09/05/2018

Robert Windham, 73, passed away on Monday, September 3, 2018, at his home in Louisville. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, September 7th, at Porter Funeral Home, with Rev. Jay Murphy officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 11:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Interment will be in Salem Baptist Cemetery near Lake, MS. Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

Mr. Windham was born June 28, 1945, in Texas. He worked in maintenance most of his life, most recently at Diamond Grove in Louisville. He and his wife moved from Scott County to Louisville in 2002. He attended Shiloh Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dovie Mae and Earl Lee Windham.

He is survived by his wife, Jo Monk Windham of Louisville; daughters, Tina Thigpen and Wendy Victory, both of Louisiana; a step-daughter, Tonya Mayo of Louisville; a son, Jody Wilson of Texas; a sister, Betty Miller of Texas; eleven grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild.

Pallbearers will be Dalton Mayo, Will Bane, Floyd Monk, Joey Monk, Zack Thigpen, and Richard Miller.

Funeral services under the direction of Porter Funeral Home, Louisville, Mississippi.

09/05/2018

Emily Hernandez-Garcia, 17, of Center, passed away Sunday, September 2, 2018, in Center.

Visitation will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday, September 7, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 8, 2018, at St. Therese Catholic Church in Center. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Born June 5, 2001, in Nacogdoches, Emily was the first child of Luis Humberto Hernandez and Cristina Garcia. She was currently a senior at Center High School, where she was an excellent student and even more amazing friend. Emily loved playing soccer and her favorite color was yellow. Her lovely smile will be dearly missed by her family and friends forever. 

She is survived by
Parents: Luis Humberto Hernandez and Cristina Garcia of Center

Sisters:
Julissa Hernandez-Garcia of Center
Joseline Hernandez-Garcia of Center
Janet Hernandez-Garcia of Center
Estefany Hernandez-Garcia of Center

Brothers: 
Luis H. Hernandez-Garcia of Center
Luis Fernando Jr. of Center

Grandmother: Janny Martinez of Center

Uncles and Aunts:
Isidro Hernandez and wife, Yuliana, of Center
Yuridia Hernandez of Center
Janny Florez of Center
Patty Garcia of Nacogdoches
Armando Gonzalez of Center
Jesus Martinez of Center
Benon Martinez of Center

Cousin: Angela Cruze of Center

Godfather: Juan Vazquez of Mansfield, Louisiana

Preceded in death by
Godfather: Martin Muñoz

Pallbearers will be Luis Hernandez, Isidro Hernandez, Armando Gonzalez, Jesus Martinez, Juan Vazquez, Luis Fernando Jr. and Ulises Santos.

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

09/04/2018

Robert B. Flores, 62, of Grand Cane, Louisiana, passed away Sunday, September 2, 2018, at his residence.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 7, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Ronnie McClellan and Bro. Pat Cobb officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Mr. Flores was born September 9, 1955, in Mansfield, Louisiana, to Joseph “Joe” B. Flores and Joyce Wilson Flores. He graduated from Mansfield High School and went on to work in the oilfield, acquiring various certifications in the industry. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, refurbishing “junk”, and watching LSU Football. Mr. Flores was a Lifetime NRA Member and was also a member of Gloster Baptist Church in Gloster, Louisiana.

He is survived by
Wife of 31 wonderful years: Cherrie Cook-Flores of Grand Cane, Louisiana

Daughters:
Jessica Horwitch and husband, David, of Los Angeles, California
Michelle Flores of Denver, Colorado

Very close stepson: Derek Deas of Stonewall, Louisiana

Granddaughter: Annabelle Horwitch of Los Angeles, California

Brother and Sisters:
Randy Flores
Debbie Banks
Sharron Cook
Darla Turner and husband, Ray

Mother-in-law: Carol Iris Cook of Grand Cane, Louisiana

Brother-in-law: Christian Cook of Keatchie, Louisiana

Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives

A host of friends

Faithful Companions: 
Mr. Tux
Rocky 

Preceded in death by
Parents: Joseph “Joe” B. Flores and Joyce Wilson Flores. 
Father-in-law: Charles M. Cook
Nephew: Christopher Banks

Pallbearers will be Christian Cook, Ray Turner, Scott Kelley, Glenn Wayne Kelley, Colton Cobbs and Dwayne Restivo. Honorary pallbearers will be Terry Sebren, Mel Cox, Bennie Cox, Albert Stoma, Blake McCullough and Bobby “Hootie” Henderson.

