Cherokee County, Texas

OBITUARIES AUGUST 2008

Mack Arnold

Services for Mr. Mack Arnold, age 54, of Jacksonville, TX will be held at 10:00 A. M. Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008 at Renfro Memorial Chapel at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville with Bro. Curtis Oliver officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park at Jacksonville under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Arnold was born Nov. 13, 1953 in Henderson, TX and had lived in the Jacksonville area all of his life. He was a truck driver employed by Tango Transportation. He died Saturday evening at a Jacksonville hospital. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Mack and Ethel V. Kelly Arnold, and a brother, Paul Junior Arnold. Mr. Arnold is survived by his wife, Doris Fisher Arnold of Jacksonville, a son and daughter-in-law, Steven and Angela Arnold of Garvin, OK, two daughters and sons-in-law, Maranda and Tony Wilson of Swink, OK and Kimberly and Tim Parker of Jacksonville, a sister and brother-in-law, Paula and Lonnie Roper of Mixon, a sister-in-law, Glenda Arnold, Uncle, Gene Arnold, two aunts, Retha Branham and Lucy Kelly, six grandchildren, Justin Bobbitt, Jena Parker, Gage Parker, Blake Wilson, Bailey Wilson and Kortney Wilson. Pallbearers will be Steven Arnold, Bubba Cook, Mitch Branham, Jim Turner, Jerry Houser, Kevin McKinney, Donny Wilson, and Chris Holman. Honorary pallbearers will be Scotty Wright, Shane Wright, Eddie Arnold, Jimmy Sides, and the Y-2 Goldwing Motorcycle Club. Visitation will be 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Tuesday at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville, TX. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/5/2008

Jerry Neal Barber

Funeral services for Mr. Jerry Neal Barber, 70, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 18, 2008 at Central Baptist Church with Rev. Dwight Munn and Rev. Charles Nunley officiating, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park , Jacksonville. Mr. Barber died Aug. 15, 2008. He was born Dec. 26, 1937 in Jacksonville. Mr. Barber was employed as a contractor in the construction industry. He was preceded in death by his father Elmer Barber, mother Gertie Barber and brother Jeff Barber. He is survived by son Byron Barber of Vidor; daughters, Lisa and Mark Holton of League and Holly and Rick Salyer of Friendswood; sister Betty Ruth and Billy Berry of Jacksonville; grand children Brandy Holton Spear and husband David of League, Hailey Shea Salyer of Friendswood and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are to be Mark Holton, Rick Salyer, David Spear, Bryan Stewart, Matt Berry and Spike Morton. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, Aug.17, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/16/2008 - 8/18/2008

Mattie Imogene Bossart

Mattie Imogene Bossart, 85, of Houston, died Saturday evening. She was born Jan. 13, 1923 in Jacksonville to Benjamin Omer and Ethel Holcomb Hood. Gene was a fresh-faced 16-year-old girl when she left the farm in 1939 to build her life. Along the way she was a wife, mother and friend, who fought a war, had a family, earned a Ph.D. and became a well known professional and academic. Survivors include her children, Steve Bossart and wife Mary Beth of Dallas, Susan Cavazos and husband Emilio of Richmond, Pat Bossart and wife Charlotte of Cypress, Cheryl Starnes and husband Terry of Conway, Ark., Tony Bossart and wife Becky of Scottsdale, Ariz. and Georgia Etheridge and husband Travis of Jacksonville; brothers Bertrum Hood and wife Margie, and Jerry Hood, all of Jacksonville; 16 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, at the Chapel of Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive. The family will receive friends at the Chapel beginning at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in the Houston National Cemetery. For those that desire, the family has requested memorials to The American Stroke Assoc., National Center, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, Texas 75231 or www.americanheart.org. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/11/2008

Frank C. Brandon

Graveside services for Frank C. Brandon, 74, Denton, formerly of Jacksonville and Grandview are scheduled for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2008 at Grandview Cemetery, Grandview, with Rev. Russell Allen officiating.

Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville.

Mr. Brandon died Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2008 in Denton. He was born Dec. 17, 1933 in Grandview.

There will be no visitation.

Clara Louise Bucker

Funeral services for Clara Louise Bucker, 98, of the Glen Fawn Community, will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 2008 in the Glen Fawn Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Rick Yancy and Rev. Gerald Pepper officiating. Burial will be held in the Glen Fawn Cemetery under the direction of Dickie Allen Funeral Home. Buckner died Monday, Aug. 11, 2008 in Cushing. She was born Feb. 26, 1910 in the New Hope Community near Pecos to Eugene Fletcher and Annie Stroud Fugua. She lived in the Glen Fawn Community for most of her life and was a member of the Glen Fawn Missionary Baptist Church. The legacy of Grandma Buckner reaches the mission fields even to the farthest corners of the world. Her seeds will continue to bear fruit through her faithful giving and the Word she planted into her descendants. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Buckner; daughters, Janette Buckner and Louise Hays; eight sisters; and grandsons Timothy Williams, Joel Arnold and Robert Hardy Hays, Jr. Survivors include sons and daughters-in-law, Gene and Susan Buckner, of Benbrook and Robert Garrett Buckner, of Dallas; daughters and sons-in-law Bette Jo James of Portland, Ore., Ruby June Arnold of Cushing, Mary Nell and Richard Yancy of Burleson, Martha Dell and Maxcey Williams of Llano and Janice and Edward Seale of Cushing; 26 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren and one great-great-great grandchild. Pallbearers will be her grandsons and great-grandsons. Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home in Cushing. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/13/2008 - 8/15/2008

