Aug. 13, 1953 – Sept. 26, 2016

Mrs. Sandra “Sandy” Lynn Owen Bellard, 63, of Farrar, TX went to be with our Lord and Savior Monday, September 26, 2016 in Waco, Texas.

Sandy was born August 13, 1953 in Houston, Texas to Wallace and Anna Owen. She married Sidney “Crazy” J. Bellard in 1982 in Groesbeck. Her loves were her daughter, her family farm and her margaritas. Her favorite flower was the carnation and her favorite food, of course, was Mexican. She graduated from Sam Houston High in Houston and continued her education at Kingwood Lone Star College. Sandy was an accountant for over 20 years at Surveyor’s Instruments in Houston. She retired from Surveying Equipment Specialist Inc. as part owner of the company. She remained a resident of Houston until moving to her family farm in Farrar in 2011. She was a member of the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Houston, Texas.

She was preceded in death by brother, Wallace Earl “Pee Wee” Owen Jr., her father Wallace Earl Owen, her son, Ethan Cole Bellard and her husband Sidney J. Bellard.

Survivors include her daughter, Cassandra “C.J.” Joyce Bellard, of Farrar, mother Anna Laura Thompson, of Birmingham, AL, and sister, Peggy Elaine Brown, of Farrar, an aunt, an uncle, numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held 10:00 AM Thursday, September 29, 2016 at the Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home Chapel in Mexia, TX with Deacon Dwight Mahoney officiating. Interment will follow in the Wilson Chapel Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Chance Brown, Ray Thomas, Gordon Owen, Barry Owen, Butch Alexander and Bo Deishler. Honorary pallbearer will be Jeremy Owen.

Please visit www.blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Dec. 11, 1931 – Sept. 26, 2016

Allen Sidney Johnston was born on December 11, 1931 in Mexia, Texas in the home of his paternal grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Albert Sidney Johnston, Sr.  He was the first child born to Sidney & Dorothy Johnston and his only sibling, Jan, was born the following year.

Allen graduated from Mexia High School in 1948 as a member of the undefeated Blackcat football team.  He remained lifelong friends with many of these teammates.  Shortly after high school, he joined the US Air Force during the Korean War, and was stationed in Britain and Germany.  Upon his return home from service, he met and married Joy Paris of Coolidge.  They were married 61 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jan Johnston Cairns.

He is survived by his wife, Joy, five children, 21 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

*Kent, the eldest, and wife Pam. Their 4 sons: Kody & Erin Johnston, Kole & Erica Johnston, Clay Johnston, and Cade Johnston.

*Jana and husband Kirk Raymond. Their children: Kara Cook and her children Jackson and Kyrksen, David & Maddi Raymond and their children Noah, Brody and Erin Kate, and Merrie & Cameron Sellstrom

*Lori and husband Steve Knight. Their children: Kendra & Ian Gilpatrick and children Ian Ryan and Darby, Tyler & Maggie Knight, and Meg Knight.

*Karen and husband Dave Chilcoat. Their children: Coleton, Noelle & Braxton Brown, Haley Brown, Kallie Brown, Sara & Cody Williams, Ryan Chilcoat and Sydney Chilcoat.

*Karmen and husband Mitch Holeyfield.  Their children: Jake & Mindy Wilson and children Mollie and Rance, Luke & Miranda Wilson and children Cade and Carly,  Jared Holeyfield, Sydney Holeyfield, and Jacob Holeyfield.

Mr. Johnston is also survived by one niece, Nancy Reed, three nephews, Wayne Paris, Trent Paris and Drake Paris and his brother-in-law, Kenneth W. Paris.

Allen will be remembered for his kind heart, gracious spirit and his genuine and determined faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a lifelong Methodist, taught Sunday School, and an early morning Sunday class, The Early Birds, for many years.  He was filled with love and generously shared his love with all he knew.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Thursday, September 29, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church in Groesbeck with Rev. Steve Nance officiating.  Graveside services will be at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, in the Coolidge Cemetery.

Visitation with the family will be 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home.

In honor of his great-granddaughter, Darby Laine Gilpatrick, memorials are encouraged to the SMA Foundation: CureSMA, 925 Busse Road, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 or www.curesma.org.

Please visit www.blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Dec. 25, 1928 – Oct. 3, 2016

Dorothy M. Armstrong, passed away at Windsor Healthcare Residence in Groesbeck on Monday, October 3, 2016, at age 87.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, October 5, 2016, at the Word of Life Church, with Pastors Randy Ayres, Jack Smith, and Lloyd Lane officiating.  Music will be provided by Mrs. Stacy Duffield, Randy Ayres, Jr. and James Ellison.  Burial will follow in Hogan Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Gary Don Jackson, Brian Ellison, James Ellison, Jeffrey Jackson, Randy Ayres, Jr. and Travis Armstrong.   Her great grandsons will be honorary pallbearers.

Dorothy was born December 25, 1928 in Marlin to Harvey J. Williams and Jessie Dean (Graves) Williams. The family lived in Marlin until moving to Waco when she was ten, and she graduated from Waco High School.

Dorothy was united in marriage with Edwin Armstrong, Sr. in Waco on August 10, 1946.  They lived in Waco and then Axtell, until moving to rural Groesbeck near Oletha in 1969.   Dorothy was a homemaker, wife, and mother all her life, and worked for a short time at the Mexia State School.   Dorothy was a giving and selfless person.  

She was a Godly woman, and wonderful mother and grandmother.  Her stand for the Lord led all the children to be saved, and led her son-in-law, Randy Ayres into the ministry and establishment of the Word of Life Church.  She left a great legacy to be followed and has earned her great reward in Heaven for her faith and works.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Harvey Williams, Jr. (at age 3 months) and Jack Merrigan; her son, Edwin Ray Armstrong; great granddaughter, Ainsley Kate Ellison; and her husband, Ed Armstrong (2010.)

