Coleman County, Texas Obituaries for June 2003



 

June 1, 2003


Charles O. Moody III, 65

A Memorial Service will be held at the family home in Roswell, New Mexico at 2 p. m. Friday, June 6, 2003 for Charles O. Moody III, age 65, of Roswell (formerly of Coleman) who passed away June 1, 2003 at his home in Ruidoso Downs.

Charles was born May 26, 1938 in Santa Anna, Texas to Charles O. and Virginia Elver Moody, Jr.  His father preceded him in death.  His mother, Virginia, lives in Dallas, Texas.  He married Karen Sullivan on April 7, 1991 in Roswell.  She survives him at the family home.  Charles had been a Roswell resident for 28 years and served his country in the U.S. Army as a 2nd Lieutenant.  He was an oil field mud logger on site Geologist with Advance Consultants for 25 years.  Arrangements are under the direction of LaGrone Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Roswell, New Mexico.

Other survivors include two sons: Geoff Moody and his wife Elena of Italy and James B. Sullivan and his wife Linda of Huntington Beach, California; one daughter, Joy Moody of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and a grandchild, Jamie Rae Sullivan.  He is also survived by two brothers, Richard Moody and his wife Kathy of Macon, Georgia and Fred Moody and his wife Ida of Tucson, Arizona; and one sister, Ann DeGrassi of Dallas, Texas.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the First Presbyterian Church, Coleman, Texas.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 3, 2003, page 7-B;
and Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 3, 2003, page 11.)

(Photo to be added)

Charles O. Moody III


 
Mrs. Terry (Pat) Moffett, 57

Former Coleman resident, Mrs. Terry (Pat) Moffett of Sylvester, Texas passed away June 1, 2003.  Her service was held June 3 at First Baptist Church of Sylvester.

Survivors include her husband, Rev. Terry Moffett of Sylvester; three sons, Allen Moffett of McCaulley, Shannon and June Moffett of McCaulley, Monty and Tonya Moffett of Sweetwater; two daughters, Janet Moffett of Abilene and Latrice and Shea Baucom of Highland; and five grandchildren; her parents, Fay and Naomi Shibley of Abilene; two sisters, Shirley Vaughn of Abilene and Betty Augeri of Arlington.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)


 

June 3, 2003


Mrs. Frank "Grace" Short, 98

Mrs. Frank “Grace” Short, age 98 of El Paso, Texas (formerly of Santa Anna) died Tuesday, June 3, 2003 at El Paso.  Graveside funeral services were held at 10:00 a. m. Friday at Rest Haven Cemetery in Brady with Lee Crouch officiating.  Services were under the direction of Heritage Funeral Homes of Brady.

Born January 8,1905 in Santa Anna, Texas, she was a daughter of William and Nannie (Martin) McMinn.  On May 16, 1931, she was married to Marion Frank Short in Santa Anna, Texas.  She was a salesclerk and a Methodist.

Survivors include cousins, John L. McMinn and his wife Mary Helen of El Paso, Ruth Crouch and husband Lee of Lubbock, L. C. McMinn of Lubbock, Morene Richardson and husband Ralph of Kingston, Tennessee., and Glendon McMinn of Kingston, Tennessee.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)


 
George Allen Horton, 71

George Allen Horton, age 71, of Coleman died Tuesday, June 3, 2003 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a. m. Sunday, June 8, at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Elder Bill Scarborough officiating.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

George was born November 11, 1931 in Coleman County, a son of Homer and Amy Sanders Horton.  He was reared and attended school in Coleman.  He served in the United States Army, 101st Infantry Division.  He married Bivian Lucille Johnson on December 7, 1950.  He later married Mary Teresa St. Clair Blanton on August 10, 1994 in Coleman.  He worked for over 30 years with Horton Tree Service Family in Fort Worth, American Manufacturing Company in Fort Worth for five years, City of Odessa for five years, City of Brownwood for five years.  He was a member of the Coleman County Seventh Day Adventist Church in Santa Anna.

He is survived by his wife, Teresa Horton of Coleman; children, Mary Lou Smith and husband Billy Leon of Coleman, Fred Wayne Horton and wife Delores Colleen of Joshua, Texas; daughter-in-law, Lana Horton of Coleman; step-children, Clifton Brazier of Keene, Texas and Mary Hamil of Coleman; four sisters, Patsy Gray of Arkansas, Frances Johnson of Coleman, Sadie Wood of Lubbock, Linda Gober of Brownwood; two brothers, Homer Horton, Jr. of Fort Worth, David Ray Horton of Burleson; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; three step-grandsons and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by two sons, George Edward Horton and William Leon Horton and his first wife, Bivian Rayburn.

Family visitation will be held from 6:00 p. m. to 8:00 p. m. Saturday at the funeral home.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 5, 2003, page 7-B.)

(Photo to be added)

George Allen Horton


 

June 4, 2003


Susan Kemper Schuppenhauer, 55

Susan Kemper Schuppenhauer, 55, of Talpa, died Wednesday, June 4, 2003 in Hot Springs, Arkansas.  Funeral services were held at 3:00 p. m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church with Dr. G. Dean Coultas officiating.  Burial followed in the Cedar Gap Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Susan Lynn Kemper was born September 12, 1947 in Abilene, Texas and was a daughter of the late Dr. Roy F. Kemper and Verla Joyce (V. J.) Perkins Kemper Horn.  She grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School in 1965. Susan graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.  She lived in Dallas, Germany, and Phoenix, Arizona.  For many years she had lived in the Houston area and returned to Coleman County in 1993 where she established Kemper Real Estate and was a Real Estate Broker.  She attended First United Methodist Church and was active in Singles in Agriculture, the Alumni Association of the University of Arkansas, and was a long-time member and supporter of the Classical Chorus of Abilene.