Bobby “Bob” Campbell

Graveside services for Mr. Bobby “Bob” Campbell, 62, of Gallatin are scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville, with Rev. Donald Copeland and Father Mark Kusmirek officiating under the direction of Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville Mr. Campbell died Aug. 17, 2008, in Jacksonville. He was born July 21, 1946 in Conroe. Mr. Campbell was the owner/operator of an auto parts retail store. He was preceded in death by his father Grady Campbell. He is survived by his wife Pacita Munoz Campbell, of Gallatin; mother, Patricia M. Heathman Campbell, of Jacksonville; aunt, Margurite Crane, of Jacksonville; and cousins, Kandy Willoughby, of Houston, David Campbell, of Rusk and Richard Crane, of the Ukraine. The family will receive friends all day Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/21/2008 - 8/22/2008

Rose Mary Christopher

Funeral services for Rose Mary Christopher, 77, of the Corinth Community in Bullard, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008 in Corinth Baptist Church with Rev. L. Davis officiating. Burial will be in Corinth Cemetery under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Christopher died Thursday, Aug. 7, 2008 at her home in Bullard. She was born Aug. 5, 1931 in Cherokee County. She was a graduate of Nacogdoches High School and a longtime member of Corinth Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mose and Bethena Shamblin; husband, Perry Christopher; one son, two sisters and three brothers. Survivors include her sons and daughters-in-law, Clifford and Utherus Boyd, Jr., Lemmon Earl Boyd, of Bullard, Kenneth Wayne and Ruby Boyd of Bullard, and Charles Boyd of Eureka, Calif.; daughters and son-in-law Ruthie Whitaker, of Houston, Jerlene Boyd, Wanda and Felix Abu, of Jacksonville and Michelle Boyd, of Bullard; sister, Opal Faye Allen, of Kansas City, Mo.; 25 grandchildren and16 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Nathan Golden, Henry Cook, Bo Brewer, Fred Bowie, and Michael Whitaker. Honorary pallbearers will be the deacons of Corinth Baptist Church. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/14/2008 - 8/16/2008

David Matthew Davis

Funeral services for David Matthew Davis, 33, of Jacksonville, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008, in Grace Temple Church of God in Christ, Troup with Elder Samuel Jones, Rev. Billy Tribble, Rev. Julia Session, and Rev. E. Ward officiating under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Davis died Sunday, Aug. 3, 2008 in Jacksonville. He was born April 7, 1975 in Cherokee County. He was a 1994 graduate of New Summerfield High School and a member of Grace Temple Church of God in Christ. Survivors include his grandfather, Eugene Ward, of Jacksonville; brothers and sister-in-law, Bryant Davis, of Jacksonville, Byron Davis and his wife, Evelyn, of Tyler; sisters and brother-in-law, Cherlonda Davis, of Jacksonville, Robina and her husband Lloyd Clark, of Tyler; several aunts, including special aunt Linnis Ward; and several uncles, nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Robert Davis, Jr., Larry West, Kwast Hines, Carl Sparks, Marquis Ward and Chris White. Honorary pallbearers will be James Ward, Oscar Ward, Benjamin Davis, Robert Davis, James Davis and Daryl Payne. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/8/2008 - 8/10/2008

Russell Desaulniers

Memorial services for Mr. Russell Desaulniers, 46, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 11, 2008 at the Autry Funeral Home chapel in Jacksonville with Rev. C. L. Taylor officiating. Mr. Desaulniers died Thursday, Aug. 7, 2008 in Jacksonville. He was born Dec. 13, 1961 in Houston. Mr. Desaulniers was self employed as a carpenter. He was preceded in death by his mother Patricia Gail Russell Desaulniers. He is survived by his father, Don Desaulniers; wife Robbie of Angleton; grandmother Dean Russell of Jacksonville; brothers Keith Desaulniers of Mont Alba, James Desaulniers of North Carolina, Craig Brooks of Jacksonville; and sister Amy Brooks of Italy. No visitation scheduled by request of family. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/10/2008 - 8/11/2008

Tommie Fayrene Dickerson

Funeral services for Mrs. Tommie Fayrene Dickerson, 83, of Frankston are scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday Aug. 3, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home in Frankston with Rev. J. A. Griffin officiating. Burial will follow at Poynor Cemetery near Poynor. Mrs. Dickerson died Thursday July 31, 2008 in Frankston after an extended illness. She was born Feb. 25, 1925 in Poynor and had lived in the Frankston area most of her life. Mrs. Dickerson was an active member of the Frankston Riding Club and a member of the Church of Christ in Frankston. She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas Franklin Hanna and Cora Lorena Dickerson Hanna; daughter, Sherry Ann Dickerson; brother, Benny Hanna; and sister, Ruby Bizzell. She is survived by her husband Charlie Preston Dickerson of Frankston; son, Robert Preston and Diana Lynn Dickerson of Frankston; daughters and sons-in-law, Alana and Jimmy Moore, Debbie and Gary Edmonson both of Frankston; a brother, Reagan Hanna of Beaumont; sisters Katrena Reid of Tyler, Betty Parigi of Mesquite; sister-in-law Ruby Hanna of Kountz; grand children, Dustin Dickerson, Wade Dickerson, Aimee Johnson, Ashlie Patterson, Misty Dickerson; seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Dustin Dickerson, Wade Dickerson, Reagan Hanna, Justin Hanna, Tommy Hanna and Sam Lackey. Honorary pallbearers will be Dana Bizzell, John Parigi and Bubba King. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. 8 p.m. Saturday Aug. 2, 2008 at the Autry Funeral Home in Frankston. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/3/2008

