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Tavares Kairan Jones was born in Nacogdoches, TX on January 29, 2002, weighing only 4lbs 8oz. No one knew he would grow up to have all of the energy, fun, and love inside of him that he showed everyone daily. He loved all aspects of life: animals, gardening, dancing, and hanging out with friends and family. He participated in the nursing program at Tyler Junior College in Tyler, TX and continued on to the Job Corp in Dallas, TX where he graduated and became a phlebotomist. He was highly loved and favored by all he met. Tavares is survived by his Mother, Kimberly McDaniel, Grapeland, TX; Father, Martin Jones (Vicki), Lufkin, TX; Brothers, Kaylon Alexander (Laila), Killeen, TX, Jaquamos Jones (Estefany), Palestine, TX, Jarius Roberts, Cepeda Jones, and TyMarion Jones; Sisters, Comeshia Robertson and Martiana Jones; Grandparents, Mary McDaniel (Alvis), Morris Wade (Viola), and Barbara Sterns; Aunts, Darla Lewis (Hillard), Lenetha Carter, Oletha McDaniel, Constance, Veronica Lamb, Sharon Jones, Linda Bell, and Romonia Barnes; Great Aunt, Georgia Powers, and Novella Guinn; Uncles, Earsley Wade, Bordrick Guinn, Tony Ross, Eric Burleson, James Ross (Linda), Desmond Jones, Mike Dove, Cedric Parks, Johnny Parks, Douglas Thomas, Darrel Racine, and Lemoid Little; and Nephews, Braylon Singletary, Brycen Singletary, Avery Alexander, and Kamari Alexander and a host of other relatives and friends.   Tavares is preceded in death by Brother, Lavodrick Singletary; grandfather, Cleo Parks, and Otis Ross; great grandmother, Thelma Burleson; and great grandparents Raymond and Elizabeth Ross and aunt and Brenda Runnels. Public Viewing Friday, April 18, 2025 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Saturday, April 19, 2025 11:00 am Rising Star Baptist Church 10987 US-287 N. Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment St. Thomas Chapel Cemetery Alto, TX

Amanda Bailey was born on April 11, 1961 in Rockwall, Texas, and passed away peacefully in her home on March 19, 2025. Amanda devoted and enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, family, and fur baby. Playing Bingo was one of her favorite things to do regardless of who or where; she always got excited if anyone mentioned “BINGO.” When hanging out around her house, Amanda enjoyed shopping online. However, the biggest excitement was on package day when she not only saw the package with her name on it but got to open it; half the time, she forgot what she had ordered. Amanda was strong in her Faith as a Child of God and chose to be non-denominational/Baptist! Visiting her church family in Dallas and going to church camp meetings brought her great joy. She was an avid collector of Native American memorabilia honoring her Indian Heritage.   She was preceded in death by her parents Elsie Moore and James Ray Watson, 1st born son Billy Jack (BJ) Ridgle, her husband James Bailey, brother James Watson, and grandson Jemeni Grant.  She is survived by Children: Samantha Chance (Michael), Jamie Hallmark, and Stephen Hallmark. Grandchildren: Matthew (Kali), Jestine, Tommy Jr., Micheal (Alexis), Samuel “BJ”, Taylor, Jayden, Raven, Shon, Bryar, Korbin, Luken, and Harley. Her Siblings: Liz, Tammy, and Carl. Special: Aunt Sue Lemons. Many more loved ones including her Hallmark family. The Family would like to say a special Thank you to Heart to Heart Hospice, especially nurse Candance. Private Service Saturday, April 12, 2025 Inurnment Grapeland City Cemetery Grapeland, TX.

Rubie Jean Taylor Lewis, age 77, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025, at home. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished grand/great grand mother and dear friend to many. Rubie was born the oldest of eleven siblings to Ruben “Boybee” and Mollie Taylor. She attended W.R. Banks School. She worked in the Grapeland ISD for many years. She retired to become a homemaker. She served faithfully as a member of St. John Baptist Church, Grapeland, Texas. Rubie will be dearly missed by her children Sherry Sails (Darren) of Houston, TX, Curtis J. Lewis Jr. of Grapeland, TX, Markis Lewis (Bessie) of Elkhart, TX, Lance Lewis (Phillip) of Seattle, WA, grandchildren Britney Randall of Houston, TX, Cody Moore of Greensville, TX, Jerry Jordan Randall of Houston, TX, Caitlyn Lewis of Tyler, TX, great grandchildren Nia Robbins of Houston, TX, Addison Randall of Ft. Worth, TX, Nehemiah Williams of Houston, TX, surviving sister Etta M. Taylor of Crockett, TX, host of nieces, nephews and cousins. She touched the lives of many and will be remembered fondly for her kindness, compassion and gentle spirit. Preceded in death: beloved husband Curtis J. Lewis Sr., parents Ruben (Boybee) and Mollie Taylor, siblings Carolyn L. Turner, Ruth E. Black, Sallie M. Caldwell, Thelma Taylor, Linda J. Taylor, Ruben L. Taylor, Frank D. Taylor, Tobie Taylor, Jobie Taylor, Edward Taylor. Rubie may have left this world, but her love and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Visitation Friday, February 28, 2025 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Walker & Walker   Service Saturday, March 1, 2025 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church 10987 US 287N Grapeland, Texas 75844   Interment Lee Washington Family Cemetery Redtown, Texas

Kristina Kealoha Meachen (Kris), age 74, passed away Monday, January 27, 2025, after a long, courageous battle with heart disease. She was born in Honolulu, HI on January 29, 1950, to parents Rowland Adolph Kieburtz and Nova Louise Christensen Kieburtz. Her Hawaiian middle name means, “The Loved One,” and she was, by all her family and friends. She graduated from Balboa Senior High School, Canal Zone, Panama and attended Mercer University, Macon, GA. She was active in the Crockett American Legion Auxiliary Post 134 and had an extensive career with Statewide Materials, and Penurock Trucking Companies. She will be remembered for her contagious giggle, her knack for winning slot machine jackpots, her homemade Christmas gifts for friends and family and her affection for KD, her dog. Growing up in a military family, she lived in many places such as CA, CO, HI, GA, NC, KY, FL, Germany, and Panama, but she loved Crockett and cherished her country life. Her family knew she was born a country girl because the first thing she asked for was a horse, not a doll or a bike. She is survived by her loving husband, James Meachen, Crockett, TX; her adorning son, Grant Jacobs, San Marcos, TX, and wife Jamie Jacobs; stepdaughter, Jamie Craddock, Gilbert, AR; stepdaughter, Emily Meachen, Willis, TX; stepson, Randy Meachen, Giddings, TX and wife Julie Meachen; step-grandchildren, William Craddock and wife Kathryn Craddock, Calvin Craddock, Bailey Craddock, Ruby Meachen, Emma Meachen, Lucy Meachen; sister, Kim Farrell, Trophy Club, TX and husband, Edward Ferrell; sister, Gabrielle Enos, Odessa, FL; sister, Stacey Enos, Asheville, NC and wife Annie Jonas; nephew, Gabriel Enos, Asheville, NC; sister, Romney Enos, New Port Richey, FL; niece, Ryanne Ahlman, Red Oak, TX; aunt, Jan Etheredge, Sahaurita, AZ; and all of her good friends.   In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Crockett American Legion Auxiliary Post 134.  Memorial Service Saturday, February 22, 2025 1:00 PM Crockett American Legion Post 134 Crockett, TX 75835

Juanita (Vicki) Brown, 91, Grapeland, lovingly known as "Gran" by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, heard Jesus calling her name, and she went to be with him on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Country Oaks Assisted Living in Burnet, Texas. She is remembered as a fun-loving, spunky, fashionista who loved to shop, laugh, and spend time with her family and friends.  Born on January 23, 1933, Vicki experienced a childhood marked by frequent moves but she ultimately graduated from high school in Vidor, Texas. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. It was during her first year of teaching in Alvin, Texas, that she met her future husband, William Arland "W.A." Brown. The two married and settled in Grapeland, where they shared 60 wonderful years together until his passing. Vicki dedicated her life to her family and to education. She and Arland raised four children, but she touched the lives of many more through teaching school for 30 years—25 of which were spent as a beloved first-grade teacher in Grapeland. Her passion for teaching children to read was unparalleled, and she worked tirelessly to make learning an enjoyable and enriching experience for her students. She furthered her own education by earning a master’s degree in Reading two decades after completing her undergraduate studies. Also, she was a member of the Gamma Chi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, International. A creative spirit, Vicki found joy in crafting and quilting. She lovingly made quilts for each of her grandchildren, and then she gifted her collection to her family. She was an Honorary member and past President of the Grapeland Garden Club, and she was an award-winning participant in many flower shows, ultimately serving as a Flower Show Judge for several years. A lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star, she served as Deputy Grand Matron for one year and Worthy Matron for one year. She was deeply involved with the Grapeland First Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School, Children’s Church, and Vacation Bible School. She also participated in the Love Circle and the Coffee Class. She is survived by her children; son Gregory Arland and Barbara Brown of Grapeland, son Jeffery Charles and Denise Brown of Huntsville, daughter Jennifer Susan and Chris Giesenschlag of Burnet, and daughter Gretchen Ara and Gary Jones of Spring;  her grandchildren; Lindsey Brown, Garrett Arland and Lanette Brown, Katelyn and Michael Streetman, Mia Smith, Case and Traci Towslee, Kerstyn Ruth Towslee, Reagan Giesenschlag, Ross Giesenschlag, Taylor and Lori Jones, Madison Jones, and Lauren Amanda Jones; and great-grandchildren; Tristan, Gabrielle, Gracynn Arabelle, Caroline, Cooper, Kenzie, Konner Arland, and Cameron; brother Philip Oran Vick and wife Barbara. Vicki was preceded in death by her husband, William Arland Brown; and sister, Sue Vick Chellew. Vicki’s legacy of love and learning lives on through the countless lives she touched. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Grapeland Garden Club or the Gamma Chi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma in c/o Barbara Brown, P.O. Box 1, Grapeland, TX 75844. Visitation Saturday, January 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Grapeland First Methodist Church Grapeland, TX Funeral Service Saturday, January 4, 2025 12:00 PM Grapeland First Methodist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Refuge Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Shirie “Linnie” Mae Taylor was born on September 10, 1961, in Grapeland, TX to Jeff Walker and Dora Mae Hatter.   Shirie attended school at W.R. Banks and later transitioned to Grapeland ISD. While attending school Shirie participated in band, sports, and many community activities, including the Annual Peanut Queen Coronation and joining the Eastern Stars.   After High School, Shirie met and married Eugene Taylor in 1980. Shirie Taylor loved Christ and was involved in many activities and departments within the church, such as, ushering, choir, mission, Sunday school teacher and community choir director. She accepted Christ at an early age and made sure her family followed in his footsteps as well.   She leaves to cherish her beautiful life and memories, her dedicated, loving, hardworking husband of 44 years, Eugene Taylor; her four children, Curlissa Taylor of Houston, TX, Patricia Nyame (Ryan Nyame) of Grapeland, TX, Addison Taylor of Kansas City, MO, and Faustina Taylor-Jones (Raymond Jones) of Huntsville, TX; three special nieces, Jesselyn May of Grapeland, TX, Erica Walker-Nelson (Switzerland Nelson) of Lancaster, TX, and Ebony Shepherd of Grapeland, TX; her brother, Kent Walker (Stephanie Walker) of Grapeland, TX; her sisters, Mary Lomax (Elbert Lomax) of Grapeland, TX, Ellen Shepherd of Grapeland, TX, Linda Murphy (William Murphy) of Dallas, TX, Francis Phillips of Grapeland, TX, Alphia Steinsbo of Grapeland, TX; eleven grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and her close friends.   She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jordan Walker and Emma Novella; her parents, Jeff and Dora Mae Walker, and brothers, Jeff Walker II, McArther Walker, Eddie B. Walker, Larry Walker, and John Riley Walker. Public Viewing Friday, December 13, 2024 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Walker & Walker Wake Friday, December 13, 2024 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Saturday, December 14, 2024 12:00 pm Lorena Shoultz Auditorium 116 W. Myrtle St, Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment New Salem Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Mary Jane Stanley Flynn was born September 25, 1944. She went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on November 8, 2024 at the age of 80. She is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Donald Flynn, father Glen Stanley, mother Marie Stanley, brother Ray Stanley and numerous others.   She is survived by her son Timothy Flynn and wife KaTina of Grapeland, TX, daughter Christine Christoph of Grapeland, TX, grandchildren Amber Christoph of Tyler, TX, Holly Warren and husband Terry of Tyler, TX, Kevin Christoph of Tyler, TX, Megan Bazinet and husband Alex of Diana, TX,  Faith Liotta and husband Nick of Grapeland, TX, and seven great grandchildren. Sisters Martha Brown and husband David of Greenville, S.C., Elaine Kephart and husband Everett of New Virginia, IA, Ann Epperson and husband Bob of Winterset, IA, sister-in-law Lynne Stanley of Spearfish, S.D., numerous nieces and nephews.    Mary Jane, as most people called her, was born and raised in Winterset, Iowa where she lived and helped on the family farm. After graduating school, she moved to Haviland, Kansas where she attended Friends Bible College. While in Haviland, she worked at a diner for a bit where she met her husband, Don Flynn. They were married 46 years before his passing in 2010. After being married a few years, they had a bouncing baby boy, Timothy. A few years later they moved to Texas to continue their lives of living for God and serving Him. Here in Texas, they had a beautiful daughter, Christine and this made their family complete.   Mary Jane’s life was filled with many jobs such as cleaning houses and churches and working at the church daycare. She truly enjoyed serving her family as a wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother and sister. She made an impact on each and every life she came in contact with. We are so blessed and thankful for the Godly example she set for us all. She loved the Lord Jesus with all her heart and was a faithful member of Felder’s Chapel for many years. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations for the memorial services of Mary Flynn. Donations can be sent to https://everloved.com/life-of/mary-jane-flynn/ Visitation Saturday, November 16, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Felder's Chapel 5434 FM 227 E Grapeland, TX 75844 Service Saturday, November 16, 2024 11:00 AM Felder's Chapel 5434 FM 227 E Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment Evergreen Cemetery Grapeland, TX

After returning home from World War II, Bias Washington began working at Sullivan Motor Company in Crockett, Texas. It was during this time that he met Helen Owens, who worked for former Crockett Mayor Jack Beasley. The two fell in love and married, beginning a life filled with love and hope. In the fall of 1946, Helen faced a medical scare when doctors believed she had a stomach tumor. However, to the couple’s astonishment and joy, it was soon discovered that Helen was not ill but instead expecting their first child. On February 13, 1947, they welcomed their only daughter, Rosemary Washington—a miracle and beacon of hope, destined for a life of grace, brilliance, and purpose.   From a young age, Rosemary found solace and strength at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of Rev. W.D. Dowe. As an active member, she sang in the Youth Choir and became known for her radiant spirit. In Crockett, Texas, Rosemary thrived in the local public schools, celebrated for her athletic talent on the basketball court and her charismatic presence. In 1964, she was proudly named the Football Sweetheart for Ralph J. Bunche High School. She graduated in 1965, leaving a legacy of joy, talent, and grace.   Following high school, Rosemary pursued higher education at Paul Quinn College, the oldest historically Black college west of the Mississippi River, furthering her education and personal growth. Shortly after college, she moved to California, embarking on a new chapter filled with exciting opportunities.   In California, Rosemary met Fred Roberts, and together they moved to Hawaii, where she discovered she was pregnant. Wishing her mother to be present for the birth, especially since her mother was reluctant to fly, Rosemary returned to California, where, surrounded by family, she welcomed her only son, Frederick.   Rosemary’s career path was marked by dedication and hard work. She began at the Century Plaza Hotel, now known as the Westin, then transitioned to Equitable Life insurance, and eventually joined the Los Angeles Municipal Court in 1978.   In 1980, Rosemary and Frederick joined Greater Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, following in the footsteps of her beloved aunt, Bertha Washington Vaughn.   Nearly 30 years after graduating from Ralph J. Bunche High School, Rosemary attended a class reunion where she reconnected with her childhood sweetheart, James McCullough. As their love blossomed anew, Rosemary retired from the Municipal Court, and together they began planning a future in Crockett. After moving back, they married, beginning a new chapter in their lives. Shortly thereafter, she started working for the Houston County Courts.   As an active member of Greater Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, Rosemary taught the Primary Sunday School Class and served as the Art Teacher during Vacation Bible School under the leadership of Rev. Delvin Atkinson, sharing her creativity and passion with the community. Additionally, Rosemary extended her dedication to service by working with The Battered Women’s Shelter in Crockett, offering support to those in need.   Driven by a desire to see the world and experience diverse cultures, Rosemary’s love of travel led her to England, France, Dubai, and the Caribbean. She also enjoyed road trips, always ready for the adventure. With strong business acumen, Rosemary managed the family farm and invested in real estate. She was a proud member of the Land Owners Association and was awarded the 100-Year Land Heritage Award on behalf of the Rosie Washington Estate. Her legacy as a community member, world traveler, and astute businesswoman continues to inspire.   On the peaceful evening of November 3, 2024, Rosemary Washington McCullough, the last surviving grandchild of Tobias and Rosie Washington, transitioned in her sleep, marking the end of a generation for the Washington family. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bias and Helen Washington, and her devoted husband, James L. McCullough, who had passed only a few months prior on July 8th. Now reunited, their steadfast love endures beyond this world. Rosemary’s departure leaves an indelible void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her legacy of grace, strength, and compassion will live on in the family and community she cherished.   Her memory endures, a flame that refuses to dim. Left to cherish her legacy are her son, Frederick (Tenika) Roberts; goddaughter, Karma (Anton) Brown; grandchildren, Trenston Hawkins, Frederick “Dude” Roberts, and Cherrick Archie; great-granddaughter, Noelle Archie; sister-in-law Shirley “Sue” (Elmer) Murray; brother-in-law Johnny Sweet; lifetime friends Freda (Franklin) Wagner, Dorothy (Jerome) Washington, and Dorothy Mayberry; and an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.   Rosemary McCullough’s life was a symphony of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication—a testament to the boundless possibilities of the human spirit. Her journey will forever inspire those fortunate enough to have walked in her light. Reflections of Life Thursday, November 14, 2024 6:30 PM Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 904 North Sixth Street Crockett, TX Celebrations of Life Friday, November 15, 2024 11:30 AM Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church 4300 Noble St. Houston, TX Interment Friday, November 15, 2024 2:00 PM Sharp Veterans Memorial Cemetery 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX. Repast The Magic Bar | Grill | Dispensary Friday November 15, 2024 4:00 - 7:00 PM 1318 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX

Mae Catherine Walker was born May 28, 1960 in Dothan, Alabama to Willie C. Faulk and Zona B. Walker Faulk. She accepted Christ at an early age and grew up attending Rising Star Baptist Church in Grapeland, Texas. Her schooling was from Grapeland Independent School District. After school Mae moved to Houston, Texas, in 1980 and worked as a Certified Nurses Aid (CNA), at Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas. Mae enjoyed gambling, going to trail rides, the club, bingo and doing things to surround herself with the company of her family and friends. Mae enjoyed having fun and living her best life! Mae moved back to Grapeland around 2016, where she continued her life surrounded by lots of family love, and good times. Mae entered into eternal rest on October 31, 2024. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Monique Plummer, father, Willie C. Faulk; brothers, John L. Faulk and Willie Howard Faulk; grandparents, Arnold L. Walker (Buddy) and Catherine Walker (Big Mama), Dank Faulk and Cordiell Faulk (maw); niece, Latonia M. Faulk; and great nephew, Tyress D. Anderson. She leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Willie Frank Walker;; son, Mitchell Walker; daughter, Tilisa Faulk; mother, Zona B. Pouncey (Raymond); brothers, Willie E. Faulk (Tonia)), James A. Faulk (Brenda), Charles L. Faulk, Henry L. Faulk (Shundon), and William E. Faulk (Fran); sisters, Bobbie J. Bryd (Jesse Walker) and Dorothy J. Willis (Quincy); god daughter Rovina Coleman; four grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Public Viewing Friday, November 8, 2024 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Saturday, November 9, 2024 1:00 pm Rising Star Baptist Church 10987 US-287 N., Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Born in Queens, New York to Jorge Adorno and Monserate Martinez Adorno. Died of natural causes at Freestone Hospital in Fairfield, TX on October 14, 2024. George was a family man. He loved all his family dearly. His hobbies included model trains, helicopters, and planes. He enjoyed working on jigsaw puzzles; most recently working on a 3D puzzle. George was an artist. He had a natural talent. His latest work was on computer generated fantasy artwork. He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife Willa Adorno; by his children, twin sons Joshua and Jacob, daughters Xiomy and Ramsey; by his mother, Monserate Martinez; by his siblings, Raquel Luce, Ernesto Adorno, Ramon Adorno, and Jaki Hoffman; as well as a niece and nephews and many others who loved him dearly. He is predeceased by his father Jorge Adorno.

