Obituaries
06/11/2018
Louis Glenn Ballard, Sr., 67, of Center, Texas, passed away June 8, 2018.
Memorial services will be held Friday, June 15, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. in the Cochran Funeral Home Chapel in Livingston, Texas with Bro. Steve Waldrep officiating.
Mr. Ballard was born November 25, 1950 in Center, Texas to parents, Lahamie and Lola (Lafitte) Ballard, and passed away June 8, 2018 in Houston, Texas. Louis proudly served his country in the United States Army. Later he worked for Union Pacific Railroad where retired after 38 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Larry Ballard and great-granddaughter, Emiyah.
He is survived by his daughter, Catherine Ballard of Houston, Texas; son, Louis Glenn Ballard, Jr. and daughter-in-law, Cheryl Ballard of Conroe, Texas; granddaughters, Kaitlynn, Tori-Lynn, Maci Ryan and Lea Ashton; great-grandchildren, Lola Grace, Farah Lynn, Cash Louis, Railynn, Olivia Katherine and Gavin along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Cochran Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at www.cochranfh.com
06/11/2018
Jeff Burris, 53, of Carthage, formerly of Center, passed away Saturday, June 9, 2018, in Tyler.
Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 11, 2018, at Ramah Cemetery in Tenaha with Bro. Wayne Jones officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center, beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Mr. Burris was born November 24, 1964, in Center, to Harley J. Burris and Jenell Peace Burris. His hobbies included gardening and making music. He loved his Carthage Bulldogs. Mr. Burris was of the Baptist faith.
He is survived by
Wife: Gena Burris of Carthage
Son: Michael Burris of Deadwood
Sister: Tina McGuffin of Henderson
Stepson: Corey Bragg of Huxley
Niece: LaRee Rodriguez of College Station
Preceded in death by
Parents: Harley J. Burris and Jenell Peace Burris
Pallbearers will be Michael Burris, Billy Clendening, Sean Dupre, Pete Frediu, John Shofner and Mike Davis. Honorary pallbearers will be Cody Davis, Victor Shofner and Mike Floyd.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
06/08/2018
Lloyd Benjamin “Ben” Goolsby, 87, of Timpson, Texas entered into glory on June 8, 2018 at his home in the Tennessee Community surrounded by his loved ones. Ben was born on December 20, 1930, in Shelby County Texas to Lloyd Bertram Goolsby and Susie (Childs) Goolsby. Services will be held Monday, June 11, 2018 at 2pm at First Baptist Church, Timpson, Texas with Bro. William Dee Daniel, Bro. Richard Jones, and Dr. Russell Marshall officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from noon until 2pm at First Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Timpson, Texas.
Ben graduated from Timpson High School in 1949 and enrolled in Stephen F. Austin State College in the fall. While in Nacogdoches, he met Claudia and they were married July 14th, 1951. They moved to Lufkin where Ben began working for Lufkin Foundry. In 1952 he was drafted into the United States Army, serving 14 months in the Korean War. After serving his country Ben reenrolled at SFA, graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree and started teaching in Silsbee, Texas. In 1968 he earned his Master’s degree in Educational Administration and became principal in Hardin then Sulphur Springs before finishing a 36 year career in education as the elementary and junior high principal in Timpson. Other than his Lord and his family, Ben loved nothing more than his farm. An educator by profession, his true calling was that of a farmer and gardener. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.
Ben was a member of the First Baptist Church of Timpson where he served as a deacon, taught Sunday School and held numerous leadership positions throughout the years. He was also chairman of the Tennessee Rural Water Supply for 30 years, served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Timpson Public Library, and volunteered as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army.
He is survived by:
His loving wife and best friend of 66 years, Claudia Goolsby of Timpson, Texas
Daughter: Tammye Marshall and husband Russell of Mabank, Texas
Son: Mark Goolsby of Timpson, Texas
Brother: J.B. Goolsby and wife Dixie of Bryan, Texas
Grandchildren:
Jordan Costlow and husband Zach of Ft. Worth, Texas
Griffin Marshall and Mitzi Pyle of Midland, Texas
Landon Marshall of Denver, Colorado
Alden Marshall of Mabank, Texas
Countless friends and loved ones that will miss him dearly
Ben is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Thelma Mathis, Selma Cowan, Nora Rice; and great-grand-daughter, Hannah Costlow.
