Ector Co. TX - Obits from the Odessa American Online, January 1-15 2003 Thanks to the Odessa American Online, http://www.oaoa.com/ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ------------------------------------------------ Wednesday January 01, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index _________________________________________________________________ Sam Ballew ODESSA Sam Ballew, 72, of Odessa, an exemplary husband and father, left his life here on earth to begin life anew with his heavenly Father Monday, Dec. 30, 2002, at Medical Center Hospital. His wife and children were by his side. He was born March 13, 1930, to Samuel Ballew Sr. and Corine Warren Ballew in Fort Worth, Texas. He moved to Odessa in 1948. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and married Dorothy Dottie Everson July 24, 1954. He was employed by Southwestern Bell Telephone for 50 years and retired in 1999. He was honored by Governor George Bush for his remarkable record of service. He was a member of Crescent Park Baptist Church where he was a Boy Scout leader. Survivors include his wife Dottie; a daughter and son-in-law, Patti and Greg Parish of Arlington; a son and daughter-in-law, Sammy and Kathy Ballew of Desoto; and four grandchildren, Clint and Catie Parish, and Travis and Cole Ballew, and several nieces and nephews. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Crescent Park Baptist Church with the Rev. Johnny Dickerson officiating. Burial will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Moore Cemetery in Arlington. Arrangements by Hubbard Kelly Funeral Home. Mr. Ballew never met a stranger and will be greatly missed. Those who met him will be forever blessed. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Crescent Park Baptist Church. [010103Coggins.jpg] Clifford Coggins ODESSA Clifford Lowell Coggins Sr. went to Paradise Monday, Dec. 30, 2002, following a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Clifford was born Oct. 5, 1918, in Glencoe, Ark., to John Henry and Alberta Mae Coggins. Mr. Coggins married Helen Louise Snow Feb. 6, 1943, in Houston. Following his service in the Aleutian Islands during World War II, Clifford was transferred to the United States Army Air Corps and moved to Midland where he became a Cadet Bombardier Instructor at Midland Army Air Force Base. Clifford was owner and operator of Southwest Sales Company. Mr. Coggins is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Helen Louise Coggins of the home; his son, Clifford Sonny Coggins Jr. and daughter-in-law, Linda Coggins, of Odessa; his daughter, Claudia Mae Hobbs and son-in-law, Tommy Hobbs, of League City; his daughter, Iris Jean Riggs and son-in-law, Kevin Riggs, of Odessa. Preceding him in death were two daughters, Patti Jon Coggins and Wanda Louise Edney. Mr. Coggins is also survived by three sisters, Thelma Louise Henry of Milan, Tenn., Hazel Earlene Lewis of Midland and Jurlene Violet Warren of Odessa; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. Mr. Coggins was also preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Wanda Nadine Coggins, and three brothers, Winford Clyde Coggins, Wayne Dale Coggins and Richard Glen Coggins. Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, at the Sixth and Jackson Church of Christ with burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Minister Roy Smalling will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice House. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday January 02, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [010203McNew.jpg] Sudie Etta McNew This day is one of peace at last. Today we say goodbye for now to Sudie McNew the pillar of our family and the heart of our hearts. On Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2002, Sudie lost her long battle with lung cancer. She died at home surrounded by the love of her family. A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. today at Chapel Hill Baptist Church in Odessa, where she was a longtime member. Graveside services will follow in Ackerly Cemetery with the Rev. Jimmy Law officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Sudies journey through life began on June 23, 1929, in Westbrook. She was the second of nine children born to Henry Grady Paige and Grace Wagner Paige. Growing up in such a large family, Sudie first acquired her