Gerald (Jerry) Oden

Gerald (Jerry) Oden, 63, of Odessa died Tuesday, March 14, 2006, in the University Medical Center in Lubbock.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 17, 2006, in the Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Bennett officiating.

Burial will follow in the Blackwell Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 6-7 p.m. Thursday, March 16, 2006, in the funeral home.

Mr. Oden was born on Dec. 1, 1942, in Sweetwater. He worked in the oilfield before retiring and was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving in Vietnam.

Survivors include his companion, Barbara (Babs) Nance of Odessa; his children, Jeannie and Carl Parks of Sweetwater, Cary Don and Cyndy Griggs of Midland, Dwayne and Bonnie Oden of Sweetwater, Lisa and Scott Hagee of Midland, Teresa and Monty Young of Sweetwater, Charlie and Regina Griggs of Fort Stockton, and Brandon and Tara Oden of Sweetwater; 21 grandchildren, two great-grandsons; three sisters, Faye and Dudley Wilson of Sweetwater, Dessie (Tootsie) Morris of Colorado City, and Nellie and Jack Higgins of Naples; and three brothers, Dickie and Linda Oden of Sweetwater, James and Ruth Oden of Saginaw, and Jimmy and Lola Oden of Sweetwater.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Dessie Oden; one son, John Leonard Oden; two brothers, Hayes Oden and Luther Oden; and one sister, Maybell Oden.


Lucille (George) Harvey

Lucille (George) Harvey, 83, of Paris died Sunday, Feb. 26, 2006, at Paris Healthcare Center.

Bright-Holland Funeral Home scheduled graveside services for 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at Evergreen Cemetery with the Revs. Ralph Taylor and Carl Weaver officiating.

Lucille was born May 22, 1922, in Eskota, Fisher County, the daughter of Henry Carl and Sara Elizabeth Trent George. She grew up in her teen years at Palava. She graduated from Newman High School in Sweetwater and married Thomas Jefferson (T.J.) Harvey on Jan. 30, 1943, in Sweetwater. He preceded her death on Feb. 25, 1999.

Lucille was a homemaker and worked as a secretary for several years. Her last employment was for the Paris Independent School District and Paris Junior College Tax Office. She worked for House Jewelry and for many years as a secretary for Dadant Bee Supply of Paris.

She was an active member of the First Baptist Church until this past year when her health prevented her attendance.

Surviving is her only son, Jay Mack Harvey; grandson, Jayson Thomas Harvey and his wife, Nickie, granddaughter, Jayme Renee Harvey, as well as a host of other family and friends.


William H. Lagal Jr.

William H. Lagal Jr., 76, of Sweetwater died Sunday, March 12, 2006, in Sweetwater.

The funeral service was held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, 2006, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories with Joe Bagby officiating.

Burial followed in the Garden of Memories Cemetery.

Mr. Lagal was born on Nov. 8, 1929, in Perry, Okla. He married Nadine Parker in 1962 in Odessa. He married Lela Lanham in 1998 in Sweetwater. Mr. Lagal was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War. He lived in Sweetwater since 1964 and was a truck driver.

Survivors include his wife, Lela Lagal of Sweetwater; one son, Lewis Lagal and his wife, Tammy, of Sweetwater; one step-daughter, Jackie Pearl Burks of Wichita, Kan.; two step-sons, Dean Ohlhausen of Gar-land and Ray Ohlhausen of Austin; seven step-grandchildren and several step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nadine, on April 26, 1996.


 

Myrtle Mildred Stewart

Myrtle Mildred Stewart, 86, of Sweetwater died Thursday, March 16, 2006, in the Roscoe Healthcare Center.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 18, 2006, in the Garden of Memories with the Rev. Richard Dorsey officiating.

Services will be under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Mrs. Stewart was born on Aug. 29, 1919, in Ranger. She married Keith Stewart on Feb. 22, 1939, in New Mexico. Mrs. Stewart was a member of the First Christian Church and a very active and longtime member of the Nolan County Home Extension Club. She loved ranching. Myrtle and Keith were lifelong cattle ranchers in Howard County, then south of San Angelo. They moved to Nolan County in 1948, leased and lived on the Double Heart Ranch and Barton Ranch and raised goats. They settled west of Lake Trammell and bought the former McBurnett Ranch and lived there until the present time.

Survivors include one brother, John P. Schoonover Jr. and sister-in-law, Gail Schoonover of Sweetwater.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Keith Stewart, on Sept. 23, 1987.


 

Norma Leone Maloney Mayes

Norma Leone Maloney Mayes, 83, died Thursday, March 16, 2006. Services are 2 p.m. Saturday in McCoy Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, officiated by Rev. Allan Culp and Rev. Jim Reinbolt, with burial following in Roscoe Cemetery, directed by McCoy Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Norma was born May 12, 1922 in Goree. She graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor's Degree and received her Master's Degree from the University of Alaska. She was a lifelong resident of Nolan and Scurry Counties. She taught school in Hermleigh and Alaska and grew up in Roscoe most of her life. Norma was a member of First Baptist Church in Hermleigh.

Norma was preceded in death by: her husband, Dudley, on May 29, 1996; and two sons, John Carl, on Sept. 11, 1996, and Morgan Douglas on May 3, 1971.

Survivors include: daughter, Kelly Woolley and husband Eddie of Marble Falls; brother, Walter Maloney and wife Florene of Sweetwater; five grandchildren, John Regan Woolley, Kimberly Ann Hartman and husband Michael, April Woolley, Adam Woolley and wife Darby, Matthew Woolley and wife Laura; great grandchildren, Cameron, Renee, Emma, Annalise, and Samantha; niece, Vicki Nazworth and husband Darrell; two nephews, Mike Maloney and wife Cindy and David Maloney and wife Jamie; four great nieces and nephews, and special friends Frances and Lupe Gloria and Dr. Al and Beth Densmore.

Pallbearers will be: Darrell Nazworth, Scott Nazworth, Bruce Nazworth, Jeff Stein, Tyson Price, and Gaines Price.

Honorary pallbearers are: Van Baucum, Lupe Gloria, Dr. Al Densmore, Larry Farr, Greg Kimsey, and Harold Duvall.

