Shelby County Today

08/08/2026

Linda Rachal, 78, of Natchitoches, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, in Lufkin, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on October 20, 1947, in Orange, Texas, to the late A.E. Wagstaff and Evie Anthony Wagstaff.

Graveside service will be held at 11AM on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Strong Cemetery in Huxley. 

Linda was raised in Huxley, Texas, and graduated from Joaquin High School. She later met the love of her life, Alton Rachal, and the two shared more than 31 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2020. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and cherished memories.

A gifted cook with an entrepreneurial spirit, Linda turned her passion for cooking into several successful business ventures. She owned and operated restaurants and later founded her catering business, Linda's Kitchen, where she was well known for preparing delicious meals and bringing people together around the table.

Linda was deeply involved in her community and took great pride in supporting the Natchitoches Christmas Festival and being an active member of the Krewe of Dionysos, two organizations that held a special place in her heart. Above all else, she treasured her family. She found her greatest joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and loved ones, making every family gathering a special occasion. Her grandchildren were especially dear to her, and the memories they created together will be cherished forever.

Linda will be remembered for her generous heart, welcoming spirit, remarkable cooking, and the love she poured into both her family and her community. Her legacy of kindness, hospitality, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved her.

She loved the Lord and served through Trinity Baptist Church, Natchitoches.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Harbor Hospice and The Joseph House for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness shown to their beloved mother during her final days. Your gentle hearts, unwavering support, and dedicated service brought comfort to both Linda and her family, and your thoughtfulness will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

Linda is survived by:

Sons:
Lance Murphy and wife Amy of Mont Belvieu, Texas
Chad Murphy of Zavalla, Texas

Grandchildren:
M’lynn Toomes and husband Walker
Mason Murphy and wife Kylee
Morgan Murphy
Cooper Murphy

Great-Grandchildren:
Myles Murphy 
Baby boy Crew Toomes making is arrival any day

She is preceded in death by her husband, Alton Rachal; son, William Bryan Murphy; brother, Jerry Wagstaff; and sisters, Billie Hooper, Mary Guidroz, Ima Hendricks, and Doris Thompson. 

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

08/06/2026

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Larry Michael Chadwick on August 4th, 2026. Mike was born on February 20, 1947. Mike was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend whose life was defined by hard work, unwavering love for his family, and a personality that could brighten any room.

Services for Mike Chadwick will be held on at 4pm, Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Good Hope Baptist Church with Bro John Raines and Bro Tim Lovelady officiating. Visitation will be held on the same date prior to the service beginning at 3pm.

Mike spent his childhood growing up in Galena Park and Gary, Texas, and later made his home in Timpson, Texas, where he built a life full of love, laughter, and lasting memories.

Above all else, Mike was a family man. He shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Leisa, and together they built a life centered around family. He was the proud father of four children, a devoted grandfather to his treasured grandchildren, and a proud great-grandfather to one precious great-grandchild. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and nothing brought him more joy than making them laugh, spending time with them, and creating memories they will cherish forever.

Mike proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, answering the call with courage and honor. After returning home, he spent many years working in the coal mines before later becoming a truck driver. No matter the job, he was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and determination to provide for the people he loved.

When he wasn't working, Mike enjoyed fishing, camping, and traveling. He loved being outdoors and was always ready for the next adventure. He was a proud Timpson Bear fan who made many appearances at the games.

Mike never met a stranger. He was a natural prankster, a kidder who loved making people laugh, and he never passed up the chance to show off or tell a good story. His quick wit, playful spirit, and infectious smile made him the life of many gatherings. He had a special way of making people feel welcome, and those lucky enough to know him will forever remember the laughter he brought into their lives.

Mike will be remembered for his strength, his generous heart, his sense of humor, and his unwavering devotion to his family. He taught those around him the value of hard work, loyalty, and never taking life too seriously. His legacy will live on in the stories shared around family tables, the laughter he inspired, and the laughs he gave so freely.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and sister.

