Bo Kruse, of Midland, died Tuesday, February 1, 2005.  Funeral services have been scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 5, 2005 at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel.  Interment will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park-North.  Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home, 801 Andrews Highway, Midland, Texas 432-683-5555.

Elsie Y. Tate, age 65, of Murchison, Texas, died Wednesday, February 2, 2005 at her residence.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 5, in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Burkett Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Elsie Yuvonne Davis on February 11, 1939 in Santa Anna, Texas, a daughter of the late James Davis and Minnie Strickland Davis.  She grew up and attended school in Coleman.  She lived in Garland for many years where she was a secretary for Texas Instruments.  Elsie married Marlin Tate in 1972.  She moved to Murchison six years ago.

Survivors include her husband, Marlin Tate of Murchison, Texas; one daughter, Disa and husband Mike Merton of Flint, Texas; one son and daughter-in-law, Robert and wife Becky Throgmorton of Flint, Texas; two step-daughters, Lorie and husband Skip Marr of Noble, Oklahoma and Darla and husband Sam Buck of Ardmore, Oklahoma; a foster son, Norman Chaney of Murchison, Texas; one sister, Cathy Stanley of Watertown, Tennessee; one brother, James Davis of Coleman, Texas; eight grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a grandson, Steven Throgmorton, on July 6, 2004.  Family visitation will be held on Friday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.

R. C. "Reg" Sparks, age 87, long-time resident of Fisk, Texas, died Thursday, February 3, 2005 in Coleman.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 6 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Eddie Jones officiating.  Burial will follow in the Brown Ranch Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

R. C. "Reg" Sparks was born June 5, 1917 in Coleman County, Texas, a son of the late Abner Calvin Sparks and Vernon Hinds Sparks.  He grew up in Coleman County, attended school at Brown Ranch and was in the first graduating class from Mozelle High School in 1936.  Reg worked at Consolidated Aircraft in Fort Worth and San Diego, California during World War II and married Beatrice Hansard on September 23, 1944 in Fort Worth.  She preceded him in death on August 15, 2001.  Following the war, he returned to Coleman County where he farmed and ranched for many years.  He served on the Mozelle School Board and the ASCS Board.  He was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Kent and Judy Sparks of Lake Brownwood, Texas; five daughters, Pat Gable of Leander, Texas, Linda and husband Joe Erwin of Odessa, Texas, Debra Blount of Coleman, Texas, Cindy and husband Paul Smith of Lubbock, Texas, Lindy and husband Merlin Harrington of Rochelle, Texas; one sister, Edna Tisdale of Coleman, Texas; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and a sister, Olivia Kerbow.  Family visitation will be held on Friday from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.  Memorials may be made to the Brown Ranch Cemetery Association.

Ross B. "John" Berry, age 80, of Coleman and former Abilene resident, died Thursday, February 3, 2005 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 6 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Joe Hailey officiating.  Burial will follow in the Coleman Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. 

John Berry was born July 24, 1924 in Bell County, Texas, a son of the late Henry Whitman Berry and Bertha E. Rae Berry. He grew up in Coleman County and attended school at Santa Anna.  During World War II he served in the U. S. Army in the European Theater of Operations.  On April 2, 1947 he married Patsy Landers in Brown County, Texas.  John, in partnership with his brother Cecil, owned and operated Berry Ford Sales in Coleman.  John and Patsy moved to Abilene in 1968 where they lived until 2004 when they returned to live in Coleman.  He was a member of the Church of Christ. 

Survivors include his wife, Patsy Berry of Coleman, Texas; two sons, Johnny Carroll Berry and wife Dorris of Phoenix, Arizona, Charles Anthony "Tony" Berry of El Paso, Texas; two daughters, Elizabeth Ann "Libby" Rhoads of Tuscola, Texas, Patricia Elaine "Patti" Scott and husband Bill of San Angelo, Texas; six grandchildren; nine great- grandchildren; one sister, Mary Ann Wade of Coleman, Texas; numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by five brothers, Clifford, Artie, Curtis, Glenn and Cecil Berry.  Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.  Family visitation will be held on Saturday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.

Jack Morgan, age 79, of Coleman, died Thursday, February 3, 2005 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral service was 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 7, 2005 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial with Military Honors followed in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mr. Morgan was born January 23, 1926 in Morris, Oklahoma, a son of Ewen Franklin Morgan and Bessie Martin Morgan Burrow.  He grew up and attended school in Coleman, served in the United States Navy during World War II and was stationed in Okinawa.  He married Patsy Harper on November 25, 1948 in Wellington, Texas.  She preceded him in death in June, 1998.  Mr. Morgan lived in Lancaster, California for many years, returning to Coleman in 1980.  He was a heavy equipment operator and a member of Grace Baptist Church in Lancaster.

Survivors include three sons, John Morgan, David Morgan and wife Cherri, Daniel Morgan and wife Kim, all of California; two daughters, Janet McKnight and husband Harry of Anchorage, Alaska, Susan May of Elk Grove, California; two sisters, Charlene Conway and husband Gordon of Coleman, Arlene Stratton and husband Walter of Richland Springs; one brother, Cecil Morgan and wife Rose of Bakersfield, California; one sister-in-law, Shirley Burrow of Coleman; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother, Edna Morgan, step-father, Charlie Burrow, one grandson, Jack Denver May in 1984 and one brother, Herman Burrow in 2003.  Pallbearers were David Morgan, Daniel Morgan, Chris Morgan, Scott Morgan, Kevin Morgan and Granvil Burrow.

