Obituaries for Morris County
Natives/Long-Time Residents

Reba C. Allen, 78, of Wake Village, Texas, died Saturday, March 15, 2003, in a local hospital.
  Mrs. Allen was born September 25, 1924, in Omaha, Texas. She was a retired bookkeeper and a member of Saint James Episcopal Church. Survivors include her husband, Morris U. Allen Jr. of Wake Village, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Kay and Tom D. Storey of Texarkana; one son and daughter-in-law, J. Richard and Sylvia Allen of Berkeley, California; one grandchild, Nicholas Clayton Allen; and one sister, Reve' C. Allen of Texarkana. Graveside services will be 2 P.M. Wednesday at Hillcrest Memorial Park with the Rev. Jim Price officiating. Burial will be under direction of Texarkana Funeral Home. Visitation will be 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. today at the funeral home.

Services for Woodrow W. "Woody" Branch, 77, of Longview will be 10 am Tuesday in the Rader Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Rodney Richey, Rev. Nolan Richey, and Dr. Laney Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Longview, TX. A native of Greenville, TX, he was born Feb. 1, 1913. He lived in Longview since 1951, coming from Omaha. He was a warehouse foreman for Western Electric for 23 years before his retirement, and was a World War II Marine veteran. He was a member of Mobberly Avenue Baptist Church and the David Elliott Masonic Lodge in Omaha. Survivors include his wife, Maggie Lee; daughters, Mary Jon Rawls of Longview, Wanda Spoonmore of Dallas; sisters, Dorothy Rogers of Dallas, and Eddie Mearle Klinkey of Longview; grandchildren, Diana Rider of Slidell, LA, Mike McCollum of Longview, Carol Garland of Plano, Chris Rawls of Longview; and three great-grandsons.

Frankie Steelman Burch, 66, a former resident of Omaha, died Friday, August 29, 1997, at Columbia Medical Center in Arlington. Funeral services were at 1:30 pm, Saturday, August 30, at Moore Funeral Home Chapel in Arlington, with the Rev. Dwight Thornton and the Rev. Dwaine Higgins officiating. Interment followed at Moore Memorial Gardens in Arlington, with nephews serving as pallbearers. Mrs. Burch was born November 14, 1930, in Omaha, and was a graduate of Omaha High School. She was a longtime employee of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company of Dallas. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth Burch of Arlington; her son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Evelyn Burch of Arlington; two grandsons, Ryan and Jamie Burch of Arlington; two sisters, Marlene Higgins of Naples, and Deen Horton of Mt. Pleasant; three nieces; and two nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Ethel Cook Steelman, longtime residents of the Concord Community near Omaha.

ROBERT HUGH CLAYTON, 38, of College Station, formerly of Omaha, died Friday, March 8, in Bastrop County, Texas, from injuries suffered in an automobile accident. Funeral services were at 10 am, Monday, March 11, at the Grace Bible Church in College Station, with the Rev. Nolan Richey and the Rev. Dwight Edwards officiating. Burial was in College Station Cemetery. Mr. Clayton was born August 22, 1957, in Gilmer, and was a graduate of Paul H. Pewitt High School at Omaha-Naples. He was chief pharmacist and co-owner of the Pharmacy Shop in Bryan, and a member of Grace Bible Church. Survivors include his wife, Deborah Clayton of College Station; two sons, Charlton F Clayton and Robert Patrick Clayton of College Station; a daughter, Brianne E Clatyon of College Station; his parents, Reita Joyce and Robert Frank Clayton of Omaha; two sisters, Frankie Clayton Jarrell of Paris, and Nancy Clayton Jackson of Ogden, Utah; and his mother-in-law, Helen King of College Station. Memorial may be made to the American Diabetes Association, to Scotty's House in Bryan, or the Concord Church at Omaha.

Memorial services for Mr. William (Billy Ted, Bill) Coker, 80, of Pittsburg, will be Friday, April 4, 2008, at 2 pm, at First Baptist Church in Pittsburg. Mr. Coker was born march 18, 1928 in Naples to Willie Lee and Chester E. Coker. He died March 31, 2008. He was married to Blanche Webster Coker for 54 years. Bill was a devoted family man with a larger than life personality and had an enthusiasm for life that was infectious. In his youth, he developed a love for music and entertaining by studying trumpet. He won many declamation awards, was an honor student in Naples schools, and graduated salutatorian from Naples High School in 1945. He was awarded a 4 year academic scholarship to Southern Methodist University. While at SMU, he joined Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, was tapped for membership in honorary fraternites, Cycen Fjodr and Blue Key. He played trumpet in the SMU Mustang Band and won on the SMU tennis team. His desire to improve his music skills led him to leave SMU to start his junior year at Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, Kansas City Conservatory of Music, and Julliard Conservatory of Music in New York City. While at Cincinnati, Bill performed with the Harry James Band. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951. After basic training in San Antonio, he was stationed at Bryan Air Force Base where he was assigned to Special Services and played in the Air Force Band. The Air Force band was flown all around the US to perform for generals and President and Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower. After two years of service, Bill was allowed to return to SMU to finish his music degree. While at SMU, he met and married Blanche Webster. Bill and Blanche were married September 9, 1953. They moved to Bryan so Bill could finish out his tour of duty at Bryan Air Force Base. After Bill was discharged from the Air Force, he moved his family to Naples, where he joined his father and brother at the Chester Coker Ford Dealership. Bill then bought the dealership in Pittsburg where he retired from Bill Coker Ford Dealership after 49 years. Bill was a member of the First Baptist Church of Pittsburg, the Chamber of Commerce, serving as director and president, and the Kiwanis Club. He was an avid golfer. As a member of Princedale Country Club, Bill was president for a year and served on the board of directors. Bill is preceded in death by his parents and his brother. He is survived by his wife, Blanche, son, the Rev. Dr. William Donald Coker and his wife, Cheryl; son, Key Coker and his wife, Katherine; and daughter, Cathy Martin, and her husband, Brad. Also surviving are grandchildren, Callie Coker Shaw and her husband, Josh, Cammie Coker, Chase Coker, Holt Martin, Brett Martin, Key Coker Jr., and Olivia Coker; sister-in-law, Chris Coker; sister, Paulette Smith and her husband, Charles; and many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Margaret Stewart Crossett, a longtime resident of McCrory, AR, a former educator and a member of a family long active in the business and agricultural activities of Woodruff County, died Wednesday, October 1, 1997, at her residence. She was 91 years of age and died following an extended illness. Funeral services were conducted at 10 am, Saturday, October 4, at the graveside with the Rev. Marcia Dodd, pastor of the McCrory United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment was in the Oddfellows Cemetery in Woodruff County, under the direction of Thompson-Wilson Funeral Home of McCrory. Mrs. Crossett was born July 28, 1906, in Naples, TX, the daughter of the late James and Dixie Whatley Stewart. She attended schools in Naples, and continued her education at East Texas State Teachers' College. She moved to Woodruff County as a young person and in earlier years was an elementary school teacher and librarian in McCrory. She was married June 20, 1928, to Joseph Harton Crossett who was a Woodruss County landowner and associated with the Fakes Mercantile Company in McCrory. He preceded her I death on May 28, 1979. She was a longtime member of the McCrory United Methodist Church and the Women's Missionary Society of the church. Mrs. Crossett is survived by one daughter, Mary Comer of Indianapolis, IN; one sister, Mrs. Marion Leeves of Naples; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Jody Crossett. Serving as pallbearers were Joseph Crossett, Joseph H. Crossett Jr., Duane Fraser, Rudy Fraser, Larry Holleman and Jerry Smith.

