Mrs. Myrtle Pepper, age 90 of Coleman, died Monday, April 1, 2002 at 12:30 p. m. at her residence.  Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 4th at 2:00 p. m. at Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw of First Baptist Church officiating.  Interment will follow at Voss Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mrs. Pepper was born May 19, 1911 in Voss, Texas to Will Skelton and Martha Ann Autrey.  On
December 27, 1930 she married Truman Pepper in Coleman and he preceded her in death in 1988.  She lived in Coleman County her entire life and was co-owner of a business in Valera for years with her husband.  She was a member of Valera Baptist Church.  She was preceded in death by her husband and one grandson.

Survivors include two daughters, Ann Stephens of Valera and Joyce Laws of St. Charles, Missouri; nine grandchildren; 19 great- grandchildren and five great- great- grandchildren.  Mrs. Pepper’s grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

Lena L. Scott age 85 of Coleman passed away Tuesday, April 2, 2002 at 12:25 a. m. at Holiday Hill Nursing Home in Coleman. Graveside services will be today (Thursday) at 2:00 p. m. at the Glen Cove Cemetery with Rev. Gary Boyd officiating.  Services are under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

Lena was born January 23, 1917 in Jack County, Texas, to the late Mr. and Mrs. B. T. Smith.  She married Garland Scott in Megargel, Texas on June 2, 1957, and they celebrated twenty-eight years of marriage.  He preceded her in death in 1986.  Lena taught school for over 30 years teaching in Coleman Junior High from 1957 until her retirement in 1975.  She had been an active member and Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church since 1957 and was a member and past president of the Retired Teachers Association.

Survivors include several nieces and nephews.  Local nephew, Ben and wife, Debbie Scott of Coleman.   Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country.

LEVELLAND: Funeral services for Mrs. Darleene Shamblin, age 78, of Levelland were 10 a. m. Monday at Second Baptist Church with Reverend Jerry Howe, pastor, officiating.  Graveside services were 4 p. m. in the Coleman Cemetery, directed by George C. Price Funeral Directors.  Mrs. Shamblin died Wednesday, April 3, 2002, at her home.

She was born November 12, 1923 in San Angelo.  She moved to Levelland in 1973 from Abilene.  She married J. W. Shamblin on June 3,1949 in Abilene.  He preceded her in death December 26, 2000.  Mrs. Shamblin was a homemaker and a member of Second Baptist Church in Levelland.

She is survived by a son, James Vineyard of Coleman; two daughters, Vickie Hines of Charleston, South Carolina and Glenda Baucom of Granbury; six grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

Donie Marie Pricer, age 84, of Coleman died Thursday, April 4, 2002 in a Brownwood nursing home.  Funeral services were 2:00 p. m. Saturday in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tommy Hart officiating.  Burial followed in Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Pricer was born January 15, 1918 in Marietta, Oklahoma and was a daughter of Grover Wills and Martha Ethel Sinclair Wills.  She moved to Brownwood as a child and graduated from Brownwood High School in 1938.  She also graduated from business college in Brownwood.  She worked for the civil service at Camp Bowie for five years and at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio for 35 years.  She married Johnie Allen Pricer on April 11, 1982 in Brownwood and moved to Coleman that year.  She was a member of the World-Wide Church of God.

Survivors include her husband, Johnie A. Pricer of Coleman; two nephews, Dickie Woods and Floyd Woods, both of Highlands, Texas; one niece, Estelle Councilman of Sweetwater, Texas; two sisters-in-law, Mamie Edna Pricer and Nellie Mae Hart, both of Coleman; and a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Luke and Glenda Pricer of Abilene, Texas. She was preceded in death by one sister.  Pallbearers were Claude A. Hart, Bobby Hart, Len Clawson, Mike Gray, John Marshall Pricer and Bill Black.

Sue Fuller, age 73, of Fort Worth, Texas passed away Saturday, April 6, 2002 at 1:30 a. m. at Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth.  Graveside services were Sunday at 2:30 p. m. at Crews Cemetery, under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman.

Sue was born on May 9, 1928 in Runnels County to the late Arthur Edward and Susie Melissa Allcorn Fuller.  She was raised in Pecan Springs, Coleman County and graduated from Talpa High School.  Sue moved to San Angelo in 1936 where she worked for Holland Jewelers as a western Jewelry Designer.  In the early 1960’s she moved to Fort Worth where she was a U.S. Postal worker until her retirement.  Sue was a member of the Baptist Church.

Survivors include eight nieces and five nephews, including local niece, Margie and husband Henry Dodson of Coleman, Texas.

Pennie Howard, age 52, of Coleman died Saturday, April 6, 2002 at Coleman Healthcare Center.  Services are pending with Stevens Funeral Home. 

Wendell Burl Sparkman was born on March 21, 1913 in Santa Anna, Texas and passed away April 8, 2002 in Edmond, Oklahoma.  Graveside services will be held 10:00 a. m. Friday, April 12, 2002 at Coleman Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Bruce Hess, pastor of Santa Anna First Baptist Church officiating.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.  Visitation will be held today (Thursday) from 6:00 p. m. to 8:00 p. m. at the funeral home.

While growing up in Santa Anna, Wendell acquired a life-long passion for trains as he watched them pass through town on the Santa Fe line.  He graduated from Santa Anna High School in 1930 as valedictorian.  He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from Texas Tech University in 1939 and his Master of Science Degree from the University of Oklahoma.  After a 39-year career with the Federal government, Wendell retired and started a private engineering firm specializing in water works.  The professional accomplishments for which he was most proud was the design and construction of the water works system in his beloved hometown of Santa Anna.  Wendell was an ordained deacon in the Baptist church and served in that capacity in churches in Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas.  Wendell married LeIa Ruth Woolf in Oklahoma City in 1944.  They were happily married until her death in 1981.