Bernard “Bernie” Ferrara

Funeral Mass for Bernard “Bernie” Ferrara, 74, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 25, 2008 at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Jacksonville with Father Mark Kusmirek officiating. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Rusk. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Ferrara died Saturday, Aug. 23, 2008 in Tyler. He was born Dec. 21, 1933 in New York City. Mr. Ferrara had lived in Jacksonville for four years and had previously lived at Emerald Bay. He was a member of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Jacksonville, a catcher in Cincinnati Reds organization for several years and retired from Roadway Express after many years. He was preceded in death by his parents George Walter Ferrara and Mary Gallo Ferrara. Survivors include his wife of 47 years Margaret Ferrara of Jacksonville; sister Roseanne Ferrara of Bronxville, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will begin Sunday, Aug. 24 at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville with a Rosary service to be held at 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home chapel. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/25/2008

Hazel Inez Hudnell Floyd

Hazel Inez Hudnell Floyd, born in Upshur County on Oct. 5, 1915, died on Aug. 23, 2008 in Houston. Mrs. Floyd was preceded in death by her infant son, Stephen Mark Floyd; husband, Sidney M. Floyd; brothers, Clark and Albert Hudnell; and sister Barnie Toney. She is survived by a daughter, Sydney Nell Floyd of Houston; sister, Alice Lane of Mineola; and several nieces and nephews. Hazel graduated from high school in Jacksonville where she met and married Sidney Floyd. After the end of World War II, Sidney was employed by Humble (now Exxon). During the years that followed, the family lived in various towns in Texas, including Aransas Pass, Refugio and Corpus Christi, before retiring to Longview. After Sidney’s death in 1991, Hazel moved to Houston to live with her daughter. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 1992. Over the next 16 years, the disease took her mind and memory, but could not destroy her essentially sweet and gentle spirit, which remained obvious to all. The family thanks the owners and employees from Com for Care for their loving care over the past 7 years and the Solari Hospice team for their care and support during the past months. Private burial services will be held on Aug. 26, 2008 at Resthaven Cemetery in Jacksonville under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/26/2008 - 8/28/2008

Archie F. ‘Buck’ Goode

Funeral services for Archie F. “Buck” Goode, 72, Berryville are pending with Autry Funeral Home of Frankston, Mr. Goode died Thursday in Tyler.

Belah L. Grimes

Funeral services for Belah L. Grimes, 73, of Copperas Cove will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Oakland Cemetery in Rusk. Mrs. Grimes died Sunday, Aug, 3, 2008, at a Copperas Cove nursing home. She was born May 21, 1935, in Corpus Christi. She was raised in Alice; attended Del Mar Collage in Corpus Christi; married George B. Grimes in 1956; she worked as a Book Binder in Dallas; an Equipment Assembler; and later as a Home Health Care Provider in Jacksonville; she was member of Church of Christ; former member of TOPPS; Honorary pallbearers are Chad and Dusten Grimes, Fred Strayhorn, Eric Passmore, Tim Porter and Kenneth Lusk. She was preceded in death by her, husband, George B. Grimes She is survived by her sons, Dale and his wife Theda Grimes and Geral Grimes of Jacksonville and Dean Grimes of Dallas; daughter, Jewel and her husband Tim Porter of Copperas Cove; sisters, Elna Sciba of Houston and Gladys Hinze of Rogers, AR; 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Arrangements are under the direction of Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Killeen. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/5/2008

Earl M. Grimes

Memorial services for Mr. Earl M. Grimes, 91 of Jacksonville will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Grimes Cemetery with Rev. David Hallam officiating. Mr. Grimes was born Aug. 27, 1916 in Cherokee County and had lived all of his life in the Jacksonville area. He was an insulator and was a member of the Cove Springs Community Church. Mr. Grimes died Aug. 2, 2008 at his residence. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Minnie Grimes and his wife, Elouise Grimes. Mr. Grimes is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Ronnie and Margaret Grimes of Jacksonville and Earl L. Grimes of Jacksonville; two daughters and sons-in-law, Vicki and Tim Murphy of Staunton, Va. and Darlene and Keith Hazlewood of Willis; 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Friday evening 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/6/2008

William C. Groom

William C. Groom passed away Aug. 19, 2008 in Fort Worth at the age of 54. He was born on Independence Day, 1954. He graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1972 and Stephen F. Austin University in 1976. He was a native of Jacksonville and also a long-time resident of Tyler and Dallas. He will be greatly missed by his many friends. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/22/2008

Dorothy Louise Henderson

Funeral services for Dorothy Louise Henderson, 86, of Jacksonville, are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville. Mrs. Henderson died Monday, Aug. 4, 2008 in Tyler. She was born July 17, 1922 in Paradise. Mrs. Henderson was a member of Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville. She was a retired employee of over 23 years with Beall’s, in Jacksonville, as a credit consultant. She was a member of the Eastern Star and Daughters of the Nile. She was preceded in death by her parents John Henry Wooddell and Hattie Myrtle Yingling Wooddell; her husband Clarence V. Henderson; brothers Bruce Wooddell, John Douglas Wooddell, Carlton Wooddell and sister Helen Crawford. She is survived by two sons Tracy Don Henderson and Thomas Dale Henderson; and one daughter Judy Kay Garcia. Mrs. Henderson has eight grandchildren and several great-grand children. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday Aug. 6, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/6/2008

Juan Hernandez

Graveside services for Juan Hernandez, infant son of Fernando and Maria Hernandez of Frankston are scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, 2008 at Resthaven Memorial Park, Jacksonville. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Hernandez died Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008 in Jacksonville. He was born Aug. 20, 2008 in Jacksonville. There will be no visitation per request of the family. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/25/2008

Turner “TJ” Johnson Jr.

