Cherokee County, Texas

OBITUARIES MAY 2008

Sharla Ann Adkison

Funeral services for Sharla Ann Adkison, 46, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, May 30, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. Vernon Lee and Rev. Philip Warren officiating. Burial will follow at Old Palestine Cemetery, Alto. Mrs. Adkison died Wednesday, May 28, 2008 in Tyler. She was born Feb. 13, 1962 in Houston to Jerry Eugene Ainsworth and Alice Lorna Miller Ainsworth. She was a homemaker and a member of the First Baptist Church, Jacksonville. Mrs. Adkison was preceded in death by son, Brett Springer and parents Jerry and Alice Ainsworth. She is survived by son Michael Wayne Springer and wife Shelly, of Katy; brothers Rayford Ainsworth and wife Monica, of Jacksonville and Roger Ainsworth and wife Traci, of Montgomery; sisters Lorna Wallace and husband Richard, of LaPorte, Jerre Prewitt and husband John, of Jacksonville, Marylain Miller, of New Caney and Dapholine Swarthout, of Humble; two grandchildren Hailey Dawn Springer and Riddic Michael Springer of Katy. Pallbearers are Tom Jones, David Pike, Les Johnson, Joe Weaver, Johnny Guinn and Johnathan Lewis. The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2008 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Jacksonville 210 Phillip St. Jacksonville, TX. 75766. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/29/2008.

Doug Allen

Funeral services for Doug Allen, 77, of Rusk are pending at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville.

Mr. Allen died Tuesday, May 13, 2008 in Rusk.

Floye Ballard

Graveside services for Floye Ballard, 94, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 4 p.m. Sunday, May 25, 2008 at Waldrop Cemetery, Carthage, with Bro. David Hallum officiating. Mrs. Ballard died Saturday, May 24, 2008 in Tyler. She was born Dec. 13, 1913 to James H. Ballew and Mertie Torbet Mrs. Ballard was preceded in death by her parents, husband Joseph and sons Joe, Jimmy and Lloyd. She is survived by daughter Marie Worley of Garland; sisters Edith Knight of Oklahoma, Electra Burleson of Tyler and Juanita Mallett of Fort Worth; 13 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. The family will received friends from 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/25/2008.

John Robert “Jack” Barber

John Robert “Jack” Barber of Jacksonville was born October 15, 1928 to A. Newell and Mady Barber in Robertson County at the home of his grandparents. He died in Jacksonville on May 17, 2008. Graveside services will be 2:00 P.M., Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at Resthaven Cemetery, Jacksonville with Rev. Barbara Huggins officiating. Visitation will begin Monday afternoon with the family receiving friends Tuesday from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM at the Autry Funeral Home. Mr. Barber lived all his life in Jacksonville on the family farm and graduated from Jacksonville High School. Growing up on a farm, he excelled in agriculture earning the FFA Lone Star Degree. It was through a farm magazine that he met his pen pal Jayce Janssen of Runge. They were married on August 15, 1950. He grew up in the Baptist Church and took various courses in religion to learn more about the Methodist Church. He was injured in a car/pedestrian accident at the age of 5, causing severe brain damage. He experienced surgeries and experiments with different types of medical treatments to live a normal life. He was strong-willed and no quitter and he did the best he could. The last 11 years at the nursing home, he fought the odds and many a time pulling through when the doctor would say this is the end. Even though he could not communicate, he was saying “God and I will do it our way.” He owned a Service Station, did Security Guard work and owned a Lawn Service business. He faithfully followed the JHS Indians and looked forward to his daily trips to town to drink coffee at his favorite coffee spots. He was a Woodmen of the World member over 60 years. He loved his family and enjoyed being around them. In younger years, he looked forward to visits from aunts, uncles, and cousins in the summer and later visits from his sister and niece. Family get- togethers at holidays with his children and grandchildren were special to him. He especially enjoyed and was proud of his grandchildren whom all lived near by. They could get “Grandpa” to do anything. His great-granddaughter Brooklyn called him her “Hampaw,” He is preceded in death by his parents, A. Newell and Mady Barber and sister Merle Faye McBee. Survivors include wife of 57 years, Joyce, daughter and son-in-law, Helen and Stanley Wade, son and daughter-in-law, John and Judy Barber, Grandchildren, Wendy Wade, Robbie and Tina Barber, Duane and Leigh Ann Barber, Greg and Elizabeth Wade, 6 Great-Grandchildren, all of Jacksonville, a niece, Karen McBee of Lufkin. The family extends sincere appreciation to Dr. Saade and staff of Legend Oaks for their devoted care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to ALS Association-Greater Houston Chapter, P.O. Box 271561, Houston, Texas 77277-1561 or Donor’s Choice of Charity.

Juanita Barnes

Graveside services for Juanita Barnes, 94, resident of Bonner Place, Jacksonville are scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, May 26, 2008 at Resthaven Memorial Park, Jacksonville with Bro. Larry Smith officiating. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Barnes died Thursday, May 22, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was born Jan. 15, 1914 in Gary, in Panola County to Thomas T. Moseley and Mary Elizabeth Tompkins Moseley. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Jacksonville and was a homemaker. Mrs. Barnes was preceded in death by her husband Jack Barnes and sister Thelma Hassell. She is survived by brother Clifford Moseley, of Jacksonville; four sisters Mildred Grantham and Nellie Pugh, both of Jacksonville, and Lessie Smith and Rosalie Shelton of Bellingham, Wa; nieces and nephews and special niece Anita Tuck. Nephews will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 p.m. Sunday, May 25, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/25/2008.

Harold Elliott Brunson, Sr.

