Obituaries
08/28/2024
Joseph Alan Bollinger, 65, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2024. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, Joe was known for his kind heart, unwavering dedication to his family and community, and his deep faith in God.
Born in Gettysburg, PA, Joe spent most of his adolescence in Maryland, growing up alongside his three sisters and brother. Throughout his life, he built strong relationships and enriched the lives of those around him. Joe worked for many years as a manager, first at a local grocery store and later at an automotive store, where he became a familiar and friendly face to countless customers and colleagues. His commitment to his work was matched only by the love he had for his family.
Joe was a loving husband to Julie, a proud father to Sarah and Jessica, and a cherished grandfather to Lauren, Charlie, Max, and Brady. He will be remembered for his warm smile, generous spirit, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met. As a Christian, Joe openly shared his faith, living a life that reflected his deep beliefs. He was also known for his ability to laugh at himself and make others laugh, bringing light and joy to every room he entered.
In his free time, Joe enjoyed playing tennis and golf and found great joy in spending time with his family. He took immense pride in maintaining a beautiful home and garden, reflecting his love for creating a welcoming environment.
In May 2023, Joe was diagnosed with ALS, and he bravely fought the disease for a year and a half. Throughout his battle, he remained a true testament to his faith, never complaining and always placing his trust in the Lord.
Joe is preceded by his mother, Barbara Rice, and brother, Michael David Bollinger.
Joe is survived by:
Wife, Julie Ann Bollinger
Father, Lester Bollinger
Sisters:
Lisa Marie Jones
Judy Onley
Beth Emory
Daughters:
Sarah Ashley Martinez
Jessica Lauren Hefner
Grandson, Maxwell Martinez
Granddaughter, Lauren Hefner
Granddaughter, Charlotte "Charlie" Hefner
Grandson, Brady Hefner.
Pallbearers are John Culley, Doug Martinez, Brandon Hefner, Tracey Jones, Ortega Cartwright, and Greg Antley.
A visitation will be held at Tyler Road Baptist Church on September 3rd at 10:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Team Gleason, an ALS foundation dedicated to providing support and resources to those living with ALS and advocating for ALS research.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Keith, Tiffany, Kristi, and Nathan, among other staff of the Hospice of East Texas for going above and beyond in providing loving care for Joe in his final moments. We also greatly appreciate Joe’s dedicated caretakers, Harriet, Brenda, Tweetie, Deanna and Chebree, that supported him tirelessly.
Joseph's memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.
08/27/2024
Willie Ruth Chandler, 90, passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024. She was born on January 20, 1934 in Huxley, Texas. She attended school in Shelbyville and began working in Shreveport, Louisiana at a young age. It was there she met the love of her life, Alvis Chandler. They married June 30, 1951 and eventually settled in Houston, Texas where their son, Rick, was born. In 1967, they moved to Conroe and enjoyed life there until 1976 when they returned to deep East Texas.
Ruth loved the Lord deeply and the way she lived her life reflected that love. She loved to serve others, have lively conversations, and had the most generous heart. You rarely left her home without being fed or gifted some treasure she insisted you take!
She loved her family passionately. Her baby boy was her rock and she was incredibly proud of him. Her granddaughters were her shining jewels and she cherished every moment with them. And her great-grands were so precious to her.
Ruth had an amazing work ethic and enjoyed her “work” long after her retirement. She was a gifted salesperson and truly loved helping others. In the early 1980’s she opened the Center Health Food store. There were very few women owned businesses in East Texas at that time and even fewer people who were knowledgeable about herbs, vitamins, and healthy eating. She thoroughly enjoyed sharing with her customers what she had learned. She not only built a thriving business, but also lifelong friends.
Ruth worked hard, but she also played hard and LOVED to travel! She went on countless adventures all around the world with her family members. Her most frequent travel buddy was her best friend (first cousin and sister-in-law) Juanita Chandler.
Ruth also loved plants and flowers and always had the prettiest yard in the neighborhood.
Ruth is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Alvis Richard Chandler; mother, Fay Burk; brother, Albert Burk; and sister, Gracie Burk Furlow.
Ruth is survived by:
Son, Richard Glenn Chandler and wife, Susan
Granddaughters:
Melodie Chandler and husband, Chen Yong
Alisa King and husband, Andrew
Great-grandchildren:
Chen Li Xin, YaMei, Adriana, Sammy, Tia, George, Juli, Shan, and William Chandler
Aubrey King
Brothers:
TJ (Pete) Burk
Dan Fleming
Also numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Holly Springs Baptist Church, at 2:00 pm. There will be a time of visiting and refreshments immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Journey of a Joyful Life, P O Box 131143, Spring, Texas 77393.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
08/27/2024
Margaret A. Lymn, 100, of Center, Texas, passed away on August 26, 2024, in Center, Texas. She was born on June 12, 1924, in the Neuville Community, to the late Gus Holt and Johnnie Mae (Hanks) Holt.
Graveside service will be held at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at McClelland Cemetery, with Bro. Cecil Chessher officiating.