Myra Elizabeth Austin Cunningham, born March 15, 1912, in Naples, to John Henry and Lunetta Kesseler Austin, died Thursday, July 24, 1997, at Elmwood Nursing Home in Omaha. Funeral services were at 2 pm, Friday, July 25, at the First United Methodist Church in Naples, with the Rev. Jack Cox of Lakeview, officiating. Interment followed at the Chapelwood Cemetery at Nash, under the direction of Alexander Funeral Home, with the Rev. J. W. Poore of Texarkana, a longtime family friend, officiating. Pallbearers were her great-nephews, Paul Hicks, Justin Vissering, Jimmy Windle, Jeff Slagle, Michael Vissering and Harry James Vissering. She was a former member of Hardy Memorial United Methodist Church in Texarkana, and she joined the First United Methodist Church in Naples, in 1966. Elizabeth served in several leadership positions at both churches, particularly in the United Methodist Women's organization, and its annual bazaars. She was a member of the Naples Garden Club, a "pink lady" with the David Granberry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, and her cooking, sewing and gardening skill were well known. Mrs. Cunningham was preceded in death by her parents, husbands John Henderson and E. F. Cunningham, brother John H. Austin Jr., and stepson James W. Cunningham. She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Isabelle and Clois Hicks of Naples; a niece and husband, Joan Elizabeth and Aubrey Perry of Mesquite; a nephew and wife, Kerry and Marlene Hicks; great-nieces and husbands, Karen Elizabeth and Jeff Slagle of Denison, and Kelley and Jimmy Windle of Pottsboro; great-nephew and wife, Paul and Lana Hicks of Sulphur Springs; and five great-great-nieces and -nephews, Justin and Brittany Vissering, Jordan Slagle, and Austin and Jared Hicks. Elizabeth is also survived by a sister-in-law, Mary Austin of Houston; stepdaughter and husband, Virginia and Ray Marter of Satellite Beach, FL; stepdaughter-in-law, Kay Cunningham of Plattsmouth, NB; four step-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; and many cousins and friends who love her dearly. Memorial gifts may be given to the First United Methodist Church in Naples, or to the Hardy Memorial United Methodist Church in Texarkana.

Austin Doolittle Jr., 86, of Daingerfield, formerly of Naples, died Monday, February 5, at the Titus Regional Medical Center in Mt. Pleasant. Funeral services were at 11 am, Friday, January 9, at the Nail-Haggard Funeral Home Chapel in Daingerfield, with the Rev. Ted White and the Rev. Lynn Parker officiating. Burial was in the Ore City Cemetery. Mr. Doolittle was born October 13, 1909, in Joaquin, Texas. He received his early education in Livingston and was a graduate of North Texas State University with a degree in music. He had served as the band director at Naples High School and organized the first band at Spring Hill High School in Longview. He joined the Cotton Belt Railroad as a telegrapher and dispatcher at the outbreak of World War II, and retired as an agent in 1975. He was a Methodist and had served as choir director for Methodist Churches in Texarkana, Daingerfield, Kerens, Ore City, and several others. He also loved and sang 'barbershop quartet' music. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; a brother; and wives Alice Dickerson Doolittle, Clyde Brock Doolittle and Buna 'Jimmie' Lyles Doolittle. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Mary Alice and Lowell Youngblood of Daingerfield; three sons and a daughter-in-law, Austin III and Dorothy Doolittle of Knoxville, TX., Johnny Doolittle of Texarkana, and Guy B. Holt Jr., of Shreveport, La.; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Juanita Doolittle of Onalaska, TX; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Emma Jean and John Schmidt of Huntsville, and Laverne and Warren Standerford of Kingsland; four grandchildren, Melody Pittman, Monique Scott and Jamey Youngblood, all of Daingerfield; Kacie Doolittle of Texarkana; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Eugene Falls, 82, of Naples, died Saturday, November 29, 1997, at Titus Regional Medical Center in Mt. Pleasant following a brief illness. Funeral services were at 2 pm, Monday, December 1, at the First United Methodist Church in Naples, with the Rev. Jack Cox, the Rev. Janet Blackburn, and Dr. Dan Darby officiating. Burial was in the Douglassville Cemetery under the direction of Alexander Funeral Home of Naples. Mr. Falls was born August 25, 1915, in Bogata, TX. He was owner and operator of Granberry Insurance Agency of Naples, a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Belden Masonic Lodge, the Naples Volunteer Fire Department where he served as treasurer for over 37 years, and was a past president of the Naples Chamber of Commerce. He was a longtime resident of Naples. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Falls of Naples; two daughters and sons-in-law, Jeanne and Ray Thigpen of Omaha, and Carol and Stan Ten-Eyck of Jonestown, TX; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Charles Welborn Jones of Mt. Pleasant, Ken and Kate Falls of Naples, and Mike and Jackie falls of Texarkana; two brothers, Bill Falls of Daingerfield, and Russell Falls of Marshall, AR; five grandchildren, Kent Thigpen of Jefferson, Todd Thigpen of Pittsburg, Traci Falls Wade of Richwood, Jona Ten-Eyck of Jonestown and Dee Suydam of Texarkana; and four great-grandchildren. Serving as pallbearers were Joe Lovelace, Randall Ranes, Ellis Shirey, Roly Tuck and Bill Watson.

HERSCHEL B. ELLIS, 78, of Vancouver, Washington, died Sunday, July 9, 1995 at him home of congestive heart failure. Services were at 12:30 pm Thursday, July 13, at Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel, followed by private burial at Williamette national Cemetery in Portland, Oregon. Mr. Ellis was born November 27, 1916, in Omaha, Texas, and had lived in the Vancouver area for the last 17 years. He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was a POW in Germany for two years. He was a member of the Royal Oaks Country Club, Clark-Skamania Fly Fishers and Boys at Bridge. He enjoyed playing bridge, fly fishing and golfing. He began his career with the Department of Agriculture in San Francisco and transferred to Portland in 1953 as grain inspector. He moved to Louisiana in 1961 as a southern area supervisor and returned to Portland in 1964 as western area supervisor. From 1970 to 1974, still working for the U S government, he was loaned to the Liberian government to establish a rice marketing program. He retired in 1974. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Dorothy "Bugs" Ellis; one son, Cleve Ellis of Vancouver; one brother, Gerald Ellis of Houston; and two grandchildren.