Funeral services for Harold Elliott Brunson, Sr., 82, will be held at the Tabernacle Baptist Church, Jacksonville, on 10 a.m. Wednesday May 28, 2008, with Drs. Perry Purtle and Hal Brunson officiating. Burial will be at the Still Waters Memorial Garden of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday May 27, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home. Dr. Brunson died Sunday May 25, 2008 in Plano. A nationally known evangelist and beloved pastor, Dr. Brunson conducted over 1,200 evangelistic crusades throughout the United States, and pastored several churches in East Texas including the First Baptist Churches of Carthage and Jacksonville. Known for masterful homiletics, pulpit grace, and scripture memorization, Dr. Brunson was called “a legend among preachers” by the late Professor S. Lewis Johnson of Dallas Theological Seminary and “the master homiletician” by Dr. Harold Cooper of Central Baptist College. Born Jan. 10, 1926, Dr. Brunson was a World War II veteran of the United States Marine Corps and an experienced pilot. Preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Ollie Dean, Dr. Brunson is survived by his daughter Sonia Peterson of Tyler; a son, Dr. Hal Brunson of Carrollton; and five grandchildren: Trey Brunson, Shane McGuire, Dr. Matt Brunson, Charlie Peterson, and Chelsea Peterson. In lieu of flowers, Harold Brunson himself requested that memorial offerings be sent to The Church of Mercy in Cambodia, c/o The First Baptist Church, 5304 East Parker Road, Parker, Texas, 75002. The family sincerely thanks those whose outpouring of love and prayers have so encouraged them and honored their beloved “Ace.” Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/27/2008.

Joe S. Burton 

Funeral services for Joe S. Burton, 72, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville. Burial will follow at Jarratt Cemetery, Jacksonville. Mr. Burton died Sunday, May 11, 2008 in Tyler and was born March 4, 1936 in Jacksonville. Mr. Burton was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and was retired from United Gas Pipeline in Houston as a maintenance worker. He is survived by wife Judy Burton, of Jacksonville; sons and daughters-in-law Randy and Renee Burton, Larry and Terry Burton, and Daniel Lee Gattis, all of Jacksonville and Dale and Toni Gattis of San Antonio; daughter and son-in-law Karen and Donnie Ray, of Jacksonville; sister, Ann Corbin, of New Summerfield; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are Roy Traylor, Royce Traylor, Gaylon Hooton, Simon Hernandez, Mike Bolton, Jerry Dennis, Bill Terry and Darrell Whitehead. Honorary pallbearers are Greg Taylor and Ernest Lewis. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/14/2008 - 5/15/2008.

Eva Chitwood

Funeral services for Eva Chitwood, 94, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, May 25, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Bro. Larry Smith and Bro. Phillip Warren officiating. Burial will follow at Corine Cemetery. Mrs. Chitwood died Wednesday, May 21, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was born Sept. 4, 1913 in Jacksonville to Eli Bradford White and Lucy Horton White. She was a lifetime member of Friendship Baptist Church, Corine and taught Sunday School there for many years. Mrs. Chitwood was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years Claude Chitwood. She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law Molly and Jim Kolb and Jan and Chester Patton, all of Jacksonville; grandchildren Mike Kolb, of Gilmer, Keith Kolb, of San Francisco, Kim McCall, of Bullard and Tammy Minton, of Jacksonville; great-grandchildren Candyce Pryor, Adam Meza, Jade Sexton, Ashley Kolb, and Christi Smith; great-great grandchildren Melonnie, Maryssa, Jordyne, and Evangelina; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are Lewie Lake, Darvis Davis, Jason Stewart, Mike Kolb, Keith Kolb, and Adam Meza. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/23/2008.

Opal Harper Cook

Funeral services for Opal Harper Cook, 74, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 16, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park, Jacksonville. Mrs. Cook died Sunday, May 11, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was born Jan. 10, 1934 in Noonday. She was a homemaker. Mrs. Cook was preceded in death by husband, Shelby “Homer” Cook; parents Charlie Harper and Nancy Lorene Austin Harper; brother Floyd Edward Harper and step son Walter Cook. She is survived by brothers and sisters-in-law Oscar C. Harper, of Jacksonville and Rudy Preston (Freddie Harper) and wife Faye, of Arkansas, Aubrey Lee Harper and wife Sharon, of Mexia, Robert Earle Harper and wife Mary, of Jacksonville, James Eddie Harper and wife Rebecca, of Tyler, David Wayne Harper, of Jacksonville and Thomas Luther Harper and wife Brenda, of Tyler; sister Sharon Harper Coates, of Jacksonville; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and many, many friends. Pallbearers are Walter Cook, J. C. Cook, Clay Coates, John Coates, Curtis Harper, Matthew Rowan and Ambrosio Contreras. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2008 Cooat the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/14/2008 - 5/15/2008.

Florence A. Corona

Funeral services for Florence A. Corona, 77, of Channelview are scheduled for 3 p.m., Sunday, May 4, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel in Rusk with Rev. Kenneth Raines and Rev. Brandon Miles officiating. Interment will be in Sardis-Edgefield Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk.

Mrs. Corona died April 30, 2008 in a Houston Hospital. She was born Sept. 15, 1930 in Houston to the late Ray Lee and Ethel Boyd Wilson.

Doris Loree Colkin

Funeral services for Doris Loree Colkin, 83 of Gallatin, are scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. Robin Parsons officiating. Burial will follow at Henry Cemetery, Gallatin. Mrs. Colkin went to be with the Lord on May 8, 2008. She was a member of the Gallatin Missionary Baptist Church. She lived her life serving others as a loving wife, mother and dedicated nurse for 38 years. She was born on April 17, 1925 to the late W. O. and Annie Chandler and raised in Gallatin. She later earned her R.N. degree at Scott and White Hospital. In 1951 she married the late Joe T. Colkin. They moved to Ennis where they raised their family and later retired in the Gallatin community. She is preceded in death by her husband Joe T. Colkin and brothers Arlie, Minyard and Herman Chandler. She is survived by a sister, Goldie Mason, of Liberty City; sons and daughter-in-law, Don Colkin, Tom and Birdie Colkin, of Gallatin; daughters and son-in-law, Margie Colkin, of Rusk and Linda and Jack Gauntt, of Lindale; five grandchildren, and their spouses, Adam, Jeremy and wife Morgan, Mary Gauntt, Leigh Anne Colkin, and Zoe Ruben; and one great-grandson, Jaxson Gauntt. Pallbearers are Rex Chandler, Randy Chandler, Jeremy Gauntt, Adam Gauntt, Byron Mason Jr., Andrew Winship and George Winship. The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2008 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Colonial Nursing Center, Lindale. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/11/2008.

