Obituaries from
Navarro County, Texas


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INFANT SON Whorton
died Oct 25, 1909

In Memoriam.

On the morning of October 25th just as the old day was fading into the new the Death Angel in its most mysterious way entered the home of Mr. and Mrs. Luther Whorton ad took from them their darling baby. We all knew he was another star added to the beautiful crown. �Twas hard, so hard to break the tender cord with which love had bound the heart; �twas hard. So hard for us to think that we would have to part, but the good Lord knoweth best and we weep not as those who have no hope. We know that our darling baby has crossed the river of death, waiting patiently for us to cross over; he is like a beautiful flower, he�ll bloom on earth no more, but he is blooming on yonder shining shore where he is waiting for loved ones to come home to glory. Mother, father, grieve not for your little baby is at rest and we must live and be as pure as he and you will meet him in the sweet by-and-bye, where there�ll be no more heart-aches and no farewell tears are shed. How sweet t�will be to meet him on yonder shining shore, where sad parting comes no more. This is a debt------(about 8 lines are torn out)----closed for the last time and its little smiling face shut from our sight. We all know your home is sad without your darling baby, which was the pride of your home, but may God�s richest blessings rest upon you, is the prayer of the writer. Sorrowing friends and relatives stood by the casket to gaze at last on that lifeless form, they promised to prepare to meet it on that celestial morn, and when the form was lowered into its bed of clay, we only stood and watched the spot where our dear baby lay and when we turned to leave him there beneath that lowly mound we knew he had gone above and with the Savior sweet peace has found. We cannot call him back, but we can so live as to meet him just over in glory land.

A FRIEND.

Notes:

Arthur Cooke
1897 -Sep. 26, 1925

NEGRO KILLED EAST CORSICANA IN BATTLE WITH ANOTHER

ARTHUR COOK DEAD AND GEORGE WASHINGTON IS CHARGED WITH MURDER

About 9:45 o'clock Saturday night after a difficulty George Washington, a negro, employed by Bank Sutherland�s furniture store took five shots at Arthur Cook, another negro, aged about 27 years, while Cook was shooting at Washington four times. After the smoke cleared away it was found that Washington was uninjured and Cook was nowhere to be found. At an early hour Sunday morning, however, the dead body of Cook was found near the scene of the shooting. The shooting took place at 705 East Thirteenth avenue at a cold drink stand and restaurant conducted by George Granville.

Cook ran across the street from the scene of the shooting and fell in the back yard of Ollie Goodson, at 706 East Thirteenth avenue, where the body remained until discovered Sunday morning. Washington used a 41-caliber revolver and fired five shots, only one shot taking effect in the neck of Cook, severing the jugular vein. Cook fired four shots at Washington from a 45-caliber pistol, none of the shots finding their mark.

The last shot fired by Washington sped for three blocks, entering a window in the home of A. N. Spaith and cutting a slight scratch in the arm of the two-weeks old child of Mr. and Mrs. Spaith, which lay asleep on a bed. The Spaiths reside at 706 East Tenth avenue, just three blocks from the scene of the shooting. The baby had its hand resting against its cheek and its escape from death was only by inches.

Officers Nutt and McBroom investigated the shooting, arrested Washington and found the body of Cook. Washington was turned over to the county authorities.

Notes:

E. V. (Plarssee) Williams
abt 1863 - Mar 2, 1925

Prominent Negro Farmer is Buried

Special to the Sun.

Kerens, March 7,--The largest crowd of colored people ever assembled in this portion of the county attended the funeral of E. V. (Plarssee) Williams Friday afternoon. He was buried in the family grave yard near his home where his wife �Nellie� was buried some years ago.

Williams was 62 years old, having been born in this community. He had always been the friend of the white people and his friends among the white people were numerous. Among those from Kerens who went to pay tribute to his memory were J. L. Whoroth, J. C. Walker, E. E. Nettles, Joe Sheppard, R. P. Coates and J. C. Wells.

Plarisee began life poor but through industry and with the aid of his white friends he began early to buy land. He kept this up until at his death he owned near 1500 acres of rich black land over 12oo of which were in cultivation. Besides this he owned a gin and store on his farm.

Notes:

Harvey �Harve� Dean
Apr 1860 - Jul. or Aug. 1925

Good Colored Man Died.

Harve Dean, colored, aged 72, and who had lived at Chatfield nearly all of his life, was buried there Friday. The white people of Chatfield were all the friends of Harve, and all agree that he was an honest and good man and all regret his death.

Notes:

Edwina Simms
Died Jun. 18, 1925

NEGRO MAN KILLED NEGRESS AT POWELL THIS AFTERNOON

KILLER IS REPORTED TO HAVE DEPARTED FOR UNKNOWN PARTS

Special to the Sun.

Powell, June 18.�Edwina Simms is dead as a result of a shooting here about 2 o'clock this afternoon and Jodie Bowen is being sought by the officers charged with the shooting. Both are negroes.

According to the best information obtainable the couple went for an automobile ride and it was then that the trouble arose. The girl died almost instantly and Jodie beat a hasty retreat carrying his coat in one hand and a gun in the other.

Notes:

Dr. Charles Henry Griffin
July 3, 1922 - July 29, 2016

Austin, Texas | Age 94
"Our Beloved Uncle"
Obituary
Dr. Charles Henry Griffin, 94, of Austin, Texas, retired Professor of Accounting at the University of Texas, died at home on July 29, 2016. The oldest resident of the Cambridge Tower, he had also lived there longer than any other resident, having maintained a home in the building since it opened fifty-one years ago in 1965.
Charles was born July 3, 1922, in Blooming Grove, Texas, the son of Lindsay I. Griffin and Fay Pruitt Griffin. The family moved to Corsicana, Texas when Charles was young. He graduated from Corsicana High School in three years as salutatorian. For the four years following his high school graduation, the family lived in Austin where Charles and his two older brothers were enrolled in the University of Texas. During his college years, he was a member of Phi Kappa Psi, Beta Gamma Sigma, Beta Alpha Psi, Delta Sigma Psi and the UT Longhorn Band and graduated with a BBA degree in 1942.
He then entered the Navy to serve in WWII as a commissioned officer in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters on Naval hospital ships including the U.S.S. Mercy. According to James Forrestal, the Secretary of the Navy during WWII, "You (Charles) have served in the greatest Navy in the world." He was also initiated into the Ancient Order of the Date Line and the Ancient Order of the Deep, having crossed the 180th Meridian and the Equator respectively while on this ship.
After the War, he returned to the University of Texas to earn his MBA in 1948, and his PhD in 1953. During his career, he worked as an accountant in Dallas and became a CPA in 1949. Once he completed his education, he taught full-time until his retirement from the University of Texas in 1993. He held professorships at The University of Cincinnati, the University of Illinois, North Texas University, and the University of Texas at Austin, where he taught for many years. Among his visiting appointments were those at San Diego State University, the University of Arizona, the University of South Carolina, and several English universities, including those at Birmingham, Manchester and London. Dr. Griffin was selected for outstanding teaching awards from student polls on a number of occasions and many former students remained life-long friends. He was the author or co-author of several academic textbooks and numerous journal articles. Charles was a member of the American Institute of CPAs, the Texas Society of CPAs, and the American Accounting Association and served as Editor of The Accounting Review from 1967-70.
Charlie, as he was known to his family, was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Lindsay I. Griffin, II; Fred D. Griffin, Sr.; and George Pruitt Griffin. Surviving him are nephews Fred D. Griffin, Jr. (Lisa) and Lindsay I. Griffin, III (Patricia) and nieces Margaret Griffin Baze (Bob) and Martha Griffin Nailling (Bob). Great nieces and nephews are Elizabeth Baze Berzin (Edward), Benjamin Baze (Cia), Will Griffin, David Griffin, Andrew Nailling, David Nailling, Todd Herndon and Drew Herndon. Great-grand nieces and nephews are Isabelle, Benjamin, Jacqueline, and Samantha Berzin and Roy and Charles Baze.
Charlie also considered the family of Tom and Susan Williams and Nancy and Steve Best as his own family. To the Williams/Best family - their children, grand-children, great grand-children, and friends, he was always "Uncle." This lifelong friendship began in 1956 when he was Tom Williams' professor at the University of Cincinnati. Tom eventually became a professor himself and the two co-authored a number of editions of Advanced Accounting. The four Williams children grew up with lively conversations of university politics and UT football at the dinner table with "Uncle" and enjoyed his Dunkin Donuts treats every Sunday morning. All four Williams children: Paul Williams, Charles (Chuck) Williams, Valerie Williams Branch, and Pam Williams Rush were very dear to him. Together they made sure he had the best care over the past three years as his health declined.

Everyone who knew Charlie knew that he was an avid sports enthusiast and loyal Longhorn fan. He was also committed to his own physical fitness and exercised almost every morning at Gregory Gym on the UT campus until he was almost 90 years old. He was also active in the University Methodist Church beginning with his arrival in Austin in 1938.
Though Charlie/"Uncle" never married and had children of his own, he had six namesakes in his family and his adopted family. They are Benjamin Charles Baze, Charles Hadley Baze, Bradley Charles Williams, Charles William Branch, Charles Thomas Williams and Charles Louis Williams. Sadly, Charles (Chuck) Williams passed away earlier this year.
The families greatly appreciate the loving care and great kindness shown by Visiting Angels caregivers over the last three years, especially Vincencia Anyanwu, Eronessa Ellis, Yasmine Herrera, Jean Lynch, Frances Marshall, Rita Sai-Palm and Katherine Winfield.
Whether we called him "Charlie" or "Uncle," we are thankful for his long life and his part in our lives. To celebrate this wonderful man and our memories of him, there will be a visitation reception for friends and family at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home on N. Lamar Tuesday evening, August 2nd from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The Reverend Steve Best will conduct the funeral and burial services. The funeral will be at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 3rd at 10:00am and the burial will follow immediately afterwards at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a charitable donation may be made to the JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).

Notes:

William Edward "Ed" Fulton
May 18, 1931 - Jul. 18, 2016

William Edward "Ed" Fulton, 85, died Monday, July 18, 2016 in Kingwood Texas.

He was born May 18, 1931, in Navarro County, TX., the son of William Christian "Bill" Fulton Sally Leona Park Fulton. He was the only son and middle child, with three older sisters and three younger sisters. He also had an adopted brother.

Ed worked as a Heliarc Welder for the Foxboro Corporation before his retirement in 1985. His hobbies included gardening, watching old western movies and making unique walking canes. He was also a huge Rodeo fan and regularly followed the results and standings.

He was predeceased by his parents; sisters, Billie Minze, Gladys Beckham, Edith Hall, Margie Beets, Laverne Branam and Carolyn Langley; his adopted brother Keith Fulton; six brothers-in-law and several nieces and nephews.

He is survived by Wife, Mary Fulton; Four daughters: Anita Vickery Hall, husband Gene and children Lonnie Vickery Jr., Larry Vickery, Aleisha Vickery, Amber Hall; Lisa Farmer, husband Ricky and children Curtis Farmer and Clayton Farmer; Mary Sanders and children Heather Sanders, Allen Sanders and Cody Sanders and Teresa Perkins, husband Randy and child Jacob Perkins. The mother of his daughters, Bobbie Mitchell; Two sons, Neal Scott, wife Cindy and children John and Greg; Reece Scott, wife Sarah and child Bryce and Numerous great grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be handled by Kingwood Funeral Home.

Burial will be in Rosehill Cemetery in Blooming Grove, TX.

Notes:

James Russell Scoggins
Nov 14, 1840 - Mar 30, 1927

Obituary moved to James Russell Scoggins Biography Page

Annie Minera (Mosley) Coker
1903 - Nov 27, 1996

Annie Minervia Coker, 93, of Corsicana, died November 27 in Corsicana. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 29, at Corley Funeral Chapel with Rev. Billy Bryant officiating. burial will follow in Eureka, Texas
Pallbearers will be Jimmy Mccory, David Coker, Dale Coker, Jeff Coker, Gary Paul, Alon Paul, Chuck Sanches and Jay Coker. Mrs Coker was born January 16,1903 in Detroit, Texas. She is survived by four sons, Bobby and Floyd Coker both of Houston, Clinton 'Jelly' Coker of Richland, and Jimmy Dee Coker, of Navarro; four daughters, Betty Sanches and Genevie Paul both of Corsicana, Lois McCary of Houston, and Lillie Laney of Ennis; a sister, Nobie Perry of Canton; 38 grandchildren; 63 great grandchildren and 17 great great grandchildren. Mrs. coker is preceded in death by her husband, Mr. Authur Thomas Coker and two sons, Winston and Orion Coker.

Billy Joe "Bill" Wilson
Apr 11, 1936 - Aug 29, 2011

Billy Joe (Bill) Wilson, 75, passed away Monday, August 29, 2011, at home surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Born April 11, 1936, in Corsicana, Texas, he was the son of the late Arthur and Mattie Wilson.
He and his wife of over 54 years, Elsie, were married April 11, 1957 and lived in Houston where Bill was a successful State Farm Insurance Agent for 44 years. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1954-1955. He also served on the Aldine ISD school board for 11 years, and in 1992 Bill J. Wilson Intermediate School was named in his honor.
Bill loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and golfer, and he enjoyed collecting antiques.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children, Billy Wilson and wife Yolanda, Judy Tobias and husband Mike, and Nancy Wilson; four grandchildren, Ashley Duhon and husband Austin, Lindsay Underwood and husband Neal, Michael Tobias, and Jenna Davis; one great-grandchild, James Rudder Duhon, sister Peggy Smith, and numerous other family members and friends.
Visitation will be 6-8pm on Friday, September 2, 2011 and funeral services at 11am on Saturday, September 3, 2011 at Klein Funeral Home, 16131 Champion Forest Drive, Spring, Texas 77379. Intombment will follow at Klein Memorial Park-Mausoleum, F.M. 2920, Tomball, Texas 77375.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association

Notes:

Arthur Eugene Wilson
Sep 2, 1929 - Oct 15, 1988

Arthur Eugene Wilson, 59, died Oct. 15, 1988 in Waco TX. Services at Rosemound Cemetery by Connally Compton Funeral Home. On Sep. 9, 1929 he was born and he was a longtime resident of Waco TX. He worked for Waco Ready Mix. Survivors: wife; Mrs. Flora Wilson of Waco; son, James Arthur Wilson of Waco, sisters, Margie Thomas of Houston TX and Peggy Smith of Louisiana; brother, Billy Joe Wilson of Houston TX; and two grandchildren. Waco Paper 10-18-1988

Notes:

Faye (Perry) Beck
Oct 18, 1929 - Apr 5, 2015

Faye was a believer in Jesus Christ and went home to be with her Lord, Sunday, April 5, 2015 at the age of 85. Celebration of life: 10 a.m. Friday at Shannon Rose Hill Funeral Chapel. Interment: Shannon Rose Hill Cemetery. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Shannon Rose Hill Funeral Chapel. Faye Beck was born Oct. 18, 1929, in Navarro County to Arthur Dee and Nobie Leta Perry. She loved the Lord, her husband and family, and her many friends. She was loved in return by all who knew her. Faye had a servant's heart as she ministered in her church as pastor's wife, Sunday school teacher, and sang praises to her Lord. She married Billy Beck on Nov. 8, 1947. Billy and Faye walked side by side for 67 years. Faye was the Love of His Life. She was preceded in death by son-in-law, Ross D. Conner; her parents; brothers, Lee Perry and Emmet Perry; and sisters, Catherine Neely, Patsy Kerns and Linda Perry. Survivors: Faye is survived by her husband, Billy Beck; daughters, Pat Elliott and husband, Dudley, Billie Wiggins and husband, Paul, Becky Conner, Diane Mills and husband, Bruce, and Glynda Cannizzaro and husband, Mike; sons, Dan Beck and wife, Terri and Jeff Beck and wife, April; 16 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; brothers, Edward and Joe Perry; and sisters, Louise Stinson and Margaret Van Cycle.

Notes:

  • Published in Star-Telegram on Apr 8, 2015
  • d/o Authur Dee Perry & Nobie L. (Mosley) Perry
  • Submitted by Edward Lynn Williams

Thomas Kimes Persons
Jun 29, 1900 - Dec 31, 1965

Thomas K. Persons
Funeral services for Thomas Kimes persons, 65, of 3123 Culver, retired manager of Safeway Bakery, will be at 11:30 a.m. Monday at Restland Memorial Chapel with burial in Restland memorial Park.
Mr. Persons died here Friday.
A native of Kerens, Navarro County, he was a Dallas resident 34 years and had been employed with Safeway Food Stores here 31 years.
Mr. Persons was a member of the official board of Munger Place methodist Church and the Safeway Quarter Century Club.
Survivors: Wife; a daugher, Mrs. LeRoy Redman of mesquite; three brothers, J. T. Persons, of Corpus Christi, D. H. Persons of Haskell and R. H. Persons of Austin; a sister, Mrs. J. J. Marshall of Houston, and two grandchildren.

Notes:

Dorothy (Graham) Evans-Turman-McGraw
Sep 18, 1928 - Aug 11, 2016

In Memory of Dorothy McGraw
1925 - 2016

Mrs. Dorothy Graham McGraw, age 90, of Blooming Grove, passed away on Thursday, August 11, 2016 at Heritage Oaks Retirement Village. She was born on September 18, 1925 in West, Texas to William Earl Graham and Emma Adams Graham.

Mrs. McGraw was preceded in death by her husband, T. E. �Cotton� McGraw; her parents and her son, E. O. Evans. She was the last of six siblings to pass away.

She is survived by her children; Floyd Van Turman and wife, Wanda of Waco, Linda Foreman and husband, Cliff of Kerens, David McGraw and wife, Judy of Midlothian and Fred McGraw and wife, Shanley of New Zealand. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

After working for over twenty five years at Haggar Slack Factory, Dorothy loved to sit and watch episodes of Gunsmoke with her best four legged friend �Fred� by her side. She enjoyed working in her vegetable garden and cooking and canning fresh vegetables for many years. She could often be found watching the birds at the feeders she had in her yard. Eating Mexican food was her favorite restaurant outing.

Visitation with the family will be from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Monday, August 15, 2016 at Corley Blooming Grove Chapel at 117 S. Fordyce, Blooming Grove, Texas, 76226. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at 10:00 AM at Corley Blooming Grove Chapel with Bro. William Dollar officiating. Pallbearers will be Clay Foreman, Randy Henexson, Brandon Dickinson, Austin Vaughan, Lee Armstrong, and Scott McGraw. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Blooming Grove.

Mable Alline (Caskey) Lewis-Watts
Dec 4, 1904 - May 17, 1974

Mrs. Watts
Funeral services will be at 3:30  p.m. Sunday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. E. W. (Mable) Watts, 69, who died Friday in Memorial Hospital.  The Rev Frank Williams will officiate. Burial will be in the Dawson Cemetery.
Born near Dawson, she had resided in Corsicna since 1956.
Surviving are two brothers, J. W. Caskey of Corsicana and Charles L. Caskey of Garland; six sisters, mrs. Vera Walding and Mrs. J. B. Hardin, both of Corsicana; Mrs. E. N. Riley of kemp; Mrs. Ehtel Burns of Irene; Mrs. Charles Hamilton of Abilene and Miss Tornmie Caskey of Stewbenville, Ohio.
Pallbears will be McAfee Daniel, Benny Robinson, Raymond Caskey, marvin Burns, Clyde Osborne and James Longorio.

