Shelby County Today

07/15/2025

Johnnie Faye Garrett Johnson, age 80, affectionately known as "Faye," was born on November 28, 1944, to the late J.B. Garrett, Sr., and Lottie Lee Price Barnes. She was the cherished first daughter of twelve children born to Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Garrett, Sr. On July 10, 2025, Faye transitioned from her earthly home to her eternal rest.

Funeral service is at 12 noon on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at True Vine Baptist Church, 302 Ironosa, San Augustine, TX 75972 with Rev. S. J. Clark, Pastor and Rev. David Mosby, Presiding Official. Interment is at St. Luke Cemetery. Viewing is from 2pm until 6:30pm on Friday, July 18, 2025 at Garner and Son Chapel.

Faye's early spiritual foundation was laid at St. Luke Baptist Church, where she attended with her beloved grandmother, Ms. Lucette Garrett. As an adult, she became a devoted and faithful member of True Vine Baptist Church for over 50 years, serving under the leadership of Rev. R.L. Henderson, Rev. Robert Lee Sessions and Rev. Sylvester J. Clark. Her commitment to her faith in her love shown to others as well as her active participation in numerous ministries, including Sunday School Teacher, Mission Teacher, Bible Study, Congress, and the Choir. Faye was also known for her thoughtful gesture of giving family and church family a $1 bill and a card for their birthdays.

Faye's educational journey began at Lincoln High School, and she proudly graduated in 1963. From a young age, she had a dream to become a beautician. In the 1984, she pursued this passion, becoming a licensed cosmetologist. She dedicated many years to her craft at Creations Unlimited before opening her own business, Faye's Beauty Salon. Beyond her entrepreneurial spirit, Faye was a savvy investor, purchasing and renting properties after ensuring her children's education. Her compassionate heart also led her to work in healthcare for many years, tenderly caring for the elderly in nursing facilities and through home health services. She became a Girl Scout Co-Leader in April 2025.

Faye found joy in cooking, especially preparing delicious sweets, and would readily bake desserts for anyone who asked. She possessed a unique blend of humor and wisdom, freely sharing her insights with everyone she encountered. One of her greatest pleasures was sitting on her porch, enjoying visits with her cherished family and friends.

On June 3, 1966, Faye was united in marriage to the late Perkins Johnson. She was blessed with four children: Michael Anthony Johnson, Angela Michelle Johnson Williams, Spencer Gregory Johnson, and Phyllis Renee Johnson Harris.

Faye was preceded in death by her parents, J.B. Garrett, Sr. and Lottie Lee Price Barnes; husband, Perkins Johnson; beloved son, Spencer Gregory Johnson; and grandchildren, Jeremy Hunt and Aaliyah Anders.

She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Charles “Snooder” Sanders, Joe Allen “Grundy” Cartwright, J.B. “Pug” Garrett, Jr., Johnny D. Garrett, Jerry Garrett, and James Garrett; and sisters, Ella Louise “Sister” Garrett Anderson, Billie Jean Garrett Houston, and Lucille Garrett.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and countless cherished memories for:

Children:
Michael Anthony Johnson of San Augustine, TX
Angela Michelle Williams (Timothy) of Nacogdoches, TX
Phyllis Renee Harris (Curtis) of Houston, TX

Sister, Sandra Kaye Garrett of San Augustine, TX

Brother, Kenneth Garrett of Arizona

Brother-in-law, Walter Anderson, Sr. of Hempstead, TX

Her light will continue to shine through her seven grandchildren: Schylur, Darius, Joneshia, Zachary, Michael, Jr., Bailee and Christopher

Numerous great-grandchildren, along with a host of other family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Three dear friends:
Ms. Opal Garrett
Mrs. Jean Hendson
Mrs. Linda Mosby

"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." - 2 Corinthians 5:1

Services are under the direction of Percy Garner & Son Mortuary, San Augustine, Texas.

07/13/2025

Steve J. Stephens, 92, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, in Center, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on November 24, 1932, in Shelby County, Texas, to the late Hamp S. Stephens and Dovie (Smith) Stephens. 

Visitation will be held from 12 noon to 2pm on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home, Center, Texas. Funeral service will begin at 2pm at Mangum Funeral Home, in Center, with Bro. Chuck Horton and Bro. Greg Sutis officiating. Interment will follow at White Rock Cemetery.

Steve was a lifelong resident of Shelby County. He graduated from Center High School and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Following his military service, Steve built a long and respected career as an engineer with the Texas Department of Transportation. Over more than twenty years of service, he contributed to the development and maintenance of vital infrastructure across the state before retiring.

