June Olivia Jordan Bowen, 91, of Coleman
2/8/2010
COLEMAN - June Olivia Jordan Bowen, 91, of Coleman, died Monday, February 8, 2010 at Coleman Healthcare Center. Funeral services are pending with Stevens Funeral Home.

Jim Tongate, 83 of Early
2/8/2010
Jim Tongate, 83 of Early passed away Saturday February 6, 2010. Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00pm Tuesday February 9th, in the Davis-Morris Funeral Home Chapel, with Jimmy Mize and Monte Campbell officiating. Burial will follow at Eastlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00pm Monday February 8th at Davis-Morris Funeral Home.

James Maxwell Tongate was born October 9, 1924 to Ben and Celeste Tongate, in Brown County, Texas, about 2 miles from where he lived. He served his country during World War II in the United States Army. Jim married Patsy Bullard in 1950 and from their union came three children. He was a member of Salt Creek Baptist church, but more importantly he had a relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jim was involved in many different organizations including: Woodsmen of the World, Pipeliner’s Union 798, the Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers, Farm Bureau Association, and a member of the Salt Creek Cemetery Association, where he also served on the board of directors. Jim enjoyed farming and ranching, and truly believed in working hard. He always said “If you’ve got a problem, go to work”. Jim was a living example of a solid work ethic. During his time in the oil industry, Jim had the opportunity to work all over the world in places like Europe, Pakistan, Canada, Mexico, and off shore in the North Sea.

Mr. Tongate was preceded in death by his parents Benjamin Cyrus and Celeste Fortson Tongate, his brother Marshal B. Tongate, and his daughter Patricia Darlene Tongate.

Survivors include his son JimBoy Tongate and wife Charlotte, his daughter Jenny Tongate, his grandchildren: Audry King; Warren Tongate and wife, Saundra; Becky Tongate; Chance Gesch and wife, Morgan; Angie Jackson and husband, Chad; Mandy Smith and husband, Dennis; Aaron Tongate and Erica; and Cy Tongate, and ten great-grandchildren with two on the way.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Salt Creek Baptist Church Building Fund or Salt Creek Cemetery Association, in Mr. Tongate’s honor.

Leora Adelle “Dill” Gilbreath, 97
2/7/2010
Leora Adelle “Dill” Gilbreath, 97, formerly of Santa Anna, passed away with grace and peace on February 6, 2010. Services will be at 2:00PM Friday February 12 at Davis-Morris Funeral Home, 800 Center Avenue, Brownwood, Texas, with Ted Kell officiating. Burial will be in Coleman City Cemetery following the services.

Leora Adelle Gilbreath was born December 17, 1912 in Shields, Texas to Hugh and Alice Murrell. She married William Byron Gilbreath on November, 15 1934. Byron and Adelle were married 57 years before his death. They moved to Amarillo in 1966 and lived there for 10 years before moving back to Santa Anna in 1976 when Byron retired from Amarillo College. She was a skilled seamstress and worked for Drapery Magic when in Amarillo. Adelle was a member of the Church of Christ. She served the Lord with all her heart and lived her life accordingly to His word.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Byron “Lefty” Gilbreath; her parents and all her siblings, including four brothers, her twin Eldred Murrell, Hubert Murrell, Pete Murrell and Auby Murrell; and three sisters, Bonnie McDonald, Ima Cobb and Louise Davis; and son-in-law Mickey Bixler.

Survivors include her children; two daughters, Beverly Day and husband Bill of Brownwood; Sharon Bixler Mears and husband Mike of Amarillo; and one son, James Byron Gilbreath of Christoval. Her six grandchildren, Jody Day and wife Vanessa, Terry Day, Jenifer Staggs and husband Robby, Bradley Bixler, Cody Gilbreath and wife Amy, Keith Gilbreath and wife Cindy, and seven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Messages may be left for the family at www.davismorrisfuneralhome.com
 

John Calvin Klarfield
2/6/2010
John Calvin Klarfield passed away in Houston, TX. on February 2, 2010. He was 61. John was the son of Richard and Mildred Klarfield of Houston, TX. He received a masters degree in education and attended both North Texas University and the University of Texas. John had a variety of vocations. He taught school, was a social worker, did insurance adjustments, worked in stores, and drove for a messenger service.

John loved to listen to music by the Beatles and Selena. He was passionate about baseball, especially the Yankees and the St. Louis Cardinals. John was an avid Longhorn fan.

Family and friends were very important to John. He was very proud of his two sons, Dylan Christopher and Edward Brandon Klarfield. He loved to show off their pictures to anyone that came by. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Kathryn Coel, his brother-in-law, Edward John Coel, his two nephews, Jason and Richard Coel, his niece, Carolyn Petz, his aunt, Ruth Newton, and his cousin Carol Embrey.

Graveside services will be held on February 20th at 2:30 pm. by Walker Funeral Home, Coleman, TX (325-625-4103) at the Burkett Cemetery, Burkett, TX 76868. For those so desiring, memorial contributions may be sent to: Burkett Cemetery Assoc, (Attn: Linda Brady) Box 356 Burkett, TX 76828.

FAYE LYNN NEEDHAM GARTMAN, AGE 62
2/2/2010
FAYE LYNN NEEDHAM GARTMAN, AGE 62, OF FLOWER MOUND, TEXAS PASSED AWAY FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2010. FUNERAL SERVICES WILL BE HELD THURSDAY, FEB 4TH, AT NOON AT MULKEY-MASON FUNERAL HOME IN LEWISVILLE. PRIVATE BURIAL WILL BE AT THE FLOWER MOUND CEMETERY.

SURVIVORS ARE HER HUSBAND OF 37 YEARS, EARL GARTMAN; SON- LEX GARTMAN AND WIFE EMILY OF ALEDO; DAUGHTER- SHEILA LAYNE AND HUSBAND JASON OF FORT WORTH; AND TWO GRANDCHILDREN- OLIVIA AND GRANT GARTMAN OF ALEDO. ALSO SURVIVING ARE THREE SISTERS- LAURA LEMAY OF COLEMAN, DELLA MCGUIRE OF IRVING, AND MARY ANN HARTMAN OF BROWNWOOD; AND ONE BROTHER- MARC NEEDHAM OF DALLAS. FAYE WAS PRECEDED IN DEATH BY HER PARENTS AND ONE BROTHER, DON PAUL NEEDHAM.

FAYE WAS BORN IN DALLAS ON MARCH 10, 1947 TO GLADYS BANDY NEEDHAM AND VANCE W. NEEDHAM. HER FAMILY MOVED TO COLEMAN IN 1958 WHERE FAYE GRADUATED FROM COLEMAN HIGH SCHOOL IN 1965. JUST PRIOR TO GRADUATION, FAYE BEGAN A STELLAR CAREER WITH LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF THE SOUTHWEST WHERE SHE ATTAINED THE POSITION OF VICE-PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS. SHE RETIRED IN 2006 AFTER 41 YEARS WITH THE COMPANY.