Memorials may be made to the Nolan County-City Library at 206 Elm St., Sweetwater, or Meals on Wheels at 1701 Elm, Sweetwater, 79556.

McCOY FUNERAL HOME / SWEETWATER, TEXAS


Santos G. Serrano

Santos G. Serrano, 85, of Sweetwater died Sunday, March 19, 2006, in the Rolling Plains Memorial Hospital.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2006, in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Father Michael Rodriguez officiating.

Burial will follow in the Sweetwater Cemetery under the direction of Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

A rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, March 20, 2006, in the funeral home.

Mr. Serrano was born on Feb. 25, 1921, in Gonzales. He married Fidencia Rios Mata on Aug. 12, 1945, in Sinton. Mr. Serrano worked for Rolling Plains Co-Op for many years before retiring. He was a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.

Survivors include eight sons, Silverio M. Serrano of Sweetwater, David M. Serrano and his wife, Mary Lou, of Abilene, Jesus (Carlos) M. Serrano and his wife, Frances, of Sweetwater, Antonio M. Serrano and his wife, Sylvia, of Sweetwater, Eugenio M. Serrano and his wife, Mary Frances, of Sweetwater, Tomas M. Serrano and his wife, Aurora, of Sweetwater; Jose M. Serrano and his wife, Elaine, of Amarillo, and Manuel M. Serrano and his wife, Laura, of San Angelo; two daughters, Maria Elena M. Serrano and Miguel Hernandez of Irving, and Edelia S. Cavazos and her husband, Freddy, of Abilene; three brothers, Panfilo G. Serrano of Lake Jackson, Felipe G. Serrano of Sinton, and Juan G. Serrano of Sinton; one sister, Jesusa S. Alaniz of Sinton; 31 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Fidencia Rios Mata; two sons, Efrain Serrano and Santos Serrano Jr.; one grandchild and one great-grandchild.


Barbara Jean Tankersley

Barbara Jean Tankersley, 53, of Blackwell died Friday, March 17, 2006, in Sweetwater.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, March 20, 2006, in the Blackwell Cemetery with the Rev. Orvel Brantley officiating.

Services will be under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Mrs. Tankersley was born on Sept. 20, 1952, in Stanley, Mont. She married Larry Tankersley on March 23, 1983, in Tatum, N.M. She and her husband lived in Blackwell for the past 16 years and she was a dedicated mother and homemaker.

Survivors include her husband, Larry Tankersley of Blackwell; two daughters, Melanie Cobb and her husband, Ray, and Trinity Stamper, all of Abilene; her mother, Joy Duke of Blackwell; three brothers, Robert West of Blackwell, Ronny Winzor of Pampa and Charles Winzor of Houston; two sisters, Rebecca Baker of Blackwell and Sue Winzor of Bedford; five grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Elvin West.


 

HAROLD PARRISH

 

Harold Parrish, 53, of Sweetwater, died Friday, March 17, 2006, in Big Spring.

 

A graveside service was held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 20, 2006, in the Sweetwater Cemetery with the Rev. Rodney Bell officiating.

 

Services were under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

 

Mr. Parrish was born on June 6, 1952, in Baird, TX.

Survivors include one daughter, Candy Parrish; one son, Michael Parrish; his father, Alvin Parrish of Sweetwater; two sisters, Linda Linebaugh of Sweetwater and Melissa Lewis and her husband, Brian, of Ranger; and one brother, Allen Parrish and his wife, Pat, of Big Spring.


 

Gordon Mitchel Isom

Gordon Mitchel Isom, 47, died Sunday, March 19, 2006, at his residence in Abilene.

A graveside services will be 2 p.m. Friday in Drummond Cemetery with the Rev. John Tunnell officiating, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home. 

Visitation will be from 7-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Born in Abilene, on June 4, 1958, he was the son of Aubrey and Alberta Isom Gordon was a lifetime resident of Abilene. He served in the U.S. Army as a cannon crewman and was awarded decorations as a rifle sharpshooter and a first class hand grenade. He later served in the National Guard.

He was employed as an auto mechanic with Bill Powell Honda. He was a Baptist and attended College View Baptist Church. Gordon loved to bowl.

He is predeceased by his father, Aubrey Isom in 1994.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry Isom of Abilene; his mother, Alberta Isom of Abilene; two brothers, Rodney Isom of Sweetwater and Terry Isom of Abilene; and a sister, Verdis Knight of Yorktown, Va.


 

Carl H. Stanley

 

Carl H. Stanley, 89, of Sweetwater died Wednesday, March 22, 2006, in Sweetwater

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2006, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories with the Revs. Ron Kelley and Roger Mobley officiating.

 

Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories.

 

Visitation will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, March 24, 2006, in the funeral home.

 

Mr. Stanley was born on Sept. 30, 1916, in Mitchell County. He married Evelyn Land on Aug. 22, 1941, in Loraine. Mr. Stanley was a member of the Highland Height United Methodist Church and lived in Sweetwater for over 64 years. He owned and operated Stanley Electric for 29 years.

 

Survivors include his wife, Evelyn Stanley of Sweetwater; one son, Larry Stanley and his wife, Bonnie, of Fredricksburg; three sisters, Louise Cartright of Desoto, Inez Petty and her husband, Bill, of Boyd, and Iva Dale Clemmons of Winsboro; one brother, Billy Stanley of Lindale; one daughter-in-law, Carol Ann Stanley of Lubbock; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one son, Don Stanley, on April 26, 2002.


Bruce David Williams

Bruce David Williams, 52, died Tuesday, March 22, 2006 in Abilene. Funeral services will be 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Nugent Baptist Church with Rev. Craig Thames officiating. Burial will follow in Hawley Cemetery directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Born in Sweetwater, Texas, on January 9, 1954, Bruce was the son of Nadine (Earnest) and Zane Marlon Williams. He was a 1972 graduate of Abilene High School, and worked for Civic Plaza Hotel in maintenance. He was a Baptist.

His father, Zane Williams, preceded him in death in 1993.

