Obituaries
01/04/2026
Deidra Annette Jones, 64 of Spring, Texas, passed away on December 9, 2025. She was born on May 19, 1961, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to Jesse and Lucille Jones.
Deidra grew up in East Texas and graduated from Tenaha High School in 1988. She continued her education at Panola College earning her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Driven by her passion for caring for others, she later graduated from Angelina College with her Registered Nursing Degree.
Deidra dedicated sore than 30 years to the nursing profession, serving patients and families with compassion, skill, and unwavering commitment. She spent the latter part of her career in case management, where her experience and gentle guidance made a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
A lifelong animal lover, Deidra had a special place in her heat for cats. She supported and worked with several programs devoted to their care and protection, always advocating for the animals who needed her most.
Deidra is survived by:
Mother, Lucille Jones
Brothers:
Kenneth Jone and Louise
ALan Jones and Susan
Casey Jones and Gina
Beloved nieces and nephews:
JT Jones
Kendal Wise
Rystian McDermell
Kelsi Jones
Zack Jones
Jackson Jones
Staci Robertson
She is also remembered fondly by many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
She is preceded in death by her father, Jesse Jones; maternal grandparents, Sidney and Emma Mena; and paternal grandparents, Jesse and Willie Ruth Jones.
Deidra has already been cremated, honoring her wishes. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at a later date.
Deidra's kindness, dedication, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
01/04/2026
W.A. Nichols, 76, of Center, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel with Bro. Jenkins and Bro. Bradley Ford officiating. Interment will follow at East Hamilton Cemetery in the East Hamilton Community of Shelby County.
Born March 10, 1949, in the East Hamilton Community of Shelby County, W.A. is the son of Alton “Buddy” Nichols and Westerfield Wright Nichols. W.A. was a man known for his hardworking spirit, his love for family, and the simple joys that filled his days. He spent much of his time building things from the ground up, tending to his garden, or on his tractor—always finding purpose in working with his hands. When he wasn’t doing that, he was devoted to his grandbabies, creating memories they will cherish forever. Rarely seen without a Zero Dr Pepper in his hand, W.A. loved deeply and cherished everyone in his life. To know him was to love him, and he will always be remembered for a life rooted in love, dedication, and family.
He is survived by:
Daughter, Melissa and husband Marlin Spears
Grandchildren:
Justin Taylor
Michael Spears and wife Laiton
Chase Spears
Kayla and husband Michael Gibbo
Great-grandchildren:
Emberly Spears
Rhett Spears
Wrenli Spears
Numerous nieces and nephews
Sisters:
Joy Bradshaw
Josephine Kettler
Preceded in death by parents, Alton “Buddy” Nichols and Westerfield Wright Nichols; and brothers, Herbert “Bubba” Nichols, Robert Nichols, and J.C. Nichols.
Pallbearers will be Michael Spears, Michael Gibbo, Justin Taylor, Sam Nichols, Chase Spears, and Maison Rivers.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
01/02/2026
Weldon Leo English, 95, of Center, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2026, in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be held at 3pm, Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at 2pm Bro. Charles Williams and Bro. Roy Davis will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born July 20, 1930, in Shelby County, Weldon is the son of John Huley English and Lottie Swan Melton English. He served in the United States Army from 1947 to 1950 and in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1954. Weldon was a member of Logansport Masonic Lodge, Mt. Vernon Masonic Lodge, and Heritage Missionary Baptist Church.
He is survived by:
Sons:
Danny English and wife Cylvia of Kilgore
Steve English and wife JoAnne of Joaquin
Daughter, Jan and husband Tommy Poole of Huxley
Grandchildren:
Justin English and wife Tammy of Kilgore
Matt English of Naples, Florida
Chad Seals of Lake Charles, Louisiana
Lee Poole and wife Sonya of Logansport, Louisiana
Jennifer and husband George Aherne of San Francisco, California
Race English of Midland
Cam English and wife Janet of Midland
Great-grandchildren:
Samantha English
Olivia Seales and Caleb
Haven Seales
Holden Seales
Owen Seales
Hudson Seales
Alice Poole
Jackson Aherne
Finn Aherne
Rayni English
Charley English
Great-great-grandson, Cooper Bass
Special nieces:
Belinda and husband Keith O’Rear of Huxley
Connie Jo and husband Gilbert Vaughn of Huxley
Special great-nieces and great-nephews:
Karissa Vaughn
Bree Beardon
Charlee and Grant Beardon
Brother, Wayne Swan and wife Mary of Joaquin
Preceded in death by wife, Edra English; brother, Curtis English; and sister, Orene Hinton.
