July 2007 Coleman County, Texas Obituaries

Coleman County, Texas Obituaries for July 2007

July 1, 2007

Edna Mae Jackson, 80

Edna Mae Jackson, 80, of Breckenridge and former long-time resident of Coleman, died Sunday, July 1, 2007 at Stephens Memorial Hospital in Breckenridge. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at Stevens Funeral Home Home Chapel with Rev. Johnny Griffith officiating, assisted by William A. Bell. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Edna Mae Jackson was born January 7, 1927 in Guion, Taylor County, Texas, the daughter of Bennie E. Floyd and Zellar Estelle Avery Floyd. She married Arlie C. Jackson on September 2, 1945 in Coleman. He preceded her in death on November 1, 1979. She was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Coleman from 1958 to 1985. She moved to Breckenridge in 1985, and was a member of The People’s Church in Breckenridge.

Survivors include three daughters, Sandra Bell of Temple, Connie Biggers of Arlington, Caroline Bell of Breckenridge; one sister, Estella Lamer of Sulphur, Oklahoma; three brothers, Pete Floyd of Coleman, Kenneth Floyd of Balch Springs, Don Floyd of Chandler; five grandchildren, Dennis Bell of Springfield, Missouri, William A. Bell of Robinson, Tammy Mills of Arlington, Kevin Mills of Arlington, David Bell of Breckenridge; 11 great-grandchildren, Brandy Lynn Bell of Temple, Rebekka Maillicoat of San Antonio, Amber Hunt of Arlington, Lissa Gordon of Temple, William H. Bell of Tulsa, Caitlyn Bell of Tulsa, Madelyn Bell of Robinson, Dallas Bell of Robinson, Alexis Hazelmeyer of Arlington, Garrett Bell of Robinson, Wyatt Bell of Springfield, Missouri and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Patsy Blankenship in 2006, one brother, Odell Floyd in 1949 and a great granddaughter, Allison Mae Bell in 1998. Pallbearers will be Harold Bell, Dennis Bell, William A. Bell, Philip Bell, David Bell, Tommy Floyd and Kevin Mills.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

Emmer Josephine Daniel, 95

Emmer Josephine Daniel, a retired homemaker and cook, passed away Sunday, July 1, in Fort Worth. Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 5, in Harrell Memorial Chapel in Dublin, Texas. The burial will follow at Old Dublin Memorial Park.

Survivors include sons Charles (Misty-Mae) of Plainview, Minnesota, Walter (Ann) of Fort Worth, Texas, and Forrest (Misty) of Ranger, Texas, [Formerly of Coleman], daughters Mary Chumney and Inez Sellers of Fort Worth, Texas, 15 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and special friends.

Family visitation will be held Thursday, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 3, 2007

Karl K. "Korky" Steffens, 90

Karl K. "Korky" Steffens, Col. USAF Retired, age 90 and a lifelong resident of Brady, Texas passed away Tuesday, July 3, 2007 in Brady. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. today (Thursday), July 5, 2007 at the Brady Presbyterian Church with Rev. Brian Wiggins officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Rest Haven Cemetery in Brady. Pallbearers will be Ted Archer, Jack Roberts, Skip Pries, Ed Carrithers, Dr. J. H. Allen and Dick Winters. Honorary pallbearers are Bill Roberts, Dr. Richard Winters, Gerald Yarborough, Charlie Dye, Joe McDonough and L. V. Ruffin. Arrangements are under the direction of Leatherwood Memorial Chapels of Brady.