FAYE LIKED TO TRAVEL AND PLAY GOLF. SHE ESPECIALLY LOVED BEING “NENNA” TO HER TWO PRECIOUS GRANDCHILDREN.

FAYE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON AND WILL TRULY BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HER.

Elizabeth Roy, 78, of Coleman
1/31/2010
Elizabeth Roy, 78, of Coleman, died Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home. Her body will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date at the High Rise in Coleman. The details will be published when the service is set. Arrangements are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, 400 W. Pecan, Coleman, Texas.

Elizabeth Roy was born September 8, 1931 in Anson, Jones County, Texas, a daughter of Thomas Knox Campbell and Grace Pearce Campbell. She grew up in Talpa and graduated from high school there in 1947. She later graduated from Hardin-Simmons in Abilene. In 1957 she married A. D. Roy in Dallas and he preceded her in death in 1986. She lived in many places, including Fort Worth, Hurst and Dallas. Mrs. Roy was an elementary school teacher in special eduction with the Fort Worth ISD. She moved to Coleman in 2006 and was a member of First Baptist Church in Coleman.

Survivors include one son, Russell David Roy and wife Tina of McKinney; one daughter, Kathryn Grace Roy of Fort Worth; four grandchildren, Allen David Roy, Robert Andrew Roy, Zelda Oma Roy, Vivian Grace Roy; one great-grandson, Wyatt Lucas Hardee; one brother, Thomas Allen Campbell of Phoenix, Arizona; one sister, Knoxine Clack of Odessa.

Memorials may be made to the donor's favorite charity.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com

Pearl Stoup Kile, 90, of Coleman
1/31/2010
Pearl Stoup Kile, 90, of Coleman, died Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo. Funeral Service will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 1 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Reid Johnson, great-grandson-in-law of Mrs. Kile, officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Pearl Stoup was born June 16, 1919 in Pilot Point, Texas, a daughter of Edwin and Nova Lou Scoggins Stroup. She grew up in Coleman County and attended school in Coleman. She was married to Wayne Kile. She worked at Jinright Sewing Factory, Lane Egg Farm and as a Nurses' Aide. She was Church of Christ.

Survivors include one son, Edward Kile and wife Sandra of Navasota; two daughters, Patsy Williams of Roscoe, Janice Merrill and husband Johnny of Coleman; two brothers, Alvie Stoup and William Stoup both of Coleman; three sisters, Dorothy Chastain of Decauter, Margaret Wilson of Clyde, Peggy Jacobi of Ft. Worth; brother-in-law, Curtis Kile and a sister-in-law, Lois Kile. Seven grandchildren and spouses, Jerry and Mary Williams of Roscoe, Sheila Chase of Arkansas, Tracy and Larry Collins of Hamlin, Robbie and Sandy Kile of Saginaw, Clifton and Doris Williams of Cisco, Tina and Clay Hill of Shreveport, LA, John and Sherri Merrill of Coleman; 11 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, 5 step-great-grandchildren; 18 step-great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Preston Kile in 1967; sisters and brothers, Ruby Watters, Carl Stoup, Bessie Adian, Hugh Stoup, Fred Stoup, Earl Stoup.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the donor's favorite charity.

Family visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan Street, Coleman, Texas.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com

Shirlie Johnson, age 59, of Lake Brownwood
1/23/2010
Funeral Services for Shirlie Johnson, age 59, of Lake Brownwood, Texas will be held 3:00 P.M. Sunday, January 24, 2010 at Heartland Funeral Home with Shannon Bond officiating. Interment will follow at the Bangs Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Saturday at the funeral home. She passed away Thursday, January 21, 2010 at Hendricks Medical Center in Abilene.

Shirlie Darlene Johnson was born on April 27, 1950 in Coleman, Texas to Earl Field and Billie Louise Day Baldock. On July 18, 1978, she married Carl David Johnson in Big Spring and he preceded her in death on April 23, 1995. Mrs. Johnson was a Baptist, homemaker, certified nurse’s aid and had lived in Brownwood since 1991 moving here from Big Spring.

Survivors:
Lisa Cobb and husband Kenny of Lake Brownwood, Texas
Tammy Newton and husband Brent of Big Spring, Texas
Danielle Johnson and fiancée J.T. Driver of Lake Brownwood

Granddaughter: Kyla Thetford of Brownwood
Grandson: Trent Newton of Big Spring

Brother: Louis Baldock and wife Cindy of East Texas

Sisters:
Diane Turner and husband Ernie of Coleman, Texas
Kathy Johnson and John Steaples of Abilene, Texas
Michelle Kemp and husband Sam of Lake Brownwood

Preceded in death by her husband, parents E.F. and Billie Baldock,
two brothers Ronnie and Larry Baldock and one sister Betty Atkinson.

Friends are invited to sign the guestbook at
www.heartlandfuneralhome.net

Heartland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mertie Melrose Brown, 101
1/22/2010
BANGS - Mertie Melrose Brown, 101, of Bangs, died Friday, January 22, 2010 in Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Burkett Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mertie Melrose Brown was born August 19, 1908 on the Cordon Ranch in Callahan County, the daughter of James Clinton McGee and Minnie Cavanaugh McGee. She grew up in Callahan and Coleman Counties and attended school at Caddo Peak, Dressey and Gouldbusk. She met John Franklin Brown, while standing in line at a carnival in Burkett. They married in 1929 in Burkett and later they moved to Bangs in 1965. After the death of Mr. Brown on August 27, 1967, she went to work in restaurants. She later worked as a Nurse's Aide at Twilight Nursing Home in Bangs. She retired in 1988, at the age of 80, and received a 20 year plaque from the nursing home. She made many quilts for her family and was a member of the Church of Christ in Bangs.

Survivors include four sons, Earl Howard Brown of Hobbs, New Mexico, Foy E. Brown of Tucson, Arizona, Harold Kenneth Brown of Bangs, Clois Ray Brown of Andrews; 17 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, one son, Hillary Everett Brown in 1979, one daughter, Ernestine Brown Brinkley in 2009, two brothers and two sisters.

Family visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, January 25, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Matthew David Rollins
1/20/2010
Matthew David Rollins (Matt) of Elgin, Texas, loving husband, father, and friend passed away on December 14, 2009 at his residence after a lengthy illness with his family at his side. A Memorial Service was held Saturday, December 19, 2009 at the Jones Family Funeral Home in Elgin, Texas.

