Jay Lou (Walton) Beck, of Lake Limestone, born at Box Church on February 2, 1935, left this world early Sunday morning December 20. Jay Lou blessed her children by allowing them to share her last breaths of life in this world, before greeting and continuing her journey with her husband of 62 years, Frankie Lee Beck. Jay Lou spent her adult years of the earthly part of her journey in Yuma Arizona, Fort Worth and Groesbeck, and shared it with her children, Jay Frank, Sandra and Tina, her grandsons Jeffrey, Clay, Gregory & Blake, and two adored great grandkids Corban and Gracie. Jay Lou is also survived by her brother Johnny Ross Walton. With Frankie by her side, Jay Lou will have a joyful reunion with her mother Alta Martin, her beloved sister Donna Robinett, and her brother Steve Martin. Jay Lou will also be happy to once again be with the son she only had for one month, Ricky Dean. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, December 27th at Groesbeck Funeral Home.

Anna Louis (Winstead) McVay, of Groesbeck, passed away on Friday, December 18, 2015, in the Parkview Hospital in Mexia, at age 61. Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 22, 2015, in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Sonny Bever of the Church on the Rock officiating, followed by burial in the Thornton Cemetery. Pallbearers were Clint Winstead, Dusty Capps, Trent Lenamond, Colin Lenamond, Josh Lenamond, Jimmy Winstead, Jordan Yarbrough, and Erich Lundh. Skinner Lenamond and Jimmy Lenamond were Honorary Pallbearers. Anna was born on February 27, 1954 to Wesley Winstead and Louise (Copeland) Winstead in Leon County. She attended school in Leon County, and lived some of her life in Marquez. Anna worked many jobs as an adult, including laying pipe on a pipeline. She made many friends of the people she waited on while working many years as a waitress. She lived near most of her family in the Groesbeck area, living with her sister, LaVaughn and her family the last four or five years. Anna loved to spend her spare time in fishing, and especially loved to do things with her grandchildren. Preceding Anna in death were her parents, Wesley and Louise Winstead; her husband, J.R. McVay; a brother, Jake Winstead; a sister, Rennie Yarbrough; brother-in-law, Raymond (PeeWee) Lenamond; and nephews, Brenton Lenamond and Blake McIntire. She is survived by her four sisters and brothers-in-law and one brother and sister-in-law: LaVaughn and Jimmy Lenamond of Groesbeck; Robert (Toad) and Denise Winstead of Groesbeck; Rebecca (Becky) and James Foley of Thornton; Freda and Charlie Marland of Groesbeck; and Melody and Randy Welker of Colorado. Also, she leaves behind two sons: William (Bubba) and his wife, Deserae Wedgeman of Colorado City, TX, and Henry Carl Wedgeman of Oklahoma; four grandchildren: Devon Wedgeman and Kesley Wedgeman of Colorado City, TX; Faith Nicolson of Groesbeck; and Brandon Wedgeman of Dallas; and many nieces and nephews and other extended family. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Perri Liles Ingram, 49, of Mexia, passed away December 21, 2015 in Waco. Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at the First Baptist Church in Mexia with Rev. Marcus Sheffield and Pastor Earl Sterling officiating. Interment will follow in the Mexia Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home. Perri was born April 30, 1966 in Garland, Texas to George Jackson and Gladys Fisher Liles. She was a member of the Mexia High School Class of 1984, “A True Defender of the Blackcats”. She was a longtime, well known, hairdresser in Mexia. Being a hairdresser was a job Perri thoroughly enjoyed, her customers were considered to be her extended family; she loved them. Perri’s family was her life. She was a devoted and loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She was always protective of her children and enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren. She was energetic, always smiling and happy, loving and caring and never met a stranger. Perri is survived by her husband, Johnny of Mexia; children, Morgan Welch, Reagan White and husband, Michael of Corpus Christi and Jackson Ingram of Mexia; parents, George and Gladys Liles of Lake Limestone; sisters, Jana Lummus and spouse, Michelle of Mexia and Dustie Bishop of Corpus Christi; and step-daughters, Jennifer Fikac and husband, Roy of Leander and Lana Gore and husband, Chris of Mexia; grandchildren, Noah David Flores, Avery Lynn Henderson and Jude William White; step-grandchildren, Kynadie, Cameron and Canon Fikac, Kade Johnson, Jordan Howell and Ian and Kyra Gore; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Roy Fikac, Chris Gore, Matt Paschal, Bo Ingram, Josh Ingram, Jason Morton, Darrell Spurlock and Leland Wright. Honorary pallbearers will be Kade Johnson, Jordan Howell, Canon Fikac and Keith Henderson. Please visit www.blairstubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Norman Fountain Raif, of East Lake Limestone (Jewett), passed away at Providence Hospital on Tuesday, December 29, 2015, at age 87. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2016, at 2:00 P.M. in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Lee Weiler of the “All Around Cowboy Church” of Marquez officiating. Norman was born February 8, 1928 in Houston. At age 14, he was working at a gas station, and as he loved cars, he developed mechanic skills at a young age which he would use all of his life. He joined the Merchant Marines, which provided supply support to the U. S. troops, and was able to travel around the world, enjoying his trips to many ports and foreign countries. He next worked for the Houston Police Department for many years as mechanic of their vehicles. Then Norman went to work for Phillips Crane and Rigging, out of Houston, where he became the head mechanic in the construction of the cranes that were used in oil and gas developments, concrete plants, and aluminum plants around the world. As well as his work in the United States, he taught and supervised the men who put together the huge cranes on jobs in foreign countries, including Egypt, Germany, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. He also worked on the construction of the Alaskan pipeline, with headquarters in Valdez, Alaska. So he worked in the hottest of desert conditions to the coldest and deepest snows. The employees he trained and supervised were residents of the foreign countries, and he was able to work with them and also comply with the customs and requirements of each country. One of the keys of his success in his work was being able to work with anyone and teach them in spite of the language and social barriers. If a job was needed to be done, Norman was considered to be the man who could get it done. While Norman was working in the Dominican Republic, he met and married Angelita Barcelo. After the job was completed there, they made their home for many years in the United States. Although she moved back to her home country in later years, they remained very close friends. Norman loved hunting and fishing all his life. Back in 1961 he started leasing property for hunting in the Texas Hill Country from the Lich family, and developed a close relationship with the family while hunting there for the next 34 years. The Lich’s son, Vernon became like a son to Norman, and he was a second father and grandfather to Vernon and the whole family. Norman retired in 1991 and moved to Lake Limestone to continue his lifelong love of hunting and fishing. He had fished in many locations, and chose to live at Lake Limestone due to the peaceful surroundings there. He loved fishing in the lake, and would take anyone and everyone out on his boat. He especially loved taking the Lich boys fishing. Norman volunteered his mechanic services to work on the equipment for the East Lake Limestone Volunteer Fire Department. He enjoyed his neighbors, and was the “goto- man” on the east side of the lake to repair everything from vintage cars to lawn mowers. He mowed quite a few yards for others while his health was better, and then later his friends took care of him, visiting and bringing food. Norman’s survivors are Vernon Lich and his wife, Janice; and the boys he considered his grandsons, Vance Lich, Travis Lich, and Ryan Lich, all of Comfort, TX.; and all of his close friends from the lake. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages on the guestbook.