In lieu of flowers, family requests that memorial donations be made to First Baptist Church, P O Box 488, Timpson, Texas 75975 or visit http://www.timpsonfbc.com/page/givingdonations
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.
06/08/2018
Susan Fountain, 65, of Center, Texas, passed away on June 8, 2018 in Nacogdoches. She was born on April 28, 1953 in Center to Granviille Waller and Luna Parker McSwain Waller. Funeral services will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 11, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Old Salem Cemetery.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Sunday, June 10, 2018 at Mangum Funeral Home.
Susan grew up in Center and attended Center schools. She graduated from CHS as a part of the class of 1971. After high school, she attended Massey Business College in Nacogdoches where she earned a secretarial certificate and met the love of her life, Larry Fountain. Susan and Larry married on February 25, 1972 in Center and spent the next 46 years together. Susan was very committed to her husband and children. Later in life, she decided to pursue a lifelong dream of hers and returned to college to further her education. She attended Panola College and then moved onto Stephen F. Austin State University where she graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Susan retired from Center ISD in May 2017 after 27 years of service with the district. Susan touched the lives of many children. She treated all children equally and valued each one as a special individual. Susan enjoyed the fellowship with her church family at Old Salem Missionary Baptist Church until her health no longer allowed her to attend.
Susan is survived by her husband of 46 years, Larry Fountain; children, Lori Ford and husband, Phillip of Center, Nancy Hall and husband, Daniel of Timpson, Sarah Knowlton and husband, Ken of Blanchard, Idaho, and Stephen Fountain and wife, Sheila of Center; grandchildren, Delaina Truitt, Alexis Truitt, Jacob Lang, Kate Ford, James Larry Ford, Madison Hall and Cassie Hall; sisters, Carolyn Denby of Florida and Bert Amburn of Center; brothers, Jessie Waller of Center and Aaron Waller of Center; sisters-in-law, Glenda Waller of Center and Deborah Waller of Center; brothers-in law and sisters-in-law, Carol Cook and husband, Jerry of Conroe, Eddie Fountain and wife, Anna of Nacogdoches and Gary Fountain of Center.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Granville and Luna Waller; father in law and mother in law, Bill and Lessie Fountain; brothers, Jerry Waller, Earl Waller, Harvey Waller, Calvin Waller, Alton Waller and Bill Waller; and sister, Wanda Waller.
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
06/05/2018
Funeral services for Mr. Lynn Cooper, 65, of Lake Murvaul will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at the Hawthorn Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Matt Comer officiating. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery under the direction of Hawthorn Funeral Home. Visitation with the family will be 10-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.
Mr. Lynn Meredith Cooper was born September 16, 1952 in Longview, Texas to V.M. “Pete” and Billie Sue Ballenger Cooper and went to his heavenly home on June 2, 2018 in Carthage. Mr. Cooper was raised and schooled in Longview and graduated from Longview High School with the class of 1970. He then furthered his education at Stephen F. Austin State University and graduated in 1974 with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Music. Lynn married Kathy Price on August 14, 1999 and together they celebrated 18 years. Mr. Cooper worked for over 41 years as a band director in Sabine, Longview, Carthage, Center and Joaquin. He was a member of the Sounds of Swing where he played the saxophone. Lynn loved fishing, hunting, gardening and spending time with family and friends who were very important to him. Mr. Cooper was preceded in death by his father and his grandparents.
Lynn is survived by:
His loving wife: Kathy Cooper of Lake Murvaul
Mother: Billie Sue Cooper of Longview
Brother: Billy Ray Cooper and wife Terri of Garrison
Sister: Connie L. Cooper of Longview
Nephews:
Clayton Allen Cooper
Cody Dwight Cooper
Niece: Shelby Rae Fuller
Great-niece and nephew:
Emily Rae Fuller and Cayson Philip Cooper.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the charity of your choice.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.hawthornfuneralhome.com.