Notes:

Edmond Walter Watts
Dec 31, 1901 - Mar 6, 1970

Watts Funeral
Funeral services were held Sunday at 3:30 p.m. at the Corley Chapel for Walter Watts who died Friday at Memorial Hospital. He was a retired farmer and a member of the Methodist Church. The rites were conducted by the Rev. Leroy Brown, with interment in the Dawson Cemetery.
Survivors include his wife, four bothers, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Notes:

Lloyd Byron Autry
Apr 14, 1897 - Mar 7, 1970

Autry Service
Funeral services were held Monday at 10 a.m. in the Corley Funeral Chapel for L. B. Autry, who died Saturday in Memorial Hospital. He was a retired locksmith and a member of the Baptist Church. The rites were conducted by the Rev. Cass French, with interment in Alligator Cemetery.
Survivors include two daughers, two brothers, three sisters, six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Notes:

------

Additional Obit


Lloyd Byron Autry
Apr 14, 1897 - Mar 7, 1970

L. B. Autry Dies Saturday

L. B. Autry, 73, died Saturday in Memorial Hospital. He had lived in Corsicana for 15 years and was a retired locksmith. He was a member of the Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be Monday at 10 a.m. at Corley Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Cass French officiating. Interment will be in Alligator Cemetery.

He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Florene Hancock of Corsicana; two brothers, James A. Autry of Abilene and Malcolm Autry of Dublin; three sisters, Mrs. A. N. Harkrider and Mrs. Jessie King of Dallas and Mrs. Vera Rosenberger of Houston; six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Notes:

Emma Elizabeth (McAfee) Caskey
Jun 13, 1882 - Jul 26, 1963

Sunday Rites For Mrs. Caskey
Funeral services for Mrs. J. H. (Emma) Caskey, 81, native of Emmett, 2211 North Beaton street, will be held from the First Methodist church in Dawson Sunday at 2:30 p.m. with burial in the Dawson cemetery.
The rites will be conducted by Rev. Roy Davis, pastor of Central Methodist church here, and Rev. Joe Worley, pastor of the Dawson church.
Mrs. Caskey died in Memorial Friday Morning.
Surviving are two sins, J. W. Caskey, Dallas, and Charlie Caskey, Garland; seven daughters, Mrs. Mable Watts and Mrs. Florence Hardin, both of orsicana; Mrs. Vera Walding, Mabank; Mrs. Willie Rylie, Kemp, Mrs. Ethel L. Burns, Irene; Mrs. Faye Hamilton, Waxahachie; and Miss Tommie Caskey, Steubenville, Ohio; 12 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a brother, Tim Davis, Delia; two sisters, Mrs. Bess Carter, Phoenix, Ariz, and Mrs. Ola Robertson, Jacksonville, and other relatives.
Pallbearers will be Almer Renfro, Conrad Newton, Jr.; W. Y. Cannon, Edwin Davis, Windol Lawrence and Joe Lawrence, Jr.
Corley will direct.

Notes:

Clara Arzella (McAfee) Compton
Oct 19, 1883 - Mar 18, 1958

Friday Services for Mrs. Compton
Funeral services for Mrs. Clara Arzella Compton, 74, who died Tuesday in Due West, S.C., sister of Mrs. Emma Caskey of Corsicana, will be held in Hillsboro with burial in Ridge Park Cemetery.
A native of Emmett, Mrs. Compton was the widow of N. M. Compton who died in 1936. She had been a resident of Hillsboro since 1918 and was a Baptist.
Relatives include a brother, Tom Davis, of Davis; two other sisters, Mrs. Ola Robinson, Jacksonville, and Mrs Bess Carter, Phoenix, Ariz.; two sons, Louis and Raymond Compton, both of Hillsboro; two daughters, Mrs. Bessie Walker, Hillsboro, and Mrs. B. m. Seawright, Due West S.C., nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Notes:

Wilma Ruth (Caskey) Chambliss
Oct 15, 1900 - Dec 11, 1925

CORSICANA WOMAN PASSED AWAY EARLY FRIDAY MORNING
Mrs. Ruth Chambliss, aged 26 years, one month and 27 days, wife of H. H. Chambliss, died at the family residence at the corner of North Eleventh street and West Second avenue Friday morning at 2 o'clock and the remains will be interred in Oakwood cemetery Saturday afternoon at 3 o'clock. The funeral services will be held at the residence.
The deceased is survived by her husband H. H. Chambliss and three small children. Several brothers and sisters and other relatives survive.

Notes:

Harvey Harmon Chambliss
Aug 7, 1895 - Jan 22, 1951

H. H. Chambliss Rites Wednesday
Funeral services for H. H. Chambliss, 55, Navarro county native who died Monday night, were held from the Dunne Chapel in Corpus Christi Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. Burial was in Seaside cemetery, Corpus Christi.
Surviving are his wife, Corpus Christi; a son, H. H. Chambliss, Jr., Sweeney; two daughters, Mrs. W. N. Prince and Mrs. C. R. Williams, both of Corsicana; six sisters, Mrs. T. H. Eubanks, Mrs. Raymond Hester, Mrs. David Eubank and Mrs. Robert Wilkins, all of Kilgore; Mrs. W. M. Johnston, Eureka, and Mrs. Clyde Brown, Dallas; three brothers, Vernon Chambliss, Sweeney, and Wayne and Carl Chambliss, both of Old Ocean and seven grandchildren.
Lloyd Chambliss, Charlie Lunn and Mr. and Mrs. C. R. Williams of Corsicana attended the rites.

Sarah "Sallie" (Edmonson) Harding
Oct 29, 1880 - Oct 29, 1918

Died at the I. O. O. F. Home

Mrs. Harding, wife of J. L. Harding, superintendent of the farm at the I. O. O. F. Home died there at 8 o'clock this morning from pneumonia, following influenza. The deceased was about thirty-five years old and is survived by her husband, five children and a step-son. Interment took place late this afternoon at the Spurlock cemetery near the Home.

Notes:

Lillie (Spickard) Offill
Mar 9, 1898 - Jan 29, 1919

Died at Corbet.

Mrs. C. T. Offill died at Corbet today after an illness of several weeks, and the remains will be interred in the Cosgrove cemetery tomorrow. The deceased was a daughter of Mit Spickard and is survived by her husband and one child.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Wednesday, Jan 29, 1919
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • w/o Claude Towles Offill married Apr. 7, 1915 buried in Restland Memorial Park, Dallas, Tx. d/o Emma Grace (Garrett/Cantrell) Offill
  • (Obit says Cosgrove cemetery but monument and son are in Campbell Cemetery�also her parents)

Martha Ellen (Clary) Lange-Case
Jan 20, 1856 - Dec 6, 1922

Mrs. Case Buried by Side of Her Children

The funeral of Mrs. Martha Ellen Case, aged 66, who died early yesterday morning at her home at 311 West Seventh Avenue, was held from Sutherland�s Undertaking Parlor at 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon. She was buried at Campbell Cemetery about two miles west of Drane by the side of a son and daughter.

Mrs. Case�s maiden name was Clary and she leaves a brother as an only near relative, Mrs. Albert Young is a second cousin.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Thursday, Dec 7, 1922
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Littleton Robert Lange, Sr. married Dec. 10, 1874 2nd husband Sanford Franklin Case buried in Fairview cemetery, Hubbard, Tx.

Roy George Swink
Oct 22, 1894 - Apr 23, 1920

In Memory of Mr. Swink.

Mr. Roy Swink was a young man just in the prime of life. He had many friends in and around Dawson, having been born and reared in the Pursley community. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Billie Swink. He had recently moved to Childress, Texas, where he was employed at the time he received the injuries that caused his death. He was injured on Sunday night the 18th and was removed at once to Fort Worth, where death won the battle on the following Thursday. He was a man of fine character, ready to assist a friend when opportunity presented itself.

He has many friends who were grieved to learn of his death. The remains reached Dawson Saturday morning and were laid to rest in the afternoon at 3:30 o'clock, funeral services were conducted at the Hotel by Rev. Kane assisted by Rev. A. E. Carraway.

He is survived by his wife and one child, his father, mother, three brothers and two sisters. We would say to the loved ones, weep not, as these who have no hope.

�Tis hard to break the tender chord
Where love has bound the heart.
�Tis hard, so hard to speak the words,
We must forever part,
Yet again we hope to meet him,
Where no farewell tears are shed.

Loved ones look to the Master in your hours of trouble. He is the only Comforter, God giveth and God taketh away; blessed be the name of the Lord. He doeth all things well.

A FRIEND.

Notes:

William Alexander �Uncle Billy� Swink
Feb 15, 1858 - Mar 29, 1926

W. A. SWINK DIED WACO SANITARIUM AFTER OPERATION

W. A. (Uncle Billie) Swink of the Pursley community, died in a Waco sanitarium Monday at 8 p.m. M. Swink had been carried to the sanitarium Saturday night and had undergone an operation for appendicitis, which did not prove successful

Mr. Swink was born and raised in the Pursley community, having married and raised his family on the place on which he was born. He is survived by his wife and six children, three boys and three girls, also a brother T. Swink and five sisters. He was a useful man and was held in the very highest esteem by all who knew him.

The body was brought to Dawson Tuesday morning and the funeral service was held at the Christian church Wednesday afternoon at 4 o'clock, conducted by O. S. Hellums, after which the burial took place in the Dawson cemetery.�Dawson Herald.

Notes:

Emma (Austell) Swink
Sep 13, 1861 - Aug 1, 1945

MRS. W. A. SWINK DIED IN OKLAHOMA; BURIAL TO BE HERE

Mrs. W. A. Swink, 85, died Monday morning in Adair, Okla. the body will be returned here for burial but arrangements are incomplete.

Mrs. Swink was a former resident of Corsicana and Navarro county.

Surviving are three sons, Ed T. Swink, Burbank, Calif.; Elvin Swink, Oklahoma; M. M. Swink, Cleburne; four daughters, Mrs. Ethel Hart, Burbank, Calif.; Mrs. Maud Anderson, Burbank, Calif.; Mrs. W. B. Lankford, Childress; Mrs. Jim Hunter, Adair, Okla., and other relatives.

Corley funeral Home will direct the arrangements here.

Notes:

---

Mrs. W. A. Swink Be Buried Thursday

Funeral services for Mrs. W. A. Swink, 85, who died at Adair, Okla., Monday will be held from the Corley Chapel at 2:30 Thursday afternoon. Allen Harper, Church of Christ minister, will conduct the rites. Burial will be at Dawson.

Surviving are three sons, four daughters, and other relatives.

Notes:

---

MRS. W. A. SWINK BURIED AT DAWSON; FUNERAL HELD HERE

Funeral services for Mrs. W. A. Swink, 85, who died at Adair, Okla., Sunday, were held from the Corley Chapel Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock. Allen B. Harper, minister of the West Side Church of Christ, conducted the rites. Burial was at Dawson.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Ethel Hart, Burbank, Calif.; Mrs. J. W. Hunter, Adair, Okla; Mrs. W. E. Langford, Childress; Mrs. A. E. Anderson, Burbank, Calif.; three sons, M. M. Swink, Cleburne; W. E. Swink, Durant, Okla.; C. T. Swink, Burbank, Calif.; 48 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and other relatives.

Pallbearers were Frank Burrows, S. F. Harris, Warren Haris, W. B. Lankford, Lewin Austell, Jesse Austell and Russell Walker.

Notes:

Eula Virginia (Lee) Hillis
May 12, 1891 - May 24, 1917

NEWS OVER THE COUNTY.

Items of Interest Culled From Columns of Exchanges.

The sad news that Mrs. R. W. Hillis had passed away at her home in Sabinal and that the body would be brought here for burial, was received Thursday night of last week. The body arrived Friday night and was taken to the home of her father J. M. Lee to await burial. The funeral took place Saturday afternoon at 3 o'clock a the Christian church, Elder C. J. Robinson conducting the ceremony, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Dawson cemetery.�Dawson Herald.

Notes:

Henrietta (LeSueur) Edwards
May 10, 1837 - Feb 28, 1921

Died At Ranger.

Mrs. H. L. Edwards, aged eighty-four years, died this morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. T. P. Matthews at Ranger, where she was visiting. The body will arrive in Corsicana Tuesday and the funeral will take place Tuesday afternoon with burial at Chatfield. She is survived by the following children: Mrs. F. B. Lesueur, Mrs. W. A Mizell, Mrs. S. C. Lesueur of Kemp, Mrs. Walter Griffith of Cisco and A. L. Edwards of Colorado Springs. Mrs. J. E. Davant of Corsicana is a grandchild of the deceased.

Notes:

----

Remains Interred at Chatfield.

The remains of the late Mrs. H. L. Edwards reached here last night from Ranger, and the funeral party left here for Chatfield at 2 o'clock this afternoon, and burial followed at Chatfield, the home of deceased for many years, and where she enjoyed the love and esteem of all who knew her.

Notes:

James Joshua �Jim� Holloway
1869 - Sep 25, 1922

Rice Farmer Died Suddenly.

J. J. Holloway, aged 54, who lives east of town on the old Chenaut place, was found dead Monday morning at B. F. Marchbanks place, where he had been picking cotton.

Mr. Holloway, with his children was picking cotton for Mr. Marchbanks, and early in the morning he complained of feeling badly. He later went to a well at, Mr. Marchbanks� barn to get a drink, and lay down on a spring seat to rest before starting home. Nothing more was thought of the incident as it was supposed that he had gone to his home. But a few hours later when Mr. Marchbanks went to the well he discovered Mr. Holloway laying on the spring seat and an investigation revealed that he had died presumably after leaving the field.

Mr. Marchbanks summoned several of his neighbors and notified the man�s children. Judge Hobbs was notified and went to the scene to hold an inquest. It being his verdict that death was caused by heart failure.

Mr. Holloway leaves a widow and several children. He had made his home in the Rice Country for the past three or four years, and last year lived in the Sessions community.

Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon with interment taking place at Chatfield cemetery.

Notes:

James Alonzo Warfield, Sr.
Oct 2, 1857 - Jun 15, 1922

Funeral at Chatfield Today.

J. A. Warfield, aged 64 years, of the Tupelo community, died at the P. and S. hospital here last night after a long illness, and the remains were interred at Chatfield this afternoon at 3:30. The deceased is survived by his wife and several grown children. He was a good citizen and neighbor, and had many friends who will sympathize with his family in their loss.

 Notes:

Minnie (Comer) Lyles
Oct 20, 1898 - Mar 3, 1922

Bride of Two Weeks Buried.

Mrs. Howard Liles, aged twenty years died near Dawson Friday night of pneumonia after an illness of three or four days, and the funeral took place at Dawson Saturday afternoon. The deceased was the daughter of R. H. Comer and wife, and had been married just two weeks.

Notes:

Miranda (Oden) Prater
Apr 15, 1874 - Apr 22, 1922

Mrs. J. D. Prater Died Saturday.

Special to the Sun.
Dawson, April 25.�Mrs. J. D. Prater died at the family home, four miles south of Dawson, Saturday, April 22, of apoplexy, and funeral services were held at the Baptist church in this city Sunday, at 3:00 p.m., after which remains were interred in the Dawson cemetery, Rev. H. A. Conway, of Hubbard, conducting the services.

Notes:

Frederick Roy Perkins
1852 - May 4, 1922

Special to the Sun.
Dawson, Texas, may 8.�The remains of F. R. Perkins, who died at San Antonio Thursday, May 4., arrived here Saturday and funeral services were held at the Tabernacle Sunday at 3 p.m., Rev. G. M. Rae, of Fort Worth, conducting the services, after which they were interred in the Dawson cemetery under the auspices of the I. O. O. F. lodge, of which deceased was a member.

Notes:

Millie Jane (Roper) McCulloch
Jul 15, 1859 - Jan 21, 1923

Pioneer Resident of County Died Sunday

Special to the Sun.

Dawson, Texas, Jan. 22.�Mrs. J. H. McCullough, aged 63 years, wife of J. H. McCullough, mayor of this city, died at the family home here Sunday morning from an attack of pneumonia.

The deceased is well known in this city having been an old settler and has been an active member of the church and prominent in the social circles of the city for a number of years.

She is survived by her husband, several children, grand children and a host of other relatives and friends.

The funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the family home and were conducted by Rev. H. B. Clark, pastor of the Methodist church of this city. She was buried in the Dawson cemetery.

Notes:

Susie (Fulgham) Franz
Jun 19, 1878 - Feb 12, 1923

Died in Waco Monday.

Mrs. Susie Franz, wife of Robt. Franz, a former resident of Dawson, but now living in Waco, died in that place, Monday, and the remains were interred in Dawson yesterday.

Notes:

Thomas Henry Soape
Nov 13, 1844 - Jan 11, 1923

ANOTHER GOOD CITIZEN DEAD.

Had Lived in Navarro County More Than Fifty Years.

Thos. H. Soape, aged 78 years, and for more than fifty years a resident of Navarro county, died at his home in the Angus community at 4 o'clock this morning. The deceased was among the county�s best as well as among its oldest citizens, and his passing is a source of regret to a large circle of friends, interment took place in the Hamilton cemetery at 4 o'clock this afternoon, and the last sad rites were largely attended.

The wife of the deceased died near a year ago, and he is survived by these children: Ms. Leora Couch, Waxahachie; Mrs. Jessie Couch of Ferris; Mrs. J. B. Fesmire and Mrs. D. C. Bray, and Messrs. Abbie, Roy, Roger, Herbert and Gordon Soape, all of the Angus community.

Notes:

John Holley
Dec 12, 1846 - Jun 30, 1923

Well-Known Navarro County Citizen Dead

John Holley, aged 76 years, died at the home of his son-in-law, Dr. J. J. Hamilton of the Eureka community Saturday morning at 8:20 o'clock. Funeral services will be held at the home of Dr. Hamilton, Sunday afternoon at 2:30, o'clock, and interment will be in the Hamilton cemetery at 4:30 o'clock with the Masonic lodge in charge.

Deceased is survived by three children: Mrs. J. J. Hamilton of the Eureka community; Mrs. Will Murphy of Lufkin, and Robert Holley of near Corsicana.

Mr. Holley came to Navarro county in 1882 and has been living with Dr. Hamilton since 1902. Deceased was born in Tennessee, December 12, 1846.

Notes:

Ida Bell (Martin) Baggett
Feb 22, 1902 - Mar 15, 1923

Died In San Angelo.

Mrs. C. C. Bagby daughter of J. E. Martin of Retreat, and granddaughter of G. Wes Martin of Corsicana, died in San Angelo last night, and the remains will reach here tomorrow morning and the funeral will take place tomorrow afternoon from the home of G. Wes Martin, 501 North Tenth Street at an hour that will be announced later, and interment will take place in the Hamilton cemetery. The deceased was 22 years of age, and is survived by her husband, her parents, and many other relatives. She was reared in the Angus and Retreat communities, and had many friends who will be saddened by her death.

Notes:

-----

Funeral at Hamilton Cemetery.

The remains of the late Mrs. Ida M. Baggett, wife of Crawford C. Baggett, who died in San Angelo on Tuesday night, reached here this morning at 9:25 and the funeral took place at 2 p.m. today from the home of G. W. Martin, her grandfather, and the remains were interred in the Hamilton cemetery. The deceased was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Martin of the Retreat community, and she was born and reared in that section of the county. The funeral was largely attended and there were many beautiful floral offerings. The following beautiful tribute to her memory, written by her pastor was received at the Sun-Light office today.;

In the morning of life, sweet with the dews of beautiful youth, Mrs. Ida Baggett passed away from earth to heaven March 14, 1923. Her life and its meaning might be summed up in the words, �beautiful of face and beautiful of spirit.� She was gentle and her gentleness appealed to the strong hearts of men and women whose lives she touched. She was patient, bearing her sufferings with a calm resignation that berokened strength of character. She was loving in life ringing true to her husband and other loved ones. On the night of December 4, 1921, I saw her come into the church and quietly take a seat near the pulpit. With a deep earnestness she received the message of the preacher, and at the close of the service when the invitation was given, she came forward and publicly accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior. Her faith in Christ expressed in that act was the faith that sustained her in the days that followed. Her end was peace. She quietly passed from earth to spend eternity in heaven. She was one of those women who came into the world�
�To chase the clouds of life�s tempest hours,
To strew its short but weary way with flowers,
New hopes to raise, new feelings to impart,
And pour celestial balsam on the heart.�

Frank B. Buchanan, her pastor.

