Noma Lee Clinton Wilkins passed away surrounded by her family at the Hospice unit at Hendricks Memorial Hospital in Abilene, TX at the age of 93. She is preceded in death by her husband, Hollis Wilkins, and 3 brothers and 4 sisters. She was born on December 1, 1922 to Miriam and George Clinton in Merkle, Texas. She was the 6th of eight children. Mrs. Wilkins graduated from Abilene High School and went on to business school. She married Hollis Wilkins on May 5, 1948. They had two children, William George Wilkins and Sylvia Jane Wilkins Tull. Noma began her career in the optical field working for several optical shops in Abilene. She became a licensed Optician and opened her own optical shop in Abilene. She was very successful because she served her customers with honesty and attention to their needs. She and Hollis built their dream home in Hawley, TX in 1970. They loved living there where Hollis could fish from the Brazos River that ran behind their house. They took great joy in caring for their garden and pecan orchard. Both of them loved to go camping. They purchased a motor home and visited almost every state. Enjoying seeing new places together was one of their greatest pleasures. Hollis and Noma were also avid bowlers and belonged to several leagues. When they learned Hollis had leukemia, they moved back to Abilene to be closer to their doctors. After Hollis passed away, Noma moved to Groesbeck, Texas. She took china painting lessons for many years and created beautiful treasures for her family. She won several ribbons at the West Texas Fair with her dishes. She continued painting well into her eighties. Noma loved the Lord and shared His message with others. She was a member of the Church of Christ and taught Sunday School for many years. She was also very active in the World Bible Study ministry. She corresponded with and sent Bibles and lessons to her many students in Africa. She also loved to praise the Lord through singing and at 93 was still joining in when groups would visit the nursing home. She is survived by her son, George Wilkins, of Abilene, TX and her daughter, Jane Tull and husband, Jimmy of Groesbeck, TX. Noma had 5 grandchildren: Hollea McGough and husband, Shane of Abilene; Tricia Corkran and husband Ray of Friendswood, TX; Tiffany Lloyd of Groesbeck; Terri Lenamon and husband Bob of Groesbeck; and Tommy Tull and wife Kelli of Baytown, TX. Noma is also survived by 11 great- grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. Her memory will be cherished by family and friends alike.

Violet Starline Nash passed into the arms of Jesus Wednesday, June 8, 2016 in Waco. Services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, June 13, 2016 at Oakcrest Funeral Home in Waco and burial will be at Faulkenberry Cemetery in Groesbeck at 2:30 PM. Visitation will be at OakCrest Sunday, June 12, from 3-5 PM. Starline was born April 7, 1922 at Box Church, Texas to Eva Jane Lankford Lenamon and Levi Thomas Lenamon. Star, as friends and family knew her, began her working life as assistant to the Limestone County Clerk. She left the Groesbeck area with her husband and lived in San Diego. They then moved to Louisville, KY where she rose early each day catching a bus, a streetcar and then a train and traveled to work across the state line in Indiana. They later moved to Houston. Later, Star moved to Fort Worth and worked for Purina Mills and General Dynamics. She eventually settled in Waco working first for the City of Waco and later for the VA Regional Office where she retired. She was known for her beauty and for her great sense of humor. After retirement, she worked at the Richland Mall info booth to keep busy, loved playing radio games and being with family. She loved music, and played piano by ear late into her life. Her entire family was musically inclined and she, along with parents and brothers had music at home often where they played piano and sang. Star was preceded in death by her parents, her three older brothers, former Waco mayor W.B. Lenamon, James Lenamon and Leroy Lenamon and beloved sisters-in-law Dorothy Lenamon of Waco and Pauline Lenamon of Groesbeck. She loved her brothers and was so proud of each of them. She is survived by daughter Diane Gullion and husband Bill of Waco, grandchildren Kristi Dean, Taryn Dean and Todd Dean of Waco, Stacy Gullion of San Marcos and LeAnn Goyco of San Antonio. She is also survived by 7 greatgrandchildren and a sister-in- law, Frances Lenamon of Austin and 13 nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are Larry Lenamon, Ronnie Lenamon, Jerry Lenamon, Bobby Lenamon, Charles Bratcher and Todd Dean. The family thanks the sweet nurses at Baylor Scott and White and the staff of Reliable Home Health Care for their kindness and care and all our friends and family who prayed for her. A special thanks also to Stephanie Chavez and Abbie Rodriguez who blessed us with their help. A new bright Star is shining in the Heavens and all is right. Sign the Guest Book at www.oakcrestwaco.com 

John Edsol Jarvis, of Groesbeck, passed away at Groesbeck LTC on Wednesday, June 8, 2016, with his wife and family at his side. Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 11, 2016, in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel. Brother Richard Williams of the Church of Christ of Groesbeck officiated, assisted by Brother Bobby Ehler, and Mrs. Barbara Walker was the soloist. Burial followed in Cobb Cemetery. Pallbearers were Marcus Hanna, Donald Broughton, James Broughton, Chris Henderson, Brandon Little, and David Hughes. John Edsol was born April 23, 1930 to John Avery Jarvis and Hettie Bell Williams Jarvis in Thornton, the youngest of four children. John’s father passed away when he was nine, and his mother married Henry Riley Rasco, who was a great part of his upbringing. He grew up at Davis Prairie and was a Thornton Tiger, graduating from Thornton High in 1947. John served a short tenure in the U. S. Navy right after school. John Edsol was united in marriage with Shirley Ann Smith on March 22, 1952. They had become friends as she walked by his sister Sally’s house on her way to school. They lived in Houston after their marriage, but moved back to Groesbeck two years later. John worked as a plumber all his working career, although he had many other skills. He did 90% of the work in building their house in town, moving part of the family house from the country to use in the home in town. John retired from plumbing in April 1992, but continued to stay busy at home and in the country. He loved going to “the country”; if he didn’t have anything else to do, he