Obituary

Cherokee County, Texas

OBITUARIES MARCH 2008

Raye G. Allen

Funeral Services for Raye G. Allen, 84, of Jacksonville, are pending with Autry Funeral Home. Mr. Allen died Saturday, March 29, 2008 in Jacksonville.

Mahogany Leeshay Anderson

Funeral services for Mahogany Leeshay Anderson, 19-months, of Jacksonville, will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2008 in Ambassadors for Christ MBC with Rev. Dwight Rivers eulogizing and Rev. Edward Tilley officiating. Burial will be in Resthaven Cemetery under the direction of Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville.

Anderson died March 27, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was born August 2, 2006 in Jacksonville.

Samuel Hopkins “Hop” Barbour

Samuel Hopkins “Hop” Barbour, a native Texan, was born in Malone on September 4, 1921. He entered into rest on March 3, 2008 at the age of 86.He served in the U.S. Air Force in WWII. Hop owned and operated a starter and generator shop for 25 years in Jacksonville then changed professions and was a golf pro and greens superintendent for 25 years. He was preceded in death by loving parents, Mattie Lee and Samuel H. Barbour Sr.; brother, Robert Lee; two still born sons and two loving wives, Josephine Barbour and Wanda Remick Barbour. He is survived by brother, Joseph William Barbour; adopted son, Sammy Joe Barbour; step-daughter, Patricia Remick; and nephew Mike Barbour. A memorial service will be held Thursday, March 6, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Madison Hills Baptist Church, 15413 O’Connor Road, San Antonio 78247, phone 656-3946, with Rev. Jim Perkins officiating. You may leave the family a personal message by signing the guest book at www.mem.com. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/5/2008.

Amiyah L. Barnes

Funeral services for Amiyah L. Barnes, 8 months, of Jacksonville, will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 24, 2008 in Community Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Jacksonville City Cemetery under the direction of the funeral home. Barnes died Wednesday, March 19, 2008 in a Jacksonville hospital. She was born on July 11, 2007 to Mark Barnes and Amy Session. Viewing for friends and loved ones will be held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, March 23, 2008 in the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/24/2008 - 3/25/2008.

Clyde Bird

Services for Clyde Andrew Bird, 81, of Frankston, are scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 1 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Frankston with Rev. Oles Pinson officiating under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Frankston.

Mr. Bird died March 13, 2008. He was born Sept. 28, 1926 in Rusk County to Albert Hermon and Bessie Lee Barratt Bird.

Visitation with the family will be Friday, March 14, 2008, from 6-8 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home, Frankston.

Billy Birmingham

Billy Birmingham passed away at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2008 as a result of pancreatic cancer. Billy M. Birmingham was born in Victoria, on July 9, 1946. Most of his youth was spent near his father’s family in South Texas, with his mother’s family living in the East Texas area. As a youth, he loved books. He would ride his bicycle to the library and return home with several tied to his bike with a belt. Billy began playing the saxophone as a teenager. In High School, he was a member of several bands in the community. His parents still talk about the polkas that they attended. In 1964, Billy chose to attend Sam Houston State University on a music scholarship, and became a member of the Phi Mu Alpha. He didn’t get his degree right away because he felt led to quit school to be drafted into the United States Army. He served his term but was disappointed that he was never called upon for actual combat although he was everybody’s favorite since he was their company clerk. Upon returning home, he returned to college while working for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. In 1979, he received his Masters Degree in Criminology. After over 28 years with the prison system, Billy retired to fulfill his dream of living in East Texas. His wife presented him with a wonderful retirement present of his son, Cole. Both he and Cole are members of the the International TaeKwonDo Alliance, and hold second degree black belts. In the past couple of years, he found excitement in acting in the Rusk Cherokee Civic Theatre. Billy’s favorite past time was working on his property. His wife describes him as being eclectic, loving life and always finding humor in life’s situations. Billy was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Shelly Marie. Surviving him are his wife, Katherine Carroll Birmingham and son, Joshua Cole Birmingham; his parents, Bill and Marie Birmingham of Rusk; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy and Dick Schmidt of San Antonio; brother and sister-in-law, Tim and Fran Birmingham of Rusk; nieces Leanne, Dana, Sarah, Kim, Karmin, Hannah, and nephew, Noah; two adult children, Amy Beth and James Martin; and three grandchildren, Kindal, Alexis and Piper, of Huntsville; and many other friends and relatives. The memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 29, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home, 1025 SE Loop 456, Jacksonville, Texas 75766. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America and Disabled American Veterans. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/28/2008.

Ashley Elizabeth Briley

Funeral services for Ashley Elizabeth Briley, age 19, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, 2008, in Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville with the Rev. R.S. Dyess officiating. Interment will be in Lowes Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Ms. Briley died March 15, 2008. She was born January 30, 1989 in Tyler, TX to Ben and DeAnna Parsons Briley. She was a resident of Jacksonville most of her life. She was a member of Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville. She was a 2007 graduate of Rusk High School. She was employed by Jordan’s Health Care Services. Preceded in death by her grandmother, Mary Alyce Parsons; two great grandmothers, Norma Briley and Wilma Cenac; aunt, Angela Levy. She is survived by her mother, DeAnna Briley of Jacksonville; father and stepmother, Ben and Tracie Briley of Jacksonville; sister, Rachel Denson of Jacksonville; half-brother, Max Briley of Jacksonville; half sister, Alex Briley of Jacksonville; grandfather, Lum Parsons of Rusk; grandmother, Cynthia Cenac of Jacksonville; grandfather and step-grandmother, Charles and Vera Briley of Austin; aunt and her husband, Sylyna and Keith Kennedy of Tyler. Pallbearers will include Cord Stover, Matthew Chandler, Josh Gentry, Caleb Sadler, Colten Covington and Erin Schakosky. Honorary pallbearers will be Rusk High School graduation class of 2007. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/18/2008.

Robert R. Burns

Robert R. Burns, 76, devoted husband of 52 years, loving father, faithful and gentle physician went to be with the Lord on Easter Sunday, March 23, 2008. He was born in Terrell, on July 26, 1931. He graduated from Midwestern University at age 20 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He entered Southwestern Medical School in Dallas where he graduated with a Doctor Of Medicine Degree in 1955. Shortly after, he met and married the love of his life, Bettye Lorraine Walker. After his internship in Fort Worth, he joined the Navy where he was a flight surgeon for two years. Upon return to Dallas, he completed a residency in radiology at Parkland Memorial Hospital, then entered private practice at Methodist Hospital in Dallas where he practiced radiology for 35 years. Bob was elected president of the medical staff in 1978 and served as chairman of the Radiology Department for five years. In addition to the medical officer position held, he served on numerous other medical staff committees. He was respected by all the medical staff for his clinical abilities in radiology and his leadership capabilities. His specialty areas were ultrasound and nuclear medicine. He was instrumental in the development of the Ultrasound Training Program at El Centro College where he served as medical director for five years. Bob was an active member of the Dallas County Medical Society and Texas Radiological Society, where he served as president in 1996. He was an active member of Prestonwood Baptist Church for more than 20 years and had recently been attending Stonebriar Community Church. Bob enjoyed golf, hunting with his sons, hiking the mountains of Colorado, and traveling the world with his beloved wife. Bob is preceded in death by his mother, Monnye Burns and his beloved aunt and uncle, H.A. and Virtha Priddy. He is survived by his wife, Bettye W. Burns; daughter, Vicki L. Gillespie and husband Jay of Plano; Greg Burns and wife Suzy of Dallas; daughter Lori Lynn Burns of Dallas; son, Gary R. Burns and wife Sean of Plano; daughter Robin L. Lawson and husband Larry of Plano; eleven grandchildren, Amber and Drew Gillespie; Lauren, Caroline, Brittany, and Megan Burns, Keaton, Hayden and Collin Burns, Luke and Hope Lawson.Visitation will be Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at Ted Dickey West Funeral Home, 8011 Frankford Rd., Dallas, Texas 75252. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 28, 2008 at Prestonwood Baptist Church Faith Chapel with burial following at Restland Memorial. Dr. Burns' family is grateful for the love and care shown to him over these past months by the staff of Sunrise Living Memory Care Unit in Plano and Trinity Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Dallas Chapter, P.O. Box 560371, Dallas, Texas 75356-0371. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/27/2008.