Notes:

Clarence Eugene Kiser
Nov 6, 1922 - Feb 7, 1923

Baby Died Wednesday In Rockdale, Texas

The remains of Clarence Eugene three year old son of Mr., and Mrs. P. E. Kiser who died in Rockdale, Texas, Wednesday, February 7, arrived in Corsicana this morning at 5:45 o'clock and the funeral took place this afternoon with burial in the Hamilton cemetery.

Mr. and Mrs. Kiser have many friends in Corsicana and Navarro county all of whom will join in extending sympathy to the grief stricken parents in the loss of their baby boy.

Notes:

Imogene Brown
Nov 11, 1922 - Jun 29, 1923

Lost Infant Daughter.

The seven-months-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Brown died at the family home at Angus last night, and the remains were interred in the Hamilton cemetery this afternoon. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have the sympathy of many friends in their sorrow.

Notes:

Additional obit

Mary (Norris) Watson
Jan 8, 1866 - Nov 1, 1922

REMAINS INTERRED AT KERENS

Funeral Which Was Held Here Was Largely Attended.

The funeral services for the late Mrs. Mary Watson, wife of Dr. T. W. Watson were held at the First Presbyterian church at 10 o'clock this morning, conducted by Rev. C. H. Storey. Burial followed at Kerens at 12:30. A large number of friends accompanied the remains to their last resting place and there were many beautiful flowers, and at Kerens a big concourse of friends witnessed the last sad rites.

Notes:

Alonzo L. "Uncle Lonnie" Davis
Oct. 1845 - Nov. 22, 1923

Aged Kerens Citizen Was Buried Friday.

Special to the Sun.
Kerens, Texas, Nov. 24. - A. L. (Uncle Lonnie) Davis died at his home in north Kerens Thursday night and was buried in the Kerens cemetery Friday afternoon. Rev. W. A. Corkern, pastor of the Baptist church here, officiated at the funeral. After the burial seven men clad in the regalia of the Ku Klux Klan approached the grave and placed a cross of flowers upon.

Mr. Davis was 77 years old liking five days. He had been in Navarro county many years, having lived in Kerens for the last twelve. He leaves a wife and six children, Jones Davis of Sherman, Will Davis of Ft. Worth, Ransom Davis of Corsicana and Mattie Reeves of Canton.

Notes:

Beauford Shelby Lane
Sep 12, 1946 - Aug 15, 2016

Beauford Lane of Tool, TX, passed away Monday morning August 15, 2016 at East Texas Medical Center Athens at Cedar Creek Lake. Visitation will be Saturday 12-2pm at Griffin - Roughton Funeral Home. Graveside services with Military Honors will follow at Dresden Cemetery.

He was born in Blooming Grove, TX., on September 12, 1946 to James Albert Lane and Lizzie Moody Lane. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. He is preceded in death by his parents and two sons. Survivors include his wife Lisa Lane of Tool. Children: Toshua Lankford of Carrolton, Missy Eenigenburg of Denton, Terry Lankford of Tool and Chad Lankford of Mexia. Three grandchildren and a sister Emma Vinson of Allen.

Notes:

  • Submitted by Polly Winn & Diane Richards
  •  h/o Cheryl (Feuerbacker) Lane & Lisa Kay (Oliver) Lankford-Lane; s/o James Albert Lane & Elizabeth Agnes "Lizzie" (Moody) Lane

Betty Jean (Knight) Ewers-Swink
Aug 22, 1932 - Aug 15, 2016

Obituary for Betty Jean Swink
Betty Swink of Corsicana passed away on Monday, August 15, 2016 at the age of 83. She was born August 22, 1932 in Mineral Wells to Sterling and Mattie Knight. Betty moved to Corsicana in 1974 from Dallas. She was a member of Calvary Worship. She worked for 12 years in a soda shop. She also worked in administration, she taught EMT class at Navarro College and worked in the Navarro County Sheriff Office Jail as the 1st Sargent and 1st Lt. female. She was an excellent cook, she loved crafts and ceramic pottery. She enjoyed bowling and traveling. She loved to laugh and she had a wonderful sense of humor. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother.
She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Evadean Simpson, grandson Robort Hook Jr.
She is survived by her daughters, Connie Putman and Joann Pierson and husband Grady. Grandchildren, Catherine Jones, Amanda Watkins, Micah Watkins. step grandchildren, Jonathan Mitchell, Jessica Mitchell, Gabriel Pierson, Robert and Charity Button. Great grandchildren, Dillon Jones, Mackenzie Watkins, Logan Watkins, Alyssa Knopps, Kami Watkins, Ada Watkins, Paxton Mitchell. Numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 6-8 pm Thursday, August 18, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 2 pm Friday, August 19, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home chapel with Dr. Gary Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Dresden Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dillon Jones, Micah Watkins, Ricky Ashley, Don Barron, Johnny Lake and Tony Cain. Honorary pallbearers will be Navarro County Sheriffs Office

Notes:

  • Submitted by Polly Winn & Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Ira Virgil Ewers married April 3, 1948 2nd husband Hollis Terry Swink married Sep. 23, 1989 d/o Sterling Odell Knight and Mattie (Lowe) Knight

Desdemonia "Dessie" (Chapman) McMillon
Feb 17, 1862 - Jun 23, 1921

DAWSON NEWS.
(Dawson Herald)

Mrs. W. S. McMillon Dead.

Mrs. W. S. McMillon died at her home in the eastern part of town this (Thursday) morning at 5 o'clock, after an extended illness of tuberculosis.

At this time funeral arrangements have not yet been made.

Notes:

Richard Lee "Rich" Richardson
Mar 10, 1896 - Dec 28, 1921

DAWSON NEWS.
(The Dawson Herald.)

Rich Richardson Dead.

Rich Richardson, age 24 years, who made his home with his parents, west of Dawson, died Wednesday morning, Dec. 28, at 9:30 o'clock.

Mr. Richardson was held in the highest esteem by a large number of friends. He had been in bad health some two years, he having contracted the dreadful disease, tuberculosis, while in the training camps before going to France. For the past several months he made his home in West Texas, hoping that climate would benefit him. Several weeks ago, however, when he realized the end was near, he came home wishing to spend his last days with home folks.

The funeral service was held the following Thursday at the Liberty Hill church, conducted by Revs. A. A. Collins and B. T. Three, after which interment was made in the Liberty Hill Cemetery.

 Notes:

John Morgan Mitchell
Mar 17, 1880 - Nov 14, 1923

Died of Lockjaw at Dawson.

j. Morgan Mitchell, a well known farmer of the Dawson community, hurt one of his fingers a few days ago, and as a result of the injury that was regarded as trivial, the wound became infected and lockjaw developed last night and he died this morning. The deceased was forty years old and left a wife and several small children.

 Notes:

Joseph D. "Joe" Wright
Nov 16, 1838 - Feb 18, 1918

DAWSON.
(From the Herald.)

Joe Wright, a former well known resident of this section, and a brother of Uncle Bob Wright of Navarro Mills, was buried at Liberty Hill Tuesday afternoon. Mr. Wright�s death occurred in San Antonio, where he had gone for the benefit of his health.

Notes:

INFANT Male Phillips
Aug 31, 1923 - Nov 20, 1923

Death of Infant Son.

The two-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. H. O. Phillips died here last night and the remains were interred this afternoon in the Liberty Hill Cemetery near Dawson. J. Phillips of Mexia, grandfather of the child, and Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Putman, formerly of Dawson, but now of Stamford, parents of the infant�s mother, were here to attend the funeral.

Notes:

Martha L. (Bruner) Melton
Oct 24, 1869 - May 1, 1921

In Memoriam.

Mrs. Martha L. Melton, Powell, died May 1st at Marlin, and the remains were interred in the Long Prairie cemetery Monday, May 2nd. She is survived by the husband, N. M. Melton, and six children, all of whom have reached their majority save two. She had passed the half century mark.

Simile of a life to the rising sun, to high noon, to the late afternoon and then the sunset is time worn, but it is still beautiful the sun has brilliantly set on another good woman.

Through the course of her day there were showers and rain, of course. The sunshine of life can best be appreciated after the rain; but in her life by far the sunshine prevailed. In the early morning hours when the sun shone brightest she promised her soul to its Maker. All through the morning and the heat of noon, and the afternoon coolness she stayed with that promise. And when the fulfillment came there was not a cloud to hide the setting sun. her sun has indeed set here, but she is now experiencing a light more brilliant, more all prevading than this.

Her going was in perfect peace. With Stonewall Jackson she was able "to pass over the river and rest to the shade of the trees." With an unfaltering trust and an apparent understanding of the mysteries of the world she approached her grave.

"Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch
About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams."

When her body was being viewed one man said; "I must see that face again; she bathed my head when a fever was scorching me." A young matron sorrowfully remarked: "She first placed my new-born babe at my breast; now, that she is gone, who will tell me what to do when it is ill?" A little boy said: "Yes, she helped me too. She bandaged my toe where I had bruised it."

To the aggrieved husband we might say this: �Thank your God every day that you selected a wife so good and such an excellent mother for your children.

To the sons and daughters this could be said: Cherish the memory of your mother by doing the things that she taught you and your grief will be supplemented by a deep glowing satisfaction in knowing that you have a heritage worth more than gold.

E. B. B.

Notes:

--

In Memoriam.

As our Heavenly Father, understands all, He the God of Love; merciful and full of pity for all His weak children of this sinful world, looked down upon earth and saw one sorley tried. And when he saw how tired and worn with care and suffering the spirit of that one was. He raised His hand in call to call those saints of heaven and He bade them make ready to welcome this one. And when the angels knew this one was to be added unto them, there was great rejoicing in heaven. But the ones on earth who loved her so were very grieved, and cried out in their sorrow, why this must be�and God touched their hearts with His hand and said unto them: "Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

He in all His Goodness hearkened unto their cries of sorrow, and He comforted them with these words: "This day there has entered into Heaven one who never turned aside from duty; one who gave the best of her life in doing for others; one who understood the cares of her people; once who sought to turn the paths of all unto righteousness, and now, when suffering has claimed this body, I the day add unto the Host of Heaven that weary spirit."

And the mortals of earth, those that loved her so, ceased their cries of grief, though even yet their hearts were full of sorrow, and they said as the saint of old, "Thy will be not mine be done."

And their paths grow brighter as guided by the blessed spirit of the dear one gone before, they strive each day nearer the home not made with hands.

In loving memory of Mrs. N. M. Melton. Departed this life May 1, 1921.

One who loved her,
MRS. P. P. B.

Notes:

George Andrew McElvaney
Dec 7, 1856 - Mar 9, 1923

Prominent Farmer Died Last Night

G. A. McElvaney, sixty-six years of age, and one of Navarro county�s best known citizen�s, died at his home near Rural Shade at 9 o'clock last night, and the remains were interred in the Round Prairie cemetery this afternoon at 3:30, in the presence of a large crowd sorrowing friends and neighbors. The deceased was a Baptist and a member of the Corsicana Masonic Lodge, and a number of the members of the lodge here attended the funeral. The deceased is survived by his wife and six children, a son and five daughters. The children are Ben McElvaney, Mrs. Tom Caldwell, Mrs. T. J. Washburn, Mrs. Elbert Goodwin, Mrs. Hubert Prince and Mrs. J. E. Woodard. Two grown sons died during the epidemic of influenza here three years ago.

The deceased was a native of Georgia, and came to Texas in 1881, and for two years taught school in Ellis county, and for the past 39 years he had lived in Navarro county, first in the Black Hills neighborhood and then at Rural Shade. The deceased was a man of fine intelligence and exalted personal character. He was always first and foremost in all good works for his fellowmen, and as a result no man was more highly esteemed as a neighbor and citizen.

Mrs. McElvaney is a sister of J. R. Watson of Corsicana.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Saturday, Mar 10, 1923
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • Death certificate says McElvaney h/o Nancy Sidney (Watson) McElvaney s/o John Sidney McElvaney and Eliza Ann (Born) McElvaney

--

Prominent Farmer Buried Saturday

Special to the Sun.
Kerens, March 12.�G. A. McElvaney, a prominent farmer living near Rural Shade, died at his home Friday night and was buried at Alligator Saturday. Mr. McElvaney was one of the leading citizens of Navarro County, having been active in church work and all other public matters. He was a consistent member of the Baptist church and Masonic order.

Mr. McElvaney was born in Georgia coming to Navarro county early in life. He first settled at Black Hills removing from there to Rural Shade about fifteen years ago. He leaves a wife and several children and grandchildren.

Notes:

Russell Alexander �Russ� Gibson
Apr 30, 1863 - Mar 14, 1923

Died As Result Kick of a Mule.

Special to the Sun.
Kerens, March 15.�R. E. Gipson, a farmer living in the Round Prairie neighborhood three miles south of this city, died this morning as a result of being kicked by a mule Monday afternoon. Funeral services have not been completed.

Notes:

---

KERENS NEWS.

Special to the Sun.

R. A. Gibson, who was kicked by a mule with which he was working, died this morning and his remains will be interred in the Long Prairie Cemetery tomorrow.

Notes:

---

March 15, 1923
Farmer Kicked by Mule Dies
CORSICANA, Texas, March 15. - R. E. Gipson, a farmer living near Prairie, this county, died this morning as the result of being kicked by a mule Monday afternoon.

Notes:

Mary Ella (Oliver) Gibson
Apr 5, 1867 - Jan 18, 1966

Mrs. Gibson, 98, Dies Tuesday.

KERENS, Jan. 18 (Spl)�Mrs. Mary E. Gibson, 98, died Tuesday in Twilight Home in Corsicana after an extended illness.

Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. from the Paschal Funeral Chapel here with burial in the Prairie Point cemetery.

The rites will be conducted by Rev. Otis Brown, pastor of the First Methodist church.

Born, April 5, 1867 in Mississippi, Mrs. Gibson spent most of her life in this area, going to the Twilight Home six years ago.

Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Dora Oliver, Streetman and Mrs. Leese Inmon, Corsicana, two sons, D. G. and M. J. Gibson, both of Dallas; 12 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, a brother, Ed. Oliver, Dew; a sister, Mrs. Cora Cherry, Corpus Christi, and other relatives.

Grandsons will be pallbearers.

Notes:

A. Beraud
abt 1851 - Dec. 24, 1916
(Could be A. Deraud )

ACCIDENT PROVES FATAL

A. Beraud, night Watchman at the compress on East Collin street received injuries early Sunday morning that caused his death Sunday afternoon about 3:30. The body was buried yesterday afternoon at the county farm.

Very little is known of the deceased in this city. He came here about a year ago and was in the employ of the Vibrolithic Construction Company until about four weeks ago, Billie Dyer, watchman at the compress was taken ill and Mr. Beraud took his place. Workmen at the compress say that he is very reserved, and when asked a question about his name or where he came from, he attempted to evade the question. He was known for his faithfulness to his duty and was a good worker at whatever position he had.

The crew of a Houston and Texas Central freight train found the old man lying near the railroad track where he had fallen from the cotton wharf on which he was making his regular rounds. The last clock that he had punched registered 5:30 o'clock and it is thought that it was about the time that he received his injuries. The man was taken to the Physicians� and Surgeons� Hospital where it was found that he was injured internally, and in addition had received a broken hip. He died Sunday afternoon at 3:30. The body was held until yesterday and then buried at the county farm.

At the time of his death, the deceased had $45 on his person. His suit case was taken from Berry�s restaurant where he boarded and taken to the county hospital where it was opened by Dr. Sadler, Homer Sparkmen, bookkeeper at the compress, and superintendent Hornbeak of the hospital. A number of letters, newspaper clipping, and a number of personal articles were found in the grip. The grip also contained every check that the compress had paid him that he had not cashed. Pass books for a number of banks were found. Mr. Hornbeak phoned the bank at Waco and it was found that the dead man had nearly $300 on deposit. A majority of the letters were from medical concerns. A few were addressed to persons named �Josephine and Edward� in New York City. From other addresses it is thought that the two mentioned persons are his brother and sister. He also had a number of other letters addressed to various people. This is all the information that local officials have as to his relatives.

It is not known how he fell from the wharf, unless he had a fit, as he was accustomed to have at various times. It is said that he sometimes had the same spells in the employ of the Vibrolithic company, but that they were like sunstrokes. Before he died at the hospital he said that he did not know how it happened unless he was not in his right mind.

The deceased was about 65 years of age and was of heavy build. He weighed nearly 200 pounds and was somewhere around six feet in height. His grip is held at the hospital and authorities will attempt to find his relatives.

Notes:

John C. Hammonds
May 18, 1842 - Jun 24, 1921

WELL KNOWN CITIZEN DEAD.

Funeral at Modrell Cemetery Tomorrow Afternoon.

J. C. Hammonds, aged 79 years, and for many years a resident of Navarro county, died at 5:30 yesterday afternoon at the home of his son-in-law J. A. Young, two miles south of town, after a long illness, and the remains will be interred in the Modrell cemetery tomorrow afternoon 2:30, Rev. B. F. Noe and E. J. Jones officiating. The deceased is survived by the following grown children: Mrs. J. A. Young, Corsicana; Mrs. J. H. Megarity, Waco; J. M. Hammonds, San Angelo; O. M. Hammonds, Oklahoma City, and Mrs. Hub White of Electra.

Notes:

-----

Funeral Was Largely Attended.

The remains of the late J. C. Hammonds were interred in the Modrell cemetery yesterday afternoon at 2:30. A large procession followed the remains to the grave and there were many beautiful floral offerings.

Notes:

INFANT Sanders
Died Feb 9, 1922

Infant Died Last Night.

An infant child of W. H. Sanders living in the northwest part of town died last night and the remains were interred in the Modrell cemetery this afternoon.

Notes:

J. W. Moore
Jan 1853 - Nov 28, 1923

Died at the County Farm.

J. W. Moore, aged 70 years, and was a few years ago county treasure of Navarro county, died at the county farm late yesterday afternoon and the remains were interred there today.

The deceased lived for a number of years in the Raleigh community and lived there at the time of his election as county treasurer. So far as is known his only relative is a son, and the county farm authorities do not know where he lives.

Notes:

Unknown Infant Girl
B&D Oct. 1923

DEAD BODY FOUND IN TRASH CAN TODAY BY MEN EAST CORSICANA

BODY BURNED BEYOND IDENTIFICATION�WAS BURIED THIS AFTERNOON

The dead body of a new-born girl baby was found Saturday morning in a trash can near the Corsicana Coca Cola Bottling Company by employes of the company while they were burning trash. The remains was charred to such an extent that it could not be determined whether or not the child was white or black, according to information received at the Coca Cola plant this afternoon.

According to information received, the trash was in a large can which has both ends open and when the trash had been almost consumed, the employes turned the can over and began to stir the remainder when the gruesome discovery was made. It is alleged that the babe showed evidence of not having received medical attention at birth. It is thought that the child had been placed there during the last day or so. The trash is burned about once a week, it was announced.

The police were notified of the finding of the babe and the remains were carried to the Sheriff�s office. The remains were sent to the county farm for interment this afternoon officers of the sheriff�s department announced that they had no clue as to the identity of the babe or to the person or persons responsible for the placing the babe in the trash can.

The child was normal sized, weighing seven or eight pounds.

Notes:

Clarence Eugene Jennings
Feb 14, 1889 - Nov 9, 1922

DIED NEAR SAN ANGELO.

Clarence Jennings Buried at Prairie Point This Afternoon.

