Obituaries
07/02/2020
Margaret Fuller, 89 of Center, passed away Tuesday evening, June 30, 2020 at hospital in Lufkin, Texas.
No services are planned.
She is survived by:
Sister, Arma Bolton of Center
Brother, Jimmy (Frankie) Arnold of Center.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
07/02/2020
Martha Janice Beckham Hudman, 90, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on June 29, 2020 in Garrison, Texas. She was born on July 21, 1929 in Timpson, Texas, to the late Luther Beckham and Kate (Parker) Beckham. Graveside service will be at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 3, 2020 at Woodlawn Cemetery, 600 Garrison St., Timpson, Texas, 75975, with Chris Hudman and Jamie Hawley officiating.
Janice graduated from Timpson High School. She joined the workforce and moved to Houston where she worked as a telephone operator for a short time before returning to Timpson to marry her love, Claude James Hudman. They started their life and family together and remained in Timpson for their 56 years of marriage. Janice loved the Lord and was a faithful servant at her church, she loved teaching Sunday School and vacation bible school. She was a great seamstress and cook. She also loved oil painting and working in her yard and garden. Janice loved going on cruises and vacations with her family. She really enjoyed Facebook and reading books on her kindle. She enjoyed talking on the phone to her sisters and friends. She never missed an opportunity to go shopping, call bingo, or play in the bell choir at Garrison Nursing Home. Most of all she loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and family.
She is survived by:
Her sister, Katherine Seber of Tomball
Daughter, Julie Amos and husband, Dan of Roanoke
Son, Claude W. Hudman and wife Angel of Gallipolis, Ohio
Grandchildren:
Amy and husband James Hawley of Gladewater
Chris and wife Stacey Hudman of Longview
Matthew and wife Holly Hudman of Kilgore
Stephanie and husband David Killingworth of Eale River, Alaska
Rachel Hoyt of Gallipolis, Ohio
Great-grandchildren:
Kalynn
Trent
Jagger
Chesney
Taylor
Koda
Emily
Ethan
Bailey
Chase
Danielle
Janelle
Ali
Olivia
Orrin
Anna
As well as much loved nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Janice is preceded in death by her loving husband, Claude; sister, Merium Harris; and brother, James Beckham.
Family would like to kindly ask that you follow CDC guidelines, wear facial covering if possible as well as social distancing.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
07/02/2020
Annis Stone, 87, of Center, Texas passed away on July 2, 2020 in Nacogdoches, Texas. Born August 26, 1932, in Center, Texas, Annis is the daughter of the late Thomas and Susie Livingston.
The visitation will be held Saturday, July 4, from 5 pm to 7 pm at Mangum Funeral Home. Services will be held Sunday, July 5, at 10 am at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will be held at White Rock Cemetery.
Annis is survived by:
Sons:
Danny Stone and wife Vicky
Gary stone and wife Lisa
WH Stone and wife Tasha
Shawn and wife Laura
Daughters:
Beverly Cole and husband Val
Gayla Windham and husband Johnny
Angelie Blackwell and husband Keith
Jeneva Underbrink and husband Barrett
Sister, Shirley and husband Dean Tenny
33 grandchildren; 53 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband Walter “Boug” Stone; father Thomas Leroy Livingston; mother, Susie Adams Livingston; daughter, Cynthia Wiggins; son-in-law Jerry Wiggins; son-in-law Jerry Ford; sister, Dell Tindol; sister, Armatha Bailey; sister, Beatrice Hendricks; brother, Winford Livingston; brother, Wilford Livingston; and great-grand son, Jonathan Corona, and a host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.mangumfh.net.
Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
07/02/2020
Joel Rodriguez, 22, of Center, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2020, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday, July 4, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 5, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Fausto Balderas officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born September 17, 1997, in Rocky Mountain, North Carolina, Joel is the son of Meliton Sanchez and Maria G. Rodriguez. He served in the United States Navy.
He is survived by:
His mother, Maria G. Rodriguez
Father, Meliton Sanchez
Brother, Jose Sanchez
Grandmother, Juana Gomez
Grandfather, Justino Rodriguez
Uncles:
Roman Rodriguez and wife Adela
Juan Rodriguez and wife Griselda
Marcos Rodriguez and wife Maria
Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins
Girlfriend, Stephanie Lē
Close friend, Virginia Valencia
Preceded in death by his grandparents, Ricardo Sanchez and Josefina Vazquez.
