Obituaries from
Navarro County, Texas


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Melba Ruth (Jacobs) Helms
Jan 5, 1941 - Dec 31, 2011
 
Melba Ruth (Jacobs) Helms, 70, went to be with her Lord on Dec. 31, 2011 in Dallas. She was born to Arvel Lee and Myrtle Elizabeth Jacobs on Jan. 5, 1941, in Corsicana.
She married John Thomas Helms on November 26, 1959 in Dawson.. She worked for 30 years as a supervisor with AT&T and Western Electric, and then retired from Lucent Technology. A loving mother, she enjoyed playing softball, quilting and embroidery, taking vacations to Galveston with her family, and being outdoors.

She was a member of the Shady Grove Baptist Church in Pursley. She loved her Lord and family with all her heart and was always kind and giving to everyone she met.

She will be greatly missed here on this earth, but remembered by all who knew and loved her in a much greater way as we will always have her in our hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Randy Thomas Helms; sister, Marie Chapman; father and mother in-laws, Douglas and Ethelyn Helms; brother-in-laws Jerry Don Helms, Joe Michael Helms, J.E. Miller, Olan Cox; and sister-in-laws Lourine Jacobs and JoAnn Bryant.

She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, John Thomas Helms of Dawson; daughters and sons-in-law, Darlene and James Shannon of Buchanan Dam; Denise and Ronnie Green of Garland; Donna and Terry Moran of Caddo Mills; and two grand-children raised as their own, Jessica Kruse and husband, Joe, of Corsicana and Ryan Helms and wife Holly, of Ennis.

She is also survived by five grandchildren, Samantha Kaye Moran, Luke Daniel Green, Mary Kate Moran, John Lee Shannon, and Hannah Marie Green, and two great-grandchildren, Thomas Lee Kruse and Randi Annette Kruse. Survivors also include her eight siblings and their spouses, Fred and Helen Jacobs of Mesquite; Eleanor and Frank Greer of Corsicana; Bobby and Pat Jacobs of Coolidge; Jerry and Dixie Jacobs of Melrose, N.M.; Ray and Bobbie Jacobs of Corsicana; Jake Jacobs of Corsicana; David and Michelle Jacobs of Lampasas; and Sandra and Johnny Hughes of Corsicana; sister-in-laws, Kittie Miller of Corsicana, Shirley Cox of McKinney, Sandra Helms of Oklahoma, and Pat Helms of Vidor, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation with the family will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at Corley Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Duane Crane and Rev. Brian Upchurch officiating. Interment will follow in the Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Navarro Chapter, at 1000 W. 2nd Avenue, Corsicana, Texas 75110.

Notes:


Vivian Frank "Tooter" Bell
Apr 1, 1926 - Jan 1, 2012


V.F. "Tooter” Bell, 85, of Corsicana passed away January 1, 2012. He was born and raised in Eureka to Frank and Corrine DuBose Bell.

As a young man he was a farmer and later him and his brother owned and operated Bell Brothers Garage. He loved to play domino's at the lake.

He is survived by his three children, Elizabeth and Carroll Sigman of Eureka, Doris and RC Ashley of Waxahachie and David Lee and Patricia Bell of Corsicana; grandkids, Julie and Steve Wilson, Johnnie and Jodi Brown, Tracey and Darby Fitzgerald, David Glenn and Amanda Bell; eight great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Murlene Bell; brother-in-law, Carlos Thomas and cousins, Ozelle "Sissy" Hutchins and Mary L. Herring.

He is preceded in death by his parents Frank Bell and Corrine McDonald; brother, Clint Bell and children's mother, Jessie Bell.

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 3, 2012 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.

Graveside service 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2012 at Eureka Cemetery with Rev. James Williams officiating.

Pallbearers will be Bill Chandler, Calvin Knauth, Richard Rash, Vernon Boyd, Bennie Colburn and B.J. Perry (Junior). Honorary pallbearers are W.M. Montgomery, Buck Hodge, Leroy Bonner, Jimmy D. Coker and Clifford Dill.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home

Notes:


Don Richard Brinkley
Feb 25, 1936 - Jan 1, 2012

Don Richard Brinkley, 75, of Corsicana passed away January 1, 2012. He was born February 25, 1936 in Center, to W.L. and Lucille Brinkley.

He is survived by his wife, Louise Brinkley of Corsicana; children, David Brinkley of Longview, John Brinkley of Carthage, Richard Brinkley of North Carolina, Judy O'Neal of Carthage, Gina Brewster of Carthage; step children, Debbie Briggs of Corsicana, Linda Baum of Colman and Mary Ann Worley of Wylie; eighteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Corsicana Fire Department and Cedar Lake Hospice.

Visitation will be Wednesday morning, January 4, 2012 from 9 to10 a.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Graveside service will follow at 11 a.m. at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery with Bo Loftis officiating.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home

Notes:


Gloria Ann (York) Young
Apr 23, 1937 - Dec 31, 2011

Gloria Ann York Young, 74, of Streetman passed away Dec. 31, 2011 in Mexia. She passed away quietly on New Year's Eve from this earth to meet her Heavenly Father surrounded by her loved ones. She was born April 23, 1937 in Freestone County to William Leonard York and Mabel Carroll York.

She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Streetman. Ann was a devout Christian that truly loved and served the Lord and Savior. She was very involved with the church serving as a Sunday school teacher, church clerk, church building and grounds secretary and also on the pulpit and finance committee. Ann always fulfilled her commitments with deep heartfelt sincerity as a True and loyal servant of God. Her hobbies were traveling, shopping and painting art. She was also a member of the Kinsloe Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William Leonard York and Mabel Carroll York; brother, Herman Lee York; brother-in-law Marvin Lee Watson Jr; niece, Wilma Black York.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Jimmie Ross Young; special daughter adopted by heart, Felicia Greene; sister, Joyce York Watson; nephew, Charles Herman York and wife Mimi; nieces, Patricia York Hilton and husband Tony and Stephanie Hughes and husband Dirk; great nephews, Art York and wife Shelly, C.J. York and wife Lizette, Lloyd Lynn Lane and wife Laurie and Troy Hughes and wife Cindy; great nieces, Valanie York Goldman and husband Jeremy and Talana Lane; special cousins, Wanda York Sanders, Judy Carroll Angel and a number of cousins and other family members. So many will miss her vibrant personality, sweet smile and passion for life.

Visitation will be Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2011 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, Corsicana.

Services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2011 at First Baptist Church of Streetman. Pallbearers will be John Ashley Sanders, Lloyd Lynn Lane, Bert Richards, Jerry Robinson, Kit McConnico and Chris Wirtz. Burial will follow at Cade Cemetery.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.

Notes:


Steve Allen "Punkin" Caldwell
Dec 5, 1953 - Dec 29, 2011

Steve Allen “Punkin” Caldwell, 58, of Purdon passed away Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011.

He was born Dec. 5, 1953, in Waynesville, N.C., to Wilson and Gerleen Caldwell.

He was a member of the Lone Star Cowboy Church and APHA. He was a truck driver for 38 years. He took great pride in taking care of his land and home and enjoyed his horses.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Gerleen Caldwell.

Survivors include his wife, Connie Caldwell of Pursley; children, Andrea Ellis of West Monroe, La., Brandy Ellis of Pursley, Jason Grossman of Minnesota and Jon Stone of Indiana; brothers, Jerry Caldwell of North Carolina, and Michael Caldwell of North Carolina; and four grandchildren.

Services will be 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2011, at the Lone Star Cowboy Church with Charky Marquis officiating. Interment will be at New Pursley Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jessie Rierson, Bobby Brady, Jim Coody, Mickie McCain, Alen Peck and John Bonner.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, Corsicana.

Notes:


Mary Mozelle (Gunn) Moreau
Mar 31, 1923 - Oct 14, 1949

Mrs. Mary Moreau Dies Friday In Local Hospital

Mrs. Mary Mozell Moreau, 26, of 1119 West Seventh avenue, died at the P. and S. Hospital at 12:30 p.m. Friday.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete, but services probably will be held at the Corley Funeral Home Saturday.

Mrs. Moreau is survived by her husband, Wesley Moreau, a daughter, Gennette, all of Corsicana; her father, G.M. Gunn of Frost; two brothers, B.B. Gunn, Dallas; Winston Gunn of Trinidad; four sisters, Mrs. H.D. Conner, Dallas; Mrs. J.C. Reynolds, Houston; Mrs. James Key, Corsicana; and Mrs. Alton Menzes, Frost.

Notes:

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Mrs. Mary Moreau Funeral Rites Sunday

Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Mozell Moreau, 26, 1119 West Seventh avenue, who died at the P. and S. Hospital Friday afternoon, will be held from the Fellowship Baptist church Sunday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock. Burial will be in
Oakwood cemetery. The rites will be conducted by Rev. Obie Barton, pastor, and Rev. Murphy Walker of Trinidad.

Surviving are her husband, Wesley Moreau; daughter, Genette Moreau, both of Corsicana; father, G. M. Gunn, Frost; two brothers, B. B. Gunn, Dallas, and Winston Gunn, Trinidad; four sisters, Mrs. H. D. Conner, Dallas; Mrs. J. C. Reynolds, Houston, Mrs. James Key, Corsicana, and Mrs. Afton Minzes, Frost.

Corley Funeral Home will direct.

Notes:

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Sunday Services For Mrs. Moreau

Funeral services for Mrs. Mary Mozell, aged 26 years, who died at the P. and S. Hospital Friday afternoon at 1:30 o’clock from the Fellowship Baptist church. Burial was in
Oakwood cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. Obie F. Barton, pastor of the church, and Rev. Murphy Walker of Trinidad.

Surviving are her husband, Wesley Moreau; daughter, Genette Moreau, both of Corsicana; father, G. M. Gunn, Frost; two brothers, B. B. Gunn, Dallas, and Winston Gunn, Trinidad; four sisters, Mrs. H. D. Conner, Dallas; Mrs. J. C. Reynolds, Houston, Mrs. James Key, Corsicana, and Mrs. Afton Minzes, Frost.

Pallbearers were Harold D. Conner, Afton Minzes, Jesse Reynolds, Ed Moreau, Sam Moreau and Homer Lee Moreau.

Corley Funeral Home directed.

Notes:


Thomas Preston "Tom" Harrison II
Aug 10, 1932 - Aug 14, 1976

Services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Tom Harrison, 44, Dallas, who died Saturday in Corsicana.

Rev. Patric Hudson officiated and burial was in the Oakwood Cemetery.

Harrison was fatally injured while working on a car at his farm north of Powell.

A native of Corsicana, Harrison had lived in Dallas for 10 years. He was a graduate of Corsicana High School and Navarro Junior College. He graduated from Texas A&M and received a law degree from Texas. He served in the Air Force in Korea and was a member of the Methodist Church He was a lawyer for the Federal E.P.A. Office in Dallas.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Tom Harrison, Dallas; two daughters, Mrs. Larry Grauke, College Station, and Mrs. Dean Raths, Dallas and his mother, Mrs. Mildred Harrison, Dallas.

Pallbearers were O.W. Liveley, Bruse Elliott, Oscar Raminez, Bill McCarver, Larry McCarver and Charles Benthul.

Notes:


Orvil Thomas Capehart
Sept 23, 1917 - Nov 12, 1985

Orvil T. Capehart, 68, of Navarro died Tuesday at St. Paul Hospital in Dallas.

Services will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Corley Funeral Home with the Rev. B.W. Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery.

He was a lifelong Navarro resident and a retired farmer-rancher.