Survivors include three sons and their wives, Lee and Shirley Schuppenhauer of Houston, Ron and Kari Schuppenhauer of Coleman and Mason Schuppenhauer of Hot Springs, Arkansas; two sisters and their husbands, Judia and Ralph Terry of Coleman and Anita and Mike Calk of Silver Valley; three brothers and their wives, William “Kemp” and Kaylene Kemper of Abilene, Martin and Dr. Karen Kemper of Waco, Alan and Julie Kemper of Houston; two grandchildren, Skyler and Kyle Builta of Coleman; step-father, Cliff Horn of Coleman; two step-sisters, Jacqui Dooley of BelIa Vista, Arkansas and Bobbie Horn of Brownfield, Texas; her former husband, Jim Schuppenhauer of Houston; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were sons and brothers: Lee Schuppenhauer, Rob Schuppenhauer, Mason Schuppenhauer, William “Kemp” Kemper, Martin Kemper and Alan Kemper.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A;
and Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 12, 2003, page 7-B.)

Susan Kemper
Schuppenhauer
(1993)


 

June 5, 2003


Olive Irene Howland, 93

Olive Irene (DeForest) Howland, age 93, a long-time resident of Henrietta, New York and formerly of Rockwood, Texas passed away Thursday, June 5, 2003.  Family and friends are welcome to attend her memorial service at Henrietta United Church of Christ on Tuesday, June 24, 2003 at 10:00 a. m.  Burial will be at Maplewood Cemetery (at the family’s convenience) in Henrietta, New York.  Arrangements are under the direction of Mission Park Funeral Chapels North of San Antonio, Texas.

Olive was born April 17, 1910.  She was an active member of the Henrietta United Church of Christ.

She was preceded in death by her husband, N. Lester and two daughters, Jean M. (Howland) Lutz and Nancy M. (Howland) Lewis.  Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Joan M. (Howland) Hoyumpa and Anastacio Hoyumpa of San Antonio and Rockwood; son-in-law, George Lutz of Bristol, New York; nine grandchildren and their spouses and 17 great-grandchildren, Lynn (Lutz) Kendrot and Andrew Kendrot II and Nicole and Tracy of Rochester, New York; Lori Lutz and Michael Bailey of South Bristol, New York; David Lutz and Mette Stromnes and Nina of Rochester, New York; Rebecca (Hoyumpa) Hohl and Michael Hohl and Stephen, David and Brian of Pembroke Pines, Florida; Danilo Hoyumpa and Colleen (Stephens) Hoyumpa and Gabrielle and Jacob of San Antonio, Texas; Amelia (Hoyumpa) Vogt and Todd Vogt and twins Adam and Zoe of Sugar Land, Texas; Benjamin Hoyumpa and Trey (McEvoy) Hoyumpa of Brooklyn, New York; Judi (Lewis) Clayton and Timothy Clayton and Sean, Josh and Dylan of Germantown, Maryland; Janet (Lewis) Ray and Charles Ray and Lindsay, Cal and Kirsten of Germantown, Maryland.  She is also survived by her sister, Kathleen (DeForest) McHargue of Henrietta, New York and nephew, William McHargue of Webster, New York.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute to Henrietta United Church of Christ, 1400 Lehigh Station Road, Henrietta, New York 14467.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)

(Photo to be added)

Olive Irene Howland


 
Mildred Kerby Morrison, 82

Mildred Kerby Morrison, age 82, died at 5:20 p. m. Thursday, June 5, 2003.  Funeral services were held at 10:00 a. m. Monday at Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Ferris Akins officiating.  Burial followed in the Crews Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home of Coleman.

Mildred was born December 27, 1921 to Elsie and Millard Kerby.  She attended Talpa - Centennial School until she married Haeward Morrison at the age of 16.  Mildred graduated from TCU and retired as an elementary teacher.  She was well known for her compassion, caring, hospitality and wonderful cooking.  It was her great joy to serve the Lord all the days of her life.  Her love of God set her in good stead as a helpmate for her husband, Rev. H. P. Morrison.

Her husband, Rev. H. P. Morrison; her parents Elsie and Millard Kerby; her two brothers, Marion and Arthur Kerby; and her sister, Vivian Brevard, preceded her in death.  Her daughter and son-in-law, Maurine and Robert Scott of Sweetwater, Texas, grandson Bradley Scott and wife Kelli and family of Norton, Kansas, great-granddaughter Sara Scott, and granddaughter Samantha Scott Dillaha and husband Steve Dillaha of Snyder, Texas all survive Mildred.