Dorothy Jean “Doa” Dotson

Funeral services for Dorothy Jean “Doa” Dotson, 83, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m., Monday, May 12, 2008 in the chapel at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville, with Bro. Phillip Strong officiating. Burial will follow in Still Waters Memorial Garden in Jacksonville. Mrs. Dotson was born on Jan. 11, 1925, in Kaufman County to the late Thurman and Ruby Holland. She died on May 9, 2008 in Jacksonville. She was a homemaker and was a member of the Southside Church of Christ of Jacksonville. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Glynn Adean Dotson, Jacksonville; daughter and son-in-law Sue and Frank Dublin, of Jacksonville; grandsons and their spouses, Trey and Megan Dublin, of Bullard, Dean and Jill Dublin, of Sachse; and great- grandchildren, Trevor, Trenton, Tyton, Thatcher, Tate, Jackson, Walker and Julianna. Pallbearers will be Charles Humphreys, Alvin Martin, Pete Betts, Eddie Arrington, Mike Terry, and David Warren. Visitation will begin on Sunday, May 11, 2008 with family receiving friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1301 S Broadway, Tyler, TX 75701. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/11/2008.

Gertie Lee Baker Dudley

Funeral services for Gertie Lee Baker Dudley, 94, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, May 15, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Bro. Dale Jamerson and Rev. R. S. Dyess officiating. Burial will follow at Jarratt Cemetery, Jacksonville She was born April 17, 1914 on the county line of Henderson and Anderson counties to Benjamin Wesley Baker and Fannie Scott Nevills Baker. She went to Heaven May 12, 2008.She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and homemaker. She was one of 13 children. She lived in Jacksonville most of her life. She was a life long member of Craft Baptist Church. Our mother was loved and will be missed by all who knew her. She was one of a kind and will be irreplaceable in our hearts. Family left behind and missing her very much are sons Jackie Dudley and wife Joy, of Jacksonville, Claude Dudley and wife Vickie, of New Mexico, and Frank Dudley and wife Lori, of Huntsville; daughters Pat Brown and husband Sonny, of Jacksonville, Bonnie Hulsey and husband Earl, of Henderson, Charlotte Bonner, of Mount Selman, and Beth Lomax and husband Billy, of Jacksonville; sisters Julia Gowin, of Jacksonville, Rachel Meador, of Jacksonville, and Pearl Henderson, of Washington; and missing their grandmother are 22 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Waiting for her in Heaven with open arms is her husband Jack Johnson Dudley; sons Thurman Lynn Wallace, Ronald Glenn Wallace and Robert Earl Dudley; her granddaughter Nikki Nicole Dudley; her great-grandson Payton Scott Diers; her special son-in-law Paul Wayne Bonner and numerous sisters and brothers. Pallbearers are grandsons Kip Franklin, Nick Dudley, John Dudley, Jason Dudley, Chase Birdwell, and Scott Diers. The family will receive friends from 6– 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/14/2008 - 5/15/2008.

Milburn “Pee Wee” Dudley

Funeral services for Milburn “Pee Wee” Dudley, 65, of Jacksonville are scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, May 9, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. David Hallum officiating. Burial will follow at the Tecula Cemetery. Mr. Dudley died Tuesday, May 6, 2008 in Tyler. He was born Sept. 11, 1942 in Jacksonville. Mr. Dudley was retired from production at Kelly Springfield. He served in the National Guard and was a member of Afton Grove Baptist Church and member of Rubber Workers. Mr. Dudley was preceded in death by grandson Dustin Dudley, parents Hollis and Carmen Dudley and infant sister Wilma Dudley. Survivors are wife Loma Dudley of Jacksonville; son and daughter-in-law Phillip Paul and Carrie Dudley of Price; daughter and son-in-law Lisa Deeann and Dale Meeks of Jacksonville; twin brother Wilburn Lee Dudley and wife Maudie of Lindale and brother and sister-in-law Wayne and Gay Dudley of Jacksonville; six grandchildren, Lauren Dudley, Kylie Dudley, Destiny Dudley, Devon Anderson, Justiss Dudley and Jo Anne Meeks; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are David Dudley, Steve Dudley, Lance Dudley, Bryan Smith, Pat Smith and Michael Stine. The family will receive friends from 6–8 p.m. Thursday, May 8, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/8/2008 - 5/9/2008.

Kathleen passed away April 25, 2008 in Tyler after a long illness. She was born May 9, 1917 to the late Jessie and Bess Slider. She attended lronton and Jacksonville schools and many years later attended Jacksonville Baptist College. Kathleen was co-owner of the original Bearden Furniture store. She was later employed at Beall's General Offices. Kathleen was a devout Christian. She loved cooking, gardening, travel, and all types of music. Friends and relatives remember her devilish sense of humor and her wonderful laugh. Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, five brothers, four sisters, a grand-son, a son-in-law, two nephews and one niece. She is survived by Beth Lang, Lisa, Scott, and Jeff Lang, Donna and Robert Nichols, Joshua, Brittney Lee, and Collynn'rae Nichols, numerous nieces and nephews. Also Jacksonville relatives Bill Slider, Bonnie and Monroe Meador, Hayden, Noland, Lewie Slider and Sue Williams. A memorial service will be held at a later date. If desired, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/11/2008.

Chris Ejanya

A memorial service for Chris Ejanya, 48, of Tyler, will be held at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008 in Trane Union Hall, Tyler under the direction of Mercy-McGowan Funeral Home. Burial will be in Nigeria.