Korky was born December 11, 1916 in Brady to Karl Day Steffens and Ella (Keller) Steffens. He was an outstanding athlete at Brady High School, earning All Regional Honors as a Football Tailback. He was also honored as the best singer of Brady High School. This singing contest he later sponsored and served as the Master of Ceremonies in the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s. After graduation in 1935, he attended Texas A&M on an athletic scholarship, where he played football with All American Legends John Kimbrough, Dick Todd and Joe Routt. He also played against such legends as Sammy Baugh, Davy O’Brien, Ky Aldrich, Ernie Koy, Sr. and other greats of the late 1930’s. He graduated from Texas A&M in 1939 with a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant. He married Othrene Autry on May 25, 1941 in Coleman, Texas. After they were married, they were stationed at Peacock Military Academy in San Antonio where he coached football. He was called to active duty prior to the outbreak of World War II and rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel by 1945. After the war he returned to Brady and entered the Florist profession with his father. In 1950 Korky was recalled to the U.S. Air Force to serve in the Korean War. He was stationed at Goodfellow A.F.B. where he was Group Commander, managing five squadrons, and later promoted to full Colonel. He returned to Brady in 1953 and resumed his career as a florist and civic leader. For many years he was the General Manager of the July Jubilee Association (a non-paying, year-round post) and Chairman of the Miss Heart of Texas Pageant. He has served on the Brady City Council, the Brady School Board President, President of the Brady Lions Club, chaired the Heart of Texas Memorial Hospital Board of Directors, Ole Hound Dog Athletic Booster Club and served as a Director and Vice President of the Texas State Florists Association. He was a third generation florist, owning and operating Steffens Flowers in Brady. He was a member of the Brady Presbyterian Church. Service to his country and Brady was his passion. A singer, showman and an expert master of ceremonies, Korky became a popular entertainer in Brady at countless civic programs over the years. He was often called on to sing at weddings and funerals. In 1961 he was honored as Brady’s Distinguished Citizen. In his spare time he loved to hunt, fish and play golf.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Othrene Steffens of Brady; two sons, Craig Steffens and Karlton Steffens and wife Sandra all of Brady; grandchildren, Kelly Wharrie and husband Rob of Round Rock and Karly Steffens of Austin, Kacy Montenegro and husband Mark of Round Rock and Stacy Northcutt of Austin; and six great-grandchildren. Local survivors include nieces and nephews, Brett Autry, Alana Brudney and Tracy Autry, and Steve Autry.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson-in-law, Chad Northcutt.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 10, 2007, page 11.)

July 4, 2007

John Samuel Burns, 67

John Samuel Burns passed away Wednesday, July 4, 2007, at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, Texas. Funeral services for Mr. Burns, of Ector, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, July 9, 2007 in Wise Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Carson Cemetery in Ector, Texas. Rev. Chris Marsh will officiate. Pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews. The family will receive friends at Wise Funeral Home from 6:00 to 8:00 Sunday night.

John was born June 29, 1940 in Fannin County, Texas, son of J. C. Burns and Geneva Doty Burns. He worked at Texas Instruments and was a truck driver. He was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Anna Byrd and sister-in-law, Peggy Burns.

Surviving are his wife, Judy of Ector; daughter, Johnna Phillips and husband, Berry of Coleman, Texas; stepsons, Sam Golden and wife, Tammy of Coalgate, Oklahoma; Charlie Golden and wife, Kristie; and Michael Golden, all of Wylie, Texas; mother, Geneva Burns of Ector; brother, Wilburn Burns and wife, Geneva of Ector; sisters, Julia Kay Price and husband, Jerry of Orangeville, Texas; Jewel Jetton and husband, John David of Commerce; 11 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Family Life Center of First Baptist Church, 200 E. College Street, Coleman, Texas 76834 or Gideons International.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 5, 2007

James Flay Cullins, 82

James Flay Cullins, age 82, of Coleman, died Thursday, July 5, 2007 at Songbird Lodge in Brownwood. Graveside funeral service with military honors will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 7 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

James Cullins was born December 1, 1924 in Coleman County, Texas, a son of the late George A. Cullins and Dillie Edith Pridemore Cullins. From 1943 to 1946 he served in the United States Army in the 342nd Armored Field Artilley. On May 1, 1949 he married Tishie "Speedy" Lackey in San Angelo and she preceded him in death in May 26, 2001. James was an oilfield driller, living in Ozona from 1972 to 1979, then moving to Gaines County. He came to Coleman in 1988 and moved to a Brownwood nursing home two years ago. He was Baptist.