Visitation will be held prior to the graveside service beginning at 10:30 AM at Mangum Funeral Home.
Margaret was raised in the Neuville Community. She was one of six children growing up. She married her best friend, Tom Lymn, and the two shared over 62 years together. They raised two daughters, Sandra and Margaret Ann. Margaret enjoyed painting, sewing, crafting, and reading Christian novels. She also loved gardening outdoors. Margaret loved spending time with her family.
She is survived by:
Grandchildren:
Michelle Waller and husband Lamech
Louis Dupre
Darron Weathers
Brian Weathers
Beth Weathers
Numerous Great-Grandchildren and Great-Great-Grandchildren
Son-in-law, Ben Dupre and wife Loretta
And a host of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Margaret is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Tom Lymn; parents, Gus and Johnnie Mae Holt; daughters, Margaret Weathers and husband Toby, Sandra Dupre; three sisters; and two brothers.
The family would like to express special thanks to Pine Grove Nursing Home, and Nurse Traci Barr, for the exceptional compassionate care given to Margaret during her stay.
Pallbearers serving will be Bradley Waller, Bryan Waller, Bryce Waller, Lamech Waller, and Brian Weathers. Honorary pallbearers will be Louis Dupre and Darron Weathers.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
08/26/2024
Mrs. Mary Ella Robinson, 91, of Houston, Texas departed this life on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at East Liberty Baptist Church, Center, Texas at 11:00 am (East Liberty Community).
Mary Ella Robinson was born in Center, Texas on February 28, 1933, to the late Fred McClelland and Salatha Ratcliff McClelland. Mary was also known as Mutt, she grew up in East Liberty and graduated from East Liberty High School. She graduated as valedictorian and went on to attend Arma Houston Business College and graduated with honors. Mary became the first African-American secretary to work for County Agent of Brazoria County. Rev. Steven Standley will be the eulogist.
Mrs. Mary Ella Robinson is survived by:
Daughters:
Deborah Hicks
Sheila Jackson (Rev. Lamar)
Lisa Robinson
Brother, Willie Fred (Marie) McClelland
Sister, Johnnie May White
Grandchildren:
Cochancie (Valerie)
Chelsea
Julian (Diamond)
Kristopher
Cameron
Ashley
Ambra
Demarco
A public viewing will be held on August 30, 2024, from 6-7:30 PM at East Liberty Baptist Church, County Rd. 2569 Center, Texas
Committal will be at Rather Cemetery.
Service is entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit our website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
08/26/2024
Adam Michael Murehead passed away at his home in Shelbyville, Texas, on August 23, 2024, at the age of 48.
The funeral is scheduled for 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center, Texas, with a reception following at Patroon Baptist Church. Visiting hours will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home. Sherry Harding will officiate the ceremony. Interment will be at Patroon Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Adam’s life.
Adam is survived by:
Daughter, McKenzie Murehead of Benton, Louisiana
Mother, Donna Monroe of Patroon
Father and step-mother, Michael Ray and Bonnie Murehead of Aransas Pass
Brothers:
Jody Cooper of Shelbyville
Luke Murehead of Leander
Aunt, Carol Lynn Murehead
Nieces and nephews:
Caitlyn Lewis
Haleigh Hall
Cale Cooper
Jordan Jackson
Jacob Jackson
His special friend, LaDonna Shull Kennon of Shelbyville
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert Don Monroe and Annice Cason Monroe of Shelbyville, Texas; uncle, Robert Lee Monroe of Shelbyville, Texas; and Arthur M. and Clara Lee Murehead of Temple, Texas.
Adam Murehead was born on July 7th, 1976, in Temple, Texas, to Donna Monroe and Mike Murehead. Soon after, he and his family returned to Texas, where he grew up and created a life for himself.
At the age of 19, Adam ambitiously ventured out and began his own business which he has managed for the past 27 years. He was passionate about his jobs and took pride in his accomplishments. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing cards, and watching sunsets. His greatest joy, though, came from being McKenzie’s dad. Adam was caring, funny, witty, and was always the life of the party. He loved the farm and riding and checking on the livestock. Adam was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, and friend and he will be missed immensely.
Pallbearers will be Daniel Holloway, Darren Lout, Shannon Metcalf, Jordan Jackson, Mike Barbee, and Sawyer Lout.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Shelby County Outreach at 906 Shelbyville Street, Center, Texas.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/24/2024
Hicks Mortuary is announcing funeral service for Mrs. Aline Bruton Phillips, 75, of Timpson, Texas. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at New Hope CME Church located at 5505 Hwy 84 West Timpson, Texas at 11am.
Aline Rasberry Bruton Phillips was born in Timpson, Texas August 1, 1949, to the late Johnny Rasberry and late Laura Soloman Rasberry. She departed this life on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Rev. H.F. Johnson will bring the eulogy.