Pallbearers were Joe Kerby, Roland Kerby, Carl Gottschalk, Jeff Gottschalk, Steve Dillaha and Bradley Scott.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)


 
Homer Turner, 75

Funeral services for Homer Turner, age 75, of Cross Plains, were held at 5 p. m. Sunday at Higginbotham Funeral Home with Ronnie White officiating. Burial followed in the Cross Plains Cemetery.  Mr. Turner died Thursday, June 5, 2003 in Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

He was born August 26, 1927 in Caney, Okla. to Edward and Evelyn Richardson Turner.  He married Janette Lovelady in Onalaska in 1976.  He was a member of Rocky Creek Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Janette Turner of Cross Plains; three sons, Mike Turner and wife, Denyse, of Proctor, Delbert Turner and wife, Wanda of DeLeon and Gregg Turner and wife, Dannes, of Cross Plains; two step-children, James Winstead and Lindra Beard, both of Coleman; 12 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the FBC Family Life Center, P. O. Box 130, Cross Plains, Texas 76443 or the Cross Plains EMS, P. O. Box 699, Cross Plains, Texas 76443.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)


 
Mattie Beth Davenport, 88

Funeral services for Mattie Beth Davenport, age 88, of Lubbock, formerly of Bangs, were held at 2:00 p. m. Monday at First Baptist Church in Bangs with Rev. Richard Jackson officiating, assisted by Rev. Allan Gilbert.  Burial followed in the Bangs Cemetery, under the direction of Davis-Morris Funeral Home of Brownwood.  Mrs. Davenport died Thursday, June 5, 2003 in Lubbock, Texas following a short illness.

Mrs. Davenport, a retired teacher, was born April 24, 1915 in Sweetwater, Texas.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Payne, formerly of Bangs, Texas.  She was a member and had served as a Church Clerk and Ladies Sunday School Class Teacher of Concord Baptist Church.  She was a 1936 graduate of Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth and had taught school in Pyron and Santa Anna, Texas.  She was a member of the Retired Teachers of Lubbock and Texas State Teachers Association.  She married Clyde Burleson Davenport on January 17, 1942.  He preceded her in death in 1998.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Frances and Jerry Beard of Levelland; a son and daughter-in-law, Marvin E. and Pam Davenport of Tyler; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent in her memory to the American Heart Association or Concord Baptist Church of Bangs.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)


 

June 7, 2003


Thelma Gene Setser, 59

S

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 12, 2003, page 7-B.)


 

June 9, 2003


Mary Lee (Clevenger) Washington, 54

S

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 12, 2003, page 7-B.)


 
Bennie C. 'Pat' Whitfield, 80

Bennie C. “Pat” Whitfield, age 80, former Coleman County resident, died Monday, June 9, 2003 in Denver City, Texas.  Graveside funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at Brown Ranch Cemetery with Donald Williams officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Bennie C. “Pat’ Whitfield was born December 12, 1922 in Coleman County, Texas and was a son of Dee and Mollie Ehrler Whitfield.  He grew up in Coleman County and attended school at Brown Ranch and Mozelle.  In 1945, he married Audrey Hamilton in Coleman.  He worked in oil field pipeline construction and lived in Odessa from 1945 to the 1980’s when he moved to Brock where he lived for seven years.  From Brock he moved to Ft. Davis and lived there 11 years, moving to Denver City one year ago.  He was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Audrey Whitfield of Denver City, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Dale Kleam of Denver City; one son and daughter-in-law, Bradley and Kelly Whitfield of Boerne, Texas; five grandchildren, Tosha Melcher, Tonya Whitehead, Gidgett Taylor, Jasbo Whitfield and Jole Whitfield; five great-grandchildren, Cody Hughes, Keely Hughes, Karly Hughes, Casey Whitehead and Morgan Taylor; and one brother, Major Whitfield of San Angelo.

Memorials may be made to the Church of Christ, the Brown Ranch Cemetery Association, or any Christian organization.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 10, 2003, page 11-A.)


 
Zona Kunkel, 70

Funeral services for Zona Kunkel, 70, of Priddy, were held at 10 a. m. Thursday at Zion Lutheran Church with pastor Don Kingman officiating.  Burial followed at Zion Cemetery under the direction of Stacy - Wilkins Funeral Home.  Ms. Kunkel died Monday, June 9, 2003 at Oak Ridge Manor Nursing Home.

Mrs. Kunkel was born August 9, 1932 in Coleman, a daughter of Alfred Jefferson Ryan and Beatrice Seal.  She married Paul E. Kunkel on June 11, 1955, in Priddy.  She worked as a seamstress and lived most of her life in Priddy.  She was a Lutheran.

She is survived by her sons and their wives, Larry and Carolyn Kunkel, Randy and Patricia Kunkel, all of Comanche; her daughters, Tammie Kunkel and Harry Wayne Cloud, Paula Kunkel; her sisters, Gloria Thompson of Early, Helen Schulze and Dollie Tidwell, both of Blanket; her brother, Jimmy Ryan of Arkansas; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband; two brothers; a sister, and her parents.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 7-B.)


 

June 11, 2003


One Car Accident Northwest of City Claims Life

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 1.)


Betty Schuster, 50

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June x, 2003, page x.)


 
Jimmy Terrazas, 67

Jimmy Terrazas, 67, died Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at a local hospital.  Mass was said at  9:00 a. m. Saturday at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Joe Uecker officiating.  Burial followed in the Masonic section of the Abilene Municipal Cemetery, directed by Abilene Funeral Home.

Mr. Terrazas was born October 14, 1935 in Millersview, Texas.  He was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

Survivors include three daughters, Margie Alvarez and Nancy Morelos of Abilene and Yvonne Salas of Coleman; a son, David Terrazas of Abilene; a brother, Lee Terrazas of San Angelo; 15 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Chana Terrazas and his parents, Lee and Eloise Terrazas.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 7-B.)