Pallbearers will be Justin English, Matt English, Lee Poole, George Aherne, Gilbert Vaughn, and Keith O’Rear.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heritage Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 211, Center, Texas 75935.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
1/2/2026
Merle Bass, 85 of Timpson, passed away Sunday, December 28, 2025. He was born September 16, 1940 to Lucian and Audrey Bass.
Funeral services will be held at 1pm on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Taylor Funeral Home officiated by Hollis Bass. Interment will follow at Corinth Cemetery. A visitation will be held prior to service from 12 noon to 1pm on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Taylor Funeral Home.
Merle Bass, also known to many as “Buddy”, grew up in Cushing and later attended Stephen F. Austin State University. He honorably served our country in the United States Navy. Merle was raised with superb morals and values. When he grew up, he knew he was going to pass this on to his children. He was married to the love of his life, Brenda and together they raised their children with those same outstanding ethics. He loved them more than they ever knew and even though he dealt them tough love, it was all for the lessons in life they would need to survive in the world. He also made sure to instill great Christian values in them. Merle was a worker and made sure his wife and kids were provided for. He drove a truck across country and then worked in maintenance for The City of Houston for many years. His time spent outside of work was with the ones he loved the most but also enjoyed horseback riding and time on his motorcycle. These times will forever remain in their memories as they learn to navigate a world without him.
He is survived by:
Wife of 60 years, Brenda J. Bass
Daughters:
Angela Bass
Rebecca Mojica
Brother, Hollis Bass and wife Catherine
Sister, Wanda Kirkpatrick
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lucian and Audrey Bass; son, Joseph Bass; and brother, Darvis Bass.
Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
1/2/2026
Kirksy "Chuck" Dock Jr., 60, passed away Monday, December 29, 2025. He was born to Kirksy Dock Sr. and Emma Dock Johnson on December 7, 1965 in Shelbyville, Texas.
Funeral service is 2pm Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Triumph First Pentecostal Church, 222 CR 2024, Shelbyville, Texas 75973 with Bishop Roosevelt Swindle, Pastor. Visitation is from 10am until 6pm at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center.
Kirksy Dock was a graduate of Shelbyville High School.
He worked for E.L. Bruce Hardward Floor, Tyson Food, OMI Energy, M&M Sale Service, and for K.C.S. Railroad Commission all for many, many, years.
Kirbsy is preceded in death by his father, Kirksy Dock Sr.; brothers, Curtis Dock and James Dock; and sister, Christene Garrett.
He leaves to cherish his memories:
Wife, Kristian Dock
Daughters:
Paula Osby of Nacogdoches
Sha'quaina Houston (Steven) of Center
Olivia Dock of Center
Grandsons: Jabaris Houston, Aubrarysha, Audrionna of Center and Nacogdoches
Mother, Emma Dock Johnson of Center
Sisters:
Mary Haley (Donald) of Mansfield, Louisiana
Linda Dock of Center
Betty Gardner of Center
Brenda Wilson (Ernest) of Tyler
Latonya Dock of Houston
Sister-in-law, Bethany Dock of Logansport, Louisiana
A host of Nieces, Nephews, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and other relatives and friends.
Services are entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
1/2/2026
Truly Noel Casey was born on August 23, 2024 to Sherrel Washington and Cleveland Casey. She departed this life on December 22, 2025 at Texas Children Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Funeral service is 11am on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, 908 Daniel Street, Center, Texas. Visitation is 10am until 6pm Friday, Janaury 2, 2026 at Community Funeral Home Chapel in Center. Interment is at Westview Cemetery in Center.