Mrs. Aline Bruton Phillips is survived by:
Husband, Douglass Mac Arthur Phillips of Timpson
Sons:
David (Kathleen) Bruton of Henderson, Texas and J.C. Bruton of Nacogdoches
Brothers:
Jimmy Lee (Bernice) Rasberry of Garrison
Ricky (Patricia) Rasberry of Tyler
Grandchildren:
Marcus Bruton
Michelle Bruton
Kyla Newton
Visitations will be Friday, August 30, 2024, at Hicks Chapel from the hours of 4pm – 6pm Saturday Visitation on August 31, 2024, at 10am New Hope CME Church New Hope Cemetery Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935
Please visit the Hicks Mortuary website for online condolences at www.hicksmortuary.net
08/23/2024
Lady Inez “Sugarfoot” Foshee Stewart, 86, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2024, in Fort Worth.
Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center.
Lady Inez “Sugarfoot” Foshee Stewart was born July 25th, 1937, in Logansport, Louisiana. Youngest child of Elijah Foshee and Pearl Foshee. Sister to Van, Clarence, Joe, W.C. “Punk”, John, and Peggy. Inez, being the baby of her siblings, spent most of her childhood growing up with her nieces and nephews. Loving relationships that have lasted a lifetime and have been passed on to the next generations.
Inez’s pride and joy was her family. From her husband and lifelong love, Troy Lynn Stewart, whom she married on August 17, 1956, in Joaquin, Texas, to her three boys, and a passel of grandkids and great-grands, to all those family members followed over the years. She followed Troy with the boys and sometimes Terry Sue across the country from Florida to Arizona. Occasionally, there were dogs and U-Hauls on those adventures, but they were together. As the boys got older, she was that mom following her football players and wrestlers around cheering them on; fiercely proud. The boys grew up, got married, had babies and she had new little ones to love and love them she did. After Troy’s passing, Inez finally settled in Texas and resumed life with all the Stewart’s and Foshee’s. She had a story for every moment and every person who was fortunate enough to meet and know her.
Inez had a loving heart that she shared with her family and friends along with her quick-witted humor, such as this little remark, "You know I’m that kind of woman" and would be asked what kind of woman is that? She would answer, "One that knows it all!"
1 Corinthians 13: 1-13 (Love Is the Greatest) NLT
If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing. 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing. 4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance...
13 Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/22/24
Elizabeth “Liz” Elliott Sparks, 64, of Nacogdoches passed away on August 16, 2024, from a sudden and unexpected tragic incident.
Born on August 27, 1959, in Center to Delmar Faye Elliott. She was raised in a single parent family home. She learned early on the value of hard work and perseverance. If they couldn’t grow it or make it themselves, they didn’t get it. She further learned that she didn’t have a father, so she asked, “baby Jesus” (her words) to be her father and her heavenly Savior, which I am certain he did. She attended public school in Center, where she graduated with honors from both Center High School and Panola Junior College. At sixteen, she went to work part-time for the Center Police Department as a file clerk and dispatcher. As a teen, she bought her own clothes and was a snappy dresser and was stunningly beautiful. It was in the spring of 1976, she caught the eye of a nice police officer named David Sparks, whom she learned to love and adore. After an 18-month courtship together, they decided to take a chance on making a risky teenage marriage work, and it did. They were married for 47 years and 3 months at the time of her death. Liz loved to work in the yard and garden at the farm in Timpson, keeping the farm mowed and maintained immaculately. She could name every plant in the yard and garden, as well as every plant and shrub in the roads and local area. She could go to the local garden center and name the plants there as well. She was a shining example of what a Proverbs 31 wife should be. She was an excellent mother and a doting grandmother. It has been said that her motherly skills are similar to a brahma cow; kind, gentle, would let you pet her on the head and even hug her neck, but if you messed with one of her kids or grandkids, she would not hesitate to put your ass over the fence. It’s been said God remembers people who show little unremarkable, unnoticed acts of kindness displayed to others, often unknown strangers. This is also her, no doubt. For the last 42 years, she and her husband, David, were contract poultry farmers for Holly Farms and Tyson Foods, retiring in 2021 to Summer Hill Circle in Nacogdoches to Liz’s pretty, little cottage. Rest in peace pretty, little angel. Your job is finished on earth. Well done.
Survived by:
Husband, David Sparks
Sons:
Josh Sparks and wife, Andrea
Matthew Sparks and wife, Amberley
Grandchildren:
Connor Sparks
Matthew Sparks II
Adelaide Sparks
Weston Sparks
Sister-in-law, Julie Tatum and husband, Wade
Brothers-in-law:
Tommy Sparks and wife, Tammy
Howard Sparks and wife, Peggy
Johnny Sparks and wife, Priscilla
Sister, Patty Harkness and husband, Carlton
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by mother, Delmar Elliott; parents-in-law, Turner and Martha Sparks.
Memorial Service will be held at 4:00pm on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at County Line Church located on FM 1971 S Caledonia, Tx.
Services under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.
08/21/2024
Dave Etheldred McNeill, III, M.D., went to his final rest, joining his beloved wife on Monday, August 12, 2024, after a long illness.
