November 2007 Coleman County, Texas Obituaries

Coleman County, Texas Obituaries for November 2007

November 1, 2007

Joe D. Copeland, 77

Joe D. Copeland passed away November 1, 2007 at the Hospice Unit in Midland Memorial Hospital. Funeral services have been scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 5, 2007 at St. Luke's United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. Honorary pallbearers will be Robert Erwin, Jerry Garnett, Lloyd McDonald, Robert Holzheuser, Mickey McMeans, Pat Greatan, Rick Armstrong, Buster Taylor, Ben Jarrett, Larry Smith and Jr. Dorn. To place online condolences visit www.mem.com.

He was born in San Antonio on September 24, 1930 to Joseph and Margaret Copeland. He married Beverly Jones on December 27, 1950 in Coleman, Texas. Joe graduated from Marfa High School, received his Bachelor's from East Texas State at Commerce, and his Master's in Education from the University of Guam. He was an educator in Wolfforth for 6 years, Guam for 8 years, and for 21 years in Borden County. He was involved in all student activities from "bus driving to busting butts." His dedication and commitment to education and students positively influenced many young lives. Joe and Beverly also spent 8 summers working at the Fun Valley Family Resort in Southfork, Colorado. After Joe retired from education, he worked 6 years for the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication.

He was a member of the Lions Club in Wolfforth and Borden County, and a member of St. Luke's Methodist Church of Midland. Joe and Bev also enjoyed square dancing with the Sparkle City Squares in Snyder.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Jean Dews and brother in law, Carlin Wicker.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Copeland of Midland, Texas; two sons, Wil Copeland and life partner, Dale Smith of Kihei, Maui, Hawaii; and Clay Copeland and wife, Mary, of Midland, Texas; one daughter, Kay Garvin and Dale Scott of Arlington, Texas. Also surviving are grandchildren, Lisa Ping and husband Len of Chatham, Illinois; Chrystal Copeland of Midland, Texas; David and Kevin Garvin of Arlington, Texas, great-grandchildren, Jalen and Justin Ping; sister, June Wicker of Fredericksburg, Texas; brother-in-laws, Clifton Fine Dews of San Angelo, Texas; and Tom Jones and wife, Janet of New York, New York.

The family will receive friends at Ellis Funeral Home, Sunday, November 4, 2007 between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. The family suggests that memorials be made to Hospice of Midland, 911 W. Texas, Midland, Texas 79701, for they are truly "Angels on Earth."

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

Joe D. Copeland

November 2, 2007

Lewis M. Whitmire, 74

Lewis M. Whitmire of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Friday, November 2, 2007 at 7:05 a.m. at his residence. Services will be Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion with Reverends Paul Stephens, Roger Matthews and Art Allen officiating. Interment will follow with services under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. The family will receive friends Monday from 6 until 7 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home.

He was born Lewis Maynard Whitmire on March 13, 1933 in Clyde, Texas to the late Seth Orr and Berlie Lee Paulk Whitmire. He was raised and attended school at Oplin, Texas and lived in California 1957-1966. Lewis was a veteran of the Korean Conflict serving in the United States Air Force. On October 19, 1982 he married Lorene Hutchison in Brady, Texas and they celebrated twenty two years of marriage. Lorene preceded him in death in 2005. Lewis was resident of Santa Anna since 1980 where he was a member of Christ Church Mission of Santa Anna and had served on many committees while a member of First United Methodist Church. He was also a member of AA and John Burks Society and a retired truck mechanic.

Survivors include a daughter, Tonya Goss of Quanna, Texas; two sons, Seth Whitmire of Visiala. California; Delwin Whitmire of Auberry, California; three stepsons, Joe, Bobby, and Gary Hale all of Santa Anna, Texas; a sister, Laverne Whitmire of Tyler, Texas; four brothers, Sonny Whitmire of Hawley, Texas; Eugene Whitmire of Clyde, Texas; Kermit Whitmire of Denton Valley, Texas; Donald Whitmire (MIA); nieces and nephews; thirteen grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren.

Lewis was preceded in death by son Ricky Whitmire and great grandson James York, Jr.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Ellkis, S. D. Fellers, Jarvis George, Frank Gray, Curtis Skelton, Ernie Turner.

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

November 3, 2007

David C. Carter, 53

David Carter of Novice died Saturday, November 3, 2007. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 7, 2007 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Leaday Cemetery, under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

David C. Carter was born November 13, 1953 in Coleman, the son of Margie Langehenneg Carter and the late Thomas W. Carter. He grew up in Coleman and attend school in Coleman and at Talpa-Centennial. He built motorcycles, was an electrician, mechanic and was employed at Jet Lube at the time of his death. He was active in motorcycle rides that help organizations, such as Toys for Tots. He was a Baptist.

Survivors include five children, Heather Beverly of Abilene, Amber Ramon of Coleman, David Carter, Jr. of Ballinger, Larry Wayne Carter of Coleman, Tamara Carter of Coleman; his mother, Margie Carter of Coleman; brothers and sisters, Thomas Wayne Carter of Coleman, Marcia Wardlow of Coleman, Adam Carter of San Angelo, Earl Carter of Santa Anna, Sheila Carter of Coleman; aunts, Joyce Stacey of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Patsy Bruner of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Wanda Cox of Fort Worth, Betty Bilbrey of Lubbock; an uncle, Joe Langehenneg of Coleman; seven grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father and two sons, Dustin Wayne Carter and Justin Gene Carter.

Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at Stevens Funeral Home.

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

David built motorcycles and a large number of bikers escorted the procession to the Leaday Cemetery.
(Colemannews.com)

Bessie Inetha May Rice, 92

Bessie Inetha May Rice of Granbury and former Coleman County resident, died Saturday, November 3, 2007 in North Richland Hills. Graveside services will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at the Glen Cove Cemetery with Rev. Daniel Stovall officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

Bessie Inetha May Rice was born April 7, 1915 in Runnels County, Texas, to Alfred C. and Nota Barmore May, and died February 3, 2007 in Fort Worth, Texas. She grew up in Glen Cove in Coleman County and persisted until she earned her diploma from Talpa High School, a significant achievement in the hard times of the Great Depression. Just as young men responded to the attack on Pearl Harbor by joining the armed forces, Bessie left Coleman to do her part to defend her country. At North American Aviation in Grand Prairie, Texas, she became a genuine Rosie the Riveter, building AT-6 trainers, P-51 Mustang fighters, and B-25 Mitchell bombers. There she met and married Carl O. Rice, a machinist, in 1943. "Rice" pre-deceased Bessie in February, 2007. Bessie Rice was proud of the variety of things she had done in her long life. For her dozens of homemade decorated cookies and Halloween popcorn balls, kids said that Mrs. Rice was "the coolest room-mother" at the schools of her daughters Carlene and Kathy. The consummate seamstress, Bessie made most of her family’s garments, from choir performance costumes to business suits to wedding gowns to christening dresses, sewing in each one her label "Fashioned by Bessie May Rice." Bessie said she most enjoyed her years of working at the Berry Patch, a fabric store in Arlington, Texas, where she guided and encouraged her customers in choosing and completing projects. Bessie maintained that even novices should use high quality fabrics because using good materials make people do their best, ensuring success and satisfaction in their work.

Bessie May Rice is survived by Carlene Shupee’ and beloved son-in-law George Shupee’, Arlington; Dr. Kathleen Rice, Austin; grandchildren Stephen and Rachel Shupee’, Jarod Shupee’, and Lindsey Shupee’, all of Arlington; and Craig Shupee’, Chicago. She also leaves siblings Chloris Kincaid, Fairfield, California; Edith Bullock, Coleman, Texas; and Clayton and Ruth May, Alvarado, Texas.

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

November 5, 2007

Gevenda Lou Findley Dobbins, 48

Gevenda Lou Findley Dobbins, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Fred Delphia Findley, passed away Monday, November 5, 2007 in the Holiday Hill Nursing Home. Funeral services will be at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 7, at Walker Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Louise Strength officiating. Burial will be later. Family visitation was held Tuesday evening, November 6.

She was born June 27, 1959 in Harlen, Kentucky. She was married to David Dobbins in Coleman February 14, 1990 and was a member of the Brazos Street Community Church and was activity director at Leisure Lodge.

Survivors include her husband, David Dobbins of Coleman; two daughters, Janet Gross of Stephenville and Jenene Findley of Coleman.

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

November 6, 2007

Santa Anna Native Killed in Northeast Texas Vehicle Accident

Melinda Carol Horner, 54 of Honey Grove, Texas, passed away Tuesday, November 6 at Paris Regional Medical Center from injuries received in a late Tuesday afternoon accident 15 miles east of Honey Grove on U.S. Highway 82. She was a junior high English teacher in the Honey Grove ISD where her husband, David Horner, 52, is an assistant coach. According to a Paris, Texas newspaper, the couple’s 2004 Ford Windstar was traveling east on U.S. 82 when the husband noticed a dark colored horse running west bound in the east bound lane, according to Texas Department of Public Safety records. "He did not have time to brake before hitting the horse," DPS communication’s operator Samantha Powers of the Sherman DPS office advised. David was treated and released from Paris Regional Medical Center. Classes at all Honey Grove schools were dismissed Wednesday due to the tragedy but were scheduled to re-open today.

(Colemannews.com, Coleman, Texas, November 8, 2007.)

Melinda Carik Horner, 54

Melinda Carol Horner, 54 of Honey Grove, Texas, passed away Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at Paris Regional Medical Center. Funeral Services will be at 10:00am Friday, November 9, at First Baptist Church in Honey Grove. Rev. Phillip Barnes will preside. Pallbearers will be Todd Morrison and the Coaching Staff at Honey Grove ISD. Visitation will be from 7:00pm to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, November 8, at Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home in Honey Grove. Funeral Services will then be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 10, at First Baptist Church in Santa Anna with burial in Santa Anna Cemetery. Rev. John Stanislaw will officiate. Visitation in Santa Anna will be from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening, November 9, at Henderson Funeral Home in Santa Anna.

Mrs. Horner was born October 22, 1953 at Santa Anna to Rodney Dean and Sybil Fellers Dean. She married David Lynn Horner August 25, 1973 at Santa Anna. She was a middle school teacher at Honey Grove and had been employed by Honey Grove ISD for several years. She was a member of Allens Point Baptist. Melinda was a beloved wife, mother and Mammie to her grandchildren. She was an inspiring teacher that lived for her students.