He is survived by his wife, Thelma Capehart of Navarro; a daughter, Yvonne Pattison of Navarro; three sons, Donny Capehart of Midland, Larry Capehart of Ennis and Darrell Capehart of Corsicana; nine grandchildren; three brothers, Odis Capehart of Navarro, Jimmy D. Capehart of Sache and Marvin Capehart of Winnsboro; two sisters, Cleo Herndon of Houston and Hazel Capehart of Navarro; two sisters-in-law, Hazel Holloway and Retha Capehart, both of Corsicana; a brother-in-law, Richard (Bubba) Holloway of Corsicana; and many nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be nephews Chester Capehart, David Capehart, Douglas Capehart, Anthony Capehart, Jackie Teague, Robert E. Minatra, Richie Holloway and Wesley Russell. Honorary pallbearers are Keith Farmer, Charles Capehart and Orvil Scruggs.

Notes:


Vivian Simpson
June 25, 1911 - Mar 3, 2005

Vivian Simpson, 93, of Corsicana passed away Thursday, March 3, 2005 at Heritage Oaks. Graveside services were held Thursday at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery with Bro. Bill Honea officiating. Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, Corsicana.

Notes:


George Pless Buchanan
Sep 29, 1905 - Nov 24, 1968

Buchanan Rites

Funeral services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the Corley Funeral Chapel for G.P. Buchanan, 63, who died Sunday in Memorial Hospital. The Rev. R.A. Jones officiated. Burial was in the Hamilton Cemetery.

Surviving are his wife, four sons, three daughters, and brother, three sisters, his step-mother, 16 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Notes:


Martin Luther Murphy
Sep 25, 1889 - June 24, 1976

Services will be at 3:30 p.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Martin Luther Murphy, 86, resident of Rt. 1, Corsicana, who died Thursday in Evergreen Nursing Home. Burial will be at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery.

He was a native of Tennessee, lived in Corsicana 70 years, was a retired farmer and carpenter.

Survivors include two sons, Ray Murphy and Billy J. Murphy both of Corsicana; a daughter, Mrs. Cleo Berry of Kerens; four grandchildren; six great grandchildren; a brother, J.D. Murphy of Corsicana; and a sister, Mrs. Gracie Murphy of Corsicana.

Notes:

  • Kerens Tribune - July 1, 1976
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Anthony Hayden
Oct 17, 1958 - Aug 9, 1976

Services will be at 1 p.m. Sunday at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Kerens for Anthony Hayden, 17, who was killed in an auto accident on Hwy. 287 in Tarrant County Monday.

The Rev. William Brodius, pastor, will officiate, and burial will follow at Samaria Cemetery in Kerens. Arrangements are with Calhoun Funeral Home in Corsicana.

Hayden attended Adamson High School in Dallas where he would have been a senior in September.

Survivors include his father, Charlie Hayden Jr. of Kerens; his mother, Mrs Pearlie Jackson of Dallas; his step-gather, Carl Jackson of Dallas; two brothers, Charles Hayden and Juan Jackson, both of Dallas; a sister, Sharon Jackson of Dallas; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Hayden Sr. of Kerens and Mrs. Lizzie Allen of Kerens, and other relatives.

Notes:

  • Kerens Tribune - Aug 19, 1976
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Martin Mythise Hall
July 21, 1885 - Feb 2, 1962

M.M. Hall Dies Early Friday

M.M. Hall, Corsicana resident, died in the Navarro Clinic early Friday. He was 76.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. from the Corley chapel with Rev. Joe Wilbanks, pastor, Fellowship Baptist church, officiating. Interment will be in the Campbell cemetery.

A retired farmer, Mr. Hall was born in July 188$ [sic].

Surviving are three sons, Lonnie Hall, Dallas, and Marvin and Jack Hall, both of Corsicana; two sisters, Mrs. Abbie Curry, Waco, and Mrs. Ruth Rafferty, Sacramento, Calif., and other relatives.

Notes:


Emmett Lodge Berry
Nov 11, 1893 - Nov 7, 1979

Emmett Berry

Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Emmett Berry, 85, resident of Kerens, who died Wednesday at Navarro County Memorial Hospital.

Burial will be at Hopewell Cemetery.

He was born Nov. 11, 1893, and was a former resident of Eureka. He was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Berry, a retired farmer and a member of the Baptist church.

Survivors include his wife, one son, Cleo Berry of Kerens; one daughter, Mrs. Truman Farmer of Navarro; four grandchildren; and one sister Mrs. Eunic Black of Alto.

Grandsons will be pallbearers and include Gene Berry, Kenny Berry, Gary Berry, Jody Farmer, Danny Hanna and Morris Farmer.

Notes:


Norman Donley Bryant
Sep 28, 1909 - May 22, 1994

Norman D. Bryant, 84, of Corsicana, died May 22, 1994, in Corsicana.

Funeral services will be 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Corley Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Robert Almanza officiating. Burial will be in Petty's Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday.

He was born Sept. 28, 1909, in Parker County, Texas. He was a member of Central United Methodist Church and Powell Senior Citizens. He was retired after 34 years with Mobil Pipeline Co.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Effie Muns Bryant.

Survivors include a niece and her husband, Sue and Jackie Teague of Corsicana; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Claburn Jones, Nedom Muns, Earl Hutson, Jackie Teague, Fred Richards, Jr. and Brian Richards.

Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Richards, Kenneth Hawkins and the men of the Central United Methodist Church.

Memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church, 101 S. 30th St., Corsicana, Texas 75110.

Notes:


Ona Belle (McCleary) Highnote-Sanders-Bolling
Oct 19, 1880 - June 16, 1969

Mrs. Ona Bolling

KERENS (Sp) - Mrs. Ona Bolling 88, daughter of the late Jay McClery [sic], died Monday in Memorial Hospital at Corsicana. She had lived in Corsicana about 15 years and was a member of the Baptist Church.

Graveside services are to be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Prairie Point Cemetery with the Rev. Charles Pringle officiating.

Surviving are one niece and one nephew.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Jun 17, 1969
  • View Obituary Clipping
  • Submitted by Karen Rost & Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Rufus P. Highnote married May 9, 1901 buried in Cosgrove cemetery 2nd husband Richard Joseph "Jock" Sanders married abt. 1912 buried in Frost Cemetery, Frost, Tx. 3rd husband Burl Brewer Bolling; d/o Robert William McCleary & Mary Frances "Fannie" (Colburn) McCleary

Sarah Beatrice "Bedie" (Deskin) Tramel
Aug 28, 1890 - Feb 24, 1976

Mrs. William Jasper Tramel

Memorial services were held Thursday at 3 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Kerens for Mrs. William Jasper (Sarah B.) Tramel. The rites were conducted by Rev. Jake Tucker, pastor of First Assembly of God Church in Kerens, of which Mrs. Tramel was a member; Rev. Van Houser, pastor of First Baptist Church in Kerens and Rev. A.L. Andrews, Ft. Worth, who was a former pastor of Mrs. Tramel.

Mrs. Tramel was born August 28, 1890, in the Bazette community, and she died February 4, 1976, in Memorial Hospital in Corsicana.

William Jasper Tramel and Sarah B. (Bedie) Deskin were married November 4, 1906, while they were sitting in a buggy in front of the First Methodist Church parsonage in Kerens. The pastor of the church, Rev. Irvin F. Harris performed the ceremony. They were attended by Mr. H. Thomas Kimbrough and Miss Carrie Miller, Mr. Tom Standley and Miss Essie Stringer. (They were also sitting in buggies.) The ceremony was also witnessed by Mrs. Harris and Mr. and Mrs. Prosper Brister of Kerens.

Jasper and Bedie Tramel are survived by three sons and five daughters, John E. Tramel, Tom Bean; William T. Tramel, Kerens; Foy H. Brown, Kerens; Mrs. Vennie A Nelson, Corsicana; Mrs. Leolar M. Warren, Kerens; Mrs. Etta D. Brown, Powell; Mrs. Mildred E. Warren, Corsicana; and Mrs. Betty J. Mann, Ft. Worth; 25 grandchildren; 41 great grandchildren; a number of nieces and nephews; a host of friends and other relatives.

William Jasper Tramel was the son of Elijah and Thena Tramel and Sarah Beatrice (Bedie) Deskin was the daughter of John and Sarah Deskin, all pioneer settlers of the Bazette community.

Mrs. Tramel was buried beside her husband in the family plot in the Prairie Point Cemetery, near Bazette. William Jasper Tramel died February 11, 1946, 30 years and 13 days before his wife.

Grandsons were pallbearers and Paschal Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Notes:

  • Kerens Tribune - May 4, 1976
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Lewis Kirk
Nov 9, 1905 - Dec 30, 1975

Kerens Resident Dies Following Train Accident

Lewis Kirk, 70, died Tuesday, Dec. 30, following a car-train accident in Kerens.

Funeral services for Kirk were held Friday at 2 p.m. at the Paschal Funeral Home Chapel.

The Rev. John Tucker and the Rev. Roy Tumlinson officiated and burial was at Prairie Point Cemetery.

Kirk was a member of the Full Gospel Church and a retired farmer.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Luana Kirk of Kerens; two step-daughters, Mrs. Juanita Wells of Denton, Mrs. Wynell Kelley of Denton; three stepsons, Dwight Smith and Cecil Smith both of Denton, and the Rev. Ernest Smith of Atlanta, Texas; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Mary Hull of Corsicana; two brothers, Lillard Kirk of Corsicana and Bomer Kirk of Ohio; and a sister, Dorothy Walton of Grayville, Ill.

Kirk was reportedly traveling South on Center Street in Kerens when his automobile was struck by an Eastbound Cotton Belt train. Witnesses at the scene said Kirk apparently did not see the train.

The accident came under discussion at the Jan. 6 meeting of the Kerens City Council, following negotiations with officials of Cotton Belt Railroad for the past several months in an attempt to slow down trains that pass through the city.

City officials received verbal acknowledgement in late May from the Railroad company that they would comply with the 35 mile-per-hour speed limit set by the council for trains passing through Kerens. The railroad was notified in late May of the decision of the council to begin enforcement of the regulation June 1.

Since that time City Marshal A.F. Burden has issued citations against the Railroad Company for trains speeding through the city. The period from Sept. 17 through Oct. 5 alone registered 17 trains speeding, sometimes at speeds as high as 65 mph within city boundaries.

Deaths resulting from accidents at train crossings have averaged about one a year in Kerens, according to officials, causing the concern voiced by city officials who are seeking a solution to the problem.

Notes:

  • Kerens Tribune - Jan 8, 1976
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Lula O. (Williamson) Blake-Griffin
July 18, 1900 - Aug 8, 1929

BRIDGE ACCIDENT FATAL TO WOMAN WEDNESDAY NIGHT
MRS. LULA GRIFFIN DIES OF INJURIES RECEIVED WHEN AUTO HITS BRIDGE

Mrs. Lula Griffin, 29, died at 1:20 o'clock Thursday morning from injuries received Wednesday night at 11:30 o'clock when the Ford roadster which she was driving collided with the railing of the bridge spanning Briar Creek just west of Petty's Chapel, one of the railings severing her left leg and another being driven entirely through her body.
The body is being held at the Corley-McMahon Funeral Home who made the ambulance call, pending the arrival of relatives. Mrs. Griffin was rushed to the Corsicana Hospital and Clinic, where she died a short time later.
It was reported that when the car was turned to go on the bridge, the railings were struck. The wheels, windshield, running board, and fenders on the left side were demolished.
Surviving are her husband, Walter Griffin: one son by a former marriage, H.B. Blake, 11 years old of Waco; parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Williamson, who reside three miles south of Emhouse; four brothers, Buck Williamson, Gainesville; Charley Williamson, Richland; Virgil and Leroy Williamson, both of Emhouse; one sister, Mrs. Virgie Bennett, Brenham, and other relatives.
Mrs. Griffin had resided in Corsicana for some time.

