Shelby County Today

09/10/2026

John Thomas Wheeler, 80, was born on October 22, 1945, in Center, Texas, to Oran and Grace Wheeler. He passed away on September 8, 2026, at his home in Pasadena, Texas. 

Graveside service will be held at 2PM on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

John grew up in Center, Texas, where his roots and love of the outdoors became an important part of who he was. He carried those values with him throughout his life, remaining an avid hunter who treasured his time outdoors and the memories made along the way. John was a loving father, grandfather, and children’s orthodontist who dedicated his career to caring for children and bringing smiles to the lives of countless families. 

He is survived by:
Daughter, Rachel Edghill and her husband, Ryan

Beloved grandchildren: 
Grace Caroline
Emmett John 

John was preceded in death by his parents, Oran and Grace Wheeler, and his beloved daughter, Valerie Grace Wheeler. Valerie held a special place in his heart, and her memory remained an enduring part of his life. 

John will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather who cared deeply for his family. He found great joy in being a grandfather to Grace Caroline and Emmett John, whom he adored. Those who knew John will remember his devotion to his family and the special place children held in his heart. His memory as a loving father will live on through the people he loved. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ.

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

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

09/07/2026

Curtis Ray Baggett, 70, of Center, passed away Saturday, September 5, 2026, in Lufkin. He was born July 31, 1956, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to John Baggett and Bonnie Belsha Baggett.

Visitation will be held from 6pm to 8pm, Friday, September 11, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bryan Tyre officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park in Nacogdoches.

Curtis Ray Baggett, lovingly known as husband, Daddy, Uncle & Papaw, was a one-of-a-kind man who lived life with a full heart and an unforgettable spirit. He was a devoted husband, a loving dad, and the kind of person who never met a stranger and always knew how to have a good time. Curtis loved people, music, partying, fishing, good food—especially BBQ—and spending time surrounded by the people he loved. He had a passion for surfing, shuffleboard, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Houston Texans, and all things shoes and fashion. He had his own style, his own way of doing things, and a personality that could light up any room. More than anything, Curtis loved living life, making memories, and bringing people together. His stories, laughter, music, and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

He is survived by:

Wife, Sherry Baggett

Daughters:
Delainey Baggett and LaMarcus
Desirae and husband Thomas Hart

Grandchildren:
Kailie Tate
Alexis Tate
Keira Tate
Skylar Perry
Bronson Perry
Brandt Perry

Preceded in death by parents, John Baggett and Bonnie Belsha Baggett; and brother, Kenneth Baggett.

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

09/05/26

Devon Wayne Walters, 25, of Joaquin, passed away Thursday, September 3, 2026, in Houston.

Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 18, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.

Born January 20, 2001, Devon is the son of Christopher Walters and Janet Bauer Walters. He proudly served in the United States Army as a wheeled vehicle mechanic, though his dream job was always to be a welder. Devon was a video game enthusiast and an animal lover who dreamed of one day having a pet lizard and a farm of his own. He was mellow, humble, and funny, with a personality that brought life and energy wherever he went. Devon loved life deeply and was truly one of the liveliest souls you could ever meet. He was competitive and stubborn, qualities that were uniquely his and that those who loved him will always fondly remember.

He is survived by:
Wife, Fiona Walters of Joaquin

Parents, Chris and Janet Walters of Joaquin

Brother, Kyle Walters of Mansfield, Louisiana

Sisters:
Karen Walters of Joaquin
Lily Walters of Joaquin

Nieces and nephews:
Jeremiah Capps
James Owens
Khloe Walters
Carson Walters

Grandfather, John Bauer of Center

Uncles and aunt: 
Benjamin Bauer and wife Leola of Center
Jonah Bauer and wife Brandy of Arkansas
Suzanne and husband Billy Goad of Eagleville, Tennessee
Phillip Bauer of Center

Cousins: 
Tasha
Dominique
Ken
Elizabeth
Cassidy
Jaeger

Great-aunts and great-uncles:
Cathy and Michael Walters of Stanley, Louisiana
Nancy and Kelly McAnally of Florida

Special-friends: 
Raymond Northcutt of Huxley
Dylan Danies of Center

A host of extended family and friends

Preceded in death by grandparents, Patricia Bauer, Carol Racey, George Walters, and Duane Walters.

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

09/03/2026

David Ray Satterwhite, 78, of Shelbyville, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2026, in Lufkin.

David was born February 8, 1948, at Naval Base San Diego, where his father was stationed in the Navy at the time. He was the son of Jesse “Bo” Satterwhite and Opal Knight Satterwhite.

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lana; his parents; and his brother, John Satterwhite.