Dave was the son of Dave McNeill, Jr. and Lois Parker McNeill, both originally from Tenaha, Texas. He was born on August 19, 1946, in Shreveport, LA and spent the first six years of his life in Center, Shelby County, Texas. The last two years of that time included his little brother Larry for whom Dave was a great big brother.
The family moved to Houston in 1952 as a result of his attorney father accepting employment with the law firm of Vinson, Elkins, Weems & Searls. They lived in the Highland Village suburb, a neighborhood consisting mostly of families with children of the baby boom generation. It was here that Dave met his lifelong friend Bill Earle, who Dave and the rest of the McNeill family considered a second brother and a third son.
Dave attended public school in Houston, graduating from Will Rogers Elementary School, Sidney Lanier Jr. High, and finally Lamar High School in 1964.
He was accepted into the Plan II program at The University of Texas at Austin for his college education and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1968. During his college career, he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. This proved convenient to his continued courtship of Dawn Geraldine Potter, a member of Delta Delta Delta, located across the street from the Sigma Chi house. They originally met in high school, became engaged their senior year at UT and married after graduation on July 6, 1968. Their marriage would last for over 55 years until Dawn’s death in 2023, and produced two daughters, Tara Logan and Tracy Laine.
From his very early years, Dave knew he wanted to be a physician like his great grandfather John E. Parker and his grandfather James M. Parker. He was accepted into The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and began his medical education in the fall of 1968 and graduated in 1972. He later completed his residency in Internal Medicine at UTMB. Dave and Dawn were also members of Phi Chi, the oldest and the largest medical fraternity (and the only Co-ed fraternity) at UTMB.
In 1974 the McNeill family moved to The Woodlands, a newly developed community where Dave and fellow UTMB resident Dr. James Krause opened Northwest Diagnostic Clinic, PA, one of the first clinics in the area. The clinic later welcomed William Couch, MD, Denis Galindo, MD, and Stephen Fillman, MD, as well as others, and eventually included offices in north Houston and The Woodlands. Dave was dedicated to the care of his patients and was known by most as “the good doctor” during his career which lasted from 1974 – 2017.
Just as Dave and Dawn were pioneers of The Woodlands, they were early founding members of The Woodlands Methodist Church, participating in the many church efforts to serve others.
Dave was an avid golfer, playing most Saturdays with a standing group of friends for more than 50 years. His wife and children often asked what the group discussed during those many hours on the golf course, to which he usually replied, “the weather”. He was a loyal friend and recognized that some things are best kept on the golf course. He continued lessons with golf professional Susie Kirk until he could no longer swing and stand at the same time.
Dave and Dawn had a large group of friends that they enjoyed traveling to distant places with as well as spending time in Galveston and the Texas Hill Country. They were members of a very active Supper Club, the Booger Greens (if you know, you know), New Year’s Eve Club, as well as others, and generally were the life of every party. Dave enjoyed reading detective novels, tending to his rose garden, skiing in Colorado, waterskiing in Lake Conroe, making craft cocktails, could gator with the best of them, got a kick out of playing video games with his daughters, was a devout UT Longhorn fan, a keen movie goer, and most importantly was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, physician, and friend.
He was preceded in death by his parents and by his wife Dawn. He is survived by his daughter Tara Logan McNeill, his daughter Tracy McNeill Pullan, son-in-law Brent Pullan and his two granddaughters, Quinn and Violet. He is also survived by his brothers Larry Parker McNeill and by John William (“Bill”) Earle.
The family would like to thank the devoted caregivers who attended Dave in his final months, including LaToya, Joy, Diane, Diamon, Carmen, Keisha, and Keira.
A memorial service at The Woodlands Methodist Church’s Robb Chapel will be held on Thursday, August 29 at 2pm. Following the service all are invited to visit with the family at a reception at the church.
Memorial donations may be made to The Woodlands Methodist Church (www.thewoodlandsmethodist.org/give).
Memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at www.forestparkthewoodlands.com for the McNeill family. A live stream of the service can be accessed on August 29th, beginning at 1:45pm through the following link: https://control.resi.io/webplayer/video.html?id=1af0ff20-5cb8-4c8f-89d4-a1a5e5bf73b3
08/20/2024
Royce “Lynn” Johnson Jr., 59, of Center passed away peacefully Saturday, August 17th, at St. Luke’s Hospital in the Woodlands surrounded by family.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home. Lynn’s wishes were to be cremated.
Lynn was born April 2, 1965, the eldest son of Royce Lynn and Louise Fults Johnson. He graduated from Center High School in 1983 then attended Stephen F. Austin State University and received a degree in computer science. After graduation, Lynn moved to Houston where he worked in various IT departments for companies such as Electronic Data Systems, Enron, Meryl Lynch and Ceva Logistics. Following 20 years of living in Houston, he moved back to Center in 2009 to be closer to his family and started working at Bird Forestry in IT.