06/04/2018
Janie Sue (Anderson) Sonier, 73, of Spring, Texas, formerly of Timpson, Texas passed away on June 2, 2018 in Spring, Texas. She was born September 17, 1944 in Houston, Texas to William Turner and Pauline (Bennett) Anderson. Funeral service will be held Saturday June 9, 2018 at 1PM at Taylor Funeral Home, 511 Ross Graves Dr., Timpson, Texas. Interment will follow in Timpson Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery, Timpson, Texas
Granny passed away right before sunrise on June 2, 2018 after a hard fought battle with cancer. She loved her family and cherished every moment spent with them. She will be missed and was deeply loved by by anyone who met her beautiful warm loving heart.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Debra Glover Marek of Houston, Texas
Grandchildren:
Robyn Shuford and husband Troy of New Caney, Texas
Ryan Stavinoha and wife Crystal of Spring, Texas
Randy Stavinoha and wife Emily of Houston, Texas
Rebecca Stavinoha of Houston, Texas
Great-grandchildren: Alexis, Taylor, Trystan, TJ, Lindsey, Aubrey, Rylee, Landon, Scarlett, Savannah
Sister-in-law, Barbara Anderson
Nieces:
Jackie Anderson and husband Paul
Sherlyn Shotwell and husband Charles
Numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Janie is preceded in death by her husbands, Howard “Pete” Lee Glover, Alexander M. Sonier; and brother, Billy Joe Anderson.
In lieu of flowers, family requests that memorial donations be made to the Amercian Cancer Society, P O Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123. https://www.cancer.org/
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.
06/04/2018
Paul Jackson Jr., 81, of Joaquin, passed away Sunday, June 3, 2018, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 4, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Rev. Randall Smith of Paxton United Methodist Church officiating. Interment will follow at Willow Grove Cemetery in Joaquin.
Mr. Jackson was born May 22, 1937, in Shelbyville, to Paul Allan Jackson Sr. and Annie Ruth Stevens Jackson. He retired from the US Marine Corps and was a member of VFW Post 8904 for twenty years. His hobbies included hunting, travelling, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by
Wife: Carolyn Jackson of Joaquin, Texas
Children:
David Jackson and spouse, Glen, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Vicki Goings of Jacksonville, North Carolina
Patti Soto of Jasper, Indiana
Terri Nugent and husband, Robert, of Joaquin, Texas
Grandchildren:
Kerri Allan and Aaron Allen of Portland, Oregon
Jayme Durham and husband, Dexter, of Timpson, Texas
Michelle Essex of Ponca City, Oklahoma
Lauren Gaddy of Joaquin, Texas
Cpl. Ryan Hanks of Camp LeJeune, North Carolina
Great-Grandchildren:
Alandria Gentry
Trey Davis
Brianna Hickman
Santino Perez
Amiyah Soto
Tyler Lane
Destinee Morris
Kadence Morris
Sophia Fearnow
Isabel Soto
Kiersten Richards
Scarlett Sumstine
Great-Great-Granddaughter: Kourtlynn Gentry
Siblings:
Dan Jackson of Springhill, Louisiana
James Jackson of Tenaha, Texas
Judith Adams and husband, Hollie, of Tenaha
Sheila Wiggins and husband, Chuck, of Shreveport, Louisiana
Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
Preceded in death by
Grandchildren: Shane Essex, Jeremy Essex, Daryl Essex, Randy Essex, Ramon Soto, Addison Perez
Great Grandsons: Ramon Soto Jr., Bradley Kent Richards
Parents: Paul and Annie Ruth Jackson
Brother: Raymond Jackson
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 6675-8517, 877.832.6997, https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate, and Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800, Miami, Florida 33131, http://www.parkinson.org.
Pallbearers will be Erick Wiggins, Jonathan Eubanks, Joe Adams, Kevin Blackmon, Randy Jackson and Raymond Jackson.
The family would wish to thank The Veterans Administration, Nacogdoches Medical Center and Holiday Nursing Facility. They appreciate the staff and their invaluable assistance in our time of grief.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/04/2018
Ronnie Louis Mora, 53, of Nacogdoches, passed away Saturday, June 2, 2018, at his residence.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Dale Morton officiating. Interment will follow at Short Cemetery in Center. Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Mr. Mora was born January 22, 1965, in Dallas, to Edward D. Mora and Marie Robinson Mora. He enjoyed working on his hot rods and spending time with his family. Mr. Mora was a member of New Life Christian Fellowship in Nacogdoches. He was a hardworking and devoted son, husband, father and pappy.