Survivors include his wife, Lena "Sissie" Williams of Hawley; a son, Chase David Williams of Bronte; daughters, Krissy Lynn Pelton and husband, J. R., of Abilene, and Lauren Alyssa Williams and Lindsey Alon Williams both of Bronte; and five grandchildren, Kaylee Williams, Jessica Hudson, Victoria Hudson, and Alyssa Hudson, and Journey Williams. He is also survived by his mother, Nadine Williams of Hawley; a brother, Kenneth Dwayne Williams of Hawley; and four sisters, Sandra Lois Williams Jones, and husband, Larry, of Hawley; Julia Beth Nunley and husband, Charles, of Denison, TX, Luann Chastain and husband, Mike, of Abilene, and Arvella Jo Coleman and husband, Allen, of Anson.

Pallbearers will be J. R. Pelton, Chase Williams, Shaun Chastain, Floyd Sanders, Bryan Jones and Jarred Williams.

"Gone Fishing"


 

Christi Kiser Parker

Christi Kiser Parker, 52, passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2006 in her home in Munday, TX.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, March 25, 2006 at the Believer's Chapel in Munday, Texas with Rev. W.O. Smith officiating. Burial will be in the Johnson Memorial Cemetery under the direction of McCauley-Smith Funeral Home in Munday.

Mrs. Parker was born April 18, 1953 in Hamlin, Texas. She moved to Munday in 1979. She worked in the health care industry and was co-founder of Cornerstone Home Health. She was a godly woman who found joy in being with her family and grandchildren, singing praises, and working in her yard.

She is survived by: her husband, Daron Parker; her father, Freddie Kiser, both of Munday; one son, Christopher Clem of Ingram; two daughters, Robyn Redder of Munday, and Lorin Lopez of Sweetwater; two brothers, Steve Kiser of Florida, and Danny Kiser of Arkansas; five grandchildren, Taylor Clem, Kennedy Redder, Matthew Clem, Kellen Redder, Kameron Redder, and her caregiver, Mini Wallace.

Memorials may be made to: Believer's Chapel or Hospice of Wichita Falls.

McCAULEY—SMITH FUNERAL HOME / MUNDAY, TEXAS


Billy Joe Cargill

Billy Joe Cargill, 48, of Big Spring and formerly of Sweetwater, died Sunday, March 26, 2006, in Midland.

The funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, March 30, 2005, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories in Sweetwater with Pastor James Thompson officiating.

Burial will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 1, 2006, in the Burnet Cemetery with Johnny Melton officiating.

Mr. Cargill was born on July 27, 1957, in Odessa. He attended the Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ in Sweetwater. He lived in Sweetwater for many years and in Big Spring for the past two months.

Survivors include one sister, Selma Cargill of Spicewood; one aunt, Stella Melton of Burnet; and eight cousins, Stella Whitmire of Cameron, Dorothy Courey of McKinney, Hazel Melton of Roswell, N.M., Billy Melton of Runaway Bay, Johnny Melton of Aransas Bay, Tommy Melton of Odessa, Pete Melton of Olney and Willie Melton of Cleburne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Charles Cargill and Evelyn Bennietta Brannon Cargill, who both passed away in 1986.


 

 

Esiquio S. “Dick” Rivera

Esiquio S. “Dick” Rivera, 85, of Sweetwater died Thursday, March 23, 2006, in the Shannon Hospital in San Angelo.

The funeral service was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 27, 2006, in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Father Michael Rodriguez officiating.

Burial followed in the Garden of Memories under the direction of Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

The Nolan County Honor Guard performed graveside rites.

Pallbearers were Louis Torres, Rodney Jacques, Honorio Taylor, Billy Weems, Bill Tinsley and Jerry Rivera


James Edward Blakeney

James Edward Blakeney, 35, of Tulsa, Okla., and formerly of Sweetwater died Friday, March 17, 2006, in Tulsa.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2006, in the Broadway Baptist Church in Sweetwater with Pastor Dale Stowe officiating.

Local arrangements were made by McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Mr. Blakeney was born on Dec. 18, 1970, in Neurenberg, Germany. He married Lori McCraw on March 4, 2000, in Tulsa, Okla. Mr. Blakeney was employed as a cashier for Wal-Mart in Tulsa and was a fan of both the Dallas Cowboys and Oklahoma University Sooners. He loved to fish. James took life as it was dealt to him and he will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Lori Blakeney of Tulsa, Okla.; his parents, Joel and Sandra Blakeney of Sweetwater; two brothers, Joel Blakeney Jr. of Beaumont, and Robert Blakeney and his wife, Regena, of Sweetwater; his grandmothers, Ida Izona Winters and Granny Wretha Blakeney, both of San Angelo, and Gigi Wilma Smith of Midland; three nephews, Sean Michael, Dale Ray and Timothy Wayne Blakeney, all of Sweetwater; his in-laws, David and Ann McCraw and Justin McCraw; and niece, Emma; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.


 

WANDA NELL (CRAIN) OTTINGER

 

Wanda Nell Ottinger, 63, of Odessa, passed away at Medical Center Hospital on Monday, March 20, 2006. 

Wanda    was born September 3rd, 1942 to Harvey B. Crain and Eppie (Walden) Crain, in Sweetwater, Texas.

She was raised on the Crain farm near Maryneal, Texas and was educated at Blackwell High School graduating with the Class of 1960.

 

Wanda moved to Odessa and was employed by Pinkie’s and Standard Sales Co. for 30 years before retiring in 2002. She enjoyed crocheting, crossword puzzles, and the care and keeping of her turtles.


Wanda was predeceased by her father,
Harvey B. Crain.


Graveside funeral services celebrating her life were held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 23rd, 2006 at Sunset Memorial Gardens, with Pastor Lynn Money officiating.


Margaret Louise Swafford

Margaret Louise Swafford, 69, of Vega died Saturday, April 1, 2006.

A graveside service will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, 2006, in the Sweetwater Cemetery with Jerry Huffman officiating.

Services will be under the direction of Boxwell Brothers of Vega. Local arrangements were made with Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home.

Mrs. Swafford was born on July 22, 1936, in Sweetwater to Bertha and Neely Mayhew. She lived in Amarillo for several years prior to moving to Vega. She was a homemaker.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Clayton “Clay” Swafford, who died on June 10, 1984. Mrs. Swafford was a Baptist.