Glen Schulle, age 81, of Coleman, died Friday, February 4, 2005, at Coleman County Medical Center.  Graveside funeral service was held 4:00 p.m. Sunday, February 6 at Santa Anna Cemetery with Rev. Dick Schultz officiating.  Services were under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Glen Schulle was born October 28, 1923 in Coleman County, Texas, a son of the late Phillip and Una Atkins Schulle.  He grew up in Coleman County in the Fisk and Buffalo communities and attended school at Buffalo.  During World War II he served in the U. S. Army in the European Theater of Operations.  On October 3, 1942 he married Nadell Croft in Coleman.  He lived in Coleman County most of his life and was an insurance salesman for Presidential Life.  He was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Nadell Schulle of Coleman; two daughters and sons-in-law, Glenda Sue and Henry Brooker of Coleman, Linda Darlene and Don Liles of Coleman; two brothers and sisters-in-law, J. P. and Mary Schulle of Cross Plains, Jimmy and Charlene Schulle of Bangs; three sisters, Edith Kuwaski of Hobbs, New Mexico, Freda and husband J. D. Howard of Lampasas, Evelyn Studdard of Lampasas; five grandchildren, Michael and Thelma Brooker of Santa Anna, Lisa and Scotty Moore of Coleman, Darla and Mike Johnson of Coleman, Timothy and Dena Stewart of San Antonio, Holly Stewart of San Antonio; six great-grandchildren, Derek Johnson, Krista Moore, Shaedin and Raelie Johnson, Jonah and Abigail Stewart; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, two sisters.  Memorials may be made to Coleman Senior Center, 916 S. Concho Street, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Raymon Diaz, Sr., 81 years of age, the son of the late Raymon and Mary Diaz, born June 4, 1923, passed away in Coleman on February 4, 2005.  Mass will be 10 a.m. today (Tuesday) at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Reverend Father Obi officiating.  Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home.

He had lived in Coleman all of his life and was a sheep shearer and a member of the Catholic Church.

He is survived by four daughters, Connie of Fresno, California, Rosa Lee Martinez of Phoenix, Arizona, Hope Diaz of San Angelo, Texas and Pauline of Fresno, California; three sons, Raymond Diaz of Abilene, Tony and Felix, both of Fresno, California; two sisters, Lola and Josie; two brothers, Lalo and Roman and several grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

Graveside services for Louise Hefner Reddock, age 99, of Brownwood, were held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Santa Anna Cemetery with Davis-Morris Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.  Mrs. Reddock died Friday, February 4, 2005 at a Brownwood nursing home.

She was born July 19, 1905 in Santa Anna, the daughter of Alexander and Lucy Lucinda Mears Hefner.  She was married to E. B. Reddock and he preceded her in death.  She was a homemaker and a Baptist.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Muriel Healer; one daughter, Jenne Hefner Bunn; and two brothers, James Robert and Hayes Hefner.

Survivors include one granddaughter, Patty Bunn and Danny Ryan of Henderson; one grandson, John Bunn of Brownwood; great-grandchildren, Jacob Bunn of Brownwood, Jennifer Conrad of Henderson and Zachary Senf of Midland; one great-grandchild, Hannah Phipps of Henderson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Alline Rutherford, 91 years of age, passed away in the Twilight Nursing Home of Bangs, Texas on February 5, 2005.  Funeral service was 2 p.m. Monday at Walker Funeral Chapel with Rev. Art Allen officiating.  Interment was in the Whon Cemetery, under the direction of Walker Funeral Home. Grandsons served as pallbearers.

She was the daughter of the late Sam and Bertha Shields, born October 8, 1913 in Brookesmith, Texas.  Mrs. Rutherford was married to the late Tom M. Rutherford, December 20, 1932 in Merrietta, Oklahoma.  He preceded her in death in 1984.  She had lived in the Whon, Texas area all of her life and was a retired school bus driver for the Santa Anna School System and had worked in the Post Office and at the old Sealy Hospital in Santa Anna.  Alline was the correspondent for the Santa Anna News and Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice for over 50 years.  She also worked in several grocery stores as cashier and stockgirl, including Piggy Wiggly and Harvey¹s.  She was a member of the Nazarene church.

Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Patsy and Bob Smith of Abilene, Lynda and Eric Wheeler of La Grange, Texas; three sons and daughters-in-law, Thomas and Trudi Rutherford of Whon, Texas, Hilary and Belva Rutherford of Coleman and Loyd and Linda Rutherford of Whon, Texas.; nineteen grandchildren, 34 great- grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

One grandchild preceded her in death.  Memorials may be made to the Whon Cemetery Association, c/o Thomas Rutherford, FM 2632 - Box 673, Santa Anna, Texas 76878.

Vickie Lynn Goetze - Martin, age 52, of Abilene, passed away Sunday, February 6, 2005.  Ms. Martin was a teacher at Novice ISD for approximately 15 years where she taught 7th and 8th grade English and Reading, and Business Electives and was the Novice Annual Staff sponsor.  Services were held at 10:30 a. m. Wednesday at Oldham Lane Church of Christ in Abilene with Lowell Maxey officiating.  Burial was in Crestview Memorial Park in Wichita Falls at 3:30 Wednesday, under the direction of North's Funeral Home in Abilene.

Ms. Martin was born July 15, 1952 in Olney, Texas to Carl and Ruthel Goetz.  She received her Bachelors degree from Tarleton State University in 1975.  She taught school in Megargel, lueders - Avoca and for the past 15 year in Novice.  She was a member of the Oldham Lane Church of Christ.  She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister.

Survivors include two sons:  Chris Martin of Abilene and Michael Martin of Abilene; a former husband and friend, Lynn Martin of Abilene; and several aunts and uncles.

Cecil Milton Knox, age 60 of Coleman and a former San Angelo resident, died Monday, February 7, 2005 at Coleman Healthcare Center.  Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 11, 2005 at Resthaven Cemetery in Brady.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Mr. Knox was born June 24, 1945 in Tyronza, Arkansas, the son of Milburn Cecil Knox and Gladys Coons Knox.  He grew up and attended school in Abilene.  He served in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1969.  He married Phyllis Smith in San Angelo on April 18, 2001.  He retired from the San Angelo State School as a Waste Water Engineer.  He moved to Coleman in 2003.

Survivors include his wife, Phyllis Knox of Coleman; two daughters, Tandy Acosta of Franklinville, New Jersey, Tammie Reyes of Denton, Texas; four sons, J.W. Prather of Crestview, Florida, Todd Knox of Hercules, California, Troy Knox of Vallejo, California, Chris Prather of Kenedy, Texas; one sister, Marsha Freeman of San Angelo; step-mother, Billie Knox of San Angelo and 15 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Oran Dale Knox and one step-brother, Douglas Wayne.  Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. today (Thursday) at the funeral home.