As a devoted Christian, he taught lessons every Sunday evening at the Mt. Pleasant Church of Christ. He remodeled an old house on Pearl Lake and made a great country home for his hunting dogs and his favorite little companion Butch. He shared his father and brothers’ love of hunting and fishing and filled his life with squirrel camps, trips to the family property on the Sabine River and every deer stand he could build. Lynn shared his mother’s love of antiques, and they spent many Saturday mornings driving to estate and garage sales all over the area and loading his pickup with their finds.
Extended family was important to him and he helped with every gathering, every reunion, and could always be depended on to work the hardest and longest. He put everyone and their needs ahead of himself. Instead of taking help, he gave help. His greatest joy was spending time with his nieces Jenny, Olivia, Jaleigh, Whitley and his nephew Tate. He spoiled them from day one and they loved him unconditionally. He shared the Johnson passion of playing 42, all he needed was a good set of dominoes and 3 people to play with. He greatly enjoyed playing poker, participating in Fantasy Football leagues and keeping up with national politics. While Lynn had various passions in life, his favorite was spending time with his family, friends and dogs.
Survived by:
Mother, Louise Fults Johnson
Father, Royce Lynn Johnson and wife, Isabel
Brothers:
Shelby Johnson and wife, Renee
Ed Johnson and wife, Sherri
Nieces:
Jenny Johnson
Olivia Johnson
Jaleigh Johnson and fiancé, Johnathon Dewberry
Whitley Johnson
Nephew, Tate Johnson
Step-nieces:
Sarah Grafton and husband, Dillon, and their children, Miles and Merrit
Samantha Van Caenegem and husband, Brent
Sophie Clakley
Stepsister, Jessica Harrison
Aunts:
Evelyn Hufferd
Linda Winder
Angela Lawson and husband, Royce
Great-aunt, Christine Mahan
Great-uncle, Bobby McSwain and wife, Connie
First Cousins:
Donna McSwain
Tod Hufferd
Branden Bradshaw
David Winder
Aaron Lawson
Adam Lawson
Preceded in death by beloved grandmother, Maxine McSwain Jernigan; grandfather, Royce Edward Johnson; grandfather, Bill Jernigan; uncles, Larry Fults, Top Hufferd, and John Winder; aunt, Karen Bittick; and cousins, Johnnie Fults and Idell Fults.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
08/19/2024
Sally Ann Fugett-Helton, 67, of Center, passed away Friday, August 16, 2024, in Center, Texas, after a yearlong battle with cancer.
Her wishes were to be cremated.
She was born April 11, 1957, to the late Homer Jewel Fugett and Mary Lou (Traylor) Fugett in Conroe, Texas.
She is survived by:
Husband, Ricky Dwayne Helton
Daughters:
Angela
Donna
Jennifer
Six grandchildren
Three great-grandchildren
One sister
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/19/2024
Helen Yates (Granny), 90, of Center, passed away Saturday, August 17, 2024, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Watson and Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Mrs. Yates was born August 5, 1934, in Center, to Terrell and Neoma Holt. She attended Center High School. She married the love of her life, Jack Yates, on October 20, 1951, and was a loving housewife while raising their beautiful family. Mrs. Yates enjoyed keeping her grandchildren, shopping garage sales, and watching soap operas. She loved sweets and rarely turned one down. A family favorite was her 4-layer delight, and she always made one side special for Luke without nuts. A family holiday tradition she was proud of was teaching her granddaughter, Kim, how to make her dressing that involved a large dish pan, a full day’s work, and lots of laughs. Now this family memory will live on. A special tradition they loved was taking their grandchildren on an annual visit to Hope, Arkansas to attend the Watermelon Festival. She was a devoted member of Sardis Pentecostal Church and loved the Lord. She enjoyed spending time with family and having visitors. She loved watching the bird feeders out of her window and looking at fresh cut flowers. If you ever walked into her home, you know she loved whatnots, especially roosters, but what stands out the most are the family pictures that fill every room.
She is survived by:
Children:
Joyce and Verbon Hendricks
Billy and Janet Yates
Terry and Linda Yates
Grandchildren:
Kim and Jeff Cater
Luke and Carriston Hendricks
Samantha and Brant Ranft
Jeremy Yates
Bryan and Jordan Hendricks
Steven and Dana Rader
Allison and Brandon Krepel
Amanda and Kris Kirby
Landon and Rita Oliver
Charla and Matt Warr
Great-grandchildren:
Jackson, Jayden, and Jaylee Cater
Kyleigh and Kayson Hendricks
Kale, Jaycee and Blakely Ranft
Brylee, Bailee, and Kalla Hendricks
Colton, Miles, and Lily Krepel
Jaxon and Avery Rader
Macy and Luke Burns
Makayla and Kody Page
Mason Mayo
Jamie and Clay Warr
Madison, Slade, and Sawyer Kirby
Kaylee, Brooklyn, and Lily Oliver
Great-great-grandchildren:
Chrisleigh and Miles Burns
Charlee Ann Page
Brothers-in-law and sister-in-law:
Carroll Yates
Jimmy and Billie Yates
Numerous nieces and nephews
Preceded in death by husband, Jack G. Yates; parents, Terrell Holt and Neoma Willoughby Holt; sister, Mildred Jones; and brother-in-law, Charles Jones.