Steve met the love of his life, Margie Cupit, at church through a mutual friend. Their bond grew into a marriage that spanned over 67 years—a testament to enduring love and shared faith. Together they raised a family and built a life rooted in devotion to one another and their community.

Outside of his professional and spiritual commitments, Steve found great joy in ranching and farming. He especially loved raising cattle and spending time outdoors. His greatest happiness came from being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—moments he cherished deeply.

A man of deep faith, Steve was an active member of White Rock Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully for many years. Steve’s legacy is one of quiet strength, steadfast love, and unwavering faith. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. 

He is survived by:

Loving wife, Margie Stephens

Daughters:
Shelia Clark
Brenda Bush

Sisters:
Maxine Malnar
Verna Sue Farris

Grandchildren:
Randi Kay Menzies
Lindsey Smith
Dustin Clark

Great-Grandchildren:
Jordan Menzies
Kingston Menzies
Tucker Smith
Tyler Smith
Dayton White

Numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Hamp and Dovie Stephens; brother, T.O. Stephens; sisters, Benna Dell Russell and La Faye Perkins; son-in-law, Danny Paul Bush; and grandson, Cody Bush.

Pallbearers serving will be Dustin Clark, Bruce Malnar, Clyde Herrington, Randy Taylor, Tracy Taylor, Gary Taylor, Darrell McDaniel, and Mark Menefee.

Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Adams, Jimmy Ward, Curtis Menefee, Claude Lucas, Grant Menzies, and Jacob Smith.

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

07/11/2025

Mary Lynn Paxton, 82, of Longview, formerly of Center, entered into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Longview.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, July 14, 2025, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., July 15, 2025, at Watson & Sons Chapel.  Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Tenaha.

Born September 28, 1942, in Shelby County, Mary is the daughter of Neil Gillis and Joyce Holt Scott. She worked in the cafeteria at Center ISD for over thirty years, a job she dearly loved. Mary’s hobbies included reading, going to the beach, and looking at beautiful flowers. Being a grandmother was one of her greatest joys in life. Mary was a member of Alpine Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by:
Daughters: 
Shana, and husband, Mark Jones of Gilmer
Kim Marshall of Longview

Son, Charles Paxton of Longview

Five grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter

Already in Heaven waiting to welcome her was her husband, Charles Paxton; granddaughter, Caitlyn Jones; parents, Neil Gillis and Joyce Holt Scott; brother, Bob Crocker; and sister, Sue Walker.

Pallbearers will be Tucker Jones, Charles Paxton, Chuck Collins, Mark Jones, Dyllan Fields, Kevin Walker, and Tristin Paxton.

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

07/10/2025

Don Lamar Weaver, 67, passed away on July 7, 2025, in Center, Texas. Born on May 29, 1958, in the same town he called home throughout his life, Don’s journey was one marked by compassion, and a deep love for those around him.

Don possessed a natural talent for working with his hands. Whether as a craftsman, handyman or plumber, he had an uncanny ability to fix just about anything. His skills were matched only by his willingness to help others—traits that made him not only reliable but deeply appreciated by those who knew him. Don was also an accomplished fisherman and loved the outdoors.

Later in life, Don found fulfillment as a caregiver. His compassionate and caring nature shone through in this role, offering comfort and support to those in need. These qualities extended beyond his work; they defined how he lived each day through his Christian beliefs.

Don was known for his love of Dr. Pepper and a Camel cigarette, simple pleasures that brought him joy. He cherished time spent with family and his children, moments that grounded him and gave meaning to his days. A devoted dog lover, Don had a special place in his heart for animals, especially Peaches and Truvy.

In recent years, Don was lovingly embraced by the Axen and Smelser families. Their acceptance brought new warmth into his life and reflected the kind of man he was—a dear friend whose presence enriched the lives of many.

He is survived by:

Son, Don Lamar Weaver II and wife Tonya Leann

Daughter, Stephanie Weaver/Barber and fiancé Justin

Brother, Lynn Weaver

Grandchildren:
Madison Eaves
Jaxton Eaves
Maxton Eaves
Ayre Eaves
Hunter Weaver
Noah Weaver
Jayden Weaver
Kailynn Weaver

Numerous family and friends that will miss him dearly and are not listed.

Don is preceded in death by his father, David Lynn Weaver; mother, Violet Joy (Dukes) Ford; daughter, Lauren Weaver; brothers, Danny Weaver, Dale Weaver; and nephew, David Weaver.

Don’s wishes were to be cremated. No services are planned at this time. 

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

07/09/2025

Tonia Renee (Gaspard) Smith, age 49, passed away on July 7, 2025, in Nacogdoches, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. She was born on March 31, 1976, to the late Dusty Joseph Gaspard and Theada (Hodge) Gaspard.