She is survived by her daughter, Sherri Greer and husband, Phillip, of Vega, and a grandson, Brandon Greer and wife, Sara, of Dallas.


Carl Joseph Dutton Jr.

Carl Joseph Dutton Jr., 53, of Sweetwater died Friday, March 31, in Sweetwater.

His body was cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

McCoy Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.


Tommie H. Davis

Tommie H. Davis, 85, of Sweetwater died Monday, April 3, 2006, in her residence.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 6, 2006, in the Palava Cemetery with the Rev. James Baker officiating.

Services will be under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Visitation will be held from 7-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, 2006, in the funeral home.

Mrs. Davis was born on Feb. 3, 1921, in Longworth. She married Walter Jeff Davis on Jan. 11, 1941, in Sweetwater. Mrs. Davis worked for many years, and retired, at M ‘Systems in Sweetwater. She lived in Sweetwater since 1941 and was a Baptist.

Survivors include two daughters, Pam Stevens and her husband, Paul, of Sweetwater and Beverly Poole of Magnolia; one sister, Lynn Coley of Bixby, Okla.; two brothers, Troy Moore of Slaton and Frank Moore of Stamford; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Jeff Davis, on June 29, 1964.

Memorials may be made to the Longworth Community Center or Palava Cemetery Association.


 

DORIS ANN HACKFELD

 

Doris Ann Hackfeld, 67, of Arlington and formerly of Sweetwater, died Friday, April 7, 2006, in the Medical Center of Arlington.

 

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, April 10, 2006, in the Faith Lutheran Church with the Rev. Chester McCown officiating.  Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories under the direction of Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

 

Ms. Hackfeld was born on January 4, 1939 in Roscoe.  She was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church.

 

Survivors include one sister, Evelyn Ford and her husband, Leon, of Arlington; two nephews, Blair Ford and his wife, Tammy, of Maypearl and Grant Ford and his wife, Lisa, of Kennedale; three great-nieces, one great-nephew and numerous cousins and friends.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Adolph G. and Laura Hackfeld; and two brothers, Marvin Hackfeld and Lawrence Hackfeld.

 

(Note by Janie Healer Davis:  Doris Ann was a member of the former Sunshine Inn in Sweetwater, Texas.  Sunshine Inn was established by Mary Healer and the Sweetwater Jaycees as a learning and earning place for mentally handicapped persons.  Doris Ann was always cheerful, always smiling, always happy.  I’ll always remember her smile on her face, even though she was wheelchair-bound, and I’ll always remember how much her family loved her.)


Richard Edward Guest

Richard Edward Guest, 61, a businessman, died Thursday, April 6, 2006, in Fort Worth.

A graveside service was held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at Memory Gardens in Weatherford.

The family requests that memorials be made to the AQHF/America's Horse Cares in Amarillo or a favorite charity.

 

Richard Guest was born Dec. 22, 1944, to the late Wilson and Dortha Jean Guest. He attended Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, and Texas Tech University in Lubbock. Richard married Donna Bledsoe in Sweetwater in June 1964. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Besides being a successful businessman, Richard was also a charismatic storyteller with a quick wit, a gifted artist, and an exceptional horseman. Richard never met a stranger; those who knew him could not help but love him. He will be remembered for his generosity and fierce loyalty to those he held dear.

Survivors include his loving family, including his wife of 41 years, Donna; children, Richard Guest Jr., Michael Guest and his wife, Shannon, of Weatherford; grandchildren, Logan and Lane Guest; sister Jill Smith and her husband, Bob, of Dallas; and numerous other relatives and friends.


Helen Louise Jackson Goettsche

The family of Helen Louise Jackson Goettsche will celebrate 98 years of a beautiful life at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15, 2006. She was born in Channing on Feb. 29, 1908, to John William Alexander Jackson and Cora Bell Millard Jackson. She went to meet the Lord on Thursday, April 13, 2006.

 

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 15, 2006, in the Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home chapel in Sweetwater with Mike Ensminger and Bill Johnston officiating.

Burial will follow in the Sweetwater Cemetery.

 

The family will receive friends from 6-8:30 p.m. Fri-day, April 14, 2006, in the funeral home.

She was a lifelong dedicated servant in the Church of Christ, serving as a charter member of Lamar Street Church of Christ.

 

Survivors include three daughters, Glenna G. Miles, Gusta McGee and her husband, James, and Jenelle Moore and her husband, Clinton, all of Sweetwater; seven grandchildren, Donice Powell, Glynis Gotcher, Lee Montgomery, Murl Montgomery, Cindy Morton, Keith Moore and John Moore; 13 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marten Gus Goettsche; her parents, John William Alexander Jackson and Cora Bell Jackson; one sister, two brothers, and one granddaughter, Emily Montgomery.

Memorials may be made to Medina Children's Home, 21300 State Hwy. 16 N., Medina, TX 78055-3808.


 

Bobby D. Kinney

Bobby D. Kinney, 73, of Weatherford, died Wednesday, April 12, 2006.

 

A funeral service was held at 1 p.m. Friday in the McCoy Funeral Home Chapel in Sweetwater with the Rev. Bailey Stone officiating. 

 

Burial was in the Pyron Cemetery in Scurry County, directed by Abilene Funeral Home.

 

Mr. Kinney was born April 20, 1932, in Scurry County, to Walter and Annie M. Kinney. He graduated from Hermleigh High School and married Mary F. Cox on Aug. 7, 1955. Mr. Kinney was employed by Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in Sweetwater and Odessa until his retirement in 1984. After retirement, he founded Day-light Donuts and Mrs. Mary's Pies in Odessa. He moved to Weatherford in 1999.

 

Survivors include his wife, Mary F. Kinney of Weatherford; a son, Jerry Kinney of Weatherford; a daughter, Kathy Boley and her husband, Terry, of Sweetwater; a brother, Al Kinney and his wife, Wanda, of San Angelo; two brothers-in-law, Bobby Cox and his wife, Leona, and Sherman Cox and his wife, Sandra, of Midland; a sister, Thelma Martindale and her husband, Warren, of Sweetwater; three sisters-in-law, Velma Kinney of Sweetwater, Edith Sellars of Lubbock and Cora Ellis of New Boston; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

 

Online register book may be signed at abilenefuneralhome.com.