Mr. Sparkman is survived by one brother, Jesse Lee Sparkman of Missoula, Montana; one daughter, Mary Beth Kennedy and husband Don of Edmond, Oklahoma; two sons, Dr. John Sparkman and wife Julia of Pampa, Texas and Roy Sparkman and wife Alexa of Austin; eight grandchildren, Stephanie Nowlin, Karen Kennedy, Scott Kennedy, Kyle Sparkman, Kimberly Sparkman, Ryan Sparkman, Travis Sparkman and Will Sparkman.

Russell Allison, age 84 of San Jose, California died Monday, April 8, 2002 at Kaiser Hospital in Santa Clara, California.  The body will be cremated.  A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, April 20th at 2:00 p. m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in San Jose, California, with local minister Mr. Louis Grannis officiating.

He was born May 10, 1917 in Vancouver, Canada, the son of Margaret Kerr Livingstone Allison and Oswald Allison.  At age five, his family emigrated to California where his father organized the branch banking system of The Bank of America..  Thereafter he was a lifetime resident of California.  He married Rosemary Harry on August 1,1944 in San Francisco, California and they had celebrated 57 years of marriage.  He worked as Commercial Real Estate Broker and Developer and Leasing Agent until his retirement.  He received the California State Association of Realtors award two times for “The Most Outstanding Commercial Real Estate Transaction.”  He was a minister of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

He is survived by his wife Rosemary Allison; one daughter, Beth Schafer and son-in-law Brad of Coleman, Texas; two sons, David Ian Allison and Russell Allison, Jr. both of San Jose, California; one brother, Ian T. Allison and one nephew, Fred Austin both of Santa Rosa, California. He was preceded in death by one sister.

Charles Stewart, age 55, of Lexington, Texas and formerly of Coleman, died Tuesday, April 9, 2002, in Alabama.  Services were 2 p. m. Monday in Elliott-Hamil Chapel of Memories, 542 Hickory in Abilene, with Reverend Larry Baird officiating.  Burial followed in the Eliiot-Hamil Garden of Memories.

Mr. Stewart was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on February 21, 1947 and graduated from Van High School.  He served his country in the U. S. Navy and was a journeyman welder for pipeline companies.  He married Paula Lee Lowrie on October 24, 1991 in Colorado.

Survivors include his wife, Paula Stewart of Lexington; one son, Timothy Charles Stewart and wife, Bernadette, of San Antonio; one daughter, Holly Ann Stewart of San Antonio; two brothers, Ronald Dale Stewart and wife, Molly, of Coleman and William E. Stewart, also of Coleman; two sisters, Keithia Ann Ogles of Wichita Falls, Texas and Adna Clevenger and husband, Joel, of Conroe, Texas; two grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 49 N. Willis, Abilene, Texas 79603.

Walter Arvil “Pat” Bolton, age 77, of 2435 CR No. 281 (Trickham), Santa Anna, Texas passed away at 4:10 a. m. Tuesday, April 9, 2002 at Cross Country Home in Brownwood.  Graveside services will be 10:30 a. m. today (Thursday) in Restland Cemetery in Dallas with burial to follow in Restland under the direction of Williams Funeral Home of Garland.

He was born February 8,1925 in Sachse, Texas, to Hadden and Maggie Bolton.  He and Verna Stearnes were married in Dallas.  Mr. Bolton was retired from the Dallas Police Department, with 26 ½ years of service.  He was a member of Coleman Masonic Lodge No. 496, a member of Scottish Rite of Dallas, and V. F. W. Post No. 3278 of Brownwood.  He received the Purple Heart for combat duty in WWII.

Survivors include his wife, Verna Bolton of Santa Anna; a daughter, Jean Jennings of Piano; a son, Pat Bolton of Vilonia, Arkansas and one brother, Howard Bolton of Nevada, Texas.  Memorials may be made to Parkinson Disease Foundation, William Black Medical Research Building, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, 650 W. 168th Street, New York, New York 10032-9982.

OLD GLORY:   George A. Roberts, 89, died Tuesday, April 9, 2002 at the Haskell hospital.  Graveside services were 2:00 p. m. Friday at Willow Cemetery in Haskell with Dr. David Page officiating, under the direction of HoldenMcCauley Funeral Directors.

Mr. Roberts was born March 22, 1913 in Silver Valley, Coleman County.  He married Mattie L. Highnote on August 14, 1937.  He began working on the farm at the age of seven and was able to farm until the age of 81. He was a Baptist and had been a resident of Old Glory since 1973.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years; two daughters and sons-in-law, Gaile and Douglas N. Ray of Abilene, Fleita and Glenn Welch of Austin; a sister, Artie Price of McKinney; two grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.  Four brothers and four sisters preceded him in death.  The family requests memorials be made to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center.

Lola Pritchard Blanton, 89, of Lipan, died Wednesday, April 10, 2002 in a Granbury hospital.  Services were held in Granbury on Saturday, April 13, 2002 at Martin’s Funeral Home with Rev. Milana Bradley of Acton United Methodist Church officiating.  Burial was in the Granbury Cemetery.

She was born March 9,1914 in Coleman County, daughter of the late Marion and Betty Pritchard.  She attended Santa Anna Schools.  She married Marion Blanton of Tolar on June 20, 1932 in Santa Anna.  She was retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and resided in Granbury until moving to Lipan a few years ago.