Notes:

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FUNERAL OF VICTIM BRIDGE CRASH HELD FRIDAY AFTERNOON

Funeral services for Mrs. Lula Griffin, 29, who died early Thursday morning from injuries sustained shortly before midnight Wednesday night when the car in which she was riding collided with the bridge over Briar Creek near Petty's Chapel, several miles northeast of Corsicana, were held Friday afternoon at 4 o’clock from the Corley-McMahon Funeral Home, with burial in
Oakwood Cemetery.

Mrs. Griffin's body was penetrated by one of the metal railings of the bridge. She was rushed to the Corsicana Hospital and Clinic where medical attention was given her. The car was badly damaged as were the balustrades of the bridge, a number of rivets holding the rail being snapped.

Surviving are her husband, one son, parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Williamson, Emhouse; four brothers and one sister.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Friday, August 9, 1929
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Henry E. Blake married Feb. 5, 1917 buried in Rosemound cemetery, Waco, Tx. 2nd husband Walter Griffin; d/o W. Buckalein/Bucklein Williamson & Nancy (Anderson) Williamson

Edwin Robert Crotty
Aug 28, 1887 - May 6, 1976

Edwin Crotty

TYLER - Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Friday in Burks-Walter-Tiptit Chapel in Tyler for Edwin R. Crotty, 88, of 17 W. Rusk, Tyler, who died after a long illness, Thursday night in Tyler Hospital.

Requiem Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in the Immaculate Conception Church in Tyler and burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Corsicana with Father John Fowler officiating.
Crotty was a native of Galveston and a former resident of Corsicana. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. John Crotty of Corsicana. He has lived in Tyler for the past 43 years.

He was retired from the Cotten Belt Railroad and a veteran of World War I and member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tyler.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mae Crotty, Tyler, and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:


Mary Andrea (Sias) Garay
Feb 4, 1900 - Dec 25, 1974

Mrs. Mary Garay

Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. tonight at the Corley Funeral Chapel for Mrs. Mary Garay, 74, resident of Corsicana, who died Wednesday at Memorial Hospital.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Rev. John Fowler will officiate, and burial will be at the Catholic Cemetery.
She was a native of San Antonio, and resident of Corsicana since 1926.

Survivors include her husband, Arispeo [sic] Garay of Corsicana; a son, Fete Garcia of Red Oak; 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Pallbearers included Paul Aguilar, Frank Garza, Domingo Alanzo, Richard Rojas, Bubby Joles, and Alfredo Pena.
Mrs. Garay is also survived by another son, Andy Garcia of Corsicana.

Notes:


Rosa (Budai) Offutt
Sept 18, 1925 - Mar 11, 1941

FUNERAL SERVICES FOR MRS. OFFUTT THURSDAY MORNING

Funeral services for Mrs. G.W. Offutt Jr., 25 of Plano, were held here Thursday morning at 9 o'clock from the Church of the Immaculate Conception with burial in the Catholic Cemetery. The rites were conducted by Monsignor V. Graffeo.

Mrs. Offutt died in a Dallas hospital Tuesday morning.

Surviving are her husband of Plano; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Budai, Richland; six sisters, Misses Justina, Lucille, Vera, Christine Ruth and Ethel Budai, and two brothers, Dan Budai, Jr. and Emery Budai, all of Richland.

Pallbearers were Pete Szenasi, Charles Szenasi, John Szenasi, Frank Szenasi, Louis, Mike Szennasi, and Pete Szenasi.

Corley Funeral Home directed arrangements.

Notes:

  • Corsicana Semi-Weekly Light - March 14, 1941
  • Submitted by Karen Rost
  • w/o G.W. Offutt - d/o Dan Budai and Annie (Szenasi) Budai
     

George Rufus Anderson
1896 - July 14, 1929

BODY OF ACCIDENT VICTIM IS BURIED PURSLEY TUESDAY

The body of George Rufus Anderson, 33, who was killed near Seminole, Oklahoma Sunday in an oil field accident, arrived in Corsicana Tuesday morning on the southbound Southern Pacific Lines and the funeral services were held at the Pursley cemetery Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock where interment was made. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. I.R. Darwood, Methodist minister.

Anderson was an employee of Fred M. Allison, drilling contractor of Corsicana.

Surviving are his wife, mother, three brothers and other relatives.

The funeral was directed by the Sutherland Funeral Home.

Notes:


Nelson Ray Shelton
Jan 30, 1932 - Mar 3, 1976

Services were held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Kerens for Nelson Ray Shelton, 44, of Dallas. He died Wednesday in Dallas Parkland Hospital.

Rev. Van Houser officiated at the service with burial in the Kerens City Cemetery. Arrangements were with Paschal Funeral Home.

Nelson Ray was formerly in the sand and gravel business in Corsicana, prior to going to South America to work for an oil company.

He is survived by his mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. Rex Bailey of Corsicana; one brother, Jerry Shelton of Corsicana; and a host of relatives and friends.

Pallbearers were Jim Hodge, Don Wylie, William Honea, Charlie Garrett, Don Paschal, Ben Yankie, and Kenneth Stovall.

Notes:


Whit Scarbrough
Feb 14, 1900 - Mar 9, 1976

Services were held for Whit Scarbrough, 76, Thursday, 2 p.m. Frist Baptist Church in Kerens. Brother Van Houser officiated at the service and burial was in Kerens Cemetery with Paschal Funeral Home in charge of service.

A native of Kerens, he passed away Tuesday, March 9. He was in the dry cleaning business for years and was a retired salesman.

Mr. Scarbrough is survived by his wife, Dorothea, and one brother, Roy Scarbrough, both of Kerens.

Pallbearers were Newt Stovall, R.H. Hilliard, Dwain Crawford, Try Rogers, J.L. Whorton, Weston Wallace, Homer Carroll Jr., and R.A. Bain.

Honorary pallbearers were Marvin Henderson, Johnnie Mills, R. R. Lowe, Warnie Johnson, August Hill, Dr. G.H. Sanders, Alon Gray, Pat Murphy, W.L. Bain, Jr., R.R. Shelton, Homer Bobbitt, A.L. Arnett, Herman Hall, Joe Sheppard, Charlie Blissett, and Oscar Chrisman.

Notes:

  • Kerens Tribune - Mar 11, 1976
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Marjorie Gregory
March 26, 1923 - Jan 11, 1997

Ms. Marjorie Gregory, 73, of Dallas, formerly of Streetman, died Saturday, Jan. 11, in Dallas.

Services will be held at 3 p.m. today at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Birdston Cemetery.

Ms. Gregory was a forty year employee of the Republic National Bank of Dallas. She was born March 26, 1923 in Streetman.

She is survived by a host of cousins, family and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 2824 Swiss Ave., Dallas, or to the Birdston Cemetery Assoc. in Streetman.

Pallbearers will be Dan Dungan, Chip Yarbrough, Dan Yarbrough, Darin Yarbrough, Jim McKissack, and Brad McKissack.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.

Notes:


Dora Lee (McGilvary) Steele
Dec 14, 1890 - June 2, 1955

Services Sunday For Mrs. Steele

Funeral services for Mrs. Dora Lee Steele, life-long Streetman resident, were held from the First Presbyterian church in Streetman Sunday.

The rites were conducted by Rev. Herbert Keefer, pastor of the First Baptist church, Streetman, and Rev. Henry M. Bailey, pastor of the First Presbyterian church. Burial was in the Birdston Cemetery.

Mrs. Steele was stricken while visiting in Grand Prairie and died in a Grand Prairie hospital Thursday.

Surviving are her husband, J.E. Steele, Streetman; six sons, Sidney Steele, Grand Prairie, Fred Steele, Phoenix, Ariz.; Thomas Steele, Ramey AFB, Puerto Rico; Storey Steele, Oracle, Ariz.; Joel Steele, Dallas, and Harry Steele, Streetman; four grandchildren; two brothers, J.H. McGilvary, Streetman, and R.W. McGilvary, Denver City; five sisters, Mrs. W.T. Meador, Wortham; Mrs. N.G. Clark, Dawson; Miss Mary Ella McGilvary and Mrs. Wayne Milligan, both of Streetman, and Mrs. Clyde Ellis, Sweeney and other relatives.

Pallbearers were Richard Steele, Tom Chandler, Jack Glass, Jr., Ernie Ellis, Alf Milligan and August Kent McGilvary.

Griffin directed.

Notes:


J. P. Morgan
About 1921 - Nov 29, 1980

J. P. Morgan

J. P. Morgan, 59, of Streetman, died Saturday afternoon at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Temple.

Service is Sunday, 3 p.m., Griffin Funeral Home Chapel with burial following at Birdston Cemetery in Streetman.

The Rev. Ricky Smith will officiate.

Survivors include a daughter, Marilyn Godwin, of Waxahachie; a son, R.J. Morgan, of Houston; four grandchildren, four sisters, Ruby Jenkins, of Montgomery, Bernice Brown, of Houston, Marie Brooks, of Arlington, and Lelia Barnes of California; and two brothers, Marvin Morgan and Bill Morgan, both of Houston.

Notes:

  • Corsicana Weekly Light - Dec 4, 1980
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Juanita Fullwood
abt 1921 - Oct 28, 1982

Juanita Fullwood, 61, of Trenton, N.J., died Thursday in Trenton. She was a native of Corsicana.

Service is 1 p.m. Wednesday at the New Aldergate United Methodist Church in Dallas. Burial in Woodland Cemetery. Mrs. Fullwood will lie in state at Ross and Johnson Mortuary until 10 a.m. Wednesday.

She is survived by two daughters, Doris Jean James, of Morrisville, Pa., and Sandra Fullwood, of Trenton, N.J.; one son, John Smith, Jr. of Trenton, N.J.; five grandchildren; her mother, Lottie Dunkins, of Dallas; four brothers, froncell Dawson, of Tyler, George Dunkins Jr., of Corsicana, Columbus Dunkins and Roland Thomas Dunkins, both of Dallas; four sisters, Viola Ellis and Margaret Dunkins, both of Dallas, Cora Lee White, of Urban Township, N.J., and Emma Yerdell, of Fort Worth.

Notes:


Walter Elliott
June 13, 1871 - Nov 25, 1933

Walter Elliott, 62, veteran negro employee at the Corsicana cotton compress was killed shortly after noon Saturday, when the huge press was accidently let down on him by other employees. He had worked for the compress for more than 40 years.

It was stated that Elliott was underneath the huge presses cleaning out the pit. Other employees had been away from the press aiding in extinguishing a small blaze in an outhouse, and the press was let down on him on their return. It was stated the employees did not know Elliott was in the pit.

The accident occurred about 12:50 o'clock Saturday afternoon.

Sam B. Jordan, justice of the peace, viewed the body and said the death of Elliott was accidental.

A large crowd assembled at the compress area immediately after news of the accident became known on the streets.

Notes:


Mary L. Witherspoon
Oct 24, 1901 - Jan 8, 1997

Mary L. Witherspoon, 96, of Chatfield, died Jan. 8, 1997, in Corsicana.

Services will be held at 3 p.m. today at the Chatfield United Methodist Church, with Rev. Ken Shultz and Rev. Virginia O. Bassford officiating. Burial will follow in the Old Chatfield Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Jim Gill, Rob Jones, Johnny Hudnall, Paul Thorp, Jim Wilson and B. J. Arnold.