She is survived by her husband, David of the home; daughter, Chinah Horner of Honey Grove; son and daughter-in-law, Chance and Alisha Horner of Abilene; two grandchildren, Grace and Everett Horner; her mother, Sybil Eubank of Santa Anna; two brothers, Roddy Dean and wife Debbie of Santa Anna and Rocky Dean and wife Brenda of Crowley; her sister, Beth Steele of Granbury.

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

November 7, 2007

Bobby Lewis, 42

Bobby Lewis of Santa Anna passed away at the Coleman County Medical Center Wednesday, November 7, 2007. Funeral services will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 9, at the Santa Anna Cemetery Pavilion, directed by Henderson Funeral Home. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at Henderson Funeral Home in Santa Anna.

Bobby was born November 19, 1964 in Brownwood to Cynthia Tabor Lewis and the late Franklin Lewis. He was a lifetime resident of Brownwood and Santa Anna and graduated from Santa Anna High School. Bobby was a Methodist and oilfield worker.

Survivors include his mother, Cynthia Lewis of Santa Anna; a brother, Jason Lewis of Santa Anna.

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

Margaret Jane Cleveland

Margaret Jane (Bales) Cleveland died in her homs in Vail, Arizona on November 7, 2007. A memorial service will be held at the Coleman Cemetery Pavilion on December 16, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. with Daniel Stovall officiating.

She was born in Coleman, Texas on February 7, 1941 and was a Coleman High School graduate. Being a Respiratory Therapist in Arizona for many years made her more caring and strong in Baptist faith. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bernay Harris of Coleman.

She is survived by three sons, all residing in Arizona, John Hemphill, Mike and Bill Cleveland; along with numerous cousins.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, December 4, 2008, page 12.)

November 8, 2007

Rex Beck, 82

Rex Beck, longtime Valera resident, passed away Thursday evening (November 8) at a nursing home in Merkel. Family visitation was from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, November 10, at Walker Funeral Home in Coleman. Services will be at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, November 11, at the Valera Cemetery Pavilion with Lee Perkins and Carter Edmondson officiating. Prior to services Sunday, there was a luncheon at 1:30 p.m. at Big O's in Valera for family, friends and especially the Valera Baptist ladies group.

Rex was born September 2, 1925 in Valera to the late George J. and Maude Mitchell Beck, both of whom were pioneer Coleman County families. Rex lived most of his life in Coleman County. After retirement as a cattle buyer, he lived in the house in which he was born, being the original Dr. H. H. Mitchell home in Valera, built in 1905. Rex attended Talpa schools, graduating in 1943. Always interested in sports, he played high school basketball and was quarterback on the football team. Rex became a tie-down calf roper and won his first roping at the age of 13. He was a charter member of the Rodeo Cowboys Association, the forerunner of what is now the PRCA. He became a professional calf roper at the age of 18. He met and later married Patsy Ruth Pruitt on March 25, 1949 in Coleman. Their 58 years of commitment to each other through thick and thin shows the quiet love they felt for one another. Rex was consistently in the Top 15 year-end standings in the Rodeo Cowboys Association in the 1940's and 50's. He placed or won at most of the larger rodeos including Madison Square Garden in New York City five times. He was most well known for his consistency in not missing a calf, rather than his speed. He roped in many "matched calf ropings" with other notable ropers of his time, such as Toots Mansfield, Ray Wharton, Buddy Groff and Jim Bob Altizer. Rex qualified for the first National Finals Rodeo held in Dallas in 1959. At the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Rex held the record for having the fastest time for 23 years. Rex attributed most of his success in the arena to riding two great horses. Raider, a plain gelding owned by his brother, Hal Beck and a sorrel gelding, known only as Granddad. When Rex retired from tie-down roping, he became an avid golfer making five Holes-in-One, three at Merkel Country Club and two at Coleman Country Club. He competed and won in many golf tournaments around the Big Country during the next 40 years of his life. When he could no longer play nine holes, he continued to practice putting for several more years or play just a hole or two. Rex Beck was the epitome of the true cowboy. A man of very few words, he was always a gentleman. He will be remembered as a man who still believed a man's word and his handshake was better than any written and signed contract. He was a strong competitor and humble winner in the arena or on the golf course. He leaves his family with the knowledge of the type of person we should strive to become.

Survivors include his wife, Pat Beck; daughter; Jan Beck-Woodall and husband Danny of Merkel; granddaughter, Tara Lee Woodall of Merkel; sister-in-laws, Dorrice Beck of San Angelo and Wanda Sue Hughes of Merkel; brother-in-law, C. L. Meeks of Parumph, Nevada; six nieces and five nephews. Rex was preceeded in death by a son, Kenneth Rex Beck and his brother, Hal.

Those wishing to send memorials can make them to the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, Box 104, Walnut Springs, Texas, to the West Texas Rehab Center, the Coleman Country Club, or a charity of your choice.

