Obituaries from
Navarro County, Texas


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Vivian Estelle (Howell) Smith
Oct 26, 1914 - May 20, 1973

Mrs. Smith

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Paul A. Smith, 58, of Temple who died Sunday at an Austin hospital.

The Rev. James Sigler will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

She was a native of Arkansas, a registered nurse, and former administrator of the Evergreen Nursing Home.

Survivors include her husband, Paul A. Smith of Temple; two sons, Paul Allen Smith of Houston, and Kenneth J. Smith of Dallas; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Smith of Houston; five sisters, Mrs. Clarence Browning of Tulsa, Okla., Mrs. W. A. Waters of Hackett, Ark., Mrs. Bill M. Pounders of Birmingham, Ala., Mrs. John Danstill of Old Greenwich, Conn., and Mrs. James Britton of Howe, Okla.

Notes:

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Mrs. Smith

Funeral services were to be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Paul A. Smith, 58, of Temple who died Sunday in an Austin hospital.

Rev. James Sigler was to officiate with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband, two sons, a granddaughter and five sisters.

Pallbearers include Jim Compton, James Britton, Marc Cloud, Dr. Bernard Rosen, Jack Doran and Don Harvey.

Notes:

Edwin Berry "Ed/Eddie" Leonard
Jul. 26, 1883 - Jan. 31, 1973

Ed Leonard

Graveside services will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday at the Oakwood Cemetery for Ed Leonard, 89, native of Corsicana and resident of Amarillo, who died Wednesday in Amarillo.

Arrangements are with Corley Funeral Home in Corsicana.

Survivors include his widow of Amarillo; three nieces, Mrs. Jack Thompson, Mrs. Homer Humphreys, and Mrs. T. E. Irvin, all of Corsicana and a nephew, George Leonard Jr. of Gilmer.

Notes:

William Abner Lienback
Mar 19, 1880 - Jan 29, 1973

W. A. LIenback

Graveside services are scheduled at 11 a.m. Thursday at Oakwood Cemetery for William Abner Lienback, 83, native of Tennessee and resident of Corsicana, who died Monday at Memorial Hospital.

He was a veteran of World War 1.

Corley Funeral Home in Corsicana will direct. Additional information on services was available at presstime.

Notes:

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W. A. Lienback

Graveside services were at 11 a.m. Thursday at Oakwood Cemetery for William Abner Lienback, 83, native of Tennessee and resident of Corsicana, who died Monday at Memorial Hospital.

Rev. David Hale officiated.

Notes:

Sam Perry Miller
Jun 17, 1900 - Oct 24, 1973

Sam Miller

Funeral services are set for 9 a.m. Friday at the Heights Funeral Home Chapel in Houston for Sam Perry Miller, 73, who died Wednesday in Houston Methodist Hospital. Rev. John Basango will officiate.

Graveside services are set for 2 p.m. Friday at Oakwood Cemeteryy in Corsicana under the direction of Corley Funeral Home. Roland Jordan, brother-in-law to Miller, will officiate.

He was a native of Giddings, Tex., a retired accountant for Missouri Pacific Railroad, and part owner of the San Benito Rest Home.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Iola Jordan Miller of Houston; a son, Dr. Gene Miller Williams of Lynchburg, Va.; a granddaughter, Mrs. Sandra Rambo of Huntsville; two grandsons, Randy and Timmie Williams of Lynchburg, Va.; and a sister-in-law, Mrs. M. A. Tekell of Corsicana.

Pallbearers include J. B. Blakely, Roy Cox, Joe Dennison, Joe McCarty, John Pinsely, A. D. White and Virgin Priddy.

Honorary pallbearers include members of the Ezra Class of the First Baptist Church in Houston.

Notes:

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Sam Miller

Graveside services were to be at 2 p.m. Friday at Oakwood Cemetery in Corsicana for Sam Perry Miller, 73, who died Wednesday in Houston Methodist Hospital. Roland Jordan, brother-in-law to Miller, was to officiate.

Survivors include his widow, a son, a granddaughter, two grandsons, and a sister-in-law.

Funeral services were held at 9 a.m. in Houston.

Notes: 

Herbert Tillman "Mack" Mix
Feb 27, 1897 - Sep 4, 1973

H. T. Mix

Funeral services are pending at Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Herbert T. Mix, 76, of 1106 West Summitt, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital following a major car accident at West Seventh Ave. and 43rd Street.

Survivors include his widow of Corsicana; a son, Jack Mix Sr. of Amarillo; a daughter, Mrs. Eugene Roop of Corsicana; six grandchildren; two brothers, V. Z. Mix of West Plaines, Mo., and William Mix of Corte Madera, Calif.; a sister, Mrs. W. O. Burton of Concord, Calif.; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Notes:

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H. T. Mix

Funeral services are set for 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for H. T. (Mack) Mix, 76, of Corsicana who died Tuesday following a car accident. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

He was a native of Hickman County, Kentucky, had lived in Corsicana for the past five years, and was a member of the Baptist church.

Survivors include his widow; a son; a daughter; six grandchildren; two brothers; four sisters, Mrs. W. O. Burton of Concord, Calif., Mrs. R. C. Thrusher of Amarillo, Mrs. Hazel Pigg of Thomas, Okla. and Mrs. Lula Graves of Oakland, Calif.; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Notes:

Clara Elizabeth (Webb) Mix
Feb 27, 1907 - Jan 12, 1975

Mrs. Mix

Services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Corley Funeral Chapel for Mrs. Clara Elizabeth Mix, 67, resident of Corsicana who died Sunday in Memorial Hospital. Rev. David Hale will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

She was a native of Goree and had lived in Corsicana since 1968.

Survivors include a son, Jack Wayne Mix Sr. of Amarillo; a daughter, Mrs. Harriett Roop of Corsicana; six grandchildren, a brother, Thomas Jefferson Webb of Corsicana; three sisters, Mrs. Eunice Scoggins of Corsicana, Mrs. Bernice Fuller of Dallas, and Mrs. Ruby Page of Ceres, Calif.

Pallbearers include W. D. Bennett, Dennis Wolver, Richard Lavally, Lee Jones Doug Hightower and Ralph Scoggins.

Notes:

Gaither "Gay" Miller
Aug 15, 1898 - Mar 28, 1973

Gay Miller

CRANE, TEXAS - Funeral services will be held Friday at 1 p.m. at Sheppard Funeral Chapel for Gay Miller, 74, who died Wednesday in Crane. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Corsicana.

Miller was a retired oil field worker and a member of the Methodist Church. He was the father of Cecil Miller of Corsicana.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Gay Miller, Crane; one daughter, Mrs. Douglas Weihe, San Marcos; one son, Cecil Miller, Corsicana; three brothers, Bill Miller, Navarro; Floyd Miller, Denton; and Buck Miller, Mexia; two sisters, Mrs. Debbie Haught, Corsicana; and Mrs. Jess Husted, Longview; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Corley's will direct the graveside services.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Thurs., Mar 29, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st wife Nina Ella (Cardwell) Miller 2nd wife Ottney Lee (Weir) Riddle-Miller-Bailey; s/o Charles Henry Miller & Lillie Belle (Bryant) Miller

Carl Orell (Brewer) Reid-Clayton
Apr 22, 1894 - Jul 15, 1973

Funeral services were to be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Niday Funeral Chapel in Houston for Mrs. Carl Orell Clayton, 79, former resident of Corsicana and resident of Houston who died Sunday at St. Joseph Hospital in Houston.

Graveside services are set for 2 p.m. Wednesday at Oakwood Cemetery in Corsicana.

Local arrangements are with Corley Funeral Chapel in Corsicana.

Survivors include a son, W. R. Reid of Houston; two grandchildren and one great-grandchild, a brother, George M. Brewer of Houston; and two nieces, Mrs. Ethel Robertson and Mrs. Louise Greathouse.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun- Tues., Jul 17, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Reuben Robert Reid married Nov 16, 1912 2nd husband unknown Clayton; d/o William Hathaway Brewer & Gertrude "Gussie" (Stewart) Brewer

Annie Grace (Willis) Grissett-Wolverton-Long-Gentry-McRoberts
Jul 1, 1876 - Jun 24, 1973

Mrs. McRoberts

ENNIS - Funeral services are set for 10 a.m. Tuesday in the J. E. Keever Mortuary Chapel for Mrs. Grace Griffett McRoberts, 76, of Ennis, who died Sunday at Ennis Nursing Home.

Jim McCurdy, First Christian Church minister, will officiate and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Corsicana at 11 a.m. Tuesday.

She was born in Corsicana, the daughter of the late Joe and Annie Willis. She married Sam McRoberts in 1913 and moved to Ennis after her husband's death in 1960.

She was a member of the First Christian Church in Corsicana.

Survivors include a son, Arnold Griffett of Goliad; a daughter, Mrs. Margaret Norris of San Diego, Calif.; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mrs. A. Howard of Ennis.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Mon., Jun 25, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Robert Bruce Grissett, Jr. married Dec. 22, 1913 2nd husband Frank E. Wolverton married Jan. 24, 1922 3rd husband J. C. Long married Oct. 28, 1924 4th husband Sam G. "Sammie" G. Gentry married Sep. 3, 1926 5th husband Samuel Preston McRoberts married Oct. 30, 1936 d/o Joseph Gulliver "Joe" Willis and Mary Ann "Annie" (Scott) Willis (in the obit Grissett is misspelled as Griffett also she married her first husband in 1913 the father of her children)

William Earl Hammonds
Jan 24, 1903 - Feb 21, 1973

Earl Hammonds

Earl Hammonds, 70, 3124 Navarro Drive, a retired Corsicana State Home employe, died early Wednesday at Memorial Hospital. A longtime Corsicana resident, he was a member of the Northside Baptist Church.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Griffin Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. David Hale and the Rev. Leroy Reaves officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery with nephews as pallbearers.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Cleo Hammonds of Corsicana; one daughter, Mrs. Linda Brittain of Plano; one son, Earl Hammonds, Jr., of Arlington; six grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. A. D. Garrison of Blooming Grove; five brothers, B. R. Hammonds of Corsicana; Monroe Hammonds of Blooming Grove; Jack Hammonds of Abilene; Dan Hammonds of Coleman, and Zebbie Hammonds of California; and several nieces and nephews and other relatives.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Wed., Feb 21, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • h/o Cleola Frances "Cleo" (Mauldin) Hammonds; s/o Ed Hammonds & Edith Fidelia "Delia" (Spurrier) Hammonds buried in Lone Oak Cemetery, Navarro county, TX

Betty Bell (Moorhead) Morton
May 5, 1897 - Aug 2, 1973

Mrs. Morton

Services for Mrs. L. M. Morton, 76, of Corsicana were held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Corley Funeral Home Chapel. Dr. Sidney Roberts and Rev. Edward Allsup officiated. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband of Corsicana; two sons, L. E. "Bud" Morton of Corsicana and Toby Morton of Houston; a daughter, Mrs. John T. Hornburg of Dallas; six grandchildren; a brother, M. A. Moorhead of Anahuac, Tex.; and five sisters, Mrs. Allene Loveless of Belmead, Mrs. Marion Turner of Gonzales, Mrs. Buford Melton of Kennard, and Mrs. Foy Barnett and Mrs. Virginia Theall, both of Dallas.

Pallbearers were Rex Carpenter, Jack Doran, John Carlock, Dr. Lester McGary, Rogers Ray and Taylor Judson. Honorary pallbearers were Businessmen's Bible Class of the First Methodist Church of Corsicana.

Notes:

Thomas Newton Showers
Oct 14, 1905 - Aug 2, 1973

T. N. Showers

Services for Thomas Newton Showers, 67, of Corsicana were held at 5 p.m. Saturday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery. The Rev. B. W. Johnson, pastor of the First Pentecostal Church of God, officiated at the services.

Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Minnie Lee Hudspeth of Kermit; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Kenneth Barber, Cloretho Reamy, Jody DeChaume, Tony Guerrero, William Murphy and Dickie Mullenix.

Notes:

Hugh Henderson "Dallas" Miller
Jan 30, 1894 - Sep 29, 1973

Hugh Miller

Graveside services are set for 5 p.m. Tuesday at Oakwood Cemetery for Hugh H. Miller, 79, of Huntington Park, Calif., who died Saturday in Huntington Park.

Howard White, Church of Christ minister, will officiate. He was a native of Corsicana, a retired employe of Western States Grocery Co., and had lived in Corsicana for a number of years.

He was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include three brothers, Dr. Tate Miller of Dallas, Dr. Will Miller and Paul Miller, both of Corsicana; and a sister, Mrs. Chester Pugh of Redding, Calif.

Arrangements are with Corley Funeral Home.

Notes:

Jeppie Milton Gilbert
May 17, 1910 - Feb 3, 1973

J. M. Gilbert

Funeral services for Jeppie M. Gilbert, 62, Corsicana carpenter who died early Saturday at Memorial Hospital, will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Eleventh Avenue Methodist Church. The pastor, Rev. Frank Williams, will officiate. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Corley Funeral Home. Nephews will be pallbearers.

A resident of Corsicana for 42 years. He was a native of Streetman and a member of Eleventh Avenue Methodist Church.

He is survived by his widow; one son, Raymond Gilbert of Norman, Okla.; two grandchildren; one brother, James Gilbert of Houston; and two sisters, Mrs. Louie Henson of Buffalo and Mrs. Annie Laura Reeder of Houston.

Notes:

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J. M. Gilbert

Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Eleventh Avenue Methodist Church for Jeppie M. Gilbert, 62, Corsicana carpenter who died early Saturday in Memorial Hospital.