Pallbearers will be Roman Rodriguez, Meliton Sanchez, Raymundo Sanchez, and Adan Ramirez.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
Joel Rodríguez, 22, del Center, falleció el Martes 30 de Junio de 2020, en Center.
La visita se llevará a cabo de 10:00 a.m. a 9:00 p.m., el Sábado 4 de Julio de 2020, en Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. El servicio funerario se llevará a cabo a las 2:00 p.m., el Domingo 5 de Julio de 2020, en Watson & Sons Funeral Home en Center con Fausto Balderas oficiando. El entierro seguirá en Oaklawn Memorial Park en Center.
Nacido el 17 de Septiembre de 1997, en Rocky Mountain, North Carolina, Joel es hijo de Meliton Sánchez y María G. Rodríguez. Sirvió en la Marina de los Estados Unidos.
Le sobrevive:
Su Madre, María G. Rodríguez
Padre, Meliton Sánchez
Hermano, José Sánchez
Abuela, Juana Gómez
Abuelo, Justino Rodríguez
Tíos:
Roman Rodríguez y su esposa Adela
Juan Rodríguez y su esposa Griselda
Marcos Rodríguez y su esposa María
Numerosas sobrinas, sobrinos y primos
Novia, Stephanie Lē
Amiga cercana, Virginia Valencia
Precedido en la muerte por sus abuelos, Ricardo Sánchez y Josefina Vázquez.
Los portadores de laosa será Roman Rodríguez, Melitón Sánchez, Raymundo Sánchez y Adan Ramírez.
Las condolencias y homenajes en línea se pueden enviar en www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
07/02/2020
Eulah Merle Rhame Bates, 96, of Joaquin, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2020, in Nacogdoches.
Graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, July 4, 2020, with visitation one hour prior, at Johnson Cemetery in Joaquin with Bro. J.C. Lewis officiating.
Born January 1, 1924, in Shelby County, Ms. Bates is the daughter of Ransom Steve Rhame and Meta Anna Marie Mueller Rhame. She worked as a head cook in the school system. Her hobbies included sewing and cooking. Ms. Bates was a member of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church.
She is survived by:
Children:
Rita Bates Dickerson of Joaquin
Webb Bates and wife Norma Gene of Joaquin
Milton Bates and wife Kay of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Richard Dickerson and wife Lena
Randy Dickerson
Michael Bates and wife Julie
Amanda Hall and husband Daniel
Thirteen great-grandchildren
Seven great-great-grandchildren
Sister, Ollie Marie Mitchell of Orange
Numerous nieces and nephews; and other relatives.
Preceded in death by her grandchildren, Meta Michelle Bates and David Franklin Bates; great-great granddaughter, Danica Kathryne Felder; parents, Ransom and Meta Rhame; sisters, Onie O’Rear, Mae Latham, Ann Marshall, and Una Pearl Rhame; and brothers, Garland “Dock” Rhame and Ransom “Red” Rhame.
Pallbearers will be Ms. Bates’ great-grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 328, Joaquin, Texas 75954.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
07/01/2020
James T. Marlin Davis, 43, of Wells, Texas, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2020, in Lufkin.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 4, 2020, at Sardis Cemetery in Center with visitation at Watson & Sons Funeral Home beginning at Noon.
Born January 19, 1977, in Carthage, James is the son of the late Gordon Lamar Davis and Joyce Ann Allums Davis. His hobbies included fishing, camping, and watching the Dallas Cowboys. James was a member of First Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ.
He is survived by:
Wife, Paula Sue Davis of Wells
Children:
James T. Davis of Wells
Marianda Davis of Apple Springs
Zachary Davis of Lufkin
Dustin Davis of Beaumont
Hunter Davis
Granddaughter, Alaina Rayne Davis of Etoile
Sisters and brothers:
Tammy Renay Fields of Lufkin
Tina Marie Hight of Center
Gordon Lamar Davis Jr. of Lufkin
Rebecca Davis of Bossier City, Louisiana
Joey Davis of Pollok
Numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Gordon Lamar Davis and Joyce Ann Allums Davis; grandparents, Ernest Monk Davis, James Whiteside, Gladys Wylma Whiteside, Truman Allums, and Florence Allums; two uncles; and one aunt.