Anna Lou Darby

Graveside services for Anna Lou Darby, 89, of New Summerfield are scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, 2008, at 2 p.m. at McDonald Cemetery, New Summerfield with Rev. Hank Chandler officiating and under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Darby died Thursday, March 20, 2008 in Tyler. She was born March 25, 1918 in Royce City, to Louis and Mae Anderson. She attended the Methodist Church. Mrs. Darby taught school in New Summerfield, Spring Hill, Carlile, and Rusk before retiring after 30 years of service. She and husband B. R. Darby co-owned Darby Greenhouses in New Summerfield. Mrs. Darby was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Ken Darby. She is survived by her husband, B. R. Darby, of New Summerfield; son and daughter-in-law, Don and Patricia Darby, of New Summerfield; sister, Nell Young, Winters, Ca.; three grandchildren and spouses, Jennifer and Jason Lambright, Kelly Snyder and Lauren Darby; one great-grandchild, Sydney Snyder; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Russell Kennedy, Bill VanHoten, Archie Underwood, Dayton Hutson, Steve Bartfield and Billy McCutcheon. Honorary pallbearers will be Robert Riddle, Greg Jones, Bart Bauer and Junior Brown. Visitation with the family will be Tuesday, March 25, 2008, from 6-8 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/24/2008 - 3/25/2008.

Annie Myrle Freeman Dicus

Annie Myrle Freeman Dicus, 93, of Kaufman, formerly of Frankston and Jacksonville, passed away on March 4, 2008 at Sunflower Park Nursing Home in Kaufman. She was born May 11, 1914 in Frankston. She lived in Kaufman since 1995. She was a member of Grace Fellowship Baptist Church, Kaufman. She was a retired seamstress beginning her career in WWII making Army tents. After her retirement, she was the baby sitter for the Swanson and Autry families in Jacksonville. She is preceded in death by her husband, Buford L. Dicus; four brothers, Eugene, Dan, Tommy and Frank Freeman; one sister, Floreed E. Kimbrough; and a great-grandson, Ikaika Thomas. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Albert L. and Lorna Dicus, of Honolulu, Hawaii; daughter and son-in-law, Louise and Danny Hazelip, of Scurry; brothers, Jesse Milburn Freeman, of Springtown, T.D. Freeman, of Houston; five grandsons; one granddaughter; six great-grandsons; four great-granddaughters; several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held in Parker-Ashworth Funeral Home, Kaufman from 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 7, 2008. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008 at Olive Branch Cemetery with Rev. G.C. Folmar officiating under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/6/2008.

Wanda Sue Dirden

Funeral services for Wanda Sue Dirden, 65, of Jacksonville, will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 6, 2008 in Sweet Union Baptist Church with Rev. Horace Williams, Rev. Claudell Anderson and Rev. Julia Session officiating. Burial will be in Jacksonville City Cemetery under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Mrs. Dirden died Saturday, March 1, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was born June 30, 1942 in Jacksonville. She graduated with the Jacksonville High School class of 1960 and was a lifelong Jacksonville resident. She was also an active participant in Sweet Union Baptist Church and was retired from Trane. She is preceded in death by her parents, D. Meador and Lucile Dirden. Survivors include, son and daughter-in-law, Stepheny C. and Theresa Dirden, of Pomona, Ca.; daughters Stacey Thirkill, of Jacksonville and Demetra Lacy of Flint; brothers Jerry Lacy of Houston and Chester Lacy, Sr., of Jacksonville; sisters, Lucy Lacy of Houston, Jackalyne Ross and Phebe Lacy of Jacksonville and Gayla Lacy, of Misawa, Japan; and seven grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Richard Whitaker, Roderick Erwin, Clynell Anderson, Billy J. Williams, Sr., George Horn, Claude Armstrong, Maharold Peoples, Christopher Dirden and Jerry Lacy. Honorary pallbearers will be the deacons and trustees of Sweet Union Baptist Church and Rickey Meador. Visitation will be from 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2008. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/5/2008.

Mary Lucille Dover

The celebration of the life of Mary Lucille Dover, 88, of Jacksonville, will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 15, 2008, at Autry Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dale Jamerson presiding. Burial will follow in Resthaven Cemetery under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. Mrs. Dover died Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at Trinity Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler after a short illness. She was born May 6, 1919, in Atoy, to Gordie and James Wilbur (Whitt) Lanier. She married Leldon L. Dover on Dec. 21, 1938 and he preceded her in death on Feb. 1, 1985. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her sister; Ruby Sutton. Mrs. Dover lived in Jacksonville for the last 58 years, having lived in Alto previously. She worked at Discount City for many years in the ladies apparel department. She was a member of the Sunset Baptist Church. Mrs. Dover was known as “MamMa” to her five children, 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She enjoyed people, and they in turn enjoyed meeting this lively lady with the twinkling eyes and laughing personality. She loved games especially a game of canasta, and she was always ready to play dominoes with her grandchildren. Mrs. Dover is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Wilbur and Sue Dover, of Grapevine; Gary and Sonja Dover, of Salado; and Wayne and Molly Dover, of Bryan; two daughters and sons-in-law, Glenda and Charles Humphreys and Becky and Kent Westbrook of Jacksonville; 11 grandchildren, Scott Hausler, Dr. Brent Dover, Melanie Whatley, Dr. Rance Humphreys, Tana Switsky, Lisa Guitterez, Stephen Dover, Kari Jamerson, Brad Westbrook, Mandy Walker and Christy Dover; 19 great-grandchildren, Shale and Shanna Hausler, Harrison, Brianne, Shelby and Kaylee Dover, Olivia Whatley, Ethan and Ewan Switsky, Garratt and Cameron Guiterrez, Maria and David Garza, Colby and Chase Jamerson, Breckin Westbrook, Trey Walker and McKenzie and Madison Scanlan; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Royce and Ann Lanier and Clinton and Elaine Lanier, both of Tyler; her sister, Ruby Sutton who preceded her in death. Also surviving brothers-in-law and wives, Feldon and Merle Dover, A.C. and Dorothy Dover, J.C. and Nellie Dover and Larry and May Dover of Alto; sister-in-law, Dovie Whitaker of Cushing, along with many nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be her grandsons, Scott Hausler, Dr. Brent Dover, Dr. Rance Humphreys, Stephen Dover, Brad Westbrook, Joel Switsky, James Jamerson and Dr. Cliff Walker. Honorary pallbearers will be her great-grandsons. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m., Friday, March 14, at Autry Funeral Home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/14/2008.

Russell Duggan

Funeral services for Russell Duggan, 83, of Keller, formerly of Jacksonville, are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, March 6, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. Don Harvey presiding. Burial will be at Jarratt Cemetery, Jacksonville, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Duggan passed away Monday March 3, 2008 at his residence in Keller. Russell was born Nov. 2, 1924 in Jacksonville, to Jess and Ida Duggan. Mr. Duggan joined the U.S. Army in 1943 and served in WWII with the 25th fighting division in the Philippines where he was wounded twice and received the Purple Heart and several other medals. He retired in 1987 from the oil industry where he worked on the pipeline. He recently received a 50 year pin from the Masonic lodge No. 108 and also was a 50 year member of the Eastern Star. Russell was a member of the VFW and Cove Springs Community Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jess and Ida Duggan; wife, Peggy Duggan; wife, Eula Duggan; and step-son, Richard Robertson. Survivors include wife, Arlene Duggan of Keller; son, Phillip Lee Duggan of Las Vegas; daughter, Louise Duggan of Dallas; step-son, Jerry Bob Robertson of Jacksonville; step-daughters, Ann Wills of Whitehouse, Theresa Cousins of La Porte, and Mary Hilton of Lone Wolf, Okla.; step-daughter-in-law, Joan Robertson of Waller; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Pallbearers will be Clay Wills, Harold Harvey, Russ Robertson, Gaylord LaLonde, Richie Robertson and James M. Cook. Honorary Pallbearers are Bill Terry, Sr. and Richard Robertson. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday March 5, at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/5/2008.