Visitation will be held at 1PM until service time on Friday, July 11, 2025, at New Life Church, 822 Hurst St., Center, Texas.

Funeral Service will be held following visitation at 2PM on Friday, July 11, 2025, with Bro. Steve Noble officiating. Interment will follow at Powdrill Cemetery.

Tonia grew up with a strong sense of compassion and dedication that would define her life. She graduated from Bridge City High School and went on to become a Certified Medical Assistant. Her career in the Home Health field spanned many years, during which she found great fulfillment in caring for others. Her gentle spirit and nurturing heart touched countless lives through her work.

Tonia was a woman of many joys and passions. She cherished time spent with her family above all else. Whether she was cooking one of her favorite meals, enjoying Girl’s Days with Abbi, or riding backroads with Dusty, she embraced every moment with warmth and laughter. Watching Leave It To Beaver brought her comfort and joy, as did bird watching—especially when redbirds graced her view. Among her greatest treasures was time spent with her grandson Tyler, who was truly the highlight of her life.

Her faith played a central role in her journey. About six years ago, when she and her family came to Shelby County, Tonia found a spiritual home at New Life Church. The Women’s Group there became especially dear to her heart—a source of strength, fellowship, and love.

Tonia was known for being loving, caring, compassionate, and supportive. She radiated kindness and joy wherever she went. As a mother, she was a role model to her children; as a wife, she shared over 20 years of marriage with Brad—a bond built on love and devotion.

Her legacy is one of selflessness and grace—a life lived fully through service to others and unwavering love for those around her.

She is survived by:

Loving husband, Brad Smith

Son, Dusty Davis

Daughters:
Abigail Smith
Savannah Smith and husband Kody

Brothers:
David Gaspard and wife Claire
Daniel Gaspard and wife Cindy

Grandchildren:
Tyler Gaspard
Brantley Winfree

Father & Mother-in-law, James and Barbara Smith

Sister-in-law, Lisa Bondurant and husband Bill

Brother-in-law, Brent Smith

Numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Tonia is preceded in death by her parents, Dusty and Theada Gaspard; and son, Tyler Winfree.

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

07/07/2025

Doyle Ray Hill, of Nacogdoches, Texas, was born on June 24, 1939, in Paxton, Texas, and died July 4, 2025. He was born to Syble Clara Reeve and Willie Ivous Hill.

He grew up in Paxton, Texas until he met the love of his life Della Mae Chambers. They married in 1959 in Kountze, Texas, and settled in Houston where they raised their daughters, Pam and myself (Sandy). He worked for Southwestern Bell and AT&T in downtown Houston for the majority of his career, for which he was very proud and often reminisced of his days downtown.

If you knew my dad, you knew generosity, you knew laughter, and you knew someone that was never at a loss for words or stories. He could talk to anyone and never met a stranger and without fail... would embarrass you at any restaurant, by changing tables, at least once, maybe twice. It did not matter how good the table was, there was always a better one "just over there." Just recently in the hospital he asked the nurse to get him a new battery for the clock, and as soon as he got out of ICU this time he would not stop until the nurse found him an extra remote for TV.

Beyond the jokes and antics, you could always depend on him. If we needed anything, advice, help, money or just a laugh, daddy was there. He was a strong and steady role model in his grandson's life, filling that space with love, consistency, and real world wisdom. What I was not always able to provide, he and my mother did, vacations, vehicles, gifts, etc. He provided only the very best for his family and rarely said "no" to a house full of women. Daddy looked out for us we could expect to hear, (often), "Your tires look low, have you checked the air?" or "You’re not putting that cheap gas in your car are you, I wouldn’t put that gas in my lawn mower." I told him not long ago how good he had been to us, expecting something sentimental back. Instead, I got "Yeah... too good."
 
Growing up, Mother and Daddy never missed a ball game, no matter how far, how long the drive or how late we got home. They never missed a game or a tournament, not one. Rain or shine, in the bleachers or folding chairs, they showed up. Daddy was so proud of me and my sister's athletic abilities. However, we all secretly knew those athletic genes came from our mother, because we never saw Daddy play any sports. In fact, if we are being real, you could say he was a bad sport, if he ever won at cards or domino’s, you were gonna hear about it!
 
Something many people didn't know about my dad is he liked to write; he was an author and a poet. He wrote several books of short stories and poetry. The first poem he ever wrote for me was sort of out of necessity. I was in first grade, and I told him I needed a poem that day, oh and it had to be about Christopher Columbus. He came up with this on the spot:
 
"There once was a young man from Spain, who had dreams that were all the same, dreams of a land far away, he knew he must visit some day. Dreams of a better land for us, for these were the dreams of Christopher Columbus."
 