would go to the country to pull goat weeds. John’s greatest talent was in raising his children, with lots of fun times playing together, but with strong work ethics and good values which they learned from both John and Shirley. While the kids were little, John and Shirley enjoyed playing volleyball with friends at Ben Hur. They also played cards and canasta while all the children played “kick the can” and caught fireflies. When the kids were older, John coached his on’s Little League team for many years, and attended all the kids and grandchildren’s sports and school events as long as he could. After his day’s work, no matter how tired when he came home, he was always outside playing with them. Even later when he had grandchildren, he played with them, and had a famous “Granny shot” which got the ball in the basket and always amazed them. He remained an avid Groesbeck Goat fan, attending many of the school’s functions. John may have been strict, but he was a fun and loving father. One of the girls’ earliest chores was ironing his starched handkerchiefs. After the kids were out on Friday nights “making the drag” (and he had written down the mileage on the vehicles) he made them “get up on Saturday mornings and get their work done.” They learned to drive while going to the country every Sunday, and after working there, they could look forward to coming home and having “home-made” ice cream. They have many loving memories and they realize where their work ethic came from. John also gave volunteer time to the community with many projects. He and his son, John, helped paint the swimming pool when it was re-opened, and he spearheaded the drive to build the youth park on Parkside Dr. (with Mr. Latham and others.) John was always willing to help anyone. Even after working all day, he would go help anyone who called, (especially the little old ladies) from plumbing emergencies to changing light bulbs. Family and friends always knew they could count on him. John was a loving and caring man to his family, and had a smile on his face when anyone saw him. He was always joking and had funny stories, and when not working, could be seen rocking on the front porch waving to everyone. He was Papa John or Papa Edsol to the grandchildren and the nephews called him Uncle Tommy. John was a member of the Church of Christ of Groesbeck. John’s life changed twenty-three years ago after a stroke. Shirley was his loving and devoted caregiver at home for the next fifteen years, and at the Groesbeck LTC for the next eight years. Shirley not only gave John all the attention possible at the nursing home but also was a helping friend to the other patients. John inspired everyone who came in contact with him all through the years with his friendly smile and his numerous stories. John Edsol was preceded in death by his parents, John Avery Jarvis, Hettie Bell Jarvis Rasco, and Henry Riley Rasco; his brother, Edgar Jarvis and sister, Sally Hanna Cartwright; and three nephews. He is survived by his loving wife of sixtyfour years, Shirley Jarvis of Groesbeck; son and daughter-in-law, John Leslie and Linda Jarvis of Fairfield; daughter and son-in-law, Deborah and Mike Little of Groesbeck; daughter, Kathy Sillavan of Montgomery; eight grandchildren (and their spouses): Chris Henderson and wife Kristy, Michele Coffin and husband Pete, Leslie Jarvis, Jenifer Twitty and husband Bryan, Brandon Little and wife Meredith, Ashley Darden, Jessica Anderson and husband Jack, and David Hughes. The twelve great grandchildren are: Taylor Atkins, Zachary Henderson, Paige Spivey, Andrew Rhodes, Leslie Anderson, Emory Twitty, Madison Knapik, Rex Bean, Piper Little, Brylan Twitty, Noble Ohland, and C. J. Henderson. He also leaves behind one sister, Flois Carter of Pasadena; 4 nephews and 1 niece; and many other extended family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of John Edsol Jarvis may be made to Providence Hospice (107 E. Commerce, Mexia, TX 76667.) Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook. 

Johnnie Bruce Scott Jr., 86, went to be with our Lord on Saturday, June 18, 2016. Funeral: 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in Greenwood Chapel. Interment: Laurel Land. Visitation: One hour prior to the service. John will be laid to rest with his beloved wife, Lois Scott. John was the only child born to the late Johnnie and Ida Trotter Scott Sr. on May 9, 1930, in Mexia. He was raised in Groesbeck by his uncle and aunt, Earnest and Allie Trotter Webb after the death of his mother. John graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1947, played football at Tarleton State, supported the Tarleton Alumni Association, and served as an employee of Bell Helicopter-Textron in Fort Worth until his retirement upon completing 38 years of service. John spent his retirement gardening, caring for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and working seasonally for H&R Block. John became a deacon in the Baptist Church and was a devoted servant of the Lord. He contributed the latter years of his Christian service to Handley Baptist Church, much of that service in support of their children and youth programs. He loved to volunteer for summer camp and was able to do so until the age of 80.  John was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Lois Jean George Scott. Survivors: Five children, Johnnie Bruce Scott, III, Lynn Swogger, Lesa Womack, Dr. Scott Barnett and Barry Scott; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Juanita Smith Wright, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, and granny, passed away on June 16, 2019 at age 90 in San Antonio, Texas. She was born in Groesbeck, Texas on July 24, 1925 to Sylvester Smith and Annie Pearl Phillips Smith. She was preceded in death by her son, James “Jimmy” Tate, at age 3: husband, Lewis Harold Wright; brothers, Eugene, L.C. and Billy; and sisters, Beatrice, Geneva, Faye and Raynelle. Juanita is survived by her daughter, Brenda June Carlson and family, Steve, grandchildren, Andrea, Lisa, Shane, Karl, Anthony, Kimberly, Lane, Haley, John, Zoe, Paden, Skyler and Noah; son, Mark Harold Wright, and grandchildren, Becky, Wayne and Donnie; daughter, Mary Louise Strong, and family, Allen, son, Craig Michael Reed, grandchildren, Lewis, Lane, Logan, Jade, Patrick and Kynleigh. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, family and friends. A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 24, 2016, at 11:00 a.m., in Blair Stubbs Chapel, 605 S. McKinney, Mexia, Texas. Please visit www.blairstubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Thomas Chadwick Clancy of Dallas passed away Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at his home in Dallas at the age of 47. Funeral services were held on Sunday, June 26, 2016 in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Tracy Sims and Marty Clancy officiating. Burial followed at Faulkenberry Cemetery. Chad was born in Lamesa, TX to Thomas Ray and Billie Ruth Clancy on August 28, 1968, the younger of two other siblings. Growing up and throughout adulthood Chad always enjoyed riding dirt bikes and motorcycles and always had one. He also was very talented in creating crosses with driftwood as well as various other designs.He was also an avid drummer from an early age. Chad loved animals, particularly dogs and although his parents wouldn’t allow one in the house growing up, as soon as he could he got a dog of his own. Chad is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Billie Ruth Clancy. He is survived by his wife, Ann Clancy of Dallas; sister, Charlotte Clancy Meester of Fair Oaks Ranch; brother, Marty Ray Clancy of Eagleville, TX; nephew, Jonathan David Clancy of Murfreesboro, TN; nieces and nephew; Christa Joy Lanier of Murfreesboro, TN, Jason W. Willis of Littlestown, PA and Brittany Lyn Meester of Fair Oakes Ranch, TX as well as numerous extended family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the SPCA of Dallas or given to help assist with a headstone directly to Charlotte Clancy Meester at 29006 Angel Fire Dr. , Fair Oakes Ranch, TX 78015. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Betty Jean (Webster) Noel, of Groesbeck, passed away at Groesbeck LTC on Monday, July 4, 2016, at age 61. Betty was born in Marlin on October 25, 1954 to John Webster, Jr. and Ola Mae Lummus Webster. She grew up in the Prairie Point community, attended school in Groesbeck, and lived in the Groesbeck area all her life. She was a member of the Prairie Point Baptist Church. Betty Jean was united in marriage with Johnnie Russell  “Russ” Noel on December 25, 1976 in the Prairie Point Baptist Church. Two sons, Eric and Christopher were born, and Betty dedicated her life to her husband and sons. She was left a widow when Russ passed away on January 14, 2010. Betty tried her best in meeting all life’s struggles as they came up and had an uplifting smile on her face when you talked with her. Betty was preceded in death by her father, John Webster, Jr.; her husband Johnnie Russell Noel in 2010; and one of her sons, Christopher Noel. She is survived by her son, Eric Noel of Groesbeck; her mother, Ola Mae Webster of Groesbeck; sister, Doris Bizzell and husband Jimmy Bizzell of McAllen; sister, JoNell Reason and husband Jim Cone Reason of Mart; brother, John W. Webster and wife Tonya Webster of Groesbeck; brother, Odis W. Webster and wife Angie Webster of Groesbeck; sister, Molly Cox and husband Richard Cox of Bastrop; and numerous nieces and nephews and other extended family. The family met at Fort Parker Memorial Park to honor Betty’s life with a private memorial service (family only) on Saturday, July 9, 2016, with the service conducted by John S. Walton. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to Groesbeck Funeral Home toward her expenses.

Howard Roland Hyden of Groesbeck died at the Limestone LTC on Wednesday morning July 6, 2016 at the age of 95 years. Howard was born in the Box Church community of Limestone County, Texas, on May 20, 1921. He was the son of Myrtie Wilkinson and Roland Hyden. He is survived by his wife Alta Waits Hyden and her children: Madlyn Heaton, Verna Hicks and Roger Waits. Howard is also survived by brother Rex Hyden and wife Cappie of Groesbeck with daughters Ricky, Janeese and Bonnie; brother Bailey Hyden and wife Patty of Edna with daughter Beverly and son Brian; Nelma Toney Wilkinson with daughter Moya Jan Wilkinson Green of Georgetown. Howard leaves behind a son, David L. Hyden of Dayton with granddaughters Dana and Christina and grandsons David Hyden and Wesley Hyden; a son, Ron Hyden and wife Phyllis of Gastonia, NC with granddaughter Rhonda Hyden Morton and husband Michael of Gastonia, NC and grandson Clint Hyden and wife Sara of Charlotte, NC; daughter Carolyn Hyden Adams and husband Tommy of Alvin with child Iris; and daughter Connie Hyden Schneider of Lockhart with grandson Jeffrey Schneider and wife Beth Foreman. Howard also leaves behind 7 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews. Howard graduated from Groesbeck High School where he played football for the Goats during the late 1930s, earning All-District as a Linebacker. He was baptized into Christ during a revival in the early 1930s in the Box Church area. The Church and Christ were dear to his heart the remainder of his life. It was in Colorado Springs that Howard met a young lady at church, Neva Jean Weide, that later became his wife. Howard and Neva were married in March of 1943 in Colorado Springs. They were married for 69 years until Neva’s death in 2012. Howard worked for 10 years as a rough neck on drilling rigs across South Texas. He started working at the La Gloria Oil and Gas Refinery near Premont about 1956 and worked until the early 1970s when he transferred to Lockhart, Texas. Howard fished often at Baffin Bay near Riviera, Texas where he caught many a trout, reds, and drums. While still living in Premont, Howard took up bowling with his close friend Howard Daily. Howard Hyden won the men’s Texas State Handicap Bowling Championship one year at Corpus Christi. Both he and Neva bowled often thereafter from Falfurrias to Alice, to Kingsville, to Corpus, to Luling, to Waco, Texas. Howard worked for Mobil/Exxon Oil at Lockhart for several years until he transferred to a platform in the Gulf of Mexico where he worked and fished until he was 65. After the first couple of years off shore, Howard trained new workers on the platforms. After a couple of days the worker would take over watching the computers while Howard would fish using a ski rope as his fishing line. His biggest catch was a 250 lb. grouper. Howard retired from Mobil/Exxon at age 65 and later moved back home to Lake Limestone. It was here where he brought fishing to a new high. Howard would fish constantly at the lake mostly with jugs often catching many catfish which he would share with everyone. Funeral services were held on Sunday, July 10, 2016 at the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel. Brothers Glenn Easterly and Richard Williams officiated, and Roger Waits offered the closing prayer. Michael Morton led congregational singing. Burial followed at Cobb Cemetery. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.  