Raymond S. Duvall, Jr.

Memorial services for Raymond S. Duvall, Jr., 94, of Jacksonville, formerly of Houston, are scheduled for 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. Barbara Hugghins and Rev. Kevin King officiating. Burial will be Thursday, March 27, 2008 at the Houston National Cemetery. Mr. Duvall passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, March 23, 2008, at the Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. He was born Oct. 30, 1913 in Big Spring, to Lena Belle and Raymond S. Duvall, Sr. He was a 1931 graduate of Sunset High School in Dallas. He also graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1936 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce. While at S. M.U., he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha social fraternity and Alpha Kappa Psi professional fraternity. Mr. Duvall served four years active duty in the U.S. Navy during World War II, plus eight years of inactive duty, reaching the rank of lieutenant commander. During his active duty time he was a Naval inspector of ordinance in Hamilton, Ohio, for eighteen months, and then an ordinance officer for twenty three months in the South Pacific on the staff of Commander Service Squadron South Pacific Force. Mr. Duvall worked for the Borden Company for 37 and-a-half years, first as assistant director of sales and advertising for Ice Cream, then as director of sales and advertising for Ice Cream, and finally as director of marketing. He retired from that position in 1978. He lived in Houston from 1956-2003 when he moved to Jacksonville to be closer to family. Mr. Duvall was an avid golfer, world traveler, and a long-time member of Bethany United Methodist Church in Houston where he served many years as head usher. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Mr. Duvall was preceded in death by his wife, Carmeta D. Duvall; parents, Lena Belle and Raymond S. Duvall, Sr.; and his sister, Mary Elizabeth Shelton. He is survived by his daughter, Tina Sorrell of Jacksonville; daughter and son-in-law, Mimi and Craig Kotz of Granger; grandchildren, Ray Sorrell and wife Cynthia of Missouri City, Elizabeth Wade and husband Greg, of Jacksonville, Robert Kotz of Chicago, Ill., and Kathryn Kotz of New York City; great-grandchildren Lexie Sorrell, Grayson Sorrell, and Lauren Elizabeth Wade; nieces Nancy Bratic and husband Walt of Houston, Sally Shelton and husband Ted Gehrig of Boston; and nephew Jim Shelton and wife Susie of Plano. Honorary pallbearers are Ray Sorrell, Robert Kotz, Greg Wade, Craig Kotz, Walt Bratic, and Jim Shelton. A special thanks to Dr. James Low and the doctors and staff of the Hospice of East Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church of Jacksonville (1031 SE Loop 456 Jacksonville, Texas 75766 or to a charity of your choice. Visitation with the family will be 2–4 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/25/2008.

Earl Ellis Jr.

Earl Ellis Jr. passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2008 at Harris Hospital in Stephenville.

Services will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Harrell Funeral Home in Dublin. Burial will follow in the Old Dublin Memorial Park Cemetery.

Edna M. “Linda” Gaddis Gable

Memorial services for Edna M. “Linda” Gaddis Gable, 73, of Tyler were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 1, 2008 in Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Tyler. Local arrangements under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Ms. Gable died Feb. 16, 2008 in a Rusk Nursing Home. She was born March 17, 1934 in Arp, to Hub and Linnie Gilbreath Gaddis. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/2/2008 - 3/3/2008.

Marco Antonio “BEBO” Gallegos

A Funeral Mass for Marco Antonio “BEBO” Gallegos, 30, of Jacksonville, TX. is scheduled for Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 3 P.M. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville. Burial will follow the service at Resthaven Memorial Park, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville, TX. Mr. Gallegos died March 15, 2008 in Jacksonville. He was born February 26, 1978 in Piedras Negras, Mexico to Roman and Roman Munoz Gallegos. He did automotive body work. He was preceded in death by his grandmother; Maria Victoria Del Rio, a cousin; Alejandro Moreyra and his best friend; Servando Pena. Marco is survived by his wife; Monica Gallegos of Jacksonville, son; Angel Valenciana of Jacksonville, daughters, Maria Victoria Gallegos and Madalyn Marie Valenciana, both of Jacksonville, parents; Roman and Romana Munoz Gallegos, a brother; Jose Gallegos of Jacksonville, sisters; Rosy Gallegos of Jacksonville and Ludivina Gallegos of Tyler and his grandfather; Graciano Munoz, Jacksonville and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Visitation with the family will be Tuesday, March 18 from 6P.M. to 9P.M. with a Rosary service at 7 P.M. at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/18/2008.

Harold Glenn Greenwood

Services for Harold Glenn Greenwood, 74, of Tyler are scheduled for 10:00 A. M., Tuesday, March 4, 2008 at Lloyd James Funeral Chapel in Tyler with Dr. Matthew McKellar and Rev. Pat Alvey officiating. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 P.M. Tuesday at Grove Hill Cemetery in Dallas with Rev. Don Moore officiating under the direction of Lloyd James Funeral Home. Mr. Greenwood passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2008 in Tyler. Mr. Greenwood was born on July 9, 1933 in New Summerfield to the late Clavis Nolan and Jessie Wallace Greenwood. He was an computer programmer and a Baptist minister. He was a member of Friendly Baptist Church and Love Field Masonic Lodge in Dallas. He was preceded in death by his 1st wife, Johnnie Coley Greenwood in 1986 and a sister, Mary Lou Walley. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Grace Greenwood of Tyler; daughter, Alaina Bell and husband Darwin of Mesquite; son Alan Greenwood and wife Donna of Rowlett; brother, James Greenwood and wife Nicki of New Summerfield; sister, Vickie Parsons and husband Wayne of Missouri City; 4 grandchildren, Grant and Kaleigh Greenwood and Christopher and Alissa Bell; stepsons, Rick Nelson and wife Judy of Tyler and Don Nelson and wife Eileen of Cleveland, Ohio; sisters-in-law, Mary Stansell of Mt. Pleasant, Virginia Schafroth of Rowlett; Frances Conkle of Venus; aunt, Billie Stroud and husband Glen of Mesquite and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 6-8:00 P.M. on Monday at the funeral home in Tyler. If desired memorials may be made to Myrtle Springs Cemetery Association of Ponta. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/3/2008.

Elouise Grimes

Private memorial graveside services for Elouise Grimes, 84, of Jacksonville are scheduled under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Grimes died Wednesday, March 19, 2008 in a Tyler hospital. She was born July 12, 1923 in Jacksonville to Robert Mullins and Ollie Garner Mullins. She was a member of Cove Springs Baptist Church and a sales clerk and phone operator at Wal Mart for 21 years. Survivors are her husband, Earl Grimes, Sr., Jacksonville, sons and daughter-in-law, Earl Grimes, Jr., Jacksonville, and Ronnie and Margaret Grimes, Jacksonville, daughters and sons-in-law, Darlene and Keith Hazelwood, Willis, and Vicki and Tim Murphy, Stauton, VA. and brother and sister-in-law, James and JoAnn Garner, Jacksonville, 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews. Visitation with the family will be Friday, March 21, 2008, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Autry Funeral Home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/21/2008 - 3/23/2008.