Michael Ray Bennett was born on January 12, 1948, in Palestine, Texas. A devoted husband, father, and friend, Mike was known for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and love of his family. He spent his early years in Grapeland , where he developed a love for hunting and the outdoors.   After graduating from Grapeland High School he joined the Air Force and served during the Vietnam War as an aircraft mechanic. After the war, Mike came home to work in the family business, Bennett’s Auto Parts and Garage.   Mike went on to work for Texas Department of Corrections as a Corrections Officer for 10 years till his retirement.   Mike married the love of his life, Nita Pennington, and together they raised two children, Matthew and Ashley. He was a dedicated father who always put his family first. Mike took pride in attending his children’s games, school events, and family trips, creating cherished memories along the way. He was not just a father, but also a mentor and role model, teaching his children the importance of integrity, hard work, and kindness.   Outside of work and family, Mike had a passion for hunting and often spent his weekends out in the woods. He loved to share this hobby with his children, passing down his knowledge and appreciation for nature. He was also an active member of his community, volunteering at the local Fire Department and Ambulance service. He even became the Fire Chief eventually and passed his extensive knowledge on to future generation.   His warm presence and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Mike’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and generosity. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Mike leaves behind a lasting impact, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.   Mike is survived by his children, Matthew and Ashley, grandchild, Suzanna, as well as a host of friends and extended family members. He was a pillar of strength and kindness, and his life will continue to inspire those he leaves behind. Viewing Saturday, October 26, 2024 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM First Baptist Church 408 W. Chestnut St. Grapeland, Texas Service Saturday, October 26, 2024 2:30 PM First Baptist Church   Interment Pilgrim Cemetery Elkhart, Texas

Kenneth McCullough passed away on October 17, 2024 after a long battle of sickness.  Kenneth was born to McKinley McCullough, III and Gwendolyn Benton McCullough on February 24, 1967.  Kenneth united with New Pleasant Hill Baptist Church at an early age, and attended school at Crockett, ISD.   Kenneth’s interest and love for automobiles kept him occupied. His car detailing skills and automobile repairing skills always kept him busy. He took pride in his work and always wanted to do the best job possible.   After his schooling Kenneth went to work at Evans Truck Stop where he worked for many years.   He relocated to Palestine, Texas; where he worked at many different places:  Rick Hardy Auto, Sanders Tires & Wheels, and Shaver Auto.    Kenneth was known to many as “Zero”.  There was never a dull moment when you were around Kenneth.   Kenneth’s family will remember as the man that loved to fix things over buying new.  He valued hard work, and honesty.   His family was his main focus. He was a loving and caring father to all of his children, and they were his pride and joy!   Kenneth was a wonderful son, brother, father, grandfather, stepfather, uncle, and friend, who was loved by many.   Kenneth is preceded in death by his wife, Janet Marie McCullough; two daughters, Kendra McCullough and LaKeisha McCullough, father, McKinley McCullough, III, his grandparents, and brother McKinley (Mack) Davis.   Left to cherish his memories is his Mother Gwendolyn Marcell McCullough, son, Kenneth McCullough, Jr., Crockett, TX, daughter, Tanisha McCullough, Huntsville, TX; stepsons Tyrell Beasley, Sr., Takaus Sims; stepdaughter Ebony Simpson (Larenzo); Fiance Faleisha Sims; brothers, Steven McCullough (Theresa), sister Sharon Benton, Sandra McCullough (Robert), Grapeland, TX, Kathy Simpson (Calvin), Crockett, TX, Amy Ryan (David), Crockett, TX, three (3) grandchildren, Nova McCullough, Demarion Brown, Rilynn McCullough,  and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.     Viewing Friday, October 25, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, October 26, 2024 11:00 AM New Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Crockett, TX (Germany Community)   Interment New Pleasant Hill Cemetery Crockett, TX (Germany Community)

Angus DeVandoe Walker was born August 24, 1990 to Andrew Smith and Stephanie Walker.  Angus was raised in Grapeland, Texas, where he lived out his childhood and parts of his adulthood. Angus accepted Christ into his life and was baptized at Rising Star Baptist Church at a young age and remained a member of the church until his passing.  He was a proud graduate of Grapeland High School Graduating Class of 2009.   Angus held a steady job working in road construction for five (5) continual years.  He had a big heart, and out of everything he loved to help his family members the most.  As most would say, Angus was always just one call away.   Angus was a devoted family man who reveled in the joy and laughter of family gatherings, where stories were shared, jokes were told, bonds were strengthened, and unforgettable memories were created.  Angus enjoyed spending quality time with his step-father, Kent Walker.  His daughters were the light of his life, and he loved them both with all his heart.  Not only was he a wonderful fiancé to Angelica, but he was a son, brother, nephew, step-father, cousin and friend to many.  To know Angus, was to love Angus.   Angus received his wings to be with the Lord on Sunday the 13th of October with his family by his side at Midcoast Medical Center in Crockett, Texas.   Angus is preceded in death by grandparents Gus L. Walker, and Rossetta Davis Walker, and Andrew B. Walker and Katherine Walker; uncles, Gus Leon Walker, James Walker, Darrell Wayne “Dyke” Walker, Greg Walker, Eckerd Walker, Larry Walker, Eddie B. Walker and McArther Walker, Sr.; and aunt Gale Walker.   Left to continue his legacy are his daughters, KayLynn Nicholson and Adalyn Walker; mother, Stephanie Walker  and stepfather, Kent Walker; father, Andrew Smith (Cynthia); fiancé, Angelica Gonzales; brothers, Andrew Walker (Paty), Jason Walker (Whitney), Marlin Smith (Clara), Justin Smith; sisters, Sherrena Walker (Booker), Andrea Walker (Urkel), Katherine Walker (Tarus), Jasmin Walker (Devin), Kerri Horton Ujadughele (Paul); nephews, Sean Walker, Dan Juan Walker, Jordan Walker, Jason Jr. Walker, Levi Walker, Devin Jr. Charles, Markeith Henderson, DeTorrance Black; nieces, Yazmin Charles, Adrianna Walker, Aaliyah Harrison, Alana Walker, Ka’Zarria Harris, Zearah Harris, Landon Charles, Zamoni Harris, Novah Charles, SaKyria Henderson; special niece, Kimberly Turner; uncles, Otis Walker, Charlie Walker (Linda), Charles Hart (Tashaun), Paul Hart (Neeky), Travis Hart (Angela); aunts, Rosie Davis, Regina Johnson Booker, Annie Mall, Ellen Shepherd, Mary Lomax, Linda Walker, Shirie Taylor, Francis Phillips, Nikki Steinsbo, great-aunt, Willie M. Jackson; special brothers, Desmon Gaines (Bubba), Dehaven Riggins ; special friend, Mrs. Linda Dickson; and a host of other relatives and friends.   Viewing Friday, October 25, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, October 26, 2024 1:00 PM Rising Star Baptist Church   Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Jo Ann Salmon, 62, of Grapeland, Texas, died unexpectedly in Crockett, Texas on October 10, 2024. Jo Ann is survived by her Aunts; Betty Alfred Rowland, and Bonnie Alfred Duval, her favorite cousin and fishing buddy, Roy Anslem and wife Pebbles Bird, of Grapeland, daughter, Raven Simmons of Fisherville; and son Roy Anslem, Jr. of Grapeland; her five cats whom she loved dearly, and numerous cousins, and friends. Jo Ann is preceded in death by her parents; Mamie Salmon and Joe Salmon. Brothers; Michael Wayne Sandling, and Kenneth Glenn Collins. Sister; Darlene Bedair Aunts; Mae Huntsman, Ruby Alfred, Mary Alfred Oliver, Helen Alfred Alldredge, Nellie Alfred Myers, Joyce Alfred Turner, Shirley Alfred Anslem, and Dorothy Salmon. Uncles; Bert Alfred and Jessie Alfred. Jo Ann was born on February 26, 1962, in Houston, Texas to Mamie and Joe Salmon. She graduated from Palacious High School. After moving to Grapeland, she began working for Vulcraft for many years and then later started a career with Best Friends Community Services. Jo Ann loved to fish, garden, and be with her cats. Jo Ann was generous and showed up for any of our family when needed. She was loved deeply by all of us and is already severely missed. Viewing Sunday, October 20, 2024 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Walker & Walker

Jack Hale Jones 88, entered eternal rest peacefully on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at Palestine Regional Medical Center with the compassionate care of Solaris Hospice.   Jack graced this world on September 5, 1936, in Grapeland, Texas, to the loving embrace of Lovett Bud Jones and Jewel Harrison Jones. The youngest of twelve siblings, Jack grew up in Grapeland, Texas and excelled as the Quarterback for his high school football team W. R. Banks School, where he graduated.   At an early age Jack accepted Christ and worked, actively in Church; serving as a Superintendent and Deacon, at Rising Star Baptist Church, until his health declined.   Throughout his life, Jack held various jobs. He worked at the glass factory in Palestine, Texas, Vulcraft, Grapeland, Texas, Grapeland Nursing Home, and Elkhart Oakes Nursing Home. As a master carpenter, he built the cherished family home where he and his beloved wife, Rose, raised their five children.  He did whatever was needed to support his family; depicting his unwavering commitment to their well-being.   Jack leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and craftsmanship that will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.   He is reunited in eternal peace with his parents Lovett Bud Jones and Jewel Harrison Jones, wife Rosie Lena Jones, son Charles Wayne Jones, sisters Costella Coleman, Ruby Jones, Becky Jones, Vera Gardner, Inez Davis, and Rosa Lee Brooks, as well as brothers Lovi Jones, Charles Jones, Sam Jones, Joe Jones, and Fred Jones.   Jack will forever be cherished in the hearts of his son Tony Jones of Grapeland, Texas; daughters Linda Johnson, of Grapeland, Texas, Darlene Jones of Huntsville, Texas, and Diann (Gralyn) Crawford of Tucker, Texas. He is remembered lovingly by grandchildren Duran (Parishia) Cleveland, Kimberly (Michael) Hatton, Makeila (David) Johnson, Gralyn Crawford Jr., Amanda Gilbert, Jada Crawford; great-grandchildren; special nephew Jeff Davis, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Viewing Friday, October 18, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, October 19, 2024 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church   Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lee Alan Lively, 79, on Sunday evening, 10/6/24, at Forest Ridge Assisted Living in Woodland Park, CO. Lee fought a long, tough battle with dementia then ultimately respiratory complications.  Lee was born in Fort Worth, TX, April 8, 1945.  He attended high school at Polytechnic High School in Fort Worth plus a brief time in Waco, TX. Lee was drafted into the Army in 1966. Upon discharge from the Army, Lee returned to Texas Electric Service Company in Fort Worth where he worked for over 30 years.  Lee was a lineman most of his working career. Friends and family would describe Lee as a strong, hard-working man. He loved to tinker with old cars starting with Volkswagen Beatles back in the 1970s up to an old Chevy work truck he acquired from one of his friends with Texas Electric Service Company. He enjoyed the “western” lifestyle and working with horses and cattle.  His true joy came from spending time at the family farm in East Texas. Lee was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Turentine Lively, and father Henry Lively. Lee was an only child. He is survived by wife, Linda Gilfilen Lively; son, Tommy Lively; daughter Tammie Lively Fuhrmann and husband Leonard Fuhrmann along with granddaughters Christy and Sarah, all of Lake George, CO. Should you wish to offer an expression of sympathy, the family asks that in lieu of flowers or gifts, you make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org/  in honor of Lee Lively. Viewing Saturday, October 12, 2024 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Mountain Memorial Funeral Home Divide, CO.   Graveside Service Saturday, October 19, 2024, 1:00pm. Evergreen Cemetery Grapeland, TX   Interment Evergreen Cemetery Grapeland, Texas

Eddie Lee, the fifth (5th) child of nine (9), born to Walter B. and Daisy Moore Walker, on March 10, 1939, in the Hayes Springs Community of Grapeland, Texas. Growing up in a large family, he learned the values of faith, love, and community from an early age.   His spiritual journey began at Rising Star Baptist Church, where he accepted Christ at an early age. As an adult, Eddie became a dedicated member of Progressive Missionary Baptist before reuniting with his childhood church, Rising Star Baptist, where he served as a Deacon until his passing.   On February 29, 1963, Eddie married Shirley Ann Lewis, and together they raised four beloved sons: Rickey, Kelvin, Aundre’a, and Brandon.   For thirty-four (34) years, Eddie devoted himself to Houston County Electrical Co-Op, excelling as a lineman crew foreman before retiring in 2002. His commitment to his work was matched only by his unwavering dedication to his family and faith.   Eddie found joy in simple pleasures like barbecuing, spending time outdoors, listening to music, watching Westerns and Action Movies, and fishing.   In his passing on Friday, September 27, Deacon Eddie Lee leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and church community.   Preceding him in death are his parents, Walker B. and Daisy Walker, his wife Shirley Ann Walker, and brothers Andrew B. Walker, B.J. Walker, George Walker, Lee Arthur Mosley, and Gus L. Walker.   Eddie's legacy lives on through his sons: Rickey Gilmore, Sr., Kelvin Walker (Loretta Davis), Aundre’a Walker (Sharonda), and Brandon Walker (Lafonda Warner), all residing in Crockett, Texas; brothers Wilbert Walker, Charles Walker, a special brother Charles (C.T.) Taylor; sister Willie Maude Jackson; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, and a host of other relatives and friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and generosity. Visitation Friday, October 4, 2024 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Walker & Walker   Friday, October 4, 2024 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Rising Star Baptist Church   Service Saturday, October 5, 2024 1:00 pm Rising Star Baptist Church   Interment Jiles-Huntley Cemetery Crockett, Texas

Terrence Tyrell Walker was born September 10, 1991 in Crockett, TX to April Siegle and Kelvin Walker, the second child of this union. He was known as T.Walk by family and friends.   He attended Crockett High School but later received his GED at Windham Education Agency.   Terrence departed this life on September 16, 2024.   He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Shirley Walker, Eddie Lee Walker, Gladys Duncan, Alice Barrs, Sam Duncan Sr., and a host of Aunties, Uncles and cousins.   Left to cherish his memories are his children, Genesis Walker, Kei’Asia Walker and step-children, Sha’Driauna Hackett, Tywoin Delane, and A’kedria Delane; borthers, Kelvin Duncan, LaDereck Walker, and Tramaine Simmons; uncles, Josh Jones, Brandon Walker, Sammy Lee Duncan, Brodrick Duncan, Ricky Gilmore, Sulandraus Duncan, Aundre’a Walker, Sam Duncan Jr., Lee Howard, and Larry Ross; aunties, Carolyn Jones, Debra Duncan, Evelyn Stephens, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. Visitation Walker & Walker Wednesday, October 2, 2024 1:00 – 5:00 PM   Service Rising Star Baptist Church Thursday, October 3, 2023 1:00 PM   Interment Jiles-Huntley Cemetery Crockett, TX

Louella Leday Walker was born on January 21, 1944, in Kinder, Louisiana to Ivory Leday Sr. and Mary Batiste Leday. She embarked on a career in finance with Panhandle Eastern Corporation, JP Morgan Chase Bank and Houston Community College. She loved spending quality time with her family and friends. After retirement, she spent most of her time with her great grandchildren, traveling to different tournaments and living life.     Louella also known as Bae was a wonderful woman. She was hardworking, loving, and a protector to her friends and family. She was the person you could count on if you needed advice, the truth, or just a shoulder to cry on. She always stood up for what she believed in, she would always greet you with a beautiful smile, and she would give anyone she cared about the clothes off her back. It was a blessing to have her in your life.   Louella flew her wings on September 1, 2024, to join her parents, along with her brother Ivory Leday Jr and sister Mary Jane Dawson She is survived by her daughter and sons, Susan Walker, Clarence Walker Jr and Christopher X. Walker(Liz), her two granddaughters and grandson Victoria Walker, C’Nae Walker and Justice Walker her great grandchildren Chase Walker, Chassidy Walker, Kevin Damon II and Zoie Walker her sisters Louertra LaFleur(Bill), and Ruby Barber(Charlie), and brothers, Nelson Leday(Linda), and Joseph Leday, and a host of dedicated nieces, nephews, and many friends. Services Saturday, September 7, 2024 St. Philips Neri Catholic Church 10960 Martin Luther King Blvd. Houston, TX 77048 Rosary 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM Funeral Service 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Interment Magnolia Cemetery Beaumont, TX

Patrick “DJ Wizz” White Sr. was born on December 29th, 1971 to the late Norma J. White and Willie E. Williams.   Patrick attended school in Crockett, TX. By the age of seventeen Patrick had already established his talents. Not only was he the one of the best “Disc Jockeys” around East Texas but he was also into carpenter work. He was working on homes, and hand-making speaker boxes. Patrick was a great father to all of his kids. He also had one and only Black-owned “Record Shop”, where he became a club owner like his dad “Platinum City.” Patrick then went on to pursue his career as a CDL driver, then shortly learned he was diagnosed with MS (multiple sclerosis).   While taking it easy due to his health, Patrick got back into the farming life he knew as a kid. He enjoyed tending to his land, and cows.  Patrick was a great example to his children on survival, and doing what you love.  He showed us to never give up! To keep trying – no matter what....and we will continue to do so.   Patrick is preceded in death by Legora and Charlie White, Norma White, Willie Williams, Kyree White, Katina Gray, Joyce Jackson, and Judy Moore.   Left to continue his legacy are his sons, Patrick J. White Jr. “Big Pat” (Marcie), Patrick J. White Jr. “Lil Pat”, BA White, Brodrick Handsborough,  KaDarrius Bennett (Yoshlee), Patrick K. White, Patrick D. White, and DeAdrian Taylor; daughters, Brittney Lott (Terry), Patricia Spearman (Bo), Patrice White, Shar’Keshya L. James, Patreecia White, Kandance White, Desire Miller (Daiyon), Makiah White and Shalynnthia Tatyanna Gwen White; brothers, Willie Jackson, Lester Jackson (Barbara), and Willie Jetters; sisters, Vanessa Williams (Wilbert), and Lois Boyd; favorite niece, Princess Davis and many grandchildren. Service Saturday, September 14, 2024 11:00 am St. Luke Baptist Church 315 S. 2nd Street Crockett, TX 75835 Interment Post Oak Cemetery Augusta, TX

CLARENCE EARL JOHNSON was born May 17, 1961 to the parentage of the late Elbert Lee Johnson, Sr. and Veita Mae Dixon Johnson. He was the sixth of eight children. He accepted Christ early in life, and received his education at Grapeland High School. Clarence explored life, before starting his career as a welder at Nucor (Vulcraft) in Grapeland, Texas. CLARENCE met and married Linda Jones on December 29, 1999. CLARENCE enjoyed hunting, fishing, and most of all, his passion of barbecuing. He knew he was THE GRILL MASTER!!! He cherished every moment of spending time with his family. On August 17, 2024, Clarence transitioned from this life into the life of eternal rest and peace. CLARENCE is preceded in death by both parents, Elbert Johnson, Sr. and Veita Mae Johnson; son, Clarence An’Torrio Johnson, Jr., and brother, Elbert “Jr” Johnson. LEFT to cherish Clarence’s memories is his wife of twenty-four years (24) Linda Johnson; daughters, Veola Johnson (Jason McDaniel), Torria Johnson, both of Houston, Texas, Makeila Johnson (David) Palestine, Texas; sons, Vincent Johnson, Crockett, Texas and Xavier Cleveland (Parishia) Forney, Texas; brothers, Charles Johnson (Wanda), Conroe, Texas, and Lee Burns (Sherie), Crockett, Texas; sisters, Pauline Willis (Matthew), Sheila James, Crockett, Texas, Betty Johnson (Holland), Palestine, Texas, Denise Strather (Robert), Louisiana; ten (10) grandchildren, one (1) greatgrandchild, and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday,, August 23, 2024 1:00 pm -5:00 pm Walker & Walker Visitation Saturday, August 24, 2024 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Rising Star Baptist Church 10987 US-287 N, Grapeland, TX 75844 Service Saturday, August 24,, 2024 2:00 pm Rising Star Baptist Church 10987 US-287 N, Grapeland, TX 75844

Wilma Christina Kryzanowski Hallmark was born June 14, 1934 in Worms, West Germany and passed away July 17, 2024 in Grapeland, Tx.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Anton and Christina Kryzanowski, brother Seigbert Kryzanowski, sister Helma Schwartsbach, son Sam Hallmark and great grandson Jemini Grant. She is survived by husband, Bobby Hallmark of Grapeland, daughters Denise Watson of Grapeland, Sylvia (Jim) Rader of Houston, Helma Hallmark of Grapeland; son Dan Hallmark of Grapeland, grandson Jason B. Hallmark and great grandson Jason T. Hallmark,  niece Denise Schwartsbach and nephew Peter Schwartsbach (Monika) of Bobenheim-Roxheim, Germany.  She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 3 great, great grandchildren. We give special thanks to Sonya Starkey, Michael Lemons and to Luminos Hospice and for their care for our Mom and our family during her final weeks. Honored to serve as pallbearers are her grandsons, Jason B. Hallmark, Jason T. Hallmark, Matthew Minter, Tommy Minter, Taylor Minter, Jake Watson, and Jayden Mettlen. Visitation Saturday, July 20, 2024 4:00 pm -5:00 pm First Methodist Church of Grapeland Service Saturday, July 20, 2024 5:00 pm First Methodist Church of Grapeland 715 US 287, Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment Grapeland City Cemetery Grapeland, TX

In the golden dawn of July 4, 1942, as the nation trembled under the weight of world war, a beacon of hope and promise graced the lives of Clifton and Elizabeth McCullough. They welcomed into the world their firstborn, a son, whom they named James Lincoln, destined to weave a tapestry of brilliance and grace.   From the tender age of innocence, James found solace and strength within the hallowed walls of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, where he was baptized under the gentle guidance of Rev. W. D. Dowe. In the heart of Crockett, Texas, his spirit danced and his mind soared. James embraced his early years with fervor, crowned as an area spelling-bee champion, a victor of the state quiz contest, and a laureate of the New Farmers of America AG activities. His talents were manifold, a trumpet player whose melodies whispered the secrets of the soul, an athlete whose prowess inspired awe, and a scholar whose intellect shone as he ascended to the pinnacle of his class, Valedictorian of Ralph J. Bunche High School in 1961.   With a heart full of dreams, James journeyed to Prairie View A&M University, but soon, the call of duty resonated within him. In February 1962, he donned the uniform of the U.S. Army, serving as a sentinel of justice and peace in the turbulent lands of Vietnam. A sharpshooter with the M1 Carbine rifle, an expert with the .45 caliber pistol, he stood resolute, earning the Good Conduct Medal and the AFEM Commendation Medal. In February 1965, honorably discharged, he returned to Houston, Texas, where he nurtured his thirst for knowledge at Texas Southern University, garnering a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, and later, a Master’s degree in Special Education from Sam Houston State University in the early 1970s.   Returning to Crockett, he became a pillar of strength for his elderly parents. He married Betty Dean, a union that, though childless, was rich in shared dreams and unwavering support. His professional journey saw him grace the halls of the Texas Youth Commission (TYC) as the Director of Special Education, where his wisdom and compassion touched countless lives. Rising to the role of Director of Operations at Crockett State School, he dedicated nearly three decades to molding young minds and nurturing broken spirits.   An entrepreneur at heart, James founded McCullough’s Tax Services, a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve. In time, love blossomed anew, and he joined hands with Rosemary Washington, a devoted partner for 30 cherished years.   Even in retirement, James's spirit remained restless, ever yearning to serve. As a resident of Crockett, he continued to lend his expertise as a tax consultant, a videographer, and a real estate investor. A stalwart in the community, his legacy was adorned with numerous accolades, each a testament to his dedication and love for his people. As President of the Crockett Colored High/Ralph J. Bunche alumni, he was a beacon of hope, instrumental in achieving the Exempt Purpose – Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) for the alumni organization.   On the serene morning of July 8, 2024, James Lincoln McCullough transcended to eternal rest. Preceded by his beloved parents, Clifton and Elizabeth McCullough, and his cherished siblings, Clyde McCullough, John Elliott McCullough, Detroit McCullough Sr., Elgin McCullough, Corrie Bell Hickman, Elizabeth Craig, and Marie Griffin, his departure left an indelible void.   Yet, his memory endures, a flame that refuses to dim. Left to cherish his legacy are his devoted wife, Rosemary McCullough; sisters, Shirley “Sue” (Elmer) Murray and Bobbie (Johnny) Sweet; son, Frederick Roberts; goddaughter, Karma (Anton) Brown; grandchildren, Trenston Hawkins, Frederick “Dude” Roberts, and Cherrick Archie; great-granddaughter, Noelle Archie; an extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a lifelong friend, Beauford Rhodes.   James Lincoln McCullough's life was a symphony of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication, a testament to the boundless possibilities of the human spirit. His journey will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to walk in his light Funeral Service Saturday, July 20, 2024 11:00 am Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 904 N 6th St. Crockett, Tx. 75835 Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery Crockett, TX.