A special thanks to Kathy Thomas for her love and generosity and St. Joseph’s Hospice for their compassionate care.

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

09/02/2018

Funeral Service for Warren McSwain will be at 10:00 AM on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Charles Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Old Salem Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home. 

Warren G. McSwain was born April 27, 1921 in San Augustine County, Texas; a sixth generation of Angus MacSween who sailed to America in 1802 from Island of Skye in Scotland. Warren died September 2, 2018 in Nacogdoches, Texas.

He survived by one son, Travis L. McSwain and wife, Donna of Cypress, Texas; two daughters, Jeanette Mena & husband, Lynn of Broaddus, Texas, and Edna Rae Carroll and husband, Robert (Bob) of Tomball, Texas; twelve grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, thirteen great-great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Ruth Brown Armand of Spring, Texas and Judy Brown of Paradise Valley, Arizona.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years, Lillian Brown McSwain; his son, Warren Gene McSwain, an infant son, Ronnie Clark McSwain, also three brothers; Leon McSwain, Elton McSwain, and Clarence McSwain, and one sister, Agnes Barber Tyler.

Warren attended school in the Salem Community, and in old Camp Worth, Texas. He married his wife on January 13, 1940. He worked in logging and farming; then during WWII he worked in the shipyards in Orange, Texas. He returned to Shelby County after the end of the war and worked driving a truck. Later, he worked for Mr. L.C. Smith on the One Gallus Ranch as foreman; then as a Diesel Engine Mechanic. He operated a bulldozer for Mr. Robie Koonce, doing construction work. He also worked for Mr. P.O. Sample for many years. He helped maintain and care for the Community Water System near his home.

After retiring, he enjoyed gardening; especially growing tomatoes and other vegetables. He gave tomatoes and other vegetables to neighbors and relatives.

He and his wife were lifelong members of Old Salem Missionary Baptist Church. He was an ordained Deacon of the church, a song leader and Sunday School Teacher. For many years, he helped care for the Cemetery. He rarely missed the Homecomings. He participated in raising funds for the upkeep of the cemetery.

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

09/02/2018

Osburn Franklin “Butch” Adams, 90, of Shelbyville, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2018, at his residence, surrounded by his most cherished loved ones.  He was born March 13, 1928, to Henry Franklin Adams and Maudie Soape Adams in the McClelland Community of Shelbyville.  

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, September 3, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 4, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Kevin Windham officiating.  Interment will follow at Adams Cemetery in Shelby County.

O.F. Adams was born and raised in Shelbyville, on land that he was proud to eventually own and keep in his family. Butch was one of the youngest of 14 children. He met the love of his life, Laverne Goings Adams, and they were united in holy matrimony on December 9, 1945. He earned his nickname of “Butch” by butchering for Herbert Sanders in 1946. 

In 1951, he became a salesman for Wilson Meat Company.  From 1953 until 1973, he owned and operated O.F. Adams Grocery at the intersection of Highway 147 and 87. Butch served as Constable for Precinct 2 from 1966 until 1989. He was also a substitute mail carrier for the United States Postal Service from 1969 until 1974, when he became a full-time mail carrier. He served in that capacity until he retired in 1988. Butch was also a member of the Masonic Lodge, recently receiving his 65th year pin.  He was distinguished in that he chose both paths of the Scottish Rite and the York Rite. Under the Masonic Lodge, he also became a member of the Sharon Shriners for over 55 years.