Harvey James Hancock

Funeral services for Harvey James Hancock, 85, of Rusk are scheduled for 2 p.m., Thursday, March 27, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Mr. Hancock’s family welcomes all his family and friends to his visitation from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Lynches Chapel Cemetery along side his mother’s grave. Mr. Hancock passed away Easter Sunday, March 23, 2008 at Lexington Place Nursing and Rehab in Rusk. He was born March 2, 1923 in Rusk. He was of the Baptist Faith and baptized in Cherokee County. He was a long time resident of Rusk. He was a Master Mason and received recognition and a certificate and pin for over 50 years of service from the Masonic Lodge of Rusk. He was a retiree from The Texas Department of Corrections which he worked for over 27 years. He was a warden in Maxwell Security and he worked at several of the Texas Prisons. He was also a member for several years with the Sheriffs Association of Texas. Mr. Hancock was preceded in death by his son Caroll James Hancock; his brothers and sisters, Leonard Edward Hancock, Billie Jack Hancock, Edna Merl Dickson, Sarah Grace Reid, and Henry Hancock; his father, William “Bill” Caver Hancock and his mother, Ida (Moffett) Hancock. Survivors include his special friend, Thelma Whitehead of Rusk; his stepmother, Verna Lou Wilkinson of Rusk; his daughter, Ramona “Mona” L. Anderson and son-in-law Ron Anderson of Lake Jacksonville; his son Bluford Hancock, daughter-in-law, Jeanette Hancock of Lufkin; brother Coy Hancock of Fort Worth; sisters and brother-in-law, Arnella Jones of Rusk, Mary Lou West of Arkansas, Martha and Greg Wilkinson of Rusk; five grandchildren, Frank B. Anderson (U.S. Navy) of Jacksonville, Travis J. and Sara Anderson of Midland, Kyla Faith Chandler, James Caroll Hancock of Lufkin, Lucy Hancock of Houston; great-grandchildren, Georgie Anderson of Bedford, Griffin Anderson of Midland; and many nieces and nephews. Pallbearers include Greg Wilkinson, Frank B. Anderson, Travis J. Anderson, James C. Hancock, Wayne Whitehead, and Larry Jason Nevil. Honorary pallbearers include Mason members of the Rusk Masonic Lodge and his long time friends of the Texas Department of Corrections. Mr. Hancock will also have an Honor Guard Funeral from the Texas Department of Corrections and a Masonic graveside service. Mr. Hancock’s family would like to thank the Whitehead family for all your love and care, his caregivers, nurses and staff from Crown Health Care Services, ETMC Jacksonville and Tyler Specialty Hospital Staff Nurses, Doctors for your special care, and Dr. Saade for your good care, the extended love that Lexington Place Nursing and Rehab Staff and Nurses and Heart to Heart Hospice of Tyler for your love, care, and special attention, to all his family and friends for your love, support and prayers. In memory of Mr. Hancock, memorials and love offerings may be given to the Mt. Hope Missionary Baptist Church or Heart to Heart of Tyler. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/25/2008.

Edward L. Hobson

The celebration of the going home of Edward L. Hobson, 96, of Palestine, will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at Bailey and Foster Chapel. Burial will follow in Providence Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Bailey and Foster Funeral Home, Palestine. Mr. Hobson died Sunday, March 9, 2008 at his residence after a lengthy illness. He was born Feb. 27, 1912 in Anderson County to Robert James and Emma Hill Hobson. Mr. Hobson was retired from Knox Glass and was a veteran of WWII serving in the U.S. Army. Mr. Hobson was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Doris Novaline Hobson; two sons, Tim Hobson of Anna and Mike Hobson of Kaufman; five grandchildren, Chris Hobson, of Austin, Brandi Hobson, of Palestine, Bradley Hobson, of Elkhart, Barry Hobson of Canada and Heather Hobson of Irving; four great-grandchildren, Anna Kate and Ben Hobson, of Austin, Sebastian and Xander Hobson of Palestine. He was also honored with three daughters-in-law, Carla Hobson of Elkhart, Linda Hobson, of Kaufman and Paula Bass of Palestine. Pallbearers will be Rex Ferrell, Jack Gandy, Terry McCuller, Jimmy Lee Corbin, Donnie Hobson and Richard Bass. Condolence calls were received from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday at Bailey and Foster Funeral Home, Palestine. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/12/2008 - 3/13/2008.

Cleo Loraine Johnson

Funeral services for Cleo Loraine Johnson, 54, of San Antonio, formerly of Jacksonville, are pending with Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville. Ms. Johnson died Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at N.E. Methodist Hospital in San Antonio.

Doris Jones

Funeral services for Doris Jones, 85, of Dialville, are scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Rocky Springs Missionary Baptist Church, Dialville, with Rev. Charles Swilling presiding. Burial will follow in the Rocky Springs Cemetery under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. Mrs. Jones passed away peacefully from congestive heart failure with her children at her side. Doris was born and raised in Dialville, along with her brother J. P. Sides. She married B. F. Jones. They had three children while residing in Texas and then moved to Tucson, Ariz., where they lived for most of her remaining years until moving back to Dialville a few years ago. Doris worked in a variety of jobs including school bus driver, post office worker and real estate broker. She enjoyed playing piano, dancing, and reading. She was known for direct honesty, speaking logically and candidly when expressing herself. She required little but gave everything to the children and grandchildren that she loved unconditionally. Mrs. Jones was preceded in death by her husband, B. F. Jones. She is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Roland Jones of Dialville, Bryan and Kim Jones of Bellingham, W. Va.; one daughter and a son-in-law, Elaine Jones and husband Paul, of Tucson, Ariz.; one brother and sister-in-law, J. P. Sides and wife Alice of Henderson; seven grandchildren and their spouses, Dan and Carla Baranowski, Nick and Nicole Baranowski, Emily Simon, Samantha Simon, Adelia Jones, Kelsey Jones, Jason and Danielle Jones; one great granddaughter, Morgan Jones; and several nieces and nephews. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/12/2008 - 3/13/2008.

Elsie Dee Johnson

Funeral services for Elsie Dee Johnson, 86, of Rusk, will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 28, 2008, in Oakland Baptist Church with Reverends R.S. Dyess and Don Copeland officiating. Burial will be in Oakland Cemetery under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Johnson died Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at her residence. She was born Oct. 3, 1921 in Cherokee County and was a lifelong resident. She was a member of Oakland Baptist Church and was a seamstress. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Johnson; and son, Jessie Johnson. Survivors include her daughters, Shirley Ann Wink, of Rusk and Bobbie McDonald, of Dayton; brother, Charles Jones, of Rusk; eight grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and four great great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Dean Simpson, Jackie Simpson, James Ray Jones, Ronnie Jones, Lance Richardson, Zack Richardson, Cole Richardson and Brandon Richardson. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/27/2008.

Edwin Jones

Graveside services for Edwin Jones, 84, of Rusk are scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, March 8, at Walkers Chapel Cemetery in Reklaw, with the Revs. R.S. Dyess and Mike Bradford officiating. Visitation was held Saturday, March 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mr. Jones passed away at his residence on Thursday, March 6, 2008. He was born July 14, 1923, in Reklaw, to Lynn and Alice Irwin Jones. After high school, Mr. Jones served in the Army during World War II, as a member of a field survey party in New Guinea and the South Philippines. He served three years and attained the rank of Sergeant 1874th Engineer Aviation Battalion. He received the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Star, World War II Victory Medal, and an American Theater Campaign Medal. After his military service, he attended Henderson County Jr. College. Mr. Jones was employed as a nurse technician for the Rusk State Hospital for 30 years before retiring in 1983. He was an ordained deacon and song leader at Reklaw Baptist Church and Eastside Baptist Church in Rusk. He was preceded in death by a son, Edwin Kent Jones son-in-law, Kerry Cummins; and sisters, Mary Thrash, Hazel Dalby and Lois Shankles. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Janie Lou White Jones; sons and daughters-in-law, Byron and Rhonda Jones of Gun Barrel City, Gary Jones of Reklaw and Terry and Lesa Jones of Rusk; daughter, Janie Cummins of Rusk; sister, Mavis Parrott of Reklaw; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Grandsons Eric Jones, Cary Jones, Zachary Jones, Matthew Jones, Brent Jones, Forrest Jones and Garrett Jones will serve as pallbearers. Contributions in memory of Mr. Hones can be made to the Eastside Baptist Church Family Life Center Building Fund, 400 Academy St., Rusk, TX 75785. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/9/2008 - 3/10/2008.