 

June 13, 2003


The Rev. David Espitia, 49

The Rev. David Espitia, pastor of St. Ann Church in Colorado City, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2003.  He was 49.  Mass of the Resurrection will be at 10 a. m. today (Tuesday) at St. Ann’s Church in Colorado City.  Following the funeral Mass burial will be in the Priest’s Section in Calvary Cemetery in San Angelo.

David Espitia was born May 7, 1954 in Coleman, Texas, to Raymond Espitia Sr. and Juanita Cardenas Espitia.  He was the sixth of 10 children born to the couple.  After graduating from high school, one year later he joined the U. S. Navy.  He was honorably discharged from the Navy after four years of service.  He then joined the Brigettine Monks, a contemplative order, where he spent five years in their monasteries in Charleston, West Virginia; Woodside, California and Amity, Oregon, where he took temporary vows.  Later he joined a Brigettine Monastery in Puebla, Mexico for three years where he taught philosophy.  Fr. Espitia entered St. Mary’s Seminary in Houston in 1989 for the Diocese of San Angelo, and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of San Angelo on May 21, 1994, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in San Angelo.  He served as Parochial Vicar at St. Anthony Church in Odessa from August 1, 1994-July 1996; Parochial Administrator of St. Lawrence Church in Garden City from January2000 - June 2000; and Pastor of St. Ann Church in Colorado City from July 2000 to the present.  He served as Director of Vocations and Director of Seminarians of the Diocese of San Angelo from 1996 - December 1999.  He was a member of the Priests Personnel Board of the Diocese from 2001 - present.

Fr. David was preceded in death by his mother, Juanita Cardenas Espitia; three brothers, Porfie Espitia, Reyes Espitia and Roberto Espitia; and two sisters, Maria Espitia and Dorothy Espitia.  He is survived by his father, Raymond Espitia Sr. of Coleman; four brothers, Raymond Espitia Jr. and wife, Elvira, of Bangs, Joe Espitia and wife, Maria, of Fort Worth, Luciano “Jerry” Espitia and wife, Sammy, of Coleman and Robert and Florence, Espitia of Abilene.  He also is survived by five sisters, Guadalupe Sanchez of Lake Elsenor, California, Mary Mendoza and husband, Comnelio, of Coleman, Gracie Gill and husband Danny of Abilene, Janey Gist and husband James of Dallas and Sylvia Salinaz and husband Cipriano of Coleman and many nieces and nephews.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 7-B.)


 
J. E. Porter, 78

Graveside service for J. E. Porter, 78, or Ruidoso Downs were Sunday at 4 p. m. at the Rockwood Cemetery.  Mr. Porter passed away Friday, June 13, 2003 at Ruidoso.  Arrangements were under the direction of LaGrone Funeral Chapel of Ruidoso.

He was born March 4, 1925 at Utopia, Texas and moved to Ruidoso Downs five years ago from Utopia.  He was a rancher.  He married Billye Steward on July 8, 1947.

He is survived by his wife Billye of Ruidoso Downs; a brother, Vernon Porter of Utopia, Texas and a sister, Ida Faye White of Boemne, Texas and many nieces and nephews.  Area survivors include a sister-in-law, Ethel Horton of Brady and a brother-in-law, James Steward of Rockwood.

The family has requested memorials be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 7-B.)


 

June 14, 2003


W. R. "Bill Dick" Hickman, 82

W. R. “Bill Dick” Hickman, age 82, of Coleman, died Saturday, June 14, 2003 at Hendrick Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held at 2;00 p. m. today (Tuesday, June 17, 2003) at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. G. Dean Coultas officiating, assisted by Rev. David Jenkins.  Burial will follow at the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Bill Dick Hickman was born December 19, 1920 in Callahan County, Texas and was a son of W. R. Hickman, Sr. and Ida Reaves Hickman.  He moved to Coleman in 1926 and graduated from Coleman High School and also was a graduate of Texas Tech.  He served in the U. S. Navy during World War II and was a Lt. (j.g.).  He was wounded in battle and received the Purple Heart and service ribbons for duty in the Pacific.  On April 26, 1975 he married Maureen Corder Cauley in Coleman.  Bill Dick was a member of the First United Methodist Church where he was a member of the Friendly Fellows Sunday School Class and held various other church offices.  He served as a director of the Federal Land Bank for 28 years and as Round-up Chairman for the West Texas Rehabilitation Center for 36 years.  He was a rancher.

Survivors include his wife, Maureen Hickman of Coleman; son and daughter-in-law, Douglas and Cindy Cauley of San Diego, California; grandchildren, Brian Cauley, Steven Cauley, Rebecca Greatting, Andrew and Jessica Rowley; four great-grandsons; one brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Jane Hickman of Coleman.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Harvey Hickman.

Memorials may be made to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center or the donor’s favorite charity.  Pallbearers will be Neil Hudson, James O’Shields, Joe Coffee, James Isenhower, Don Stamnes, Howard Ray Andrews.  Honorary pallbearers include Friendly Fellows Sunday School Class, Zeno Hemphill, Don Rhone and Bonny Whitfield.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 7-B.)


 

June 16, 2003


Rev. Dr. John W. Setzer, Jr., 63

D

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 19, 2003, page 7-B.)

(ADD PHOTO)

Rev. Dr. John W. Setzer, Jr.