He is survived by
Wife: Mona Mora of Nacogdoches
Sons:
Jordan Louis Mora and wife, Mackenzie, of Nacogdoches
Jaron Kane Mora of Nacogdoches
Grandchildren:
Jaxson Louis Mora
Taylor Grace Mora
Parents: Edward D. Mora and Marie Robinson Mora
Brothers:
Jerry Mora of Pasadena
Gary Mora of Center
Mother-in-law: Pat Evans
Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
Preceded in death by
Son: Jarrod Wayne Mora
Brother: Greg Mora
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to New Life Christian Fellowship, 289 CR 2093, Nacogdoches, Texas 75965.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/04/2018
Billy Joe Richards, 88, of Tenaha, passed away Sunday, June 3, 2018, in Center.
Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at Enterprise Cemetery in Tenaha with Bro. Chuck Horton officiating.
Mr. Richards was born September 24, 1929, in Shelby County, to Martin L. Richards and Reable K. Richards. He proudly served in the United States Army.
He is survived by
Wife: Annie Ruth Richards of Tenaha
Children:
Edward Richards of Tenaha
Tracy Barr and husband, Steve, of Center
Martha Shelton of Joaquin
Billie Pritchett of Joaquin
Marty Pierce of Joaquin
Grandchildren:
Michelle Whiteside and husband, Darrell, of Center
Randall Pritchett and wife, Heidi, of Joaquin
Matthew Shelton and wife, Kim, of Chireno
Chad Barr and wife, Darby, of Center
Osha Myers and husband, Danny, of Joaquin
Jared Richards of Tenaha
Ashely Weir and husband, John, of Joaquin
16 Great-Grandchildren
3 Great-Great-Grandchildren
Numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends
Preceded in death by
Daughter: Beverly Pierce
Great Granddaughter: Monica Shultice
Parents: Martin L. Richards and Reable K. Richards
Siblings: E.B. Richards, Jerry Richards, Helen Tyler, Bonnie Jean Richards
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
06/04/2018
Dana Ann Adams Fountain, 55, of Center, passed away Sunday, June 3, 2018, in Center, following a battle with cancer.
Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. R.B. Elumbaugh and Bro. Chet Brake officiating. Interment will follow at Spring Ridge Cemetery in San Augustine County, Texas. Visitation will be held prior to service time, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Dana was born February 11, 1963, in Center, to George Fane Adams and Effie Bernice Warr Adams. She was most known for her loving and giving heart as she ministered to her community by lending a helping hand to anyone she met. Her talents included mowing yards for the elderly, operating her bulldozer to assist neighbors with dirt work and tree removal, staying up and sitting nights with the sickly, cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping and delivery for her neighbors who were shut-ins. Dana was an avid gardener and followed the almanac to assure the most fruitful produce. She was an excellent hunter, loved fishing and spending time on the Attoyac. She processed her own sausage and wildlife meats. Nothing went to waste. Her little slice of peacefulness was her home place on Woodland Acres Lake. Near and dear to her heart was ministering and nurturing children, nieces, nephews and friend’s children. Gathering as many children as she could fit into a vehicle, she brought them to VBS to learn the love of Jesus. Her special bundle of joy was her daughter, Hanna Fountain, and her granddaughter, Kali Fountain. She will always hold a special place in our hearts. Dana was a member of VFW Post 8904 Ladies Auxiliary, West Shelby County VFD Ladies Auxiliary, and Mt. Herman Missionary Baptist Church.