James Edward Benedict (affectionately known as “Big D”) of Groesbeck, Texas passed away January 2, 2016 in Mexia, Texas. Graveside services with military honors will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, January 8, 2016 at Faulkenberry Cemetery in Groesbeck Texas, with Reverend Tracy Sims officiating. James was born February 8, 1921 in Port Arthur, Texas to Van Benedict and Edna Benedict, the first of 6 boys. James proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, stationed in the South Pacific. In he was with one of the first expeditionary forces to enter Nagasaki Japan after the bombing. In 2014 he was chosen as one of the lucky veterans by Honor Flight to travel to Washington, D.C. to view the WWII Memorial Monument. During his career James worked in the cable system business in Texas. He worked as a Cable Vision engineer in Mexia at the outset of that business. After his retirement at age 65 he worked for many years for the City of Mexia as a crossing guard for Mexia ISD. James married Geraldine Addie Hughey on March 12, 1947 and they were married for 48 years, until her death on September 28, 1995. He was preceded in death by his parents; by wife Geraldine Addie Hughey, brothers Glenn, Paul, Howard, Roy and Austin Benedict and Grandson Keith Allen Carroll; and by his special friend Dorothy Lowe of Groesbeck and his beloved dog Chico. Survivors include his daughter Cherie Lator and husband Ned Lator of Houston; a son, Rick Benedict and wife Judy Benedict of McKinney; a daughter Terry Little of Greenville. Grandchildren Leslie Wisenbaker, Brittany Cassel, Alex Lator and Connor Lator. Great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Robert Dave Thurman, of Big Creek West-Lake Limestone, passed away Monday, January 4, 2016, following his battle with Parkinsons for the past six years. He was 75. Visitation will begin at Groesbeck Funeral Home at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, January 6, 2016, prior to the funeral. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, January 6, 2016, in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverend Tracy Sims of the Central Baptist Church of Thornton and Chaplain Jon Honea officiating. Mrs. Barbara Walker will be the vocalist. Burial will follow in Faulkenberry Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Robert Collett, Vincent Thurman, Jeff Sims, Blaine Douglas, Luke Ramsey, Greg Scherbenske, Al Stephens, and Dennis Smith. Serving as Honorary Pallbearers will be “The Brazos River Rats,” Dick Weaver, Wayne Brueggerman, Richard Farrington, Vernon Laird, James Slovacek, Clive Frazer, Joe Haupt, and Cecil Bobbitt. Robert was born February 12, 1940 in Houston to Marshall John Thurman and Ocie Ray (Henderson) Thurman. He graduated from Austin High School in Houston, and attended Stephen F. Austin College for two years. Robert and a friend decided to join the U. S. Army wanting to drive tanks; however, his military service was in the mail room. Robert worked as a machinist and had a machine shop in Houston. He sold his share of the business in 1981 and moved with his wife, Barbara Adams Thurman, to Groesbeck. Robert planted forty-four acres of peaches in the Rocky Point community and he and Barbara opened B & B Peach Orchard and Nursery. Robert became very knowledgeable of the industry from agriculture seminars which he attended at Texas A&M. He planted fourteen varieties which were all hand-picked and hand processed. After Barbara passed away in 1992, Robert continued with the peaches for many more years. Robert was united in marriage with Welda (McCandless) Sims on March 10, 1993, and they lived in her home on Big Creek West. Welda helped Robert with the processing and sale of the peaches at the local fruit stand, as well as delivery to upscale speciality grocery stores in Houston, Tomball and Magnolia. He let the grandchildren sell peaches at Traders Village in Houston to earn school money. Robert loved fishing, and when he decided to retire from the peach business he could fish full-time, especially in the spring time when he was previously busy with peaches. He loved to go out in the boat at Lake Limestone, and he and Welda spent six weeks each year at Port Aransas with the kids and grandkids all coming during some of their vacation there. Robert (“Robbie” to the grandkids and “Brows” to his high school “River Rats” friends) was a good husband, land oved his step children like they were his own. He enjoyed teaching the grandchildren and great grandchildren how to work in the peach orchard and how to enjoy life fishing. He was a friendly person who would talk fishing, with anyone, all day. He loved his cats, Callie which passed away before him, and Sami still looking all over the house for him. Robert was a member of the First Baptist Church of Groesbeck. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Barbara; and his brother, Marshall Ray Thurman. He is survived by his wife, Welda Sims Thurman of Big Creek West; his stepchildren and their families: Adam and Sue Collett and family of Groesbeck; Bil and Cindy Blake and family of Chandler; Alan and LaDonna Collett and family of Odessa; James W. and Sherry Sims and family of Houston; and Dennis R. and Janice Sims and family of Friendswood; and his sister-in-law, Connie Thurman and her family of Groesbeck. A SPECIAL thanks to our loving sister-in-law, Gloria Oswalt of Big Creek West for her continued support and DAILY help in caring for Robert during this past 6 years of illness. Thanks for your love, daily help, and many driving trips to doctor’s appointments. Donations in Robert’s memory may be made by anyone wishing to do so to Robert’s favorite charity, Wounded Warriors (www.woundedwarriorproject.org/Donate.)