Lewis J. Krueger, Jr.

Services for First Sgt. (Ret.) Lewis J. Krueger, Jr. 78, Mixon, are scheduled for 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 5, at the First Baptist Church, Mixon, with Reverend Joe Ballard officiating. Burial, with full military honors will be in the Mixon Cemetery. Mr. Krueger died Friday, Feb. 29, in a Tyler hospital. He was born July 6, 1929, in Castalia, Ohio to the late Lewis J. Krueger, Sr. and Mildred E. Russell Krueger. The family received friends at the funeral home Tuesday, March 4.Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Adult Two Sunday School Class at the First Baptist Church, Mixon, Rt #3, Box 299, Troup, Tx 75789.Online registration and condolences are available at www.cottlefuneralhome.com. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/5/2008.

Lauren Elizabeth Lewis

Lauren Elizabeth Lewis, age 20, of Tyler went home to be her Lord and Savior on Monday, March 3, 2008, as a result of injuries received in an automobile accident. Lauren was born on March 8, 1987, in Alexandria, La.After a short time in Lecompte, La., Lauren was a resident for eight years in Shreveport, La., and for the last 11 years a resident of Tyler. She was a 2005 graduate of Robert E. Lee High School and was a senior at Texas A and M University. Not only was Lauren a Christian who loved the Lord but she also was very active in the Maggies Women’s Leadership Organization of Texas A and M University. Lauren was the 2007 Maggie Member of the Year, 2007 staff and 2008 Programming Chair for Freshman Leadership Development Retreat, 2008 delegate for Abbott Family Leadership Conference, host tutor, and volunteer for Boys and Girls Club at the Lincoln Center. Lauren was looking forward to April 4 when she would receive her Aggie ring. Lauren (La La) lived life with gusto. Her favorite scripture verse was … Ephesians 2:4. “But God! So rich is He in His mercy!” Lauren was preceded in death by her grandmother, Annette Lewis. Surviving to cherish Lauren’s memory are her parents, Michael and Robin Lewis of Tyler; brother and wife, Michael David and Stephanie Lewis and their son, Michael Braydon Lewis; sister, Sally Annette Lewis of Tyler; grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. Tom Harper of Jacksonville, Fla.; grandfather, Bernard Lewis of Quincy, Fla.; great-uncle, Robert Harper of Alexandria, La.; great- aunt and uncle, Billy and Beth Kimore of DeRidder, La.; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Lauren leaves behind her Maggies and countless friends. Arrangements are under direction of Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, at First Christian Church in Tyler. Services are scheduled for 3 p.m. Thursday, March 6, at First Christian Church, 4202 S. Broadway Ave., Tyler with Rev. R. G. Ericson, Rev. Bryan Tema, and Rev. Kirkland Knight officiating. Interment will be in Still Waters Memorial Garden, 1025 SE Loop 456 Jacksonville. Pallbearers will be Eric Cowan, Brett Wallace, Tim Wallace, Perry Moore, Mac Carroll, Mitch Armstrong, Jake Adams, Ryan Bailes, Josh Reed, Brandon Geoffrion, and Wade Arnold. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Texas A and M University, Maggie 956400, 217 Memorial Student Center, College Station, 77843. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/5/2008.

Ruby Lloyd

Graveside services for Ruby Lee Lloyd, 80, of Jacksonville, are scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Union Grove Cemetery, Maydelle with Rev. Steve Edwards officiating under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Lloyd died March 13, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was born Dec. 25, 1927 in Athens, to Harry Robison and Trudie McDonald. She was a homemaker and a Presbyterian. She was preceded in death by her husband, Woodrow Lloyd; daughters, Becky Johns and Dianne Mueller; a son, Donald Lloyd; and a brother, Don Rex Robison. She is survived by two sons, Ronald Lloyd, of Athens and Jimmy Lloyd of Houston; two sisters, Rita Fisher, of Mesquite, and Patti Morris, of The Colony; and a bother, Wayne Robison, of Athens; 12 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Visitation with the family was held Saturday, March 15, 2008, from 6-8 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/16/2008 - 3/17/2008.

Bobbie Miles

Funeral services for Bobbie Miles, 71, of Jacksonville, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008 in Mount Heaven CME with Rev. Leroy Redwind officiating under the direction of Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Burial will be in Larissa Cemetery, Bullard. Viewing will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/7/2008.

Stacy B. Mills

Funeral services for Stacy B. Mills, 41, of Jacksonville, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 29, 2008, in Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. James Tinsley eulogizing. Burial will be in Resthaven Cemetery under the direction of Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville.

Mills was born May 31, 1966 in Galveston and died Tuesday, March 25, 2008, in Jacksonville.

Viewing will be held from 2-5 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville.

Mr. Willis “Bill” Mills

Mr. Willis “Bill” Mills, 79, of Jacksonville died Friday morning in the Hospice of East Texas in Tyler. He was born July 24, 1928 in Guin Alabama to Jeremiah Matt Mills and Mary Pugh Mills. He lived in Jacksonville for the past two years, having lived in Texas City for nine years prior to that. He lived in Jacksonville for 20 years prior to moving to Texas City. He was an advertising salesman with City Directories and Mills Publishing Co. Mr. Mills served in the U.S. Air Force. Bill Mills is survived by his wife, Norma Mills, of Jacksonville; two daughters, Dianne and Gloria Bruce; a sister, Mae Young; brother, William Mills; five grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, March 10, 2008 at the Renfro Memorial Chapel at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville with Pastor Ronnie Mills officiating. Burial will follow in the Tillman Cemetery under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Pallbearers will be Craig Fisher, Robert Davis, Irby Ray, Mark Ray, Ronnie Oliver and Keith Oliver. Visitation will take place from 10-11 a.m. Monday, March 10, 2008 at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/9/2008 - 3/10/2008.

Bobie Jean Moore

Memorial services for Bobie Jean Moore, 51, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 7 p.m., Thursday, March 27, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. R.S. Dyess officiating.

Mrs. Moore died March 23, 2008 in a Tyler Hospital. She was born April 20, 1956 in Hardin, to Bob and Audrey Arnold Fore.

E.C. Morris

Funeral services for E.C. Morris are pending with Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Morris died Wednesday, March 26, 2008 in Rusk.

Mrs. Margie Marie Morris

Funeral services for Mrs. Margie Marie Morris, 82, of Jacksonville will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Renfro Memorial Chapel at Boren-Conner Funeral Home with the Rev. Albert Munsinger officiating. Burial will be at Tylor Cemetery in Gallatin under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Morris died Sunday morning, March 16, 2008, at a Jacksonville nursing home. She was born Jan. 1, 1926, in Ennis, Texas. She was a lifelong resident of Gallatin and Jacksonville. She was a member of Gallatin Baptist Church. Mrs. Morris was a housewife who loved her gardening, working in her flower beds, country music, but most of all being a grandmother to her grandchildren. Mrs. Morris is preceded in death by her husband, Cecil Morris and parents, Marvin Ester and May Harris Blackwelder. She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law, Elaine and John Paul Meador of Rusk and Vicky and Bill Weidner of Jacksonville; grandchildren, Clint Swafford of Paris, TX, Stephen Meador of Garland, Stephanie Day of Midlothian, Chris Kelley, Sara Lindbaugh and Waylon Weidner, all of Jacksonville; and 13 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Clint Swafford, Stephen Meador, Chris Kelley, Waylon Weidner and Brent Hail. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/17/2008 - 3/18/2008.