 
D. C. Field, 66

D. C. Field, age 66 of Stamford and former Coleman resident, died Monday, June 16, 2003 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.  Graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 a. m. Wednesday, June 18, 2003 at Fairview Cemetery in Grosvenor, Brown County, Texas.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.

D. C. Field was born August 31, 1936 in Grosvenor, Texas and was the son of David Crockett Field and Lillie Mae Watters Field Patton.  He grew up in Grosvenor and attended school at Bowen, Echo and graduated from Burkett High School.  He served in the U. S. Army and married Suzanne Hecker on June 26, 1963 in Baltimore, Maryland.  He had lived in Stamford for the past 30 years, moving there from Coleman.  He worked at the Safeway store in both Coleman and Stamford and later for WTU in Stamford.  He was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Coleman.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Field of Stamford; one daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Clu Bumnham of Stamford; two grandchildren, Mollie and Jonathan Burnham both of Stamford; two nephews and one niece: Gary, David and Elaine Nichols.  He was preceded in death by a sister, Winnie Mae Allen.  Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 17, 2003, page 7-B.)


 

June 17, 2003


Brett Lee Ragsdale, 35

Brett Lee Ragsdale, age 35, of Houston passed away June 17, 2003 at the Dr.’s Hospital in Houston.  Funeral services were Saturday June 21, 2003 at 2 p. m. at Walker Funeral Chapel with the Reverends John Stanislaw and Gary Boyd officiating.  Burial followed in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

He was born July 24, 1967 in Dallas to Sherrill and Wanda Dobbs Ragsdale. Brett attended school in Coleman and was active in band, 4-H, Scouting, and the First Baptist Church of Coleman.

Brett is survived by his mother, Wanda Ragsdale, of Coleman; grandmother, Vedith Ragsdale, of Canton; uncles Kenneth Dobbs of Plano, Richard Dobbs of Trenton, David Dobbs of Azle, Sam Ragsdale of Mesquite, and John Ragsdale of Canton. Several cousins also survive.

Memorials may be made to MHMR Client Fund or First Baptist Church Library Fund.  Pallbearers were Larry Seymore, Jack Duquette, Jerry Hubbard, John Puckett, Ron Owens, Darrell Phillips.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 19, 2003, page 7-B; and
(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 24, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 19, 2003


Jerry Wayne Herring, 61

Jerry Wayne Herring, age 61, of Garland, Texas passed away Thursday, June 19, 2003 at his residence at Lake Ray Hubbard.  Services will be today (Tuesday) at 10:00 a. m. at the Bean - Massey - Burge Funeral Home Chapel in Grand Prairie.  Graveside services will be at 4:00 p. m. at the Santa Anna Cemetery with Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna in charge of local arrangements.

Jerry was born to the late Vernon “Snow” Herring and Coy Casey Herring on November 6, 1941 in Brownsville, Texas.  He was reared in Santa Anna, attending the Santa Anna School.  He moved to Grand Prairie where he graduated from Grand Prairie High School and then attended the University of Texas at Arlington.  Jerry resided 45 years in Garland and retired from his business, Shiloh Equipment in Garland, a construction leasing company which he had owned and operated for 40 years.  He was a member of the Christian Church and an avid fisherman enjoying deep sea fishing.

Survivors include two daughters, Susan and husband Kyle Kaylor of Stephenville, Texas, Michelle and husband Kurnool Parsanna of Frisco, Texas; three sons, Jerry and wife Lavon Herring of Grand Prairie, Texas, Jeff and wife Kelly Herring of Grand Prairie, Texas and Ben Herring of Dallas, Texas; his step-mother, Sylvia Herring of Santa Anna, Texas; three sisters, Sandra and husband Ron Harrison of Jackson, Wyoming, Lisa Herring of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Lori and husband Ray Huffman of Santa Anna, Texas; and 12 grandchildren.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 24, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 20, 2003


Jane Mankin, 87

Jane Mankin, age 87, long-time Coleman resident died Friday, June 20, 2003 in a Clearwater, Florida nursing home.  Graveside funeral service will be held at 2:00 p. m. Saturday at Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Dr. Charles Sheffield officiating.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Jane was born July 26, 1915 in Mullin, Texas and was the daughter of John William Harris and Manie Jane Guthrie Harris.  On November 13, 1932 she married Earl Mankin and he preceded her in death on February 15, 1994.  She was a homemaker and a member of Concho Baptist Church in Coleman.  She moved to Florida several years ago.

Survivors include one son, Ronnie Mankin of Amarillo, Texas; two daughters, Betty Hosch of Lubbock, Texas and Delta Sue Smith of Palm Harbor, Florida; five grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 26, 2003, page 5-B.)


 

June 21, 2003


Carl Henry Sullivan

Carl Henry Sullivan, age 84, of Coleman passed away June 21, 2003 at Holiday Hill Nursing Home.  Funeral services will be today (Tuesday) at 2:30 p. m. at Walker Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.  Masonic graveside rites will be performed by Coleman Masonic Lodge #496.

Son of the late Henry and Elsie May Doel Sullivan he was born in Shawnee County, Kansas on December 18, 1918.  He married Myrtle Donaldson on November 1, 1988 in Oxford, Michigan.  He moved to Coleman in 1993.  Mr. Sullivan was a veteran of WW II, a member of Coleman Masonic Lodge #496 and West Branch Masonic Lodge in Oxford, Michigan, and a member of the Scottish Rite.