David graduated from Nacogdoches High School and joined the United States Navy. He completed boot camp at the San Diego Naval Training Center and later attended Electrician’s Mate School at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center. He proudly served aboard the USS Dyess, a destroyer in the Atlantic Fleet.
David married Lana Stamps on July 25, 1973, and together they raised three daughters, Kelly, Rae, and Teri. The girls liked to say Rae was Daddy’s girl, Teri was Daddy’s favorite, and that he chose Kelly. He loved being their Daddy. Professionally, he worked as an electrician at several places before joining the physical plant staff at Stephen F. Austin State University in 1983, where he remained until his retirement in 2011.

Retirement gave David plenty of time for some of the things he enjoyed most. He spoiled the cats his wife had rescued, and in recent years, he especially enjoyed entertaining the ladies and passers-by at his daughter’s hair salon on the square in Center. If he was not at the shop on the square, he was often making a Sonic run with his favorite sidekick and caregiver, his son-in-law, Heath. 

Growing up, David loved fishing and hunting with his brothers, and throughout his life he enjoyed reminiscing about those good old days. He was always ready with a story to tell. David was patient, kind, generous to a fault, and loved his family dearly. But perhaps the traits that he will be most fondly remembered for were his wonderful sense of humor and playful nature. David always had a joke ready or a teasing remark to share, usually accompanied by a big grin and that familiar twinkle in his eye.

David is survived by:

Daughters and their spouses:
Kelly and husband Clay Leslie
Rae and husband Dave Martin
Teri and husband Heath Bolton

Grandson, Jeffery Satterwhite

Brother, Mike Satterwhite

Sister, Susan Satterwhite

Numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews

Pallbearers will be Clay Leslie, Dave Martin, Alton Knight, Steve Knight, Cliff Satterwhite, and Andrew Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Satterwhite and Heath Bolton. 

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 4, 2026, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. A graveside service will be held at 10am, Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Shady Grove Cemetery in Timpson, with his nephew, Rusty Sanford, officiating.

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

08/31/2026

Norman “Doug” Dobos, 85, of Tenaha, passed away Friday, August 28, 2026, in Tenaha.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon. Bro. Keith Keele will officiate.  Interment will follow at New Prospect Cemetery in Timpson.

Born December 18, 1940, in Marquez, Texas, Doug is the son of James D. Dobos and Magdalena Kuti Dobos. He served in the United States Army. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and watching Westerns.  Doug was known for his playful sense of humor and was quite the prankster. Above all, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by:
Children:
Tirrie Dobos McDonald of Tenaha
Ybry Turner of Houston
Roy Williams and wife Denise of Splendora

Grandchildren: 
Terrin Strahan and husband Brenton of Gary
Therrin Keele and wife Tiffany of Tenaha
Tyler Keele and wife Kelsey of Center

Numerous other grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren

Sister, Joyce and husband Fred Causey of Flynn

Bonus-daughter, Jeannie and husband Kelly Amburn of Neuville

Bonus-son, Brent Risinger and wife Valerie of Carthage

A host of friends

Preceded in death by wife, Opal Pyle Dobos; wife, June Risinger Dobos; sons, Calvin “Cowboy” Santos and Ray Williams; daughters, Diane West and Sandra Anderson; grandson, Taylor Keele; parents, James D. Dobos and Magdalena Kuti Dobos; brother, James Daniel Dobos; and sister, Sophie Dobos Smith.

Pallbearers will be Brenton Strahan, Lewis West, Jason Williams, Myke Smith, Randy Soape, and Aron Elliott. 

Honorary pallbearers will be Therrin Keele, Tyler Keele, Roy Williams, and Brent Risinger.

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

08/28/2026

Michael Ken Warner, a devoted Christian, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 23, 2026, at the age of 75. He was born on August 2, 1951.

Michael was a man of strong Christian faith who loved the Lord and lived his life with a servant’s heart. He was a hard worker, a devoted family man, and a great father. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others touched the lives of many.

Michael married the love of his life, Phyllis, on March 12, 1994. Together, they shared a life filled with love, faith, family, and countless memories. Michael loved nothing more than spending time with his family and watching his children and grandchildren grow.

He spent much of his life in Coushatta, Louisiana, and also lived in Center, Texas. He proudly served in the Army National Guard of Louisiana, continuing his lifelong commitment to serving others.

Michael is survived by:

Wife, Phyllis, and his children and stepchildren.

Oldest son, Travis Warner, and wife Nicole, along with their children, Michael, Cambell, Kassidy, Gage, Braelynn, Braxton, and Brielle.

Son, Anthony Warner, and wife Crystal, along with their children, Gabriel, Mackenzie, Alyssa, and Mikayla.

Stepdaughter, Scharla Wagstaff, and husband Justin, along with their children, Jake, Bryar, and Myla.

Stepson, Shad Sparks, and wife Sandy, along with their children, Caleigh and Cayden.

Michael leaves behind 16 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, who brought tremendous joy and pride to his life.

Family was at the center of Michael’s world. He loved gathering with his loved ones, sharing stories, making memories, and simply being together. His greatest accomplishment was not measured by possessions or success, but by the family he loved so deeply and the lives he touched along the way.