Pallbearers will be Luke Hendricks, Jeremy Yates, Brant Ranft, Jayden Cater, Jeff Cater, Jackson Cater, Kale Ranft, and Kayson Hendricks. Honorary pallbearers will be Ronnie Jones, Glen Jones, Bobby Chandler, Terry Allen, and Bobby Watson.
A special thanks to Eva Daniels and Marilyn Hogue for their unconditional love and care over the past three years. Also, thank you to A Pineywoods Home Health, Bro. Jenkins, and the congregation at Sardis Pentecostal Church.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/16/2024
Eddie David Fletcher (Butch), 77, passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2024.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday, August 19, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, August 19, 2024, at Bethel Cemetery in Logansport, Louisiana. Bro. Ruston Bush will officiate.
Eddie was born on February 13, 1947, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Lee Ray Fletcher and Awilda Marie Kirkland of Logansport, Louisiana. He graduated from Logansport High School. A Vietnam veteran, Eddie served in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1969.
He is survived by:
Children:
Eddie (T-Butch) Fletcher and wife Teresa
Kristin Coleman and husband Chris
Grandchildren:
Brooke Fletcher
Reagan Coleman
Jordan Coleman
Sammy Coleman
Donald Lee and wife Jessica
Shanan Lee
Yolanda Alcudia and Aldamere (Sapo)
Numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren
Sisters:
Nancy English
Carol Ray Thomas
Brothers-in-law:
Jimmy Thomas
Jimmy English
Nieces and nephews:
Paul English
John English
Renee Rambin
Angie and Bill Conatser
Tracy Hendricks
Michael English and wife Ursula
Uncle, Vincent Morreale
Cousins:
David Morreale and wife Anne
Laura Lynn Baxter and her husband
Life partner, Sharon Dupre (Mrs. Buddy)
Preceded in death by his parents, Lee Ray Fletcher and Awilda Marie Kirkland; and aunt, Billie Pearls Moreale.
Pallbearers will be Billy Conatser, Donald Lee, Chris Coleman, Aldamere Alcudia, Brian Trejo, and Adrian Alcudia.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/15/2024
Neoma “Cissy” Clephas, 68, of Tenaha, passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2024, in Carthage.
Her wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Born April 29, 1956, in El Dorado, Arkansas, Neoma is the daughter of Charles A. Green and Martha Mayfield Green. She graduated as salutatorian of the Center High School Class of 1974. Neoma worked as an accountant at UT Health for twenty-five years. She loved spending time with her granddaughter.
She is survived by:
Daughter, Jenna Clephas and Mark Seifried of Tenaha
Stepson, Josh Clephas
Granddaughter, Kaylee Seifried of Tenaha
Sister-in-law, Donna Green of Tenaha
Nephews and niece:
Chuck Green
Chris Green
Amanda Campbell
Great-nieces:
Jaycee Franklin
Camie Green
Tori Green
Preceded in death by parents, Charles A. Green and Martha Mayfield Green; sister, Mable Campbell; brother, Eddie Green; and great-niece, Emmie Jo Green.
A special thanks to Panola County Nursing and Rehab and HeartsWay Hospice for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made toward final expenses.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
08/14/2024
Lisa “LeeLee” Darlene Watson Verrett, 62, of Center, passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2024, in Nacogdoches.
Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, August 18, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. A visitation will be held prior, beginning at 1:00 p.m.
Born November 28, 1961, in Center, Lisa is the daughter of Bobby Watson and Linda Samford Watson. Her hobbies included reading, watching television, and spending time alone. Lisa enjoyed time in the outdoors gardening and caring for her dogs and chickens. No one was a stranger to her. She loved children and was always willing to help anyone.
She is survived by:
Husband, Charles Verrett of Center
Children:
Radi Verrett and wife Ashley of Kountze
April and husband Gavin Victoria of Orange
Charles Verrett Jr. of Buna
Grandchildren:
Ryker Verrett
Ahava Victoria
Gavin Victoria Jr.
Ivory Victoria
Brylee Golden
Kamdyn Verrett
Preceded in death by her parents, Bobby Watson and Linda Samford Watson; and sister, Tina Moragas.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/14/24
Virginia (Ginger) Lemoine, 89, of Sardis, Texas passed on August 12, 2024. Ginger was born Virginia Ruth Smith on March 24, 1935, to the late Perry Buren Smith and Grace Louise (Whitton) Smith.
Visitation will be held at Magnum Funeral home on Saturday, August 17th at 9am. Graveside services will follow at 10am at Sardis Cemetery.
Ginger grew up and raised her own family with her late husband, J.R., in the Sardis community. Virginia leaves a legacy of beauty, truth, and talent. Her artistic eye graced her garden, her kitchen, the wardrobes of many, and untold other projects she took up with her capable hands. Any guest at her kitchen table was greeted with an honest opinion and a glass of sweet tea. Her family will remember her wit, her generosity, and the vigor with which she tackled life.