Funeral services for Turner “TJ” Johnson Jr., 79, of Frankston, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008 in Evan Springs Baptist Church with Rev. Amiel Marshall and Pastor Leroy Purvey officiating. Burial will be in Dabb Cemetery in Frankston under the direction of Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville.

Johnson died Monday, Aug. 4, 2008. He was born in Neches and attended Clemons Elementary and Clemons High School.

Public viewing will be held at the funeral home from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, 2008.

Glover Jones

Funeral services for Glover Jones, 94, of Jacksonville, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008 in Pennel Chapel C.M.E Church with Rev. Tommy Starks, Rev. Earl Franklin, Rev. David Daviss and Tracey Clater officiating. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Jones died Monday, Aug. 25, 2008 in Tyler. He was born April 1, 1914 in Cherokee County. He attended Pine Grove public schools. He was a member of New Community United Methodist Church and a retired lawn service, lumber mill and construction worker. He was preceded in death by his wife, Epsie Lacy Jones; parents, Alex and Susan Jones; one sister and four brothers. Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Vance and Jewel Jones, of Jacksonville; six daughters and three sons-in-law, Jearlene Dennis, Naomia and Earl Bowman, Ruby and Willie Nelson, Nancy and Arthur Runnels and Belinda Stewart, all of Jacksonville, and Mildred Waters, of Palestine; eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Craig Jones, Larry Horn, Lewis Blake, Arthur Runnels, Jr., Willie Nelson, Jerrell Davidson and Christopher Bowman. Honorary pallbearers will be the stewards of New Community United Methodist Church and Pennel Chapel C.M.E. Church. Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. Friday at Williams Funeral Home Chapel. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/29/2008 - 8/30/2008

Gary A. Kennedy

Gary A. Kennedy of Terrell passed away Aug. 24, 2008 at his residence, a loving father, grandfather and friend. He was born on March 2, 1938 to the late James E. and Ima Houghton Kennedy in Jacksonville. Gary grew up in Cherokee County and later moved to Dallas County where he was co-owner of an air conditioning company, and he retired in 2005. He was a part-time rancher and avid hunter. He loved life, the outdoors and travel. Gary was a Master Mason and held a dual membership in Cedar Creek Lake Lodge and Mesquite Lodge. He will be remembered for his ability to make everyone feel as if they were the most important person on the face of the earth and for his love of life, he never met a stranger. He was a member of the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Terrell. Gary was preceded in death by brother, Charles D. Kennedy and son, Danny W. Kennedy. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Glenda Durrett Kennedy; daughters, Sherry Box and Cindy Hawkins and husband Larry; grandchildren, Christy Decker, Cory Hawkins and Jessica Hawkins; great-grandchildren, Breanna Travis, Bryce and Chase Talent. Services will be held at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2008 at Restland Memorial Chapel. Family will receive friends one hour prior to service at Restland Memorial Chapel. Entombment will follow at the Abbey Mausoleum. Guest Registry may be signed at www.andersonclaytonbros.comc Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/26/2008 - 8/28/2008

Steven Earl Long

Graveside services for Steven Earl Long, 50 of Magna, Utah are scheduled for 11 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 23, 2008 in Providence Cemetery with Rev. Jack White officiating under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mr. Long died Aug. 17, 2008 in a Utah Hospital. He was born April 25, 1958 in Texas City. He was a resident of Magna, Utah for eight years, formerly of Athens for 25 years and Rusk. He was a graduate of Rusk High School in 1976 and also a graduate of Texas State Technical Institute in Waco. Mr. Long was a television technician for Airwaves Television Service Repair in Magna. He is preceded in death by his mother, Kay Chandler; and brother, Shannon Richardson. He is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Dustin Earl and April Long of Tyler; daughter, Danica Linville of Mabank; granddaughter, Raven Long of Tyler; fiancée, Cami Korous of Magna, Utah; parents, Helmer and Linda Long of Corpus Christi; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Keith and Sherrie Long of Corpus Christi, Shawn and Jennifer Richardson of Houston; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Lisa and Kirby Smith of Rusk, Shelly and DeWayne Hunt of Corpus Christi, Charmagne and Todd Barber of Midland, TX, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mike and Nikki Korous of Magna; numerous step children, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. Steve was a loving father and a true Texan. He loved NASCAR, outdoors, camping and the Dallas Cowboys. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, August 22, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/21/2008 - 8/22/2008

James Donald McClain

Funeral services for James Donald McClain, 59, of Jacksonville are scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 14, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Southside Church of Christ in Jacksonville with Mr. Philip Strong officiating. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home of Jacksonville.

Mr. McClain died Friday, Aug. 8, 2008 in Tyler. He was born Aug. 8, 1949 in Houston.

Donna Faye Miller

Donna Faye Miller was born Feb. 18, 1953 and passed away Aug. 8, 2008. Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 11, 2008 at First Baptist Church of Mixon. Funeral Service will be held at 4 p.m. Monday at Laurel Land Memorial Chapel, Dallas, with interment to follow at Laurel Land Memorial Park.