Clarence Jennings, aged 35 years, and who was reared near Kerens, died near San Angelo yesterday after a long illness, and the remains reached here today and were interred in the Prairie Point cemetery this afternoon at 2:30. The deceased was the son of Mrs. John Quinn of Malakoff, and a nephew of Dr. Ike Kyser of Powell, and had numerous other relatives in this county.

Notes:

Christina �Chris� (Westbrook) Holland
Dec 2, 1848 - Feb 24, 1923

Died in Arlington.

Mrs. J. H. Holland, sister-in-law of Mrs. Will Holland of Corsicana, and a sister of Mrs. Starling Carpenter of Buffalo, died last night at her home in Arlington. She is survived by two sons, R. R. Holland of Dallas and Moses Holland of Abernathy, and a daughter, Mrs. Allen Jackson, of Arlington. The deceased lady was a former resident of the Chatfield community, and the remains will be interred at Bazette Monday or Tuesday.

Notes:

----

Funeral Monday.

Special to the Sun.
Kerens. Feb. 27.�Mrs. Chris Holland, aged 74, was buried at Prairie Point cemetery Monday. Mrs. Holland was a sister of G. M. Westbrook of Kerens and Mrs. Carpenter of Buffalo. She belonged to one of the first families to settle in this section, here family having come here in 1853.

Notes:

Mary Ann �Mollie� (Huggins) McFadden
Aug 5, 1858 - Apr 1, 1923

Sister W. M. Huggins Passed Away Sunday

Funeral service for Mrs. M. A. McFadden, wife of Mit McFadden who died at the home of her son, Walter McFadden at Dallas, Sunday, will be held at the Prairie Point cemetery at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning. Burial will be in the Prairie Point cemetery.

Beside her husband, Mrs. McFadden is survived by two sons, Johnnie McFadden, Kerens; Walter McFadden, Dallas; one daughter, Mrs. Albert J. Davis, Corsicana; mother S. E. Huggins, Kerens. She is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. T. M. Shelton, Kerens; Mrs. E. A. Ethridge, Kerens; and Mrs. Preston Roots, San Benito; and two brothers, W. M. Huggins, Corsicana, and Arthur Huggins, Dallas.

The body was forwarded via interurban from Dallas at 2:15 o'clock Monday afternoon. It will be taken to the McFadden home at Kerens via the Cotton Belt at 9:45 o'clock tonight.

Notes:

Berry "Bradley" Franklin Speed, Jr.
Apr 2, 1926 - Aug 1, 2016

Berry "Bradley" F. Speed, Jr, 90, passed away on Monday, August 1, 2016 at his residence.
He was born on April 2, 1926 in Corsicana to Berry F. Speed, Sr. and Mary (Albritton) Speed.
He was a very loving and appreciative person who always responded to gestures with a "Thank you" and "I love you".
His love for his family and friends was evident in the time he took to attend every baseball game, piano recital, and cheer leading event of his children.
He had a contagious smile that was accented by his blue eyes. He was private individual who enjoyed woodworking, and gardening. He was a perfectionist in everything he did and enjoyed fishing and also bowling, in which he won a trophy for a 300 game.
He retired in 1989 from Sears.
Bradly was preceded in death by his parents, Berry and Mary Speed.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Geneva Speed; daughters, Mary Kay Pierce and Cynthia Speed Jenschke; son, Robbie Franklin Speed; five
grandchildren: Kristin, Andrew, Rebekah, Heather and Danica; eight great-grandchildren with one on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, August 4, 2016 at Corley Funeral Home.
Graveside service will follow at noon at the Bazette Cemetery in Kerens.
Officiating the service will be Rev. Paul Porter of St. Luke United Methodist Church of Corsicana.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Luke United Methodist Church or to the Bazette Cemetery Association.

Notes:

Charles Afton "Bid" Sheets
June 14, 1924 - Aug 3, 2016

Our hearts are breaking over the loss of our cherished Husband, Daddy and Paw Paw.
Charles Afton "Bid" Sheets of Corsicana slipped away quietly for a well-deserved walk with Jesus on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016 surrounded by his family and an unspeakable amount of love.
He was born on June 14, 1924 to William Wesley Sheets and Nellie Sheets in Rice.
He was the greatly-adored baby of their tight-knit farming family.
Bid was William and Nellie's only child, though he was welcomed by several older half-brothers and sisters.
He attended and graduated Salutatorian from Chatfield High School with the Class of 1941.
He played the trumpet, loved riding horses and would be happy for hours on end "tinkering" with anything and everything, whether it needed "fixin" or not.
He was happy with the simple things, including washing his dishes by hand instead of having a dishwasher (we tried to get him to install one more than a few times, to no avail). Up before the sun and usually in bed while it was still up in the evening, Bid was constantly busy - never a second wasted but still taking the time to enjoy every moment.
He worked in the propane industry for almost all of his working years until he retired at age 65.
On July 23, 1945, he married Billie Lou Gorman at the Methodist Parsonage in Chatfield.
He claimed his being 21 and her being 16 would give him time to "train her up right", though we are still debating "who trained who" to this very day.
Together they had two sons and a daughter - a family that over the following 71 years grew to include six grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
Bid loved all of us kids and our precious Maw Maw with all he had in him and we only wish we could have loved him half as well in return. From the rides in the back of a two-tone Ford pickup to helping him snap peas from the garden for supper, we enjoyed every minute we got to be with our Paw Paw (unless we happened to get a little too rowdy while he was trying to watch his midday "stories" on the TV).
In a home constantly filled with their devout Christian faith with a door opened to just about anyone who needed to "sit a spell", we couldn't have been more blessed than we were, being the children and grandchildren of this quiet, charming and humble man. Through his unwavering example of hard work, commitment, instilling a belief in the value of one's word and putting his God and his family first, we are all better human beings for having had him in our lives as our teacher, protector and provider.
The lifetime of memories all of us have are too numerous to list but we can say to a certainty that some of the simplest things - a chewed, unlit cigar; anything "Ford" from an A-Model to an old pickup to a pristine Crown Victoria; bumpy dirt roads; handmade wooden cars, trucks and birdhouses; cool, fresh-cut St. Augustine grass; the whittling of a stick with a pocket knife; old-fashioned hard candies of any kind; the intro to an episode of "As the World Turns" or "Hee-Haw"; a shuffling step across a linoleum floor; two, single dollar bills, an AM transistor radio filling a warm, tiny kitchen with the songs of Roy Rogers, George Jones, Patsy Cline, Conway Twitty, Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn (to name only a few); a can of Coca-Cola or a bottle of Big Red - will always bring a smile to our faces and a tug at our hearts.
No childhood could possibly be complete without "a lil Paw Paw Juice" in a green Tupperware cup once-in-a-while, we assure you.
The moments and memories we will hold close, both shared and individual, are as countless as they are priceless and along with all who loved him, are his legacy left behind from a life unselfishly and graciously lived.
Bid was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, his daughters-in-law Darelle (Jerry) Sheets and Linda Kay (Anthony) Sheets, his grandson, Paul Orsborn and numerous other family members who were no doubt there to welcome him home.
Bid is survived by his wife of 71 years, Billie Lou (Gorman) Sheets of Corsicana; sons and daughter, Jerry Sheets of Salt Lake City, Utah, Anthony Sheets of Corsicana and Casina (Larry) Sheets-Cobb of Carrollton; grandchildren, Michelle (AJ) Sheets-Mizerak of Garland, Christine Tyykila-Sheets of Corsicana, Shawn Shelton of Fort Worth, Michael (Hilary) Sheets of Kaysville, Utah and Terry (Stephanie) Shelton of Tyler; great-grandchildren, Zachary Mizerak of Garland, Myriam Sheets of Corsicana, Tryston Mizerak of San Marcos, Crystal Tyykila of Corsicana, Kirkland Mizerak of Garland, Elizabeth Tyykila of Corsicana, Ava Shelton of Tyler, Madelyn Shelton of Tyler, Emily Hansen of Kaysville, Utah, Abigail Hansen of Kaysville, Utah, Aiden Shelton of Tyler and Ruby Nelle Sheets of Kaysville, Utah and a great-great granddaughter Alice Toms of Corsicana.
He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and countless other family members who loved him immensely.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5, 2016 at Corley's Funeral Home, 418 N 13th St, Corsicana, TX 75110.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, 2016 at Corley's Funeral Home with his grandson, Pastor Terry Shelton officiating.
Graveside services will immediately follow at Chatfield Cemetery, in Chatfield.
Pallbearers are: AJ Mizerak, Michael Sheets, Terry Shelton, Zachary Mizerak, Tryston Mizerak and Kirkland Mizerak.
Honorary Pallbearers include: Larry Cobb and Shawn Shelton.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in this wonderful man's name are made to: The Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd, Tyler, TX, 75701 or Wesley United Methodist Church 3308 N Beaton St Corsicana, Texas 75110.
"Paw Paw, you have raised us all well with a gentle hand, a compassionate heart and more love than anyone who didn't have the honor of knowing you could possibly imagine. You will be forever missed and the void will be great but you will live on in our hearts, our minds, our silly pranks and the strongest of family ties that only the strength of the love you and Maw Maw shared could have built. We thank God for you and with gratitude, send you back to Him until we meet again."
-Toodle-loo, for now ~

Notes:

Preston Laverne Farmer
Aug 23, 1925 - July 29, 2016

Preston Farmer, 90, passed away on July 29, 2016 at Baylor University Medical Center of Dallas.
He was born on Aug. 23, 1925 in Corsicana to Isaac H. and Middie Ella Farmer.
He retired from Colberts where he was the credit manager. He was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Dallas and attended school in Emhouse.
Preston was preceded in death by his parents; six siblings and two nieces.
He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, Aug. 1, 2016 at Corley Funeral Home.
Graveside service will follow at 1 p.m. at Oakwood Cemetery with Rev.
Charles Bowen officiating.

Notes:

Ella Mae (McCall) Loper
Dec 9, 1934 - Aug 6, 2016

Ella Mae McCall Loper, 81, of Rice passed away on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2016 at Heritage Oaks West in Corsicana.
She was born on Dec. 9, 1934 in Corsicana to Grady and Faye Purselly McCall.
Ella was a very loving and nurturing mother that loved spending time with her family. She also loved being outdoors working in her flower beds, and was a moon watcher.
She was known for her red beans and cornbread that everyone loved to eat. She was a member of the Baptist church.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Grady and Faye McCall; husband, Don Loper; son, Jerry Loper; granddaughter, Rachel Reynolds; brother, Grady L. McCall; sister, Donna Faye Presley.
Ella is survived by her son, Larry Loper and wife Ava of Rice; daughters, Vicky Marshall and husband John of Mabank and Cheryl Hall and husband Richard of Wortham; seven grandchildren, Todd Loper and wife Charolette, Brandon Loper and wife Annie, Dustin Loper and wife Sahvanna, Russell Budai and wife Stephanie, Jennifer Evans and husband Blake, Rhonda Reynolds and husband Jeff Rios, Shawn Ovalle and wife Andrea; 14 great grandchildren; brother, Albert McCall and wife Ruth; sisters, Wanda Sue Cash and husband Ronnie and Louise Horn, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation with the family will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m Tuesday, Aug.
9, 2016 at Corley Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2016 at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Mark Luera officiating.
Interment will follow in Rice Cemetery.
Pallbearers will her grandsons, Russell Budai, Todd Loper, Brandon Loper, Dustin Loper, Shawn Ovalle, and Blake Evans.
Memorial contributions may be made to the any cancer foundation.

Notes:

Apolonia Villa
Apr 10, 1926 - Aug 7, 2016

Apolonia Villa of Corsicana passed away on Sunday, Aug. 7 at Medical of Plano at the age of 90.
She was born April 10, 1926 in San Luis, Potosi Mexico to Jose Villa and Antonia Mesa.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose Villa and Antonia Mesa; son Andres Flores; grandson Artura Flores; brother Jildardo Villa; sisters Anastacia Villa and Eva Villa.
Apolonia is survived by her children, Magdalena Flores, Juan Villa and Antonia, Pablo Villa and Mariana, Gabriel Maldonado, Pable Maldonado and Juaqina, Aida Maldonando and Valente; grandchildren, Andres Flores, Hector Flores, Edgar Flores, Veronica Flores, Aida Flores, Dalia Flores, Jose Villa, Michael Villa, Chris Villa, Blanca Villa, George Villa, Alejandra Villa, Yaneli Villa, Betty Villa, Ariday Villa, Cruz Vega, Mary Cruz Maldonado, Gabriela Maldonado, Guadalupe Maldonado, Rodolfo Maldonado, Diego Maldonado, Christina Maldonado, Melissa Maldonado, Valente Garcia Jr., Elian Garcia, Alma Garcia, Odalis Garcia and Valeria Garcia.
Rosary will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.
Visitation will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday following the Rosary.
Funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, August 12, 2016 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Pallbearers include: Andres Flores, George Villa, Rodolfo Maldonado, Cruz Vega, Jose Juan Villa and Valente Garcia.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home

Notes:

Alvin Earl "Al" Hopkins
May 5, 1930 - Aug 3, 2016

Alvin Earl "Al" Hopkins, age 86 passed away Wednesday August 3, 2016 at Trisun Nursing Home in Corsicana. He was born May 5, 1930 in Vista, California to Roy Earl Hopkins and Marie Melvine Stumpf Hopkins.
He joined the US Navy in 1948. While serving, he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Mae Smith on November 4, 1950. While employed with Quaker Oats they resided in California and had four children. In 1972 the family relocated to Corsicana, Texas and he began his career with Wolf Brand Chili as office manager. There he continued his service with the Rotary Club in Corsicana, holding nearly every position the club has for a total of 45 years.
In 1976 he joined the Community Playhouse, now the Warehouse of Living Arts Center. He played as the villain in nine melodramas for Derrick Days. Within the same year he and Shirley begun participating with the Original Terlingua International Championship Chili Cook-Off. From 1977 to 2007 he begun running the Derrick Days Cook-Off. In 2007 he served as the Grand Marshall for the Derrick Days parade and "Al Hopkins Day" was declared April 28.
Al enjoyed making a difference in the Corsicana community and was always quick to volunteer to help. While not working, participating in chili cook offs, and helping our community he loved playing the piano. He was self-taught and would sometimes entertain his fellow residents at Trisun.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley Mae Smith Hopkins and their son, Kenneth Rae Hopkins. He is survived by his daughter, Suzan Lyn and Richard Benton Beasley; granddaughters, Crystal Elizabeth and Justin Nathaniel Lynch and Cynthia Lyn and Matthew Lawrence Graham; son Steven Alan and Denise Ann Duell Hopkins; granddaughter Caitlin Rosallyna Hopkins, and Steven's daughter Cerra Lynn Hopkins; son, Patrick Lee and Stacee Suzette McCullough Hopkins and grandsons, Kenneth James and Kaleb Paul Hopkins.
Private family graveside will be held Friday, August 12, 2016 at Resthaven Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Warehouse Living Arts Center or Alzheimer's Association 7610 N Stemmons Suite 600 Dallas, Texas 75207

----

Alvin Earl "Al" Hopkins, age 86 passed away Wednesday Aug. 3, 2016 at Trisun Nursing Home in Corsicana.
A private family graveside will be held Friday, Aug. 12, 2016 at Resthaven Memorial Park.
Arrangements By Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home

Notes:

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Hopkins remembered for his love of Derrick Days, Wolf Brand Chili
Daily Sun Archives Aug 18, 2016
 


Editor�s Note: Corsicana icon and 2007 Derrick Days Grand Marshal Al Hopkins passed away Aug. 3 at the age of 86. He was buried at a private family ceremony Friday, Aug. 12. The following is a feature on Hopkins published in the April 21, 2009 edition of the Corsicana Daily Sun as part of our �Derrick Days Gone By� series.

There are few people today that have made the impact on a community such as that of Al Hopkins.

The very idea of a Derrick Days celebration in Corsicana without the jovial Hopkins involved is tantamount to putting beans in a batch of chili � it just doesn�t happen.

Hopkins� influence on the annual celebration has been a mainstay since the early days of the event, as the driving force behind the Derrick Days Chili Cookoff, and for many years as �The Villain� in many memorable melodrama productions at the Warehouse Living Arts Center held in conjunction with Derrick Days.

Along the way, the community-minded Hopkins has also racked up over 45 years of service in Rotary, the last 33 as a member of the Corsicana Rotary Club, holding virtually every position the club offered over the years.

This year, Al Hopkins gets a bit of a break, and some long overdue recognition as the grand marshal of the Derrick Days parade April 28. He will also be honored in a special celebration following the parade at Caleb�s Diner, set to begin at 10:30 a.m.

Born Alvin Earl Hopkins on May 5, 1930 on his mother�s farm in California, Al and his family moved frequently in his early years throughout Southern California. Hopkins� involvement and service to others began at an early age, as president of his school�s Embassy Service Club.

As most of his generation did, a stint in service to his country was to follow, when Hopkins joined the Navy in 1948. First stationed in Rhode Island, Hopkins was later transferred to San Diego, Calif. aboard the USS Sperry, an assignment he thought might lead to being deployed to Korea. That turned out not to be the case, as his vessel remained in San Diego, �tending about 11 submarines.�

It was during his Navy stint he married Shirley, his sweetheart from junior and senior high school, with whom he had remained in contact while stationed in Rhode Island. They were married in a double ceremony with Shirley�s older sister, and nine months and six days later, welcomed their first of four children into their lives.

The Hopkins/Chili connection actually dates back to life following the Navy, when he took a job in the mail room of a pet food factory owned by Quaker Oats in 1952. Moving from there to another Quaker operation in 1963, Hopkins found himself as a manager of the Burry Biscuit Cookie Company for nine years.

In 1972, Quaker decided to close that operation, and Hopkins stayed with Quaker, who by then had acquired Wolf Brand Chili, moving to Corsicana as office manager. That turned out to be the last time Hopkins had to pack up the family and relocate.

The Bi-centennial year of 1976 brought about the first celebration of an event in Corsicana that would become known as Derrick Days the next year, and with it the idea of a chili cookoff as part of the festivities. That year began a labor of love that Hopkins has tended to annually ever since.

�They really didn�t know what they were doing that first year,� Hopkins laughed as he recalled the long table of judges and the methods used during the first chili competition in 1976.

�I went over and visited the first year, and got to know a lot of people there,� he said. He and Shirley then began making trips to other chili cookoffs on their own.

The following year, Hopkins took what he�d learned from those trips and a visit to the Terlingua Championship Chili Cookoff with Wolf Brand President Ray Shockley after that first Derrick Days event. He has headed up the yearly competition every year until this one, when he �passed the ladle� to Ken Swart, and will serve in an advisory capacity.

In 1985, Wolf Brand Chili�s plant was relocated to the Dallas area, but that didn�t end Hopkins� involvement with the product or the yearly cookoff. He took early retirement from Quaker Oats, but continued to operate a mail order business for Wolf Brand, shipping some 700 cases of product annually from his office in downtown Corsicana.

The event continued to grow in both popularity and in variety, with both barbecue and bean categories added over the years. And, the annual cookoff moved around a few times before settling back in its home adjacent to the Daily Sun.

�In the early days we held it on the lot across from the old Community Theater,� he recalled, a lot now vacant across from Napoli�s Restaurant and used by trucks for parking.

�I remember Art (Daily Sun publisher Art Keeney) telling us not too get to close to the satellite dish inside the cage,� Hopkins recalled.

Outgrowing its space there, the group moved the chili cookoff to the east side of the Daily Sun property, a space it occupies today. The years between found the cookoff housed on the Youth Expo grounds for four years, with more space, but away from the downtown crowds.

This year, Hopkins is being honored as grand marshal of the Derrick Days Parade that begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. With Hopkins in the parade will be the famous Wolf Brand Chili Can-Car. Following the parade, a ceremony honoring Hopkins will be held at Caleb�s Diner, 125 North Beaton. A proclamation declaring the day �Al Hopkins Day� from Mayor C.L. �Buster� Brown III will be read, along with a brief history of Hopkins and Wolf Brand Chili.