The Rev. Frank Williams officiated. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery with nephews serving as pallbearers.

Surviving are his widow, one son, two grandchildren, a brother and two sisters.

Notes:

Senter Wilkins
Aug 2, 1898 - Apr 4, 1973

S. Wilkins

Funeral services are set for 3:30 p.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Senter Wilkins, 67, of Corsicana, who died Wednesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. David Hale will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

He was a veteran of World War II and had lived in Corsicana for 20 years.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Frances Wilkins of Corsicana; and sister-in-law, Mrs. Johnnie Lee Smith of Corsicana.

Notes:

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S. Wilkins

Funeral services were to be at 3:30 p.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel in Corsicana for Senter Wilkins, 67, of Corsicana, who died Wednesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. David Hale will officiate, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Survivors include his widow, and a sister-in-law.

Notes:

Frances "Fannie" (Ferrell) Wilkins
Sep 17, 1903 - Apr 17, 1977

Mrs. Wilkins

Services will be at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Frances Wilkins, 73, resident of Corsicana who died Sunday.

Claude Holcomb, Church of Christ minister, will officiate, with burial following at Oakwood Cemetery

She was a native of Freestone County, lived in Corsicana since 1946 and was a member of the Church of Christ.

Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Lottie Wiggins of Colorado City, Tex.; a grandson, Bill Horton of Dallas; and a sister, Mrs. Lee Smith of Corsicana.

Notes:

Manton Sirman
Aug 2, 1894 - Oct 2, 1973

Manton Sirman

Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. Thursday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Manton Sirman, 79, of Corsicana, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. T. F. Donald will officiate. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

He was a native of Polk County and had lived in Navarro County since 1923.

Survivors include his widow of Corsicana; three sons, Johnny Sirman of Corsicana, Willie Sirman of Tyler, and J. J. Sirman of Clute; two daughters, Mrs. Mary Russell of Houston and Mrs. Gladys Ivins of Trenton, N.J.; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two brothers, Clarence Sirman and J. T. Sirman, both of Corrigen; and four sisters, Mrs. Jessie Lee Fortune, Mrs. Alma Kennedy and Mrs. Kitty Sktivanek of Garland; six granddaughters; three grandsons; one great-granddaughter; and a sister, Mrs. Wesley Lanicek of Ennis.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Wed., Oct. 3, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • h/o Ruth Etta (French) Sirman; s/o Joseph Pickney Sirman & Mattie (Loving) Sirman [bur at Stryker cem., Corrigan, Polk Co., TX]

----

Manton Sirman

Funeral services were at 11 a.m. Thursday at a local funeral home chapel for Manton Sirman, 79, of Corsicana, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. T. F. Donald officiated and burial was at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include his widow, three sons, two daughters, nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, two brothers, and four sisters.

Notes:

Edwin Paul Stewart
Dec 16, 1908 - Aug 26, 1973

E. P. Stewart

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Griffin Funeral Home Chapel for E. P. Stewart, 64, of Richland, who died Sunday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. Billy Grimes will officiate.

Survivors include two daughters, Janet Lynn Stewart of Richland and Tracey Ann Stewart of Corsicana; and a son, Russell Stewart of Richland.

Pallbearers include Charlie Moorhead, Ted Warren, Arthur Patrick, Johnnie Wooley, Gowan Murphey, and Roger Coker.

Notes:

Andrew Franklin Formby
Sep 1, 1907 - Jun 16, 1973

A. F. Formby

A. F. Formby, 65, of Corsicana, died Saturday afternoon at Twilight Nursing Home.

Funeral services will be Monday at 10 a.m. at Griffin Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Robert J. Potts officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

He was a native of Arkansas and a member of the First Baptist Church.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Ruth Formby of Corsicana; a daughter, Mrs. Patty Knauth of Dripping Springs, Tex.; two sons, Ed Formby of Corsicana and Bill Formby of San Francisco; two sisters, Mrs. Alleyne Rogers and Mrs. Lennis Sybert, both of Dallas; one brother, Don Formby of Tucson, Ariz.; and three grandsons and two granddaughters.

Notes:

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A. F. Formby

Funeral services were at 10 a.m. Monday at a local funeral chapel for A. F. Formby, 65, of Corsicana, who died Saturday afternoon at Twilight Nursing Home.

Burial was at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors are his widow, a daughter, two sons, two sisters, a brother, three grandsons, and two great-grandsons.

Pallbearers were Herman Rhodes, Calvin Holloway, Jackson Taylor, Roy Miller, W. J. Batchelor, George Berrymann, J. E. Craig, Buddy Starks, Melvin Bowman and J. R. Howell.

 Notes:

John Glenn "Johnnie" Clark
Apr 8, 1898 - Aug 17, 1973

Johnnie Clark

Graveside services are set for 11 a.m. Thursday at Oakwood Cemetery for Johnnie Clark, 76, of Oklahoma who died at Oklahoma City, Okla., Sunday.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Birdie Clark of Oklahoma City; and three sisters, Mrs. Edna Wilkin of Waco, Mrs. Wilma Maier of Waco, and Mrs. Mayce Barney of Sun City, Calif.

Arrangements are with Griffin Funeral Home in Corsicana.

Notes:

Edna (Johnson) Orman-Coots
Nov 25, 1892 - Apr 25, 1973

Mrs. Coots

MEXIA - Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. Friday at the Corley-Porter Funeral Chapel in Mexia for Mrs. Edna Orman Coots, 79, of Mexia, who died Wednesday in Mexia. Rev. Henry Radde will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Corsicana.

She was a retired telephone operator and had lived in Corsicana a number of years before moving to Mexia.

Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Eunice Austin of Mexia and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Thurs., Apr 26, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband unknown Orman 2nd husband Frank Coots d/o George Dudley Johnson and Susan B. "Susie" (Alford) Johnson

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Mrs. Coots

MEXIA - Funeral services were at 11 a.m. Friday at the Corley-Porter Funeral Chapel in Mexia for Mrs. Edna Orman Coots, 79, of Mexia, who died Wednesday in Mexia. Rev. Henry Wade officiated, and burial was at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include a sister and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:

Joe Augusta Sims
Dec 11, 1890 - Feb 8, 1973

J. A. Sims

Funeral services are set for 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Griffin Funeral Home Chapel for Joe A. Sims, 82, of Corsicana, who died at Memorial Hospital Thursday afternoon.

Rev. David Hale and Rev. Robert Potts will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Special grave-side services will be held with the Masons.

He was a native of Rice, a World War I veteran, and a member of Northside Baptist Church. He was also a member of the Eureka Mason Lodge.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Mary Sims of Corsicana; two sons, Billy Sims of Corsicana and Joe Sims of Corsicana; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild; three brothers, H. O. Sims, Emry Sims, and Virgil Sims all of Canton, Texas.; three sisters, Mrs. Ruth Langston of Oklahoma, Mrs. Odie Beverly of Canton, and Mrs. Lenore McDonald of California and a number of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Lloyd Land, Randolph Robinson, Earl Bonner, Leroy Bonner, Brice Bonner, J. B. Sabo and honorary pallbearers include Oscar Sikes and W. P. Pritchett.

Notes:

Clennon Alton "Shine" Rash
Dec 2, 1919 - Nov 22, 1973

C. A. Rash

Funeral services will be at 3:30 p.m. Friday at Corley Funeral Chapel for C. A. Rash, 53, longtime Corsicana resident who died early Thursday at Memorial Hospital of an apparent heart attack. The Rev. B. W. Johnson and the Rev. Charles Pringle will officiate. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

He had lived most of his life in Corsicana and was an employe of Corsicana Grader and Machine Co.

Surviving are his widow of Corsicana; two daughters, Mrs. Pat Estes of Corsicana and Mrs. Sue Ferguson of Carrollton; two sons, Wayne Rash, and Chuck Rash both of Corsicana; two grandchildren; one brother, Hallie Rash of Winkler; and four sisters, Mrs. Mabel Gilliam and Mrs. Evie DeMoss, both of Corsicana; Mrs. Ora Roberts of Fairfield, and Mrs. Maggie Lee Howard of Navarro.

Notes:

Frank Edward Barklage
Jun 20, 1942 - Aug 6, 1973

F. Barklage

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Frank Barklage, 31, of Corsicana who died Monday night in a Tyler Hospital after a lengthy illness. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

He was a native of McAlister, Okla., had lived in Corsicana since 1967 and was an employe of the Commodore Corp. in Corsicana.

Survivors include his widow of Corsicana, Mrs. Barbara Barklage; a daughter, Theresa Barklage of Corsicana; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Robinson of McAlister; and a brother, Billy Joe Shivers of Oregon.

Pallbearers include Wilmer Cottongame, Jr., W. L. Cottongame, Randall Cottongame, Elmer Trent, Bill Bennett and Hugh Holliman.

Notes:

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F. Barklage

Funeral services were to be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Corley Funeral Chapel for Frank Barklage, 31, of Corsicana, who died Monday night in a Tyler Hospital after a lengthy illness. Burial was to be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include his widow, a daughter, his parents and a brother.

Rev. W. M. Biggs was to officiate.

Notes:

David Hassell
Sep 8, 1936 - Jul 21, 1973

David Hassell

Services are scheduled Monday at 2 p.m. in the Griffin Funeral Home Chapel for David Hassell, 36, who died early Saturday morning in Mexia.

Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, with Rev. James T. Davis officiating and Griffin's in charge of arrangements.

He was a native of North Carolina and resided in Corsicana for a number of years, including up until his death.

Survivors include a daughter, Tanyia Reane Hassell of Corsicana; his parents, the J. H. Hassells of Greenville, N. C.; three sisters, Mrs. Susie Sutton and Mrs. Myrtle Mills of Greenville, N. C., and Mrs. Sarah Roch of St. Petersburg, Florida; and two brothers, Frank Hassell of North Carolina and Arthur Hassell of Clearwater, Florida.

Pallbearers will be Richard Mahonie, Charles Arnett, Richard Beasley, Walter Arnett, Ray Just and John Henry Welch.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Sun., Jul. 22, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • h/o Frances "MiMi" (Carpenter) Hassell-Townley (Divorced); s/o James Henry Hassell & Maude (Campbell) Hassell

Shannon Dale Rogers
Sep 26, 1973 - Oct 8, 1973

Shannon Rogers

Graveside services are set for 2 p.m. Wednesday at Oakwood Cemetery for Shannon Dale Rogers, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Rogers of Corsicana, who died Monday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. Mickey Loftis will officiate.

Survivors include his parents; two brothers, Rodney and Shawn, both of Corsicana; three sisters, Gina, Wendy, and Misty, of Corsicana; and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. D. C. Rogers of Corsicana, Mrs. A. L. Milne of Rice and Etter Jones of Waco.

Arrangements are with Corley Funeral Home.

Notes:

Esther Cecelia (Oswald) Katzenstein
Aug 8, 1890 - Aug 16, 1973

Mrs. Katzenstein

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Sunday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Esther C. Katzenstein, 83, of Corsicana, who died Thursday at her residence. Rev. Mickey Loftis will officiate, and burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery. She was a native of Niahrara, Neb., had lived in Corsicana for four years, was a former resident of Junction, Tex. and had lived in Connell Bluffs, Iowa, for 40 years, was a retired nurse, and a member of the Baptist Church.

Survivors include two sons, Dr. William Katzenstein of Corsicana and Herbert Kay of Waco; a daughter, Mrs. Jack Kenney of Corsicana; seven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mrs. Agatha Fink of Hollywood, Calif.

Grandsons will be pallbearers.

Notes:

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Mrs. Katzenstein

Funeral services for Mrs. Esther C. Katzenstein, 83, of Corsicana are set for 2 p. m. Sunday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

Mrs. Katzenstein died Thursday at her residence.

Survivors include two sons, one daughter, seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and one sister.

Notes:

Dr. William Sylvester Katzenstein
Oct 12, 1910 - Feb 5, 1974

Dr. Katzenstein

Funeral services will be at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Dr. William Katzenstein, 63, of Corsicana, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. Mickey Loftis will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

The retired physician was a native of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and had lived in Corsicana for the past six years.

He received his medical degree at Creighton Medical School in Omaha, Neb. In 1935. He die his internship at Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs and Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati.

He practiced medicine the past 20 years in Junction, Tex. His 36 years of medical practice was done in Minden, Iowa, Waco, and Junction.

Survivors include a sister, Mrs. Jack Kenney of Corsicana; a brother, Herbert Kay of Waco; a number of nieces and nephews; and an aunt, Mrs. A. O. Fink of Hollywood, Calif.

Pallbearers include Tom Keating, John Travis, Jack Baggett, Louis Durr, Arnold Sorensen and Douglas Sorensen.

Notes:

Clifton "Red" Johnson
May 20, 1911 - Mar 23, 1973

C. Johnson

Graveside services are set for 2 p.m. Sunday at Oakwood Cemetery in Corsicana for Clifton (Red) Johnson, 61, of Houston who died Friday in Houston. The remains will lie in state at Corley Funeral Home until the services.

Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Saturday in Memorial Baptist Church in Houston.

He was a native of Emhouse and a welder in Houston.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Ora Mae Johnson of Houston; a son, Carey C. Johnson of Houston; two daughters, Miss Carmelita Johnson of Garden City and Mrs. Sharon Gay Turpin of Houston; and two sisters, Mrs. C. O. Williams of Ennis and Mrs. C. H. Bell of Corsicana.

Notes:

Ethel Beatrice (McMichael) Gilbert
Mar. 3, 1907 - Nov. 7, 1973

Graveside services are set for 2:30 p.m. Friday at Oakwood Cemetery for Mrs. Ethel B. Gilbert, 66, of Gunter, who died Wednesday in Gunter. Arrangements are with Corley Funeral Home.