Funeral services for Danny Brown, 53, of Brownwood were held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Emanuel Chapel Methodist Church with Rev. Bennie Allcorn and Elder Jerry Jordan officiating.  Burial followed in the Greenleaf Cemetery under the direction of Heartland Funeral Home.  Danny passed away Monday, February 7, 2005 in Texarkana, Texas.

Danny Maurice Brown was born May 15, 1951 in Coleman, to Georgia Brown and Ernest Mills.  He was reared by Arthur (Sarge) and Lela McFarland in Brownwood.  He was a member of Emanuel Chapel Methodist Church and had served as church musician.  Danny was a 1969 graduate of Brownwood High School.  He attended North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas) where he was a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity.  he later moved to California where he worked in government for the city of Los Angeles.

Survivors include his mother, Georgia Brown of Brownwood; three brothers, Jan Brown of Abilene and Joseph Brown and wife Vickie of Dallas and Arthur Glen Brown of Brownwood; and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Annie Frasier Tate, age 84, of Coleman, died Tuesday, February 8, 2005 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, February 10, in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Russ Frasier, her grandson, officiating.  The committal service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Thursday at the Weaver Cemetery near Gorman, Texas.  Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Annie Lee Keese on May 29, 1920 in Cordell, Oklahoma, a daughter of the late George Dee Keese and Nettie Acklin Keese.  She grew up and attended school in Oklahoma and North Texas.  On October 31, 1936 she married John D. Frasier and he preceded her in death on May 25, 1968.  In 1969 she married Sanders E. Tate and he died in May 1986.  She moved from Gorman to Odessa where she lived from 1946-1982.  While living in Odessa, she taught in the Children's department and nursery at the First Church of the Nazarene.  She moved to Coleman in 1982 where she was an active member and cook at the Coleman Senior Center.  She was a homemaker and a member of Coleman Church of the Nazarene.

Survivors include three sons and daughters-in-law, George and Faye Frasier of Coleman, Texas, Tommy and Melva Frasier of Kirbyville, Texas, Jimmie and Danielle Frasier of Houston, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Bettie and George Kirk of Granby, Missouri; one sister, Wynama Gould of Lubbock, Texas; 11 grandchildren, 30 great- grandchildren; several great-great grandchildren.

Family visitation will be held on Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.  Memorials may be made to Coleman Senior Center, 916 S. Concho, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Joel Butts, 62, passed away Tuesday, February 8, 2005.  Services were held 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 11th, at Calvary Baptist Church with Wayne Oglesby and Clayton Pennington officiating.  Burial folloewed at Northview Cemetery in Winters, Texas under the direction of North's Funeral Home, Abilene.

Joel was born September 23, 1942 to Henry and Ruth (Brinkley) Butts in Winters, Texas.  he graduated from Winters High School and moved to Abilene in the early 1970's.  He was the laundry manager at the State School for 25 years and a member of Southside Baptist Church.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife Linda and their daughter, kimberlee Shae.  Other survivors include his daughter, Jody Salas of Coleman; his son, Jeff Butts of Hawley; two grandchildren, matthew and Katye; two brothers, Rodney Allen Butts of Rockport, Texas and Henry Alton Butts of Abilene; four nieces and four nephews.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Abilene State School Volunteer Services Council, 2501 Maple Street, Abilene, Texas 79602.

STAMFORD: Charlotte Jean "Jeannie" Youngquist, 65, passed away on Wednesday, February 9, 2005 at Hendrick Hospice Unit in Abilene.  Services for Jeannie Youngquist were held Friday at 3:00 p.m. at the Orient St. Church of Christ in Stamford with burial following in Spring Creek Cemetery in Avoca under the direction of Kinney-Underwood Funeral Home in Stamford.

Jeannie was born on April 8, 1939 to B. C. "Bert" and Ona Evans in Burkett, Texas.  She married Jim Youngquist on January 16, 1990.  She was a member of the Orient St. Church of Christ in Stamford.  She worked for 18 years for Featherlite Stone in Lueders, Texas, but spent most of her life as a homemaker.

Jeannine is survived by her husband, Jim of Stamford and her children: Rodney Goss of Hawley, Cindy Ford and her husband Rex of Stamford, Charlotte Volger and her husband Monty of Anson, Denise Scott and her husband Casey of Mineral Wells and Scott Youngquist and his wife Victoria of Abilene and several grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; two sisters, Betty Chatham and JoAnn Burton of Abilene.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers and two sisters.

George Eugene Cole, age 69, died in John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worfh at 11:00 a.m. on February 9, 2005.  He was buried at Glen Cove Cemetery February 11, 2005.  Sons and grandsons served as pallbearers.

George was born November 25, 1935 in Rouseville, Pennsylvania to Eugene and Ena Steen Cole.  On June 1, 1968 he married Claudine Kemp who had attended school at Talpa and Coleman.  He was a restaurant employee and manager in Houston and Fort Worth.

He is survived by his wife, Dovie Claudine; two sons, Bud Cole and Grant Camp and wife Sonja; three daughters, Marchella Siegel and husband David, April Owens and husband Bill, and Melody Cobb; and eight grandchildren.

Alma Delia Paulson Bradley Mathis Bleeker, age 88, passed away February 10, 2005 at 10:00 p.m. in a Nashville, Tennessee hospital.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. today (Thursday, February 17th) in Davis - Morris Funeral Home Chapel with interment following in the Greenleaf Cemetery.

She was born to Thomas and Emma Jean Paulson in Brownwood, Texas on September 24, 1916.  She resided with her son, William and Gleenda Bradley at the time of her death.  She married William K. "Key" Bradley on November 9, 1935.  He preceded her in death on June 21, 1971.  Then married Glen Mathis who preceded her in death in 1984 and then married Valdamar "Pete" Bleeker who preceded her in death in 1990.  Mrs. Bleeker lived many years at Trickham where she and Mr. Bradley owned and operated a grocery store.  They then moved to Santa Anna where she worked as a nurse in many hospitals and nursing homes in the area.  After retiring she enjoyed quilting.  Mrs. Bleeker was a life long member of the Primitive Baptist Church with her membership being in Brownwood.

