Rosa Wilson Cobb, age 96 of Coleman, died Saturday, May 3, 2003 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral service will be held 10:00 a. m. Wednesday, May 7, 2003 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church with The Reverend Joan Rudolph officiating.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.  The family will welcome friends and relatives today (Tuesday) from 6:00 p. m. to 8:00 p. m. at the funeral home.

Rosa was born October 18, 1906 in Brownwood, Texas to Ballantine B. and Augusta Kopisch Hill.  Her father was publisher and editor of the Brownwood Semi-Weekly News.  She attended Brownwood schools, Daniel Baker College, Texas Women’s University and SMU, where she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority.  She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, majoring in History. She married Charles Ryall Wilson, a Coleman businessman, in 1930 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Brownwood.  They resided in Coleman where they were actively involved in civic affairs and St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.  Charles Wilson was Mayor of Coleman in the mid-forties.  Rosa was instrumental in bringing the Girl Scouts organization to Coleman.  She and Mr. Wilson worked in local and regional positions to establish Girl Scouting in Coleman.  Mr. Wilson died in 1952.  In 1960, Rosa married Sam T. Cobb, president of Life of the Southwest insurance Company.  Mr. Cobb preceded her in death in 1977.

She is survived by five children: Rosalyn Wilson and her husband Ray of Brownwood; Mariana Jones of Austin; Marlene Hamilton and her husband Devon of Quinlan; Charles Ryall Wilson, Jr. and his wife Diane of San Diego, California; Carol Scott and her husband Terry of Coleman; grandchildren: Barnes Kingsbery and his wife Lynette of Lubbock; Karen Kingsbery McManus and her husband Bob of Austin; Charles C. (Chuck) Kingsbery of Austin; Brad Jones and his wife Amy of Piano; Amy Jones Norton and her husband David of Piano; Wilson Jones and his wife Lendy of Dallas; Kevin Hamilton of Dallas; Noel Hamilton and his wife Kathy of Irvine, California; Brenda Hamilton Boyce and her husband Mark of Menomonee Fails, Wisconsin; Travis Wilson of San Francisco, California; Sonya Wilson of San Diego, California; Amanda Scott of Abiiene and Lisa Scott MedIin and her husband Dan of Austin; 23 great-grandchildren; five nieces and two nephews.  She was preceded in death by two brothers, Allan Hill and Richard B. Hill.

Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.  Memorials may be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 609 South Neches, Coleman, Texas 76834 or the donor’s favorite charity.

S

S
 
 

S

S

S

S

S

S

Ruby Hoover, age 81 of Coleman, died Monday, May 12, 2003 at Coleman County Medical Center.   Funeral service will be held 2:00 p. m. Wednesday, May 14, 2003 at the Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. George Frasier officiating.  Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco, Texas under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Ruby was born December 16, 1921 in Cisco, a daughter of Roy Horn and Mamie Rains Horn.  She grew up in Cisco, graduated from Cisco High School and attended Cisco Junior College.  She worked as a telegraph operator for Western Union in Brownwood when she married Rev. Daniel C. Hoover on February 29, 1944 in Cisco.  She moved to Bethany, Oklahoma in 1946, Illinois Bend, Texas in 1949 and moved to Graham, Texas in 1952 where Rev. Hoover was a minister.  They moved to Shamrock, Texas in 1960.  While in Shamrock, Mrs. Hoover worked part time for Brannon Frame Shop, making picture frames.  They moved to Coleman in 1970.  She was the former co-owner of Home Video Outlet in Coleman.  She was a member of the Church of the Nazarene.

Survivors include her husband, Rev. Daniel C. Hoover of Coleman one son and daughter-in-law, Roy Dan and Becky Hoover of Coleman; two daughters and sons-in-law, Beatrice and Mark Phillips and Jeanne and Randy French, all of Coleman; one sister, Myrtle Lee Horn of Coleman; one sister-in-law, Dorothy Horn of Fort Worth; six grandchildren, Kimberley Cupps of Santa Anna, Lisa West of Brook-shier, Texas, Brandon Hoover of Michigan, Matthew French of Arlington and Johnnie and Connie French of Coleman; four great-grandchildren, Ranee Cupps and David Cupps of Santa Anna, Nicholas West and Logan West of Brookshier, Texas; and several cousins.  She was preceded in death by one brother, R. V. Horn and one great-granddaughter, Samantha Jo Cupps.