She is survived by two daughters, Christine Empey of Lipan and Bettie Parker of Warren, Ohio; two sons, John Blanton and Keith Blanton, both of Dallas; four sisters, Iva Ferguson of Waldron, Arkansas, Loraine Hahn of Middletown, Pennsylvania, Bettie Courage of San Angelo and Rhoda Pritchard of Surprise, Arizona.  Local survivors are a nephew, Don Pritchard and a niece, PolIy Warnock and several cousins.

Mr. L. W. "Bob” Thompson, age 91 of Coleman, Texas died Friday, April 12, 2002 at 1:20 a. m. at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral services were held Monday, April 15th at 2:00 p. m. at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Brother Marty Reed of Fellowship Baptist Church officiating.  Interment followed at Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

He was born July 20, 1910 in Fisk, Texas, the son of Charlie Jefferson Thompson and Leona Thompson.  On October 18, 1928 he married Frances Lee Conway in Coleman and she preceded him in death in 1998.  He was a lifetime resident of Coleman County and was an independent contractor with Santa Fe Freight Company.  He was a Baptist.

Survivors include one daughter, Patsy Driskill of Coleman; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Marvell Craig and Miss Evelyn Thompson, both of Abilene; and one brother, Virgil Thompson of Lubbock, Texas.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and one son, Leonard Wayne Thompson in 1980.

Kennith “Kenny” Heath, age 53 of Monahans died Saturday, April 12, 2002 at his home.  Services were held Monday 4:00 p. m. in Southside Baptist Church with Rev. Craig Rhoton officiating.  Burial will be tomorrow 11:00 a. m. in Burkett Cemetery under direction of Jackie Harkey Funeral Home Services of Monahans.

Mr. Heath was born October 3, 1948 in Soper, Oklahoma.  He was a retired gas plant supervisor.

Survivors include wife, Sharon Heath of Monahans; two sons, Justin Heath of Brownwood and Chris Heath of San Angelo; two daughters, Ashley Heath of Monahans and Shelley Heath of San Angelo; parents, R. W. “Slim” and Frances Heath of Pecos; three brothers, Charles Heath of Seguin, James Heath of La Porte and Gary Heath of Carlsbad, New Mexico; one sister, Glenna Vines of Pecos; three grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.

Robert Emmett Harris, age 83, of Coleman died Friday, April 12, 2002 at Whitney Medical Center in Whitney, Texas.  Funeral services were 2 p. m. Sunday at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jeff Robinett officiating.  Burial was in the Burkett Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

R. E. was born July 25, 1918 in Burkett to Ernest L. and Lyda M. Keller Harris.  He grew up in Burkett and graduated from Burkett High School, then graduated from John Tarleton College in Stephenville and was associated with Holley Chevrolet in Coleman and Brownwood before entering the U. S. Army in World War II.  He was inducted into the U.S. Army in Abilene on November 25, 1942 and sent to Ft. Bliss in El Paso for orientation and assignment and was then assigned to Ordnance Department, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Aberdeen, Maryland.  During basic training he attended Non-Commissioned Officer Training School and taught basic training.  He attended Ordnance Officers Candidate School where he graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant on October 28, 1944.  He was then assigned to Boston Ordnance District in January, 1945 as Procurement Expeditor and Renegotiations Contract Officer.  He was promoted to 1st Lieutenant on October 25, 1945 and received his honorable discharge on April 14, 1946.  Involvement in the automobile business from the time of his military service discharge until his retirement highlighted RE’s business career.  He was associated with automobile dealerships in various locations in Texas and Louisiana. While in Bonham, with Wilson Chevrolet he was active in various civic and service organizations, serving as president of the Lions Club and president of the Business Managers Council -Dallas Zone as well as being involved in church affairs at the First Christian Church.  He was Office Manager and Comptroller for Stephens Chevrolet in Knox City.  In Longview, he was associated with Goodwin Chevrolet as Office Manager and Corporate Secretary.  In Shreveport/Bossier, Louisiana, he was Business and Fixed Operation Manager for Red River Motor Company and retired from the company in 1986.  He moved to Lake Ford, Emory, Texas and lived there until moving to Coleman in 1997.  In Coleman, he was a member of the United Christian Presbyterian Church.

Robert E. “Bob” Harris and Katherine J. “Kay” Hall of Cross Plains were married December 6, 1944 in Aberdeen, Maryland.  They were the parents of one son, Robert L. Harris.  They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on their granddaughter’s wedding day, December 3, 1994.

R. E. was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Lyda Harris; one brother, Wayne Harris and by his beloved wife, Katherine “Kay” in 1998.  Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Robert L. and Susan Harris of Waco; one granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Kimberly and Ronny Wilson of Austin; one great-granddaughter, McKenna Katherine Wilson of Austin; five sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law, Vivian Harris of Santa Anna, Doris Givens of Odessa, Wanda and Arthur Boyle of Brownwood, Joan Kunkel of Pflugerville, Belle Hall of Plainview as well as numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

Kenneth Glenn Storey, age 76, of Brownwood and formerly of Coleman, died Saturday, April 13, 2002 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.  Funeral services were held at 2 p. m. Monday at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Jenkins officiating.  Burial was in the Coleman Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mr. Storey was born October 13, 1925 in Silver Valley, a son of Robert Newt and Minnie Belle Hubbard Storey.  He was raised and attended school in Coleman and served in the U. S. Army and U. S. Navy.  He married Myrtie Coffee Hyden on April 4,1990 in Snyder.  He lived in Coleman County until moving to Brownwood in 1987.  He was a roofer and a member of the North Coleman Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Myrtie Storey of Brownwood; one sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and L. D. Walker of Abilene; one brother and sister-in-law, Robert Gerald and Jodi Storey of Coleman; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and step-children.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Clifton Wayne Storey.

Pallbearers were Gerald Wayne Storey, Douglas Glenn Storey, Bobby Keith, Terry Hyden, Joe Hyden and Othell Dean.