Coyl Newsome

Funeral services for Coyl Newsome, 82, of Jacksonville, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008 in Sweet Union Baptist Church with Rev. Julia Session officiating under the direction of Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Burial will be in Jacksonville City Cemetery. Viewing will take place from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

He was born July 20, 1926.

Alan Petri

Alan Petri passed away Aug. 19, 2008 at his home in Alvarado. He was born Oct. 20, 1957. Private services will be held at a later date for the family.

Lane H. Redden

Funeral services for Lane H. Redden, 75, of Rusk are scheduled for 11 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Johnny Emerson officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk.

Mrs. Redden died Aug. 17, 2008 in a Tyler Hospital. She was born Oct. 5, 1932 in Otto, to the late Henry and Zelda Waltz Hilbert.

Family received friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Aug. 18, 2008.

R.J. Roddy

Services for R.J. Roddy, 89, of Troup will be held on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008 at 2 p.m. at the Troup Church of Christ with Jim Heath and David Jenkinson officiating. Burial, with military honors, will be in the Pinecrest Cemetary, Troup, under the direction of Cottle Funeral Home, Troup. The family will receive visitors on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2008 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mr. Roddy went home to be with his Lord on Monday, Aug. 25, 2008 after a five month battle with cancer. Mr. Roddy was an educator in Troup and the surrounding East Texas area for over 37 years. He coached basketball, taught math and served as a high school principal. After retiring from the field of education in 1978, he worked in the personnel department of Neckover Trailers for several years. Mr. Roddy was an active member of the Troup Church of Christ where he served as Bible class teacher, treasurer and elder. He was also treasurer of the Troup Friends of the Library and was a Rotarian. A decorated World War II veteran, Mr. Roddy served in the Anti-Aircraft Artillery and the War of Occupation in Europe. He graduated from Mixon High School in 1937 and attended Lon Morris College, Jacksonville. He received both his Bachelor’s Degree and Masters Degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches. Mr. Roddy was born in Mixon on April 10, 1919 to Martin Luther and Ethel Rasco Roddy. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as two older brothers, Herman and Oran Roddy. Mr. Roddy married Navoleine Ross, Oct. 24, 1941, in Tyler. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Navoleine Roddy of Troup as well as his three daughters and their husbands: Patsy and Alan Fisher of Teasleville, Rita Jo and Dwade Reinsch of Mesquite and Becky and Dennis Mays of Selma, N.C. He was blessed with six grandchildren, Amy Buwalda of Allen, Chris Reinsch of Lead Hill, Arkansas, Jennifer Reinsch of Houston, Josh Mays of Wilson, N.C., Matthew Mays of Selma, N.C. and Sara Price of Wilmington, N.C. He also enjoyed five great grandchildren, Brittany and Todd Reinsch, Brett and Tanner Buwalda and Jordan Mays; two dear sisters- in- law, Ruth Cole and Anita Ross, of Mixon; and a host of nieces, nephews and other extended family. Pallbearers will be Billy Ross, John Stockton, Tim Ross, Les Langston, Gene Ray Roddy, Tell Ross and Jeff Berry. If desired, memorials may be made in his honor to The Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd, Tyler, Texas 75701 or to the Cameron J. Jarvis Troup Municipal Library, P.O. Box 721, Troup, Texas 75789 or the Troup Church of Christ, P.O. Box 308, Troup, Texas 75789.The family would like to thank the many people who supported R.J. and Navoleine throughout his illness. They are especially grateful to the nurses and staff at The Hospice of East Texas for the compassionate care they provided during his last days. Online registration and condolences are available at www.cottlefuneralhome.com Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/27/2008 - 8/29/2008

Earl C. Ross

Funeral services for Earl C. Ross will be held Tuesday, Aug. 26, at First United Methodist Church, Rusk at 3 p.m., with the Rev. Michael Caldwell officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Earl C. Ross was born Oct. 31, 1924, at Sardis, Cherokee County to the late George Alton and Evie Kinney Ross. He attended Sardis and Maydelle schools before going into military service in World War II. He was a sergeant in the U.S. Army 5th Air Force, serving all over the Pacific theatre, in many of the major battles. He was in sight of the USS Missouri when the unconditional surrender was signed aboard that ship. After the war, he married Mona Ruth Wallace in 1946, and they made their home in Rusk. Earl worked at Rusk State Hospital for many years, and attended Henderson County Junior College for an A.S. degree in Nursing. During this period he also worked as a carpenter and bricklayer, and operated a used car lot for several years. He later acquired the Ford-Mercury car dealership in Rusk and maintained that business until 1981. Earl is a member of the First United Methodist Church, and has served on many committees. He has been active in civic affairs. He is past Master of the Masonic Lodge in Rusk, and is a 32nd degree Mason. He was instrumental in establishing the Southern Cherokee Credit Union and served on the Board of Directors many years, serving as President and in other offices. He also served on the Rusk Rural Water Corp. Board in the same positions. He served as Municipal Judge. In addition to these activities, in his “retirement” he engaged in buying, building, selling and renting housing. He is president of Ross Enterprises, Inc. He recently re-discovered his love of country dancing, and met many new friends while dancing. He is survived by his four children and their spouses: Barbara Lynn and Richard Nickle, James Earl, Michael Lee and Glenda, and Patricia Gail, grandson James Brandon Ross and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Ruth Scott, and brothers George Alton and Howard. He is predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Mona Ruth Wallace, his sister Bernice Roper and his brother Vernon. Pallbearers will be Lynn Taggart, Elmer Kennedy, Mike Murray, Kevin Bowden, Chris Davis and James Morris. Honorary pallbearers will be the Methodist Men’s group. Visitation will be at the Wallace-Thompson funeral home from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 26. Memorials may be sent to the charity of your choice. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/25/2008 - 8/27/2008