He was born in Stoneham, Massachusetts on November 22, 1954 and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. He attended UNLV where he graduated with a masters in English Literature at the age of 20. His career brought him to the Austin area where he worked in the Tech Industry for many years. In his last few years, he traveled all over the world as an Executive Training Consultant. He was an accomplished composer and musician.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Jean Rollins.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rose Mary (Matthews) Rollins; son, Jason Rollins of Alva, Oklahoma; his father, David and wife Susan of Las Vegas, NV. Local survivors are his father and mother-in-law, Willie and Irene Matthews; sisters-in-law, Darlene Matthews, Frankie Matthews, Becky Brooks; brother-in-law, Billy and wife Becky Matthews; aunts and uncles, Leck Matthews, Louise Strength, Rondoe and Fredna Horton, Charles and Frances Smith, Sandra and Bo Wilson, Bobby and Delores Fenton of Johnson City. He is also survived by nieces, Dana McElrath of Tiago, Brooke Matthews of Elgin, Barbi and husband Mike of San Angelo.

Vivian Caldwell age 79 of Spring, Texas
1/19/2010
Vivian Caldwell age 79 of Spring, Texas passed away Monday January 18, 2010 at 12:15 A.M. at her residence in Spring.

Graveside services will be Friday at 2:00 pm at the Rockwood Cemetery with Father Romanus Akamike officiating, under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

She was born Vivian Bernadine Choate on February 14, 1930 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late Ernest Beecher and Bessie Udora Albert Choate. Vivian was raised in Nashville where she attended Catholic and public schools. On November 20, 1948 she married Ardis Ward Caldwell in Richmond, Texas and they celebrated fifty five years of marriage. Ardis preceded her in death in 2003. Vivian worked in sales and management with Sears Roebuck until her retirement in 1988. She was a member of the Catholic Church.

SURVIVORS
Daughter – Sherry & husband Charles Hoskins of Gresham, Oregon
Son – Randy & wife Rosaleen Caldwell of Spring, Texas
7 Grandchildren
3 Great Grandchildren

Vivian was preceded in death by
2 brothers - Ernest Choate, Jr. & Percy Choate

Henderson Funeral Homes
P O Box 609, Santa Anna, TX 76878
325/348-3131

MR. RAMON CASTILLO JR. 65 YEARS OF AGE
1/18/2010
MR. RAMON CASTILLO JR. 65 YEARS OF AGE THE SON OF THE LATE MR. RAMON CASTILLO AND MOTHER MARIA CASTILLO OF BROWNWOOD, TEXAS HE PASSED AWAY JANUARY 16, 2010 IN THE COLEMAN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER.

RAMON WAS BORN MAY 26, 1944 IN CD. ACUNA MEXICO. AND MARRIED MISS AMPARO BARRIOS IN CD. ACUNA MEXICO AND HAD LIVED IN SANTA ANNA, TEXAS SINCE 1960, AND RETIRED FROM SANTA FE RAILROAD. AND WAS A MEMBER OF THE SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH.

RAMON IS SURVIVED BY MOTHER MARIA OF BROWNWOOD, WIFE AMPARO CASTILLO OF SANTA ANNA, TEXAS - FIVE DAUGHTERS MARY CASTILLO- DIANA GUERRERO, NORA VALENCIA, AND SILVIA CASTILLO ALL OF SANTA ANNA, TEXAS LORENA BEAL OF COLEMAN TWO SONS RAMON CASTILLO III OF ALABAMA, JESUS CASTILLO OF COLEMAN TWO SISTERS CARMELIA SALAZAR OF Ft. WORTH, AND IRMA CASTILLO OF BROWNWOOD, TWO BROTHERS FERNANDO CASTILLO OF SANTA ANNA AND REGINALDO CASTILLO OF COLEMAN 15 GRANDCHILDREN. RAMON WAS PRECEDED IN DEATH BY HIS FATHER RAMON CASTILLO AND A SISTER, ROSANTINA VALDESPIN.

A ROSARY WILL BE HELD AT THE WALKER FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL TUESDAY 7 P.M. AND MASS WILL BE HELD AT THE SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH WEDNESDAY 10 A.M. WITH REV. FATHER ROMANUS AKAMIKE OFFICIATING INTERMENT WILL FOLLOW IN THE SANTA ANNA CEMETERY UNDER DIRECTION OF WALKER FUNERAL HOME OF COLEMAN.

Mrs. Mary Evelyn Henderson Craig, 89
1/15/2010
Mrs. Mary Evelyn Henderson Craig, 89 years young passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2010 in the Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Mrs. Craig was born September 1, 1920 in Coleman County to Robert E. Henderson and Ethel Helen Cates. She attended Howard Payne where she earned her MRS. Degree to Lee Craig on July 10, 1944. Evelyn was mainly a Homemaker, but did home demonstrations for the Home Demonstration Club. She was a lifelong resident of Coleman County, and a Baptist.

Mrs. Craig is survived by 4 sons and daughters in law; Kerry & Kelley Craig of Sulpher Springs, Karl & Roxanne Craig of Mount Pleasant, Kenneth & Mary Craig of Conroe, and Kendall & Shari Craig of Coleman, 1 brother and sister in law; James Robert & Millie Henderson of Andrews, 15 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, and her loving husband Lee.

Visitation will be at Walker Funeral Home on Sunday, January 17, 2010 from 6:00 until 7:00 P.M. Funeral Service will be Monday, January 18, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. John Stanislaw officiating, interment will follow in the Glen Cove Cemetery, under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Ruby Lee Arms, 91, passed away Friday
1/15/2010
Ruby Lee Arms, 91, passed away Friday, January 15, 2010 in San Antonio. Family visitation will be held Sunday, January 17, 2010 from 1:00 p.m. until services at 2:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Chapel

with Rev. Patrick Bennett officiating. Interment will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery.

Ruby was born October 19, 1918 in Strawn, Texas, the daughter of the late John Aaron and Lillie Mae Loyd Bozeman. She married Mr. Robert E. Clark on December 25, 1935 and he preceded her in death in 1968. She married Mr. Hobart Lee Arms in San Angelo on April 24, 1971 and he preceded her in death in 1998. She is a former long time resident of Coleman and she was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include two daughters, Sandra Crossland of Tacoma, Washington and Dolores Massey of Mesquite, Texas; one son, Douglas and Carole of San Antonio; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Wilma Louise McSmith, 88
1/15/2010
GRANBURY -- Wilma Louise McSmith, 88, a resident of Hood County for over 50 years, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, in Granbury.

Funeral: 4:00 p.m. Saturday at Wiley Funeral Home. Burial: Acton Cemetery. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Acton Baptist Church or the Acton/DCBE Volunteer Fire Department.
Mrs. McSmith was born Oct. 10, 1921, in Coleman County, Texas, to Louis Leon Crippens and Nannie Bell Constable Crippens. At 16 years of age she married her first and only sweetheart, LeRoy McSmith, Dec. 25, 1937, in Santa Anna, Texas.

She attended schools in Santa Anna. After her marriage, she and her husband operated Texas Maid Sandwich and Pie Shop in San Angelo, Texas for several years. After moving to the Granbury area, she wrote a column for the Hood County News called "Quips For Acton". She was very active with her children and served as room mother for each of them. She also worked as a seamstress. A member of Acton Baptist Church she and her husband taught a young married class for serveral years. Mrs. McSmith enjoyed singing and yodeling and playing her base fiddle. Together she and LeRoy shared a love for playing and singing country and bluegrass music. They also shared a love for the Lord and instilled good Christian morals in their children and grandchildren.