Aiden Kai Taylor

 

Aiden Kai Taylor, 29 days, died April 14, 2006.

 

A graveside service was held Saturday, April 15, 2006 at Slater's Chapel Cemetery. The service was under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

 

Aiden Kai Taylor was born on March 16, 2006 in Fort Worth.

 

Survivors include parents Amy and Kyle Taylor of Nolan; maternal grandparents Robert and Sue Rowlett of Nolan; paternal grandparents Keith and Treva Taylor of Abilene; maternal great-grandparents Opal and Elbert Simmons of Nolan; paternal great-grandmother Ruby Dunn of Abilene; and maternal great-grandmother Helen Rowlett of Sweetwater.


Troy E. “Slim” Goodwin

Troy E. “Slim” Goodwin, 76, of Sweetwater died Sunday, April 16, 2006, in his residence.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, 2006, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories with the Revs. Orvel Brantley and Lance Cypert officiating.

Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories.

Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, 2006, in the funeral home.

Mr. Goodwin was born on Sept. 9, 1929, in Hood County. He married Annie Lou Price on Dec. 10, 1949, in Rotan. Mr. Goodwin was a member of the Lamar Street Baptist Church. He retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. after 30 years of service on Feb. 13, 1985. He lived in Sweetwater since 1950.

Survivors include his wife, Annie Lou Goodwin of Sweetwater; two sons, Jimmy Goodwin of Sweetwater and Rodney Goodwin and his wife, Debi Kay, of Merkel; two sisters, Olmer Woodard of Burleson and Gracie Clampitt of Fort Worth; one sister-in-law, Louise Goodwin of Boyd; one grandson, Rodie Goodwin of Abilene; and one granddaughter, Jessica Goodwin of Sweetwater.

He was preceded in death by five brothers and three sisters.


Gerald D. Hall

Gerald D. Hall, 72, of Floydada died April 13, 2006, in Urbana, Ill.

Mr. Hall was born on Aug. 16, 1933, in Matador to the late Willard and Effie (Chambers) Hall. He was a longtime resident of Floydada. Mr. Hall graduated from Floydada High School in 1952 and served in the Navy. He married Freida Jarrett on Dec. 19, 1958, in Amarillo. She preceded him in death on Oct. 23, 1995. Mr. Hall was manager of Piggly Wiggly and other grocery stores in Floydada, Dumas, Canyon and Sweetwater. He retired in 2000. In Floydada, he was a member of the Lions Club and president of the Quarterback Club. Gerald followed Floydada sports long after leaving the area. He was an avid golfer, and loved spending time with all his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by a sister, Jackie Castleberry.

He is survived by two sons, Kelly Hall and his wife, Ginna, of Houston, and Brent Hall and his wife, Lisa, of El Paso; a daughter, Leslie Noyes and her husband, David, of Mahomet, Ill.; a sister, Betty Spraberry of Porterville, Calif.; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

The funeral service was held at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, 2006, in Trinity Assembly with the Rev. Henry Russell officiating. Burial followed in the Floyd County Memorial Park under the direction of Moore-Rose-White Funeral Home of Floydada.


 

William Douglas May

William Douglas May, 78, of Sweetwater died Sunday, April 16, 2006, in the Covenant Medical Center in Lubbock.

The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, 2006, in the Cate-Spencer and Trent Funeral Home chapel in Sweetwater with the Rev. James Baker officiating.

Burial will follow in the Sweetwater Cemetery.

Mr. May was born on Jan. 29, 1928, in Kerens. He married Marjorie McMahon on Sept. 3, 1950, in Beaumont. Mr. May was a member of the First United Methodist Church and worked for Lone Star Cement for 36 years as an office manager before retiring. He was a U.S. veteran and had been a resident of Sweetwater for more than 40 years.

Survivors include his wife, Marjorie May of Sweetwater; five sons, Douglas May of Midland, David May and his wife, Susan, of Lubbock, Wesley May and his wife, Dryden, of Austin, Jeffrey May and special friend, Betty Mullen, of California, and Bradley May of Austin; four daughters, Martha Nazworth of Austin, Wanda Gonzales and her husband, George, of Sweetwater, Janet Maxwell and her husband, Pat, of Sweetwater, and Carol Bronson and her husband, Keith, of Abilene; one brother, George William May of Houston; two sisters, Betty Rutherford of Coriscana and Dora Quinn of Pittsburg; grandchildren, Brian Patton and his wife, Susan, Karin William and her husband, Brandon, Lisa Gonzales, Ryan Douglas May, Lindsey May, Abbi May, Cameron May, Jeremy Maxwell and his wife, Kami, Kacey Hefner and her husband, Brandon, Mary May, Ryan Andrew May, Justin Roden and Tyler Roden; and great-grandchildren, Blake and Kaitlin Patton, Bailey, Reagan and Brynn Williams, Devin and J.P. Gutierrez, and Brock Maxwell.

He was preceded in death by his father, George William May; mother, Zelda May; and one sister, Doris Nell Connell.


 

Jimmy Anderson Wilburn

Jimmy Anderson Wilburn, 72, joined his Savior Sunday April 16, 2006, at his residence.

Services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday April 18, 2006, at the First Baptist Church in Rotan with Bro. Werth Mayes officiating. Burial was in Roby Cemetery directed by Weathersbee-Ray Funeral Home.

Jim was born in Roby on Feb. 25, 1934, to Lealon and Florence Wilburn. He graduated from Roby High School in 1953 and attended Texas Tech University. Jim returned to Roby to work for the county for a year, and then went to the Permian Basin, which was the start of a 55-year career in the oilfield. He was hired by Hughes Tool Company and was transferred to Farmington, N.M. in 1956. Jim married Carolyn Faye Crawford of Farmington, N.M. on July 14, 1958 in Dove Creek, Colo. His first son, Michael Scott, was born in Cortez, Colo. in 1959. His second son, Bradley Grant, was born in Farmington, N.M. in 1960. Hughes Tool Co. transferred him to Lexington, Ohio, in 1964. In 1966, Jim left Hughes Tool Co. and began his own oil and gas production company that continues to this day. His first daughter, Shannon Rae, was born in 1968 in Mansfield, Ohio, as was his second daughter, Courtney Lynn, in 1972. Jim always desired to move back to Texas and did so Dec. 23, 1975, after purchasing the Tom Parker Ranch in Fisher County in 1971. On his beloved “Parker Place,” Jim began a successful cow/calf operation. He also had a special love for showing and breeding cutting horses. Jim also cherished his fly-fishing trips to Montana, New Mexico and Colorado with his sons. In the late 1980s, Jim started flying lessons and became an avid pilot.