Franklin D. McDaniel, affectionally known as Frank, graced this earth with his presence on February 16, 1951. He was born in Grapeland, Texas and was the beloved son of the late Marie and Robert McDaniel. Franklin received his formal education from Grapeland High School. After leaving Grapeland, he completed his GED and received an associate degree in psychiatric care in Houston, Texas. Frank later went on to receive a certification from the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians. He was employed by Harris Health Systems for over 40 years as a psychiatric technician and he was a proud resident of Houston Texas for over 45 years. In 2015, he retired from Harris Health Systems to spend more time with family and friends. A few years after retirement, Frank relocated to Grapeland and later to Crockett to reside at Whitehall Nursing Home. Franklin dedication his life to Christ at an early age at Mt. Zion Church in Grapeland, Texas. As an adult, he joined the Church of the Living God District for Grapeland and Crockett under the leadership of Bishop Robert Frye and Bishop John L. McKnight. In Houston, he was a member of Holy Temple Church of God in Christ for many years. He later joined Divine Way COGIC in Houston, Texas. In his leisure time, Frank enjoyed traveling to the annual Church of God in Christ Conference in Atlanta Georgia. He took pleasure in frequenting restaurants and spending quality time with his family and friends. He enjoyed playing dominoes and bingo at Whitehall Rehab and Nursing with other residents. Franklin D. McDaniel departed this life on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at the Hospice of East Texas. He is preceded in death by his father, Robert McDaniel; his mother, Marie McDaniel; three brothers, Edward Lee McDaniel, Edward Wayne McDaniel, and Herbert McDaniel; and one sister, Genetha Taylor. Franklin leaves to cherish his memories three brothers, Robert Lee McDaniel (Lela), Alvis McDaniel (Helena), and Johnny B. McDaniel (Audrey); three sisters, Wanda McDaniel, Dorothy Harris (Anthony), and Louise Simon; uncles, John L. Walker and R. L. Walker; aunts, Isom Mae Wiley (Willie), Lillie Murray, Gladys Walker, Dorothy Purvis (Edward) ; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, July 12, 2024 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, July 13, 2024 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

On March 3, 1966, the Lord blessed Robert and Gladys Oliphant with a precious baby boy, and they named him Reginald Lenoyd Oliphant. Reginald attended public school in Huntsville, Texas and graduated from Huntsville High School. After high school, Reginald spent most of his days assisting his father at Oliphant’s Furniture. He enjoyed greeting the customers and engaging in friendly conversation with them. Reginald loved people, and he never met a stranger. He was most happy when he was spending time with his family.   The Lord called Reginald to eternal rest on June 14, 2024. Reginald passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Reginald was preceded in death by his father, Robert Oliphant, Sr. and his brothers, Robert Oliphant, Jr. and Cedric Oliphant. Reginald was a loving son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He leaves to cherish his memory: his mother, Gladys Oliphant; sister, Dr. Tiffany Jackson (Jeffrey); brother: Rev. Roland C. Oliphant (Eva); special nephew and niece: Austin and Aubrey Jackson; God mother: Joyce McGowan; God brothers: Colby and Cody Oliphant and Brandon Winfrey; God sister: Chataqua Franklin; Aunts: Mildred Handy (Bobby), Elizabeth Oliphant and Eddie Mae Vaughn; Uncles: Booker T. Oliphant, Lou Oliphant, and Charles Winfrey; special friend, Sultan Muhammad; and a host of nieces, nephews relatives, and friends. The family wishes to thank the dedicated caretakers and staff at Huntsville Healthcare Center for the compassionate care provided to Reginald.   Pallbearers are Devin Davidson, Austin Jackson, Jaquavian Jackson, Chadd Oliphant, Chase Oliphant, and Nehemiah Oliphant. Honorary Pallbearers are Kirby Issac, Jeffrey Jackson, Cody Oliphant, Colby Oliphant, Otis Oliphant, and Gregory Willis.   Visitation Wednesday, June 19, 2024 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Waller-Thornton Funeral Home 672 FM 980 ▪ Huntsville, TX 77320 Huntsville, TX Graveside Service Wednesday, June 19, 2024 11:00 AM Brooke Cemetery 672 FM 980 ▪ Huntsville, TX 77320 Interment Brooke Cemetery 672 FM 980 ▪ Huntsville, TX 77320

Heroes never die, they live on forever in the hearts and mind of those who would follow in their footsteps.   McArther Walker, Sr , a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and pillar of his community, passed away on June 13, 2024,  at the age of 81.   Born on March 28 , 1943 ,  in Grapeland, Texas, McArther was the firstborn of twelve children to Mr. Jeff and Dora Mae Walker.   McArther's journey  began during a time of segregation in the United States. Despite the challenges in the world during his upbringing, he thrived at W.R. Banks High School, an all-black institution dedicated to educating young African American children before the integration of Grapeland public schools.   After graduating , he chose a path of service, enlisting in the United States (U.S.) Army. Over his 24 -year military career, he traveled the world, with his time in Germany holding a special place in his heart. It was there that he met his beloved wife, Jutta. Together, they built a life filled with mutual love, respect, and admiration that endured for 39 years until his passing. To this union his beloved daughter, Sandra, was born.   McArther's family  was not just his greatest joy, but the heart and soul of his life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jutta Walker , one daughter, Sandra Walker, and two sons. Son , McArther Walker, Jr. (Vaniecy ) Son, Ceon L. Henry, Sr. (Kalena) G randchildren, Ceon L. Henry, Jr., and Kelcee Henry Stepdaughter, Angela Wissel (Mike) her children Robin and Ronja Wissel   From McArther,  each of them can carry forward his  legacy of strength, resilience, and unwavering love, a testament to the deep bonds he fostered.   McArther also leaves one brother, Kent Walker (Stephanie); six sisters, Ellen Shepherd, Mary Lomax (Elbert Lomax), Linda Walker (William Murphy), Shirie Taylor (Eugene Taylor), Francis Phillips and Alphia Steinsbo. Sister-in-law Esther Walker, Sister -in-law Erika Tatarelli (Franco Tatarelli)   A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other devoted family members and friends will mourn his passing.   McArther is preceded in death by his parents and four brothers Jeff Walker, John R. Walker, Eddie B. Walker and Larry Walker.   McArther’s character  was that of a well-respected businessman, loyal friend and man of honor. After retiring from the U.S. Army , McArther  returned to his beloved hometown of Grapeland , Texas.     McArther  was so much more than his professional accomplishments to those who knew him. He was a loyal friend, a trusted colleague, and a steadfast community member. His love for the outdoors, whether hunting or simply enjoying nature, brought him peace and joy. Above all, he was a hard worker, a loving family man, and a shining example of fortitude and grace.   While his passing leaves a void in the lives of everyone he touched, McArther's memory will endure. His spirit lives on through his family, the countless lives he touched, and the lessons he imparted about perseverance, love, and the importance of community. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we also celebrate his life, his triumphs, and the indelible mark he left on the world.   McArther’s final testimony:  As a young child, he confessed Christ, joined Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, and was baptized. In his final hours, he held fast to the love of Christ and confessed Jesus as Lord and Savior.   To God be the Glory - Amen .. Visitation Friday, June 21, 2024 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, June 22, 2024 10:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Vanneata Marie “Neat” Jones Wooten was born to the Late Johnny and Mamie Richard Jones In the Berea Community, Crockett, TX . Growing up she attended Ralph Bunche School.   In January 1958 Vanneata Jones married Norman Wooten, and to the union four (4) kids were born Kathy, Cal, Frederick and Juanita.   She was a proud member of St. Andrews A.M.E.  Methodist Church of Crockett, Texas and a resident of Winfield Nursing Home in Crockett, TX.   Life Departure was on June 8, 2024, at Conroe HCA Hospital in Conroe, Texas.   She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnny and Mamie Richard Jones; her brother, Johnny William Jones; and daughter, Kathy Watson.   Left to cherish her legacy are her sons, Cal (Lasharon) Wooten of Fresno, TX,, Frederick (Gloria) Wooten of Crockett, TX, daughter Juanita (Vernon) Nobles of Huntsville, TX; thirteen (13) grandchildren; thirteen (13) great-grandchildren; one (1) great-great-grandchild;  nephew, Jason; niece, Nikki; two (2) special cousins, Joyce Timmons and Cherlene Bridges;; special son Clarence Colter; a host of other relatives; and two (2) life-time special friends, Mary Daniels and Bobbie Simon. Visitation Friday, June 14, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, June 15, 2024 12:00 PM Bethel  Missionary Baptist Church Crockett, TX. Interment Stanton-Thomas Cemetery Beria Community, Crockett, TX

Jobie Lee Taylor was born to  Ruben Taylor and Mollie M. Washington-Taylor on April 3rd, 1958. He was 11th out of 12 children. Jobie attended W.R. Banks High School. He was a member of St. John Baptist Church. Jobie enjoyed life to the fullest. He was an entrepreneur, owning a local car wash. Jobie was a tough and hard-working man. He always took care of his family. Jobie loved all kinds of outdoor activities. Spending time in God’s nature was his favorite. Jobie was a fun man to be around. He loved to dress up and look cool. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ruben and Mollie Taylor; (5) sisters; and (5) brothers; and special son-in-law, Clarence Hill, Jr. Left to continue his legacy are his wife, Johnnie Mae Bell; children, LaWayne Bell (Shataista), Jobbie Bell, Steven Bell (Mouna), Eric Bell, JoeAnna Bell, Jerome Bell, and Deianna Atkins; sisters, Rubie Lewis and Etta Taylor; (12) grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Visitation Friday, June 14, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, June 15, 2024 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Vanessa was born to the late James & Joyce Jean Edwards on October 18, 1961 in Orange, TX. She accepted Christ as her Savior at an early age. After the death of her mother Joyce Jean, she moved to Hemphill, Texas and was raised by her aunt Myrtle Dennis, who preceded her in death.   She attended Mt. Zion UMC, and County Line Baptist Church. It was during this time she became a born again child of God.   At Hemphill ISD, Vanessa was a cheerleader, played basketball, and participated in track. She went on to attend Lon Morris College in Jacksonville, Texas. It was there that she met and fell in love with Delbert Simpson. The two were united in marriage December 3, 1982. To this union 3 children were born.   Vanessa loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She always supported her children and grandchildren, in school, church and in their extracurricular activities. Upon moving to Tyler in 1990, she was employed at Melrose Nursing Home and later worked at Youth & Family Enrichment Services for over 20 years, where she was a supervisor of the Emergency Shelter.   She was a strong and wonderful wife and mother even as her health began to fail.   Vanessa & Delbert were married 42 years. Vanessa was the First Lady of the Rockhill Baptist Church of Cuney, Texas, for over 20 years and the Shiloh Baptist Church in Longview, Texas for 4 years. She was a faithful member & supporter of the church and her husband’s ministry. She was a member of the choir and worked with the youth. Vanessa was a great song leader.   The Lord called Vanessa home to Glory on May 20, 2024.   She was preceded in death by one grandson, Joshua Simpson; brothers Eddie Edwards, Michael Edwards & Jamie Edwards; sisters Oletha Brown, Veronica Edwards and Kathy Edwards;   She is survived by her husband, Delbert Simpson of Tyler, Texas; children, LaQuinda Simpson of Tyler, Texas, Delbert Simpson, Jr. (Angela) of Tyler, Texas, Whitney Simpson of Killeen, Texas, Sherod Johnson (Shandolyn) of Lufkin, Texas;eleven (11) grandchildren, Maniya Simpson, Dillon Johnson, Kaedence Johnson, Jakayden Miller, Kayleb Simpson, Alayah Creer, Amina Simpson, Jaiden Goodwin, Eran Medlock, Tatyana Webb, Sonora Simpson; brothers, James Edwards, Jr. (Chaquita), Tommy Smith (Nanetta), Rodney Smith (Natasha), Anthony Edwards (Tracy), Joseph Edwards (Stephanie), and Michael Edwards, all of Houston, Texas; and Jamey Smith Edwards of Vinton, Louisiana; sisters, Mary Edwards of Houston, Texas, Bridgette Edwards of Grand Prairie, Texas, Cynthia Edwards (Clonate) of Orange, Texas, and God sister Dorothy Hamilton (Bobby) of Houston, Texas; one aunt Vada Edwards of Orange, Texas, special nieces, Nichole Simpson and Sonora Edwards; and a host of nieces, nephews, brothers / sisters-in-law’s, cousins and friends.     Wake Friday, May 31, 2024 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Home Grapeland, TX Funeral Service Saturday, June 1, 2024 11:00 AM People’s Missionary Baptist Church 2908 Bellwood Rd, Tyler, TX 75701 Interment Post Oak Cemetery Augusta, TX

Inez Davis was born in Grapeland, Texas, on February 28, 1931, to Lovett Bud Jones and Jewel Harrison Jones. She attended Ralph Bunch School. She was a caregiver, and in her spare time, she enjoyed farming. Inez accepted Christ at an early age. She loved the Lord and enjoyed fellowshipping at her church. She was the mother of Unity Baptist Church in Grapeland, Texas. Inez passed on May 24, 2024, at Palestine Regional Hospital in the care of Solaris Hospice; she fell asleep to be with Jesus.   She is preceded in death by her parents, Lovette Bud Jones and Jewel Harrison Jones; husband, Robert Lee Davis; mother-in-law, Ester Mae Redden (Big Moma); sisters, Costella Coleman, Ruby Jones, Becky Jones, Vera Gardner, and Rosa Lee Brooks; brothers, Lovi Jones, Charles Jones, Sam Jones, Joe Jones, and Fred Jones; three grandsons, Sammie Davis Jr., Kevin Walker, Eric Butler, and Steven Dupree; and granddaughter, Brandie Harmon.   She leaves to cherish her memory, brother Jack Jones; sons, Paul Davis (Cynthia) of Palestine, Texas, Leon Davis of Grapeland, Texas, Jimmy L. Davis (Lisa) of Palestine, Texas, Jeff Davis (Angela) of Grapeland, Texas; daughters, Faye Davis of Lufkin, Texas, Marylynn Davis of Lufkin, Texas, Shirley Monroe (John) of Lufkin, Texas, Eva Chapman, Marilyn Atkins of Grapeland, Texas, Genora Davis (Boo) of Crockett, Texas; a host of  35 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren and 30 great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends who will cherish her memories.   Wake Friday, May 31, 2024 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Unity Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Funeral Service Saturday, June 1, 2024 Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Golden Gate Cemetery

Maryan Dickson Green, was born January 26, 1953, to the late Robert Lee Dickson and Johnnie Mae Walker Dickson, in Grapeland, Texas. At an early age, Maryan accepted Christ, was baptized and joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Grapeland, Texas. Maryan, attended Roe’s Chapel Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. She later united with the Church of Ninevah, founded by her sister, Dr. Angie Dickson, now under the leadership of Pastor Andra Reed. Maryan attended W.R. Banks High School but graduated from Grapeland High School after integration. Following graduation, she moved to Dallas, attended El Centro College; and graduated from Southern Methodist University, earning a B.S. in Education and a M.S. in Counseling. She worked as a teacher and later counselor in Dallas Independent School District, where she retired after 29 years. Maryan departed this earthly life at 11:09 A.M., on May 21, 2024 in the comfort of her own home, joining her parents, Robert and Johnnie M. Dickson; two (2) brothers John Dickson, and Clearance Dickson; three sisters Dr. Angie Dickson, Robbie Dickson, and Bobbie Reed; two nephews, Joseph T. Reed, and Patrick Crowder (Rashunda); and ex-spouse, Artis G. Green. Left to cherish her memories and continue her legacy is her only child, Armelia “Mia” Evans; spouse, Calvin Evans II of Little Elm, Texas; one sister, Maloyce Dickson (Danny Turner), of Dallas, Texas; two grandchildren, Kennedy Evans and Calvin Evans III; three nieces, Tara Dickson, Bridgett Baker and Zerlina Reed (Courtney and Joshua); one sister-in-law, Linda Dickson; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Visitation Tuesday, May 28, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Mt. Zion Baptist Church Grapelalnd, TX Funeral Service Tuesday, May 28, 2024 12:00 PM Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Tom Ervine was born in Crockett, Texas, October 29, 1948 to Tom Frank Daniels and Cluteen Ervin. He grew up in the Crockett community and graduated from Ralph Bunche High School, where he was an outstanding athlete. Big E started his work career at Vulcraft, in Grapalend, Texas in 1967 and retired in 1994 after 27 faithful years. In 1968, Big E met Esaricelene Harris and they later married in 1997. They had five (5) kids, fifteen (15) grandkids, and fifteen (15) great grandkids. Big E transitioned peacefully on May 18, 2024, at The Woodlands Nursing Home and Rehab. He is preceded in death by his devoted wife Esaricelene Harris-Ervin; both parents, Tom Frank Daniels, and Cluteen Ervin; two (2) daughters, Diane Moten and Therlesia Harris. Left to continue his legacy is son Paul (Deloris) Harris, Italy, TX; daughters, Tonya Harris, Crockett, TX and Bonetta (Thomas) Harris-McDowell, Waco, TX; brothers, Jim (Loretta) Ervin, Norris (Karen) Ervin, Joe (Kathy) Graham, Johnnie Ray “Coach” Ervin, Clifford Ervin; sisters, Vaneser (Ray) Mitchel, Yvonne (Jerry) Holmes, Brenda Ervin, Angela (Kevin) Ewing; great aunts, Theresa (Polk) Colter, Mary Daniels-Hutton; great uncle , Albert “Junebug” Reese, Jr.; sister-in-law, Rose Washington; brothers-in-law, Donald (Cinzia) Harris, Sedrick (Tonya) Harris; fifteen (15) grandkids and fifteen (15) great grandkids; and a host family and friends. Visitation Friday, May 24, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM Bethel Baptist Church Crockett, TX. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery Crockett, TX

Ronnie Smoot (75) of Grapeland, TX, was born October 15, 1948, in Crockett, TX to Albert Smoot and Faye Platt. He grew up on Lockout Road and Union Chapel Church. Ronnie graduated from GISD in 1967. Later on in life, he also attended Diesel Tech School, to become a photographic memory exemplary mechanic. Ronnie was drafted into the US Army in 1966. He served Active Duty throughout 1967 till 1969, and then Ronnie had years of Reserved Duty. After Ronnie finished his duty he began trucking. He has worked for many companies throughout his life. Some of them include S&S Trucking Co.; Boots & Coots Firefighting Equipment; Tejas Heavy Equipment Hauler & 50 years hauling Bar Joists.  He worked in the trucking industry for 53 years. Ronnie made many lifelong friends. He was loved by everyone who met him and liked by most! He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Albert Brewer Smoot & w/Martha McGlothlin, Henry Platt & w/Virginia; parents, Albert Colquitt Smoot and Faye Nell Platt; brother-in-law, Donald McBroom; sister-in-law, Rita Galloway; father in law Sonny Stutts & w/Leona.   Left to continue his legacy is his wife of 37 years, Patti Smoot; sons, Ronnie Jo Smoot of Montgomery, TX and Cory Gene Smoot of Palestine, TX; daughters, Stephanie Alabdallah of Spring, TX and Gina Barreto of Houston, TX; step daughter, Leslie Goodnight Cox of Latexo, TX; brothers, Mike Smoot of Jefferson, TX; brothers in law, Ronnie Stutts & wife Ruby of Tyler, TX, Ricky Stutts and wife Becky of Magnolia, TX, Tom Galloway and wife Connie of Azle, TX; sister, Brenda Wells of Clarksville, TX; sister in law, Connie McBroom of Rusk, TX; and three(3) grandchildren, Patrick Taylor, Brandon Taylor, and Weston Goodnight. Visitation Friday, May 24, 2024 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Walker & Walker Graveside Service Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM Denson Cemetery Grapeland, TX. Interment Denson Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Dorothy Johnston of Kennard, Texas, passed away at Winfield Nursing Home in Crockett, Texas, on May 21, 2024, at the age of 70 after a long battle with liver failure. Dorothy lived life precisely on her terms until the very end. This fiercely independent, pink-haired, East Texas woman marched through her days to the beat of her drum, unbothered by societal expectations or the opinions of others. Those closest to Dorothy recognized her for the genuine person she was - a woman who lived life authentically, spoke her mind freely, and answered only to herself. Her loved ones admired Dorothy's unapologetic zest for life and stubborn attitude. The world is dimmer without Dorothy's bright, unfiltered spirit. In her honor, may we all lead with the same realness, embracing our quirks and truths that make us uniquely ourselves. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Johnston; son, Jared Johnston; parents, Marie and Harold Lenox; brothers, David and Jimmy Lenox. Left to cherish her memories are her sister, Mary Lenox and husband Javencio of Porter Springs; son, Joseph Johnston and wife Amanda of Kennard; son, Jeremiah Johnston, and wife Paola of Spring; daughter, Mariah Dickey, and husband Seth of Baton Rouge; daughter in love, Carly Foster and husband Jonathan of Crockett; grandchildren, Zeke, Aiden, Tristan, Brody, Mia, Raeah, Liam, Dakoda, Nohwa, Charli, Ariah, and Nova; nephews, Sam, Donnie, Tony, Lance, Damon, and Gary; and numerous other family and friends. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests that monetary donations be made to help with burial costs and other funeral expenses. Donations can be made here:  https://gofund.me/c0d99aea Graveside Service Thursday, May 23, 2024 6:00 PM Creek Cemetery Austonio, Texas Interment Creek Cemetery Austonio, Texas

CARMELA A. LEONARD, age 56, of Whitehall, Pennsylvania passed away on Tuesday, March 19,2024 in Leigh High Valley Hospital - Muhlenberg, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Carmela was born on August 17,1967 in Houston, Texas to Mr. Fred and Willie Taylor Leonard. She was the last born child to this union. CARMELA attended the public schools in the Houston Independent District. She graduated from Booker T. Washington High School for Engineering Professions in 1985. Carmela received an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas Austin and received a Master’s degree from North Carolina State A & T State University in Greensboro, North Carolina. She worked at Texas Instruments in Houston, Texas and Lucent Technologies in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania before beginning her 20 year career in the IT Department at Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. CARMELA was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church in Allentown, Pennsylvania. She thoroughly loved her work and she also enjoyed gardening in her spare time. She always looked forward to returning to Houston to spend lots of time which always meant that she would be home for her birthday every August, during the Christmas Holidays, and sometimes in between. SHE was how one typically describes an engineer (someone who absolutely must have details about everything). This not only was in reference to her work life but her family and friends' lives and the lives of their loved ones as well. SHE leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Willie; brother, Darryl Leonard, and nephew Dante Leonard, all of Houston, Texas; uncles, Norvelle Leonard, Sr., and Larry D. Leonard (Johnie); aunts, Kattie Hatcher, Ida Oliver (Charles), Shirley Leonard, Hazel Holman (Ponell), Ruby Nickson (Eddie), and Bertha Warfield; special friends, James M. Lake, Jr.(Fountain Hill, Pennsylvania), and Comfort Fordjour (Nazareth, Pennsylvania); many cousins and many beloved friends. CARMELA was preceded in death by her father, Fred C. Leonard; sister, Patricia A. Leonard; maternal grandparents, Robert L. and Stacie Taylor; paternal grandparents, Larry and Cleo Leonard; uncles, Robert Taylor, Rose Eddie Leonard, Sr.; and aunt, Addie Taylor. Visitation Friday, March 29, 2024 10:00 AM Cloverland Church of Christ Houston, TX. Funeral Service Friday, March 29, 2024 11:00 AM Cloverland Church of Christ Houston, TX. Interment Houston Memorial Gardens Cemetery Houston, TX