Some of their travels included an Alaskan cruise, the Virgin Islands, the Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico, Jamaica and Hawaii.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Robert LeRoy McSmith; daughters, Shirley Melton, Janice McSmith; great grandson, Adam Johnson; sisters, Gene, Joyce, Mary Beth; brothers, Leonard and Bobby.

Survivors: Daughters, Lois Word and husband, Ross, of Illinois, Sulin Hodges and husband, James, of Granbury; grandchildren, Dwayne Webster, Sherry Gramberg, Vanessa Word-Oliver, Janice Zink, Jason Hodges, Justin Hodges and wife, Cheri, Jodi Stewart and husband, Kirk, Sativa Maifeld; great grandchildren, Jimmy, Curtis, P.J., Stephanie, Jessica, Katy, Brianne, Christina, Melissa, Nicky, Kaylei, Avery, Mary, Jordyn, Tyler, Jessica, Samuel, Eli, Devon, Justice; great great grandchildren, Pierson, Bethany; brothers, Lloyd Crippens, Jack Crippens; sister, Barbara Stripling; and several nieces and nephews.
 

Nita Roberts, formerly of Coleman
1/14/2010
Former long time resident of Coleman, Texas, Nita Roberts, passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2010 in her home, surrounded with love, and joy, as she was attended by all her children and dear loved ones.

Nita Lee (Gilliam) Roberts was born December 19, 1920 in Cisco, Texas to Sterling (Casey) Gilliam and Ina Mae (Meeks) Gilliam. The family moved to Coleman, Texas where Nita attended grammar school, and graduated Coleman High School. Nita was most remembered as the prancing drum major of the Coleman High School Bluecat Band, where she served for four years under the direction of the Legendery Jimmy King, who was responsible for the creation of the Bluecat Band. Nita attended the University of Texas in Austin, Texas, after high school, and three years of a four year nursing school in Albuquerque, New Mexico, before returning to Coleman, where she was employed by Overall Memorial Hospital.

Nita married Curtis Roberts, December 22, 1945 in Coleman, Texas, where they resided for many years. Curtis was owner and manager of Model Cleaners; and later employed by KSTA Radio where he covered sports news and was in advertising. Nita managed the home life of their large happy family of seven children. Nita was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Coleman. Curtis and Nita enjoyed many friends and the game of golf, at the Coleman Country Club while in Coleman.

In 1967, Curtis began a new career becoming manager of KDLK radio station in Del Rio, Texas resulting in their moving to Del Rio, Texas until 1972. In October of 1972 Curtis moved again, becoming manager of the new Texarkana TVCable Company and Nita continued to nurture the three remaining children at their new home. Nita was a member of the Trinity Presbyterian Church; the Newcomers Club of Texarkana, where she served as president; and enjoyed bridge, participating in several different clubs. Curtis and Nita were members at North Ridge Country Club where they enjoyed many friends and the game of golf. Curtis preceded her in death in April of 1990.

Survivors include children, John and Sherry Roberts of Granbury, Texas; Ina Jo and Dewayne Berry of Weatherford, Texas; Rita and Mike Rumbo of Omaha, Texas; Dana and Jack McFarland of Houston, Texas; Casey and Doris Roberts of Texarkana, Texas; Toni and Mark Budzilowski of Texarkana, Texas; and Jimmy Roberts of Texarkana, Texas. There are twenty-three grandchildren and thirty-two great grandchildren.

A graveside service is scheduled for 3:00 PM Friday, January 15, 2010 at Chapelwood Memorial Garden on Kings Highway in Nash, Texas, under the direction of Texarkana Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the Trinity Presbyterian Church of Texarkana, Texas or a charity of your choice. The family will be gathered at the Budzilowski home, located at #36 Big Oak, Texarkana, Texas, following the graveside service, for visitation with family, and friends.

Our family realizes a special blessing of “time” was bestowed upon us, allowing for reunion, reflection, sharing, humor, joy and peace, which came to all, including Nita. We are thankful for our Lord's grace, and the kindnesses of thoughtful friends, family, and pastors who visited with Nita and family during her illness, your words of encouragement were comforting and appreciated. Also, the expertise and skills of all her doctors, nurses, and caregivers from Hospice of Texarkana, Heritage Health Care, Christus St. Michael's Hospital, Sitters General Sitting Agency, Dr. Alston and his staff and Dr. Charles Thornton and his staff. All is well.

Evelyn McCabe, of Woodsboro
1/13/2010
Evelyn McCabe, 88, of Refugio and former Coleman County resident, died Sunday, January 10, 2010 at her residence. Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, January 14, 2010 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Evelyn McCabe was born March 24, 1921 in Grosvenor, Brown County, Texas, the daughter of Ralph Tracey Barnes and Ida Bowles Barnes. She grew in and attended school in Brown County. She married J.C. McCabe on May 10, 1946 in San Angelo. He preceded her in death on May 14, 2004. She moved to Refugio in 2001, after living in San Angelo for many years. She was a homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, C.D. and Carolyn McCabe of Woodsboro, Jimmy and Leslie McCabe of Coppell; three grandchildren, Matthew McCabe of Coppell, Michael McCabe of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Robbie McCabe of Kerrville; four great-grandchildren, Laurel, Collin, Marcus and Shay and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, one brother and one sister.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at the funeral home.

Mrs. Lena Clevenger, 83 years young
1/11/2010
Mrs. Lena Myrle Clevenger, 83 years young passed away in Wichita Falls on Saturday, January 9, 2010. Lena was born in Coleman County on June 5, 1926 to the late Robert Coleman “RC” Smith and Delinda Jane Fulcher. She married Haskell Ernest Clevenger in Coleman on May 19, 1945 and they shared 61 together. Mrs. Clevenger was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, and the Program Coordinator for Head Start with Central Texas Opportunities.

Survivors include a daughter; Lorna Clevenger of Texas, 2 sons and daughters in law; Fred & Judith Clevenger of Kissimme, Florida, and Gary & Pennie Clevenger of Wichita Falls, a sister and brother in law; Joyce & Jacky Mobley of San Marcos, 4 grandchildren; Tanya Clevenger and Lena Clevenger both of Florida, Amanda Clevenger and Travis Clevenger both of Wichita Falls.

A Memorial Service will be Friday, January 15, 2010 at 11:00 A. M. at Emmanuel Baptist Church with Dr. Dick Schultz officiating, Visitation will be Tuesday, January 12, 2010 from 6 until 7:00 P. M. at Walker Funeral Home. Private Interment will be Wednesday January 13, 2010 at the Brown Ranch Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to The Extension Homemakers or Emmanuel Baptist Church or the Coleman Senior Citizens Center.