Buster, Elrod, 79, of Naples, died Monday, March 11, at Titus Regional Medical Center in Mt. Pleasant, following a sudden illness. Funeral services were at 2 pm, Wednesday, March 13, at the First Baptist Church in Naples, with the Rev. Bill Harty and the Rev. Victor Elrod officiating. Burial was in the Cornett Cemetery under the direction of Alexander Funeral Service of Naples. Mr. Elrod was born May 14, 1916, in Center, Alabama. He was a retired employee of Lone Star Steel and a longtime resident of the Naples area. Survivors include his wife, Pauline Elrod of Naples; one son and daughter-in-law, David and Pat Elrod of Hughes Springs; one brother, Louis Elrod of Hughes Springs; one sister, Pluma Barrett of Linden; four grandchildren, Lane and Tammy Elrod of Hammond, IN, Marty Elrod of Sheverville, IN, Kenny and Deborah Carwile of Port Neches, and Kristy Carwile of Longview; and two great-grandsons, Jason Elrod of Hammond, IN, and Alex Carwile of Port Neches. Serving as pallbearers were Jim Berry, Keith Higgins, Dwayne Amerson, Randall Ranes, Elvin Wells, Norman Kemp, Kerry Hicks and Richard Towler.

Mrs. June Ferrell was born June 1, 1925, in Omaha. She passed away at her home Sunday, December 31, 2006. June was a descendant of a prominent pioneering family in East Texas. Her family founded the OMAHA BREEZE newspaper, and she had many fond memories of roaming her family's peach orchards. June was a proud graduate of the Omaha High School Indians, Class of 1942, where she was a cheerleader, secretary/treasurer of the pep squad, member of the Future Home Makers of Texas Club and author of the Scandal Sheet. She loved attending her high school reunions and visiting with her classmates and dear friends from her hometown. She married James M. 'Jimmie' Ferrell on April 7, 1946, and they resided in Houston where their three sons were born. In 1963, they moved to Beaumont and owned and operated Jim's Drive-In Grocery Stores. June was active in the sports activities of her sons and grandchildren, and participated in the French High School Booster Club, North Ean Little League, and was always on the road attending baseball, basketball and football games. June loved the beach, and the family had a beach house at Crystal Beach for many years. Jimmie, June and the boys joined North End Methodist Church when they moved to Beaumont, which later became Wesley United Methodist Church. Over the years since, she was a member of the Fidelis Class, served several terms on the administrative board and numerous committees. June is survived by two sons, Jim Ferrell, Jr., and his wife, Sandy of Port Neches and Mark Ferrell and his wife Sandi of Beaumont; nine grandchildren, Samuel Scott Ferrell, Benjamin Thomas Ferrell, Kristen Ann Ferrell, Nicholas James Dawson, Katie Ann Ferrell Hughes and her husband Aaron, Andrew Ferrell, Steven Brooke Ferrell, Ryan Forrest Ferrell and Jamie Marie Ferrell; one great-granddaughter, Nixie Ann Hughes; nieces, nephews and many special friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin Forrest Farrier and Vida Mae Farrier; three sisters, Gena Wallace, Willie Harris and Nancy Fry; one son, Scott Ferrell in 1981; and her husband, James M. 'Jimmie' Ferrell, Sr. in 2000. Funeral services were Thursday, January 4, 2007, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Beaumont under the direction of Broussard's Mortuary in Beaumont. Graveside services were that afternoon at Magnolia Springs Cemetery in Mt. Union. June had a great love of life, family and her church. She was always quick to respond to the needs of others, share a favorite recipe or just be there for you when you needed her. She gave unselfishly of herself to others, and a smile was the only thanks she needed.

JERRY GOODWIN,66, of Naples, died Tuesday, September 26, 1995, at his home following a brief illness. No services were conducted as Mr. Goodwin had requested his body be donated to science. Mr. Goodwin was born May 27, 1929, in Bowie County. He was retired from Vinyard Enterprises, was a member of the Belden Masonic Lodge of Naples, and was an Army veteran of World War II and the Korean War. Survivors include his wife, Edith Goodwin of Naples; three daughters and sons-in-law, Sheri and John Monclova of San Antonio, Theresa and Jerry Smith of Bright Star, AR, and Mary Beth and Rocky Taylor of Texarkana; two stepsons and one daughter-in-law, Walter and Lyn Lee of Aubrey, TX, and Howard Lee of Dallas; one stepdaughter and son-in-law, Bo and Clint Rounsavall of Chino Hill, CA; two brothers, George Goodwin of Arlington, and Benny Goodwin of Shreveport, LA; two sisters, Sarah Gauntt of Little Rock, AR, and June Smith of Red Lick, TX; 11 grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Lela Belle Hanes, 96, of Omaha, died Wednesday, September 24, 1997, at the Elmwood Nursing Home in Omaha. Funeral services were Friday, September 26, in Memorial Oaks Chapel in Houston, with the Rev. William Hermann officiating. Interment was in the Memorial Oaks Mausoleum under the direction of Alexander Funeral Home of Naples. Mrs. Hanes was born January 9, 1901, at Daingerfield. She moved to Houston in 1928 and was employed with the Ledbetter Clinic as a medical secretary for 39 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Omaha. She is survived by nephews Pete Bolin of Omaha, Hilton Hall of Lexington, TX, Windell Hall of Tyler and Alvin Tittle of Hot Springs, AR; and nieces Mary Davis and Frances Burnett, both of Omaha. Preceding Mrs. Hanes in death were her husband, James E. Hanes, and an infant son, Calvert Hanes.

Thomas James Hawkins, 63, son of Mrs. Ora Hawkins and the late Dr. J. T. Hawkins of Omaha, died December 21, in Tucson, AZ, in the Veterans' Hospital. He was a resident of Lordsburg, NM, and is survived by his wife, Mrs. Betsy Hawkins of Lordsburg; two daughters, Lyn Anne Sauders of Giddings, TX, and Cynthia Brooke Hawkins of Dallas; two brothers, Kenneth Hawkins of Sante Fe, NM, and three sisters, Mrs. John Whittington of Houston, Mrs. Jim Moore of Omaha and Mrs. J. Paul Smith of Marshall. A full Masonic funeral service was conducted Dec. 23, at the Heather Funeral Home in Lordsburg with burial in the Mountainview Cemetery at Lordsburg. Mr. Hawkins was a Captain of Troop F, 112th Cavalry serving in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. He was severly wounded on Tarawa, New Britain. He was a member of the David Elliott Masonic Lodge of Omaha, and was retired from Ritter-Walker Co., of El Paso. Mr. Hawkins was born September 23, 1915 in Naples.

Services for Johnny Ray Hill, 54, were conducted Saturday, Oct. 10, 1998 in Dallas at 10 a.m. and in Naples at 3 p.m. Mr. Hill was born February 10, 1944 to Riley Hill, Sr. and Lillie Mae Isiah-Hill. He died Monday, Oct. 5, 1998 in Dallas. Mr. Hill is survived by his wife, Debra Paylor Hill; a daughter, Delores Ann Hill-Ray of Dallas; one grandson, Jeremiah Cornelius Ray of Dallas; two sisters, Patricia L. Hill of Dallas and Obbie Lee Warren of Naples; four brothers, Riley Hill, Jr. of Dallas, Osborne Hill of Winnsboro, Elder Edward Obrian Hill of Dallas and James Anderson Hill of Englewood, CA; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a wife, Tommie Dell Harris and his parents. Mr. Hill attended Carver Elementary and graduated from Carver High School. Elder Eddie O'Steen, Jr. officiated.