She is survived by
Daughter: Hanna Fountain of Center and fiancé, Kurtis Cougler
Granddaughter: Kali Fountain of Center
Brothers:
Jerryl Adams and wife, Phyllis, of Center
Mike Adams and wife, Cathy, of Center
Steve Adams and wife, Jean, of Nacogdoches
Mark Adams of Center
Kip Adams and wife, Tracy, of Center
Sisters:
Wanda Noles and husband, Freddy, of Carthage
Jana Ivy and husband, Randy, of Nacogdoches
Sister-in-law: Jeanne Adams
Aunts and Uncles:
Jane Cupit and husband, Vernon, of Nacogdoches
Royce Warr and wife, Bonnie, of Pineland
Inez Davis of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Dale Warr and wife, Emily, of San Augustine
Special Friends:
Dr. Richard Baker and Ms. Connie
Bro. Chet Brake and wife, Sarah
Randy Givens
Ronnie and Tammy Davis
Shirley Gilliland
Rose Oliver
Dalene Swift
A host of other family and friends
Preceded in death by
Husband: Bert Fountain
Parents: George Fane Adams and Effie Bernice Warr Adams
Brothers: Randy Adams and Dean Adams
Grandparents: E.H. Warr and Nellie Mae Bridwell Warr, Dolphus Adams, Florence Smith Adams
Nephews: Timothy Fane Adams, Justin Mark Adams, Cord Fountain
Pallbearers will be Dean Adams, Jerryl Fane “Jr.” Adams, Michael Wayne Adams, Larry Berg, Heath Bragg, Ronnie Davis, Brent Ivy, Bryan Muckelroy and Marcus Steel. Honorary pallbearers will be Dale Warr, Dale Gene “Boudro” Warr and Royce Warr.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/31/2018
Robert E. Dixon, age 83 of Houston, passed away Sunday morning, May 27, 2018 in Houston.
Wake will be held Friday night from 6pm to 8m at Center Triumph Church, Center, Texas. Funeral service is Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 11am at Center Triumph Church. Interment is at Westview Cemetery in Center with Bishop Zep Swindle officiating.
State Presider Robert E. Dixon is survived by:
Wife, LaNor Dixon of Houston
Sons:
David E. Swindle Dixon of Nacogdoches
John Dixon of Lufkin
Roger D. Dixon of Dayton
Daughters:
Joyce Watkins of Nacogdoches
Mary Netherly of Center
9 Grandchildren, 24 Great-Grandchildren
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
05/31/2018
Dorothy Mae Polley, age 80 of the East Liberty Community, passed away Saturday, May 26, 2018 at her residence in East Liberty.
Wake is Friday, June 1 from 6pm until 8pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel, Center, Texas. Funeral service is Saturday, June 2, 2018 at 11am at Gates Chapel Baptist Church, Shelbyville, Texas. Interment is at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville with Rev. Frankie Cooper officiating.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Roberta Hoff of Dallas
Darlene Nana of Center
Regena Polley Egharevba of Dallas
Cynthia Kennedy of Dallas
Angelia Polley of Dallas
Son, Robert (Shelia) Polley of Texarkana, Texas
13 Grandchildren, 11 Great-Grandchildren
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
05/30/2018
Gae Heaberlin, age 88 of Longview, Texas died on May 28, 2018 in Longview Texas. Services will be held on June 2, 2018 at 10am in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home in Longview. Burial will follow in Adams Cemetery in Shelbyville, Texas under the direction of Rader Funeral Home.
Gae was born on March 29, 1930 in Shelbyville, TX to the late Frank and Callie Goings. She retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. and was a member of Trinity Baptist Church of Lakeport.
Those left to cherish her memory are:
Daughter, Sandra Barnes and her partner Dennis Jakiela
Grandchildren: Ella Catherine Apgar and Jacob Daniel Apgar all residing in CT.
One sister and brother-in-law, Laverne and Butch Adams and niece Melba Lee all of Shelbyville, TX.
Numerous cousins and friends. She was dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew her.
She asked that memorial contributions be made to Trinity Baptist Church.
Services are under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Longview.
05/28/2018
Bradley “P-Nut” Ard, 15, of Shelbyville, passed away Sunday, May 27, 2018, in Shelbyville.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 31, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 1, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Wes Hall officiating. Interment will follow at Wimberly Cemetery in Huxley.
Bradley was born December 19, 2002, in Center, to Tony Ard and Tonja Ard. He loved fishing and hunting.
