at 10 a.m. Monday in the Falvey United Methodist Church with the Rev. Bud Bonner officiating. Burial was in Mount Hope Cemetery. Mr. McCarty died Sept. 13. He was born Dec. 22, 1929, in Wells, to the late Maudell (Bailey) and William Earnest McCarty.

He was retired from the Nederland Independent School District, where he was a vocational agriculture and CVAE teacher. Mr. McCarty served in the United States Army during the Korean War. In addition to his parents, Mr. McCarty was preceded in death by one brother and three sisters.

Survivors include his daughter and son-in-law, Donna and John Green of Trophy Club; grandson, Joshua Green of Trophy Club; sister, Mildred Glover of Wells; brother, Troy McCarty of Lufkin; and a number of other family and friends.

Pallbearers will be Gary Johnson, Slade Johnson, Travis Glover, C. W. Williams, Trae Glover and Lane McCarty.

Gipson Funeral Home was in charge.

MARY FLETCHER

Funeral for Mary Fletcher, 67, of Jacksonville, was at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 18, at the First Church On The Hill in Rusk with the Rev. Jan Pate and Glendale Pate officiating. Burial was in Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Fletcher died Sept. 15. She was born Feb. 28, 1940, in Hope, N.M. to the late Roy Lee and Robea Lou Coslett Fletcher. She was a resident of Jacksonville for 20 years and formerly lived in Grand Prairie. She was a member of First Church On The Hill in Rusk and was a retired housekeeper. She was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Gruetzner.

Survivors are four brothers and sisters-in-law, Dr. Raymond and Nelda Fletcher of Waco, Benny and Penny Fletcher of Lindale and Royce and Terri Fletcher and Joe and Debbye Fletcher, all of Jacksonville; two sisters, Jean Thomas and Kathy Fletcher, both of Jacksonville; numerous nieces and nephews. Friends served as pallbearers. Wallace- Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

SHIRLEY DOSSER
 

Funeral for Shirley Dosser, 57, of Jacksonville was held at 10 a.m.Tuesday, Sept. 18, in the Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Don Copeland and the Rev. Terry Adair officiating. Burial was in Mt. Comfort Cemetery. Mrs. Dosser was born on Oct. 25, 1949, in Jacksonville. She died Sept. 15. Mrs. Dosser was retired from Sand Box Industries in Jacksonville after 35 years. She was a member of the Craft Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death were her mother and father, Helen and John Jeffery.

Survivors are her husband, Donald Dosser of Jacksonville; two sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth and Paula Dosser of Mabank and Richard and Vicki Dosser of Jacksonville; a daughter Donna Dosser of Jacksonville; 10 grandchildren; a brother Jesse Earl Jeffery of Jacksonville; a sister, Joyce Franklin of Jacksonville; several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Larry Dosser, Tommy Dosser, Jerry Don Norton, Wesley Dosser, David Dosser, Clint Dosser and Paul Dosser. Honorary pallbearers were Ronny Norton, Richard Acord and Edward Starling.

MAGGIE REE COFER

Memorial service for Maggie Ree Cofer, 93, of Arlington, was at 11 a.m. Monday at the Arlington First United Methodist Church. Mrs. Cofer died Sept. 10. She was born in Hastings, Okla. May 6, 1914. She was a Methodist and worked for Arlington ISD for 30 years.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Ollie Henderson Cofer Dec. 30, 2003.

Survivors are two daughters and a son-in-law, Mary and Eddie Cauthron of Jacksonville and Emily Cofer of LaCombe, La.; grandsons. Ayres and Austin Cauthron; a sister, Dorcas Sitton of Cisco; and several nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the charity of choice.

GENE HENDERSON

Memorial service for Gene Henderson, 80, of Rusk, will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the First Presbyterian Church with the Rev. David O'Neal officiating.

Mr. Henderson died Sept. 16. He was born Feb. 7, 1927, in Bessemer, Ala. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and a retired real estate broker. He was a U.S. Navy World War II veteran. Preceding him in death were his parents, Eugene Henderson Sr. and Mannia Henderson; and a brother, James Fuller Henderson.

Survivors are his wife of 64 years, Anna Henderson of Rusk; a daughter, Jo Henderson-Tussing and her husband, John, of Rusk; grandchildren, Caleb Tussing of Rusk, Matthew Green and his wife, Stephanie, of Roanoke, Va., Mark Green and his wife, Valinda, of Johnson City, Tenn., Kynan Moulton of Mount Pleasant; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Shirley Golliver of Birmingham, Ala.

Donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church.

Crawford-Crim-Bryan Funeral Home of Henderson was in charge of arrangements.

SYBLE MCMAHON

Funeral for Syble McMahon, 93, of Alto will be at 10 a.m. Thursday in the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Odis Bryan officiating. Burial will be in Arnold Cemetery. Mrs. McMahon died Monday. She was born June 19, 1914, in Douglas to Ramsey and Myrtie Swain Starling. She was a member of the Hilltop Baptist Church, a custodian at First Baptist Church, worked at the Indian Mound Nursery, Alto ISD cafeteria, flower shop at Thomas Hardware and operated Starling Cafe in Rusk. She was preceded in death by her husband, A.G. (Oss) McMahon; a daughter, Dolores Nerren; a brother, Roscoe Starling; and a sister, Beatrice Brennan.

Survivors are two daughters and sons-in-law, Gayla and Thomas Long of Alto and Marie and Jim Tighe of Houston; a son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Dianna McMahon of Neches; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Memorials may be made to the Campground Baptist Church, P.O. Box 798, Alto 75925 to establish a memorial in her name.

 September 26, 2007

BETTY WIGGINS
Graveside services for Betty Fern Wiggins, 74, of Jacksonville, formerly of Dallas, was at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 19, at McDonald Cemetery with Wayne White officiating.

Mrs. Wiggins was born on Sept. 4, 1933, in New Summerfield. She died Sept. 18. She was a homemaker and a Baptist. Preceding her in death were her husband, Thomas A. Wiggins; and her parents, Roland and Annie Tankersley Casey.

Survivors include, a son, Charles T. Wiggins of Dallas; a daughter, Rexanne Darisse of Mesquite; three grandchildren, Kristen Vines, Lynzee Darisse and Melissa Alcala; one great-granddaughter, Isabel Perez; and two sisters, Jo Horn of Jacksonville and Wanda Cunningham of Blackjack.

JOHN CLINTON HENRY

Memorial service for John Clinton Henry, 73, of Crockett, formerly of Maydelle, will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Central Baptist Church of Crockett with the Rev. John Goss officiating.

Mr. Henry died Sept. 23. He was born Feb. 21, 1934, outside of Maydelle to the late Clinton and Florence Henry. He attended school in Jacksonville and graduated in 1952. He served in the Army in Germany and was a carpenter. He married Norma Sue Johnson and later married Lottie Thielson. He moved back to Texas in 2000 and was a member of Central Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his son, Mitchell Henry. Survivors include his wife, Lottie Henry of Crockett; a son, Gary Henry of Houston; three daughters, Lana Henry Tarrant of Lafayette, La., Laura Henry Lannie of Baytown, and Donna Henry of Germantown, Tenn.; a stepdaughter, Diane Plucker; three brothers, Doyle of Mesquite, Jerry Dan of San Antonio, and Wayne of Jacksonville; seven grandchildren. Arrangements were under the direction of Eastgate Funeral Home of Garland.