�I�m real proud,� Hopkins said of the honor. �I�ve got copies of everything to send to my kids and family. I�m real proud of that.�

�I�m going to wear my villain costume and sit on top of the cage,� he said with a sly laugh befitting his old theater melodrama days.�

Derrick Days Saturday will be a big day for the small-statured man with a heart as big as Texas.

Notes:

Margaret Ruth (Petty) McCall
July 24, 1932 - Aug 8, 2016

Ruth McCall of Red Oak, TX passed away at Baylor Scott and White in Waxahachie, TX on Monday morning, August 8, 2016 at the age of 84. She was born July 24, 1932 in Eureka to Eark and Obie Mosley Petty.
Ruth enjoyed watching dirt track racing. She loved to cook, her breakfast was the best. She enjoyed taking care of her family and loved all babies.
She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, David S. Petty, Robert Earl Petty and Roy Wayne Petty; sisters, Florence Young, Laura Dill, Joyce Wiese and Lorene Wishon.
She is survived by her husband Albert Loyd McCall; children, Earl Mckey, Jimmie McKey, Brenda Smith, Betty Smith, Joyce Garrett, Albert Lee McCall. Sister Margie Harris. Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Visitation will be 6-8 pm Wednesday, August 10, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Graveside service will be 2 pm Thursday, August 11, 2016 at Eureka Cemetery with Eddie Miner officiating.

Notes:

  • w/o Albert Loyd McCall; d/o Eark Several Petty & Obie (Mosley) Petty
  • Submitted by Karen Rost
     

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Ruth McCall, 84, passed away on Monday, Aug. 8, 2016 in Waxahachie.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.
Graveside service will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, 2016 at Eureka Cemetery with Eddie Miner officiating.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, Corsicana.

Notes:

Emmett Simmons Fortenberry, Jr.
July 3, 1948 - Aug 4, 2016

Emmett S. Fortenberry, Jr., 68, of Corsicana passed away on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2016 at Heritage Oaks Retirement Village in Corsicana.
He was born on July 3, 1948 in Greenwell Springs, Louisiana to Emmett and Mabel Fortenberry.
Emmett served in the United States Marine Corps for four years during the Vietnam War and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. During his service, he was awarded the following: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Rifle Marksman Badge and Vietnam Campaign Medal.
He was employed 30 plus years at Owens Corning in Waxahachie.
Emmett loved plants and gardening and spent time in his younger years growing, packaging and shipping out flowers in a family business with his cousins in Louisiana.
He enjoyed spending time outdoors and taking his nieces and nephews fishing.
Emmett dearly loved his grandchildren and treasured the times he spent with them. He was an awesome dad.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett and Mabel Fortenberry; brothers, Arthur Grover Fortenberry and Harold Paul Fortenberry; sisters, Barbara Richardson and Helen Ruiz.
He is survived by his daughter, Jenny Leyva and husband Javier; granddaughters, Madeline Marie Leyva and Jocelynn Rose Leyva of Corsicana; step daughter, Beverly Shane Desautel of Arlington, Washington; step son, Douglas Wayne Fortenberry of Garfield, Arkansas; sisters, Marie Browning of Holden, Louisiana and Sarah Borel of Whitehouse and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation with the family will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug.
10, 2016 at Corley Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 11, 2016 at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Kevin Diggs officiating.
Interment will follow in Frost Cemetery.

Notes:

Jimmy Dwayne Shelman
May 3, 1955 - July 31, 2016

Jimmy Dwayne Shelman, 61, of Streetman passed away on Sunday, July 31,
2016 at his residence in Streetman. He was born on May 3, 1955 in Winfield, Kansas to Harvey Edward and Bertha Viola Shelman.
He was loved to cook, and be around and play with kids. He was a heavy equipment operator for many years. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was a member of the Methodist church.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Bertha Shelman.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Shelman of Streetman; step daughter, Dianne Ellison of Streetman; step sons, Richard Lester and wife Crystal of Streetman, Mike Calhoun and wife Brandy of LaGrange, and Skeet Calhoun and wife Kelli of Rowlett; ten step grandchildren, nine step great grandchildren; sisters, Beverly McClay and husband Wesley of Arora, CO, Vicky Farmer of Ft. Worth, Dianna Rush and husband Ron of Denton; brothers, Tom Shelman and wife Darcel of Kerens and Edward Shelman and wife Carla of Quitman; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation with the family will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 3, 2016 at Corley Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 4, 2016 at Chapel Cemetery in Haslett, Texas with the family officiating the service.

Notes:

Monroe Cleveland "M.C." Johnson
abt 1929 - Aug 3, 2016

M.C. Johnson, 87, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016 at Navarro Regional Hospital.
He was born March 7, 1929 to Arthur and Iva Johnson in Bristol, Arkansas.
Visitation with the family will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5,
2016 at Corley Funeral Home.
Graveside services are scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 6,
2016 at Wesley Chapel Cememtery in Crockett.

Notes:

Amy Lou (Frederick) Adcock
Aug 24, 1931 - Aug 27, 2016

Amy Lou Adcock, 85, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 27, 2016 at Medical City in Dallas. She was raised in Blooming Grove by her parents, John Watts Frederick and Bertie Green Frederick.
Amy Lou graduated from Blooming Grove High School in 1948. After WWII she married Elmer Adcock who served in the US Navy with distinction.
They were married for 47 years until his death in 1993. They jointly originated and managed the Furniture Barn in Corsicana for 25 years.
Amy Lou enjoyed spending her days with her grandchildren and visiting with all of her many friends. She was proud of her Blooming Grove education and enjoyed recounting fond memories of playing basketball and volleyball with all of her friends as a young woman. Her adult life was spent living in Corsicana but she always thought of Blooming Grove as home.
She is survived by her only daughter, Carolyn Adcock Carr and son in law Larry Carr; one granddaughter, Johnna Carr McKee; two great grandchildren, Bryce R. McKee and Brianna R. McKee; two great-great grandchildren, her beloved Rowan Evie McKee and Elias Claude McKee.
Visitation will be held from from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31,
2016 at Corley Funeral Home.
Graveside services to follow at 2 p.m., at Rose Hill Cemetery in Blooming Grove.

Notes:

  • BGHS 1948
  • w/o Elmer Adcock; d/o John Watts Frederick & Bertie (Green) Frederick
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Martha (Zube) Griswold
Nov 2, 1890 - Jan 30, 1923

Died Here Last Night.

Mrs. Griswold, wife of Ed Griswold, of Pursley, died at the P. and S. hospital at 3 o'clock this morning, following an operation, a short while before. The deceased was 32 years of age, and is survived by her husband. The remains were interred in the Pursley cemetery this afternoon.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Tuesday, Jan 30, 1923
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • w/o Edward Monroe �Edd� Griswold; d/o John Zube & Henrietta (Butzke) Griswold

Emily (Zube) Griswold
May 8, 1879 - Dec 17, 1945

DALLAS COUPLE TO BE BURIED HERE; VICTIMS OF FIRE

Jeff F. Griswold, aged 62 years, and his wife, Emily, aged 66 years burned to death Monday in their home in Dallas when flames spreading from the explosion of a faulty kerosene cook stove wrecked their four-room cottage in South Dallas .

Fire Marshal B. C. Hilton of Dallas said the explosion apparently occurred while Mrs. Griswold was preparing her husband�s breakfast. Griswold had recently recovered from an illness.

Firemen failed to fine some $600. The couple was said to have saved as a down payment on a house, according to reports from Dallas.

The couple were natives of Houston, but had resided in Pursley and Corsicana most of their lives until they moved to Dallas three years ago.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Ester Langford, Mrs. H. T. Moore and Mrs. Ed Whitfield all of Dallas, and Mrs. Fred Whitfield, Corsicana and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from Corley Chapel with burial in the Pursley cemetery. The rites are to be conducted by Rev. C. H. Vaughn, Baptist minister.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Tuesday, Dec 18, 1945
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • w/o Joseph Franklin �Bee� Griswold; d/o John Zube & Henrietta (Butzke) Zube

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FUNERAL SERVICES HELD WEDNESDAY FOR FIRE VICTIMS

Funeral services for Jess Griswold, 62, and his wife Emily, 66, fatally burned in Dallas when their residence was destroyed by fire Monday morning following a kerosene cook stove explosion, were held from the Corley Funeral Home Wednesday at 2 p.m. Burial was in the Pursley cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. W. L. Murdaugh, Baptist minister.

Natives of Houston, the couple resided in Pursley and Corsicana most of their lives until they moved to Dallas three years ago.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Esther Langford, Mrs. Ed Whitfield and Mrs. H. T. Moore, all of Dallas, and Mrs. Fred Whitfield, Corsicana and 10 grandchildren.

Mrs. Griswold is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. Tom Sherrous and Mrs. T. W. Griswold both of Houston, and Mrs. O. A. Hazelmire, Canada; and two brothers, E. A. Zube, Corsicana, and J. C. Zube, Waller, Texas. Mr. Griswold is also survived by two brothers, T. W. and Dale Griswold, both of Houston.

Pallbearers were Richard Langford, Ed Whitfield, Fred Whitfield, Thurman Moore, Johnnie Zube, Henry Zube, Robert Zube, Charles Zube, Jesse Murray, Preston Norwood, Elisha Whitfield and W. H. Hellums.

Notes:

Joseph Franklin �Bee� Griswold
Jan 29, 1882 - Dec 17, 1945

DALLAS COUPLE TO BE BURIED HERE; VICTIMS OF FIRE

Jeff F. Griswold, aged 62 years, and his wife, Emily, aged 66 years burned to death Monday in their home in Dallas when flames spreading from the explosion of a faulty kerosene cook stove wrecked their four-room cottage in South Dallas .

Fire Marshal B. C. Hilton of Dallas said the explosion apparently occurred while Mrs. Griswold was preparing her husband�s breakfast. Griswold had recently recovered from an illness.

Firemen failed to fine some $600. The couple was said to have saved as a down payment on a house, according to reports from Dallas.

The couple were natives of Houston, but had resided in Pursley and Corsicana most of their lives until they moved to Dallas three years ago.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Ester Langford, Mrs. H. T. Moore and Mrs. Ed Whitfield all of Dallas, and Mrs. Fred Whitfield, Corsicana and other relatives.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from Corley Chapel with burial in the Pursley cemetery. The rites are to be conducted by Rev. C. H. Vaughn, Baptist minister.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Tuesday, Dec 18, 1945
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • h/o Emily (Zube) Griswold; s/o Jeff John Griswold & Mary Elizabeth �Betty (Riley) Griswold

---

FUNERAL SERVICES HELD WEDNESDAY FOR FIRE VICTIMS

Funeral services for Jess Griswold, 62, and his wife Emily, 66, fatally burned in Dallas when their residence was destroyed by fire Monday morning following a kerosene cook stove explosion, were held from the Corley Funeral Home Wednesday at 2 p.m. Burial was in the Pursley cemetery. The rites were conducted by Rev. W. L. Murdaugh, Baptist minister.

Natives of Houston, the couple resided in Pursley and Corsicana most of their lives until they moved to Dallas three years ago.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Esther Langford, Mrs. Ed Whitfield and Mrs. H. T. Moore, all of Dallas, and Mrs. Fred Whitfield, Corsicana and 10 grandchildren.

Mrs. Griswold is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. Tom Sherrous and Mrs. T. W. Griswold both of Houston, and Mrs. O. A. Hazelmire, Canada; and two brothers, E. A. Zube, Corsicana, and J. C. Zube, Waller, Texas. Mr. Griswold is also survived by two brothers, T. W. and Dale Griswold, both of Houston.

Pallbearers were Richard Langford, Ed Whitfield, Fred Whitfield, Thurman Moore, Johnnie Zube, Henry Zube, Robert Zube, Charles Zube, Jesse Murray, Preston Norwood, Elisha Whitfield and W. H. Hellums.

Notes:

Edward Monroe �Edd� Griswold
May 27, 1883 - Jan 9, 1964

Ed Griswold Dies Thursday

Ed Griswold, 80, retired farmer, 707 North Fourteenth street, died in Memorial hospital Thursday afternoon.

Funeral services will be held from the Corley Chapel Saturday at 2 p.m. with burial in the New Pursley cemetery. The rites will be conducted by L. W. Mayo, North Beaton Church of Christ minister.

Surviving are his wife of Corsicana; a daughter, Mrs. Jerry Don Myers, Bovina; a sister in Grapeland and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Ray Whitfield, Nolan Whitfield, Ervin Moore, Bobby Gentry, William Bolan, Jack Holloway, O. T. Nutt, Ralph Norrell, B. Anderson, Bob Clemons, John M. Gibson, and L. F. Hardgrave.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Friday, Jan 10, 1964
  • Submitted by Diane Richards

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Ed Griswold Services Held

Funeral services for Ed Griswold, 80, retired farmer, 707 North Fourteenth street, who died in Memorial Hospital Thursday, were held from the Corley Chapel Saturday at 2 p.m. with burial in the New Pursley cemetery.

The rites were conducted by L. W. Mayo, North Beaton Church of Christ minister.

Surviving are his wife of Corsicana; a daughter, Mrs. Jerry Don Myers, Bovina; a sister, Mrs. Susie Burnett, Grapeland; and a number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

A brother, Bud Griswold, died three months ago at Corrigan. He was well-known here.

Pallbearers were Ray Whitfield, Nolen Whitfield, Ervin Moore, Bobby Gentry, William Bolan, Jack Holloway, O. T. Nutt, Ralph Norrell, B. Anderson, B. Clemons, John M. Gipson and L. F. Hargrove.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Monday, Jan 13, 1964
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st wife Lilla Mae (Whitten) Griswold married Feb. 1, 1908 2nd wife Martha (Zube) Griswold married Jan. 3, 1915 3rd wife Dura Lee (Hellums) Griswold married Aug. 11, 1923; s/o Talley Griswold and Martha Elizabeth �Eliza� (Riley) Griswold per brother Bud�s death certificate

Martha Jane (Nowell) Copeland
Aug 31, 1845 - Jun 8, 1920

Died at Pursley Last Night.

Mrs. J. P. Copeland, aged 75 years, died at the home of her son, F. M. Copeland, in the Pursley community last night, after having been Ill health for a long time, and the remains were interred in the Pursley cemetery this afternoon at 6 o'clock. The deceased was highly esteemed Christian woman and her death is mourned by a large circle of friends.

Rev. M. C. Cuthbertson of Corsicana officiated and a large concourse of sorrowing friends attended the funeral.

Notes:

Isabelle �Belle� (Henson) Stewart
Jul 27, 1857 - Jul 7, 1921

Died at Pursley.

Mrs. Bell Stewart, widow of the late Stewart, died at her home in Pursley community at 10 o'clock last night after a long illness. The deceased is survived by nine grown children. The funeral took place this afternoon with Rev. G. W. Kincheloe officiating.

Notes:

Walter Willie Zube
Mar 1, 1915 - Sep 27, 1922

Died at Pursley Last Night.

Walter Zube, aged six years and six months, son of Ed Zube, died at the family home in the Pursley community last night, and the remains were interred there this afternoon.

Notes:

William H. Hanna
Oct 7, 1863 - May 15, 1922

W. Hannah, an old citizen of the Pursley community, died there yesterday, and the remains were interred there today. His wife and several grown children survive..

Notes:

James Henry Atchison
abt 1864 - Jan 29, 1923

Was Former Resident Here.

J. H. Atchison, aged 60 years, a former resident of the Pursley community, died at Athens yesterday and the remains reached here this morning and were taken to Pursley where interment took place this afternoon. The deceased is survived by one son, Grover Atchison of Athens at whose home he died.

Notes:

Caskie Miller �Jack� Cooper
Sep 19, 1898-May 9, 1923

HUGHES-MCKIE WELL STILL BURNING�FOURTEEN KNOWN DEAD

THOUSANDS VISITED LOCATION OF GURNING WELL�CROWDS THRONGED THROUGH MORGUE VIEWING BODIES

Like an active volcano in eruption, belching forth terrific flames of burning fire constantly fed by the constant flow of oil and gas, the Hughes-McKie well in holocaust which has cost at least 14 men their lives, continues to gush forth its awful blaze at 3 o'clock today.

For twenty-four solid hours flames ranging from 30 feet to 150 feet have leaped high in the air in its spectacular capers. Red streaks of flame ascend as from a mighty nozzle, and disappear in the form of huge black clouds of smoke, which drift with the wind in a surging blast.

The wind switched from the southward during the night and the mighty smokestack releases its flow in the direction of Powell, leaving darkened elements in its wake.

Thousands hurried frantically to the fields during last night to witness the spectacular fire-works.

The well being situated on the east bank of the creek is surrounded by tall timber. A rough one-way traffic road forming a winding snake trail for two miles is the only means of vehicle access to the scene. The roads were choked with vehicle traffic within a short time after the fire started. This kept up all night.

The well has been fenced off and traffic barred on the narrow road to give the men full right of way in getting boilers to the location.

Every company owning equipment in the Powell fields has tendered the use of all available boilers and other equipment to extinguish the flame.

Men are working like Trojans to get the equipment in place. It will be necessary to use fire foam and steam from a dozen boilers.

The burned bodies of at least six men remain in the fire zone according to DeWitt Watkins, who is working at the well today. He stated to a reporter of the Sun this morning that five bodies could be seen near the well, and there was another one missing. He also stated he believed that one or two spectators perished.

Jim Ball foreman in charge of the work believes the final death toll will reach 18.

Mr. Hughes accompanied by J. S. Banks, his attorney, are at the well this afternoon checking up on the number of dead and missing.

Hundreds of spectators thronged in and out and lingered about the Sutherland Undertaking establishment all day Thursday eager to catch a glimpse of the charred bodies of a number of the working crew which perished in the big blaze Wednesday afternoon when the Hughes-McKie No. 1 well ignited.

Five of the bodies, charred and disfigured by the flames almost beyond recognition, were brought to the morgue early last night. They have been identified as follows:

W.A. PHILLIPS, Kerens.
W. A. HICKS, Wortham.
JACK COOPER, Corsicana.
FRED CRAIG, Roane.
L. P. SHEEK, Dallas.

The bodies of Travis Owen and Emmett Bird, both of Kerens, were brought from the Physicians and Surgeons hospital later in the night, Owen died at 7 o'clock and Bird died at 11:05 o'clock. These two men were dragged from the fire zone and hurried to Corsicana. Each lived only a few hours.

C. B. Keever, J. E. Keever, J. R. Ferris and Jesse Blair from the Keever Undertaking company at Ennis arrived early last night to assist in preparing the bodies for burial.

The bodies of S. P. Allen, field foreman; E. C. Cooper, driller; James Phillips, L. C. Coop, M. O. Turner, have not been recovered. Max Meisner and Charlie Walker are believed to have perished. The charred remains of four can be seen near the well. They cannot be recovered on account of the intensity of the heat.

Funerals This Afternoon.
Funerals for four of the victims of yesterday�s terrible oil field holocaust took place this afternoon. The bodies of W. A. (Ban) Phillips and Travis Owen were taken to Rural Shade were both were raised; Emmett Byrd was interred in Eureka, his former home, and Fred Craig was laid to rest at Chatfield, which was his childhood home.

The ladies of Corsicana and the Chamber of Commerce covered each of the caskets with magnificent flowers.

The remains of L. C. Sheek were sent to Dallas this afternoon and the body of W. A. Hicks will be sent to Wortham tomorrow.

The roustabout crew of 20 men working in the vicinity of the well escaped. Several teamsters and tank men were passing in and about the premises and rushed to the aid of the burning men, but the blaze had swept the bottom before they could be reached.

A negro teamster succeeded in loosening his team from the material wagon and escaped with them. The wagon and its contents were consumed.