May Belle Franklin

Services for May Belle Franklin, 88, of Jacksonville were at 11 a.m. Monday at Shady Grove C.M.E. Church in the Shady Grove Community with the rev. Phil Carter and the Rev. Lonnie Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Jacksonville City Cemetery under the direction of Williams Funeral Home. May Belle Franklin died Thursday in Jacksonville. She was born May 3, 1920, in Rusk. She attended Shady Grove Elementary School and Fred Douglas High School in Jacksonville. She was a member of Shady Grove C.M.E. Church and was a member of the Heroines of Jericho. She was preceded in death by her husband, Grady Lewis Franklin; son, Larry Franklin; parents; and two brothers. She is survived by sons, Melvin (and Elizabeth) Franklin of Kansas City, Mo., Floyd Franklin of Jacksonville, and Elvin (and Phillis) Franklin of Grand Prairie; grandchildren, Liz A. Bryant, Mark A. Franklin, Floy (and Terri) Franklin, Marlayna E. Franklin, Sterling Franklin and Miles Franklin; brothers, Charles Wagoner of Long Beach, Calif., O.T. Wagoner of Jacksonville and J.C. (and Shirley) Wagoner of Jacksonville; eight great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren. Pallbearers were Goffery Bowens, Travis Thompson, Kelvin Bryant, Charles Wagoner, Sedric Franklin and Joseph Campbell. Honorary pallbearers were stewards of Shady Grove C.M.E. Church. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/20/2008.

Gwen K. Garrett

Services for Gwen K. Garrett, 70, Point Blank, are scheduled for 2:00 pm, Wednesday, May 14, at the Concord Cumberland Presbyterian Church, near Troup, with the Reverend Duane Dougherty officiating. Burial will be in the Concord Cemetery, under the direction of Cottle Funeral Home, Troup. Mrs. Garrett died Sunday, May 11, in a Conroe Hospice Facility. She was born March 10, 1938 in Sparkman, Arkansas to the late Arthur Clinton Kinser and Chesta Selph Kinser. She and her husband were longtime residents of Houston and moved to Point Blank in 1994.Mrs. Garrett was a housewife. She married Lonnie B. Garrett in Houston, February 20, 1960. He preceded her in death May 7, 2007.She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Irene Spurlin and Zella Hunter and two brothers, J.C. Kinser and Jack Kinser. Survivors include two sons and a daughter-in-law, David and Rosie Garrett, Katy and Duane Garrett, Point Blank; a sister and brother-in-law, Lou and Doug Chesnutt, Jewett; two sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, Ellene Kinser and Clara and Harold Penn, Bellaire; four grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm, Tuesday, May 13.Online registration and condolences are available at www.cottlefuneralhome.com. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/13/2008.

Cherry Lynn Grimes

Funeral services for Cherry Lynn Grimes, 31, of Rusk are scheduled for 4 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, 2008 in First Baptist Church in Rusk with Rev. Curtis Oliver officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. Grimes died May 8, 2008. She was born Aug. 6, 1976 in Bossier City, La. She was a resident of Rusk for 13 years, formerly of Shreveport, La. Mrs. Grimes was a member of Branded By Christ Cowboy Church in Rusk and employed as a bank teller at Franklin Bank in Carthage and had previously worked at Franklin Bank in Rusk. She was preceded in death by a son, Trevor Gauge Lankford; a stepson, Trenton Glenn Lankford of Rusk; grandmother, Mary Porter Miller; and grandparents, Horace and Betty Matthews Sr. She is survived by her husband, Phillip Grimes, of Rusk; daughter, Lauren Sierra Lankford, of Rusk; a step son, Dakota Grimes, of Rusk; father and stepmother, Terry and Harley Matthews Jr., of Monroe, La.; mother, Donna Faye Miller, of Rusk; father- and mother-in-law, David and Pamela Grimes, of Rusk; two brothers- and sister-in-law, Shane and Tina Callaway, of Rusk; Jeremy Grimes, of Rusk; grandfather, James P. Miller, of Shreveport, La.; grandparents, George and Allene Wagner, of Hooper, Neb.; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Pallbearers will include Shane Callaway, Jeremy Grimes, Steven Brown, Robert Jenkins, Jason Jones and Michael Johnson. Honorary pallbearers will be Desoto Drilling and Franklin Bank Employees. Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday, May 12, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/11/2008.

John Albert Hooton

Funeral services for John Albert Hooton, 51, of Huntington will be held Friday, May 30, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. in the Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Huntington with Brother Lamar Denby officiating. Interment will follow in the Huntington Cemetery. Mr. Hooton was born Sept. 23, 1956 in Jacksonville to Truby (Sachtleben) and Edward Dewey Hooton, and died Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at his residence. A former resident of Jacksonville, Mr. Hooton had resided in Huntington since 1976. He was a 1975 graduate of Jacksonville High School and a 1977 graduate of Texas State Technical College. Mr. Hooton had worked for Mustang Tractor as a diesel mechanic since 1976. He was of the Baptist faith. Survivors include his wife, Pamela (English) Hooton of Huntington; daughter, Jacqueline Jo Hooton of Huntington; mother, Truby (Sachtleben) Hooton of Jacksonville; brothers and sisters-in-law, Gaylon and Jan Hooton and Kenneth and Alana Hooton, all of Jacksonville; sister, Martha Senesac of Palestine; nieces and nephews, Brenda and Todd Travis, Russell and Ashley Hooton, Amy and Chris Wolf, all of Jacksonville, Leah and Lewis Zeiters of Palestine, Paul Senesac of Grapeland and Kent and Brandi Senesac of Beaver Dam, Wis.; and five great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Dewey Hooton; brother, James Fred Hooton; and nephew, Bernie Hooton. Pallbearers will be Ed Glover, Stacey Vann, Dennie Adams, Mike English, Curtis Shoemaker, Dennis Bell, Scott Storment and Eddie Mathews. Memorial contributions may be made to the McMullen Memorial Library, P.O. Box 849, Huntington, Texas 75949.The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home in Huntington.Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home, Huntington, directors. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/29/2008.

Mrs. Della Mae Hopper

Funeral services for Mrs. Della Mae Hopper, 77, of Rusk will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday at the Renfro Memorial Chapel at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville, with Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Comfort Cemetery in Maydelle under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home. Mrs. Hopper was born April 19, 1931, in Maydelle to Joseph Henry and Josie Idella Harris Phillips. She was a lifetime resident of the Rusk area. She worked as a waitress and cook and was a Baptist. Mrs. Hopper was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Joe D. Hopper, and two daughters, Della Jo Foreman and Billy Jean Hopper. Mrs. Hopper is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Buddy and Deanna Hopper of Jacksonville; two daughters and a son-in-law, Martha Williams of Jacksonville, and Phyllis and Ben Salazar of Dialville; four sisters-in-law; one brother-in-law; 16 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Kelly Gene Collins, B. J. Collins, Joey Foreman, Terry Hopper, Dustin Hopper Myers and Randy Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Beto Barron, Jimmy Lee Huggins, Eddie Foreman, and Anthony Cline. Visitation will be Friday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/23/2008.