Survivors include a brother, LeRoy McMichael of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Agnes Crumbley of Houston, Mrs. Allie Terry of Gunter and Mrs. Ray Lawler of Gordonville.

Notes:

Mary Lena (Scott) Mullins
May 31, 1896 - Oct 17, 1973

Mrs. Mullins

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Thursday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Mary Lena Scott Mullins, 77, of Corsicana, who died Wednesday at Memorial Hospital.

She was a member of Missionary Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school and was active in the Missionary Baptist Church Woman's Auxiliary. She was born May 31, 1896, in Ducksprings, Ala., the daughter of the late Agrippa and Mentreia Scott.

She moved to Navarro County in 1902 and married William Booth Mullins in 1920. He preceded her in death in 1964.

Survivors include a son, R. Frazier Mullins of Arlington; two grandchildren, Mrs. Jerry Ward of Arlington and Michael Mullins of Grand Prairie; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Wilson Scott of Corsicana; two sisters, Mrs. D. D. Nix and Mrs. Beatrice Downs, both of Corsicana.

Notes:

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Mrs. Mullins

Funeral services were to be at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Mary Lena Scott Mullins, 77, of Corsicana, who died Wednesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. Dwayne Furlow was to officiate with burial at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include a son, four great-grandchildren, a brother and two sisters.

Pallbearers include Collin Green, George Chappel, Thelbert Perceival, T. G. Haynes, R. G. Crumbley and Ronnie Arnett.

Notes:

Letha Leola (Bennett) Berry
Dec 5, 1889 - Mar 27, 1977

Mrs. Berry

Services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Griffin Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Letha Berry, 87, resident of Corsicana, who died Sunday afternoon at Memorial Hospital.

Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include two sons, Jesse Berry of Pasadena and William Berry of Navasota a daughter, Mrs. Lois Sims of Corsicana; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren, and three sisters, Mrs. Joe Berry of Kerens, Mrs. Mae Frost of Livingston, and Mrs. Pauline Anderson of Humble.

Pallbearers are Robert Bennett, Ronnie Bennett, Billy Joe Anderson, Jack Frost, Cleo Berry, and James Bennett.

Notes:

Dora Estell (Watson) Reed
Oct 24, 1894 - Jul 31, 1973

Mrs. Reed

Funeral services are set for 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Corley Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Fred Reed, 79, of Barry, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. Ken Branam will officiate, and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

She was a native of Barry, had lived there all her life and was a member of the Barry Baptist Church since 1913.

Survivors include her husband of Barry, two sons, John F. Reed of Barry and Weldon Reed of Plainview; four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Mrs. Margaret Gay and Mrs. Josie Nolen, both of Corsicana.

Notes:

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Mrs. Reed

Funeral services were to be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the Corley Funeral Chapel for Mrs. Fred Reed, 79, of Barry, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. Ken Branam was to officiate, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband, two sons, four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and two sisters. Rev. Tom Robuck also was to officiate.

Pallbearers include Leon Reed, Lowell Reed, Marshall Massengale, C. D. Poss, N. H. Livingston, and Less Kitchens.

Notes:

Benjamin Clopton "Dick" Bartlett, Jr.
Nov 12, 1912 - Jul 30, 1973

B. C. Bartlett

Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Smith-Boles Funeral Chapel in Mount Pleasant for Benjamin C. (Dick) Bartlett, 60, of Mount Pleasant who died Monday in Mount Pleasant.

Graveside services are set for 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Corley Funeral Home.

He was a native of Rice and had lived in Mount Pleasant for seven years.

Survivors include his widow of Mount Pleasant; and four sisters, Mrs. Carl Roucher, Mrs. Dan Morgan and Mrs. Joe Alyward, all of Dallas, and Mrs. Steve Bell of Corsicana.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Tues., Jul 31, 1973
    Submitted by Diane Richards
  • US Army WWII
  • h/o Mary Melvina (Lockhart) Bartlett married Jun. 18, 1939; s/o Benjamin Clopton Bartlett, Sr. & Minnie Eudora (Queen) Bartlett buried in Rice Cemetery, Rice, TX

-----

B. C. Bartlett

Graveside services are set for 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Oakwood Cemetery for Benjamin C. (Dick) Bartlett, 60, of Mount Pleasant who died Monday in Mount Pleasant. Local arrangements are with Corley Funeral Home.

Funeral services were at 11 a.m. today at Mount Pleasant.

Survivors include his widow, a daughter, two sons, and seven grandchildren.

Notes:

Nancy Ruth (Squirrel) Taylor
Oct 30, 1905 - Nov 6, 1973

Mrs. Taylor

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Friday at the Corley Funeral Chapel for Mrs. Walter B. Taylor, 68, of Corsicana, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital.

J. C. Bristow, Jehovah's Witness minister, will officiate and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband of Corsicana; two sons, Jack C. Thomas and Robert Thomas, both of Miami, Okla.; a daughter, Mrs. Carolyn Thomas of Kuapaw, Okla.; six grandchildren; three brothers; and a sister.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Tues., Nov. 6, 1973
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband Louis Stafford Thomas 2nd husband Walter Benjamin Taylor married Sep 8, 1965; d/o Elizabeth Ann (Cox) Squirrel

Laura Alice (Anderson) Bunch
Apr 27, 1902 - Feb 14, 1973

Mrs. Bunch

Funeral services will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at Griffin Funeral Home for Mrs. Laura Bunch, 79, who died Wednesday afternoon at Memorial Hospital after a lengthy illness. Earl L. Craig and Cato Sherrer, Church of Christ ministers, will officiate. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

Mrs. Bunch was a member of the Church of Christ, and a long-time resident of Corsicana.

She is survived by a son, Royce Bunch; a daughter, Mrs. J. T. Burkes, Corsicana; three sisters, Mrs. Lillie Adams, Corsicana; Mrs. Helen Adams, Ft. Worth; and Mrs. Dolly Deere, Linden, Tennessee; three grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Marshall Anderson, Edward Anderson, Raymond Gunter, Royce Wesley, Darrell Adams, and C. E. Eaton.

Notes:

Stacey Dawn Seaton
B&D Aug. 14, 1973

Stacey Seaton

Graveside services are set for 10 a.m. Thursday at Oakwood Cemetery for Stacey Dawn Seaton, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James F. Seaton, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital.

Survivors include her parents of Corsicana; a brother, Chris Seaton of Corsicana; and her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Allen Beaty of Loraine.

Notes:

Maynard Bertrand George, Sr.
Jun 21, 1896 - Aug 13, 1973

M. B. George

Funeral services are set for Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at Griffin Funeral Home Chapel for M. B. George, 77, who died this morning at Memorial Hospital. Officiating ministers will be Howard White and C. B. Holcomb. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery.

George was a World War 1 veteran and a member of the College Hill Church of Christ.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Joyce George of Corsicana; two sons, Gordon George of Virginia, and Robert George of Mesquite, Texas; four daughters, Mrs. Carlisle Horwan of Grand Prairie, Mrs. Mary Anderson of Houston, Mrs. Jane Miller of Mesquite, and Miss Julian George of Mesquite; one sister, Mrs. H. W. Hughes of Cleburne; and seven grandchildren.

Notes:

-----

M. B. George

Funeral services are set for 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the griffin Funeral Home Chapel for M. B. George, 77, who died Monday morning at Memorial Hospital. Officiating ministers will be Howard White and C. B. Holcomb.

Survivors include his widow, two sons, four daughters, a sister and seven grandchildren.

Pallbearers include Jessie Beamon, Paul Dresser, J. D. Dowd, C. F. Dominy, Elven Wright, Bill Galloway, Harrison Sloan and R. D. Crider.

Notes:

Earlene (Martin) Johnson-Crenshaw
Mar 20, 1935 - Jul 2, 2024

Into His eternal, loving embrace, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, welcomed his faithful and precious child, Earlene Crenshaw, on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Earlene was born March 20, 1935, in Waxahachie, Texas, to Joe Edgar Martin and Vera Lometa Martin. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wiley Major Crenshaw, Jr., her parents, brother, dearest daughter-in-law, and her heart's truest furry companion, Dixie. Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Karen Rowlands, Paula McClure and husband Joe, and Gary Johnson. She is also survived by her three adoring grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
Earlene's life was enriched by a deep affection for crafting and creativity, and an enduring reverence for nature, especially the beauty of flowers, which she cultivated with tender devotion. Yet, it was her outpouring of love for others that will resonate most deeply. Of these gifts, the most notable was her remarkable capacity for relationship, finding joy in meeting others and building meaningful connection. It was in her presence that you knew value, warm embrace, and the true nature of God's unconditional and never-ending love.
Earlene's life will be honored in private celebration. Two charities held special significance in her heart; expressions of sympathy may be made in memorial to the Corsicana Animal Shelter or the Texas Baptist Children's Home.
A memorial service will be held on August 3, 2024 at Rose Hill Pavilion in Blooming Grove, Texas at 10:30 am.

Notes:

  • Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home
  • w/o Wiley Major Crenshaw, Jr; d/o Joe Edgar Martin & Vera Lometa (Carroll) Martin
  • Rose Hill Cemetery, Blooming Grove, Navarro Co. TX
  • Submitted by Karen Rost

Melinda Estelle "Lynda" (Smotherman) Bruner
Jan 28, 1940 - Jun 18, 2024

Melinda (Lynda) Estelle Smotherman Bruner, 84, of Hillsboro, passed away late Tuesday evening, June 18, 2024, in Italy, Texas.
Born on January 28, 1940, in Ennis, Texas, Lynda was the daughter of Marshall Hugh and Ella Frank Smotherman. Lynda was baptized at the local Baptist Church at a young age and later her father followed her in baptism. The Smotherman family soon moved to Kerens, where Lynda was a majorette and played the French horn in the high school band. On October 4, 1957, she was united in marriage to Robert Edward Bruner of Kerens. Lynda finished high school at Waco High and then attended Baylor University in Waco for the next few years. Robert joined the Navy and was stationed at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, where the couple started their family. Both daughters were born at Queen's Hospital in Honolulu. They moved back to Kerens and had a son. Lynda found her passion in being a mother and choir member while also teaching Sunday School and Children's Choir at First Baptist Church of Kerens. She enjoyed her time sewing, working with the youth and young children, but also joined the Garden Club and Music Club, where she made many friends. In 1974, the family moved to Ferris and then moved again to Hillsboro, where Lynda continued her teaching and choir membership at the First Baptist Church of Hillsboro. She joined the hand bell choir, Newcomer's Club, and the Sesame and Garden Clubs. She learned to use computers and worked with her husband at Bruner Insurance, and later, even started her own cosmetic and make-over business with a friend before eventually retiring in Corsicana to be close to her mother and older sister.
Preceding Lynda in death were her husband, Robert E. Bruner; daughter, Sherri Lynne Bruner; grandson, Robert Scott Clay; parents, Marshall and Ella Frank Smotherman; and sister, Patricia Pearce.
Survivors include: her daughter, Cindy Bruner Clay and husband, Edwin; son, Charles Robert Bruner and wife, Cindy Rosatelli Bruner; Granddaughter, Kasi Lynne Clay, of Austin; Grandson, Corey C. Clay, of Hillsboro; Granddaughters, Braedyn Bruner, of Los Angeles, CA; and Baylor Bruner Drexel and husband, Kevin, and Great-granddaughter, Lovelyn Drexel of Prosper, Texas; sister, Marsha Kay, and husband, Don Johnston of Midlothian; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at Paschal Funeral Home in Kerens, Texas, with Rev. Paul Dorsey officiating. Burial will be in the Kerens Cemetery.
Memorials can be made to First Baptist Church Youth Ministry in Hillsboro, Texas.

Notes:

  • w/o Robert Edward Bruner; d/o Marshall Hugh Smotherman & Ella (Frank) Smotherman
  • TThe Corsicana Daily Sun - Fri., Jun 21, 2024

Submitted by Karen Rost

Clovis Dale Lane
Apr 4, 1930 - Jul 7, 2024

Dale was born on April 4, 1930, to James (Pete) and Nora (Wallace) Lane in the Shady Grove community. With the exception of one year that his family lived near Wortham, he was a life-long resident of Shady Grove.  He was a God-fearing husband and father who served as a deacon of Shady Grove Baptist Church.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, wife Jean, sons-in-law Dick Miller and Jerry Collier, siblings, Loretta Cottongame, J.E. Lane Jr., Bobby Lane, and Jo Beamon Littlejohn.

He is survived by his daughters, Cathy Miller, Kay and Randy Arp, Brenda and Charles Lowe, Sheri Collier, and Autumn and Andy Cox. He was blessed with 3 generations of grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Dale entered the arms of his savior on July 7th, 2024. Visitation will be from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home in Corsicana. Funeral service will be at 10:00 am Friday, July 12th at Shady Grove Baptist Church (10040 SW County Road 4220, Dawson, TX) Burial will follow at Pursley Cemetery on FM 642.

Pallbearers are grandsons, Austin Driggars, Jeffery Collier, Eric Arp, Jason Cox, Steven Collier, and Mike Reeder. Honorary pallbearers include
3 generations of grandsons.

Dale served in the Army and was stationed in Korea. After returning from duty, he married Jean Gullett Burleson on December 2, 1955, in Mexia, Tx. In the fall of 1958, he purchased a 3-room house, and had it moved to the Shady Grove Community on an acre of land he purchased from his father. He added rooms as his family grew. After the death of his parents, he purchased additional land from his brother and sister's inheritance. He raised cattle and had a large garden.