He is survived by his wife Myrtle of Coleman, one daughter, Trudy and husband Jim Smalley, of Oxford, Michigan; one sister, Frieda Gowens of Commerce City, Colorado, and sister-in-law, Lillias Sullivan of Lodgepole, Nebraska; one brother, Ernest Sullivan of Reenesburg, Colorado.  Also surviving are three grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.

The family requests that memorials be made to Hospice of the Big County, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 24, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 22, 2003


Mary Diaz, 79

Mrs. Mary Diaz, 79 years of age, the daughter of the late Andres and Concepcion Hernandez Diaz, was born June 1, 1923 in Cisco, Texas and passed away June 22, 2003 in Coleman County Medical Center.  Prayer service was held at 7 p. m. Tuesday evening at Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Mass Wednesday morning at 10:30 a. m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  Interment followed in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

Mary had lived in Coleman most of her life and had been employed by the Earle Smith family, the J. P. and J. B. McCord families.  She was the nursery attendant for many years at First United Presbyterian Church of Coleman, provided home health care, worked for Jenright Manufactory and Sullivan Grocery Store.  She was a member of the Guadalupe Society and of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Mary is survived by daughter Mary Lou and David Garza of Brady, Texas; son and daughter-in-law, Raymond and Joyce Diaz of Coleman; brother, Joe Diaz of Corpus Christi; sister-in-law, Anita Diaz of Coleman; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, June 26, 2003, page 5-B.)


 

June 25, 2003


Fern Barclay Simpson, 79

Fern Barclay Simpson, age 79, of Llano, Texas died Wednesday, June 25, 2003 at Llano.  Funeral service was Saturday at 2:00 p. m. at Waldrope - Hatfield - Hawthorne Chapel in Llano with Bro. Doug Suggs and Bro. Lester Bagley officiating.  Interment followed in the Huffman Cemetery, Llano County, Texas.

She was born June 10, 1924 in Temple, Texas.  On November 10, 1942, she married Cecil C. Simpson in Llano.  She was a homemaker and worked in Civil Service at Waco during World War II.  She had lived most of life in Llano and was a member of the Llano Church of Christ.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil C. Simpson on September 12, 2000 and one brother, Maurice Barclay.

Survivors include a son, Ronnie Simpson of Cresson, Texas; a daughter, Donna Simonton and husband Nicky of Coleman, Texas; one brother, T. J. Barclay of Cross Plains; four sisters, Alva Lois Smith of Brownwood, Alma Blanche Miller of Fort Worth, Nila Mae Brown of Austin and Shannon Morris of Justin; five grandchildren - Will, Gina, Stacey, Carrie and Corlena; three great-grandchildren - Brook, Carter and Kylie; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Hobby Halliburton Sr., Jerry Barclay, Tom Barclay, Pete Miller, Damron Simpson, Vernon Loyd Simpson, Lynn Simpson, Loyd Ray Simpson, Charles Amp and Max Ray Barclay. Honorary pallbearers were her nephews and cousins.  The family requests memorials be made to the Church of Christ or charity of donor’s choice.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 26, 2003


Howard L. Griffith, 84

Howard L. Griffith, 84, of Midland died Thursday, June 26, 2003 at Midland Memorial Hospital.   Graveside services were 2:00 p. m. Saturday at the Coleman City Cemetery in Coleman, Texas with Reverend David Jenkins officiating.  Arrangements were under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home of Midland.

He was born June 2, 1919 at Camp Colorado, Texas in Coleman County to the late Albert Jackson Griffith and Pearl Dodson Griffith. Howard lived and worked on the farm until 1937 when he joined the CCC Camp at Brownwood to help support his family.  While serving in the three-C-Camp he worked in Oklahoma on parks, roads and lakes for a year, and then went to Arizona and worked for a year.  He enlisted in the National Guard on August 1, 1940 and by November 25, 1940 the Guard was Federalized at Coleman, Texas and he was then in Company B, 142nd Infantry of the 36th Division.  While in the Army, he served in Naples - Foggia, Rome - Arno and Southern France, this being during World War II.  In the battles in Southern France, he was wounded by a German burp gun on September 12, 1944, and was in the hospital for over two months.  He was awarded the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, American Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal and Campaign Medal with three bronze stars.  He received an honorable discharge on July 29, 1945 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.  Howard returned to his parents home at Santa Anna in Coleman County and worked on the farm and then some in Coleman for Martin Brick Company.  He later moved to Odessa and worked on a drilling rig and with a trucking company.  Howard later worked for the Texas Highway Department in the maintenance department for over 27 1/2 years, and then retired.  On August 18, 1958, he married Hattie L. Keeney in Lovington, New Mexico.  Howard was a life member of the Tall City Chapter No. 58 of the DAV, where he and his wife Hattie served helping the disabled veterans at the Big Spring V. A. Hospital for several years.  He was also a member of the American Legion and the V.F.W. in Midland. Howard was a Baptist by faith.  Fishing was a pastime that both Howard and Hattie greatly enjoyed.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Hattie Griffith; parents; brothers, Curtis, Billy Joe, Leon, Edgar, Dale, Jack and John Griffith; sisters, Lillie Mae Cartwright and Imogene Keeney.  Survivors include his brother, Kenneth Griffith; and sisters, Louise Keeney, Rita Witte, Reba Neely and Lois Richards.  Also surviving are many nephews, nieces and friends.