Fannie Fay (Skeeta) Steward Cooper, 93
1/8/2010
Fannie Fay (Skeeta) Steward Cooper flew up to heaven January 7, 2010, at her residence at Hearthstone in Temple, Texas. She left many of those angels here on Earth to continue their loving care for others.

Skeeta was born in Rockwood, Texas, (Coleman County) on October 27, 1916, to Jim Steward and Maude Belle Rutherford Steward. She joined her twin brothers, John and Bill, and her sisters, Pebble and Beatrice (Sissy) at their home on the Colorado River in Rockwood. Her mother, Maude Belle, passed from this Earth when Skeeta was only 12 years old. Skeeta attended Rockwood schools, and was a member of Rockwood Baptist Church. She lived a blessed life of 93 years, 2 months and 11 days.

Skeeta married the love of her life, Jack Cooper, on July 1, 1937, in San Angelo, Texas. They returned to Coleman County, and spent the first year of their married life in the “weaning house” on the Cooper property. Except for short periods of time, and during World War II, they spent the rest of their married life of 62 years in and around Rockwood, settling down on the Old Steward Place, farming and ranching, and raising their two daughters. Skeeta was a homemaker, a member of the Quilting Club, the Home Demonstration Club, the Ladies Club, Rockwood Baptist Church, and helped with the voting during election time. She and Jack were avid players of “42” and “84”, and other domino games and joined their friends and neighbors for many happy times. They always had a garden, fruit trees and blackberries, and enjoyed freezing or canning the fruits and vegetables and living peacefully in the country.

Skeeta is survived by two daughters, Beth and Charles Sheffield, Quincy and Arlen Allen, all of Temple, 4 grandchildren, Mike and Tracy of Wimberley, Monte and Kristin Sheffield of San Marcos, Elizabeth and Gil Gregory, and Wes and Debra Allen all of Troy; nine Great-grandchildren, Wyatt Sheffield, Fallon, London and Lawson Sheffield, Justin, Jordan, and Jarrett Gregory, and Andrew and Madison Allen.
 
She is also survived by brother-in-law, Elec and Rose Cooper; nieces and nephews, Billye Porter, Ethel Horton, James Steward, Kay & Pat Patterson, Collins & Barbara Steward, Jimmy & Sue Cooper, Tommy & Jane Cooper, Tommy & Carol Davis, Bob and Deb, Quinda, & Connie Kinnaman, Louise and Denny Densman, David Cooper, Ronnie Pete and Nola Cooper and Dana and Revi Pexa, and a host of great-nieces and nephews and friends.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm in the Rockwood Baptist Church at 2:00 O’clock, pm, with Jeff Dean officiating. Burial will follow in the Rockwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman 6-8 o’clock pm on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the Rockwood Senior Center or the Rockwood Cemetery Association or any charity of your choice.

Emma L. Harwell, 87, of San Angelo
1/7/2010
Emma L. Harwell, 87, of San Angelo and former Coleman resident, died Wednesday, January 6, 2010 in San Angelo. Funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 9 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Daniel Stovall officiating. Interment will be in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born July 7, 1922 in Coleman, Texas, a daughter of the late Charles Brown Moore and Fruza Ewing Moore. She grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School. She was married to Hardin Harwell and he preceded her in death in 1973. Follwing her husband's death, she moved to San Angelo from Ballinger. Mrs. Harwell worked in child care for the Harris Avenue Baptist Church in San Angelo where she was a member.

Survivors include a sister, Dorothy Fuller of Round Rock; one niece, Linda Auldridge of Round Rock; two nephews, Ronald Fuller of Oregon, Charles Cross and wife Elaine of Spring Branch; several grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com

Bill Halley “Bud” Slate, age 68
1/5/2010
Bill Halley “Bud” Slate, age 68, of OKC, born Dec. 26, 1941 in Ballinger, TX, passed away Jan. 3, 2010. Bill is survived by 2 children, Bill Slate & wife Madison & Susan Slate & husband Daniel DuPuis; extended family members he raised as his own, Jodi Wyatt, of OKC & Terry Millus, of Moore; 3 grandchildren, Kai, Isaac & Jordan; 2 sisters, Bonnie Minatra & Linda Sue Roberts; and a host of cousins and other loving family members & friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Delbert Dave & Margaret Oneta (Collins) Slate & Step-Father, Alfred P. Thate. Services will be held at 2:00 PM, Thursday, January 7, 2010, at Brookwood Baptist Church, OKC. Services under the direction of the John Ireland Funeral Home & Chapel, 120 South Broadway, Moore, OK.

Dorothy Elizabeth Dyer Webster, 87, of Coleman
1/4/2010
Dorothy Elizabeth Dyer Webster, 87, of Coleman, Texas, died on December 23, 2009 in Kennewick, Washing-ton with her family by her side. Dorothy was born in Novice, Texas on August 21, 1922, the eldest child of Lance L. Dyer and Margie Grimes Dyer. Her only sibling, L.C. (Lannie) Dyer, was killed in action in the Pacific during World War II.

Dorothy moved with her family many times during the Depression, when her father traveled for jobs, a pattern that was to continue throughout her married life. She graduated from high school in Great Bend, Kansas in 1939, and from Halstead Hospital School of Nursing, Halstead, Kansas in 1942.
She married Clyde T. “Jake” Webster on November 17, 1944, while he was stationed in Big Spring, Texas during World War II. Together they had four daughters.

Dorothy and Jake made their homes in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Kentucky before returning briefly to Jake’s hometown in Rowland, North Carolina. Jake’s work took them back to Texas, then to Nevada, Oklahoma, and Washington, before they returned to Texas in retirement in 1986. In every new place, Dorothy’s graciousness, kindness, love and acceptance added new friends to keep with her list of life-long friends. Her handwritten correspondence with family and friends was legendary. She also continued to add to her extensive cooking skills, mixing Southern with Tex-Mex, Californian and Pacific Northwest. However, it was her desserts that won the hearts of young and old alike. Although she never sought out official positions in the churches they attended, there was no one who worked harder or was quicker to offer care to those in need, with company, food, or cards of sympathy love and support.

Dorothy is survived by three daughters, Sandra (Tom) Martin of Mesquite, Texas, Julie Webster of Altadena, California, and Carol (Dale) Webster-Claphan of Kennewick, Washington; three grandchildren, Steven (Briana) Martin, Paul (Analiese Richard) Martin and Jonathan Martin; and two greatgrandchildren, Lauren and Allison Martin.

Her toddler daughter, Katherine, her parents, and her husband, Jake Webster, preceded Dorothy in death.

We will always be grateful for the model that Dorothy set for us with her intelligence, thoughtfulness, willingness to help others, and unfailing love. She was tenacious in her devotion to her family,friends, and church. She did not give up on us or that which she believed was good and right.

The family wishes to thank all the family and friends who so faithfully visited, sent cards and letters or called in Dorothy’s last months.

The memorial service celebrating her life will be held on Thursday, January 7, 2010 at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 500 W. Liveoak, Coleman, TX 76834. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church of Coleman, Texas.