He retired from United States Gypsum where he worked as a cupola operator for many years and later doing janitorial work.

Dale was an outdoor person. He liked to fish, work on cars, and tinker with tools. He could do almost anything around the house, whether it be plumbing, electrical, or building. He loved the mountains and enjoyed camping with his family.

He was a musician, playing guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, and harmonica. He loved to sing with his wife and daughters. Dale and Jean made frequent trips to nursing homes to entertain the residents.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home from 6-8 pm. Funeral Service will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, at Shady Grove Baptist Church at 10:00 am with Bro. Brian Upchurch officiating.

Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home
 

Notes:

Clayton Smith
Jan 3, 1937 - Jul 2, 2024

Texas Ranger Sgt. Clayton Smith, 87, went to be with the Lord on July 2, 2024. He was born January 3, 1937, to Elmer and Bessie Smith on the Smith Farm at Grape Creek in Navarro County, TX.
He was a 1954 graduate of Mildred High School. On December 23, 1954, he married Dorothy Jamison of Corsicana. After graduation, Clayton proudly served his country and was a veteran of the United States Air Force where he served four years. He began his training in the Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol Academy on December 2, 1958. This was only the start of a career that defined who he was as a Law Enforcement Officer but more importantly, who he was as a servant of God first, and then of the people of his beloved State of Texas. He would go on to give Texas and the Department of Public Safety 41 years of his life.
During his Highway Patrol years Smith worked many significant cases. In 1962, he worked the train derailment in Chandler, Texas which resulted in evacuating the entire city. On May 3, 1968, he was instrumental in the investigation regarding the Braniff Airline crash in Dawson, Texas. The plane involved 5 crew members and 80 passengers. There were no survivors. However, his most life changing Highway Patrol event was on October 16, 1975, on a random traffic stop that resulted in a gun battle that almost took his life. Gunfire was exchanged between Smith and the motorist who later was known to have committed several robberies over the past days. After the shooting was over, Smith had an empty service revolver and the assailant still had three hollow point bullets remaining with an extra clip in his pocket. Anyone else might think that was enough, but God was not finished with Clayton Smith.
In 1979 Clayton was commissioned into the highly prestigious Texas Rangers. He investigated many high-profile cases during his 14 years as a Ranger. He investigated serial killers and helped law enforcement agencies all over the US solve murder cases. He worked the 51-day standoff Waco siege in 1993, of the Branch Dividian Compound at Mt. Carmel. He also investigated the Luby's Massacre in Killeen, Texas on October 16, 1991. During those years as a Ranger, Smith was certified in hypnosis. This allowed him the ability to help victims of crimes give details about their assailant that might otherwise go unnoticed and resulted in many solved cases. These cases are just examples of the many hours of investigative work Smith participated in during his legendary career as a Texas Ranger. In 2010 he received the distinguished DPS Purple Heart for bravery.
However, the part of his life that he willingly shared about the most was his love for Jesus and his family. He loved people from all walks of life and he loved sharing the Gospel with everyone he met. His whole purpose for going into Law Enforcement was so that he could serve others. In 1976 he was ordained a Minister. From that day forward, God used him to preach in countless pulpits in Texas. Locally, he served as interim and guest pastors for First Baptist Church in Streetman, First Baptist Church of Powell and Emmanuel Baptist Church in Corsicana. Most recently, Clayton Smith helped at the Good News Caf� at FBC Corsicana. He brought a devotional there every Monday where he not only wanted people to be fed physically but had a burning desire to see them fed spiritually. He was the definition of a good and faithful servant to the very end of his earthly life.
He is survived by his wife of almost 70 years, Dorothy Jamison Smith; daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Mike McCary of Corsicana; daughter and son-in-law, Sheri and Paul Warner of Thorndale; grandchildren, Emily and Brad Gentry, Josh and Andie Warner, Drew and Leslie McCary, Tyler and Cari Warner, Jared and Olivia Smith, Braden Smith, and Mackenzie Smith; great grandchildren, Jack, Annabelle, Luke, Henry, Hank and two more on the way. Two nephews, Neal Parks and David Smith. He is preceded in death by his son Timothy Clayton Smith, Mother and Father, Elmer and Bessie Smith, a brother Afton Smith and his sister Hazel Smith Parks.
Visitation will be Monday, July 8, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 pm at First Baptist Church. Funeral Service will be Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 10:00 am at First Baptist Church with Dr. Danny Reeves officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Good News Cafe 510 W. Collin St. Corsicana, Texas 75110

Notes:

Ronald Arthur Richardson
Jun 6, 1945 - Jan 16, 2024

Ronald Arthur Richardson, 78, of Pursley left us on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. He was born in Texas City, Texas on June 6, 1945, to Luther and Agnes Smith Richardson.
He graduated from Aldine High School in Houston in 1964. He then attended West Texas State on a full football scholarship.
In Ronnie's early career he was a fuel truck driver for Gulf Oil/Chevron for 20 years, driving a million miles, accident free. He then worked in the pipeline control center in Wortham. Along with his jobs, he raised and tended to his cattle, until he was no longer able.
In 2003 he married his high school sweetheart, Rena. God blessed them with 20 years together.
Even though he had no biological children, he was a proud and loving dad and grandfather. The word "stepchildren" was never in his vocabulary or in his heart.
Ronnie was a Master Mason and loved the outdoors. He enjoyed competitive skeet shooting, hunting, fishing and loved to root for any football team who was playing against the Dallas Cowboys.
He had a lot of accomplishments in his life. One that he was the proudest of was when he obtained his private pilot's license.
He was passionate about his Christianity and was thankful to be a part of the Prisoners of Christ. For years he spent hours on the phone with prison Chaplains, scheduling dates for the group to come into the prisons all over Texas to share the Word of God and the gift of Salvation. Ronnie loved this ministry, what it stood for and each and every member in the group. He missed it dearly when he was no longer able to attend.
Ronnie is survived by his wife, Rena, Children DeAnne Harris (Joe), Trent Long (Alaine), Susie Young (Kenny), Kristi Young and Tim Young (Cassie). Grandchildren: Matthew Harris, Delainey Long, Madeline Young, Emily Young, Rickie Bowers and Zachary Bowers. Sister, Beverly Hepler (Jerry), Niece, Tina Hepler Sperry and Nephew Sean Hepler (Julie). Last, but not lease, Buddy, his lap dog, who he called "his boy".
Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents Luther and Agnes Richardson and Granddaughter Natalie Harris

The family would like to express their thanks to Bristol Hospice and Skilled Care of Mexia for their loving care and support for Ronnie and Rena during this difficult time.

Notes:

Blanche (Vandeveer) Chew
Dec 6, 1932 - Feb 27, 2004

Blanche Chew, age 91, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at the Twilight Nursing Home in Corsicana, with family by her side.
Blanche was born December 6, 1932, to Marion Timothy Vandeveer and Alice (Bishop) Vandeveer in Mason, Texas. Her youth was spent on the ranch where her father worked, and she enjoyed telling stories of her days in the Texas Hill Country. She married Dalmon Chew, known locally as "Tiny" on March 25, 1955, in Llano, Texas. The couple had two sons, Coleman and Russell. The family relocated to the Eureka area in 1963 where she was a homemaker and then later worked in various retail jobs. She loved spending time with her family and friends. In her retirement years, one of her favorite activities was to enjoy a hamburger from Jack-in-the-Box while sitting in the parking lot reading her newspaper. Following the death of her husband, she resided at Friendship Tower apartments, until health problems at the age of 88 required a move to Twilight Nursing Home.
Blanche was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother and sister-in-law, Alden and Laverne Vandeveer, and an infant great-grandson, Brycen Jock.
She is survived by her sons and their wives, Coleman and Nancy Chew and Russell and Debbie Chew; grandchildren, Jason Jock, Allison Chew, and Melinda Chew, numerous great grandchildren, sister-in-law Mabel Barrow, nephews Alden Vandeveer, Jr. and Lance Barrow, niece Sarah Alice Hardin, several great nieces and nephews, as well as a host of other family and friends left to cherish her memory.
The family would like to thank the staff of Twilight Nursing Home where she was especially fond of several of the young nurses and other workers. The care provided her there will always be greatly appreciated. Also, a special thank you to Traditions Hospice for their dedicated care over the past few weeks.
Blanche chose cremation for herself. A memorial service honoring her life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Griffin Roughton Funeral Home in Corsicana with Rev. Larry Talbert officiating. Interment of her ashes will take place at a later time at Bethel Cemetery near Katemcy in Mason County, Texas.

Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.

Notes:

Martha Jean (Bennett) Coody
Mar 10, 1942 - Apr 23, 2024

Martha Jean Bennett Coody passed away at home on April 23, 2024. She was born in Alamogordo, NM on March 10, 1942, to Wilson and Susie Mae Bennett.

Martha grew up in Alamogordo, NM and worked on the family ranches of Crow Flat. She was the first Otero County rodeo queen in 1958. After high school she attended Colorado State University until falling in love with her high school friend, Jim Coody. They married on December 22, 1962. She then received her bachelor's degree from New Mexico State University.

She was a devoted wife and mother all of her life. Her family was her priority. Martha remained a devoted wife for 56 years until Jim's passing in December 2019. They had 3 children Kathy, David and Jesse. While in New Mexico she was an active member of CowBelles and served as state officer.

In 2000, Martha and Jim relocated the Ranch to Barry, Texas. The ranch continued operations as the Heart X Ranch at Rush Creek where she achieved her dream of raising registered bulls.

Martha is preceded in death by her parents, Wilson and Susie Mae Bennett, her sister Betty Ayleene Stoots, her husband, Jim Coody and her son Jesse Coody.

She is survived by her daughter Kathy Coody, son David Coody and wife Christena, and daughter-in-law Lisa Coody; her grandchildren Susie and fianc� Doug, Paige and husband Travis, Doss, Jace, Stephanie and husband Mike, Megan and husband Patrick, and Kelsey and husband Kyle; her great grandchildren Brody, Jessie, Ryan, and Leighton.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 4-5pm at the Lone Star Cowboy Church of Navarro County with a Celebration of Life service to begin at 5pm. A graveside service will be held in Alamogordo, New Mexico on Monday, April 29, 2024, at 3pm at the Monta Vista Cemetery.

Notes:

Richard Lee Sayles
Oct 10, 1938 - Jun 26, 2024

Reverend Doctor Richard Lee Sayles, age 85, passed away on June 26, 2024, at a hospital in Corsicana, Texas. Richard was born on October 10, 1938, to John Henry and Ruby Sayles in Kerens, Texas.
Richard retired from the U.S. Air Force and the U. S. Postal Service. He served as a Deacon at Grace First Baptist Church in San Antonio, Texas; as Pastor of Grant Memorial AME Church in San Antonio, Texas; and was currently serving as First Assistant Pastor of Mt. B. Zion Baptist Church in Kerens, Texas.
The widow of the late Mattie Jackson Sayles, Richard is survived by children Rickey, Richelle, husband Sean, grandchildren Sean Tyler, Sydney and Catrice; great-granddaughters Ava Rose & Harmony Nevaeh and special friend Joyce H. Goff.
He was preceded in death by siblings: Charles Sayles, Johnnie Mae Sayles, Virgie Russell and Marie Holmes. Siblings left to cherish his memory include brothers James Sayles, Jerry Sayles, Preston Sayles and Joe Sayles and sisters Lillian Starks and Mary Garrity.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Ross and Johnson Mortuary. A service to celebrate Dr. Sayles' life will be held on Saturday June 13 at 11 am at Mt. B Zion Baptist Church, 207 State Hwy 309, Kerens, Texas. Interment at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas (date to be announced).

Notes:

Billy Dale Smiley
Nov 27, 1958 - Jul 3, 2024

Billy Dale Smiley passed away on July 3, 2024. He was born on November 27, 1958, in Kermit, Texas to James Billy Smiley and Jo (Williams) Ellis but moved to Corsicana at a young age and lived there for the majority of his life until moving to Buffalo to be near his mother. Billy Dale started his mechanic and truck driving careers early, dismantling and rebuilding lawn mowers, air compressors, and more at a very young age - and often without permission. By the time he was a teenager, he was driving big rigs with his daddy and riding bulls with friends. Clearly gifted with mechanical skills, he attended Lincoln Tech and received his diesel mechanic certificate. He was well known for his ability to diagnose and repair problems that others could not and could be found on the side of the road or in a pasture bringing someone's well loved rig back to life, working relentlessly until the job was done. It was no surprise that he often showed up several hours late and covered in grease to family functions for this very reason. He also had superior truck driving and heavy equipment operating skills, driving a truck all over the United States and Canada.
Billy's legacy extends beyond his professional endeavors; he was baptized in Emmanuel Baptist Church in Corsicana and was described by many as having a heart of gold. He was also well known for pulling pranks and making others laugh with his willingness to say or do anything at any time. His favorite ways to relax included a good day of fishing, a long couch nap with a dog, or playing with kids.
Billy was preceded in death by his father, James Billy Smiley and step-father, Harry G. Ellis.
Surviving family members include mother, Jo M. Ellis of Buffalo; daughter, Carol Dellynn Smiley Pope & husband, Neal, of China Spring; step-mother, Elizabeth Smiley of Temple; sister, Teresa (Smiley) Wolfe of Georgetown; grandson, Tyson Pope and a very large but close-knit family that included a niece and nephew, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was also blessed to have met his beloved, Diane Ivie, several years ago.
A funeral service to celebrate Billy's life was held Monday, July 8, 2024, at 1 P.M. at Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas. Rev. Sammy Carter, longtime friend, officiated the service. Billy was laid to rest next to his father in Cotton Gin Cemetery near Mexia, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Court Franklin Memorial Scholarship Fund at Baylor University.
Pallbearers: Larry Anderton, Curtis McKinney, Randy Hennessee, Mike Temple, Tully Williams, Chris Wolfe, Kenan Isbell, Trevor Baugh
Honorary Pallbearers: Larry McGrew, Gene Grace, Gowan Murphy, Kevin Dwyer, Kenneth Ellis, Marshall (Bubby) Bonds
Arrangements are under the direction of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas.