Mrs. Judy Thomas, 70 years old, was the ninth child born to Mr. Albert Lee Mosley Sr. and Mae Lee Walker Mosley on January 3, 1954, in Grapeland Texas. In 1955 she and family moved to Elkhart Texas where she grew up and received her formal education. She graduated from Elkhart High School in 1972. She had a job before she finished high school, and worked until her health began to fail. She furthered her education, when she received her Bachelor of Science degree from Southwestern Assemblies of God University, Waxahachie Texas. She was also a Realtor, and an Insurance Agent. Judy accepted Christ at an early age. She married the love of her life, Bobby Thomas, on September the 6th, 1974. She then united with The Coming of Christ Church in Dallas Texas. Sis. Judy worked faithfully in the church. She was a devoted choir member, usher, and Sunday school teacher. dependable member of the daughters of Zion. She later became a member of House of Prayer, under Pastor Jerome Simpson. Judy made sure her house was in order, then she made her peacefully transition at home with her family at her bedside, which was her request. She was preceded in death by: mother, Mae Lee Walker Mosley; father Albert Lee Mosley Sr. mother and father-in-law: Bro. Aiver (Lucille) Thomas; sisters: Clara Mosley, Doris Richards, Daisy Coleman, and Ruthie Williams: brothers; Crawford Mosley, J.R. Mosley, Lonnell Mosley, Larry Mosley, Dennis Mosley, and Lee Authur Mosley. One sister-in-law: Cynthia Thomas. Leaving behind to cherish her memories, is her beloved husband of forty-nine plus years Mr. Bobby Joe Thomas. One precious daughter Tonya Thomas, one devoted grandson: Ja Quincy Thomas, and a sweet granddaughter, Jenesis Thomas: sisters; Owina (Billy) Johnson, Oakwood Texas, Joyce Mosley and Dorothy Clewis (Willie) Palestine Texas, and Mary Robinson, Elkhart Texas. Three brothers: Albert Lee (Queen) Mosley, Tyler Texas; Wilbert Mosley and Charles Mosley of Crockett Texas. One Aunt Edwiner Butler, Elkhart Texas. Two sister-in laws; Clarine Whitfield, Doris Jo Thomas, of Italy Texas: Two very special cousins: Kathy Scott of Bremond Texas and Patricia Taylor of Dallas Texas. A special friend Ms. Connie McDavid of Italy Texas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Visitation Saturday, March 9, 2024 10:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Funeral Service Saturday, March 9, 2024 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Sammie Davis Senior was born in Grapeland, Texas Hospital on October 19th, 1946 to Jessie and Alene Davis. He attended W.R. Banks School. Then he moved to Houston and worked for the city back in 1969. In about six years he moved to Lufkin, Texas. There he worked for Lufkin Industries for 17 years plus where he retired. Sammie accepted Christ at an early age. He loved God, always giving Him the best of his Service. He visited Union Hill Baptist Church in Alto, Texas and Grace Tabernacle Church in Lufkin, Texas. On January 29th, 2024, in the home of his daughter Mary Ann (Missy) in the care of Harbor Hospice, he fell asleep to be with Jesus. He is preceded in death by his father, Jessie Davis; his mother, Alene Davis; sisters, Willie Pearl Davis and Eva Jean Davis; his son Sammie Davis Jr.; step daughter, Celeste; granddaughter, Brandi; and two great grandbabies, De’Myir and LaDarrius. Left to continue his legacy are his daughters, Roshawn (Charles Houston) Davis, Mary A. Swindell of Lufkin, Texas; wife, Annie Harmon Davis; his stepsons, Matthew, Eddie, Michael, Jimmy, and Regan of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; step daughters, Melinda and Carol of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; brothers, Herbert D. Davis of Fort Worth, Texas, Joe D. Davis of Palestine, Texas, and Jimmie R. Davis of Grapeland, Texas; sisters, Margie Walker of Dallas, Texas, Flora Davis, Patricia Davis, and Jessie Lee Davis of Grapeland, Texas; grandchildren, Desmond, Alexis, Jalisa, Darren, Darrion, DaQuon, Brittany, Brianna, Jordan, Ja’Darrius (Le’Daja), Randerika, Randaisia and great-grandchildren, Cullen, Carmine, Chaston, Amariya, Brinley, DeMarius. Visitation Friday, February 9, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, February 10, 2024 12:00 PM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Ruby Lee Butler was born August 4, 1947, to the parentage of the late W.B. Butler and Ellen Jane Green in Weldon, Texas.   She was the seventh of twelve children.  She was affectionately called “Penny”.  She attended W.R. Banks School in Grapeland, Texas, and obtained various work opportunities as a young woman.   She met Mr. Walter Kent, Jr. while he was working for the railroad system.   They married and no children were born to this union.  She was a devoted wife of fifty (50) years.    Walter Kent became the Pastor of Corinth Evangelistic Pentecostal Church, where Ruby was First Lady, a licensed and ordained missionary in the S.D. James Evangelistic Association, Inc. and it’s Evangelistic Pentecostal Churches World-Wide, Inc. She was a Daughter of Zion, a Mother, and she also served as Secretary for the S.D. James International Women’s Auxiliary (IWAC); and she was a member of the Women in White (WIW).   She was gifted in singing, seamstressing, cooking, baking, and she was also a clever businesswoman.     As a missionary she traveled and preached in many cities, states and also to the Islands of the Seas, teaching women how to “can and preserve” foods.   Mother Ruby Kent, as she was also known, showed great hospitality to Evangelists who traveled to the area to preach.     Mother Ruby Kent was known and loved by many and will be greatly missed.   Mother Ruby Kent is preceded in death by both parents, W.B. and Ellen Butler, her husband, Pastor Walter Kent, Jr., daughter, Delores Marie Butler, grandson, Isaiah Thomas Hickman, brothers, Freddie C. Butler, John “Sonny Boy” Butler, James “Peter” Butler and Willie Lee Butler; sisters, Betty Rose Dancer, Bertha Mae Hadnot, Elaine Butler, Rosie Lena “Pookie” Jones and Ethel Jewel Coleman.   Left to continue her legacy are her sons, Terris Wayne Butler (Pamela) Pearland, TX, Frederick Dewayne Butler, Grapeland, TX, Russell Coleman, Dallas, TX; daughter Cynthia Butler, Grapeland, TX; brother, Jimmy Lee Butler (Regina), Grand Prairie, TX; sister, Margie Butler, Crockett, TX; thirteen (13) grandchildren, eighteen (18) great-grandchildren; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.   Visitation Friday, February 2, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, February 3, 2024 10:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

On June 29, 1970, in Grapeland, TX Edward Black, Jr, and Ruth Ellen Coleman-Taylor became the proud parents of their only "baby girl," whom they named Virginia Ruth Black. She was the last of four. Virginia attended and received her education in Grapeland, attending Grapeland High School. Virginia accepted Christ at early age and united with St. John Baptist Church. On January 30, 1989, she became a proud mom of her first-born daughter, Adreous Deshaune Black. Her second-born daughter arrived on April 6, 1990, Denesha Se'mone Black. Lastly, her only baby boy arrived on November 12, 1992, Octavius Jermaine Black. One thing we can all agree on was that she had no understanding when it came to her grandkids. She loved them as much as she loved her own, if not more. If there was a football game or basketball game she was going to be there supporting her grands!  On January 24, 2024, in the comfort of her home, God called his faithful servant to her final resting place - in his arms.  She is preceded in death by Charlie C. and Edward Black, Sr., Ruth Ellen and Edward Black Jr., Tony Taylor, Sr.; aunts, Velma Walker, Francis Potts, Linda Taylor, Carolyn Taylor-Turner, Sally Caldwell. Uncles, Frank Taylor, Henry Ross, DeWitt Black, L. D Black. Left to continue her legacy is her son, Octavius Jermaine Black of Palestine, TX; daughters, Adreous (Javon) Blackshire and Denesha Se’mone Black of Palestine, TX; brothers, Ray Black, Sr., of Jacksonville, TX, and Mitchell Black of Palestine TX; bonus mom, Robin Gale Black; aunts, Rosie Black, Donna, Robinson, Rebecca Hines, Aneace Houston, Nancy Cleveland, Patricia Tillis, Doris Hamilton, Ruby Lewis, and Etta Lewis; uncle, Jobbie (Tobbie) Taylor; and grandkids, I’trayvious Black "Doo-Bug" Khailynn Black "Boonk" Za'Kyriah Black "Kyri," and Javarious Blackshire "Toot-Toot”. Visitation Friday, February 2, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, February 3, 2024 2:00 PM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Ewar was born on July 24, 1945 to Ewar  and Willie May Nelson.  He was a Carpenter by trade. Ewar was a self taught Artist and Sculptor. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers , Don and Johnnie. He is survived by his daughters. Cowana Stewart, Regina Nelson and Ewana Nelson Glass (DeMarcus),brother, Joe Nelson,  10 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and other relatives.

Tashala was a loving mother who tried to do the best for her two boys when she was here on earth. She didn’t miss a football game nor their soccer games. Shala enjoyed the special times she shared with her younger brothers Terrance and Tavis who helped her with her boys while her health was declining. Her hand was blessed because she could cook up some good food. Shala loved to cook just like her late mother Gale Walker. She loved to have her family around to laugh and joke while watching her Dallas Cowboys. Shala never let her sickness weigh her down and always kept a smile on her face through it all. Shala also loved going to church and raised her boys in church. Shala enjoyed spending time with her two best friends, Demetria Murphy (MeMe) and Marie Johnson. Shala loved her phone calls with her special cousins Jasmin Walker anal Krystal Dodd. She is preceded in death by Gus L. Walker, Rosetta Davis Walker, Gale Walker, Dorothy Spearman, Claude Miller, and Steve Hollands. Left to continue her legacy are her sons, Amarion Clewis and Devin Robbins, Jr. of Lufkin, Texas; brothers, Terrance and Tavis Jackson of Lufkin, Texas, Derrick Tryon of Crockett, Texas, Tyreal and Tyrese Jackson of Trinity, Texas; sisters, Amber Bennett of Crockett, Texas, Alea Goodson of Trinity, Texas, and Tywainia Mitchell; father, Joe Jackson (Andrea Goodson); aunts, Brenda Walker, Rose Davis, Stephanie Walker(Kent Walker), Regina Johnson, Louis Lewis, Bridget McDaniel, Joyce, Mona Frida Jackson, Claudia Spearman, and Willie M. Jackson; uncles, Otis Walker, Charles(Tashaun) Hart, Travis (Angela) Hart, Paul (Neeky), Jerome Spearman, Steve Spearman, Claude Rogers, Eddie L. Walker, Wibert Walker, and Charles Walker; and special friend, Devin Robbin, Sr. Visitation Friday, January 26, 2024 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, January 27, 2024 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Essie Wayne Taylor was the first born child to Zimeriah Taylor and Faustine Daniel. He came into this world on April 7th, 1948 in Crockett, TX. Essie accepted Christ in an early age and united with New Salem Baptist Church. He attended W. R. Banks High School and graduated class of 1966 from Latexo ISD. Soon after that he continued his Studies in Prairie View A&M University where he earned a degree in Agricultural Economics and Business Law. Wayne moved to Chicago, Illinois and united with Mt. Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Larry Branch. He would frequently come back home and visit his family. New Salem Baptist Church became his away from home church during his visits. Wayne was passionate about sports and liked jogging. He loved people. He was a social and an outgoing person. Most of all Wayne liked spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.   He was preceded in death by his parents, Zimeriah Taylor and Faustine Daniel; son, Stephen Taylor; sisters, Shieley Taylor and Wilma Page; brothers Bennie Taylor and Edward Taylor.   Left to cherish his memory, his son, Gale (Tanisha) Taylor of Buckeye, AZ; daughters, Michele (Gregory) Carter of Houston, TX, and Sharonda Murphy of Houston, TX; brothers, Eugene (Shirie) Taylor of Grapeland, TX, Charles Taylor of Grapeland, TX, Stanley Taylor of Grapeland, TX, Curtis Taylor of Crockett, TX; sisters, Linda Taylor of Crockett, TX, Wanda Burney of Crockett, TX, Delcina Grove of Crockett, TX, Sandra Taylor of Latexo, TX, and Nadine (John) Lomax of Grapeland, TX; grandkids, Jabril of Buckeye, AZ, Jhanea of Buckeye, AZ, Zakia of Buckeye, AZ, Zachary of Buckeye, AZ, Maliyah of Houston, TX; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Visitation Friday, January 5, 2024 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, January 6, 2024 12:00 PM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment New Salem Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Ashley was born on October 24, 1990 in Crockett, Texas to Dan and Kathy Simpson. She was the fifth out of six children. Ashley was raised in Tadmor. She attended Kennard Independent School District, and graduated in 2010 from Belford High School. Ashley has accepted Christ at an early age. She passed away on December 14, 2023 in Houston, Texas. Ashley was preceded in death by brother, Klimey Sanders Jr, grandfather, James Elbert Simpson, grandmother, Jonnie Mae Simpson, grandfather, McKinley McCullough, great grandfather, Homer Davis, great grandmother, Lou Erma Clemons, and uncle McKinley Davis. Living survivors, her son, Kylen Zackery Mitchell; parents, Kathy Marie Davis Simpson, and Dan Elbert Simpson; sisters, Lakeshia Davis and Letha Davis; brothers, Cory Davis, Dan Davis, and Jamarcus Simpson; grandmother, Thelma Davis Rodgers; aunts, Alretha Davis Kitchen, Amy Davis Ryan, Leslie Davis, Genell Smotherman, Gloria Reagans; uncles Reginald Davis, Darrell Davis, Cedric Simpson, Michael Simpson, Lorenzo Simpson, James Simpson, Kenneth McCullough, Steven McCullough; aunt, Sandra McCullough; and a host of nephews and nieces. Visitation Saturday, December 23rd, 2023 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Simpson Chapel Baptist Church 23488 FM 227, Tadmor, TX 75847 Funeral Service Saturday, December 23rd, 2023 1:00 pm Simpson Chapel Baptist Church Interment Pennington Cemetery Pennington, TX

Reginald Keith was born in Houston, Texas at Hermann Hospital. He was the fourth of seven children born to Arnold B. and Velma Wilmore. He graduated from Sam Houston High School in 1980 and shortly after joined the United States Army. He was preceded in death by brother, Arnold B. Wilmore, Jr.; and father, Arnold B. Wilmore, Sr. Left to cherish his memories mother, Velma J. Wilmore of Houston, Texas; wife, Kirrison Wilmore; daughters, Anyhia Duncan of Livingston, Texas, Domenique Becker of Frankfurt, Germany, Marsha (Marcel) Daupert of Bad Emstal, Germany, Brylynn (Joseph) Valdez of Houston, Texas, and Savannah Wilmore of Pearland, Texas; son, Omorian Duncan of Livingston, Texas; brothers, George Wilmore of Houston, Texas and James (Theresa) Wilmore of Spring, Texas; sisters, Aggie (Clarence) Reed, Sharon Wilmore, Kimberly (Jules) Itong, and Dia Hamilton of Houston, Texas, and Montinea Walker of Spring, Texas; granddaughters, Katara Clarence of Houston, Texas and Cataleya Rose Daupert of Bad Emstal, Germany; grandson, Phil-Lio Daupert of Bad Emstal, Germany; aunts, Isabella(George) Walker of Houston, Texas; special aunt and uncle, Erma and Harold Stell of Grapeland, Texas; mother-in-law, Rosetta Nickson (Eldridge Nickson) of Livingston, Texas; sisters-in-law, Rebecca (Terrie) Jackson of Houston, Texas, Rozetta (Perry) Brown of Conroe, Texas; brothers-in-law, Garfield Perkins and Brent Perkins of Livingston, Texas; and a host of nephews and nieces. Visitation Saturday, December 9th, 2023 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Lorena Schoultz Auditorium 116 W. Myrtle St Grapeland, TX 75844 Funeral Service Saturday, December 9th, 2023 1:00 pm Lorena Schoultz Auditorium Interment Campbell Family Cemetery Grapeland, TX

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful transition of our beloved George Edward Wilmore from Earth to Glory on November 18, 2023. Surrounded by his loving family, George passed away at Memorial Hermann Sugarland Hospital, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. George Edward Wilmore was born on April 27, 1944, to the proud parents Henry Grady Wilmore and Ocie Mae Wilmore. His presence brought immense joy and beauty to the world, and his memory will continue to inspire all those whose lives he touched. George received his education at Ralph J. Bunche High School, located in Crockett, Texas. He worked at Overnight Transportation Company for 20 years, showcasing his unparalleled work ethic and dedication. George was also a dedicated member and Deacon at Missouri City Baptist church for over 20 years. In 1993, George encountered the love of his life, Hallie Murphy, and their beautiful journey together began. They exchanged vows and were joined in matrimony in 1996, embarking on a remarkable life filled with love and fulfillment. George embraced the role of a devoted father, providing unwavering love, care and support to Hallie's four children. George possessed a deep passion for building and gardening. He was not only a loving individual but, always striving to follow the path of God's own heart. George's unwavering compassion for others was evident as he consistently placed their well-being above his own. He served as a guiding light, imparting valuable lessons of strength, hard work, and the importance of living life to its fullest. George Edward Wilmore will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, wisdom, and genuine love for others will forever remain in our hearts. He is preceded in death by both parents, Henry Grady Wilmore and Ocie Mae Wilmore, and eight (8) siblings. Left to continue his legacy is his loving wife of 27 years, Hallie Murphy Wilmore, his sons, Lester Leonard, Brian (Andrea) Leonard, and George Wilmore, Jr., all of Houston, Texas; daughters, Bianica (Richie) Swain, Latasha Leonard, and Sheree Wilmore, all of Houston, Texas; brother, Joe Wilmore, Houston, Texas; seventeen (17) grandchildren: special grandchildren, Dannon Waller, DeAngelo Hall, and Charnabria Leonard; twenty-four great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Visitation Saturday, November 25th, 2023 10:00 am – 11:00 am Missouri City Baptist Church 16816 Quail Park Dr, Missouri City, TX 77489 Funeral Service Saturday, November 25th, 2023 11:00 am Missouri City Baptist Church Interment Hall Cemetery Crockett, TX

Jim Earl Anderson, Sr. was born November 14, 1945 to Katherine and Earl Anderson. He was brought up in the church and had a passion for singing and joined the choir. Growing up Jim attended Ralph Bunche School in Crockett, Texas. Soon-after he found the love of his life. Then shortly afterwards married Bettie Jackson-Anderson and would go on to have five kids. Jim was a long time employee for the City of Crockett Public Works, where he retired. Jim spent the rest of his life helping anyone he could and planting gardens until the Lord called him home. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Katherine Anderson; daughter, Barbara Anderson; sisters, Earlyrine Carter and Betty Cross; brother, Walter Anderson and Sylvester Anderson. Left to continue to cherish his memories: his wife, Bettie Jackson-Anderson; son, Jim Anderson, Jr.; daughters, Jacqueline Anderson, Sandra Harris, and Pamela Anderson; grandchildren, Christopher Anderson, Michael and Gabrielle Collins, Brianna Anderson, Carlos Anderson, Isiah Majett, Shannon Harris, Jr., Kaelon Anderson, Jay Anderson, Nevaeh Anderson, Jim Anderson III, Paisley Anderson, J ordin White, and Jadin James ; and seven great-grand-grandchildren. Visitation Saturday, November 18th, 2023 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Good Shepherd Fellowship 401 S 7th St. Crockett, TX 75835
Funeral Service Saturday, November 18th, 2023 11:00 AM Good Shepherd Fellowship 401 S 7th St. Crockett, TX 75835
Interment Rockland Cemetery Crockett, TX

Russell F. Osmond aka Rick born August 12 of 1941 in Clearfield, Iowa. Rick gained his wings on November 9, 2023 in Crockett Texas at the Houston County Nursing Home. Alongside with him was his daughter Krystal Osmond of Lovelady, TX and Formally married wife Kathryn Osmond of Crockett, TX. Memorial services will be held privately next spring as we will spread his ashes next to his father and mothers William and Mary Osmonds grave sites amongst surviving sister and brother : Jean Mccammant, Edith Dayton and brother Bill Osmond of Iowa.

Mary was born in Ponta, Texas, on the 10th of March in 1929. She was the seventh child born in the family of Robert George Montgomery and Una Columbus Herod. Mary was raised in the San Pedro community. In 1979, she married Frank Thornal. Mary did not know a stranger. She was willing to help anyone in need. A lot of people in town knew her as Grandma due to her relationship in rearing her granddaughters and their friends. She was well-known for her witty personality and her infamous jokes. She always had a kind word and a friendly smile. She volunteered her time to help her friends and people in need from mowing lawns to taking people to the doctor or grocery shopping. She was truly loved and will be missed by all. Mary was preceded in death by her spouse, Frank Thornal; parents, Robert and Una Montgomery; daughter, Karen Sue Brown; sisters, Lois Clark and Zerlene (Peggy) Cummins; brothers, George Montgomery, Thadius (Pat) Montgomery, Lee Montgomery, Oran (Pete) Montgomery, and Albert (Billy) Montgomery Left to continue to cherish her memories: her daughter, Marilyn McLaren; her grandchildren, Stephanie and Lee Jelks, Debra Blamble, Wendy and Shaun Mullen, Jason and Jennifer Arnold, Robert and Jennifer Ramirez, and Trey Ramirez; her greatgrandchildren, Brittany and Chad Downey, Rhiannon Morris and Kenan Washington, Jaden Morris, Haylee Reed, Chloe Arnold, Mia Ramirez, Aly Ramirez, Kameron LeBouef, Delaney Mullen, and Levi Mullen; her great-great-grandchildren, Kash Downey, Kennedy Downey, and Kalani Washington. Visitation Saturday, October 28th, 2023 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Church Of Christ Funeral Service Saturday, October 28th, 2023 11:00 AM Church Of Christ 504 N Market Street Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment Parker Cemetery Grapeland, TX

On October 16, 2023, Bettye Stallings Carvell, 84, of Grapeland, TX, passed away after a fight with pancreatic cancer and heart disease. Bettye was born on March 17, 1939, in Prairie County, Arkansas, to Malvin Euland Stallings and Quilly Mae (Eddins) Stallings. She met the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Carvell, Jr., while at Brinkley Junior High, and they were high school sweethearts at Brinkley High School. They married on June 27, 1957, and moved to Dallas, Texas where Bob was attending college and working at Texas Instruments. After graduating from Sunset High School in Dallas, Bettye’s first job was at Mercantile Bank where she started out as a check processor. She met her life-long friend, Pat Allen, while working at Mercantile. She took some time off from banking to raise her three children, Cindy, Dena, and Bobby. She always encouraged them to acknowledge God’s presence in their lives, do their best, no matter the task, and to always work together. She accomplished this task with her daily examples of having fun while working hard and setting high expectations for her children. In 1972, she went to work at Trinity National Bank where she was a teller and certificate of deposit representative. While working, she obtained her real estate broker’s license by taking course work in business, accounting, computer programs and real estate at Mountain View College. She worked as a broker in association with Alton Miller Realtors in Oak Cliff from 1976 to 1981. In 1982, she reestablished her banking career at Trinity National Bank as the assistant to the senior vice president and worked her way up to become the assistant vice president of consumer lending. There she originated consumer loans and serviced a $10 million commercial and consumer loan portfolio. From 1991 to 1994, Bettye worked for the Federal Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC) and Sunbelt Federal Savings where she helped develop and implement a system for maintaining, tracking, and sorting congressional inquiries, memoranda, and correspondence using multiple new computer programs. She was accomplished in consumer lending, managerial assistance, secretarial duties, loan servicing, payoff analysis, and loan compliance. She enjoyed working and made lifelong friends in her career. When not working, Bettye enjoyed traveling back to Arkansas to visit family for holidays. She loved being in nature while camping with Bob and her children. She enjoyed painting and refinishing furniture and antiquing with friends. She was active at church and sang in the choir at Brooklyn Avenue United Methodist Church. Bettye believed her biggest and most important job was giving her children and grandchildren courage and strength and showing them God through her actions. She was preceded in death by her parents, Malvin Euland Stallings, and Quilly Mae Eddins; siblings, Royal Dean Moffitt, and Ronald Elbert Stallings; and her husband of 60 years, Robert Carvell, Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia (Cindy) and husband Thomas (Tom) Byrd; daughter, Dena Carvell and life partner Elaine Stiegler; son, Robert (Bob) M. Carvell and wife Lezlie Carvell; grandsons, Robert M. Carvell, Jr. and wife Devon, Luke Carvell, Justin Carvell and wife Krysta, and Zach King; great grandchildren, Tristian, Noah, Bronwyn, Alonie, Genesis, Haley Murphy and life partner, Christian Hoover, and Hunter Murphy; and great-great grandson, Benson Hoover. Visitation Saturday, October 28th, 2023 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Home 323 W Chestnut St. Grapeland, TX 75844 Graveside Service Saturday, October 28th, 2023 2:00 PM Guiceland Cemetery 4075 Anderson County Rd 174 Grapeland, TX 75844 Internment Guiceland Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Darryl, Jr. AKA “D.J.” AKA “Booger” was born in 1995. As a toddler he loved his red roper boots that he wore no matter the occasion. He would often go to our neighbors’ houses and ask if they needed his help working even though he was knee high. D.J. was known for making anyone he would come into contact with smile or laugh. No matter how serious the situation was supposed to be he would find humor. He graduated the year of 2014. His greatest accomplishment was Aaliyah Nicole Lewis-his baby girl. He will have peace knowing that we are still enjoying his most humorous moments we shared with him. D.J. is preceded in death by Inez Jackson, Joe Jackson, Margaret Taylor, Roy Taylor (grandfather); Amber Nicole LaFleur (child’s mother); George Davis AKA “Sonny”, Billy Taylor. Left to cherish his memories are his daughter, Aaliyah Nicole Lewis; brothers, Kamari Collins, Clyde Washington, Cason Lewis, Da’Waylon Lewis, and Jared Hunt; his sisters, Diara Lewis, Kristen Washington, Jaleesa Collins; parents, Shanet Jackson, Freddie Barcus, Darryl Lewis and Gina Lewis; grandparents, Marceena Jackson, Lowrence Close, Joyce McGowen, and Charles Taylor; many aunts and uncles; special friends, Niesha Richardson, Jazmine Rodriguez, Courtney Purvis, Kaleah Hart, Carlos Butler and a host of other friends. Funeral Service Sunday, October 22, 2023 2:00pm House of Prayer 113 N. College St . Grapeland, TX75844