Friends desiring to do so may make memorial contributions to the Chatfield United Methodist Church.

Miss Witherspoon was born Oct 24, 1901, in Chatfield. She was a member of the Chatfield United Methodist Church, Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority and D.A.R. Miss Witherspoon was a graduate of SMU. She taught school for 47 years in Rice and Fort Worth. Miss Witherspoon retired Dean of Women at Riverside Juniors High School in Fort Worth.

She is survived by her niece, Mary Lala Lakin of Dallas and nephew, Robert Witherspoon of Ovilla.

Arrangements by Corley Funeral Home.

Notes:


David Edward Montfort
Jan 6, 1872 - Jan 7, 1915

Dave Montfort Looses [sic] Life

Dave Montfort aged about 45 years was found dead at his home Thursday evening of last week in his bedroom at his home near Chatfield, with a pistol bullet in the temple.

He had evidently been cleaning an automatic pistol and probably had dropped it on the floor, discharging it with the result stated.

He had lived in the Chatfield section all his life and was liked by all who knew him, and his death produced universal sorrow.

Burial took place in the Chatfield Cemetery Sunday morning, attended by a large crowd of sorrowing friends.

Notes:

  • Corsicana Democrat and Truth - Jan 14, 1915
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Joe Pruitt Coleman
Apr 18, 1932 - June 20, 1976

Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Powell for Joe Pruitt Coleman, 44, who died Sunday at the Parkland Hospital in Dallas.

The Rev. A.H. Haggerty, pastor Riverside Baptist Church, Dallas will officiate. Burial will be in the Elm Flat Community Cemetery. Scott Funeral Home will direct.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Freddie Mae Coleman of Dallas; four daughters, Mrs. Maye Frances Hollis, Carolyn Denise Coleman, Wanda Joyce Coleman, and Demethe Coleman; five sons, Bennie Joe Coleman, Lawrence Edward Coleman, Michael Earl Coleman, Dwight Coleman and Larry Joe Coleman; his father, Augustus Coleman of Dallas; four sisters, Mrs. Lois H. Williams and Mrs. Lorine Houston of both of Dallas, Mrs. Velma Robinson and Mrs. Verna Mae Evans both of Powell; two brothers, Vernell Coleman of Powell and Larcell Coleman of Fort Worth; five grandchildren and other relatives.

Notes:

  • Kerens Tribune - July 1, 1976
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Eliza Hood (Toten) French
Feb 5, 1867 - June 20, 1944

MRS. W.C. FRENCH DIED AT DAWSON; BURIAL WEDNESDAY

DAWSON, Texas, June 23 - Funeral services were held here Wednesday afternoon from the Methodist church for Mrs. W.C. French, aged 77 years, who died Tuesday after a six year's illness.

Burial was in the Dawson cemetery.

Surviving are her husband of Dawson and two daughters, Miss Katie French, Dawson, and Mrs. Lorene Hendrick, DeQueen, Ark.

Mrs. French was a native of Brushy Prairie. She had been a member of the Methodist church 63 years.

Notes:


Eva Sue (Merritt) Copeland
June 7, 1916 - Nov 13, 1985

Sue Copeland

Mrs. Sue Copeland, 68, of Purdon died today at Navarro Regional Hospital.

Services will be 2 p.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in the New Pursley Cemetery.

She was the wife of the late W.C. Copeland, a former Navarro County Commissioner.

She was a school teacher for many years, a native of Garrett, Texas, and lived in Purdon for 35 years.

She is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Dixie Murff and Mrs. C.O. Onstead, both of Ennis; a brother, Willis Merritt of Weatherford; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Notes:


William Bill "Willie" Rich
Feb 28, 1893 - Mar 24, 1973

W. B. Rich Willie B. (Bill) Rich, 80, of Ennis died Saturday morning in East Dallas Hospital. Services are set at 2 p.m. Monday in Corley Funeral Home Chapel of Corsicana. Burial will be in Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse. The Rev. Orbie Lamb assisted by the Rev. Dick Moody, both of the Tabernacle Baptist Church of Ennis, will officiate. He was born in Liberty, Tenn. On Feb. 28, 1893. He lived in Ennis since 1946. He was a retired farmer. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Nora B. Rich of Ennis; one son, James L. Rich of Ennis; one daughter, Mrs. C. W. Ennis of Dallas; two granddaughters; and two Brothers, C. C. Rich of Clarendon, Tex., and Olen Rich of Corsicana. Pallbearers will be Homer Meador, Arlee Lockhart, R. D. Rich, Calvin Rich, Alvin Gene Rich, and Olin D. Rich, Jr.

Notes:


Harry Joseph Richards Sr.
Dec 28, 1905 - Jan 02, 1972

H. J. Richards Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Crawford- A. Grim Funeral Chapel in Henderson for Harry J. Richards, 66, who died Sunday in Henderson. Graveside services will be Tuesday at 2 p. m. at the Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse. Dr. Hugh L. Smith and the Rev. W. R. Tatum will officiate. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Laura Richards of Henderson; one son, Albert Richards of Henderson; a daughter, Miss Betty Sue Richards of Henderson; two sisters, Mrs. R. B. Coffin of Sevastopol, Calif., and Mrs. Nell Peters of Livingston.

Notes:


Benjamin M. "Tin" Dixon
Feb 21, 1861 - Oct. 29, 1939

C. M. DIXON DIED NEAR EMHOUSE ON SUNDAY MORNING
C. M. Dixon, aged 78 years, native Texan and resident of Navarro county practically all of his life, died at his home north of Emhouse Sunday morning at 10:30 o'clock. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the First Baptist Church at Emhouse. Interment was made in the Pattison Cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. L. B. Jenkins, Baptist minister of Midlothian, Rev. Jack Goff, Baptist minister of Emhouse, and Rev. Van Morrison, Methodist Minister of Blooming Grove. Surviving are seven children, Mrs. Will Johnson, Emhouse; Mrs. Charles Collins, Emhouse; Mitchell Dixon, Blooming Grove; George Dixon, Emhouse; Mrs. Virgil Roberts, Milford; Mrs. Will Tallant, Emhouse, and Mrs. B. L. Pope, Corsicana; a brother, James Dixon, Emhouse, and a number of grandchildren and other relatives. Pallbearers were grandsons, Norman Johnson, Clayton Collins, Ray Dixon, George Roberts, William Tallant, Horace Roberts, Vernon Tallant and Robert Johnson. Sutherland- McCammon Funeral Home was in charge.

Notes:


Virgil Monroe Grooms
Oct 7, 1914 - Jan 22, 1972

Virgil Grooms Virgil Grooms, 57, retired farmer, died Saturday at his home in Whitney. He was a native of Navarro County and was a Methodist. Funeral services will be at 3:30 p.m. Sunday at the Corley Funeral Chapel with the Rev. B. W. Johnson officiating. Burial will be in the Pattison Cemetery. He is survived by his widow of Whitney; two sisters, Mrs. Lucille Brown of Emhouse and Mrs. Leo Whitfield of Longview; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be David W. Stokes, Ronnie Stokes, Danny McMillen, John D. Horvath, Jimmie B. Johnson and Larry Denman.

Notes:


Dr. William Charles Bristow
Apr. 4, 1874 - Jan. 6, 1943

DR. W. C. BRISTOW DIED WEDNESDAY; RITES ON FRIDAY Dr. W. C. Bristow, age 68 years, died at the Navarro Clinic Wed- nesday afternoon following a short illness. Funeral services are planned for Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Emhouse Baptist church. Rev. Durwood Geddie, pastor, assisted by Rev. L. B. Jenkins, and Rev. J. I. Cartlidge. Burial will be in Pattison Cemetery. Dr. Bristow had been a practicing physician in Emhouse since 1908. He was a member of the Navarro County Medical Society and and one time served as president of the organization. Surviving are his wife, Emhouse; two sons. Roy Bristow, Corsicana; Robert Bristow, pharmacists mate, N. S. Navy. Corpus Christi; six sisters, Mrs. Florence Boles, Oklahoma; Mrs. Fannie Cobb, LaRue; Mrs. Tilda Boles, LaRue; Mrs. Vada Boles, LaRue; Mrs. Allie Richardson, Athens; Miss Nannie Bristow, Athens; and other relatives. Pallbearers will be C. B. Turner, W. H. Armstrong, A. C. Richards, D. Chaney, Frank Seely, Charles Collins, Swint Hulin, C. C. Roberts. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Navarro County Medical Society and friends of the family. Sutherland-McCammon will direct the arrangements.

Notes:


Evelyn Frances Bell
B&D Jan. 4, 1943

Rites Held Tuesday For Infant Daughter Mr. and Mrs. L. C. Bell Funeral services for Evelyn Frances, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. C. Bell, Emhouse, who died at the family home Monday night, were held Tuesday afternoon at Pattison Cemetery. Surviving arc the parents, two brothers. Luther and Alvie Bell, a sister, Joyce Ann Bell and other relatives. Corley Funeral Home directed the arrangements.

Notes:


Richard Franklin "Dick" Cook
Jun 7, 1880 - Feb 17, 1943

RICHARD F. COOK DIED AT EMHOUSE, BURIAL ON FRIDAY
Richard F. Cook, age 62, native Texas, died at his home at Emhouse Wednesday night. Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the Methodist church at Emhouse. Rev. Mr. White, pastor of the Methodist church at Barry, will officiate. Burial will be in Pattison Cemetery. Surviving are his wife, Emhouse; a daughter, Mrs. Doyle Collins, Emhouse; mother, Mrs. H. S. Cook, Shamrock; brother, W. C. Cook, Wellington; three sisters, Mrs. Martha West, Sham- Mrs. C. H. Browden, Duncan, Okla.; Mrs. J. C. Sanders, Tatum, N. M.; a granddaughter, Lou Ann Collins, Emhouse and other relatives. Corley's Funeral Home is directing the arrangements.

Notes:

---

BURIED AT EMHOUSE FRIDAY AFTERNOON

Funeral services for Richard F. Cook, age 62, who died at his home at Emhouse Wednesday night, were held from the Methodist church at Emhouse Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Rev. Mr. White officiated. Burial was in the Pattison Cemetery.

Surviving are his wife, a daughter, his mother, a brother, three sisters, a granddaughter, and other relatives.

Pallbearers were C. M. Dickson, A. E. Beard, C. B. Turner, O. E. Allen, J. B. Collins and Charlie Collins.

Corley Funeral Home directed the arrangements.

Notes:


David Newton Hopkins
B&D Aug. 12, 1943

David Hopkins Emhouse Infant, Was Buried on Friday Funeral services for David Newton Hopkins, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Hopkins, Emhouse. were held Friday morning at 11 o'clock at Pattison Cemetery where interment was made. Surviving are the parents, three, sisters, Marian Janice, Verna Fay and Barbara Joan Hopkins, a brother, J. S. Hopkins. Jr., all of Emhouse; grandmothers, Mrs. Vivian F. Hopkins, Emhouse, and Mrs. Willie Jones, Ennis. Corley's Funeral Home directed the arrangements.