Notes:

William Aylon Barnes
Jun 12, 1932 - Feb 28, 2024

Willam Aylon Barnes, age 91 left on a new adventure February 28th, 2024.
Bill was born June 12th, 1932, in Corsicana, TX to Jackie and Aylon Barnes. Bill was raised by his mother and Truman Young after his father's passing.
Bill leaves behind his soulmate, constant companion and love of his life, Betty Barnes, Wife of 71 years.
Also staying behind is Bill's only child and Bill's personal hero Mark Ivan Barnes along with wife Brenda Barnes and two lovely and loveable granddaughters Haeley Lou and Hannah Bette.
Bill was loved immensely by his grandchildren and great grandchildren, who called him Bo Bo. Haeley and William Atkeisson, children Nicklaus, Jack and Charley. Hannah and Michael Braun, children Tinsley, Amelia and Walter. Jason and Sarah Ducan, children Jenna, Lily Parker and Levi.
Bill was aware of and adhered to the Ten Commandments and lived his life accordingly.  Graduated Corsicana High School in 1950 and attended Navarro College, where he was known as one of the Barracks Bunch. Bill also spent time in the United States Army and the National Guard. He went on to have a varied career that ended with him being in business for himself for 40 years before retiring. Bill couldn't stay retired long, quickly accumulating real estate that kept him busy.
Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling with friends. Family was most important to him, from taking his grandchildren on yearly trips in their motorhome, to weekly Thursday night dinners that spanned over 35 years. His greatest love besides Betty was "Telling Stories" He always had one and was admittedly a better talker than listener.
Bill wished that in lieu of flowers his family and friends wish him a pleasant journey and keep their money in their pockets.
Bill said he didn't mind going but was going to hate not being here.
Viewing and visitation with the family will be Sunday March 3, 2024, from 12pm - 2pm at Griffin - Roughton Funeral Home. Graveside service will follow at 3:00 pm at Oakwood Cemetery. Pallbearers are Jason Duncan, Michael Braun, William Atkeisson, Rodney Faucett, Mickey McCain, Steve Andrus. Honorary Pallbearers will be Lowell Hudson, Ronnie Watkins, Everett Bradshaw, Sam Bradshaw and Lonnie Evans.
An online guest book is available at www.griffin-roughton.com
Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.
 

Notes:

Joan "JoAnn" (Jester) Berry
Dec 17, 1929 - Apr 7, 2024

Joan Jester Berry entered into the presence of the Lord on the 7th of April 2024. She was born on the 17th of December 1929, in Corsicana, TX, the daughter of Gov. Beauford H. Jester and Mabel Buchanan Jester. She moved with her family to Austin after her father was elected Governor of Texas, where she remained after he died in office in 1949. Joan graduated from then Ward Belmont Junior College in Nashville, TN, and then from the University of Texas in Austin with a B.A. in English, Phi Beta Kappa, and as a member of Pi Beta Phi. She married future Lt. Col. Thomas Eugene Berry in 1951, and the two moved to Houston to start their life together, along with, as it turned out, most of their friends.
Joan (who went by JoAnn) was a longtime member of Bethel Church, Jeanette Clift George's Bible class, the Junior League of Houston, the Houston Country Club, the River Oaks Garden Club, and the Antique Study Group. She proudly served on the Harris County Grand Jury for three terms. She also served on the Winedale Council and on the Board of Trustees of Hermann Eye Fund. Tom and JoAnn loved their monthly supper club, formed with Pi Phi friends in Houston, eight couples of the Greatest Generation. But most important to her were her God, her family, and her many friends from all walks of life.
JoAnn loved growing up in Corsicana, which was founded by her covered-wagon-traveling ancestors. She was Queen of Corsicana High School, and in college was "The Isle of Capri" in Fiesta San Antonio. While at Ward Belmont, she traveled with schoolmates to pre-Castro Cuba. She was a student at The University of Texas when her future father-in-law, Gen. Kearie L. Berry, Adjutant General of the Texas National Guard, suggested to his friend and fellow WWI First Officers Training Camp member Beauford Jester, that their son and daughter ought to meet. Their matchmaking worked.
Full of poise and grace, JoAnn was also known for her humor and thoughtfulness; she loved to help others. She worked at Prudential Insurance when she first moved to Houston with Tom, but being a mother soon replaced that job. She tutored juveniles in detention through the Junior League. When her children grew, she became a licensed interior decorator, and earned her realtor's license - "just in case." But she was a baker at Christmas, as she showed her appreciation to those who had been a help to her with a loaf of banana nut bread. Like her mother, she had many "old ladies" whom she dutifully visited and checked on regularly. JoAnn loved people and she knew no strangers; even the kind staff at the Buckingham, where she spent her final years, became her friends. Always the gracious hostess, she opened her home to foreign students and their families for the holidays, and she had the band U2 over for a home-cooked meal when they played in a small club nearby. She read her Bible daily and was an example of faithfulness and kindness to all who knew her. She was a witty writer, well-known for her annual Christmas letters. She loved traveling and learning; she studied Russian history, and she and Tom also studied German to better enjoy their trips to Germany for Tom's work. The two were a team, loved each other dearly, and were an example of a good marriage, good parenting, and good Christians to all.
After Tom's passing in 2004, JoAnn continued their custom of cruising, but now she went with friends, or even by herself. She went so often to Cozumel that she had friends in the shops there, too. It took two strokes to slow her down at the end; before, she had been a stalwart at the local YMCA's aerobics class, cracking jokes and entertaining all, while still keeping herself in great shape. But perhaps most notable about her was her positive outlook on life. JoAnn never complained. To the end, she focused on others; she asked the doctors and nurses how they were - and she meant it.
JoAnn is preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her younger brother Beauford Jester, Jr.., and her sister Barbara Jester Burris. She is survived by her children James Buchanan Berry and his wife Denise of Austin, Janet Berry Dundas and her husband Rod, and Alice Jester Berry of Houston, plus her grandsons Carroll Stoner Vance IV and Thomas Berry Vance of Houston, and granddaughter Kearie Lee Berry of Austin. The family is extremely grateful to Catherine Hicks, Johana Soto, Jill Dundas, Chichi Thompson, Carolina Estrada, and the staff at the Buckingham for their loving and extraordinary caretaking in JoAnn's final years.
A memorial service is to be conducted at two o'clock in the afternoon on Thursday, the 18th of April, at Bethel Church, 825 Bering Drive in Houston. Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception at the Church.
An interment service is to be conducted at twelve o'clock noon on Monday, the 22nd of April at Oakwood Cemetery, 700 N 15th Street in Corsicana, Texas.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to Bethel Church, Attn: Treasurer, 825 Bering Dr, Houston, TX 77057 or by visiting online at https://bethelofhouston.com/give/ or The A.D. Players by visitng online at https://www.adplayers.org/support.

Notes:

Robinell (Wyrick) Lassiter
Feb 25, 1938 - May 10, 2024

Robinell Wyrick Lassiter, age 86, died peacefully at her home in Corsicana on May 10, 2024.
Robbie was born on February 25, 1938 to Bill and Opal Wyrick in Kerens, Texas and graduated from Kerens High School in 1956. She married Billy Lassiter, the love of her life, on August 17, 1957. They made their home in Corsicana and joyfully welcomed their much-loved daughters Cheryl and Sharon into their hearts and home. Robbie retired from a 35-year career in accounting and as Human Resources Manager at Jetco Chemicals in 2004. Robbie lived a life full of faith in her Lord, Jesus Christ and fully devoted to her loving family and many friends. She was a strong, independent woman and set a lifelong example to her daughters as a woman of steadfast faith, devotion to family, loyalty to friends, and hard work. She was a woman of prayer and always chose to laugh rather than cry. She was humble, unselfish, generous, and witty. Most of all, though, she was a faithful Christian, devoted wife, and loving mother who valued her family over anything on earth. Billy and Robbie provided a loving, Christian home for their daughters and took great joy in providing opportunities for them and in spending time with them and their loving husbands, Tim and Barry. Her family and friends will always remember her beautiful smile and her gracious spirit. Robbie was loved and respected by all who knew her and will be greatly missed. She now is reunited with Billy and lives eternally in heaven with Jesus and in the hearts of her daughters.
Robbie is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Billy Lassiter, and her parents, Bill and Opal Wyrick. She is survived by her daughters Cheryl Wilson and her husband, Tim, of Fort Worth, and Sharon Robinson and her husband, Barry, of Corsicana. She is also survived by her brother Billy Glen Wyrick of Granbury and her nephew David Wyrick and his wife, Theresa, as well as her beloved St. Ama cousins and their families.
VISITATION: May 13, 2024, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Corley Funeral Home, 418 North 13th Street, Corsicana, TX 75110
FUNERAL SERVICE: May 14, 2024, 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 510 West Collin Street, Corsicana, TX 75110

Notes:

Barbara Buchanan (Jester) Burris
Mar 10, 1925 - Jan 1, 2011

Barbara J. Burris, 85, a Texas governor's daughter who helped promote President Lyndon B. Johnson's civil rights agenda in the mid-1960s, died Jan. 1 at the Washington Home and Community Hospices after a stroke.

Mrs. Burris's father, Beauford H. Jester, was governor of Texas from 1947 until he died in 1949. Her husband, Air Force Col. Howard L. Burris, was military assistant to Johnson as vice president and president.

In 1964, Mrs. Burris volunteered to campaign for then-President Johnson, joining his wife, Lady Bird, on an extended train trip to speak with women of the South.

Mrs. Burris made her home in Washington for more than a half-century. She was a board member of the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts and led efforts to put on the Christmas Ball for the Choral Arts Society and the Symphony Ball for the National Symphony Orchestra.

Notes:

  • Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Arlington Co., VA; Section 31; Site 575
  • Submitted by Edward Lynn Williams

------

Barbara Jester Burris, 86, daughter of former Texas Governor Beauford H. Jester and Mabel Buchanan Jester Morriss, died on New Year's Day in hospice care after suffering a stroke in her home in Washington, DC. Barbara Burris had lived in Washington over 50 years and had been active in numerous causes. In 1964 she and other Texas women accompanied Lady Bird Johnson on a 1,600 mile campaign trip through the South to promote President Johnson's civil rights agenda. In later years she served as President of the Texas State Society, Chair of the Symphony Ball for the National Symphony, Board member of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, and was one of the first Co-Chairs of the Christmas Ball for the Choral Arts Society. Her husband, Howard Burris, former military assistant to President Lyndon Baines Johnson passed away in 2009. She leaves a sister, JoAnn Berry of Houston Texas; a son, Howard Burris of Washington; a daughter, Kathryn Kavanaugh of St Michael's, Maryland; and four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at the Bethlehem Chapel of the Washington National Cathedral at 11 a.m. on February 2. The family asks that in lieu of flowers any bequests be made to the Choral Arts Society of Washington.

Notes:

Diana Lynn (Sparrow) Williams
Feb 2, 1951 - Feb 6, 2024

Diana Lynn Williams, 73, of Corsicana, passed away on February 6, 2024. She was born on February 2, 1951, in Tacoma, Washington, to the late Doyle Francis and Delores (Brentlinger) Sparrow.
Diana found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially after her retirement. She dedicated her time to embroidery, creating meaningful pieces for the Catholic Daughters and the Knights of Columbus. Her green thumb brought life to her garden, and she cherished moments spent with her family.
A compassionate and skilled registered nurse, Diana devoted the last decade of her career to serving at Navarro Regional Hospital working in the OR with Dr. Syed. She leaves behind a legacy of care and kindness in the hearts of those she touched.
Diana's love extended beyond her profession, as she actively participated in her community. A proud member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, she served diligently in the Catholic Daughters and the Altar Society. Additionally, Diana was a valued member of the Society of Gastrointestinal Nurses Association (S.G.N.A.). She was well known by the members of the Corsicana Lions Club.
She had a soft spot for her furry friends, always having a favorite dog by her side. Her faithful companion, "Ziva," now mourns her absence.
Diana is survived by her loving husband, Dan E Williams of Corsicana; son, Kyle Williams, and his wife Kristina of Burleson; daughter, Janna Vandermeer of League City; grandchildren, Zoey, Brody, and Wyatt; step-grandchildren, Landon, Avery, and Blake; sister, Deborah Pattison of Pearland; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and a host of friends.
Visitation to celebrate Diana's life will be held on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Corley Funeral Home Chapel, with the Recitation of the Rosary beginning at 6:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial services will take place at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Corsicana. Following the service, interment will be held at the Hamilton Beeman Cemetery. A reception will be held at Saint Anthony's pavilion for friends and family following Mass until 3:00 PM.
May Diana's soul rest in peace, and may her memory continue to bring comfort and solace to those who knew and loved her.