Coy P. Scruggs, Sr

Services for Coy P. Scruggs, Sr., 72, Lake Tyler East, were held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008 at the Calvary Assembly of God Church, Tyler with the Rev. Bob F. Wallace officiating. Burial will be in the Resthaven Cemetery, Jacksonville, under the direction of Cottle Funeral Home, Troup. Our dad, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend went to his eternal home with the Lord, Thursday, July 31, 2008. He was born July 24, 1936, in Jacksonville to the late Alfred Townsend Scruggs and Louetta Powers Scruggs. He graduated from Jacksonville High School in 1955 and was a Vietnam veteran serving in the U.S. Air Force for four years. Coy was also a member of the Pineywoods Chapter of the Sons of the Republic of Texas. Coy retired from Kelly Springfield Tire Company, Tyler following 33 years of service. He was formerly a member of the First Assembly of God Church, Whitehouse and was currently a very faithful member of the Calvary Assembly of God Church, Tyler. Coy will be truly missed by all. He was preceded in death by his wife, Grace “Connie” Scruggs, Dec. 5, 2001.Coy is survived by his sons, Coy Scruggs, Jr., of Houston and Roby Scruggs, of Troup; his high school friend and best friend, as well as his companion, Valerie Ellis, of Tyler; a twin brother and a sister-in-law, Loy and Ann Scruggs, of Kingsland and two other brothers and sisters-in-law, Frank and Betty Scruggs and Leldon and Mary Scruggs all of Tecula; two grandchildren, Molly Scruggs and Jamey Scruggs both of Troup; nine nephews, eight nieces and many other family members and close friends. Pallbearers will be his nephews, Curtis Shockley, Donnie Scruggs, Ronnie Chambers, Kenneth Scruggs, Buzz Scruggs, and Steven Scruggs. Honorary pallbearers will be Eugene Toole and David Toole. Online registration and condolences are available at www.cottlefuneralhome.com. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/3/2008

Robert Sewall

Memorial service for Robert Sewall, 82, of Henderson will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008 at Lakewood Cemetery. Arrangements will be made by Crawford-Crim-Bryan Funeral Home of Henderson. Mr. Sewall died July 29, 2008 in Fort Worth. He was born Nov. 30, 1925 in Craft. He was a Henderson business owner for many years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlcey Sewall, April, 2005. Survivors include his daughter, Patricia Furst; grandsons, Rob Talbert and Allen Talbert; sisters, Ann Carol Cone of Fort Worth, Elen Belk of Jacksonville and Alice Muzzeroll of Spokane, Wash.; brother Charlie Sewall of Plantersville; and his many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family would like to extend its deepest thanks to his care givers at The Willows in Fort Worth and Mount Olivet Funeral Home for the services provided in Fort Worth. A special thanks to his chauffeur and niece Barbara Howard. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/16/2008 - 8/18/2008

Dr. James Edwin Shotwell

A private memorial service was held in honor of Dr. James Edwin Shotwell, Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 12, 2008 at 4 p.m. in the Mausoleum Chapel at Resthaven of Lubbock. Dr. Keith Wiseman officiated the lovely service with Dr. Sigurd Ogaard in charge of the music that was attended by his family. He was born on Aug. 14, 1920, in Jacksonville. Dr. Shotwell was married to Mrs. June Shotwell on Feb. 6, 1948, and they moved to Littlefield where he began his dental practice. He was a captain in the U.S. Air Force. Dr. Shotwell had a very active life, centered around his family. He attended Texas Tech University and graduated from Southern Methodist University. He later attended Loyola Dental School in New Orleans. After graduating from dental school he decided to further add knowledge to his career by being a teacher of dentistry at the University of Tennessee Dental School. He also was an instrumental part of the Dental Department at the Lubbock State School. Dr. Shotwell was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Littlefield, and also attended the First United Methodist Church in Lubbock, where he was interested in the choral programs. He was very interested in city government, which allowed him to serve on the city council of Littlefield for three years. He had a perfect attendance in the Littlefield Rotary Club for over fifty-two years plus he was a Paul Harris Fellow. He had made great contributions to the Scholarship Fund of the Littlefield Rotary Club because of the awareness to serve above self. He was a member of the Littlefield Rotary Club, Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, The Texas Tech University Chancellor’s Council and The American Dental Society. He also belonged to the first United Methodist Church of Lubbock. His wife June Shotwell preceded him in death, but Dr. James Shotwell has two daughters; Dr. and Mrs. Harry Hall and Mr. and Mrs. Munay Hensley. Minnie and Richard Hernandez who meant the world to him and they are very special friends of the family. Memorials may be sent to the Music Department of the First United Methodist Church of Lubbock or the First United Church of Littlefield or the Parenting Cottage. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/16/2008 - 8/18/2008

Robert Silmon

Funeral service for Robert Silmon, 81, of Jacksonville, will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008 in Sweet Union Baptist Church. Burial will be in Ragsdale Cemetery in Jacksonville. Viewing will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday at Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home.