JUSTINE GLENDA SHEFFIELD POOLE

Funeral for Justine Glenda Sheffield Poole, 75, of Alto will be at noon Saturday, Sept. 29, at the New Hope Baptist Church in Alto with the Rev. Lionel Whitaker officiating. Burial will be in Sweet Union Cemetery.

Mrs. Poole died Sept. 21. She was born Oct. 6, 1931, in Kennard to Elbert and Velma Wallace Sheffield. She lived in Alto most of her life and was a member of the Union Hill baptist Church. She was a cook and worked with the head start program at Alto ISD for 27 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, James Poole and Raymond Poole; an infant daughter; four brothers and a sister.

Survivors are her husband, Acie Poole of Alto; four sons and daughters-in-law, Archie and Alifaye Poole of Woodville, Acie Jr. and Angelia Poole of Houston, Jessie and Delonda Poole of Jacksonville and Keith and Bakaya Poole of Alto; six daughters and sons-in-law, Arleen and Larry Lacy of Whitehouse, Brenda and Clarence Ross of Lufkin, Joyce and Alfred Davis of Smithville, Wilma and Jessie Johnson of Cleveland, Vanessa and Curtis Thacker of Alto and Marsha and Brian Ross of Lufkin; two brothers, Cecil Sheffield of Tadmore and Ronald White of Crockett; a sister, Alberta Bookman of Houston; a sister-in-law, Mazie Watson of Cleveland; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Arrangements are under the direction of O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

October 3, 2007

JIM CRANSTON

Private graveside service for James (Jim) Cranston, 82, of Dialville was at Rocky Springs Cemetery with Robby Arington officiating.

Mr. Cranston died Sept. 25. He was born Oct. 11, 1924, in Los Angeles, Calif., a retired nurse and a member of the Corinth Road Church of Christ in Jacksonville. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and received a Purple Heart.

Preceding him in death was his wife, Willie Mae (Bill) Cranston.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, Timothy and Sidney Cranston of Franklin; a daughter and son-in-law, Kay and E.C. Blount of Jacksonville; two sisters, Dorothy Fowler and Margarite and Troy Carter, all of Angleton; two grandchildren and a granddaughter-in-law, Jeremy James and Lacy Cranston of Lexington and Lucy Blount of Jacksonville; three great-grandchildren, Jordon Cranston, Jazmine Cranston and Jaylee Cranston, all of Lexington; several nieces and nephews.

Thompson Funeral Home was in charge.

WANDA (SUSIE) TRANTHAM

Funeral for Wanda (Susie) Trantham, 62, of Mount Selman was at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, in the Autry Funeral Home Chapel with Bill Dollar officiating. Burial was in Mixon Cemetery.

Mrs. Trantham was born on Nov. 16, 1944, in Jacksonville. She died Sept. 24.

Mrs. Trantham was a homemaker and a Jehovah's witness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tommy Earl Trantham Sr.; and father, Delbert Thurman.

Survivors include her mother; Earlene Thurman of Mount Selman; a son, Tommy Earl (T.J.) Trantham Jr., of Mount Selman; a daughter, Tammy Trantham, of Mount Selman; a brother, James (Sonny) Thurman of Mount Selman; a daughter-in-law, Christi Trantham; and two grandsons, Justin Michael Trantham and Cooper Earl Trantham.

Pallbearers were Tony Villorin, Philip Garland, Jimmy Wilson, Steve Allman, Shaphan Allman, Jeff Cochrane, Willie Nelson and Bryan Yackel.

ALMA JEAN WHITELEY

Funeral for Alma Jean Whiteley, 68, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Corbie Grimes, the Rev. Andy Cox and the Rev. Randy Anderson officiating. Burial was in Union Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Whiteley died Sept. 28. She was born Oct. 3, 1938, in Lufkin. She was a member of the Church of the Nazarene. Preceding her in death was her husband, Vernon Ray (Zeke) Whiteley.

Survivors are two sons and a daughter-in-law, Bobby Joe and Debbie Whiteley of Jacksonville and Vernon Ray Whiteley Jr. of Lufkin; four daughters and two sons-in-law, Tammy and Edward Garner of Tularosa, N.M., Brenda and Carl Lee Roberts and Kelly Berry, of Jacksonville and Sherry Fanning of Lufkin; four brothers and three sisters-inlaw, Johnny and Beverly Gardner, Kenneth and Christine Gardner, Roy Don and Kim Garner, all of Jacksonville and Bill (Butch) Gardner of Dallas; six sisters and two brothersin law, Linda and Ken Bailey, Ann Tillman, Francis Gardner, Betty and Ronnie Halbert, all of Jacksonville, Barbara Wiegman of Mansfield and Penny Simmons of Houston; special friends, Kenneth Whiteley of Kilgore and Goldie and Morris Kirby of Bullard; 20 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Carl Lee Roberts, Tracy Whitaker, Marty Esueta, David Webb, Tony Carlile and Mike Berry. Honorary pallbearers were Junior Kirby, Charles (Buddy) Crittenden, Chase Gardner, F.E. Hassell, Jess Hamilton and Morris Kirby.

ANNIE RUTH HENDRICK NICAR

Funeral for Annie Ruth Hendrick Nicar, 92, of Alto was at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at the A. Frank United Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Randy Fitzgerald officiating. Burial was in Lynches Chapel Cemetery. Mrs. Nicar died Sept. 26. She was born near Alto the late Wilbur Cortice Hendrick and Naomi Ruth Butler Hendrick on Dec. 5, 1914. She attended Stephen F. Austin State Teachers College and taught school for a short time. She was a member of the Order of the Easter Star No. 79 in Rusk and a member of the A. Frank Smith United Methodist Church. She served nine years as communion steward and was active in the United Methodist Women.

Preceding her in death were her husband of 49 years, Jack Nicar; an infant son, Lynn Wilson; her parents; and a brother, Weldon Hendrick.

Survivors are a daughter, Charlotte Corley of Beaton, La.; a grandson and his wife, Stephen and Elena Corley of Shreveport, La.; a granddaughter and her husband, Lisa and David Chreene of Memphis, Tenn.; great-grandchildren, Lauren Corley, McKenzie Corley and Mia Corley of Shreveport and Payton Chreene and Hannah Chreene of Memphis; a nephew and his wife, Ronnie and Betty Hendrick of Alto; a great-niece, Daryl Morris; a great-nephew, Ty Hendrick; two great-greatnieces, Caitlin Morris and Samantha Morris.

Pallbearers were Alfred Danheim, David Danheim, Jim Bob Lindsey, Chris Davis, Randy Low and John Paul Dixon.

DANNY JOE (JOEY) NICHOLS

Funeral for Danny Joe (Joey) Nichols, 37, of Nacogdoches, formerly of Alto was at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, at the Atoy United Methodist Church with the Rev. Clint Johnson and the Rev. Jason Thomas officiating. Burial was in the Shiloh Cemetery.

Mr. Nichols died Sept. 25. He was born March 26, 1970, in Jacksonville to Danny J. and Shirley Mason Nichols. He had lived in Nacogdoches for approximately 15 years. He previously resided in Balch Springs and Alto. He was a graduate of West Mesquite High School and had a masters degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.