Jim is preceded in death by his father, Lealon Wilburn, in 1984.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Carolyn; two sons, Mike of Sweetwater (and his children, Justin, Amanda and Chelsea), and Brad and wife Jullie of Fort Worth (and their children Jake, Ashley and Zack); two daughters, Shannon of San Angelo and Courtney and husband Jason Grimes of Fort Worth; his mother, Florence Wilburn of Roby; two sisters, LaNelle Etheredge and husband Jackie Wayne of Roby and Lucille Sherrill and husband James of Sweetwater; a brother, Kenneth Wilburn and wife Necy of Anson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were nephews Randy Etheredge, David Etheredge, Todd Etheredge, Travis Wilburn, Kyle Wilburn, and son-in-law Jason Grimes.


Mildred W. “Millie” Givens

Millie Givens, 79, died April 18, 2006, at Wesley Court Nursing Facility in Abilene. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Lakeway.

She was born May 24, 1926, in Prairie Hill to Frank and Audie Waller. Millie married the love of her life, Ben M. Givens Jr. on Feb. 22, 1958, whereupon they embarked on a 35 year love affair starting out in Venezuela before moving back to Texas in 1961. They lived in Snyder for many years before moving to Lakeway in 2003 to be closer to her family. She was a wonderful mother, gourmet cook, artist, exceptional bridge player and golfer, and in the later years loved bingo. Millie took great pride in seeing her grandson, Zachary, attend New Mexico Military Institute and especially loved seeing him in dress uniform.

She was preceded in death by Ben Jr. in 1993, son Bobby, her parents, two brothers and one sister.

Survivors include son Ben M. Givens III and wife Kris of Sweetwater, daughter Kelly Harmon of Midland, grandson Cadet Zachary Givens of Roswell, N.M., brother Charles Waller and wife Nita of Euless and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to NMMI Alumni Association, 101 W. College Blvd., Roswell, N.M. 88201-5173.

Arrangements are being made by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home in Austin.

Obituary and guestbook on line at wcfish.com.


Cicely Ann Rau Capri

Cicely Ann Rau Capri, 88, of San Angelo died April 1, 2006, in a San Angelo hospital.

The funeral service were held at the Presbyterian Church in Fort Davis at 1 p.m. Friday, April 7, with the Revs. Ernie Vineyard and Joe Gossett officiating.

Burial followed in the Hillcrest Cemetery under the direction of Geeslin Funeral Home.


 

Albert Eugene “Gene” Britt

Albert Eugene “Gene” Britt, 72, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, April 23, 2006.

A service will be held at First Baptist Church in Lamesa on Thursday, April 27, at noon with the Revs. Mike Matheny and Forest Srader officiating. Burial will be in the Lamesa Memorial Park under the direction of Brannon Funeral Home.

Mr. Britt was born on Nov. 3, 1934, in Pride. He graduated from Lamesa High School in 1953. Gene owned and operated Britt Trucking, and Britt Dirt Contracting, as well as Britt Well Service with locations in Lamesa, Odessa, Big Lake and Sweetwater. This business specializes in both oilfield trucking, construction and well servicing. The business was founded by his father, Albert Emory “Bill” Britt, in 1934.

Gene met and married the love of his life, Judy Crutcher, in Lamesa on Nov. 17, 1960. Gene was a very successful businessman, continuing the operation of these businesses until his death. His leadership and expertise made the company the success it is today. He was, and always will be, a name recognized in the oil business.

Gene never met a stranger, and never was too busy to stop and visit. He was truly a people person and was very well liked and thought of in West Texas and the New Mexico areas. He was a compassionate man who was true to his word and loved dearly by those who worked for and with him. He was an excellent husband and dad, and loved his family dearly.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Emory “Bill” Britt and Viola Itasca Roberts Britt; and a beloved son, Zane Eugene Britt.

Survivors include his wife, Judy; daughter, Lauri Ann; and son, Chance Wade, all of Lamesa, as well as his grandchildren, Kortney Danielle, Dakota Demi, Kamie Jalde, all of Lamesa, and Cassidy Cheyenne Britt of Chattanooga, Tenn.

He will be surely missed by his family and numerous friends and businessmen throughout the area.

The family requests memorials be sent to Howard College c/o Gene Britt Memorial Scholarship Fund, 1001 Birdwell Lane, Big Spring, TX 79720, Attn: Jan Forsythe.


 

Virginia Worthy Alvis

Virginia Worthy Alvis, 92, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday morning, April 25, 2006. A resident of Austin for 65 years, Virginia was predeceased by her husband, C. E. Alvis Jr., a long-time Austin attorney. Her survivors include her sister, Mary Edna Worthy, Roscoe; her son James and his wife, Sharon, of Austin; her son John and his wife, Judy, of San Marcos; and her son Thomas of Austin. Grandchildren include John Reagan Alvis and his wife, Kerri, of Lockhart, Rebecca Alvis Dultmeier and her husband, Steve, of Spring Hill, Fla., and Amy Victoria Alvis of Austin, plus four great-grandchildren.

Born Aug. 26, 1913, in Roscoe to Edward J. and Vesta Worthy, Virginia was valedictorian of her high school class and a graduate of Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene. She taught school in Gatesville for two years where she met and married Gene, her beloved husband of 39 years. Gene and Virginia moved to Austin in 1941, where Virginia taught English at Mathews School.

With the birth of her eldest son in 1942, Virginia devoted her life to being a mother and homemaker. During this period, Virginia continued with her abiding interest in education and was a long-time supporter and participant of parent-teacher associations in elementary, secondary and high schools. She was the first president of Highland Park School PTA. She also was an active supporter of school-related activities, including library science, music, and scouting.