Notes:

Windle Fay Prater
July 28, 1935 - 2024

Dad was born July 28, 1935 near Frost, Texas to parents Okla F. Prater and Billie Louise Alford. He graduated from Corsicana High School in 1954. He married his "forever" sweetheart Monte Lane Averitt and they raised three kids together. They were active members of North Richland Hills Baptist Church.
He was a machinist by trade operating his own equipment repair business in Fort Worth. Preceded in death by his parents, sister Martha, sister Joyce, brother Jerry and eldest son Windle Wayne. He is survived by his wife Monte, son Mark and his wife Kennie, daughter Amy and her husband Joe and two adored grand daughters Katy and Riley.
Visitation held Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 10 to 12 at Lucas Funeral Home, Hurst Texas followed by family graveside ceremony at Hamilton-Beeman cemetery, Retreat Texas.

Notes:

Elizabeth Joyce (Herron) Curry
Jun 24, 1947 - Apr 11, 2024

Elizabeth Joyce Curry, age 76, of Corsicana, Texas, passed away on April 11, 2024, to be with the Lord. Born on June 24, 1947, in Taylor, Texas, Elizabeth was the beloved daughter of John David Herron and Billie Jean Adams.

Elizabeth is preceded in death by her loving parents and her devoted husband, Wayne Alan Curry. She is survived by her cherished sons: Chris Curry and wife Belinda of Corsicana, Texas, and Robert Warren Sacco of Donna, Texas. Elizabeth's legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Gage Curry and wife Suzanne, and Macee Lee, as well as her great-grandchildren: Easton Curry, Cooper Lee, Layla Curry, Cade Curry, and Colson Lee.

Elizabeth lived life to the fullest and found joy in the simple pleasures it offered. She had a passion for horses, finding peace in their presence. Elizabeth enjoyed spending her leisure time bowling and testing her luck at the casinos, especially relishing the memories of her outings with her late husband. Above all, Elizabeth cherished the moments spent with her grandchildren, showering them with love and affection.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 16, from 6-8 pm at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home. Graveside services will take place on Wednesday, April 17, at 11 am at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery, with Chet Brake officiating.

In remembrance of Elizabeth's vibrant spirit and zest for life, may we find peace and comfort in the cherished memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed, and very dear."

Notes:

John W. Stevens
Dec 24, 1929 - Apr 12, 2024

John W. Stevens, a devoted husband, father, and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2024, at the age of 94 in Corsicana, Texas, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 24, 1929, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, to John Brady and Jewel Stevens, John was the eldest of six boys. His early years were marked by resilience and determination, traits that would define his life. His family later moved to New Mexico, where he graduated from Artesia High School in 1949, before earning his Mechanical Engineering degree from Texas Tech University in 1953.

In 1961, John married the love of his life, Jo Jackson (Calkins, after a chance encounter at a South Main Baptist bowling social. Together, they shared a beautiful life and raised three children: Randy, Scott (spouse Robin), and Kristen (spouse Dave).

John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army from 1953 to 1955, where he worked as an engineer assistant assigned to ordnance testing at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, and Yuma Test Station, Arizona. Following his military service, he dedicated 31 years of his career to Hughes Tool Company, where he made significant contributions to the development of specialized drilling equipment for petroleum extraction.

Beyond his professional endeavors, John had a diverse range of interests and passions. He was an avid reader with a thirst for knowledge, deeply engaged in finance, politics, and Bible studies. Always one who was curious about how things work, he loved airplanes and had his Private Pilot's license. He cherished moments spent with friends over coffee, engaging in lively discussions and sharing stories. John also had a profound love for travel and spent much of his life exploring the natural wonders of the West.

John's legacy lives on through his children: Randy, Scott, and Kristen, as well as his grandchildren: Lindsey McCartney, Dylan Knutson, Logan Stevens, Sage Stevens, and Jack Knutson, and his four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Doug and Earl Stevens. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jo, his parents, and his brothers Bill, Ken, and Ara Stevens.

Visitation to honor John's memory will be held at Griffin Roughton Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 16th, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a graveside service at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery at 2:00 PM. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit and legacy will forever endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Notes:

Roy Edward Ragsdale, Jr.
Jul 21, 1930 - May 19, 2024

Roy Edward Ragsdale, Jr., 93, of Corsicana, Texas passed away Sunday, May 19, 2024. He was born July 21, 1930 in Corsicana to Roy and Eunice Ragsdale. Roy attended schools in Wortham and Lancaster, Texas. He graduated from Lancaster High School and attended Weatherford Junior College until he was drafted for the Korean War. He served as an electrician in the Army, stationed in Seoul, Korea. After completing his army duty, Roy attended Sam Houston State University where he received both his Bachelor and Master degrees. Roy taught at Navarro College for 16 years and then in Corsicana ISD for 17 years. Roy enjoyed working with young people. Over the years Roy coached little league, was a scout master and was very involved with Navarro County Youth Exposition for 63 years. He also taught hunter's safety education for many years teaching over 6000 students about hunter safety. After retirement Roy enjoyed working on his farm planting and growing vegetables. Roy was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved being outside or reading one of his western books. Roy was a member of the VFW, Corsicana Bass Club and the JayCee's. He was also a member of the Southwest Football Officials Association as a referee for Thursday and Friday night high school football games for over 25 years. Roy was preceded in death by his wife Benja, son Steve and his sister Elizabeth Roushey. He is survived by daughter, Elaine and husband Alan Barnes of Waxahachie, and son David Ragsdale of Corsicana. He is also survived by granddaughter Shelby and husband Martin Davis of Corsicana and grandson Andrew Barnes and Jackie Vega of Waxahachie. He is survived by two great grandsons and one great granddaughter as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers include Ron Stewart, Bill Page, Don Norrell, Monte Willoughby, Ken Taylor and Andrew Barnes Honorary Pallbearers Bill Crawford and T. F. Cheshier. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024 from 9am to 10am. Funeral service will be held at Griffin Roughton Funeral Home on Thursday, May 23 at 10am with Farland Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery with military honors. In lieu of flowers the family requests donation be made to the American Kidney Foundation or the American Diabetes Association.

Notes:

Billy Joe "Bill" Ratliff
Oct 24, 1947 - Mar 14, 2024

Mr. Billy (Bill) Joe Ratliff, age 76, of Corsicana passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024, in Corsicana. He was born on October 24, 1947, in Corsicana to parents Bobby Gene Ratliff and Eunice Loree DeArman.

He owned and operated Ratliff Electric for over 40 years. He was known to be an honest, hardworking man. He had a great love of being outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and also enjoyed hunting and going camping. He loved to cook. He could fry up a batch of fish even fish haters would eat it and rave about how good it was. He also made an awesome jambalaya. He loved to grocery shop and could be seen at all grocery stores shopping those sales.

He was a long-standing member of the Navarro County Youth Expo steak cooking crew.

He loved his old country and western music, especially Loretta Lynn. He made 2 trips to her ranch in Hurricane Mills TN. He got to live his dream when son Randy took him to see her live in Greenville TX.

He is survived by wife and best friend of 50 years, Darline, son Randy and Rebekah Ratliff, son Toby and Linda Ratliff and Stepson Michael Benton and wife Kathy. His Grandchildren Madison Carr and husband Orion, Kaitlin Benton, Isaac Owen, Isabella Owen, Faith Owen, Brother-in-law Dwayne Tucker, Sister's in-law Linda Jones, Marie Knecht, Mary Flatt and husband Ron and fur baby girl Maggie, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sister Jean Tucker, grandson Hayden Ratliff, Father and Mother-In-law, Al and Jane Mintz, sister-in law Tommie Blue, Brothers-in-law Marvin Jones, Rick Knecht. And the four-legged love of his life, fur baby girl Annie.

Per Bill's request no memorial service is planned. A visitation with the family will be Wednesday, March 20, 2024, 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home.

Bill requested no flowers, just drink a cold beer and send him on his way.

Notes:

Mary Nell (Davis) Butler
Jun 12, 1934 - Mar 26, 2024

Mary Nell Butler, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, educator, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2024, at the age of 89. Born on June 12, 1934, her parents were Plemon and Mildred Davis.  Mary is survived by her loving son, Scott Butler, and his wife Paula. She is also survived by her devoted sister, Julie Moody, of Henrico, Virginia, as well as her cherished grandchildren, Pam and Tessa Butler. Mary Nell was also deeply loved by her nephew, David Youngblood, and his wife Shelley of Corsicana, Kendy and Max Shuman and Kathryn and Nathan Miller of Virginia along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

Mary was a dedicated educator who positively impacted countless lives. She completed her bachelor's and master's degrees at Baylor University, where she cultivated her passion for teaching. Throughout her career, Mary served as a public-school teacher at Bowie Elementary School, principal at Lee Elementary School, and Special Education Director at Corsicana Independent School District.

Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as she was known for her unwavering support and advocacy for students with special needs. Mary's kindness, patience, and dedication left an indelible mark on her students and colleagues alike.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Mary was a devoted wife to her late husband, Donal Butler, and a loving mother. She was preceded in death by her precious son Michael and grandson Anthony, as well as her sisters Sue Youngblood and Wanda Craig.

Mary Nell Butler will be remembered for her gentle spirit, compassionate heart, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and community. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held at First Methodist Church, 320 N. 15th St, Corsicana, Texas at 11:00 AM, Friday, April 5.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Methodist Children's Home, 1111 Herring Ave, Waco, Texas 76708 in Mary's honor.

A special thank you to her Brookdale Assisted Living family along with the First Methodist and Joy Anabaptist Church Brookdale ministries.

May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

Notes:

Judy (Ennis) Waldrop
May 8, 1940 - Apr 7, 2024

Judy Waldrop, 83, of Richland, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 8, 1940, in St. Albans, West Virginia, Judy was a cherished member of the community.
A devout member of the First Baptist Church of Corsicana, Judy found solace and strength in her faith throughout her life. She had a deep appreciation for nature, often finding joy in observing the birds and deer around her. Judy found particular delight in spending time on the lake, where she always said, "The Lake was Her Diamond."
Throughout her career, Judy worked as a beautician, at IBM, and for many years at H&R Block. She was a dedicated wife to her husband, Alan Waldrop, whom she married on February 11, 1961, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Together, they embarked on a journey that took them to various places due to Alan's employment, eventually settling in Richland 25 years ago, where they built their home.
Judy will be dearly missed by her husband, Alan Waldrop; her children, Lori Ward and her husband Mike of Richmond, TX; Jeff Waldrop and his wife Michele of Belgium; and Brian Waldrop of Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is also survived by her 7 grandchildren: Sarah Webb, Alan Ward, Megan Ward, Courtney Ward, Eric Ward, Hannah Owens and her husband Aaron, and Noah Waldrop and his wife Devin, as well as her great-granddaughter, Eleanor Owens, and sister, Ramona Caldwell of Maryland.
In addition to her family, Judy was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Loretta Jean Midkiff.
Funeral services to celebrate Judy's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the First Baptist Church of Corsicana with Dr. Danny Reeves officiating.
Judy's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace.

Notes:

Annie Frances (Ratliff) Wood
Sep 1, 1903 - 1996

PALESTINE - Graveside services for Annie F. Wood, 92, Frankston, formerly of Palestine, are schedule for 2 p.m. Thursday at Roselawn Park under direction of Bailey & Foster Funeral Home, Palestine.
Mrs. Wood died Monday night at a Frankston nursing home.
She was born Sept 1, 1903, in Corsicana to the late Robert and Roxanne Jones Ratliff.  She was a homemaker and preceded in death by two husbands, Ben Lucas and Claude Wood, three daughters, Anna Marie Wood, Gladys G. Long and Ruby Mae Melissa Cole; two sons, Clarance E. Lucas and Marvin L. Lucas, and two brothers.
Survivors include daughters, Dorothy B. Alexander, Palestine, and Barbara Musick, Oklahoma; sons, Lee Wood and Richard T. Wood, both of Houston, and C.J. Wood, Palestine; sister, Lillie Mae Moore, Bastrop; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.
Family will receive friends 7-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.|
If desired, memorials may be made to Arthritis Foundation.

Notes:

Pearl (Upshaw) Waters
Mar 7, 1906 - Sep 26, 1972

Mrs. Waters

Funeral services are scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday at Mt. Olive Baptist Church for Mrs. Pearl Waters who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. The Rev. E. C. Davis, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery under direction of Scott Funeral Home.

Survivors include two brothers, Ernest Upshaw, Fresno, Calif., and Earl Upshaw, Price; and two grandchildren, Margie N. Waters and Kenneth Dunkins.

Notes:

-----

Mrs. Waters

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Sunday at Mt. Olive Baptist Church for Mrs. Pearl Waters, who died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. The Rev. E. C. Davis, pastor, officiated and burial was in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include two brothers and two grandchildren.

Notes:

Patricia (Johnson/Hudson) Green
Jul 11, 1952 - Jul 7, 1972

Mrs. Green

Funeral services for Mrs. Patricia Hudson Green, 19, of Corsicana, who died in Dallas of injuries in an auto accident there, were to be at 2 p.m. Monday at the Church of the Living God with Bishop C. H. Hunter officiating. Burial was to be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Scott Funeral Home.

She is survived by her husband, Flonza Green; a son, Roderic Green; a daughter, Lucretia Green; her adoptive parents, Mr. and Mrs. Virgie Hudson, Corsicana; her mother, Jessie Lee of Dallas; her father, Willie Johnson, Dallas; a brother Willie Dale, and two sisters, Rose and Kalater, all of Dallas.

Notes:

-------

Mrs. Green

Funeral services for Mrs. Patricia Hudson Green, 19, were held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Church of the Living God with Bishop C. H. Hunter officiating. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Scott Funeral Home.