She leaves to cherish her memories:
Mother, Sherrel Washington
Father, Cleveland Casey
Siblings:
Jace Smith
Milanee Washington
Amie Washington
Maternal Grandparents:
Benita Washington
Vernon Washington
Renoda Washington
Paternal Grandparent, Sharon Casey
Great-Grandmother, Joyce Ann Washington
Host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and Special love ones.
Services entrusted to Community Funeral Home, Center, Texas.
1/1/2025
James Keisling Smith, 73, was born on September 18, 1952, in Galena Park, Texas, the son of Eddie Dalton Smith Sr. and Edith Murl (Hammer) Smith. He passed away on December 24, 2025.
He was proceeded in death by his parents; wife, Patricia Rae (Kramer) Smith; brothers, Eddie Dalton Smith Jr., Richard Lee Smith and Rocky Lynn Smith; sisters, Linda Murl Parr, Brenda Joyce York and Donnie Faye Rowan; and infant siblings, Billy Ruth Smith and Ralph Wayne Smith.
J.K. lived in the Hugo, Oklahoma community for the past 20 years. He joined the United States Army before his high school graduation where he met and married his beloved wife, Patricia Rae Kramer. Together they shared a happy life raising their son. After proudly retiring from the United States Army, J. K. earned an associates degree from Paris Junior College. He was a member of the VFW Post 8316 where he enjoyed playing bingo with his friends and family. He also enjoyed going to Walmart, visiting with people and loved his fur baby Sadie. Above all else. J.K. loved his family and spending time with his son and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
J.K. Is survived by:
Son, Earnest Smith and wife Kristi of Abilene, Texas
Grandchildren:
Earnest Aquirre
Zamira Smith
Jovanni Smith
Kase Smith
Ariel Faraci and husband Jacob
Great-grandchild, Raiden Faraci
Sisters:
Marie Perry and husband Harry of Joaquin, Texas
Denice Dement and husband Ray of Crosby, Texas
Penny Smith of Center, Texas
Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and host of other family friends and loved ones.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday, January 3 at Ramah Baptist Church at 11 o’clock.
12/31/2025
Robert Wayne Baker, age 63, of San Augustine, Texas, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at CHI St. Luke's Medical Center in Lufkin, Texas.
"Wayne" was born June 23, 1962, in DeQuincy, Louisiana, to parents Elizabeth Ann (Sherman) and Robert Clymen Baker. He grew up in San Augustine County and lived in the area most of his life. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church and spent many years driving trucks on local runs as well as overland transportation. A great passion in Wayne's life was fishing and he loved spending time with his family and friends.
His survivors include:
Daughter, Carmen Baker Stephens and her husband Ray of Natchitoches, Louisiana
Grandson, Jackson Stephens of Natchitoches, Louisiana
Mother, Elizabeth Ann Baker of San Augustine, Texas
Sister, Sheila Baker Hughes and husband Clifton "Scooter" of Center, Texas
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert C. Baker, in 2019.
Visitation will be held Friday, January 2, 2026, from 1pm to 2pm at Wyman Roberts Funeral Home, located at 316 W. Columbia Street in San Augustine, Texas.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2pm, Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Wyman Roberts Memorial Chapel.
Visit www.WymanRobertsFH.com for memories and condolences. Arrangements are under the direction of Wyman Roberts Funeral Home in San Augustine, Texas.
12/31/2025
Nellye Sue Tomlinson, age 87, of Garrison, Texas passed away on December 27, 2025. She was born on October 5, 1938, in Roswell, New Mexico to parents Charles and Louise Morrison.
Sue married the love of her life, James H. Tomlinson, on March 10, 1957. They were happily married for 65 years when he passed away in 2022. They lived in Roswell, New Mexico before moving to Artesia, opening and running a meat packing plant. They later made the decision to sell and move to Sweetwater, Texas, where they enjoyed participating in the Rattlesnake Roundup and taking friends and family hunting every weekend. Sue enjoyed gardening with her long-time friends.