He is survived by
Wife of 72 years: Laverne Adams

Daughter: Melba Lee

Grandchildren:
Jamie Hagler and wife, Holly
Conda Adams
Stacy Warr

Great-Grandchildren:
Tristyn Crelia and husband, Phillip
Casey Adams
Denver Kalenevitch
Ashlynn Moore
Alyssa Moore
Caden Warr

Great-Great-Grandchildren:
Saylor Crelia
Sutton Crelia
Caiden Adams

Special Friends:
James and Regina Raymond
Lenny Dupuis and Sandra Wheless

Preceded in death by
Children: O.F. Adams Jr., Marsha Singletary
Great Grandson: James Chance Hagler
Parents: Henry Franklin Adams and Maudie Soape Adams
Siblings

Pallbearers will be James Raymond, J.B. Raymond, Phillip Crelia, Lenny Dupuis, Britt Harbison and Shannon Metcalf.  Honorary pallbearers will be James Hagler and his coffee drinking buddies.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Adams Cemetery Fund, c/o Jamie Hagler, 258 CR 2001, Center, Texas 75935.

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

08/30/2018

George Travis Clay Jr., 85, of Timpson, Texas passed away on August 30, 2018 in Nacogdoches, Texas.  Born May 10, 1933, in Timpson, Texas, Travis is the son of the late George Travis Clay Sr. and Gladys (Frederick) Clay.  Travis attended Timpson High School. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at the age of 13.  After high school, he joined the Army where he served two years and was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal.  In 1956 he married Bobbie Linthicum, and together they had two children, Dean and Sandy.  Travis came from a long line of brick masons dating back to the 1700’s.  He followed in his dad’s footsteps and worked as a brick mason up until the age of 75 years.  Travis received his 50 year life membership award to the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers.  His work can be seen throughout East Texas.  

Travis was a unique soul who enjoyed joking around with family and friends. He loved being with his granddaughter’s Mandy and Lucy his buccaroo’s. It was always a competition of who was loved the most Gran Gran or Pa Pa. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, laying brick, gardening, riding on his tractor, and visiting with friends and family.  

He will be greatly missed. Travis is survived by:
His wife, Bobbie

Their children: 
Dean Clay of Garrison, Texas
Sandy Walters and husband Bobby of Yoakum, Texas

Grandchildren: 
Mandy Marshall and husband Nathan of Timpson, Texas
Lucy Walters of Yoakum, Texas 

Great-granddaughter: Abigail Marshall of Timpson, Texas.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Travis and Gladys Clay; brothers and sister in laws, Harold and Wanda Clay, Richard and Judy Clay; and daughter in law, Ricann Clay.

Those of you that have been following him this past year, know that he’s had many ups and downs, some might say adventures. But over the past months he’s managed to pull it all together. He left us knowing how loved we were. I think we can all say Travis has had a full life. In fact some might say – 9 lives. He has fought cancer, other illnesses, and repeatedly  managed to recover and live another day to boss his family around. They wouldn’t have it any other way. But there comes a time that only God knows – a time to die and go home. A place where there is no more pain or sorrow, a place to be with old friends and family and possibly a place to lay a few brick.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all those who have supported us during this time of loss.

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.

08/30/2018

Funeral Service for Dorothy Young King age 83, of Garrison, Texas will be at 2:00 pm, Saturday, September 1, 2018 at Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas.

Mrs. King died Monday, August 27, 2018 in Nacogdoches, Texas. She was born June 12, 1935 in Mississippi.

Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:00 pm September 1, 2018, before service at Garrison Funeral Home.

Family being served by Garrison Funeral Home

08/29/18

Funeral service for Louise Gaddy Kruse age 78, of Garrison, Texas will be at 2pm, Friday, August 31, 2018 at Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas. Burial will be in Caledonia Cemetery, Rusk Co.

Mrs. Kruse died Monday, August 27, 2018 in Longview, Texas. She was born April 2, 1940 in Rusk Co., Texas.

Visitation will be from 1:00 – 2:00 pm, Friday, August 31, 2018 at the Garrison Funeral Home, Garrison, Texas

08/27/2018

Services for Carolyn Sue Campbell Brown of Longview, Texas, will be held Wednesday, August 29, at 10am at Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview. Visitation will be Tuesday, August. 28, from 6-8pm at Rader Funeral Home in Longview, Texas.