ARTHUR DONETTE DANCER was the 6th child out of seven born October 16, 1961, to Betty Rose Butler and Billie Dancer in Houston, Texas. In total Arthur has eight sisters, ten brothers. Arthur was raised in Houston and Grapeland and enjoyed playing football and basketball. Arthur was a member of House of Prayer in Grapeland, Texas where he proudly served as a of usher. Arthur was a very noble, caring, and hardworking man. He loved his family and friends dearly. He was employed with Vulcraft for eight years, Kings Inn-Maintenance for five years, and Eagle Railcart in Elkhart Texas for four years. In his downtime he enjoyed spending time with family and friends; traveling and watching sports. Arthur is preceded in death by his mother, Betty Rose Butler; brothers, Claude Dancer, Johnny-Boy, Lee-Thomas, Corey and Iris Dancer. Left to continue his legacy is his seven children (oldest to youngest): Arthur Harris, Jr., Taju Forward, Chambrell Harris, Cordarius Johnson, Francheskia Lewis, Passionate Dancer, Malcolm Prince; his brothers, Charles Dancer, Thomas Dancer, Billie Davis, Artist Hicks, William Dancer, Ronnie Ross, Michael Dancer; his sisters, Jean Dancer, Ethel Thomas, Deborah Agou, Clydie Dancer, Alice Dance, Arnett Dancer Hawkins, Karol Ross; (32) grandchildren; (4) great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends. Visitation Friday, September 29, 2023 1:00-5:00 PM Walker & Walker
Funeral Service Saturday, September 30th, 2023 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church 10987 US-287 N, Grapeland, TX 75844
Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, Texas

Margaret was born September 29, 1927, in Lovelady, Texas, Houston County to Boyd and Pearlie McKnight. She had six brothers and one sister: Leo., J.D., Gary B., Willie B., J.T., W.D., and Emma McKnight. Margaret and her siblings walked three miles to school every day. Margaret graduated from Lovelady High School. After graduation, she worked at various jobs. Including the Weingarten Store in Houston. Margaret attended Mt. Olive Church faithfully and was baptized in a creek at the age of 11. Margaret married in 1958 to Steve Odom, her first marriage was not equally yoked. Margaret moved to Sacramento, California in 1960 and subsequently united in marriage to Deacon Jim Hogan in 1964. She was the apple of his eye. The couple would drive to Texas every year for the fourth Sunday in August to celebrate Mt. Olive’s Homecoming. After the death of her husband Jim, the trips to Texas became less frequent. Margaret was employed at Sacramento Medical Clinic for 34 years. Margaret joined Shiloh Baptist Church on September 1, 1960, under the leadership of Pastor Willie Cook, over 30 years until his death. Margaret faithfully continued serving God at Shiloh under Pastor Anthony, Sadler. Margaret served on the Senior Usher Board, was Assistant Supervisor for the Junior Usher Board, and attended Sunday School faithfully where she served as class Assistant Secretary. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, seven siblings, and her husband, Jim Hogan. Margaret entered into eternal rest with a smile, being the last sibling of Boyd and Pearlie’s family tree at the age of 95 years old. Those left to cherish her legacy memories: her special nephew whom she says, “My sister Emma gave birth to him, but I claim him as my son, William (Winnie)”, and their two daughters, Brittany McKnight Taylor (Quin and daughter, Jordynne), Chelsey McKnight McCain (Lee and Son Major); a host of nephews, nieces, relatives, and friends. Special Friends: David Jablonski who she called D.J. Lavora Donahue Elmer H. Edwards Shiloh Church Family to name a few: Mrs. Cook, Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Ellis, Mrs. Kelly, Mrs. Monica(neighbor), Mrs. Claudette, and many others from her Shiloh Church Family Visitation Friday, September 15, 2023 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, September 16, 2023 12:00 PM Open casket 11:00 AM -12:00 PM New Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 2451 State Hwy 19 South Crockett, TX Interment Mount Olive Cemetery Lovelady, Texas

June 15, 1973, LaWanda and Ralph Lamb were blessed with a beautiful baby girl, LaMonica LaShelle Lamb. Monica started school in Pecos, Texas and transferred to Kennard High School in the 10th grade. She graduated from Kennard High School, Class of 1991. She was a member of St. James Baptist Church in Pecos, Texas. Following graduation, she began a career as a correctional officer for Texas Department of Criminal Justice; and later became a vocational director for Educare until her health began to fail. Monica’s hobbies included cooking, fishing and she loved horror movies. On Friday, September 8, 2023, Monica was peacefully called home while sleeping. Monica is preceded in death by her father, Ralph Lamb, grandparents Alene Smith, Monice Smith, Bob Ephriam, and Edward and Adline Lamb. Left to cherish her memories are her mother LaWanda Lamb, Ratcliff, TX; sisters Demetria Patton, Tadmor, TX, Ralana Coleman (Terence Coleman), Ratcliff, TX; aunts Tina Ephriam, Mary Nell Willis, Mary Louise Lamb, Wanda Faye Warfield, Cheryl Thomas; uncles Jack Ephriam, Willie Glen Ephriam, Lamont Ephriam, Lawrence Ephriam, Larry Lamb, Jeff Skinner; nephew Terence Malik Coleman, niece Melody Harris-Walton (Lanny Walton), MeKhenzie Noble; great-niece Jada Walton, great-nephew J’Karee Harris; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, September 15, 2023 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Graveside Service Saturday, September 16, 2023 1:30 PM McKelvey Cemetery Tadmor, TX Interment McKelvey Cemetery Tadmor, TX

February 22, 1950 - September 1, 2023 Kenneth Walker Peters - beloved son of James Mike Peters and Thelma Lucille Clark Peters, was born February 22, 1950 in Dallas, TX. He was preceded in death by both parents and youngest brother, Keith Michael Peters. He is survived by his wife, Sarah, son William, and daughter Richelle, plus grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dr. Peters earned his medical degree in 1975 from the University of Mississippi and earned his law degree in 2003 from South Texas College of Law. Dr. Peters enlisted in the United States Army Medical Corp Reserves in 1984 and served for 20 years. He was activated for both Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom. His unit was deployed on multiple humanitarian missions throughout his 20 years of service. Dr. Peters had an intense sense of duty to his family and his country. He was faithful to both throughout his life. He loved spending time with many lifelong friends, especially Royce James and Robert Cole. He loved history, music, and nature. He will be sorely missed.

Shametrice was born on May 23rd, 1975 in Lufkin, TX. She attended school in Crockett, TX, and graduated in 1994. Shametrice loved music, cooking, and being a caregiver. She was employed at Educare in Palestine, Texas. The individuals she cared for loved her so much, they gave her a special nickname “CoCo”. Shametrice worked for the Lufkin Supportive Living Center in Pollok, TX as well. She made lifelong friendships there. Shametrice had a big heart and loved caring for children. She would make every kid fall in love with her. In 2005, Shametrice found the love of her life. She gave birth to her wonderful daughter, ShaHaven Valyncia JaCole Cook. Shametrice loved being a mother. On August 19th, Shamaetrice answered God’s call and stepped into eternity. Preceding her in death was her mother, Joyce Ann Phillips. Left to cherish her memories are her daughter ShaHaven JV Cook, sister Tifanay N. Phillips, father Charles E. Phillips, and three of her special friends – Mr./Ms. Sam & Keshia Elrod, Ms. Quarenthia K Johnson, and Ms. Toya Carwell. Visitation Friday, August 25, 2023 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, August 26, 2023 House of Prayer Grapeland, TX. Interment Jasper Cemetery Crockett, TX

LARRY was born on November 7, 1947 in Augusta, Texas, to the late S.T. Simpson Thomas and L.C. Oldums. He received his baptism at Brewington B.C. at a young age and attended W. R. Banks School in Grapeland, Texas. Larry passed away on August 20, 2023, at Elkhart Oaks in Elkhart, Texas. LARRY was an affable individual, recognized by everyone in the neighborhood as “Uncle Larry.” He held a deep affection for all his nieces and nephews, and he had a reputation for looking out for all the children in the community. Additionally, he enthusiastically devoted his time as a dedicated volunteer at Grab A Bite Restaurant, a business that had become like a second family to him. He also took pleasure in caring for his two wonderful great nieces Brylei and Brooklyn and special friend Bryce. Preceding him in death were his parents, as well as his son Dondre Calloway. Additionally, he was preceded by three sisters: Annie Walker, Wilma Tillis, and Helen Simpson, along with brothers Charlie Thomas, Leroy Thomas, and Thomas Simpson. Left to cherish his memories are his son Steve Applings, Aunt Glinda Simpson, brother Clemmon (Mary) Sadler, Gloretha (Edward) Shepherd, Lillie (Paul) Bailey, and Delbert (Vanessa) Simpson. Visitation Friday, August 25, 2023 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, August 26, 2023 10:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX. Interment Post Oak Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Lorene Wooten McKnight was born on June 13, 1935, in Vistula, TX (Houston County), to the parents of Lee Wooten, Sr., and Savannah Gainous Wooten. She attended school in Vistula. Lorene McKnight was a kind and loving woman that grew up in a loving family. Lorene accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age, later she relocated to Lovelady, TX, where she met and married W.D. McKnight (Buddy). She united with Mt. Olive Baptist Church, and attended faithfully until her health would no longer allow her to attend service. Lorene and Buddy provided a loving home for their 6 sons and 3 daughters. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, who was very caring. She loved her family unconditionally. For many years, she was a seamstress at Earl Manufacture in Lovelady which later relocated to Crockett, TX. She was also a caregiver and provided in-home private care because she loved helping others. During her spare time, she would go and visit the sick and shut-in and loved being outside working in her garden. Lorene heard the gentle whisper, of the heavenly father, she answered and ascended with a peaceful smile to be with the Lord on July 29, 2023, 11:40 am at Creekside Retirement Community, in Huntsville TX. Lorene is preceded in death by both parents, Lee Wooten, Sr., and Savannah Gainous Wooten; two (2) sons, Archie Lee McKnight (Hazel McKnight, daughter-in-law) and Eddie Boyd McKnight; four (4) sisters, Rosie Mae, Ivory Lee Scurlock, Stella and Gertrude Hughes; four (4) brothers, Lee Wooten, Jr., Floyd Wooten, Vertis Wooten and Roosevelt Butler. Left to cherish her memories are: Dennis McKnight (Carol), Frankie McKnight (daughter-in-law), Marilyn Johnson (Kenneth), Ennis McKnight) (Carolyn), Mary Ann McKnight, Walter McKnight (Martha), Lavetta McKnight, Nicholas McKnight (Niketra), and her very special granddaughter whom she considered her own daughter Swanzetta Oliphant; and a host of grands, great-grands, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. Lorene leaves a legacy of love, honesty, and respect for God and others. Her favorite saying was, “My Lord, My Lord, Thank You, Thank You”. Visitation Saturday, August 5, 2023 11:00 AM St. Luke Baptist Church Crockett, Texas. Funeral Service Saturday, August 5, 2023 12:00 PM St. Luke Baptist Church Crockett, Texas. Interment Vistula Cemetery Lovelady, Texas.

Steven Lee Beard, 43, of Kennard, was born to parents Steven Beard and Juelia Baker on October 25, 1979 in Palestine, Texas. He attended Huntsville High School and then went on to complete his Associate’s Degree from Angelina College. Lee married Jeanette Guynes in 1999, and they had two children. Lee loved his family; especially his two boys. He taught them everything they know. He never met a stranger. Lee would always lend a helping hand. He cut trees off the roadway when the tornado came through Weches and loaded his boat and helped rescue during Hurricane Harvey. You never had to ask, because he would be there. Lee loved to hunt and fish. When he wasn’t working you could find him at the river or in the stand. Lee will be remembered as “easy to laugh & hard to anger”. He will be greatly missed by many. Lee is preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Billie Beard and Olen and Mavis Henderson; his aunt, Sheila Beard McLean, as well as his nephew, Jordan Ellisor. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Jeanette Beard; his sons, Joseph Beard and Sawyer Beard, all of Kennard; his parents, Steve and Lesia Beard and Lean and Clayton Baker. Also left behind is his sister, Stephanie and husband Derl Ellisor of New Waverly along with his niece, Mckailah Ellisor; aunts, Arlena McLaughlin and husband Don, and Sandra Beard; uncle Randy Beard and wife Shelly. Graveside services and interment for Lee will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at Conner Cemetery, Tadmor, Texas. Mr. Wayne Bogan, Officiatiating. Please leave online condolences at www.walkerandwalkerfh.com Walker & Walker Funerals and Cremations is in charge of the services. Graveside Service Wednesday, June 21, 2023 10:00 AM Conner Cemetery Tadmor, Texas. Interment Conner Cemetery Tadmor, Texas.

Jannie Lee Walker was born Saturday, July 6, 1929, in Grapeland, Texas. She was one of sixteen children born to Bailey Walker Sr. and Alice Lucindy Walker. She transcended this life while in a peaceful slumber on Wednesday May 24, 2023, at the age of 93. She was preceded in death by her father, Bailey Walker Sr., her mother, Alice Lucindy Walker, her husband, Eddie Williby, her sisters, Gertrude Simpson, Lucindy Walker, Vera Taylor, Glinda Walker, and Janet Walker, and her brothers, Sylvester Walker, James Walker, Lorenzo Walker, Bailey Walker Jr., A.B. Walker, Sr., Spencer Walker, and twin angels that were named in Heaven. She is survived by her daughter, Meisha Ellis (Texas City, TX), her grandchildren, W Mitchell Grogan-Walker (Houston, TX), Camryn Jones (Texas City, TX) and Tieraney Ellis (Texas City, TX), her sisters, Stella Walker (Grapeland, TX) and Elwanda Taylor (Lufkin, TX), her bonus daughter, Latosha Blake (Lufkin, TX) and an extensive host of nieces, nephews, and cousins from various cities and states. In her early years, Jannie could be found looking after and caring for her siblings, and assisting her mother with household chores. During this period, she acquired an uncontended talent for cooking. Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of sampling any of her dishes would testify that her food was the most flavorful and delicious food they had ever tasted. This would come to be one of the most notable things she was known for. As a young adult, she decided to pack her belongings and relocate to Galveston, Texas, where she had obtained employment from her aunt, Eliza Jane Guster, who had come to own her own establishment. There, Jannie would learn the ins and outs of running a business and would later open her own. “Jannie’s Place”. From parties to tournaments and live music, you could always find a packed house. It was a place you could go to find laughter and great music. The patrons came so regularly, they became family. Jannie’s Place served people for over fifteen years before it closed its doors for good. Jannie not only possessed business savvy, she was also a breath-takingly, stunning woman, who’s beauty commanded the attention of every eye in any room she walked into. She knew it too! She may have been born two days “after” Independence Day, but she was a firecracker. She was sassy and no-nonsense and was always sure to step out dressed to the nines. Many men were consistently vying for her attention, but only one stole her heart...A young musician who went by the stage name “Little Eddie”. They were friends for the longest time before they eventually fell in love. She then became Mrs. Eddie Williby. Together, they raised a daughter who bore them three beautiful grandchildren. Jannie has been a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who truly loved everyone. To have known her was to love her. She could be hard as nails in one breath and soft as a baby’s bottom in the next. Although she sometimes wore a tough exterior, she would cry at the drop of a hat due to her overwhelming sensitivity and her desperate need for you to know just how much she loved you. She was the most free-hearted person you will ever meet. If you were ever hungry, she’d feed you. If you needed a place to rest, she’d shelter you. If you needed something and she didn’t have it, she’d find a way to get it. She’s never met a stranger and all friends became family. She touched the hearts and lives of many, both near and far. She was truly one of a kind and the void left by her absence is now a sharp pain that may someday lessen to a dull ache but will always be felt. We must always remember...Though we love her immensely, GOD loves her best! Public Viewing Friday, June 2, 2023 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Saturday, June 3, 2023 1:00 pm Mt. Zion Baptist Church 12202 Old 229, Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, TX

On 21 February 1943 in Grapeland Texas, Albert Govan Shepherd and Elsie (Wallace) Shepherd became the proud parents of a baby boy whom they named Homer Earl. He was the sixth of nine children. Affectionally called Pa, Homer accepted Christ at an early age and joined the Greater New Hope Baptist Church, in Grapeland, Texas. Pa attended W. R. Banks High School where he participated on the football team and the basketball team. (He got better every ten years) After graduation he moved to Dallas and joined the workforce as a laborer and later became a warehouse manager before retirement. He married Evelyn Wheeler on 18 July 1975. Homer departed his earthly body on Thursday 27 April 2023. He is proceeded in death by his parents Albert and Elsie Shepherd; sister Doris Faye Shepherd; brother James Wadell Shepherd, sister Billye Ann Crockett, and sister Doris Maxine Gowans. Homer leaves behind to mourn him, his loving wife Mrs. Evelyn Shepherd, son Barron Earl Shepherd (Carolyn) son Homer Earl Shepherd Jr., son Keith Roshun Davis (Angela) daughter Reva Yvonne McGibboney (Earl) daughter Shirley Rochelle Davis, daughter Terri Lynn Brice (Rickey) sixteen grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, Brother Milton Shepherd, Sister Hazel Lafall, Brother Roy Shepherd (Betty) and Brother Morris Shepherd (Rosella) , and a named dog Fefe. Visitation Friday, May 5, 2023 1:00 PM – 5:00PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, May 6 2023 11:00 am Greater New Hope Baptist Church 10877 Farm Road 227 W. Grapeland TX 75844 Interment Shepherd Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Latonia Faulk was born in Palestine TX on May 19, 1979. She went to school and graduated from Latexo High School, where she was a cheerleader and a great basketball player. From there, she began to explore life. Tonia was a risk taker. She always wanted to do new things. She worked at TDC for some years. Latonia had her first child on July 26, 2000, daughter Desire White. Then she became a business owner (clothing store etc.) in Crockett, TX. She loved to make people smile. She was always the life of the party. Tonia was actually a little comedian at times. Very spunky and didn’t mind telling you about yourself. After being bored and wanting a change of scenery, she moved to Houston, TX in 2003. Her sister Demetrice was so happy another sibling had come to live in the city with her. They were Ying and Yang. Tonia had so many talents. She went to school to become a medical assistant and received her certificate. She tried it but realized it wasn’t for her. Tonia like to be the boss. She went on to own another business in Houston. TX a game room. She also ran a party bus at some point. After having her second child, Kacy Reed Jr., her life began to take a turn. Even going through some trying times with her daughter when she got sick with a brain disorder, Tonya was still strong. She loved her grandkids and spent time with them as much as possible. She was always there for her children, nieces, and nephews. Tonia was full of adventure and never too prideful to try new things. She started working at Walmart, where she became a manager. She worked at several Walmarts and loved what she did. After that, she went into customer service, working from home for UHC. Latonia knew a lot of people, and her light always shined bright. She will be greatly missed! Latonia is preceded in death by her nephew, Tyress D. Anderson, grandfathers Willie C. Faulk and James Coleman, Sr., and grandmother Josephine Biddle aunts Patricia Cotton, JoAnn Rabb, and Theresa Hayes. Left to continue her legacy is her son Kacy Marion Reed, Jr., daughter Desire Nicole White (Daiyon Miller); parents Brenda and James Faulk, Sr.; brother James Aaron (Sonya Lynet) Faulk, Jr.; sisters Chandra (Antwain) Boston and Demetrice (Donnan) Keizer, and Jasmine Faulk; grandmother Zona B. Faulk Posey, and step grandfather Raymond Posey; aunts Linda Young, Debra Sawyer, Gwendolyn (Wilbert) Landry, Cassandra Charles, Simone (Glen) Flanagan, Iantha Coleman, Ruth Coleman, Dorthea Coleman, Bobby Jean Faulk, Dorothy (Quincy) Willis, and Mae Walker; uncles Don (Linda) Polk, James (Zeina) Polk, Edward Coleman, James Coleman, Jr., Dr. Joe Coleman, Jeffery Coleman, Gregory Coleman, Russell Coleman, Willie Faulk, Charles Faulk, Henry (Shonda) Faulk, Sr., William (Fran) Faulk; three (3) grandchildren, Jesiah, Delilah, Nahloni Miller; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, April 28, 2023 6:00 PM – 8:00PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, April 29, 2023 10:00 am Rising Star Baptist Church HWY 327-287/19 S. Bypass Grapeland TX 75844 Interment Faulk Cemetery Crockett, TX

James Smith, Jr., also known to family and friends as “Bump”, “Jr. Boy” and “Bump Daddy”. Bump graduated from Grapeland High School, in 1986. Bump loved playing sports, hanging out with friends, and playing dominoes and cards with his mom. Bump’s love for cross-word puzzles kept him at the kitchen table sometimes for hours. He also enjoyed fishing with his brother, O’Neal. Bump was always a jokester with his nieces and nephews. He was a dedicated hard worker until his health started to fail him. After a long battle of suffering, Bump was called home on April 19, 2023. He will be greatly missed. Bump is preceded in death by his father, James O’Neal Smith, Sr. and wife Sandra Smith. Left to cherish his memories is his loving mother Addie Pearl Smith, Grapeland, TX; sons Turrell Smith and Courtney Smith, both of Houston, TX; brother O’Neal (Alexandria) Smith, Grapeland, TX; sisters Etta (Laurence Ward) Smith, Pearland, TX, Victoria (David) Davis, Grapeland, TX and Maggie (Junius Shinette) Smith, Palestine, TX; granddaughters Jaycee Pearl Smith and Brooklyn Smith of Alto, TX; grandsons Courtavian Zyshawn Smith, Crockett, TX and Maddix Smith, Grapeland, TX; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, April 28, 2023 4:00 PM – 6:00PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, April 29, 2023 1:00 pm Rising Star Baptist Church HWY 327-287/19 S. Bypass Grapeland TX 75844 Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, TX

On Monday, April 17, 2023, Earle Cameron Runquist, aged 79, passed away at his home in Grapeland, TX Earle was born on November 8, 1943 in Starbuck, MN to Freddie and Doris (Everson) Runquist. Earle went to technical college in Alexandria, MN where he received his Associate’s degree in engine repair and maintenance. He was a United States Army veteran, having served at Fort Wainwright, Alaska as an engineer in the 71st Infantry Brigade. After the Army, Earle moved to Drayton, ND where he worked for a John Deere dealership as a tractor and combine mechanic. After Drayton, Earle moved back to his birthplace in Starbuck, MN and took over a neighbor’s farm. He farmed this land until his retirement in 2008, having gradually transitioned to logging and saw-milling, along with doing seasonal work for the Pope County Soil and Water Conservation District. Earle had a passion for steam engines. For many years he owned a 1917 Minneapolis steam tractor, showing this engine at steam threshing shows throughout the area. He also loved motorcycles, owning a Harley-Davidson and two BMW motorcycles. Often times he would reminisce about his times on the road. Earle was known for his strong work ethic, his love of country music and woodworking, and a keen understanding of all things mechanical. He rebuilt and engineered systems whenever he had need. On July 12, 1980 he married Riet (Maria) Unke. They had three children, Niels Unke, Hayley Unke-Moore (Tomas Moore), and Erik Runquist (Brenna Runquist). He was preceded in death by his parents and other aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his wife, their children and spouses, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, brother Donald Runquist, and nephew Steven Runquist. A memorial service will be held at Walker and Walker Funeral Home in Grapeland, TX on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at 3:00 pm. A memorial service will be held at Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood, MN on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 2:00pm. Memorial Service Saturday, April 23, 2023 3:00 PM Walker & Walker Memorial Service Saturday, April 29, 2023 2:00 PM Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home Glenwood, MN