Lillie “Fay” Webb Ferrill Roe of Groesbeck passed away January 1, 2016. Funeral services for Fay were held Monday, January 4, 2016, at Groesbeck Funeral Home, with James Matchett officiating. Burial followed in Cobb Cemetery. Pallbearers were Christopher Peters, Michael Duane Ferrill, Chad Ruthart, Ron Morris, Brandon Matchett, and Michael Mageo. Fay lived a full, active life and loved her family. She was a member of the Lake Limestone Baptist Church and loved everyone there. Fishing was also a special love of hers, especially when she could “out fish” her husband, Jay T. She loved her flowers and to work in her garden. Another interest was to travel as much as possible, visiting Atlanta, Salado, San Antonio, Nashville, Fredricksburg, and other places of interest with her daughter and son. Fay was preceded in death by her husband Jay T. Ferrill; her father, Henry Webb; her mother, Vera Webb; brothers, E.R. (Buster) Webb and Alvie Webb; her sisters, Jimmy Esther Shirley and Lena Mae Brewer; brother-in-law, Ralph Brewer; and daughter-in-law, Weynona “Sis” Ferrill. She is survived by her husband, Maurice “Red” Roe; son, Michael Ferrill of Groesbeck; a son John Franklin Ferrill of Groesbeck; a daughter Vickie Ferrill and Dean Peters of Rowlett; a daughter Shelia Hammond and husband Gary of Montgomery; grandchildren, Michelle & Chad Ruthart of Yukon,Oklahoma; Michael Duane & Tracy Ferrill of Jonestown; Tammie & Scott Seals of Dayton; Crystal and Ron Morris of Bryan; Christopher & Amanda Peters of Nevada; Lauren Peters of Rowlett; Brandon & Larissa Matchett of Kosse; Meagan & Michael Mageo of Montgomery. She is also survived by her brothers, Jessie J. Webb and wife Laura of Groesbeck; her brother B.L. Webb & wife Wanda of Groesbeck; step-sons John Roe and wife Lou of Houston and Mike Roe of Lexington and numerous nieces and nephews. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Brandy (Brandice Ray) Garrett of Mexia, passed away on Friday, January 8, 2016, as the result of a tragic accident, at age 43. Visitation will be held at Groesbeck Funeral Home on Monday, January 11, 2016, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. A Memorial Service to celebrate Brandy’s life will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, January 12, 2016, at the Word of Life Church, 193 LC 412, Groesbeck, with Pastor Mark Rogers officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be Gary Cleveland, Jason Davis, Matthew Self, Brian Foster, Chase Killingsworth, Jason Morton, Dominic Rosales, Mickey DeBusk, Flint McLean, Shane McLean, and Robbie Garrett. Brandice, known by all as Brandy, was born May 31, 1972 to Robert Lloyd “Butch” Sherman and Phyllis Ray (Cleveland) Sherman in Nacogdoches. Brandy grew up in LaPorte and graduated in the Class of 1990 from LaPorte High School. She enjoyed participating in theater and being a member of the Chatos Drill Team in high school, and had many many good friends. After high school, Brandy was married to Robbie Garrett, and during their four years of marriage, they had one son, Holden Dane Garrett. Brandy has lived in the Groesbeck and Mexia area for many years, where her son attends Groesbeck High School. Brandy worked for the Texas Department of Human Resources in Mexia for over ten years, and was good at that work because of her caring nature for the people she met. Later, she was employed as an industrial painter for Brock Industries (which is now PCI) at Chevron in Baytown, learning her trade on the job. She attended OSHA safety classes in Houston and became certified. She was working at NRG in Jewett for the past few years as a painter. Brandy loved all music. She had the talent to remember every word of every song and loved to sing Karoke. She was the one to call if you were trying to know who sang a certain song. Her family will treasure her love for music in many songs they will hear over the future years. Brandy was a very loving mother, who thought the sun rose and set around her son Holden. They had a very special bond, and Brandy said she was prepared to move to wherever Holden might choose to go after he graduated. Brandy loved to be with her friends and was the life of the party. She lived each day carefree and to the fullest, as if each day were her last day. The memories of Brandy’s love for others and her love of life will live on for all who knew her. Brandy was preceded in death by her grandparents, Euna and James Ray Cleveland. Brandy is survived by her son, Holden Dane Garrett of Groesbeck; her mother and step-father, Phyllis Sherman and Jerry DeBusk of La Porte; her father and stepmother Butch Sherman and Brenda Sherman of Mexia; her brother, Josh Sherman of Waco; uncle, Gary Cleveland of Nacogdoches; aunt, Jerry Brown of Mexia; and sisters, Varinia Kirk of Nashville, TN and Heidi Shaw of Kilgore; and many cousins and nieces and nephews.

Avis Lorraine Box, of the Willow Creek Community, passed away at Groesbeck LTC on Tuesday, January 5, 2016, at age 97. Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 9, 2016 in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Brother Paul Moore (First Assembly of God of Thornton), Brother Joe Tucker (Gateway Assembly of God, Trinidad) and Chaplain Jon Honea officiating. Burial followed in Ebenezer Cemetery (Kosse.) Pallbearers were Bill Riedinger, Cody Riedinger, Ron Chalene, Michael Prine, Jerry Everett, and Rick McAbee. Honorary pallbearers were Jimmy Brown, Scott Chalene, Bobby Rogers, Patrick Rogers, and Kennon Chalene. Avis was born on August 2, 1918 to James Riley Pace and Iva Cecil (Roebuck) Pace in the Willow Creek community in Robertson County. She grew up and attended school in that community, where the school house had been built on land given by the Pace family, and was used for community gatherings as well as school. One Sunday afternoon at a “singing”, twelve-year old Avis was sitting by the open window when a young boy of twelve rode up to the window on his horse and they started talking. Avis and her new friend Billy continued their friendship and courtship until they were seventeen, and she was then united in marriage with Billy J. Box, on February 15, 1937, in Easterly, TX. As a young couple they moved to Houston, where he worked building grain tanks. They lived in Houston and raised four girls there, but he travelled in his work during the summers and took Avis and the girls with him. The kids loved the places they got to visit all over the country and had great adventures, including attending a “real” Indian PowWow.” Avis was the loving and hardworking wife, homemaker, and mother, with four girls to dress in starched and ironed clothes, even during the earlier times when she was washing on a scrub board. She took great pride in taking care of their beautiful long hair and liked to always be sparkly herself. Billy and Avis moved back to the old home-place where she was raised in the Willow Creek community in 1973. She loved the country life there, raising a garden and ducks, chickens, cattle and a hog to slaughter until they were older and slowed down. Avis was a member of the Bald Prairie Baptist Church and taught Sunday School there; there later transferred to the Oletha Baptist Church. Avis loved to cook, and cooked for a crowd, and enjoyed having the preacher in her home big meals with roast and all the trimmings. She was well loved by her nephews for “Aunt Ab’s Chocolate Pies” and famous for her three-layer coconut cakes. Even as she lived in the nursing homes the last month people still remembered those coconut cakes with seven-minute icing that she used to take to the monthly birthday parties at the nursing homes. After Billy passed away in 2010, Avis lived with her daughter Gayla in Thornton the next five years. After breaking her hip this past December, her health continued to require hospital and nursing home care and she lived briefly in the Groesbeck LTC. Anyone and everyone who ever knew or met Avis would use the term “Sweet” to describe her. As some of her last wishes to her daughters, she reminded them to “Be Sweet.” This lovely and loving mother and Mema will be dearly missed by her family. Avis was preceded in death by her parents, Riley and Iva Pace; her husband of seventy-three years, Billy J. Box (in 2010); and a grandson, Stephen Rogers. She is survived by daughter, Gwen Chalene of Lake of the Ozarks, MO.; daughter and son-in-law, Belva and Bobby Rogers of Bodcaw, Arkansas; daughter and son-in-law, Darlene and Jimmy Brown of Thornton; daughter and son-in-law, Gayla and Bill Riedinger of Thornton; eight grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren. Visit www. groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Roy Jackson Partin, 84, passed away Monday, January 18, 2016 with his family at his side. Predeceased by his wife of 53 years ...his sweet Joan. Roy was a much loved husband, Father, Grandfather and humanitarian. Survivors include his children and their spouses Terry and Ron Lowrance, Judy Partin, Jeannie Holbert, Peggy and Johnny Cobb, Cathy Partin, Barbara Davis, Tim and Karen Partin and Becky and Keith Ackley. Roy was the proud Grandfather of Christopher and Jennifer Lowrance, Matthew and Myla Lowrance, Jordan Partin, Joshua Holbert, Jacob Holbert, Michael Cobb, Taylor Cobb, Katee Cobb, Nicholas Lauder, Kyler Partin, Kayne Partin, Karter Partin, Ryan Ackley, Bryn Ackley, and Cameron Ackley. Roy was the proud Great Grandfather of Wyatt and Reese Lowrance and Jadah Crumpton. Also surviving, his three sisters Kathleen Reno, Shirley Warren and Carole Etzell. Roy was born to Charles and Cleo Partin. Roy was a graduate of Reagan High School. He attended the University of Houston and was a member of the dance band. Mr. Partin held a CLU, Chartered Life Underwriter, which is the highest designation in the life insurance profession. Roy was the choir director of 4 churches throughout his life, was a talented musician and instilled a lifelong love of music into his children and grandchildren. Roy was instrumental in starting the Walker County Fair Association and was a dedicated officer and volunteer. He was a member of the Cut and Shoot Texas Chapter of the Harley Owner’s Group. He enjoyed playing golf, riding his Harley and spending time with his family. Visitation will be held at the Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home on Sunday, January 24th from 11:00 to 1:00. (1700 Normal Park, Huntsville, TX 77340) Private graveside service at 3:00. (Oakwood Cemetery, Avenue I and 9th Street) In lieu of flowers you may make a donation to the Walker County Fair Association or the American Heart Association. Full obituary may be viewed and memorial condolences made to the family at www.shmfh.com.