Among her various interests, Virginia was a long-time member of the Austin Woman's Club and served as its president from 1983 to 1985. She was a founder of the Westwood Country Club. She was also a member of the Austin Garden Club, Pathfinders, and the Heritage Society.

Virginia and her family attended Highland Park Baptist Church where she was a founding member.

Throughout her life, Virginia was an avid reader. She valued books both for education and pleasure. She was in the Current Book Review Club where she was a noted reviewer since the 1940s.

Virginia enjoyed outdoor activities, including family camping in the mountains; she was also a long-time fishing companion to her husband, Gene. She was a lover of dogs and owned wire-haired fox terriers for many years. Virginia enjoyed cooking and music and was an accomplished pianist.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2006, in the Weed-Corley-Fish Chapel.

Shared memories from friends and acquaintances will be welcomed in celebration of Virginia's life.

Arrangements are being made by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home in Austin.

Obituary and guestbook online at wcfish.com.


Isabell C. Perez

Isabell C. Perez, 57, of Sweetwater died Friday, May 5, 2006.

The funeral service was held at 4 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2006, at the McCoy Chapel of Memories in Sweetwater with Fred Johnson officiating.

Mrs. Perez was born on July 11, 1948, in Elmendorf. She married Panfilo Perez on July 31, 1970 in San Antonio. She lived most of her life in Sweetwater. She was a homemaker and a member of Kingdom Hall Jehovah Witnesses.

Survivors include her husband, Panfilo Perez of Sweetwater; three children, Marie Ibarra and husband Joaquin of Floresville, Lea Underwood and husband George of Sweetwater, and Noe Perez and wife Lindsey of Sweetwater; her mother, Guadalupe Granado of Elmendorf; six brothers, five sisters and 13 grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one son, Tony Perez.


Jesse L. “Frog” Toland Jr.

Jesse L. “Frog” Toland Jr., 83, of Sweetwater died Monday, May 8, 2006, in Sweetwater.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 10, 2006, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories in Sweetwater with the Rev. Lance Cypert officiating.

Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories.

Mr. Toland was born on April 26, 1923, in Capitola in Fisher County. He married Wanda Hollis on June 23, 1972, in Sweetwater. Mr. Toland was a member of the Lamar Street Baptist Church and a veteran of the U.S. Army. He farmed and worked for a well service. Mr. Toland was a lifelong resident of Fisher County and Sweetwater.

Survivors include three daughters, Karlah Dent of Sweetwater, Lynette Toland of Odessa and Kristi Williams of Midland; two sons, Trey Toland and his wife, Belinda, of Snyder, and John Toland of Snyder; one brother, Barney Toland and his wife, Frankie, of Sweetwater; and eight grandchildren, Riche Dent of Plano, Jacoby Johnson of Lubbock, Eden Orman of Roscoe, Landon Orman of Roscoe, Casey Toland of Sweetwater, Tommy Toland of Sweetwater, Hayden Williams of Midland and Pascal Williams of Midland.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Toland, on June 29, 1992.


Eddie Martinez

Eddie Martinez, 41, of Sweetwater died Saturday, May 13, 2006.

The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2006, in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Father Michael Rodriguez officiating.

Burial will follow in the Sweetwater Cemetery under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home.

A rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, May 15, 2006, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories.

Mr. Martinez was born on July 3, 1964, in Sweetwater. He was Catholic and graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1984. Mr. Martinez worked at Ludlums in shipping and receiving. He also worked at Walls.

Survivors include his father, Epimenio Martinez of Sweetwater; his mother, Marie Martinez of Sweetwater; his girlfriend, Adelita Solano of Sweetwater; two brothers, Ector Martinez and Everado Martinez, both of Sweetwater; four sisters, Elisa Munoz, Elsa Martinez and Elda Martinez, all of Sweetwater, and Elva Aguirre of Nightdale, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Estella Martinez, on Nov. 5, 1997.


 

Dianne Hawley Reese

Dianne Hawley Reese, 57, of Sweetwater died Saturday, May 13, 2006.

The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2006, in the McCoy Chapel of Memories with Audie Reese and Matt Patterson officiating.

Ms. Reese was born on Sept. 28, 1948, in Sweetwater. She graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1966 and also graduated from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where she received her Master's degree.

Survivors include her son, Audie Reese and his wife, Marsha, of Sweetwater; one grandson, Keanu Rayden Reese of Sweetwater; two sisters, Carolee Patterson of Sweetwater and Tish Brandt of Austin; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Henry H. (Hez) Hawley, and her mother, Betty Lee Graves Hawley.


 

Avril Winford Covey

Avril Winford Covey, 90, passed away Friday, May 12, 2006, at a Sweetwater nursing center.

Services will be 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, 2006, at Lemons Funeral Home in Plainview, Texas with Joe Bagby officiating. Interment will follow in Plainview Memorial Park, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory, Abilene, Texas. Pallbearers will be grandsons and grandsons-in-law. The family will receive friends at a visitation 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at 4th and Elm Church of Christ in Sweetwater, Texas.

Avril was born to Della Pearl {Collins} and Rubin Avril Covey on October 18, 1915 in Pottsboro, Texas. He met the love of his life, Julia Alene Lyde, in elementary school and married her on November 27, 1937 in Hollis, Oklahoma. Winford was an independent garage man for twenty-eight years and an air plane mechanic at Tinker Air Force Base before going to college. Once he completed college he began a 17 year career teaching Auto Mechanics – Vocational Education for the Plainview and then Irving, Texas, Independent School District. Winford was pleased to teach young men a vocation so they could support themselves.

During his lifetime, Avril was a Lion (Plainview Lions Club), a member of VICA, a carpenter, a golfer, a deacon at 10th and Utica Church of Christ in Plainview, and a 30 year member of South MacArthur Church of Christ in Irving. He also loved country music (especially anything with a fiddle), touring with his wife and sometimes kids and grandkids in his motor home and cooking pancakes for traveling buddies as well as his grand- children. Avril moved to Sweetwater, Texas in 1998 to be closer to family. He was a member of 4th and Elm Church of Christ. Mr. Covey was a loving husband, a caring father and the grandpa that everyone wished they had.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; and two brothers.