Family visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p. m. today (Tuesday) at the funeral home.  Memorials may be made to The Gideons international, c/o Ral Dees, Memorial Bible Chairman, 3301 CR 420, TaIpa, Texas 76882.

Graveside services for Earl Childress, age 91, of Brownwood, formerly of Coleman, were held at 3 p. m. Tuesday at Coleman City Cemetery.  Davis - Morris Funeral Home of Brownwood was in charge of arrangements.  Mr. Childress died Monday, May 12, 2003 at a Brownwood nursing home.

He was born March 13, 1912, at Robert Lee.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Army in World War II, serving with Patton’s 69th Division.  His squadron met the Russians at Targo, Germany, at the end of the war in Europe.  He had worked as a parts manager for Ford Motor Company and had lived in Brownwood since 1995.  He was a member of Trinity Methodist Church in Coleman.

He is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth Early Phillips and husband Mark of The Colony; a son, Marc Childress and wife Jan of Brownwood; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a twin brother and one sister.

Graveside funeral services for Bruce Alsobrook, age 83, of Santa Anna, were held at 10 a. m. Saturday at the Santa Anna Cemetery with Rev. John House officiating, under the direction of Davis - Morris Funeral Home of Brownwood.  Mr. Alsobrook died Tuesday, May 13, 2003 in a nursing center in Coleman.

He was born August 8, 1912 in Gonzales County, Texas to William Newton and Anthia Viola Halbert Alsobrook.  He married Dorothy Lee Taylor in Coleman on May 5,1942.  He was employed for 20 years with Midland Independent School District.  Mr. Alsobrook served his country in the U.S. Army in World War II.  He had lived in Santa Anna since 1981 and in Midland from 1958 to 1981.

Survivors include his children, Carolyn Mitchell of Midland, Ann Aaron of Sweetwater, Gerald and Prita Alsobrook of California, Tresia Gunter of Coleman, Edward and Casiana Alsobrook of Ozona and Reba and Frank Sexson of Midland; 16 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two sisters, Faye McDonald of Luling and AIta Mae Carley of Harwood; a brother, Travis Alsobrook of Luling; and a number of nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Lee Taylor Alsobrook in 2002; a great-granddaughter, Kalie Gunter; grandson, Michael Carlton; his parents; and several brothers and sisters.

Mrs. Ruby Jewell Sanges, age 82, of Coleman passed away May 15, 2003 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Services were held Sunday at 2 p. m. at Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Billy Roberts officiating.  Burial followed in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

Born December 29, 1920 in Bangs, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Palmer and Maggie Stratton Wood.  On July 7,1945 she married J. P. Vanpelt in Coleman.  He preceded her in death in 1968.  On April 1, 1972 she married Mr. Robert Earl (Dutch) Sanges.  Mr. Sanges preceded her in death on September 6, 1986.  Mrs. Sanges was a lifetime resident of Coleman County and a member of the North
Coleman Baptist Church where she served as Sunday school treasurer for 37 years.  She was a stenographer for the Texas Department of Public Welfare for 30 years and a longtime member of TOPS and of KOPS Honor Society.

Mrs. Sanges is survived by one daughter she never had, Carmen Guerrero of Coleman; two sons, Pat Vanpelt of Coleman, and Charles and wife Karen Vanpelt also of Coleman; and one sister, Shirley Jenkins of Big Springs.  She is also survived by four grandsons; Joe Pat, Paul, J. C., and Chase Vanpelt, as well as one granddaughter, Amber Raye Smith. Mrs. Sanges was preceded in death by four brothers; Herbert in 2002, Burlie in 2000, Billy in 1996 and Bobby in 1972.

Opal Harmes, age 79 Coleman, died Thursday, May 15, 2003 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral service was held at 2:00 p. m. Saturday at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Joe Hailey officiating.  Burial followed in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Opal was born May 2, 1924 in Rockwood, a daughter of Sherman Lewis Heilman and Iris Evelyn Ellis Heilman.  She grew up and attended school in Rockwood.  She married Cecil Harmes on April 16, 1939 in Glen Rose.  He preceded her in death on October 19, 1994.  She worked at The Country Store in Lamesa as bookkeeper for several years and moved back to Coleman in 1989.  She was an avid quilter and seamstress, member of the Ladies Bible Class, and of the Elm Street Church of Christ.

