Please be praying for Randy Graham's ('84) family during this time.
Gloria Graham
Tuscola, Texas
Gloria Graham, 67, died Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2010, in Pioneer Drive Baptist Church with the Reverend Johnny Sheffield officiating. Burial will be in Graham Family Cemetery at Cedar Gap, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Gloria was born November 12, 1942, in Houma, Louisiana. She was raised by her mother and step-father, Theda and Ben Wheeler. She married Bobby N. Graham March 21, 1964, in Trent. She worked for Timex in Abilene and in Bryant, Arkansas, and was also a receptionist for an allergy clinic in Bryant. She moved to Cedar Gap in 1982 and was office manager for Dr. Barry Hoefer in Abilene for 27 years, retiring in December 2009. She returned to Abilene in 1992. She was a Baptist.
Preceding her in death were her step-father; and the father of her children, Bobby Graham.
Survivors include two daughters, Connie Stone and husband Billy, and Lonnie Powell and husband David, all of Abilene; one son, Randy Graham and wife Charla of Haslet; her mother, Theda Wheeler of Trent; one brother, Larry Hartline and wife Bonnie of Trent; two sisters, Brenda Martin and husband George of Loraine and Peggy Hartline of Colorado; nine grandchildren, Toby Stone, Lacy Stone, Kara Galinak, Amanda Partin, Darci Weaver, Clint Powell, Nicki Powell, Kenzek Graham and Rani Graham; seven great-grandchildren, Bailie, Katelynn, Matthew, J. T., Aili, Halle and Braxton; and several other relatives.
Please pray for this family. John was in the class of 1958.
John Merritt Kendall
Abilene, Texas
John Merritt Kendall, the son of P. L. and Kathryn S. Kendall was born May 18, 1940 in Abilene, Texas and left this world to be with the Lord on January 31, 2010. The celebration of his life will be held at Oldham Lane Church of Christ at 3 p.m. on Friday, February 5th, visitation will be at North's Funeral Home, 242 Orange Street, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 4th.
John was reared on the family farm near Tuscola, Texas. He graduated from Jim Ned High School in May 1957. He joined the Air Force and was stationed in Tokyo, Japan where he met his wife, Kyoko (Kay). They had four children, one of which preceded them in death. John worked for Timex, H and R Block, and Abilene Christian University and delivered the Abilene Reporter News for several years. John also ran a small bookkeeping and seasonal tax preparation service. He was a member of the Jaycees until 1975. He was a member of the Oldham Church of Christ. His passing brings heart-felt memories to many people.
He is survived by three children: Linda Kendall-Thompson, John Michael Kendall and Merritt Lee Kendall, 10 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother, Peter L. Kendall of Orange, Texas.
Homer was in the class of 1955 of the South Taylor Flying Tigers. Please pray for this family.
Homer C. Parris
Abilene, Texas
Homer C. Parris, 73, died Wednesday, January 13, 2010, at an Abilene care center.
A Taylor County native, Homer was born in Bradshaw, Texas on October 14, 1936, the son of Addie Lorraine (Meador) and Floyd Walker Parris. He graduated from South Taylor County High School, now Jim Ned High School, and attended Hardin-Simmons University. He served for six years in the National Guard. Homer was a receiving clerk from McKesson Drug Company.
Homer married Laura Jeanette Hancock on May 31, 1958 in Abilene. He was a member of Wylie Baptist Church.
His parents and one niece, Eula Beth Richards, preceded him in death.
Homer is survived by his wife, Jeanette Hancock Parris of Abilene; brother, Joe E. Parris and wife, Louise, of Abilene; sister-in-law, Dorothy Hancock of Plainview; and brother-in-law, Jesse Edmondson of Abilene. Survivors also include three nephews and spouses, Rickey and Pug Parris of Abilene, Randall Wayne and Julie Hancock of Lockney, Texas, and James Russell and Brenda Hancock of Euless, Texas; four nieces and spouses, Janice Rose Schoolcraft of San Antonio, Carolyn and Danny Wallace and Tammie and David Lynn all of Abilene, and Pamela Ann and Fred Rawlings of Mt. Pleasant, Texas; and several great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 16, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Lee Fuller officiating. Interment will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Pallbearers will be David Raughton, Nathan Hancock, Tanner Hancock, Jesse Rawlings, Nick Craft and Brent Shipley.
Memorials may be made to West Texas Rehabilitation Center, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605.
Colt McCoy - The Christian Athlete - Senior QB Colt McCoy has been named the winner of the 2009 Bobby Bowden Award, honoring the FBS student-athlete who conducts himself as a faith model in the community, in the classroom and on the field, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has announced. http://mack...brown-texasfootball.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010510aaf.html
Mary was a 1949 graduate of South Taylor High School. Please pray for this family during this time of loss. A servant called home.
Mary Pinkston
Bowman
Abilene, Texas
Mary Virginia Bowman passed away on January 2, 2010, into her eternal reward at Hendrick Hospital.
The celebration of her life will be on Wednesday, January 6, at 2:00 PM at Lawn Baptist Church. The Rev Larry Millican and the Rev. Price Mathieson will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Cedar Gap Cemetery directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 5, at the funeral home from 6:00 PM until 7:30 PM.
Mary was born on February 15, 1930 to Mertie and T.J. Pinkston. She attended school in Tuscola and graduated from high school in 1949 from South Taylor High School, now Jim Ned High School. She married Welton Bowman, the love of her life, on April 16, 1949. They loved and laughed in their 57 years of married life. Three children were born to them, Joan and Elvin, both of Abilene, and Mendy, of Oplin.
She worked for AISD for many years, and retired from Abilene State School. She was a strong Christian woman, who bequeathed her faith to her children. She leaves us with a strong heritage of faith and family, and was dearly loved by her church family.
Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Welton. She was the baby of her family and the last surviving sibling. Her brothers were M.L., Walter, Earl, and Eugene Pinkston. Her sisters were Lavene Phariss, and Luella Davis. She was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Heather Millican.
She is survived by her children, Joan and Larry Millican, Elvin and Patti Bowman, and Mendy and Steve Stogsdill; nine grandchildren, Molly and Phillip Thomas, Joy and Jason Beard, Christy and Randy Clark, Lacy and Jordan Reeder, Matt and Tammye Smith, Laura Millican, Daniel Millican, Emily Stogsdill, and Alex Stogsdill; and six great-grandchildren. Survivors also include Corrine Pinkston, wife of Walter Pinkston, and many nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be her nephews.
The family wishes to extend grateful thanks to the staff at Hendrick Hospice. Memorials may be given to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory Street, Abilene, TX 79601.
So sorry that I missed posting this information about David Tafelmeyer. David attended Jim Ned High School for a couple of years with the class of 1984. Please pray for this family.
DavidTafelmeyer -
Abilene
David Dean Tafelmeyer passed away on September 30, 2009 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 43. Services will be at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 4933 S. 7th St. with Pastor LaVerne Janssen officiating under the direction of Bailey-Howard Funeral Home in Clyde. Interment will be at Mt. Hope cemetery in Anson, TX. The family will be receiving friends from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 2, 2009 at 4533 Curry Lane, Abilene.
David was born in Abilene, Texas to David Allen and Judy Ann Tafelmeyer on June 4, 1966. He attended schools in Abilene and Tuscola. David was employed by King Insulation upon his death.
David was loved and cherished by many. He fought a long battle against drugs and alcohol and recently had a joyous celebration of 4 years of sobriety. David was always caring to everyone and never turned down anyone's request for help. He was the backbone of the AA group "Git-R-Done" and many friends knew that if something needed to be done, David was the first to "Git-R-Done".
David was blessed to attend the Big Country Emaaus walk recently that reinforced his relationship with the Lord. The family thanks all those that have prayed for him these last few weeks.
He was a lifelong member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Abilene and also attended the Church on the Rock congregation with many of his AA friends. They were considered his second family. There was never anyone he met that wasn't a stranger.
He is survived by his parents, David Allen Tafelmeyer and wife Bobbie of Clyde, TX; Judy Ann Brazell of Anson, Texas; brother Daryl Tafelmeyer of Corinth, Texas; sister Janna Atkins and husband David of Abilene; stepbrothers Virgil Brazell and wife Theresa of Anson, Texas, Larry Brazell and wife Tina of Abilene and Jeff Leader and wife Cindy of Hurst, Texas; stepsister Teresa Cole and husband Johnny; grandmother Shirlee Smith of El Paso, Texas; daughter Alyssa Pugh and husband Aaron of Abilene; one granddaughter Olivya Pugh of Abilene; James Stubblefield, longtime companion; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended AA family.