Survivors include two sisters, Edith Deland of Ozona and Melba Whiteley of Brownwood; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Coleman Cullins of Orange, California and Zella Cullins of Mesa, Arizona; numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his son Tony Cullins in 1991; three sisters, Gladys Wright, Annabelle Warren and Mary Telford; three brothers, J. T. Cullins, Dan Cullins and Floyd "Porky" Cullins.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 10, 2007, page 11.)

James Flay Cullins

James Flay Cullins, 82

James Flay Cullins of Coleman, died Thursday, July 5, 2007 at Songbird Lodge in Brownwood. Graveside funeral service with military honors will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 7 at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

James Cullins was born December 1, 1924 in Coleman County, Texas, a son of the late George A. Cullins and Dillie Edith Pridemore Cullins. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the United States Army in the 342nd Armored Field Artillery. On May 1, 1949 he married Tishie "Speedy" Lackey in San Angelo and she preceded him in death in May 26, 2001. James was an oilfield driller, living in Ozona from 1972 to 1979, then moving to Gaines County. He came to Coleman in 1988 and moved to a Brownwood nursing home two years ago. He was Baptist.

Survivors include two sisters, Edith Deland of Ozona and Melba Whiteley of Brownwood; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Coleman Cullins of Orange, California and Zella Cullins of Mesa, Arizona; numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his son Tony Cullins in 1991; three sisters, Gladys Wright, Annabelle Warren and Mary Telford; three brothers, J. T. Cullins, Dan Cullins and Floyd "Porky" Cullins.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 7, 2007

Willie Lane Parrott, 97

Willie Lane Parrott, 97, of San Angelo passed away Saturday, July 7, 2007 at a local care center. Graveside service was held at 3:00 p.m. Monday at the Coleman City Cemetery with Harold Watkins officiating. Johnson’s Funeral Home of San Angelo was in charge of arrangements.

Willie Lane Brown Parrott, beloved by her family in her life and death. She was born the only child of Phoena Brown and Will Brown on January 15, 1910. She traveled with her parents until the age of 6 and then settled in Coleman with her mother and grandparents. She graduated from Coleman High School and then got her B.A. and Masters Degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood. Lane married Ralph Holloway Parrott on July 30, 1947 in San Angelo. She dedicated her life to teaching students of all ages but spent most of her teaching in elementary school. Lane spent time teaching in Valera, Christoval and San Angelo. It was the desire of her heart to teach all her students to read, to love learning and to know the enjoyment of doing their best. She wanted her students to know love and discipline. Mrs. Parrott loved her family and was dedicated to teaching them her many talents of sewing, cooking and quilt making. One of Lane’s favorite possessions were her pets, her Pekingese dogs. One of her bright spots was her love of music. She loved to play the piano and sing. She loved to attend church and cherished all the old hymns. She will be missed by her family but she will be enjoying the presence of Jesus and His Angels and her hosts of family and friends.

Survivors include daughter, Susie Roop and husband Dusty of San Angelo; granddaughter, Rebekah Anderson and her husband, Kraig of San Angelo and great-granddaughter, Katie Smart of San Angelo.

Memorials may be made to Freedom Fellowship Church in San Angelo.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 10, 2007, page 11.)