Survivors include two daughters, Noreda Brock and Kathy Gaylene Harmes, both of Coleman; two sisters, Belva Rutherford of Coleman and Marie Vaughn of Brady; one sister-in-law, Chris Keaton Null of Brenham; five grandchildren, Elicia Langehennig of Piano, Denise Patterson of Piano, Cheree Langehennig of Houston, Debbie Pieser of Piano, Stacey Harmes of Alvin; eight great-grandchildren, Brandon, Erica, Mikey, Cody, Melissa, Brandy, Megan and Anysse; one great-great- grandson, Brandon Jacob and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by one son, Denny Harmes, one daughter, Barbara Harmes and two brothers, Bobby Lee Heilman and James Lewis Heilman.

Memorials may be sent to the Elm Street Church of Christ, 216 West Elm, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Benjamin Bobby Rodden, 43 years of age.  The son of the Mr. & Mrs. David & Lorene (Dyer) Rodden of Valera passed away May 15, 2003 in Houston, Texas.  Services will be graveside at the Valera Cemetery Pavilion Saturday at 2 p. m. with Rev. Beck officiating; the Minister of the Valera Baptist Church.  Interment will follow in the Valera Cemetery under direction of the Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Bobby was born in Ft. Worth, Texas November 9, 1959 and was a member of the Baptist Church.  He served his country in the U.S. Navy and was discharged in 1980.  He was raised in the Ft. Worth area by his parents Mr. and Mrs. David Rodden now of Valera.  Also survived are 9 sisters and 8 brothers with 2 sisters preceding him in death.

Rupert Allen Pridemore, an extraordinary figure in the appliance and building industries, died Thursday, May 15, 2003.  A private service was held Saturday, May 17th. Celebration of Life was held at 1 p. m. Wednesday at Mid-Cities Bible Church in Bedford, Texas, with a reception following.

Rupert Allen Pridemore was a native of Coleman, Texas, but lived his adult life in Fort Worth.  He was the son of George and Mamie Pridemore.  His wife, Patsy, is also from Coleman.  In 1958, Rupe founded Builders’ Sales & Service Company and became the largest distributor of built-in appliances in Tarrant County.  He had one of the most recognizable names in the industry and was one of Fort Worth’s most respected businessmen.  He was known nationally by the major manufacturers for his achievements.  The manufacturers repeatedly presented him with “Top Distributor” awards and used his company as a model for other similarly distributors.  He was a member of the Greater Fort Worth Builders Association (GFWBA), which countless times elected Rupe to serve as associate vice president to chair various committees.  He was recognized three times by GFWBA with the Associate of the Year award.  In December 2002, the GFWBA presented the first “Rupert Pridemore Associate of the Year Award.”  At the September 28, 2001 meeting of the association, Rupe was made the first and only associate to ever become an Honorary Life Director of the Greater Fort Worth Builders Association.  He was also one of the founders and directors of the Grand Prairie State Bank and served as a director on the boards of several other local banks.

He was preceded in death by an infant son, Christopher Allen Pridemore; his father and mother, George and Mamie Pridemore; two brothers; and two sisters.  Survivors include his wife, Pat Pridemore; one brother, Richard Pridemore; a sister, Odessa Lempeotis; a very special nephew, Mark McKee; and many other caring nieces and nephews.

Maurine Moore Callahan, age 96 of Fort Worth passed away Saturday, May 17, 2003 in Fort Worth.  Graveside services will be today (Tuesday) at 1:00 p. m. at the Santa Anna Cemetery with Rev. Raymond Jones officiating.  Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna is in charge of local arrangements.

Maurine Moore Callahan was born August 17, 1906 in Santa Anna to the late Robert Diggs and Vertie Weaver Moore.  She was a resident of Fort Worth since 1912 and graduated from TCU in 1927.  Maurine was a member of the Broadway Baptist Church and retired analyst for the State Department of the United States at the Pentagon.

Survivors include a cousin, Burgess Weaver and wife Princess Kanjana of Fort Worth; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Maurine was preceded in death by her husband Frank Callahan and sister Gladys Moore.

S

S ??????
 
 

Gerald Lynn Crowder, age 67, of Coleman, died Sunday, May 18, 2003 at his residence.  Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p. m. Wednesday in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Charles Sheffield  officiating.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Gerald was born April 5, 1936 in Coleman County and was a son of Leda Grace Wardlow Crowder and the late Willie Jody Crowder.  He grew up in Coleman and California and attended school at Cross Roads, Bangs and San Bernardino, California.  Gerald was a veteran, serving in the United States Air Force for six years.  He was stationed in Roswell, New Mexico, Ipswich, England and El Paso and returned to Coleman in 1961.  On December 14, 1957, married Joyce Beales in England.  She died in 1997.  He owned and operated Crowder Body Shop and was a member of the Assembly of God Church.  Gerald was active in Disabled American Veterans and the National Rifle Association.