David was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr.and Mrs. Paul Tafelmeyer; grandfather Cecil Smith, Step-father Virgil Brazell, stepbrother Hutch Willingham and nephew Jacob Atkins.
Special thanks to Hendrick Hospice and the many friends and extended family, especially Margaret Dunn, Martha Moss, and Kim Hines, who watched over him at the hospital during his stay. Memorials can be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church; the AA group "Git-R-Done"; Hendrick Hospice; Church on the Rock, or donor's favorite charity.
Please continue to pray for this family. Sharing requests for Randall ('84) Graham's family
12/29 - Randy's mom just ate turkey and gravy with mash tators and green beens and a full glass of tea she has a pic line in now and is recieving full on antibiotics straight to her heart so goodbye pnemonia.
12/24 - Thanks everyone for your prayers its been a rough couple of days Mom is hangin in there she has such a strong will and at this point its totally up to God and I cant think of a better set of hands to leave it in. She is in Hendricks Hospital in Abilene.
12/23 - to all my friends and loved ones please pray for my mom they just took her to the hospital and she is on a ventilator and they are calling all the family in Please pray for me and my family for safe travel Love you all
Pray for the Boozer and Martin families during this time of loss.
Celeta Boozer Martin
Abilene,Texas
Celeta Boozer Martin, 94, died Thursday, December 10, 2009 in a local care center. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at Elliott-Hamil Chapel of Memories, 542 Hickory, with Dr. Steve Joiner officiating. Burial to follow in McBee Cemetery, South Taylor County.
Celeta was born on June 14, 1915 in Ovalo, Texas to the late Alvin and Nellie Boozer. She was a graduate of Ovalo High School and married Wayne Avon Martin in Putnam, Texas in September of 1935.
Celeta was employed as a telephone operator in Ovalo, Texas for nine years. When she moved to Abilene in 1942 she continued her career with Southwestern Bell for 40 years. She was an active member of Telephone Pioneers and was a secretary of the local chapter for 39 years.
She was an active member of the South Side Baptist Church in Abilene where she served as director of the Senior Adult Sunday School Department for a number of years. Also, she was a member of Rose Park Senior Citizens, where she was an active quilter. Celeta was a volunteer for the Baptist Association of Social Ministries as well.
Survivors include a son, Eddie W. Martin and wife, Shirley of Buda, TX; a brother, Van M. Boozer and wife, Melba of Abilene, TX; two sisters, Su Swindle of Abilene and Mrs. James W. (Joretta) Pogue of Abilene; three grandsons, James Allan Martin of Austin, TX, Dr. Cory Martin of Scottsdale, AZ, and Michael Martin of Buda, TX; and four great-grandsons. She is preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Avon Martin; a brother, Harold Boozer; and a sister, Fern Boozer Wood.
Memorials may be made to Windcrest Alzheimer's Care Center, 6050 Hospital Dr., Abilene, TX 79606.
Our hearts are heavy at this time as we hear about the passing of Sharla Berry Cranfill's son Gavin. Please keep this family in your prayers. The memorial service will be held at the Ovalo Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 6th. Gavin passed away Thursday, December 3, 2009. Sharla is a 1985 graduate of Jim Ned and the family presently lives in Frisco, TX.
Please Pray for the Robbins family during this time of loss. Dorothy was a 1936 Graduate of the Tuscola Tigers.
Dorothy Robbins
Frisco, Texas
Dorothy Robbins, 91, formerly of Abilene, died Wednesday, November 25, 2009. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 29, 2009, in Tuscola Cemetery with the Reverend DeWayne Bush officiating, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. today, Saturday, November 28 at the funeral home.
Dorothy was born September 29, 1918, in Winters to David and Lillie Mae Holmes Dean. She graduated from high school in 1936 in Tuscola and married Troy Clyde Robbins July 8, 1937 in Tuscola. In 1941, the couple moved to Abilene from Tuscola. She worked for several businesses in Abilene including T. S. Langford and Sons and the Rita Barber Company. She retired in 1985 from Abilene State School, where she had worked ten years. In 2007, she moved to Prosper, and to Frisco in 2009. She was a Baptist.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband April 4, 1972; one daughter; six brothers; and four sisters.
Survivors include one son, Ron Robbins and wife Linda of Prosper; one daughter, Peggy Houghton of Ft. Worth; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mrs. Petree was my first grade teacher when we were living at Caps for a while. Her and her husband Raymond, both taught school in Tuscola in the 40's. Please pray for the Petree family during this time of loss and heaven's gain.
Evelyn Petree
Abilene, Texas
Evelyn Petree, 93, of the View community passed away on November 17th, 2009. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 19th at 2:00 PM at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Burial will follow the service at Elmwood Memorial Park.
Evelyn, born on June 22, 1916, was the first child of Eva Lee and R. Y. Buchanan. She attended Wylie schools and completed high school at Abilene High. Evelyn married Raymond Petree on July 28, 1938. She began teaching in the Delk community with her husband before they both graduated from McMurry College in 1940. She left teaching and worked in the Abilene Post Office while her husband served in the Air Force during World War II. Upon his return, they both began teaching in Tuscola in 1945. She campaigned with Raymond as he ran for County Tax Assessor in 1946 and was so proud as he was sworn into office.
Her only child, Richard, was born in 1947, and she enjoyed staying home with him for four years. She then had the opportunity to return to teaching at Wylie Elementary. After teaching there until 1954, she moved to Butterfield Elementary where she taught kindergarten, first, and second grades for 31 years, often teaching more than one grade at a time. She was loved and respected by her many students.
She not only taught school, but every Sunday she would serve her Lord by teaching a group of young children in her church. After retirement, she became a student again in Bible Study Fellowship and later taught the children of mothers who attended the classes. Every summer she would lead Vacation Bible School for another group of youngsters. Teaching was so important to her, but she taught her students more than reading, writing and arithmetic - she taught them about God and life.
Evelyn enjoyed cooking and was very successful in West Texas Fair baking and canning contests, several times winning sweepstakes honors. She also entered each of her grandchildren in the Grandma Brad contest at the fair, always believing hers to be the best. She also entered the West Texas Pecan Show and won several years with her entries.
She was preceded in death by her husband Raymond.
She is survived by her son Richard and his wife Cammie of Abilene. Grandchildren: Angela and Brian Carter of Lubbock; Robert and Keva Fowlkes of Iraan; Shawn and Anna Petree of Seattle; Jason and Leslie Petree of Signal Mountain, Tennessee; Chance and Whitney Petree of Abilene; Megan Rausch and Austin Petree of Abilene. Great-grandchildren: Scout and Will Carter, Addison and Asher Fowlkes, and Moriah and Elijah Petree. Other survivors include her brother Hollis Buchanan and wife Marcia Lee and their children.
Memorials may be made in Evelyn's honor to Sears Community Hospice Services, 3233 South Willis, Abilene, Texas 79605; or the church of the donor's choice.
Guest Registry may be signed and condolences submitted to:
J. T. "Jake" McMillon, 94, died Friday, November 13, 2009, in Abilene. Services will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 15, 2009, in Lawn Baptist Church, with the Reverend Price Mathieson officiating. Burial will be in Dewey Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. today, November 14, 2009, at the funeral home.
Jake was born August 16, 1915, in Moro to Wiley A. and Winnie Utley McMillon. He was a graduate of Bradshaw High School and married Euna Sheppard November 23, 1938, in Wingate. He farmed in Moro for two years and moved to Lawn in 1940 and to Abilene in 2001. He served as county commissioner for 36 years, retiring in 1985. He continued farming until 1995. During his tenure as commissioner, the Courthouse, the Coliseum and the Juvenile Detention Center were constructed. He was a deacon at Lawn Baptist Church for a number of years and a member of South Taylor County Lions, serving as president three times. He was an accomplished bass singer and sang in gospel quartets as well as solos for many years.