Notes:


Morrison T. Montgomery
Jan 7, 1862 - Aug 4, 1943

RITES THURSDAY FOR M. MONTGOMERY AT EMHOUSE CHURCH Funeral services for Morrison Montgomery, age 81 years, who died at his home in Emhouse community Wednesday were held Thursday afternoon at 3 o’clock from the Methodist church at Emhouse. The rites were conducted by Revs. Vernon White and Jack Goff. Burial was in Pattison Cemetery. A resident of the Emhouse community for over 50 years, he was well known in that section, where he was a prominent farmer. Surviving are three sons, F. L. Montgomery, Arizona; S. Montgomery, Dallas; Captain Roark Montgomery, United States Navy stationed at Oakland, Calif.; three daughters, Mrs. C. D. Owen, Emhouse; Mrs. F. C. Chappeti, Flagstaff, Ariz.; Miss Kate Montgomery, Emhouse; two brothers, F. M. Montgomery, Quanah; Ed. Montgomery, Wichita Falls; a sister, Mrs. Nora Lockhart, Acme; 12 grandchildren, and other relatives. Pallbearers were Howard Drane, Bog Drane, Jesse Gorman, Thail Beard, Swint Hulen, Frank Seely and Artis Drane. Corley's Funeral Home directed arrangements.

Notes:


Oren L. McManus
Oct 5, 1905 - May 22, 1974

O. McManus Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at the Griffin Funeral Home Chapel for Oren L. McManus, 68, native of Emhouse, who died in a Waco Hospital Wednesday night after a long illness. Burial will be at Patterson Cemetery near Emhouse. Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Mamie Collins of Emhouse and Mrs. Clyde Williams of Amarillo; three brothers, R. A. McManus of Dallas, Robert McManus of Ennis, and Jack McManus of Houston. He was a veteran of World War ll.

Notes:


Samuel H. DeRusha
Jan 4, 1909 - Feb 13, 1954

S. H. DeRusha Rites Tuesday Funeral services for S. H. (Bill) DeRusha, 44, of Plainview, who died Saturday in an Amarillo hospital, were held Tuesday at 10 a.m. from the First Baptist church Emhouse. Burial was in the Pattison Cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. John R. Meadows, pastor, and Rev. C. R. Rhodes, Sr. Reared in Emhouse, DeRusha resided in the Cryer Creek community when he moved to Plainview seven years ago. He had been ill several weeks. Surviving are his wife, a son, John C. DeRusha; a daughter, Trudy L. DeRusha, all of Plainview; seven brothers, Charles DeRusha, Emhouse; Clay DeRusha, Blooming Grove; G. I., Roy and Ed DeRusha, all of Plainview; Joe DeRusha, Odessa and John DeRusha, California; four sisters, Mrs. Margaret Harris, Corsicana; Miss Elsie DeRusha and Mrs. Edward Wetzel, both of Odessa, and Mrs. Ira Stokes, Dallas, and other relatives. Pallbearers were W. E. Hill, Ocie Meek, Harvey Davis, Carmie Rhodes, Charles Rhodes, Jr., and Doodle Boyd. Corley directed.

Notes:


Willis Joseph Richards
Feb 25, 1905 - May 24, 1971

Richards Funeral services will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at Corley Funeral Chapel for Willis J. (Joe) Richards, 66, who died Monday in Memorial Hospital. Dr. H. Lively Brown will officiate. Burial will be in the Pattison Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jerry Mitchell, Grandon Mitchell, Allen Jones, Leslie Brown, Robert Moody, John Moody, Walter Brown and Ray Davis. Surviving are his widow, his mother, one brother and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:


Joel Adams Dixon
Aug 29, 1896 - Jun 22, 1953

Joel A. Dixon Rites Friday Funeral services for Joel A. Dlxon, 56, Emhouse, have been postponed until Friday at 2 p. m. at the Corley Chapel. He died in a Galveston hospital Tuesday night following an extended illness. The rites will be conducted by Rev. W. O. Southerland, pastor of the Powell Baptist church. Burial will be in the Pattison Cemetery. Surviving are a son, Tommy R. Dixon, U. S. Marines; a sister, Mrs. H. C. DeRusha, Blooming Grove; a nephew and two nieces. Masons will be pallbearers.

Notes:


Louis Webb Mitchell
Dec 18, 1873 - Oct 15, 1961

L. W. Mitchell Services Held Louis W. Mitchell, 87, retired farmer, formerly of Blooming Grove and Emhouse, died at his home, 1502 Oakley, Dallas, Saturday night. Funeral services were held Monday at 3 p.m. from the Corley Chapel with burial in the Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse. The rites were conducted by Rev. Lendon M. Jackson and Rev. Kenneth Gaub, both of Dallas. He was a native of Tennessee. Surviving are three sons, I. A. Mitchell, Fort Worth; C. G. and I. D. Mitchell, both of Dallas; two daughters, Mrs. Lillian Vise, Fort Worth and Mrs. Fern Schindler, Grand Prairie; 14 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. Grandsons were pallbearers.

Notes:


Lottie L. (Dixon) Freeman
Jun 04, 1906 - Jan 16, 1927

FUNERAL SERVICES MONDAY AFTERNOON FOR EMHOUSE WOMAN Funeral services for Mrs. Lottie Freeman of Emhouse, aged 20 years, who died at the Navarro county hospital Sunday night at 11:30 o’clock were held Monday afternoon with interment in the Pattison Cemetery. She is survived by her husband Jim Freeman, parents, Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Dixon of Emhouse. Corsicana Daily Sun Monday, January 17, 1927

IN MEMORIAM
Lottie Ida Freeman (nee Dixon) was born June 4, 1906, near Waxahachie. She Was the daughter of C. L. and Arvilla Dixon. She was married to Jim Freeman, Nov. 7, 1925. She departed this life at 11:30 p.m., January 16, 1927. She was not thought to be seriously ill until about 8 o’clock Sunday morning when she suddenly became unconscious and never regained consciousness. All was done for her that tender loving hands could do but to no avail. She was the oldest of nine children and was loved as only a loving unselfish sister can be. She was an obedient and loving daughter always ready to help her mother care for her large family. She was a most devoted and affectionate wife and will be greatly missed by her heart-broken husband who cared for her so tenderly through her last illness. That she was loved by all was shown by the large crowd who came to pay their last tribute of respect to her memory. She was laid to rest in the Pattison cemetery beneath a flower covered mound, on Monday afternoon, January 17. The funeral was conducted by Rev. L. B. Jenkins, assisted by Rev. Morrison and H. C. DeRusha. She was a great lover of music and good singing and it seemed quite fitting that sweet songs should be sung as she was laid to rest. We cannot see as yet why one so young and whose life seemed so full of happiness should be called but we know that some day we will join hands with her around the Great White Throne where there will be no more sorrow and farewells are never said. We would say in the language of song: Thou art gone our precious darling, Nevermore canst thou return, Thou shalt sleep a peaceful slumber “Till the resurrection morning.” To the heart-broken husband and bereaved parents we would say weep not as those who have no hope but look forward to the resurrection morn and that glad reunion on the other side. Written by one who loved her.

Notes:

-----

EMHOUSE. ' Special to the Sun. Emhouse, Texas. Jan. 20.—Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock for Mrs. James Freeman at the home of her father. Mrs. Freeman died Sunday night at eleven o'clock at the Navarro County Hospital where she had been taken for treatment. The funeral was conducted by the Rev. Jenkins, pastor of the local Baptist church. Rev. Van P. Morrison, Methodist pastor, assisting. Lottie as she was known to her many friends, was 20 years of age and had only been married a short while. She leaves to mourn her loss, her husband, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Claud Dixon, several brothers and sisters, and a host of other relatives and friends. Burial took place at the Pattison cemetery.

Notes:


Sam H. D. Hook
Sep 09, 1860 - Jan 29, 1926

PROMINENT GIN MAN DIED EARLY FRIDAY AT HOME IN EMHOUSE SAM HOOK PASSES AWAY AFTER ILLNESS OF SEVERAL WEEKS
Special to the Sun. Emhouse, Texas. Jan. 29—Sam Hook , age 65 years, died at his home here Friday morning at 2:00 o’clock. Funeral services were held at the Methodist church at 2 o’clock this afternoon and were conducted by Rev. D. P. Morrison. Burial was in Pattison Cemetery. The deceased is survived by his wife and four children. Mrs. H. B. Thornton, Miss Mary Kate, Noel and Bruce Hook. The last three named lived with their parents and Mrs. Thornton lives here. A grandson, Wayne Thornton also survives. Mr. Hook had been a resident of Emhouse for many years and was well known. He owned a gin here and had been engaged in that line of business several years. He was born in Marietta, Georgia, came to Texas in 1880 and settled at Frost. In 1895 he married Miss Addie Kelly. Pallbearers were: B. Patterson, Joe Parrish, Will Hall, Fred Wood, Thad Beard, B. S. Payne and Tom Thornton.

Notes:


Thomas Franklin Vyers
Dec 13, 1858 - Sep 21, 1950

T. F. Vyers Dies Thursday; Rites Planned Friday T. F. Vyers, 91, pioneer resident of North Navarro county, died at his home north of Emhouse shortly before noon Thursday. Funeral services will be held from the First Methodist church in Emhouse Friday at 3 p.m. with burial in the Pattison Cemetery. The rites are to be conducted by Rev. W. B. Morten of Coleman. Vyers had resided in the Emhouse sector for 80 years. Surviving are six children, Mrs. Fannie Reid, Dallas; Mrs. C. H. McNeel, Emhouse: C. Y. Vyers, Ennis; Frank Vyers and Hubert Vyers, both of Emhouse; Miss Bertie Vyers, Emhouse; 30 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and other relatives. Corley Funeral Home will direct.

Notes:


Richard Doyle “Coon” Tinkle
Jul 22, 1910 - Apr 20, 1969

R. D. Tinkle Richard Doyle “Coon” Tinkle, 58, native of Emhouse, died Monday in Las Vegas, Nev. Funeral arrangements are pending at Corley Funeral Home. Burial is planned at Pattison Cemetery. He is survived by three sisters, Mrs. L. M. Eastland, Mrs. Louise Bailey and Mrs. Elizabeth Tinkle, all of Corsicana; and a cousin, Mrs. Doyle Collins, Corsicana.

Notes:


Emma (Forbes) Vyers
Dec 8, 1889 - Oct 6, 1926

EMHOUSE WOMAN IS BURIED PATTERSON CEMETERY TODAY Mrs. Emma Vyers aged about 28 years, died at her home in Emhouse at 3:30 o'clock Wednesday morning following three-weeks illness and the remains were interred in the Patterson Cemetery Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock. She is survived by her husband and five children. An infant of Mr. and Mrs. Vyers was buried Monday afternoon

Notes:


Infant Son Vyers
B&D Oct. 5, 1926

EMHOUSE WOMAN IS BURIED PATTERSON CEMETERY TODAY Mrs. Emma Vyers aged about 28 years, died at her home in Emhouse at 3:30 o'clock Wednesday morning following three-weeks illness and the remains were interred in the Patterson cemetery Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock. She is survived by her husband and five children. An infant of Mr. and Mrs. Vyers was buried Monday afternoon.

Notes:


Sam Pruitt Owen
Sep 24, 1900 Mar 04, 1966

Sunday Rites Sam P. Owen Final rites for Sam P. Owen, 65, who died in Waxahachie Friday, will be held Sunday at 2 p. m. from the Corley Chapel with burial in the Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse. Surviving are his wife of Waxahachie: three brothers, A. A. Owen, Italy; C. D. Owen, Dallas, and George Owen, Corsicana; four sisters, Clara Belle Owen, Corsicana; Mrs. C. J. Johnson, Frost; Mrs. Swint Huling and Mrs. Nell Elkins. both of Emhouse, and other relatives.