Mr. George Ellis Brown of 642 S. Crockett Street Abilene, Texas passed away April 15, 2002 at 5:10 p. m. at Abilene Regional Hospital.  Services will be held April 17, 2002 at 2:00 p. m. Walker Funeral Chapel with Rev. Jeff Moore officiating.  Interment will be at Brown Ranch Cemetery under direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mr. Brown was born October 9, 1919 in Comanche, Texas.  He married Mildred Roberts on June 5,1940 in Santa Anna Texas and she preceded him in death on October 6, 2001.  George’s father was John F. Brown and mother Anna Swaringin.  He lived in Abilene since 1949.  George was retired and a Baptist.

Survivors include two sons, Gaylon S. Brown and Denny B. Row, and five grandchildren.

Owen A. Myers, age 71 of Coleman, died Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p. m. today (Thursday) at Community Baptist Church with Brother Paul Smith officiating.  Burial will follow at Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

He was born April 12, 1931 in Gouldbusk, Texas and was a son of Elmo and Lillie Fryar Myers.  He grew up in Gouldbusk and attended school in Gouldbusk and Mozelle.  He served in the U. S. Army.  On May 17, 1957 he married Sue Bennett in Coleman.  He was a lifelong resident, a truck driver for Claude Freeman for 25 years and most recently had worked for BGR Trucking.  He was a member and deacon of Community Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Myers of Coleman; one son, Gregory Myers of Coleman; three daughters, Sherri (and husband Kern) Akens of Waynesboro, Virginia, Traci (and husband Travis) Escobar of Coleman and Tara Myers of Coleman; one sister, Theola Harding of Blanket; three brothers, Sonny Myers of Odessa, William Myers and Buster Myers, both of San Angelo; 10 grandchildren, Jason Thweatt, Judd Thweatt, Haley Kimrnell, KaiRieka Myers, Kelli Myers, Kasper Myers, Joshua Escobar, Brittni Escobar, Vallari Escobar, Kolbi Escobar; daughterin-law, Ae Suphakarn Myers of Seattle, Washington; numerous nieces and nephews.

The family suggests that memorials be made to the Myeloma Foundation.  Pallbearers will be Jeff Wolf, Doug Wolf, Allen Perrie, Bruce Perrie, Larry Luvaul, Charlie Avants, Anthony Strawn and Eric Straach.  Honorary pallbearers are Deacons of Community Baptist Church James Hammonds, Don Harmes, Mike Robinson, C. R. Dalton, Bill Whitfield, Richard Gandy, Guy Thompson, Ron Dority and Jackie Hammonds.

Nora L. Robinson Bevel, age 77, of Coleman died Thursday, April 18, 2002 in Dallas.  Funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Gary Boyd officiating, assisted by Rev. Marty Reed.  Burial followed in Coleman Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Nora was born September 11, 1924 in Burkett, Coleman County, Texas and was the daughter of Joe B. and Ima Cox Smith.  She was a life-long resident of Coleman, attending school at Anderson and graduating from Coleman High School in 1942.  She also graduated from Draughan’s Business College.  On October 18, 1943, she married Duane M. Robinson and he preceded her in death on June 29, 1977.  She married Graham Bevel on April 22, 1995.  She was employed from 1977 - 2001 at Stevens Funeral Home as a secretary and greeter.  She was a member of the Fellowship Baptist Church, Triple L Club and was active in the Loaves and Fishes Food Ministry.

Survivors include her husband, Graham Bevel of Coleman; two sons and daughters-in-law, Joe Duane and Karen Robinson and Larry Don and Elaine Robinson, all of Coleman; one daughter and son-in-law, Judy Dianne and Don Rasbury of Mesquite, Texas; one brother and sister-in-law, J. B. and Julia Smith of Coleman; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three step-sons, Mike Bevel of Katy, Texas, Jerry Bevel of Andrews, Texas and Greg Bevel of Dallas, Texas; several step-grandchildren; and two nieces, Brenda Lagow of Dallas, Texas and Melinda Carter of Bastrop, Texas.

Memorials may be made to the Loaves and Fishes Food Ministry, do First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 983, Coleman, Texas 76834.  Pallbearers were Wade Turner, Ronald Brown, Wayne Snider, Dr. Butch Anders, John Gregg, Harold Phillips, Keith Phillips and Dean Bass.

Janice A. Neill, age 65 of San Angelo went to be with the Lord Saturday, April 20, 2002 at her home.  Services will be today (Tuesday) April 23, 2002, 2:00 p. m. in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel in San Angelo. Burial will be at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.

Mrs. Neill was born January 15, 1937 in Coleman.  She married Eddie Lee Neill on July 29, 1953 in Mexico.  She was a L. V. N. and a homemaker.

She was preceded in death by one son, Richard Neill, her parents, Leonard and Lucille Wright, two brothers, Earl Wright and Jimmy Wright and one sister, Dorothy Harris.  She is survived by her husband, Eddie Lee Neill of San Angelo; three daughters, Debra K. Smith and husband, Bobby, Lou Ann Grothe and husband, Wayne and Rena Rosenthal and husband, Fritz all of San Angelo; one brother, Durl Wright and wife, Barbara of Coleman; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; good friends, Mary Owens and Dr. D’Laine Dunn Westmoreland; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Pallbearers will be Jeff Lake, Roy Easterly, Ronny Bingham, Danny Bingham, Ben Calhoon and Kenny Smith.  Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

When the world was young and restless and we were worried about the days of our lives, God said, “You are all my children; Let me be your guiding light and I will take you to another world.”