Carolyn Sue Campbell Brown, 81, of Longview, Texas, passed away on Saturday, August 25, 2018. Carolyn was born in Center, Texas, on August 24, 1937, to Emmitt and Twila Campbell. She met Bill Brown from Tenaha in the summer of 1953, and that began a relationship that led a marriage of 60 years. After proudly graduating from Center High School (Class of 1956), Carolyn went on to further her education at Kilgore College, where she was a Kilgore Rangerette. 

She and Bill Brown married in 1958, and soon had their two oldest sons, Mike and Mark. Because Bill worked in the oil and gas business, they moved often, living in a variety of places (College Station, Texas; Shreveport and Houma, Louisiana; and then to Tyler, Texas) before moving to Carthage. Once the boys were attending school in Carthage, Carolyn decided it was time to finish her education. She and a group of young women would commute daily to Nacogdoches to attend Stephen F. Austin University, where she earned her elementary teaching degree.

After Carolyn received her teaching degree, she and Bill moved to Shreveport, Louisiana. Carolyn taught seventh grade for one year. Then she and Bill had their last son, David, in 1968. With three boys to raise, and another move and transfer to Lafayette, Lousiana, Carolyn decided it was time to retire from teaching. The family moved once again to Houston in 1976, where they lived until moving to Longview in 1981. 

Carolyn loved people, and loved working with people, too. She actively served in her church, Greggton United Methodist, where she was a member of the Welmaker Joy Sunday School class for over 30 years. Carolyn served as the Meals on Wheels Coordinator for some time, and also coordinated the annual United Methodist Women’s pecan sale. 

When she wasn’t serving at the church, Carolyn loved to visit Center and all of her friends and family in there. One thing that she really enjoyed was returning for various festivals and Center Roughrider Alumni events. She maintained numerous long lasting friendships over the years with friends from childhood, and if you met Carolyn, you would soon hear all about Shelby County and her friends and family there.

Not only will Carolyn be remembered for her love of her family, her home place, and her church, she will also be remembered for her love of Aggie football. During their 60 year marriage, Bill and Carolyn were two fervent Aggie fans; rarely did a home game take place without them being in the stands at Kyle Field to cheer on their beloved team. She and Bill loved going together to Aggie games every chance they could.

Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents, Emmitt Campbell and Twila Biggers Campbell, and sister, Mary Campbell Keeter. Family members left to cherish her memory are her husband, William A. (Bill) Brown, of Longview; her son, Mike, and his wife, Ann of Tyler; son, Mark Brown of Allen, Texas; and son, David, and his wife, Jeanna, of Henderson. Immediate family members also include grandsons, Noah and Clay Brown of Tyler; and granddaughters, Piper and Madyn Brown of Henderson. She will also be missed by so many of her cousins and longtime friends, of which there are too many to name.

08/27/2018

Earnestine Johnson (70) of Center, Texas died August 23, 2018 at a local nursing facility.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, Center, Texas at 11:00am.  Mrs. Johnson was born April 22, 1948. Bro. James Wall officiating and Bro. Freddie Wilson, Eulogist. 

Mrs. Johnson is survived by:

Husband: Johnnie Johnson of Center, Texas 

Son: Nakia (Tammy) Johnson of Center, Texas 

Daughters:
Dorothy Davis of Houston, Texas
Sacajawea “Tiny” Johnson of Center, Texas 

Grandchildren: Jakiel Johnson, Jamarh Johnson, Negaise Johnson, Niles Davis, Sylvia Davis, Asten Davis, and JaKivian Calhoun 

Great-Grandchildren: Genesis King, Timothy Johnson, Germani Johnson, Ja’Kyah Johnson

Brothers:
Lilton Daniels of Center, Texas
George (Elma) Daniels of Center, Texas

Sisters:
Thelma Nobles of Tyler, Texas
Imogene Williams of Center, Texas
Joyce Horton of Center, Texas
Debra Goodwin of Center, Texas

Sister and Brother-in-laws: Mamie (Vernon) Lister of Harker Heights, Texas and Willie Louis (Pearl) Johnson of San Augustine, Texas and a host of relatives 

Visitation is Tuesday, August 28, 2018 from the hours of 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Hicks Chapel. Committal is at Westview Cemetery of Center, Texas.