Preceding him in death were his parents; one grandchild, Joel McMillon; four sisters; and two brothers.Survivors include his wife, Euna McMillon of Abilene; two sons, Donald McMillon and wife Jean, and Ronald McMillon and wife Bobbye, all of Abilene;five grandchildren, L. Mark McMillon and wife Wendy of Plano, Matthew McMillon and wife Rebecca of Abilene, Marci Phillips and husband John of Texarkana, Jeff McMillon and wife Kimberely of Abilene, and Holly Moore and husband Clark of Frost; 12 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and other relatives.
Memorials may be made to Lawn Baptist Church, Lawn, Texas 79530, or Abilene Education Foundation, P. O. Box 1999, Abilene, TX 79604.
Please pray for the Willis family
James L. 'J.L.' Willis
Lawn, Texas
James L. "J. L." Willis, 78, died Tuesday, November 10, 2009, in an Abilene hospital. Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 13, 2009, in Dewey Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 ? 8:00 p.m. Thursday, November 12, 2009, at the funeral home.
J. L. was born December 24, 1930, in Content in Runnels County to Avery and Sarah Hefley Willis. Following his graduation from Lawn High School, he began working for El Paso Natural Gas Company. He worked in gas plants in Crane and Goldsmith, retiring in 1985 as a plant operator after 37 years with the company and returned to Lawn the same year. He married Josephine ?Jo? Avalos January 19, 1983, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Jo; two sisters; and one grandson.
Survivors include four daughters, Myghan Willis and Ashley Crabb, both of Abilene, Debra Eschberger of Gatesville, and Jennifer Eschberger of Abilene; three sons, Walter Eschberger of Tye, Ronnie Willis of Round Rock, and Randy Willis of Woodward, Oklahoma; eleven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory Street, Abilene, Texas 79601.
Those that grew up in the Bradshaw area or new the Hunt family may want to attend this memorial service. Please pray for the Hunt family.
Robert Meno 'Bob' Hunt
May 25, 1925 - November 2, 2009
Robert Meno Hunt, 84, died on Monday morning, November 2, 2009 in Winters, TX. The son of the late Wayne and Minnie Hunt, he was raised in Bradshaw, TX leaving to serve in the Navy during WWII and later pursuing a career that took him all over the world. He returned to Taylor County in 1976 when his assistance was needed. He is also preceded in death by Joy Dorothy Jolissaint, his wife of 55 years.
Survivors include his beloved wife and companion, Lenora Higgins Hunt, a Son and daughter-in-law, Wayne and Dahelia Hunt, daughter Melanie Hunt, step-son William (Pete) Higgins and Step-daughters Nancy Ward, Barbara Vaughn and Susan Shepard. His grandchildren include Shane, Slade, Tamara Joy and Josh Hunt, and he has 3 great grandchildren. Other survivors include a cousin, Olivia Horn and her daughters, Cathy Forbes and Mindy Brent.
A Robert Meno (Bob) Hunt Memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, November 28th, 1:00PM, at the family's old Audra Mercantile in Bradshaw, TX. To celebrate a life so well lived, friends and family will gather to dine and reminisce after the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be made to the Bradshaw Cemetery Association or Hospice of the Big Country.
For all that know Andy and Cindy Stockton, please keep them in your prayers as Cindy's Dad and two of his grandsons went to be with the Lord Sunday due to a plane crash. We love you guys and our prayers are with you.
Please be praying for the Duke family during this time of loss.
Dennis Michael "Snoopy" Duke
Abilene, Texas
Dennis Michael "Snoopy" Duke, 51, died Saturday, October 31, 2009 in Abilene. At the time of his death, he was doing what he loved, riding his motorcycle and the feeling of peace and freedom that came with it. His memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, November 6, 2009 in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 HWY 277 South.
Dennis was born in Savannah, Georgia on January 29, 1958. He lived in many places growing up as the son of a career Air Force father. Around 1970, the family was stationed at Dyess Air Force Base and Dennis has been in the Abilene area since that time. He graduated from Wylie High School in 1976 and later attended Cisco Junior College where he enjoyed being a part of the marching band that participated in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. He has owned and operated Duke RV since 1992, where he has earned himself a loyal following and a reputation for being honest and skilled in his profession.
Dennis had many passions; he enjoyed photography, Nascar, and bowling, even going to National Tournaments in his younger days. His biggest passion has always been his music. He was a member of the band "Task", could play many different instruments, wrote numerous songs, and loved passing time on the weekends jamming with good friend Don Sawyers.
Survivors include his father, Don Duke of Tuscola; his wife, Sharon Kay Duke of Abilene; two daughters, Jamie Osborne and husband Derrill of Abilene and Jennifer McIver and husband Jason of Royse City; three step daughters, Lisa Sawyers and husband Don of Tuscola, Randa Allen of Ft. Worth and Rebekah Williamson of Lawn; his sister Mary Ann Abbott and husband Horace of Merkel; six grandchildren, Summer, Zakhry, Brennan, Drake, Cameron and Briley; six step grandchildren, Tyler Williamson, whom he raised for 8 years, Tristen, Casey, Keirsten, Ryder and Haley; his niece, Ashley Carthel and husband Ty; and his nephew, Greggory Abbott and his wife Marla.
Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79606.
Please pray for the Dunlap family at this time of loss.
Please be praying for the Young family - several generations of Young's have been through our Jim Ned School system.
Bert Young
Abilene, Texas
Bert Young, 86, passed away Thursday, October 22, 2009 in Abilene. His funeral will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October, 24, 2009 in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel, 5750 Hwy 277 South, officiated by Reverends Jack Ridlehoover and Paige Baize. Interment will follow the service at Elmwood Memorial Park, Garden of Hope with Military Honors.
Bert was born October 22, 1923 in Taylor County to Sid and Betty Young. He graduated from Jim Ned High School, and volunteered to serve his country during World War II in the United States Navy. Shortly after the end of the war he returned to the Abilene area and married Floy Gooch on February 17, 1951 in Rule, TX. After marriage they settled near the family homestead to continue the tradition of ranching. Bert was a charter member of the ECCA Volunteer Fire Department and was an Honorary Deputy for Taylor County under Sheriff George Maxwell. He served as a volunteer for the Taylor County Stock Show for many years and was a member of both the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association and Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. He was also a member of Elm Valley Community Church.
Bert is survived by his sons, Gary Young and wife Janel of Elm Valley and Lowell Young and wife Johnna of Elm Valley; grandchildren, G. Bert Young and wife Amber, Traci King and husband James, Christopher Bert Young, Jessica Young, Shantel Young, and Tori Lackey and husband Brady; great-grandchildren, Ayden, Elaina, Rhion, Madalynn, Caleb, and Gunner.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Floy; seven siblings; and granddaughter, Krystal Young.
Pallbearers for the service will be; Bob Collins, Barry McCollum, Donnie Nelson, Jamie Smith, Danny Nelson, and Cody White.
Honorary Pallbearers will be; Oscar White, George Maxwell, Delbert Hall, Jim Graham, Joe Graham, Don Vickery, and Norm McVey
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be sent to Hendrick Hospice, 1682 Hickory St., Abilene, TX 79601, ECCA Volunteer Fire Department, 349 CR 278, Tuscola, TX 79562, or the charity of your choice.
Please pray for the Adams - McMillon - Popnoe families for their loss. Bitty was a 1947 graduate of the Tuscola Tigers.
Willa Glyn Adams Popnoe Silver Valley
Willa Glyn Popnoe passed from this life to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 16, 2009. A service celebrating her life and praising God for her will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, October 18, 2009, at Lawn Baptist Church with the Rev. Price Mathieson and Brother Troy Barrington officiating. Burial will be in Silver Valley Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett in Tuscola. Visitation will be 2:00 p.m. preceding the funeral service.
Willa was born June 11, 1930 in Tuscola to Chester and Wilma McMillon Adams. Family and friends knew her as 'Bitty'. She was married to her beloved husband, Gerald "Jake" for 59 years. She had lived in Silver Valley since 1952. Bitty was a wonderful, loving, caring and devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend to many. She was the heart of her family and gave constant support and encouragement whenever needed. Most importantly she had a beautiful spirit and heart of gold. A hard working woman, most of her life involved manual labor, ranging from watch making, gathering broom weeds and mistletoe, having a chicken farm, a pig farm and co-owner of a decorative wood business for over 25 years. Her cooking was a true gift to many and her specialty was fried chicken and potato salad. Though she had too many recipes to mention, most notable was her turkey and dressing during the holidays. Her favorite pastime was fishing for crappie with her husband. She was a member of Primitive Baptist Church in Lawn.