Survivors include two daughters, Theresa Henry and husband, Marvin, of Archer City, Texas; Gwen Riggs and husband, Jerry, of Sweetwater, Texas; two brothers, Bobby Jack Covey and wife, Teresa, and Rubin Avril Covey, Jr. and wife, Cathryn; a sister, Lucille Motsenbocker; six grandchildren; and fourteen and a half great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to The Children’s Home of Lubbock at P.O. Box 2824, Lubbock, Texas 79408.


Alfred Earl Bixler

Alfred Earl Bixler passed away at 9:36 a.m. at Promise Speciality Care Facility, Phoenix, Ariz., on May 9, 2006, at the age of 69. Services are pending.

Mr. Bixler was born in Stamford, Texas, on March 4, 1937, and was the second child born to the late Arthur Merritt Bixler Sr. and Gracie Frances (Herd) Bixler. Alfred was an exceptionally generous spirit and had a great talent for working with animals. He especially loved working with farm animals.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bobby DeVerle Bixler.

Mr. Bixler is survived by four children, LuWanna Cundiff and Kathy Jones, both of San Angelo, George Bixler of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, and Billy Bixler of Navasota; one brother, Arthur M. Bixler Jr. and his wife, Darlene, of Sweetwater; two sisters, Carolyn Starrett and her husband, Wayne, of Mineral Wells and Sharon Denning and her husband, Marvin Denning, of Sweetwater; 11 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.


Jewel Carmen Dunlap

Jewel Carmen Dunlap, age 92, passed away on Sunday, May 14, 2006 in Sweetwater, Texas.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 18, 2006 at the McCoy Funeral Home Chapel of Memories with the Reverend Richard Dorsey officiating. Burial will follow in the Sweetwater Cemetery, under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home.

Jewel was born on August 30, 1913 in Franklin County, Arkansas. She married Clifford Dunlap on April 15, 1934 in Sweetwater, Texas.

She was a member of the 1st Christian Church of Sweetwater; she had lived in Sweetwater since 1996 and in Abilene before moving to Sweetwater. She was a homemaker.

She was preceded in death by: her husband, Clifford Dunlap on May 14, 1996; and her son, Ronald Dunlap on March 16, 1994.

She is survived by: one son, David Dunlap and wife, Hilary, of West Covina, California; one sister, Violet Witt of Sweetwater, Texas; two granddaughters, Rachel Dunlap of Houston, Texas and Allison Dunlap-Montaluo of Los Angeles, California.

Pallbearers will be: Bruce Denton, Dick Richardson, Warren Martindale, Ronald Hill, Carroll Kearney, and Sam Wright.


Erma Ruth Butler

Erma Ruth Butler went to be with her Lord and Savior at the age of 87 on Thursday, May 18, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 20, 2006 at Trinity Baptist Church, with Rev. Ward Hayes officiating. Burial will follow in Roby Cemetery, directed by McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Erma was born on January 5, 1919 in Delaware, Arkansas. She and her family moved to Palava (Fisher County, Texas) when she was about three years old. They later moved to Roby where she graduated from Roby High School. Erma married Woodrow Wilson Butler on December 7, 1935 in Rotan. She was a homemaker and was very active in the Trinity Baptist Church of which she was a member for over 30 years.

Erma and her husband moved to Sweetwater in 1987 from Roby. She was well known for her talent in sewing. One year she entered the wedding gown of her granddaughter-in-law and won the Blue Ribbon for overall show. She was a wonderful Christian wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who never missed an opportunity to share The Gospel with anyone in her path. Even in her last days at the nursing home, she kept insisting that she had to go tell the "kids" about Jesus.

Erma is survived by: daughter Pansy Black of Spring; grandson, Michael Black & wife DeDe of Wichita, KS; granddaughter-in-law Lisa Black of Spring; four great grandchildren, Jared Black of Wichita, KS, and Brittany, Morgan, and Kyle Black of Spring; sister Emma Dunivan of Deming, NM; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Erma was preceded in death by: her husband, W.W. Butler in 2004; daughter Diane Gail in 1963; grandson Ricky Black; son-
in-law Harold Black; mother Annie Dooley, and brothers and sisters Bus Rollans, Mildred Self, Dorothy Terry, Velda Wright, Wendon Rollans, C.A. Dooley, Dan Dooley, & John Dooley.

Pallbearers will be: Kyle Aaron Black, Jared Michael Black, Jimmy Driver, Charles Sharrock, Donald Coker, and Jimmy Wright.


Joe Sam Van Ness

Joe Sam Van Ness, 88, of Slaton died Wednesday, May 17, 2006, in the Nolan Nursing and Rehab in Sweetwater.

A graveside service will be held at the Resthaven Cemetery in Lubbock with the Rev. Steve Campbell and Rush Wheeler officiating.

Services will be under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

Mr. Van Ness was born on Feb. 28, 1918, in Anson. He married Ona Lee Glenn in 1957 in Lubbock. Mr. Van Ness lived in Slaton since 1946. He was a U.S. Army veteran and owned Slaton Farm Store for many years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Slaton.

Survivors include a close niece, Sarah Hampton of Sweetwater; one nephew, Van N. Baucum and his wife, Nita, of Sweetwater; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, three sisters and two brothers.


Edythe Myrle Robinson

Edythe Myrle Robinson, 96, of Roscoe died Thursday, May 18, 2006, in her residence.

The funeral service was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 20, 2006, in the First Baptist Church of Roscoe with the Rev. Caleb Teeters officiating.

Burial followed in the Roscoe Cemetery under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Roscoe.

Mrs. Robinson was born on May 5, 1910, in Brady. She married A.J. Robinson on March 28, 1930, in Baird. Mrs. Robinson was a member of the First Baptist Church in Roscoe. She moved to Roscoe in 1930 from Baird and was a homemaker, farmer and owned a ladies shop for two years.

Survivors include Thelma Noster and children, Kay Lynn Noster and Darrell Noster, all of Houston; one niece, Jill Glidwell of Houston; and a special friend, Bobbie Ellis of Sweetwater.

She was preceded in death by her husband, A.J. Robinson, on May 21, 1997.