Services entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Drive, Center, Texas

08/24/2018

Bro. John Barney Richerson Jr., 76, of Timpson, Texas passed away on August 24, 2018 surrounded by his family in Timpson, Texas. Born November 23, 1941, in Houston, Texas, John Barney is the son of the late John Barney Richerson Sr. and Selma Marie (Hilligiest) Richerson. Visitation will be held Sunday, August 26, 2018 from 6PM to 8PM at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas. Funeral service will be held Monday, August 27, 2018 at 10AM at First Assembly of God Church, Timpson, Texas, with Bro. Leroy Bowley and Bro. E.J. Adams officiating. Interment will follow in Corinth Cemetery, Timpson, Texas.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, John Richerson met the love of his life, Arnette Hicks, and the two were married on October 14, 1961. The two enjoyed over 57 years together before his passing. They had four wonderful children and were blessed over the years. In 1979 John brought his family to Timpson, Texas. Bro. John began pastoring at First Assembly of God Church and was their dedicated pastor for over 20 years before retiring due to his health. Bro. John loved his family but most of all loved the Lord. 

John enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially hunting. He liked to go fishing in his spare time. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Arnette Hicks Richerson; daughters, Sheryl Pyle and husband Ronald of Cypress, Texas, Darla Andries and husband Martin of Carthage, Texas; daughter in law, Karina Richerson Willhoite and husband Robin of Timpson, Texas; grandchildren, Tiffany Newman and husband Jimmy Harris, John “Justin” Richerson IV and wife Chelsea Pate, Harley Richerson and husband Ty Cheshire, Amberly Sparks and husband Matthew, Corey Green and Rachel Roberts, Happy Willhoite; great grandchildren, Hunter Newman, Fisher Newman, Remington Newman, Brooklyn Nettle, Johnny Richerson, Alivia Deason, Tylie Cheshire, Ira Land, Hannah Odom, Matthew Sparks Jr., Bryer Parks, Lane Green, Wade Roberts, Logan Roberts, Ava Roberts; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.

John is preceded in death by his parents; sons, John B. Richerson III, Douglas Wayne Richerson; granddaughter, Ashley Green; brothers, Ernest Warneke, Clarence Warneke; and sister, Margaret Teague.

Pallbearers serving will be John “Justin” Richerson IV, Jeremy Bowley, Hunter Newman, Fisher Newman, Corey Green, Ty Cheshire, Robin Willhoite, and Jimmy Harris.

Honorary pallbearer will be Matthew Sparks.

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.

08/22/2018

Darrell Gray, 88, of Etoile, Texas, passed away on August 21, 2018 in Etoile. He was born on February 6, 1930 in Shelbyville, Texas to Byron Gray and Reba Claybrook Gray. Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Carroll Cemetery.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, August 24, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home.

Darrell grew up in the Shelbyville, Joaquin and Logansport areas. He was an extremely hard worker who made a career in the automotive industry as a paint and body specialist. Darrell even owned his own shop in Corrigan for more than twenty years. He married Olee Henson in 1974, and they were married for over twenty years before her passing. Darrell was an avid outdoorsman who thoroughly enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. One of his favorite activities that brought him such peace was watching deer and doves feed. He was a member of Etoile Pentecostal Church.

Darrell is survived by his daughters, Carolyn Daniel and husband, Morris of Etoile and Margaret White of Angleton; sons, Darrell Gray, Jr. and wife, Teresa of Chester and Lewis Gray of Etoile; sisters, Dean Glaze of Houston, Brenda Barber of Logansport and Doris Glover and husband, Dale of Logansport; eleven grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Olee Gray; parents, Byron and Reba Gray; brother and sisters, Addie Henderson, Vernon Gray, Jim Gray, Troyce Gray and Billie Janet Ramsey; son-in-law, Belton White.

Pallbearers will be Slinky Daniel, Bryan Daniel, Tim Daniel, Michael Gray, Terrence Murphy and Steven Barton.