Rev. Morris Hill, 90, of Henderson, TX, formerly of Sulphur Springs, died Monday, August 19, 1996, at Southwood Convalescent Center in Henderson. Funeral services were at 4 pm, Tuesday, August 20, at Trinity Baptist Church in Henderson, and at 10 am, Wednesday, August 21, at the Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home in Sulphur Springs, with the Rev. Maurice Hill officiating. Burial was in Resthaven Memorial Park in Sulphur Springs. Serving as pallbearers were nephews and deacons of Trinity Baptist Church. The Rev. Hill was born August 6, 1906, in Winnsboro to Benjamin and Teresa Greer Hill. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lou Kennedy Hill, whom he wed December 22, 1938, in Greenville. She died in 1987. He was also preceded in death by his parents and five brothers. Mr. Hill was a retired preacher and had served for a number of years as pastor of the First Baptist Church of Naples. He had also served pastorates at Martin Springs, Union, Yantis, Rockwall and Atlanta. At the time of his death, he was affiliated with Trinity Baptist Church in Henderson. Survivors include one son, the Rev. Maurice Hill of Henderson; and two grandsons, Mike Hill of Flower Mound, and Mark Hill of Saginaw.

Truitt Ingram, a former basketball coach and teacher at Paul H. Pewitt High School, died Friday, December 27, 1996, at Quitman following a brief illness. Funeral services were at 2 pm, Sunday, December 29, at the First Baptist Church in Quitman, with the Rev. Tommy Ham and the Rev. Arlis Banks officiating. Burial was in the Clover Hill Cemetery in Wood County. Mr. Ingram, 71, was born November 19, 1925, in Wood County, and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Quitman. He was a native of Wood County, a graduate of East Texas State University in Commerce, and he held both a bachelor's and masters degree. He retired after a 35-year career in public education. During that time, he served as principal of Commerce High School and Texas Senior High School at Texarkana. He was superintendent at Atlanta from 1960 to 1969, and served as superintendent at Marshall from 1969 to 1984 where he retired. He was a member of the Texas Association of School Administrators, the National Education Association of School Administrators, the East Texas School Men's Club, the Northeast Texas Educator's Club, and the Texas State Teachers Association. He served as president of District VIII for TSTA. He was active in the Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce, had served as chairman of the Caddo District Boy Scouts of America, and was vice president of the East Texas Area Council of Boy Scouts. He had been awarded the Silver Beaver Award in Scouting. He had lived in Quitman the past four years. Serving as pallbearers were Donald Dawson, Norris, Tanton, Orville Hurley, George Cullum, Richard Miller, Jim Atchley, Roy Chadwick and Don Phillips. Honorary pallbearers were members of the Joseph Sunday School Class.

Services for H. R. Hamilton, 89, of Naples will be conducted Thursday, August 18, 1998 at 10 a.m. at the Naples First Baptist Church. Mr. Hamilton was born August 23, 1908 in Sheridan, Arkansas. He died August 18, 1998 in Naples. Mr. Hamilton was a retired Paul Pewitt school superintendent. He was a veteran of WWII and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Naples. Mr. Hamilton was a 50-year member of the Beldon Masonic Lodge. He was also a former teacher at Hubbard and Redwater and a longtime resident of Naples. Survivors include his wife, Lola Hamilton of Naples; one son and daughter-in-law Chuck and Judy Hamilton of Naples; two grandchildren, Kate and Mike Hamilton of Naples; one brother, Joe Bob Hamilton of DeKalb; and a number of nieces and nephews. Pallbearers include Robert Hagler, Sam Hagler, Joe Mac Hamilton, Max Holder and J. W. Whiteman. Interment will be in Hubbard Chapel Cemetery. The Rev. Jack Cox and the Rev. Dan Darby will officiate. Alexander Funeral Home of Naples is in charge of services.

Funeral service for Adron Justiss, 96, of Daingerfield, will be at 2 p.m. Monday, July 20, 2009, at Daingerfield Church of Christ, with Norman Miller and Tim Gibbs officiating. Burial will be in the Justiss Cemetery under the direction of Nail-Haggard Funeral Home. Mr. Justiss was born January 31, 1913 in Morris County and died Saturday, July 18, 2009, at his home in Daingerfield. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ida Mae Justiss. Adron was a member of the Daingerfield Church of Christ, charter member of the Northeast Texas Polled Hereford Association and a rancher. He is survived by his daughters and son-in-law, Madron Justiss and Don Hartley of Richardson and Sheila Justiss of Daingerfield; brothers, Howard Justiss of Nashville, TN, and C. Y. Justiss of Lone Star; sister, Bessie Justiss Cason of Atlanta, TX; and grandsons, Wesley Theobald and Tyler Theobald, both of Daingerfield.

Memorial services for Mr. James P Law, 91, formerly of Omaha, were December 29, 2007, at St John's United Methodist Church of Albuquerque, NM. Mr. Law grew up in Omaha and graduated from Omaha High School in 1934. He served in the United States Air Force during WWII as a pilot of multi-engine aircrafts. He earned a PhD from Texas A & M University in 1965, and pursued a career as a research scientist for the US Environmental Protection Agency at the Kerr Water Research Center in Ada, OK. He was an avid bird hunter and skeet shooter. While living in Albuquerque, he sang for a number of years with the New MexiChords mens barbership chorus. Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Miriam Law and son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Corinne Law all of Alguquerque; grandson, Nile Law of Dallas; granddaughter and husband, Melanie and Joh Kombluh of Rico, CO; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Sara Law and Jonah Law Kombluh and Ruben James Kombluh; sisters, Beth Edminster of OK, and Emma Holt and husband, Si of Round Rock, TX.

December 25, 2007, The Monitor March 6, 2008
  James Law was the ideal big brother to his four sisters. "He's always been really close and a loving, caring brother that would do anything for any of us," said Emma Holt, a sister. "He was just always there for us."
  Law, a 20 year Albuquerque resident, died on Christmas Day. He was 91. "He had a good sense of humor, and he had a lot of fun in his life," Mrs. Holt said. Law remained close with his family, even after going to college. His sisters would visit him at the University of Texas - Austin.
  "That was a big treat for us girls, because we lived in a little town," she said. "We didn't get to go into a big town very often."
  Mr. Law lived in Omaha and graduated from Omaha High School in 1934. He got a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering and went on to earn a doctorate in soil physics from Texas A & M. He is best-known for his work in water and soil research. Most of his writings, which include books and articles, are housed in the Library of Congress.
  "He was such a good scientific mind," son, Jim Law said. "He was a very disciplined, orderly person that did everything when it was supposed to be done."
  James Law married his wife, Miriam, in 1940. He served in the armed forces during World War II as a pilot and pilot trainer, but he never saw combat.
  Most of his professional career centered on water and soil pollution. His work in the field earned him a lot of recognition, including the Environmental Protection Agency's Silver Medal for Superior Service and Certificate of Award for Excellence.
  James Law is survived by Miriam, his wife of 67 years; one child, two grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Ruby Neal Leeves, 87, of Naples, died Friday, February 9, at Good Shepherd Hospital in Longview. Funeral services were at 3 pm, Sunday, February 11, at the First Baptist Church of Naples, with the Rev. Trey Roberson officiating. Interment was at 10 am, Monday, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Texarkana. Mrs. Leeves was born December 13, 1908, at Bryans Mill. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Leeves. Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Jack and Frankie Leeves of Hughes Springs; one grandson and wife, Neal and Barbara Leeves of Hughes Springs; one great-granddaughter, Katy Leeves of Hughes Springs; and a number of nieces and nephews. Serving as pallbearers were deacons of the First Baptist Church of Naples.