Survivors include her husband, a son, a daughter, adoptive parents, her mother, her father, a brother, two sisters.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Tues., Jul 11, 1972
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • w/o Flonza Green; d/o Willie Leon Johnson & Jessie Lee (Mears) Johnson per death certificate adoptive parents Virgle Hudson & Jossie (Copeland) Hudson

Woddie H. Hall
Sep 25, 1890 - Jun 20, 1972

W. H. Hall

Funeral services for Woodie H. Hall, 7r, Corsicana tailor of many years, were held at 2 p.m. June 24 at the Wesley Chapel C. M. E. Church.

Interment was in Woodland Cemetery. He died June 20 at Mel Haven Convalescent Home.

Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Hazel Hopkins of New Mexico; two brothers, Otha Hall of Corsicana and Eddie Hall of Dallas; a sister, Mrs. Lizora Kemp of Corsicana; six grandchildren, two sisters-in-law, and other relatives.

Funeral services were conducted by Ross Funeral Home.

Notes:

Horace Cook
May 16, 1883 - Aug 25, 1972

Horace Cook

Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the Second Mission Baptist Church for Horace Cook, 89, who died Friday at Memorial Hospital. The Rev. Paul Curry will officiate and burial will be in the Woodland Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife, Melvina Lindly Cook; six daughters, Mrs. Addie Richardson of Dallas, Mrs. Estella Rhodes and Miss Odie Cook of San Mateo, Calif., Mrs. Lillie Pearl Jacobs of Corsicana, and Mrs. Eulyne Walker and Mrs. Tomeria Farris of Ft. Worth; four sons, Odis Cook of San Francisco, Lee Edward Cook of Waco, Littleton Cook of Alwater, Calif. and R. L. Cook of Seagoville; 33 grandchildren, 13, great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Elnora Carroll of Corsicana and Mrs. Alice Jessie of Dallas; and two brothers, Ned Cook of Dallas and Isiah Cook of Wortham.

Notes:

-----

H. Cook

Services were at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Second Mission Baptist Church for Horace Cook, 89, who died Friday at Memorial Hospital. The Rev. Paul Curry officiated, and burial was in Woodland Cemetery. Scott Funeral Home was in charge of services.

Survivors include six daughters, four sons, 33 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, two sisters and two brothers.

Notes:

Thomas Jefferson, Jr.
Sep 9, 1938 - Dec 17, 1972

T. Jefferson Jr.

Funeral services are set for 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Scott Funeral Home Chapel for Thomas Jefferson, Jr., 34, native of Corsicana and resident of Los Angeles, Calif., who died Dec. 17 in Los Angeles.

Rev. E. C. Reynolds will officiate and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include his mother, Mrs. Freda Mae Jefferson of Los Angeles; a daughter, Eva Marie Jefferson of Los Angeles; two grandmothers, Mrs. Selena Anderson of Los Angeles and Mrs. Darra Jefferson of Corsicana; and a grandfather, Charlie Jefferson, Sr.; two uncles, two aunts, and a host of other relatives.

Notes:

-----

T. Jefferson, Jr.

Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Scott Funeral Chapel for Thomas Jefferson, Jr., 34, Corsicana native who died Sunday in Los Angeles where he resided. The Rev. E. C. Reynolds officiated. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery.

He is survived by his mother, a daughter, two grandmothers, a grandfather, two aunts, two uncles and other relatives.

Notes:

Virdie Lee (Johnson/Campbell) Parish
Nov 25, 1929 - Jun 30, 1972

Mrs. Parish

Funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Second Mission Baptist Church for Mrs. Virdie Lee Parish, 42, of Dallas and formerly of Corsicana, who was killed in an automobile accident late Friday night on Interstate Hwy. 45 near Ennis.

Rev. Paul Curry will officiate and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband, Jack Parish of Dallas and formerly of Corsicana; four daughters, Jackie Lee Parish, Mrs. Dorothy Carter, Dianne Parish, Evelyn Joyce, all of Dallas; two sons, Rufus Parish and Alonzo Gipson, both of Dallas; her mother, Mrs. Evelyn Gilmore of Corsicana; nine grandchildren, a step-sister; and foster mother, Mrs. Virder Campbell.

Pallbearers will be friends of the family.

 Notes:

------

Mrs. Parish

Funeral services were scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Second Mission Baptist Church for Mrs. Virdie Lee Parish, 42, of Dallas and formerly of Corsicana. She died in an automobile accident Friday.

Rev. Paul Curry was to officiate with burial in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband, four daughters, two sons, her mother, a sister, nine grandchildren and a foster mother.

 Notes:

Rosie Lee (Whitfield) Gunnels
May 11, 1920 - Jul 1, 1972

Mrs. Gunnels

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the Scott Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Rosie Lee Gunnels, 52, Corsicana, who died Saturday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. L. H. Cole will officiate, and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include her father, J. W. Whitfield, Corsicana; four sisters, Mrs. Christine Griffin, Mrs. Luelia Bledsoe and Mrs. Celia Bailey, all of Corsicana, and Mrs. Maella Wesley of Phoenix, Arizona; and three brothers, James Whitfield of Corsicana, Matthew Whitfield of Dallas and Elijah Whitfield of Houston.

 Notes:

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Mrs. Gunnels

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday at the Scott Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Rosie Lee Gunnels, 52, Corsicana, who died Saturday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. L. H. Cole officiated and burial was in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include her father, four sisters, and three brothers.

 Notes:

Emma Yelder, Miss
Mar 12, 1899 - Apr 1972

Miss Yelder

Graveside services were to be Friday at 2 p.m. in the Woodland Cemetery for Miss Emma Yelder, 67, who was found dead Wednesday at her home at 112 E. 11th Ave. Death was attributed to natural causes following an inquest by Judge W. L. Tipton.

The Rev. Spears of the Grace Temple A.M.E. Methodist Church of which the deceased was a member officiated, and arrangements were under the direction of Calhoun Funeral Home

Survivors include several nephews and nieces.

 Notes:

Essie Harrison
Unk - Apr 27, 1972

E. Harrison

Essie Harrison, about 75 years of age, died Thursday morning in Melhaven Convalescent Home.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Calhoun Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery. The Rev. R. L. Jones, pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church, will officiate.

He was a WWI veteran and a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, and a member of F&AM Grand Lodge of Waxahachie.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Willie M. Harrison, one sister of Palestine, and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be members of the Masonic Lodge.

Notes:

------

E. Harrison

Funeral services for Essie Harrison, about 75, were at 2 p.m. Monday at the Calhoun Funeral Chapel with burial in Woodland Cemetery.

The Rev. R. I. Jones, pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church of which he was a member, officiated.

The World War I veteran died Thursday in Melhaven Convalescent Home here. He was a member of F&AM Grand Lodge of Waxahachie.

Masons were pallbearers.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Willie M. Harrison; one sister and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:

Juemiller (Ackers) Fields
Sep 25, 1915 - Dec 17, 1972

Mrs. J. Fields

Funeral services are set for 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Love Chapel Baptist Church in Corsicana for Mrs. Juemiller Fields, 57, of Corsicana who died Sunday at Parkland Hospital in Dallas. Rev. T. A. Turner will officiate with burial to follow at Woodland Cemetery.

Scott Funeral Home in Corsicana will direct.

She was married to the late James Fields. She was a native of Navarro County and member of Love Chapel Baptist Church.

Survivors include six daughters, Rose Mary Andrews, Henrietta Terrell, Hazel Johnson, Wanda Davis, Alberta Campbell and Judy Harvey; three sons, Frank Oliver Fields, James Miller Fields and Dubart Fields; her mother, Mrs. Rosetta Snell; a sister, Mrs. Johnnie Mae Smith; 31 grandchildren, two aunts, two uncles, and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:

------

Mrs. J. Fields

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the Love Chapel Baptist Church in Corsicana for Mrs. Juemiller Fields, 57, of Corsicana, who died Sunday in Dallas Parkland Hospital. Rev. T. A. Turner officiated, and burial was at Woodland Cemetery.

Scott Funeral Home in Corsicana directed the services.

Survivors include six daughters, three sons, her mother, a sister, 31 grandchildren, two aunts, two uncles and several nieces and nephews.

Notes:

Clifton Payne
Oct 11, 1890 - Dec 11, 1972

Clifton Payne

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Saturday at the Scott Funeral Home Chapel for Clifton Payne, 82, resident of Corsicana and native of Bryan, who died Monday at Memorial Hospital. Rev. J. J. Johnson will officiate and burial will be at Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Sarah Payne of Corsicana; two daughters, Mrs. Ada Mae Moore and Mrs. Myrtle Scott; three sons, Rev. Theodore Monroe, Samuel White, Jr., and Wash Payne; four sisters, Corenelius Taylor, Virgil Loftis, Nettie Spence, and Berthina Westmoreland; two brothers, Dock Payne and Issiac Payne; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be john Moore, George Anthony, Maurice Woodard, Sherman Turner, Jr. Willie Spence and Roger Moore.

Notes:

-------

Clifton Payne

Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Scott Funeral Chapel for Clifton Payne, 82, resident of Corsicana and native of Bryan, who died Monday at Memorial Hospital.

Rev. J. J. Johnson officiated, and burial was in Woodland Cemetery.

Survivors include his widow, two daughters, three sons, four sisters, two brothers, 12 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

 Notes:

Sarah Elizabeth (Johnson) Payne
Feb 18 , 1900 - Aug 16, 1981

Mrs. Sarah Payne

Mrs. Sarah Payne, 81, of Corsicana, died Saturday morning in Dallas.

Service was Thursday, 2 p.m., at Roane Chapel in Corsicana. T.P. Monroe, her son, officiated. Burial was at Woodland Cemetery in Corsicana.

Survivors include three sons, Wash Payne, of Corsicana, Sammy White Jr., of Los Angeles, and T.P. Monroe, of Los Angeles; two daughters, Mrs. Myrtle Simpson of Garland, and Mrs. Velma Armstrong, of Dallas; 24 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; one brother, Willie Johnson, of Corsicana; nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Notes:

  • Corsicana Weekly Light (Corsicana, TX); 3 Sep 1981, p. 4
  • w/o Clifton Payne

Jessie S. Marshall, Jr.
Jul 4, 1923 - Dec 12, 1972

J. Marshall, Jr.

ELM FLAT - Funeral services are pending at Scott Funeral Home in Corsicana for Jessie Marshall, Jr., 49, native of Elm Flat Community near Powell, who died Wednesday in Huntsville.

Notes:

Will Hollie
Jul 18, 1896 - Sep 22, 1972

W. Hollie

Funeral services are scheduled at 10 a.m. Monday at Wesley Chapel C. M. E. Church for Will Hollie, 76, of Corsicana who died here Friday.

Rev. L. C. Timberlake will officiate and burial will be at Woodland Cemetery in Corsicana.

Funeral services are under the direction of Scott Funeral Home.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Dora Hollie of Corsicana; a sister, Louise Browders of Los Angeles, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be friends of the family.

 Notes:

Anthony Nealy, Jr.
Sep 7, 1918 - Jul 27, 1972

A. Nealy

Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Eastside Church of Christ for Anthony Nealy, 53, who died Thursday at Memorial Hospital. Bro. W. W. Wilmore will officiate and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery. Nealy was a member of the Eastside Church of Christ.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Odessa Nealy of Corsicana; two brothers, Edgar Nealy of Richmond, Calif., and Samuel Neely of Dallas; two sisters, Mrs. Cassie Smith of Corsicana and Mrs. Betty English of Richmond, Calif.; and a number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Wilbur Collins, Wayman McHenry, Sam C. McDonald, Rush Rhodes, Odell Brown and Ocell Miller.

Calhoun Funeral Home is in charge of services.

Notes:

Dora (Allen) Person
Sep 26, 1903 - Feb 4, 1972

Mrs. Person

Funeral services for Mrs. Dora Person, a native of Navarro County who died Friday at Mel-Haven Convalescent Home, were to be at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Bethel A.M.E. Church, with the Rev. George S. Willis, pastor officiating and burial in the Woodland Cemetery.

Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Thomas, Mrs. Person was a longtime member of the Bethel A.M.E. Church and was honored with the title of "Church Mother" because she was the oldest member.

Founder-organizer and past president of the Gospel Chorus, she was also a member of the Senior Choir and a past president of Stewardess Board No. 2.

Surviving are her husband, Lem Person; a niece, Mrs. Viola Alford of Corsicana and several cousins.

Calhoun directs.

 Notes:

Edward Lee Washington
Jan 30, 1921 - Jun 30, 1972

E. L. Washington

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the First Independent Baptist Church for E. L. Washington, 50, Lincoln school principal who drowned Saturday at Cedar Creek Lake.

The Rev. Larry Polk will officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Scott Funeral Home.

The body will remain at Scott Funeral Home until Tuesday, when it will lie in state at the church from 9 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral hour.

The lifetime career school administrator and teacher lost his life when he feared for the safety of his 11-year-old son, Mark Ray, when the youngster began drifting away from the boat while swimming in a life preserver. Washington jumped in the water and was swimming back bringing his son toward the boat when he released the boy to make it on his own and the principal went under. The body was recovered after five hours of dragging by numerous emergency rescue squads o the scene.

Washington came to Corsicana in 1958 as principal of the former G. W. Jackson High School until it closed two years ago. He served one year as an assistant principal at the new CHS and had been principal of Lincoln School the past year.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Elzadie Washington; the son, Mark Ray; a daughter, Linda; a sister, Miss Jewel Washington of Groesbeck; three brothers, Robert Washington, Ennis; Nelson Washington, Jr., of Brenham and T. J. Washington of Waco; three aunts, one uncle and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be J. W. Allen, Raymond Anderson, Grover Pearson, J. C. Thompson, C. E. Vickers, and Tommy Wardell.