Edna Smith

Edna Smith passed away two days after her 92nd birthday at Mother Francis Hospital in Tyler. A memorial service will be held Sunday, Aug. 24 at 4 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville, Texas with Rev. Jack Albright officiating. The family invites people to stay and share memories and photos. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Jacksonville Public Library; Edna loved to read all her life. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Billy G. Smith (89), and their only child Dr. Tolene Smith Wildcat and her husband, artist Wayne Wildcat of Lawrence, Kan., who have lived with Edna and Billy the past two years. Edna is also survived by her brother Harry Zeigler and his wife Leona of Pennsylvania, and many nieces and nephews, children of her brothers and sister, and of Billy’s sisters. Edna Zeigler grew up in a small town near Pittsburg, Penn., one of five children of the depression. Edna went to business college for two years, and worked to help her family make ends meet. Her German Mennonite ancestors founded Harmony, Penn. When the war began, Edna vowed to use her secretarial skills to help the war effort. As this shy yet brave girl left her home, Edna prayed to find someone to love. As she flew from her small town to Panama, Billy G. Smith was on that same plane, returning to Panama after a visit home to Jacksonville. That night, Billy took Edna one of the first of many bouquets of wild flowers. The war for them was mixed with orchids and bougainvillea, in the tropics of Panama, as they fell in love. They married in the Army Chapel in the Canal Zone May 26, 1945. Edna said recently to her daughter, “We were some of the lucky ones.” Few find the love of their life, and share 63 years of happy married life. Edna was a wonderful wife and mother. She worked as secretary at Beall’s with her husband, before and after Beall’s paid wives who worked with their husbands. Even working six days a week, they had time and energy for fun – for camping and campfires on Galveston beach, and the River, trips to Pennsylvania most summers. She created a lifetime full of memories for her daughter and friends, hosted the 1965 JHS all night graduation party at their farm, as well as Christmas parties for Beall’s employees, Lions Club, Rodeo, bonfires and steaks for Billy’s downtown business buddies, Aggies, and annual Easter picnics for the Church when the dogwoods bloomed. Billy and Edna loved to travel. She loved antiques. Edna hosted Presbyterian Circle meetings and Hyperion Study Club, and gave well researched, thoughtful programs for each group at other members’ homes. She loved to read and research, often about the Bible, and she wrote poetry: “It was a cool March morning and my heart was wide awake to the sound of the birds and the pure white snow, and the Master’s touch on each flake.” What began as a part time job for a young man from Mexico grew over twenty five years to be something very special for all. Edna helped Eloy learn English and most of his family to become legal citizens. It is hard to think of Edna without thinking of or wanting to bring her flowers. Her husband picked flowers for her every morning. Her gardens at the farm are now her legacy, as well as Eloy’s. Edna survived breast cancer (2000). Edna and Billy and her visiting brother Harry and his wife, survived two tornadoes that destroyed much of the farm. Their church family and other friends, and as always Eloy, summoned back from Mexico, came with chain saws and cut through trees to get to their house, and won a place in their hearts forever. She and Billy also survived the end of Beall’s as they’d known it, and enjoyed his long retirement. Edna was always so perceptive about people and the beauty of the world. She was attentive and a good listener. On walks in the woods, she saw the tiny things of beauty. On walks on the beach, Edna always found the most sand dollars. When Edna had trouble walking, Billy bought her a golf cart so they could continue to ride around the farm and gardens. She loved the quiet of the country, her flowers and trees, the blue birds, butterflies, painted buntings, hummingbirds, pileated woodpeckers. Edna had a long, full life, filled with love; she wanted more of it. Except for a few hospital visits, she lived at her own home, just as she wanted. Tolly and Wayne lived with Edna and Billy the past two years, with help from good doctors, Eloy and Juana, and visiting nurses. Her daughter feels fortunate to share this rare time with her parents; Edna was always in a good mood, always alert and witty and full of love and appreciation for being at home with her family. Yeats, the Irish poet wrote: “Man is in love and loves what vanishes. What more is there to say?” Edna Smith, this mother, wife, sister, friend, will be greatly missed. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 8/22/2008

Rosemary Holcomb Thompson

Funeral services for Rosemary Holcomb Thompson, 85, of The Woodlands are scheduled for 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 10, 2008 in First United Methodist Church in Rusk with Rev. Dr. Gary Fitzgerald and Rev. Michael Caldwell officiating. Interment will be in Holcomb Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. Thompson died Aug. 8, 2008 at her residence. She was born Oct. 6, 1922 in Rusk. She was a resident of The Woodlands for three years formerly of Rusk and Baytown. Mrs. Thompson was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Rusk as well as the First United Methodist Church Chancel Choir. She was a member of the Rusk Thalian Club, Daughters of the Republic of Texas, lifelong member of The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and Area Go Texan Committee of Cherokee County. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert F. and Bessie Hendricks Holcomb; sister Ruth Holcomb; husband Ira G. “Buddy” Thompson Sr. in 2000; son Ira Thompson Jr. in 2000. She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law Georganne Gray and George Pekema of Houston, Mary Beth Thompson of Magnolia, Sarah and Bryan Selden of Tyler; daughter-in-law Brenda Thompson of Baytown; brother and sister-in-law George R. and Butch Holcomb of Rusk; sisters and brother-in-law Eloise and Harry Allen of Huntsville, Genelle Richards of Rusk; grandsons, Brian and wife Stephanie Gray of College Station, Brett Thompson of Baytown, Matthew Selden of Tyler; granddaughters, Erin Gray of Houston, Elizabeth and husband Justin Brown of Whitehouse, Mary Caroline Selden of Tyler; great-grandsons, Jordan Gray and Carson Selden; great-granddaughters, Jacy Gray and Jenna Gray; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will include Brian Gray, Brett Thompson, Matthew Selden, Neill Holcomb, Jimmy Richards and Ricky Richards. Honorary pallbearers will be George Pekema, Bryan Selden, Justin Brown, Nat Conder, Jason Post, Larry Long and David Long. Family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008 at the funeral home. If desired, memorials may be made to the Holcomb Cemetery Association, CR 2313 Rusk, Texas 75785. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/10/2008 - 8/11/2008