Memorial services for Lt. Col. Jamie Patrick (Jim Pat) Longino, 61, of Tucson, Arizona, will be conducted Sunday, March 20, 2005, at 2 pm at Alexander Funeral Home Chapel in Naples, with the Rev. Lanny Peek officiating. Mr. Longino was born June 11, 1943, in Texarkana, to Charlotte and Clifford Longino. He died of cancer Tuesday, March 1, 2005. He was a 1961 graduate of Pewitt High School and a 1966 graduate of East Texas Baptist College with a degree in music. While attending college he served as a music director for Reading Avenue Baptist Church in Texarkana and First Baptist in Naples. In 1966 he began his military career in the United State Air Force music program, graduated as 2nd lieutenant from Officer's Training School, received the Meritorious Service medal four times, Air Force Commendation medal and National Defense Service medal. After retirement in 1986 as lieutenant colonel he was a commercial mortgage broker, member of the Better Business Bureau, Tucson Business Coalition and Tucson Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Colleen of Tucson; one sister, Minerva Longino of Houston; and a number of cousins. He was honored with a full military funeral, with color guard, on March 8, 2005, in Tucson, Arizona. Interment was at Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Sierra Vista, Arizona.

Wilma McCollum, 80, of Sander, CA, died Sunday, September 14, 1997, in Fresno. Graveside services were Wednesday, September 17, at 10:30 am, at the Sanger, CA Cemetery. Mrs. McCollum was born September 18, 1917, at Omaha, TX, the daughter of Claire and Les Derrick. She was a member of the Southern Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, Clyde McCollum of Sanger; a daughter and son-in-law, Becky and Richard Crowell of Centerville, CA; grandsons, Keven Lowery and Thomas Crowell of Fresno; a granddaughter, Debbie Miguel of Sanger; two great-grandchildren, Jessica Miguel and Christian Crowell; two brothers, Lewis Derrick and Harold Derrick; and two sisters, Beulah Goodwin and Mattie Helen Measley, all of Omaha. Remembrances may be made to the American Cancer Society, 4191 N. Blackstone #202, Fresno, CA 93726.

O. Z. Mitchell, 86, of Omaha, died Thursday, December 26, 1996, at Windsor Place Nursing Home in Daingerfield. Funeral services were at 1 pm, Saturday, December 28, at the Mt. Mitchell Church of Christ near Omaha, with Bro. Joe Rivers officiating. Burial was in the Shady Grove Cemetery (Titus Co.) at Cason, TX, under the direction of Turner Brothers Funeral Home of Mt. Pleasant. Mr. Mitchell, a former teacher and administrator at Carver School at Naples-Omaha, was involved in public education as a teacher for 41 years. Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Ella Mitchell of Omaha; one son, Paul Mitchell; two daughters, Janice Heath and Chandra Roney; two sons-in-law, Alton Heath and Carl Roney; and seven grandchildren.

Services for Mrs. Oleta Martin Polson, 84, of Naples, were Wednesday, July 9, 2003, at First Baptist Church in Naples with the Reverend Tommy Weems officiating. Mrs. Polson was born August 10, 1918, in Camp County, the daughter of Fletcher and Emma Gibson Martin. She died Monday, July 7, 2003, in Omaha. She was a homemaker, member of First Baptist Church and had lived in Naples for the past 50 years. She was very active at the First Baptist Church, having participated in two mission trips to Mexico, until an automobile accident disabled her 13 years ago. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Lahoma and Dr. J. L. Collier of Naples; two grandsons, Scott and Beth McMichael of Naples and Randy and Lisa McMichael of White Oak; four grandchildren, Ashley and Blake McMichael of Naples and Matt and Josh McMichael of White Oak; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Etta Faye and J. W. Broadstreet of Leesburg, Wanda and Travis Higginbotham of East Mountain and Syble Green of Pittsburg; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Johnnie and Lyndia Martin of Como, James "Buck" Martin of Pittsburg and A. J. Martin of Houston; two sisters-in-law, Mattie Pynes of Mt. Pleasant and Monte Hood of Texas City; and one brother-in-law, E. E. Shirey of Naples. She was preceded in death by her husband, Homer Polson, in 1975. Serving as pallbearers for Mrs. Polson were he nephews. Interment was at Leesburg Cemetery.

Funeral services for Mr. John W. Rivers, 70, of Omaha, were Sunday, February 15, 2004, at Alexander Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Lanny Peek officiating. Mr. Rivers was born December 31, 1933, in Omaha. He died Friday, February 13, 2004, in Omaha. He was a retired truck driver, a cattleman, a member of the First Baptist Church of Omaha, and a U S Air Force veteran. Survivors include his wife, Mary Ann Baker Rivers of Omaha; one son, Gary Rivers of Omaha; one stepdaughter and stepson-in-law, Sara Sharrer and Tim Gildon of Bloomburg; his mother, Mrs. Lelia Rivers of Omaha; two grandsons, Jordan and Joe of Bloomburg; and two cousins, Cherry Todd of Meridian, MS, and Dr. Sandy Weeks of Commerce. Burial was in the Douglassville Cemetery under the direction of Alexander Funeral Service of Naples.

Services for Mrs. Evelyn Smegner, 74, formerly of Omaha, were February 2, 2008, at Fairmeadows Assembly of God Church of Duncanville, where she was a member. Mrs. Smegner was born October 2, 1933, in Omaha. She died January 28, 2008, at Charlton Methodist Hospital of Duncanville, after a lengthy illness. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Velma Fields; brother, J. W. Fields; and a sister, Sarah Beth Fields. Survivors include her husband of 54 years, A. J. Smegner; one son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Joan Smegner; a daughter and son-in-law, Susan and David Goskill; five grandchildren, Kelsey, Aaron, Jessica, Melanie and Beverly; and two sisters and brothers-in-law, Jean and Vinus Nelson of Cedar Hill, and Sue and Robert Harvey of Naples.