She is survived by daughter, Margaret Ann Jackson of Groesbeck; daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Ronnie Ellison of Groesbeck; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Randy Ayres of Groesbeck; and son and daughter-in-law, Eddie (Frog) and Kathy Armstrong of Groesbeck.  Her grandchildren are:  Gary Don Jackson, Vicki Whitlock, Brian and wife Tamara Ellison, James and wife Haley Ellison, Jeffrey and wife Jennifer Jackson, Stacy and husband Jerod Duffield, Randy Jr. and wife Tara Ayres, Vicki and husband Michael Metcalf and Travis Cade and wife Stephanie Armstrong.

Great Grandchildren are:  Amber and husband Mark Spinner, Nikki and husband Michael Dorcey, Kyle Ellison, Nick Ellison, Cameron Ellison, Dillan King, Sydney Duffield, Selby Jackson, Riley Ayres, Cooper Ayres, Raegan Ellison, Tanner Ellison, Kaime Ellison, Brayden McClean, Zachary Ellison, Emily Ellison, Parker Ayres, Castle Armstrong, Stephen Szanto, Delayna Jackson, and Geoffrey Whitlock.

Great-great grandchildren are Peyton Spinner, Taylor Dorcey, Aaron Dorcey, and Chance Whitlock.

Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Gerald Alford Wilson passed away at his home in Groesbeck on Sunday, October 9, 2016, at age 76.

Gerald was born October 15, 1940 in Groesbeck to Willie Washington Wilson and Iris Christine Stevens Wilson. Gerald served in the U. S. Navy, serving three years in Vietnam.

Gerald was married to Carole Ann Ballon and their family included a son and daughter.   The family lived in many different places during his work career in construction and welding in iron-working, with many jobs through Brown and Root; as a truck driver and jack-of-all trades.

He retired in Groesbeck around 2001. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time in his Choctow Indian heritage at dancing ceremonies and Pow-Wows. He was basically a simple-living man and beloved by his family.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Patricia Ann Wilson. 

He is survived by his wife, Carole Ann Wilson of Groesbeck; a son, Jerry M. Wilson of Groesbeck; daughter, Melissa D. Wilson-Hartzell of Austin; granddaughters, Lindsey and Lauron Hartzell;  and a brother, Willie D. Wilson of Houston.

Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Haize Brielle Hurt, born September 12, 2016 to Steven and Kaitlin Hurt, lived for 25 precious days and went home to Heaven on Friday, October 7, 2016.

Long before her birth, her parents were anticipating a family to love and share their lives with.  She and twin sister, Harper Lace arrived unexpectedly early (at 24 weeks) on September 12, and have been under the constant care of the neonatal staff at Cooks Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth, and surrounded with the love and dedication of their parents and family, and in the prayers of many family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, October 9, 2016 in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel, with Chaplain Jonathan Honea officiating.    Mrs. Wendi Wilson will provide music.    Uncles Dustin Roach and Jerod Roach will be pallbearers.    Burial will follow in Cobb Cemetery.

Haize was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Randy Roach; paternal grandmother, Sherri Hurt; and cousin, Dregynn Paul Hurt.

She is survived by her parents, Steven and Kaitlin (Roach) Hurt; her twin sister, Harper Lace Hurt; her maternal grandmother, Jo Roach of Groesbeck; her paternal grandfather, Steve Hurt of Groesbeck; her maternal great grandparents, Terry Don and Angela Roach of Groesbeck; her paternal great grandfather, Clyde Hurt of Groesbeck; uncle and aunt, Dustin and Erica Roach of Groesbeck; uncle, Jerod Roach and his friend, Leigh Ann of Thornton; aunts, Kenda Hurt and Delores Owen of Groesbeck; cousins, Reicher, Ruston and Reeci Roach, Braden, Ethyn, and Faith (Keke) Hurt, and Miley Owen, all of Groesbeck ; and a huge extended family and many friends of the family.

A memorial service for Jeffery Shawn Paul will be held on Friday, October 7, 2016, at noon at the All Around Cowboy Church in Marquez. Bro. Lee Weiler will officiate.

Mr. Paul passed away on Sunday, October 2, 2016.

He was born in Houston, but moved to Marquez at an early age where he remained almost all of his life. He graduated from Leon High School with the class of 1994. Mr. Paul was a mechanic and worked for Marquez Tire & Lube and also worked as a cowboy. He loved hunting and fishing and especially loved his dogs.

He is survived by his wife, Anne Paul; two sons, Austin Paul & Jacob Paul; two step-daughters, Summer & Addie all of Groesbeck; his father, Bo Paul of Willis; his mother, Ava Denison of Marquez; two brothers, Larry Paul of Lufkin and James Paul & wife Sharon of Cleveland; one sister, Gabriel Denison of Marquez; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Ron Denison.

Please visit our website at www.bowersfuneralhome.net to sign the memorial guestbook or to leave a message for the family.

Funeral service for Jimmie Olda Sims, 92, will be held Friday, October 14, 2016, at 2 pm at the Woodville United Methodist Church with Rev. Admanda Davis officiating.  Burial will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Woodville.  Visitation will be held Friday at the Woodville United Methodist Church from noon until the time of the service.

Mr. Sims passed away October 9, 2016 at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas.

Born September 1, 1924 on New York Hill in Thurber, Texas, he attended schools in Thurber, Gordon, Strawn, Ft. Worth, Palo Pinto, Odessa and Graham, Texas.  He graduated from Pasadena High School, Pasadena, Texas in 1942.  Upon graduation from High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1942-1945 as a Private First Class during WWII.  He was a member of the 331^st Medical Group, played Trumpet in the Army Band and was the company bugler while serving in the European Theater.  Mr. Sims was hired by Humber/Exxon in Crawley, Louisiana in 1946 and worked for the company for 40 years.  He married Margaret Louise Irvine on August 4, 1952.  He worked at Clifton by Sea, Wink, Wickett, Anahuac, Liberty, League City, Cedar Point, Baytown, and Gladewater.  After retiring in 1987, he moved to Colmesneil, Texas.  He belonged to the American Legion Post #75 in Mineral Wells, Texas.