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

November 9, 2007

Evelyn May Peffer West, 80

Evelyn May Peffer West, a native of Battle Creek, Michigan and resident of Santa Anna, died Friday, November 9, 2007 in Dallas, Texas. Memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 12, at Santa Anna Assembly of God where she was a faithful member. Burial will occur at a later date. Arrangements are by Guerrero-Dean Funeral Home of Grand Prairie.

Mrs. West was a homemaker, proud of her contributions to her country, working as an assembler of fragmentation bombs in Iowa during World War II.

Survivors include her children, Michael McDonald, Twyla Wallace, Tracy McDonald and Don West; 7 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; brother, Harold Peffer.

She was preceeded in death by her husband, Don West; a sister, Vivian Rettinghaus; and a brother, Charles Peffer.

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

Dortha Watkins, 87

Dortha Watkins, 87, of Coleman, Texas passed away on Friday, November 9, 2007 at Coleman County Medical Center in Coleman. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 12, 2007 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Rising Star, Texas with Dr. Jeff Miller officiating. Burial followed in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Dortha was born on March 18, 1920 in Rising Star, Texas to Virgil Carl and Eula Belle (Mayfield) Alford. She married Julius Edward Watkins on June 22, 1946 in Rising Star, Texas.

She is survived by her husband, Edward Watkins of Coleman; daughter, Julia Kathryn Weise of Coleman; sister, Johnnie Yancy of Tyler; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother.

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

November 10, 2007

Garland Wireman, 86

Garland Wireman died Saturday November 10, 2007 in Kerrville. Graveside funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 14 at the Voss Cemetery Pavilion with Mickey Wireman officiating. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Family visitation will be held on Tuesday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.

Garland Wireman was born July 18, 1921 in Leaday, Coleman County, Texas, a son of the late Lawrence F. Wireman and Lena Arvilla Stephens Wireman. He grew up in Coleman County and graduated from Mozelle High School. On March 25, 1939 he married Mary Virginia Arnold. From 1939 to 1953 he ranched in Coleman County and from 1953 to 1973 he worked as a dispatcher and cementer for Halliburton. He then went to work for the Texas Railroad Commission as an Inspector and retired in 1986. Mr. Wireman lived in San Angelo for several years and had lived in Kerrville for the last two years. He was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Mary V. Wireman of Kerrville, Texas; two sons, Mickey Wireman of Hunt, Texas and Terry Wireman of Ingram, Texas; five grandchildren, Fara Baker of San Angelo, Lara Natario of San Antonio, Karina Martin of Houston, Seith Wireman of Phoenix, Arizona and Arett Wireman of San Angelo, Texas; nine great-grandchildren, Guner Smith, Sterling Smith, Seth Smith, Aidan Martin, Regan Martin, Coy, Bri, Sayne Wireman, Tate Potter.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Gladys Creek and Annie Laura Barsch.

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

J. B. Broyles, 82

Whitney - A graveside service to honor the life of J. B. Broyles will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 24, 2007, at the Talpa Cemetery in Talpa, Texas. Rosser Funeral Home of Cleburne is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Broyles passed away on November 10, 2007, in Forth Worth, Texas. He was born in Talpa, Texas on October 1, 1925, the son of Delia (Walden) and Andy Broyles. He was a retired Physician's Assistant for the Federal Bureau of Prisons and had served his country in the United States Army Air Corps.

Mr. Broyles is survived by his sons, Steven Broyles and wife, Cheryl, of Benbrook, David Broyles of Glen Rose, and J. B. Broyles, Jr. and wife, Teresa, of Saginaw; daughters, Judy Williams of Fort Worth and Wanda Holtzclaw of Joshua; brother, Floyd Broyles of Coleman; sister, Donnie Mitchell of Waco nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Larry Broyles. He was dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 20, 2007, page 14.)

(Image to be added)

J. B. Broyles

November 11, 2007

Lonnie Jackson, 76

Lonnie Jackson, of Coleman, died Sunday, November 11, 2007 at a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 15 in Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Sam Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the Coleman City Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Family visitation will be held on Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Stevens Funeral Home.

Lonnie E. Jackson was born September 17, 1931 in Coleman County, a son of the late Waid Jackson and Lucille Lindeman Jackson. He grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School in 1949. On March 29, 1951 he married Ruby Jennings in Coleman and she preceded him in death on February 16, 2005. Lonnie was a self-employed truck driver and a Baptist. In years past he worked in Civil Defense.

He is survived by two daughters, Ruby Seals and husband Dudley of Crowley, Cindy Bell of Pilot Point; one son, Lonnie Waid Jackson and wife Wanda of Coleman; one sister, Fay Roberts and husband Ken of Odessa; four grandsons and one granddaughter, Trae Seals and wife Dallas, Jason Seals and wife Ramona, Travis Jackson and wife Leanna, Justin Bell and Amanda Boucher; seven great-grandchildren, Dominic Bemas, Blake Seals, Savannah Seals, Garrett Seals, Tiffani Seals, Emily Seals and Wyatt Jackson.

Memorials may be made to Loaves and Fishes, P. O. Box 105, Coleman, Texas 76834 or to any local food bank.

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

Henry E. Sharp, 93

Henry E. Sharp, 93, passed away Saturday, November 10, 2007. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. this morning (Tuesday) in Greenwood Chapel in Fort Worth, Texas with interment to follow at Greenwood Memorial Park.