Esaricelene Harris-Ervin was a faithful wife, mother, and friend. She was born in Madisonville, TX to the parentage of Enos and Lula Mae Kelly-Harris. She received Christ at an early age and remained a member of Union Prairie Missionary Baptist Church until her passing, under the leadership of Pastor Myron Waddell. Esaricelene was a graduate of Center Grove High School in Lovelady, TX and after completion she became a nurse at Houston County Hospital. She later worked as a seamstress for Earl’s manufacturing and finished her working career as a Correctional Officer for Texas Department of Criminal Justice at Beto I, in Tennessee Colony, TX. Esaricelene and Tom Ervin met in 1968 and were a match made in heaven. During their union they raised 5 wonderful kids and completed their union on May 11, 1997. Their love and devotion withstood many obstacles and maintained a family bond that continues today. Esaricelene spent her life helping others. “No” was not a word she used often. If it was a few dollars, food or a place to stay, she was always willing to help. Her kindness touched many people and left a Lasting Legacy. Esaricelene is preceded in death by both parents, Enos Harris and Lula Mae Kelly-Harris; sister Violet McMearn, brothers Enos Henry Harris, Hayward Harris; daughters Diane Moten, and Therlesia Harris. Left to continue her legacy is her husband, Tom E. Ervin, Crockett, TX; son Paul (Deloris) Harris, Italy, TX, daughters, Tonya Harris, Crockett, TX and Bonita (Thomas) Harris, Waco, TX; brothers Donald E. (Cinzia) Harris, Aviano, Italy, Sederick A. (Tonya) Harris, Crockett, TX; sister, Rose Washington, Crockett, TX; aunts Janice Kelly-Moten, Crockett, TX, Diane Kelly-Murphy, Spring, TX; uncle Bernard Kelly, Crockett, TX; sisters-in-law Van Mitchell, and Yvonne (Jerry) Holmes, of Crockett, TX, Angela (Kevin) Ewing, Spring, TX, Brenda Ervin, Crockett, TX; brothers-in-law Jim (Loretta) Ervin, Norris (Karen) Ervin, and Johnny Ray Ervin, Cliff Ervin, all of Crockett, TX; fifteen (15) grands, thirteen (13) great-grands Visitation Friday, March 24, 2023 1:00 PM-5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, March 25, 2023 11:00 AM Bethel Baptist Church 904 N. 6th St. Crockett, TX Interment Murphy Cemetery (Ashe Community) Austonio, Texas

Rena Faye Dupree was born June 14, 1954 in Grapeland, Texas to Frank Guinn and Dorothy Mae Dupree. She was the second of seven children. She accepted Christ at an early age and joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Grapeland after marrying Ireland Gene Beazley in 1972. This union was blessed with three children. In her lifetime, Rena was able to achieve many “firsts”. Grapeland Schools integrated in 1967, and in 1971 she was voted the first black cheerleader of Grapeland High School. She also was employed as the first black bank teller of Grapeland State Bank. She later was employed as the first black bank teller of Elkhart State Bank. Rena was naturally talented in many ways. She was an amazing seamstress and was able to make complete outfits for herself and others. She was the definition of a diva and a fashionista like none other. She believed in always looking your best and inspired most everyone she met to do the same. She loved the outdoors and working in her garden. She also loved to dance and to play spades but more than anything she loved God and spending time with family and friends. While at home, Rena peacefully transitioned to her eternal rest on March 13, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank Guinn and Dorothy Dupree; son, Napoleon Beazley; in-laws, Napoleon "Sambo" Beazley and Theressia Beazley; aunt, Thelma Burleson, niece, Michelle Dupree; son-in-law, John Holman, Jr.; brothers-in-law, Lewis Beazley, Edward McDaniel and Dale Turner. She leaves to cherish her memory: husband of 50+ years, Ireland Gene Beazley, Grapeland, Texas; daughter, Maria Holman, Grapeland, Texas; son, Ireland Jamaal Beazley, Grapeland, Texas; aunts, Mary (Charles) Dawson, Grapeland, Texas, Georgia Powers, Dallas, Texas, Novella Guinn, Alto, Texas; siblings, Janie Rodriguez, Lufkin, Texas, Dorothy Dupree Cook, Grapeland, Texas, Danny (Loretta) Dupree, Groesbeck, Texas, Shawna (Sammie) Dupree, Crockett, Texas, Cherry Dupree, Grapeland, Texas, John Dupree, Houston, Texas; sisters-in-law, Cynthia Turner, Grapeland, Texas, Hattie (Will) Williams, San Antonio, Texas; brothers-in law, Clyde (Evelyn) Beasley, Lufkin, Texas, Lawrence Beazley, Virginia, Charles McDaniel, Grapeland, Texas, Jessie (Theresa) McDaniel, Grapeland, Texas; grandchildren, Chedric Ethan (Christina) Cox, Dallas, Texas, Lorena Emily Holman, Grapeland, Texas; special nephew, Travyn Dupree, niece, Mallary Johnson and great-nephew, Maddix Dupree; special friends, Betty Dean, Lillie Bailey, Linda Dickson, Ethel Dolphus, Cathy Walker and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends who will cherish her memory. Wake Friday, March 17, 2023 6:00 PM-8:00 PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, March 18, 2023 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, Texas

Tabatha Dennis (51) was born in Grapeland, TX October 28, 1971 to the parents of Charlie and Ethel Coleman and was one of four siblings. While growing up, Tabby Cat, as she was lovingly referred as, attended Grapeland ISD and Crockett ISD schools. She later went on to work in the health care field as a Medical Billing Specialist, a Dialysis Tech at the Eastham Unit, and a Home Health Care Aide. Tabatha was member of the Evangelistic Pentecostal Church in Crockett, TX and later became member Greater Saint Paul Baptist Church. She loved the Lord, her husband, kids, and grandchildren as well as many other friends and family. Tabatha was called home to the Lord March 5, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents Charlie and Ethel Coleman, her sisters Charlene Butler, Monica Porter, and Stacy Purvis. Left to cherish her memory is her husband Napoleon Dennis of Crockett, TX, sons Brandon McCowan and wife Tara of Houston, TX, and Napoleon Dennis Jr. of Crockett, TX, daughters Ashley Butler and Brittney Atkins both of Crockett, TX. She also leaves behind her brother Wayne Coleman and wife Lisa Ann of Dallas, TX, aunts Ruby Kent of Grapeland, TX, Margie Nelson of Crockett, TX, uncles Jimmy L. Butler and wife Regina of Grand Prairie, TX, as well as a special sister in law Koschina Dolphus. Continuing her legacy are two grandchildren Jamarion Butler and Dekorian Butler. Tabatha leaves behind a host of family and friends. Visitation Friday, March 17, 2023 1:00 PM-5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service Saturday, March 18, 2023 1:00 PM Greater Saint Paul Baptist Church 307 S. 2nd St. Crockett, Texas. Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, Texas

Jemeni Wryan Grant (18) of Elkhart, TX was born October 4, 2004 in Crockett, TX. He tragically left this earth February 13, 2023. Jemeni was a loved son, brother, nephew, grandson, and friend. We all knew him for his silly jokes and wild personality. He enjoyed walking, music, gaming, and aggravating everyone around him. Social Media was a favorite of his, specifically his infamous TikToks. Jemeni was a cigarette smoking, black wearing wild child with many life experiences and stories to tell. He had plans to join the Army and save up for his first car. He was the bravest 18 year old we knew, traveling to many places in such a short time and always experiencing unplanned, spontaneous adventures. Left to cherish Jemeni’s memory is his mom Jamie Grant and dad, Robert Grant; brothers: Jayden of Houston, TX, BJ of Houston, TX, and Harley of Slocum, TX; sisters: Jessie of Athens, TX, and Raven of Slocum, TX. Jemeni also leaves behind great grandparents Bob and Wilma Hallmark of Grapeland, TX; grandparents Karen McFarland, Amanda Bailey, Butch and Valerie Grant, and Dan Hallmark; aunts Sylvia Rader, Samantha Hyatt, Ruthie Wimberg; uncles, Stevie Hallmark, Jim Rader, Tommy Minter, and John Wimberg, along with numerous other aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Visitation Saturday, February 18, 2023 11:00 AM-12:00 PM Walker & Walker Graveside Service Saturday, February 18, 2023 1:00 PM Grapeland City Cemetery Grapeland, Texas. Interment Grapeland City Cemetery Grapeland, Texas

Loree Darnell Carswell was born on April 22, 1946 to her loving parents, Earl and Florice Gallion in Leesville, LA. Her sister Earlene asked her parents if she could help name her and they let her pick her middle name. Earlene chose Darnell after the famous female actress, Linda Darnell. Her middle name was what she would go by from that day forward. Darnell was the youngest in her family. She loved to dance, sing and play the piano. While Darnell was in tap and ballet, she quickly rose to the top of her class and before she knew it, she was noticed by a talent scout and he was ready to help her become the next big starlet in Hollywood but her parents declined the offer. Darnell’s family later moved to Texas where she attended South Houston High School and worked at Saks department store in Houston, Texas. While on vacation with her family in the summer of 1964 at the lake in Huntsville State Park she caught the eye of a handsome young man. Little did he know that this beautiful young lady had just gotten her hair done and did not want to get it wet which is why she was on a float in the lake instead of swimming. Despite every effort he took, she did not notice him back right away so he decided to take drastic measures. He made his way over to her and swam underneath the float and flipped her over. That handsome young man was Ken Carswell. One would think this would have ended badly for him but here we are and the rest is history. If you want to know how that story unfolded, ask Ken, he loves to tell it. Ken and Darnell dated the rest of that summer in 1964. Ken joined the Marine Corp in June of 1965 and they were later married in December of 1965. Ken went on to fight in the Vietnam War and while he was away, they shared love letters with each other. Upon Kens return they decided it was time to start a family. They adopted a little girl named Nancy and a boy named Kenneth Ray. Several years later Darnell gave birth to their daughter Kimberly. Darnell and Ken were married for 57 years. For a good part of those years, Darnell worked at State Farm Insurance in California and then in Arizona. In her free time when her kids were young, she loved to go camping, go to Disneyland every year and she loved herself some ice cream. Darnell later retired to help care for her grandson Caleb while her daughter Kimberly went back to work. She then opened an in home daycare and cared for other children as well. Darnell was passionate about being involved in her church. She taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and worked in the nursery. She believed in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and was confident in her relationship with him. She longed to meet him face to face and on January 16, 2023 Darnell peacefully entered the gates of Heaven. She will be missed immensely but we rest in the assurance that she is in our heavenly fathers’ arms. She was proceeded in death by her mom and dad, Florice and Earl, Sister Earlene and brothers Reid and Billy. Left to cherish precious memories include her loving husband Ken, oldest daughter Nancy, son Ken and youngest daughter Kimberly; Grandchildren Halston Drew, Lauren Mae, Ashley, Caleb, Madeline and Ty. Great Grandchildren Everly and Oliver. Visitation Friday, February 3, 2023 1:00 PM-5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, February 4, 2023 1:00 PM Webb Family Cemetery Grapeland, Texas. Interment Webb Family Cemetery Grapeland, Texas

Ozella “Ozie” Jane Martinez was born and reared in the New Salem Community to the late Arthur Williams and Ozeller Jane Toliver on May 26, 1945. Ozie lived a wonderful life, full of love, family, and friends! She was created with a heart of service and spirit of giving. Furthermore, she was passionate and open about her relationship with Jesus Christ. After accepting Christ, she was a member of the Rising Star Baptist Church of Grapeland, Texas, where she remained active until she relocated to Ratcliff, Texas. In that community, she became an active member of the Bethel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Ozie served faithfully as a member of the usher board, stewardess committee, and church secretary. Some of her favorite church activities were Vacation Bible School and the Fall Festival. Ozie attended W.R. Banks High School of Grapeland, Texas and was a graduate of the class of 1963. After high school, Ozie met and married the love of her life, the late McArthur Martinez. To this union, three children were born, Gregory Toliver, Sr., Shryell Barnes, and Gwendolyn Martinez. In addition to her own, Ozie was also the God-Mother of four, John Griffin, Jr., Benny Smith, La'Shericka Cleveland, and Jessica Darden. Ozie served faithfully as a housewife for several years, caring for her husband until his death in 1975. From this means of servanthood, she chose to pursue higher education academic endeavors; and completed the necessary requirements to earn her certification as a Certified Nurse’s Aide from Angelina College. Using this certification, Ozie served and later retired from the Leisure Lodge nursing facility of Crockett, Texas. On January 15, 2023 Ozie peacefully entered her eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and eleven siblings. Left to cherish precious memories are her children, Gregory Toliver, Sr. (Demetria), Shryell Barnes (Michael), and Gwendolyn Martinez (Michael); all of Lufkin, Texas; godchildren, John Griffin, Jr. of Lufkin, Texas, Benny Smith of Houston, Texas, La’Shericka Cleveland of Houston, Texas, and Jessica Darden (James) of Suffolk, Virginia; brothers, Curtis Toliver (Julia) and Fletcher Toliver, Sr., both of Houston, Texas; brother-in-laws, Lee H. Martinez of Crockett, Texas and James Martinez, Sr. (Sheri) of Dayton, Ohio; sister-in-law, Charlene Shackelford (Cordell) of Houston, Texas; eleven grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, as well as a host of extended family members and friends. Visitation Friday, January 20, 2023 1:00 PM-5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, January 21, 2023 12:00 PM Bethel CME Tadmor, Texas. Interment Davis Memorial Gardens Lufkin, TX

Maeola (Mae) Nathaniel was the 7th and last child born March 16, 1939 to Willie Lee Nathaniel and Viola Nathaniel in Grapeland,TX. Maeola was raised in the Boxy Creek Community in Redtown, TX, and graduated from W.R. Banks High School, Grapeland, TX, in 1957; where she played basketball and sang in the school choir. She was a member of St. John Baptist Church, Grapeland, TX. Maeola was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching all sports; and a huge Sandie fan who traveled near and far for a Sandies ballgame. She was also a great cook! She worked for Grapeland Independent School District in several positions for over 20 years before retiring and starting a second career as a caregiver. In her down time she enjoyed fishing, shelling peas and spending time with her family. Maeola is preceded in death by her parents Willie Lee and Viola Nathaniel, son Keith Nathaniel, daughter Sheila Nathaniel; sister Mae Etta Hicks Dupree, brothers Henry Lee Nathaniel, A.W. Hicks, Allgenon McDaniel, F.L. Hicks, and Lewis Hicks. Left to continue her legacy is her son, Darrell Wayne Nathaniel, Grapeland, TX; nineteen (19) grandchildren; twenty-nine (29) great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, January 6, 2023 1:00 PM-5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, January 7, 2023 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church HWY 327-287/19 S. Bypass Grapeland TX 75844 Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Cory DeShane Murphy was born October 30, 1985 to the late Vernon Wayne Murphy and Debra Tillis in Madisonville, TX. He attended school in Crockett and graduated from Groveton High School. He was very outgoing and loved football. During his time at Groveton High Cory received many awards and high achievements in football including All State Line Backer in 2004 and earned a college football scholarship to Kilgore College. At an early age he accepted Christ and was baptized where he attended Union Chapel Church. He later joined County Line Baptist Church where he was called into the ministry under the leadership of Rev. Elliott Marshall. He went on to pastor at Wheeler Springs Baptist Church in Crockett, TX. Cory loved to sing and write his own songs. He loved his children and never met a stranger. Cory was preceded in death by his father Vernon Murphy, his son Cory Murphy Jr., and daughter A’Coryiah Murphy. Left to cherish his memory is his mother Debra Tillis, daughters Brayniah Murphy, Brayshiah Murphy, and Brayla Horace, brother Herbert Davis and wife Sherika, sisters Vernetrial Davis and husband Aaron, Desilene Davis, Shabonnie Williams, Shawana Brown, 5 step brother, and 4 step sisters, grandmother Dessie Baylone from Tyler, TX and Georgia Murphy of Crockett, TX. Cory also leaves behind 2 grandchildren, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Funeral Service Saturday, December 17, 2022 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church HWY 327-287/19 S. Bypass Grapeland TX 75844 Interment Campbell Cemetery Crockett, TX (Halls Bluff)

Heaven gained the sweetest of angels as Mona Bennett entered the gates of Heaven December 5, 2022. There to welcome her was her husband of 35 years, Arvel Bennett, son Randy Bennett, parents Newton and Ava Jo Peevy Dickson, sister Hazel Dickson Foster, brothers Elvin B. “Sonny” Dickson, Pete and Brince Dickson, son-in-law DeWayne Tate, brothers-in-law Leo L. Gillespie, Jimmy Gammage, Truman Foster and sister-in-law Vernice Dickson. She is survived by her beloved daughters Jolleen Tate of Grapeland, TX, Bonnie White and husband Greg of Shepherd, TX, and Jan Duhon and husband Malcom of Grapeland, TX. Sisters Fern Gillespie of McGregor, TX, Wanda Gammage Lee and husband Johnny of Palestine, TX, and brother Fred Dickson of Palestine, TX. Grandchildren Cody Tate and Wes Gibson of Tyler, TX, JoBeth Tate Douglas and husband Jay of Grapeland, TX, Billy Doverspike and wife Jenna of Shepherd, TX, Dalton Duhon and wife Alexandra of Palestine, TX, Delaney Duhon of Tyler, TX, Danielle White of Livingston, TX and Brittany White of Port Arthur, TX. Great grandchildren Cooper and Kaydance Douglas, Presleigh and Westin Doverspike, Kiana Hamilton, Oliviah Moore, Skylar and Kadin Gregory and a host of nieces, nephews, and life long friends. Miss Mona or Aunt Missy as she was known by was born on April 4, 1937 on the old Dow place in Houston County. She left this world for her heavenly home December 5, 2022. She attended Elkhart schools before transferring to Oakwood High School in Oakwood, TX graduating in 1955. She married the love of her life, Arvel Bennett on July 2, 1956. In 1964, after moving to Grapeland, Mona began her health career at Community Memorial Hospital. She worked as a nurse’s aide before moving to the Central Supply Department. In 1975 she attended Angelina Junior College where she obtained an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science, Nursing graduating in 1977. She worked at Community Memorial Hospital until its closure then Memorial Hospital in Palestine followed by Trinity Valley Medical Center and Palestine Regional Medical Center. She retired from her beloved career as a Registered Nurse at the young age of 75. Miss Mona touched so many nurses’ lives in her highly accolated career teaching the art of nursing, caring and loving patients as they were known as her own family. She was the epitome of what a nurse should be and maintained that level of professionalism unequaled. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Grapeland for 58 years accepting Christ as her Lord and Savior and being baptized on April 19, 1965. She was a member of the Ruth Sunday School class holding all the ladies close to her heart even when she could not attend services. She instilled in her girls her strong faith and love of family. She treasured her daughters, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and whole family. She so loved the bond her three girls shared. The family would like to thank everyone who called, messaged, prayed, and loved our beautiful mother. Special Acknowledgment to Autumn Lambert, RN of Christus Mother Frances for her extraordinary care that she gave. I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you. John 14:18 A Celebration of Life will be held January 7, 2023 at 11:00AM at First Baptist Church located at 504 W. Chestnut St. Grapeland, TX with Pastor David Bradley officiating. A reception will follow in the Family Life Center immediately following service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Baptist Church, Grapeland, TX. Memorial Service Saturday, January 7, 2023 11:00 AM First Baptist Church 504 W. Chestnut St. Grapeland, TX

Hayward James Harris (61) was born March 31, 1961 in Houston County Texas. He was the sixth child born to the marriage of Enos and Lula Mae Harris. Hayward attended the Lovelady School District. Upon completion, he came to Crockett where he worked at Northcutt for a short period of time. He later moved to Houston, TX where he worked hand in hand with his father in construction. Several years later Hayward moved to Dallas, TX and obtained employment at Star Liquor Beer & Wine until his untimely passing. God finished the final chapter of Hayward’s life on November 29, 2022 at 1:00pm. He is preceded in death by his parents Enos and Lula Mae Kelly Harris; his sister, Violet McMearn; and his brother, Enos Henry Harris. Left to cherish his memory is his brothers Donald Harris and wife Cinzia of Italy and Sedrick Harris and wife Tonya of Crockett, TX.; sisters Rose Washington of Crockett, TX and Esaricelene Ervin and husband Tom of Crockett, TX. He also leaves behind his uncle Harold (Bernard) Kelly, and aunts Mary Lou Jackson of Cypress, TX., Janice Moten of Crockett, TX, and Diane Murray of Houston, TX. as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Visitation Friday, December 9, 2022 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Walker & Walker Graveside Service Saturday, December 10, 2022 12:00 PM Murphy Cemetery Ashe Community Austonio, TX Interment Murphy Cemetery Ashe Community Austonio, TX

Adline Patton Lamb was born February 5, 1921 in Tadmor, TX to the late Henrietta Simpson-Wiley and Bob Patton. She was the eldest of her siblings. She was raised by her grandmother, Adline Stewart, in the Tadmor Community. She completed her education at the Tadmor Community school. She accepted Christ at an early age and united with Bethel CME Methodist Church in Tadmor, Texas where she served as a stewardess and member of the choir. She was involved in mission, member of the Eastern Star where she served as treasurer for many years. She enjoyed helping and caring for the people in her community. She worked as a home health provider, taking care of the elderly in the community for many years. Her love for the outdoors and nature led her to work for the Forestry Service where she served her community until she retired. She had blessed hands that were filled with love and compassion. Whether she was holding your hand or cultivating the ground, everything she touched blossomed. She left a lasting impression on everyone she met and she made you feel like family. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, fishing, reading, and puzzles. She met and married Jessie Edward Lamb on March 23, 1943 and to this union 13 children were born. She was the true definition of beauty, genuine love, wisdom, strength, perseverance, sacrifice and inspiration. Although she was called many names; Mama, Mom, Madea, Grandmother, Grandma, Mama Adline, Mama Line, Mo Mo, Maw Maw, Big Mama, Granny, or GiGi, one thing remained the same, she loved and treated us all the same. She was and will forever be greatly loved by all who were blessed to know her. Even though we loved her and wanted her to stay, God loved her most and called her home on November 26, 2022. She will forever live on in our hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents: Henrietta Simpson-Wiley (Albert Wiley) and Bob Patton. Husband: Jessie Edward Lamb, three daughters: Darla Skinner, Marion Lamb-Taylor, and Addie Kay Lamb, six sons: Henry Lamb, Monte Ray Lamb, Carl Wayne Lamb Sr, Ralph Lamb, Glenn Lamb and baby Otis Lamb, six sisters: Toledo, Elsie Mae, Corrine, Deilie, Snookum, and Catherine; ten brothers, Floyd, Abel, Sampson, Gerdine, George, Cornell, James T., Curtis, Isiac, and Cleotis. She leaves to cherish her memories: son, Larry Lamb of Killeen, TX, daughters Mary Louise Lamb of Phoenix, AZ, Wanda Warfield and Cheryl Thomas of Kennard, TX;son-in-law Jefferson Skinner (the late Darla), daughter-in- law LaWanda Lamb (the late Ralph); sister Caren Brooks (Cleo) of Lufkin, TX. 38 grandchildren, 84 great-grandchildren, 108 great-great grandchildren and 4 great-great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones. Visitation Friday, Decmber 2, 2022 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral Service Saturday, December 3, 2022 11:00 AM Simpson Chapel Baptist Church Tadmor Community Interment McKelvey Cemetery Tadmor Community