He is survived by
Parents: Tony and Tonja Ard
Brothers:
Justin Inthavan and wife, Jennifer
Tyler Inthavan and Angela Liker
Eli Ard and Haley Risinger
Colton Spurlock
William Sox Stutts
William Christopher Stutts
Grandmothers:
Faye Ard
Faye Bridge
Numerous other relatives
Special Friend: Brittnie Risinger
A host of friends
Preceded in death by
Grandfather: Thomas Ard
Brother: Michael Ard
Pallbearers will be William Christopher Stutts, William Sox Stutts, Trace Brittain, Jacob Jackson, David Amburn, Charlie Permenter, Shawn Cheshire and Devin Dade. Honorary pallbearers will be Dakota Bridge and Tori Babin.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/28/2018
Betty Jean “Erwin” Childress, 83, of Joaquin, passed away May 28, 2018, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Bro. Hiram Melton officiating. Interment will follow at Lone Cedar Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Mrs. Childress was born April 12, 1935, in Tenaha, to James Arthur Erwin and Ruby Emma Goolsby Erwin. She enjoyed reading, crafting, sewing, working in her flower beds, and operating HAM radios with her late husband. Mrs. Childress was a member of Lone Cedar Baptist Church.
She is survived by
Daughter: Cindy Jean Adams and husband, Robert, of Shreveport, Louisiana
Brother: Jack Erwin and wife, Alma, of Liberty, Texas
Sister-in-law: Irada Oates of Joaquin, Texas
Nieces and Nephews:
Glenn Oates of Joaquin
Nita and Ricky Lawrence
Sherry and Dennis Scruggs
Carter Erwin
Brad Erwin
Special friend and loving caregiver: Shirley Bledsoe of Joaquin, Texas
Numerous other cousins, great nieces and nephews, and other family members
Preceded in death by
Husband: James Emmett Childress
Parents: James Arthur Erwin and Ruby Emma Goolsby Erwin
Sister: Iris Woosley
Brothers: James Erwin, Paul Fredrick Erwin
Pallbearers will be Glenn Oates, Matthew Mettauer, Nathan Phelps, Dennis Scruggs, Mike Lawson, John Paul Lawson and Robert Adams.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lone Cedar Baptist Church or American Lung Association.
A special thank you to the staff of DeSoto Regional Family Medical Center of Logansport, Louisiana for their help and support to the family.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/28/2018
Charlie Patton, 83, of Shelbyville, joined Jesus in Heaven Saturday, May 26, 2018, at his residence.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 31, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 1, 2018, at Toledo Bend Cowboy Church in Huxley. Interment will follow at Wimberly Cemetery in Huxley. After the burial service, food will be provided at the church by members of Toledo Bend Cowboy Church for family and friends.
Mr. Patton was born January 16, 1935, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, to Floyd Arthur Patton and Mary Magadelene Remy Patton. He served in the United States Army, during which time he was stationed in Germany. His hobbies included woodworking, hunting, fishing and just being outdoors. He enjoyed spending time with his family. Mr. Patton was a member of Toledo Bend Cowboy Church in Huxley.
He is survived by
Wife: Faye Patton of Shelbyville
Children:
Diana Lee Patton and Richard Findley of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Ardith Raye Patton and Danny Hodson of Huxley, Texas
Tamera Lynn Patton Lusher
Charles Matthew Patton and Tamara Hinkle of Fort Worth, Texas
Jana Michille Patton of Crowley, Texas
Grandchildren:
Kimberly Bevel and Curtis Blake
Christina Bevel and Jason Hewitt
Amanda Nichole Ayon
Charles Lucas Ayon
Morgan Leanne Patton
Vivian Helena Patton
Mikah Shayne Wallace
Robin Authier-Romesberg
Julia Hinkle
Sophia Hinkle
Great-Grandchildren:
Jayden
Griffin
Sarah
Savannah
Alexander
Isaiah
Elijah
Katie
Siblings:
Joann Festervan of Shreveport, Louisiana
Henry Floyd Patton and Evelyn of Keithville, Louisiana
Lloyd Arthur Patton and Elizabeth of Blanchard, Louisiana
Preceded in death by
Parents: Floyd Arthur Patton and Mary Magadelene Remy Patton
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/27/2018
Charlotte Emma Bailey, 87, of Center, passed away Saturday, May 26, 2018, at her residence.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday, May 28, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 29, 2018, at Center First United Pentecostal Church with Bro. Andy Wilson officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Mrs. Bailey was born March 18, 1931, in Center, to Charles Chester Yarborough and Creva Mae Abbott Yarborough. She was a member of Center First United Pentecostal Church. She and her husband Millard owned and operated many successfully businesses in Center. One of the more notable ones was Bailey’s Produce and Landscaping which not only incorporated their love of farming but also her love for beautiful plants and flowers.