James’s job later moved them to Allen, Texas where they lived for several years until James decided to build a chicken farm and move to Center, Texas. Sue enjoyed her family time at the chicken farm and watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play there. After Sue retired from Walmart, she mostly enjoyed spending her time as a substitute teacher at Martinsville School where the kids loved her! She became MeMe to everyone. As members of Stallings Drive Church of Christ, Sue and James enjoyed hosting the youth and college classes in their home.
James and Sue eventually sold their chicken farm and moved to Chireno until Sue’s health caused her to move to Garrison Nursing Home & Rehab, where she lived until her passing.
Mrs. Tomlinson was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Louise Morrison; husband, James H. Tomlinson; son, James W. Tomlinson; and siblings, Evelyn Abers and Billy Morrison.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Jamie Larkins and husband Bob of Tioga, Texas
Stacy Piazza and husband Joe of Garrison, Texas
Grandchildren:
LaShea Meroney
Haley Riney and husband Joey
Devin Dean and wife Preslie
Dylan Dean and wife Morgan
Dawson Dean
Great-grandchildren:
Payton Meroney and wife Autumn
Payslee Meroney and fiancé Nick Solano
Cayden Riney
Kyler Riney
Zoey Riney
Heston Dean
Barret Dean
Haidyn Dean
Bobbie Jo Dean
Hallie Dean
Great-great-grandson, Lucas Meroney
Bonus grandchildren: Trey, Austin, Hope, Tony, Claire, Nova, Zander, and Oakley
Sister, Cynthia Barlow
Many nieces and nephews
Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 am on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Cason Monk-Metcalf Sunset Chapel. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home officiated by Randy Harshbarger and Eddie Whitaker.
Sue will be laid to rest in Mount Herman Cemetery in Shelby County, Texas.
Serving as pallbearers will be Devin Dean, Dylan Dean, Dawson Dean, Payton Meroney, Joey Riney, Austin Piazza, Shane Meroney, and Cayden Riney.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Garrison Nursing Home and Rehab and Heart to Heart hospice for the loving care shown to Mrs. Tomlinson.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors.
12/31/2025
Lorenza “Mami-Nena” Arcibar, 70, of Center, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Center.
Visitation will be held from 3pm to 8pm, Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center. Funeral service will be held at 11am, Friday, January 2, 2026, at Watson & Sons Chapel. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born August 20, 1955, in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, Lorenza is the daughter of Lino Diaz and Leonor Jimenez. She was a member of Iglesia Bautista Monte Sinai.
She is survived by:
Husband, Amador Arcibar
Children:
Aracely and husband Floriberto Gonzalez
Jose Arcibar and wife Yolanda
Estela and husband Fidel Alvarez
Amador Arcibar Jr. and wife Dora
Martha and husband Manuel Cruz
Jessica and husband Venancio Trejo
Moises Arcibar and wife Cindy
23 Grandchildren
11 Great-grandchildren
Pallbearers will be Jose Arcibar, Amador Arcibar Jr., Moises Arcibar, David Trejo, Marco Gonzalez, Abram Arcibar, Cesar Arcibar, and Ezekiel Arcibar.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
12/31/2025
Carolyn Parrish, 88, of Center, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in Center.
Funeral service will be held at 2pm, Friday, January 2, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with visitation beginning at Noon. Chris Watlington will officiate. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center.
Born July 7, 1937, in Center, Carolyn is the daughter of Herbert Corbitt and Audrey Hughes Corbitt. She loved to sew and enjoyed genealogy. Carolyn was a member of First Baptist Church in Center.
She is survived by:
Daughters:
Marilyn and husband Larry Latham
Vickie Rudd
Linda and husband Tommy Jacobs
Son, Michael Parrish and wife Stephanie
Grandchildren:
Laurie Latham White
Randi and Jon Lunsford
Matt Latham and Wendy
Adam and Veronica Rudd
Rachel and Michael Quast
Ashley and David Todd
Amber and Matthew Phelps
Great-grandchildren:
Blake Latham
Ryan Lunsford
Jaycie Latham
Noah Quast
Audrey Quast
Soon to be baby Luke Quast
Reese White
Cade White
Laini Lunsford
Josephine Rudd
Jolene Todd
Sister, Sarah and husband Charles Burrows
Brother-in-law, Robert Parrish
Sister-in-law, Jean Consford
Special friends:
Reba Daniels
Debbie Williford
Mary Byrnes
Preceded in death by the love of her life and husband of 67 years, Darnese Parrish; parents, Herbert Corbitt and Audrey Hughes Corbitt; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Alfred and Lucille Parrish; brother-in-law, Jerry Consford; and sister-in-law, Sue Parrish.