Walter M. George, age 88, of Coleman passed away Monday, April 22, 2002 at the Texas State Veterans Home in Floresville, Texas.  Funeral services will be held at 2 p. m. Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at the First United Methodist Church.  Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mr. George was born in Coleman County on March 17, 1914 to Robert Letcher and Ida Milam George.  He attended Coleman schools, graduating in the spring of 1933 from Coleman High School.  He married Sara Nell Hall on January 3,1942 in Coleman and they had three children.  Sara died November 27, 1965 and was buried in the Coleman Cemetery.  He served in the U. S. Army Air Corps from September 8, 1942 to November 13, 1945 and was discharged at Scott Field, Illinois. He owner and operated an automotive parts and supply business in Coleman for 19 years before retiring on August 1, 1978.  He married Drucilla Eberhart on July 1, 1972.  She died on February 3,1990 and was buried in the Coleman Cemetery. On October 10, 1995, he married Anna Fae Laws.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and the Chapel Class.

Survivors include his wife, Anna Laws George of Seminole, Texas; his children, John E. George and wife Leigh of Lafayette, Louisiana, Polly George Tally and husband James of San Antonio, Texas, Robert George and wife Neala of San Antonio, Texas; five grandchildren, Laurie, Michelle and Amy George, Matthew and Wesley Tally; one sister, Girlie Hagler of Coleman and one niece, Shirley McDowell of Coleman.

Jackie Wayne Griffith, age 65, of Winters, Texas died Monday, April 22, 2002 at his residence.  Graveside services were 11 a. m. Wednesday at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Barry Taylor, pastor of First Baptist Church in Winters officiating.  Burial followed under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

Born December 17, 1936 in Santa Anna, Texas he was the son of Jack Griffith and Pearl Dodson.  He moved to Winters three months ago from Paris, Texas.  He was a laborer and a veteran of the Korean war.

Survivors include one daughter, Vickie Griffith of Paris; one son, Terry Loyd Griffith of Abilene; four sisters, Louise Keeney, Reba Neely, Rita Witt and Lois Richards; and three brothers, Kenneth Griffith, Howard Griffith and John Griffith, all of Fort Worth.

Thelma Templeton, age 85 of Coleman, died Tuesday, April 23, 2002 in Kingwood.  Graveside funeral service will be held at 10:30 a. m. Saturday in the Silver Valley Cemetery with David Ross Cathey officiating and assisted by Sam Wilson.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Templeton was born September 26, 1916 at Brown Ranch and was a daughter of James Carlin Cathey and Florence Lavada Sampson Cathey.  She grew up in Coleman County and graduated from Coleman High School.  She also graduated from Beauty College and was a cosmetologist for many years, owning and operating the West Cedar Beauty Shop in Coleman.  On June 30, 1940 she married Paul Templeton and he preceded her in death on July 14, 1976.  She was a member of Hillcrest Church of Christ.

Survivors include two daughters, Sheila McMillan of Benbrook, Texas and Marchetta (and husband Lee) Kleb of Kingwood; one sister, Winnie McQueen of Coleman; two brothers, Roy Cathey of Sanuarita, Arizona and David Ross Cathey of Lindale, Texas; four grandchildren, Billy Paul McMillan of Fort Worth, Hoyt McMillan of Benbrook, Jared Kleb and Reese Kleb both of Kingwood; two sons-in-law, Bill McMillan, Jr. of Fort Worth and Mike Moore of Katy, Texas; numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by a daughter, Rene Moore, on September 8,1992.  Memorials may be made to the Hillcrest Church of Christ, P.O. Box 295, Coleman, Texas 76834.  Family visitation will be held on Friday from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mary Linnie Egger Russell, age 89 of Brownwood, died Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.  Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p. m. Saturday, April 27th at Ebony Cemetery with Reverend Sam Thompson officiating.  Services are under the direction of Heartland Funeral Home.

She was born January 1,1913 in Oakland, Texas the daughter of the late Wally P. and Elizabeth Lawson Egger.  She married Luther William Russell on October 18, 1927 in Rising Star, Texas and he preceded her in death October 26, 1977.  She was a homemaker and a member of Avenue D Baptist Church.  She had lived in Brownwood since 1977, formerly of Ebony.

Survivors include six sons, William Russell of Early, James Russell of Coleman, and Bob, Ernest, John
and Jerry Russell all of Brownwood; three daughters, Betty Swain of Brownwood, Wanda Dukes of Fort Worth and Ann Wright of Dallas; two sisters, Mary Jordy of Brown-wood and Edna Butler of Brownwood; aunt, Nettie Mae Lawson of Brownwood; 37 grandchildren, 75 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a son, Ronnie Russell; daughters, Lucille and Dorothy Russell; granddaughters, Barbara Brown and Peggy Bethke; great-grandson, Robert Harold Gilbert III and Bobby Whitfield; four brothers; four sisters; and great-granddaughters, Savannah Dawn Chambers and Rachel Aldrige.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. tomorrow (Friday) at Heartland Funeral Home.

Beulah Helm, age 98, of Glen Cove died Wednesday evening, April 24, 2002 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.  Funeral services were 2:00 p. m. Saturday in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jerry Shields officiating.  Burial followed in the Glen Cove Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Helm was born April 19, 1904 in Young County, Texas and was a daughter of John William Nisbett and Mary A. Wright Nisbett.  She grew up and attended school in Young County.  On May 19, 1922, she married Jess B. Helm in Phoenix, Arizona and he preceded her in death in June 1959.  She moved to Glen Cove in 1940 and was a homemaker.  She was a member of Glen Cove Baptist Church.

Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Aileen and Jimmie Gressett of Houston; three sisters, Oma May of San Francisco, California, Connie Moore and Mary Brown, both of Mesa, Arizona; two granddaughters, Mary Anderson of Ballinger and Michele Boyette of Dallas; three great-grandchildren, Joy McDaniels of San Angelo, Tatum Boyette and Bryson Boyette, both of Dallas; one great-great-grandson, Paul McDanlels of San Angelo; numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by a daughter, Lois Whittington in December 1951.  Pallbearers were Bobby Davis, Alan Davis, Rick Davis, Rodney Davis, Bill Hennig and Scott Beaver.

Celia Aguirre Gonzales, 66 of Abilene, died Friday, April 26, 2002, at an Abilene medical center.  Services will be 11 a.m. today (Tuesday) at Holy Family Catholic Church in Abilene with the Rev. Msgr. Frederick Nawarskas officiating.  Burial will be in Elliott-Hamil Garden of Memories, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Hwy. 277 South.

She was born on February 19, 1936 in Coleman, Texas to Irene Cabrera and Leonardo Aguirre, and moved to Abilene from Coleman.  Mrs. Gonzales was executive secretary at the Betty Hardwick Center in Abilene.  She married Adolfo M. Gonzales in Abilene on August 25, 1957.  They were one of the founding families for Holy Family Catholic Church where she served on the parish council, was a choir member and taught Sunday School.  She was also a member of Abilene Citizens Police Alumni Association, and a member and past “Woman of the Year” of American Business Women’s Association.  She was very active in that organization’s West Texas Junior Miss Scholarship Pageant, and a past delegate to the Democrat National Convention.

Mrs. Gonzales was preceded in death by her husband, Adolfo M. Gonzales, on March 22. 2000, and her father, Leonardo Aguirre.  Survivors include a son, Arthur Gonzales of Abilene; daughters, Kelly Mackey and husband, James, of Lawn, Texas and Dee Smith and husband Brad, of Monahans. Texas; her mother, Irene Cabrera of Abilene; brothers, Benjamin Aguirre and Juan Aguirre of Abilene, Leon Aguirre of Eastland, and Raymond Aguirre of Dallas; sisters, Irene Aguirre and Toni Herrera of Abilene and Cecilia Aguirre of Saint Clair Shores, Michigan; and grandchildren, Jamilyn Mackey, Kellen Mackey. Angelina Mackey, Austin Smith and A. J. Gonzales.  Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, P. O. Box 1922, Abilene, Texas 79604, or Abilene Business Women’s Association Western Horizon Scholarship Fund.

SNYDER:  Hazel Emily Haynes, 103, of Andrews died Saturday, April 27, 2002 at Andrews Health Care Center in Andrews after a lengthy illness.  Services will be 2 p. m. today (Tuesday) at Avenue D Baptist Church with Reverend Charles Day, pastor, officiating.  Burial will follow in Hermleigh Cemetery, directed by Bell – Cypert - Seale Funeral Home.

Mrs. Haynes,was born November 18, 1898 in Erath County, Texas.  She lived in Hermleigh from 1935 to 1967 and in Snyder from 1967 to 2000.  She had lived in Andrews the past two years.  She married Marlin Jackson Haynes February 22,1920 in Erath County.  He died October 3, 1991.  Mrs. Haynes was a homemaker and a member of Avenue D Baptist Church.

Survivors include five sons and daughters-in-law, Marshall Jackson and Faye Haynes of Wink, Roscoe Clifton and Peggy Haynes of Andrews, Billy Donn and Sue Haynes of Mason, Michigan, Leon Douglas and Doris Haynes of Coleman and Jimmy Welton Haynes of Seagraves; 19 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and a number of great- great- grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by a daughter, Melba Huddleston, in 2000.  Memorials may be made to the Ben Richey Boys Ranch, 501 Ben Richey Drive, Abilene, Texas 78602.

Harold (Hal) Benner, age 82, of Lake Coleman, died Saturday, April 27, 2002 in Abilene Regional Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p. m. Wednesday in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Roger Hammonds officiating.  Burial will follow in Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Hal Benner was born April 29, 1919 in New Boston, Ohio and was a son of Jacob and Nora Christine Campbell Benner.  He grew up and attended school in New Boston.  He entered the United States Air Force during World War II and served in the European Theater of Operations.  On December 28, 1946, he married Ruth Fechner in San Antonio.  After a 23 year career, he retired from the Air Force as a Colonel.  He worked with Dr. Werner von Braun in Huntsville, Alabama at the Marshall Space Flight Center on the Saturn Rocket and for moon flights with the Apollo Space Program and then moved to NASA at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.  Hal worked as a data systems management analyst for the program manager of the Apollo, Skylab and Apollo-Soyuz and the shuttle program.  He retired from NASA in 1974.  Following his retirement, he and Ruth moved to Lake Coleman where they owned and operated Benner Realty for ten years.  He organized and was president of the Lake Coleman Volunteer Fire Department and Community Center for 11 years and was named Outstanding Citizen by that organization in 1987.  He was a member of First Baptist Church of Coleman.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth Benner of Lake Coleman; two daughters, Jeanie S. Akkerman and husband Joe of Visalia, California and Suzanne L. Burda and husband Glen of Southlake, Texas; one brother, Clarence Benner and wife Martha of Hudson, Florida; one sister, Mabel Pietropaulo and husband Carlo of Huntington, West Virginia; five grandchildren, Terrie Esser and husband Mike, David Akkerman and wife Shani, Christie Coyne and husband Blake, Jennifer Burda and Gregory Burda; five great-grandchildren, Luke Coyne, Katelyn Akkerman, Kelsey Coyne, Sydnie Esser and Joshua Akkerman.  He was preceded in death by one brother and three sisters.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 983, Coleman, Texas 76834.  Family visitation will be held tonight (Tuesday) from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  Pallbearers will be Greg Burda, Shawn Duncan, Wesley Duncan, Don Hipsher, Hunter Jarvies, Dan Pietropaulo and Kenneth Sparkman.  Honorary pallbearers include David Akkerman, Joe Akkerrnan, Glen Burda and Robert Smedley.