wonderful knack for nurturing and perhaps perfected her stubborn nature. She learned to work hard in the cotton fields of West Texas, which helped her develop the work ethic she kept the rest of her life. Sudie married Jay Hobbs (Jake) McNew on Dec. 11, 1948, at First Baptist Church in Lamesa with the Rev. Atwood officiating. The couple lived in various West Texas and Colorado towns before settling down in Odessa in 1958. In 1975, Sudie and Jake decided they liked each other enough to work together, and they opened McNew Carpets. Sudie worked the showroom, and Jake handled the installation. They operated the business together for 11 years. In Sudies opinion, her greatest accomplishment was her family, and her life began with the birth of her children. She had five daughters, eight grandchildren (one boy) and six great-grandchildren (two boys). Three of her girls preceded her in death: Vickie Lynn McNew, Dana Kaye Hukill and Shirley Diane Wilkerson. Sudie was the glue that held her family together through sorrow and joy, pain and elation, desperation and hope. She shared with us her love of life. She was our example of faith in adversity. She left us a legacy of strength, warmth and goodness. She leaves behind her husband, Jake; her daughters, Shelly McGuire and husband, Dewayne, of Gardendale, and Candis Jones and husband, Richard, of Odessa; her brothers and sisters, Bertha Paige Craven and husband, William, of Odessa, Henry Paige Jr. and wife, Verla, of Big Spring, James Paige and wife, Jimmie, of Houston, Jerry Paige and wife, Shirley, of Big Spring, Ruth Steen and husband, Bill, of Odessa, Sue Day and husband, Thomas, of Gardendale, and Rita Bailey of Odessa. She will also be missed by her grandchildren, Pamala Sharp and Rhonda Dolloff of Odessa, Cheryl Brown and husband, Joel, of Richardson, Leslie Brown and husband, Mark, of Odessa, Keri Jo Hukill of San Angelo, and Danielle McGuire, Matthew Jones and Rikki Jones of Odessa; her great-grandchildren, Ashley Wilkerson, Heather Dolloff, MaKayla Hightower, Alex Brown and Michael Brown, all of Odessa, and Grace Brown of Richardson; as well as countless nieces, nephews, cousins and friends throughout the country. As Sudies family, we would like to thank the people who made her final days and hours bearable. We are especially grateful to Odyssey Hospice and Nurses Unlimited Home Health Care. To Vickie Harris, RN; Robin Salois, PTA; Tina Milwee, CAN; and all the other wonderful people who cared for our Mema our sincere appreciation for doing what you do. Thank you. [010203Robinson.jpg] Elsie M. Robinson ODESSA Elsie M. Robinson, 93, of Odessa passed away Monday, Dec. 30, 2002 at Medical Center Hospital. She was born Sept. 25, 1909 in Anacoco, La. She was a homemaker and a member of First Baptist Church. She is survived by her daughter, Tresina Hardin and husband, Morgan, of Odessa; sister, Myrtle Smith, of Port Neches, Texas, eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held 4 p.m. Thursday, January 2, 2003 at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Bill Cook officiating. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [010203Strasser.jpg] Russell W.B. Strasser EL PASO Russell W.B. Strasser, 40, an accomplished musician, passed away on Dec. 26, 2002 in Ann Arbor, Mich. He was born Oct. 9, 1962 in El Paso and at the time of his death he was the Director of Music at St. Johns Catholic Church in Howell, Mich. Russell is survived by his parents Pat Scott of Mount Juliet, TN., and Karl L. Strasser of El Paso. He is also survived by his sisters, Karla Norcio of Harbor City, CA, Debbie Roberts of Pecos, Bobbie Jo Francione-Hernandez of El Paso, Paula Rudisill and Sharon Strasser, both of Austin, and Susan Strasser-Medley of Van Horn; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, at Kaster-Maxon & Futrell Funeral Home, 8817 Dyer St., in El Paso. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday January 03, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [010303Gatlin.jpg] Willie Gatlin ODESSA Willie Myrtle Gatlin, 93, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2003, at Hospice House. She was born June 1, 1909, to John Franklin and Lillie Mae Simmons in Klondike. She was a homemaker and a member of First Methodist Church. Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Chapel. Burial will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park in Burnet. Her parents and two brothers preceded her in death. Survivors include two sons, Bill Gatlin of League City and James Gatlin of Palmer; three daughters, Joyce Reeves of San Angelo, Sue Cregg of Midland and Joann Stanford of Odessa; two sisters, Jewell Melton of Kingsland and Maxine Solovay of Monterrey Park, Calif.; 13 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to Home Hospice. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Opal Jenkins MONAHANS Opal Loredia Jenkins, 88, of Monahans, a homemaker, died Monday, Dec. 30, 2002, in Odessa. She was born Oct. 9, 1914, in Antlers, Okla. She was a member of the 3rd and Dwight Church of Christ. Survivors include her sons, Ed Jenkins and wife, Rheta, of Abilene, Seth Jenkins and wife, Sue, of Amarillo, Jim Jenkins and wife, Debbi, of Lubbock and Ocie Jenkins of Perryton; daughter, Loredia Potts of Monahans; brother, Leonard Phoenix of Dianna; nine grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at 3rd and Dwight Church of Christ with Greg Holly officiating. Interment will follow at Monahans Memorial Cemetery. Services entrusted to Family Funeral Services/Jackie Harkey. [010303Quinonez.jpg] Luis Quinonez ODESSA Luis Esteban Quinonez, 28, died Monday, Dec. 23, 2002, in Thorton, Colo. Luis was born March 9, 1974, in Denver, Colo., to Jose C. Quinonez and Cira Navarrete. Luis was Catholic. He was employed with Pinford Construction. He married Julie Montano July 1, 1995, in Odessa. Services were held Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2003, in Ojinaga, Chihuahua, Mexico. Burial was in El Jardin De San Jose. Survivors include his wife, Julie Quinonez of Thorton, Colo.; daughter, Ariah P. Quinonez of Thorton, Colo.; mother, Cira Navarrete of Ojinaga, Chih., Mexico; father, Jose C. Quinonez of Aurora, Colo.; sister, Silvia Quinonez of Odessa; two brothers, Jose Angel Quinonez and Manuel Quinonez, both of Denver, Colo.; grandmother, Praxedes M. Navarrete of Ojinaga, Chih., Mexico; grandfather, Encarnacion Quinonez of Ojinaga, Chih., Mexico; and many uncles and aunts, all from Odessa and Ojinaga, Mexico. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday January 03, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [010403Gatlin.jpg] Willie Gatlin ODESSA Willie Myrtle Simmons Gatlin, age 93, went Home to be with her Lord and Savior and loved ones who had preceded her in death Wednesday, January 1, 2003. She was born June 1, 1909, in Klondike, Texas, to John Franklin and Lillie Mae Simmons. Much of her childhood was spent in Earth and Spring Lake, Texas. When she was ten years old, she attended a revival where she received Christ as her personal Savior. Since then, she has served Him and others with a life filled with love and the generous giving of her many talents. On February 19, 1926, she married Thomas James Gatlin in Olton, Texas. In 1927, they moved to Odessa to take advantage of the oil boom going on there. To their union, God granted two sons, William Paul and James Lee, and three daughters, Wanda Joyce, Tommie Joann and Carolyn Sue. Within a limited budget, she filled their home with savory cooking and clothing for her children sewn with her own hands. She had a natural love for fun and adventure to share with her family and friends. As the years passed, 13 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and finally, five great-great-grandchildren joined the Gatlin family. Willie and Tommy took great joy in them and welcomed them enthusiastically into their home and lives. They spent 12 happy retirement years in Marble Falls, Texas, where together they literally built two homes. After Tommys death, Willie resided in Robert Lee and San Angelo, and finally returned to Odessa. Even in a state of ill health, she was a blessing and inspiration to her family. Her memory will be cherished. Survivors are her children and their spouses, Joyce and Doc Rives of San Angelo, Joann and Bill Stanford of Odessa, Bill and Geri Gatlin of League City, Jim and Linda Gatlin of Ennis, and Sue and Wes Cregg of Midland; two sisters, Jewel Melton of Kingsland and Maxine Solovay of Monterey Park, Calif. All her grandchildren, great and great-greats, are living. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Home Hospice of Odessa, 903 N. Sam Houston, 79761. They served her well. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto them also that love his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:6-8. [010403Mason.jpg] Evelyn Elizabeth Mason CRANE We say goodbye to the one person who has forever made our lives better. Our beloved Evelyn E. Mason, age 61, longtime resident of Crane, was called home by our heavenly Father, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2003, after a brief battle with cancer. Evelyn came into this world Feb. 25, 1941, in Corsicana. She later found and married her husband, R.E. Mason, Jan. 2, 1958. She was recently retired from the Crane Independent School District after 32 years of service. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Mildred Harris. She is survived by her husband, R.E. Mason of Crane; a brother, Ken Harris and wife, Jean, of Henderson, Nev.; two sons, Jeff Mason and wife, Penny, of Katy and Bobby Mason and wife, Annette, of Andrews; one daughter, Becky Haynes and husband, Johnny, of Flora Vista, N.M. She will also be missed by her three grandsons, Jeremy Mason, Brent Mason and Brian Mason. She is also survived by a sister-In-Law, Barbara Fly of Odessa; two nieces, Patti Hedges and husband, Steve, of Big Spring and Vicki Lauderback of Crane; and numerous cousins. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at the First United Methodist Church in Crane with the Rev. Larry Krueger officiating. Burial will follow in the Crane County Cemetery with services under the direction of Shaffer-Nichols Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Ronald Ashburn, Bill Harkins, Steve Hedges, Van Dodd, Maxie Fly and Johnny Haynes. Honorary Pallbearers will be Gene Cowden, Danny Dillard, Danny Hubbard, Dr. B.J. Maynard, Arlan Carroll and Gordon Hooper. Her absence will be deeply felt and she will be missed by Faye Matthews ABILENE Faye Matthews, 89, an Abilene resident and a former longtime educator in Odessa, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2003, at Windcrest Alzheimers Care Center in Abilene. The last survivor of thirteen children of farming pioneers, Timothy and Martha Broomfield West Matthews, Faye was born Dec. 22, 1913, in Eastland County, Texas. She graduated from Cisco High School in 1932, received her B.A. degree from Sul Ross State University in 1936, and her M.A. degree from Texas Tech University. She taught school for 46 years, 39 years as a teacher and 16 years as a student counselor at Permian High School in Odessa. During her teaching career, she also taught at Odessa Junior College, Scranton, and Cross Plains. After retirement, she and her sister, the late Jane Matthews, moved to Abilene in 1993 to be near other family members. Faye was a Life Member of Retired Teachers Association and Delta Kappa Gamma of which she was a past president. She was a member and past president of American Business Women and Odessa Retired Teachers Association, and a member of the Texas State Teachers Association. She was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Abilene and a former member of First Baptist Church in Odessa, where she was a member of the Keep In Touch Club. She was a former member of the Home Demonstration Club of Odessa. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and ten sisters. Survivors include numerous nieces and nephews, their children and grandchildren, and many friends and former students. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Sunday in the Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel of Memories, 542 Hickory, with Leroy Mason and Rev. Rudy Fambrough officiating. Burial will follow a 4 p.m. graveside service in Corinth Cemetery in Eastland County. Memorials may be made to _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday January 05, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [010502Albertson.jpg] Tommye Albertson ODESSA Tommye Albertson, 74, passed away Friday, Dec. 27, 2002, after a short illness. Services for her will be held at the United Methodist Church in Capitan, N.M., at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003. Tommye was the mother of three daughters, Dona Martin, Karon Allen and Debbie Harris, all of Odessa. She had four grandchildren, Niska Blevins of Kansas City, Kan., James Martin Jr. of Odessa, and Katie and Kandi Harris, also of Odessa, a brother, Billy Anderson of Ruidoso, N.M., and a sister of Phoenix, Ariz. Tommye was married