He is survived by:

Beloved wife, Leisa of 28 years

Children:
Andrea Chadwick of Carthage
Bryan Chadwick and wife Mindy of Forney
Amber Mangrum and husband Michael of Lufkin
Brooke Bowlin Morrow of Timpson

Cherished grandchildren:
Tristan Samford of Center
Trace Brittain of Center
Kade Chadwick of Forney
Devon Morrow and wife Sierra of Goosecreek South Carolina
Brylee Barbee of Lufkin
Kody Chadwick and fiancé Bailey Byers of Forney
Caleb Morrow of Timpson
Kaitlyn Chadwick of Forney
Dayton Mangrum of Lufkin
Landry Bowlin of Timpson

One great-grandchild, Damien Morrow of Goosecreek South Carolina

Sisters:
Patricia Maddox
Andy Chadwick

Many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in knowing that his love, laughter, and larger-than-life spirit will remain with us always. His life was a blessing, his love was a gift, and his memory will forever be a source of comfort and joy to all who knew him.

Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.

08/06/2026

Roosevelt King, age 78, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026. He was born August 6, 1947 to Roosevelt King Sr. and Marguerite Jackson King.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 2pm at Mount Horeb Baptist Church, 426 County Road 102, Center, Texas 75935. Pastor Steven Standley of East Liberty Baptist Church will officiate.

Visitation is from 10am until 5pm on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center.

A proud United States Army Vietnam veteran, Roosevelt served as a Corporal in Field Artillery and was a Purple Heart recipient. He was a graduate of East Liberty High School and a lifelong East Texan. Throughout his career he worked in upholstery, the railroad, sewing machine repair, and as an over-the-road truck driver. After retirement, he opened and operated a group home, continuing his lifelong commitment to helping others.

Roosevelt enjoyed fishing, playing dominoes, listening to the blues—especially Johnnie Taylor—and spending time at his beloved family farm, affectionately known as “The Place.”

He is survived by:

Daughter, Tracy King

Son, Stacy King

Sister, Dr. Jacqueline Pierre Adams

Grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roosevelt King Sr. and Marguerite Jackson King; and his sisters, Minnie Pearl King and Gloria Jean King.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, 57 County Road 2230, Center, Texas 75935. Interment will follow at Haley Bush Cemetery, San Augustine, Texas.

08/05/2026

Barbara Bowlin Scott, 85, of Haslam, TX, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026, at East Texas Hospice Care in Tyler, TX.

She and Bobby managed and operated Eddie’s Service Station after her mother’s retirement.

Barbara is survived by:
Her only grandson, Merit Campbell, who is the last of her family legacy.

In addition, she is survived by her only son, Donny Campbell, and stepdaughter Terri Scott Foley.

Her lifelong best friend, Susie Lum Ezernack, the members of Joaquin Senior Citizens and members of the Logansport Missionary Baptist Church.    

She remained a devoted Presbyterian throughout her life and was baptized along with her parents.

An only child, Barbara was proceeded in death by her parents, Mack Edward “Eddie” Bowlin and Doris Ware Bowlin. 
And, beloved husband, Bobby Scott.

A Memorial Service for her friends will be held at a later date.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

08/05/2026

Presider Melton Ray Thompson, 81, passed away Saturday night, July 25, 2026 in a Longview Hospital. He was born on May 19,1945 to Tennessee Thompson, Father and Jennie V. (Davis) Thompson, Mother in San Augustine, Texas.

Visitation is from 10am to 6pm on Friday, August 7, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Funeral service is at 1pm on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, 908 Daniel Street, Center, Texas.

He attended school in Shelbyville, after which he served in the United States Army in Vietnam from 1968 through1973, He was in the 5th Brigade and served as a chef. Upon leaving the army he worked for 30 years at Bridgestone Firestone as a tire technician.