Stan G. Nolley

Memorial services for Stan G. Nolley, 44, of Tyler will be held on Wednesday, March 26 at 3:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 301 West Ferguson St., Tyler with Dr. Michael Massar and the Rev. Mark Eaves officiating. Burial will be held prior to the service at 10 a.m. at Pierces Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home in Tyler. Stan passed away on March 22, 2008, at his residence in Tyler. He was born on June 4, 1963, in Houston to Amos Frazier and Bobbie Lynn Jowell Nolley. Memorials in honor of Stan G. Nolley may be made to Grace Community School, Building for Eternity Fund, 3001 University Blvd., Tyler, TX 75701.To express condolences, visit www.stewartfamilyfuneral.com. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/26/2008 - 3/27/2008.

Doyle Edward Pearson

Funeral services for Doyle Edward Pearson, age 77, of Rusk are scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 24, 2008, in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Don Copeland and the Rev. Billy Don Garner officiating. Interment will be in Muse Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mr. Pearson died March 21, 2008 in a Tyler Hospice. Family will receive friends from 6 to 9 p.m., Sunday, March 23, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/24/2008 - 3/26/2008.

Antonio Perez

Services for Antonio Perez, 60, of Jacksonville, are scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Jacksonville with Father Mark Kusmirek officiating under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Perez died March 14, 2008 in Jacksonville. He was born Nov. 28, 1947 in Guanajuato, Mexico to Marcelino and Ninfa Perez. He was a machine operator for Zimmerman Sign Co.He was preceded in death by a daughter, Olivia Carrera; and two brothers, Jesus and Floriberto Perez. He is survived by his wife, Martha Perez of Jacksonville; sons, Antonio Perez, Jr. of Jacksonville, Arabel Perez of Chicago, Il. and Miguel Angel Almanza of Houston; daughter, Elizabeth Ceja of Chicago, Il.; brothers, Bacilio Perez of Mexico, Marcelino Perez of Jacksonville and Adan Perez of Mexico; sisters, Ninfa Zuñiga, Maria Perez, and Estela Perez, all of Mexico; eight grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation with the family will be Sunday March 16 from 6-9 p.m. with a rosary service at 7 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/16/2008 - 3/17/2008.

Ruby Bessie Phillips

Ruby Bessie Phillips of Dayton, formerly of Jacksonville, has gone to join her husband and be with the Lord. Ruby was born on Oct. 29, 1915 and died March 7, 2008. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother. She is preceded in death by her husband, T.E. Phillips. She is survived by her daughter, Joann Fields and son-in-law Ernest Fields; her son, Joe Thomas Phillips; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and five great great-grandchildren. Her funeral service was held at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville on Saturday, March 8, 2008 at 1 p.m. There was a viewing prior to services. The pallbearers were Steve Fields, Kevin Fields, Joey McWilliams, Earl Wayne Hammons and Roger Hammons. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/9/2008 - 3/10/2008.

Retha Irene Rawls

Graveside services for Retha Irene Rawls, 87, of Jacksonville, will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 13, 2008, at Tillman Cemetery with Rev. Trampus Black officiating. Burial will be in Tillman Cemetery under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Rawls died Monday, March 10, 2008 in a Jacksonville Hospital. She was born May 21, 1920 in Cherokee County. She lived in Jacksonville for the last 25 years, having previously lived in Galveston. She was a member of Assembly of God Church in Jacksonville. She was a minister and a God-called missionary. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hardy Woodrow Rawls. Survivors include her adopted daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Curtis Durrett, of Jacksonville; adopted grandchildren, Jeffrey Durrett, Curtis Durrett, Jr. and his wife, Debbie; great-grandchildren, Nick Durrett and Tracie Buffalo, all of Jacksonville; and an adopted sister, Chloe Tillman, of Jacksonville. Visitation will be from 9:30-10 a.m. Thursday at the cemetery before the service. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/12/2008 - 3/13/2008.

Garry G. Rasor

Graveside services for Garry G. Rasor, age 64, of Rusk are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 6, 2008 in Grandview Memorial Park Cemetery in Pasadena, TX with Jerry Fite officiating under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk.

Mr. Rasor died March 2, 2008 in a Rusk Hospital. He was born April 3, 1943 in Houston, TX. He was a resident of Rusk for five years formerly of Pasadena.

Leola Haughbrook Redd

Funeral services for Leola Haughbrook Redd, 72 of Jacksonville, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 27, 2008, in Sweet Union Baptist Church with Reverends Horace Williams, S.A. Miles, David Moore, M.L. Parson, Julia Session and Dr. Charles Walls officiating. Burial will be in Jacksonville City Cemetery under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. Redd died Thursday, March 20, 2008 in Tyler. She was born April 1, 1935 in Cherokee County. She attended Statnot High School in Bullard. She was a member of Sweet Union Baptist Church, having served on the usher board and was president of the Pastor's Aid and member of the Missionary Circle No. 2. She is survived by her sons, Billy and Robby Redd, of Jacksonville; daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Derrell Thompson, of Jacksonville, Carolyn Redd, of Jacksonville, and Debra and Karl Boss, of Dallas; and brothers and sister-in-law, Worthy and Bertha Wilson, of Tyler, and James Wilson, of San Antonio. Pallbearers will be John Robertson, Clayton Johnson, Cody Redd, Derrick Redd, Demarcus Session and Jonathan Robertson. Honorary pallbearers include Darrell Thompson, Joe Redd, Herbert Jones, Marvin Mallard, Cory Redd and Chris Redd. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/27/2008.

Randall L. “Bebo” Roberts

Funeral services for Randall L. “Bebo” Roberts, 42, of Jacksonville, are pending with Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville. Mr. Roberts died Thursday, Feb. 28, 2008 at his residence. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/2/2008 - 3/3/2008.

Mable E. Sadler

Funeral services for Mable E. Sadler, 84, of Rusk are scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, March 7, 2008, in Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Terry Nied and Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Interment will be in Old Palestine Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. Sadler died March 4, 2008 in a Tyler Hospital. She was born Sept. 11, 1923 in Rusk to John and Eva Arnold of Boone. She was a lifelong resident of Cherokee County and a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Rusk. She was a nursery coordinator for First Baptist Church in Rusk and Calvary Baptist Church for many years. Mrs. Sadler retired for from Rusk State Hospital on May 31, 1998 after more than 19 years of service. She is preceded in death by her husband, Carl Marion Sadler. She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Louis and Karen Sadler of Gallatin, Randy and Terrie Sadler of Gallatin and Rickey and Lucille Sadler of Gallatin; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will include Randy Sadler, Louis Sadler, Keith Clements, Jory Sadler, Caleb Sadler and Cory Spurlock. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 6, 2008 at the funeral home.
Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/6/2008

Dalton E. Scalf

Dalton E. Scalf, 78, of Abilene, passed away March 19, 2008 at a local hospital. Visitation for family and friends will be 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 21, 2008 at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 22, 2008, at Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Sanders of St. James United Methodist Church and Abilene Fire Department Chaplain, Chris Hale officiating; burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park, Garden of Ten Commandments, with military honors. Dalton was born on December 19, 1929 in Bullard, TX to Garvie and Euta Scalf. He married Shirley Evans of Rush Lake, Wisconsin on March 1st 1953 in Greenville, South Carolina. Dalton and Shirley have been members of the St. James United Methodist Church since 1971. Dalton joined the United States Army Air Corp in 1948, and was very proud to have served his country. He was stationed all over the world serving in the Occupation Forces. After 25 years he retired in 1973 and worked for Lone Star Gas for 13 years. He worked a few years in real estate but decided he needed to really retire in 1986 to spend time with his wonderful grand children and great-grandchildren. He was a Little League coach, and an avid Cooper Cougar football and baseball fan. He is survived by his wife Shirley Scalf of Abilene; three sons and daughters-in-law, Robin and Kathy Scalf of San Angelo, Brian and Kimberly Scalf of Abilene and Randy and Tina Scalf of Abilene, three daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Doug Keys of Mertzon, Janice and Scott Pledger of North Richland Hills and Sandy Baldock of Amarillo; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Billy and Frances Scalf and Lloyd and Heidi Scalf all of Oklahoma City; 18 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his twin sister Dorothy Becktol. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. James United Methodist Church, 3100 Barrow, Abilene, TX 79605. Online condolences may be left for the family through the obituary link at www.elmwoodfuneral.com Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/21/2008 - 3/23/2008.