Pallbearers will be Matt Latham, Adam Rudd, Michael Quast, Matthew Phelps, Reese White, and Cade White. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Latham, Tommy Jacobs, David Todd, Ronny Rudd, Jon Lunsford, Charles Burrows, Blake Latham, and Noah Quest.
A special thank you to Harbor Hospice for their compassionate care.
Online condolences and tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/29/2025
Len Weaver, 71, of Center, Texas, passed away on December 28, 2025, in Tyler. Graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Fairview Cemetery in Center. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center. Born September 5, 1954, Len is the son of David Lamar Weaver and Violet Joy Dukes Weaver. Len was a simple man; he enjoyed hunting and fishing, and raising his chickens. He was also the owner of Handy Andy’s.
He is survived by:
Children:
Sami Jo McRae
Jason Adkison
Jennifer Weaver
Grandchildren:
Jesse Adkison
Chris McRae
Blaine McRae and wife Emily
One great-grandchild, Kohen McRae
He is preceded in death by his son, David Weaver Jr.; parents, David Lamar Weaver and Violet Joy Dukes Weaver; brothers, Danny Lee Weaver, Dale Weaver, and Donald Lamar Weaver.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/29/2025
April Felder Alexander, 42, of Center, passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2025, in Nacogdoches.
A private graveside service was held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Antioch Cemetery in the Antioch Community of Shelby County. Bro. Gordon Vaughn officiated.
Born June 7, 1983, in Center, April is the daughter of Keith Felder and Loretta Adams Felder.
She is survived by:
Husband, Jeff Alexander of Center
Sons:
Caleb Alexander of Center
Matthew Alexander of Center
Parents, Keith and Loretta Felder of Center
Grandparents:
Edgar Felder of Center
James Adams of Center
Mother-in-law, Cathy Alexander of Forest City, North Carolina
Father-in-law, Joe Alexander and wife Cindy of Forest City, North Carolina
Sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law
Gina and husband Tony Gowan of Green Creek, North Carolina
Denna and husband Ricky Hoyle of Shelby, North Carolina
Joey Alexander and wife Amy of Cliffside, North Carolina
Jessica and husband Will Owens of Forest City, North Carolina
James Alexander and wife Rebecca of Forest City, North Carolina
Josh Alexander and wife April of Forest City, North Carolina
Numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her brother, Ryan Felder; grandmothers, Patsy Adams, Elaine Felder, and Margaret Cole; niece, Danica Felder; and sister-in-law, Kara Felder.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
12/26/2025
Thelma Louise Scott, 73, passed away Wednesday, December 24, 2025 in Nacogdoches, surrounded by close family members. She was born on August 29, 1952 in Shelby County, the daughter of Marie Cordova Hutto and Freddie Hutto.
A graveside service will be held at 2:30pm on Monday, December 29, 2025 at Countyline Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 1-2pm on Monday, December 29 at Taylor Funeral Home.
Thelma Louise Scott was born and raised in Timpson, where she absolutely loved. She felt at home, where she has always been, amongst the beauty that can only be found right here in her beloved East Texas.
Thelma was a daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. Her happiness came with the work of her hands in her beautiful flower beds. She enjoyed nothing more than potting and repotting, planting and growing every flower or plant, she could. She was the green thumb in the family. Her perfectly kept yard was something to be proud of and the envy of everyone. However, the most beautiful and well loved “flowers” in her garden of life, were her two granddaughters, Kinley and Kaylee. The love she had for them could not be measured. They were her sunshine every day and the one thing she looked forward to with each breath she took. She also had a special bond with her cat, Lucky. And even though he bit her all the time, she still loved him!