Roy Folk Beal died April 28, 2002. A memorial service will be held at the University Christian Church in Austin, Texas on Friday, May 10th at 3:00 p. m.  A reception will follow the ceremony in the Fellowship Hall at the church.

Roy Beal was born November 1, 1907 in Nocona, Texas into the family of a west Texas cowboy.  He grew up in Coleman, Texas where he worked in a local furniture store.  His employers encouraged and supported Roy in attending the New York School of Interior Design, where he earned a scholarship to study in Paris, France.

He married Loyola Leeper Beal on Christmas Eve 1935.  Together they moved to Austin where Roy had been one of the first interior decorators, opening his studio in 1933.  After forming his company, Roy Beai Associates, he was instrumental in forming the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), where he served as president locally, statewide and nationally.

Roy was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Loyola Leeper Beal, and his daughter, Betty Jo Beal.  He is survived by one son, James Benjamin Beal and wife Roberta Shoemaker-Beal of Wimberly, Texas; two daughters, Jeannie Beal Marini and husband Antonio of Scottsdale, Arizona and Bobbie Beal Todd of Austin, Texas; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and nieces.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Deer Creek Nursing Center Arts Program, 555 RR 3237, Wimberly, Texas 78676, or the University Christian Church at 2007 University Ave., Austin, Texas 78701, or the charity of choice will be appreciated.

Beulah Kate Thigpen, 84, of Graham, Texas passed away at a Wichita Falls, Texas hospital Sunday, April 28, 2002.  Funeral services were 2 p. m. Wednesday at the First Baptist Church in Graham with Reverend James C. Hill, Pastor and Reverend Richard Segars, Minister of Administration, officiating.  Burial followed at Pioneer Cemetery, under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home.

Mrs. Thigpen was born May 2, 1917 in Coleman County, Texas to the late Henry Matthew and Ruie Maude (Harris) Smith.  She married Davis Lavern “D. L.” Thigpen on December 17, 1935 in Santa Anna, Texas.  He preceded her in death on November 8, 2001.  Mrs. Thigpen was a member of the First Baptist Church and had worked as a bookkeeper for Anthony’s Department Store.  She was a member of the Women’s Missionary Union and taught the young peoples’ Sunday School Class in Abilene, Kermit, Munday and Graham.

Survivors are two daughters, Peggy Strickland and husband Jim of Vernon, Texas and Sue Napier and husband Patrick of Georgetown, Texas; a son, Durwood Thigpen and wife Anita of Childress, Texas; three sisters, Blanche Watson of San Antonio, Texas, Alice White of White Settlement, Texas and Lorena Stacy of Heath, Texas.  Ten grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild also survive.  Mrs. Thigpen was preceded in death by a brother, H. M. Smith and two sisters, Letha Smith and Lila White. 

Gladys Moore, age 98 of Fort Worth, Texas, died Monday, April 29, 2002 in Fort Worth.  Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p. m. tomorrow (Wednesday) in Santa Anna Cemetery in Santa Anna, Texas.

Gladys Moore was borrt April 25, 1904 in Santa Anna and had been a Fort Worth resident since 1912.  She was a retired employee with the Texas Employment Commission and was a member of the Baptist Church.

Survivors include a sister, Maurine Callahan of Fort Worth; and several cousins.  Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army or Girls and Boys Club of America.

Ada Lula Richardson Smith, age 94 of Las Cruces, New Mexico died on Monday, April 29, 2002 at Casa Del Sol Senior Care Center.  A memorial service will be held at Graham Mortuary Chapel at 2:00 p. m. today (Thursday) with interment to follow in Rockwood, Texas at 11:00 a. m. on Saturday, May 4th.  Service arrangements are with Graham Mortuary of Las Cruces, New Mexico.  Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna is in charge of local arrangements.

Ada was born February 22, 1908 in Coleman, Texas.  She married James Walter Smith in 1923 and moved to Las Cruces in September of 1942.  The couple owned a gas station and grocery store in Las Cruces for many years.  Mrs. Smith was a long-time employee of the Whitehouse until she retired.  She was a member of Mesilla Valley Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband James Walter in 1975, and her children, Fanny Joyce, Donald, Carrol, Harold and Willyne, grandson Johnny Smith, and her sister, Jo Francis.  Remaining family members are sons, A. L. “Blondie” Smith and wife Joyce of Las Cruces, New Mexico and Leonard Smith and wife Ursula of Seattle, Washington; sisters-in-law, Viola Richardson of Brownwood, Texas and Dorothy Richardson of Nederland, Texas; 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.  Donations to the American Heart Association in Mrs. Smith’s name would be greatly appreciated.

Mary I. Kluza, age 80, formerly of Lake Coleman passed away at her home in Buffalo Gap Monday, April 29, 2002.  Visitation followed by Rosary will be from 5-7 p. m. today (Thursday) at Elmwood Funeral Home.  Services will be 9:30 a. m. Friday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Robert Bush officiating.  Burial will follow in Cedar Gap Cemetery under direction of Elmwood Funeral Home 5750 Hwy. 277 South.