Joanne E. Howard

Graveside services for Joanne E. Howard, 69, of Rusk will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Rusk with Rev. Lee Welch officiating under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Joanne was born April 13, 1939, in Cleveland, Ohio. She had previously lived in Arkansas, California, and Jacksonville, at the Travis Towers before becoming a resident at Lexington Place Nursing Home in Rusk where she died on Friday, May 9, 2008. She was preceded in death by her Mother, Lela Lanier, and several uncles and aunts. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Perry and Mae Clark of Rusk; a sister and brother-in-law, Delores Jean and George Veltman of Ft. Myers, Fla., several nieces and nephews and one aunt, Marcella Blough of Wadsworth, Ohio. Visitation will be held at Boren-Conner Funeral Home Monday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/11/2008.

Virginia “Tootsie” Hudson

Funeral services for Virginia “Tootsie” Hudson, 78, of Hudson Chapel are scheduled for 2 p.m., Sunday, May 25, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Don Copeland officiating. Interment will be in Salem Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk.

Mrs. Hudson died May 22, 2008 in a Rusk Hospital. She was born Sept. 11, 1929 in Athens to the late Ira F. and Annie Lee Harrell Lewis.

Family received friends from 6-8 p.m., Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the funeral home.

Mrs. Benny JoAnn Jett

Graveside services for Mrs. Benny JoAnn Jett, 43, of Jacksonville will be held Saturday, May 24, 2008 at 10 a.m. at the Bullard Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Bernie Hudson officiating under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Benny JoAnn was born Oct. 9, 1964 in Jacksonville to Benjamin E. Masters, Jr. and Mary Prince Masters. She was a lifelong Jacksonville resident having worked for many years at the Jacksonville Whataburger. At the onset of her illness, she was also employed at Motor Trike in Troup. She was a Methodist. She was preceded in death by her father; a sister, Aletha Heinriche; a brother, Shannon Masters; and a great nephew, Myson Blakemore. Benny JoAnn Jett is survived by her mother, Mary Masters of Jacksonville; grandmother, LaDonna Alcorne of Palestine; one son and daughter-in-law, Dale and Amber Jett of Tyler; a daughter and son-in-law, Crystal and Chris Harris of Jacksonville; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Debra and Wayne Folmar of Jacksonville and D.D. and Raymond Chavira of Houston; a brother and sister-in-law, Ray and Sharlott Prince of Rusk; three grandsons, Ryan, Arron, and Dominique Harris; numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Friday evening, 6 to 8 p.m. at Boren-Conner Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/23/2008.

Mary Lou Nunn Kellar

Mary Lou Nunn Kellar, 87 of Killeen, died April 28. She was the widow of Gerald Dean Kellar, who died in 2001. He was the first BMA president and served as the president of Central Baptist College, Jacksonville College and BMA Theological Seminary and Southeastern Baptist College in Laurel, Miss. Mrs. Kellar attended Jacksonville College, Baylor University and Stephen F. Austin University. She received her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Stephen F. Austin and associates degree from Jacksonville College. Her teaching career spanned over 45 years, beginning in public school in 1940 in Palmer. She also taught public school at Parkwood High School in Joplin, Mo. But her passion was Christian education, having taught at Jacksonville College, Central Baptist College and Southeastern College. She was also a writer and authored children’s Sunday School literature for the BMA for over 20 years as well as a contributing writer to Focus magazine. She has two published books, Whither Thou Goest (a study in the book of Ruth) and Pride of Springfield, a biography of her husband. Dr. and Mrs. Kellar retired to Ding Dong in 1998 to make their home with their daughter and son-in-law Jerrie Sue and Tony Cleaver of Killeen (Ding Dong). Other survivors include a son, Charles Mark Kellar and wife Sondra of Tomball; and nine grandchildren. She was preceded in death by granddaughter, Jennifer Huff and survived by eight great-grandchildren and brother Gordon Nunn of Galveston. Funeral services will be held May 2 at 2 p.m. at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville, with Don Brown, Vernon Lee and Barnwell Anderson officiating. Visitation will precede the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Interment will be in the old city cemetery in Jacksonville. Pallbearers are Douglas McDonnieal, James Spivey, Shelley Cleaver, Jimmy Cleaver, Wayne Beal, Ronnie O’Dell, Dr. Jack Isbell, and Dr. David Heflin. Honorary pallbearers are Pat Ware and John Fredrick. Memorials may be sent to the schools of the BMAA: Central Baptist College, Southeastern College, BMAA Seminary or Jacksonville College.
Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 4/30/2008 - 5/2/2008

Trevor Gauge Lankford.

Funeral services for Trevor Gauge Lankford, 5, of Rusk are scheduled for 4 p.m., Tuesday, May 13, 2008 in First Baptist Church in Rusk with Rev. Curtis Oliver officiating. Interment will be in Oakland Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Trevor died May 8, 2008 in a Rusk Hospital. He was born Nov. 15, 2002 in Nacogdoches. He was a resident of Rusk. He was enrolled in Pre-K at Mount Enterprise ISD. He attended Branded By Christ Cowboy Church in Rusk. He was preceded in death by his mother, Cherry Lynn Grimes. He is survived by his father and step mother, Donald and Lindsey Lankford of Rusk; step father, Phillip Grimes of Rusk; sister, Lauren Sierra Lankford of Rusk; half brother, Trenton Glenn of Rusk; step brother, Dakota Grimes of Rusk; grandmother, Donna Faye Miller of Rusk; grandparents, Terry and Harley Matthews Jr. of Monroe, La., Billy W. and Lori Lankford of Rusk, Jan and Steve Conway of Rusk; great grandparents, Billy and Bessie Lankford of Rusk, James P. Miller of Shreveport, La., George and Allene Wagner of Hooper, Neb., numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Pallbearers will include Neill Holcomb, Wayne Morgan, Terry Phillips and James Sanchez. Honorary pallbearers will be other members of the Rusk Fire Department. Family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday, May 12, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/11/2008.