Survivors include one son, Kevin Crowder of Coleman; one daughter, Glynda Carrillo of Coleman; his mother, Leda Grace Crowder of Coleman; three grandchildren, Dustin (and wife Debbie) Watson of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Brittany Carrillo of Coleman and Skyla Carrillo of Brownwood; two great-grandchildren, Emily Watson and Gage Carrillo; three brothers, Harold Crowder of Coleman, Jim Leonard Crowder of Salt Lake City, Utah and Freddie Paul Crowder of Coleman; three sisters, Juanita Baker of Coleman, Mary Ann Herring of Lometa and Velva Dean Crawford of Garland; numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Jo Carroll DuBois, age 87, of Coleman, died Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p. m. today (Thursday) at Elm Street Church of Christ with James Bailey officiating.  Burial will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Jo was born September 28, 1915 in Valera, Texas, the fourth of eight children of Wortham Aubrey and Mary Ann Moser Carroll.  She was married to Ira C. “Chubby” DuBois on November 2,1932 in Valera.  He preceded her in death on March 13, 1970.  Jo was a Licensed Vocational Nurse, class of 1965.  She retired in 1982 after working all of those years at Coleman County Medical Center.  She was a member of Elm Street Church of Christ for 50 years.

She is survived by three daughters and their husbands, Betty and David Watson of Coleman and Mary and Donald Williams of Coleman, Marsha and James Bailey of Shreveport, Louisiana; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, Vicki (Watson) and Allen Perry of Ruidoso, New Mexico and their son Bryan and Jill of Princeton, Louisiana; Alan and Treva Watson and their children Trevor and Courtney of Lubbock; Donna Jo Williams of Coleman and her children, Jerry, Steve and Jennifer White, all of Lubbock; Debbie (Williams) and Rodney Ivy and their children Allicyn and Lindsay of Coleman; Leann (Williams) and Ted Bernard and their daughter Keslie of Arlington; Ben and Jaime Bailey of San Antonio; Josh and Sarah Bailey of Edmond, Oklahoma; three sisters, Vyron Carroll Hudgins of San Angelo, Dorothy Carroll Hamilton of Coleman and Nita Carroll Cook of Lovington, New Mexico; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ray and Norma DuBois of Ballinger; numerous special nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by two brothers, Johnny and Tony Carroll and two sisters, Myron Carroll Shuttlesworth and Patsy Carroll Sparks.

Pallbearers are Alan Watson, Ben Bailey, Josh Bailey, Bryan Perry, Jerry White, Steve White.

Wilma Geneva Sewell, age 81 of Houston passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at her residence.  Visitation will be at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman on Friday, May 23, 2003 at 6:00 p. m.  Funeral services will be May 24, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating.  Burial will be at the Coleman Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Graham Moore, Christopher Moore, Jeremy Cole, Paul Johnson and Jeff Atkinson.

Mrs. Sewell was a Department Manager at Sears for 22 years in Midland, Texas.  She was a member of First Baptist Church of Midland, Texas.  She was a native of Coleman, Texas and lived in West Texas most of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Birbridge and Ollie Seal; three brothers; and one sister.  Survivors include her husband, Roy Sewell of Houston; sister Lillie Starnes of Richmond, Texas; three children, Ridge Sewell and wife Janet of Beaumont, Jane Grace Hammons of Houston and Suzzanne Moore and husband Patrick of Austin.  Grandchildren are Courtney Cole and husband Jeremy of Brenham, Christin Johnson and husband Paul of Frisco, Alyson Atkinson and husband Jeff of Houston, Casey Sewell of Nacogdoches, Graham Moore of Austin, Christopher Moore of Chicago and Abigail Hammons of Houston. Great-grandchildren are Meghan Johnson, Caitlyn Cole, Molly Johnson and Alexandra Cole.

Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Neal, age 83, of San Angelo, died Thursday, May 22, 2003 at Holiday Hill Nursing Center.  Funeral services were held at 3:00 p. m. Sunday, May 25, 2003 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Pat McClatchy officiating, assisted by Dr. G. Dean Coultas.  Burial followed in the Talpa Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Neal was born March 10, 1920 in Plantersville, Mississippi, a daughter of Benjamin Franklin McWhorter and Hattie Hilda Ruff McWhorter.  She moved to Garden City at the age of six, where she was reared and graduated from high school.  She married James A. “Buddy” Neal on August 16,1939 in Rankin.  He preceded her in death on June 3, 1996.  She lived in Rankin, Van Horn, Evant, Sheffield and moved to San Angelo in 1996.  She was a resident of the Rio Concho West Retirement Center and a member of the Methodist Church.

Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Jim and Shirley Neal of Ada, Oklahoma, Sandy and Barbara Neal of Coleman; one brother, Joe Benjamin McWhorter; five grandchildren, Rob Neal and wife Cindy and Forrest Neal and wife Jeanie, both of Ada, Oklahoma, Joe Neal of Bellflower, California, Keith Neal and wife Juanita of Rising Star, Kelli Caldwell and husband Jim B. of Grand Prairie; seven great-grandchildren, Jessica and Jordan Neal and Taylor and Maci Neal, all of Ada Oklahoma, Riley, Garrett and Morgan Caldwell, all of Grand Prairie; two step-grandchildren, Steven McGehee and Tammy Morgan; one step great-grandchild, Jake Bell; nieces and nephews, including Debbie Walker, Sheri Cason, Wes McWhorter, FIoy McWhorter, Rusty Ratliff and Clara Jo Huckaby.  She was preceded in death by one sister, Joyce Marie Hamblin.

Pallbearers were Rob Neal, Forrest Neal, Joe Neal, Keith Neal, Jim B. CaIdweII and Jeff Young.  Honorary pallbearers included Ray Fitzgerald, James Keeney, John O. Holleyman, Bill Sellers, Charles Faubion, Leon Vernon, Buck McGonagill, Blame Smith, Paul Wheat, Mike Barker, Craig Porter and James Ratliff.

Flora Oberia Rozzlle, 83, died Saturday, May 24, 2003, in an Abilene hospital.  Services were 3 p.m. Monday in Gateway Baptist Church with Reverend David Cason officiating.  Burial was in the Voss Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home.

Mrs. Rozzlle was born September 22, 1919 in Oplin to Ellis Barto and Nada McBride Pentecost.  She married Bob Gerald Rozzlle June 25, 1937, in Paint Rock. She moved to Tuscola in 1982 from Abilene.  She worked as an attendant for 15 years at Abilene State School, retiring in 1979.  She was a homemaker and a member of Gateway Baptist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband in 1980; one sister, Dorothy Brightwell; and two brothers, C. B. Pentecost and Weldon Pentecost.  Survivors include two daughters, Nada Beth “Liz” Clifton and husband Art of Crawford and Gerri Rutherford and husband Hubert of Novice; one brother, Troy Pentecost of Temple; one sister, Delores ‘Gal’ Papasan of Abilene; two grandchildren, Tami Jobe and husband Steve and Nicholas Rutherford and wife Jodie; seven great-grandchildren, Chaz Jobe, Britani Poston, Juliane, Noah, Buffi, Abi and Suzi Jobe; and two greatgreat-great-grandchildren, Angel Jobe and Josh Poston.

Hazel Mae Bragg, 92, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away May 25, 2003 in San Angelo, Texas.  Graveside funeral services will be held at 2:00 p. m. today (Tuesday, May 27, 2003) in Glen Cove Cemetery with Jack Cosby officiating, directed by Stevens Funeral Home of Coleman.

Hazel Mae was born in Preston Bend, Texas, February 15, 1911 and moved to the Talpa area as a child.  Her parents were Charles H. Grounds and Alberta Elizabeth Blackburn Grounds.  She married Joseph Owen Bragg in Crews, Texas on July 8,1928.  She was a long-time member of the Crews Methodist Church where she was Sunday School superintendent and taught Sunday School for many years.

Survivors include sons Harold Bragg and wife Helen of Glen Cove, Glenn Bragg and wife Jo Lynn of Hondo, Texas, Larry Bragg and wife Cindy of San Angelo and daughter Cheryl Moss of Midland, Texas; grandchildren include Mike and Lareshia Bragg, Joy and Steve Layer, David and Tammy Bragg, Shelly and Guy Malatek, Scarlett Moss, Mindy and Roger Turner, Chad Moss, Amy and James Andrae, Kelly and Michael Elliott and Ashley Bragg; great-grandchildren include Sterling Layer, Jennifer and Amanda Bragg, Garrett and William Malatek and Brooke, Blair and Bailey Turner; and one sister, Anna Lee Branscum of Dallas.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Owen Bragg; a son, Russell Bragg; and three brothers. The family requests memorials be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center.