July 8, 2007

Lillian Maverick Padgitt, 94

Lillian Maverick Padgitt, age 94, died July 8, 2007. The funeral will be Thursday, 10 a.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 315 E. Pecan Street. Interment following at San Jose Burial Park, 8234 Mission Road. Visitation was held at Porter Loring Mortuary, 1101 McCullough Avenue, Wednesday, July 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. Memorials may be made to: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 315 E. Pecan Street, San Antonio, Texas 78207, San Antonio Conservation Society, 107 King William Street, San Antonio Texas 78204 or St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 609 S. Neches Street, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Born August 1, 1912 to Lillian Williams and Albert Maverick Jr. at Sunshine Ranch in San Antonio, Lillian Maverick Padgitt was a direct descendant of Samuel Augustus Maverick, signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Rancher, homemaker and historic preservationist, Lillian lived a full loving life and was always ready to "talk about Texas." Lillian graduated from Main Avenue High School and Westmoreland College (Trinity University) in San Antonio. She married Coleman County rancher James Thomas Padgitt, Jr. on December 6, 1932. Lillian and Jim divided their time between the Padgitt Ranch on the banks of the Colorado River and San Antonio, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary before Jim’s death in 1983. Some of Lillian’s greatest interests were the history of San Antonio and its unique architecture. She served as President of the San Antonio Conservation Society, President of the Alamo Mission Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and Regent of the Captain William Buckner Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was the founding chairman of the Conservation Society’s Las Posadas in 1966 and chairman for the first 25 years of Anticuchos at A Night in Old San Antonio. She also enjoyed memberships in St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, the Battle of Flowers Association, Live Oak Garden Club, Military Civilian, The Argyle and was an early board member of The National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Lillian is survived by two daughters, Lillian Padgitt Morris of San Antonio, Texas and Jane Maverick Padgitt of Leaday, Texas, her seven grandchildren Catherine Morris Helland and husband Hans, James Padgitt Morris and wife Sally, Hannah Day Morris, Hal Goggan Kuntz II and wife Barbara, Peter Maverick, Ellen Day Dotson, Byrd Padgitt Sowell, six great grandchildren and countless Maverick relatives.

Lillian was preceded in death by her beloved husband Lieutenant Colonel James T. Padgitt, Jr., ANG WWII, daughter Willie Day Padgitt Kuntz, three sisters Jane Lewis McMillan, Amelia Epler Nolen, and Mary Adams Lambie, brother Albert Maverick III and devoted son-in-law Robert Selig Morris.

The Padgitt family gives thanks to all the people who have loved and cared for Lillian in the last several years. You know who you are and you are part of a great team.

Lillian had a wonderfully generous spirit. She loved people and people loved her.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 10, 2007, page 11.)

Lillian Maverick Padgitt

July 10, 2007

Robert Lee Thate, 77

Robert Lee Thate, age 77, of Coleman, died Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at Coleman County Medical Center. Graveside funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 12 at Burkett Cemetery Pavilion with Joe Hailey officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Robert Lee Thate was born August 14, 1929 in Burkett, Texas, a son of the late George Paul Thate and Jessie Lea Ashley Thate. He grew up in Coleman and attended school here. He was a member of Elm Street Church of Christ.

Survivors include one brother, Hugh Lynn Thate of Santa Anna; three sisters, Ruby McFarland of Coleman, Melba Jean Salmon of Kansas City, Missouri and Alma Jane Laird of Dallas; nieces and nephews.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

Thomas M. Hays, Jr, 83

Thomas M. Hays, Jr. age 83 of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at 5:30 a.m. at the Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Services will be Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Comanche with Rev. Matt Hall and Vicki Lackey officiating. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

He was born Thomas Myron Hays, Jr. on June 2, 1924 in Santa Anna to the late Thomas Myron and Anna Belle Andrews Hays. He was raised in Santa Anna graduating from Santa Anna High School in 1942. Thomas continued his education at the University of Texas, UT at Arlington, University of Georgia and University of Houston. He married Evis Inez Edwards in Bogart Georgia on May 14, 1S Navy retiring in 1974 following 32 years of service. He served his country during World War II, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam Conflict. He was a member of the Masonic Mountain Lodge #661 in Santa Anna and member of the First United Methodist Church of Comanche.