Thelma was a member of Hiway Tabernacle in Timpson where she spent time worshiping and praising her Lord, along with the many friends she had there. She will be missed, but the love she has shown will forever be a great memory to those surrounding her.
Thelma is survived by:
Daughter, Wendy Coats and husband James
Grandchildren:
Kinley Coats
Kaylee Coats
Sisters:
Helen Cruse
Eva Lewis and husband David
Brothers:
Thomas Hutto
Rex Hutto and wife Gwen
Ray Hutto and wife Mary
She is preceded in death by her husband, Wendell J. Scott; parents, Marie Hutto and Freddie Hutto; and brothers, Jerry Cordova and Roy Hutto.
Serving as pallbearers will be Randy Mora, Lewis Mora, Danny Pate, Shaun Milford, Royce Coats and Jessie McKelvy. Honorary pallbearers are Cutter Wright Jr. and Stanley Amos.
The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Willowbrook Nursing Home for their love and care of Thelma.
Services are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Home, Timpson, Texas.
12/24/2025
Richard Wayne Locke, known to many as Rick, passed away on December 20, 2025, at the age of 77.
Rick lived life boldly and on his own terms. He was a man of strong opinions, sharp instincts, and his own approach to the world.
He had a deep love for big game hunting and football and was a skilled gambler. Rick had a keen mind for strategy and business. He was a natural risk-taker and a savvy businessman. While he could be set in his ways, he also gave his family something invaluable, memories of a life fully lived, and a world explored without hesitation.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Richard Raymond “Pop” Locke, and his mother, Mozelle Crocker “Mama Mo” Locke.
He is survived by:
Children:
Dawn Hadden
Amber Locke
Rickie Locke Boyd and fiancé Justin Rodriguez
Travis Botz and wife Christy Botz
Lenata Meadows and husband Brandon Meadows
Christie Butzke.
He is also survived by:
Grandchildren:
Alexis Murphy
Brandon Hadden
Rorri Boyd
Bristol Boyd
Trindon Botz
Treyton Botz
Calie Botz
Lily Meadows
Kody Butzke
Rilee Butzke
Six great-grandchildren
Brother, Carl Lance Locke and wife Pat Locke
Along with many extended family members and friends.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, January 4th, at Oaklawn Memorial Park in Center, TX with visitation from 12:30-1:00 at Watson and Sons Funeral Home in Center, TX. Officiating will be Rev. Porter Brewer.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfuneralhome.com
12/23/2025
Barbara Jean Vaughn, 69, of Shelbyville, Texas, passed away on December 23, 2025, in Spring, Texas.
Barbara was born on August 14, 1956, in Apalachicola, Florida, to Charles and Martha Branch. She spent much of her childhood growing up in League City, Texas, and later made her home in Shelbyville, where she built a life centered around family, hard work, and simple joys.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Martha Branch; her husband, Robert Dennon Vaughn; and her brother, Curtis Branch.
She is survived by:
Children:
Carrie Speed (John Speed)
Cory Ivey (Megan Ivey)
Ryon Vaughn (Rachel Vaughn)
Beloved grandchildren: Macy, Joey, Carly, Ely, Jackson, Levi, Bradlee, Brynlee, Blakelee, Baylor, Harper, and Jamison
Siblings:
C.R. Branch
Brenda Branch
Bonnie Branch
As well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
Barbara worked for many years at the Brookshire Brothers deli and bakery, where her dedication and strong work ethic were evident to all who knew her. Outside of work, she found joy in cooking and baking for her family, showing love the way she knew best through food shared around the table.
She was known for her honesty, her fun-loving spirit, and her deep devotion to her family. Above all else, Barbara adored her grandchildren and loved them “to the moon and back,” a phrase that perfectly captured the affection she carried in her heart.
A graveside service will be held at 2pm on December 27, 2025, at Holly Springs Cemetery in New Harmony, Texas.
Barbara will be remembered for her warmth, her straightforward nature, and the love she poured into the people closest to her.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com.