Pallbearers will be Bryan Rice, Eric Alejandre, Joshua Fields, Billy Hayes, Dakota Hefley, and Chance McCauley. Honorary pallbearers will be James T. Davis, D’Wayne Luther, and Robert Hight.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/30/2020
Dameon Dewayne Hooper of Texarkana passed away Sunday, June 28, 2020, in Longview at the age of 38. He was born November 27, 1981, in Nacogdoches to parents Damon Decole Hooper and Vonda Gail Murphy.
Dameon worked as a cosmetologist, a logger, and a mechanic. He could do it all. He was a proud member of Street Heat MC Texarkana. He enjoyed riding bikes, his lake time, spending time with family, cutting hair, and listening to music.
Mr. Hooper was preceded in death by his father, Damon Decole Hooper; and brother, Derrick Murphy.
He is survived by:
His fiancé, Jamel McGee
Daughter, Madilyn Leshae Grace Hooper
Mother, Vonda Murphy
Stepdad, Jesse Murphy
Grandmother, “Big Mama” Ann Hooper
Brothers:
Shane Fenley
Dillon Hooper
Andrew Murphy
Sisters:
Jessica Murphy
Shyanna Grant
Uncle, Charles McMillan
Aunts:
Catherne Cloud
Sylvia Plunkett
Ginia Hooper
Pam Adkison
Angela McMillan
Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2020, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Sunset Chapel officiated by Pastor John Bishop. Interment will follow at White Rock Cemetery in Center. Friends and family are invited to a visitation prior to the funeral beginning at noon.
Serving as pallbearers will be Rocky Ross, Ed Stuard, Dustin Goodman, Michael McCarty, Drake Morgan, and Jesse Murphy.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, Nacogdoches.
06/30/2020
J.C. Dawson, 76, left his earthly body behind and entered into eternal life, peace, and joy on June 27, 2020 at home in Silsbee, TX. He left this earth peacefully with his wife and children by his side.
He was born in Timpson, TX on December 27, 1943 to the late Charles Chester Dawson, Sr and Mary Etta (McNies) Dawson. He was one of 8 children being born second to last and was the youngest son.
He met the love of his life, Neva Joyce (Adams) Dawson, in 1965 and they married on January 22, 1966 in Hurstown, TX. They treasured each other for over 54 years of marriage.
J.C. was a retired Construction Superintendent. He and Neva traveled and worked together all over the United States.
He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1977 and shortly thereafter accepted the Lord’s call to spread the love of Jesus and share the Word of God as a Full Gospel Minister.
He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, Poppy, Pop-Pop, and Uncle.
He is survived by:
Wife, Neva Joyce (Adams) Dawson of Silsbee, TX.
Son, Johnny L. Dawson and wife Delores of Brookeland, TX.
Son, Michael S. Dawson and wife Donna of Livingston, TX.
Daughter, Melissa J. Dawson and husband Kenny Whitt of Silsbee, TX.
Thirteen Grandchildren and twelve Great-Grandchildren.
Sister, Beatrice Stuard of Junction City, AR.
Sister, Dorothy Roe and husband Sam of Mauriceville, TX.
Mother-In-Law, Betty Adams of Nacogdoches, TX.
Sister-In-Law, Linda K. Adams of Houston, TX
A number of nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Charles Dawson, Jr., J.W. Dawson, J.P. Dawson, Juanita Riley, and Mary Lou Timmons. Father-In-Law John R. Adams. Brother-In-Law J.T. Adams.
A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.
06/30/2020
Aloysius (Alley) John Koteras, 90, of Timpson, Texas, passed away on June 28, 2020 in Garrison, Texas. He was born on November 17, 1929 in Chappell Hill, Texas, to the late Ignac Koteras and Martha (Nowak) Koteras. A private family Mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 2, 2020 at St. Mary Of The Epiphany Catholic Mission on Hwy 59S, Timpson, Texas, 75975, with Father Nelson Munoz, Celebrant. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Timpson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2020, at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas, from 6-8PM with Rosary beginning at 6:30PM.