Presider Thompson joined Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ at an early age, He served faithfully as a Shepherd in Oklahoma and Texas, Presider Thompson was the County Prince in Tyler, Texas and State Presider for Arkansas.

He was an avid Guitar player, loved fishing, baking, bicycling and walking.

He is preceded in death by brothers, Marvin Ray Thompson, O'Neal Thompson, Claude Thompson, Fredrick Thompson, Earsie Thompson, Elzie Thompson, and Donell Thompson; and sisters, Mamie Thompson Bluford and Mary Thompson Young.

He leaves to cherish his memory:

Loving wife, Elder Dephine Horn Thompson of 12 years

Brothers:
Archie Thompson (Sharon)
Stephen Thompson (Feleshia)
Leonard Thompson

Sisters:
Clara Thompson Dergin (Gilbert)
Ruthie Thompson

Children:
Chaquana Thompson
Shakietha Thompson
Marshonda McCray
Felander Sanders
Howard Van Knight
Sgt. Marcus Horn (Michelle)
Marcus Sanders

Grandchildren (Tiaunna and Carnisha)
3 great-grandchildren (Damoriae, Danny and Destin)
8 great-great-grandchildren

Special nephew, Neil Thompson (Amelia)

Special cousin, Deborah Miller (Victor)

A host of nephews, nieces and cousins.

Presider Thompson was loved by everyone he encountered and he leaves a host of family and friends who will always remember him.

Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home in Center, Texas.

08/04/2026

Barbara Louise Lout, Bobbie, 88, of Pittsburg, Texas, passed away on August 3, 2026, peacefully in her sleep. She was born on May 2, 1938, in Shreveport, LA, to Eldredge and Mildred Permenter.

Funeral service will be held at 10AM on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating. Interment will follow at Holly Springs Cemetery in Shelbyville.

Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 9AM at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel, 420 San Augustine St., Center, Texas 75935.

She is preceded in death by her husband, P.L. Lout; parents, Eldredge and Mildred Permenter; brother, Calvin Permenter; and sister, Peggy Parker.

Bobbie graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1957 and was a cheerleader.

Bobbie lived in Breaux Bridge, LA in her younger years but moved back to Shelbyville to the old home place. After her father passed by in 1963 the family built a home where she lived with her mother and there, she raised her two girls. She worked at Huxley Bay Marina and made many friends along the way. She met P.L. Lout while working at the old KB Café in Center and they married in 1973 and moved the family to Port Arthur, TX. Soon after she began working at the Fina Oil & Chemical Company as a pumper and operator. She lived a good productive life with P.L. In Nederland for many, many years. After his death she moved to Huxley, TX and then to Pittsburg.

Bobbie was a phenomenal woman and to know her was to love her. Bobbie loved people. She had the kindest, most caring heart anyone in this world could ever have. She was a very hard worker and when she set her mind to something, she did it. She absolutely loved her crafts! From refinishing furniture, painting, sewing, making clothes and dolls and even painting beautiful flowers on shirts. Bobbie loved gardening and tending to beautiful landscapes at her home. Seeing such beauty around her brought her so much joy in life. Bird feeders and bird baths were a must in her yard because watching them out in her picturesque yard just brought such happiness to her. She loved to cook and if you ever got to eat Bobbie’s cooking you couldn’t wait to eat again at her table. Her Fina Refinery family affectionately called her “The Biscuit Lady” and we could all agree with that because she always made the most amazing homemade biscuits. Throwing big family gatherings was a must in her life and lifted her spirits like no other. Family and friends were a big part of what brought joy to her life, and she adored having them all come together in such a fashion, especially at Christmas. That truly was such a magical time of year, it was like wonderland in her house for the holidays and even birthdays.

Bobbie has touched more hearts and souls in her lifetime than we could ever imagine. She had a light in her eyes and a fire in her soul that was just unforgettable.