Carolyn Sue Bates Johnson, of Thornton, passed away Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at Groesbeck LTC, at the age of 73. Funeral services were held on Friday, July 8, 2016 in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Bro. Richard Williams and Bro. Cliff Fox of the Church of Christ of Groesbeck, and Chaplain Jon Honea officiating. Burial followed at Cobb Cemetery. Pallbearers were Ronnie Bates, Dustin Bates, John Favors, Mike German, Chad German, and Jake German. Sue was born October 27, 1942 to Roy and Helen (Nettles) Bates in Thornton. She graduated from Thornton High School in 1961, and from Waco Cosmetology School. She worked all her adult life in beauty shops in Waco, Mart, and Groesbeck, and lived almost all of her adult life in Thornton. Her life revolved around her son Barry and her family, and her work and customers. Sue was preceded in death by her brother, Gerald Glenn Bates; parents, Roy and Helen Bates and son, Barry Glenn Johnson (in 2015.) Sue is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Rand & Linda Bates of Groesbeck; niece, Sonya and Mike German; nephew, Ronnie and Sandra Bates; great-niece, Kassie Bates; great-nephews, Dustin Bates, Chad German, and Jake German all of Groesbeck; and other extended family. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Joy Stockton Cates, age 79, passed away on Friday, July 8, at a nursing in League City. Joy was born on September 4, 1936, in Groesbeck to Clara and H. L. Stockton. She was the youngest child of ten children. Joy attended the Groesbeck schools from the first grade through the twelfth grade. She graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1955. She was very active in various school activities. In fact she was on the first GHS girls’ basketball team after that sport was reinstated at GHS in 1953. While growing up in Groesbeck she was active in the youth programs of the First Baptist Church of Groesbeck. After graduating from GHS Joy attended Tarleton State College (now Tarleton State University) where she received an associate degree. When she graduated from Tarleton she was accepted as an airline stewardess with American Airlines, a venture she had anticipated for a number of years. Joy later received a bachelor degree from North Texas State University. Following her tenure as an airline stewardess Joy taught school for several years. She was a lease analysis for many years in Houston, and she also sold real estate. Joy always loved Groesbeck and upon her retirement she moved back to Groesbeck and truly enjoyed being back among friends. Four years ago due to health reasons she moved to a nursing home in League City with the nursing facility being nearer to where her children resided. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Verona Johnson; and her eight brothers, J. L. Stockton, Roscoe Stockton, Truman Stockton, Carl Marvin Stockton, Allen Stockton, Ray Stockton, Eugene Stockton, and Jimmy Stockton. Joy is survived by her son, Douglas Cates and wife, Aleth; her daughter, Karen Cates; a granddaughter, Ingrid, and a grandson, Magnus. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. A graveside service for Joy will be held in Groesbeck at a later date. 

Cecil McDonald, Jr. passed away on July 8, 2016, at the age of 88, following a lengthy illness of reoccurring strokes. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 11, 2016 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel with Rev. Tracy Sims officiating. Interment was in the Shiloh Cemetery with Holloway Martin, Bill Hughes, Elmer Beene, Terry Lynn McDonald, Rick Sadler and Billie Gene “Scooter” McDonald serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers were James Shivers, Grady Masters and Arlie Vickery. Cecil was born on October 27, 1927 in Tehuacana Valley to Cecil McDonald, Sr. and Susie Black McDonald. He was a lifelong resident of the Shiloh, Mexia and Groesbeck areas, having moved away to Sweeney for only a brief period of time. Cecil was the oldest son in the family. He attended school in Shiloh but had to quit at an early age to help his mother take over the farm after his dad broke his back. Cecil met Wanda Lee Kennedy, in 1947, at Fort Parker and they married on November 8. 1947 in Shiloh. This was the beginning of a long, loving marriage of devotion. They were true sweethearts for over 68 years, sticking to the words recited during their wedding vows. Cecil was a hardworking and responsible man. He started his adult working career in the oil field in Sweeney, Texas, shortly after his marriage to Wanda. Yearning for home, they returned to Shiloh and purchased a farm. He ran a successful farming business raising corn, cotton, cattle and hogs. During this time, they were blessed with the birth of their only child, Bobby Dean in 1952. Around 1960, Cecil moved his family to Mexia and purchased a laundromat. For the next 17 years, they owned multiple laundries and bought and sold land and cattle. He worked long, hard hours on a daily basis but always managed to make it a family affair – working together and laughing together. He was a prankster and even though he was always busy, he managed to visit with his customers and entertain the kids. He truly formed a relationship with his customers. He was an honest man and treated everyone fairly. He lived by the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. His word was as good as gold…if Cecil McDonald told you he would do something, it would be done. Cecil loved the farm. He loved to drive his tractor and spent many hours on it. Cecil always stocked his tanks with catfish and bass. Although he didn’t like to fish, he enjoyed watching his family catch them. Cecil was a member of the Woodmen of the World, served on the Shiloh School Board and served as a Board member for the Shiloh Water Supply. Cecil truly loved the Lord; he was a member of the Central Baptist Church of Thornton. He was respected by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Billie Gene McDonald, Sr.; and sister, Lizzie Mae Campbell. He is survived by his loving, devoted wife, Wanda Lee; son, Bobby McDonald and wife, Becky; two grandchildren, Jeffrey McDonald and Ginger McDonald Funk and husband, Brad; four great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Kimbrey, Emery and Ellis; sister, Patsy Lock of Beaumont; and a number of nieces and nephews. A special thank you is given to three wonderful caregivers, Debra Brown, Sharlene Brown and Marlene Morrison, Providence Hospice and Windsor Healthcare. With the help of these people and the diligence of his wife, Wanda Lee, his life was made more comfortable during his lengthy illness. Memorials may be made to the Central Baptist Church in Thornton, Providence Hospice or Shiloh Cemetery Association. Please visit www.blairstubbs. com to leave the family a memorial message.