James E. “Jimmy” Smith, Jr.

Graveside services for James E. “Jimmy” Smith, Jr., 39, of Blue Springs, Mo., formerly of Frankston, will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, March 3, 2008 at Frankston City Cemetery with Rev. Darin Wood presiding under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Frankston. Mr. Smith passed away on Feb. 26, 2008. He was born on Oct. 7, 1968 in Tyler. Visitation with the family will be Sunday, March 2, 2008 from 5-7 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home, Frankston. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/2/2008 - 3/3/2008.

Margie Stallings

Funeral services for Margie Stallings, 70, of Big Sandy, formerly of Jacksonville are scheduled for Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at 2:00 p. m. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville. Mrs. Stallings died Saturday, March 8, 2008 in Big Sandy. She was born September 25, 1937 in Jacksonville to William Mark “Buck” Orme and Celestine Priestly Orme. She was a homemaker and member of Afton Grove Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by husband, Billy Joe Stallings, daughter, Sheila Ann Williams and parents, William Mark “Buck” Orme and Celestine Priestly Orme. Survivors are daughter, Vickie Lynn Harris and husband George, Big Sandy, brother, Waylon Orme, Big Sandy, sisters, Ann Henderson, Desoto, Rosemary Fletcher, Wills Point and Margaret Bynum, Trinity, 2 grandchildren, Bambie Summerfield and husband Dale, and Aaron Harris, all of Big Sandy, 4 great-grandchildren, Daniel Paul and Jared Richardson, and Kailey Ann and Lane Summerfield, all of Big Sandy, and several nieces and nephews. Visitation with the family will be Monday, March 10, 2008 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/10/2008 - 3/11/2008.

Joe Bob Staton

Joe Bob Staton, 89, of Jacksonville, lumber distributor, landowner and timber man, died March 21, 2008, after an extended illness. Mr. Staton was predeceased by his wife of 38 years, Ann Worrell Staton. Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 24, 2008 at 10 a.m. in the Autry Funeral Home Chapel with Coach Richard Sheffield and Rev. Vernon Lee officiating. Visitation will begin on Sunday, March 23, 2008 from 6- 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Scenic Haven Cemetery under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. Born in Van Zandt County on Sept. 13, 1918, to Delia and J. H. Staton, Joe Bob was the grandson of an early pioneer family in the lumber business in Cherokee County. His grandparents, Albert A. and Ella Atkison, operated one of the first large lumber mills in the county, located at Prices Switch. Joe Bob was a World War II veteran, serving his country as Staff Sergeant in the Air Transport Command, U. S. Army Air Forces. The Air Transport Command had world-wide responsibility for ferrying aircraft; transporting personnel, material, and mail; and maintaining air route facilities outside of the U. S. By the end of 1944, Air Transport Command had more than 3,000 transport aircraft in use and had become the “life line” of the Army Air Forces, flying to every part of the world where U. S. troops served. Mr. Staton served in the North African campaign, and his decorations and citations included EAME Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, Victory Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He was discharged Nov. 16, 1945.After the war ended, Mr. Staton returned to Jacksonville and founded Staton Lumber Company with his father, J. H. Staton, his brother George D. Staton, Sr., and his brother-in-law, Gary Arnett. Mr. Staton expanded operations which included George Staton Wholesale Company, Staton Materials, Inc., and Joe Staton Timber Company. He eventually became a major distributor of lumber and other building products in the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. In the early 1980’s, the longtime lumber wholesaler bought property outside town from Dallas real estate executive Trammell Crow. It was prime ranch land, but Mr. Staton decided he really didn’t need more pasture for his cattle. He chose to return the pasture land to forest and planted trees – over four million of them. He said, “There’s nothing that picks you up better than going out where some pretty pine trees have been set out and watch and see how they’ve grown since the last time. That’s my hobby; I guess you’d call it.” For his many friends, Mr. Staton was an ordinary man who lived his life with “selfless concern for others.” He was an avid sports fan, and especially enjoyed high school football. When the public schools desegregated in the early 1970’s, he was concerned that kids who lived on the north side of town would not be able to get to the summer football practices at the current high school location on the east side of town. With approval from head coach Richard Sheffield, Joe Bob bought a van and assigned Lemon Boyd to get that group of young men to practices. The van was later given to Lemon when he graduated from high school. Mr. Staton was preceded in death by his brothers, James A. Staton, and George D. Staton, Sr. and sisters, Mary Arnett and Monnie Bacon. He is survived by his loving niece and husband, Linda and Olen Phillips and nephew, James Bacon who were his faithful caregivers during the final years of his extended illness. He is also survived by his sister, Polly Staton Waldrop of Baytown; nephew and longtime business partner, George Staton, Jr. of Flint; nephews, Jimmy Staton of Jacksonville, George Gary (Duke Waldrop of Winter Haven, Florida, Jerry Bacon of Lindale, Ronnie Waldrop and Bobby Waldrop of Baytown; and nieces Suzanne Morgan of Friendswood, Rose Mary Banks and Mary Jo McKnight of Jacksonville, Joe Anna Arnett and Elsie Thurman of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Sally Staton of Spring. Pallbearers will be Gene Brumbelow, Doyle Buckley, Tim Buckley, James Houser, Rafus Runnels, Sam Shields, Reza Shokrian, and John Young. Honorary pallbearers will be Roy Baker of Oklahoma City, Okla., beloved friend who served with him in WWII. Other honorary pallbearers include longtime friends Billy Powell, O. T. Scott, James Tennison, Billy Glen Berry, and Laurence Jay. An honor guard of thirteen members will be provided by the Boy Scouts of America of Central Baptist Church, Troop 403, Jacksonville. Mr. Staton’s family would like to thank Dr. James Low of Bonner Place and all the staff for the care given to Joe Bob. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 1031 SE Loop 456, Jacksonville, Texas 75766 or to Richard Klein Animal Shelter, 208 Tena Street, Jacksonville, Texas 75766, or the charity of donor’s choice. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/24/2008 - 3/25/2008.

Elijah J. Swindell

Funeral services for Elijah J. Swindell, 63 of Jacksonville, are pending with Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville. Mr. Swindell died Thursday, March 13, 2008 in Tyler.

Billy “Ted” Thompson

Memorial services for Billy “Ted” Thompson are scheduled for 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Tyler with Pastor Art Hill officiating. Ted Thompson was born Feb. 12, 1938, in Freer, and died on March 21, 2008, in Tyler. Ted never outgrew his love for telling stories and pulling jokes on people and laughter always followed him. Everyone who knew Ted has at least one “Ted story” because he loved to make people laugh. Ted grew up on the farm outside of Jacksonville, graduated from Jacksonville High School and Stephen F. Austin State University. He and his high school teammates played their way to the only state basketball championship in the school’s history. Ted was baptized in a country creek and grew up in the Baptist Church. He was a newspaper reporter for the Tyler Courier Times-Morning Telegraph and later retired from the Jacksonville Daily Progress. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church . He loved fishing, barbecuing, cooking, baking, stained glass work and most of all, he loved and enjoyed his family, friends and home. He loved to bake and share his wonderful pies. He will be missed by his cats, Madyson, Olit, Puff Daddy and Mr. Sundae. Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Frazier Thompson in 1981 and Opal Isaacks Thompson in 2007, and his sister, Norma Lou Cupp in 2004. He was also preceded in death by two daughters, Laurie Ann Thompson in 1961 and Sarah Kathryn Thompson in 2005. We are comforted by Ted’s reunion in Heaven with his loved ones. Ted is survived by his wife of 31 years, Carol Paar Thompson, of Tyler. He is also survived by daughters, Lisa Kay Dodd and husband Greg, of Rockton, Ill., and Traci Elizabeth Wilson of Conway, Ark.; his grandchildren, Kayla Wilson of Hot Springs, Ark., Will Wilson of Conway, Ark., and Caroline, Colin, Alec and Kylie Rose Dodd of Rockton, Ill. Other survivors are his mother-in-law, Mrs. Herb Paar (Doris) of Lake Palestine East, and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Steven and Cindy Paar of Tyler. He is survived by a nephew, Don Cupp of Tyler, a niece, Jean Ann Cupp of Hartley, and many extended family members and close friends. Honorary pallbearers are Roger Goodsell, Jr., Steven Paar, Greg Dodd, Paul White, Mike Leinback, Don Cupp, Andrew Waldson, Will Wilson, Colin Dodd and Alec Dodd.If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 2001 Hunter St., Tyler, Texas 75701, or to the Sarah Kathryn Thompson Scholarship Fund, St. Mary’s University School of Law, One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, Texas 78228-8603.We are grateful for the countless memories of life with Ted. We will greatly miss his presence. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/24/2008 - 3/25/2008.