Honorary pallbearers will be Logan Daniel, Ceverick Daniel, Sean Murphy, Jacob Daniel and Corbyn Daniel.

The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home in Center, Texas. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

08/22/2018

A memorial service honoring the life of Susan Grayson Kawaja, 71 of Joaquin, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 25, 2018, at Kingdom Hall Jehovah’s Witness in Center, TX with Mike Michalak officiating. 

Susan was born June 7 1947, in Joaquin, TX to Willie “Bidden” and Ellen Wicker Grayson and passed away on August 21, 2018, in Shreveport, LA. 

Preceding Susan in death were her parents, brothers, Paul L. Grayson and Tommy Grayson. 

Those left behind to cherish her memory is her husband of 52 years, Dean F. Kawaja; daughters, Gentry Lynn Matlock and husband Danny Keith, Donna Sue Ellen Barnes and husband Danny Kevin; sons, Freddy Kawaja and wife Karen, Eric Herman Kawaja, Paul Essa Kawaja and wife Dana; sisters, Betsy Chambliss and husband Benny, Alene Whiddon and husband James; eleven grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and many loving friends.

Services under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Logansport, LA.

08/20/2018

Jim Fisher, 72, of Center, passed away Saturday, August 18, 2018, at his residence.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, August 26, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiating.  

Mr. Fisher was born February 17, 1946, in Temple, to James Allen Fisher and Reba Whittington Fisher. He served in the United States Army. His hobbies included riding motorcycles, hunting, trail riding and spending time with his family. He was a member of Joaquin Masonic Lodge #856.

He is survived by
Wife of 44 years: Deb Fisher of Center

Children: 
Jeff Fisher and wife, Traci, of Gulf Shores, Alabama
Amber Fisher Vidrine and husband, Landon, of Center

Grandchildren:
Christopher Fisher
Benjamin Fisher
Jaxx Fisher
Ali Vidrine
Gage Vidrine

A host of other family and friends

Preceded in death by
Parents: James Allen Fisher and Reba Whittington Fisher

Honorary pallbearers will be Bud Maciekowicz, Landon Vadrin, Alan Ricketson, Brad Parker and Jessie Hughes.

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

08/20/2018

Neal Jones, 78, of Center, passed away Saturday, August 18, 2018, at his residence.

Graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, August 25, 2018, at Mt. Herman Cemetery in Center with Bro. Bobby Bressman officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at Watson & Sons Funeral Home, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Mr. Jones was born August 14, 1940, in Shelby County, to Jody Jones and Tura Fults Jones. Neal Jones was truly a self-made man. He worked hard all his life to provide for his wife, Joan, and his three boys: Mike, Matt, and Marc. With an entrepreneurial spirit and do-it-yourself attitude, he succeeded at many endeavors including: J&B Trucking, Neal Jones Portable Building Moving, Farming, a greenhouse nursery, and many more. He had a passion for the Old West, enjoying any film or show with John Wayne. Known affectionately as Papaw to his 6 grandchildren, his family enjoyed his sense of humor and grit. He truly loved his wife and family up until the last. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by

Wife: Joan Jones

Sons:
Mike Jones and wife, Diane
Matt Jones and wife, Jeannine
Marc Jones

Grandchildren:
Carsen Jones McFarland and husband, Wil
Caleb Jones
Katherine Jones
Joshua Jones
Sara Jones
Jonathan Jones

Brother: Bobby Jones and wife, Shirlene

Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Special Friends: 
Greg Gay
Ramiro and Anna Montero

Preceded in death by
Parents: Jody Jones and Tura Fults Jones

Pallbearers will be Mike Jones, Matt Jones, Marc Jones, Caleb Jones, Jonathan Jones, Ramiro Montero, Buren Lowe and Stephen Fults. Honorary pallbearers will be Steven Harkness, Mark “Twain” Livingston, Hunter “Bubba” Mallory, Jason Burch and Greg “Shorty” Gay.