As I sit here now, I realize Daddy told a story all my life that parallels this poem. As soon as he graduated from Tenaha High School, he headed to Houston in search of a better life. He was that young man with a dream, he made that dream a reality, not just for himself but for his family. Daddy showed up, stayed present and loved his family. He left us with memories, laughter, and stories that will be told around our tables for years to come.

He will be remembered not only as a loving Husband, Father and Grandfather, but as a storyteller, a dreamer, a poet and a man who made people laugh, even when he made them change tables. We will miss him so much every day.

He is survived by:

Wife of 66 years, Della Hill of Nacogdoches

Daughters:
Pamela Grace of Nacogdoches
Sandy Jones of Nacogdoches

Grandson, Kasey Jones, of Nacogdoches

Brothers:
Dale Hill of Joaquin
Harold Walker of Deadwood

Brother-in-law, Gary Acker, of Gary

Numerous nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Syble Walker; his father, Willie Hill; his sister, Kay Acker; and his niece, Lisa Kay.

Services under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

07/06/2025

Billie Jo Fountain, age 93, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in San Augustine, Texas. 

Born on November 5, 1931, in San Augustine, to the late James A. Fountain and Jessie Clyde (Jimmerson) Fountain, Billie spent her life rooted in the community she loved. She graduated from Camp Worth in San Augustine and remained a proud member of her hometown throughout her years.

Known for her kind and compassionate nature, Billie found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She cherished quiet mornings with a warm cup of coffee and a good book in hand. Her love for gardening brought beauty to her surroundings and peace to her spirit. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her children and family, creating lasting memories filled with warmth and love.

Billie’s presence was a source of comfort to those who knew her. Her gentle demeanor and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. 

She is survived by:

Daughters:
Judy Jones
Jorja Jacobs and husband Thurman
Joyce Dorsett
Jeri Blair and husband Rod
Sherry Smith and husband Glenn

18 Grandchildren

28 Great-Grandchildren

2 Great-Great Grandchildren

Billie is preceded in death by her parents, James and Jessie Fountain; daughter, Jana Fountain; grandsons, David Weaver, Michael Dorsett; and 12 brothers and sisters. 

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

07/04/2025

Zaylon Iverson Price, 19 of Lufkin, Texas, departed her life in Lufkin on June 23, 2025. Zaylon was born in Lufkin to Zavian Daniels and Mahagony Thompson Daniels on February 28, 2006. 

Funeral services for will be Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church located at 1pm. Visitation is Friday, July 4, 2025, at All Families Funeral Home 222 Leach Street, Lufkin, Texas 75904 from the hours of 6pm to 8pm. Committal is at Pennington Cemetery Pennington, Texas. 

Zaylon Price is survived by:  

Father, Zavian Daniels of Lufkin, Texas

Mother, Mahagony Daniels of Pennington, Texas

4 brothers and 5 sisters

Service entrusted to Hicks Mortuary 804 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive Center, Texas 75935. For online condolences visit www.hicksmortuary.net.

07/03/2025

Silver Bell Motley, 87, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, in Center. She was born on December 31, 1937, to Marley Steven Bell and Mildred Lookabaugh Bell in Ennis, Texas.

Visitation will be held at 10am on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Center, with the service to follow at noon. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

Silver Bell was raised in a home full of love, hard work, a strong sense of family, and lots of laughter. Her father Steve was a cattleman and trader with a sixth-grade education and a heart the size of Texas. Her mother Mildred was a gifted teacher, highly educated, a fabulous seamstress and largely the disciplinarian of the household. With her two sisters, Linda and Kathy, Silver grew up in Frankston, Texas, through her freshman year in high school, where she was a cheerleader and played tennis and basketball. Her family moved to Nacogdoches briefly then to Center at the beginning of her Junior year. Never a shy one, Silver recalls catching the eye of a handsome Sophomore, Luke Motley, on the first day of school. After going on a double date, each with other people, she knew Luke was going to ask her out. Sure enough, he asked to carry her home from church that Sunday, which began what would be a lifelong courtship.

Silver graduated in 1956 from Center High School and attended Stephen F. Austin State University, earning a marketing degree while also being chosen as the 1958 SFA Homecoming Queen and voted Miss SFA. Luke, in the meantime, attended Baylor University, with the two charting their own paths, until the day Silver received a job offer in another state. Luke’s mother, Martha, didn’t mince words in telling him he needed to get on the ball if he wanted to catch and marry Silver Bell. He asked, she said yes, and they married on June 5, 1959, and loved each other well for 66 years.