Bitty was diagnosed with cancer in April 2006 and while she endured much pain and suffering she battled this horrible disease with dignity and courage with the assistance of her Lord and Savior.
Preceeding her in death were her parents; and two sisters, Fern Bever and Janie Beth Thompson.
Survivors include her husband, Jake; one son, Matt Popnoe of Brady; one daughter, Patti and husband Jon of Azle; two brothers, Ralph Adams and wife Jane of Abilene and Jerry Adams and wife Donna of Tuscola; two sisters Patty Rosson and husband Ken of Novice and Mary Phipps of Austin; three special people she referred to as her grandchildren, Sam Striegler, Jessie Smith and Lindsey Davidson; and many nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to those who were instrumental in her care, Dr. Victor Hirsch, Maria Ortiz, Dr. Robert Striegler and Sue Striegler.
Be in prayer for the Vaughn family - Steve '68 - Terry '71 - Sherry '72 - Judy '74 - for the loss of their father.
V.R. 'Runt' Vaughn
Lawn, Texas
V. R. "Runt" Vaughn, 78, died Tuesday, October 13, 2009, in an Abilene hospital. Services will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 16, 2009, in Lawn Baptist Church, with the Reverends Price Mathieson and Mark Moore officiating. Burial will be in Dewey Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Runt was born February 11, 1931, in Hodges, to Earnest Lee and Flora McCoy Vaughn. He married Sue Stevens December 18, 1948, in Abilene. In 1969, he and Sue moved to Lawn. He worked at Abilene Brick Company and Walker Well Service. He was an iron worker for Rose and Sons Construction in Abilene and Vaughn Steel Contractors, retiring in 1985. He was a member of Lawn Baptist Church. He enjoyed playing golf and hunting and fishing.
Preceding him in death were his parents and eleven brothers and sisters.
Survivors include his wife, Sue Vaughn of Abilene; two sons, Steve Vaughn of Midlothian and Terry Vaughn and wife Penny of Merkel; two daughters, Sherry Gowin and husband Bob of Abilene and Judy Blackwell and husband Larry of Archer, Florida; six grandchildren, Scott Blackwell, Chad Blackwell, Misty Braly, Lacy Gowin, Ricky Vaughn and Shelley Vaughn; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory, Abilene, Texas 79601 or Lawn Baptist Church, Missionary Fund, P.O. Box 268, Lawn, Texas 79530.
Be praying for the Sanchez family during this time of loss.
Francisco L. "Frank" Sanchez
Tuscola
TUSCOLA -Francisco L. "Frank" Sanchez, 78, died Sunday, October 11, 2009, at his residence. Services will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 13, 2009, at Tuscola Church of Christ, with Bob Kiser officiating. Burial will be in Tuscola Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6 - 8:00 p.m. today, Monday, October 12, 2009, at the funeral home.
Frank was born April 1, 1931, in East Bernard, Texas, to Simpliso and Alvina Longoria Sanchez. He married Soila Vidaurri February 5, 1956, in Mathis. He and Soila moved to Tuscola in 1958, where he worked for several farmers and ranchers in the area. He was a welder in Abilene and worked in bridge construction for Bailey Bridges in a number of Texas locations. He was a custodian at Jim Ned High School for 14 years, retiring in 1993. He was a member of Tuscola Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Francisco Danial Sanchez; four brothers; and one sister.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Soila Sanchez of Tuscola; two sons, Erasmo Sanchez and wife Anna of Anson, and Johnny Sanchez and wife Jan of Garland; five grandchildren, Francisco Coy Sanchez , Erasmo Danial Sanchez, and Malia Sanchez, all of Anson, John Mason Sanchez of Garland and Elaina Grau of Copperas Cove; three great-grandchildren; a special niece and two special nephew who were reared in the home, Angie Flores, Alvin Bentencourt, and Martin Bentencourt.; two brothers, Juan Sanchez and Jesus Sanchez; two sisters, Maria Sanchez and Edarda Gonzalez; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Pray for the Dean family for their loss and heaven's gain.
Hugh Benson Dean, Jr.
Tuscola, TX
Hugh Benson Dean, Jr. of Tuscola, Texas was called home peacefully to be with his lord Wednesday October 7, 2009. Hugh had a passion for life, enjoyed people and had an immense love for his family. An outdoor memorial service will be held on Saturday at their home at 150 Buffalo Crossing at 11:00 am in Elm Valley. Wayne Olgesby will officiate the service. Arrangements were handled by North's Funeral Home, 242 Orange Street.
Hugh Dean was born in Louisville, KY July 15th 1941. He was preceded in death by both parents Hugh Benson Dean Sr., Louise Dean and his sister Joan Woodward. Hugh is survived by his spouse of 47 years Shirley Dean, two sons Kevin and Mike, two grandchildren Tiffany and Kolby along with two great grand children Madi Kate and Emery Melton.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford St. Abilene, TX 79605.
Sorry Brooke, I missed this one last week - Pray for the Brolls and Brookreson Families with their loss.
Peggy M. Brolls
BUFFALO GAP
Peggy M. Brolls, 79, died Wednesday, September 30, 2009, in an Abilene hospital. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 3, 2009, in First Baptist Church, Buffalo Gap with the Reverend Steve Joiner officiating. Burial will be in Buffalo Gap Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola.
Peggy was born June 6, 1930, to Glenn and Ella Mae Harrison Johnson in Buffalo Gap, where she was raised and spent most of her life. She married John Brolls April 25, 1984, in Buffalo Gap. She was an original member of Buffalo Gap Volunteer Fire Department, a charter member of Buffalo Gap Lions Club, secretary of the Buffalo Gap Community Business Association, and a former City Council member. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Buffalo Gap. She was involved in Taylor County Old Settlers Reunion, and was a "die-hard" Dallas Cowboys fan. Peggy was manager of the Bar-B-Que Barn for 37 years.
Preceding her in death were her parents and one sister, Glenna Haley.
Survivors include her husband, John Brolls of Buffalo Gap; one son, Larry Don Brookreson and wife Linda of Buffalo Gap; three daughters, Brenda Sue Tate and husband Roger Michael 'H. A.' of Dallas, Cynthia Lea Schranz and husband Kurt Alan of Buffalo Gap, Vicky Lynn Michaud and husband Michael Gerald of Oakdale, Illinois; two sisters, Joyce Glasgow and husband Joe of Buffalo Gap and Loyce Campbell of Klamath Falls, Oregon; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Buffalo Gap Volunteer Fire Department, P. O. Box 506, Buffalo Gap, Texas 79508.
Great Homecoming - final score - JN 14 - Anson 6
Homecoming for Jim Ned is scheduled for September 18th at 7:30 against Anson. All alumni with the graduating year ending in a 4 or a 9, it is your Reunion year. Mark your calendars, come support the Indians Football team and celebrate your reunion year as well. Homecoming Parade and Alumni meeting information below.
The father of Randal Graham ('84), passed away today.Bobby N. Graham (September 25, 1938 - August 15, 2009). Please keep Randy and his family in your prayers.
Visititaion is at 6:30 Sunday night at Tuscola. Funeral is at 10:00 Monday morning at Buffalo Gap Baptist.
Please pray for the Wesley Cannon ('91) and Jolee Graham Cannon ('92) family in this time of loss.
Doyle John "D.J." Cannon
Parker Funeral Home
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Abilene
Doyle John "D.J." Cannon was born into heaven on August 11, 2009 in Abilene, Texas. He is survived by his parents Wesley and Jolee Cannon of Oplin, big sister Lanie, grandparents Jane Graham of Abilene, Jack and Brenda Cannon of Oplin, and Virgil Graham of Ovalo, Great-grandparents Berney and Evelyn Brzozowski of Yoakum, Uncles John Graham of Moro and Justin Cannon of Ovalo, Aunts Kathy Graham of Moro and Catherine Lenox of Abilene, and many other family and friends.
He was greeted in heaven by his great-grand parents Doyle and Betty Cannon, Bea Brzozowski, John and Lois Graham, Archie and Lois Stringer and special family friend Janice "Granice" Sadler.
The family will receive family and friends at their home from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, August 14, 2009.