Alley grew up in Chappell Hill, Texas. He joined the workforce after graduation. He worked for Mission Mfg. Co, later BYTRU, in Houston, Texas for over 37 years. He joined Ebasco at the nuclear facility in Bay City from 1986 to 1989. Then completed his working career at Marlin Valve from 1990 to 1993. He then retired and moved to Timpson, Texas. He was a high school football referee in the 60’s. He was a musician, playing for a country and western band for over 15 years. He was involved in civic affairs on the Board of Supervisors for Lake Timpson from 1996.
He is survived by:
His children:
Charlotte McMillan and husband Jack
Terri Graves and husband Harvey
Keith Koteras and wife Maria
Grandchildren:
Chelsea
Lindsey
Tommy
Kristin
Kari
David
Step-grandchildren:
Yolanda
Beverly Jr.
Kayla Sue
Michelle
Troy
Great-grandchildren:
Wade
Collins
Avery
Lane
Hunter
Soon to be Case due in August
Brothers:
Frankie Koteras and wife Connie
Gilbert Koteras and wife Patricia
James T. Koteras
Sister, Carol Ann Melia
A host of family and friends that will miss him dearly
Alley is preceded in death by his loving wife, Virgie Henry Koteras; and brother, Albin Koteras.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.taylorfh.net.
Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, is in charge of arrangements.
06/29/2020
Born June 3, 2020, Conner Liam Mikesh, infant son of Brian Mikesh and Elizabeth Wershing of Shelbyville, passed away Friday, June 26, 2020, in Longview.
Visitation will be held from 5pm to 7pm, Thursday, July 2, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Friday, July 3, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
He is survived by:
Parents, Brian Mikesh and Elizabeth Wershing of Shelbyville
Sister and brothers:
Addison Gilchrist of Shelbyville
Joseph Gilchrist of Shelbyville
Braxton Mikesh of Shelbyville
Cayden Mikesh of Shelbyville
James Mikesh of Silsbee
Grandparents:
Stacy Wershing of Shelbyville
J.R. Iribarren of Shelbyville
Melinda Mercer of Louisiana
Tammy Mikesh of Timpson
Great-grandmother, Shirley Leonard of Shelbyville
Uncles and aunts:
Phillip Mikesh and wife Ciera of Kerrville
Sabrina Edenshaw of Shelbyville
Vanessa Goings of Shelbyville
David and Nora Lawhorn of Timpson
Jason Durrett and wife Ashley of Timpson
Numerous cousins and other relatives.
Preceded in death by his grandfathers, Martin Mikesh and Todd Wershing; great grandparents, Fred Leonard and Candi Iribarren; and great-great grandmother, Berniece Wright.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/29/2020
Reba Louella Ford Wood born November 10, 1921 to Walter Eugene and Elma Ballew Ford in Cherokee, TX. She passed away Saturday, June 27, 2020 in Center, Texas with her family. She was 98 years old.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Autry Funeral Home Chapel, Jacksonville, TX with Bro. Danny Dodson officiating.
Viewing will be held from 1 pm until service time on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 at Autry Funeral Home chapel in Jacksonville.
Reba was a member of Central Baptist Church, in Center, TX.
She was preceded in death by her Husband Earl Wood, parents and a grandson Robert Wood.
Left to cherish her memory are:
Sons:
Doug Wood and wife Sharon of Jacksonville
Dan Wood and wife Anita of CA
Daughter, Debbie Grimes and husband Eddie of Center
Sister, Elaine Parrish and husband Glenn of Anton
Brother, Leroy Lusk of Palestine
11 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Clifford Grimes, Paul Wood, Jay Rosales, Glenn McCune and Kayden Byrd.
Funeral services are under the direction of Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville, Texas.
06/29/2020
Jimmy Hooper, 65, of Center, passed away Saturday, June 27, 2020, in Houston.
Visitation will be held from 5pm to 8pm, Thursday, July 2, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10am, Friday, July 3, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at White Rock Cemetery in Center.
Born June 9, 1955, in Andrews, Texas, Jimmy is the son of Billy Wayne Hooper and Ann Crain Hooper. He was a truck driver and his hobbies included hunting and fishing. Jimmy was a member of White Rock Missionary Baptist Church in Center.
He is survived by:
Mother, Ann Hooper of Center
Sisters:
Pam Adkison and husband Howell of Center
Ginia Hooper of Center
Son, Shawn Cole Hooper of Beaumont
Daughter, Shannon Cherie Hooper of Beaumont
Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by his father, Billy Wayne Hooper; son, Derick Dale Hooper; brother, Damon DeCole Hooper; and nephew, Dameon Dewayne Hooper.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
06/29/2020
Annie Ruth Richards, 81, of Tenaha, TX, passed away Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Garrison, TX.