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

08/15/2018

Drue Harris, 88, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 13, 2018 in Center. He was born on September 23, 1929 in Fairplay, Texas to Turner Edward Harris and Madaline Ruby Wyatt Harris. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, August 17, 2018 at Harris Cemetery in Fairplay with Bro. Robert Ortigo officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday, August 17, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home.
 
Drue grew up in Starville and worked on the custodial staff at Henderson ISD until retirement. Drue met Mary Ellen Anderson at church in 1989 and immediately was smitten. On July 3, 1990, the two were married and built a beautiful life together with their families for 28 years. Drue was so good to Mary Ellen and was devoted to doing whatever he could for her and their children. Drue loved to talk. Some of his favorite topics were sharing stories about his parents and his job at the pecan orchard. He was also very devoted to his faith in the Lord. He treasured the moments spent listening to his wife read the Bible to him as well as listening to the Gaither’s gospel group. Drue could sit for hours just watching them on VHS tapes. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors farming, gardening and taking care of the lawn. Drue was a member of Church of God in White Oak.
 
Drue is survived by:

Wife, Mary Ellen Anderson Harris

Sons:
James Allen Dunahoe of Gladewater
Billy Joe Dunahoe and wife, Rhonda of Gladewater
Jack Edwin Dunahoe of Gladewater
Samuel Elton Smalley of Houston

Daughters:
Kathy Thigpen and husband, Jerry of Woodville
Barbara Jean Sorrells and husband, Jesse of Gladewater
Theresa Jones and husband, Buck of Joaquin

Sisters:
Barbara Ann Harris Brown of San Antonio
Linda Gay Harris of Winona

Niece, Sherry Reed and husband, Wayne of Starville

A host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Turner and Madaline Harris and his sister, Evelyn Deloris Roberts.

The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home in Center. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net.

08/15/2018

Helen P. Southerland, 79, of Georgetown, passed away Monday, August 13, 2018, in Pflugerville.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Friday, August 17, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 18, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.

Ms. Southerland was born October 20, 1938, in Center, to George Mitchell and Lela Hughes Mitchell. She grew up in the Sardis Community of Shelby County and graduated from Center High School. After high school, she lived in Houston, Dallas, Joaquin and later Georgetown. Helen was a vibrant and independent woman who never realized how beautiful she was both inside and out. Although she had careers in the telecommunications, finance, tech, and grocery industries, Helen’s primary occupation was as a loving mother and sister. Blessed with a sharp mind and a quick wit, Helen was the life of the party and loved nothing more than playing games of Scrabble and 42 with her sisters Louie Don and Georgia and her nephew Mitchell. In her later years, Helen relocated to Central Texas and, together with her daughter Candy, she spent many weekends exploring the Hill Country and restaurants in and around Austin. 

She is survived by
Daughter: Candy Southerland of Pflugerville

Sisters:
Dixie Whiteside of Sardis
Louie Don Speedy and husband, Richard, of Houston
Georgia Bloodgood of Campti

Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends

Preceded in death by
Son: John Southerland
Parents: George Mitchell and Lela Hughes Mitchell

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

08/13/2018

Janice Carol Snider, 75, of Garrison, formerly of Center, passed away Saturday, June 30, 2018, in Houston.

Memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, August 18, 2018, at Central Baptist Church in Center with Bro. Danny Dodson officiating. 

Mrs. Jan was born July 21, 1942, in Many, Louisiana, to Alva Louis Tarver and Carro Boydstun Tarver.  

She is survived by
Daughter: Kristi Parfait and husband, Clyde

Grandchildren: 
Maylee 
Cayden
Kynlee
Shon and wife, Brigitte

Son: Kevin Weldon

Grandchildren:
Sarah 
Ashley 

Daughter: Ava Sumners and husband, Terry
Grandchildren:
Christopher 
Lauren

Son: Kerry Weldon and wife, Sharyn

A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends

Brother: Richard Tarver and wife, Mary Beth

Preceded in death by
Husband: Jerrel Snider
Son: Kendall Weldon
Parents: Alva Louis Tarver and Carro Boydstun Tarver

08/13/2018

Lisa Jo Stephenson, 57, of Gary, Texas passed away on August 12, 2018 in Nacogdoches, Texas.  Born August 30, 1960, in Carthage, Texas, Lisa Jo is the daughter of the late Marlin Joe Stephenson and Barbara Jeff Stephenson.  Graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, August 15, 2018 at Mt. Bethel Cemetery, FM 999, Gary, Texas.  