Graveside services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 15, 2009 at the Rogers Cemetery near Oplin, Texas. Vic Meyer will officiate with services under the direction of Parker Funeral Home of Baird, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Anthony's Blessing Perinatal Hospice c/o Pregnancy Resources of Abilene, 598 Westwood Drive, Ste. 209, Abilene, TX 79603; Trisomy 18 Foundation at www.trisomy18.org , or the donor's favorite charity.
Jesse Duane Rathbun
Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Jesse Duane Rathbun
Ovalo
Jesse Duane Rathbun, 18, our beloved son has gone to fly with the angels after living life with purpose and meaning, touching every person he met along his journey. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 11, 2009, in the First Baptist Church in Tuscola with the Reverend Edward Bigham officiating. Burial will be in Tuscola Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. No visitation is planned.
The earth quaked when Jesse was born in Anchorage, Alaska, on April 13, 1991, and our hearts were broken on July 5, 2009, when he died as a result of an ATV accident in Alaska. Our only comfort was knowing his eyes were filled with beautiful things and he was surrounded by family.
Jesse was a resident of the Moro community, and was a 2009 Honor graduate of Jim Ned High School. He was an avid outdoor enthusiast who loved his animals, hunting and fishing.
Jesse leaves behind his parents, Michelle and Dave Galenbeck of Ovalo; his brother, Nicholas Derry of San Antonio; his sister, Allison Galenbeck of Georgia; grandparents, Duane and Dianne Rathbun of Anchorage and Dave and Carol Galenbeck of Hobbs, New Mexico; his farm parents, Larry and Sheryl Webb of Ovalo; Aunt Frannie and Uncle Brian Stephens of Denver City, Aunt Diana and Sam Glover of Corpus Christi, Uncle David and Aunt Linda Taylor of Pagosa Springs, Colorado; cousins, J. P. Glover of Tyler, Eric, Mandy, Matt, Payton and Erica Taylor, all of Hobbs, Monica, Reid and Quinton Harris all of Carlsbad, New Mexico; and special friends, Brian and Randy Burnsed of Ovalo. Texas youth killed in ATV crash near Glennallen
Published: July 5th, 2009 06:59 PM
Last Modified: July 5th, 2009 10:45 PM
An 18-year-old from Texas died today in an ATV crash in Glennallen.
Jesse Rathbun of Ovalo, Texas, became trapped under a four-wheeler at Mile 8 of Klutina Lake Road just before 12:30 p.m., Alaska State Troopers said.
Initial reports are that Rathbun was driving a Suzuki 750 and crashed after trying to make a turn on the dirt road.
He was declared dead at the scene. He was not wearing a helmet.
Arnett Weeks Jr. remembered
Charles G. Anderson Sr. Special to the Reporter-News /
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Arnett Weeks
Friends and family describe former Big Country school superintendent and coach Arnett Weeks Jr., 84, as an “inspiration” and standout athlete.
Weeks died June 24 in Victoria after a short illness. Funeral services were Saturday at First Baptist Church in Bangs with burial in the Bangs Cemetery.
Weeks was superintendent of schools and football and track coach at the Jim Ned school district from 1959 to 1971. He later served as elementary principal in Anson and was superintendent and coach at Bangs school district from 1973 to 1985. Weeks was born near Goldsboro and graduated from Lawn High School is 1942.
He attended Howard Payne College and played football, but left in 1943 to join the Navy during World War II. Arnett earned a Presidential Unit Citation and three bronze stars as well as the U.S. Naval Commendation. He participated in three invasions in the Pacific — Saipan, Guam, and Iwo Jima.
His ship was sunk at Iwo Jima, but he survived.
In the fall of 1946, Arnett returned to Howard Payne to continue his education and to play football. He graduated from Howard Payne in 1949 and then earned a master’s degree from Southwest Texas. He began his teaching and coaching career at Grandview High School in 1949.
Arnett was athletic director and coached basketball, football, and track at Cisco Junior College from 1955 to 1958. After retirement, he assisted coaching track at HPU for about two years. He served in public educations for 50 years.
His daughter, Patsy Kennamer, of Bangs, said many of her father’s former students stayed in touch with him regularly.
“There are many, many of Daddy’s ‘boys’ from Grandview, Granbury, and Cisco who called and visited him frequently,” she said. “Daddy was inducted in the HPU Sports Hall of Fame last year.”
Kennamer said what really stands out is his love for the Lord and his love for children and young people.
Bruce Land, of Abilene, a retired coach and administrator, ran track for Weeks at Cisco Junior College in 1956-57 and was an All-American under Weeks for two years.
“Coach Weeks has always been an inspiration to me because of his Christian faith and his honesty and integrity,” Land said. “All these things helped me to mold my philosophies as I matured and became a coach and educator myself. I can think of no other role model that had a greater influence on my life than this man.”
Weeks was also involved in civic life. He served on the Bangs Independent School District board of trustees for 11 years and as the mayor of Bangs for one year.
He is survived by his wife, Patsy, and three daughters, Patsy Kennamer, of Bangs, Nancy Henry and husband Bill of Godley, and Janie McClatchy and husband Ricky of San Antonio; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Two sisters survive him: Johnnie Ruth Duncan of Big Spring, and Peggy Sue Satterwhite and husband Bobby of Lawn.
Visit the "In Memory" page and post a special response about Mr. Weeks if you would like.
Due to circumstances beyond our control, the location of our Class of 1969 Reunionto be held this Saturday, June 27th, has changed. We will meet at the Activities Building of Tuscola United Methodist Churchjust one block South of the school on Highway 83. We regret this last minute change, and we certainly want to inform anyone who may want to join us for any part of this day.
Click on the Link 2009 Class Reunions to find more information about the 40-Year Class Reunion ~ scheduled for June 27, 2009 . The Class of 1969 will have a reunion June 27, 2009 at the Activities Building of Tuscola United Methodist Church. Our small class would LOVE to be joined by the classes ahead of us and behind us. Feel free to leave a message for Karen or Jaynie on the Class of 1969 profiles page.
June 20, 2009
10 - YEAR CLASS REUNION
Class of 1999
Coughlin-Miller
Monday, June 15, 2009
Coughlin-Miller
Abilene
Pete Coughlin, of Dallas, TX and Reba Knight, of Lawn, TX are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Kaylee Coughlin, to Garrett Miller, son of Joy & Dan Miller, of Ovalo, TX.
The bride is a 2006 graduate of Jim Ned High School, and will graduate from Texas Tech University in May 2010 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies.
The groom is a 2006 graduate of Jim Ned High School. He is currently serving our Country in the United States Marine Corps.
The couple is planning a wedding for May 2010. They will reside in Abilene once they are married.
Click on the Link 2009 Class Reunions to find more information about the 10-Year Class Reunion for the Class of 1999 ~ June 20, 2009
South Taylor Class Reunion ~ scheduled for June 20, 2009 at the Jim Ned Cafetorium 1:00 - Evening. Evening meal will begin at 5:30.
Click on the link below to see the 25-Year Class Reunion Countdown Clock for 1983-1984-1985-1986~June 13, 2009.Also click on Link 25Yr Reunion Details to find out more about the events of the day.
A combined Class Reunion for the graduating classes of '83, '84, '85 and '86 will be June 13, 2009. For more information click on 25-Yr Reunion Details.... You can register at anytime after creating your profile by clicking on 25 Year Reunion Reg.
Remember: Register for Reunion (click on 25-Year Reunion) - Visit Often
Day Event:
Place: Rose River Properties (Previously American Legion Hall), 642 Kent Street, Tuscola
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Lunch: Meat/Cheese Tray, Bread/Cracker Tray, Veggie/Fruit Tray, Cookie/Brownie Tray, Tea/Lemonade/Water – (BYOB or Sodas if desired)
Cost: Adults $6.00 – Youth (ages 4-12) $4.00 – Children 3 and under are Free
Invitation: Class/Families
Faculty and Parents visit option: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Activities: Visiting, Class Pictures, Lunch, Games, Air Castle for kids-donated by Jerry Don Foster (Class of ’85)
Evening Event:
Place: Rose River Properties (Previously American Legion Hall), 642 Kent Street, Tuscola
Time: 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Dinner: Steak/Grilled Chicken, Garlic Butter Potatoes, Green Beans, Salad, Bread, Dessert, Tea - (BYOB & Sodas if desired) – Catered by Tim Newberry
Cost: Class/Guest – $20.00/per person
Entertainment: Live Band – Kelly Corn Band/Country Music 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Invitation: Class and their Guest
Activities: Visiting, Class/Guest Pictures, Dinner, Presentations, In Memory, Dancing
Make checks or money orders payable to: "Class of '84 Reunion" and mail to Class of '84 Reunion, 841 Buffalo Gap Rd., Tuscola, Tx. 79562 by May 23, 2009. These will be collected by Karen (Boulter) Morris and deposited into the Class of ’84 bank account in Tuscola to be used for this Reunion event.