12/23/2025
Robert "Sheepdog" E. Smith, 70, passed away on December 21, 2025, in Nacogdoches, Texas. Born on July 5, 1955, in Center, Texas, Robert was known for his caring and loving nature, a man who cherished simple pleasures and fun times. Visitation will be held from 1-2PM on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 2PM on Saturday, December 27, 2025. Interment will follow at McClelland Cemetery.
Robert graduated from Shelbyville High School and dedicated 30 years of his career to the U.S. Forest Service before his retirement. His work reflected his deep appreciation for nature, a theme that was evident in his personal life as well. Robert married the love of his life, LaDonna Dollar, on May 18, 1979, and the two shared over 46 years together raising two beautiful girls.
Robert was an avid outdoorsman. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and camping, activities that allowed him to spend time in the environment he worked so hard to preserve. He also found joy in walking through the woods and sitting on his front porch, where he would observe the highway traffic. His love for war movies offered him a glimpse into the heroic tales of history, which he watched with keen interest.
He is survived by:
Loving wife, LaDonna (Dollar) Smith
Daughters:
Rhiana Smith Rice and husband Matthew
Lacey Cartwright
Brothers:
Billie George Smith
Gordon Everitt Smith and wife Jeanette
Carl Davis Smith and wife Jan
Sister, Carolyn Smith Landry and husband Tommy
Grandchildren:
Kalynda Smith
Gavin Cartwright
Trevon Cartwright
Devon Cartwright
And a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Nina Smith; his brother, Fred Spencer "Scooter" Smith; and his sisters, Lisa Gail Smith and Marjorie Jeanette Smith Windham.
His family and friends will remember him as a gentle soul who lived a life filled with love and laughter, deeply rooted in the values of caring and simplicity.
Pallbearers serving will be Matthew Rice, Bryan Broadway, Chris Smith, Jonathan Smith, Trevin Cartwright, Devin Cartwright. Honorary pallbearer serving will be Gavin Cartwright.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
12/23/2025
Gary Tyler Williams, 26, of Nacogdoches, unexpectedly passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025 in Nacogdoches. He was born on January 19, 1999 in Nacogdoches.
Funeral service will be held at 11am on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at Mt. Union Freewill Baptist Church with Bro. Ronnie Luman and Bro. Kenneth Rector officiating. Interment will follow at 2pm at Waterman Cemetery.
He was raised in Center, Texas and Hewitt, Texas and attended Midway High School. Although he was an adult, Tyler lived life like Peter Pan and never grew up. He was truly a kid at heart and loved playing video games, watching WWE wrestling and MMA fights. He also used his wresting knowledge on his siblings and friends!
Tyler was a light to everyone he met. He really was a “people person” and loved nothing more than doing things for others, especially when it was something they needed. He worked in food service which filled his heart with joy, doing simple things for folks. It made him happy to know they had a need and he was fulfilling it.
Tyler was a member of Mt. Union Freewill Baptist Church where he was blessed to have been baptized by his dad on February 9, 2025 (one of the proudest moments his father ever experienced). He has always liked the “Footprints In the Sand” poem but recently he read it and truly appreciated it which showed his growth in Christ.
Tyler’s family proved to be his greatest blessing. He loved them all without boundaries. He was a kind and genuine young man, always putting others before his own needs. This all stemmed from his faith and trust in Jesus Christ and the superb family values that were instilled in him from the time he was a child. The absence of his joy, beautiful spirit and constant cheerfulness will be the missing parts of life most noticed in the days and years to come. However, knowing he is walking the road with Mama Wright (they were thick as thieves as everyone knew) in their new Kingdom brings a silent peace to everyone.
He is survived by:
Parents, Christina Lee Pruitt and husband Chris of Hewitt, Texas
Father, Gary Sterlin Williams and wife Jenifer of Nacogdoches
Siblings:
Hailley Byrd and husband Korey
Austin Williams
Savana Williams
Bryahna Pruitt
Payton Pruitt
Grandparents:
Gary Everett Williams and wife Pam
Sheila Journey and husband Ronnie
Lynny Weaver
Janice Pruitt
Gene Folsom
Aunts and uncles:
Jason Weaver
Nicole Menchaca
Chris Weaver
Yolanda Weaver
Brandon Williams
Christine Cline
Lauren Phipps
Scott Wright
Todd Pruitt
Tony Pruitt
Misty Phillips
David Rohrenback
As well as, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of friends and extended family members.