She is survived by her three children, Winona Williams and husband Jimmy D. of Pensacola, Florida, William K. Bradley, Jr. and wife Gleenda of Millersview, Tennessee and Wilma Arnold of Carrollton, Texas; nine grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren; several step-children and their families.  Also surviving are a sister, Tiny Wilson and husband Aubrey of Granbury; two sisters-in-law, Marguerite Paulson of Clifton and Juanita Bradley of Bronte; a very large and loving extended family and many friends.

R. G. (Gordon) Brookshier, age 86, of Talpa, died peacefully Saturday, February 12, 2005 at Heritage Oaks Estates in Ballinger.  Funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 16, 2005 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman with Rev. Loyd Hopper officiating, Rev. Don Rouse assisting, and eulogy given by a nephew, Kyle Brookshier.  Burial will follow in the Talpa Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Gordon Brookshier was born August 3, 1918 at the family home place in Runnels County, Texas, a son of Arch and Minnie Curry Brookshier.  He grew up in Runnels County, attended school at Benoit, played football at Ballinger High School where he graduated in 1936.  On April 22, 1939 he married Margaret Louise Foreman in Paint Rock, Texas and they were the parents of two daughters, Judy Lynn and Carol Louise.  During World War II, he was a Carpenter¹s Mate First Class and served in the Seabees Navy Construction Battalion in Guadacanal and New Guinea.  Gordon ranched and farmed with his father for years until he took over in the 1960¹s, running the operation until his full retirement in 2003.  At that time he turned the operation over to his daughter, Carol Brookshier - Jones, making four generations of Brookshiers in ranching in Runnels County, of which Gordon was very proud.  He was also proud of his grandchildren, Shon Jones, who was his next best thing to a son and Brooke Jones whom he always referred to as so "cute."  He was also proud of his great-grandchildren, Xavier "Robert" Nino and Taryn Alexa Jones.  He was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Talpa for many years, a member of the Lions Club, Woodman of the World, and Runnels County Farm Bureau.

Survivors include his wife, Louise Brookshier of Ballinger, Texas; one daughter, Carol Brookshier - Jones of Talpa, Texas; one grandson, Shon and wife Melissa Jones of San Angelo, Texas; one granddaughter, Brooke Jones of Talpa, Texas; two great-grandchildren, Xavier "Robert" Nino of Talpa, Texas and Taryn Alexa Jones of San Angelo, Texas; former son-in-law, Robbie Jones of Sonora, Texas; one sister-in-law, Margie Brookshier of El Paso, Texas; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arch and Minnie Brookshier; his oldest daughter Judy Lynn Brookshier; a brother, Curry Brook-shier and a sister, Lurlene Gressett.  Memorials may be made to West Texas Rehabiliation Center or the Alzheimer¹s Association.  Family visitation will be held on Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman, Texas.  Pallbearers will be Charles Allcorn, Sandy Neal, Mike Priddy, Steve Evans, Gaylen Hoelsher and Bill Gates.  Honorary pallbearers will be Arnold Allcorn, Grady Fletcher, Rogelio Perez and Rodney Brookshier.

Jay Rex Densman, age 42, of Buffalo Gap passed away Saturday, February 12, 2005 at his residence.  Chapel services were 10 a.m. Tuesday at Community Memorial Funeral Home, with Rev. Joel Densman and Rev. Steve Joyner officiating.  Graveside services were 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Santa Anna Cemetery, under the direction of Community Memorial Funeral Home in Abilene.

Jay was born August 8, 1962, in Brownwood, Texas to Bobby Joe and Billie Joan (Goen) Densman.  He moved to Abilene in 1966 from Santa Anna.  He moved to Buffalo Gap in November of 2004.  He attended Cooper High School and worked as the cook of Dos Amigos Restaurant for the last six years.  He was a Baptist.

Survivors include a daughter, Kelsey Leigh Densman of Abilene; his father, Bobby Joe Densman, and wife Sharon, of Buffalo Gap; two brothers, Joel Densman and wife DeAnn of Prairie Lea, Texas and Jeff Bush of San Francisco, California; three sisters, Joretta Haas of Clyde, Tina Atkins and husband John of North Richland Hills and Holly Cushing and husband Blake of Abilene; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Billie Joan Densman; and a brother-in-law, Tony Haas.  If desired, memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.

Funeral services for Cecil Gober, 65, of Early were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Davis-Morris Funeral Home with Rev. Lynn Turnbow officiating.  Interment followed in the Rocky Creek Cemetery.  Mr. Gober died Sunday, February 13, 2005 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

He was born April 1, 1939 in Coleman, the son of Fay and Dora Dowdy Gober.  He did yard work and was a member of Grace Baptist Church.  He was a lifelong resident of Brown County.  He was preceded in death by two sisters, Linda and Treva Richardson, and a nephew, Benny Fay Leach.

Survivors include four brothers, Billy Dee Gober of Lometa, William Thomas Gober of Brownwood, Jimmy Lee Boring and wife Dorothy of Camdenton, Missouri and Tommy Gene Gober and wife Kathy of Burnet; four sisters, Bertie Lou Hathcock of Early, Ruby Thames of Abilene, Mary Steffey and husband Richard of Coleman and Wanda Beauchamp and husband Bill of Mansfield; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nola Peek, age 97 of Coleman, died Monday, February 14, 2005 at Coleman Healthcare Center.  Funeral services will be 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Stanislaw officiating, assisted by Carroll Hinds.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Nola Peek was born August 5, 1907 at Indian Creek in Coleman County, the daughter of James Albert Strange and Alice Myrtle Stevens Strange.  She attend schools at Indian Creek, Live Oak and graduated from New Central.  She married Herbert L. Peek on October 30, 1927 in Coleman.  He preceded her in death on January 25, 1989.  She moved back to Coleman in 1962 from Barnhart and Mertzon, worked at Ben Franklin¹s Five and Dime, Perry Brothers, Jin Wright Manufacturing and was a member the Auditorium Sunday School Class at the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include one daughter, Rena Payne of Coleman; two grandsons; Gary Payne and wife Carolyn of Coleman and Jody Payne and wife Lorrie of Coleman; five great-grandchildren, Melissa Huse and husband Jarrod of Abilene, Amy Payne, Rance Payne, Chance Payne and Jacy Payne all of Coleman; four nieces, Delores Wright of Farmington, NM, Maudine Goodman and husband Don of Fort Worth, Theresa Fletcher of Bandera and Glenda Klasson and husband Frank of Ft. Stockton; three nephews, Carroll Hinds and wife Addie of Glen Cove, Dick Strange and wife Romona of Port Arthur, Texas and Dr. Herbert Corum, D.V.M. of Del Rio; and several cousins.