Marilyn Hudson Tucker, 69, of San Antonio, TX, passed away on December 27, 2015. A memorial service will be held at Colonial Funeral Home at 625 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City, TX on February 13th at 3:00 p.m. Marilyn Hudson Tucker was born in Lawton, Oklahoma, to William “Ray” and Nellie “Iris” Hudson on October 12, 1946. She graduated from Waco High in Texas in 1964. She earned a B.A. in English and Latin, graduating from North Texas State University cum laude, an M.A. in English and Latin and a Specialist’s Degree in Education (30 hours beyond the M.A.). She taught English, Latin, humanities and bookkeeping in middle school and high school, in addition to freshman composition in college. After retiring from teaching, she became a technical writer in research and development for pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. She received a national fellowship for school administrators with exceptional/innovative programs. She was Teacher of the Year by teachers and administrators’ ballots in three different districts. And she created a Kansas State pilot program for secondary school regarding reading development for grades 9 - 12. She enjoyed being a member and on the board of the San Antonio Writers Guild and working on her memoir on teaching, “If I Can Survive Thirty Years of Teaching, So Can You.” She received many other college and teaching honors. She was involved in Mu Chi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, a teacher organization in Floresville, Texas. She loved to share her life experiences through speaking events, writings and her blog. Marilyn Hudson Tucker is survived by her daughter Katherine Johns and her husband Brandon of Floresville, TX; her son Andrew Tucker and his wife Kendal of Rockwall, TX; and her grandchildren, Cameron and Corinne Johns. She is also survived by her sisters and brothers, Nancy Rash of Burleson, TX; twin sister Evelyn Biery of Houston, TX; Susan Eddleman and husband Gary of Waco, TX; Sherrie Barkman and husband Reeder of Garland, TX; Bill Hudson and wife Rhea of Princeton, TX; Philip Hudson and wife Charlene of Missouri City, TX; and Corliss Englert and husband Brad of Austin, TX; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Tucker; father, William Ray Hudson; and mother, Nellie Iris Hudson. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity. Please sign the guestbook at www.colonialuniversal.com

Mary Louise (Blair) Stevens passed away at home in Kosse, on Monday, February 15, 2016, at age 85. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2016, from 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel. Graveside services and Celebration of Mary’s life will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 18, 2016, at Fort Parker Memorial Park, with Pastor Kevan Wood of the First Baptist Church of Livingston officiating. Mary was born October 7, 1930 to Estill Blair and Anna Marie (May) Blair at home in rural Denver, Kentucky. She grew up in and around Paintsville, KY. As a young lady, Mary was working at Murphy’s 5 & 10 in downtown Paintsville, KY when Jesse Stevens became her customer every day at the food counter, drinking lots of coffee, and six weeks later became her husband. Mary and Jesse N. Stevens were married at the Funeral Home in Paintsville, Kentucky on December 16, 1950. They made their home in Kentucky the next ten years, and their only child, Teresa, was born there. They lived in California four years, before moving to Texas and making their permanent home in Channelview. Mary had enjoyed working at Hoffman Candy Co. while living in California. In Texas, she drove a catering truck for Regal Food Service for twenty-eight years, loving the job and the people she met. She left home daily at 3:00 a.m. to have the food truck at the Houston Ship Channel industrial district for 5:30 breakfast through the lunch hour, until back home at 2:30 p.m. In spite of the long days, she loved serving and talking with the customers, and once she was retired she could not go anywhere without running into someone she knew, and of course stopped to talk with each one. Later, she also did food demonstrations in Channelview stores, once again enjoying meeting and talking with people. Mary loved to dress nicely, with make-up and her hair coiffed. If all the people she had touched in her life were to gather at one time, a building could not hold them all. She especially loved her grandchildren. Mary and Jesse’s lives were devoted to church and their family. She taught Sunday school (including her grandchildren) and Sunbeams for many years at Bayshore Baptist Church, and later sang in the choir when they moved to Green’s Bayou Assembly of God Church. After losing her husband in 2012, Mary had lived with her daughter at Kosse for the past three and one-half years. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Melba J. (Blair) Blair, Anna Lee (Blair) Webb, and Wanda Jean Blair; one brother, Joe E. Blair; and her husband Jesse N. Stevens. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Teresa and Elwyn Denman of Kosse; grandson and his wife, Blake and Lani Denman of Bryan; granddaughter and her husband, Wendi and Brian Brightwell of Kosse; grandson, Ryan Denman of Kosse; seven great grandchildren: Kaitlyn and husband Preston Baize of Thornton; Victoria Denman of Kosse, Jaxson and Brazos Brightwell of Kosse, Sophie and Maxwell Denman of Waco, Brantley Denman of Bryan; one great-great grandson, Braxton Baize; and a brother, Leo Blair of Carey, Ohio and a sister, Sue Wentling of Carey, Ohio. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Charles William Watson, of Groesbeck, went home to be with the Lord following his lengthy battle with illness, on Sunday, February 14, 2016, at age 81. Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 16, 2016 in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Reverend Ben Watson officiating, and music by Steve Watson. Burial followed in the Wortham Cemetery. Pallbearers were Sidney Favors, Jim Willis, Warren Miller, Jon King, Mike Albers, Jimmy Compton, Gary Findley, and Brad Thetford. Charles was born June 18, 1934 to James Benjamin Watson and Lela Rebecca (Chaesse) Watson in Wortham, where he grew up and graduated from high school. Charles worked at A. Brandt (Abco) in Mexia in the furniture factory for twenty years. He was very talented in being able to make objects from seeing a sample, a skill he used in making furniture on the job, as well as later in life in wood working as a