Private family graveside service will be held at Enterprise Cemetery in Shelby County with Chuck Horton officiating.
Annie was born January 21, 1939, in Center, TX, to Clarence E. and Fay Bass.
She is survived by:
Children:
Martha Shelton
Billie Pritchett
Marty Pierce
Edward Richards
Tracy Barr and husband Steve
Grandchildren:
Michelle Whiteside and husband Darrell
Randall Pritchett and wife Heidi
Matthew Shelton and wife Kim
Osha Myers and husband Danny
Ashley Weir and husband John
Chad Barr and wife Darby
Jared Richards
Numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren
Brother, Jerry Bass
A host of family and friends who will miss her dearly.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Jack Pierce; husband, Billy Joe Richards; daughter, Beverly Pierce; great granddaughter, Monica Eaves; and brother, Emmitt Bass.
The family would like to thank Garrison Nursing Home and Affinity Hospice for their loving care.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/26/2020
Jerry Wayne Strong, 69, of Tenaha, passed away Friday, June 26, 2020, in Nacogdoches.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2020, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 29, 2020, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Josh Crawford officiating. Interment will follow at Strong Cemetery in Huxley.
Born November 27, 1950, in Center, Jerry is the son of the late Alvin Lee Strong and Anna Bell Eddins Strong. He worked as carpenter for many years. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.
He is survived by:
His daughters:
Kelsey Strong of Tenaha
Ann Strong and Casey Langford of Longview
Joanna Strong of Hawkins
Brothers and sister:
Alvin Strong of Center
Cecil Strong and wife Karie of Center
Waymon Strong of Longview
Johnnie Higginbotham of San Augustine
T.W. Strong of Carthage
Five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Buddy Strong; and sister, Marie Born.
Pallbearers will be Greg Tomlinson, Brayden Strong, Tyler Beard, Dawson Strong, Darryn Strong, Landon Windham, and Adam Jernigan. Honorary pallbearers will be Jerry’s brothers.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/26/2020
Winnie Myrle Moore Bridges, 86, of Center, passed away Thursday, June 25, 2020, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2020, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m., at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Bobby Bressman, Bro. Kevin Windham, and Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating. Interment will follow at Newburn Cemetery in Shelby County.
Born September 29, 1933, in Shelby County, Myrle is the daughter of the late Charlie Morgan Moore and Katie Bell Moore. She had a long running nursing career of 40+ years. She served as an LVN and worked her way to RN and DON. She held long standing positions of DON at all Shelby County facilities. Myrle was a familiar face at all Shelby County, San Augustine, and surrounding counties hospitals and nursing facilities. She was extremely hard working and had a servant’s heart. Myrle was a member of Order of the Eastern Star Newburn Chapter #346 and First Baptist Church in Center. She was a beloved mom and grandmother. Myrle loved spending time with her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren and also enjoyed gardening.
She is survived by:
Her children:
Terry Bridges of Center
Renee Bridges of Center
Grandchildren:
Brant Bridges and wife Michelle
Mindy Henson and husband Jake
Justin Bridges
Amanda Miller and husband Cody
Kelly Bridges
Kelsey Bridges
Kolton Bridges
Korbin Bridges
Great-grandchildren:
Samantha Metcalf and husband Lane
Cale Henson
Brooklynne Bridges
Connor Henson
Peyton Bridges
Bailey Miller
Colbeigh Bridges
Cullen Henson
Blayne Miller
Knox Miller
Bowie Bridges
Great-great-grandchildren:
Stormy Metcalf
Ariah Bridges
Daughters-in-law:
Jayne Crain
Kim Bridges
Geraldine Bridges
Special friend, Connie Lucas
Preceded in death by her husband, Billy Bridges Sr.; sons, Billy Bridges Jr. and Odie Bridges; mother, Katie Bell Moore Graves Rudd; father, Charlie Moore and wife Billie Hazel Moore; sisters and brothers-in-law, Billie and Joe Brown and Betty and Bruce Bailey; brothers, Charles Moore and Sonny Moore; nephews, Danny Bruce Bailey and Charles Kelly Moore; and niece, Bresa Moore Lunsford.