Mr. Frank J. Bartek, Sr. 82 years of age, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. John and Annie M. Bartek was born May 31, 1920 in CaldweIl, Texas and passed away in the Hendricks Medical Center, May 25, 2003.  Visitation will be Wednesday, May 28 at 6:00 p. m. at Walker Funeral Home of Coleman with prayer service to follow at 7:00 p. m. Mass will be Thursday, May 29 at 2:00 p. m. in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Coleman with interment to follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman. 

Frank had lived in Coleman most of his life and was married to the late Ms. Francis Marie Franke in Coleman and she preceded him in death in November 1996.  He had worked for the Martin Brick Company and for 10 years for Coleman I. S. D. before retiring. Frank was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

He is survived by two daughters and son-in-law Diane Olson of Hankamer, Texas, Evelyn and Nicky Harris of Cross Plains, Texas; son and daughter-in-law Frank and Anita Bartek of Lake Brownwood, Texas; one sister and brother-in-law Mrs. Mary (Cookie) and Monroe Markert of Dime Box, Texas; sister-in-law Viola Bartek of Caldwell, Texas; one brother and sister-in-law Vince and Debbie Bartek of Conroe, Texas; 5 grandchildren-Charles and Angie Watson of Hankamer, Texas; T. J., Chris, and Emily Harris of Cross Plains, Texas; Sarah Bartek of Lake Brownwood, Texas. 3 great-grandchiIdren Shantelle Watson of Brownwood, Texas, Kala and Tristen Watson of Hankamer, Texas.  He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and 2 brothers: Johnny and Joe Bartek and sister and brother-in-law Ann and Curtis Smith.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Hendricks Hospital in Abilene, Texas of Cross Plains EMS.

Jasper Medrano, age 71 of Coleman passed away May 25, 2003 in the Coleman County Medical Center.  Prayer services were held Sunday evening at 7:00 p. m. at Walker Funeral Home Chapel. Mass was held at 2:00 p. m. Monday afternoon at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with interment following in Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mr. Medrano was born June 23, 1931 in Coleman, Texas the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Melcher C. and Matillda Dela Rosa Medrano.  He was married to Estefano Alcala in Coleman and she preceded him in death in 1995.  He had lived in Coleman all of his life.  He had worked on road construction and at Daughtry - Holly Auto Company.  He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Ann Guana of Ballinger, Texas; six sisters, Josephine Nunez, Elisa Nunez, Mary Ann Gallegos and Mary Lou Garrett all of Coleman, Lydia Sausido of Abilene, Texas and Lollie Medrano of Irving, Texas; three brothers, Rudy Medrano of Ballinger, Mel Medrano of Grand Prairie, Texas and Tommy Medrano of Brenham, Texas; and four grandchildren.

Edith Copeland, age 88, of Bangs died Monday, May 26, 2003 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home in Coleman.  Funeral services were held at 3:00 p. m. Wednesday at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. David Jenkins officiating.  Burial followed at the Burkett Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Edith Copeland was born July 24, 1914 in Coleman County, Texas and was a daughter of Charles and Cleo Beeler Gould.  She grew up in Coleman County and attended school at Rae and Echo.  On January 2, 1935 she married Hester Copeland in Burkett and he preceded her in death on December 24, 1977.  She moved from Burkett to Bangs in 1956.  She had been a member of the Burkett Quilting Club.  She was a homemaker and a Baptist.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Clenton and Lila Copeland of Brownwood; three daughters and sons-in-law, Jean and Joe Griffith and Bettie and Bennie Bennett, all of San Angelo and Cherri and Johnny Tedford of Brownwood; one sister, Edna Hunter of Brownwood; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one uncle, Dumas Beeler of Coleman; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  She was also preceded in death by an infant daughter in 1938; a grandson Brian Copeiand in 1976; and a brother, C. C. Gould, Jr. in 1991.

Pallbearers were Chad Copeland, Joe Copeland, Randy Griffith, Lee Griffith, David Bennett and Greg Bennett.  Honorary pallbearers included John Holland and Jason Kasper.  Memorials may be made to Burkett Cemetery Association, c/o Linda Brady, 1001 CR 178, Burkett, Texas 76828.