Honorary pallbearers included members of the Tall City Chapter 58 of the D. A. V.  Memorials may be directed to Home Hospice, 901 Missouri, Midland, Texas 79701.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 
Aaron Ray (Steve) Stevens, 81

Aaron Ray (Steve) Stevens, age 81, of Coleman passed away June 26, 2003 at his residence.  Memorial services were held Sunday June 29th at 2 p. m. at Walker Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Dan Hoover officiating under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

Son of the late Leonard Washington and Frankie Alexander Stevens he was born on August 19, 1921 in Coleman County.  Steve was veteran of WW II and a retired laborer.

He is survived by his loving family members; Etta Mae Medcalf of Coleman, Betty and Rickey George of Odessa, Kenneth Medcalf and Sylvia Medcalf of San Marcos, Doris and Glen Hollingsworth of Coleman, Donnette and Pat Davis of Killeen, two sisters lola Terry of Coleman and Edith Louise Altman of California; brother W. A. Stevens of Coleman, and several nieces and nephews.  Also surviving are eleven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 27, 2003


Zeno Hemphill, 82

Zeno Hemphill was born in Coleman, Texas on May 2, 1921, son of the late Charley Wade and Wagie Ellen Hemphill.  He passed away June 27, 2003 in Abilene, Texas.  Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 29, 2003 at the First United Methodist Church in Coleman, Texas, with Dr. G. Dean Coultas officiating. Burial followed in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

He was the youngest of eight children.  Zeno attended Coleman schools and graduated from Coleman High School in 1938.  Following high school, he was employed by the First Coleman National Bank.  After a year’s employment at the bank, he enrolled at Texas A&M College.  While a student at Texas A&M, Zeno married Josephine (Joe) Morris, also a Coleman County native.  Following their marriage on February 8, 1942, they returned to College Station to complete his formal education.  Their first child, Lucy Rebecca (Becky) was born November 9, 1942.  With World War II in full swing, Zeno’s class (‘43) was accelerated and he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in January of 1943.

Immediately following graduation, Zeno was commissioned with a rank of 2nd Lieutenant and went into armored force training at Fort Knox, Kentucky.  He was then transferred to Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, where Joe and Becky joined him.  Zeno was deployed overseas with the rank of 1St Lieutenant with the 716th Tank Battalion in June, 1944.  He served in the assault forces in the invasion of five Pacific islands.  He was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery in action and also received a Purple Heart.  While Zeno served overseas, Joe and Becky returned to the family ranch in Coleman County.  After World War II, Zeno constructed a home on the bank of Jim Ned Creek in northern Coleman County and began their ranching business, identified by their JZ brand.

On December 18, 1947, a son, Joseph Patrick (Joe Pat) was born.  As the children began school in Coleman, the entire family became very active in 4-H, sports and church activities at First United Methodist Church in Coleman.  Throughout his life, Zeno assumed an active role in community and youth related activities.  He was a member of the Coleman Rodeo Association having served as Arena Director and President of that organization.  Zeno coached in the Little League baseball program and was an active leader in the Bluecat Booster Club.  In addition to being an exemplary conservationist of his own ranch, Zeno once served as the District Supervisor of the Soil and Conservation Service.  In addition to gaining a reputation as a breeder of fine cattle, he was widely recognized as a horseman and registered Quarter Horse breeder.  At one time, he was very active in training, showing and judging Quarter Horses as an accredited Judge of the American Quarter Horse Association.  In addition to being a conservationist, Zeno was an avid hunter and fisherman with a strong interest in wildlife conservation.  For many years, he served as a director of First Coleman National Bank.

In 1999, Zeno married Janie Brown.  In recent years, Janie and Zeno enjoyed spending a great deal of time following the activities of all their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Zeno remained active as a rancher, horseman and conservationist until a few months preceding his death.

Zeno was preceded in death by his wife, Joe; sisters, Dorothy, Verna Marie and Mary Louise; brothers, Hays and Wade.  Survivors include his wife, Janie; sister, Ruth Wittenburg of Rocksprings, Texas; brother, Lee Hemphill of Abilene, Texas; daughter and son-in-law, Becky and Dale Greaves of Coleman, son and daughter-in-law, Joe Pat and Alice Hemphill of Coleman; granddaughter and husband, Pam and Tom Wolenski of Santa Fe, New Mexico; granddaughter and husband, Cindy and Joey Herridge of Haltom City, Texas; grandson and wife, Dusty and Kristi Greaves of Coleman; grandson and wife, Heath and Danyelle Hemphill of Coleman; grandson and wife Brent and Candys Hemphill of Coleman; great-grandchildren, Shelbi, Kade and Blake Greaves of Coleman and Gabriel Herridge of Haltom City, Texas; step-son and wife Jacky and Candy Brown of Stephenville, Texas; step-daughter, Vicki Avants of Coieman; step-grandchildren, Jake and Clay Brown, Shay and wife, Kelley Avants, Stacy and husband, Justin Moore and Dusty Avants; step great-grandson, Layne Moore.