He is survived by his son, Glenn Sims of Irving; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Bob Selph of Coppell; daughter and son-in-law, Rev. Dr. Rita Sims and Dr. Andrew Williams of Kosse; granddaughter and husband, Tabitha and Harrison South of Dallas; granddaughter, Morgan Selph; grandson, Brandon Selph; and granddaughter, Laura Williams-Sims of Kosse;  numerous nieces, nephew and friends.  He was preceded in death by Margaret, his wife of nearly 50 years.

Memorials may be made to Woodville United Methodist Church, 508 W. Bluff St., Woodville, Tx 75979.

Condolences may be made at www.rileysfuneralhome.com

Services are held under the direction of Riley Funeral Home of Tyler County.

Emily Edwina (Mayes) Bush was born on the family ranch at Valley Springs, (Llano County) Texas on January 19, 1928 to Mason Foley Mayes and Jewell Elise Mayes. She had one older sister Lilian Faye Wingard who she dearly loved and was a lifelong companion and best friend. Lilian Faye proceed Emily in death in Oct 2004.
At a young age, Emily moved to her grandparent’s farm in Shiro, (Grimes County) Texas. She recounted many times of the fond memories she had growing up on the farm with her grandparents, aunts and uncles. She graduated from high school in Navasota, Texas then attend Business School in Houston.
Emily married Bobby J. Bush in 1949. They had one, son Joe Henry Bush. Emily worked as a secretary for companies such as Tennessee Gas, Bob Bush Sales Company (the family business), then later for Exxon/Mobil Oil Company. She retired from Exxon/Mobil Oil Co. on April 1, 1991. She resided many years in Missouri City, Texas, then moved to Kerrville, Texas where she lived until Aug 2014.
While in Kerrville Emily remained very active by working for Camaro Development doing their secretarial and bookkeeping. She attended events such as the Red Hat Society Gatherings, Exxon Retiree Annual Events and went back to Navasota for her high school reunions, which she loved to attend. She attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Church as well as Calvary Temple Church. She made many dear friends in Missouri City, Houston area and Kerrville.
In 1985, Emily made the greatest decision of her life, trusting the Lord Jesus as her Lord and Savior. In Aug. 2014 due to health issues, she moved to Colorado to be closer to her family, residing in the Holly Nursing Center and later was moved to Weisbrod Memorial Extended Care Unit where she passed away on Oct 10, 2016.
She is survived by her son Joe H. and (wife Janie) Bush of Chivington, Colorado. Her only grandson (Joe Andrew Bush) of San Antonio, Texas. Her brother-in-law, George F. Wingard of Temple, Texas and a niece Elise (Louis) Poole and their daughters Heather and Holly of Richardson, Texas along with other very close friends.
Funeral services were held on Thursday October 13, 2016 at the Brown Funeral Home Chapel in Eads.  Additional services were held on Tuesday October 18, 2016 at Groesbeck Funeral Home, followed by committal services in the Faulkenbury Cemetery in Groesbeck, TX.
Visitation and funeral services were entrusted to the care of the Brown Funeral Home in Eads, and a chapel service and burial by Groesbeck Funeral Home, in Groesbeck, TX.
To register online condolences in the guestbook, please visit www.brownfuneraldirectors.com and/or at www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com

Nathan (Nate) Gene Alexander, Sr., 67, returned home to his heavenly home on August 31, 2016 after a short illness. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.

Nate was born on August 31, 1949, to the proud parents of Clarence and Clarissa Alexander. He attended public school in Groesbeck, Texas, where he graduated from Washington High School. After graduation, Nate enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving proudly, he went on to earn the rank of Sergeant Nathn G. Alexander, Sr.

While stationed in the military, he met and married his wife, Shirley McCollough. To this union was born one son, Nathan G. Alexander, Jr.

Nate joined Above and Beyond Fellowship Church on April 3, 2011, under the leadership of Pastor William J. Lindsey. He was a faithful member, attending services as often as he could until his health began to fail.

He leaves to mourn, his son, Nathan Alexander, Jr., one grandson, Nathan Alexander III, one granddaughter, I’Amaria Alexander, three sisters, Loyce Sam Reeder. Sherriel Curtis and Kathy Curtis; three brothers, Charlie Alexander, Darryl Wayne Curtis and his very special brother and friend, James Reeder.

A testimony to his character and love of children and family, Nathan was a generous and kind person, always willing to listen and lend a helping hand wherever he could. Throughout the years, Nate acted as a second father figure to many; not just a cousin or an uncle. In his very quiet and dignified manner, he strived to be an example to the children of his family, whether he was just listening to their troubles or lending a bit of wisdom based on his own life experiences.

And so, he also leaves to mourn a host of very loving and devoted nieces and nephews, with whom he affectionately referred to as his surrogate children: Nieces-Trina Moore (Genderal); Jazzmine Merrill (De’Vious); Jayla Moore; Alondra (Bre) Moore; Erica Hoskins, Matrechia Hoskins, Shelby Morgan and Shannon Morgan; Nephews – Mast. Sgt. Michael McDonald (Bobbie Jo); Pct. 5 Constable Larenzo Brown and James Hoskins. Special Friends Pamela Green and Accie Smith and host of other relatives, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Nate was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and his sister, Dorothy Nell Barnes.

I, Loyce E. Alexander-Reeder would like to thank all of my wonderful friends who showed love and shared my pain during the passing of my dear brother on his birthday, Aug. 31, 2016. I ask that you keep me in your prayers and may God bless each of you.

Thanks again!

Loyce

Anna Beth “Pidgie” Montgomery Thompson, of Mexia, passed away in Groesbeck, Texas on October 8, 2016 surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 59.  Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel with Chaplain Karen Hulsey and Chaplain Jon Honea officiating.  Interment will follow in the Tehuacana Cemetery.