Henry worked as a farmer in Coleman County for approximately 15 years. He then moved to Fort Worth in 1949, where he worked for Convair as a riveter. He went on to work a number of years for C. W. Lyle Exxon Service Station, where he had many friends. He was a member of Birchman Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Lillian Sharp; two sons, Henry B. Sharp and wife Pat and Fred L. Sharp and wife Karon; grandsons, Michael, Robert, Niklaus and Christopher Sharp; brother, Leonard Sharp; sister, Christine Whitley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to a charity of choice.

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

Henry E. Sharp

November 13, 2007

Bernice Buck Parker, 93

Bernice Buck Parker, long-time resident of Borger and former Coleman resident, died Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at a nursing home in Plano, Texas. Graveside funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 17 at the Coleman Cemetery Pavilion. Services are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home, Coleman.

She was born Bernice Buck on June 30, 1914 in Coleman, Texas, a daughter of the late Oscar Buck and Nettie Curry Buck. She grew up in Coleman, attended school at Echo, Rae and Coleman. In 1934 she married Hollaway Parker, Sr. in Ballinger and he preceded her in death in 1986. Mrs. Parker lived in Coleman and Brownwood prior to moving to Borger, Texas where she resided for 43 years. Due to ill health, she moved to Plano in December 2006. She was a homemaker and one of Jehovah's Witnesses, having been baptized 73 years ago.

Survivors include one son, Hollaway Parker and wife Eva of Coleman; one daughter, Becky Parker Potts of Plano; two sisters, Leona Briggs of Guthrie, Oklahoma, Nina Tharp of San Angelo; four grandchildren, Debbie Little and husband Roger, Donna Winkle and husband David, Joel Parker Potts and wife Alyssa, Rebecca Shank and husband Merreck; two great-grandchildren, Trey Alan Little and wife Kelly, Dylan W. Winkle; two great-great grandchildren, Tyler Alan Little and Jake Parker Little; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three brothers, Weldon Buck, Rex Buck and Oscar W. Buck, two sisters, Chris Rambo and Joyce Crouch. Memorials may be made to Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witness Building Fund in Borger, Texas.

Family visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, November 16, at Stevens Funeral Home.

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

James Arnold Owens, Jr., 84

James Arnold Owens, Jr. died Tuesday, November 13, 2007, at an Abilene hospital. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 17, 2007, in Oplin Baptist Church with Reverends James Teel and Daniel Stovall officiating. Burial will be in Oplin Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola.

James was born to Jewell Faye Hampton Owens and James Arnold Owens, Sr. September 21, 1923, in Nugent (Taylor County), Texas. A veteran of World War II, he served in the Seabees of the U. S. Navy building roads on Okinawa. He married Vera Archer July 1, 1946, in Abilene. The couple moved to Boron, California in 1946, where he worked for U. S. Borax and Chemical Company, retiring after 27 years as a supervisor. He also owned and operated Boron TV Sales and Service in Boron. He moved to the Oplin area in 1973, and worked as superintendent of the Lawn Water System, retiring after 26 years, and owned and operated Oplin Jot-Um-Down Store since 1983. He was a Demoley Dad and Master Mason in the Masonic Lodge in Boron, California for 40 plus years and a member of Oplin Baptist Church. Preceding him in death were his parents; a brother, Bobby Jean Owens; and one grandson, Randie Morris.

Survivors include his wife, Vera Owens of Oplin; three daughters, Alice Marie Denunzio and husband David of Oplin, Judy Ann Woodard and husband Tarlton "Butch" of Oplin, and Arletta Kay O'Shields and husband James of Coleman; six grandchildren, Cheryl Smoot, Tiffeny Fulgham, Levi Woodard, Regina Woodard, Amanda O'Shields, and Jarret O'Shields; six great-grandchildren, Kamryn Calderon, Gilbert Calderon, Jr., Alisyn Smoot, Morgan Fulgham, Emery Fulgham, and Brockston Woodard; seven brothers, Burl Owens and wife Erma Lee of Abilene, Floyd Ray Owens and wife Biff of Temple, Harold Dean Owens and wife Mary of Redding, California, Don Owens and wife Kacky of Fruitvale, Texas, Mack Owens of Abilene, Jerry Owens of Lebanon, Tennessee, and Frank Owens and wife Glenda of Clyde; two sisters, Lavoy Williams of Oplin and Jodie Owens of Henrietta; numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 16, 2007, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Oplin Baptist Church Building Fund, 17892 CR 225, Clyde, Texas 79510 or Oplin Volunteer Fire Department, c/of Shirley Landers, 10396 FM 604, Ovalo, Texas 79541.

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

James Arnold Owens, Jr.

Bettye M. Cathey, 75

Bettye M. Cathey, 75, of Hawkins, Texas passed away Tuesday, November 13, 2007 in a Tyler Texas Hospice. Arrangements are under the direction of Tyler Memorial Funeral Home in Tyler, Texas.

She was born July 4, 1932 in Echo, Texas to the late Thomas Newton and Ruth Staggs. Mrs. Cathey lived in Hawkins for a few months and was a former resident of Haltom City, Texas. She was a retired medical bookkeeper.