Honorary pallbearers will be Foley Wynn, Freddie Gardner.

Notes:

Mary (Vicks) Mathes-Johnson
Aug 15, 1910 - Jan 25, 1972

Mrs. Johnson

Funeral for Mrs. Mary Johnson, 61, who resided in Navarro County for the past 26 years, will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Rev. W. M. Greene, pastor, will officiate.

Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Calhoun Funeral Home.

Mrs. Johnson died Tuesday at Memorial Hospital. Her husband, David Johnson, preceded her in death.

Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Artella Douglas; a son-in-law, James Douglas; a step-daughter, Mrs. Annie Bell Jones; and a stepson, Lennie Johnson. All are residents of Corsicana. Also surviving is a sister, Mrs. Mozella Oliver of Dallas and two granddaughters.

Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Thurs., Jan 27, 1972
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • 1st husband William Mathes 2nd husband David Johnson; d/o Isiah Vicks & Martha (Clark) Vicks

Rufus James Bennett, Jr.
Apr 26, 1895 - May 27, 1972

Rufus Bennett, Jr.

Funeral services for Rufus James Bennett, 77, of 508 E. 20th Ave., will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at St. John's Baptist Church with the Rev. C. A. Miller officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Calhoun Funeral Home.

Bennett died early Saturday at his home. Justice of the Peace W. H. Tipton returned an inquest verdict of natural causes from apparent heart attack.

A native of Navarro County, Bennett was born Apr. 26, 1897, the son of Rufus and Asalee Bennett. He had been a member of St. John's Church for several years and had served as superintendent of the Sunday school there. He was also a member of the F&AM Masonic Grand Lodge of Streetman and had served for a number of years as that organization's secretary.

Survivors include his widow, Clara Bennett; a daughter, Mrs. Lucille Gibbs of Bryan; two brothers, Adolph Bennett and Emory Bennett, both of Corsicana; a sister, Mrs. Eugenia Thomas of Corsicana; 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren; and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Leroy Gibbs, Harold Gibbs, James Gibbs, John Green, Evan Mason and Norman Brooks,

 Notes:

  • The Corsicana Daily Sun - Mon., May 29, 1972
  • Submitted by Diane Richards
  • h/o (1) Bessie (Lee) Bennett & (2) Clara (Newman) Bennett married Dec. 24, 1939; s/o Rufus James Bennett, Sr. & Asalee (Overby) Bennett
  • Obituary has born in 1897, marker has  1895

Homer Leroy Calhoun
Jul 27, 1927 - Oct 31, 1972

Homer Calhoun

Funeral services for Homer Calhoun, 45, El Paso, will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Calhoun Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. R. L. Jones, officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery.

He died Oct. 31 in R. E. Thompson General Hospital in El Paso.

He is survived by his father, David Calhoun of Tyler; his mother, Mrs. Golda Hayes of Dallas; two sons, several grandchildren and other relatives.

Notes:

-----

Homer Calhoun

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at a local funeral home for Homer Calhoun, 48, El Paso, who died in a hospital there. The Rev. R. L. Jones will officiate with burial in Woodland Cemetery.

Surviving are his parents, two sons, several grandchildren and other relatives.

Notes:

Parthenia (Jimmerson) Nathaniel-Johnson
Mar 16, 1903 - Dec 26, 1972

Mrs. Johnson

Funeral services are pending at the Calhoun Funeral Home in Corsicana for Mrs. Parthenia Johnson, who was killed in a car accident in Centerville Wednesday.

Notes:

------

Mrs. Johnson

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Saturday at the Calhoun Funeral Home Chapel in Corsicana for Mrs. Parthenia Johnson, 69, of Buffalo, who died Tuesday as a result o a car accident near Centerville. Rev. R. L. Jones will officiate, with burial to follow at Woodland Cemetery.

She was a former resident of Navarro County.

Survivors include her husband, Joseph Johnson of Buffalo; a son, Henry Nathaniel of Tennessee Colony, Texas; two step-sons, Willie S. Johnson of Dallas and Kermit Johnson of Fort Worth; six step-daughters, Mrs. Loretha Mosley, Miss Willie Johnson, Mrs. Callie Cooper, and Mrs. Mary Briscoe, all of Dallas, Mrs. Espenolia Mosley of Elkhart and Mrs. Joyce Jones of California; three sisters, Mrs. Mary Betts of Oakland, Calif., Mrs. Sallie Roberson of Galveston and Mrs. Katie Williams of Junction City, Kan.; four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and other relatives.

Pallbearers will include Alvin Foreman, Willie Cooper, Willie Sims Johnson, Eddie White, Earl Johnson and Leroy Williams.

 Notes:

L. V. Bowens
Mar. 26, 1932 - Feb. 8, 1972

L. V. Bowens was to be buried Saturday following services at 1 p.m. at Taylor Memorial Church of God in Christ.

Elder T. D. Daniels officiated and burial was in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Calhoun Funeral Home.

He died Tuesday in Terrell State Hospital following a lengthy illness.

He was 39 and a native of Navarro County.

Survivors include a son, Elvis and a daughter, Sharon, both of Clovis, N. M.; four brothers, R. Q. of Corsicana, and E. B., J. C. and L. H. of Dallas; five sisters, Mrs. Delta Williams and Mrs. Isaac Price of Corsicana, Mrs. Thomas Hurd of Denton, Mrs. Herman H. Ward of Dallas and Mrs. Virgie McHenry of Houston; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Frank Thomas, Johnny Walker, H. B. Horn, Lewis Daniels, Charles Washington and Champ Johnson.

Notes:

Aubrey J. Knox
Aug 27, 1891 - Jan 2, 1972

Aubrey Knox

Aubrey Knox, native of Navarro County, died Sunday in Los Angeles, Calif. he was the son of the late Henry and Florence Calhoun Knox, and was a 1913 graduate of Fred Douglas High School.

Funeral services are scheduled at 3 p.m. Friday at the Calhoun Funeral Home with the Rev. George Willis, pastor of Bethel A.M.E. Church officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery.

His survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Arizona O'Conner of Chicago and Mrs. Mamie Knox Pardee of Corsicana; four nephews, four nieces and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Joe Wheeler, George Williams, Green Anderson, Robert Frazier, Jessie Parham and Hubert Anderson.

 Notes:

Booker Talliaferro McDonald, Sr.
May 30, 1925 - Jan 24, 1972

McDonald

Funeral services for Booker T. McDonald, Sr., 45, a lifelong resident of Corsicana, will be Saturday at 2:00 P.M. in the Sixth Avenue Baptist Church. Rev. R. I. Jones will officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of the Scott Funeral Home.

McDonald died Monday at the M. D. Anderson Hospital in Houston.

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Wilma McDonald; two daughters, Mildred and Carolyn; two sons, Booker T. Jr. and Lester Ray; his mother, Mrs. Catherine McDonald; three sisters, Mrs. Edna Mapps, Mrs. Jerline Campbell and Mrs. Athree Wadley; six brothers, Peter, Jimmie, Preston, Sam C., Joe Nathan and Bobby McDonald.

Pallbearers will be Charles Brown, Angras Lee, Wilber Collins, Fred Evans, Waymond McHenry and Jessie R. Curry.

 Notes:

Vernon Velma Bates
Sep 15, 1909 - Mar 30, 1972

Vernon Bates

Vernon Bates, 63, former City Hall custodian for almost 30 years, collapsed at his home, 1899 E. Irene Ave., Thursday and was dead on arrival at Memorial Hospital at 12:40 p.m.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Calhoun Funeral Home.

Coroner W. H. Tipton returned an inquest verdict of natural causes of death due to emphysema. He had been in ill health for several years.

Bates was employed by the city as custodian from 1940 until March, 1968 when he retired due to ill health.

Surviving are four dughters and one son and a number of grandchildren.

Notes:

-----

Vernon Bates

Funeral services for Vernon Bates, 63, were at 2 p.m. Monday at Calhoun Funeral Home Chapel. The Rev. E. C. Davis officiated. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery. He retired due to ill health in 1968 as city hall custodian after 26 years service with the city.

Surviving are four daughters, one son, two step-sons, one sister, three grandchildren and six step-grandchildren.

 Notes:

Josephine "Josie" (English) Curry-Conner
Jul. 25, 1896 - Jan. 29, 1972

Mrs. Conner

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Eastside Church of Christ for Mrs. Josephine Conner, who died Saturday at Mel-Haven Convalescent Home. W. W. Wilmore, minister of the church, will officiate, and burial will be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Calhoun Funeral Home.

Surviving are one son, Henry Curry, Jr., of Richmond, Calif.; a sister, Mrs. Ethel Person, a brother, Cal English, and a foster sister, Mrs. Fronie Person, all of Corsicana; two grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews.

 Notes:

Mamie (Wilson) Manning-Sparks
Jan 12, 1885 - May 15, 1972

Mrs. Sparks

Funeral services will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday at Calhoun Funeral Home Chapel for Mrs. Mamie Sparks, 87, who died Monday at the Convalescence Center in Dallas.

Elder Lonnie Beasley, Church of the Living God of Dallas, will officiate. Interment will be in Woodland Cemetery.

She was a longtime resident of Corsicana, born in Freestone County Jan. 12, 1885, and was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Mason Wilson.

Survivors include six sons, Drudy Manning of Dallas, Crutis Manning and Stancil Manning of San Francisco, Calif., Mason Manning and Willie Manning of Los Angeles, Calif., and Lindsay Manning of Corsicana; three daughters, Mrs. Mollie Moys of Dallas, Mrs. Mary F. Graham of Fairfield, Calif., and Mrs. Bernice Mayfield of Corsicana; one sister, Mrs. Mary E. Manning of Waco; one brother, Joseph Wilson of Huntsville; 15 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Stancil Manning, Drudy Manning, Sammy Stewart, Carraway Mayfield, Leonard Mayfield, and Walter Williams.

 Notes:

Sam Bailey, Sr.
Jan. 8, 1910 - Apr. 18, 1972

Sam Bailey, Sr.

EMHOUSE - Funeral services will be at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Christ in Corsicana at 1503 East Seventh Avenue, for Sam Bailey, 63, of Emhouse.

(Site of the services was incorrectly indicated as Emhouse in yesterday's story)

Bro. Willie Wilmore will officiate. Interment will be in Woodland Cemetery under the direction of Calhoun Funeral Home.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Earlene Bailey; two sons, Sam Bailey, Jr., and Joe Earl Bailey of Emhouse; three daughters, Mrs. Dorothy Edmerson, Miss Helen Ruth Bailey and Thelma Bailey, all of Emhouse; two brothers, Willie Louis Bailey and Hubert Bailey, both of Corsicana; two sisters, Mrs. Mary Lou Sims of Corsicana and Mrs. Julia Brown of Mount Pleasant; two grandchildren and other relatives.

Pallbearers will be Ocell Miller, Rush Rhodes, Odell Brown, Henry Davis, Clemo Davis and Neal Brown.


Notes:

Orell (Donaldson) Turner
Oct 15, 1911 - Jan 12, 1972

Mrs. Turner

Mrs. Orell Turner, 60, 801 E. Pine Ave., was found dead of an apparent heart attack in her home by police Wednesday at 8 p.m. after relatives reported she neither answered her phone or the door and had been sick.

Peace Justice Howe French held an inquest on being called to the scene by Police Sgt. Melvin Byrd, Officer Charles Jessie and Capt. David Garrett who had responded to a call to investigate by Mrs. Lena Turner, 604 N. 6th St. She advised police she had talked to the relative about 9 a.m., but couldn't reach her afterwards.

Funeral arrangements were pending at Calhoun Funeral Home.

Notes:

Jim Roger Ramsey
Oct 17, 1913 - Jun 4, 1986

Jim Roger Ramsey, age 72, a retired, self-employed petroleum engineer, died June 3 (4), 1986. He was born October 17, 1913, in Blooming Grove, Texas, and had resided in OKC for the past 40 years. He was a 1941 graduate of the University of Oklahoma School of Petroleum Engineering and an Army veteran of WWII, serving in the Signal Corps. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; one daughter, Judy Rice of OKC; one son, Stephen and his wife, Sally, of Norman; two grandchildren, Melissa Rice and James Edmund Ramsey; stepmother, Ruth Edmundson of Blooming Grove TX. Services will be held Saturday, June 1, at 12 noon, at the Westminster Presbyterian Chapel, directed by Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper. Memorials to University of Oklahoma School of Petroleum Engineering.
 

Notes:

James Robert Redford, Jr.
Jan 27, 1923 - Aug 6, 2008

James Redford, 85, passed away Sept. 6, 2008, in Lubbock. He was born Jan. 27, 1923, in Kerens, to the late James and Alice Redford, Sr. James served during WWII as a Corporal in the Army Airforce. He entered AAC in 1942, trained at Sheppard Field, New Mexico and Nebraska. He served in India, China, Japan and Sumatra. He was awarded Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon, and five Battle Stars. After an honorable discharge in 1945, James, at the age of 24, began a career as a master brick layer helping construct numerous buildings around Lubbock. He was a lifetime member of The International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers.

James is survived by two daughters, Kay Eckard and husband Walt, and Karla Washington and husband Buster; son, Charles Hosmer and wife Becky, all of Lubbock; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brother, Will Tom Redford and wife Nettie of Jacksonville; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by a sister, granddaughter, and a great-grandson.

Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2008, at Sanders Memorial Chapel with Rev. Robert Magee officiating. Interment will follow at City of Lubbock Cemetery under the direction of Sanders Funeral Home.

Notes:

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