Norma Mayfield Griffing, age 74, of San Angelo died Monday, May 26, 2003 at Shannon Medical Center.  A graveside memorial service will be held at 2:00 p. m. Thursday at the Coleman City Cemetery.  The body was cremated.  Services are under the direction of Johnson’s Funeral Home in San Angelo and Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Norma Griffing was born February 16, 1929 in Dublin, a daughter of L. E. and Vera Reagor Mayfield.  She married James Griffing on December 12,1947 in Abilene.  She was a homemaker and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Coleman.

Survivors include her husband, James Griffing of San Angelo; four sons, Michael Grifting of Seattle, Washington, Richard Griffing of San Antonio, Daniel Griffing of Kansas City, Missouri and Patrick Griffing of Austin; one daughter, Heather Christmann of Katy; one sister, Betty MacDonald of The Woodlands and 18 grandchildren.

Grover Howard, age 75, of Euless passed away at his residence on May 27, 2003.  Funeral services were Friday 2 p.m. in Walker Funeral Chapel with Dr. Jimmy Finley, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Euless officiating, assisted by Rev. Kermit Sorrells, a retired Methodist minister, with interment following in the Glen Cove Cemetery, under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Son of the late Charles Louis and Cynthia Permilla Burton, he was born May 29, 1927 in Coleman County where he married Ruby Louise Titsworth on September 1, 1950.  Mr. Howard was a veteran of WWII where he served in the U. S. Air Force, a retired inspector for the City of Euless, member of First United Methodist Church of Euless, Past Master of Estelle Lodge #582, member Scottish Rite, York Rite, Oddfellow Lodge of Grapevine, and Coleman Masonic Lodge #496.

He is survived by his wife Louise; one daughter, Linda and husband Jim Husnsuckle of Euless; one sister Edith Bishop of Bangs; brother-in-law Robert Gable of Bangs; two grandchildren, Gaye Lyn Howard and Howard Tucker, both of Stephenville; two great-grandchildren, Michael Wayne Tucker and Tiffany Nicole Tucker of StephenvilIe. Mr. Howard was preceded in death by one sister Katherine Gable.

Forrest Dale Yancy, age 81, of Abilene, passed away Wednesday, May 28, 2003.  Funeral services were held at 2:00 p. m. Saturday at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Abilene with Reverends Darrell Patterson and Caro Russell officiating.  Interment followed at Elmwood Memorial Park under the direction of Elmwood Funeral Home of Abilene.

Forrest was born June 18, 1921 in Santa Anna, Texas to Charlie and Daisy (Rodgers) Yancy.  After graduation from Munday High in 1941, he enlisted in the Army and served from 1943 to 1946 in the South Pacific Theater.  He married Loyce Milford on November 7, 1947 in Munday, Texas.  He served as a Captain for the Army National Guard until 1960.  He was employed by Col-Tex Refinery in Colorado City, Texas until he was transferred to Abilene in 1969.  He retired in 1985 from Cosden Oil and Chemical as an electrical engineer.  He was an active member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church and the Homebuilders Sunday school class; he was also involved in various community services, particularly Meals on Wheels.

His parents, two brothers Curtis and Carl Sr. and two sisters, Novell and Virginia, preceded him in death.  Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Loyce, and their children, daughter, Cindy and husband, Tom Johnston of Piano, Texas; son, Bruce and wife, Linda of Eden, Texas and son, Brian of Abilene; four grandchildren, Kelly Yancy of Abilene, Kimberly Yancy of Eden, Timothy and Allison Johnston of Piano; a sister, Jody Yancy of San Angelo; and a brother, Buddy Yancy of Talpa.

Pallbearers were nephews, Lynn Walling, Jerry Walling, Greg Walling and Jerry Yancy, as well as Spud Aldridge and Jerry Smith.  Memorials may be made to Aldersgate United Methodist Church or the charity of choice.

Terry L. Preas passed away Wednesday May 28, 2003 at Bonita, Arizona from injuries sustained in an industrial accident.  He was 50 years old.  A Celebration of Terry’s life was held on Saturday, May 31 at Bonita School. At Terry’s request he will be returned to the mountains he so loved. 