She was preceded in death by three sisters, Lois Peek, Ola Trewitt and Opal Williams; two brothers, Albert Strange and Glen Strange.  Pallbearers will be David Hinds, Steven Hinds, Phillip Hinds, Bob Ray, Mark Romine and Jerry Simmons.

Gwenith Lavern Ratliff, age 77, of Brownwood passed away Monday, February 14, 2005 at Cross Country Nursing Home in Brownwood.  Funeral service will be today (Thursday) at 3:00 p.m. at Davis-Morris Funeral Home Chapel in Brownwood with Rev. Pat McClatchey and Dr. Gary Torian officiating.  Burial will follow in the Santa Anna Cemetery, under the direction of Davis-Morris Funeral Home.

She was born April 12, 1927 in Santa Anna, Texas and had been a resident of Brownwood since 1944.  She was a member of Central United Methodist Church and was a homemaker.  She was a very active member of the PTA through three children in her lifetime.

Survivors include her husband, J. B. Ratliff of Brownwood; three daughters, Shirley Ann Holy of Brownwood, Sandra Kay Spraberry of Stamford and Connie Matza and Steven of Dallas; two granddaughters, Jeanne Marie Holy and Jason Parsons of Austin and Amanda Kay Spraberry of Dallas; three grandsons, Mark W. Holy and Samantha of San Antonio, Casey Don Spraberry of Stamford and Michael Jay Matza of Dallas; four great-grandchildren, Jasmin, Sarah, Jacob and Kaitlyn; a brother, Jerry Don McSwain and Sandra of Brownwood; nieces and nephews, Patricia McPherson, Donna Behnke, James McSwain, Kathy McSwain.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bertis Alva and Iva Hill McSwain; and a brother, Ray Alvah McSwain.

Virginia Barsch, age 84, of San Antonio and former Valera resident, died Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at Heartland of San Antonio Nursing Home in San Antonio.  Graveside services were 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 19, 2005 at Concho Cemetery in Concho County.  Services were under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Bertta Virginia Barsch on October 9, 1920 in Paint Rock, Texas, a daughter of Fritz Karl Barsch and Mary Rozzlle Barsch.  She grew up and attended school in Paint Rock.  She moved to San Antonio in 1945 from Valera.  She worked as a secretary with Civil Service at Kelly Air Force Base and was a member of Bethesda Christian Temple.

Survivors include two nieces, Kathy Casey and husband Carroll of Austin, Phyllis Bolin and husband Mike of Edmond, Oklahoma; great nieces and great nephews, Ross Casey, Jared Casey and Caitlin Casey all of Austin, Laura Carroll and husband Bill of Abilene, Casey Bolin of Edmond, Oklahoma and one great-great niece, Jane Ann Carroll of Abilene.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Ernest Barsch, O. K. Barsch and L. D. Barsch.

Funeral services for Sheila Dian Baumgardner Davis, age 52, of Lake Brownwood will were 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the Netherton Funeral Home Chapel in Brownwood with Roy Hughes officiating.  Interment followed at 2:00 p.m. at Burkett Cemetery, under the direction of Netherton Funeral Home.  Mrs. Davis passed away Tuesday morning after a lengthy illness.

Sheila was born January 20, 1953 in Brownwood, Texas, the daughter of Bob and Ada Baumgardner.  Sheila was a devoted wife and grandmother raising four grandchildren, Ashley Nicole Davis, Nacoma Ray Davis, Tiffany Dian Davis and Thomas Ervin Lee Davis.  She married Perry Davis, Sr. on April 3, 1970 in Coleman.

Survivors include her husband, Perry Davis, Sr. of Lake Brownwood; two sons, Perry Lynn Davis, Jr. and wife, Jackie of Lake Brownwood and Steven Lee Davis of Lake Brownwood; five grandchildren, Ashley, Nacoma, Tiffany and Thomas Davis and Aaron Foster all of Brownwood; her parents, Bob and Ada Baumgardner of Lake Brownwood; a brother, Robert Baumgardner and wife, Karen of Lake Brownwood; two sisters, Kathy Hyden and husband, Leon of Lake Brownwood and Nelda Jowers of Lake Brownwood; one brother-in-law, Terry Davis and wife, Susie of Coleman; one sister-in-law, Charlie Boatwright of Coleman; and a number of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.  She was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Baumgardner.

Ruby Jennings Jackson, age 72, of Coleman, died Wednesday, February 16, 2005 in a Fort Worth hospital.  Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 19, in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Ruby Jennings on March 23, 1932 in Coleman County, Texas, a daughter of the late Don and Ethel Keeney Jennings.  She grew up in Coleman County and attended school at Crossroads.  On March 29, 1951 she married Lonnie E. Jackson in Coleman.  While her children were growing up, Ruby was a homemaker and later worked for a number of years at Jinright Sewing Factory.  Later she and her husband were team truck drivers.  She was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Survivors include her husband, Lonnie E. Jackson of Coleman, Texas; two daughters, Ruby and husband Dudley Seals of Crowley, Texas and Cindy Bell of Pilot Point, Texas; one son, Lonnie Waid and wife Wanda Jackson of Coleman, Texas; one sister, Billie Merryman of Coleman, Texas; four grandsons, Trae and wife Dallas Seals, Jason and wife Ramona Seals, Travis and wife Leanna Jackson and Justin Bell; six great-grandchildren, Dominic Bemas, Blake Seals, Savannah Seals, Garrett Seals, Tiffani Seals and Emily Seals. She was preceded in death by one brother, Leroy Jennings, and three sisters, Vivian Freeman, Bobbie Smith and Cleta Keeney.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ruby¹s name to any food bank or Meals on Wheels.  Family visitation will be held on Friday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home in Coleman.

Dolores Watts, age 70 of Sanger, Texas and a former resident of Coleman, died February 16, 2005.  Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. at Boliver Baptist Church in Sanger.