Silver and Luke made their home in Center, investing their lives in the community through banking, volunteerism, service organizations, First Baptist Church, and raising three children - son Luke IV, daughter Monica, and daughter Meredith. Although Silver filled many roles in her lifetime, her greatest joy was being a wife and mother. It wasn’t until all three kids were in college at Baylor University—at the same time—that Luke said, “Silver… I think it would be a good idea for you to start teaching.” This marked the beginning of a newfound personal passion for Silver in connecting with and caring deeply for her students. She enjoyed a 17-year teaching career at Center ISD, including being recognized as the 2003 Shelby County Teacher of the Year. Silver said, “On a good teaching day, I taught my students to learn 2 or 3 new things.” She held them to a very high standard balanced with consistent encouragement and praise. She believed “To teach once was to learn twice,” a lesson she shared with her own kids, which inspired her daughter, Meredith, to become a teacher. Meredith is now teaching at Center ISD and her students are children of her mom’s students. It never fails, when parents find out Meredith is Silver’s daughter, their gratitude for how she changed their life is overwhelming.

Silver Bell Motley was a gift of a person, a friend to everyone, with a competitive, witty spirit, sincere joy, class, and kindness. Beneath it all was her unwavering belief and full faith in the birth, death, and resurrection of her Savior, Christ Jesus, and the promise of eternal life. She not only understood but modeled the redemptive power of forgiveness, grace, and unconditional love, which she gave freely to her family and everyone who knew her.

She is survived by:

Beloved husband of 66 years, Luke Motley III

Son, Luke Motley IV and wife Rosalind of Sherman, Texas and family
Granddaughter, Marlee Wilson and husband Chase of Sherman, Texas
Great-Grandchild, Jeffrey Camden Wilson
Granddaughter, Jordan Motley of Austin, Texas
Granddaughter, Mary Kate Motley of Encinitas, California

Daughter: Monica Van Slate and husband Jon of Houston, Texas and family
Granddaughter, Sara Compton and husband Mitchell of Dallas, Texas
Great-Grandchild, William Jon Compton
Granddaughter, Emily Davis and husband David of Grapevine, Texas

Daughter: Meredith Morris and husband Brian of Center, Texas and family
Morgan Morris of Splendora, Texas
Jake Morris of Longview, Texas

Chosen daughter-in-law, Kelli Mathews of Center, Texas and family
Grandson, Collin Mathews and wife Madyson of Center, Texas
Great-Grandchild, Vaughn Miller Murray Mathews
Granddaughter, Taighen May and husband Trevor of Center, Texas

Sister, Linda Lane of Center, Texas and family
Niece, Aleshia Fife and husband Keith of Center, Texas
Great-niece, Allana Gallant
Great-nephew, Jackson Fife
Nephew, Mark Massey and wife Wendy of Kemah, Texas
Great-nephew, Harrison Massey
Great-nephew, Hunter Massey
Great-niece, Savannah Massey
Great-nephew, Colton Massey

Nieces/Nephews:
Debbie Armstrong and daughter LeAnn of Humble, Texas
Christie Pickens and husband Chris of Lumberton, Texas and family
Great-nephew, Austin Pickens
Great-niece, Cortney Stelly
Great-niece, Abby Hutto

Preceded in death by parents, Steven “Steve” and Mildred Bell; in-laws, Luke “Jack” and Martha Motley; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Charles and Kathy Noble; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jeanne and Leland Howard; nephew-in-law, Keith Armstrong; brother-in-Law, Wardlow Lane; niece, Noelle Noble; and chosen son, Murray Mathews.

Pallbearers are Jake Morris, Collin Mathews, Mark Massey, Mitchell Compton, David Davis, and Chase Wilson.

Caregivers: The family would like to extend their love and heartfelt gratitude to Mom’s caregivers: Ashley McCollister, Shant’e McCollister, Patsy Patton, Anastasia Barnes, and housekeeper, Delfina. You will never know the appreciation we have for you. Thank you for loving Mom and Dad as if they were your own. You became part of our family and journeyed through this storm with us. You’ve cried with us, rejoiced with us, worried with us, and laughed with us. Your presence was a consistent comfort in a process that nobody knew how to navigate. May God shower you with blessings every day! All our love!

In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Silver Bell Motley Roughrider Scholarship Fund, PO Box 152, Center, Texas 75935.

Silver’s Wishes:
She said, "Do NOT wear black. Dress Happy!!" Silver said, "Smile!!" and "May you always have Love to share, Health to spare, and Friends to care."