He had taught in the Nacogdoches ISD and recently was an online professor. He was a Baptist. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Leverett and Laura Mason and S.M. Nichols.

Survivors are his parents, Danny and Shirley Nichols of Balch Springs; a brother and sister-in-law, Michael Jason (Jake) and Jeanette Nichols of Nacogdoches; his grandmother, Sue Nichols of Balch Springs; a nephews, Mason Nichols; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives.

Pallbearers were Brian Mason, Ronnie Nichols, Billy Nichols, Ryan Nichols, Chuck Marrs and Audie Allen.

O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

JOHN W. (J.W.) CARTER

Funeral for John W. (J.W.) Carter, 83, of Rusk, was at 11:30 a.m. Saturday at the Rusk First Baptist Church with the Rev. K.B. Clater officiating.

Burial was in Holly Spring- Delmar Cemetery, Rusk.

Mr. Carter died Sept. 23. He was born Feb. 28, 1924. Mr. Carter graduated from Bradford High School and received his bachelor's degree from Bishop College of Marshall. He retired from Rusk High School and Rusk State Hospital. He was a member of Elm Grove Baptist Church and Hicks Masonic Lodge, where he served as secretary for 50 years. He was a city councilman and member of Rusk City Park Board, Rusk Zoning Board, Rusk Housing Board. He served on the board of Cherokee Action and Cherokee County and Summer Program.

Survivors include a son, Randy Carter of DeSoto; two daughters, Sandra Carter and Ladora Carter, both of Rusk; three brothers, James Carter of Mineola, George Carter of Merced, Calif., and Marvin Carter of Los Angeles, Calif.; three sisters, Geneva Taylor of Dallas, Corine Waggoner of Las Vegas, Nev. and Myrtle Garmon of Henderson; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Charlie Waggoner Jr., Bruce Bradley, Bobby Johnson, Samuel O'Neal, Calvin Henderson and Reginald Carter. Honorary pallbearers were deacons of Elm Grove Baptist Church, Mount Olive Baptist Church, West Union Faith Ministries, and Deacon Carl Foreman.

Arrangements were under the direction of Williams Funeral Home.

DEATHS OLGA MARIA GALVAN

Funeral for Olga Maria Galvan, 49, of Jacksonville was at 10 a.m. Tuesday at The Peoples' Church with the Rev. Andy Fannette officiating. Burial was in Meador Cemetery.

Mrs. Galvan died Sept. 29. She was born Oct. 15, 1957, in Joliet, Ill. She was a homemaker and a member of The Peoples' Church.

Preceding her in death were two daughters, Anna Maria Galvan and Belen Christina Galvan; a sister, Gloria Ramirez; mother and father, Pilar Saldivar and Manuel Saldivar.

Survivors are her husband, Rafael Carlos (Sonny) Galvan Sr. of Jacksonville; four sons and two daughters-in-law, Randy and Erika Galvan, Stephen and Della Galvan, Rafael Carolos (Sonny) Galvan Jr. and Eric Galvan, all of Jacksonville; two daughters and one sonin law, Becky and Michael Sr. Nolley and Laura Galvan, all of Jacksonville; four sisters, Amelia Medina of San Antonio, Maria Bueno of Pearsall, Corina Gulermo of Chicago Heights, Ill. and Margareta Saldivar of Rockford, Ill.; three brothers, Rogelio Saldivar Sr. of Manhattan, Ill, Raul Saldivar and Arturio Saldivar, both of Joliet, Ill.; and grandchildren, Christopher Galvan, Julianna Galvan, Jared Galvan, Kalista Galvan, AnnaMaria Galvan, Carlos Galvan, Landon Galvan, Stacey Nolley, Michael Nolley Jr., all of Jacksonville.

Pallbearers were Randy Lee Galvan, Stephen Luis Galvan, Rafael Carlos (Sonny) Galvan Jr., Eric Lee Galvan, Jessie Saldivar and Rogelio Saldivar Jr. Honorary pallbearers were Johnny Fernandez, Joe Fernandez, Christopher Lee Galvan, Michael Alaric Nolley Jr., Landon Galvan, Jared Galvan, Carlos Galvan, Jessie Hernandez and Kalista (Cookie) Galvan.

Thompson Funeral Home was in charge.

ELVIE ALLEN

Funeral for Elvie Ann Otts Allen, 84, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Thompson Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Andy Fannette officiating. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Park.

Mrs. Allen died Sept. 30. She was born Nov. 1, 1922, and had lived most of her life in Jacksonville. She was a long-time supporter of NSPCA.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, David and Bertha Allen of Mexia; grandchildren, Dwayne and Charlene Allen of Cypress, Brandon and Keri Allen of Mexia; two sisters, Evelyn Allen of Jacksonville and Joy Sanders of Mixon; several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews, cousins; eight great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Jack Slover Davis of Jacksonville.

Pallbearers were Dwayne Allen, Brandon Allen, Mark Hanks, Stephen Allen, Dale Fuller and Bennie Earl Allen.

MICKEY SINGLETARY
 

Funeral services for Milton D. "Mickey" Singletary, 57, of Rusk will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Johnny Emerson officiating.

Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery.

Mr. Singletary died Sept. 29. He was born April 8, 1950, in Riverside, Calif. to Milton B. and Martha Beasley Singletary. He was a resident of Maydelle most of his life and a member of Grace Fellowship Church in Rusk. He was a Licensed Vocational Nurse. He served in the United States Marines during the Vietnam War.

He was preceded in death by his step mother, Klara Singletary.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years Barbara Ann Singletary of Maydelle; a son, Jeremy Singletary of Maydelle; his father, Milton B. Singletary of Rusk; mother and step-father, Martha and Kenneth Birdwell of Rusk; two daughters, Andrea Cowan of Jacksonville and Rebecca Singletary of Maydelle; step-son and daughter-in-law, Brandon and Jennifer Knight of Rusk; two sisters and brothers in-law, Lanette and Wayne Cox of Reklaw and Shelia and Bill Wallace of Palestine; step-brother, Kenny Birdwell and wife Rhonda of Rusk; step-sister, Jana Birdwell of Colorado; two sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Brenda and Billy Ray Goff of Maydelle and Rebecca and Alan Kirby of Mt. Hope; two grandchildren, Gracie Knight of Rusk and Connor Cowan of Jacksonville, numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Pallbearers will include George Clark, Zachary Clark, Tony Cline, Dale Dover, Alan Kirby, Jeremy Clark, and Kenny Birdwell.

MARVIN D. GEORGE JR.
 

Graveside for Marvin D. George Jr. 50, of Jacksonville will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Meador Cemetery with the Rev. Bill Rambo officiating.

Mr. George died Sept. 30. He was born June 29, 1957, in Jacksonville. He was a member of the Sunset Baptist Church.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents, L.H. and Nellie Buffalo.

Survivors are his wife, Cathy L. George of Jacksonville; four children and spouses, Ray and Lisa Cantu of Houston, David Michael and Christie George and Monica Yvonne Perez of Jacksonville and Robert Duane and Michelle Morgan of Gallatin; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Tony Alverson of Richmond, Va., Loran and Twila George of Reklaw and Bobby Lee and Vickie Turner of Jacksonville; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Sarah Redford of Jacksonville, Carla and Mac McNertney of Frankston, Marsha Jones and Sheryal and Randy Berry, all of Jacksonville; his mother, Jeannie Oakley of Jacksonville; his father, Marvin D. George Sr. of Reklaw; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Davis George; 12 grandchildren; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Nephews were honorary pallbearers. Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

October 10, 2007

JAMES POLK RICHARDS

Funeral for James Polk Richards Sr. of Rusk was at 10 a.m. Friday at the First United Methodist Church. Burial was in the Atoy Cemetery.