Michael’s faith, hard work, kindness, and unconditional love will be carried on through the generations. He will be remembered as a devoted Christian, a loving husband, a great father, a proud grandfather, and a man who would help anyone who needed him.

Though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His love and legacy will continue through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Michael was deeply loved, faithfully devoted, and will be greatly missed.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

08/26/2026

Patricia Ann Bauer, 78, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 22, 2026, in Center, Texas. Born on August 21, 1948, in Duck Hill, Mississippi, Patricia is the daughter of Lurl Benjiman McAnally and Patricia Ann Henderleiter McAnally.
Memorial service will be held at 3PM on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3751 Loop 500 E, Center, Texas 75935.

Graveside service will be held at 9AM on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

Patricia married John Bauer in 1968 and was a full-time homemaker. She loved her husband, children, and family. She also loved people and enjoyed volunteering her time as one Jehovah’s Witnesses to help people study the Bible. 

She is survived by:

Husband of 58 years, John Bauer

Mother, Patricia McAnally

Sons:
Benjiman Bauer and wife Lee
Phillip Bauer
Jonah Bauer and wife Brandi

Daughters:
Ann Marie Vazquez and husband Robert
Suzanne Goad and husband Billie
Janet Walters and husband Chris

12 Grandchildren:
Tarsheanna (Blake) Norris
Dominque Bauer
Kendall Bauer
Luke Vazquez
Levi Vazquez
Elizabeth Goad
Kyle Walters
Karen Walters
Devon (Fiona) Walters
Lilly Walters
Kassidy Bauer
Jaeger (Zella) Bauer

8 Great-grandchildren:
Michelle Bauer
Nico Bauer
Brielle Norris
Jeremiah Capps
James Owens
Khloe Walters
Carson Walters
Constance Bauer

Brother, Kelly McAnally and wife Nancy

Niece, Kelly Michelle Clark

Nephew, Patrick McAnally

Patricia is preceded in death by her father, Lurl McAnally.

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

08/24/2026

Gary Spring, age 91, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026. He was born in Apple Springs, Texas, on October 1, 1934, to Wayne Milledge Spring and Evie Delle Odom Spring and was the sixth of their seven children.

Gary earned his degree in Accounting from Stephen F. Austin State University, where he was a member of the Lumberjack track and field team and the SFA Sawyers. Following his service in the United States Army, Gary married Greta Jean Poteet. They shared 58 years of marriage before her passing in 2017.
Gary and Greta made their home in Center, Texas, from 1962 until 2000. During those 37 years, Gary worked as a member of the management team at Center Plywood. In 2000, they moved to Houston to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Gary spent the final five years of his life in Kingsland, Texas, where he was once again close to his children and family.

Gary devoted countless hours to coaching his children’s softball, basketball, and baseball teams, investing his time and energy in teaching, and supporting young athletes. He was also an active member of the athletic booster club and proudly served as its president.

Beyond athletics, Gary was dedicated to serving his community. He was a longtime member of the Lions Club, where he served in numerous capacities, including president. He was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Center.

Gary’s greatest legacy, however, lives on through his family. He is survived by:

Children:
Gaye Pickering and husband Sammy
Gina Jones and husband Casey
Gary Spring Jr. and wife Krista

Grandchildren:
Lucas Pickering
David Pickering
Loren Higgs
Zackary Jones
Jackson Jones
Garrison Spring
Grant Spring
Graylan Spring

Great-granddaughter, Hailey Higgs

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Greta, in 2017; his grandson, Graylan, in 2023; and his six siblings: Gilbert Spring, Glenora Spring, Wayne Milledge Spring Jr., Gerry Spring Chichester, Gilmer Spring, and Garner Spring.

Gary will be remembered for his steady character, generous heart, love of family, and lifelong commitment to his community. He quietly invested in the lives of those around him, whether through his family, his work, his church, or the young athletes he coached and encouraged. His legacy will continue through the generations of his family and the many lives he touched along the way.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Gary’s memory to the Graylan Spring Foundation.

8/24/2026

Clayter Anderson Adams, Jr., known as Clayton by family and friends, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026 in Conroe. He was born May 2, 1943 to Clayter A. Adams and Fannie Jetton Adams in Center.

A celebration of life will be held from 2pm to 4pm Saturday, August 29, 2026 at New Hope Church, 1980 FM 2974, Center, Texas.

Clayton served in the United States Army from 1964 to 1966.

He is preceded in death by parents; brother, Otha J. "Chuck" Adams; and sisters, Jackie Adams Williams and Bobbye Adams Bradshaw.

Local survivors are:

Stepson, Steve Gardner of College Station 

Nieces:
Sheila Bradshaw Jones and husband, Kevin of Center
Jan Williams Brown of Center

Nephews:
Andy Williams of Center
Matt Williams of Center
Mickey Adams of Silsbee

Longtime friend, Darlene Simmons of Dayton, Texas