Visitation with the family will be 6-8 p.m., Monday, at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home.

Anna Beth was born in Mexia, Texas on January 18, 1957 to Hiram “Pete” and Shirley Richardson Montgomery.  She was a lifelong resident of Mexia and a graduate of Mexia High School Class of 1975.  She was presently employed as a Diet Technician for the Mexia State Supported Living Center, where she had worked for 26 years.

Anna Beth was more affectionately known, by her family, as “Pigeon”, later shortened and called, “Pidgie”. Although she had no children, she was like a second mother to her nieces and nephews.  She cherished her family and Pidgie was that special sister or aunt they knew they could count on whenever they needed her. There was never any question that she ruled and the only way was “her way”, which they graciously, respectfully and lovingly accepted.

Pidgie never met a stranger; she enjoyed being around people and could easily strike up a conversation with anyone at any time.  She loved animals, enjoyed yard work, flower gardening and traveling.  Pidgie, especially, enjoyed a cruise that she and her family had taken together.  She was a big Elvis Presley fan, attended some of his concerts and visited his home in Memphis.  She was an excellent cook and enjoyed making candy, peanut brittle was her specialty.  Pidgie was fascinated with watching crew ships come in, liked watching little league baseball games, HDTV, ME TV, Castle, Revenge and Dancing With The Stars.   

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Shirley Montgomery; grandparents, Harvel (Papaw) and Arma (Nannie) Richardson, Oscar and Nettie B. (Memaw) Montgomery; uncle, Buck Montgomery; cousin, Brandie Jones; and her dog and special companion, Shadow.

Pidgie is survived by her loving sisters, Rita Battreall and husband, Stewart of Mexia and Tammie Adams and husband, Warren of Alvarado; nieces, Dr. Misty Hawkins and husband, Dr. Christopher Hawkins and Jennifer Battreall; nephews, Chris Adams and Cody Battreall and wife, Brittani; great niece, Abigail Hawkins and soon-to-be another in December; great nephews, Skylar Fritz and Benjamin Adams; and numerous friends.

Pallbearers will be Sam Matthews, Sr., Sam Matthews, Jr., Bill Capers, Craig Burgess, Scott Moore and Josh Moore.  Honorary pallbearers will be Warren Anglin, Ira “Hoot” Mathison, Rick Bennett, Eddy Plummer and Jerry Brooks.

Pidgie’s family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Warren Anglin, who was like their “Special Angel”, and a special thanks to Hospice and the nurses at Windsor Healthcare for the wonderful care given during her illness.  

Betty June Bates Rasco, age 87, passed away Monday, October 24, 2016.  She was born on November 15, 1928, to Alton David Bates and Ollie Birdie Dryman Bates in Thornton, Texas.  She graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1945.  Betty was a descendant of Seth Hurin Bates, a settler of Fort Parker, a survivor of the Fort Parker Massacre, and a citizen of the Republic of Texas.

She met James Lamar Rasco at a community dance at Fort Parker.  Lamar had just returned from duty in the South Pacific and was in his Army Air Corps uniform, and it was love at first sight.  After a whirlwind courtship, they married 45 days later on April 19, 1946.  They were married 68 years at Lamar’s passing in 2014.

Betty and Lamar moved to Corpus Christi in 1950 and she was a devoted mother of 2 sons and a daughter.  She enjoyed participation in book clubs, ballroom and square dancing, and was a devoted Bible reader.  She was an excellent cook, which she learned from her mother.  Her dinners and welcoming home provided many wonderful family memories.  In her mid-forties, she returned to school to earn her Associate Degree and LVN Certification from Del Mar College, competing at the top of her class.  She worked as a nurse until her retirement.

Betty is survived by son Dennis and wife Carol of San Antonio, Texas, son Dale and wife Patsy of Corpus Christi, Texas, and daughter Diane Rohe and husband Mike of Idaho Falls, Idaho.  She leaves 5 grandchildren, Dr. Drew Rasco and wife Dr. Sarah Rasco of San Antonio, Texas, Amber Henderson and husband Joe of Southlake, Texas, Ryan Rasco of Loveland, Ohio, and Tola Rohe, and Natasha Rohe of Idaho Falls; also 4 great grandchildren, Audrey and Solon Rasco, and Anna and Will Henderson.  She leaves her brother-in-law Solon Rasco of Missouri City, Texas, and her sister-in-law Jo Ann Rasco of Deer Park, Texas, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, and sisters Fleta Mae Keck, and Sharon Kay Dockery.

A Graveside Service will be celebrated on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at Cobb Cemetery, Thornton, Texas, with Brother Larry Wilson officiating.  Groesbeck Funeral Home in charge of local arrangements.

To share words of comfort with the family please visit www.seasidefuneral.com

    Howard Lee Dukes peacefully passed into the loving arms of God on Monday, October 17, 2016, while working at home in his yard in Kyle, Texas.  He was 87 years young.   Howard leaves behind his dedicated wife of 63 years, Eula Jane (Richardson) Dukes; his loving daughter Cindy Rector and her husband Ken; his granddaughter Amy Leigh and grandson Jason; and his great-grandchildren Evelyn, Stella Rose, and Rowan. 

    Anyone who knew Howard knew he loved to sing. He shared his love of music with others throughout his life. Howard loved to visit local nursing homes, where he sang old favorites for an hour at a time, dazzling residents with his strong voice. 

    Howard loved God, and he served his local churches by serving in a variety of roles, including leading music and teaching Bible study classes. He also put his handyman skills to work at church, rewiring, maintaining the building, and performing landscaping. 

    Howard loved to have fun and spend time with his family. When he wasn’t working outdoors or helping others in the community, he could be found at his game table, playing games, telling stories, and laughing and joking with his family.  He lived an extraordinary life.

  In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Howard’s memory to Hays Hills Baptist Church - Memorials 1401 N FM 1626 in Buda, Texas 78610 (http://hayshills.com/give).