Tragic Spectacle.
The scene about the well presented a sad and tragic spectacle when the monstrous explosion came. Both the day and the night crew consisting of twelve men had just started work a short while before. Several bystanders near the well escaped with their lives by running. It is believed that more dead bodies are in the burned area in addition to the known dead.

Men ran in every direction in a frenzy and fell when overcome.

Jimmy Meeks, oil field scout for the Humble Oil & Refining Company; E. W. Quinlin, scout for the Simms Oil Company; Ellis Hammel, drilling contractor; and DeWitt Watkins, members of the roustabout crew, did heroic work in attempting to save the men from their awful death.

Heroic Rescue Work.
Bravely defying all danger at the risk of their own lives rushed headlong to the burning prostrate forms of the groaning men in death agonies in answer to their piteous cries for help and succeeded in bringing them out. The men breathed their last as they were being carried out of the gas, smoke and fire.

Jim Ball escaped with B. B. Simmonds, N. M. Dunman and Dick Pyle. As they made their exit from the timber, Ball turned back to assist Owen. He succeeded in getting him into the open but too late to save his life. Charlie Lewis of Corsicana ran to the assistance of Bird.

Piteous cries for water went up from the two dying men as the ambulance brought them to the hospital.

Meeks, Quinlan, Hammel and Watkins returned towards the well for the other perishing men, but were unable to reach them. Their bodies had been practically reduced to ashes in the blaze which had gained headway. Waste oil in the bottom covering almost an acre upon which large trees saturated with oil had become enveloped in the frenzied inferno.

Quinlan is a world war hero. A native of New York State, he served in the French Army during the early days of the war. Later he served with the Canadian forces.

Quinlan is the possessor of several war medals. He was awarded the Medalto Militaire; the Croix Guerre, and while in the British he service he was the first American to be awarded the Victoria Cross. He received several hard jolts in the war, in the rescue work Wednesday the fumes and smoke temporarily almost overcame him.

Phone Girls Busy.
Shortly after three o'clock a man called the Johnson Drug Store from the Commercial Hotel and communicated the first news that reached Corsicana of the terrible disaster. The caller at the same time told Miss Valsey Hubbard, the operator, that he wanted every doctor available to go to the scene of the McKie well. The call was immediately referred to the chief operator. She rang the Corsicana Surgical and Medical clinic and asked that the doctors be sent. The hospital and every drug store in town were called to assist in every possible way. The undertaking parlors soon dispatched ambulances toward the fire. Emergency telephone calls from Powell, Kerens and Corsicana came pouring into the central office running as high as 2,400 calls per hour.

Frantic calls from various individuals were made in effort to locate the families of the dead and injured men.

Public memorial services will be held at the gospel tent at 7:45 o'clock Friday evening under the auspices of the Chamber of Commerce. Rev. Alonzo Monk, Jr., will withhold his regular revival services until after the memorial ceremonies.

The Chamber of Commerce today sent floral offerings to the families of the deceased. A suitable medal will be provided for the family of each man by the commercial organization in commemoration of their brave efforts towards the development of the oil resources of the county.

Among the members of the roustabout crew escaping are L. W. Wilkitz, E. W. Arnett, Whyne Short, J. W. Crosby, Jas. A. McDaniels, J. A. Story, Jim Ball, Ned Dumas, and Johnnie Kennon. The names of the other men have not been learned.

These men had been gathered up from various leases in the Mexia district and brought to assist in taking care of the well. The working record and the names of the men were in Mr. Allen�s pocket, and none of the surviving members are able to give the names of all the men.

Superintendent Walker of the city schools of Henrietta, and wife, father and mother of Mrs. S. P. Allen, and father of Charlie Walker, arrived in Corsicana early today.

Station Agent Wyatt and daughters of Plano, friends of the Walker family are also here.

Mr. Allen�s mother, and Miss Walker of Denton are also here. Miss Walker is a teacher in the Denton College of Industrial Arts. She is a sister of Mrs. Allen.

Notes:

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MEMORIAL SERVICES FOR MEN WHO LOST LIVES IN OIL FIRE

Memorial services in honor of the oil field workers who lost their lived in the big blaze at the Hughes-McKie well Wednesday will be held at the gospel tent, Eleventh street and Seventh avenue at 7:45 o'clock Friday evening.

The ceremonies will be conducted under the auspices of the Chamber of Commerce. Mayor J. S. Eubank and members of the city administration, presidents of the Rotary, Lions, Civic, Advertising clubs, the Retail Merchants� Association will occupy a place on the rostrum.

Every minister in town will take part in the program.

The ministers will conduct a prayer service. Hugh L. Hiett will sing.

Hon. Luther A. Johnson will make the address of condolence. Other speakers will take part.

Notes:

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FUNERAL SUNDAY FOR REMAINING OIL FIRE VICTIMS

MEN WHO LOST LIVES IN BIG OIL FIELD FIRE WILL BE BURIED HERE

Funeral services for S. P. Allen, Charles Walker, Jim Phillips, C. M. Cooper, E. C. Cooper and L. C. Cook, fire victims of the burning Hughes-McKie oil well, will be held at the First Methodist Church at 2:30 o'clock Sunday afternoon, according to announcement made today by W. S. Banks, attorney for the J. K. Hughes Development Company.

Rev. Alonzo Monk, Jr., pastor of the church assisted by Rev. C. G. Vineer, pastor of the Church of Christ, will conduct the services.

The remains of the six bodies will be interred in one casket in a specially provided lot in Oakwood cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Hon. Luther A. Johnson, Mayor J. S. Eubank, R. J. Jackson, Sam J. Jackson, John C. Calhoun, R. J. Graves, J. L. Halbert and W. H. Hastings.

The smouldering remains of the six men were recovered from the fire area of the ill-fated Hughes-McKie well several days after it caught fire May 9. They have been held at the Sutherland Undertaking Parlors pending the possible recovery of another body believed to have been undiscovered in the debris.

Seven of the perish crew were recovered from the fire shortly after the blaze started. Each were positively identified, and have been buried.

Mr. Banks stated today that the six remaining bodies had been sufficiently identified as to justify giving out the name of each. He stated the official casualty list of the J. K. Hughes Development company places the number of known dead and accounted for at 13. The list is as follows:

S. P. Allen, L. C. Cook, M. O. Turner, Charles Walker, Travis Owens, W. M. (Ban) Phillips, Jim Phillips, L. P. Sheek, W. A. Hicks, C. M. (Jack) Cooper, E. C. Cooper, Emmett G. Byrd, and Fred E. Craig.

One report carried the name of Max Meisner as among the dead and missing. Mr. Banks stated today that communication had been established with Mr. Meisner, and the Hughes company is certain he escaped injury. The company had the fire area thoroughly scorched by men clad in asbestos clothing, and no other body was found. Mr. Banks stated the company feels certain that the bodies of all men who perished in the fire has been found.

The J. K. Hughes Development Company has planned to erect a suitable monument over the grave of the six men to be buried in Oakwood cemetery in remembrance of the total number of its employees losing their lives in the big fire.

A change of plans for extinguishing the fire at the burning well late yesterday appears to have been extended the time before the blaze is stopped. W. H. McClintock has assembled a rig of his own making and patent, which he is confident will put out the fire when brought into play, but so far the apparatus has not been applied. Work was suspended at the well at 5 o'clock Friday, and nothing was done during the night. A different apparatus containing a T-joint and valve gear model has been completed, and efforts are being directed towards apply it before the McClintock machine is used.

Rain last night rendered the creek bottoms and the roads leading to the field in a very muddy condition. Transportation out from town was slow early today, which operated to cause some delay in getting work under way Saturday morning.

Although the roads were very slippery, teams and heavy trucks were on the road with tons of materials for the various new locations for drillings.

A meeting of the stockholders of the Cor-Tex Deep Well Company was held at the well just south of town at 3 o'clock this afternoon. Plans for resuming operations at the test were thoroughly gone over. Several interested individuals attended the meeting and reports are that much enthusiasm is evidenced over the proposed new operations there.

The test south of Blooming Grove to be put down by Dr. Stubbs and Dunbar spudded in at 4 o'clock. Several went out from Corsicana to see the bit take its first plunge into the surface. A local photographer was present to take a view of the rig and the crowds assembled to see the new test stared.

Notes:

Kenneth Morris Wylie
May 18, 1925 - Feb 12, 2016

Mr. Kenneth M. Wylie, 90, of Corsicana passed away on Feb. 12, 2016 at his residence. He was born on May 18, 1925 in Richland to Gordon and Clara Wylie.

He was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He spent most of his life in Corsicana, faithfully serving the community for several years. He bravely answered the call for duty and served in the U.S. Merchant Marines during World War II. He devoted himself in marriage

 to the love of his life, Patsy Cook Wylie, for 71 years until her passing in 2014. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Corsicana and a Master Mason in Corsicana Masonic Lodge #174.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Cook Wylie; son, Kenneth Ray Wylie; parents, Gordon and Clara Wylie, granddaughter, Ronda Carter; and his siblings.

He is survived by his son, Ron Wylie and wife Candyce, daughter-in-law, Diann Wylie; granddaughters, Lezley Carter, Colleen Carter, Holly Wylie, and Doree Gorden; step-grandsons, Lance Thomason and Craig Thomason; and great-grandchildren, Tanner Wylie-Davis, Makayla Gorden, Laynie Gorden, and Camilla Carter.

Visitation was held on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Corley Funeral Home.

Graveside service will be on Monday, Feb. 15, 2016 at 10 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery. Officiating the service will be Dr. Danny P. Reeves of the First Baptist Church of Corsicana.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Chris Gorden, Don Harvey, Terry Paul, Brent Ross, Ron Whitley, and Tanner Wylie-Davis.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the First Baptist Church of Corsicana.

Notes:

Jason Scott Hooper
Dec 19, 1973 - Feb 11, 2016

Jason Scott Hooper passed away on Feb.11, 2016. He had been combating a neurological disease for the past four years. Jason was born Dec. 19, 1973 in Hobbs, New Mexico.

Jason graduated from Corsicana High School in 1992 and served in the U.S. Army for two years. Prior to his illness he delivered for Cason's Flowers. He was affectionately known as "Hoop" by his friends and was always smiling and enjoying himself. Maybe a little too much at times.

He is survived by his wife Amee, sons Shane and Clark, parents Jack and Susan McMath of Corsicana and Morgan and Yansci Hooper of Lovington, New Mexico; brothers Justin Hooper of Ft. Worth, Bankston McMath and family of Corsicana; sister Hilary Palmer and husband of Lubbock, TX; Aunt Jackie Hooper and family of Alabama, Uncle Larry Hooper of San Angelo, TX. As well as lots of concerned family members and friends that prayed for his recovery. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Pat and Scott Watkins, Jack and Nell Hooper.
The family will receive friends in a time of visitation Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Corley Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral service will be Monday, Feb. 15, 2016 at 2 p.m. in the Corley Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Steven Bell officiating with interment to follow in the Oakwood Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Brian Hopkins, Adam Calame, Mark Rogers, John Gray and Michael Gray.

Notes:

Tamika Chaney Samba
abt 1977 - Feb 16, 2016

Tamika Chaney Samba, 38, resident of Corsicana, passed away Feb. 16, 2016 at Navarro Regional Hospital.

Funeral services are 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016 at the Sixth Avenue Baptist Church with Bishop K. D. Davis, Officiating, Interment will follow at Woodland Memorial Park.

Arrangements by Ross and Johnson Mortuary.

Notes:

Velma Sanders
abt 1917 - Feb 11, 2016
 

Velma Sanders, 98, of Kerens, passed Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016 at the Hertiage Oaks West Retirement Village.

Funeral services are at 1 p.m. on Wednesday Feb. 17, 2015 at the Mt. B. Zion Baptist Church in Kerens, with Pastor Nathan Carter, officiating.

Interment will follow at Woodland Memorial Park.

Arrangements by Ross and Johnson Mortuary

Notes:

Myrtle Blanche (Grounds) Stewart
Aug 21, 1928 - Feb 14, 2016
 

Myrtle Blanche Grounds Stewart passed away at her home in Corsicana on Feb. 14, 2016. She was born in Buffalo on Aug. 21, 1928 to Lynn and Osce Grounds. She attended schools in both Teague and Fairfield.

She married Roy Stewart on Nov. 20, 1948 and they made their home in Corsicana.
She is survived by her children, Badie and Paula Stewart of Corsicana and Glenn Stewart of Corsicana. She had eight loving grandchildren; Gannan Stewart, Drew Davis, Austin Stewart, Skye Stewart, Chloe Stewart, Walker Stewart, Ian Stewart and Rayne Stewart as well as two great grandsons, Dylan and M.J.

She is also survived by her brother Pete Grounds of San Antonio and her sister Lynda Grounds of Fairfield, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Roy Stewart, parents and brother Hillary Grounds.

Myrtle will be remembered for her love and devotion to her family and friends and nothing pleased her more than cooking for those she loved. She offered to all those she knew, food for the body through her deliciously prepared meals, and food for the soul with her words of council and listening ear.

She loved children and had a special way with them. Her love for her sons and grandchildren was unmeasurable and her generosity to her church and community was without limits. She will be greatly missed by all.

Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.
Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to leave a memorial in her name may do so to The Hope Center, 1115 W. 2nd Ave, Corsicana, Texas 75110.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, Corsicana.

Notes:

Louetta "Penny" (Goode) Dockery
Aug 13, 1929 - Feb 12, 2016

Louetta "Penny" Dockery, passed away at the age of 87. She was born August 13, 1929 in Lillian to A.L. Goode and Effie Hill Goode.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Dockery; son, Gary Dockery; infant daughter, Joanna Dockery and her parents.

She is survived by her, daughter Sherry French and husband Shorty of Hubbard; brother, Thomas Hill and wife Marilyn of Kerens; two granddaughters, Leslea Wilder and husband Jeremiah of Dawson and Tonie Carroll of Corsicana.

She is also survived by grandchildren, Magen Evans, Connor McEntire, Braydon Wilder, Payton Carroll, Weston Carroll and one great grandson Roland Hutson.

Visitation was held on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2016 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Graveside Service will be 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 15, 2016 at Resthaven Memorial Park Mausoleum with Rev. Daniel Dawson officiating.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home

Notes:

Linda Paulette (Schultz) Hobbs
Jan 1, 1946 - Mar 1, 2016

Linda Paulette Hobbs, 70 of Corsicana, passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at Navarro Regional Hospital.
Mrs. Hobbs was a loving wife, sister and aunt to her family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John Dee and Margie Fay Musick Schultz.

She is survived by her husband of 37 plus years, Billy Lynn Hobbs of Corsicana; brother and sister-in-laws, Jerrell and Barbara Schultz of Kerens, James and Liz Schultz of Garland; brother, Johnny Dan Schultz of Corsicana; sisters and brother-in-laws, Brenda and Jerry Bearden of Navarro Mills and Glenda and James Brown of Corsicana; number of nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 4, 2016 at Paschal Funeral Home.

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 5, 2016 at the Kerens Cemetery with Mr. Jimmy Glenn officiating.

Arrangements made by Paschal Funeral Home.

Notes:

Coy Wayne "C.W." McClendon
Nov 7, 1922 - Mar 3, 2016

Coy Wayne "C. W." McClendon, 93 of Powell, passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2016 at his residence. Funeral service is scheduled for 2 P.M. Sunday, March 6, 2016 at Paschal Funeral Home with Rev. Morris Holcomb officiating. Burial will follow in the Kerens Cemetery.

Coy was born Nov. 7, 1922, in Richland, to Nola Ethel Washer and Walter Lawrence "Jack" McClendon. He had one sibling later in life, an adopted sister Judith Eugenia (Sue) Boyd. Graduating from Richland High School.
He entered US Navy service on December 26, 1942, and went on to receive an Honorable Discharge on Nov. 13, 1945. He received gunnery training and flew combat missions as a tail gunner. He earned the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in flight combat, and was serving on the aircraft carrier USS Ommaney Bay when it was sunk by kamikaze attack in the South China Sea in September, 1944.

After his service, he enrolled in the inaugural class of Navarro Junior College and also Texas A&M. He lived in Richland, and met Joy Elaine White in 1948 in Corsicana at a pep rally for Navarro, where they were students. They married on March 25, 1949, in Corsicana at the parsonage occupied by Pastor Osley of Memorial Baptist Church. They moved to Powell in early 1950, where they lived for the remainder of their 67 years together.  He was a farmer, rancher, and co-owner of McClendon and White Farmers' Supply in Powell until its closing in 1976. He then owned McClendon's Used Trucks, dealing in cars, trucks, and farm equipment from his roadside home on Highway 31.

He served as a deacon of Powell Baptist Church for many years. He also served as a City Council member in Powell. After naval service, he took pilot training and flew private aircraft in his later life, taking his final flight as pilot of his own airplane on his 90th birthday, joined by his pilot son and student pilot grandson.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Joy; two children, Vicki Elaine Rowe and husband Glen of Waxahachie and Dan David McClendon and wife Mary Lynn of Burleson; six grandchildren, Karli Rowe Kwas and husband Michael of Nashville, Tennessee; Kinsey Rowe Pillsbury and husband Edmund of Tahoe, Nevada; Angela McClendon Ossar and husband Joel of Austin; Jack McClendon of Irvine, California; and Cole and Austin McClendon of Burleson; three great-grandsons, Milo Ossar and Jacob and Harrison Pillsbury, and two great-granddaughters, Kate Pillsbury and Avery Kwas.

Funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6, 2016 at Paschal Funeral Home with Rev. Morris Holcomb officiating.

Burial will follow in the Kerens Cemetery.

In honoring his lifelong commitment to the service of the Lord in his local church home, the family requests donations to the Powell Baptist Church in lieu of flowers.

Notes:

Nathan P. Myers
Oct 27, 1955 - Feb 29, 2016

Nathan P. Myers, 60 of Corsicana passed away Monday, Feb. 29, 2016 at his residence. He was born Oct. 27, 1955 in Corsicana to John D. Myers and Darlene Rich Myers.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Olen "Paw" Emma Rich and W.C. "Kelly" and Mary Myers.

He is survived by his wife, Christine Myers; parents, John D. Myers and Darlene Myers; children, Bryan and Sarah, Nathan and Colby, and Lonnie whom he adopted into his heart; brothers, Johny and Becky Myers of Palestine and Rory and Frances Myers of Corsicana; four grandchildren and a number of nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5, 2016 at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home with Brother Eugene Carter officiating.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home

Notes:

Samuel Arnet Oston Sr.
Jan 10, 1949 - Mar 2, 2016

Samuel A. Oston Sr., 67, native of Corsicana and a resident of Dallas passed away Wednesday March 2, 2016.
Mr. Oston was an Army Veteran who served in the Vietnam War and a retired employee of AT&T.

He is survived by his wife Ira Jean Oston, his mother Mayola Oston, his daughters Katrenia Oston-Mitchell, Tara Betts (Tim), Riva Bryant (Kenneth), Sameka Jordan, Sakesha Herford (Johnny), sons Samuel Jr. and Simeon (Rashna) Oston, 15 grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Mr. Oston's Celebration of Life will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday March 9,
2016 at Golden Gate Funeral Home, 4155 South R.L. Thorton Freeway Dallas, TX 75224.