Mr. Richards died Oct. 2 after a brief illness. He and the former Genelle Holcomb were married Aug. 28, 1948. He served with distinction and honor during World War II. He and his unit were awarded Presidential citations for actions during the Battle of the Bulge. Among his medals was the Air Medal which he received in February 1945 for the Christmas 1944 flight from Marseille, France, to Bastogne to help save encircled paratroopers in the Battle of the Bulge.

He was well known in the community and was a long-time businessman. He and his wife operated Richards Grocery and Cafeteria on the square in Rusk for many years.

Mr. Richards was a past president of the Rusk Chamber of Commerce and past president of the Rotary Club. He was one of nine members on the City of Rusk Board of Managers, charged with directing the establishment of the Texas State Railroad State Historical Park. During their 59 years of marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Richards traveled extensively throughout the world.

Preceding him in death were his father and mother, John and Evie Richards, and his brother, Chesley Richards.

Survivors are his wife, Genelle Richards; four children including two daughters and a son-in-law, Cathy and Ray Penn and Debra Richards and two sons and daughters-in-law, James Polk (Jimmy) Jr. and Jan Richards and R.W. (Ricky) and Cindy Richards; six grandchildren, Eric Trayce Penn, James Wesley Penn, Sarah Rheagan Penn, Joe Bryce Penn, Misty Richards and Ashlen Ann Richards; a number of nieces, nephews and extended family.

Pallbearers were Bryan Seldon, Richard Massingill, David Long, David Wallace, Robert Jenkins and Raymond Ross Vermillion.

Honorary pallbearers were Elmer Kennedy, Orville Graham, Levi Smallwood, Dickie McGaughey, Larry Long, Neill Holcomb, Caleb Richards, Joshua Richards, William May, Johnnie McKay and the Rev. Charles Haley. O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

JACK FARMER

Jack Benson Farmer of Jacksonville died Oct. 5.

Mr. Farmer was born Sept.28, 1918, in Clayton County, Ga. to Arthur Calvin Farmer and Nell Huey.

Preceding him in death was his wife of 58 years, Geneva Farmer, who died Sept. 10.

Survivors are four children; a son and daughter-in-law, Charles and Gail Farmer of Austin; three daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Alice and Chuck Larsen of Graham, Peggy and John Ervin of Jacksonville and Susan and Rocky Paramore of Bastrop.

Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Benson Larsen of Forney, Jennifer Larsen of Rockwell, Jack Grimes of Austin, Leigh Christie of Austin, Wendy Clark of Alto, Adam Grimes of Austin and Benson Grimes of Jacksonville; 11 great-grandchildren; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Reba Farmer of Fayetteville, Ga. and several nieces and nephews.

The family plans a memorial celebration for both Jack and Geneva Farmer at a later date at Autry Funeral Home.

 NEVA JOY HUDSON

Graveside service for Neva Joy Hudson, of Alto, formerly of Childress, was at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Old Palestine Cemetery.

Mrs. Hudson died Thursday. She was born Oct. 22, 1936, in Wellington to Elmer and Ruth Moore Willard. She had lived in Alto for the past 10 years and was a Methodist. She worked as a florist and was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by a son, Scott Parker. Survivors are her husband, Wesley Hudson of Alto; two sons, Doug Parker of Nacogdoches and Bryan Parker of San Antonio; a step-son, Rodney Hudson of Rusk; two daughters, Sherry Cheatham and Tina Parker of Rusk; two step-daughters, Karen Vaught of Rusk and Carllets Dunn of San Antonio; four brothers, Earl Willard of Missoula, Ervin Willard of Uvalde, Jimmy Willard of Bowie and Bobby Willard of Vernon; two sisters, Marilyn Wallace of Vernon and Karen Lance of Quanah; eight grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren

FREDA MAE MERCHANT

Funeral for Freda Mae Merchant, 98, of Maydelle, was at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Autry Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Lee Welch officiating. Burial was in Mt. Comfort Cemetery.

Mrs. Merchant died Oct. 3. She was born on Oct. 25, 1908, in Thornton.

Mrs. Merchant was a Baptist and a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lilly Mae McDaniel and Fred Foreman; her husband, John Horace Merchant; two sons, Fred Allen Merchant and Don Ray Merchant; and two daughters; Janet Ann Merchant and Reba Nell Glass.

Survivors include five sons and four daughters-in-law; Billy and Avis Merchant, of Normangee, John Thomas Merchant, of Hemphill, Robert and Janice Merchant of Meridian, Doug and Kate Merchant of Eddy and Curtis and Patricia Merchant of Maydelle; a daughter, Bonnie Young of Mexia; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were John Seth Merchant, Paul Hunter Glass, Michael Merchant, David Mc- Creight, Michael McCreight, Billy John Merchant, Bobby Gene Merchant, Kenneth Glass, Zachary Curry and Aaron Curry.

JEANETTE LOUGHMILLER
 

Funeral services for Jeanette Loughmiller, 75, of New Summerfield was at 10 a.m. Saturday in the Autry Funeral Home chapel. Burial was at McDonald Cemetery in New Summerfield.

Mrs. Loughmiller was born on March 9, 1932, in Flat Rock, Ill. She died on Oct. 3, in Pearland.

She was a homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ and New Summerfield Lions Club.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Loughmiller; and grandson, Robert Loughmiller.

Survivors include three sons, Lee Loughmiller, Lynn Loughmiller and Pete Loughmiller, all of New Summerfield, two daughters, Cyndi Clemens of Pearland and Kay Zellers of Richmond; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Jack Blankenbeker, Robinson, II, Benny Blankenbeker, Bill Blankenbeker and Bob Blankenbeker, all of Georgia and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Michael Davis, Herbert Davis, Rickey Brown, Jess Martin, Bruce Ivy, B.J. Potts and Phillip Waldrup.

ALBERT JOE BYRD
 

Memorial services for Albert Joe Byrd, 73, of Rusk will be held at a later date. Mr. Byrd died Oct. 3. He was born Sept. 14, 1934, in Henderson to the late Lee Ellington and Virginia Hilligas Byrd. He was a resident of Rusk for 18 years, formerly of Redondo Beach, Calif. He was Baptist and retired from Wal-Mart in Jacksonville where he worked in the garden center. Preceding him in death were his wife, Neita Byrd and daughter Vineita Byrd.

He is survived by two sons, Howard Byrd of Rusk, Leonard Byrd of Redondo Beach, Calif.,; a brother, Raymond Byrd of Salisaw, Okla,: two grandsons, Joey Kitchen and wife Heather of Tyler and Joshua Lee Albert Byrd of Rusk; and numerous nieces and nephews.

IVA LOU SESSIONS
 

Funeral for Iva Lou Sessions, 87, of Rusk will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, October 10, in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Clayton Douglas and Chris Kenner officiating. Burial will be in Atoy Cemetery.