Survivors include his wife, Margie Smith Hays of Santa Anna, Texas; three daughters, Suzanna Parker of Manhattan, Kansas, Teresa Baker of Bridgeport, Texas, Kathy Jo Sciferth of Chatanooga, Tennessee; two sons Thomas M. Hays, III of Austin, Texas, Gary Knapp of Norfolk, Virginia, three step-sons, Sam Cobb of Austin, Texas, Lynn Cobb of San Marcos, Texas, Larry Smith of Eastland, Texas; 10 grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; 3 step-great grandchildren.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

Freda Howard

Freda Howard, of Midland, passed away Tuesday, July 10, 2007. Graveside services will be held at Santa Anna Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 13, 2007. Local Arrangements are under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.

She was born December 8, 1925 to Phillip Schulle and Una Atkins Schulle in Fisk, Coleman County, Texas. On October 3, 1947, Freda married J. D. Howard, Jr., in Santa Anna, Texas. He preceded her in death in 2006.

Freda is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Elaine and John Fretwell of Midland, Texas; two sisters, two brothers, two grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

George Wayne Montgomery, 59

George Wayne Montgomery of Granbury, Texas, died Tuesday, July 10, 2007, at the Lake Granbury Medical Center in Granbury, Texas. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 12, 2007 at the Rockwood Cemetery, with the Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating. Services are under the direction of Walker Funeral Home of Coleman.

George was born on August 13, 1947, in Santa Anna, Texas, to Glomillion and Wagie Rutherford Montgomery.

He is survived by an Uncle, Jack Haney of Temple, Texas, Cousins: Thomas Rutherford, Loyd Rutherford of Whon, Hilary Rutherford of Coleman, Harvey Rutherford of Bangs, Cecil Rutherford of Brownwood, Doug Haney of Temple, Jerry Smith of Odessa, Bobby Rutherford, Craig Rutherford, Rodney Rutherford of California, Patsy Smith of Abilene, Lynda Wheeler of LaGrange, Barbara Bentle of Sweetwater, Betty Pinkerton of California, Mary King of Zephyr, and Wanda Hyles of Brownwood.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 12, 2007

Alonzo Payne, 44

Alonzo Payne, of Coleman, passed away Thursday, July 12, 2007, at a Galveston hospital after a long illness. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 17, at Mount Calvary Church of God in Christ in Coleman with Elder L. C. Smith officiating. Burial at Coleman City Cemetery. Mr. Payne will lie in repose from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday. The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday at Mount Calvary Church of God in Christ. All arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Kirk Mortuary.

Alonzo was born September 21, 1962 to the parentage of Emmett and Mary Ann Baker Payne. He attended public schools in Coleman and was a graduate of Coleman High School, where he excelled in basketball. He attended Waco Community College. He had been a chef at various establishments. Called a "special child" by his family, he was an artist who was mild-mannered and well-loved by his family. He often babysat his nieces and nephews.

Left to cherish his memories are his parents, Emmett and Mary Ann Payne of Coleman; two sisters, Doris Jean Larkin and husband Tommy Larkin of Pioneer and Kimala Sampson and husband Wayne Sampson of Rhode Island; grandfather, David Jackson; four nieces, Charlene Payne, Na'Talya Payne, Bridgette Padgitt and Courtney Larkin; two nephews, Emmett Lavell Brown and Manuel Valles; four great-nieces, Brijonae Morris, Carmelia Kincaid, Sierra Brown and Samara Padgitt; and a host of relatives and many, many friends.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 13, 2007

William Jackson "Bill" Holder, Jr., 84

Bill Holder, of Brownwood, passed away Friday, July 13, 2007, in Abilene. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, July 16, at Davis-Morris Funeral Home Chapel in Brownwood with Richard Ivy officiating. Burial will follow in the Whon Cemetery in southeast Coleman County. Family visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, July 15, at Davis Morris Funeral Home in Brownwood.