Mrs. Cathey was prededed in death by her husband, Herman Cathey; son, Mark Cathey; grandson, Aaron Havens; and brothers Jay Staggs and Thomas Staggs.

Mrs. Cathey is survived by two sons, Byron Cathey of San Antonio and Gregg Cathey of Garland; one daughter, Debra Havens of Hawkins; four brothers, Kenneth, Roy, David and Jackie Staggs; three sisters, Lois Weiss, Patti Hendricks, and Ruth Ann Key; five grandchildren; one great grand-daughter; and several nieces and nephews.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 20, 2007, page 14.)

November 16, 2007

Danita Renae Batla, 45

Danita Renae Batla, of Garland, Texas passed from this life Friday morning, November 16, 2007 at Baylor Medical Center, Garland, Texas. A celebration of her life will be held Friday, November 23 at 10:00 a.m. at Restland Funeral Home, 9220 Restland Road, Dallas, Texas, with Ken Cunningham officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park. Family visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday night at the funeral home.

Danita was born August 30, 1962 in Coleman, Texas to Nick and Ruth Podrack. On February 8, 1986 she was married to Weston Batla in Dallas, Texas. She graduated from Coleman High School in 1980 and later attended El Centro College School of Nursing in Dallas where she received an Associate Degree as a Registered Nurse. She had been employed at Baylor Medical Center in Garland for approximately 17 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Coleman.

Survivors include her husband, Weston, of Garland; two daughters, Brandi and Jordan of Garland; her grandbaby of Garland; her parents, Nick and Ruth Poldrack of Coleman and her grandmother, Ethel Radle of Santa Anna.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, P. A. Radle of Santa Anna and Arthur and Avis Poldrack of Coleman.

Pallbearers will be Zac and Gavin Gist, Juan Romero, Scot Hudy, Ron Jenkins and Gary Stacha. Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605 or Loaves and Fishes, P. O. Box 105, Coleman, Texas or the charity of donor's choice.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 20, 2007, page 14.)

Danita Renae Batla

November 18, 2007

Everett E. "Sonny" Baker, Jr., 67

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, December 4, 2008, page 12.)

November 19, 2007

Mrs. Emma Nell "Sing" Downey, 90

Mrs. Emma Nell (Sing) Downey, daughter of the late Mr. L. H. (Pearl) and Mrs. Effie Griffith, passed away November 19, 2007 at Coleman County Medical Center. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 21, in the Walker Funeral Chapel with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating. Interment will follow at the Gouldbusk Cemetery under the direction of Walker Funeral Home. Family visitation will be Tuesday from 6 to 7 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home.

She born in Gouldbusk on December 17, 1916. A graduate of the Gouldbusk High School, Sing spent her early life in the Gouldbusk area. She married the late Mr. Glyn Downey in Gouldbusk on October 6, 1940. He preceded her in death August 6, 2006. After living in San Angelo for many years, in 1975 they moved to Gouldbusk for the next twenty years before moving to Coleman in 1995. A member of the Baptist Church, Sing was a homemaker, and a member of the Eastern Star.

She is survived by one daughter; Beth Sexton of Coleman; one son, Don Downey of San Angelo; in-laws, Zelma, Sherwood and Jean Downey, Patsy Bartley all of Coleman, Doris and Bob Dehnel of San Angelo. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by one sister; Mary Love Griffith, two brothers-in-law; Malcolm and Billy.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 20, 2007, page 14.)

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Emma Nell "Sing" Downey

Ardell Monroe, 84

Ardell Monroe, of Valera, passed away Monday, November 19, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at the Coleman County Medical Center. Graveside services will be Wednesday at 11:00 AM at the Valera Cemetery with Rev. Charles Grossman officiating. Interment will follow with services under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5 until 7 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home.

He was born Charis Ardell Monroe on September 6, 1923 in Coleman County, Texas to the late Aaron Homer and Maud Chloe Akins Monroe. He is a lifetime resident of Coleman County and attended the Valera Schools and was a member of the Baptist Church. On September 6, 1946 Ardell married Wanda Moser in Talpa, Texas and they celebrated sixty one years of marriage. Ardell was employed in the oilfield then worked for Dry Manufacturing retiring in 1991.

Survivors include his wife, Wanda Monroe of Valera; 4 daughters, Betty Curty of Valera, Shirley Beal of Valera, Bonnie and husband Charles Grossman of Gatesville, Brenda Sikes of Valera; 2 sons, Terry Monroe and friend Cassandra Lewis of Coleman and Dewayne and wife Angie Monroe of Valera; 6 sisters, Mildred Barnes of Coleman, Billie Rouillard of Coleman, Joy Livingston of Abilene, Patsy Jackson of Coleman, Deoma Fisher of Coleman, Patricia Jones of Coleman; 2 brothers, Weldon Monroe of Andrews and L. J. Monroe of Coleman, Texas; several nieces and nephews; 15 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild.

Ardell was preceded in death by a son, Leonard Ardell Monroe in 1960, and by 2 sisters and 1 brother.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 22, 2007, page 11.)