Dolores was born October 2, 1934.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Watts of Sanger; her daughter, Debbie Dove of Sanger; her son and daughter-in-law, Brad and Jennifer Watts of Sanger; four grandchildren, Clint Dove of Hawaii, Dylan Dove of Sanger, Brance Watts and Kalie Watts both of Sanger; brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

Mattie Lou Burks, age 75 of Coleman, died Thursday, February 17, 2005 at her residence.   Funeral services were 9:00 a.m. Saturday at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Forest Home Cemetery in Forest Park, Illinois at a later date.  Stevens Funeral Home was in charge of local arrangements.

Mrs. Burks was born January 18, 1930 in Tunica, Mississippi, the daughter of John McGee and Mary Blackburn McGee.  She grew up and attended school in Tunica and married Jonnie Burks in 1950 in Tunica.  He preceded her in death on July 15, 1993.  She moved to Coleman in 1974 from Memphis, Tennessee and was a member of New Testament Holiness Church in Bangs.

Survivors include her children, Willie Burks of Abilene, Ruby Punch and husband Karl of Dallas, Robert Burks and wife Judith of Dallas, Brenda Burks of Dallas, Ronnie Burks and wife Jennifer of Atlanta, Georgia, Shuron Carter of Memphis, Tennessee, John Edwards and wife Virgie of Coleman; brothers and sisters, Esperdale McGee and wife Jessie of Chicago, Illinois, Roberta Hatcher of Chicago, Illinois, Bertha Scott of Coleman, Pearlie Williams of Chicago, Illinois; 25 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Perry McGee; two sisters, Willie Mae Walton, Katie Edwards and several nieces and nephews.

Edith Jewell Thomason, age 96, of Marble Falls, Texas died Friday, February 18, 2005.  Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. tomorrow (Wednesday) at Mt. View Cemetery in Coleman County.

A native of Roby, Texas, she was born on June 10, 1908, the daughter of Martin Luther and Callie Mae Baker Templeton.  She was fortunate to live and make friends in several Texas towns but spent the greater part of her married life in Amarillo.  Her family was the most important thing in her life.  However, she did retail sales at times.  Bernard McKeand was the father of her sons.  After his death, she was married to Frank Thomason, who also preceded her in death.

Survivors include sons Bill McKeand of Fort Worth and Gary McKeand of Burnet; grandsons, Kevin McKeand and family and Mike McKeand and family, all of Fort Worth; granddaughters, Lynn Autrey of Fort Worth and Kelly Ortiz and family of Helotis, Texas; six great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Gloria Yelek of Colorado and a sister-in-law, Wynette Harris of Austin, Texas.

Weldon Hamilton, age 83, of Coleman, passed away in San Angelo February 18, 2005.  Funeral services were Monday, February 21st at 2 p.m. at Walker Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Mark Riggins, associate pastor of the Baptist Temple in San Angelo, officiating.  Burial followed at the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

Son of the late Arch and Maggie Netherton Hamilton, he was born June 6, 1921 in Coleman.  On March 11, 1974 he married Estelle Bohannon in Coleman.  Weldon spent his early years in Coleman County and had returned to Coleman in 1974.  He was a milk route salesman, a veteran of WWII, and a member of First Baptist Church of Coleman.

Survivors include his wife Estelle; three daughters, Elaine Dixon of Plano, Jean Tate of Fort Worth, and Debbie and her husband David Bigham of Brownwood; two sons, Jim and wife Maxine Hamilton of San Angelo, and Travis and his wife Jamie Bohannon of Plano; one sister, Mrs. Aleene Jones of Coleman; and one brother, Randall Hamilton of Longview.  Also surviving are eleven grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

Weldon was preceded in death by his parents and one grandchild.  Grandchildren served as pallbearers.

Paul B. Payne Sr., 76, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2005, with his family at his side.   Service was 10:00 a.m. Monday, February 21 at Stevens Funeral Home with burial in Talpa Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Paul was born July 19, 1927, in Crowville, Franklin Parish, Louisiana.  He was the second child and the oldest son born to Sidney Lee and Roberta Hendricks Payne.  He grew up on the family farm in Delhi, Louisiana, running through the fields of cotton and corn, among other things.  He graduated from Delhi High School in 1944.  He joined the U.S. Army Air Corps after high school, but returned home with a hardship discharge when his father was injured and he needed to help run the farm.  Paul married Margaret Elizabeth Grayson on Jan. 23, 1948, at her parent's home in Delhi.  They were a shining example of "for better or worse" as they remained Mr. and Mrs. Payne for 57 years.  Paul and Margaret were blessed with two children, Paul Jr., in 1948 and Brenda in 1952.  The family moved throughout Texas with Sun Pipeline Company.  He retired after 43 years of service.  After retirement, Paul and Margaret moved to Sanco to ranch.  They raised cattle and Boer goats.  Paul loved the outdoors and spent countless hours hunting, fishing and gardening.  He was adamant about teaching his family the importance of respecting and appreciating the land for all its bounty.  He always found peace and comfort in tending his gardens and reveling in their harvests.  Paul truly believed in the full circle of life, and that in taking care of the land that it would take care of him, and it did.  He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jerry Payne and Charles Payne; and a sister, Anita Faye Payne.

Paul is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Margaret Payne of Talpa; his son and daughter-in-law, Paul B. Payne Jr. and Lynne of Talpa; daughter Brenda Payne of Groves; granddaughter Christie Alejandro and husband, Adrian, of San Angelo; grandson, Blake Payne and fiancé Erin Quinn, both of San Angelo; and the light of his life, great- granddaughter, Dawnya Smith of San Angelo.  He is also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Sidney Lee and Joyce Payne of McAllen and Perry and Florice Payne of West Monroe, Louisiana; sisters and brothers-in-law, Helen and Vernie C. Mitchell of West Monroe, Louisiana, Barbara Jo and John Virden of Hensdale, Illinois, and Elaine and Jim Merryman of Bossier City, Louisiana, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the staff of VistaCare Hospice of San Angelo for their support and care during these last few days.  Memorials can be made to VistaCare Hospice of San Angelo, 940 Arroyo, Suite B, San Angelo, Texas 76904, or charity of choice.