Saturday Evening Meal: (choose one per person) Steak: _________ Grilled Chicken: ________
Special Request:
If you are in the 25 Year Class Reunion Group you are being asked to gather pictures of school days, past reunions and present photos for the slide shows that will be presented at our Reunion.
Send to: 1983 & 1984 will send pictures to Lisa Ellinger Gibbs. 1985 & 1986 will send pictures to Staci Edgar Danford. Requests have been mailed to you as well as reunion reminders. If you have not received your letter, please contact Debbie Dacus Stewart.
The 25-Year Class Reunion was a day and evening full of fun, laughter and an endless amount of hugs and catching-up. There were over 50 classmates and over 100 people between the two events. Pictures will be posted soon.
Thank you to Mike and Linda Pueschel for their great facility - Tim Newberry and his crew for the most unbelievable tasting steak and chicken dinner - The Kelly Corn band for the late evening entertainment in which Jerry Randall('84) was called up on stage to play and sing a few selections that were truly awesome and fun to dance to - Jerry Don Foster('85) and his wife for the Air Castle - Karen Boulter Morris('84)for preparations - Ronda Middleton Newberry('84) for preparations and projector - Debbie Dacus Stewart('84) for preparations and the video of 1983 and 1984 - Staci Edgar Danford('85) for the video of the classes of 1985 and 1986 - Charlie Purcell('84) for the videos of the football games from 1984 - Paula Hicks('83) for lending her lap top computer - thank you to those that helped decorate, help with the lunchtime set-up and clean-up and a special thank you to Jim Conley('86) and his family for traveling all the way from Bristol, UK to see his family and old friends.
Johnny Mack Sansompassed away June 4, 2009 - His information is now in the "In Memory" section of this site. Johnny Mack was in the class of 1958.
Dayne Leonard Gossett
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Abilene, Texas
Dayne Leonard Gossett, 65, passed away Monday, June 1, 2009. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday at Faith Baptist Church, 2300 South 20th Street. Burial will follow in Tuscola Cemetery, directed by Abilene Funeral Home.
Monday morning, God looked around his garden and found an empty space. He then looked down upon this earth and saw Dayne’s tired face. He put His arms around him and took him home to a place where he will no longer be in pain - a beautiful place where he can go fishing and chase birds all he wants. He will watch all the Texas Rangers baseball games, Dallas Cowboy’s games and Texas Longhorn football games.
Dayne Leonard Gossett was born on May 3, 1944, in Castroville, Texas, to the late Warren and Pearl White Gossett. He finished high school at Jim Ned (Tuscola) in 1963. He went into the U.S. Navy in August of 1963, where he received the National Defense Service Metal, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. He worked as a cook for Milono’s and various other jobs but the one he liked the best was driving an 18 wheeler from coast to coast. He and his wife drove for nine years together and then he drove by himself until his stroke in November of 1999. His pride and joy was his family and he loved spending time with all of them.
Survivors include his wife of 21 years, Joann Gossett of Abilene; two sisters, Jean Parker and husband, S. J. and Ann Seybold, all of Abilene; one uncle, L. E. White and wife, Juanita; mother-in-law, Norine Castle of Hamlin; sister-in-law, Yvonne Castle of Hamlin; and numerous cousins and friends. He never had any children of his own but he loved to spoil his nieces and nephews, Steven Parker and wife, Retha, Terrell Parker and wife, Tracy, all of Abilene, Jeff Seybold and wife, Cindy and daughter, Shelby, all of Austin and Melissa Mitchell and husband, Chad of Abilene. He also spoiled the great nieces and nephews, Neal Parker, Shay Onken and husband, Greg, and Leah Parker, all of Abilene, Tara Parker of Austin, and Kyle Parker of Abilene.
He loved to take Caitlynn and Cameron Mitchell to school in the morning and go back and pick them up in the afternoon, which was the high point of his day. He also loved going to church and seeing Neal lead the singing or play the piano; Leah play the piano or the organ; and Steven Parker preach.
Mr. Gossett was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, France Rardon and Jo Lynn Strakos; and a brother-in-law, Bud (Lloyd) Seybold.
Online condolences and guest book may be signed at
www.abilenefuneralhome.com
Brenda Carol Poindexter
Buffalo Gap, Texas
Brenda Carol Poindexter, 50, went to be with her Lord and Savior Thursday, May 21, 2009, at her residence.
Services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Lawn Baptist Church with the Reverends Price Mathieson and Mark Moore officiating. Burial will be in Tecumseh Cemetery, directed by Fry - Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Visitation will be 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. today, Friday, May 22, 2009, at the funeral home.
Brenda was born December 12, 1958, in Baird to Dave N. and Maxine Freeman Poindexter. She was a graduate of Jim Ned High School. She began her career of 29 ½ years with the United States Postal Service at the age of 18 in Lawn. She soon became postmaster and continued there for 17 ½ years. She moved to the Buffalo Gap post office as postmaster, working for an additional 12 years and retiring in 2007. She was married to Darrell Earnest for 13 years. She was a member of Lawn Baptist Church, serving as church clerk for the 30 years.
Preceding her in death was her father, Dave Poindexter.
Survivors include one daughter, Amy Earnest Romano and husband Rick of Abilene; one son, Adam Earnest of Buffalo Gap; her mother, Maxine Poindexter of Lawn; one sister, LaRie Hancock and husband Buck of Lawn; two brothers, Don Poindexter and wife Becky of Abilene, and Dewayne Poindexter and wife Janis of Odessa; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Memorials may be made to Lawn Baptist Church Building Fund, P. O. Box 268, Lawn, Texas 79530 or Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory, Abilene, Texas 79601.
Abilene Reporter News, Friday, May 22, 2009
Look What's New On Campus!!!
Yes, that's turf - and check out that track
50-Year Class Reunion was a great success - over 75 attended from the classes of 1958, 1959, 1960 and a few from 1961. Several of these classmates had not seen each other since they graduated and were very glad they attended. Teachers that attended were Oran Egger and Frank Hibler. I got there a little late so I am not sure at the moment what the activities were before lunch but before the end of the Reunion there was a time of sharing. Stories that went on for over an hour. Remembering the good old days, appologies of less than kind treatment during school, kudos to those putting the reunion together and some very special speeches from Coach Kibler and Mr. Egger and a few others that brought tears to my eyes. This is family, a common bond, no matter how many years shared or how many miles apart.
Class of 1958 - 51st Year Reunion
Class of 1959 - 50th Year Reunion
Class of 1960 - 49th Year Reunion
If you have not had a class reunion in a while or have never had a class reunion, the 50th year class reunion has set an awesome example. Take some time and contact a few class mates, choose a date and location and we will help get the word out.
Click on the Link 2009 Class Reunions located on the left side of the home page to find information about the Combined50-Year Class Reunion for 1958-1959-1960~April 18, 2009
April 18, 2009
50 - YEAR CLASS REUNION
1958-59-60
Dear Class Mates & Friends
Hard to believe it’s been 50 years since we finished high school.
We will be joined by the 58 & 60 graduating classes and should have a great time.
Date: Saturday April 18th 2009
Place: Jim Ned High School Cafeteria
Time: 10:00 A.M. ( till )
Lunch will be at 1:00 P.M. Catered by our own G. W. Ashwander.
Registration Fee: $20.00 ea.
Things to bring:Pictures, Annuals from South Taylor, J.N.
& Lawn.
Please make a special effort to attend. It will be great to see everyone.
Thank you, Jim Ned Valley Chamber of Commerce, for a nice banquet.
For Tickets:
or call: (325) 572-3716 or (325) 554-9201
March 25, 2009 - Look Who's in the News!!! Send Kristi an email and let her know how much she is appreciated. Kristi is a 1984 Graduate of Jim Ned. PROUD TO BE A JIM NED INDIAN!