to Walter Lee Albertson. He preceded her in death in 1989. [010502Ayers.jpg] Sonjia Lewis Ayres HAWKINS Sonjia Lewis Ayres, 52, of Hawkins, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2002, in Leon County. Services will be at 2 p.m. today at the Beaty Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Don Majors officiating. Burial will follow at the Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Wood County. She was born Nov. 20, 1950, in Big Sandy, to John Morris Lewis and Ava Lee Stevens Lewis. Mrs. Ayres was a goat rancher and a member of the Boer Go Association. She was a graduate of the Aurthor Murry Dance Studio in New Orleans and was a current education major at the University of Texas at Tyler. Mrs. Ayres was preceded in death by her parents, John Morris Lewis and Ava Lee Stevens Lewis; a daughter, Cholla Dee Ayres; two brothers; and one sister. She is survived by a son, Macon E. Ayres of Belle Chasse, La.; a daughter, Sandra Thomas and husband Brian of Plano; two brothers, Billy M. Lewis of Millerton, N.Y., and Bobby R. Lewis of Gardendale; two sisters, Ava M. Stallings of Hawkins and Frances G. Sweatt of Red Oak; six grandchildren; and many honorary grandchildren. Services entrusted to Beaty Funeral Home. [010502Hall.jpg] Debra Jo Debbie Hall LUBBOCK Debra Jo Debbie Hall, 49, of Odessa, passed away Thursday, Jan. 2, 2003, at her residence. She was born Aug. 3, 1953, in Lubbock. Debbie graduated from Coronado High School in Lubbock in 1972. She married Joe Lynn Hall Aug. 15, 1988, in Lubbock. She was a homemaker and a Baptist. She was preceded in death by her father, Charley Sport; and son, Paul Henry. She is survived by her husband, Joe Hall of Odessa; daughter, Amy Bennett of Arlington; stepson, Joe Hall of Houston; mother, Virginia Sport of McKinney; sister, Alberta Winters of McKinney; and three grandchildren. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Lubbock with the Rev. Richard Craven officiating. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Ocie L. Holcomb ODESSA Ocie L. Holcomb passed away Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa after a long battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Ocie was born in Whitewright, Texas, on Nov. 24, 1916. He moved to Odessa in 1937, and married Ruth Shoopman on March 23, 1940. He went to work for Phillips Petroleum Company in 1941. He went into the service during World War II and served three years in the Philippines and New Guinea in the 389th Anti-Aircraft Division. Ocie returned to work for Phillips after the war and retired in 1980, after 40 years. Ocie was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was an avid fisherman, and he and Ruth enjoyed many years at their place on Lake Buchanan. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Ruth; one son, Ronnie Holcomb and wife Patsy of Fort Worth; one daughter, Dianne Hughes of Odessa; two granddaughters, Michele Wilson and husband John of Gilbert, Ariz., and Tracie Hughes of Odessa; two great-grandsons, Matt and Sam Wilson, both of Gilbert, Ariz.; and daughter-in-law, Phyllis Holcomb of Fort Worth. The family would especially like to express their love and appreciation to Hilda Guajardo who devotedly cared for our Pepaw with so much love and tenderness; also to Judy Saenz, Gracie Leal, Home Hospice and Hospice House. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2002, at Sunset Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. The family requests donations to Hospice House in lieu of flowers. [010502Younger.jpg] Robert Oran Younger Sr. ODESSA Robert Oran Younger Sr., 70, passed away Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital in Odessa. He was born Feb. 19, 1932, to Oran Clayton and Jewel Younger in Abbott, Hill County, Texas. Robert married Mattie Alice Jones on Dec. 2, 1951, in Fort Warden, Wash., later moving to Odessa in 1953. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War as an Engineer in the Army Corp of Engineers. He was president of the Kiwanis for two years, a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Andy G. Vaughan Chapter and the Scottish Rite. He enjoyed fishing with his grandchildren and camping in the summertime. He was owner of Alice Electric and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There will be a family visitation from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. today at Hubbard-Kelly. Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints with Bishop Christopher Vore officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. His parents, and one brother, Don Younger, preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife, Mattie Younger of Odessa; two sons, Robert Oran Younger Jr. and wife Nancy of Bedford and Spencer Lee Younger and wife Nancy of Chapel Hill; two daughters, Shelia Lynn Maddox and husband Dub of Odessa and Melissa Alice Morris and husband Gary of Carrollton; one brother, George Younger of Colorado City; four sisters, Mary Ann Lieck of Odessa, Shirley Graham of Windthorist, Judy Bray of San Antonio and Sarah Beth Gainley of Donna; 20 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Monday January 06, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ Ocie L. Holcomb ODESSA Ocie L. Holcomb passed away Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa after a long battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Ocie was born in Whitewright, Texas, on Nov. 24, 1916. He moved to Odessa in 1937, and married Ruth Shoopman on March 23, 1940. He went to work for Phillips Petroleum Company in 1941. He went into the service during World War II and served three years in the Philippines and New Guinea in the 389th Anti-Aircraft Division. Ocie returned to work for Phillips after the war and retired in 1980, after 40 years. Ocie was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was an avid fisherman, and he and Ruth enjoyed many years at their place on Lake Buchanan. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Ruth; one son, Ronnie Holcomb and wife Patsy of Fort Worth; one daughter, Dianne Hughes of Odessa; two granddaughters, Michele Wilson and husband John of Gilbert, Ariz., and Tracie Hughes of Odessa; two great-grandsons, Matt and Sam Wilson, both of Gilbert, Ariz.; and daughter-in-law, Phyllis Holcomb of Fort Worth. The family would especially like to express their love and appreciation to Hilda Guajardo who devotedly cared for our Pepaw with so much love and tenderness; also to Judy Saenz, Gracie Leal, Home Hospice and Hospice House. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. today, Jan. 6, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. The family requests donations to Hospice House in lieu of flowers. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Tuesday January 07, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [010702Brinker.jpg] H.B. Hank Brinker ODESSA H.B. Hank Brinker, 89, of Odessa died Jan. 4, 2003 at his residence. He was born in St. Louis, Mo. on Aug. 11, 1913. He served in the U.S. Navy in World War II as a signalman achieving the rank of Chief. He moved to Odessa in 1946 with United Supply. He was later vice-president of Permian Drilling Co. He built Sunset Golf and Country Club in 1953 with his partner, Roy Cobb. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Genevieve Brinker, and his three children, Jane, John and Fred and their families, which include eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Memorial services are scheduled for 1 p.m. today, Jan. 7, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Chapel. Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [010702clark.jpg] John Marsh Clark ODESSA John Marsh Clark, 69, a retired school teacher and coach, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at his residence. Born in Sayre, Oklahoma on March 23, 1933, he was the only child of Lucille and Bob Clark. In May 1965, he married Veronica Halfmann of Wall, Texas. They had three daughters Jennifer 36 of Odessa, Stephanie 34 of Wichita, Kansas and Amanda 24 of Odessa. An avid sports fan he devotedly followed the Oklahoma Sooners through the good years and the bad. He enjoyed watching his grandson Justin play baseball and football; he never missed a practice or a game. He supported Christopher his other grandson in his dreams of becoming a Marine. He also looked forward to seeing his oldest granddaughter Hope attend his beloved University of Oklahoma. Even though his other two granddaughters Brittni and Courtney live far away, he was very proud of their achievements in school and swimming. He was also extremely proud of his son-in-law Troy Doane of Wichita; Ks., who proudly serves his country in the United States Air Force. John loved all his girls and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by 3 daughters, 1 son-in-law, his ex-wife and a half-sister, Tina Franklin. Especially by his 5 grandchildren. BOOMER SOONER!! Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [010702fuller.jpg] Stephen Dee (Spoolie) Fuller WICKETT Stephen Dee (Spoolie) Fuller, 55, a truck pusher for Key Energy, passed away Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at Odessa Medical Center, after a brief battle with cancer. Steve was born on July 18, 1947 in Odessa, Texas. He had been a resident of Wickett for 12 years. A memorial visitation in honor of Steve, for family and friends will be held at 5 p.m., on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at the Wickett Community Center, which will include a pot luck dinner. Steve is survived by his wife, Melanie, of Wickett; son, J. W. Kelso and wife Marla of Gardendale; daughter, Stacy Roy and husband William of Odessa; and a son, Stephen Bowen of Lubbock. He is also survived by 4 grandchldren, Becca, Branden, Charles, and Christopher, all of Odessa. His mother, Nineta Fuller of Ruidoso, N.M.; sister, Sue Pressler and husband Layne of Cloudcroft, N.M. Also a nephew, Matthew Pressler and wife Cindy of Cloudcroft He is also survived by a host of friends that will never forget him. He was dearly loved by his wife and family. We will always miss him. Services under the direction of Family Funeral Services/Jackie Harkey of Monahans. [010702green.jpg] Joe Green ODESSA Joe Green, 21, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born on November 28, 1981 in Fort Stockton, Texas. He married Lisa Mae Woodward six years ago in Oklahoma City. He was employed in the oil industry. He was preceded in death by his sister, Kesha Kaleen Green; grandfathers; Larry Green and Earl C Himes; uncle, Alton Ray Adams. Joe is survived by his wife Lisa of Odessa, sons, DMitri Joseph Woodward, DAnte Lawarence Woodward, Joe Daruis Green, all of Odessa; daughter, Delisia Ruby Green of Odessa; mother, Kathy DeHart of Midwest City, Okla.; father, Lonnie Green and wife Geraldine of Odessa; grandmothers, Ozella Green of Odessa and Loretta Himes of Spencer Okla.; grandparents, Geral and Barbara Adams of Odessa; brother, Alton Coursey of Junction; sisters, Kathy Joe Flores, Billi Jo Green, both of Okla City, Loni Joe Green of Midwest City, Okla., Ginger Lee Erwin, Tabatha Green, Dela Stanford and Shawnda Coursey, all of Odessa; nephews, Brandon Gunn, Sanford Baughman, Dakota Hodgkins, Nycoli Green and Jacobee Green; and a niece, Kathryn Flores. Visitations will be held today from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. at Odessa Funeral Home. Graveside services have been set for Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at 10:00 a.m. Rose Hill Cemetery with the Rev. Rosario Hill officiating. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. [010702howard.jpg] Charles O. Howard ODESSA Services for Charles O. Howard, 81, of Odessa are scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday at Eisenhower Church of Christ with Burt Groves, Joe Cross, and Dean Lightfoot officiating. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Home. Mr. Howard died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. He was born October 18, 1921 in Littleton, West Virginia. He was the youngest of nine children born to Roy and Abby Howard. He was a World War II Navy veteran. Mr. Howard married Anna Yvonne David on March 27, 1947 in Clairton, Pennsylvania. He and Yvonne moved to Odessa for a short time in 1947 and returned to stay in 1952. They had four children and six grandchildren. Mr. Howard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a member of Eisenhower Church of Christ where he had served as an elder. He retired from Texaco in 1986. Survivors include his wife, Yvonne Howard of Odessa; children, Lon Howard and wife, Lana of Odessa, Becky Lightfoot and husband, Dean of Cedar Park, Bonnie Payne and husband, Michael of Rock Springs, Wyoming; grandchildren, Jay Howard of Houston, Tim Howard of Dallas, Benjamin Lightfoot and Rachel Lightfoot, both of Cedar Park, Jedidiah Payne and Caleb Payne, both of Rock Springs, Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his son, Tim Howard; his parents, Roy and Abby Howard; his brothers and sisters, Harry Howard, Homer Howard, Albert Howard, Roy Howard, Herbert Howard, Wanda