Mrs. Sessions died October 7. She was born April 1, 1920, in Timpson, to the late Samuel Harrison and Minnie Lee Butler Yarborough. She was a resident of Atoy since 1932. She retired in 1981 from Rusk State Hospital after 30 years in pharmacy and medical records. She was Baptist and a member of Order of Eastern Star Rusk/ Alto Chapter No. 79. Preceding her in death were her husband Derius J. Sessions on Nov. 3, 2002; three brothers, Harlon, Dan, and Jeffy Yarborough; a daughter-in-law, Jackie Sessions; and infant grandson, Tony Sessions.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, James and Lucille Sessions of Elkhart; a sister and brother-in-law, Oleta and Morris Byers of Rusk; two grandchildren, Charlotte Winkler and husband Bough of Belton and Michael Sessions of Dallas; two greatgrandchildren, John Austin and Megan Winkler of Belton; a host of step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren and greatgreat grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be David Sarkies, Jim Tacy, Billy Sessions, Dale Bekker, Randy Langford and Robert Sheldon. If desired, memorials may be made to Hope Inc., 595 South Ragsdale, Jacksonville 75766.

LEWIS NICHOLS
 

Graveside service for Lewis Webber Nichols, 68, of Jacksonville, will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville, with the Rev. Dr. Faulk Landrum officiating.

Mr. Nichols died Sunday, Oct. 7. He was born in Houston April 9, 1939, to Talley and Ruth Bowling Nichols. Mr. Nichols was a member of First United Methodist Church, Jacksonville. He was a member of the Jacksonville High School Class of 1957.

He served in the U. S. Marines, and served as vicepresident of TallyHo Plastics. He was a sixth degree blackbelt and had been an instructor in Jacksonville.

He is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Lewis W. Nichols of Dallas and Eric and Ree Nichols, with the U.S. Military; two daughters, Amanda Nichols of Ft. Worth and Nicki Nichols of Atlanta Ga.; his mother, Ruth Nichols of Jacksonville; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Talley James Nichols of Jacksonville, Robert and Donna Nichols of Jacksonville and Dwight Dee and Laura Jean Nichols of Garland; two sisters and brothers in-law, Penny and Kenneth Sanders of Tyler and Susan and Richard Gonzalez of Las Cruces, N.M.; two grandchildren, Rene Nichols of California and Taka Nichols, Japan.

Honorary pallbearers will be James Nichols, Robert Nichols, Dwight Nichols, Richard Gonzalez, George Henry Clark and Adam L. Adams. Visitation will be noon-9 p.m. Wednesday at Autry Funeral Home.

MAGGIE LOU REYNOLDS

Funeral for Maggie Lou Reynolds, 82, of Alto, will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home chapel with Ronnie Goodman officiating. Burial will be in Old Palestine Cemetery.

Mrs. Reynolds died Monday. She was born April 5, 1925, in Chireno to Archie F. and Sallie Bell Harrison Goodman. She lived in Alto most of her life and was a member of the Old Palestine Baptist Church.

For more than 20 years she worked as a nurses aid and retired as supervisor at the Lufkin State School. She worked at a dairy farm in the Linwood community with her husband for many years.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Marvin (Gip) Reynolds; four brothers, James Goodman, Leroy Goodman, Billy Goodman and Hubert Goodman.

Survivors are three brothers, Jack Goodman of Alto, Jerry Goodman of Rusk and Roy Alton Goodman of Teneha; three sisters, Nell Adams of Alto, Lee Smithhart of Nacogdoches and Ruth Ann Watson of Maydelle; a special friend, Andy Harwell of Alto; numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Jerry Ray Adams, Jerry Adams, Jimmy Adams, Tommy Adams, Randy Smithhart and George McClain. Other nephews were honorary pallbearers.

PAYTON SCOTT DIERS

Funeral for Payton Scott Diers will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville with the Rev. Newton Hambrick and the Rev. Dennis Morgan officiating.

Burial will be in Still Waters Memorial Garden.

Mr. Diers died Monday, Oct. 8. He was born Aug. 11, 1988, in Jacksonville He was a member of Tyler Street Baptist Church in Jacksonville.

He played baseball for Jacksonville High School and Tyler Junior College. He was a pitcher for Division III NJCAA 2007 TJC National Championship team.

He was a 2006 graduate of Jacksonville High School. During high school he was a member of JHS Cares, Spanish Club, Who's Who Among American High School Students and a second team all district pitcher. He was employed by Cobb Holman Lumber Company.

Preceding him in death were his grandmother, Rose Mary Diers; great-grandfathers, Robert L. Diers, Jack Dudley, and Bill Lindsey.

Survivors include his parents, Scott and Rhonda Diers; brothers, Ryan Taylor Diers and Ruston Luman Diers, all of Jacksonville; grandparents, Bob and Sharon Diers of San Antonio, Beth and Billy Lomax of Jacksonville, Ronny and Terry Lindsey of Jacksonville; great-grandparents, Luman and Rose Mary Holman of Jacksonville, Gertie Dudley of Henderson, and Lorene Cole of Mixon; several aunts and uncles and great-aunts and great-uncles.

Pallbearers will be Scott Diers, Ryan Diers, Ruston Diers, Chase Birdwell, Matt Wakefield and Jamie Loftin.

Honorary pallbearers will be the Tyler Junior College baseball team.

Autry Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

October 17, 2007

ORLIE J. BAKER
 

Memorial service for Orlie J. Baker, 83, of Jacksonville was at 11 a.m. Friday at the First United Methodist Church in Jacksonville.

Mr. Baker died Oct. 1. He was born in Clarkton, Mo. and grew up in Memphis, Tex. He worked in the finance and banking industry in Houston prior to moving to Jacksonville in 1989. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and a member of the 449th Bomb Group, 15th Army Air Corps. He served during World War II.

Survivors are his wife of 62 years, Jeanne K. Baker of Jacksonville; two daughters and a son-in-law, Becky Baker of Kennard and Jan and Jim Ott of Troup; a son, frank Baker of Garland; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made t the American Cancer Society or Hospice of East Texas. Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

RUSSELL ELMER GRIFFIN
 

Graveside services for Russell Elmer Griffin, 79, of Rusk was at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 11 at Roselawn Park Cemetery in Palestine with the Rev. Don Copeland.

Mr. Griffin died Oct. 9. He was born Nov. 30, 1927, to James Russell and Nellie Esther Hughs Griffin. He was a resident of Rusk for 28 years, formerly of Odessa. He was owner and operator of Griffin's Small Engine Repair in Rusk for 20 plus years. He served in the United States Navy during World War II.

Preceding him in death were his wife Betty Jean Griffin Aug. 8, 2006; and a brother Morris Griffin.

He is survived by three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Elba Eudell Griffin of Houston, Bobby J. and Carolyn Griffin of Cisco, Gaylon D. and Delores Griffin of Nacogdoches; a sister and brother-in-law, Eva Nell and Jerry Southerland of Eastland.

MYSON MALIEKE BLAKEMORE
 

Funeral for Myson Malieke Blakemore, 3, of Cushing, will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Bethel United Methodist Church with the Rev. Charles Nunnally and the Rev. Dr. Gary Fitzgerald officiating. Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery.

The child died Oct. 14. He was born March 25, 2004, in Jacksonville.