November 20, 2007

Jewel Anderson, 97

Jewel Anderson, of Santa Anna, Texas passed away Tuesday November 20, 2007 at 8:50 p.m. at the Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Services will be Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at the Northside Church of Christ with Sam Wilson officiating. Interment will follow at Santa Anna Cemetery under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna. The family will receive friends Friday from 5 until 7 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home.

She was born Jewel Lena Robbins on October 15, 1910 in Brown County, Texas to the late James Alvin and Mary Ella Advants Robbins. She was raised in Brown and Coleman Counties where she attended the county schools, graduating from Santa Anna High School and Draughon Business College in Abilene. On December 17, 1936 Jewel married George Robert Anderson in Coleman, Texas and they celebrated fifty-six years of marriage. Robert preceded her in death in 1993. She had been a resident of Coleman County since 1921 and was a charter member of the Northside Church of Christ where she taught preschool children’s class for many years. Jewel worked as a nurse aide at Ranger Park Nursing Home and Hospital for several years and was a homemaker.

Survivors include four sons, Wilburn and wife Geneva Anderson of San Antonio, Texas; Stanley and wife Rowena Anderson of Santa Anna, Texas; Norman and wife Willetta Anderson of Santa Anna, Texas, Edward and wife Linda Anderson of Brookesmith, Texas; three sisters, Ruby Huggins of Stratford, Texas; Catherine Haney of Dalhart, Texas; Mary Ella and husband J. E. Brannon of Stratford, Texas; sister-in-law, Dorothy Robbins of Stratford, Texas; 13 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild.

Jewel was preceded in death by three sisters and three brothers.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 22, 2007, page 11; and
Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 27, 2007, page 13.)

November 22, 2007

Erma Tomlinson, 89

Erma Tomlinson, former Coleman resident, died Thursday, November 22, 2007 in a Pampa nursing home. Funeral service will be held 3:00 p.m. Sunday, November 25 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Pat McClatchy officiating. Burial will follow in the Burkett Cemetery under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home.

She was born May 16, 1918 in Burkett, Texas, a daughter of the late Arch B. Harris and Mary Lou Colvin Harris. She grew up in Burkett and graduated from Burkett High School in 1938. On May 12, 1940 she married Jimmie C. (J. C.) Tomlinson in Coleman and he preceded her in death. Following her marriage she lived in Corpus Christi for 25 years and returned to live in Coleman in 1976. She was a homemaker. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church where she worked with the United Methodist Women (UMW) and in the Clothing Room at the church. She received two life membership pins from UMW - one from St. John’s United Methodist Church in Corpus Christi and one from First United Methodist Church in Coleman. Mrs. Tomlinson was a member of VFW Post 8875 Ladies Auxiliary and worked 10 years as a volunteer at Leisure Lodge Care Center where she led a devotional program.

She is survived by one daughter, Jimmie Marie Davis of Pampa; four grandchildren, Gene Douglas Tomlinson, Christopher Robin Davis and wife Karol, Jonathan Gabriel Davis, Sarah Elizabeth Davis; step-grandson, Josh Harmon Cash; four great-grandchildren, Jennifer Ann Tomlinson, Savannah Marie Davis, Cheyanne Faith Day, London Hope Davis; two great-great grandchildren, Alicia and Alexandria Jones; several step great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Amanda Gayle Davis; three sisters, Virgie Adams, Elsie Porter, Lorene Gray; one brother, A. B. Harris, Jr.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 852, Coleman, Texas 76834.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 27, 2007, page 13.)

November 25, 2007

Richard Hubbard, 58

Richard Hubbard, of Coleman, died Sunday, November 25, 2007 at Coleman County Medical Center. By Richard's request, there will be no funeral service. Arrangements were made by Stevens Funeral Home.

Richard Hubbard was born May 2, 1949 in Coleman, Texas, a son of Faye Windham Hubbard Dean and the late Harold R. Hubbard. He grew up in Coleman and graduated from Coleman High School in 1967. Richard lived in Abilene and Fort Worth and moved back to Coleman a year ago. He was a dietary manager.

Survivors include his mother, Faye Dean of Coleman; two brothers, Mike Hubbard of Coleman and Vince Hubbard of Grapevine; three nieces and one nephew.

Memorials may be made to the Jack Cosby Scholarship Fund, Tuesday School, c/o Elm Street Church of Christ, P. O. Box 998, Coleman, Texas 76834.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, November 27, 2007, page 13.)

November 27, 2007

Jim Jones, 66

Jim passed away and went to be with the Lord on November 27, 2007 at his home in Dallas, Texas. Services will be in Santa Anna, Texas on Saturday, December 1, 2007 at noon at Henderson Funeral Home. Interment will follow at the Santa Anna Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Arthritis Foundation at 4300 MacArthur, Suite 245, Dallas, Texas 75209.

Jimmy was born on November 24, 1941 in Dallas and moved to Tennessee with his family when he was five. He was raised in Memphis, attended Castle Heights Military Academy and The University of Tennessee. He served his country with the U. S. Air Force. On May 28, 1961 Jimmy married Angela Regina Hatfield in Houston and they celebrated 41 years of marriage. He moved back to Texas in 1965 where he owned and operated an auto parts business. Jimmy had a wonderfully fun sense of humor which endeared him to family and friends, and he will be missed so very much.