Terry was born in Coleman Texas October 3, 1952 to C. A. and Luberta C. Preas.  He married the love of his life, Kittie Phillips on July 2, 1971 in Santa Anna, Texas.  In July 1973 Terry and Kittie moved to the Willcox area where Terry farmed for various farmers.  In April 1982 Terry started Preas Welding and Construction, where he used his artistic ability and imagination to create a wide variety of Ag related equipment.  He planted most of the apples and fruit trees in the Bonita Valley and he built most of the ostrich buildings here when the ostrich industry was booming.  In 1992 Eurofresh came to the Bonita Valley and Terry was their “right hand man.”  He constructed metal buildings, was a tank builder, and an artist of metal western art.  His passion was his wife and kids, fishing, hunting and taking care of others in need.  Terry loved this valley and upon his arrival here at age 20, he said he had arrived at “The Promised Land.”  There was never a person in need whom Terry did not reach out to help.  He was known for his sense of humor, his kind and giving heart and his happy spirit.

Terry is survived by his wife of 32 years, Kittie of Bonita, a son, Scott and a daughter Rebecca both of Tucson, his mother, Luberta Preas of Silver Valley Texas, two brothers, Cecil (Cynthia) of Midland, Don (Virginia) of Fort Worth Texas, two sisters, Irene (Pete) Gildeon of Rockport Texas, Brenda (Irvin) Wells of Coleman Texas, his cousin and fishing partner, Wilber (Sue) Preas of Phoenix and a host of great friends.  Terry was preceded in death by his Dad, two brothers, and three sisters.

An account has been set up at Cochise Credit Union in Willcox, Arizona 85643.  If anyone wants to contact Kittie:  Kittie Preas, HC 4 Box 122A, 17801 W. Sierra Bonita Road, Willcox, Arizona 85643.

James Smith, age 31, of Coleman, died Friday, May 30, 2003 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.  Graveside funeral service was held at 3:00 p. . Monday at Glen Cove Cemetery with Rev. Billy Roberts officiating.  ervices were under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

James was born June 13, 1971 in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of James Leonard Smith and Helen Jean Shonhart Smith.  He grew up in South Carolina and attended school there.  He moved to Coleman in 2001 and had been employed as a carpenter.

He is survived by his parents, James and Helen Smith of Florida; two sisters, Mawanna Smith and Linda Dinneen, both of South Carolina; one brother, James Leonard Smith, Jr. of South Carolina.  Vivian  McWhirter of Coleman also survives.

Claud Henry Harvey, age 96, of Abilene, died Saturday, May 31, 2003 at an Abilene care center.  Services will be 10:00 a. m. today (Tuesday) at the Bible Baptist Church in Clyde with Reverend Larry Hooper and Reverend David Hulsey officiating.  Graveside service will be at 2:00 p. m. at Stagg Creek Cemetery between Comanche and Rising Star.

Mr. Harvey was born April 17, 1907 near Hamilton to John Henry and Therma Nancy Morse Harvey.  He graduated from Hamilton High School and attended Baylor University in Waco.  He started preaching in 1948 and was ordained in 1954 as the minister at North Waco Baptist Church, an independent Baptist church.  Mr. Harvey was a retired farmer and drove a bus for Waco School District.  In 1980, he moved to Abilene. He was a foster grandparent at the Abilene State School.  He married Annie Catherine Kelly - Winn on October 18, 1997 in Coleman County.  He was a member of Bible Baptist Church in Clyde.  He was a longtime member of Heritage Baptist Church in Abilene.

Mr. Harvey is survived by his wife, Annie Harvey of Abilene; one son, Thomas Harvey of Waco; two step-sons, Doyce Wayne Long of Lake Coleman and Ronald Winn of Gatesville; three stepdaughters, Glenda Wilcox of Abilene, Edwina Hulsey of Clyde and Cheryl Wiemuth of North Richland Hills; one granddaughter, Sandra Harvey of Waco; 16 step-grandchildren; 26 step-great-grandchildren; two greatgreat-grandchildren and a special friend, Marcy Bomar of Abilene.

Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice of Abilene.

Funeral services for Lorene Carter Black, 87, of Brownwood, were held at 10 a. m. Monday in Davis - Morris Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Troy Strickland of Belle Plain Baptist Church officiating.  Interment followed at the Rockwood Cemetery.  Lorene passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2003 in Brownwood.

She was born on February 16, 1916 in Rockwood, Texas to Jim and Florence Rutherford Carter.  She attended school in Rockwood and graduated with the class of 1936.  She was a longtime employee of Texas Feathers and was a longtime and faithful member of Belle Plain Baptist Church.

Lorene is survived by her special family, Milton and Dana Perry of Brownwood and Norma Keeton and her family; grandchildren, Shane Wood, Micah Perry and Melissa Perry, all of Brownwood; and several cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack Black; and three brothers, Albert, Lonnie and Elmer Carter.