Survivors are his mother and her friend, Amanda Prince and Eric Anderson of Cushing; father and step-mother, Jermichael and Amy Blakemore of Wells; brother, DiAngelo Blakemore of Cushing; sister, Erica Anderson of Cushing; grandparents, Ray and Sharlott Prince of Rusk and Herman McGown of Houston; great-grandparents, Oland and Bevia Sides of Rusk, Delima McGown of Cushing and Mary Masters of Jacksonville; greatgreat grandmother, LaDonna Alcorn of Palestine; caretakers, Susie Tittle of Jacksonville and Alessa Starling of Henderson; and several cousins.

Pallbearers will be Oland Sides, Torri Hall, Dracy Morgan and James Langham. Adam Prince and Marvin Taylor will be honorary pallbearers. ]

Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

SHEILA GRAY
 

Funeral for Sheila Cobb Powell Gray, 43, of Jacksonville, will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at Autry Funeral Home chapel, with the Rev. Donny Sadler officiating. Burial will be in Jarratt Cemetery.

Ms. Gray died Oct. 13. She was born March 19, 1964, in Rusk to Glenn and Opal Foster Cobb. She was a phlebotomist and computer operator for TRANSCO Corp in Houston. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of New Summerfield. Survivors include her son, Roger Powell of Tyler; a daughter, Loni Powell of Houston; a granddaughter and a brother, Farron Cobb of Jacksonville. Pallbearers will be Roger Powell Jr., Roger Powell, Joe Tomkiewicz, Mickey Gates, Richard Northern, Mark Smith, Don McCann and Paul Gray.

Autry Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

JENNIFER (CHELLE) LITTLE
 

Funeral for Jennifer (Chelle) Little, 32, of Mixon, was at 2 p.m. Monday at Autry Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Benny Brooks and the Rev. Rudy Bond officiating. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Park. Ms. Little died Wednesday, Oct. 10, in Tyler. She was born Jan. 27, 1975, in Jacksonville. She was a hairdresser and a Baptist.

Survivors include two sons, Cody and Jacob Reeves of Troup; two brothers, Ray Vestal of Baytown, and Roy Vestal of Livingston; two sisters, Jacqueline (J.J.) Bobbitt of Maydelle and Kimberly McAdams of Burleson; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; her fiance', C.J. Hardy of Mixon and special friend, Darrell Duitch.

Pallbearers were Travis Willis, Ray Vestal, Alvin Carney, Jeremy Singletary, Shane Bobbitt and Danny Shugart.

ELDON WOODROW LANIER
 

Graveside service for Eldon Woodrow Lanier, 91, of Alto was at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12, at Old Palestine Cemetery with the Rev. Josh Lindsey officiating

Mr. Lanier died Sunday, Oct. 7, in New Jersey. He was born Sept. 5, 1916, in Alto to Emery Oscar and Mary Maggie Gates Lanier. He was a member of the Hilltop Baptist Church and had lived in New Jersey with his daughter for the last five years. He was a Master Mason associated with the Terrell Lodge No. 81 in Alto for more than 50 years.

He started his career in Houston with Railroad Express and was later employed at Rohm & Hass Industry in Deer Park. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corp in 1942. He was a gunnery instructor and trained thousands of soldiers on gunnery for the B17 and B29 planes.

Preceding him in death were his wife of 60 years, Lennie V. Lanier; parents; son, Glenn H. Lanier; brother, Harland Lanier; and sister-in-law, Monnie Lanier.

Survivors are his daughter and son-in-law, Phyllis K. and Thomas Moore of Hackettstown, N.J.; daughter-in-law, Judy Lanier Turnell of Nacogdoches; grandchildren, Clayton Wade Lanier, currently in the Navy in Bahrain and wife, Mary Jessica of Nacogdoches; Melissa Ashley Moore of Austin and Randy Turnell of Houston; great-grandchildren, Annesta Lanier and Glenn Lanier; niece, Linda McCoy and husband, Ken, of Humble.

O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

WEONA (TOMMIE) NIELSEN

Funeral for Weona (Tommie) Nielsen, 86, of Rusk was at 10 a.m., Friday, Oct. 12, at the First Baptist Church in Rusk with the Rev. Lee Welch and the Rev. Jim Goforth officiating. Burial was in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Mrs. Nielsen died Oct. 7. She was born March 10, 1921, to Clarence Melton and Eula L. Walker Thompson. She lived in Munday from 1947-53, Nederland from 1957-59, Port Arthur from 1959-64, Lake Jackson, from 1964-68, Baytown, from 1968-78, El Paso from 1978-82, moving to Rusk in September 1982. She retired in 1982 after 36 years as a school teacher. She received her B.S. Degree in elementary education from North Texas State College in 1942. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Rusk, National Education Association from 1970-82, Alpha Delta Kappa from 1940-82, Texas State Teacher's Association from 1947 to the present, Rusk Garden Club and Rusk Thalian Club since the mid 1980s and a charter member of the Rusk Good Samaritan.

Preceding her in death were her husband George Nielsen; daughter, Tommie LeLugas; mother and father, Clarence and Eula Thompson; brother, Everett Thompson; and sister, Inez Ragsdale.

Survivors are a daughter and son-in-law, Dianne N. and Larry R. Sinclair of Rusk; a brother, Milton Thompson of Cleburne; grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Russell B. and Hwee Ching Sinclair of Los Angeles, Calif.; two granddaughters and grandsons in-law, Meredith S. and Misha Goz of St. Petersburg, Russia and Angel L. and Vance St. Clair of Henderson; eight great-grandchildren, Alisa Goz, Pasha Goz and Kristina Goz, all of St Petersburg, Russia and Kaylii Fuller, Payton St. Clair, Gaige St. Clair, Ethan St. Clair and Ella St. Clair, all of Henderson; numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Edward Hassell, Will Cumbee, JoEd Anderson, Bill Traweek, Glenn Cotten and Kenneth Pye. Honorary pallbearers were active and retired deacons of First Baptist Church.

If desired, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Box 258, Rusk 75785.

October 24, 2007

 JERRY CHANCELLOR

Funeral for Jerry (Pee Wee) Morris Chancellor, 66, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 17, at People's Church with the Rev. A. L. Fannette officiating Burial was in Still Waters Memorial Garden.

Mr. Chancellor died Oct. 14. He was born June 30, 1941, in Nacogdoches.

He attended Jacksonville High School and Lon Morris College. He received a Bachelors degree from Sam Houston State University and a Masters from Stephen F. Austin State University. His career began at the Building and Loan Association in February 1965, where he remained for 40 years, through three bank name changes. He was president and CEO during the last 10 years of employment.

After the sale to Franklin Bank he served as regional director of the East Texas Division as well as director of the Franklin Bank Board. He also held the designation of senior residential appraiser. He had a Texas Real Estate Brokers license for 30 years.

He was a member of People's Church. He served as past president and director of the Jacksonville Lions Club and director of the Texas Savings and Community Bankers Association from 2001-04. He also served as director of Jacksonville Industrial Foundation and Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce.

Survivors include his daughter, Neeley Morris Chancellor; step-children, Casey Hart and Ryan Cook; four grandchildren; two sisters and brothers-in-law Doris and James Bacon, Deloris and David Campbell; two nieces; and three nephews.