He was born September 29, 1922 in Sweetwater to William Jackson and Pearl Ann Shields Holder. He was a member of Avenue D Baptist Church and had lived in Brownwood since moving there from McCamey in 1993. He was a foreman in the petroleum business and was a firefighter for many years in McCamey. He served in the Army in World War II. He married Mabel (Norwood) Holder November 6, 1991. She passed away February 20, 2003. Member of Oddfellows and Rebekah Lodge in Brownwood, served as a Deacon and Sunday School Director at Avenue D Baptist Church.

Survivors include Stella Ann Schoenewolf and husband Doug of Bay City, Texas, William Douglas Holder and wife Paula of Kermit, Texas, Wanda Ruth Dufresne and husband Larry of Holland, Michigan, Rebecca Pritchett and husband Gary of Coahoma, Texas, Mary Ella Holder of Big Spring, Texas, Christopher Alan Holder and wife Sharon of Midland, Texas, 3 step-sons: Ronnie Norwood and wife Alice of McCamey, Texas, Gary Norwood and wife Vivian of Snyder, Texas, Sandy Norwood and wife RoseAnn of McCamey, Texas, 27 grandchildren, and 33 great-grandchildren, sister: Winnie Stokes and husband Odus of Brownwood, Texas and dear friend Maureen Watson of Santa Anna, Texas.

Preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mabel Holder, brother C. C. Holder, and sister Minnie Lou Holder.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Avenue D Baptist Church, 1105 Ave D, Brownwood, Texas 76801.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 14, 2007

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

Virginia Gail Wilkins Farley, 54

Virginia Gail Wilkins Farley, 54, of Coleman, died Saturday, July 14, 2007 at her residence. A Visitation and Memorial Service will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at the Coleman City Park. Please bring pictures for everyone to share. Her body will be cremated. Arrangements are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Virginia Gail Wilkins Farley was born October 4, 1952 in Coleman, the daughter of Annie B. Stovall Wilkins and the late Robert (Pete) Wilkins. She grew up and attended school in Coleman. She was a LVN and worked for Dr. J.P. Jones, Coleman County Medical Center and most recently Millwood Psychiatric Hospital. She retired in 2001. She was also an Ombudsman for the United States Navy Reserve.

Survivors include three daughters, Ashleah Baker and her husband, Chris, of Dublin, Lindsay DelBosque of Grand Prairie, Jaci Valdelamar and husband, Juan, of Grand Prairie; her mother, Annie B. Wilkins of South Dakota; one sister, Judy Stephenson of South Dakota; seven grandchildren, Samantha Baker and Tabitha Baker, Victoria Del Bosque and Michael "Buddy" Del Bosque, Alexandria Valdelamer, Sophia Valdelamar, Olivia Valdelamar; one niece, Charity Stephenson and husband, Jesse Ahlquist; one great-nephew, Taylor Ahlquist and two great nieces, Courtney Ahlquist and Chelsea Ahlquist.

She was preceded in death by her father. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the American Heart Association.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 19, 2007

Alvin "Pete" Flynn, 80

Alvin "Pete" Flynn of Rockwood, Texas, died Thursday, July 19, 2007, at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, Texas. Graveside services will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday, July 26, 2007 at the Valley View Cemetery in Garden City, Kansas, under the direction of Garnard Funeral Home. Local arrangements were made by Stevens Funeral Home.

Alvin "Pete" Flynn was born May 12, 1927 in Arkansas, the son of Alvin Banks Flynn and Jeanette "Jenny" Leach Flynn. He grew up and attended school in Rosebud, Arkansas. On January 26, 1949, he married Peggy Hankins in Garden City, Kansas. Pete worked all over the United States and overseas as a Driller and Tool Pusher in the oil fields for 37 years. He moved to Rockwood from Garden City 11 years ago and was a deacon at Rockwood Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Peggy Flynn of Rockwood; two sons, Alvin L. Flynn, Jr. of Garden City, Kansas, Leon Fisher of Leoti, Kansas; one sister, Maurine Newell of Memphis, Tennessee, one brother, Bert Flynn of Garden City, Kansas; three grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one son, William Virgil Flynn, one brother and one sister.