hobby. Charles was united in marriage with Marjorie Ann Reese on June 22, 1962. They were married in the Bethel Baptist Church in Groesbeck. Charles called her “Sweetheart” all of their 53 years together and he was her one and only love. Charles and Marjorie lived a few years in Wortham and then Mexia, before moving to Groesbeck where they made their home the rest of his life. After Charles’ work at the furniture factory, he worked at the Mexia State School as maintenance supervisor, until retiring after twenty-three years. Charles was an avid deer hunter and a very avid fisherman. He loved to jug-fish in Lake Limestone and Richland Chambers, with family or by himself. He fished no matter the weather, and once, he was almost caught during a sudden flood. He knew how to catch the “big ones.” He especially liked fishing with his pole for the trout at the Springfield Dam. He caught and cleaned, and Marjorie cooked his catch. Charles was always willing to help anyone. He was very friendly, never meeting a stranger, and he liked to joke with people. He was a man who liked to always stay busy. He raised a big garden, as long as his health permitted, and enjoyed sharing with friends and neighbors. Charles was a member of the Victory Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon. He will be dearly missed by his friends and loved ones. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, and five brothers and sisters: Elmo Watson, Elbert Watson, Bennie Frank Watson, Gladys Lansford, and Norma Jean Fisk. He is survived by his wife, Marjorie Watson of Groesbeck; son, Clifford Randel Watson of Groesbeck; son and daughter-in-law, David Brian and Laura (Sutton) Watson of Groesbeck; grandsons, Cody Watson of Mexia and Brian Watson of Waco; a brother and sister-in-law, Freddie and Maide Watson of Forest Glade; and a host of nieces and nephews. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

August 3, 1943- February 15, 2016

The world is a less remarkable place today. Tex Clayton Loper left us…. sadder, wiser and so much better for having known him. Born in California, to older parents, father Raz Clayton Loper (65) and Nobie Jones Loper (44), on August 3, 1943, Tex received his “state sized” moniker to fill the void in his mother’s heart as she pined for her home in the Lone Star State. The family eventually returned to Texas and Tex grew up on the north side of Houston where he truly had to defend his right and privilege to use the name. Ironically, being named Tex would have innate responsibilities. Anyone with that name would be assumed to have the grandeur of his namesake, at the time the largest state in the union, with the biggest and best of everything. Fortunately for him…. he lived up to the legend, although not without having to prove it on MANY occasions, but for all his size and stature, his nature was that of a gentle giant, as kind and generous as the people of the state he loved. Knowing his mother and father were in a dire financial straits, Tex’s unselfish nature emerged when he enlisted at the age of 17 in order to be able to send his check home to his parents. Tex served his country in the Army where he was stationed in Germany and became quite fluent in the language… but that was Tex, brave, brilliant, loyal and unique, to say the least. There is not one single occupation that can be denoted as his livelihood, Tex had formulated, built and conquered being a Private Investigator. He also built a business as a security expert (keeping people safe in their businesses and homes long before it became fashionable to advertise an alarm system. As an Insurance adjustor Tex raced to Florida after Hurricane Andrew, where he spent months away from his own family to help the ravaged survivors regain and rebuild their lives. He was a merchant and owned his own store in Crandall Texas, aptly named “Big Tex”, where Becky and he concocted pizza and sandwiches, as well as supplying the town with the necessities of life…. including personal charge accounts for the heart blood of America, those who needed a hand-up to make it to the next paycheck not a hand out; although no one ever left without the milk, baby formula or diapers that they needed even when he knew he was donating his gasoline and merchandise. Other frontiers approached and conquered were attaining his private pilot’s license and Becky and his adventure into gourmet cooking… opening “Little Italy” in Mexia, Texas; where all of Limestone County drove in to sample the cuisine, especially the lasagna. Most importantly, Tex is remembered for his strength of will and purpose of spirit. He courageously fought Multiple Sclerosis for 20 years but never succumbed to any challenge without a fight…his departure is no different. Preceded in death by his parents and two sisters and two brothers, Tex is survived by his adoring wife of 38 years, Beckalyn Blackmon Loper, son and wife Gerald Douglas Virden and Bridget, sons and families of Guy Clayton Loper and wife Jaree of Groesbeck, Derrick Clayton Loper and wife Amanda of Waco and grandchildren, Madeleine and Chloe Virden, Skye and Tex Clayton Loper, his namesake, Kamryn, Trinity and Cru Loper of Waco, nephew John Peyton Strength IV and niece Raven Blackmon Gibson Nichols along with many, many good friends and loved ones. In lieu of a memorial or services, Tex requested that donations be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or Lara’s House Animal Rescue in Mexia.