Vida Evelyn Hogan, 97, of Thornton, passed away July 4, 2016 in Marlin, Texas. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 7, 2016 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel in Thornton with Mr. Floyd Stanley officiating. Interment followed in the Cobb Cemetery with Mike Brown, John Banks Campbell, Rand Bates, Kenneth Capps, Bill Jackson and Raymond Harlan serving as pallbearers. Visitation with the family was held at 7-9 p.m., Wednesday, at Blair-Stubbs Chapel in Thornton. Vida was born in the Honest Ridge community on June 25, 1919 to George and Hattie Brooks Jones. They moved to the Seale community when she was a small child. She attended school there but graduated from Marquez High School. Vida was a good student, always eager and quick to learn. When she graduated from Jr. High into High School, she was the highest ranking student in the class and had to go all the way to Franklin to give a speech. Vida enjoyed playing sports; she would gather with a group of kids to play baseball, which was her favorite. She also liked to play volleyball, was a member of the Pep Squad and enjoyed riding horses. As a child growing up, church played a very important roll in her family’s life. Although growing up in a Baptist church, after marrying R. W., they joined the Thornton Methodist Church as their children enjoyed attending Vacation Bible School there and more youth activities were offered. After graduating high school, Vida moved to Groesbeck and worked at several businesses. She lived with the Gilpin family, help take care of their small daughter and, later, lived with the Carl Sadler family. Vida thoroughly enjoyed the time she spent there and was very fond of them her entire life. Vida met her future husband, R. W., at a Thornton Homecoming dance. She had, previously, dated his brother but never met him. After marrying in 1941, they made home in Thornton. R. W. passed away in August 1993. Although they were always involved in raising cattle, their first and lasting love, they also farmed cotton, corn and peanuts; owned bulldozers, cleared timber, dug tanks for many local landowners and mowed right-of-ways, in several counties, for the state for many years. Vida took a big lead in taking care of the cattle as R. W. took care of the other daily operations. She was also the accountant taking care of the banking, insurance, payroll and all other duties involved. She was a good “parts runner”. She was a “doer” and a very hard worker. Vida and R. W. made a good team; he was also a hard worker and they enjoyed it every step of the way. She still enjoyed working with the cattle and remained involved, even if it was from the sideline “giving orders”, until about eight years ago. Vida loved and enjoyed her children, Mike and Mary Ann, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was very active during Mike and Mary Ann’s school years, serving as room mother for many years and hosting Easter Egg hunts at their home. Her oldest grandchild, Tara, spent every summer with “Mama Too” and Granddaddy. They had a special bond and as Tara called her, Vida was her Mama Too”. Vida also enjoyed babysitting her other four grandchildren, Ryan, Greg, Kenneth and Shelly and loved them dearly. Vida was an active member of the hornton Methodist Church as long as health permitted. She was a Board Member of the Tidwell Cemetery, located west of Thornton, for many years. R. W.’s ancestors are buried there; she helped in restoring the cemetery, which began in the early 1980’s, and the construction of the overhead pipe entrance. The many qualities that Vida possessed were strong willed, a wonderful cook, patient, kind, put others’ needs before hers, very knowledgeable and wise, willingness to help others, her love for the Lord, great sense of humor and her everlasting love for all her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Hattie Jones; husband, R. W. Hogan, Jr.; an infant son, George Robert Hogan; brothers, Roy and Odes Jones; and sisters, Gussie Dossey, Ola Craig Mc-Curry, Tina Buchanan, L. T. Padgett and Gladys Neyland. Vida is survived by her loving children, Karl Michael Hogan of Thornton and Mary Ann Truett of Kosse; grandchildren, Tara Archer Johnson and husband, Russ of Thornton, Ryan Hogan of Thornton, Greg Hogan of Bremond, Kenneth Hogan and wife, Molly of Groesbeck and Shelly Hogan of Thornton; great-grandchildren, Hogan and Grant Johnson; step great-grandchildren, Nick Johnson of Pleasanton, TX and Sadie Johnson of Richardson, TX; sister, Helen Jenkins of Groesbeck; and numerous nieces and nephews. Vida’s family would like to acknowledge and thank prior and current caregivers, Peggy Forge, Sue Johnson, Mary Alice Reese, Shirley Gibson, Sherry Raymond, Mesa Salazar and Lisa Alewine for the loving care and support given during her illness. Memorials may be made to the Tidwell Cemetery Association, %Mary Ann Truett, Treasurer, 706 N. Mignonette, Kosse, TX 76653 or the Thornton United Methodist Church. Please visit www.blairstubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Gerilynn Norrid, 68. The family and friends of Gerilynn Norrid, a Groesbeck resident, let her go with The Angelic Hosts on Wednesday, July 6, at The Groesbeck LTC. Graveside Services were held Monday, July 11, 2016 at 11:00 AM in Waco Memorial Park, 6623 S. I-35, Waco, Texas. Chaplain Karen Hulsey from the Mexia State Supported Living Center officiated. Gerilynn was born in Corpus Christi, Texas on September 19, 1947 to Leon Dawson Norrid and Alma Grace Manger Norrid. Those who will cherish her memory are her friends and the staff of Mexia State School Supported Living Center and Daybreak Community Services. Moore’s Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe Street, Teague, Texas is providing the Final Care for Gerilynn Norrid. Visit our website:mooresangelicfuneralhome.com to sign the guestbook and light a candle.