She is survived by
Daughters:
Vicki Tomlin and husband, Richard, of Center, Texas
Treasa Donnan and husband, Jim, of Center, Texas
Daughter-in-law: Cynthia (Tammy) Bailey of Boone, North Carolina
Grandchildren:
Rique McHenry and husband, Billy, of Lufkin, Texas
Traci Willoughby and husband, Tony, of Center, Texas
Randy Tomlin and wife, Jennifer, of Center, Texas
Brady Scarber and wife, Whitney, of Center, Texas
Brett Scarber and wife, Erin, of Center, Texas
Cody Donnan and wife, Melissa, of Dallas, Texas
Carmen Mackey and husband, Ryan, of Center, Texas
Dustin Bailey and wife, Ginny, of Nacogdoches, Texas
Crystal Bailey of Boone, North Carolina
Michelle Lewis and husband, Lathan, of Boone, North Carolina
Dewayne Bailey and wife, Lauren, of Dallas, Texas
22 Great Grandchildren
Brother and Sister-in-law: Charles Yarborough and wife, Judy, of Nacogdoches, Texas
Sister and Brother-in-law: Sherry Ward and husband, Jimmy, of Center, Texas
Brothers-in-law and Sisters-in-law:
Dora Jean Livingston and husband, Bill, of Center, Texas
Hoyit Bailey and wife, Del, of Clear Lake City, Texas
Billy Bailey and wife, Sharmion, of Nacogdoches, Texas
Betty Faye Bailey of Dallas, Texas
Special Care Takers:
Gabby Luna
Vicky Sneed
Mona Bowlin
Casey Sneed
Preceded in death by
Husband: Millard Bailey
Sons: Johnny Bailey, Delane Bailey, Mitchell Bailey, Terry Bailey
Daughter-in-law: Pam Bailey
Grandchildren: Misty Scarber Bush, Jon Bush, Clint Donnan, Clay Donnan
Great Granddaughter: Macy Bush
Father: Chester Yarborough
Mother: Creva Abbott Yarborough
Sisters: Johnnie Sue Yarborough, Chestine Yarborough
Pallbearers will be Brady Scarber, Brett Scarber, Dewayne Bailey, Randy Tomlin, Dustin Bailey and Cody Donnan. Honorary pallbearers will be Ryan Mackey, Billy McHenry and Tony Willoughby.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/26/2018
Arvin C. Worsham, 65, of Center, entered into rest on May 25, 2018 after a valiant 11 year battle with cancer.
Celebration of life services will be officiated by Bro. Jerry Worsham at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at New Hope Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 29, 2018, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Arvin was born on January 23, 1953, to Virgil and Alicia Monge’ Worsham in Balboa, Panama Canal Zone. He is a member of Hillcrest Baptist Church where he served on committees and with Youth group and continued his daily walk with the Lord when he was no longer able to attend church.
He worked in construction until starting a shipping and receiving job at Skeeter boats in Longview until cancer diagnosis in 1979. He then worked as a copier repairman in East Texas areas where he met and married his love Tammy Whitton on August 2, 1984. He opened Spring Water Farms Nursery until health forced him to close where he got to share his love of plants. He loved anything outdoors, spending time with family and friends, his pets and watching his beloved Dallas Cowboys. He was loved by everyone who met him for his sense of humor and big heart, he always had a kind word for everyone and an ability to make people laugh.