Pallbearers will be Jake Henson, Brant Bridges, Danny Bailey Jr., Cody Miller, Lane Metcalf, Danbert Collum, Cale Henson, and Connor Henson. Honorary pallbearers will be Billy Bob McAdams and Jimmy Strong.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/24/2020
Bobby Eugene (Gene) Casto passed away June 22, 2020 at his home near Tenaha. He was born August 9, 1934 in Gay, WV to Irvin Parl and Ruby Hudson Casto. He graduated from high school in Nitro, WV and, after working as a tv technician for a few years, joined the USAF. It was while he was stationed at Little Rock Air Force Base that he met Maggie, when he pulled her from a lake as she went down a slide with her mouth open. As he liked to say, he grabbed her and never let go. The two were married on June 5, 1960, following his discharge from the Air Force and he began his career with the Federal Aviation Agency, a career that took the family to six states and thirteen towns. After his retirement they moved to Tenaha, Maggie’s family homeplace.
Gene often remarked he had music in his soul and he enjoyed singing in church choirs and with groups entertaining for nursing home residents. He and Maggie played with the Tulsa Community Band and the Shreveport Metropolitan Concert Band and for several years took their trombone, saxophone and voices to area nursing homes, sharing forties and fifties music.
He liked to say he wasn’t born in Texas but he got here as fast as he could and enjoyed being an associate member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas, sharing early Texas history and glimpses into life on the 1840’s Texas frontier through costumes, black powder rifle demonstrations and music programs.
Gene is survived by his wife, Margaret LeMaster, (Maggie) Casto, his sons Jeff Casto of Allen, TX, Don Casto of Tenaha, a nephew Dann (Lori) of Waynesboro, VA, a sister-in-law Monica Casto of Hunington, WV and his fur buddy and companion, Max.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Donald and his “mother on his wife’s side of the family,” Mabel Harrison LeMaster Yeary.
At his request he will be cremated and a graveside celebration of life will be held later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shelby County Historical Society and Museum, the Fannie Brown Booth Library, or the Methodist Church in Tenaha.
To send condolences and sign the online guest book you may go to www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
06/24/2020
De'Skyshen Rysheen Crockett, 19 of Center, passed away Sunday morning, June 21, 2020 in Nacogdoches. He graduated from Center High School with the class of 2020.
Funeral service is Saturday, June 27 at 1pm in the Roughrider Gym at Center High School. Visitation is one hour prior to funeral service at 12noon. Interment is at Westview Cemetery in Center, Texas with Bishop William Nash officiating.
He is survived by:
Mother, Shenekia Crockett of Center
Father, Roy Dale Crockett of Center
Sisters:
Charlyric McCollister of Center
Jakaylin McCollister of Nacogdoches
Leroniga Patton of Mansfield, Louisiana
Brothers:
Armani Crockett of Center
DeBraelyn Cooks of Tenaha
DeJaylon Cooks of Tenaha
DeCaden Cooks of Tenaha
JyKiveon Hewitt of Logansport, Louisiana
Grandmother, Charlotte Bolton of Center
Grandfathers:
Kenneth Bolton of Center
Leroy Crockett of Carthage
Rommie Lee Goodwin of Tenaha
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home of Center, Texas.
06/23/2020
Juanita Tyler Beasley, 84, of Joaquin, passed away Friday, June 19, 2020, in Joaquin.
Her wishes were to be cremated and a memorial service is being planned for November. Interment will be held at Brooklyn Cemetery in Joaquin.