Memorials may be sent to the American Heart Association or the donor’s favorite charity.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 26, 2007, page 9.)

July 20, 2007

Thomas Gilbert Walker, 44

Thomas Gilbert "Tommy" Walker, of Coleman, Texas went to be with his Lord and Savior, and dear Mother on Friday, July 20, 2007 at the age of 44. Services are at 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 23, 2007 in the Walker Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverends John Stanislaw and Kermit Sorrells officiating, with Masonic services following. Interment will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., Sunday, July 22, 2007 at Tom G. Walker Funeral Home, 401 Commercial Avenue, Coleman, Texas.

Born on July 26, 1962 to Tommie Gilbert Walker and Sarah Louise Reeves Walker in Coleman, Texas, Tommy graduated from Coleman High School, then moved to Brownwood and lived there for 18 years before moving back to Coleman. Tommy was a volunteer assistant at Tom. G. Walker Funeral Home, a member of the Coleman Noon Lions Club, the Coleman Masonic Lodge, and First Baptist Church of Coleman.

He is survived by father and step-mother, Tom and Lillian Walker of Coleman, two brothers and sisters–in-law, Tim and Ginger Walker of Coleman, Todd and Becky Walker of Kingwood, Texas, two step-sisters and brothers-in-law; Mrs. Cindy and James Davidson, Mrs. Beth and Bill Shugart, one step-brother and sister-in-law Scott and Nancy Pierce of Dallas; uncles and aunts Skeet and Wanda Walker of Cross Plains, Sammie Sue and Johnnie Marrs of Crane, Texas, and Mrs. Faye Walker of Panhandle, Texas; several nephews and nieces.

He will be missed by all who knew him. Memorials can be made to First Baptist Church Family Center at 200 E. College Ave, Coleman, Texas 76834 or Hospice of the Big Country at 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July x, 2007, page x.)

July 23, 2007

Alton J. Dobbins, 80

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 26, 2007, page 9.)

Mrs. Willie B. Powe, 87

Mrs. Willie B. Powe formerly of the Talpa area passed away July 23, 2007 in San Angelo, Texas. Family visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to service time, July 25, 2007 in the Walker Funeral Home in Coleman. Services will follow at 2:00 p.m., July 25, 2007 with Chaplin Robert Foemfleot officiating. Interment will follow in the Talpa Cemetery.

Mrs. Powe was born May 25, 1920 near Talpa and was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Dewey and Clara Odessa Berryman Martin. She married the late Mr. August F. Powe on the family ranch near Talpa February 2, 1951. She loved to quilt and belonged to the Valera Quilting Club. She graduated from the Centennial School as Valedictorian. Mr. Powe preceded her in death in 2001. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Talpa.

Mrs. Powe is survived by a daughter and son-in-law Martha and Michael Fullen of San Angelo, Texas; son and daughter-in-law Billy and Kathy Powe of San Angelo, Texas; brother Kenneth Martin on the family farm near Valera and Talpa; 2 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 26, 2007, page 9.)

July 25, 2007

Randall Ivy, 73

Randall Ivy, of Baird, passed away Wednesday, July 25, 2007, in the Coleman Medical Center, Coleman, Texas. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 28th, at the Parker Funeral Home Chapel in Baird, Texas, with David Stephens officiating. Interment will follow in the Ross Cemetery Annex in Baird. Services are under the direction of Parker Funeral Home.

Randall was born April 4, 1934, in Cottonwood, Texas, to Cleo and Lucibel Mitchell Ivy. He had lived all his life in Baird, Texas, and was retired from the Texas State Department of Highways and Public Transportation. He had served in the U.S. Army, was a member of the First Baptist Church of Baird, as well as the Shady Oaks Golf Association. He married Glenda Yeager on June 12, 1953, in Baird, Texas. She preceded him in death on January 16, 2000.