Notes:


Charlie Jake Johnson
Oct 25, 1896 - Apr 27, 1966

Hold Services C. J. Johnson FROST (Spl)—Funeral services for Charlie J. Johnson, 69, farmer-rancher, who died of a heart attack at his home early Tuesday, were held Wednesday at 2 p.m. from the First Methodist church here. The rites were conducted by Rev. Frank Williams of the Walter Rider Methodist church of Ennis, formerly pastor here, and Rev. Thad Son, pastor. Burial was in the Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse. A native of Texas, Johnson resided in the Emhouse area prior to moving 2 1-2 miles west of Frost a number of years ago. He was a veteran of World War I and was a member of the American Legion. Surviving are his wife, Nancy Owen Johnson, Frost; a son, Charles Leslie Johnson, Frost; a daughter, Mrs. Thomas Clark, Mesquite; a grandchild; three brothers, Babe Johnson, Houston; Will Johnson, Emhouse, and Bob Johnson, Waco; a sister, Mrs, C. B. Turner, Em- house, and other relatives. Pallbearers were Elton Turner, Carrollton; Stokes Arm- strong, Emhouse; Ernest Stok- es, Emhouse; Wendell Lock- hart, Kerens; Marvin Shows, Emhouse, and Sheriff Rufus Pevehouse. McCormick Funeral Service directed.

Notes:


Eula Lee (Brown) Maggard
Feb 7, 1909 - Jan 17, 1997

Eula Brown Maggard Eula Brown Maggard, 87, of Emhouse, died in Emhouse Jan. 17, 1997. Visitation is today from 6-8 p.m. at Corley Funeral Home. Graveside services are Monday at 11 a.m. at Pattison Cemetery in Emhouse, with Rev. B. Suzy Welch of Emhouse United Methodist Church officiating. Mrs. Maggard was born Feb. 14, 1909 in Emhouse. Mrs. Maggard is survived by her daughters, Jeanette Melton of Emhouse and Sue Ward of Austin; sons, David (Buddy) Maggard of Emhouse and Sonny Maggard of Emhouse; nine grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and sisters, Erba Harris of Gilmer and Ruth Barnes of Corsicana. Mrs. Maggard is preceded in death by her husband, Claude Maggard. Arrangements by Corley Funeral Home.

Notes:


Buford Farmer
Dec 26, 1898 - Apr 14, 1961

Buford Farmer Services Held Funeral services for Buford Farmer, 62, who died Friday were held Sunday at 2 p.m. from the Corley Chapel. The rites were conducted by Rev. Gaither L. Day, pastor of the North Corsicana Methodist church. Burial was in the Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse. Farmer resided at Emhouse prior to moving to Corsicana several years ago. Surviving are his wife of Corsicana; two daughters, Mrs. Lealon Bone, Nacogdoches and Mrs. Paul McCann Corsicana; a brother, Judson Farmer, Pricilla; a grandson, David Bone, Nacogdoches, and other relatives. Pallbearers were Otis Farmer, T. A. Farmer, Clarence Sullivan, Sims Hagler, Ray Maggard and Haskell Gray.

Notes:

  • Corsicana Semi-Weekly Light Apr 18, 1961
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • h/o Aldo (McCammon) Farmer

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Buford Farmer Dies Friday

Buford Farmer, 62, native of Emhouse, farmer and pipeliner, 916 North Twenty-First street, died early Friday morning.

Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. from the Corley Chapel with burial in the Pattison Cemetery at Emhouse.

He had resided in Corsicana eight years.

Surviving are his wife of Corsicana; two daughters, Mrs. Lealon Bone, Nacogdoches, and Mrs. Paul McCann, Corsicana; a brother, Judson Farmer, Percella; a grandson, David Bone, Nacogdoches, and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Otis Farmer, T. A. Farmer, Clarence Sullivan, Sims Hagler, Ray Maggard and Haskell Gray.

Notes:


Frank Lafayette Seely, Jr.
Mar 8, 1923 - Sep 12, 1991

Frank L. Seely Jr. Frank L. Seely Jr., 68, of Emhouse, died Sept. 12, 1991, at the V. A. Medical Center in Dallas. Services will be 3:30 p.m. Sunday at the Corley Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Roger Marsh and the Rev. John Dahlman officiating. Burial will be in Pattison Cemetery in Emhouse. He was born March 8, 1923 in Emhouse. He graduated from Emhouse High School and attended Texas A&M University. He was a decorated veteran of the U. S. Army Air Corps, having flown more than 80 combat missions in the European Theatre during World War II. He was a deacon and a Bible teacher at Emhouse Baptist Church. He also was a member of the Blooming Grove Independent School District Board of Trustees for 12 years. He and his father owned and operated Frank Seely and Son's store in Emhouse for more than 60 years, starting out delivering ice to homes in Emhouse and the surrounding areas from the 1920's through the 1950's. He was a Gulf Oil dealer for more than 50 years. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank L. Seely Sr., and one son Rodger F. Seely. Survivors include his wife, Lola Seely of Emhouse; his mother, Beatrice Doss Seely of Corsicana; one sister Rose Barton of Aledo, Texas; two daughters Jennifer Astolfi of Coppell and Karen Adams of Houston; three sons, Pat Seely of Arlington, Howard Seely of Blooming Grove and Loran Seely of Corsicana; 14 grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Ernest Douglas, Virgil Jackson, Robert Watkins, Doyle Looney, C. B. Seely and R. M. Drain. Honorary Pallbearers will be Elzie Armstrong, Clarence Wright and Sonny Armstrong.

Notes:


Julia Ann (Owen) Welch DeRusha
May 11, 1877 - Sep 25, 1945

FUNERAL SERVICES MRS. J. A. DERUSHA HELD WEDNESDAY Mrs. J. A. DeRusha, aged 68 years, died at the family residence 314 West Seventh Avenue, Tuesday evening following an extended illness. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 o’clock from the Baptist church in Emhouse with burial in the Pattison Cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. Jared I. Cartlidge, pastor of the First Baptist Church here. A native of Mississippi, Mrs. DeRusha came to Navarro county as a little child and resided in the Emhouse community until she came to Corsicana three years ago. Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Ira Stokes, Irving; Mrs. Elsie Anderson, Mrs. Margaret Harris and Mrs. E. L. Wetzell, all of Corsicana; five sons, G. R. DeRusha, Plainview; A. E. DeRusha, Rice; S. H. DeRusha, Barry; C. R. DeRusha, Emhouse, and G. W. DeRusha, Odessa; three step-sons, R. L. DeRusha, Plainview; J. R. DeRusha, Corsicana, and H. C. DeRusha, Barry; a brother, Judge R. R. Owen, Corsicana; two sisters, Mrs. J. T. O’Neal and Mrs. A. C. Richards, both of Emhouse, and other relatives. Pallbearers were Will Sharply, Clint Hulen, Jack Megarity, Albert Richards, Hugh Parrish and Ab Tinkle. Corley Funeral Home directed

Notes:


Burns Wooten
Apr 12, 1895 - Dec 12, 1976

Burns Wooten Services were held at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Burns Wooten, 81, resident of Ennis, who died Sunday in Dallas. The Rev. H. Edwards Ricks officiated, with burial following at Pattison Cemetery. He was a native of Burnett County, had lived in Ennis 25 years, a member of the Baptist church and a veteran of World War 1. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Dollie Wooten of Ennis; two sons, Noah Cunnie Wooten and Ronald Tim Wooten both of Arlington; two daughters, Mrs. Thelma Hunter of Memphis, Tenn. And Mrs. Sadie Freeman of Corsicana; nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, a twin-brother, Ray Wooten of Corsicana; three sisters, Mrs. Lena Burks of Dallas, Mrs. Annie Batey of Blooming Grove and Mrs. Lorena Gordon of California. Nephews were pallbearers.

Notes:


Vivian Faye (Daniel) Hopkins
Feb 16, 1886 - Oct 16, 1976

Mrs. Hopkins Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. J. W. Hopkins, 90, resident of Emhouse, who died Saturday. The Rev. J. N. Foreman and the Rev. Leroy Reeves officiated, with burial following at Pattison Cemetery. Survivors include four daughters, Mrs. B. W. Gamble Jr., Miss Edna Hopkins, Miss Dorothy Hopkins, and Mrs. Lester Pattison all of Emhouse; a son James F. Hopkins, of Waxahachie; nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, and a brother, Ben F. Daniel of Dallas. Pallbearers include Charles Leslie Johnson, Alvie Armstrong, Frank Seeley Jr., Norman Smith, George Brown and Ralph Chaney.

Notes:


Mildred Lucille (Way) Kendrick-Robertson
Aug 27, 1911 - Jul 6, 1984

Mildred Robertson Mrs. Mildred Way Robertson, 72, of Corsicana, died Friday at Navarro Regional Hospital. Service is 2 p.m. Sunday at Northside Baptist Church with the Rev. Troy Brooks officiating. Burial will be at Pattison Cemetery. She was a native of Emhouse and lived in Corsicana most of her life. She was also a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church and Rebekah Lodge. Survivors include a son, Travis Way Robertson of Malakoff; a daughter, Mrs. Patricia Ann Earp of Rockdale; four grandchildren; a great-grandchild; two sisters, Vera Brooks of Corsicana and Eunice Glass of Midland; and a brother, Bud Way of Corsicana.

Notes:


Love Vyers
Nov 15, 1869 - May 23, 1935

FUNERAL SERVICES FRIDAY AFTERNOON FOR LOVE VYERS
Funeral services for Love Vyers, 66, long-time resident of the Emhouse community, who died Thursday morning while plowing in the Pickett community, were held from the First Baptist church in Emhouse Friday afternoon at 3 o'clock with interment in the Pattison Cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev, Jenkins. Mr. Vyers resided in Emhouse for many years prior to moving to Pickett this year. Surviving are a son, Charles Vyers, Arkansas, and two brothers, T. F. Vyers, Emhouse, and Charles Barlow, Corsicana. The funeral was directed by The Corley Funeral Home.

Notes:


Matt Harris Vyers
Aug 4, 1897 - Apr 22, 1926

Special to the Sun. Emhouse News. Mat Vyers who has been real sick, passed away last Thursday morning at 9 o'clock and was laid to rest in the Patterson Cemetery Friday afternoon.

The Corsicana Daily Sun Thursday, Apr 29, 1926

Note- This one has Byers in the obit but it is Vyers.

EMHOUSE MAN DIES THURSDAY MORNING FUNERAL ON FRIDAY Special to the Sun. Emhouse, April 23.—Mat Byers, age 28 years, died at his home here Thursday morning at 9:40. Funeral services were held at the Methodist Protestant church, at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon, and were conducted by Rev. Mr. Bounds, pastor. The deceased is survived by his parents and several brothers and sisters, all residents of Emhouse. The Byers family has lived in this community for several years.

Notes:


Maggie Pearl Vyers
Jun 16, 1910 - Aug 18, 1926

EMHOUSE NEWS. Special to the Sun. The Death Angel visited the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Vyers last Wednesday and took from their, midst their daughter Maggie Pearl, age 16 years. She had only been ill a few days. Funeral services were held Thursday with burial in the Pattison Cemetery. We join the friends of Mr. and Mrs. Vyers in extending them our sympathy in their hour of sorrow.

Notes:


John Douglas Meador
Aug 7, 1893 - Apr 29, 1969

John D. Meador John D. Meador, Apt. 7-D, Northwest Apartments, died at Mel-Haven Convalescent Home Tuesday afternoon. He was 75 years old. Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday at Griffin Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Joe Evans officiating. Interment will be in Pattison Cemetery. Surviving are his wife of Corsicana; three sons, Barney of Palestine, Dan of Corsicana and Clayton of Freeport; a brother, Clay of Corsicana; two sisters, Mrs. Winnie Ray of Emhouse and Mrs. Nora Rich of Ennis; and several nieces and nephews. Nephews will be pallbearers.