Cora Robertson, age 88, died Saturday, February 19, 2005 at Grace Presbyterian Village in Dallas.  Funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, February 20 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel.  Burial followed in the Burkett Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born Cora Byers on September 26, 1916 in Burkett, Texas, a daughter of Manton and Carrie Tabor Byers.  She grew up in Burkett and Louisiana where she also attended school.  On June 28, 1941 she married Doc Robertson in Alexandria, Louisiana and he preceded her in death on July 13, 1995.  Cora trained at Charity Hospital in Shreveport, Louisiana and was a registered nurse.  For a number of years she lived in Robert Lee, Texas.  For the last six years she resided with her son and daughter-in-law.

Survivors include a large close family including one son and daughter-in-law, Don and Paula Robertson of Lancaster, Texas; three grandchildren, Rene' and husband Michael Lazachik of McKinney, Texas, Steven and wife Stephanie Robertson of Mesa, Arizona, Dana and husband J. B. Shoaf of Centralia, Washington; six great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Kyle, Ryan, Aimee, Haley, Brittany; four sisters, Velma Byers and Esther Byers both of Burkett, Texas, Fay and husband Ray Hagar of Abilene, Texas, Bernice Byers of Green Bay, Wisconsin; two brothers, Charles and wife Norma Byers of Merkel, Texas, Tom and wife Betty Byers of Coleman, Texas.

Clinton Davis, age 83, of Many, Louisiana passed away at the Alexandria Veterans Administration Senior Care Center on February 19, 2005.  He was 83 years of age.  Funeral services were held February 23rd at 2:00 p.m. in the First Methodist Church of Many.  Interment was in the Many Cemetery with full military rites.

He was the son of Wesley Davis and Willie Bryant Davis of Coleman, Texas.  Clinton Davis was born at Camp Colorado, Coleman County, Texas on May 13, 1921.  He attended the Burkett schools and was a graduate of Sul Ross University in Alpine, Texas.  He obtained a Masters degree from Sam Houston State University, majoring in Agriculture Chemistry.  He taught sciences at Wellington High School and later at Hornbeck High School.  Clinton was the Shell Oil jobber for many years in Many where he owned several Shell service stations.  Clinton was a member of several local and state civic organizations.  He was a veteran of World War II.  On June 28, 1952, Clinton Davis married Catherine Vines in Many, Louisiana.  They were married for 52 years.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine, of Many; a brother, Tom Davis of San Angelo; sisters, Juanita Mills of Ozona, Willa Faye Pauley of Talpa, Wanda McDorman of Abilene and Charlene Mobley of Midland; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Dee Davis, Weldon Davis and Preston Davis; and sisters, Doris Fenton and Almarene Wester Love.

Lorine Evelyn Bryson, age 91, of Cross Plains passed away Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at her daughter¹s home in Ovalo.  Funeral services will be 2 p.m. today (Thursday) at Higginbotham Funeral Chapel with Ronnie White officiating.  Burial will be in the Pioneer Cemetery.

She was born December 26, 1913 in Palestine to Luther Lucas and Emma (Wilson) McKenzie.  Lorine married Joe Bryson in Coleman County, Texas in June of 1931.  They lived in the Pioneer community until his death in June 1964.  She was a homemaker and a member of First Baptist Church in Cross Plains.

She is survived by two daughters, Joan Parker and husband Jerry of Abilene and Katie Williams and husband James of Ovalo; three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Martin L. Lehnis, 89, passed away Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.  Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday at Davis-Morris Funeral Home with Bro. Robert Elkins officiating.  Interment followed in the Santa Anna Cemetery with Masonic rites from the Santa Anna Masonic Lodge.

He was born October 18, 1915 to Margin Jr. and Bessie Lehnis.  They preceded him in death as a child, where he was adopted by Samuel C. and Lenora Wyatt on May 27, 1925.  He was married to Georgia Frances Barlett on March 29, 1941, in Santa Anna.  She preceded him in death on November 5, 2004.  He had been a resident of Brownwood since 1950.  A great lover of trains, he worked for the railroad and had been a lifelong railroader, and was very influential in the Brownwood railroad museum, which has been named after him and his wife.  Martin was in the Coast Guard during World War II and was very active in the Coast Guard Ships reunions, which he and his wife Frances hosted one year in Texas.

He is survived by a sister, Shirley Arlene Twilligear of Comanche; a sister-in-law, Evelyn Joyce Wyatt of Brownwood; daughter-in-law, Marilyn Lehnis of San Antonio; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his adopted parents, Sam and Lenora Wyatt; a son, Martin Luther Lehnis IV; an infant grandson, William Martin Lehnis; and a brother, Dean Wyatt.

LAWN:  Loney Borden Bethel, 86, died Thursday, February 24, 2005 in an Abilene nursing home.  Graveside services were 2:30 p.m. Sunday in Dewey Cemetery with Reverend Mindy McLanahan officiating, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola.

Loney was born August 21, 1918 in Cleaten, Kentucky, to John Henry and Rose Ellar Kyle Bethel.  He married Myrtie Lee Howard on April 29, 1942 in Bay City prior to his enlistment in the U. S. Army, serving his country during World War II until December 1945.  After the war, he worked in a steel mill in Indiana until he moved to Lawn in 1960.  He owned and operated Hiway Cafe, Loney¹s Cafe and Little Pit Bar-B-Que, all in Lawn, retiring in 1990.  He continued to do catering from his home until 1994.  Preceding him in death were his parents; a son, Raymond Lee Bethel of Coleman; four brothers and one sister.

Survivors include two sons, John William Bethel and wife Shirley of Abilene and Ronnie Bethel and wife Becky of Coleman; a daughter-in-law, Shirley Bethel of Coleman; six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Katherine Jean Jennings, age 61, of Brownwood, Texas died Thursday, February 24, 2005 at a Brownwood nursing home.  Funeral services were held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 26, 2005 at Davis-Morris Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Dan Wright officiating.  Interment followed at the Cleveland Cemetery.

Katherine Jennings was born October 15, 1943 in Brownwood, Texas, the daughter of the late Paul and Mary Neil Priest Jennings.  She was an elementary school teacher at Bangs ISD for more than 16 years.  She was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene and was a life long resident of Brown County.

Survivors include a brother, L. W. "Dub" Jennings of Johnson City, Texas; a sister, Paula Venable of Lubbock, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephew and longtime friends.