Jerry Hudson Wilson, age 72, passed away on Saturday, July 2, 2016 in Manassas, VA. He was born on February 13, 1944 to Vestle Edward and Frances Juanita (Hudson) Wilson. Mr. Wilson was the owner and operator of Genuine Cleaning; he served as a minister in the Church of Christ serving most recently the congregations in Waldorf, MD and Luray, VA. He is predeceased by his mother Frances J. Wilson and a brother: Wayne Wilson. Survivors include his father: Vestle Edward Wilson of Groesbeck, TX; his loving wife of 44 years, Mary Marlyn Wilson of Manassas, VA; one daughter: Cynthia Nicole Wilson of New Haven, CT; one brother: Henry Wilson and wife Judy of Gilmer, TX; one sister: Martha Saling and husband Jim of Groesbeck, TX; sister-in-law: Dorothy Wilson of Gilmer, TX and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Friday, July 8, 2016 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Pierce Funeral Home, 9609 Center Street, Manassas, VA. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2016 at 10:00 AM at Manassas Church of Christ, 8110 Signal Hill Road, Manassas, VA with Barry Bryson, Minister officiating. Interment will be held at Stonewall Memory Gardens, Manassas, VA. Condolences may be sent to: www.piercefh.com

Arthur William “Bill” Smith, of Groesbeck, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 16, 2016, at age 76. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 20, 2016, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Groesbeck Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, July 21, 2016, in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Brother Larry Wilson of the Davis Chapel Church of Christ officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00 P.M. at Oaklawn Cemetery in Rockdale, where his parents are buried. Pallbearers will be Micah Morgan, Scott Smith, David Hughes, Mark Smith, Brian Swick, Marcus Hanna, Bobby Wilson, John Norman, Bob Waller, and Rawls King. Honorary pallbearers will be Mason Lodge #354, Groesbeck High School Class of 1961, the Dairy Queen coffee table group, the Waco Skeet and Trap Club friends, and in memory-his deceased friends, Dr. J. B. Riggs, Henry Cox, and Bradley Swick. Bill was born April 20, 1940 to Arthur M. and Lillian Smith in Rockdale. grade. They first lived in a shotgun house on Colorado Street behind the Hewitt’s and later moved to a house on Highway 14 beside the Hewitt’s Flower Shop. His dad worked as a butcher for Joe Tom Henderson, and died suddenly not long after they moved to Groesbeck. Mrs. Smith worked as a nursery attendant at the First Baptist Church and also helped Mary Hewitt at the flower shop. From living near and being at the shop, Bill and Danny Hewitt’s bond as brothers developed. After Bill’s mother passed away at age 48, while Bill was a Junior, Walter and Mary Hewitt became his guardians, and provided a home for him. He called them Papa Hewitt and Mamma Hewitt the rest of his life. Many of Bill’s classmates may rememberwith algebra (Ms. Imogene White’s class.) Bill graduated from Groesbeck High School in the Class of 1961. Bill especially loved the game of football, and the more he could do for people the better he liked it. During high school, Bill was the team manager for the Groesbeck Goats. He took on many duties, including mowing the line and mowing the whole field, chalking the lines before every football game, which included Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday games for the B-team, Groesbeck High, Blackshear-Washington High, and Thornton Tigers. He ran water onto the field for the guys, passed out salt tablets, and after every game he washed all the towels and uniforms to have them ready for the next game. He became skilled in taping ankles, with training from the late Dr. J. B. Riggs and Truett Jones, and he also did this for the out-of-team teams in their locker rooms. He received a certificate as a trainer his senior year. He ran the athletic locker room for the boy’s and girl’s teams in all sports. He rode the bus to the out-of-town games, where he taped ankles and helped with the uniforms. He never complained of the time he spent and work he did. He will be fondly remembered by the players, coaches, band, and all those throughout the years who knew how much he gave of his time. He had planned to participate in a program at Baylor to be a trainer, but the program was eliminated, so he was instead trained in Kansas City, MO. for a year in auto-body work. This was not his true interest, however, so he went to work at Varo in Mexia. When their naval contracts ended and Varo closed, Bill went to work at the Mexia State School. He worked in the laundry department over twenty-three years before retiring. Bill retired at the State School in 1998 to help Mamma Hewitt at the Groesbeck Flower Shop. He delivered an untold number of flower arrangements to people, and he continued to help Danny and Cindy Hewitt when they took over the shop. Bill continued to assist the Groesbeck Goats as manager over the next fifty years, standing on the sidelines of every game. When a boy was hurt, Bill was the first one on the field to check on him. In 2006, Bill was honored at the Groesbeck Homecoming as “Mr. Homecoming 2006” for his contributions as a “Volunteer Goat Football Trainer for 50 Years.” Bill could recall details of many games (such as a game in Franklin played at fifteen degrees); he estimated he had worked with sixteen head coaches and over 1200 Groesbeck Goat players. He was especially proud to attend the Groesbeck Goat State Championship game in the Astrodome in 1991, and proud of the huge number of Groesbeck fans who were in attendance. In addition to football, Bill enjoyed fishing trips with Danny. He enjoyed going to deer camp during hunting season with Marcus Hanna, Henry Cox, and Bobby Wilson, and with Dr. Riggs to hunt at Johnson City. He was a member of the Waco Skeet and Trap Club, shooting clay pigeons with his 12-guage shotgun, and he won numerous awards in shooting. He had a great time on a trip with Dr. Riggs to Mexico City where they met the Olympic Air Force shooting team guys. Another special trip was several years ago, when he traveled to Indiana with friends, and competed in the National Shoot. Bill loved to go dancing, whether at the Cowboy Club, in Waco, after trap shoots, at local homecoming and street dances. When Danny’s daughter, Jennifer Love Hewitt was born, she was his pride and joy. He enjoyed his good neighbors, Steve Hurt and his daughter Delores. Many children and friends called him “Uncle Willie or Uncle Bill.” Bill enjoyed spending time with very close friends, including Judy Bennett before she moved, and Laurie Allen and her family, and Emma Faye Dick and her family, and with all the friends he saw frequently while eating at Swick’s BBQ, Dairy Queen, Mary’s Burger Barn, Steven’s Grocery, S&H, and other eating places in town. Bill was a member of the Groesbeck Masonic Lodge No. 354, for the past fortyplus years. He had worked in past years, part-time at Groesbeck Funeral Home, and made many trips in the funeral van assisting Ken Lee and Danny Hewitt. He was a close friend and brother-in-law to Cindy Hewitt, watching out for her while Danny was making funeral home trips out of town. To Danny, he was “My Brother.” Bill was preceded in death by his father and mother, Arthur and Lillian Smith; Papa (Herbert) and Mamma (Mary) Hewitt; sister, Nita Gay; and niece, Garilyn Hutchinson. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Danny and Cindy Hewitt of Groesbeck; two cousins remaining of the Smith family; niece, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Brian Halsey and children; nephew, Todd and Michelle Hewitt and family; nephew, Lance and Lainie Browning of Whitehouse; and great nephews, Nicholas and Trent Browning; niece, Donna Stewart and husband Terry of Groesbeck; great niece, Lisa and Toby Stewart-King of Groesbeck; niece, Lori and Don Henderson of Lorena; great nephew, Keston Henderson of Lorena; great nieces, Nicky Hutchinson and her extended family and Kristi Henderson and her extended family of Groesbeck; and many close friends. Anyone wishing to make donations in memory of Bill Smith may make them to the Groesbeck Athletic Booster Club, P. O. Box 742, Groesbeck, TX 76642. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condoleon the guestbook.