Jim Ned Basketball Playoff Games
Boys next game - Regional 1/4 Finals - against Eastland - Friday 2/27 @ 6:00 - At Clyde =Lost by 3 in Double OT -Proud to Be an INDIAN
Girls next game - Regional 1/4 Finals - against Bowie - Tuesday 2/24 @ 6:00 - Stephenville/TSU = Lost by 10 in Double OT - Great Effort Ladies
Edwards Funerals Friday - February 6, 2009
ABILENE -- Funeral services have now been set for a mother and son who lost their lives in a fire. Michele Edwards died from smoke inhalation during the Sunday morning fire. Her 7-year-old son William died two days later in a Lubbock hospital. The father Eddie, William's twin brother Willis, and his 9-year-old sister Amber escaped without injury. Grave side services for Michele and William have now been set for Friday at 1 PM at the Tuscola Cemetery. A visitation is scheduled for Thursday night from 6 to 8 PM at the Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola.
Be In Prayer for the Family of
Eddie Edwards ('85) - Michele Ulmer (Edwards) was in the class of '88
Second Fire Victim Dies
LUBBOCK - KTXS News learned the young boy critically injured in Sunday's fire on Cedar Street died overnight at University Medical Center in Lubbock. Seven year old William Edwards died sometime between 2 and 5 am this morning. His mother, Michele Edwards, died when the family home caught fire around 2:30 Sunday morning. The father, twin brother, and sister all got out safely.
Helping the Edwards Family
ABILENE - Lytle South Baptist Church is hosting a drive tonight and tomorrow to collect items for the Edwards family, recently devastated when their home caught fire. You can donate furniture or other items at the church at 1125 E. Industrial from 6 to 8 pm today and Wednesday.
The family also needs help with medical and funeral expenses. A fund has been set up at the Citizens Bank at 4201 S. Treadaway to help the family. If you're donating, ask for the "Lytle South Baptist Church Memorial Account."
Reporter-News photo by Nellie Doneva
Abilene fire claims mother of three; 7-year-old in critical condition Cause of blaze yet to be determined Sunday, February 1, 2009 A woman died in a house fire in the 1200 block of N. 15th Street around 2:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009.
In Abilene, Richard and Wanda Ulmer expected to wake up Sunday morning and attend church with their family. Instead, the couple were awakened about 2 a.m. Sunday to confusion and tragedy. Their daughter Michele Edwards, 39, was killed in an early-morning fire at her home on North 15th Street. One of their 7-year-old twin grandsons was flown to a Lubbock hospital in critical condition with third-degree burns over most of his body. Two other children suffered minor injuries. Edwards’ husband, Eddie Edwards, was not injured in the fire. The Ulmers raised three daughters in the house at 1234 N. 15th St. They said they gave the home to their oldest daughter and now live in a house behind her. Their three grandchildren often crossed the alley to get to the Ulmer’s home where a trampoline, sodas and swimming pool in the summertime are waiting for them.
Michele Edwards was trapped in the bathroom of the house and is believed to have died from smoke inhalation, according to a news release from the Abilene Fire Department. Abilene fire spokesman Gary Hamner said neighbors told authorities they could hear the woman screaming from inside the burning home. She was found in the bathroom, where she had apparently turned on the shower to try to escape the flames, Hamner said. Hamner said the one 7-year-old twin boy suffered third-degree burns over 70 percent to 90 percent of his body and was flown to University Medical Center in Lubbock. His 9-year-old sister suffered minor burns on her shoulder and the other 7-year-old twin boy suffered minor injures. Both were taken to a hospital but are now staying with an aunt in Merkel, the Ulmers said. Eddie Edwards was in Lubbock Sunday with his son, the Ulmers said. Firefighters believe the blaze started in the room the twin boys shared but they have not determined the cause. “They lost everything they have,” Wanda said. A picnic table remains intact in front of the house. Everything else around the house is burned or badly charred.
The American Red Cross is assisting the family, along with other neighbors who are volunteering their help. The fire department received a call on the structure fire at 2:21 a.m. Firefighters found the house fully engulfed in flames when they arrived. Three fire engines, a ladder truck, a battalion chief, a fire investigator, a safety officer and fire chaplain responded to the scene. Abilene police officers and ambulance personnel also assisted.
Richard Ulmer said he knows Michele is in heaven, but will miss his daughter nonetheless. “I’ll miss her laugh,” he said. “And the happy person she was.” Richard said his daughter was a great mother who made sure her children were taken care of. Wanda said she will miss her daughter, after having her close for so long. “God, I’m going to miss her,” Wanda said.
Congrats to Jerry and Brook Randall ('84)
Gordon C. Boulter
July 13, 1920 - January 7, 2009
Ovalo, TX.
Gordon C. Boulter, 88, died Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at his residence. Services will be 2:00 p.m. today, January 9, 2009, in First Baptist Church of Tuscola, with the Reverends T. C. Melton and Buddy Goodgame officiating. Burial will be in Elmwood Memorial Park in Abilene, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Gordon was born July 13, 1920, in Mills County on Pompey Creek to Frank A. and Eva Carlisle Boulter. He moved to Taylor County as a child and graduated from Tuscola High School, now Jim Ned. He married Dorothy Williams in 1938 in Winters. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a decoder. After the war, he returned to South Taylor County and to Ovalo in 1953, where he was a farmer until retiring in 2008. He was a member of the American Legion and a life member of V.F.W. Post 2012. Gordon served as a committee member on the Taylor County ASCS board and was a former school board member. He helped organize the Ovalo Community Center and was a faithful member. Gordon and Dorothy celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary September 27, 2008, with a large party. He loved his family, friends, domino players, and coffee shop buddies. His love of farming and cows was always with him. Preceding him in death were his parents and a daughter, Barbara Earnest. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy, of Ovalo; two sons, Stan Boulter and wife Linda and Gerald 'Butch' Boulter and wife Betty, all of Ovalo; five grandsons, Darrell Earnest and wife Pat, Gary Earnest and wife Sharon, Randy Earnest and wife Jeanie, Scott Boulter and wife Trina, and Mark Boulter and wife Shana; two granddaughters, Karen Morris and Lanita Roden and husband Jeff; eleven great-grandchildren, Adam Earnest, Amy Earnest, Cortnie Carpenter and husband Thomas, Janae Boulter and John, Parker Boulter, Will Roden, Latham Roden, Kevin Morris, Jayden Morris, Slade Earnest, and Kylar Earnest; and two great-great-grandchildren, Brody Carpenter and Skylar Carpenter. Pallbearers will be Jim Greenlee, Jerry Van Cleave, Don Vickery, J. W. Allmand, G. W. Ashwander, and Butch Graham. Honorary pallbearers are Randy Necessary, Robert Knott, and Bobby Joe Smith. Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Big Country, 4601 Hartford, Abilene, Texas 79605, or to a favorite charity.
June 27, 2009
40 - YEAR CLASS REUNION
1969
JIM NED HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1969 REUNION
Wow! It's hard to believe that it has already been 40 years!
Come and reminisce with the Class of 1969
Saturday, June 27th.
The fun starts at 10 a.m. in the new location at the Activities Building of Tuscola United Methodist Church.
A noontime barbeque lunch will be catered by Big G's ($8.50 per person).
Please scroll down for additional information about your RSVP and prepayment for lunch.
Bring your photos, yearbooks, and favorite school days stories.
Snacks will be provided as we enjoy a day of visiting, remembering, and laughing.
Entertainment will be provided by members of our class!
We will continue the fun with an evening meal (around 6 p.m.) at The Homeplace, a nearby restaurant offering homestyle meals and a family atmosphere you’re sure to enjoy.
Then we’ll return to the cafetorium to complete our special day.
We are attempting to include as many as possible from the Classes of 1968 and 1970.Be sure your personal list includes your spouse, parents, brothers, sisters, and any others you wish to include.
Please put this on your calendar NOW!This just won't be complete without you!
I, ________________________________________, will be there!There will be ______additional person(s) attending with me.Enclosed is a check or money order in the amount of $_______ ($8.50 per person for the noon meal) payable to Karen Yost for Class of 1969 Reunion.
Please reserve ______ places for me/us for the evening meal at The Homeplace. (Note:Send no money for this meal.Each individual/family will pay as they order at The Homeplace -- appx. $11 plus drink and tax.)