Dayne Shaw, 64, of Naples, died Saturday, March 7, 1998, at his home after a lengthy illness. Funeral services were at 2:30 pm, Monday, March 9, at the First Baptist Church in Naples, with the Rev. Bill Harty and the Rev. Dwayne Higgins officiating. Burial was in the Creekmore Cemetery near Naples, under the direction of Alexander Funeral Home of Naples. Mr. Shaw was born at Naples, November 25, 1933. He was a general contractor, an owner of Shaw and Sons Construction Inc., the owner of Shaw's Ace Hardware of Naples, a member of the Operating Engineers International Union, the Naples Chamber of Commerce, the Naples-Omaha Lions Club, and he was a lifetime resident of Naples. Survivors include his wife, Rose Shaw of Naples; two sons and daughters-in-law, Griffin and Brenda Shaw of Naples, and Jimmy and Randa Shaw of Omaha; five grandchildren, Mitchell Shaw, Jennifer Shaw, MacKenzie Shaw, Jacob Shaw and Jacy Shaw; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Services for Lois Smith, 97, of Naples, were July 5, 2007, at Harrison Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jack Cox, Rev. Frank Richardson, and Rev. Mike Fraley officiating. Mrs. Smith was born January 12, 1910, in Cussetta, Texas. She died July 3, 2007, in Omaha. She was a retired pharmacy clerk and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Naples. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell C. Smith; parents, Martin and Susie Cameron; and a brother, Waldo Cameron. Survivors include five first cousins, Melvin McCoy of Hughes Springs, Margaret Frost of Douglassville, Elizabeth Beard of Shreveport, Frances Burnett of Texarkana, and Billie Jo Thompson of Atlanta; and a number of special friends. Burial was in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Texarkana. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church or to Cedar Grove Cemetery, c/o Frances Burnett, 4907 Twin Oaks Drive, Texarkana, Texas 75503.

CLIFTON V SOSBEE, 67, of Lawton, OK, died November 6, 1995, at a Lawton hospital, and funeral services were conducted under the direction of Huddleston Funeral Home of Lawon. Mr. Sosbee was born November 18, 1920, in Daingerfield to Rienzi Sosbee and Lura Martha Hammonds Mills. He grew up in the Mt. Moriah community and attended school at Omaha. He was a US Army veteran of WWII, attaining the rank of sergeant. He was also a US Air Force veteran, serving in the Korean conflict and being promoted to staff sergeant. He had worked as a professional photographer at Meisel Studios in Dallas for many years and developed and processed the first moon shot films from the Apollo spacecraft landing, which included the first footprint found on the moon. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. After his retirement, he moved his family and settled in the Hubbard Chapel community in Bowie County where children of the family completed school at DeKalb. Mr. Sosbee was preceded in death by his parents, Reinzi Sosbee of Dallas, and Lura Brannon of Omaha; and his brother, James Curry Mills of Omaha. Survivors include one daughter, Denese Sosbee, formerly of DeKalb; five sons, Duane Sosbee of Huntsville, Don Sosbee of Poway, CA, Dean Sosbee of Seagoville, Dale Sosbee of Harker Heights, and Davis Sosbee of Tampa, FL; two sisters, Mildred Mills Grau and Ethel Maxine Mills Smith of Bryan; one brother, Thomas Millard Brannon of San Antonio; three nieces and four nephews, including Jerry Smith of Leaday.

H. Morris (Steve) Stevens, 84, of Austin, died Monday, March 9, 1998, after a brief illness. Rosary was recited at 7:30 pm, Thursday, March 12, at Cook-Walden Funeral Home in Austin. The mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 am, Friday, March 13, at St. Austin's Catholic Church in Austin, with the Rev. Tom Clerkin, CSP as celebrant. Interment followed at Assumption Cemetery in Austin. Mr. Stevens was born in Omaha, to Harvey Bunyan Stevens and Nona Boyet Stevens on October 19, 1913. He worked for the state treasurer's office for 46 1/2 years, serving as chief clerk for many years under state treasurers Jesse James and Warren G. Harding. He served on many state committees and was an officer of the Texas Public Employees Association. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who always put his family first in his life. The family has fond memories of family gatherings, vacations and golfing. Mr. Stevens was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Gwendolyn Schieffer Stevens, on July 6, 1984; and by a brother, John Boyet Stevens of Daingerfield, on July 12, 1976. He is survived by his children, Nancy Stevens Hrin and her husband, Thomas, Nona Stevens Rogers and her husband, Richard, Morris Stevens Jr., and his wife, polly, and son, Mike Stevens, all of Austin; grandchildren, Elizabeth Hrin Haag, Jeanette Hrin, Steven Hrin, Daniel Rogers, Ben Rogers, Sarah Stevens, Patrick Stevens and Rebekah Stevens; great grandchildren, Joshua Haag and Zachary Haag; a brother, W. Clarence Stevens, and his wife, Jerry Stevens of Omaha; a sister Mildred Lohmann, of Omaha; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thomas W. (Tommy) Stewart, 51, of Colorado Springs, CO, died Saturday, October 4, 1997, in Golden, CO, while on a hiking trip. Funeral services were planned for 10 am, Saturday, October 11, at the First Congregational Church in Colorado Springs, with the Rev. Jim White officiating. Burial was to be in the Evergreen Cemetery, under the direction of Swan-Law Funeral Directors. Stewart was born August 9, 1946, in San Antonio to the late Louise and John H. Stewart. He was raised by his foster parents, the late Lizzie and Fred Zimmerman. He was a retired USAF Major, B-52 aircraft commander, T-38 flight instructor, military professor in philosophy and fine arts at the USAF Academy and a sales associate for the New England Insurance Company for the past 13 years. He was the quarterback for the1963 Pewitt Brahmas football team, the first to ever advance to the state quarterfinals playoffs, and was a graduate of Pewitt High School. He is survived by his wife, Susan, of Colorado Springs; two sons, Thomas Markham Stewart of Austin, TX, and George McDermith of Colorado Springs; two daughters, Michelle Christacopulos and Amanda McDermith, both of Colorado Springs; a brother, Hayden Stewart of Fouke, AR; and a sister, Martha Hullett of Mesquite, TX. He was preceded in death by a brother, Carl Zimmerman. Memorials may be made to the Paul H. Pewitt School Education Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 1106, Omaha, TX 75571-1106.

Services for Mrs. Mildred Beasley Summers, 77, of Mt. Pleasant, were Saturday, Feb. 5, 2000, at First Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Summers was born March 2, 1922, in Omaha. She died Thursday, Feb. 3, 2000, at Vintage Lace Adult Care. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, former deacon, secretary of Women of Church, and Circle Chairman. She was a 20 year employee of Guaranty bank in customer service and a former member of the Fine Arts Club. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Dale Wilhite of Apex, NC; two sisters, Virginia Atkinson and Alice Traylor, both of Omaha; one brother, Lester Beasley of Omaha; and grandchildren Annie Wilhite and Kevin Wilhite. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Summers; and parents, S. J. Beasley and Jennie Riddle Beasley. Pallbearers were Mike Beasley, Thomas C. Beasley, W. C. Beasley, Art Scharlach, James Stepp and Joe Wilhite. Burial was in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Mt. Pleasant. The Rev. Steve Newton officiated