Pallbearers were Larry Garner, Wade Holman, Jerry Hammons, Tommy Murray, Bill Taylor, Charles Broadway, Jack Traylor, Acie Henigan and Bob Brown. Honorary pallbearers are all directors, officers, and employees of the former Jacksonville Savings Bank.

 LAURA LYNN GEISLEMAN

Graveside service for Laura Lynn Geisleman, 19, of Rusk was at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, in Cedar Hill Cemetery with the Rev. R.S. Dyess officiating. Miss Geisleman died Oct. 15. She was born Oct. 13, 1988, in Jacksonville, to Dennis Ray and Melba Moa Geisleman.

She was a lifelong Rusk resident and a member of Eastside Baptist Church. She graduated from Rusk High School in May 2007 and was a student at Tyler Junior College.

Preceding her in death were her grandparents, Leonard George and Mary Geisleman.

Survivors are her parents, Dennis Ray and Melba Geisleman of Rusk; two half-brothers, Moses Salazar Jr. of Rusk and Steve Anthony Graces of Jacksonville; grandparents, Juan and Rebecca Moa of Jacksonville; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

JACK FLOCK

Funeral for Jack W. Flock, 94, of Tyler, was at 11 a.m. Oct. 18 at Lloyd James Funeral chapel with Dr. John Robbins, Dennis Black and Walden P. (Red) Little officiating. Burial was in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Mr. Flock died Oct. 15. He was born on Oct. 2, 1913, in Tyler. He graduated from Tyler Junior College in 1933. He was a member of the TJC basketball squad which won the State Junior College Championship in 1933. In 1938, he received a Bachelor of Law Degree from The University of Texas at Austin. During World War II, Mr. Flock served three years in the U.S. Navy, principally on destroyers, attaining the rank of Lieutenant, Senior Grade. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his services in the South Pacific. At the end of the War, he returned to Tyler and practiced law for a short period of time before becoming associated with the law firm of Ramey, Calhoun, Brelsford & Hull. He remained with this law firm throughout his long career. He was president and senior partner of the Ramey & Flock Firm for many years. He was a member of Marvin United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. In 1970, he received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Tyler Junior College Exes Association, and was elected to serve the first of four six-year terms on the board of trustees of Tyler Junior College the same year. On Sept. 30, 1995, he received the "Distinguished Alumnus Award" again. He was president of the board of trustees for two terms, and chaired the Tyler Junior College Foundation Board of Directors from 1982-86. As an associate faculty member at TJC (1949-1950), teaching in the adult night classes, he authored the "Oil and Gas Law" text used by the college; the original was still in his possession. In 1990, Mr. Flock established the "June S. Flock Presidential Scholarship" at Tyler Junior College, and later he and Royce Wisenbaker Sr. jointly established another Presidential Scholarship in memory of William Atchley Pye. He was a member of Tyler Masonic Lodge No. 1233, the Royal Order of Jesters, a 32nd Degree Mason, Sharon Temple (charter member). He received the Masonic Master Mason 50- year certificate in 1996.

He is survived by his wife, June Simmons Flock, formerly of Rusk.

SANDY (MAC) MCDANIEL

Graveside service for Sandy (Mac) McDaniel, 48, of Rusk, was at 1 p.m. Oct. 18 at West Shady Grove Cemetery, Pierce's Chapel community.

Mr. McDaniel died Oct. 15. He was born July 7, 1959, in Rusk. He was retired from Goodyear Tire. Survivors are his wife, Trisha McDaniel of Rusk; a son and daughter-in-law, Kristopher and Jennifer McDaniel of Montalba; a daughter and son-in-lawAmanda and Robert Garber of Pert; two step-brothers and a step-sister-in-law, James Ashley of Corsicana and Forest and Terri Moore of Gallatin; a step-sister, Janet Buffalo of Jacksonville; three grandchildren, Nevaeh (Fred) McDaniel of Montalba and Lane and Megan Garber of Pert; several nieces and nephews. Thompson Funeral Home was in charge.

LILLIE MAE CASPER

Funeral for Lillie Mae Casper, 69, of Jacksonville, was at 10 a.m. Friday at Autry Funeral Home Chapel with Jim Wilson officiating. Burial was in Neches Cemetery.

Mrs. Casper died Tuesday, Oct. 16. She was born Dec. 21, 1937, in Neches to George and Agnes Lovelady. She was a retired truck driver and a Jehovah's Witness.Mrs. Casper was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Casper; daughter, Tammy Casper; granddaughter, Lanette Jackson; and three brothers.

Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Jay and Mellisa Casper of Eustace and Joey and Bobbie Casper of Jacksonville; four daughters and sons-in-law, Lynn and Johnny Davilla of Jacksonville, Vickie and Kenneth Jackson of Ponta, Terry and Sam Green of Jacksonville and Connie Casper of Rusk; 15 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Neal Jackson, Chuck Moody, Justin Morgan, Jason Work, Chris Applin and Brandon Casper. Honorary pallbearer was Clay Casper.

FLORA ESTELLE SUDBURY BOYD

Funeral for Flora Estelle Sudbury Boyd, 93, of Jacksonville, was at 11 a.m. Saturday at Friendship Baptist Church, Corine, with the Rev. Larry Smith officiating. Burial was in Corine Cemetery.

Mrs. Boyd died Oct. 16. She was born Nov. 10, 1913, in Marlin, to J.E. and Annie Collins Sudbury. She retired from Discount City and Central Baptist Church Nursery. Preceding her in death was her husband, Charles J. Boyd, Sr. in 1980.

Survivors include two sons and a daughter-in-law, Charles J. and Patsy Boyd, Jr. of Jacksonville and Glenn Weldon Boyd of the Dominican Republic; two grandchildren and spouses Blair Boyd and Dana Upchurch of Jacksonville and Eric and Kim Boyd of Highlands; great-grandchildren, Pvt. Terry Upchurch, U.S. Army, Bagdad and Matt Upchurch of Crockett; nieces and nephews and special friends, Peggy Chitwood, and Philip Warren. Pallbearers were Eric Boyd, Dana Upchurch, Gerald Gray, Lewie Lake, Johnny Chitwood and Don Walker. Honorary Pallbearer was Jack Tarrant. Autry Funeral Home was in charge.

LILLIE BELLE STUBBLEFIELD

Funeral for Lillie Belle Stubblefield, 96, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Monday at the Old Jacksonville City Cemetery with the Rev. Ken McEachern officiating.

Miss Stubblefield died Oct. 18. She was born Jan. 23, 1911 in Kennard.

She was a seamstress and a member of Beall Chapel Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death were her father, Albert Stubblefield; her mother, Carrie Gail Stubblefield and a brother, Willie Franklin Stubblefield.

Survivors are a sister and brother-in-law, Frances and John Albright of Jacksonville; and several cousins.

Thompson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

October 31, 2007

OLAN PRYOR

Funeral for Olan Pryor, 85, of Jacksonville, was at 2 p.m. Friday in the Renfro Memorial Chapel of Boren-Conner Funeral Home with the Rev. Charles Nunnally officiating. Burial was in West Shady Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Pryor died Oct. 23. He was born Nov. 29, 1921, in Cherokee County to the late Floyd and Ivy Pryor. He served in the Army Air Corps, and lived in Houston prior to moving to the Jacksonville area in 1982. He was a Baptist.