Thomas Alan Sherrod Jr., known to most as Tom, was born February 5, 1960 to Lucy and Alan Sherrod. He was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on November 22, 2022. Tom grew up most of his life in Crockett and passed away in Latexo, TX. Tom was an artist, mason, rancher, and oil field worker. He was a hard worker and loved working with his hands. He loved working for Kevin and Diana Maxwell on their property and ranch. He loved hunting and fishing and probably the thought the “Four Seasons” were fishing season, deer season, turkey season, and dove season. He was a story teller, philosopher, and a comedian. Tom could make you laugh until you cry. He never met a stranger and loved to talk! He loved his family and church family. He loved his momma and called her almost every day. Most importantly he loved God. Tom was a wonderful Husband, Dad, PawPaw Son, Brother, and Friend. Tom is survived by his wife and best friend, Kim Sherrod; children, Brandon Sherrod and wife Carly, Katrin Low and fiancé Thomas, and Radley Low, and son-in-law Kenny Leediker. He is also survived by his grandchildren Andee and Ivey Sherrod, Gauge and Sy Low, Zayden, Coe, Avery Leediker and Lane Mancilla. Tom also leaves behind his mother, Lucy Sherrod; sisters, Tracy Minter, Donna Garret, and brothers-in-law Johnny Garrett, Raymond and Elton Christoph, William Bennett and sister-in-law De’An Bennett. Also left to cherish his memory are many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and lots of friends. Tom is preceded in death by his father Thomas Alan Sherrod Sr., grandparents Tommy and Thelma Sherrod and Joe and Lela J. Spink; mother-in-law Ernestene Bennett; brother-in-law Bobby Minter and nephew, Brian Stewart. Memorial Service Saturday, December 3, 2022 10:30 AM Eastgate Family Church 1245 East Goliad Ave. Crockett, TX

Quention Dell Shaver (83) passed away Monday, November 7, 2022, at his home in Grapeland, TX. He was born March 5, 1939 in Latexo, TX. to parents Robbie Lee and O’dell Shaver. He worked with his father as an auto mechanic, was employed at Alcoa for many years, and owned Shaver Insurance until his retirement. He was a long time member of First Baptist Church in Grapeland and proud member of the Masonic Lodge #473. Quention is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Shaver; mother, Robbie Lee Shaver; father, O’dell Shaver; brother-in-law, Leroy Wilkinson; and nephew, Kenny Wilkinson. He is survived by his son, Quention Shaver Jr. and wife Kris; daughter, Kim Turrubiarte and husband David; daughter, Sandy Hobson; sister-in-law, Lyndol Wilkinson; nephew, Chris Wilkinson. Quention also leaves behind grandchildren Shaver Huff and wife Meagan; Chance Huff and wife Racheal; Hollie Ruth and husband Chris; Abby Hobson and husband Clayton; Trip Hobson, Charles Turrubiarte, Traetin Turrubiarte; and 12 Great Grandchildren. Quention was a people lover and cultivated a multitude of friends, most of which were life long, with whom he kept in touch until the end. Visitation Wednesday, November 9, 2022 Walker & Walker 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Graveside Service Thursday, November 10, 2022 Pennington Cemetery 10:00 AM

Doris Nell Jones, age 91, of Onalaska, Texas, passed away peacefully from this life on Wednesday, October 19, 2022. Nell was born November 25, 1930, in Prentiss, Mississippi, to Stanley & Maggie Loftin. She was the 3rd child of the Loftin family. She was raised in Prentiss, Mississippi, on the family farm that was originally owned by her great granddad, McNease. She graduated from Jefferson Davis County High School in Prentiss. At 21, she eloped and married J.C. “Joe” Jones. They were married for 48 years and together had 7 children. They moved to Houston, Texas in 1960 where they lived and raised their family. Nell was a stay-at-home mom until 1982 when she began working at Lakewood Cleaners in North Houston. She worked there until moving to Onalaska in 1996. After the death of her first husband, Joe, in 2000, she became active with the senior citizens group in Onalaska. It is here that she met and fell in love with Arthur, whom she married in 2004. Since Arthur’s death last year, Nell has done some travelling with her oldest daughter, Gloria. In September, they were able to take a bus tour to see the Ark in Ohio. They travelled to Florida to spend Thanksgiving with her baby sister, Maxine, and had the chance to meet her great-granddaughter, Elena. Then in May, they travelled with Kennith to Mississippi to meet her great-grandkids, Tyler and Taylor and great-great-granddaughter, Kennedy. She was looking forward to taking a trip to Washington, D.C., but wasn’t able to go. Now she’s finished her race and travelled to her final destination – Heaven! Nell loved sitting on the porch, working in the yard, playing puzzles on the computer, looking at pictures of her grandbabies on Facebook and having a pretzel and root beer from Sonic! But most of all she loved Jesus and devoted her life to Him. You couldn’t talk to her for very long without finding out this fact. She talked about Him to anyone who would listen. Even during her last days, when she was confused, she was still praising Him. She was preceded in death by her first husband, J.C, and second husband, Arthur; her dad, mom, brother, Knox, and sister, Thelma; 6 of her children, Alvin, Doris, David (son-in-law), Edward, Lorrie (daughter-in-law) and Bobby Lynn; and 1 grandson, Donald. She will be deeply missed by her children, Gloria Jean Courtney, Orrin Kennith Jones, Geni Sheffield (daughter-in-law), Lisa McCartney Jones (daughter-in-Law) and Cindy Jo Melton and husband, Jay Melton. Grandchildren – Kevin Jones, Danielle Smith, Hannah Melton Reese and Bethany Melton. Great-Grandchildren – Torrie, Dylan, Destiny, Evan, Katie Lauren, Torrin, Tyler, Taylor Anne and Elena. And one Great-Great-Grandchild - Kennedy; sister, Maxine, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2022, at 2:00pm at her church, Wildwood Gospel Church, located at 2070 Wildwood Drive, Onalaska, Texas 77360. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to her church to further the Kingdom of God. Memorial Service Saturday, December 3, 2022 2:00 PM Wildwood Gospel Church 2070 Wildwood Drive Onalaska, Texas 77360

James Lee McFadden, 94, of Grapeland, Texas died September 16, 2022 at UT Health in Tyler, Texas. He was lovingly surrounded by his children and grandchildren in his final hours as he peacefully transitioned. James Lee (Jimmy) McFadden was born February 21, 1928, in Marshalltown, Iowa to Chester Earl McFadden and Rosamond Lee (Walker) McFadden. At age 12 his family relocated to Sugarland, Texas in Fort Bend County. Jimmy married Marian (Geisendorff) Prasatik January 05, 1968 and relocated from Fulshear, Texas to Grapeland in 1973. Jimmy worked as an electrician for many years. He later taught electrical trade courses to inmates at The Texas Department of Criminal Justice until retirement. Jimmy and his wife, Marian, joined in the ownership of McFadden’s Flower & Gift Shop located at 310 Market Street which is currently The Pink Dot. Following his retirement from TDJC, they expanded their services to include the restoration and sales of fine antiques. Jimmy is preceded in death by his wife Marian Pauline (Geisendorff) McFadden; parents Chester Earl and Rosamond Lee (Walker) McFadden; siblings Frank W. McFadden, Mary Josephine (McFadden) George, Virginia Davis (McFadden) Spears; and grandson Corey Wayne Rooker. A previous member of Grapeland Lions Club, Jimmy also enjoyed participating and traveling with Loners On Wheels ~ an RV Group based in SW Arkansas, NE Texas, NW Louisiana and SW Oklahoma. Jimmy will be remembered by his family and community as a giving and sharing individual. He was quick to drop whatever he was doing to help others whenever or wherever his talents and labors were needed. Jimmy McFadden is survived by six children: Earl Lee McFadden and Julie Smirl of Grapeland, Ronald W. Prasatik of Galveston, Virginia Norene (Ginger) Rettig and husband Delwin of Bellville, Mina Paulette (Paula) Prasatik of Grapeland, Clarence Mitchell (Mitch) Prasatik and wife Donna of Grapeland, and Lenora Annette Huff and husband Dustin of Grapeland. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, who all loved him greatly. Many will recall Jimmy as “the man on a bicycle” with his Yorkshire Terrier, Missy, riding in the basket. Along with his family and friends, his little sidekick will miss him greatly. A Graveside Service will be held Sunday, October 16th at 12:30 pm at Grapeland City Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to join us for lunch and fellowship at the Town Hall building at Salmon Lake Park. Bring your lawn chairs as seating may be limited. Graveside Services Grapeland City Cemetery Sunday, October 16th 12:30 PM

Deanna Faith (Fisher) Holden, 78, of Palestine, TX., went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday September 12, 2022. She was born on November 14,1943 to her parents Schuyler Fisher and Emaline (Hill) Fisher. Deanna was a loving and devoted to her family and the Lord. A devout Christian, Deanna was an active member of the Family of Faith Church in Elkhart, TX before she became too ill to continue. Deanna was preceded in death by her parents Schuyler and Emaline Fisher, her sisters Oma Gwen Saxton, Wanda (Donald) Kerr, Zelda (Edward) Hawthorne, and Willa Jo Reynolds and brother, Ronald Fisher Sr. She was also preceded in death by her husbands Edward Noonan and Charley Holden. Left to cherish her memory are her children; Dana (Aaron) Dowling of Slocum, TX., Debbie Noonan of Palestine, TX., Leslie Noonan of Crockett, TX, Thomas (Shannon) Fitzgerald of Palestine, TX, and Belinda (Paul) Waddle of Palestine, TX; Eric (Sara) Holden of Houston, TX. She also leaves behind brother-in-law Lyman E. Reynolds of Cleveland, TX, and sister-in-law, Joyce Fisher of Trinity, TX. “Nana” to her 16 grandchildren: DeeAnn, Amber, Tymothy, Quade, Tanna, Jenna, Tristan, Kaysi, Evelyn, Ema, Christopher, Terry, Tonya, Tiffany, Teresa and Sarah and her 15 great grandchildren: Cortney, Raylynn, Piper, Braden, Bryston, Briella, Jack, Cheyenne, Naveah, Collin, Cain, Ella, Kai, Terrance and Taki. Deanna also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and friends that she has come to meet over the years. She will be missed as they carry on her legacy. The family of Deanna would like to express their sincere appreciation to Sandra Foster, her care giver for the past 4 years who was considered a daughter. They would also like to thank Enhibit Home Health nursing staff and the staff at UT Health East Texas for their attention and care. Visitation Saturday, September 17, 2022 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Walker & Walker Graveside Services Evergreen Cemetery Sunday, September 18, 2022 2:00 PM Interment Evergreen Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Paul Adam Richardson (44) of Grapeland, TX, was born July 25, 1978 to parents Patricia and Bobby Richardson. He was always generous heart giving of himself, his time, and effort to help others. He always put forward his best effort and was always eager to make things better for those who needed help. He was a devoted son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, grandson, and friend. He will be missed dearly but his light will continue to shine bright within our hearts. Paul passed away August 28, 2022. He is survived by his mother, Patricia Richardson, his brother, Phillip Richardson, his sister, Bobbie Minter, two nieces, one nephew, and numerous cousins, aunts and uncles. Paul was preceded in death by his father Bobby Richardson, his grandparents, James and Barbara Anderson, and his nephew Jason Tyler Newling. Memorial Service Sunday, September 18, 2022. 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Walker & Walker 323 W Chestnut Street Grapeland, TX

Ollie Alene was born on February 12, 1924 to Silas Andrew Melson and Mattie Panola Lesley in Wapanuka, Oklahoma. She was one of seven children with four brothers and two sisters. She had a zest for life and a feistiness of no comparison. Ollie married the love of her life, Vernon Texas Collier on May 25, 1940. A beautiful 16 year old girl married a hardworking 18 year old man and through all these years they made their love last. Together they raised two sons and two daughters. They celebrated 77 loving years together until Vernon’s passing in June 2017. “Granny” will be remembered for her love of painting, sewing, quilting, and reading. Her fondest memories were spending time with her children and grandchildren. Ollie loved the Lord and was a member of Grapeland Missionary Baptist Church. Left to cherish her memory are her beloved children. Sons: Dale Collier and wife Sylvia, and Roger Collier, late spouse Hope, all from Spring, TX. Daughters: Roxanne and husband Ted Bradley of Tomball, TX., and Vickie and husband Tommy Sullivan of Grapeland, TX. Ollie also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 11 great great grandchildren. Visitation Thursday, August 25, 2022 10:00 am - 11:00 am Grapeland Missionary Baptist Church Grapeland TX 75844 Funeral Service Thursday August 25, 2022 11:00 am Grapeland Missionary Baptist Church Grapeland TX 75844 Interment Davis Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Cynthia Francine Gregg, lovingly known as Mimi or Ms. Gregg, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on July 30, 2022. Francine was born in Longview, Texas on July 9, 1934. She graduated from Aldine High School where she played the clarinet in the band, then continued her formal education while running her own beauty salon called “Francine’s Hair Fashions,” earning her Bachelor’s degree from University of Houston and her Masters degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. She began her teaching career in Houston ISD, then went on to bless the lives of multiple generations of students at Grapeland ISD and Angelina College. Teaching was her true calling and passion and she absolutely loved it along with every single student who had the honor of being in her classroom. She mostly taught reading but was willing to teach any class that needed teaching, including Spanish even though she did not speak the language. Francine thrived in the campus environment as the director of the One Act Play and as the Cheerleading Sponsor. She was encouraged to hang up her pom poms at the age of 73, but she never actually did. She attended every football and basketball game that she could where she and Mr. Buddy always cheered the loudest for the mighty, mighty Sandies. The only thing she loved more than teaching was her family and giving back to her community in any way that she could. After retiring from teaching and moving back to Katy, she joined the Katy Elks Lodge where she was given the unofficial title of The One Woman Welcoming Committee since she made it her own personal goal to welcome and get to know every single member, new and old, making them feel special, just like she did for her students. She was the life of the party everywhere she went and always the last to go to bed. She loved her Astros and anything sweet, especially chocolate. She also loved going to the beauty shop, and her favorite doctors, Dr. Phil, and Dr. Pepper. Her smile was infectious, her hugs were always warm, her heart was bigger than Texas and she loved with every bit of it. Francine is survived by her daughter Deborah Darlene Tharp, son Dennis Edward Tharp and his wife Paula Kaye, their brother, Tony Tharp and his wife Amanda, her daughter-in law Jackie Gregg, her grandchildren Guy French, Cynthia French, Sarah Daniels and her husband Jody, Katy McLaughlin and her husband David, Heath Tharp, Tammy Hubier and her husband Robert, Haley Tharp, Sara Gregg-Werneke and her husband Bobby, Tyler Gregg and his wife Ellie and 15 great grandchildren. Ms. Gregg is preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Imogene Cloud, her husband Doyle “Buddy” Gregg, her brother William Phillip Cloud, and her step-son Dane Gregg. The memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Grapeland on Thursday, August 4 at 2:00pm with visitation at 1:00pm and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Katy Elks Lodge on Sunday, August 7 at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be given to Texas Elks Children’s Services, Inc. via Paypal or mail at 1963 FM 1586, Gonzales, TX 78629, with Katy Elks Lodge as the specified location. We would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for all of the thoughts, prayers and memories shared with our sweet and truly special Mimi. Visitation Thursday, August 4, 2022 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm First Baptist Church 408 W Chestnut St, Grapeland, TX 75844 Memorial Service Thursday, August 4, 2022 2:00 PM First Baptist Church

Shumonica was the third child, proudly born to Alice Faye Conley and Harold Conley, November 10, 1978 in Crockett, TX, and is now resting after a full and abundant life. She attended school at Crockett Independent School District. She was part of the class of 1997 and later earned her GED. Shumonica was strong beyond belief. While fighting a lifetime battle of Sickle Cell Anemia, she maintained a soft spirit. She was a faith walker, who always had a positive outlook on life. Her life was a testimony that impacted many. She will be remembered for many characteristics. Among those that come to mind are cook, certified nursing assistant, wife, mother, and most of all a woman of God, and a friend to many. She was a member of Greater Gethsemane Baptist Church. Shumonica entered into the gates of heaven, on Saturday, July 16, 2022. She is preceded in death by both parents, Alice Faye Conley Ross and Harold Conley; and sister Aleasha Conley. Left to continue Shumonica’s legacy is her husband; Anthony Castle, Sr.; son Anthony Castle, Jr., Crockett, TX; step daughter Barbara Lewis, Lufkin, TX, and goddaughter Halexus Breedlove, Crockett, TX; brother Eugene Dewayne (Ginger) Morgan, Corpus Christi, TX, Reginald Ross, Crockett, TX; best friend Deidra (George) Taylor, Crockett, TX; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Visitation Thursday, July 28, 2022 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Friday, July 29, 2022 11:00 AM Greater Gethsemane Baptist Church 206 Maple St. Crockett, TX 75835 Interment Rockland Cemetery Crockett, TX

Dolores B. Coleman was born July 13, 1930 in Harlem, NY to Lola Smith and Peter Ellis. She was the oldest of her sister’s . When she was a very young girl, she and her sisters left New York on a train headed South. That move sparked Dolores’ love for travel and would start her on her life’s journey. New Orleans, LA is where she married Westly Rogers, Jr. on June 29, 1946; from this union Westly Rogers, III was born. Dolores adored her baby boy. Her journey took her to Texas, Louisiana, and Milwaukee, WI. Each place she lived she touched so many lives of children and adults. She worked as a caregiver most of her life. Her passion was children. Dolores had a full-page article written about her in the Milwaukee Journal because of the asset she was to the Milwaukee County Foster Care Program. Dolores help to raise a lot of children in her family. She opened her heart and home to children who needed love and stability. She will never be forgotten, and will be missed tremendously. Dolores is preceded in death by both parents; Peter B. Ellis and Lola Smith; daughter Domonique Coleman, son Westly Rogers, III; and great-grandson Keamauri Rogers. Dolores is survived by everyone she loved and everyone who loved her. Visitation Friday, July 29, 2022 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Saturday, July 30, 2022 11:00 AM Walker & Walker Interment Golden Gate Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Fronesther was born the first of ten (10) children to Mr. Richard Lee Gilmore and Mrs. Audrey Mae Burns. She spent her early years in the Cedar Branch Community, where she was educated before attending W.R. Banks Schools. She later moved to California, where she met and married Roy Baker, no children were born to this union. While residing in California, she worked numerous jobs. Returning back to Grapeland, she reunited with her home church, Cedar Branch Missionary Baptist Church. She was employed at the Grapeland Nursing Center where she was recognized for her outstanding work. After retiring, she spent her latter years at the family home in Augusta, TX. She occasionally took trips to visit family and enjoyed attending the Annual Peanut Festival and parade. Fronesther departed this life on Saturday, July 16, at Palestine Regional Medical Center in Palestine, TX. Fronesther is preceded in death by both parents, Mr. Richard Lee Gilmore and Mrs. Audrey Mae Burns; sister Anner P. Houston; brothers, Donald Lee Perkins, Freddie C. Potts, and Paul Potts.hHo Left to cherish her memories are brothers, Theodore Holmes, and Robert Green, both of Houston, TX, sisters, Charles Stella Fry, Jackson, MS, Patricia Lawrie, and Marilyn (Rickey) Walker, both of Grapeland, TX, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friend. Visitation Friday, July 22, 2022 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Walker & Walker Service Saturday, July 23, 2022 2:00 PM Cedar Branch Missionary Baptist Church 10563 CR 2210W Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment Cedar Branch Cemetery Grapeland, TX

On October 26, 1944, Sammie Lee Walker, Jr., was born to Mr. Sammie Lee Walker, Sr., and Mrs. Magnolia Bonner Walker, of Grapeland, Texas. Sammie was the 3rd out of 8 children. He attended W.R. Banks School. Sammie joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir and led numerous songs. He moved to Houston, TX, finishing his education and receiving a certificate in Welding. Sammie has worked for M.D. Anderson and St. Luke’s hospitals, where he met and married his wife Theresa “Brenda” Boutte. Sammie and Brenda had one child that has preceded him in death. Sammie has also worked for Georgia Steel & Chemical Company, Todd Shipyard, Albermarle Chemical Plant, Ethel Corporation and BP, where he retired after 33 years. Later, he worked in transportation as a school bus driver for Galena Park ISD. Sammie and Brenda operated an in-home day care center for 12 years. Their love for kids has allowed them to be an important part of the lives for so many children, in particularly Larry, Lorri, Madison, and Garrett, whom they helped raise and love as their very own. Sammie had many hobbies. He enjoyed traveling with Brenda to different destinations. He loved fishing, hunting, football, basketball, softball, and bowling. His love for these hobbies rewarded him with many tournament trophies. He loved to sing, dance, cook and eat. A few of his favorite dishes were peach cobbler, banana pudding, green beans, and cornbread dressing, cooked by his sister, Addie Pearl. He is preceded in death by both parents, Mr. Sammie Lee Walker, Sr., and Mrs. Magnolia Bonner Walker; brothers Wilson Walker, Hardin Walker; sister Nolia Mae Savoy. Sammie leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 55 years, Brenda; 3 sisters, Addie Pearl Smith, and Lauretta Warfield, both of Grapeland, TX; Carolyn Yates, Houston, TX; 1 brother, Truman (Yvonne) Walker, of Humble, TX; in-law, Carrie Walker of Nacogdoches, TX; 2 aunts, Corine Gaston and Catherine Gaston; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends. Visitation (Mask Required) Friday, July 22, 2022 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Barkley Memorial Funeral Home 4422 Balkin Houston, TX 77021 Visitation Saturday, July 23, 2022 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church HWY 327-287/19 S. Bypass Grapeland TX 75844 Service Saturday, July 23, 2022 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Bertha Turner Bryant was born May 29, 1951 to Edward and Daisy Mae Turner. She grew up in Dallas, TX and graduated from James Madison High School, Class of 1969. Bertha loved to play cards and dominoes and was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys. People were drawn to Bertha’s outgoing and friendly personality. She transitioned suddenly on July 8, 2022. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Bertha is preceded in death by both parents, Edward Turner and Daisy Mae Turner; daughter Kimberly Chryar, sister Geneva Jones and brothers James Tryon and Wilbert Turner; brothers-in-law Robert Jones and Gus L. Walker. Left to cherish her memories of love and laughter is her loving husband, Ronnie Bryant; sons Rodney Turner, and Clayton Turner of Dallas, TX; grandsons Cedrick Turner, of Grapeland, TX and Elijah Houston of Dallas, TX; and one great-grandchild; sisters Ella Broussard, and Sandra Walker of Grapeland, TX; nieces Jeannie Griffin, Marva Sanders, Andrea Clinton, Jackie Tryon, Tonie Tryon, Dawn Comeaux; special niece Kristen Clinton, Paige Moffett, Erin Moffett; nephew James Tryon, Jr.; special cousin Sharon Hendricks; special friend Brenda Smith; and all her friends in Houston, TX, who she loved, it’s too many to name, but you know who you are; and a host other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, July 15, 2022 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service: Saturday, July 16, 2022 2:00 PM Cedar Branch Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Cedar Branch Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Joyce Ann Phillips was born to the union of James Davis and Ella Mae Carr Davis Strong on March 8, 1956, in Crockett, TX, and was raised in the Anderson Chapel Community. She met and married Charles E. Phillips at the young age of eighteen 18; and to this union two (2) daughters were born, Shametrice S. Phillips and Tifanay N. Phillips. Joyce worked at Crockett Care Center for twenty-six (26) years. After leaving Crockett Care Center she began a second career with Crockett Independent School District as a bus driver until retirement. After retirement Joyce’s health began to decline. On June 25, 2022 Joyce answered God’s call at 1:40 AM at Christus Trinity Mother Frances, in Tyler, TX. Her daughter Shametrice and only granddaughter Sha’Haven were by her side as she took her last breath. Joyce is preceded in death by both parents, James A. Davis, and Ella Mae Carr Davis Strong; sister Brenda Johnson, nephew Cannon D. Ellis, and brother-in-law John L. Taylor. Joyce leaves to cherish her loving memories, her husband of forty-eight years (48) Charles E. Phillips, daughters Shametrice S. Phillips and Tifanay N. Phillips; granddaughter Sha’Haven V.J. Cook, brother George Davis (Beverly); sister, May J. Taylor; special cousins Dottie Martin; Johnnie Faye, special friends Etta Taylor, Ada Hackney, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Visitation Friday, July 1, 2022 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Walker & Walker Service: Saturday, July 2, 2022 11:00 AM House of Prayer Grapeland, TX Interment Jasper Cemetery Crockett, TX