Debora Kay “Debbe” (Coleman) Hall, of Groesbeck, went to be with her Lord and Savior, on Thursday, July 14, 2016, passing away at Providence Hospice Place in Waco, at age 55. Funeral services wiere held on Saturday, July 16, 2016 in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Michael Nemec of Christ Lutheran Church of Hillsboro and Reverend Dr. Ray Ballmann of Word of Truth Lutheran Church of Glen Rose officiated, and Ms. Rebecca Fisher was the pianist. Burial followed in Faulkenberry Cemetery. Pallbearers were Leslie Keys, Jack Mauldin, Buster Horn, Judge Daniel Burkeen, Tom Fisher, and David Mason. The Home-School children of Tri-County Christian Home Educators were honorary pallbearers. Debbe was born November 3, 1960 in Mexia to Jerry Coleman and Vernell Sue Lenamond Coleman Lown. She grew up in Groesbeck and Thornton, graduating from Groesbeck High School in the Class of 1979, where she had participated in the GHS Band. Debbe lived with her father and step-mother, Jerry and Linda Coleman, during her junior year of high school and attended school in Joshua. There she met Joel “Jody” Dan Hall, a senior in Joshua High. They remained sweethearts after she moved back to Groesbeck for her senior year. The following year, Debbe and Joel were united in marriage, on May 10, 1980, at the home of Joel’s parents in Joshua. Debbe and Joel lived in Joshua a couple of years, moved to Stephenville while he was in college there, and lived in College Station while he earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. After many more moves during Joel’s career as a DVM, they made their move to rural Groesbeck/ Thornton in May 1998. Debbe probably never had a wasted minute in her life, with six children. She home-schooled all six children, with all doing really well in their achievements, and her fifth child graduating this May. With the other children in their home-school coop, Debbe had frequent interaction with other children, many of whom called her Momma Hall. She treated them like her own children, because she truly cared. She was very active in all co-op activities, including stage productions, where there were many trips to Mexia and Fairfield, and lots of work in making costumes and operating lighting. Debbe also found time to volunteer with the Friends of the Maffett Memorial Library and the Friends of the Confederate Reunion Grounds. She was active in the 4-H “Limestone Leaders,” with her children participating in archery, airrifle shooting, photography, showing horses, and foods. Debbe was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Mexia, and devoted time serving as the Secretary of the Church Council. Debbe loved gardening and enjoyed canning with some of her friends. Her work ethic might have come from helping her step-father, Barnett Lown, while she was growing up, with fencing and cattle work, but mainly she had an intense desire to do her best for her family. She was a loving wife and mother. Debbe was a joyful person, and would tell you her joy was from knowing Christ. Debbe was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Bob Lee Hall; father, Jerry Coleman; and her stepfather, J. B. “Barnett” Lown. She is survived by her husband, Joel Dan Hall of Groesbeck; son and daughter-in-law, Micah and Courtney Hall of Lafayette, LA; son and daughter-in-law, Caleb and Destiny Hall of Granbury and grandson, Liam Hall; son and daughter-in-law, Nathan and Nina Hall of Mexia; son, Isaac Hall of Groesbeck; daughter, Hannah Hall of Groesbeck; and daughter, Sarah Hall of Groesbeck. She also leaves behind her mother, Sue Lown of Groesbeck; sister, Lea Farmer of Teague and her three children and their families: Dusty and Jennifer Newsom of Teague and their children, Eathan Goff, Terry Reel, Braydon Newsom, Ty Newsom, and Gage Newsom; Jessica and Timothy Hall of Teague, and their children, Madison Barnett, Si Howle, Hunter Hall, and Avrie Hall; and Haley Newsom of Teague and her children, Mahala Newsom and Eli Newsom. Additionally, her sister and brother-in-law, Lori and Shonn Rather of Thornton and their children Kendall King and Reagan Rather; her brother, Eric Coleman of Waco, and stepmother, Linda Colemen of McGregor; mother-in-law, Mrs. Bob Lee Hall of Joshua; and aunts, uncles, cousins, and other extended family. Visit www. groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook. 