She adored her fur baby Marley that brought her so much joy after P.L. passed. She always said she didn’t want a dog…until he came along! He was so spoiled rotten and he knew it too. He went everywhere with her in his wonderful 13 years of life. From Nederland to Huxley and then to Pittsburg where he spent the last years of his life.

She is survived by:

Children:
Cathy Swearingen
Jimmie Taylor
Diane Laughlin

Grandchildren:
Chelsea Swearingen
Melanie Laughlin
Shawn Laughlin
Tiffany Laughlin
Chris Lout (Lori)
Heather Davis (Kevin)

Great-grandchildren:
Lyndsee O’Day
Austen O’Day
Hailey Alston
Gracie Polk
Abi Lout

Great-great-grandchild, Abram Ferrar

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.

08/04/2026

Bettie Louise Lumpkin, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 1, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on March 7, 1940, in Seguin, Texas, Bettie is the daughter of Leon Wilson Carroll and Ima Lousie Brown Carroll. She served faithfully at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of Bridge City and Shelbyville Methodist Church of Shelbyville Texas. She was a lifelong member of her church choirs, served on numerous committees along with Methodist Women’s groups including more than 20 years as president of the Shelbyville Methodist Women's group. As she raised her three girls she supported them in their numerous activities including PTA, band and athletic boosters, as 4-H leader, and Sunday school teacher. Her life revolved around her family and church. She was a faithful servant of God.

Bettie retired from the Orangefield School district after 30 years as an administrative assistant, spending the majority of that time within the Special Education department. She was an active member of the Business and Women’s Professional organization. After retirement she and Dell Ray were able to fulfill their lifelong dream of having a place in the country. Many precious family memories have been made at “the farm.”

She is survived by:

Husband of 66 years, Dell Lumpkin of Shelbyville

Daughters:
Trina Reagan and husband Randy of Nacogdoches
Dell Roach and husband Jay of Texas City

Grandchildren:
Adam Schisler and girlfriend Angela
Jerrod Schirck
Roland Schisler and wife Kayla
Kristina Scogin and fiancé Patrick Parfait
Morgan Roach

Great-grandchildren:
Kaden Schirck
Rilyn, Emberly and Faelyn Schirck
Ryleigh, Abigail and Lukas Schisler
Gabriel and Avriel Scogin
Dakota Schisler

Many extended family members

Special lifelong friends, Billye Bradberry, Wanda Wiggins, and Milla don Rampmire. 

She is preceded in death by parents, Leon Wilson Carroll and Ima Louise Brown Carroll; daughter, Dyann Rene’ Schisler; sister, Regina Carroll Evoritt; grandson, Justin Schirck; and great-grandsons, Wade Schisler and Everett Scogin.

Visitation will be held from 5:00pm – 7:00pm, Friday August 7, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center; Funeral services will be held at 11:00am, Saturday August 8, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Reverend Sherry Harding officiating. Interment will follow at Shelbyville Cemetery in Shelbyville. 

Pallbearers will be Adam Schisler, Jerrod Schirck, Roland Schisler, Kaden Schirck, Randy Reagan and Jay Roach. Honorary pallbearers include Kristina Scogin and Morgan Roach. Pallbearer in memoriam includes Justin Schirck. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Shelby County Outreach Ministries at 930 Shelbyville Street, Center, Texas 75935 or online at shelbycountyoutreach.org.

Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.

07/30/2026

Rosalie Ruby Grant, 61, of Center, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, in San Augustine, Texas. She was born on April 29, 1965, in the Philippines, to Alfredo Ruby and Leonarda “Melanie” (Castro) Ruby.

Rosalie earned her associate’s degree from American River College in Sacramento California and began her career as an Administrative Assistant for the State of California Highway Patrol Division. She dedicated over 35 years to the department before retiring. Rosalie was a dedicated and hardworking woman who took great pride in everything she did.