Vernell Burns Thompson

Funeral services for Vernell Burns Thompson, 75, of Tyler, formerly of Sacul, will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008 at New Faith Church of Sacul with Rev. Ausbie Earl, Bro. Earnest Dixon and Bishop B.G. Land, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Park-Nacogdoches under the direction of Williams Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Thompson died Tuesday, March 4, 2008 at Birmingham Health Care center in Rusk. She was born Dec. 25, 1932 in Sacul. She received her education in Nacogdoches County. She was a member of St. Land Temple Church of Deliverance in Tyler. She is preceded in death by husband, Frank Thompson; and parents, Lottie D. and Naomi Burns. Survivors include her sons, Hollis Mallard and Johnny Thompson of Sacul, and Frank, Henry, John Albert and Lyndon Thompson, all of Nacogdoches; daughters and sons-in-law, Cecelia McGurie, of Dallas, Patricia and Jethro Norris of Nacogdoches, Doris Deckard, of Rusk, Pamela Ward, of Houston, and Verline and Danny Hampton of Tyler; 31 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Johnny Thompson, Frank Thompson, Lyndon Thompson, Henry Thompson, John Thompson and Hollis Mallard. Honorary pallbearers will be her grandsons. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/7/2008.

Dorothy C Tidwell Rhoades

Dorothy C Tidwell Rhoades, 87, of Temple died Saturday, March 22, 2008 in a Temple nursing home. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 26, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Mrs. Rhoades was born Feb. 27, 1921 near Alto to Clyde Carter and Ila Mae (Stancil) Tidwell. She graduated from Rusk High School and Scott and White School of Nursing in Temple. She received her bachelor's of science degree from the University of Texas and her master's degree in nursing from the University of Washington. In August, 1942 she was appointed as Ensign, Nurse Corps, U.S. Navy (Reserves) and served at Naval Hospital in San Diego, Ca. and Aiea Heights in Honolulu, Hawaii. She was released to inactive duty in 1945 and recalled to active duty in 1951 for the Korean War and was appointed to the regular Navy in 1957 with the rank of lieutenant commander. She was commissioned to the rank of commander in 1964 and remained on active duty until her retirement in 1968. On her second tour of duty at Naval Hospital in San Diego she met and married Frank Rhoades, longtime columnist for the San Diego Union-Tribune newspaper. They bought a home there and she eventually retired and lived there until after his death in 1983. In 1986, she moved to Tyler to be near her mother and other family members in Jacksonville and Temple. She was a member of St Francis Episcopal Church in Tyler. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Clyde Tidwell Jr. and Douglas Tidwell; and a sister, Marie Tidwell Hesterley. Survivors include a sister, Betty Tidwell Traylor of Templ; a brother, Tracy Tidwell of Jacksonville; and several nieces and nephews. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/24/2008 - 3/25/2008.

William “Bill” Underwood

Services for William “Bill” Underwood, 76, of Jacksonville, are scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville. Burial will follow at Still Waters Memorial Gardens, Jacksonville, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Underwood died March 14, 2008. He was born Jan. 14, 1932 in Colbert County Alabama to Andrew Kee and Henrietta Underwood. He retired from the insurance industry and was a member of Central Baptist Church, Jacksonville. Bill was the director of The Pine Crest Dev. Co., director of the Afton Grove Water Supply, past president of The Jacksonville Kiwanis Club, past president of the Lake Jacksonville Assoc. and a member of the Presidents Club for Reliable Life Ins. Co. He was preceded in death by his parent, Kee and Henrietta Underwood; and a son, Andy Underwood. He is survived by his sons, Alan Underwood of Russelville, Ala. and William Underwood, II of Wynona; step-son, Larry McGaughey of Lake Jackson; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation with the family will be Monday March 17 from 12-2 p.m. at the funeral home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/16/2008 - 3/17/2008.

Sheila Ann Wallace

Funeral services for Sheila Ann Wallace, age 59, of Montalba are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Johnny Emerson officiating. Interment will be in Russell Cemetery on FM 23 under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. Wallace died March 7, 2008 at her residence. She was born December 19, 1948 in Riverside, California to Milton and Martha Beasley Singletary. She was a resident of Montalba formerly of Rusk. She was a member of Memorial Missionary Baptist Church in Rusk. She was a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Preceded in death by a brother, Mickey Singletary; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mildred and Walter Wallace; stepmother, Klara Singletary. She is survived by her husband, Bill Wallace of Montalba; son and daughter-in-law, Gail and Denise Wallace of Rusk; daughter and son-in-law, Yolanda and Don Gutierrez of Albuquerque, New Mexico; father, Milton Singletary of Reklaw; mother and step-father, Martha and Kenneth Birdwell of Lake Striker; sister and brother-in-law, Lanette and Wayne Cox of Reklaw; four grandchildren, Stormy Wallace, Wendy Wallace, and Billy Wallace all of Rusk, Dylan Gutierrez of Albuquerque; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Treva and Pete Hernandez of Bowie, Arizona; stepbrother and sister-in-law, Kenny and Rhonda Birdwell of Rusk; stepsister, Jana Birdwell of Hudson, Colorado; sister-in-law, Barbara Singletary of Maydelle, numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Pallbearers will include Jeffery Jones, Thomas Rogers, Wayne Foreman, Brandon Knight, Ron Tussing, Gail Wallace, and John Tussing. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, March 10, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 3/10/2008 - 3/11/2008.

Bobby Ward

Funeral services for Bobby Ward of Jacksonville are pending with Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Ward died Friday, March 28, 2008 at ETMC-Tyler.

Lula Mae Williams

Funeral services for Lula Mae Williams, 89, of Jacksonville, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 29, 2008 in Benson Memorial C.M.E. with Rev. David Daviss officiating under the direction of Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Burial will be in Pleasant Plains, New Summerfield.

Viewing will be held from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. with the family receiving friends at the funeral home from 6-8 p.m.

A.J. Wyatt

Funeral services for A.J. Wyatt, 81, a lifelong resident of Jacksonville, are scheduled for Friday, March 14, at 2 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Jacksonville, with Rev. Jack Thrift officiating. Burial will be at Resthaven Memorial Park, under the direction of Autry Funeral Home. Mr. Wyatt passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2008 in Jacksonville. A.J. was born in Itasca, on April 27, 1926 to Carl Wesley Wyatt and Rosie Bertha Reed Wyatt. He was a disabled veteran, serving his country as a Sergeant in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was preceded in death by his wife: Martha Wyatt and a brother, James Wyatt. He is survived by a son: Sammy Wyatt, of Clio, S.C.; a grandson Brian Wyatt, of Clio, S.C.; a brother, C.W. Wyatt, of Jacksonville; and a sister, Bertha Jones, of Jacksonville and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Glen Wyatt, Jeffery McIntyre, Bobby Wyatt, Bill Jones, Jimmy Wyatt, James Jones and Jerry Jones. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March13 at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 3/13/2008.