Survived by:
Children:
Lisa Christian and husband Wayne of Center
Marty Lemoine and wife Dionne of Jefferson
Tammy Lemoine of Center
Joey Lemoine and wife Theresa of Sardis
Grandchildren:
Leslie Panaro and husband Tony
Crystal Kennon and husband William
Liza Firmin and husband Mark
Joseph Lemoine and wife Emily
Lindsey Thompson and husband Lincoln
Brooke Lane and husband Brad
Jade Cain, Jessica Phillips and husband William
Lauren Myers and husband Ethan
Jeremiah Lemoine and wife Alex
Ashton Campbell
Whitney McLemore and husband Patrick
Anisse Lemoine
Julien Lemoine
Great-Grandchildren:
Alivia
Jon
Dominic
Jade
Emelia
Christian
Andrew
Ruth
Jaxson
Parker
Chappel
Whitfield
August
Vivienne
Evangeline
Miles
Micah
Jack
Willa
Rosanna
Aaliyah
Jenaveve
Alivia
Isabella
Great-Great-Granddaughter, Vivienne
Virginia is preceded in death by her husband J.R.; parents, Perry and Grace Smith; brothers, Wayne Smith, Jerry Smith, and Ray Smith; and sisters, Edna Smith, Frances Snow, and Odessa Smith Weaver.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
08/14/2024
Shirley Lout, 85, of Patroon, passed away Monday, August 12, 2024, at her home in Patroon.
Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Friday, August 16, 2024, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 1pm. Bro. James Goodwyn will officiate. Interment will follow at Rather Cemetery in Shelbyville.
Born September 14, 1938, in Center, Shirley is the daughter of William Eugene Wiggins and Florence May Wiggins. A loving mother and grandmother, she always enjoyed time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Shirley devoted her lifetime to being a homemaker. She also drove a school bus and assisted her husband with JH Lout Pulpwood and the Patroon Country Store. Shirley was a member of Order of Eastern Star Newbern Chapter No. 1135 and Patroon Baptist Church.
She is survived by:
Children:
Mike Lout and wife Patricia
Ricky Lout and Vicki Lout
Barry Lout and Maria Bush
Daughter-in-law, Jenny Lout
Grandchildren:
Tiffanne Klein
Sharayah Warr
Britt and husband Jake Mathews
Dusty Lout and wife Abby
Shon Lout and wife Haley
Cheyenne Moore and wife Kylee
Jennifer and husband Calan Pickard
Great-grandchildren:
Lieza and Liela Klein
Ileigha and Lex Warr
Elly, Dax, and Ripp Lout
Kain, Iris, and Ivie Mathews
Kye and River Pickard
Ava, Harper, Symber, and Carter Lout
Destin and Emma Moore
Brother, Billy Wiggins and wife Becky
Sister-in-law, Sherry Wiggins
Nephews:
Nicky Wiggins and wife Megan
Randy Wiggins
Also, numerous other nieces and nephews
Host of friends
She is preceded in death by her husband, J.H. Lout; son, Shon Lout; grandson, Juston Lout; parents, William Eugene “Bill” Wiggins and Florence May Wiggins; brother, Thomas Wiggins; and sister, Billie Jean Wiggins.
Pallbearers will be Darrin Lout, Shad Lout, Michael Andrews, Nicky Wiggins, Brad Goodwyn, and Michael Warren. Honorary pallbearers will be Dwayne Lout, Jimmy Lout, George Warren, and Larry Warren.
A special thanks to Caleatha Miranda, Vicky Sneed, and all of her caregivers, along with Affinity Hospice for their compassionate care. Special thanks as well to the San Augustine County Ambulance Service and Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Juston Michael Lout Scholarship Fund, 1173 County Road 1092, Center, Texas 75935.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com.
08/14/2024
Wanda Lee Ingerton, 78, of Center, passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2024, in Center.
Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Central Baptist Church in Center with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Bro. Danny Dodson will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Wanda Englehart Ingerton was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on February 27, 1946, to Robert Englehart and Norma Nichols Englehart. Her daddy, a German, was a master carpenter, and her mother, Irish, a Kansas City farm girl. Her family moved frequently and lived in several places throughout her life. When she was seven, their family lost the family ranch in Cortez, Colorado. They, in turn, moved to Victoria, Texas, because her dad found work there. Her daddy was an abusive alcoholic. She and her siblings dreaded the weekends because her daddy would beat their mom and destroy the house. They would sleep in the car on the side of the road.
When she was eight, she and her sister became “bus kids” at a Baptist church in Victoria, Texas. During the invitation, she went forward and accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior. Her sister got mad because she was embarrassed, and it held her up from getting home. When they got home, two Baptist men asked her dad for permission for her to be baptized. He cussed them out and told them to get out of his house. Mama always told us she got peace with both Jesus and her dad that day. She said before she got saved, she hated him. However, after she got saved, she could forgive him and even love him. She got victory in Victory, Texas. This is why her daughter, Mrs. Tammy, loves the bus ministry. What a difference it made in her life and later in the life of her daughter.