John Barnett (JB) Lown of Groesbeck passed away Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Groesbeck LTC. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 21, 2016 from 6-8PM in the Groesbeck Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted Monday, February 22, 2016 at 2 PM in the First United Methodist Church with Pastor Steve Nance officiating and Sheriff Dennis Wilson speaking. Burial will follow at Thornton City Cemetery. Pallbearers are Jon ‘Tray’ Lamar, Joe McNutt, Clint Wilson, Roy DeFriend, Brian Ellison, Bubba Stone, Willie Neal and Luis Chapa. Honorary Pallbearers are Sue’s brothers, Adam “Skinner” Lenamond, Jimmy Lenamond, Ronnie Lenamond, Buddy Lenamond, brother-in-law Chesley Masters, J.B.’s nephew Mark McLelland, Lions Club Members, Thornton and Groesbeck Masonic Lodge Members and all of the students and other people whose lives he touched and those that touched his. J.B. attended Pleasant Grove and Thornton schools. He graduated from Thornton High School in 1946. He signed up for the Navy and went to serve his country. While in the Navy, he was aboard the first aircraft carrier to serve the USA, the USS Valley Forge. His jobs there included damage control and firefighter. He received medals for good conduct, WWII victory and American theatre. In April of 1950, he came back to attend Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. He graduated from Sam with his Masters of Education and came home for good. He first taught in Kosse, as a coach and teacher for the Greyhounds. His biggest achievement there was taking his 6 man football team to the state championship game (even though they lost). When Kosse moved to Thornton, he became a teacher at his old school. He was most proud of the fact that he had his first real Ag shop. Soon though, things changed again and Thornton Tigers moved to Groesbeck and he became a proud Goat until he retired after over 40 years of teaching and mentoring. He also drove Bus 13 for many years as well. He met Sue Lenamond during his time teaching and they were married December 26th, 1969. They resided in Thornton. He even served as Mayor of Thornton for a time. They eventually built a house in the country where the Lown family had been for over 200 years. Little did she know the life of an ag teacher would include long days and cold wet nights of pulling calves on the farm and trips to take kids to shows in places like Houston, San Antonio, Fort Worth and even Oklahoma in the snow. When he wasn’t helping kids with show animals or helping the rodeo club host shows, he loved to hunt and enjoy being around friends. He served his community in many ways from county commissioner to church involvement. He recently was awarded his 50 year member awards in both the Masonic Lodge and Lions Club. He was a member of the Young Farmers, FFA, Go Texans of Limestone County, and a Lifetime Houston Livestock Show Committeeman. He was involved with the Farm Bureau even serving as President of the local chapter. He is preceded in death by his parents, Grover Cleveland Lown and Irene (Sparks) Lown. He is survived by his wife, Sue Lown of Groesbeck; daughters, Debbe Hall and husband Joel of Groesbeck, Lea Farmer of Teague, Lori Rather and husband Shonn of Thornton; sister Mary Alice McLelland of Houston; grandchildren, Micah Hall and wife Courtney of LaFayette, LA, Caleb Hall and wife Destiny of Grandbury, Nathan Hall of Groesbeck, Isaac Hall of Groesbeck, Hannah Hall of Groesbeck, Sarah Hall of Groesbeck, Dusty Newsom and wife Jennifer of Teague, Jessica Hall and husband Tim of Teague, Haley Van Winkle and husband Doyle of Teague, Kendell King of Thornton, Reagan Rather of Thornton, and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family request you consider donations to any of organizations J.B. was a member.

Mrs. Clara June Waldrop, 85, of Coolidge passed away Thursday, February 18, 2016 in Mexia. Clara June was born October 23, 1930 in Coolidge to James P. and Maggie M. Brewer Jones. She grew up in Coolidge and graduated Valedictorian of Coolidge High School in the class of 1947. She married Billy Waldrop, August 31, 1946 and they enjoyed nearly 70 years of marriage. Clara June lived an amazing life raising four children, as a wife and a homemaker; however, she never lost her love of school and learning new things. As the children got out on their own, she went back to school and received degrees in General Business and Real Estate. Over the years she worked as secretary at the First United Methodist Church in Mexia, held a position at the Mexia Daily News, worked in client services at the Mexia State School, was an underwriter for Farm Bureau in Waco and was a real estate broker. She was a lifelong resident of Limestone County and a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Coolidge. Preceding her in death were her parents; two brothers; and one sister. She is survived by her husband, Billy; children, Bill Waldrop, Jr. of Mexia, Larry Waldrop of Coolidge, Sandra Waldrop-McKissack and husband, Hollis of Mexia and Leah Henderson and husband, Huey of Henderson; grandchildren, Jodi Pistler and husband, Bobby, Marti Ewell and husband, B.J., Cody Waldrop, Wendi Medley and husband, J.R., Kit Waldrop, Lindsay Stanley and husband, Derek, Andy Russell and wife, Micah, Mika Jackson and husband, Kent, Kyle Henderson and wife, Katie, Hannah Graham and husband, Hunter; great grandchildren, Breyer Waldrop, Bailey Waldrop, Paige Waldrop, Laurynn Weedin, Morgan Medley, Wilsey Ewell, Wasey Ewell, Jaxon Stanley, Ryder Stanley, Lexi Stanley, Autry Russell, Carter Wheat, Ella Wheat, Tripp Jackson, Gavin Henderson, Kylie Henderson and Scarlett Henderson, Sister, Gayle Jones of Colorado. Visitation with the family will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home. Funeral services were held at 2 PM Saturday, February 20, 2016, at the First United Methodist Church in Coolidge with Reverend Robert Barnett officiating. Interment was in the Prairie Hill Cemetery. Her grandsons and great grandsons served as pallbearers. The family requests memorials be made to the First United Methodist Church of Coolidge or the Prairie Hill Cemetery Association. Please visit www.blairstubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Frances Grace Bennett of Groesbeck, at age 87, completed her earthly tasks and entered her reward in Heaven with her Savior Jesus. She passed away at Limestone Medical Center on Sunday, February 21, 2016. Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at the First Baptist Church in Groesbeck, with Dr. Tod Tanner (First Baptist Church of Groesbeck), Rev. Tracy Sims (Central Baptist Church of Thornton) and Rev. Nathaniel Bedford (Lone Star Baptist Church) offi ciating. Pianists were Laura Boecker and Sandie McLean, and Phil Koester and Brian Boecker were vocalists. Concluding services were held at the Pavilion at Faulkenberry Cemetery, followed by burial. Pallbearers were Jon McLean, Greg Barnes, Kent Vogel, John Maline, Bill Maline, Mike Maline, Jim Bennett, and Kenneth Bennett. Honorary pallbearers were Bill and Karen Stutts, Linda Bedford, and Maurice and Mamie Frazier. Frances was born on December 23, 1928 to Colbert Edison and Leanette (Bradley) Gregory in Groesbeck. She was welcomed into the fold by sisters Margaret Jo (Jodie) and Mary Earl. After graduating from Groesbeck High School in 1946, she attended Baylor University for two years. On visits back to Groesbeck, she caught the eye of young farmer, L. E. “Muggs” Bennett, who stated that he was going to marry her, before they even became acquainted. After capturing her heart, he told her that he was going to teach her something new every day. On October 30, 1948, they were married by Rev. Olen Waldrip at Groesbeck’s FBC. As cotton grew to be king in Texas, they would leave Groesbeck during cotton picking season and head to the Valley and West Texas (Pecos) with their cotton picking machinery in tow. Frances did not shy away from being a part of the action; she drove the pick-up truck behind the cotton pickers. In 1955, after an 8-year wait, their dream of starting a family was fulfilled with the adoption of daughter, Beverly, followed by son Brad’s adoption in 1961. Her family and home were the light of her life, and she became profi cient in multitasking before the term became popular. She sought personal fulfillment by playing the piano at First Baptist Church, where she was a life-long member. She played approximately twentyfive years in Sunday school classes, worship, Vacation Bible Schools and