Randall is survived by his mother, Lucibel Manion of Baird, Texas; his son Rodney Randall Ivy, and his wife Debbie, of Coleman, Texas; two brothers, Felix Manion and Cleo Ivy, and one sister, Anita Tatum, all of Baird, Texas; two granddaughters, Lindsay Ivy of College Station, Texas, and Allicyn Ivy of Fort Worth, Texas; one uncle, John "Ted" Ivy of Lake Havasu, Nevada, and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will be available for visitation at Randall’s home in Baird beginning Friday.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 31, 2007, page 11.)

Randall Ivy

July 26, 2007

Dr. Mary Joyce Mays, 85

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 31, 2007, page 11.)

July 28, 2007

Mary "Sissy" Harvard, 74

Mary "Sissy" Harvard went to be with the Lord on July 28, 2007 after a courageous battle with a lengthy illness. Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. today (Tuesday) at Episcopal Church of the Holy Trinity with the Rev. Dr. Mark Cannaday officiating. Interment will follow in Resthaven Memorial Park. Memorials may be made in Honor of Sissy Harvard to Hospice of Midland, 911 W. Texas, Midland, Texas 79701. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home.

Sissy was born to Russell and Lillie Allen on May 12, 1933 in Leaday, Coleman County, Texas. She spent years in the professional rodeo circuit and was a founding member of the Girl’s Rodeo Association. Sissy married John B. Harvard II on June 24, 1960 and they were married for 40 years and had five children. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and two brothers, Lewis and Lawrence Allen.

She is survived by her children, daughters Marcia Harvard of Midland, Mona and husband Clay Stone of Midland and Mitzi and husband Jim Truelock of Eastland; son, John Harvard III of Midland; and daughter, Rachel Harvard and companion Connie Spahn of Midland. She is also survived by her grandchildren - granddaughters Shawn and husband Trey Spencer of Midland, Suzanne and husband Mark Madrid of Killeen, Amanda Valdez of San Antonio and Kalin Harvard of Midland; grandsons, Shamar Freeman of Midland, Jack and wife Brittany Freeman of Odessa and TJ and wife Lacy Freeman of Odessa; eight great-grandchildren, Ashlyn Spencer, Christopher Spencer, Adrian Spencer, Michael Madrid, Mark Madrid, Dylan Freeman, Rhiannon Freeman and Jack Freeman.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 31, 2007, page 11.)

Mary "Sissy" Harvard

July 29, 2007

Beatrice Byerly, 86

Beatrice Byerly, 86, of Austin and formerly of Coleman, died Sunday, July 29, 2007 at Texas Community Hospice of Huguley Hospital in Fort Worth. Funeral services will be 2:00 p. m. Friday, August 3, 2007 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman with Rev. Daniel Stovall officiating. Burial will be in the Coleman City Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Beatrice Byerly was born June 17, 1921 in Coleman County, Texas, the daughter of Roe Smith and Juanita Eller Smith. She grew up in Coleman County and graduated from Novice High School. She married Jacob Herman Byerly. He preceded her in death in November 1963. She had lived in Coleman for many years before moving to Austin in April, 2003. She worked as a dispatcher for Schlumberger and Halliburton, worked at Central Texas Opportunities, volunteered with Meals On Wheels and was a member of Concho Baptist Church.

Survivors include two sons, James Byerly of Fort Worth, Dennis Byerly of San Angelo; four daughters, Carylon Howell of Dripping Springs, Sandy Jones of Austin, Betty Harrison of Fort Worth, Kathryn Schneider of Stephenville; one brother, Aubrey Smith of Brownwood; two sisters, Thelma Sheffield of Austin, Jane Bennett of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 19 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and two great-geat grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by seven brothers and two sisters.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 31, 2007, page 11; and
Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, August 2, 2007, page 13.)

Beatrice Byerly

July 31, 2007

Doris Garvin,m 91

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, July 2, 2007, page 13.)

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This page last updated on November 16, 2007