Notes:

John Allen Thompson, Sr.
Dec 1, 1866 - Mar 24, 1922

MEMORIAL SERVICES HONORING MEMORY OF TWO PROMINENT MEN

CORSICANA PAYS TRIBUTE TO ED S. M�GEE AND JOHN A. THOMPSON SUNDAY

SERVICES AT YMCA

JUDGE DEXTER HAMILTON OF DALLAS AND HON. LUTHER JOHNSON SPEAKERS




About an altar specially draped and arranged with fitting floral decorations of Easter, under the auspices of the Board of Directors of the Young Men�s Christian Association, honoring the memory of Ed. S. McGee and John A. Thompson, well-known business men and local residents for many years, friends and neighbors of the deceased held memorial services at the Y. M. C. A. building Sunday afternoon, Ed M. Polk, president of the Board of Directors, presided. Speakers were Hon. Dexter Hamilton, associate justice of the court of civil appeals of Dallas, and Hon. Luther A. Johnson, of Corsicana. Music was furnished by a local quartet composed of Mrs. N. T. Champion, Miss Sadie Rafferty, Lloyd Kerr and Edgar Metcalf; Mrs. Ed. M. Polk, soloist and Mrs. W. P. McCammon, piano accompanist.

The invocation was pronounced by the Rev. D. K. Porter, pastor of the First Methodist church, who fervently invoked the blessings of God upon the assembly that had come to pay tribute to so worthy citizens on a day so fittingly appropriate, the anniversary of a risen Christ.

Following the invocation the quartet sang beautifully �No Shadows Yonder.�

Pays Tribute to Friend.
Hon. Dexter Hamilton, in speaking of his life-long deceased friend, John A. Thompson, declared it was extremely difficult to speak about only one particular human life.

�If I were going to single out the outstanding qualities of my departed friend whom I loved so dearly,� he said, �I would mention his blunt and outstanding straightforwardness, and rugged honesty,� in opening his tribute to Mr. Thompson.

�This man�s life was so closely linked with my own,� he continued, �that it seems a most difficult matter to point out all the noble and good characteristics that were at all times evidenced in this great man.�

�Mr. Thompson was a great business man; he accumulated wealth rapidly. This community is not only to be counted fortunate for the qualities of his heart any more than his mental activities in a business way. He was a genius; any community would be counted fortunate for having a genius of this type who was able to accumulate the new resources of the community and conserve them.�

�Speaking of him with more personal emphasis, I do not think I have met in my whole career any man with a more convincing directness in his conduct, actions and words than those splendid qualities that characterized J. A. Thompson, of this city. I never saw his spirit daunted by opposition. He would undertake a task against the greatest odds with wonderful moral courage and determination. He craved the friendship of people as much as any man I ever knew; he was less indifferent to the feelings, heartburnings will those with whom he came into conflict. He craved the esteem of his fellow-men without compromise and loved dearly his fellows with a strong and affectionate feeling.

�Mr. Thompson was a man who gave his life to the public largely and his ideas were at all times for the public good.

�How little do they, whom we now pay tribute, realize now we attempt to pay these respects to their memory. During the number of years Mr. Thompson lived in this city, he touched the lives of the community and not only electrified the business spirit of the community and contributed his own resources to the development of those things of the physical well-being of the community and state, he also put forward those worth while qualities of manhood in his daily walks of life.

�With all those, John A. Thompson has run his course. He has traveled through this world and has had his day of turmoil, and his day of abundant usefulness and has now passed on to that mysterious chasm as given to us in religious teachings. The community in which he lived has been greatly blessed and rendered better by having the benefit of the presence for a time of so great a life. It is not to be doubted that the good that men do is not interred in their bones, but lives after them.� He concluded.

At the conclusion of Judge Hamilton�s address, Mrs. Polk sang �These Are They.�

Tribute to E. S. McGee.

Honor Luther A. Johnson, in paying tribute to the memory of Ed S. McGee, prefaced his remarks by saying it was fittingly appropriate that these exercises should be held under the auspices of the Y. M. C. A. organization with which both of the deceased were prominently identified. He gave his endorsement to the remarks of Judge Hamilton, stating that Mr. Thompson was one of the seven men who gave $5,000 each towards the erection of the Y. M. C. A. building, and referred to his splendid services while a member of the building committee.

�Mr. McGee was also very active in giving to this organization,� he said, and was a member of the committee that raised #87,000 in four days here in the city towards the erection of the building. He was a member of the board of directors and rendered very material aid.�

�To me this is a beautiful occasion,� said Mr. Johnson.

�Ed S. McGee was my neighbor for nearly twenty years,� he continued. �We lived on the same street almost within a stone�s throw of each other. During that period of time he perhaps passed my house 30,000 times, and it required no observant person to mark the punctuality which actuated his life. The early hour in going to his work, the shortness of hour at noon lunch, the lateness of the returning home at night indicted the hard worker that he was; he was a hard and prodigious worker. I never knew him to slight the smallest duty. During the twenty-three years he served faithfully and well one corporation and other business interests connected with it, he found time to serve the civic and eleemosynary instruction of the city of Corsicana, which he loved. As a member of the school board he did much towards the expansion of the city school system. Had he lived he would have seen the completion of those plans which he had laid. He was a quiet, calm, Christian gentleman at all time and everywhere. He was conscientious, yet firm in his convictions and courageous at all times, frank and candid in his dealings with men, ruggedly honest and devoted to duty. He possessed a strong mind and sound body, a pure and indomitable spirit, which stamp him one of those rare characters which this instution seeks to create. He was a man among men. Society feels keenly and deeply the loss of a man like this.

�On this anniversary of the risen Christ with proclaims that �Yea I live ye shall live also,� And when mankind everywhere celebrate, and nature is rejoicing and the air is filled with the music of the birds and laden with the fragrance of the flowers, and when tree and grass is rejoicing at the coming of the spring, let nature rejoice, and those who have lost loved ones have this consolation that the winter of death is passed away and that the radiance of morning shall unfold in their memory their loved ones shall live eternally in communication with God.

Benediction was pronounced by Rev. I. T. Jones, pastor of the Third Avenue Presbyterian church.

Notes:

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THOMPSON FUNERAL ATTENDED BY MANY FROM OTHER CITIES

GREAT THRONG OF MOURNERS PAY LAST TRIBUTE TO PROMINENT BANKER

Many Beautiful Flowers

REMAINS OF JOHN A. THOMPSON LAID TO REST IN OAKWOOD CEMETERY TODAY

Funeral services for the remains of the late John A. Thompson, were held at his late home at 3 o'clock this afternoon. Rev. J. W. Fort, a former pastor of the First Methodist church, and a warm personal friend of the deceased, now a Dallas pastor, and Revs. D. K. Porter, the present pastor of the First Methodist church, and Rev. Ilion T. Jones, pastor of the Third Avenue Presbyterian church, officiated at the last sad rites and the Masons were to have taken charge at the grave but owing to the inclement weather and out of consideration for the health of those who would participate Mrs. Thompson asked that the Masonic service be dispensed with.

Mrs. J. L. Dockum played, and Mrs. Harry Williams, Miss Sadie Rafferty, Loyd Kerr and Edgar Metcalf, sang. Mrs. Williams also rendered a solo, �Under His Wing.�

The rain did not prevent an immense crowd attending the services and following the remains to the grave, among them being scores of friends from points out of town.

There was a great collection of magnificent floral offerings such as is rarely seen.

Rev. Mr. Fort spork from personal knowledge of Mr. Thompson, to whom he had been neighbor and pastor for four years. He referred to his warm, sympathetic heart, to his many noble generous deeds, to the frequent talks together and how he had seen �this great strong man kneel in his room while he prayed with him.� The speaker gave a striking illustration of the strict integrity of the man, his love for his family and referred to his �wonderful ability as a business man� and how he �had risen from an humble beginning to a high station among men.� In his last days,� said Rev. Mr. Fort, �he put one of his sons in full charge of his business and placed his implicit trust in the hands of the God he worshipped and who had guided him through life.�

The death of John A. Thompson has cast a gloom over Corsicana and Navarro County. Although he had been in almost a dying condition for months, yet the anxiety of the people for his recovery never slackened, and there was hope against hope to the very last. His marvelous life of usefulness had so endeared him to the public that all were loathe to see the dread reaper claim him as his own.

John A. Thompson had his host of personal friends, those who admired him socially as a companion; but it is as a real manly man, one who ever had the good of the people of his community at heart, that he will be missed and long remembered.

There was nothing supercilious about John A. Thompson. He was every inch a man. Firm in his conviction of right, and ever ready to uphold those things that he thought were for the good of his fellow men. He would not deceive you, but be candid and plain in saying what he thought to be right. Best of it, the people knew all this, and they admired him because of all those manly attributes, and as long as life lasts with those who knew him they will not fail to remember him, nor cease to regret his leaving them just in the zenith of his useful manhood.

Mr. Thompson was born in Marion county, Alabama, December 1, 1866. He came to Texas and settled in Kaufman county when at 18 years of age. At the age of 21 years he married Miss Maud Fleetwood, of Kaufman, and to this union six children were born.

Came Here in 1905.
In 1888 Mr. Thompson moved to Rice, Texas, where he was for some time engaged in banking and farming. In 1905 he came to Corsicana as manager of the Western Bank & Trust Company. He organized the First State Bank of Corsicana in 1907, and afterwards in 1909 he bought the Corsicana National Bank, of which institution he was president up until a few months ago when failing health forced him to retire. At the time of his death he was ex-president of the Navarro County Bank association, and was an interested stockholder and director of the National Bank of Ennis, The First State Bank of Emhouse, The First State Bank of Streetman, The Kirven State Bank, The First State Bank of Teague, The First State Bank of Rice, The Citizens National Bank of Blooming Grove, The First State Bank of Mertens, and The First State Bank of Richland. He was also vice-president of the American Cotton Association, a director of the International Banking
Association, director of the Corsicana Warehouse Association, and was president of the Corsicana Compress Company up until the first of the present year, as well as interested in numerous other business enterprises over the state.

Mr. Thompson is survived by his widow and the following children: Mrs. J. S. Eubank, Roy Thompson, John A. Thompson, Jr., and Miss Mary Louise Thompson, Jr., and Miss Mary Louise Thompson, all of Corsicana, and R. M. Thompson and W. K. Thompson, president and cashier, respectively of the First State Bank of Teague. He is also survived by his mother, Mrs. E. C. Thompson, of Corsicana, one brother, W. S. Thompson, of Dallas, and by nine grandchildren.

Mr. Thompson was a member of the Methodist Church, York Rite Mason, a Shriner, Corsicana Lodge B. P. O. E., Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club and Country Club.

Out of respect to Mr. Thompson all banks of the city closed their doors at noon today. The Corsicana National was closed for the entire day.

Telegrams of Condolence.
As soon as the news of Mr. Thompson�s death was known Friday telegrams of condolence and sympathy from scores of friends from various parts of the country have been received at the Thompson home. Among them were messages received from Pat Neff, Governor of Texas, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Hobby, R. E. L. Knight, Louis Lipsitz, B. A. McKinney and Judge William F. Ramsey, Mr. and Mrs. John W. Carpenter, all of Dallas; Hon. Rufus Hardy, Washington, D. C., M. R. Sturdivant, St. Louis; Mr. and Mrs. Sam Sparks, Austin; Gus F. Taylor, Tyler; B. F. Gill, New York City; Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Johnson, and John L. Wortham, Houston, and numerous others.

The following were the pall bearers�Dr. L. E. Kelton, W. M. Peck, O. L. Albritton, Judge Dexter Hamilton, Dallas; John R. Mays, Joe B. Fortson, Hon. R. E. Prince, J. D. Jackson.

Honorary pall bearers�B. L. Gill, New York, N. Y.; J. A. Lewis, St. Louis, Mo.; M. R. Sturtevant, St. Louis; John N. Sparks, Ft. Worth; J.A. Kemp, Wichita Falls; Gus F. Taylor, Tyler; D. W. Cooley, Houston; R. D. Johnson, Houston; John L. Wortham, Houston; W. C. Eubank, Sherman; DeWitt C. Dunn, Houston; J. F. Rice, Houston; John T. Scott, Houston; Judge W. F. Ramsey, Dallas; Edwin Hobby, Dallas; Lynn P. Talley, Dallas; John Carpenter, Dallas; Lewis Carpenter, Dallas; Hon. Cullen F. Thomas, Dallas; Hon. Thomas B. Love, Dallas; Hon. R. H. L. Knight, Dallas; S. W. Sibley, Dallas; Nathan Adams, Dallas; B. A. McKinney, Dallas; John T. Wright, Dallas; R. P. Wofford, Dallas; Louis Lipsitz, Dallas; T. J. Caldwell, New Orleans; Hon. Tom Campbell, Palestine; Tucker Royall, Palestine; Alpheus Hanks, Elkhart; Sam Kistler, San Angelo; Fred Flemming, Ardmore, Okla.; Mat Young, Dallas; N. J. Reynolds, Ennis; Hon. John A. Sharp, Ennis; Jack Eubank, Sherman; Moise Cerf, Ennis; Will Eubank, Sherman; R. T. Blakey, Ennis; E. Raphael, Ennis; I. Jolesch, Ennis; R. P. Brewer, Ennis; Buck Martin, Terrell; Sam McCord, Terrell; Geo. T. DeLafosse, Albany, Tex.; Sam Sparks, Austin; John W. Baker, Austin; W. A. Wilkerson, Waco; Gus. F. Blankenship, Jacksonville; John Beck, Frost; Joe Kiett, Frost; W. F. Nash, Kaufman; J. J. Gibbs, Kaufman; W. H. Feaqua, Amarillo; W. P. Hobby, Beaumont; R. E. Thomason, El Paso; Hon. James Young, Kaufman; Hon. Rufus Hardy, Washington, D. C.; Ray Morgan, Groesbeck; R. M. Edwards, Fairfield; Loyd Lott, Fairfield; K. G. Stroud, Italy; White George, Italy; G. G. Owens, Emhouse; N. Tinkle, Emhouse; S. M. Garrett, Emhouse; M. Montgomery, Emhouse; Frank Simpson, Blooming Grove; Bob Harris, Blooming Grove; C.
A. Gordon, Richland; J. R. Cooper, Streetman; R. C. Cole, Streetman; J. B. Cole, Streetman; C. K. Hawthorne, Streetman; J. A. Hawthorne, Streetman; J. R. Hawthorne, Streetman; W. S. Grayson, Streetman; B. H. Marks, Groesbeck; C. C. Grayson, Kirven; Judge W. E. Doyle, Teague; M. A. Webb, Teague, J. D. Maupin, Teague; R. W. Smith, Teague; Dave Alderman, Teague; Dr. Henry Link, Palestine; Captain J. N. Garitty, R. J. Jackson, Sam Jackson, Nath Garrett, Hon. J. H. Woods, T. P. Little, Tom Rea, D. W. Ray, Kerens; E. F. Whiteselle, John T. Fortson, Rice; Claude Hervey, Rice; Joe Bradley, Rice, John Bradley Rice; B. Tinkle, C. H. Delafosse, C. R. Terry, A. G. Elliott, H. G. Johnson, N. T. Champion, Loyd Young, Sam Slay, George Tidd, Will S. Knight, P. Mayer, L. C. Mimms, Ennis; Bob Pardon, Alexander; Ben Blackmon, B. B. Munsey, Chris L. Knox, Hon. Richard Mays, Hon. Lawrence Treadwell, M. L. Marks, S. B. Marks, J. D. Dunningham, Dr. Trim Houston, W. M. Taylor, Al Sowell, J. D. Speed, P. D. Williams, J. Y Stewart, Clyde Stroud, Bank Sutherland, Hon. W. A. Tarver, J. F. Taylor, C. W. Taylor, C. H. Thomas, C. M. Thornell, G. R. Thornton, C. M. Thornell, G. R. Thornton, P. C. Townsend, C. E. Upchurch, H. E. Wassell, W. C. Van Hook, T. J. Walton, W. W. Walton, W. H. Warren, J. F. Watson, J. R. Watson, T. J. Worthington, J. C. West, Bell White, J. Frank Williams, Gus Young, R. M. Whitten, Jarvis Whiteselle, L. Q. White, H. C. Talbot, Houston; W. H. Hastings, W. J. Anderson, B. F. Houston, Gus Hoover, W. M. Huggins, O. E. Hyndman, O. Inabitt, J. L. Jackson, C. L. Scruggs, Dr. W. T. Shell, Neal Johnson, E. L. Keith, P. M. Lee, C. E. Love, M. C. Caston, Kerr McClellan, Prince McClellan, E. Y. Cunningham, E. H. Lonon, A. L. Lotspeich, E. P. McElrath, B. Marks, Sydney Marks, G. W. Martin, John Christian, W. M. Clarkson, Edgar Christian, W. M. Clarkson, Edgar Gray; W. B. Gray, E. O. Vaughn, C. Coulson, C. C. Cunningham, H. B. Davis, B. J. Derdon, F. N. Drane, W. F. Dunn, R. M. McMullon, C. C. Walon, L. J. Gibson, Sol Gottlieb, Simon Daniels, Ben Rosenberg, Leon Guynes, J. L. Halbert, C. C. Roberts, John Harper, Will Harper, Jess Harper, Hastings Harrison, Joe Sands, Dr. T. B. Sadler, Walter Hays, Dr. O. L. Smith, A. A. Wortham, Lowry Martin, J. S. Roderick, Elmer Rittersbacher, R. B. Molloy, J. S. Murchison, W. D. Nolan, Wade Smith, Bush Wofford, C. N. Olsen, Hal Peck, W. H. Penland, Dr. Homer Jester, George T. Jester, E. Rapheal, Perry McCammon, Dr. J. E. McClung, G. W. Brillhart, J. T. Blackmon, F. P. Woods, Hon. Luther A Johnson, J. N. Edens, Guy Gibson, W. E. Pugh, Ed M. Polk, A. H. Kerr, J. M. Dyer, A. M. Milligan, Chas. H. Mills, G. J. Heflin, L. E. McCormick, W. T. McElwee, Hon. W. J. McKie, W. T. McKee, Will McNutt, G. D. Meredith, B. F. Irvin, N. C. Goodman.

Notes:

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PROMINENT BANKER PASSES AWAY AFTER LINGERING ILLNESS

JOHN A THOMPSON DIED AT HIS HOME THIS AFTERNOON AT 3:40

John A. Thompson died at his home on the corner of North Fourteenth street and West Fourth avenue at 3:40 this afternoon.

Although death came after many weary months of painful illness and his death has been expected for many weeks, yet the simple announcement will carry sadness to all Navarro county, as well as to many friends and admirers throughout the state.

Coming to Texas from Mississippi as a poor boy, by hard work, indomitable energy and a fine common sense and a high sense of honor, he made himself one of the foremost citizens of his county and one of the leading and best known bankers of the state.

In business life he pursued that course that not only benefited himself, but was ever ready to help others, and to help those who need help most.

In his business relations he was firm, but reasonable and lenient, always using his best business judgment in his efforts to help others out of financial difficulties. His usefulness as a banker was not always in extending assistance to others financially, but in giving sober and intelligent advice. In this way he helped many by keeping them from incurring obligations that might have proven burdensome to them.

He was the president of the Corsicana Nation Bank and a stockholder in and director for various big enterprises and at the head of several banks in Texas. He was a member of the Texas State Council of Defense. He was born in Alabama, December 1, 1866. He was a York Rite Mason and a Shriner and a member of the B. P. O. Elks No. 172 Corsicana. He was also a prominent member of the Corsicana Country Club, the Corsicana Chamber of Commerce and the Lions Club.

He was very active in war work, being county chairman of the Navarro County Chapter of the American Red Cross in 1918, and chairman of the Third Liberty Loan drive. His widow was formerly Miss Maude Fleetwood of Kaufman county, who with his six children, Mrs. J. S. Eubanks, R. M. Thompson, John Thompson, Roy Thompson, William Thompson, and Miss Mary Louise Thompson and his venerable mother and a brother survive him.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Notes:

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THOMPSON FUNERAL ATTENDED BY MANY FROM OTHER CITIES

GREAT THRONG OF MOURNERS PAY LAST TRIBUTE TO PROMINENT BANKER

Many Beautiful Flowers

REMAINS OF JOHN A. THOMPSON LAID TO REST IN OAKWOOD CEMETERY TODAY

Funeral services for the remains of the late John A. Thompson, were held at his late home at 3 o'clock this afternoon, Rev. J. W. Fort, a former pastor of the First Methodist church, and a warm personal friend of the deceased, now a Dallas pastor, and Revs. D. K. Porter, the present pastor of the First Methodist church, and Rev. Ilion T. Jones, pastor of the Third Avenue Presbyterian church, officiated at the last sad rites and the Masons were to have taken charge at the grave but owing to the inclement weather and out of consideration for the health of those who would participate Mrs. Thompson asked that the Masonic service be dispensed with.