Joe Pat Mills, of Kosse, went to meet his savior on Tuesday, October 25, 2016, at age 86, following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, October 27, 2016 at the First Baptist Church in Kosse. Reverend Jack Wren (First Baptist Church of Kosse), Chaplain Jon Honea (Limestone Medical Center), and Reverend William Wright (First Christian Church of Marlin) conducted the  service, and music was provided by Dee and Don Unsell.  Burial followed at the Kosse City Cemetery, with military honors.

Pallbearers were Charlie Mills, Joe Wayne Mills, Ronnie Funderburk, Ronnie Pettigrew, Randy Funderburk, Brandon Funderburk, Kendall Funderburk, and Chance Funderburk. Honorary pallbearers were Austin McCarver, Spencer Lammons, Jeremy Erskine, and Cecil Lyon.

Joe Pat was born on September 8, 1930 to Charles Alphus Mills and Ila (Wilson) Mills at Box Church. He grew up in Kosse and graduated from Kosse High School. He went to work at age eleven at the Swingler’s Grocery, were he worked there through his high school years. Mr. Ross Swingler was an alternate father to him, since his own father died two months before he was born and Joe Pat was very close with the entire Swingler family.

Joe Pat was united in marriage with Helen Hammitt in 1951, and to this union were born two children, Charles and Pamela Ann. During this marriage he served in the U.S. Army, from 1952 until 1954, attaining the rank of Corporal. He was stationed in Bamburg, Germany during the reconstruction after WWII, and loved Germany and spoke well of the people he met there. His life was touched by the devastation from the Holocaust and this gave him a deep appreciation for life.

He attended Pan American University after his military service and began working for Haliburton. He transitioned to Sun Oil and Gas Company, where he worked for the next thirty-eight years. Joe Pat became Vice-President of Engineering in the Southwest United States for his company. During all those years, the family packed up and moved with him to job locations between Texas and Oklahoma. His wife, Helen passed away March 8, 1980.

Joe Pat was united a second time in marriage with Shirley Walcher on November 18, 1980, and two sons were added to the family, Mark and Mike Luckie. He retired in 1987. While living in Buffalo, OK., he renovated a “Sears Roebuck Catalog house” for him and Shirley. Joe Pat also did volunteer work at the Seeger Funeral Home there. He and Shirley remained in Buffalo until she passed away in June 2000. Joe Pat moved back to Baytown, Texas later that year.

Joe Pat and Sue Funderburk, whose families have remained close friends all their life, were united in marriage on June 3, 2001. Their marriage also became a reunion between all the children. Joe Pat added three more children to his family. While living in Baytown they had planned to move back to Kosse, but a hurricane evacuation sped that up. Joe Pat began renovation of an older farm house when he and Sue moved to Kosse. He worked on their home until his health declined.

Joe Pat grew up in the Church of Christ of Kosse, and he was a member of the First Baptist Church of Kosse, and in later years has attended the First Christian Church in Marlin.

Mr. Mills was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Helen Hammitt Mills and his second wife, Shirley Walcher Mills; brothers, Charles Hartley Mills and Warren Mitchell Mills; and son-in-law, Wallace Hampton.

He is survived by his wife of fifteen years, Sue Funderburk Mills of Kosse; Charles Arlon and Barbara Mills (son and daughter-in-law); Pamela Ann Hampton (daughter)of Oklahoma City, OK.; Ronnie and Jennifer Funderburk (son and daughter-in-law); Randy Lynn and Misty Funderburk (son and daughter-in-law); Robbie and Ronnie Pettigrew (daughter and son-in-law); Mark and Terrie Mark Luckie (son and daughter-in-law) of Ashland, Kansas; and Mike and Roxie Luckie (son and daughter-in-law)of Rosston, OK. He is also survived by fourteen grandchildren and their spouses: Joe Wayne Mills, Brianna Forsyth, Janie Mills, Jake Ellis, Kendall Funderburk, Jessica Funderburk, Brandon Funderburk, Kaitlyn Pettigrew, Chelsea Watson, Chance Funderburk, Jessie Luckie, Ryan Luckie, Shawn Luckie, and Sherrie Luckie; and fifteen great grandchildren. He is also survived by Bill and Darlene Swingler (brother-in-law and sister-in-law)and a host of friends.

Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

January 25, 1930 – November 4, 2016

Cleathel Randall (C.R.) Rand, 86, of Groesbeck went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, November 04, 2016, at Providence Hospital in Waco, Texas.

Funeral services were held Monday, November 7, 2016, at the First Baptist Church of Groesbeck, with Rev. Troy Brooks and  Rev. Tracy Sims officiating. Burial followed at Faulkenberry Cemetery in Groesbeck.

Pallbearers were grandsons Dr. Chris Rand, Jimmy Bradley, Mikey Terry, Keith Rand, Derek Pringle and great-grandsons Brayden Bradley, Jake Pringle, Dylan Rand, Tyson Pringle and Bryce Rand.  Honorary pallbearers were Elmer Beene Jr., Jack Forrest, Jimmy Harryman, Jim Longbotham, and Chuck Phillips.

Randall was born to Garvin and Elna Rand January 25, 1930 in the LaSalle community. Randall attended LaSalle Grammar School, until the family moved to Groesbeck, where he attended Groesbeck Grammar School and then attended Groesbeck High School until his graduation in 1947. Randall was an outstanding football player for the Groesbeck Goats and was football co-captain in 1945 and unanimous all-district in 1946. After graduation from GHS, Randall attended Tarleton State College 1947-1948 on a football and track scholarship, where he was the starting running back for Tarleton as a true freshman. However, his love for his high school sweetheart was more important to him than football.

Randall then started the rest of his life by marrying the love of this life and high school sweetheart Elizabeth Jane Browder on August 6, 1948. Randall and Jane quickly started a family and before long had three sons, Doug, Don, and Ricky. The Rand’s started their life in Fort Worth and quickly moved to San Diego where Randall worked for Convair from 1955-1961. Randall worked for General Motors in Kansas City and Indianapolis on jet engines, rockets and the minute man missile program. Upon moving back to Groesbeck, Randall and Jane opened their own business, Rand’s Phillips 66 and Rand Oil Company in 1961. The Rand family continues to operate Rand Oil Company today.