week-long revivals. Later she began playing the organ at church, then spent another twenty-five years as the organist at First United Methodist Church. Frances shared her love and talents for the piano by teaching piano to children of all ages in her home after school. At the end of each school year, her students would dress in formal attire to perform in the end-ofyear recitals. By the 80s she stopped giving private lessons, but she was asked to play for many weddings and countless funerals. Her love for Groesbeck was undeniable and she proudly fulfilled her civic duties by serving as a trustee of the GISD school board in the 60s. In the 70s, she served as a substitute teacher at the elementary and junior high campuses. Additionally, she served as a founding member of the Maffett Memorial Library Board of Directors for approximately thirty years. She and other board members oversaw the expansion of the library from the second floor of city hall to the construction of the present building in 1981. In the mid 60s, Frances, Muggs, Mae and Gayland Wilson, Jack Weaver and Sharon Barnett Weaver, and Carl Shugart envisioned the revitalization of the city park and pool. Together they labored in cleaning, shredding, repairing, and painting various parts of the park, playground, and pool. When fi nished, the park reopened under the auspices of the Groesbeck Recreation Association. Their determination and desire to reestablish a major leisure time attraction has served Groesbeck citizens well since that time. She was a devoted mother involved in her children’s activities, serving as room mother many years; and she and Muggs were always involved in building floats for the Homecoming parades. Frances supported Muggs in his livestock venture at Horn Hill, including their adventure together into raising emus in the 90s. She personally gathered the eggs in the winter and brought them home to incubate and keep them until hatched, spending many hours in their care, and supported the emu industry for some years. On a more personal level, she took on her favorite role of all – that of a doting grandmother to her two granddaughters. She also perfected her baking skills by making the most delicious poppy seed and rum cakes. She found great delight in creating such tasty items, then sharing the fruits of her labor regularly with many in Groesbeck. Two baking highlights were furnishing the annual Methodist Fall Festival with ten poppy seed and/or rum cakes, and making twenty-five poppy-seed cakes at the request of her future grandson-in-law, as his groom’s cake. An additional two hundred mini-cakes were made as guest favors at the wedding conclusion. Frances lived her life unselfishly and touched many lives. She was well known, loved by many, and respected by all. She was always the ideal lady, perfectly groomed, but her greatest beauty was in her loving smile and warm greeting to all, and her thoughtful deeds throughout her lifetime. As the matriarch of the Gregory and Bennett families, she had a very special place in the hearts of all her nieces and nephews and their families: the Joe McLean family; Jon McLean family; Bill McLean family; Mary Adams; Jim Barnes family; Lea Hardison family; Frances Jo Garrett family; Greg Barnes family; John Maline family; Bill Maline family; Mike Maline family; Elizabeth Garcia family; Butch Bennett family; Jim Bennett family; Kenneth Bennett family; Kathy Thompson family; and Steve Bennett family. Frances was preceded in death by her parents Colbert and Leanette Gregory; her husband, L. E. “Muggs” Bennett; her sisters, Margaret Jo “Jodie” McLean and Mary Earl Barnes; her niece, Frances Jo Garrett and nephews, Bill McLean and Steve Bennett; and her son-inlaw, Mort Stepp. She is survived by her daughter, Beverly Stepp of Groesbeck; son and daughter-in-law, Brad and Julia Bennett of Abilene; granddaughter and grandson-inlaw, Ashley and Clint Garwood of Cedar Creek; granddaughter, Madylou Bennett of Abilene; great grandchildren, Audrey and Bennett Garwood of Cedar Creek; step-grandchildren, Helmut Stepp of Greenville and Gregg Stepp of Springdale, AR; step-great grandchildren, Nathan and Kathleen Stepp of Tulsa, OK; Krista Stepp of Eldorado, AR and Ben and Jack Stepp of Springdale, AR; Kristopher Stepp of Denison; and Monroe Stepp of Tulsa; extended family, including many nieces and nephews; the James L. Bradley, Sr. family; Brigitte Olson; and Richard and Brenda Siler; and special friends, Bill and Karen Stutts, Nathaniel and Linda Bedford, Maurice and Mamie Frazier; and Linda Blacknall; and her beloved cat, Piper. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Windsor Healthcare Residence for their devotion and loving care of Ms. Frances.

August 3, 1943 - February 15, 2016. The world is a less remarkable place today. Tex Clayton Loper left us…. sadder, wiser and so much better for having known him. Born in California, to older parents, father Raz Clayton Loper (65) and Nobie Jones Loper (44), on August 3, 1943, Tex received his “state sized” moniker to fill the void in his mother’s heart as she pined for her home in the Lone Star State. The family eventually returned to Texas and Tex grew up on the north side of Houston where he truly had to defend his right and privilege to use the name. Ironically, being named Tex would have innate responsibilities. Anyone with that name would be assumed to have the grandeur of his namesake, at the time the largest state in the union, with the biggest and best of everything. Fortunately for him….he lived up to the legend, although not without having to prove it on MANY occasions, but for all his size and stature, his nature was that of a gentle giant, as kind and generous as the people of the state he loved. Knowing his mother and father were in a dire financial straits, Tex’s unselfish nature emerged when he enlisted at the age of 17 in order to be able to send his check home to his parents. Tex served his country in the Army where he was stationed in Germany and became quite fluent in the language…but that was Tex, brave, brilliant, loyal and unique, to say the least. There is not one single occupation that can be denoted as his livelihood, Tex had formulated, built and conquered being a Private Investigator. He also built a business as a security expert (keeping people safe in their businesses and homes long before it became fashionable to advertise an alarm system. As an Insurance adjustor Tex raced to Florida after Hurricane Andrew, where he spent months away from his own family to help the ravaged survivors regain and rebuild their lives. He was a merchant and owned his own store in Crandall Texas, aptly named “Big Tex”, where Becky and he concocted pizza and sandwiches, as well as supplying the town with the necessities of life….including personal charge accounts for the heart blood of America, those who needed a hand-up to make it to the next paycheck not a hand out; although no one ever left without the milk, baby formula or diapers that they needed even when he knew he was donating his gasoline and merchandise. Other frontiers approached and conquered were attaining his private pilot’s license and Becky and his adventure into gourmet cooking…opening “Little Italy” in Mexia, Texas; where all of Limestone County drove in to sample the cuisine, especially the lasagna. Most importantly, Tex is remembered for his strength of will and purpose of spirit. He courageously fought Multiple Sclerosis for 20 years but never succumbed to any challenge without a fight…his departure is no different. Preceded in death by his parents and two sisters and two brothers, Tex is survived by his adoring wife of 38 years, Beckalyn Blackmon Loper, son and wife Gerald Douglas Virden and Bridget, sons and families of Guy Clayton Loper and wife Jaree of Groesbeck, Derrick Clayton Loper and wife Amanda of Waco and grandchildren, Madeleine and Chloe Virden, Skye and Tex Clayton Loper, his namesake, Kamryn, Trinity and Cru Loper of Waco, nephew JohnPeyton Strength IV and niece Raven Blackmon Gibson Nichols along with many, many good friends and loved ones. In lieu of a memorial or services, Tex requested that donations be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or Lara’s House Animal Rescue in Mexia. In an oversight, the name of Tex Loper’s first grandson was omitted. Trey is the son of Derrick and Amanda Loper of Waco, and the original recipient of the legacy of honor each son used in honor of their father. Please add Trey Clayton Loper in your prayers of condolence in this difficult time.