Lisa Jo was raised in Gary, Texas and graduated from Gary High School.  After graduation she went to work for Acme Brick in Garrison before retiring after 30 years of service. She was also employed with Nuverra Environmental Solutions. She enjoyed farming, ranching, and sorting.  Lisa Jo was an extremely hard worker always having a positive outlook on life and circumstances.  She showed cattle, competed in sorting and ranch rodeo events, bringing home buckles for her extreme effort.  Lisa Jo was an avid Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo fan, entering and competing in the annual BBQ cook-off each year.  She had a phenomenal dutch oven cobbler.  She loved cooking outdoors in her dutch oven cookware.  Lisa Jo had two special companions, “Cowgirl” her dog, and “Jasper” her horse whom she loved to ride.  

She is survived by: 
Her aunt: Dixie Watkins of Carthage, Texas

Cousins:
Barbara Cook
Caddell Stephenson and wife Gaye
Danny Stephenson and wife Linda
Michael Stephenson and wife Patsy
Sammy Stephenson and wife Charlotte
Jerry Stephenson and wife Patricia
Dewayne Shinn and wife Sharon
Carry Shinn and wife Karen
Darrell Shinn and wife Leeann
Sandy Hendricks and husband Craig
Larry Crump and wife Liliana
Larry Don Vines and wife Sheena

Numerous other cousins and friends that will miss her dearly.

Lisa Jo is preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and sister, Teresa Stephenson, and the love of her life Bruce Johnson.

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.

 

08/13/2018

Linda Beth Carnahan died unexpectedly July 25, 2018 from complications related to a previously undiagnosed cancer. Family members were at her side when she passed away, just three days after her 71st birthday.

Linda was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, wife and friend. She was a talented and creative cook and was known to put out a tremendous spread at holidays and family get-togethers. She was an avid reader. Linda gardened and loved her dogs, and she relished the beauty of Texas wildflowers, especially bluebonnets. She invested herself deeply in a vibrant community of friends who supported each other and together worked to bring awareness and research attention to pancreatic cancer, in honor of her mother.

Nursing was Linda’s professional calling. After attending East Texas Baptist College in Marshall and El Centro College in Dallas, she was licensed as an R.N in 1968. In 1986, she attended graduate school at San Jose State University and became a nurse practitioner. She believed that every person was deserving of the best, most effective care possible. For more than three decades, she skillfully helped to meet the needs of her patients at hospitals, nursing homes, schools, clinics and doctors’ offices. Her family and friends benefitted from her nursing skills as well. In particular, she was of invaluable and loving support to each of her parents in their final months of life.

Linda Beth Burns was born July 22, 1947 in Center, Texas and grew up in Tenaha, Texas. She graduated from Tenaha High School in 1965, where she was homecoming queen.

In 1968 Linda married Jerry Andrews of Dallas. They had three children together before separating in 1997. In 2004 she married Charles Carnahan. He passed away in 2006. She spent her adult life in Dallas and the Dallas suburbs of Desoto and Duncanville.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Albert (Daddy Albert) and Virginia (Mama Gina) Burns, and by her second husband, Charles (Charlie) Carnahan.

She adored her family. She is survived by her brothers, Robert Burns and Barry Burns (Lisa), daughter Michelle Andrews Smith (Blake), sons Joshua Andrews (Meghan) and Jeremy Andrews, grandchildren Madeleine and Henry Smith and Leilani Castillo, niece Kennedy Burns, nephews Cooper Burns and Matthews Burns (Jill), and great nephews Luke and Jake Burns.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks friends to consider a donation to PANCAN, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, at www.pancan.org. Linda was active in PANCAN after her mother’s battle with pancreatic cancer, and she cherished her many wonderful friends from that community. 

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