Services for Coach Robbie Surratt, 64, of Lindate, Texas, were September 29, 2008, at the First Baptist Church of Lindale, with Luke Oyler, Robbie Surratt, Jr., Doug Boone and Betsie Surratt officiating. Mr. Surratt was born December 17, 1943, in Omaha, the son of Orvel Lee and Louise Clayton Surratt. He died Friday night, September 26, 2008, right after Lindale's High School's homecoming. He coached young men for 37 years having coached Texas High School All-Stars and then retired in 2007 after 21 years at Lindale High School as head baseball coach. In 2007, the greatest honor was given him when the Lindale High School baseball field was named the "Robbie Surratt Field". He was a member of the Texas Classroom Teachers Association and the Texas Baseball Association. Preceding him in death was his father. Survivors include his wife of almost 38 years, Betsie Surratt of Lindale; a son and daughter-in-law, Robbie Lee Jr., and Susie Surratt of Bridgeport, Texas; two daughters and sons-in-law, Melissa and Forrest Manning, and Shellie and Tim Pettigrew, all of Lindale; his mother, Louise Surratt of Omaha; a brother and sister-in-law, Donnie and Vickie Surratt of Mt. Vernon; a sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Willard Johnson of Bonham, Texas; grandchildren Blake Manning, McKenzie Manning, Dylan Surratt, Sydney Surratt and Kyesen Ripley; and several nieces and nephews. Interment was in the Lindate City Cemetery under the direction of Caudle-Rudledge Funeral Home. Burial was in the Lindale City Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jack Johnson, Kerry Stanley, Jamie Holder, Robert Klein, Doug Boone, Brian Nolan, Mike Smith, Jeremy Chileck and Branon Tidwell. Memorials can be made to the Lindale High School Scholarship Fund c/o Coach Robbie Surratt, P O Box 370, Lindale, Texas 75771.

THOMAS HAROLD TERRELL, a resident of Colleyville, born November 19, 1939, in Daingerfield, Texas, passed away, May 26, 2005 in Grapevine at the age of 65 years. Thomas was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. We will always remember your smiles, laugh, loving words and tender heart. You are loved by many, respected by all and never forgotten. You will always live in our hearts. Thanks to everyone for all you prayers and support. Thomas was preceded in death by his father T. Cecil Terrell and mother Mildred "Mutt" Terrell. He is survived by his wife, Debbie Terrell; children, Lisa Dickerson and husband Phillip, Laurie Toler, Tom Terrell, Jr.; Morgan Terrell, Tanner Terrell and Sophie Terrell; grandchildren, Beau Dickerson, Zack Toler, Derek Dickerson, Brittney Sumptner and Trey Terrell; sister, Eva Lancaster; brother, Jackie Terrell; mother-in-law, Mozell Candeloro; sisters-in-law Louanne Sander and Janice Terrell; brothers-in-law, "Chip" Sander and Richard Candeloro; nephew, Reagan Lancaster; niece, Kristen Lancaster. Funeral service for Mr. Terrell will be held 12:00 PM Tuesday, May 31, 2005 at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park.

John William Tigert of Mesquite, Texas, passed away peacefully with his family by his side July 3rd, 2009 after two years of battle with a brain tumor. He was born on March 28, 1941 in Omaha, Texas. He is survived by his wife Linda Hooper Tigert, daughter Johnna Tigert, granddaughter Jordyn Tigert all of Mesquite, Texas, one sister Mary Louis Tigert Hendry of Kingwood, Texas, and a community of many loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Johnie W. Tigert and Annie Davis Tigert; and his mother-in-law, Natoma Hooper. The funeral service was held at 12:30 pm Monday afternoon July 6, 2009 at the Memorial Chapel at Restland Memorial Park with burial in the Garden of Inspiration, at 13005 Greenville Avenue Dallas, Texas 75243. Lunch was provided for family and friends by the Central Church of the Nazarene, Dallas, following the services. John William attended Omaha and Pewitt Schools grades 1-12 and graduated in 1959. He served in the US Army, was devoted to his family and his Lord, and enjoyed serving others. He retired after more than 30 years with Southwestern Bell Telephone. His hobbies were photography, cars, trains, and helping on the Samuel Farm in Dallas. He will be greatly missed by so many!

JOHNIE WILLIAM TIGERT, 96, of Mesquite, formerly of Daingerfield, died Sunday, November 16, 1997, in Mesquite. Funeral services were at 10:30 am, Wednesday, November 19, 1997, at the Nail-Haggard Funeral Home Chapel in Daingerfield with the Rev. Nolan Richey and The Rev. Ken Southerland officiating. Burial was in the Center Grove Cemetery.
  Mr. Tigert was born September 18, 1901, in Omaha, TX. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Daingerfield. He served in the US Army and he was a farmer and house painter.
  Mr. Tigert was preceded in death by two wives, Lucille and Alberta; six brothers and three sisters. Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, John and Linda Tigert of Mesquite; a daughter and son-in-law, Mary Louis and Bobby Hendry of Kingwood; four brothers, George Tigert of Lone Star, and Reuben Smith, George Jr Tigert and Bobby Tigert of Shreveport LA, sisters, Lucy McCollum of Naples, Ruby Ivy of Longview, Josephine Terrell of Lone Star, and Mildred Terrell of Daingerfield; six grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

MRS. JOHNIE WILLIAM TIGERT (LUCILLE DAVIS), 66, of Omaha, died Monday morning in Houston, TX. Services will be at 4 PM today at the Concord Baptist Church with the Rev. Dale Reed and the Rev. Earl Hosea officiating. Burial will be in the Center Grove Cemetery. Mrs. Tigert was a member of the Baptist Church and a longtime resident of the Omaha area. Survivors include her husband, Johnie W. Tigert of Omaha; a son, John William Tigert of Mesquite, TX; a daughter, Mrs. Mary Louis Henry of Dallas, TX; two brothers, Wallace Davis of Cottonwood, AZ, and Travis Davis of Phoenix, AZ; four sisters, Mrs. Lydia Justiss of Mt. Pleasant, TX, Mrs. Lollie Held of Lubbock, TX, Mrs. Jane Eppeng of Muleshoe, TX, and Mrs. Mary Bob Moore of Lewisville, TX; and six grandchildren.

THOMAS O. TIGERT, 45, of Okmulgee, OK, died Thursday, October 26, 1995 in Okmulgee. Graveside services were Wednesday, November 1, at the Okmulgee Cemetery under the direction of the McClendon Funeral Home. Mr. Tigert was born July 8, 1950, in Belton, TX. He is survived by his mother, Jeannine Moore of Omaha; daughters, Julie Scoggins of Nebraska, Brandi Scoggins of Ohio, and Shea Hanks of Cookville; a stepson, Chuck Scoggins of TN; grandchildren, Joey and Jentry Hanks; sisters, Anna Wommack of Mt. Pleasant, and Laura Tigert of Nacogdoches; and brothers, Kenneth Tigert of Mt. Pleasant, and Jimmy Moore of Tyler; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by a brother, David Scott Tigert, his stepfather, Jim Moore, and an adopted son, Austin Scott Tigert.