Billy M. “Red” Craig, 84
1/4/2010
Billy M. “Red” Craig, 84, passed away Saturday, January 2, 2010. His funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 6 in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 HWY 277 South with burial following in Elmwood Memorial Park.

Mr. Craig was born on May 5, 1925 in Coleman the son of Fred Craig and Vera May Boyd Craig. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and married Marvella Thompson on July 19, 1943. He owned and operated Craig’s Food Mart in Coleman for over 40 years.

After retirement and moving to Abilene in 2002, Red enjoyed fishing and traveling to Bossier City and Las Vegas.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Marvella Craig of Abilene; two daughters, Carolyn Bevills and husband Duane and Carla Holland all of Abilene; three grandchildren, Leticia Bevills McJimsey of Snyder, Johnny Bevills of Abilene and Lori Holland Green of Jackson, Mississippi; 13 great grandchildren and one sister, Noretta Pinkard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1893, Memphis, TN 38101-9950

Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.elmwoodfuneral.com

Peter Sackville Pickard, 82, of Burkett
1/4/2010
Peter Sackville Pickard, 82, of Burkett, died Thursday, December 31, 2009 at Abilene Regional Medical Center. A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 7, 2010 at St. Mark’s Espicopal Church with The Rev. Russell Fisher officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

Peter Sackville Pickard was born January 1, 1927 in Epping, Essex, England, the son of Harry Sackville Pickard and Keziah Minnie Irene Thomlinson Pickard. He grew up and attended school in England. He immigrated to Pennsylvania in 1948, sailing across the Atlantic on the Queen Mary. He also lived in California, before moving to Burkett in 1990. He married Joan Wakefield in Reno, Nevada in August, 1990. He was a rancher and attended Cowboy Churches.

Survivors include two daughters, Lisa Lavagnino and husband, John, of Watsonville, California, Audrey Pickard Duffell of Dallas; one son, Winthrop Sackville Pickard and wife, Michelle, of Corralitos, California; one sister, Elizabeth Pickard of England; four step-children; seven grandchildren, five step-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; his caregivers, Tami Strickland and Rex Priddy and his two faithful companions, Jack and Jill.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Sackville-Pickard on December 3, 2009; on son, Peter Pickard, Jr.; one sister, Molly Pickard and one brother, John Pickard.

The family requests memorials be made to the Alzheimer's Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.

Please sign his online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com

Thomas A. "Bud" Gatlin, 74, of Coleman
1/4/2010
Thomas A. "Bud" Gatlin, 74, of Coleman, died Saturday, January 2, 2010 in an Abilene hospital. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 5 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery with full military honors.

Thomas A. "Bud" Gatlin was born January 30, 1935 in Whitney, Texas, a son of the late Barney Denzil Gatlin and Nellie Sue Watson Gatlin Gleich. He grew up and attended school in Whitney. In 1953 he joined the United States Army and retired as an E8 in 1973, serving with the First Cavalry Division. On December 17, 1971 he married Linda Epperson in Lovington, NM. He lived in many places, including Grosvenor and Whitney, moving to Coleman four years ago. Following his military career, he was an auto mechanic. He was a member of the American Legion and DAV. He attended Cowboy Church.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Gatlin of Coleman; two daughters, Betty Lounell Johns and husband Ronnie of Lucas, Miranda Darleen Hennig of Salado; three sons, Richard A. Gatlin and wife Glenda of Mabank, Terry A. Gatlin of Terrell, Tracy A. Gatlin and wife Deena of Whitney; 18 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Barney Gatlin and wife Linda of Kemp, Freeland Gatlin of Whitney; an aunt, Cloteal Underwood of Olney and step-sister, Sybil Robertson of Laguna Park.

He was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Gatlin; a brother, James T. Gatlin; a sister, Lavalle Jane Wright.

Family visitation will be held on Monday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home, 400 West Pecan, Coleman, Texas.

Please sign his on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com
 

Jeanice Reece age 70 of Santa Anna
1/2/2010
Jeanice Reece age 70 of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Thursday, December 31, 2009 at 5:50 AM at the Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

Services will be Sunday at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church of Santa Anna with Rev. Bruce Hess and Rev. Raymond Jones officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. The family will receive friends Saturday from 4 till 6 pm Saturday at Henderson Funeral Home.

She was born Jeanice Barbara Mersch on August 5, 1939 in Denver, Colorado to the late Jim and Fern Allen Mersch. Jeanice was raised in Kansas and graduated in 1957 from Edmund High School and continued her education at Howard Payne University. On August 5, 1960 Jeanice married Bobby Reece in Hill City, Kansas and they celebrated thirty six years of marriage. Bobby preceded her in death in 1996. Jeanice has been a resident of Santa Anna since 1976 where she was a member of the First Baptist Church. She was administrator for Ranger Park Nursing Home until her retirement. Pallbearers are Bud Connolly, James Jones, Jason Jones, Justin Jones, Jarod Jones, Trestan Young

SURVIVORS

3 Daughters - Arletta & husband Norman Woods of Montana

Sandra & husband Bud Connolly of Santa Anna, Texas

Wanda Reece of San Angelo, Texas.

2 sons - Ron Reece and Rick Reece both of Santa Anna, Texas

Sister - Margie Wilson of Wheatland, Wyoming

2 Brothers - Don Neihaus of Norton, Ohio

Jack Mersch of Hill City, Kansas

16 Grandchildren

25 Great Grandchildren

1 Great Great Grandchild

James "Jim" F. Hamlett, age 90 of Coleman
1/1/2010
James "Jim" F. Hamlett, age 90 of Coleman, Texas passed away on December 30, 2009 to be with his heavenly Father, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by many of his loved ones and friends. A funeral service will be held at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, January 2, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. He will be buried in a private graveside service at Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

Jim was born November 9, 1919 in Brown County, Texas, a son of John Harrison Hamlett and Edith Marr Hamlett. He grew up in Fort Stockton, Texas where he attended school. He was a good athlete, playing football, and graduated in 1938. He served in the U. S. Army for a short time and was honorably discharged. Jim was a heavy equipment operator, working in road construction. He moved to Coleman in the 1980's.

He is survived by a sister, Inez Kenneaster of California, his aunt, Sammie Bettis Stephens, formerly of Brownwood, cousins: Hannah Payne of Bangs and son Eugene Bell, Cynthia and Bob Insall and families of Austin; Rex and Judy Clark of Brownwood and sons Josh and Jared Clark of Ft. Worth; Kay and Craig Keith of Dallas and Bessie Fay Johnson and daughters of Brownwood. He was also loved and cared for by his stepdaughter Becky Hubbard Hoover and her husband Roy of Coleman and their daughter Faith, who called him Papa and was VERY SPECIAL to him. Matt French and Chaplain Jim Henegar will officiate.