Deborah Kay “Debbie” McFerrin passed away at Providence Hospital on Tuesday, February 23, 2016, at age 64. Graveside services were held on Friday, Februay 26, 2016, at Fort Parker Memorial Park, with Rev. J. R. Tapley of the Lost Prairie Baptist Church officiating. Pallbearers wiere Anthony Wietzikoski, Mark Ralls, Walter Hewitt, Tracy Tooke, Chris Pierce, and Michael Tooke. Debbie was born July 12, 1951 in Waco to Earl Eugene George and Wilma Lee (Chamblee) George. She grew up there and graduated from Waco High School in 1969. When Mr. and Mrs. George moved to Groesbeck, the whole family, including Debbie and all her sisters and brother and their families also moved to Groesbeck. She had worked earlier in her life as a cosmetologist in Groesbeck, and also had worked as the manager of the 7-11 in Mexia when it first opened, and worked in shipping/receiving at Walmart in Mexia. She was primarily a housewife and had not worked during the past twenty-five years, being confined to home the last few years with her health. She had always enjoyed getting together with family, playing games and having a good time, with lots of laughter. She and her sister Pamela Pierce had lived together and took care of each other during their declining health, until Pam preceded her in death in 2014. Her primary caregivers were her nephew Chris Pierce and niece, Cheryl Tooke, who saw after her daily needs. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents; her brother-in-laws, Everett Tooke and Pete Pierce; and her sister, Pamela Jean Pierce. She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, William Forman of Farrar and Rhonda Forman of Robbins, TX.; five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Her immediate family consisted of her brother and sister-in-law, Johnny Earl and Tracy George of Groesbeck; and her sister, Judy Earline Tooke of Groesbeck; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and cousins. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence.

Perry Leslie Nettles passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2016 while feeding cows at Lake Limestone. Funeral services were held on Saturday, February 27, 2016, in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Brother Richard Williams and Brother Clif Fox of the Church of Christ of Groesbeck officiating. Burial followed in the Old Union Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jared Nettles, Dan Wright, Stanley Boyd, Kelley Boyd, Rand Bates, Charles Gray, Ronnie Bates, David Dickey, and Greg Gonzales. Honorary pallbearers were Red Martin, Jack Armbruster, Wayne Martin, Jim Rains, Bobby Gene Rains, Morris Nettles, Joe Wayne Jackson, and the Class of 1958. Perry was born December 20, 1939 in the Old Union Community, to parents, Leslie and Raye Thomason Nettles. Growing up, Perry was called Peckerwood by his Uncle Henry, due to red highlights in his hair. The nickname “Peck” stuck with his five sisters. Perry graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1958, and had been involved in FFA in school as well as involved in farming and ranching with his Dad all his life. He grew up going everywhere with his Dad, and was driving a tractor by the age of 9. One time as a very young boy, he and his Dad had worked all day at the river pasture, and coming home on horseback, he fell asleep and fell off the horse. His Dad thought he was dead and brought him home in a wagon, but he revived and suffered a messed-up collarbone. Perry served six years in the National Guard. He went to work right out of high school for Gulf States Telephone Co., working up from a crew setting new poles and installing new lines, through all the changes in the phone company to United Telephone and eventually to Sprint, and working his way up through the Central Office as a Service Supervisor. Perry was one of 9 phone employees trained at Texas A&M on underground cables. He learned his skills on the job, he was very smart and had natural mechanical talent. He later transferred to Palestine and Athens, and was a Service Supervisor Manager (for outside plant cable maintenance) of the East Texas District at the time of his retirement in 1999, after forty-one years. Perry met the love of his life, Karen Gail Rains, on March 25, 1996, and they were married on March 22, 1997 at Lake Limestone. They would celebrate their 19th. wedding anniversary next month. Perry was always active, especially in his younger years, playing volleyball and softball, and he enjoyed boating and water-skiing. Perry also enjoyed riding his motorcycle. His last road trip was with his son Jared. They had the best time riding together that day. After his retirement, Perry continued farming and ranching. His cows were like pets to him, as they would follow him around like puppy dogs. One friend said that Perry was the only man he knew who could drive a cattle trailer up to the pen in the pasture and his cows would pen themselves. And his dogs loved to go with him to feed the cows, riding in the front seat and coming home to spend the night in the “Doggie-Hilton” he built (and Karen decorated) for them. Perry also had a vegetable garden every year, and he and Karen would raise lots of vegetables. He also made the best fig preserves every year. Perry and Karen, along with their best friends, Rand and Linda Bates always got together on Friday nights, taking turns as to which home they would meet and then go out to eat before coming back to play dominoes or card games. They also took a vacation in the early fall going to Colorado and beyond every year. Perry was a jack-of-all trades; he could fix anything. He also was a mechanic, furniture builder, repairman, rancher, cook, and could drive a dozer. He was a self-taught guitar player, who loved to play and sing country music at home and on the Friday nights with the Bates. In the past six months, he started playing with Rand Bates and friends at the monthly Oletha Jamboree and at the Groesbeck LTC Nursing Home. He was the best husband and father. He loved his family and always enjoyed family get-togethers. He was always willing to help out friends and neighbors when he was needed. He was a jokester; he loved to tease and could take the teasing back. He always enjoyed cousins Richard and Bobby Jack visiting at the lake as they were also big teasers. Perry was the beloved brother of five sisters and he was their rock. Preceding him in death were his baby son, Thomas Scott Nettles; his parents, Leslie and Raye Nettles; brothers-in-law, Joe Lincecum and Tommy Ticknor; nephews, Layne Martin and Wally Sherrod; and his nephew-in-law Howard Irby. He is survived by his wife Karen Nettles of Groesbeck; son Jared Nettles of Houston; stepson, Dan Wright of Marquez; sisters: Martha Martin (Red) of Thornton, Jean Nettles of Groesbeck, Jo Boyd (Stanley) of Groesbeck, Billie Ticknor of Groesbeck, and Pat Lincecum of Thornton. His extended family includes a sister-in-law, June Armbruster (Jack) of Montgomery; brothers-in-law, Jim Rains of Gilroy, CA and Bobby Gene Rains of Bryan; step grandchildren: Spencer Wright of Temple, Shelby Wright of Temple, Madisyn Wright of Buffalo, and Makenzie Wright of Buffalo. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He also leaves behind his cow-feeding dogs, Sam, Cocoa, Bear and Butch, and two felines, Gracie and TJ. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.