Mary was born at home in Rosendale, Wisconsin, August 12, 1921.  She attended school in the Rosendale area and after graduating high school, attended nursing school at Franklin Boulevard Nursing School in Chicago, Illinois.  She graduated in 1944 and married Frank J. Kluza, Sr. that May.  After moving back to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, she worked at St. Agnes Hospital and later Waupun General Hospital primarily as a maternity nurse.  She retired in 1985 after 41 years in nursing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruby and Dale O’Neil, husband, Frank, brother, Arlyn O’Neil, sister, Doris O’Neil, an infant daughter and a great-granddaughter, Kelsey Kluza.  Survivors include three sons, Kenneth and wife, Lois Kluza, Frank (Jim) and wife, Duwanna Kluza all of Buffalo Gap and Bill and wife, Mary Lou Kluza of Mesa, AZ; one brother, Charles O’Neil and one sister, Carol Potratz both of Fond du Lao, WI; 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Mya Heaven Lea Wells, infant daughter of Forest Wells, Jr. and Summer Eubanks, died Monday, April 29 2002 at Abilene Regional Medical Center.  Graveside services were held at 4:00 p. m. Wednesday at Glen Cove Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Survivors include her parents, Forest Wells, Jr. of Coleman and Summer Eubanks of Glen Cove; and uncle, Quincey James of Glen Cove; an aunt, Lachrisha Douglas of Novice; grandparents, LaVonda Eubanks of Glen Cove, Forest Wells, Sr. of Coleman, David James of Coleman, David Eubanks of Denison, Curtis Hardy of Glen Cove; great-grandparents, Elsie and Clayton Burton of Eden, Karen Mitchell of Coleman, Ester Stacy of Coleman, Irene Carson of Coleman, Jimmy Lee Brooks of Bangs; great-aunt, Cindy Watts of Denton, and numerous cousins.

Mark T. Hollis, III, age 61 of Gouldbusk, died Monday, April 29, 2002 at his residence.  Funeral services will be held 2:00 p. m. Friday at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with military honors.  The body will be cremated.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mr. Hollis was born July 14, 1940 in Fort Worth, a son of Mark T. Hollis, Jr. and Dorothy Barrow Hollis.  He grew up and attended school in Fort Worth.  He married Katherine Ann Quave on December 19, 1957 in Fort Worth.  He served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, serving a tour of duty in Vietnam.  He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and an avid sportsman.  He moved to Gouldbusk in 1998 and was a Baptist.

Survivors include his wife, Katherine Hollis of Gouldbusk; two daughters and sons-in-law, Michelle and Mark Wentworth of Tulare, California and Renee and Scott Welker of Grapevine; one son and laugbter-in-law, Mark T. and Yong Hollis IV of Novice; his mother, Dorothy Mow of Novice; two brothers, Alan Hollis of Arlington and Doyle Hollis of White Oak; one sister, Barbara Kay Hollis of Fort Worth; his mother-in-law, Katherine Dowdy of Biloxi, Mississippi, five grandchildren, Tristin Wentworth of Tulare, California, Justin and Orie Brewer of Grapevine, Georgia Ann Hollis and Mark T. Hollis V, of Ocean Spring, Mississippi, and Patrick Hollis of Novice.  Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews also survive.  Visitation will be held today (Thursday) from 6 to 8 p. m. at the funeral home.

Memorial services for Kenneth Haynes, age 59, of Brownwood (formerly of Trickham) will be held at a later date under the direction of Davis-Morris Funeral Home.  He donated his body to medical science.  Mr. Haynes died Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

He was born May 23, 1942, in Santa Anna and grew up in Brown County.  He was drafted into the Navy during the Vietnam Conflict.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry Haynes of Brownwood; children, Scott Haynes of College Station, Robin Haynes of Austin and Wesley Haynes of Dallas; one grandson; and his mother, Myrna Stearns Haynes of Brownwood. Several aunts, uncles and cousins residing in the Trickham area also survive him.  He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde B. Haynes.

Services for Dale Eugene Kincaid, age 59 were held at noon Friday, May 3, 2002 at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Vacaville, California at Alamo Street Chapel with Bishop Scott Haynes officiating.  Mr. Kincaid died Tuesday, April 30, 2002 after a long battle with cancer.  Interment was in Rockville Cemetery in Solano County, California.

Dale was born July 9,1942 in Vacaville, California to Carl E. and Chloris (May) Kincaid both former residents of Glen Cove.  In 1947, Dale’s parents moved to Vallejo, California where he attended elementary school, high school and college.  He was very active in Boy Scouting attaining rank of Eagle Scout.  At age 19, he was called to serve a 2-year mission for Church of Jesus Christ of Latter:Day Saints in the northern states area with mission headquarters in Chicago.  After returning from this mission, he joined the Air Force Reserve serving for seven years.  His unit was called to active duty during the Vietnam War in 1968.  Following active duty, he joined California Highway Patrol as a state traffic officer in both southern and northern California and retired from CHP in 1990.

Dale is survived by his wife, Diane (Neuman) Kincaid whom he married in Oakland Temple of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints June 3,1966; one daughter and son-in-law,. Karen and Todd Tumbleson of Las Vegas, Nevada and two sons and daughters-in-law, David and Jennifer (Barney) Kincaid of Vacaville, California and Michael and Aimee (Claverie) Kincaid of Benicia, California; grandchildren, Danika, Jared, Ashlynn, Maquelle, Adam, Conner, Tyler, Andrew and Ethan; mother, Chloris (May) Kincaid of Cordelia, California; brother and sister-in-law, Ross and Janell (Bangerter) Kincaid, nieces, Janet and Janeen and nephew, Phillip all of Virginia; maternal aunts and uncle, Bessie (May) Rice of Arlington, Edith (May) Bullock of Coleman and Clayton May of Alvarado. Many May, Muianax and Kincaid cousins also live in Texas.  He was preceded in death by father, Carl E. Kincaid and grandson, Devon Benjamin Kincaid.