Randall was a tremendous athlete and a self taught “scratch” golfer in his early twenties. His closet is full of numerous 1st place amateur golf trophies and it was stated by many that had he had the opportunity to continuously work on his golf game, he could have made a living competing professionally in golf. He loved his Groesbeck Goats and Dallas Cowboys and was very proud of the fact that a member of his family represented the Groesbeck Goats in athletics for eight continuous decades, starting with him in the 40’s and still counting today. He was a business visionary and was responsible for numerous businesses locating in his hometown of Groesbeck.

He was a member of several organizations and has been supportive of many community projects and fund raisers. He has been a past president of the Groesbeck Chamber of Commerce and the Groesbeck Ex-Students Association. He was a Mason as well as a member of the Groesbeck Lions Club.

He has been a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Groesbeck for many years and has served that church in many capacities. Randall is also retired as a member of the Board of Directors of the Farmers State Bank of Groesbeck where he served on the banks board for 31 years.

Jane and Randall were also original and continuous cast members of the long running “Groesbeck Red Stocking Follies”. One of their greatest loves was travel and they were fortunate enough to have literally traveled the world for many years with their traveling buddies, Martha and Tom Longbotham, as well as with their family and many others.

He was preceded in death by Jane, his wife of 62 years, his parents, Garvin and Elna Rand; brother Jimmy Joe Rand and sister Peggy Rand Smith and two great-granddaughters, Breckyn Bradley and Mika Terry.

He is survived by sons, Doug and wife Marlene Rand, Don and wife Mary Rand, and Ricky and wife Tammy Rand, all of Groesbeck; grandchildren, Dr. Chris Rand and wife Deana Rand, Rachel Rand Bradley and husband Jimmy Bradley Jr., all of Groesbeck, Michele Rand Terry and husband Mikey Terry of Maypearl, Keith Rand and wife JJ Rand, Nicole Rand Pringle and husband Derek Pringle, also of Groesbeck, Kathryn Rand Prose and wife Amber Prose of San Antonio, Kimberly Rand of Denver, Colo., Chance Lowenthal of Odessa and Ashleigh Rand of Groesbeck; great-grandchildren, Madison Terry, Brayden Bradley, Jake Pringle, Dylan Rand, Macy Terry, Kylie Rand, Breann Bradley, Tyson Pringle, Carley Rand, Bryce Rand, Brittyn Bradley, Adleigh Sims, and Beckett Prose; and numerous loving nieces and nephews, in-laws and many, many friends.

The family would like to thank the many wonderful doctors and nurses at Limestone Medical Center as well as at Providence Hospital, especially Dr. Steven Elwell, Randall’s attending physician while in Providence.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Groesbeck, the Limestone Medical Center of Groesbeck or the charity of your choice.

Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook

Annie Joyce (Henderson) Hawkins of Waxahachie passed away Saturday, November 12, 2016 at Brookdale Senior Living in Waxahachie.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 11 AM at LaSalle Cemetery with Rusty McMahon officiating.

Annie was born July 7, 1932 in the Ben Hur Community to James W. Henderson, Sr. and Reba Tula (Williams) Henderson.  She graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1953. After high school she was self-employed as a seamstress and mainly worked with upholstery as well as car and truck interior customizations.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Roy Hawkins; both parents; three brothers, James Henderson, Jr., Merl (Noe) Henderson and Bill Henderson and one sister, Christine Wright.

Annie is survived by her son, Drake Hawkins and wife Sheila and grandchildren, Haley Hawkins and Wyatt Hawkins all of Waxahachie, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Alzheimer's Association at: http://www.alz.org

Janie Lavelle Adams Humphrey passed away on Thursday, November 10, 2016, at 2:44 in the afternoon in Groesbeck, Texas. She had recently celebrated her 90th birthday. Janie was born October 23, 1926, at her home in Kosse, where she grew up and resided the majority of her life. Her parents, Jesse and Hattie Adams, had six children: Howard, Rufus, Janie, Betty Ruth, Lytle, and Jimmy. Janie was a Kosse Greyhound graduating from the local high school in 1944. Soon after, she married Loy Humphrey on January 23, 1948, and they began their life together in his hometown of Van, Texas. In 1961, the Humphreys returned to Kosse to raise their family: Robert Loy, Bettijane, and Kimberly Ann. She would tragically lose her only son in the Vietnam War.

Making Kosse her permanent home, she became a member of the First Baptist Church of Kosse. Janie used her talents as a seamstress for making clothing, home décor, and lots of costumes for her grandchildren and the community. She had a natural gift for gardening, growing beautiful rose bushes, spectacular passion vines, and big, bright bougainvillea. Without a doubt, the family’s best cook, taking care to make everyone’s favorite dish. Her incomparable Thanksgiving dressing will be missed dearly. Janie was fiercely independent, always living on her own; an avid conversationalist; the toughest woman ever, disciplining all those kids with peach switches; resourceful, delivering the Waco paper well into her 70s; courageous, unafraid to kill any snake that slithers in her way; dependable, and most importantly, she was a caregiver—to one husband, three children, five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and one great, great grandson. Janie was present in all of their lives—a very involved matriarch. Many a fun nights were spent at grandmother’s house.

Janie is preceded in death by her parents, her son, Robert (Bob), her husband, Loy, two brothers, Howard and Rufus, and her sisters, Lytle (an infant) and Betty Ruth Robbins.