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Nora Pryor of Jacksonville; a daughter, Carla Pryor of Jacksonville; and eight sisters, Nita Dover and Ophelia Williams, both of Rusk, Juanita Tuscana, Wilma Magers and Doris George, all of Jacksonville, Dolores Cameron of Sherman, Adelle Benge of Palestine, and Lena Yarbrough of Dialville.

Pallbearers were Doyle Edward George, Brent Stanelin, Dale Dover, Bobby George, Allen Yarbrough Jr., Curtis Cameron and Kelly Yarbrough.

MARY EVELYN ARNOLD

Funeral for Mary Evelyn Arnold, 81, of Alto was at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Alto First Baptist Church with the Rev. Kirby Hill officiating.

Burial was in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery at Nacogdoches.

Mrs. Arnold died Oct. 24. She was born Jan.7, 1926, in Booneville, Ark. to Dan and Mae Blythe.

She lived most of her life in Angleton and later in Applebee. She had resided in Alto for 15 years and was a member of the First Baptist Church. She was a homemaker.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Chuck Arnold; and six brothers and sisters.

Survivors are a son and daughter-in-law, Charlie and Vicky Arnold of Derby, Iowa; a daughter, Sharon Reid of Alto; a sister, Genelle Trowbridge of Booneville, Ark.; grandchildren, Shana, Shane, Shylo and Charley; and 12 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers were Bill Mobley, Nicky Wallace, John Spoon, Aubrey Sturrock, Al Lemon and Jeff Wheeler. Shots Reid was honorary pallbearer. O.T. Allen & Son was in charge of arrangements.

FRAZIER ARLIN GEORGE

Funeral for Frazier Arlin George, 71, of Lindale was at 3 p.m. Oct. 26 at The Woods Baptist Church, Tyler, with Dr. Paul W. Powell and Dr. Mark Goodman officiating. Burial was in West Shady Grove Cemetery. Mr. George died Oct. 22. He was born Aug. 19, 1936, to the late Frazier O. (Boss) and Edrie Marie Hill George.

Mr. George served in the military for almost 20 years, with the majority of those years being in the U. S. Marine Corps where he served three tours of duty in Vietnam. During his time of service he received numerous medals. He held memberships in The American Legion, Disabled American Veterans Association, and the 2nd and 3rd Marine Division Associations. He began F. Arlin George landscape and lawn maintenance business in Tyler, which he operated for 21 years before retiring, and attained his Associate's Degree in Horticulture from TJC. He worked at Caudle-Rutledge Funeral Home, Lon Morris College, Breedlove Nursery, Hall Buick-Pontiac-GMC and The Salvation Army William Booth Garden Apartments. He was a member of The Woods Baptist Church and a former member of Green Acres Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Tyler. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dwain George.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte "Charlie" (Smith) George of Lindale; daughters and sons-in-law and a grandchild, Anya and Dan (Eddie) Breen and grandchildren, Sage (and one due any moment) of Rusk and Shanna and Brandon Hart of Jacksonville; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Shelby and Wayne Starkey of Corpus Christi and Patsy and James Pollard of Hallsville; twin brothers and a sister-inlaw, Jerry (Duke) and Donna George of Bay City, and Gary (Dak) George of Alvin; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Pallbearers were Mike Giles, Israel Giles, Billy Simms, Clifton Batton, Dr. Bob Turner, and Dr. James Smith. Honorary pallbearers were Wayne Schaefer, Dr. Ken Dupuy, and husbands of the LOLA Ladies. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, 633 N. Broadway, Tyler, 75702; or the Moses Project (Mission Work in Brazil), P.O. Box 132707, Tyler, 75713. Stewart Funeral Home of Tyler was in charge of arrangements.

MADELINE ARMSTRONG

Funeral for Madeline Armstrong, 88, of Alto was at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Hilltop Baptist Church with the Rev. Josh Lindsey officiating. Burial was in Harrison-Armstrong Cemetery.

Mrs. Armstrong died Saturday. She was born Feb. 3, 1919, in the Lynches Chapel community to Lester and Esther Butler Burson. She lived in Alto all of her life and was a homemaker and a charter member of the Hilltop Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Malone W. Armstrong Jr.

Survivors are two daughters and a son-in-law, Evelyn Molandes of Nacogdoches and Charlotte and Tommy Perdue of Alto; grandchildren, Scott Molandes, Jody Molandes, Amanda McCarty and Debbie McCartney; great-grandchildren, Matthew Molandes, Maci Molandes, Garrett Molandes, Maverick Molandes, Hannah Molandes, Chandler McCarty and Cade McCarty.

Pallbearers were Matthew Molandes, Scott Molandes, Jody Molandes, Ty McCarty, Steve McCarty and Billy Grimes. O.T. Allen & Son Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

JOHN S. (JACK) CLEMENTS

Funeral for John S. (Jack) Clements, 84, of Independence, Mo. was at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Speaks Suburban Chapel. Burial with full military honors was in Mt. Washington Forever Cemetery. Mr. Clements was the father of Keith Clements of Rusk. Mr. Clements died Friday, Oct. 26. He was born Dec. 2, 1922, in Gilliam, Mo. to Marion and Catherine Winning Clements.

He moved to Independence in 1951 and worked for several years for the Brotherhood of Boilermaker's Union Local #83 until on the job injury forced him to retire in 1981. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a member of the Englewood Assembly of God. He married Bettie Adcock on March 16, 1951.

Survivors are his wife, Bettie Clements of Independence; three sons and daughters-inlaw, John Jr. and Diane Clements of Independence, Mo., Chuck and Evon Clements of Blue Springs, Mo. and Keith and Linda Clements of Rusk; two daughters, Nancy Catherine Clements and her companion Donald Doolin of Independence, Mo. and Connie Holt and her husband Jeff of Lee's Summit, Mo.; two brothers, Joe Clements of Miami, Mo. and W.E. Clements of Slater, Mo.; two sisters, Alice Phillips and Esther Rhea Peel both of Slater, Mo.; 10 grandchildren including Charlotte Clements of Rusk and 7 great-grandchildren. Donations may be made to Alzheimer's Research or to the South Care Hospice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com.

BILLY CORLEY

Funeral for Billy Frank Corley, 65, of Jacksonville was at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Autry Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial was in Bullard Memorial Cemetery, Bullard.

Mr. Corley died Friday,. He was born Sept. 5, 1942, in Durant, Okla. He was an inspector for Tyler Pipe for more than 20 years and a Baptist.

Mr. Corley was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Milady Corley; a son, Brandon Corley; brother, Sonny Corley; and sisters, Dorothy Hawthorne, Opal Lamar and Mittie Lee.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Billywayne and Theresa Corley of Mineola; a daughter and son-in-law, Sandy and Mark Hill of Jacksonville; three brothers, Jack Corley of Tyler, Woody Corley of Lindale and Tom Corley of Flint; five sisters, Melba Foreman of Temple, Betty Tibbitts of Nolanville, Margaret Fetterman of Little River, June Stickney of Washington and Yvonne Coston of Hamilton; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were James Holder, Tim Hill, Bill Hill, Bobby Harr, Daniel Bales and Mike Thomas.

Honorary pallbearers were Uncle Johnny Culpepper, J. R. Hill, Terry Mosley and Billy Fetterman.