Pallbearers were Lanham Home, Jack Knox, Jerry Taylor, Dwain Cannon, Mike Edington, Don Wilkinson, Ken Greaves and Steve Evans.  Honorary pallbearers included Jack Home, Ted Taylor, Pascal Hosch, Ray Parker, Bill Sneed, David Watson, Collier Watson, Richard Lee, L. H. (Hoppe) McMillan, Caddo Wright, Jake McCreary, Jack Swan, Mark Swening, Arlon Baize, Terry Rankin, Rick Adams, Lester Lofton and Jay Davis.  The family requests that memorials be made to the Coleman County Youth Activity Center or the First United Methodist Church.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 
Loyd Dodgen, 59

Loyd Dodgen, 59 years of age, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Fred Dodgen, born December 14, 1943 in Coleman County Texas, passed away at about 10 p. m. at his residence in Coleman Friday evening, June 27, 2003.  Graveside services are 2 p.m. today (Tuesday) in Adams Cemetery with Ronnie Lane officiating.  Interment to follow with Walker Funeral Home in charge of interment.

Loyd had lived in Coleman and Coleman County all of his life and was a member of the Church of Christ.

Loyd is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Melinda and Tim Bledsoe of Valera; son and daughter-in-law, Jacky and Jamie Dodgen of Burkett; one adopted daughter, Darla Dodgen of Waco; one adopted son, Phillip Dodgen of Waco; a sister and brother-in-law, Doris Nell and Gary Spurgeon of Coleman; sister-in-law, Mary Lee Dodgen of Irving; six grandchildren, Stephannie and Colton Bledsoe of Valera, Nicky and Alex Dodgen of Burkett, Theresa and William Trammell of San Angelo.

Memorials may be made to the Burkett-Adams Cemetery Assoc., c/o Mrs. Linda Brady, 1001 CR 168, Burkett, Texas 76828.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 28, 2003


Alejandro (Alex) Mendoza, 58

Funeral services for Alejandro (Alex) Mendoza, 58, of Brownwood were held at 6 p. m. Sunday at Netherton Funeral Home Chapel with Ismael Ceniceros officiating.  Graveside services were 10 a. m. Monday at Greenleaf Cemetery under the direction of Netherton Funeral Home of Brownwood.  Mr. Mendoza died Saturday, June 28, 2003 at his home.

He was born October 6,1944 in Villa Union, Cohuila, Mexico, the son of Juan Pedro and Gregoria Mendoza.  He married Juanita Ibarra on September 23, 1963 in Villa Union, Cohuila, Mexico.  A resident of Brownwood since 1972, he worked for J. R. Beadel Transfer for 24 years.  He was a member of Nueva Vida Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Juanita Mendoza of Brownwood; sons, Sergio Mendoza of Coleman, Alex
Mendoza of Brownwood and Orlando Mendoza of Brownwood; daughters, Blanca Sanchez, Soraida Martinez, Lorena Hemnandez, Mirna Hemnandez, Patricia Berartez and Veronica Pacheco, all of Brownwood; sisters, Ofelia Rios of Brownwood and Olivia Arriaga of Brownwood; and 26 grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Jaime Mendoza.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 29, 2003


Edna Louise Graham, 57

Edna Louise Graham, age 57, of Coleman died Sunday, June 29, 2003 at Hendrick Medical Center.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p. m. today (Tuesday) at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Charles Sheffield officiating.  Burial will follow at the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Edna was born May 26, 1946 in Lamesa, Texas and was a daughter of Leo and Lorene Summers Eagle.  She grew up in Hale Center and attended school there.  On April 23, 1977, she married David M. Graham in Odessa.  She moved to Coleman in 1995 after living in Paint Rock, Holland for eight years, South America and Louisiana.  She was a homemaker and a Baptist.

Survivors include her husband, David M. Graham of Coleman; four children, Alan Graham of Coleman, Melissa Schaefer and Lisa Kuiken, both of Grapevine and Stacy Wayne Graham of Odessa; 10 grandchildren; one brother, Butch William Engle of Paint Rock; two sisters-in-law, Kay Moser of Pottsboro, Texas and Sharon Graham of Brownwood.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Lawrence Michael Engle in 1949.

Pallbearers include Billy Joe Graham, David Owen Moser, David Ellison, Darren Engle, Darrell Engle and Les Cogdill.  Honorary pallbearers are Michael Joe Bagley and Gary Mark Bagley.  Memorials may be made to any hospice organization or the Coleman County EMS.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 1, 2003, page 11.)


 

June 30, 2003


R. T. Watson, 98

Mr. R. T. Watson, age 98 of Burkett, Texas died Monday, June 30, 2003 in the Brownwood Regional Medical Center in Brownwood, Texas.  Funeral services will be 2:00 p. m. today (Thursday) at the First Baptist Church of Cross Plains with Ronnie B. White officiating.  Burial will be in the Burkett Cemetery directed by Higginbotham Funeral Home of Cross Plains.

R. T. was born June 16, 1905 in Burkett to James Carlos Watson and Louisa Jane Bailey Watson.  He married Nanie Godwin in Coleman, Texas on July 7, 1924.  He was a member and active deacon of First Baptist Church of Cross Plains.

He is survived by his two sons, Jake Watson of Mineral Wells and Jack Watson of Burkett; two daughters, Bobbie Collett of Coleman and Patsy Hill and husband Clifford of Van; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and 15 great- great- grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; daughter, Betty Ruth Wilson; two sisters, Ethel Watson and Esther Johnson; and two sons-in-law, Wayne Wilson and Travis Collett.

The family requests that memorials be made to the West Texas Rehab, 4601 Hartford Street, Abilene, Texas 79605 or First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 130, Cross Plains, Texas 76443.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 3, 2003, page 11.)

 
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