Rudolph “Rudy” W. Thompson

Graveside services for Mr. Rudolph “Rudy” W. Thompson, 57, of Pahrump, Nev. formerly of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008, at Concord Cemetery near Troup with Bros. Duane Turner, Andy Cox and Marc Sharp officiating under the direction of Autry Funeral home in Jacksonville. Mr. Thompson died Monday, July 28, 2008 at his home in Nevada. He was born Feb. 20, 1951 in Texas. Mr. Thompson was employed in the printing industry and was considered a very loving person by friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents Ruford  Theron Thompson and Louiza Winifred Sharp Thompson and niece Rickie Marie Johnston. He is survived by sisters and brothers-in-law Charlotte and Duane Turner of Hughes Springs, Brenda and Tommy Shuttlesworth of Wake Village, and Nell and Jim Buchanan of Longview; brother and sister-in-law Randy and Betty Thompson of Lovettsville, Va.; several loving nieces and nephews and special friend and caregiver Marcia Lovell of Pahrump, Nev. who was with him to the end of his journey. Honorary pallbearers are John Turner, Ricky Brock-Jones, Theron Turner, Chad Brock-Jones, Jason Shuttlesworth and Charlie Shuttlesworth. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, Aug. 1, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 7/31/2008 - 8/2/2008

Aron Lee “Rock” Wallace, Jr.

Funeral services for Aron Lee “Rock” Wallace, Jr., 60, of Houston, will be held at 1 p.m Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008 in Central Baptist Church, with Elder Norris T. Hunt officiating. Burial will be in Union Hill Cemetery at Summerfield under the direction of Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville. Wallace died Saturday, Aug. 23, 2008 in The Woodlands. He was born Feb. 29, 1948 in Jacksonville. He attended Fred Douglass Elementary. He was a Cherokee County resident for 48 years and a Houston resident for 12 years. He was a member of First Pentecostal Church and an engineer with Union Pacific Railroad. He also served in the U.S. Army. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aron and Corsie Whitaker-Wallace; and brother, Larry Wallace. Survivors include his wife, Beauty F. Wallace, of The Woodlands; sons and daughters-in-law, Carlos and Lori Wallace, Aaron and Khalilah Wallace, both of The Woodlands, Johnathan Fry of Nacogdoches and Nekia and Keena Wallace of Jacksonville, Ark; daughters and son-in-law, Ursula McCuin, of Lancaster, Aurelia and Jerry Wallace, of Atasocita and Jocelyn Wallace of Jacksonville; brothers and sisters-in-law, Johnny and Linda Wallace, of Jacksonville, Chris Wallace, James and Charlotte Wallace; sisters and brother-in-law, Eva Castleberry, Florida Waits, Doris Whitaker, all of Jacksonville, betty and Robert Golden, of Dallas; and ten grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Alan Hinton, John Robinson, Jr., Lorenzo McCullough, Archie Walker, Reginald Newsome and Jeff Walker. Honorary Pallbearers will be Romeo Bagley, Rube E. Hicks, C.J. Gill, C.T. Booker, Benny Brown, Lawrence Hutchinson, Claude Jones and Vinson Polk. Public viewing will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, 2008 at the funeral home. A wake will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/29/2008 - 8/30/2008

A.L. “Bigfoot” Wallace

A.L. “Bigfoot” Wallace, UTU member and father of UTU organizer Carlos Wallace, has passed away. Wallace, a veteran railroader and member of Local 524 in Palestine, Texas, worked on the railroad for 33 years. “Bigfoot” hired out with Missouri Pacific Railroad (MoPac) in 1975 in Palestine, Texas. MoPac was acquired by Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) in 1982 during one of the most troublesome times in modern railroad history. “Bigfoot,” like many others, resorted to other employment such as substitute teaching and insurance sales during the layoff to support his family. In 1985, the worst appeared to be behind him and he worked as a conductor until 1994 when he became a promoted engineer. After the Southern Pacific Railroad (SP) and UPRR merger in 1996, he relocated to Houston, Texas, where he was a household name on “The Rabbit,” a run from Houston to Shreveport, La. A big man in stature, with a booming voice and a tall-tale to tell, he inspired the career of many young railroaders. In addition to two of his sons, Carlos Wallace (UPRR) and Aaron Lee Wallace, III (aka "Step") (KCS/Tex Mex), he has several nephews and a host of cousins and family friends in the rail industry in the Northeast, Midwest and Southwest areas. “Bigfoot” believed that railroading was a great opportunity and encouraged those who he encountered to pursue such a career. He is survived by his wife, Faye; sons Carlos, Jonathan, Aaron III and Nekia; and daughters Ursula, Aurelia, Jocelyn; and 10 grandchildren. “He will be greatly missed in the rail industry by those who knew and worked with him, but his legacy will remain," Carlos said. A wake will be held Friday, Aug. 29, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Community Funeral Home in Jacksonville, (903) 586-1069. The funeral will be Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008, at 1 p.m., at the Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville, (903) 586-2215. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 8/27/2008 - 8/29/2008