He was so blessed with his medical care team and words cannot express our gratitude for Affinity Hospice and Palliative care programs and all his medical teams though this journey headed by his surgeon and our “Angel in Scrubs” Dr. Larry Walker
He is survived by
Beloved Wife of 33 years: Tammy Worsham of Center, Texas
Son: Joshua Worsham of Mt Pleasant, Texas
Brothers:
Jerry Worsham and wife, Jane, of Racine, Wisconsin
Ralph Easy Worsham and wife, Sue, of Elizabeth, Colorado
Sister:
Lorain Evans and husband, Terry, of Matthews, North Carolina
Brother-in-law:
Jeremy Whitton and wife, Tammy, of Center, Texas
Nieces and nephews and numerous cousins and friends
His beloved “Fur babies”:
Scout, Malachi, Niko, Hubcap and Blackjack the cat
He is preceded in death by
Parents: Virgil and Alicia Worsham
Parents-in-law: John and Edith Whitton
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
05/23/2018
Graveside service for Richard L. Reeves of Garrison, Texas will be at 2:00 pm, Sunday,May 27, 2018, at Caledonia Cemetery, Garrison, Texas with Br. Shak Arrington officiating.
Mr. Reeves died Saturday, May 19, 2018 in Nacogdoches, Texas. He was born February 3, 1932 in Rusk Co. Texas.
05/23/2018
Joe Neal Jernigan, 86, of Center, passed away May 22, 2018 after a lengthy illness.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Thursday, May 24, 2018 at Watson & Sons Funeral Home with Bro. Chris Collins and Rev. Arvie Jernigan officiating. Visitation will be prior to the funeral from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Center.
Mr. Jernigan was born March 25, 1932 in Shelby County to Emanuel and Melba Jernigan. He was the oldest of seven children. Joe enlisted in the United States Air Force in the 1950's and served for four years. Shortly after his release, he married Ruth Earlene "Patty" Samford and together they had five children. The couple was married for 53 years before Patty's passing in 2007.
The couple moved to Shelby County in 1970 to raise their family where Joe grew up. He worked as a truck driver for REA Railroad and earned the Million Mile Award. Shortly after moving to Center, the couple purchased a Fina station on San Augustine Street. Joe continued to drive a truck, while his wife and children ran the business. During the years of owning their station, he developed a passion for wolf hunting. On Friday nights he could be found hunting with friends and swapping tales.
The family left their days as business owners behind after a number of years and Joe retired as a truck driver. Joe's friend and former police chief, Jimmy Matthews, convinced him to take a job with the Center Police Department as a dispatcher. For nine years the family enjoyed hearing stories from Joe's job and watching him make long lasting friendships with law enforcement officers across this area. He retired from the police department in 1994.
After his retirement, Joe and Patty spent their days laughing and spending time with their family and grandchildren. Joe, "Podge" as he was referred to by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, enjoyed reloading ammunition. This became a large hobby for Joe that allowed him to continue his friendship with many of the friends he made while working for the police department.
He attended McClelland Community Church.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Earlene "Patty" Jernigan; his parents, Emanuel and Melba Jernigan; brothers, Tommy Jernigan, O'Neal Jernigan; and sister, Marie Shelton.
He is survived by his children, Zandra Akridge and husband, Gene, of Nacogdoches, Debbi Gragg and husband, Ronnie, of Center, Jody Jernigan and wife, Annette, of Huxley, John Jernigan and wife, Cassie, of Huxley and James Jernigan and wife, Melissa of Shelbyville; grandchildren, Amy Spraggins, Shiloh Denney, Leah Chase, Jessica Hopkins, Ashley Akridge, Hannah Collins, Jimbo Akridge, Taylor Bragg, Michael Jernigan and Morgan Jernigan; 15 great-grandchildren; brothers, Arvie Jernigan, Billy Jernigan, Wayne Jernigan; faithful and devoted friend, Linda Brittain; and a host of friends and extended family.
Pallbearers will be Ronnie Gragg, Cole Mooney, Michael Jernigan, Blane Tapley, Walter Shofner, Bryan Slocum, Cory Collins and James McDonald.
Honorary pallbearers will be Brian Chase, Odell Wiggins, Greg Hooper, Paul Ross and David Sigler.
The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Pine Grove Nursing Home that loved, cared and went out of their way to care for our dad. Your compassion will always be remembered and forever appreciated.
To the staff at Heart to Heart Hospice, there are no words to describe the love we have for you. Ms. Cecelia, Keisha and Shelley - You were sent to us straight from God. Thank you for everything. We will always cherish the wonderful memories and final days each of you shared with us.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
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