Mary Evelyn Lenard

Services for Mary Evelyn Lenard, 82, Alto, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday at Boren-Conner Funeral Home chapel, Jacksonville, with the Rev. Odis Bryant officiating. Mrs. Lenard died May 12, 2008, in Jacksonville. She was born July 2, 1925, in Polk County. She lived in the Alto area 80 years and retired from Lexington Place Nursing Home, Rusk. She was a Baptist. She was preceded in death by a son, Everett “Bo” Robinson. Survivors include her husband, C.H. Lenard, of Alto; sons, Byron Earle Phillips, of Tyler, and Albert “Scoote” Lee Forrester, of Jacksonville; daughter, Mary Anne Forrester, of Bowling Green, Ky., and Lenard McAnally, of Jacksonville; five grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/14/2008 - 5/15/2008.

David Henry Littlejohn

Funeral services for David Henry Littlejohn, age 83, of Grand Junction, CO. are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. Don Grigsby officiating. Burial will follow at Rocky Springs Cemetery, Dialville. Mr. Littlejohn died Monday, May 19, 2008 at his home in Grand Junction, CO. He was born May 28, 1924 in Rusk, TX. to A. B. and Josephine Littlejohn. He grew up and attended school in Rusk where he graduated in 1942.Mr. Littlejohn joined the Navy in July 1943 and was honorably discharged on January 20, 1946. He served during WWII. He married Helen Wyvonne Acker May 16, 1949 in Marshall, TX. She passed away on January 20, 1983. He later married Cheryl Hayes on January 27, 1984.His life long occupation as a welder took him to many different states and countries overseas, retiring as chief welding inspector for Northwest Pipeline. Survivors include his wife of the home, Cheryl; a son and daughter-in-law Michael and Debbie Littlejohn of Newcastle, OK.; a daughter and son-in-law Patrice and Bill McClure of Elgin, OK.; a stepson and daughter-in-law Jason and Kathrine Hayes of Denver, CO.; a stepdaughter and son-in-law Cary and Wes Bellows of Grand Junction, CO.; a mother-in-law Lorraine DeVore of Gateway, CO.; a brother-in-law Claude Wilkerson of Gateway, CO.; one granddaughter Emily Littlejohn of Newcastle, OK.; one grandson and wife David and Tisha Break of Sterling, OK.; one step granddaughter Houston Haley Hayes of Denver, CO.; two great-grandsons Colten and Caleb Break of Sterling, OK.; one brother and sister-in-law Harold and Glenda Littlejohn of Rusk; two sisters-in-law Hazel Littlejohn of Tyler and Mary Lynn Higgins of Jacksonville. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Wyvonne, his sister Lonnie Faye Young, two brothers Overton and Joe Littlejohn, and one grandson Micah David Break. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2008 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado, 2754 Compass Drive, Suite 377, Grand Junction, CO. 81506. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/22/2008.

Johnnie Mae Mabry

Funeral services for Johnnie Mae Mabry, age 93, of Rusk are scheduled for 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2008 in Salem Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Tommy Mabry officiating. Interment will be in Cedar Hill Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. Mabry died May 4, 2008 in a Tyler Hospice. She was born May 20, 1914 in Helmic, TX to the late John Quincy and Mary Etta Davidson Hicks. She was a resident of Rusk most of her life and a member of Salem Missionary Baptist Church in Rusk. She was a homemaker. Preceded in death by her husband, Henry Mabry, son, Captain Donald H. Mabry, daughter, Ima Jean Lloyd, two great grandchildren, Justin Fritz and Kayla Denn. She is survived by son and daughter-in-law, Tommy and Sandra Mabry of Rusk, three daughters and sons-in-law, Cynthie and Norman Smith of Houston, Bessie and Laymon Fritz of Conroe, Janis and Tommy Campbell of Fairfield, fourteen grandchildren, twenty-six great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews. Grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Family will receive from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/6/2008.

Jean Rawlinson McQuaide

Graveside services for Jean Rawlinson McQuaide, 71, of Jacksonville will be Monday May 5, 2008 at 2 p.m. at Union Grove Cemetery near Jacksonville with Ronnie McGee officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Services are by Autry Funeral Home of Jacksonville. Mrs. McQuaide died Friday, May 2, 2008. She was born April 5, 1937 in Tatum. Mrs. McQuaide was a member of the Church of Christ, and was a homemaker. She is survived by her husband, Larry McQuaide, of Jacksonville; daughters and sons-in-law, Debra and Doyle George, of Jacksonville, Cathy and Oley Willis, of Jacksonville, Donna Reaves, of Longview; sons, Larry Rawlinson, of Jacksonville, Eddie McQuaide, of Thrall, Ken Rawlinson, of Beaumont; brother and sister-in-law, Floyd and Glenda Moseley, of New Diana; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Travis Gregg, of Longview; sister-in-law, Mattie Bell Freeman, of Goodrich; brother-in-law and wife, Henry and Sarah McQuaide, of Bryan; three grandchildren, Angela, Scotty, and Ashley; four great-grandchildren, Fallon, Malory, Kaden, and Gracie. Pallbearers will be Fred Hood, Carl ”Bubba” Finch, Doyle George, Scotty George, Larry Moran, and Larry Wayne Rawlinson. Memorials may be made to Hospice of East Texas at 4111 University Dr. Tyler, Texas 75701.
Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/4/2008 - 5/5/2008.

Dorothy Smith Gunn McLaughlin

Services for Dorothy Smith Gunn McLaughlin, 88, of Rusk are pending with Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. McLaughlin died April 30, 2008 in a Tyler Hospice.

Frances Mitchell

Frances Mitchell, 78, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2008 in Granbury.

Graveside service is at 11 a.m. Tuesday in Greenwood Cemetery in Teague, TX. Visitation is Sunday and Monday at Wiley Funeral Home in Grandbury.