He was also loved dearly by some very special people including the Wright and Caddenhead families, Amanda Wright, Joe Cline, Kyle Coover, Stephen Walker, Brandi Paige Calderon, Zachery Bozeman, Ian Fields and Freyja Skye.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Danny (Pa Pa Boon) Weaver, Kimberlie (Nana Kim) Weaver, Jana Sue (Mama Wright) Wright, Jeff (Daddy Bo) Wright, Woody Pruitt, and Penny Folsom; cousin, Kaley Jean Lee; and aunt, Katie Folsom Dean.
Pallbearers will be Jason Weaver, Austin Williams, Savana Williams, Kyle Coover, Joe Cline and Jack Wright.
Services are under the direction of Laird Funeral Home, Nacogdoches, Texas.
12/22/2025
Rosalie Ann (Carona) Gibbs, 90, of Garrison, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025, in Garrison, Texas. She was born on September 13, 1935, in Galveston, Texas, to the late Charlie Carona and Mary (Erzegovich) Carona.
Graveside service will be held at 2PM on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Tennessee Cemetery, FM 947, Timpson, Texas, with Bro. Levi Cohorst officiating.
Rose was raised in Galveston, Texas. She graduated from Dominican High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with learning, love, and service. Rose married the love of her life, James Cook, and together they embarked on a journey of companionship and love. After his passing, Rose found love once again and married John Gibbs; the two shared precious moments until his passing.
Rose enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, finding joy in taking care of her home and creating a welcoming space for her family and friends. Her quiet strength, caring heart, and dedication to her loved ones will forever be remembered. Rose's kindness was evident in the everyday acts of care, devotion, and thoughtfulness she showed to those around her. Rose's legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the love she shared so selflessly. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, love, and kindness that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Rose Ann Gibbs is survived by:
Loving sister, Mary Welsh
Extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
She will be deeply missed but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net
12/22/2025
Cecil Watlington, 87, of Center, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2025, in Center.
Memorial service will be held at 10am, Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Watson & Sons Funeral Home in Center with Rev. Malcolm Monroe and Chris Watlington officiating. Visitation will begin at 9am at Watson & Sons Funeral Home.
Born June 1, 1938, Cecil is the son of Ferral Watlington and Elizabeth Huddleston Watlington. He graduated from Center High School in 1956, then went straight into the United States Navy, where he served four years. Cecil returned to Center and worked at Sherzer and Slayden before opening NAPA in 1967. He was a lifetime member of First Methodist Church of Center, an Elder at First Christian Church, and a member of Center Noon Lions Club.
He is survived by:
Wife of 64 years, Virginia Watlington of Center
Son, Jasen Watlington and wife Peggy of Center
Daughter, Hope Frohbieter of Richmond
Grandchildren:
Elizabeth and husband Richard Pinkston
Eryn Tyler Frohbieter
Gage Watlington
Linsey Shaeffer
Roni and husband Chris Waller
Brandi and husband Tommy Shiflett
Lacy White
Great-grandchildren:
Kinzley
Andrew
Nora Pinkston
Alanea Edwards
Kase Hooper
Logan
Camden
Dylan Shiflett
Greyson Ray
Landry Middlebrook
Great-great-granddaughter, Kate Edwards
Brother, Jay Watlington and wife Jo of Lufkin
Numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives; and a host of friends.
Preceded in death by his infant children, Toni Kamille Watlington and Cecil Christopher Watlington; parents, Ferral Watlington and Elizabeth Huddleston Watlington; brothers, Kenneth Watlington, Jackie Watlington, and Billy Earl Watlington; sister, Mary Lou Adams.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cecil Watlington Roughrider Scholarship, Class of 1956 Roughrider Scholarship, First Methodist Church of Center, or a charity of choice.
Online condolences & tributes can be sent at www.watsonandsonsfh.com
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