Notes:


James Eli Snow
Nov 15, 1858 - Nov 9, 1934

RESIDENT EMHOUSE COMMUNITY 35 YEARS BURIED ON FRIDAY James Eli Snow, age 75 years, died at his home in Emhouse Friday morning at 3 o’clock following a lingering illness. Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 3 o’clock from the Methodist church at Emhouse and were conducted by Rev. Lee Hearn. Burial was in Pattison Cemetery. Mr. Snow was a native of Georgia, but had lived in the Emhouse community 35 years. Surviving are his wife, two sons, James Richard Snow, Emhouse; B. F. Snow, Georgia; two daughters, Mrs. O. W. Smith, Dallas; Mrs. Sarah Cleveland, Georgia; four brothers, Tom, John, Richard and Marion Snow all of Georgia; a sister, Mrs. Sarah Pelt, Georgia, and other relatives. Corley's Funeral Home had charge of the funeral arrangements.

Notes:


Hollie N. Garrison
Nov 1, 1906 - Feb 12, 1912

The little child of Mr. and Mrs. Garrison died Monday at the residence of the parents in this city. A few days ago she sustained a broken collar bone from which blood poison set in causing death. Burial took place Tuesday in the Pattison graveyard at Emhouse attended by a large number of friends of the family.

Notes:

  • Corsicana Democrat and Truth Feb 15, 1912
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • d/o Jacob Silas Garrison & Tillie Elizabeth (Butler) Garrison

Ada Kate O'Neal
Mar 18, 1902 - Jan 16, 1931

VICTIM GAS BLAST BURIED AT EMHOUSE SATURDAY MORNING Funeral services for Miss Ada Kate O’Neal, 26, employee of the American Well & Prospecting Co. for a number of years, who met death Friday morning about 7:30 o’clock when an explosion of a stove ignited the W. M. Wilson home, corner North Fifteenth street and West Fourth Avenue, where she had an apartment, were held at Emhouse Saturday morning at 10 o’clock. Her charred body was discovered by firemen after the blaze had been practically extinguished. It had been thought that she had already left the house. She was well known here, and was an active member of Corsicana Business and Professional Women's Club. Residents of that section were startled by the blast that knocked windows out of the Wilson home and shook houses in the vicinity. The body was taken to the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. J. O’Neal at Emhouse Friday afternoon. The funeral was held from the Emhouse Baptist church with interment in the Pattison Cemetery. The services were conducted by Rev. P. Martin Baker, pastor of the Third Avenue Presbyterian church in Corsicana. Active pallbearers were Ernest Newman, Ed Rittersbacher, Elmer Rittersbacher, Elliott Johnson, Pete Hook, Roy Bristow and M. J. W. Baker. The Sutherland Funeral Home had charge of the funeral.

Notes:

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BLAST KILLS YOUNG WOMAN
EXPLOSION RESULTS DEATH MISS O’NEAL W. M. WILSON HOME
BODY IS BURNED BEYOND RECOGNITION; FUNERAL SATURDAY, EMHOUSE
Miss Ada Kate O’Neal, aged 26, lost her life in a fire that followed, and explosion in the home of W. M. Wilson, at the intersection of West Fourth avenue and North Fifteenth street, about 7:30 Friday morning.
Residents of that section of Corsicana were awakened and aroused by a blast that threw glass from the damaged house across the street and which shook houses for several blocks. City Patrolman Marion Griffin had halted for a stop signal at the intersection of Third and Fifteenth and saw flames shoot from almost every window in the house.
Assist People From House.
He ran to the Wilson house shouting to some of the members of the family of Dr. J. W. Bergin across the street from the fire, to turn in the alarm. He was joined by one of the neighbors and immediately they assisted Mr. and Mrs. Wilson from the flaming house, and when they were assured there was no one else in the house, closed all openings possible to prevent spread of the flames.
Patrolman Griffin said after the fire that he started into the room in which Miss O’Neal's body was found, but the room was a mass of flames and having been assured that no one else was in the house did not enter because he feared that the flames would spread to other rooms more rapidly.
The flames were soon extinguished and a majority of the furniture removed from the house undamaged except for a small amount of water. Fire Chief Keith estimated damage to the house at $2500 with $7500 insurance and loss on the furniture at $1,000 with insurance of $3,000.
Blame Leaking Hose
Extensive investigations made during and following the fire, have led fire department officials to believe that a leaking rubber hose connection allowed the room to fill with gas overnight, and it exploded when Miss O’Neal started to light a fire on arising early Friday morning. The gas had been turned off at a small heater but not at a wall opening. A thorough test for other leaks in gas lines failed to disclose and other cause for the blast.
Miss O’Neal was born and reared in the Emhouse community, but had made her home in Corsicana for several years, and recently at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson. She had been employed in the office of the American Well and Prospecting company for several years, and had an enviable reputation for initiative and efficiency. She was a member of the Corsicana Business and Professional Womens Club.
Funeral Saturday.
Her body was carried to the Sutherland Funeral Home, where it was prepared for burial, and then taken to the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. J. O’Neal at Emhouse, about 3 o’clock Friday afternoon.
Funeral service will be held from the First Baptist Church in Emhouse Saturday morning at 10 o’clock with interment in Pattison Cemetery.
Surviving are her parents; two brothers, George and “Bud,” both of Emhouse; and three sisters, Mrs. Tomie Hatley of Dallas; Mrs. Evredge Stein and Mrs. Willie Sharpley, both of Emhouse.
Justice of the Peace J. L. Cox viewed the body and returned a coroner's verdict of death by burning, accidental.

Notes:


Carrie (Holt) Barber
Oct 18, 1885 - Nov 20, 1953

Mrs. Carrie Holt Barber was born in Decatur, Alabama and came to Texas when a small girl. In 1901 she was united in marriage to Doyle Barber. To this union three daughters were born, Mrs. L.A. Sawyer of Hubbard, Mrs. Odell Vardeman of Hubbard, and Mrs. H.B. Burford of Dallas.

She became a Christian at an early age and united with the First Baptist Church of Navarro Mills in 1909. Upon moving to Dawson in 1916 she and her husband placed their membership with the First Baptist Church of Dawson where she remained a member until death.

Death came after an extended illness of two years. She passed from this life Nov. 20 at 9:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Hospital in Waco.

She loved people irrespective of race or color and will be missed by a host of friends. She loved to make drives in the country and took great delight in the beauties of nature. She loved to visit her friends and always had a cheery smile and word of encouragement for all.

She is survived by above mentioned daughters, three grandchildren, Jan, Glenda and Julianne. Three sisters, Mrs. S.J. McCulloch of Reed, OK, Mrs. F.L. Hopkins, Dallas, Mrs. Clayton Brown, Waco; one brother, Mr. G.A. Holt of Dawson

Notes:

  • Dawson Herald, Nov 22 1953
  • Submitted by Seana Bone
  • w/o Doyle Barber
  • Dawson Cemetery, Dawson, Navarro Co., TX

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Dawson Services For Mrs. Barber

DAWSON, Nov. 23 - (Spl) - Funeral services for Mrs. Doyle Barber, who died in a Waco hospital Friday, were conducted from the First Methodist church here Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Burial was in the Dawson cemetery. Rev. Browning Ware conducted the rites, assisted by Rev. Burt Gillis.

Native of Alabama, she had resided in this community 33 years.

Surviving are her husband, Dawson; three daughters, Mrs. H. B. Burford, Dallas; Mrs. Odell Vardeman and Mrs. Lester Sawyer, both of Hubbard, and three grandchildren.

Wolfe Funeral Home directed.

Notes:


John Doyle Barber
Oct 10, 1882 - Oct 19, 1961

John Doyle Barber, 79, native of Dawson, a barber, died at Providence Hospital, Waco, Thursday afternoon following a week's illness. He had resided here all of his life.

Funeral services were held Friday at 2 p.m. from the First Baptist church. Burial was in the Dawson Cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. Dan Taylor, pastor.

Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Vera Burford, Dallas; Mrs. Opal Sawyer and Mrs. Laverne Vardeman, both of Hubbard; three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, two sisters, Mrs. Florence Savage, Bridgeport, and Mrs. Louis Dixon, Austin; a brother, W.B. Barber, Austin, and other relatives. Eubanks Funeral Home directed.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun, Oct 20 1961
  • Submitted by Seana Bone & Diane Richards
  • h/o Carrie (Holt) Barber married May 9, 1901; s/o William Samuel “Sam” Barber & Lena Doyle (Dempsey) Barber buried in Dresden cemetery

Claude E. Holt
Jan 17, 1891 - Nov 26, 1914

C.E. Holt, of 3 miles east of Dawson, died in a sanitarium in Waco Thursday, November 26, and his remains were brought back to Dawson Thursday night for burial. The funeral service was held at the Methodist church Friday afternoon at 3 o'clock, Rev. J. T. McKeown conduction the service, after which the body was laid to rest in the city cemetery. Mr. Holt was carried to Waco some two weeks ago for an operation on his head and had undergone the operation, but died from the effects. Deceased was near 24 years of age and leaves a wife and one child. The Herald extends sincere sympathy to the bereaved in their sad hour of grief.

Notes:


Emily Catherine (Craig) Sawyer
Aug 1, 1878 - Jun 6, 1923

From the Dawson Herald, June 1923: In Memory of Mrs. Sawyer

On Wednesday evening, June 6, our town was shrouded in gloom when the sad news was being sent out that Mrs. Aaron Sawyer was dead. Her death was so unexpected that it came as a shock to all. It was so hard to give her up. She was laid to rest on the afternoon of June 7th, in the presence of a large concourse of sorrowing relatives, friends, and neighbors, the services being conducted by Bro. E.W. McMillon, of Waco. Mrs. Sawyer is survived by her husband, 4 children, some of whom are small and will sadly miss a fond mother's care, also two brothers and two sisters, all of whom are heartbroken and bowed with grief over their irreparable loss, and to whom we extend our deepest sympathy in this hour of sorrow and distress, and can only say to them to take comfort in the promise of our Heavenly Father and bow in humble submission to His will.

Mrs. Sawyer was 44 years old. She joined the Christian church when only a girl and lived a true christian up till her death.

The family had a faithful wife and a devoted mother, she was devoted to her family. She never neglected them and was always ready to extend a helping hand. She was loved by all who knew her.

It was hard to break the tender cord when love had bound the heart so hard; to speak the word, must we forever part?

A Friend

Notes:


Melvin Sawyer
Jan 24, 1901 - Nov 8, 1918

Melvin Sawyer, aged 18 years, of Dawson, died this morning at 3:42 o'clock in a local sanitarium of wounds received at Dawson. The body was shipped this morning to that town by Undertaker Layton C. Puckett. The young man was shot through the abdomen on the afternoon of Nov. 19, at Dawson. He is survived by his wife, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.W. Sawyer, and several brothers and sisters, all of Dawson.

Notes:


Jo Etta (Ross) Phillips
Oct 7, 1916 - Jan 4, 2012

Jo Etta Phillips, 95, of Winnsboro passed away Jan. 4, 2012. She was born Oct. 7, 1916 in Kerens to John S. Ross and Alpha O. Chapman. Visitation will be Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Service will follow visitation at 11 a.m. in Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Don Meyers. Burial will follow at Kerens City Cemetery.  Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.