VICKI SUSAN VISSERING TURNER, 43, of Grapevine, TX., died Sunday, October 22, 1995 as the result of an automobile accident. Memorial services are pending with Alexander Funeral Home of Naples. Mrs. Turner was born December 18, 1951 in Naples, and was a member of the 1970 graduating class of Pewitt High School. She was employed with GTE in Irving, and was preceded in death by her mother, Ann Vissering, and a brother, Jack Vissering. Survivors include four stepchildren, Vicki, Valerie, Michael and Steven Turner; her father and stepmother, Wes and Ruth Vissering of Naples; a sister, Rebecca Burke of Mt. Pleasant; and a number of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for John Dillon Vickers, 80, of Omaha, will be conducted Sunday, May 16, 2004, at 3 pm, at First United Methodist Church of Omaha. Mr. Vickers was born October 6, 1923, in Omaha. He died Sunday, May 9, 2004, at Omaha Healthcare Center. He was retired from Ashland Oil Co., and Pinkerton Security, a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana, the American Legion and a veteran of World War II. He is survived by Ann and Jack Nelson, and Jenny and Mike McGinnis; grandchildren, Jennifer and Gregg Cooper, Michele and Chad Crutcher; his sisters and brother, Corrine and Charles Womack, Bill and Carolyn Vickers, Shirley and Dale Hunt, Carolyn and Jerry Evans; and a host of relatives and friends. His wife, Mary Elizabeth, and his brother, Vernon Wayne, preceded in death. Graveside service and burial was at Hillcrest Cemetery in Bossier City, Louisiana, on Tuesday, May 11. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Vernon Wayne Vickers family and friends were invited to a gathering at 1:00 p.m. January 24, in the Concord Baptist Church fellowship hall to honor the memory of Vernon Wayne Vickers who died January 11, 1998, in Brownsville, Texas, where he and Peggy, his wife of 33 years, had spent their winters for the past several years. Mr. Vickers was born August 22, 1928. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys Beasley and Dewey T. Vickers. He is survived by a daughter, Tonye McKinney; sons, David Vickers and Vernon Bill Vickers; grandson Kris Vickers; stepsons, Jerry Gunby and Mitch Gunby; step-grandchildren, Marcus, Chausa McCally, Amy, Krysta and Bryan; brothers, Dillon Vickers and Bill Beasley Vickers; sisters, Corrine Womack, Shirley Hunt and Carolyn Evans; 17 nieces and nephews, numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Vernon's ashes were scattered January 16, at 6:30 p.m. in the Gulf of Mexico.

Services for Betty Smith Wagner, 74, of Garland, Texas, were June 25, 2007, at New Covenant Methodist Church in Sunnyvale, Texas. Mrs. Wagner was born November 26, 1932, in Omaha, to Boss Hubbard Smith and Allie Talley Smith. Se died June 19, 2007. She was a retired accountant involved in service to missions, a member of the Martha Laird Chapter DAR, and a member of the first graduating class of Paul Pewitt High School in 1951. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, David James Smith and Willard Douglas Smith. Survivors include her husband, Douglas Wagner of Garland; daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Mark DePriest of The Colony; three sisters, Helen Hampton of Naples, Nancy Trimble of Dallas, and Cynthia Owens of Longview; two brothers, Ernest Smith of Commerce, and Richard Smith of Omaha; and two grandchildren, Andy and Andrea DePriest of the Colony.

Dr. Charles J. Wise, 88, of Naples, died Monday, August 13, 2001 in Mount Pleasant. Mr. Wise was born April 8, 1913 in Jefferson. He was a retired physician in Naples, where he served as a doctor from 1948 until 1982. He was instrumental in the opening of the David Granbury Memorial Hospital and the East Texas Clinic in Naples. He was a member of the Episcopal Church and a charter member of the Paul Pewitt School Board. It was a special day for Dr. Wise on Saturday, July 30, 1994, when Naples honored him as the grand marshal for the annual Naples Watermelon Festival parade. He obtained his bachelor's degree from Louisiana State University I Baton Rouge, and earned his M.D. from LSU Medical Center in New Orleans. After an internship at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, he served three residency stints at E. A. Conway, Huey P. Long and Independence Hospitals, and was then assigned as medical director of the Louisiana State Penal System. In 1948, he was employed by Doctors Good, Parsons and Jones to open the David Granberry Memorial Hospital at Naples, with Dr. James S. Leeves, Bess Poer Jones and Verba Bradford Heath. He continued his medical practice at the hospital and East Texas Clinic until his retirement in the early 1980s. Survivors include his wife, Ann B. Wise of Naples; three sons, Doug Wise of Austin, Tom Wise of Midlothian and Tim Wise of Liverpool, England; three daughters, Betty Grace Wise Grames of Houston, Mary Margaret Harvey and Susan Wise of Jefferson; two stepsons, David Fulcher of Naples and Gordon Ray Fulcher of Sulphur Springs; one stepdaughter, Kay Fulcher Carter of San Antonio; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Olive and a son, Richard.

Nolan McCollum Young passed away Wednesday, September 26 in a Longview hospital. A memorial service will be 12:00p.m Saturday, September 29, 2007 in the chapel at Rader Funeral Home, Longview, with the Rev. David Lindwall presiding. Visitation with the family will be Saturday morning 10:30am to 11:30am at Radar Funeral Home. Nolan McCollum was born January 5, 1917 in Omaha, Texas to Jessie Robert McCollum Sr. and Dovie Viola (Rucks) McCollum. She met her beloved husband of 62 years, Col. Leilyn Young, Ret. U.S. Army, at Camp Fannin, TX. during WWII. They were married and she became a devoted Army wife during his 32 year career in the U.S. Army. Through the years of service, they lived in many locations including Naples, Italy, Ft. Leavenworth, KS, Ft. Polk, LA., Washington D.C., Honolulu HI and finally Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio where they retired and moved to Longview in 1974. The Young's were members of First United Methodist Church. Nolan loved fresh flowers and it showed at their beautifully landscaped home. She was meticulous, fun and the perfect example of an Army officer's wife. She loved to tell stories of the life she shared living with the Colonel and all their travels and adventures while serving in the Army. Nolan Young was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers; Bonnie, J. Robert and M.W. McCollum, her husband, Col. Leilyn Young, and their infant son, Robert Ray Young. She is survived by her nephew and his wife, Reggie and Lisa McCollum, great-nephew, Kyle Randall McCollum of Midland, Texas; a nephew and his wife, Pat and Janice McCollum of Houston, Texas; a great-niece, Jacquelyn Marie McCollum; a sister-in-law, Wade McCollum of Kilgore; and a great-niece, Lou Smith of Kilgore. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia alongside the Colonel and their son Robert Ray on October 22, 2007.

Graveside services for Mrs. Marilyn Clayton Zermeno, 70, of Los Angeles, CA, were Saturday, November 23, 2002, in Live Oak Cemetery in Duarte, CA, under the direction of Douglas and Zook Mortuary of Monrovia, CA. Mrs. Zermeno was born February 25, 1932, in Omaha. She died Monday, November 18, 2002, in a Texarkana hospital. She was a homemaker and had lived in CA for almost 50 years. Survivors include three daughters, Mona Z. Starr of Pomona, CA, Sherry L Mundt of Riverside, CA, and Danielle Orenstein of Tucson, AZ; two sisters, Reve C. Allen of Texarkana, AR, and Reba C Allen of Texarkana, TX; five grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Zermeno, who died in 1990.