Please sign his on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com

Mrs. Laudys Armor Pittard, 86 years young of Novice
12/28/2009
Mrs. Laudys Armor Pittard, 86 years young of Novice, Texas passed away in the Coleman County Medical Center, Saturday, December 26, 2009. Laudys was born October 6, 1923 in Oplin, Texas to A. H. “Pete” Armor & Fannye Virtle Looney. Laudys married Colonel Harold Pittard at the Novice Methodist Church on January 25, 1951. She was a longtime member, and Director of the Coleman County Electric Cooperative.

Mrs. Pittard helped keep Novice School District going by giving support of her time and talents to the students, staff, and community, she loved the Novice Sports, and attended as many of the Novice Games as she could. She is survived by two sons; Mark Pittard of Carrolton, Texas and Bruce Pittard of Novice, Texas, many nieces, nephews, and Friends. Laudys was preceded in death by her parents, her Loving Husband, and a son; Paul Pittard. Visitation will be Sunday, December 27, 2009 from 6:00 until 7:00 P. M. at Walker Funeral Home.

Interment Service will be Monday, December 28, 2009 at 2:00 P. M. at the Rough Creek Cemetery Pavilion in Novice, Texas with Rev. Patrick Bennett officiating. Interment will follow in the Family Lot under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

 

Mona S. English 60, of Killeen
12/28/2009
Memorial Services for Mona S. English 60, of Killeen will be Tuesday at 11 Am at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home Chapel in Killeen.

Mrs. English was born to Cortez and Mary Tharp on April 8, 1949 at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio and passed away on December 22, 2009 in Temple. She was reared and educated in Coleman, Texas. She was a homemaker and had lived in the area for the past 26 years. She was a member of the Ladies Aux of the DAV.

Mrs. English was preceded in death by a son Donald Lynn English on June 20, 1998, her mother Mary Tharp, and grandparents Earl & Lidia Stewart and Ellis & Delia Tharp. Survivors include her husband Philip English, son Clint English and daughters Stephanie English and Jeanette Bryer. Also surviving are her father, a brother Mickey Tharp, and 7 grandchildren.

Arrangements are entrusted to Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen.

Mrs. Teresa Ann Sparks Moore, 56 years young
12/18/2009
Mrs. Teresa Ann Sparks Moore, 56 years young passed away on Friday December 18, 2009 at her residence in San Angelo.

Teresa was born to Carl Ray Sparks and Anna Lee Ward in San Angelo on March 21, 1953. She married Waymon Moore on October 21, 1980, he preceded her in 2005. Mrs. Moore is survived by her mother, Anna Lee Sparks of San Angelo, 2 daughters; Tonia Boone of Winters, Golda Johnson of Checo, 3 sons; Lance Moore of Austin, Jeffery Moore of Austin, John Sloan of San Angelo, a sister; Paula Lee Ankeny of Albuquerque, New Mexico, a brother; Rev. Eddie Carl Sparks of Hureon, South Dakota, 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and numerous friends.

Visitation will be Monday December 21, 2009 from 6:00 until 7:00 P.M. at Walker Funeral Home, Service will be Tuesday December 22, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. at the Voss Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Eddie Sparks officiating, interment will follow under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.
 

Jim Butler, 55, of Coleman
12/18/2009
Jim Butler, 55, of Coleman, died Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at his residence. A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, December 20, 2009 at his home, Rock House Ranch, 1968 County Road 348, Coleman, Texas, with Rev. Paul Blake officiating. His body was cremated. Arrangements are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Jim Butler was born March 10, 1954 in Fort Worth, the son of Ann Koonce Butler and the late Homer Butler. He grew up in Richardson and graduated from Richardson High School. He later graduated from the University of North Texas. He owned the Broken Spoke Saloon, a tire and automotive store in Frisco, worked in real estate and was a home inspector. He moved to Coleman three years ago and started ranching. He married Rebecca Bernal on July 11, 2009 in Bangs. He was also a member of The Concord Baptist Church in Bangs.

Survivors include his wife, Becky Butler of Coleman, one daughter, Stephanie Butler of Denton; one son, Travis Butler of Richardson; his mother, Ann Butler of Granbury; one step-son, Anthony Martin of Austin and his biological parents, Richard and Carolyn Oaks of Mission.

He was preceded in death by his father, Homer Butler and a sister, Elizabeth Ann Nunley.

Betty Jean Evans Funderburg, age 76, of Sweetwater
12/14/2009
Betty Jean Evans Funderburg, age 76, of Sweetwater, Texas passed away on Monday, December 14, 2009 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 19, 2009 at Broadway Baptist Church, 710 East Third, Sweetwater, Texas with Rev. Chris Stephens and Trevor Morris officiating. Graveside services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Elmwood Memorial Park, 5750 Hwy. 277 South, Abilene, Texas. Services are under the direction of Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Betty Jean was born August 8, 1933 in Mexia, Texas. She was a member of Broadway Baptist Church. She worked for J-Lee’s Hat Shop as a western hat maker for many years before retiring. She was also a homemaker. She was an active lifetime member of Beta Sigma Phi.

SURVIVORS: husband – Don Funderburg of Sweetwater, Texas; two Sons – Steve Evans and wife Barbara of Coleman, Texas; and Jeff Evans of Abilene, Texas; three Daughters – Darla McCollum and husband Barry of Tuscola, TX, Tammy Shields and husband Tim of Anson, TX, and Melanie Sanders of Abilene, Texas; 13 Grandchildren – Daphanie, Stacy, M’Lissa, Travis, Nicole, Shawn, Ashley, Meagan, Tyler, Tamala, Alisa, Jonathan, and Zachary; and six Great-Grandchildren – Knoah, Hunter, Rebecca, Madison, Michael, and Keith.

She was preceded in death by her parents – Maye Brown Smith and Elbert B. Smith; her first husband - Leonard Evans Daughter – Joanna Parrish; two Brothers – James Smith and Joe Riley Smith , and two Sisters – Anna Louise Holder and Dorothy Mae Cox, and Son-in-Law – Scotty Lovelady. 

Pallbearers will be Shawn Lovelady, Tyler Shields, Travis Evans, Dustin Kiser, Rory Robb, and Bill Lyda. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jimmy McElreath, Richard Cox, Randy Cox, Calvin Morris, Johnny White, Joe Mark Smith, Mike Smith, Jonathan Parrish, Zachary Parrish, Thomas Parrish, and David Norton.

Family will receive friends at Cate-Spencer & Trent Funeral Home at 403 Locust in Sweetwater, TX on Friday, December 18, 2009 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM.
 

Audrey Barefield Wright, 69, of Coleman
12/14/2009
Audrey Barefield Wright, 69, of Coleman, died Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, December 18, 2009 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Linda Anderson officiating, assisted by Rev. James Anderson. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Audrey Barefield Wright was born September 17, 1940 on the Kerlick Ranch in Goliad County, the daughter of LeRoy Barefield and Lottie Cunningham Barefield. She grew up and attended school in Beeville. She married William D. Wright in Goliad County. He preceded her in death in 1999. She worked as a nurse aide and also worked for an aircraft manufacturing company in Victoria, building jet engines. At the age of five, she accepted Christ at Mt. Zion Hill Baptist Church in Goliad. From an early age, Audrey was active on Deacon Boards and Usher Boards at various Baptist churches. She was a member of Truevine Baptist Church in Coleman.