Janie is survived by her brother, Jimmy Adams; her two daughters, Betty and husband Kent Henry of Marlin, and Kim Cook and husband Randy of Groesbeck; four granddaughters, Jana Manes of Marlin, Lynne Kilman of Fairfield, Deana Rand and husband Chris of Groesbeck, Melanie and husband Dileep Bhateley of Marlin, and one grandson, Ryan Cook and wife Brandi of Colmesniel; nine great grandchildren: Brent Manes, Cody Windham, Dylan and Carley Rand, Clay Crane, Abigail Kilman, Ayden, Adalynn and Anderson Cook; and one great, great grandson, Jaxson Windham; and best friend, Edna Cook of Marlin.

The family would like to thank the many wonderful doctors and nurses at the Limestone Medical Center.

A graveside service was held Saturday, November 12, 2016, at Kosse City Cemetery in Kosse, TX.

Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Clarice Hazel Moody Blackshear passed away on November 8, 2016, at her home in Grapevine, Texas. She was born on June 26, 1921 to Pearl and Tom Moody of Groesbeck, Texas. Clarice married Jack W. Blackshear, Sr., in Waco, Texas. She moved to Grapevine in 1956 and raised her family there. Clarice retired from Sanger-Harris department stores after many years of working in the Plymouth Park store. After her retirement, Clarice enjoyed helping others in her community through her church. She was a longtime member of the Church of Christ in Grapevine. Clarice was active in AARP, her retirement group and many other civic groups.

Clarice's love for her family was unending. She never tired of cooking for others and made anyone who crossed her doorstep feel like part of the family. Clarice's love was abundant and apparent to anyone who had the pleasure of being in her company. There was a special place of joy in her heart for her grandchildren. Clarice spent many hours caring for them and watching them grow. They will miss their "Gran" deeply as there will never be another. You knew she loved you.

Clarice is lovingly survived by: her sons Jack Blackshear, Jr., and Wayland L. Blackshear; son and daughter-in-law Ronald L. and Sherry; daughter and son-in-law Debra E. Blackshear Rucker and Dooley; her grandchildren Paul, Dylan, Jamie and Justin; and great-grandchildren Dean, Emily and Clara.

Clarice will be greatly missed but we know she is singing with the angels right alonside her parents and beloved sister, Inza.

Funeral services were held at 10:00AM on Saturday, November 12, 2016 in the Chapel of J. E. Foust & Son Funeral Home, 523 South Main Street, Grapevine.  Interment was in the Faulkenberry Cemetery in Groesbeck, Texas. Arrangements were under the direction of J. E. Foust & Son Funeral Home, Grapevine.

Linda K. Zeigler, Denton, died November 24, 2016.  Born Linda Elaine Kilgore to her late parents, Edward R. Kilgore and Thelma Ruth Cohen Kilgore in Waco, April, 1939,  she was raised in Groesbeck, Texas, graduating from Groesbeck High School as Valedictorian in 1957.  She went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at Austin.

In the 1960s she worked briefly for the Department of Parks and Wildlife in the publication of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine and went on to become assistant editor and then editor of the Texas Presbyterian, the publication of the Presbyterian Synod of Texas of the Southern Presbyterian Church.

Married to John D. Zeigler in 1964, she moved with him to Yoakum, Texas, in 1968.  She taught middle and high school English in Shiner and Yoakum.  Daughter, Heidi and son, Sean were born during the family’s years in Yoakum.

In 1979 the family moved to Tyler, where Linda would become head of the Journalism Department at Tyler Junior College, until her retirement in 2007.  During her tenure at TJC she received many awards for teaching excellence.  She was advisor for the TJC student newspaper and Touchstone literary magazine.  She served as a Ruling Elder at First Presbyterian Church, Tyler, was active with Habitat for Humanity and was a strong advocate for racial equality during her years in Tyler.  She was an accomplished writer, seamstress and gardener.

She was preceded in death by her parents, E.R. Kilgore and Thelma Ruth Cohen Kilgore, her sister, Sharon Kilgore Barnes and niece, Dianna Zeigler Swientek. 

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, John D. Zeigler, son, Sean Zeigler and wife, Shawn Barton Zeigler of Denton, daughter, Heidi Zeigler and husband, Panos Panayotaros of Mexico City, Mexico, brother, Edward E. Kilgore and wife, Kathy of Lewisville.  Also, nieces, Amy Barnes Rush of Granbury, Lisa Kilgore of Carrollton, Alyson Kilgore Shirley of Lewisville, Lori Zeigler Robinson of Oslo, Norway, Jennifer Zeigler Fordham of Southlake, and nephew, Alan Zeigler of the Woodlands, as well as numerous friends, associates and former students.

Memorial services are pending in Tyler, following the New Year.  In lieu of flowers the family requests that gifts be made to Assisted Living at Silver Gardens, 3980 Deep Valley Drive, Dallas, TX  75244 or to Cottonwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Denton, 2224 North Carroll Blvd., Denton, TX  76201.

Roland Neal Slaughter, of Groesbeck, passed away Friday, December 2, 2016, at Windsor Healthcare Residence, at age 82.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 10, 2016, from 5:00 to 6:30 P.M. in the Groesbeck Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, December 11, 2016, at the Church of Christ in Groesbeck.   Brother Richard Williams and Brother Cliff Fox will officiate.  Burial will follow in Hogan Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Rand Bates, Bill David Sadler, Dale Wilson, Don Sadler, Billy Floyd Wilson, Ebert Dale McNeill, Milton Hogan, and Mel Jarvis.  Honorary pallbearers will be David Roach, Tommy Hastings, Bill Sadler, Don Brewer, the Elders of the Church of Christ of Groesbeck, and all the employees of Windsor Healthcare.

Roland was born July 24, 1934 in Box Church to John Nolan Slaughter and Eddie Myrle McNeill Slaughter.  He attended schools at Box Church, later at Dayton, and graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1952.  

Roland went to work for Western Electric in Houston, and also attended barber school and was a licensed barber.  He enlisted in the U. S. Army in July 1954 and was stationed in El Paso. 

Roland was united in marriage with Lena Beth Hyden on December 18, 1954 in El Paso.   Beth bravely rode the train alone to El Paso to marry Roland, as the anticipation that he might be sent to Germany had caused them to change their plans for a wedding the following June.