Mrs. J. L. Dockum played, and Mrs. Harry Williams, Miss Sadie Rafferty, Loyd Kerr and Edgar Metcalf, sang, Mrs. Williams also rendered a solo, �Under His Wings.�

The rain did not prevent an immense crowd attending the services and following the remains to the grave, among them being scores of friends from points out of town.

There was a great collection of magnificent floral offerings such as is rarely seen.

Rev. Fort spoke from personal knowledge of Mr. Thompson, to whom he had been neighbor and pastor for four years. He referred to his warm, sympathetic heart, to his many noble, generous deeds, to the frequent talks together and how he had seen �this great strong man kneel in his room while he prayed with him.� The speaker gave a striking illustration of the strict integrity of the man, his love for his family and referred to his �wonderful ability as a business man� and how he �had risen from a humble beginning to a high station among men.� In his last days,� said Rev. Fort, �he put one of his sons in full charge of his business and placed his implicit trust in the hands of the God he worshiped and who had guided him through life.�

The death of John A. Thompson has cast a gloom over Corsicana and Navarro county. Although he had been in almost a dying condition for months, yet the anxiety of the people for his recovery never slackened, and there was hope against hope to the very last. His marvelous life of usefulness had so endeared him to the public that all were loathe to see the dread reaper claim him as his own.

John A. Thompson had his host of personal friends, those who admired him socially as a companion; but it is as a real manly man, one who ever had the good of the people of his community at heart, that he will be missed and long remembered.

There was nothing supercilious about John A. Thompson. He was every inch a man. Firm in his conviction of right, and every ready to uphold those things that he thought were for the good of his fellow men. He would not deceive you, but be candid and plain in saying what he thought to be right. Best of it, the people know all this, and they admired him because of all these manly attributes, and as long as life lasts with those who knew him they will not fail to remember him, nor cease to regret his leaving them just in the zenth of his useful manhood.

Mr. Thompson was born in Marion county, Alabama, Dec. 1, 1866. He came to Texas and settled in Kaufman county when at 18 years of age. At the age of 21 years he married Miss Maud Fleetwood, of Kaufman, and to this union six children were born.

Came Here in 1905.
In 1888 Mr. Thompson moved to Rice, Texas, where he was for sometime engaged in banking and farming. In 1905 he came to Corsicana as manager of the Western Bank & Trust Company. He organized the First State Bank of Corsicana in 1907, and afterwards in 1909 he bought the Corsicana Nation Bank. Of which institution he was president up until a few months ago when failing health forced him to retire. At the time of his death he was ex-president of the Navarro County Bank association, and was an interested stockholder and director of the National Bank of Ennis, The First State Bank of Emhouse, The First State Bank of Streetman, The Kirven State Bank, The First State Bank of Teague, The First State Bank of Rice, The Citizens National Bank of Blooming Grove, The First State Bank of Mertens and the First State Bank of Richland. He was also vice-President of the American Cotton Association, a director of the International Banking
Association, director of the Corsicana Warehouse Association, and was president of the Corsicana Compress Company up until the first of the present year, as well as interested in numerous other business enterprises over the state.

Mr. Thompson is survived by his widow and the following children; Mrs. J. S. Eubank, Roy Thompson, John A. Thompson, Jr., and Miss Mary Louise Thompson, all of Corsicana, and R. M. Thompson and W. K. Thompson, president and cashier, respectively of the First State Bank at Teague. He is also survived by his mother, Mrs. E. C. Thompson of Corsicana, one brother, W. S. Thompson, of Dallas, and nine children.

Mr. Thompson was a member of the Methodist church, York Rite Mason, a Shriner, Corsicana Lodge B. P. O. E., Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club and Country Club.

Out of respect to Mr. Thompson all the banks of the city closed their doors at noon today. The Corsicana Nation was closed for the entire day.

Telegrams of Condolence.

As soon as the news of Mr. Thompson�s death was known Friday telegrams of condolence and sympathy from scores of friends from various parts of the country have been received at the Thompson home. Among them were messages received from Pat Neff, Governor of the State of Texas, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Hobby, R. E. L. Knight, Louis Lipshitz, H. A. McKinney and Judge William F. Ramsey, Mr. and Mrs. John W. Carpenter, all of Dallas; Hon, Rufus Hardy, Washington, D. C., M. R. Sturdivant, St. Louis; Mr. and Mrs. Sam Sparks, Austin; Gus F. Taylor, Tyler; B. F. Gin, New York City; Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Johnson, and John L. Wortham, Houston, and numerous others.

The following were the pall bearers:

Active pall bearers�Dr. L. E. Kelton, W. M. Peck, O. L. Albritton, Judge Dexter Hamilton, Dallas; John R. Mays, Joe B. Fortson, Hon. R. E. Prince, J. D. Jackson.

Honorary Pall bearers�B. L. Gill, New York, N. Y.; J. A. Lewis, St. Louis, Mo.; M. R. Sturtevant, St. Louis; John R. Sparks, Ft. Worth; J. A. Kemp, Wichita Falls; Gus F. Taylor, Tyler; D. W. Conley, Houston; R. D. Johnson, Houston; John L. Wortham, Houston; W. C. Eubank, Sherman; DeWitt C. Dunn, Houston; J. F. Rice, Houston; John T. Scott, Houston; Judge W. F. Ramsey, Dallas; Edwin Hobby, Dallas; Lynn F. Talley, Dallas; John Carpenter, Dallas; Lewis Carpenter, Dallas; Hon. Cullen F. Thomas Dallas; Hon. Thomas B. Love, Dallas; Hon. R. H. I. Knight, Dallas; S. W. Sibley, Dallas; Nathan Adams, Dallas; H. A. McKinney, Dallas; John T. Wright, Dallas; R. P. Wofford, Dallas; Louis Lipsitz, Dallas; T. J. Caldwell, New Orleans; Hon. Tom Campbell, Palestine; Tucker Royall, Palestine; Alpheus Hanks, Elkhart; Sam Kistler, San Angelo; Fred Flemming, Ardmore, Okla.; Matt Young, Dallas; N. J. Reynolds, Ennis; Hon. John A. Sharp, Ennis; Jack Eubank, Sherman; Moise Cerf, Ennis; Will Eubank, Sherman; R. T. Blakey, Ennis; E. Raphael, Ennis; I. Jolesch, Ennis; R. P. Brewer, Ennis; Buck Martin, Terrell; Sam McCord, Terrell; Geo. T. Delafosse, Albany, Tex.; Sam Sparks, Austin; John W. Baker, Austin; W. A. Wilkerson, Waco; Gus F. Blankenship, Jacksonville; John Beck, Frost; Joe Kiett, Frost; W. F. Nash, Kaufman; J. J. Gibbs, Kaufman; W. H. Feaqua, Amarillo; W. P. Hobby, Beaumont; R. E. Thomason, El Paso; Hon. James Young, Kaufman; Hon. Rufus Hardy, Washington, D. C.: Ray Morgan, Groesbeck, R. M. Edwards, Fairfield; Loyd Lott, Fairfield; K. G. Stroud, Italy; White George, Italy; G. G. Owens, Emhouse; N. Tinkle, Emhouse; S. M. Garrett, Emhouse; M. Montgomery, Emhouse; Frank Simpson, Blooming Grove; Bob Harris, Blooming Grove; C. A. Gordon, Richland; J. R. Cooper, Streetman; R. C. Cole, Streetman; J. B. Cole, Streetman; C. K. Hawthorne, Streetman; J. R. Hawthorne, Streetman; W. S. Grayson, Streetman; B. H. Marks, Groesbeck; C. C. Grayson, Kirven; Judge W. E. Doyle, Teague; M. A. Webb, Teague; J. D. Martin, Teague; R. W. Smith, Teague; Dave Alderman, Teague; Dr. Henry Link, Palestine; Captain J. N. Garitty, R. J. Jackson, Sam Jackson, Nath Garrett, Hon. J. H. Woods, T. P. Little, Tem Rea, D. W. Ray, Kerens; E. F. Whiteselle, John T. Fortson, Rice; Claude Hervey, Rice; Joe Bradley, Rice; John Bradley, Rice; B. Tinkle, C. H. DeLafosse, C. R. Terry, A. G. Elliott, H. G. Johnson, N. T. Champion, Loyd Young, Sam Slay, George Tidd, Will S. Knight, P. Mayer, L. C. Mimms, Ennis; Bob Pardon, Alexander; Ben Blackmon, R. B. Munsey, Chris L. Knox, Hon. Richard Mays, Hon. Lawrence Treadwell, M. L. Marks, S. H. Marks, J. D. Cunningham, Dr. Trim Houston, W. M. Taylor, Al Sowell, J. D. Speed, P. D. Williams, J. Y. Stewart, Clyde Stroud, Bank Sutherland, Hon. W. A. Tarver, J. F. Taylor, C. W. Taylor, C. H. Thomas, C. M. Thornell, G. R. Thornton, P. C. Townsend, C. E. Upchurch, H. E. Wassell, W. C. Van Hook, T. J. Walton, W. W. Walton, W. H. Warren, J. F. Watson, J. R. Watson, T. J. Worthington, J. C. West, Bell White, J. Frank Williams, Gus Young, R. M. Whitten, Jarvis Whiteselle, L. Q. White, H. C. Talbot, Houston, W. H. Hastings, W. J. Anderson, H. F. Houston, Gus Hoover, W. M. Huggins, O. E. Hyndman, O. Mabhit, J. L. Jackson, C. L. Scruggs, Dr. W. T. Shell, Neal Johnson, E. L. Keith, P. M. Lee, C. E. Love, M. C. Caston, Kerr McClellan, Prince McClellan, E. Y. Cunningham, E. H. Lonon, A. L. Lotspeich, E. P. McElrath, B. Marks, Sydney Marks, G. W. Martin, John Christian, W. M. Clarkson, Edgar Gray, W. B. Gray, E. O. Vangan, C. Coulken, C. C. Cunningham, H. H. Davis, B. J. Derden, F. N. Drane, W. F. Dunn, R. M. McMullen, C. C. Walton, L. J. Gibson, Sol Gottlieb, Simon Daniels, Ben Rosenberg, Leon Guynes, J. L. Halbert, C. C. Roberts, John Harper, Will Harper, Jess Harper, Hastings Harrison, Joe Sands, Dr. T. B. Sadler, Walter Hays, Dr. O. L. Smith, A. A. Wortham, Lowry Martin, J. S. Roderick, Elmer Rittersbacher, R. B. Molloy, J. S. Murchison, W. D. Nolan, Wade Smith, Bush Wofford, C. N. Olsen, Hal Peck, W. H. Penland, Dr. Homer Jester, George T. Jester, E. Rapheal, Perry McCommon, Dr. J. E. McClung, G. W. Brillhart, J. T. Blackmon, F. P. Woods, Hon. Luther A. Johnson, J. N. Edens, Guy Gibson, W. E. Pugh, Ed M. Polk, A. H. Kerr, J. M. Dyer, A. M. Morgan, Chas. H. Mills, G. J. Heflin, L. E. McCormick, W. T. McElwee, Hon. W. J. McKie, W. T. McKee, Will McNutt, G. D. Meredith, B. F. Irvin, N. C. Goodman.

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Mr. J. A. Thompson Dead.

After months of acute suffering our friend and townsman has passed away, and Corsicana has lost, still another of its men who have been strong pillars of reliance in the financial, social and Christian world. John Thompson was a man of undoubted worth and brain, wrestling by force of character, success from the fickle world and placing himself amongst the men of large affairs in his hometown and state. He was a most devoted husband, father and friend, having said this, the highest deserved encenium has been paid him. We shall miss �John Thompson� in Corsicana. Pease to his ashes, love and sympathy for his dear ones.

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Resolutions Adopted On the Death of John A. Thompson

The following resolutions were adopted by the Corsicana Clearing House Association:
Death��That golden key
That opens the palace of eternity�
�Death comes to all, his cold and sapless hand
Waves o�er the world, and beckons us away.
And who shall resist the summons.�

We pause amidst the activities of life, and in the busy marts of trade, and bear testimony to the worth and influence of John A. Thompson, to the community, and pay a silent tribute to the memory of the departed.

The realized in truth the maxim of the ancient philosopher, that �life is given to no one for a lasting possession, but to all for use, and during the years� devoted to his business life and activities he made the greatest use of it possible.

By his indomitable energy and indefatigable zeal, by deeds well done and results accomplished, he achieved a success that is attained only by the very few in the business world, and carved out for himself a name that stands high on the record of fame, in the community and State.

His life was devoted to real things, his ideals were deduced from practical experiences, and his nature bore no sympathy with the mere visionary or impractical�he was true to his convictions, sincere and loyal in devotion to his friends, and faithful to every responsibility devolving upon him.

His name was a synonym for integrity, honest endeavor and success, and during the years that he dwelt among us, but few men, if any, have contributed more to the development of our moral, educational and business interests.

Resolved by the members of the Corsicana Clearing House Association that in his death it may be truly said, the world has lost a man, a successful business man, and the community a useful citizen, whose presence and counsel will long be missed, and whose wisdom and influences will long be remembered.

Be it further resolved, that we express our sincere regret to his business associates in their loss, and extend our deepest sympathy to the members of the bereaved family of the deceased.

First National Bank,
Corsicana National Bank,
The First State Bank,
State National Bank,
Central State Bank.
--Composing the Corsicana Clearing House Association.

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MEMORIAL SERVICES HONORING MEMORY OF TWO PROMINENT MEN

CORSICANA PAYS TRIBUTE TO ED. S. M�GEE AND JOHN A THOMPSON SUNDAY

SERVICES AT YMCA

JUDGE DEXTER HAMILTON OF DALLAS AND HON. LUTHER JOHNSON SPEAKERS

About an altar special draped and arranged with fitting floral decorations of Easter, under the auspices of the Board of Directors of the Young Men�s Christian Association, honoring the memory of Ed. S. McGee and John A. Thompson, well-known business men and local residents for many years, friends and neighbors of the deceased held memorial services at the Y. M. C. A. building Sunday afternoon. Ed M. Polk, president of the Board of Directors, presided. Speakers were Hon. Dexter Hamilton, associate justice of the court of civil appeals of Dallas, and Hon. Luther A. Johnson of Corsicana. Music was furnished by a vocal quartet composed of Mrs. N. T. Champion, Miss Sadie Rafferty, Lloyd Kerr and Edgar Metcalf; Mrs. Ed. M. Polk, soloist and Mrs. W. P. McCammon, piano accompanist.

The invocation was pronounced by the Rev. D. K. Porter, pastor of the First Methodist church, who fervently invoked the blessings of God upon the assembly that had come to pay tribute to so worthy citizens on a day so fittingly appropriate, the anniversary of a risen Christ.

Following the invocation the quartet sang beautifully �No Shadows Yonder.�

Pays Tribute to Friend.

Hon. Dexter Hamilton, in speaking of his life-long deceased friend, John A. Thompson, declared it was extremely difficult to speak about only one particular human life.

�If I Were going to single out of the outstanding qualities of my departed friend whom I loved so dearly,� he said, �I would mention his blunt and outstanding straightforwardness, and rugged honesty,� in opening his tribute to Mr. Thompson.

�This man�s life was so closely linked with my own,� he continued, �that it seems a most difficult matter to point out all the noble and good characteristics that were at all times evidenced in this great man.�

�Mr. Thompson was a great business man; he accumulated wealth rapidly. This community is not only to be counted fortunate for the qualities of his heart any more than his mental activities in a business way. He was a genius; any community would be counted fortunate for having a genius of this type who was able to accumulate the new resources of the community and conserve them.�

�Speaking of him with more personal emphasis, I do not think I have met in my whole career any man with a more convincing directness in this conduct, actions and words than those splendid qualities that characterized J. A. Thompson, of this city, I never saw his spirit daunted by opposition. He would undertake a task against the greatest odds with wonderful moral courage and determination. He craved the friendship of people as much as any man I ever knew; he was less indifferent to the feelings, heartburnings will those with whom he came into conflict. He craved the esteem of his fellow-men without compromise and loved dearly his fellows with a strong and affectionate feeling.

�Mr. Thompson was a man who gave his life to the public largely and his ideas were at all times for the public good.

�How little do they, whom we now pay tribute, realize now we attempt to pay these respects to their memory. During the number of years Mr. Thompson lived in this city, he touched the lives of the community and not only electrified the business spirit of the community and contributed his own resources to the development of those things of the physical well-being of the community and state, he also put forward those worth while qualities of manhood in his daily walks of life.

�With all those, John A. Thompson has run his course. He has traveled through this world and has had his day of turmoil, and his day of abundant usefulness and has now passed on to that mysterious chasm as given to us in religious teachings. The community in which he lived has been greatly blessed and rendered better by having the benefit of the presence for a time of so great a life. It is not to be doubted that the good that men do is not interred in their bones, but lives after them,� he concluded.

At the conclusion of Judge Hamilton�s address, Mrs. Polk sang �These Are They.�

Tribute to E. S. McGee.
Hon. Luther A. Johnson, in paying tribute to the memory of Ed S. McGee, prefaced his remarks by saying it was fittingly appropriate that these exercises should be held under the auspices of the Y. M. C. A. organization with which both of the deceased were prominently identified. He gave his indorsement ot the remarks of Judge Hamilton, stating that Mr. Thompson was one of the seven men who gave $5,000 each towards the erection of the Y. M. C.A. building, and referred to his splendid services while a member of the building committee.

�Mr. McGee was also very active in giving to this organization,� he said, � and was a member of the committee that raised $87, 000 in four days here in the city towards the erection of the building. He was a member of the board of directors and rendered very material aid.�

�To me this is a beautiful occasion,� said Mr. Johnson.

�Ed S. McGee was my neighbor for nearly twenty years,� he continued. We lived on the same street almost within a stone�s throw of each other. During that period of time, he perhaps passed my house 30,000 times, and it required no observant person to mark the punctuality which he actuated his life. The early hour in going to his work, the shortness of hour at noon lunch, the lateness of the returning home at night indicated the hard worker that he was; he was a hard and prodigious worker. I never knew him to slight the smallest duty. During the twenty-three years he served faithfully and well one corporation and other business interests connected with it, he found time to serve the civic and eleemosynary instruction of the city of Corsicana, which he loved. AS a member of the school board he did much towards the expansion of the city school system. Had he lived he would have seen the completion of these plans which he had laid. He was a quiet, calm, Christian gentleman at all time and everywhere. He was conscientious, yet firm in his convictions and courageous at all times, frank and candid in his dealings with men, ruggedly honest and devoted to duty. He possessed a strong mind and sound body, a pure and indomitable spirit, which stamp him one of those rare characters which this institution seeks to create. He was a man among men. Society feels keenly and deeply the loss of a man like this.
�On the anniversary of the risen Christ who proclaims that �Yea live ye shall live also,� And when mankind everywhere celebrate, and nature is rejoicing and the air is filled with the music of the birds laden with the fragrance of the flowers, and when tree and grass is rejoicing at the coming of the spring, let nature rejoice, and those who have lost loved ones have this consolation that the winter of death is passed away and that the radiance of morning shall unfold. In their memory their loved ones shall live eternally in communion with God.

Benediction was pronounced by Rev. I. T. Jones, pastor of the Third Avenue Presbyterian church.

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