Wesley B. Mohr

Funeral services for Wesley B. Mohr, 62, of Bullard are pending at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville.

Mr. Mohr died Tuesday, May 13, 2008 in Bullard.

Mary Beard Moore

Memorial services for Mary Beard Moore, 49, of Frankston are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, May 22, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Frankston. Mrs. Moore died Monday, May 19, 2008 in Frankston. She was born Feb. 8, 1959 in Jacksonville to Garnett L. and Mary Frances Davis Beard. The family will receive friends from 6?8 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at the funeral home in Frankston. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/20/2008.

Byron Theo Parsons

Funeral services for Byron Theo Parsons, age 91, of New Summerfield are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Dr. Edwin Crank officiating. Burial will follow at McDonald Cemetery, New Summerfield. Mr. Parsons died Sunday, May 11, 2008 in Jacksonville and was born November 22, 1916 in Gallatin, Texas. Mr. Parsons was a building contractor and carpenter in East Texas his entire life, was a member of First Baptist Church in New Summerfield and served on the New Summerfield school board. His hobbies were his work and fishing and loved spending time with his granddaughters and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by wife Cleo Merle Parsons, daughter Beverly Sue Parsons, brother Alvis Parsons and sister Maxine Chupp. He is survived by sons and daughter-in-law Bryon and Vickie Parsons, Missouri City, TX. and Rodger Parsons, Jacksonville; brother and sister-in-law Thomas and Letha Jo Parsons, Rusk; sister Doris Hassell, Rusk; sister-in-law Ruth Glynn Holcomb, Jacksonville; 3 granddaughters and spouses Stacy and Daniel Oberle, Cypress, TX., Kimberley and Jay Nabors, Brenham, and Cori Kelley, Flint; 4 great grandchildren Emma, Eliza, and Ella Oberle, all of Cypress and Colton Kelley, Flint and numerous nieces and nephews Pallbearers are Jay Nabors, James Greenwood, Robin Parsons, Gayle Parsons, John Combs, and Sam Brown, Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Rodney Hassell, Marcus Hassell and Kenneth Martin. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/13/2008.

Dorothy Smith Gunn McLaughlin

Memorial services for Dorothy Smith Gunn McLaughlin, age 88, of Rusk are scheduled for 4 p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2008 in First Baptist Church in Rusk with Rev. Lee Welch and Rev. Clifford Horton officiating under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mrs. McLaughlin died April 30, 2008 in a Tyler Hospice. She was born Oct. 16, 1919 in St. Paul, Minnesota to the late Lawrence R. and Ethel Edna Jackson Smith. She was a resident of Houston before moving to Rusk 10 years ago. She graduated from John H. Reagan High School in Houston. Mrs. McLaughlin retired in January of 1981 from Fidelity and Deposit Company in Houston after 25 years of service. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Rusk as well as the Rusk Study Club. She was preceded in death by her husbands, William B. Gunn, Floyd A Hutcheson and Philip L. McLaughlin; and one sister Margaret E. Smith. She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Thomas and Beverly Gunn of Quitman; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Sylvia Orton of Johnson City, Barbara and Bill Chadwick of Rusk, Mary and Tim Son of San Antonio; step son, James McLaughlin of Austin; nine grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/2/2008.

Paul Francis Moseley

Funeral services for Paul Francis Moseley, age 69, of Rusk are scheduled for 2 p.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2008 in Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Don Copeland and Rev. Clifford Horton officiating. Interment will be in Moseley Cemetery under the direction of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home in Rusk. Mr. Moseley died May 3, 2008 at Hospice of East Texas at Tyler. He was born January 24, 1939 in Rusk to the late Martin L. and Ruby Murphy Moseley. Paul attended Rusk public schools and was a member of First United Methodist Church in Rusk. He was the owner of Paul’s Pecan Supply. In 1980 Paul moved to Carrolton, Georgia. He returned to live in Rusk in 2003. Paul was preceded in death by his grandparents James H. and Emma Dupree Moseley, his parents, step mother, Jane Stoy Moseley, uncle, James R. Moseley, aunt, Mildred Moseley Turney, long time companion, Mary Frances Long and beloved canine companion Lady. Paul is survived by numerous cousins and a host of friends as well as a brother and sister-in-law, James and Becky Moseley of Ashburn, Virginia, nephews, Jason and Ben Moseley of Ashburn, Virginia. He is also survived by cousins, Dolores Bryson of Rusk, Elizabeth Rylander of Lubbock, Mary Ella Bolton and Roselyn Scott both of Rusk. Paul will be remembered for his cheerful smile, great sense of humor and his love for God’s creatures. He will be greatly missed. Pallbearers will include Seguine Bolton, James Jared, Charles Booker, Ernest Hudnall, Robert Grogan and Raymond Spivey. Honorary pallbearers will be Dr. Jim Swink and cousins Kelly Moseley, Mike Moseley, David Caldwell, John Caldwell, Glen Caldwell and Erik Holmlin. Family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/6/2008.

Deloris L. Reed

Funeral services for Deloris L. Reed, 73, of Cuney, will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2008 in The World of Pentecost church with Rev. Ron Waser eulogizing. Burial will be in Rock Hill Cemetery in Cuney under the direction of Community Funeral Home of Jacksonville.

Read died Tuesday, April 29, 2008 in Cuney. She was born Oct. 1, 1934 in Cuney. There will be no public viewing or visitation.

Marie “Mary” Reyes

Funeral services for Marie “Mary” Reyes, age 61, of New Summerfield are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Reyes Mendez and Larry Martin officiating. Burial will follow at Still Waters Memorial Garden, Jacksonville. Mrs. Reyes died Sunday, May 4, 2008 in New Summerfield. She was born October 26, 1946 in Alamo, TX. Mrs. Reyes was a homemaker. Survivors are husband Juan Rangel Reyes, Sr., New Summerfield; son Juan Rangel Reyes, Jr., New Summerfield; daughters Rosita Reyes Wofford, Jacksonville, Maria Anna Miller, Troup, Esperanza Reyes Buckle, Mansfield, and Rachel Guerrero, Jacksonville; brothers Olidion Cerda, Dino Cerda and Christopher Cerda, all of Oklahoma City, 3 grandchildren Brian Buckle, Samuel Anthony Reyes and Cristian Raul Guerrero. The family will receive friends from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2008, at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/6/2008.