She married the love of her life, Bryce Grant, and the two shared over 36 wonderful years of marriage together. Rosalie was a devoted wife and mother who was a beautiful example of love, strength, and commitment. She had a caring heart and found great joy in taking care of others. Her kindness, compassion, and loving spirit were evident to all who knew her.

Rosalie enjoyed dancing and staying active, especially through Zumba. She brought joy and energy wherever she went and will be remembered as a loving, caring person who cherished her family and the many lives she touched.

She is survived by:

Husband, Bryce Grant
 
Daughter, Ashley Grant-Zucker and husband Daniel
 
Mother, Melanie (Castro) Ruby
 
Sisters:
Rosemin Ruby and husband Narvaez
Lei Ruby
 
Grandson, Bradley Zucker
 
Rosalie is preceded in death by her father, Alfredo Ruby.

In accordance with Rosalie’s wishes, she will be cremated. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net

Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
 

07/30/2026

Walter Thomas departed this life on Saturday, July 25, 226 at Carpenter House in Shreveport. He was born on February 02, 1943 in Center, Texas to the late Adline and Jessie Thomas.

Funeral service is at 11am on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 96 CR 4356, Tenaha, Texas with Rev. Johnny Jones, Pastor; Pastor Bryon Coutee, Jr., Officiant; and Pastor Johnnie Johnson, Eulogist. Visitation is from 10am until 6pm Friday, July 31, 2026, at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment is at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

Walter a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend attended school at Jericho. He became a truck driver and retired in 2009. He had many passions, driving was one of them.

Walter was an avid fisherman (not on a professional level), it was just something he really loved to do. If the weather and time was right, you could definitely find him somewhere casting out two, maybe even three lines. If Walter was not fishing, he would usually be out in the yard doing something. He would mower, pick the weeds out of his grass, watch cars pass by so that he could wave at people. Walter was a dance machine for those that didn't know, you could put on green onions and he would do his magic. He was the life of nay and all parties, and loved to get on the dominos table. You could catch him on Sunday evening watching western. Walter had an open mind and kind heart. He loved people and gave them no judgement just plenty of laughs and conversation. Walter never met a stranger, he was always helping others in anyway he could. His most important and joyous title was being called Pawpaw by all the grandkids. Lastly, he loved singing in the Blount Chapel Baptist Church Choir.

Walter was united in Holy Matrimony to Edith Mae Sanders on February 10, 1973. To this union four children were born. They celebrated 53 years of marital bliss together.

Walter is now reunited with his mother and father, Adline and Jessie Thomas; brothers, Robert Earl Thomas, Willie Rellford; and sisters, Vera Lee Garrett, Mary Williams, Katherine Nicholas, Jessie Lee Clark, Jessie Mae Barton, Velma Higgins, and Nannie Lee Thomas.

Walter leaves to cherish his memories:

Wife, Edith Mae Thomas

Daughter, Candace Thomas

Sons:
Kelvin Barnes of Center
Alex Thomas (Donna) of Center
Eldric Thomas of Center
Jeremaine Thomas (Ashley) of Center

Sisters:
Debra K. Thomas of Longview
Kathy Thomas of Philadelphia, PA

Brother, John A. Thomas of Texas City

Special auntie, Ozell Garrett

Sisters-in-law:
Belinda Rellford of Mansfield, LA
Elaine Greer of Tenaha
Patry Casey of Tenaha
Joyce Garrett (Jackie) of Beaumont

God-child, JaCobe Garrett

Brother-in-law, Rodrick Ratcliff

Special friend, James Willie Moore of Tenaha

Grandchildren:
Natasha (Kareem) Rashid
Shakobe Bell
Brianna Thomas
Kalina Ghomas
Jaylen Thomas
Elijah Thomas
Kam Thomas
Akyia Thomas
Charmaine Thomas
Walter Jr.
Cookie Lyrique Thomas
King Braxton I
Brielle and Braylon Page-Williams

He had a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.