He is survived by many loving family members, including his wife, Angie; a son and daughter-in-law, Clay and Ingrid and their children Avery and Ethan; son and daughter-in-law, Curtis and Angie who are expecting their first child in the spring. Also survived by sisters Linda Hubbard and Judi Jones and nephews Christopher Jones, Jason Hubbard, Daniel Hubbard, and Paul Hubbard.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chris and Jim Jones and sister Christy Sue Hay.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, December 4, 2007, page 12.)

Jim Jones

Willie Douglas Hopson, 77

Willie Douglas Hopson passed away Tuesday, November 27, 2007, at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Family only visitation will be on Thursday, November 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with friends and family viewing on Friday, November 30 and Saturday, December 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home.

Willie was born September 21, 1930 at Fort McKavette, Texas to the late Carl Clinton Hopson and Nettie Elizabeth Brown. He was a Korean War veteran, retired steel builder and a Baptist.

Survivors are two daughters, Lilly Jane Hopson and Lisa Jean Eldred, both of Coleman; five sons, William Dalton Hopson of Dublin, Wayne D. Hopson of Paris, Winston D. Hopson and Wesley David Hopson of Coleman and Wyatt D. Hopson of San Angelo. Willie is also survived by his ex-wife, Rufina Hopson of Coleman; three sisters, Niffie Lee Nicholson and Doris Virginia Fellers, both of Gillette, and Winona Stewart of Port Arthur; one brother, Richard Willie Hopson of Gillette; 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

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

November 28, 2007

Lucille King Herring, 88

Lucille King Herring, of Angelton, Texas formerly of Coleman,Texas passed away Wednesday at the Country Village in Angleton, Texas. Eastern Star Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. Sunday at the Coleman City Cemetery Pavilion with Rev. Kermit Sorrells officiating. Interment will follow under the direction of Henderson Funeral Home of Coleman. The family will receive friends Saturday from 4 until 6 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home.

Lucille was born May 29, 1919 in Bangs, Texas to the late Albert N. and Inez Munselle King. She was raised in Bangs where she attended the Bangs schools. On November 27, 1935 Lucille married Mancel Cleve Herring in May, Texas and they celebrated seventy-two years of marriage. Lucille was a member of the Baptist Church and Eastern Star. She was a homemaker and partner with her husband in Herring Jewelers for many years retiring in 1978.

Survivors include her husband, Mancel Herring of Angleton, Texas; two sons, Roy Cleve and wife Susie Herring of Whitney, Texas; and Leslie Don and wife Claudia Herring of Lake Jackson, Texas; daughter, Sharon Childs of Richmond, Texas; brother, Cecil King of Brownwood, Texas; a number of nieces and nephews; 8 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren.

Lucille was preceded in death by one sister and five brothers.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, December 4, 2007, page 12.)

Ethel Radle, 93

Ethel Radle, of Santa Anna, died Wednesday, November 28, 2007, at Coleman County Medical Center. A private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Stevens Funeral Home. Family visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, November 28, 2007 at the funeral home. Memorials may be sent to the First Baptist Church of Coleman, Family Life Center Fund.

Ethel Radle was born November 7, 1914 in Oklahoma, the daughter of W. G. and Mary Wynn. She grew up and attended school in San Saba County. On July 21, 1938, she married Phillip A. Radle in Brownwood. He preceded her in death on December 21, 1989. She was housewife and a Baptist.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Ruth and Nick Poldrack of Coleman; her son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Sylvia Stewart of Arlington; seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her husband, one son, Billy Radle, one granddaughter, Danita Renae Batla, three brothers and three sisters.

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

November 30, 2007

Connye Ballard, 64

Graveside funeral services for Connye Ballard, of Brownwood, will be at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 2, 2007 in Eastlawn Memorial Park with Rev. Bill Ballard officiating, under the direction of Davis-Morris Funeral Home. Connye went to be with her heavenly Father on Friday, November 30, 2007 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center.

She was born on September 13, 1943 in San Angelo to David and Joyce Alley. She married Chester Ballard on November 11, 1961 in Blanket. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her father, David M. Alley, Sr.

Connye is survived by her mother, Joyce Alley of Brownwood, her husband, Chester Ballard of Brownwood, a daughter, Sherri Frost and husband Stewart of Saginaw, a son Rick Ballard and wife Donna of Midlothian, a sister Melinda Williams and husband Jim of Blanket, a brother David Alley, Jr. and wife Linda of Mooresville, NC; four grandchildren, Nikki Groth and husband Josh of Kaufman, Kristy Harris of Valley Mills, Matthew Frost of Huntsville, and Chelsye Tyler of Rowlett; two great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Jacob Groth of Kaufman, and an aunt, Edith Dodson and husband Freddie of Santa Anna.

For many years Connye's favorite pastime was travelling around the country with her line dancing group, The Texas Twisters, whose members include-Pat, Donna, Pepper, Ann, Joan, Betty, and Katherine. The Texas Twisters enjoyed performing in nursing home and at dancing contests.

(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, December 4, 2007, page 12.)

Clarence L. Saunders, 87

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, January 17, 2008, page 15.)

Don Weaver, 77

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(Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice, Coleman, Texas, December 4, 2008, page 12.)

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This page last updated on January 17, 2007