Born May 12, 1936, in Shelby County, Juanita is the daughter of the late J.T. Tyler and Rachel Shull Tyler. Juanita attended Joaquin High School, during which time she became the first Miss JHS and also graduated as Valedictorian of the Class of 1954. Juanita went on to become a woman pioneer in the credit card banking industry and later retired back to Joaquin. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Logansport, where she served as Lay Leader, President of UMW, and was involved in various other committees. Juanita was a Missionary at Mercy Ships.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Sharron Shanz of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Rachel Shanz of Houston
Tyler Shanz of Joaquin
Nieces:
Lesa Parmer of Joaquin
Vicki Schafer and husband Stephen of Ft. Worth
Nephew, Richard Bixler and wife Carol of Arizona
Great-niece, Addison Parmer of Houston
Great-nephews:
Jeremy Tyler and wife Jacqulyn of Houston
Martin Schafer and wife Juli of Ft. Worth
Many cousins and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents; brother and sister-in-law, Doug and Margie Tyler; sister and brother-in-law, Helen and John Bixler; son-in-law, Jimmy Shanz; and nephew, David Tyler.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
06/22/2020
Elizabeth Annette “Annie” Sanders Person, age 82, of Boerne, TX passed away Saturday afternoon, June 20, 2020, at Vista Verde Manor. She was born July 28, 1937, in Center, Texas, a daughter of the late Weldon Spottswood Sanders and Rowena Ruth Steele Sanders. She is preceded in death by her ex-husband, Capt. Bill Person USAF, and brother-in-law, Lt. Marion H Norman USMC.
Annie is survived by her son, David Person (Janet); four grandchildren, Joseph, Sarah, Christopher, and Amber; her sister, Charlotte Sanders Norman; and Will Person.
She was a retired teacher of 37 years from North East ISD in San Antonio and was known to wear many hats. She drove a school bus, taught 8th grade English, and even coached P.E. during her many years of service.
Annie was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas William Carroll Crawford Chapter in Center, TX. She was passionate about her great great grandfather having fought in the battle of San Jacinto. When she wasn’t watching Dancing with the Stars or taking care of stray animals, she was giving out cakes or scrapbooking for her grandchildren. Her absence is felt greatly by friends and family.
The family will be returning Annie to her home in Center, Texas, at a later date where a celebration of life will be held. Any donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to the Hill Country Animal League at http://hcaltx.org. To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.ebensberger-fisher.com.
Arrangements with Ebensberger-Fisher Funeral Home of Boerne.
06/04/2020
Kevin Francis O’Connor, 58, from Center and Houston, TX was a man who impacted many lives. He passed away on June 3rd, 2020 from pulmonary complications. He’d fought pulmonary fibrosis for seven years and organ rejection after a double lung transplant for three years. He was a fighter, for his family always, his country in the navy, and citizens in peril as a devoted volunteer firefighter. At one house fire, he arrived wearing his oxygen cannula, and took it off himself to give the man rescued from the fire.
He was a man who loved deeply; his God, his wife of 31 years and best friend, Saundra O’Connor, and his two beloved daughters, Kayla O’Connor of Dallas and Mary O’Connor of Houston.
Memorial service will be held Saturday, June 27th at 2:00 pm at Center Christian Fellowship 2471 Hwy 96 N, Center, TX. Due to Covid, masks are welcome and disposable masks will be available.
Kevin owned his own plumbing business, coached Center girls softball, served as president of the girls' softball association, and a member of Center Christian Fellowship for over 20 years. During that time served and taught the Children's Church and Junior High Youth Ministry.
He held onto yard signs from his run for Center City Council, and had recently been considering dusting them off again, even though he was on the transplant list for a lung retransplant.
A peek at his heart is in what he told young men he mentored, “any man can be a father, but it takes a real man to be a dad.”
He was born in Chicago, IL to Mary Angela Geraci and Michael O’Connor. He was the baby of their four children.
He is survived by:
Wife, Saundra O’Connor
Daughters:
Kayla O’Connor of Dallas
Mary O’Connor of Houston
Brothers:
Michael O’Connor and wife, Lisa of Jacksonville, AL
Timothy O’Connor and wife, Lindsey of Castle Rock, CO
Sister, Mary O’Connor Holland and husband Randy of Houston, TX
Mother-in-law, Wanda P. Lackey of Center
Brother and sister-in-laws:
Doug Lackey of Anniston, AL
Steve and June Cubstead of Grapeland, TX
Craig and Debra Hallman of Charleston, SC
Ronald and Vickie Lackey of Munford, AL
Carolyn Lackey of Lincoln, AL
Perry and Samantha Lackey of Munford, AL
Dona Lackey-Malone of Midland, TX
Rodney and Denise Mathews of Joaquin, TX
Numerous nephews and nieces
Special life long friends, Al and Liz Mihalco and Linda Brown
Preceded in death by his Parents, Mary Angela Geraci and Michael O'Connor and Father-in-law, Charles E Lackey.
Services are under the direction of Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
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