Please return this RSVP form by June 19thto Karen Yost at the address shown above so that we can give an accurate count to our caterer and to the restaurant.
Bobby Graham
Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home
Sunday, August 16, 2009
BOBBY N. GRAHAM
Cedar Gap
Bobby N. Graham, 70, entered into heaven on Saturday, August 15, 2009, in an Abilene hospital. Services will be 10:00 a.m. today, August 17, 2009, at First Baptist Church, Buffalo Gap, with the Reverends T. C. Melton and Steve Joiner officiating. Burial will be at Cedar Gap in a private cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola.
Bobby was born September 25, 1938, in Cedar Gap to Frank H. and Elsie A. Collins Graham. He married Gloria J. Hartline March 21, 1964, in Trent. He lived in Cedar Gap for the last 26 years, where his father and mother had farmed. He worked for Timex over 29 years, WalMart for a few years, and for the City of Abilene 21 years and 10 months before retiring February 28, 2006. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Buffalo Gap and active in the South Taylor County Lions Club. He served in the U. S. Army in Germany at the Berlin Wall and during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Survivors include his special friend and former wife, Gloria Graham of Abilene; two daughters, Connie Stone and her husband Billy Stone and Lonnie Powell and her husband David Powell, all of Abilene; one son, Randy Graham and his wife Charla Graham of Haslet; his grandchildren, Toby and Lacy Stone, Kara Galinak, Amanda Partin, Darci Weaver, Clint Powell and Nicki Powell, Kenzek and Rani Graham; his great-grandchildren, Bailie, Katelynn, Matthew, J. T., Aili and Halle; and several other relatives.
Pallbearers will be Russell Bartlett, Don Bingham, Randy Graham, Ron Harden, L. G. Smith and Toby Stone. Honarary pallbearer will be Lacy Stone, a granddaughter.
In lieu of flowers, please contribute to your favorite charity, or First Baptist Church, P. O. Box 459, Buffalo Gap, TX 79508, or South Taylor County Lions Club, P. O. Box 493, Tuscola, TX 79562.
Anita Kaye Dunlap
Haskell, Texas
Anita Kaye Dunlap, 48, beloved mother, daughter, and friend to a multitude of people around the world completed her worldly travels on November 1, 2009 after a valiant battle with cancer. A Graveside service will be 2:00 pm, Thursday, November 5, 2009 at Willow Cemetery under the direction of Holden McCauley Funeral Home, Haskell. A visitation will be Wed. Nov. 4, 2009, 5:15 to 6:30 at the funeral home. The family will also receive friends at 1103 North Ave. G, Haskell, TX.
Anita was born January 27, 1961; to Gene and Thelma Dean Dunlap in Haskell, Texas on a cold snowy day. Anita attended public schools in Spur and McCaulley, Texas; graduating from High School in 1979. She attended Angelo State University where she graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Government and English. She continued her pursuit of higher education and received a Masters of Education in Special Education.
Anita was one of the survivors of the 1978 McCaulley bus wreck. This experience shaped her life philosophy of living each day as if it were her last. It inspired her ambition to travel and make a difference in the lives of students around the world.
A lifelong educator and sports enthusiast, Anita began her teaching and coaching career in Novice, Texas and continued in Hamlin, McCamey, Jim Ned, and Seminole before being hired by the U.S. Department of Defense Schools where she taught the children of military personnel in Iceland, Germany, and Japan.
Anita's career achievements were numerous, but they pale in comparison to her greatest accomplishment of all - the birth of her daughter, Shady Blue Destiny Dunlap, on June 19, 1997. "My Girl" fulfilled every wish that Anita had of being a mom! In her own words, "whoever would've thought a poor kid from a ranch in West Texas could have seen and done so much in such a short time? I have been truly blessed with family, friends, opportunities, education, and work."
Anita is survived by daughter Shady Blue, mother Thelma, sister Shirley Parker, brother James "Cookie" Dunlap and wife Judy, all of Haskell, and dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, 2 sisters - Leta Faye Dunlap and Carolyn Sue Wilborn.
The family would like to thank Dr. Victor Hirsch and staff of Abilene, the staff of Haskell Home Health, and Hendrick Hospice Care.
The family requests that all memorial contributions be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, P O Box 1922, Abilene, Texas 79604
Carlos Francis McKinney, Jr.
Llano, Texas
Carlos Francis McKinney, Jr., 60, was killed in a private plane crash on Sunday, November 8, 2009. Carlos was well loved and will best be remembered for his steadfast devotion to his family and his wild enthusiasm for flying.
Memorial Service and Celebration of Carlos McKinney's Life:
2:00 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, at First Baptist Church, 107 W. Luce St., Llano, TX
Carlos was born July 29, 1949, in Burnet, TX, and made Llano, TX, his home. He was a graduate of Llano High School. He worked for many years in the concrete business and, for the past 15 years, helped manage Gold Cup Pawn, Inc. and its branches in Kerrville, Boerne and Leon Valley. Called "Daddy," "Uncle Butch" or "Mr. C.," Carlos was loved dearly by his family and revered by the younger ones, as he made each and every child feel special. Carlos served the Llano community as a volunteer fireman, helped build the Llano Special Opportunities School and would have given "the shirt off his back" to anyone in need. An avid aviator, Carlos piloted private planes for the past 12 years and was known for his careful, conscientious preparation for and piloting of his flights.
Carlos was preceded in death by his parents, Carlos and Gretchen McKinney, and an infant brother, Robert McKinney. He is survived by his life partner of 20 years, Gary Ann Lord of Llano; his three children and their spouses, Cindy Stockton (and husband Andy) of Tuscola, TX, Angela Boisvert (and husband Darren) of Mesa, AZ, and Adam McKinney (and wife Valerie) of Abilene; his three sisters and their spouses, LaNell McKinney (and fiancé Dwight Blaskowsky) of Llano, Margaret Pryor (and husband Steve) of Austin and Elizabeth Duryea of Houston; six grandchildren, Brittany, Andrew, Brandon, Keeli, Emily and Kayla; and many nieces and nephews. Carlos was dearly loved and will be missed by all.
Tragically, Carlos left this world with two beloved youngsters whom he loved like grandsons, Dylan Lord and Brendon Lord. Memorial Services for Dylan Lord and Brendon Lord will be held on Friday, Nov. 13, at 6 p.m. at New Hope Church, 3640 County Road 58, Manvel, TX.
Flowers may be sent to the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to 529 educational accounts for Carlos' grandchildren. To make such a contribution, please make your check payable to "Carlos McKinney Memorial" at Llano National Bank, P.O. Box 190, Llano, TX 78643.
Gavin Rant Cranfill, age 18 of Frisco, Texas passed away on December 3, 2009 in Frisco. He was born on March 8, 1991 in Las Vegas, Nevada to Roy and Sharla (Berry) Cranfill. Gavin worked with his Dad as an Apprentice Plumber. He is survived by his parents, Roy and Sharla Cranfill of Frisco, Texas; sister, Allie Cranfill of Frisco, Texas; grandmothers, Glynda Carter of Tuscola, Texas and Joanne Gomez of Corona, California; aunts, Sheila Berry of Tuscola, Texas, Shellie Berry of Tuscola, Texas, Cathy Hernandez of Corona, California, Martha Gomez of Corona, California; uncles, Henry Gomez of Las Vegas, Nevada, Shannon Berry of Aspermont, Texas and Walter Fraser of Abilene, Texas; lots of cousins and many friends. A Memorial Gathering will be held from 6-8 PM on Friday, December 4, 2009 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Frisco. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, December 6, 2009 at Ovalo Baptist Church in Ovalo, Texas with Pastor Greg Rake officiating. To convey condolences or to sign an online registry please visit www.tjmfuneral.com
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50-Year Class Reunion was a great success - over 75 attended from the classes of 1958, 1959, 1960 and a few from 1961. Several of these classmates had not seen each other since they graduated and were very glad they attended. Teachers that attended were Oran Egger and Frank Hibler. I got there a little late so I am not sure at the moment what the activities were before lunch but before the end of the Reunion there was a time of sharing. Stories that went on for over an hour. Remembering the good old days, appologies of less than kind treatment during school, kudos to those putting the reunion together and some very special speeches from Coach Kibler and Mr. Egger and a few others that brought tears to my eyes. This is family, a common bond, no matter how many years shared or how many miles apart.
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