Memorial Services for Dora Jayne Jennings Dickinson of Monument, New Mexico were held Wednesday, March 2, 2005, at 1:00 p.m. at the Monument Baptist Church in Monument, New Mexico.  Grave side services and interment will take place at Fairview Cemetery, near Burkett, Texas, on March 11, 2005.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Duncan-May Funeral Home.

Jayne was born on June 6, 1936, in Encino, New Mexico, to Albert and Alice Pearl Jennings and she went to be with the Lord on February 24, 2005.  She had resided in New Mexico since 1976.

She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and brought joy to all who knew her.  She was a great cook and enjoyed reading, attending church and crocheting and knitting.  She could always see the good in other people and even when times were hard, she could always see the light in everything.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Dickinson of the home, five sons: Bill Jackson of Abilene, Texas, Philip Dickinson of Las Lunas, New Mexico, Robert Dickinson of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Greg Dickinson of Anthony, New Mexico, and Justin Dickinson of Monument, New Mexico.  She is also survived by four grandchildren: Jeremy Dickinson of Abilene, Texas, Trisha Dickinson of Abilene Texas, Richard Dickinson and his wife DeLana of Hobbs, New Mexico and Steven Dickinson of Monument, New Mexico.  She is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Treyna Dickinson of Abilene, Texas, Jerry Rhoudes, Janalynne Dickinson, and Richard Ray Dickinson II, all of Hobbs, New Mexico.  She had numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  She also had many brothers and sisters in Christ.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Robert Jennings and Ray Jennings.

Vergie Baugh, age 89, of Abilene passed away Saturday, February 26, 2005 at the Coronado Nursing Center in Abilene.  Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. today (Tuesday) at the Church of Christ with Tim Baugh officiating, assisted by Bob Pipes.  Burial will follow in the Cross Plains Cemetery.  Higginbotham Funeral Home of Cross Plains is in charge of arrangements.

She was born August 8, 1915 to Charlie Dillard and Katie (Tennison) Dillard in Comanche County, Texas.  She married Claude Baugh on January 14, 1935 in Callahan County, Texas.  Vergie was a homemaker.

She is survived by two sons, Johnny Baugh of Coleman; Steve Baugh of Abilene; one daughter, Claudette Ross of Carlsbad, New Mexico; three sisters, Olene Folkner, Oleta Pinkston and Faye Fleming, all of Brownwood; one sister-in-law, Lillie Dillard of Cross Plains; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and three great- great- grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude Baugh; one daughter, Anita Shirley; one brother, Charles Dillard; two sisters, Minnie Fore and Gladys Smith; one granddaughter; and one great-grandson.

Sandra Lynne Cantu, age 56 of Coleman, died Sunday, February 27, 2005 at Coleman County Medical Center.  Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, 2005 at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Brownwood, with Rev. Eddie Hayes officiating.  Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Mrs. Cantu was born September 26, 1948 in Santa Anna, the daughter of T. W. Lewis and Geraldine Collins Lewis.  She attended Humphry High School in Coleman and graduated from Brownwood High School in 1966.  She married Martin Cantu on November 13, 1992 Coleman.  She loved fishing, sewing, cooking and singing in the choir at Mount Zion Baptist Church, where she was a member.

Survivors include her husband, Martin Cantu of Coleman; one daughter, Rochelle Reese Burns of Coleman; step-children, Bobby Reese of Austin, Romona Flores of Coleman, Victoria ____ of Brownwood, Connie Cantu of Dallas, Jessie Cantu of Coleman, Pete Cantu of Denton; sisters, Linda Vales of Brownwood, Donna Sands of Dallas, Carolyn Stanfield of Bangs, Sherry Wiggins of Dallas; brothers, Tommy Lewis of Santa Anna, Oscar Lewis of Abilene, Norris Lewis of Coleman, Charlie Lewis of Portland, Oregon; 16 step-grandchildren, three step-great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins including Roeanna Barton of Santa Anna.

She was preceded in death by her parents.  Family visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. today (Tuesday) at the funeral home.  Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Mount Zion Baptist Church, 914 Bailey, Brownwood, Texas 76801.

Graveside services were held February 27, 2005 in Pulaski, Tennessee for Wilburn Leon Oakes, age 79, a Santa Anna native.  He died February 25, 2005 in Pulaski and his final resting place is the home of the Neal family for several generations.

Leon was born March 11, 1925 to the late John M. and Mary Kate Neal Oakes.  He united with the First Christian Church when a child and attended the Santa Anna schools.  He was a veteran of WW II, serving in the U.S. Navy.  Mr. Oakes was married to Delma M. Brooke in Springfield, Tennessee on December 3, 1955, the beginning of a 49 year union.  Upon retirement from the restaurant business, he and his wife made their home in Wetumpka, Alabama.

Survivors include his wife, Delma Oakes of Wetumpka, Alabama; a step-son, Billy Bell of Pulaski, Tennessee; two sisters, Mrs. Mary Lowder of San Antonio and Mrs. Marjorie Dolan of Tyler.  Other survivors include step-grandchildren; nieces; nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by three brothers, Neal, Todd and Marion and one sister, Helen Oakes Little.

Edna Odessa Townsend, age 96, died Monday, February 28, 2005 at an Abilene nursing center.  Funeral services will be 11 a.m. today (Thursday) at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Faith, 5701 Hwy. 277 South, Abilene, with James Stovall officiating.  Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park.

Odessa was born on September 25, 1908 to Walter Harris and Lovella Thames Harris in Burkett, Texas and grew up in Goldsboro, Texas.  She married Homer O. Townsend in December, 1932 in Coleman, Texas.  They moved to Abilene from Goldsboro in 1937.  She and Homer were married for 66 years when he died in 1998.  Mrs. Townsend was a member of Westgate Church of Christ.  She retired from A.I.S.D. after 22 years in food service.  Odessa was also preceded in death by her parents, and two brothers, A. R. Harris and I. G. Harris.

Survivors include her two sons, Gerald W. Townsend and Freddie M. Townsend, both of Abilene.  She is also survived by nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren, as well as two sisters, Bennie Lewis of El Cajon, California and Billie Cooper of Tyler, Texas.