Survivors include two sons, Tommy Perkins and wife, Shanna, of Bangs, John Perkins of Greenville; two grandchildren, John Perkins, Jr. and Alexis Perkins, both of Greenville; special friends, Donna Cummings, Jan Greathouse, Linda Anderson and family, Bennie Holloway, Marie Nixon, her Hi-Rise family and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Stevens Funeral Home.

Please sign her online guestbook at:
www.livingmemorials.com
 

Randy Alexander Wood I, 45, of Santa Anna
12/14/2009
Randy Alexander Wood I, 45, of Santa Anna, passed away Sunday, December 13, 2009at his home surrounded by his love ones. Randy was born on May 17, 1964 in Terrell, the son of James Pat and Jerri Alice (Rasbury) Wood. He was raised in Terrell most of his life and was a Baptist in his faith. He married Delia Wood in Terrell on June 22, 1988. Randy was a manager for WesTGo Convenience Stores.

Family members who are cherishing the memories of Randy’s life are his wife, Delia Wood of Santa Anna; his two sons, Randy Wood II and his wife Pamela of Terrell and Chase Wood and his wife Katy of Caddo Mills; his father, James Pat Wood and his wife Michele of Terrell; his brother, Pat Wayne Wood and his wife Karen and their children, Chad and Kari of Junction; one granddaughter, Kambry Wood; three grandsons, Koby Wood, Kason Wood, and Aiden Wood; several close relatives and numerous friends.

Randy is preceded in his death by his mother, Jerri Alice Wood and a nephew, Jason Scott Wood.

His funeral service, under the direction of Goggans Funeral Home, will be Wednesday, December 16, at 1:00 pm in the chapel of the funeral home with Brother Jimmy Sheppard officiating. Interment will follow in College Mound Cemetery in Terrell. Visitation with the family will be Tuesday night from 6:00 to 9:00 with at Goggans Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at Davis-Morris Funeral Home in Brownwood on Thursday evening, Dec. 17, 2009 from 6:00 until 8:00 for his friends that cannot attend the service in Terrell.

Goggans Funeral Home

1911 N. Frances St.

Terrell, Texas 75160
 

Rory JonPaul Dela Rosa
12/14/2009
Rory JonPaul Dela Rosa passed away December 11,2009 after a long battle with cancer.Funeral Services will be held Tuesday December 15 at 11a.m. at Killeen Memorial Park and Funeral Home with Dr. Mark Kemp officiating. Burial will follow in the Killeen Memorial park cemetary.

Rory JonPaul Dela Rosa was born December 20,1974 in Coleman Texas,the son of Holli Boyle and the late Steve Dela Rosa. He grew up and attended Coleman schools for which he played baseball his senior year of high school. After graduating he went on to attend Texas State and Angelo State University. Before becoming a stay at home dad he worked at Gabriels in San Angelo T.X. Rory and his wife Connie were high school sweethearts that shared 17 wonderful years together. They had two beautiful children in which he was very active in their lives. His children were his life and he loved them and was very proud of them. He had a great sense of humor, was an avid golfer, and loved to sing and play his guitar. Rory was a wonderul dad,husband,son, and friend.

Survivors include his wife Connie Bryant of Killeen; his son Zavier Dela Rosa of Killeen; his mom Holli Boyle of Coleman; two sisters Kara Thompson of Copperas Cove; Shara Stewart of San Antonio; two grandmothers Sarah Boyle and Pauline Dela Rosa both of Coleman; a niece Victoria Thompson of Copperas Cove; nephews Brendon,Tristan,and Ashton Thompson of Copperas Cove, Jacob and Braylon Stewart of San Antonio; and Kendal Bryant of Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his precious daughter Ainslee Dela Rosa on April 6,2008 and his father Steve Dela Rosa on September 21,2009.

Pall bearers will be Jerry Dawson, Willie Stewart, Travis Thompson, Beau Brudney, Christian Rambo, and Robert Rosales.

Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or Temple Hospice Vista Care. Address of Vistacare Hospice is 2626 S. 37th St. Suite B, Temple, TX  76504. Also, acknowledgments to Connie Bryant, 1701 Wilshire Dr., Killeen,
TX 76543

Visitation is Monday December 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Killeen Memorial funeral home.

Arnold Wedeking, 80, of Stamford
12/12/2009
STAMFORD- Arnold Wedeking, 80, of Stamford passed away on December 10, 2009 in Abilene. Graveside services were held 11:00 a.m. December 12, 2009 in Pleasant Valley Cemetery, with Dr. Bruce Lampert officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Kinney-Underwood Funeral Home in Stamford.

Arnold Wedeking was born January 8, 1929 in Haskell County, the son of the late John Henry and Ruby Andrea Young Wedeking. He married Sarah Jo Chaney on November 22, 1950 in Stamford. Arnold served in the National Guard for 19 years. He farmed and ranched in Jones County and was a member of First Baptist Church in Stamford.

Mr. Wedeking is survived by his wife, Sarah Wedeking of Stamford; son, Alan Wedeking and Jera of Stamford; daughter, Peggy Wedeking Crawford and Mike of Coleman; grandchildren, Zane Wedeking of Stamford, Jessica Lynn Weatherly and Daniel of Brownwood, Duston Crawford of Coleman; great granddaughter, Lilly Weatherly of Brownwood; brother, Bobby Wedeking of Stamford; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorials may be sent to Common Ground Youth Ministries at 219 South Swenson, Stamford, Texas 79553.

Sign and view the guestbook at www.

Marlena Barnes, 59, of Coleman
12/9/2009
Marlena Barnes, 59, of Coleman, died Saturday, December 5, 2009 at her residence.  A Memorial Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 14 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Daniel Stovall officiating.  There will be a family visitation following the service.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. 

Marlena was born April 10, 1950 in Holdenville, Oklahoma, a daughter of Johnnie Henry Priest and Mignon Elizabeth Wood Priest.  She grew up in California and Oklahoma. On December 30, 1972 she married Wallis Roger Barnes in Boise City, Oklahoma and he preceded her in death in July 1993.  She moved to Texas in 1997.  She was a Registered Nurse and worked for the last nine years at Coleman County Medical Center.   

Survivors include one son, Sean McGannon Barnes of Stillwater, Oklahoma; one daughter, Jessica Dawn Evans of Dublin, Texas; three sisters, Melinda Prine of Mississippi, Beth Mosley of Democrat and Wanda Lasater of Coleman; one brother, Danny Priest of Amarillo; two grandchildren, Karli Barnes and Konnor Barnes. 

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. 

Please sign her on-line guestbook at www.livingmemorials.com