Christine Gamble Padgett, 90, passed away July 20, 2016 in Mexia, Texas. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 23, 2016 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel with Mr. Larry Dickens and Mr. Joe Lucas officiating. Interment was in the Seale- Round Prairie Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were her great-grandsons, Cody Cotton, Will Padgett, Jordan Padgett, Jackson Richardson, Zachery Richardson and Blake McDonald. Alma was born in Limestone County, Texas  on April 27, 1926 to Moses Marion and Nettie Lea Holt Gamble. With the exception of 17 years, due to her husband’s employment, she lived in the Mexia area. She graduated from Mexia High School, Class of 1944. Alma married her lifelong partner, Herman O’Niel Padgett, Sr., on May 8, 1944 in Teague, Texas. After fulfilling her responsibilities of raising her children, Alma went to work at the Mexia State School, retiring after 20 years of service. Alma devoted her life to serving the Lord, taking care of her family and treating people with respect. She never met a stranger, always friendly and greeted everyone with a warm smile. Her family was the joy of her life; a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Alma was, also, a wonderful cook and a great seamstress. She was a longtime active member of the Church of Christ and of the Jonathan Hardin Chapter, National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Herman O’Niel Padgett, Sr.; brothers, Willie and L. B. Gamble; and sisters, Ileen Fry, Ruby DeLo and Mozelle Riley. Alma is survived by her loving children, Herman O’Niel Padgett, Jr. and wife, Shirley Diane, Carol Sue “Suzy” Richardson and husband, James and Diana Louise McDonald and husband, D. L. “Bubba”; grandchildren, James Barrett “Barry” Richardson, Karen Smith, Herman O’Niel “Trey” Padgett, III, Dana McDonald Cotton, Leslie Carroll and Davina McDonald; greatgrandchildren, Cody, Will, Jordan, Jackson, Zachery, Blake, Adam, Cady, Meagan, Carson, McKenzie, Makenna, Miranda and Maci; five great-great-grandchildren; sister, Florence Jones and husband, Roy “Sonny”; sisters-in-law, Gwen Padgett of Lubbock and Johnnie Bennett of Big Spring; and numerous nephews and nieces. Please visit www. blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Mr. Emmett Lee Snipes, of Fairfield, passed away Tuesday, July 12, 2016 among loving family and devoted friends in the East Texas Medical Center of Fairfield. Services are pending at Bonney-Watson Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington. Among his survivors are: His wife, Margaret Ransom Snipes of Fairfield. Moore’s Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe Street, Teague, Texas is serving the Snipes Family. Visit our website: mooresangelicfuneralhome.

Willis Newman Webb, 79, of Lake Charles, LA, died Monday, July 18 in his residence. He was born at home near Teague on Mother’s Day, May 9, 1937. A previous life-long Texan, Webb “jumped the river” to Louisiana in 2012, following a 50 plus year career with newspapers. A 1960 graduate of the University of Houston, Webb began his editing/ publishing career as editor of his hometown newspaper. From there he went on to serve as editor/publisher for numerous Texas newspapers, with his last 16 years at The Jasper Newsboy. Basing his career on the belief that a weekly paper offers not only the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a community, but also a chance to participate in all aspects of the newspaper industry, Webb received countless state and national awards and honors for community service, news writing, editorials, columns, headline writing, photography, advertising design and layout and page design. In 2004, Webb was named President of the Texas Press Association (TPA), the largest state association in the country. During his career he received a multitude of honors including: in 1997, the coveted Eagle Award for outstanding individual accomplishment in journalism from the Hearst Corporation; in 2005, the Harris Wofford Award for outstanding service to youth from Youth Service of America; in 2010, the Lifetime Achievement in Print Media from Sam Houston University; and as the culmination of his long and storied career, in 2013, he was inducted into the Texas Newspaper Foundation Hall of Fame. In addition to being a true wordsmith, Webb was an inspiration and friend to many, especially young people. He loved to tell stories and looked for the positive in everyone. He always fought for what was right, was a peaceful man and a man who loved God. He will be dearly missed. Webb was preceded in death by his beloved son Christopher Webb and his parents L. Ray Webb and Ruth Webb Barger. Those left to mourn him include his loving wife Julie Webb, of Lake Charles, LA and his devoted son Weston Webb and fiancé Heather Bertrand, of Sulphur, LA; granddaughter Jessica Webb of Austin; brothers Kerry Webb and wife Glenda of Round Rock, Clydell Webb and wife Carole Ann of Huntsville and Danny Webb and wife Nelma of McGregor; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends. A memorial “Homegoing” celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, July 30, at Wimberley United Methodist Church, located at 1200 CR 1492, just off RR 12 south of Wimberley. A private family burial service will be held earlier in the day at the Wimberley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Texas Press Association or Texas Newspaper Foundation : 305 S. Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704, South Texas Press Association : P.O. Box 400, Hondo, TX 78861, Texas Gulf Coast Press Association : P.O. Box 1845, Richmond, TX 77469 or the charity of your choice.  

Deborah Kay “Debbie” (Thompson) Phillips, of Mexia, passed away at Scott and White Healthcare in Waco on Saturday, July 30, 2016, at age 59. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, August 2, 2016, in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Spain Trask of the Assembly of God Church of Teague, and her uncle, Pastor Alan Youngblood, officiating. Burial will follow in New Hope Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Bruce Anderson, Dennis Chandler, Paul Edge, Shawnn Phillips, Ben Hardin, and Charlie Pickett. Her cousins will be honorary pallbearers. Deborah “Debbie” was born November 9, 1956 to B. W. and Sylvia Sue (Youngblood) Thompson in Dallas. She grew up in the Farrar community and graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1975. She was a member of the Groesbeck Goat Band. She attended cosmetology school in Waco and was licensed as a beautician by the time she finished high school. One of her childhood memories as an only child out in the country, was sitting in the yard for hours at the time making “mudpies.” Then as a young woman, Debbie worked at the Farrar Store which her dad had built for her, flipping hamburgers, to earn the money to buy the car of her dreams, a ’78 Camaro. She continued to own this treasured car all her life, though it has “parked” during past years. Debbie continued to live in Farrar until moving to Mexia eight years ago. She enjoyed cross-stitching and collecting cookbooks, and picking out recipes to try. Debbie filled her home and yard with plants; she had a glassed-in garden room full of plants, and enjoyed having plants in her yard. Debbie was owned by a dog and three cats, which shared her recliner, and a Siamese was especially “attached to her side.” Debbie was a blessing in the life of B. W. and Sue all her life, and during the past years Debbie was a true blessing in helping her mother with her health needs. Debbie was preceded in death by her mother, Sylvia Sue Thompson two months ago, on May 20, 2016. She is survived by her father, B. W. Thompson of Mexia; her dear friend and fiancé, Bruce Anderson of Groesbeck; son, Shawnn Phillips and grandsons, Cole Phillips, Wyatt Phillips, and Luke Phillips; and many other extended family members. Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.