Ervin Andrew “Andy” Sanders

Though his smile is gone forever and his hands we cannot touch still we have so many memories of the one we love so much. You left a beautiful memory. A sorrow too great to be told but to we who love and lost you your memory will never grow old. God gave us the strength to bear it and the courage to face the blow but what it meant to lose you no one will ever know. Andy was told he had lung cancer on his birthday January 25, 2007. Andy fought with courage, dignity and grace. He was born Jan. 25, 1935 to Autry and Jewell Sanders and died May 22, 2008 at home. He was preceded in death by parents Autry and Jewell Sanders, sons Kenny Sanders and Charles Sanders and brother Mayburn Sanders. Survivors include wife Sherron Evans Sanders, of Lake Striker; daughter and son-in-law Carmen and Wayne Havard, of Diboll; brother and sister-in-law A. D. and Tami Sanders, of Goodspring; sisters and brothers-in-law Joyce and Charles Trammell, of Ohio and Joan and Don Nelson, of Pasadena; sister-in-law and husband Marilyn and Bob Reed, of The Woodlands; two grandchildren and several nieces and nephews that he thought of as his very own; very best friends Ben and Diane Frisby – Andy thought there was no one any greater than them. After Andy progressed with his cancer, they showed in many, many ways what true friends they are, always there with help and support. Andy was of Methodist faith, graduating from Overton High School and going to Kilgore College, where he was the president of the band. Andy was an avid gardener who was known for sharing with family and friends. Living on the lake gave him the opportunity to fish and relax as he wished. Also his love for Nascar was astounding, never missing a race. He supported his favorite Jeff Gordon. Funeral services are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville with Rev. R. S. Dyess officiating. Burial will follow at Myrtle Springs Cemetery. Family will serve as pallbearers. Visitation with the family will be 6 – 8 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2008 at the funeral home. The time of life between birth and immortality is one of no certain length. In considering this, as we bid farewell to Andy may we be ever more thoughtful, grateful and humble before our Creator as we all await our heavenly reunion. Special thanks to Dr. James Thurow, nurse Carrie Ann and Deborah Palmer, R.N. of Hospice of East Texas. If my will might be done and all I long for could come true, with perfect joy I would choose to share eternity with you. -- Mrs. Andy Sanders Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/23/2008.

Juan Saucillo

Funeral services for Juan Saucillo, 75, of Troup are pending at Autry Funeral Home in Jacksonville. Mr. Saucillo died Monday, May 19, 2008 in Tyler. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/20/2008.

Maxine C. Watson

Funeral services for Maxine C. Watson, 78, of Bullard are scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2008 at the First Baptist Church, Bullard with Bro. Tom Pesnell and Rev. Scott Brown officiating. Burial will follow at Bullard Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Watson died Wednesday, May 28, 2008 in Garland. She was born Oct. 28, 1929 to Oscar and Lucy Crockett. Mrs. Watson was a member of First Baptist Church, Bullard. She was a mental health worker and retired in 1985 from Rusk State Hospital with 14 1?2 years of service. Mrs. Watson was preceded in death by her husband Louie Watson; brothers James Crockett and Audaine Crockett; and sisters Ruby Carnes and Mary Lou Langley. She is survived by daughters and sons-in-law Erma and Robert Thielbar, of Elk City, Okla. and Beverly and Olden Wagoner, of Garland; son and daughter-in-law Jim and Sue Watson, of Bedford, N. H., five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are Edward Crockett, Scottey Benge, Shawn Crockett, Howard Watson, Jamie Watson and Bo Watson. The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/29/2008.

Chester Whitaker

Graveside services for Chester Whitaker, 83, of Dallas are scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2008 at Meador Cemetery in Jacksonville with Rev. James Blaylock officiating. Services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mr. Whitaker died Monday, April 28, 2008 in Dallas. He was born January 13, 1925 in Henry County, KY. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Dallas and Union of Auto Workers. Mr. Whitaker was a retired warehouseman for Purex Corp. Mr. Whitaker was preceded in death by his wife Fanny Lou Whitaker brother William Forest Whitaker and nephew Johnny Purvis. Survivors are daughter and son-in-law Diane and Don Richardson, of Brunson, Fla.; step sons Victor White, of Dallas and Tom White, of Dallas; sister Mamie Purvis, of New Castle, KY.; nephews Forest Dee Whitaker, of Smithfield, KY., Dale Glenn Whitaker, of Smithfield, KY., and Cecil Ray Whitaker, of Pendleton, KY.; nieces Judy P. Wilson, of Shelbyville, KY. and Rhonda M. Carpenter, of Smithfield, KY.; seven grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and several great nieces and nephews. The family received friends from 5 – 7 p.m. Thursday, May 1, 2008 at the funeral home. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress on 5/2/2008.

Mrs. Flossie Florence Willis

Graveside services for Mrs. Flossie Florence Willis, age 95 of Jacksonville will be held Monday, May 19, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Gossett’s Chapel Cemetery with Rev. Robert Modisette officiating under the direction of Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Mrs. Willis was born in Harris County July 29, 1912. She had resided in Jacksonville since 1995 having previously lived in Goodrich, TX. Se was a homemaker who loved her gardening where she was close to nature. She loved crocheting and being a Mother and Grandmother. She and her husband contributed to making Jacksonville the Tomato Capital by growing tomato crops for many years. She was a Baptist. She died on Friday, May 16, 2008 in a Jacksonville hospital. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lee Willis and her son, Carl Curtis Willis. Mrs. Willis is survived by one son, Michael Willis of Jacksonville, four daughters, Rosalee Lawrence of New Caney, TX, Violet Reynolds of New Caney, TX, Patsy Carlson of Houston, TX and Betty Hicks of Robertsdale, AL, eight grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Sunday evening at Boren-Conner Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Published in the Jacksonville Daily Progress from 5/18/2008 - 5/19/2008.