Many years later, a red-headed preacher, Bro. Roy Wallace, led her husband, Rhodes Ingerton, to the Lord when he was out soulwinning. She re-dedicated her life and was baptized at Central Baptist Church in Center, Texas.
On July 26, 1983, Wanda became employed with Walmart. She retired as a department manager on July 31, 2008, after twenty-seven years of dedicated service. Her hobby was crocheting.
She is survived by:
Children:
Tammy and husband Randy Hagler of Shelbyville
William Ben Ingerton of Shelbyville
Grandchildren:
Ashley and husband Dustin Parker
Alysse Hagler and Tyson Johnson
Devlyn Ingerton
Sheridan Ingerton
Brionna Ingerton
Autumn Ingerton
Great-grandchildren:
Jaxon Parker
Dylan Parker
Lane Parker
Shon Parker
Brantley Baldridge
Nova Lynn Bell
Brother, Robert DWayne Englehart and wife Bonnie of Athens, Texas
Sisters:
Betty and husband James Jenkins of California
Linda George of Albuquerque, New Mexico
Numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by husband, Rhodes Ingerton; parents, Robert Englehart and Norma Nichols Englehart; brother, Ricky Englehart; and sister, Donna Sparks.
Pallbearers will be Anthony Parish, Devlyn Ingerton, Lane Parker, Sheridan Ingerton, Dylan Parker, Jay Bartlett, Shon Parker, Brantley Baldridge.
“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” – Romans 10:13
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” – Psalm 116:15
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/14/2024
Kathie Gunther Hughes was born in Westchester County, New York, on July 19, 1945. She lived in Long Island, Cape Cod, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Istanbul, Turkey, and Center, Texas. She travelled all the world except Antarctica. She raised and trained horses for jumping and dressage. She loved animals. She was fluent in English and Portuguese. She was both gifted and beautiful. She loved living in Center. She died August 3, 2024, in her home, surrounded and held by her family.
A celebration of life will be held at 12:30pm on August 21, 2024 at St. John's Episcopal Church, 1063 Southview Circle, Center, Texas.
She is survived by:
Her husband, Dr. Mack Hughes of Center
Son, Michael Wimert of Miami
Daughter, Casey Wimert Horner of Milwaukee
Grandson, David and Daniel Wimert of Miami
Sisters:
Roni Lenz of Fernandina Beach, Florida
Trish Russell of Indianapolis
She will be buried in Short Cemetery near Center. She wanted no flowers, no wake, and no funeral. Commemorative gifts should be made to Happy Tails Animal Rescue, PO Box 1049, Center, Texas 75935.
We loved her, shall miss her, and will always cherish her memory.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
08/13/2024
Xavier Phillip Pierce, 29, of Porter, Texas, passed away on August 9, 2024, in Porter, Texas. He was born on September 20, 1994, in Conroe, Texas to Charles Pierce and Bianca Marin.
Funeral service will be held at 2PM on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Mangum Funeral Home, with Bro. Jacob Casey officiating. Interment will follow at West Hamilton Cemetery.
A visitation will be held prior to the service on Saturday, August 17, 2024, beginning at 1PM at Mangum Funeral Home.
Xavier spent most of his adolescent years in Kountze, Texas. He graduated from Kountze High School Class of 2013. He married his best friend, Vanessa Lara Santoyo, on February 9, 2024. Xavier loved his wife, family, and little girl Mia very much. He had such a big heart. He enjoyed Jiu Jitsu, competing, and training with others. Xavier had a passion for ministering to those around him. He loved the Lord and served ministering to others as well as leading bible studies and prayer groups. He loved the outdoors whether it was camping, fishing, running, or just spending time with his family. He was also an artist. While in high school he won 1st place at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo with a piece of art he created. Xavier was also a person that could take anything broken and fix it. He enjoyed the task of putting things back together as they were new. Xavier also loved to laugh and enjoyed playing jokes on everyone. His laughter and kindness will certainly be missed by those who knew him.
He is survived by:
Wife, Nadia Vanessa Lara Santoyo
Daughter, Mia Scarlett Lara Santoyo
Parents:
Charles Pierce
Jackie and Armand Chauvin
Brothers:
Lucas E. Mercer
Kendrick J. Nicholas
Garrett D. Rhoden
Kade J. Torres
Mitchum C. Pierce
Sisters:
Natasha N. Nicholas
Yazmin D. Mercer
Norah E. Rhogghe
Valencia F. Torres
Patience M. Pierce
Grandparents:
Alredo Marin
Patsy Mercer and husband Ken
Great-Grandmother, Olivia Rendon
Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins
Xavier is preceded in death by his mom, Bianca Marin; grandparents, Nora Rendon Marin, and Troy and Edith Risinger.
Pallbearers serving will be Charles Pierce, Kenneth A. Mercer, Lucas E. Mercer, Neil N. Nicholas, Aron J. Tubbs, Jon M. McGowan, Reece Stroud, OC Stroud, and Eric R. Rojas.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.
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