Rosie Lena Butler was born May 9, 1942 to the parents of the late W.B. Butler and Ellen Jane Green in Weldon, TX. She was their fourth child; who was called “Pookie” and was also known as Rose. She attended W.R. Banks School in Grapeland, TX. Rosie met and married Jack Hale Jones and to this union 5 children were born. She was a devoted wife of 63 years. Rosie always supported her kids and attended their extracurricular activities. She was a mother to all. Rosie obtained employment at Grapeland Hospital where she worked as a Certified Nurse Aid (C.N.A.), a Surgical Tech, and assisted with the delivery of babies. After she retired, she enjoyed babysitting local kids in the community. She attended Pennington Chapel Baptist Church and later became a member of Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church where she remained and worked in the office of Choir President, Mission Treasurer and Kitchen Supervisor. Rosie loved her Rising Star Church Family. She kept a spotless house, and was a master chef in the kitchen, but she was known for her famous seven-up pound cake and syrup cake. Rosie Lena Jones transitioned from this life into the life of eternal rest and peace on June 3, 2022 at TruCare Nursing and Rehab Facility in Palestine, TX. She is preceded in death by her parents W.B. and Ellen Butler; son, Wayne Jones; brothers, Freddie C. Butler, John “Sonny Boy” Butler, James “Peter” Butler, and Willie Lee Butler; sisters Betty Rose Dancer, Bertha Mae Hadnot, Elaine Butler, and Ethel Jewel Coleman. Left to cherish her memories is her husband of 63 years, Mr. Jack H. Jones, son Tony Jones, daughter Linda (Clarence) Johnson all from Grapeland, TX. Diane (Gralyn) Crawford of Tucker, TX, Darlene Jones of Huntsville, TX; a granddaughter she raised as her own child, Kimberly (Michael) Hatton of Palestine, TX; brother Jimmy Lee (Regina) Butler of Grand Prairie, TX, sisters Ruby Kent of Grapeland, TX and Margie Butler of Crockett, TX; two special sisters-in-law Dorothy Butler and Inez Davis; a dear brother-in-law, Mr. Fred Jones and special friends Mrs. Addie Smith, Mrs. Zona B. Pouncy and Ms. Annette Hazley. Left to carry on her legacy are her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Visitation Friday, June 10, 2022 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM Walker & Walker Service: Saturday, June 11, 2022 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Golden Gate Cemetery

Gus L. Walker (84) was born January 22, 1938 to B. Walker and Daisey Moore Walker. He was raised in the Hayes Springs Community of Grapeland, TX. Gus accepted Christ and united with Rising Star Baptist Church at a young age, and remained a member until his health began to fail. He loved his Rising Star Church Family. He was a proud graduate of W.R. Banks Class of 1959. Gus worked and retired from Houston County Precinct 2, as a road grader. Gus had a big heart, always helping people whenever he could. He was a family man - a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and cousin. He loved the great outdoors: fishing, hunting and to growing plants. He also had a love for running Gus L.’s Café, shooting pool and dancing. Gus received his wings on Friday the 13th surrounded by loved ones. Gus is preceded in death by both parents, B. Walker and Daisy Moore Walker, sons Gus Leon, Darrell (Dyke) Wayne, Gregory Walker and daughter Gale Walker. Left to continue Gus’ legacy is his loving and caring wife of thirty-five years, Sandra Walker; sons Otis Walker, Charles Heart (Tashaun), Paul Heart (Neeky) and Travis Hart (Angela), all of Grapeland, TX; daughters Rose Davis, Grapeland, TX, Regina Johnson, Crockett, TX and Stephanie (Kent) Walker, Grapeland, TX; brothers Eddie Lee Walker, Crockett, TX, Wilbert Walker, and Charles Walker, Grapeland, TX; sister Willie M. Jackson, Dallas, TX; twenty-two (22) grandchildren, forty-three (43) great-grandchildren; special brother Charles (C.T.) Taylor; daughter-in-law Brenda Walker, three (3) god-daughters; his Mosley Sisters’; sisters-in-law Ella Broussard, Bertha (Ronnie) Bryant; Sue Mosley, Bobbie A. Walker, special families: Morrison, Lott’s, Scott’s, Shepherds, Davis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Viewing Friday, May 20, 2022 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Viewing Saturday, May 21, 2022 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Rising Star Baptist Church Service: Saturday, May 21, 2022 2:00 PM Rising Star Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Golden Gate Cemetery

Janet Walker (70) was born November 2, 1951 in Grapeland, Texas. She was the fifteenth (15) child born to Bailey Walker, Sr. and Alice Beasley Walker. Janet attended W.R. Banks. During her life, Janet touched many of our lives with her fun loving way of making us laugh. As a young girl, she accepted Christ at an early age and attended Old Zion Church. She moved to Lufkin and worked at Ames Fried Chicken for many years. She later relocated to Palestine, Texas and worked at Cartmell Nursing Home. In 1977, Janet met Paul Davis, Sr. and they were blessed with two (2) sons, and four (4) step-sons. She loved music, dancing, and she could sing. Janet transitioned peacefully, Thursday, April 14, 2022. Janet is preceded in death by both parents, Bailey Walker, Sr. and Alice Walker; brothers Spencer Walker, A.B. Walker, Sr., James Walker, Bailey Walker, Jr., Lorenza Walker, Sylvester Walker, twin boys; sisters Gertrude Simpson, Vera Taylor, LuCindy Walker, Glinda Walker; and a young lady she loved as a daughter, Kendra Cherral Fulton,. Left to cherish Janet’s memories are her sons Jamie Walker, Palestine, TX, Steven Davis, and Keith Davis, of Grapeland, TX, Anthony Wayne Davis, Paul Davis, Jr., and Robert Lynn Davis, of Lufkin, TX; sisters Jannie Williby, and Stella Walker of Grapeland, TX, and Elwanda Taylor, of Lufkin, TX; nine (9) grandchildren, eight (8) great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Viewing Saturday, April 23, 2022 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service: Sunday, April 24, 2022 2:00 PM Mt. Zion Baptist Church Grapeland, TX Interment Mt. Zion Cemetery

Lizzie Mae Walker (80) was born the seventh of ten children on August 2, 1941 to Nathan Walker, Jr. and Annie Mary Moore Walker in Mt. Zion Community in Grapeland, TX. Lizzie Mae Walker’s parents instilled in Lizzie Mae values of tradition, education, respect, love for family, and faith in God. She also instilled these values in the generations to come. As a child, Lizzie Mae worked on her parents’ land, attended church and school, and sang with her sisters. She graduated from W.R. Banks High School where she participated in school activities by playing basketball and singing in the choir. Lizzie Mae moved to Houston in 1961, later choosing to study at Erma Hughes Business School before uniting in holy matrimony to Norvelle Leonard on May 11,1961. To this union 5 children were born, three preceded her in death, two as infants and one as an adult. Lizzie Mae and Norvell united with Christian Home Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Mitchell Moore. Lizzie Mae carried herself with the utmost dignity, class, and charm in everything she did. Lizzie Mae worked in the River Oaks home of the Murphy family as a housekeeper during the 1970s. Lizzie Mae then focused on being a full-time stay-at-home wife, mother, and homemaker as she prized her family the most. Throughout all of this time Lizzie Mae also took pride in caring for many of her siblings’ and friends’ children as if they were her own. Lizzie Mae valued showing love and affection through acts of service, such as, cooking, cleaning, hairstyling, kind words, and advice. At Christian Home Missionary Baptist Church as she enjoyed reciting speeches and participating in plays for church programs. She loved to share her energetic spirit and wisdom with conversation and smiles to family, friends, and acquaintances alike. On April 6, 2022 Lizzie Mae Leonard departed this life. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nathan Walker, Jr. and Annie Mary Moore Walker. Daughter, Gail Denise Holley; infant daughter, Valerie; infant son, Warren; siblings, Levora Moore, Eileen Wilmore, Wadester Tryon, Nathaniel Walker, and great-granddaughter, Mia Leonard. Left to cherish her memories is her husband of 60 years, Norvelle, Sr.; son, Norvelle, Jr., daughter, Francine Shepherd (Kelvin), and son-in-law, Trent Holley. Siblings, Natharel Turner (Marvin), Theresa Curtis, Willie Walker (Elizabeth), Jimmie Walker (Mary), Claretta Eni (Joseph), Marva Hadnot. 5 grandchildren, Norvelle Leonard III, Kamaria Shepherd, Trent Holley, Jr., Clifton Holley, and Shanelle Leonard. 9 great-grandchildren. Sister-in-laws— Kattie Hatcher, Ida Oliver (Charles), Shirley Leonard, Hazel Holman (Ponell), Ruby Nickson (Eddie). Sister-in-law Willie E. Leonard, and brother-in-law Larry D. Leonard (Johnie) and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Visitation: Friday, April 15, 2022 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Service: Saturday, April 16, 2022 2:00 PM Cedar Branch Baptist Church 10563 Co Rd 2210, Grapeland, TX 75844

Elnora “El” Watson (80) was born to the late Pearl Watson and Sarah Ann Richard in the Beria Community, Crockett, Texas Life Departure was on April 06, 2022 at Conroe HCA Hospital in Conroe, Texas She was preceded in death by her Grandparents William and Rosie Richard, Parents Pearl Watson and Sarah Davis, Brother Joe Willie Davis, Aunts Mamie Jones, Effie Griffin, Cousins Sylvester Brice, Johnny Jones and Cleotha Brice Left to cherish Cousin Vanneata Wooten of Crockett, Texas and numerous other relatives and friends. She was a member of St. Andrews A.M.E Methodist Church of Crockett, Texas a resident of Winfield Nursing Home in Crockett, Texas. Graveside Service: Saturday, April 16, 2022 11:00 AM Stanton-Thomas Cemetery Beria Community, Crockett, Texas

Balis Gene Dailey Shoultz was born October 12, 1927, at the family homestead in the Dailey Community near Grapeland, Texas. She was born to Balis Edens Dailey, a businessman and rancher, and his wife, Bulah Pool Dailey, a teacher. She lived at Dailey until the family moved to Grapeland to be nearer school. She was a proud Grapeland Sandie – a band member, twirler, ran track and participated in Speech and Drama. Gene was a member of Grapeland First Baptist Church until her marriage. After high school, she attended Baylor University where she studied voice, and graduated with degrees in Bible and Education and a minor in PE. She married Jack Wright Shoultz in 1949, a union which lasted 62 years until his death in 2011. After their marriage, they moved to Dallas where Gene taught elementary school while Jack completed seminary to become a Methodist minister at SMU. Together they served churches in East Texas, Houston and the Gulf Coast areas until Jack retired in 1993. During Jack’s appointments, Gene taught and substituted in Aldine, Beaumont, Houston and Lufkin school districts. Over the years, Gene contributed her time at Wesley House in Houston where she was a pianist in the children’s division and tutored elementary age students once a week. She was a children’s Sunday school and Bible school teacher. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels, was a Camp Fire Girls leader, and taught piano lessons. After retirement in Grapeland, she was a member of the Grapeland Garden Club, the Bookmark Club, a member of the Dailey Cemetery board, the Grapeland Public Library, a member of the Texas Democratic party, United Methodist Women, and a member of Grapeland First United Methodist church. She and Jack traveled to Europe, Africa and the Middle East – The Holy Lands, and enjoyed visiting friends, family, past and present church members, and ministerial friends. They tended to their farms, fences, cattle and hay. Gene and Jack were known for their wonderful quail dinners and Gene’s pecan pies. Gene adored children and was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She taught her daughters to read before they were school age and imparted an enduring love of books. Her grandchildren loved their visits and road trips with “Gene and Pa.” Gene was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Wright Shoultz, her parents, Balis and Bulah Dailey, and her sisters, Iva Helen and Jo Ann Dailey. She is survived by her daughter, Sue Anne Kuhns and husband, Bill of Irvine, California, her daughter, Jo Ellen Small and husband, Jeffrey, of Grapeland, Texas, her granddaughter, Jacqueline Kuhns Culliver of Orefield, Pennsylvania, grandson, Joseph Edens Kuhns, of Irvine, California, as well as her great grandchildren Jenna, Jaxton, and Jourdin Culliver. She is survived by nieces and nephews and many beloved cousins. The family would like to express our thanks to the staff at Brookdale of Palestine who watched over and protected Gene for the past 10 years. We are forever grateful to Pat Johnson and Wanda McDaniel, Gene’s caregivers who were devoted to her needs the past 4 years and who became our extended family, which includes her most recent caregiver, Carolyn Jones. And in her final days, Caring Hearts Hospice brought her comfort and compassion. Thank you to Gerri, Jamie, Laryn, Crystal and Rev. Davis. Gene’s funeral arrangements are being handled by Walker and Walker Funeral Home in Grapeland, Texas. Friends and family are invited to the funeral at Grapeland First United Methodist Church on Saturday, April 23, 2022 at 1 PM. Immediately after her funeral, the interment will be at Dailey Community Cemetery, FM 227 West, Grapeland, Texas. Visitation will be at Walker and Walker Funeral Home, Grapeland, Texas from 5-7 PM, Friday, April 22, 2022. Anyone desiring to donate memorials may do so to the Grapeland First United Methodist Church, the Dailey Community Cemetery (c/o Mary Lou Huff, 5388 FM 1272, Grapeland, TX, 75844) or the Grapeland Public Library, or to the charity of your choice. Visitation: Friday, April 22, 2022 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Walker & Walker Service: Saturday, April 23, 2022 1:00 PM Grapeland First United Methodist Church 715 US HIGHWAY 287 North Grapeland, TX Interment Dailey Community Cemetery Grapeland, TX

Leroy Davis, was born in Crockett, Texas on January 26, 1963 , to Cleroy Lee James Davis and Leroy Davis, Sr. Leroy attended Crockett High School and was affiliated with Church of the Living God, Crockett, Texas. He was a city worker with the Burk Center of Crockett, Texas. Leroy was loved by all his neighborhood and friends. He loved all sorts of Westerns. Leroy was a big Chicago Bulls fan - he loved basketball and also watching football. He enjoyed talking and interacting with people - he never met a stranger. He was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Leroy transitioned at Woodland Heights Hospital, Lufkin, Texas, on February 25, 2022 He will be truly missed. Leroy is preceded in death by both parents Leroy Davis, Sr. and Cleroy Lee Davis; brothers Judge Davis, Otis Davis, Artie Davis, John Lee Davis, and Cleo Davis; sisters Gainelle Morrison, Rosetta Davis Walker and Minnie Faye Davis. Left to carry Leroy’s memories is his only brother Tyrohne (Angelina) Davis, Houston, Texas; nephew Damian Richerson, Crockett, Texas; aunt Mamie Lee James, Austin, Texas; special friends Mr. & Mrs. Sonny and Arti Simon, Mary and Alexis Wyatt; and a host of other relatives and friends. Visitation: Friday, March 4, 2022 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Graveside Service: Saturday, March 5, 2022 1:30 PM Forest Lawn Cemetery, Crockett, Texas

Francis LeRoy Hoffman (84) was born in Melvern, Kansas on January 9, 1938 to Gilbert and Valeria Hoffman. He attended school in Waverly, Kansas until he was placed in a boys home. While in the boys home, he was nominated for “The Cleanest Boy In Kansas” and won the contest. He was always proud of that. LeRoy held various jobs over the years but one he particularly loved was working for Billy Bob’s in Ft. Worth, TX. He remained there until his wife, Billie Pearl, passed. He then moved to Waco, TX to live with his sister and where he lived the remainder of his life until his passing February 13, 2022. He is preceded in death by Eugene Hoffman, Willis Dean Hoffman, Mickey Ray Minter, and Billy Wayne Minter. Left to cherish his memories are sisters Shirley Rafferty of Waco, Texas, Zella Bazil and husband Gary of Wichita, Kansas, Ella Mae Yeager of Wichita, Kansas, and Sharon Adams of Ponca City, Oklahoma. LeRoy also leaves behind one of his many nephews, Gilbert Hoffman of Weatherford, Texas, whom he cherished like a son, Benny and Candice Minter of Crockett, Texas, as well as 9 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren, and recently welcomed his first great, great grandchild earlier this year. Graveside Service: Saturday, February 19, 2022 1:30 PM Corinth Cemetery Kennard, TX

On the evening of February 12, 2022 Eddie Franklin Phillips, age 71 of Alderbranch, TX, was called home to Heaven after being involved in a car accident.
Eddie was born in Springhill, Louisiana where he met the love of his life Marilyn, wife of 50 years. As young man Eddie moved to Texas with his family to pursue a career in construction. He found their patch of paradise in Alderbranch, TX where he and his wife settled down and raised a family. Throughout life he enjoyed spending time with their five children, seventeen grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and countless friends and family. Over the years he enjoyed fishing, hunting, building hotrods, and tinkering on anything that might be broke. He had a big heart, a generous spirit, an ingenious mind, and found joy in spending time with his loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Buck and Lossie Phillips, his sister Theresa Phillips, and his daughter Bena Phillips. He is survived by his wife Marilyn Phillips; sister Jean Livingston, and brother Rufus Phillips; sons Heath Phillips, Slade Phillips, Layton Phillips, and daughter Selena Dancer; eleven grandsons and six granddaughters; great-grandson and great-granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews and cousins.
Join family and friends to celebrate the life of Eddie Phillips. Memorial Service to be held at Days Chapel Church (4732 An Co Rd 163 Palestine, TX 75801) on Saturday February 19, 2022 at 4 p.m. with a dinner and fellowship to follow. Memorial Service: Saturday, February 19, 2022 4:00 PM Days Chapel Church 4732 An Co Rd 163 Palestine, TX 75801

Winford Shepherd (70) was born February 10, 1951 in Grapeland, TX. Winford was the eighth of nine children born to Jessie Bell Shepherd and R. L. Shepherd. He grew up in the Dailey Community and attended W. R. Banks High School. His class was the first class to intergrate Grapeland High School. Winford worked at Vulcraft and Wal-Mart Warehouse. He was a hardworking family man who loved his family dearly. He was a member of Rising Star Baptist Church. Winford departed his earthly home on Tuesday, February 8, 2022. He is preceded in death by both parents Jessie Bell Johnson Shepherd and R. L. Shepherd; granddaughter Faith Danielle Bell; daughter Alicia Shepherd; brothers James L. Shepherd, A.J. Shepherd, Charles Shepherd and Lee Terell Shepherd; and granddaughter Keishawra Shepherd. Left to cherish his memories are sons Winford Louis Shepherd, Jr., of Tyler, TX, Kendi Page of Tyler, TX; daughters Sonia Williams of Grapeland, TX and future son-in-law Carlos Mayberry of Waco, TX, Amber Shepherd of Whitehouse, TX, Cindy (Anthony) Sims of Tyler, TX; brothers Edward (Gloretha) Shepherd, and Willie Fadell Shepherd, all of Grapeland, Texas; sisters Barbara Nell Franklin of Houston, Texas and Wanda Faye Black of Grapeland, TX; eleven (11) grandchildren, eleven (11) greatgrandchildren; special friends Morris (Toot) Shepherd, Toby Taylor and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.Grapeland High School. Winford worked at Vulcraft and Wal-Mart Warehouse. He was a hardworking family man who loved his family dearly. He was a member of Rising Star Baptist Church. Winford departed his earthly home on Tuesday, February 8, 2022. He is preceded in death by both parents Jessie Bell Johnson Shepherd and R. L. Shepherd; granddaughter Faith Danielle Bell; daughter Alicia Shepherd; brothers James L. Shepherd, A.J. Shepherd, Charles Shepherd and Lee Terell Shepherd; and granddaughter Keishawra Shepherd. Left to cherish his memories are sons Winford Louis Shepherd, Jr., of Tyler, TX, Kendi Page of Tyler, TX; daughters Sonia Williams of Grapeland, TX and future son-in-law Carlos Mayberry of Waco, TX, Amber Shepherd of Whitehouse, TX, Cindy (Anthony) Sims of Tyler, TX; brothers Edward (Gloretha) Shepherd, and Willie Fadell Shepherd, all of Grapeland, Texas; sisters Barbara Nell Franklin of Houston, Texas and Wanda Faye Black of Grapeland, TX; eleven (11) grandchildren, eleven (11) greatgrandchildren; special friends Morris (Toot) Shepherd, Toby Taylor and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Visitation: Friday, February 18, 2022 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Walker & Walker Funeral: Saturday, February 18, 2022 11:00 AM Rising Star Baptist Church Interment Golden Gate Cemetery

Bill Andrews (77) was born February 18, 1944, in Houston Texas, to Mattie and George Andrews. Bill was the oldest of six siblings. He graduated from Elkhart High School, then continued his education at SMU studying business. Bill married Irene Tan Romo in the year 2000, and three loving children were born from their union. The family resided in his hometown of Elkhart, Texas. He also had two other children from a previous marriage. Throughout his life, Bill found enjoyment in many things such as flying small-engine planes and fishing. What ultimately stood out for him was his passion and interest in automobiles. This deep interest led to him spending many of his years in the automotive scene. He later opened his own car sales business, to which he found great pride and devoted many years of his life to. Bill passed Wednesday, February 2, 2022, but the memories he created with his family continue to live on. Bill is survived by his wife, Irene Tan Andrews, Elkhart, TX, sons, Shawn Andrews, Garland, TX, William Leslie Andrews, II, Elkhart TX, daughters Asia Irene Andrews, and Selena Yvette Andrews, of Elkhart, TX, and Shannon Andrews, Dallas, TX; grandkids Stefan and Stevie Flurry, Kate and Anna Andrews; and greatgrandchild Caleb; brothers Duanne Andrews and wife Linda Lee Andrews, Palestine, TX and Danny Andrews, Dawson, TX; sisters Linda Renee Phillips, Lantana, TX, Donna Parks and husband Greg Parks, Jefferson, GA, and Elvie Hortman and Darrel Hortman, Palestine, TX. Service: Saturday, February 12, 2022 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Walker & Walker 323 W. Chestnut St. Grapeland, TX 75844 Interment: Ferguson Cemetery Palestine, TX

Brooklyne Paige Roop (16) passed away Saturday, January 22, 2022 at her home in Grapeland, TX. She was born October 28, 2005 to J.C and April Roop. She was a Sophomore at Grapeland High School before she transitioned to home schooling. Brooklyne was a loving, beautiful young lady and her smile would light up an entire room. She was an A & B student who excelled in math - taking advanced math classes. She loved to read books, watch movies, play video games, going to Arcades with her cousin Baylee, spoiling her fur babies, and having girl time with her mom. Brooklyne was incredibly talented at free hand drawing and was passionate about becoming an artist. Brooklyne also had a beautiful signing voice. Brooklyne was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend. Although her life was taken way to soon, she touched the lives of so many, and will be greatly missed. Brooklyne leaves parents J.C. and April Roop, of Grapeland, TX, brother Bret Zachery Roop, of Grapeland, TX and a host of other relatives and friends. Service: Saturday, February 5, 2022 2:00 PM First Baptist Church 408 W. Chestnut St. Grapeland, TX 75844