When Roland was discharged in November 1956, he and Beth moved to Houston where he went back to work for Western Electric.   After a company lay-off, he worked a year at the Post Office, and then was called back to work by AT&T Technologies.    Roland worked on computers, and had received training in the Army in radar and electronics, as well as taking training courses during his career.

Roland and Beth raised four boys in Bellaire and their home was often full of the friends of their sons. Roland was an involved father, active in Scouts, Y-Indian Guides, and coaching their baseball teams.  He worked with them on agriculture projects and attended debate team trips, and also he served on the elementary school board several years. 

Roland was a Deacon at West United Church of Christ, where he was in charge of personal evangelism for fifteen years;  taught high school and adult Bible classes; ministered at M. D. Anderson, serving communion there; and at a local nursing home.  He took college Bible classes at Lindale Church of Christ, and was ever involved in teaching others through film strips or “open Bible study.”  The boys recall there seemed to never be a time that Roland was not picking up someone to ride to church, with the boys having to sit in each others’ laps to make room.

The boys learned many lessons from how Roland conducted his life as their parent and as he shared the gospel with others.   In 1976 he organized a door-knocking campaign covering 25,000 people in the area, which turned out very successful. 

Roland had previously bought his Dad’s farm in 1972, which had been in the Slaughter family for four generations.  He worked on it during weekend trips to Groesbeck, cleared the land, and the boys raised calves given them by Grandfather Hyden, and Roland later raised cattle once he had moved back.

After a thirty-year career, Roland retired in August 1984.   In September 1985, Roland and Beth built their home in Groesbeck, so he and Beth could be more involved in taking care of their parents.  

During his years in Houston, Roland had worked as a barber on Saturdays, with his sons enjoying helping him at the shop.   He kept his license and after moving to Groesbeck, he leased Rand Bates’ barbershop where he served the public from 1986 through 1996.    He kept his license renewed until the past week.

Roland enjoyed genealogy and spent time on their vacation trips to research family records at those locations, and wrote a book on the Slaughter family.

Roland was active in the Church of Christ at Groesbeck, taught adult Bible classes, continued personal evangelism, and served some years as an Elder.   Roland taught his sons to honor their parents and grandparents, and that the glory goes to God.  After a stroke, he had been paralyzed and could not talk for the past eight and one-half months; however, he was still a Christian influence on all who knew him.  The past Friday, he had a few good hours to show Beth his love.  His family knows he is God’s hands now, and that he left a legacy for them to know he will have an eternal home in Heaven with Jesus and his Heavenly Father.

Roland was preceded in death by his father and mother; his brother, Larry G. Slaughter; and his daughter-in-law, Melissa Slaughter.

He is survived by his wife, Lena Beth Slaughter; son Michael Slaughter; son and daughter-in-law, David and Iliana Slaughter; son, Steven Slaughter; son and daughter-in-law, John and Sheila Slaughter.   The ten grandchildren are:  Chris Slaughter, Nick Slaughter,  Katie Slaughter, Maddie Slaughter, Ellie Slaughter, Josh Eilander, Amanda Eilander, Lauren and husband Garrett Oden, Ashley Slaughter, and Lyndsey Slaughter.   He also leaves behind a sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Bill Robinson; nieces, Jeanette, Susan and Amanda; and nephew, Larry Slaughter, Jr.

Visit www.groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

James Elmo Robison, 86, of Thornton, passed away December 1, 2016 in Waco, Texas.  Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 4, 2016 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel in Thornton with Pastor Randy Ayres officiating.  Masonic Rites will also be conducted at the Chapel.  Interment will follow in the Cobb Cemetery.  Keith Masters, James Robison, Remington Masters, McKenzie Masters, Kristopher Masters and Juston Prichard will serve as pallbearers.  Randal Masters, Kenny Buchheit, Jonathan Tooke, Doug Yarbrough, Mark Cox, Harry Vanskike and Kenneth Copeland will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Visitation with the family will be 5-7 p.m., Saturday, at Blair-Stubbs Chapel in Thornton, Texas.

James was born in Mexia, Texas on March 2, 1930 to Joyce Fain and Annie Elizabeth White Robison.  He graduated from Thornton High School where he played football for the Thornton Tigers.  He was a retired railroad welder for GATX, a longtime rancher and a state mowing contractor.

James was involved in numerous organizations.  He was an original director of TYRRA, past Fire Chief of TVFD, held offices in the Thornton Chamber of Commerce and the Thornton Riding Club and a member of the Thornton Masonic Lodge where he was Past Master and received his 50 Year Service Award Pin.  He was also very supportive of the Thornton 4-H and helped build the first, and last, Thornton Rodeo Arena.

James love for the Lord and his family was exemplified in the way he lived his life.  He enjoyed nothing more than being surrounded by his family and spoiling his grandchildren.  He also enjoyed riding horses, rodeos, fishing and hunting.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and great-grandson, Colton Lee Whiteside.

James is survived by his loving wife, Melita Ruth Robison of Thornton; children, James R. “Inky” Robison and wife, Shirley of Thornton, Debra Masters and husband, Mason of Mexia, Joey Robison and wife, Carla of Thornton and Lolita Dutton of Thornton; grandchildren, Sheryl and Anthony Swann of Butler, Crystal and Keith Sandefer of Teague, Christina Robison and Jeff Whiteside of Dew, Shelley and Michael McCaleb of Kosse, Sherri and Jason Buxkemper of Thornton, Keith and Mandi Masters of Thornton, James and Mandy Robison of Groesbeck, Traci and Jud Hughes of Thornton, Juston and Britney Prichard of Thornton, Jolita and Ricky Johnson of Teague and Amber Dutton of Thornton; 23 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Stanley “Butch” and Gail Smelscer of Waco; numerous nieces and nephews; and many more that called him “Pap”.

Please visit www.blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.