Notes:


Fred Polk
Jan 2, 1925 - Jan 2, 2012

Fred Polk was the fourth child born to Charlie and Bertha Polk and was born Jan. 2, 1925 in Kerens. He went to be with the Lord on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012 in the Baylor University Medical Center of Dallas among loving family and devoted friends. He grew up in Kerens and attended the public schools there. He was baptized in the Baptist faith in Kerens.

Mr. Polk married Claudia Polk in Freestone County, Texas. He was a farmer and was employed by the Navarro County Livestock Auction. His passion was riding horses, herding cows and raising cattle. Mr. Polk will be remembered best for his sense of humor, exerting his authority, and love of his family.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Claudia; his parents; four brothers, Herod, Lee, Clarence and Charles Polk; a sister, Joyce Polk; and two children, Freddie Mae and James Earl Polk.

He is survived by his son, Billy C. Polk of Streetman; daughters, Barbara Polk of Streetman, Pearl Reynolds and husband, Robert of Corsicana, Sonya Griffin and husband, James of Fairfield, Patsy Green and husband, Lee of Fairfield, and Sherrell Polk of Streetman; his brother, Edward Polk and wife, Juda of Corsicana; sisters, Ruthie Traylor of Dallas, and Birtha Bluitt and husband, Eurn of Dallas; sister-In-law Lizzie Polk of Dallas; and godson, Leonard Dempsey and wife, Birtha of Corsicana. Polk is also survived by two special granddaughters, Shelia Brown and Shonda Polk; 18 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

The Angelic Hosts came for Fred Polk among loving family and devoted friends. Viewing will begin at the Funeral Home on Friday, Jan. 6, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the family present from 6 to 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 at 11 a.m. in the Jones Chapel United Methodist Church, 360 N. Church Street, Fairfield with Rev. Elnora Nunnally, Pastor; Evangelist Bertha Bluitt and Rev. Brent Polk officiating. Interment will be in the Cedar Grove Cemetery, Streetman.

Moore's Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe Street, Teague, Texas is serving the Polk family.

Notes:


James Wade Atwood
May 11, 1934 - Jan 4, 2012


James Wade Atwood, 77, of Corsicana, a follower of Jesus Christ, went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, after a long battle with Alzheimers disease. He was born May 11, 1934 in Palestine, to Clifford Wade and Lola Bye Atwood.

He was preceded in death by both parents; his first love, Elinor Rosson Atwood; his daughter, Michele Neal; his son-in-law, Albert Neal; brother-in-law, Thomas H. Flinn, III; and a sister-in-law, Norma Atwood.

He is survived by his devoted, loving wife, Marilyn Butler Atwood of Corsicana; sons, Delton Atwood and wife, Linda of Palestine, and James Lee Atwood, Sr. of Coldwater, Miss.; brother, Gerald Atwood and wife Leta, of Houston; sister, Ann Flinn of Lakeway; and five grandsons, James Lee Atwood, Jr., Josh Atwood, David Neal, Austin Atwood, and Caleb Atwood. He also cherished his adopted family, Kim and Mike Bernhagen, Kristan, Kendra, Caleb, Troy, Aden, Katie, Scott Butler, Lauren, Cameron, and Kendall.

James was a stand-out football player for Palestine High School, and received a full football scholarship to The University of Texas, where he received his bachelors degree in physical education. Upon his graduation he began his career with the YMCA in Fort Worth, Corsicana, Galveston, and later returned back home to Palestine as the YMCA director on Kickapoo Street in the mid-60's. He was instrumental in starting the Peewee Football program in Palestine, as well as teaching numerous children in that city to swim. He later worked for Alcoa Aluminum, and finally retired from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a coach. He loved to spend time with his family, fish at Red Lake, getting together with the “Old Farts”, (the name shared by his high school classmates), and traveling and seeing the world with Marilyn. He was a lifetime member of the Presbyterian Church, and served as an elder.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Palestine at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012, with B. F. Risinger, Jr. of Corsicana officiating, followed by a reception and time to visit with the family at the church in Robinson Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Palestine, First Baptist Church Corsicana, Navarro County Child Evangelism Fellowship, or Alzheimers Association.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bailey & Foster Funeral Home, Palestine.

Notes:


Otis Langston
June 26, 1923 - Jan 3, 2012

     
Otis Langston went to his eternal reward with his heavenly Father on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2012. Mr. Langston was born on June 26, 1923 to William Edward and Minerva Elizabeth Olsen Langston, in Corsicana, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Otha Wayne Langston; sister, Onetta Vern Langston; and son, Reginald Duane Langston.

He attended Corsicana High School and became a member of The Stamps Quartet after his graduation in 1941. In early 1942, he joined the Air Force and was a Tech Sgt. with the 49th Air Depot Group with the Fifth Air Force in the Pacific. After serving his country for three years, Mr. Langston returned to Corsicana and entered Navarro Junior College where he graduated with an Associate Degree in Business. He served as Minister of Music at Missionary Baptist Church for several years while also operating several loan companies he owned in and around Corsicana. He later moved to Dallas where he served as Minister of Music and Education for Webb Chapel Baptist Church.

After several different business ventures, Otis returned to Corsicana where he finished out his working years running his used furniture business, This Old House and The Discount Store.

He finally retired in his mid-eighties and moved to Arizona to be closer to his daughter.

Mr. Langston is survived by his son, Rickey Wayne Langston and wife Grace of Lewisville, Texas; daughter, Rhonda Leigh Rolf and husband Gary of Payson, Arizona; grandsons, Lance Langston and wife Jennifer, Jeffrey Langston and wife Carrissa, Tracy Kendall and wife Daniella; granddaughters, Lori Young and Dana Every, both of Glendale, Arizona; great-grandsons, Colton, Jacob and Liam Langston, Kobe and Jaden Young, and Timothy Every; great-granddaughters, Amanda, Bailey, and Savannah Langston, Gabriella Kendall, and Tatum Young; brother, Orville Langston and wife Diane of Central Texas. He is also survived by nieces, nephews and many friends including dear friends Sidney Wafer and Patricia Owen.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, 2012 at Corley Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 at 3 p.m. at Corley Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jim Slocumb officiating. Burial will follow at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery.

Notes:


Melba Irene (Coker) Manley
Jan 10, 1946 - Jan 2, 2012

Melba Irene (Coker) Manley passed away Monday, Jan. 2, 2012 at her home in Blooming Grove. Melba was born to Rev. Lloyd Thomas Coker and Mary Louise (Capel) Coker in Comanche, Texas on Jan. 10, 1946.

Melba has touched the lives of many people in her span of 65 years. She was a teacher, coach, counselor and friend who was respected and loved by all who knew her. As a preacher's kid, Melba attended many schools where we are sure she left her mark. She attended Comanche, Brooks-Smith, Blanket, Forreston, and graduated from Cleburne. Melba was an awesome athlete. When she was in high school, she was awarded Most Valuable Girls Pitcher in the State. She graduated from Tarleton State College. She was given her first teaching job in Mineral Wells, Texas. In 1973, she came to Blooming Grove to teach and coach. She coached all girls’ athletics from basketball, volleyball, and track to cross country. She coached the Junior High as well as High School and taught Health and PE. She led her teams to many victories. She had a special relationship with all of her students, they truly knew she cared. Melba married John Donald Manley.

She left BG I.S.D. in 1983 and taught one year at Frost. Melba worked at the Blooming Grove Post Office for a short period of time and did upholstery on cars and furniture. She then moved to Dawson I.S.D. where she coached several years and later became a counselor. Due to her battle with Parkinson's, she had to retire early in 2008. She really hated to quit and missed her associates and students. She was also a very good artist and could play the guitar. She could do anything she set her mind to. She loved working with cars, driving motorcycles, riding horses and fishing, but her true love was playing softball. Melba continued to play on softball teams until she found that she was pregnant with Katy. She even fast pitched for a men's team.

Melba did something at the age of 43 that not many women do. She had her first and only child, Mary Kathryn “Katy” Manley.

Melba has always been an active member of a church. She belonged to the United Methodist Church in Blooming Grove, Texas, where her father was once the minister. She then moved her membership to the First Baptist Church. She was very loyal to the Methodist and was also very loyal to the Baptist. She was just happy worshipping her Lord and Savior. Melba has been involved in many community organizations over the years. She especially enjoyed her time as a volunteer ambulance worker. We all think she had them laughing on the stretcher. Melba always made people laugh and have a good time wherever she went. Everyone has a funny story to tell about their time with Melba.

Melba is survived by her daughter, Mary Kathryn “Katy” (Manley) Wilsford and husband Jared Lee; grandson, Wade Sloan Ivie of Blooming Grove; two sisters, Venetia Scott and Reva Horton and husband Charlie; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Jan. 6, 2012 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Corley Blooming Grove Chapel.

Services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, 2012 at the First Baptist Church in Blooming Grove with Bro. Grady Cashion officiating. Pallbearers are Chuck McDonald, Glenn McDonald, Mike Smith, David Smith, Wendell “Peb” Richards, Ricky Crenshaw, Donnie Grounds, Tim Wright, Larry Brown, and Fred McDonald. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Notes:

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Melba Irene (Coker) Manley

BLOOMING GROVE – Melba Irene (Coker) Manley, 65, died Jan. 2, 2012, at her home in Blooming Grove, Texas.

Service is 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the First Baptist Church in Blooming Grove with Brother Grady Cashion officiating. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Blooming Grove. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Friday at Corley Blooming Grove Chapel.

She was born Jan. 10, 1946, to Rev. Loyd Coker and Mary Louise (Capel) Coker. Melba touched the lives of many people in her short life span of 65 years. She was a teacher, coach, counselor, friend, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and very active member of her church. She was respected and loved by all who knew her.

Being the child of a pastor Melba attended many schools. She attended Comanche, Brooks-Smith, Blanket, Forreston, graduating from Cleburne High School. She graduated from Tarleton State Unicversity and accepted her first teaching/coaching position in the Mineral Wells ISD. She started at the junior high under the supervision of Juanita Griffin, whom she loved and respected. Many of her coaching skills were learned from Juanita Griffin.

Melba was an awesome athlete and was awarded Most Valuable Girls High School Pitcher in the state. Softball being her favorite sport, she continued pitching and playing on various teams, including Stephenville and Mineral Wells teams. She left the Mineral Wells ISD in 1973 for a position at Blooming Grove ISD teaching and coaching at the junior high and high school. In 1983 she taught at Frost, Texas. She worked at the Blooming Grove Post Office for a short period of time and had an upholstery shop. Later she accepted a coaching position for the Dawson ISD; she coached several years and later became counselor for the school. Due to her battle with Parkinson's disease she had to retire in early 2008.

Melba and John Donald Manley were parents of one daughter. She is survived by daughter, Mary Kathryn (Katy) Wilsford and husband, Jared; grandson, Wade Sloan Ivey, of Blooming Grove; sisters, Venetia Scott, Reva Horton and husband, Charlie; and many nieces, nephews and friends

Mineral Wells Index


Sarah Elizabeth (Mott) Adkins
June 7, 1882 -Feb 20, 1956

Wednesday Rites For Mrs. Adkins
Funeral services for Mrs. J. B. Adkins, 73, of Purdon, who died Monday afternoon at the family home, were held from the First Baptist church in Purdon Wednesday at 2 p. m.
The rites were conducted by Rev. Chester L. Reames, pastor.
Burial was in the Dresden cemetery.
Surviving are her husband and a son, N. L. Adkins, both of Purdon; seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and other relatives.
Pallbearers were Clyde Boldin, Arthur Boldin, Haddix Boldin, Howe French, Autry French and Albert Bittner.
Corley directed.

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Edward L. Williams