Hudson, Velva Earnest, and Madeline Sharp. The family requests that memorials be made to Odessa Christian School, Hospice House, or Eisenhower Church of Christ. Wanda Wanema Howard ODESSA Wanda Wanema Howard was born February 12, 1935, in lraan, Texas, to William Franklin and Idaa Stephens. She left her loved ones to be with the Lord on December 30, 2002. She is now in a better place, one without sorrow or pain. Wanema was dearly loved by everyone who came into her life. She is survived by her husband, Jim, of thirty-eight years; her son, Travis and his wife Tracy; her daughter Lisa Howard. Grandchildren, Cherette Brizendine, Amanda Smith and Amber Howard; and a great-granddaughter, Haylea Brizendine. She is also survived by sisters, Ollie Edwards, Nola McKee and Laura Wood; and brother, Darrell Stephens; and many nieces and nephews. Wanema attended Oklahoma State University. She was an accomplished painter. She was an avid sports fan and loved bass fishing. Most of all she loved her family. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Odessa Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at 11 a.m. at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors Chapel in Odessa with Reverend Terry Lund of Kansas City, Missouri officiating. Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Frankie M. Masey ODESSA Frankie M. Masey, 86, of Midland passed from this life January 5, 2003. She was born to John Wilkinson and Alabama Gifford in Tarrant County on September 5, 1916. She came to Midland from Cross Plains in 1999. Frankie was a member of the Church of Christ. She is preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, John T. Masey. Her survivors include her son, Harold Masey and wife Eva of Odessa; daughters, Fayla Ward and husband Keith of Midland; Shirley Kleypas and husband Jim of Kerrville; brother, Dwain Wilkinson of Llano; 7 grandchildren, Danny Thompson, Gena Wright, Clay Thomas, Todd Thomas, Tina Gates, Lisa Masey, Shannon Sullivan; 6 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Services are scheduled at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Chapel with Steve Bailey officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday January 08, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [010803yvonnedick.jpg] Anita Yvonne Tankersley Dick ODESSA Anita Yvonne Tankersley Dick, lovingly known as Mimi, left this life to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 7, 2003. Yvonne was born January 27, 1935 in Morton Valley, Texas to Wilburn and Berniece Tankersley. Both parents and a brother, Paul Tankersley, precede Yvonne in death. Yvonne attended school in Morton Valley where she was a captain and star of the girls basketball team. At this time she met Charles E. Dick, whom she married on June 7, 1953 in Eastland. Yvonne and Charles lived in Kermit for 47 years, 44 of which were in the same home; only recently moving to Odessa. They were blessed with 5 children, Bunny, Valerie, Cynthia, Michael, and Jana. Cooking and baking were some of Yvonnes enjoyable pastimes, although her favorite was spending time with her grandchildren. The love that Yvonne and Charles share shows and overflows to all who are blessed by knowing them. Yvonne fought a long hard battle with cancer, but did not lose. Through our Lord Jesus she has gained the victory. Waiting to greet her in Heaven are her earthly parents, Wilburn and Berniece Tankersley, and brother, Paul Tankersley. Yvonne and Charles loved their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren dearly, and rest secure in the knowledge that one day they will be reunited. Yvonne is survived by her beloved husband, Charles; daughters, Bunny Chapman of Andrews; Valerie Duncan and husband, Joe; Cynthia McNabb and husband Bobby; and Jana Dick, all of Odessa; son, Michael and wife Deena of Shallowater; three sisters, Dorothy Sturm of Vidor; Brenda Warren of Midland; Gracie Pleasant Lautaret of Longview; and two brothers, Larry Tankersley of Cisco; and JB Tankersley of Phoenix, Ariz. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Rebekah House; Rita Shrum and husband Danny; Steven and Trevor Duncan; Lori Richie; Justin and Kara McNabb; Nathana, Jyl, Beau, Lindsay and Landon Dick; and Meghan Clark; as well as great-grandchildren, Bridgett and Heather House; Ashley and Justin Shrum; and Hunter (Buddha) Richie. Funeral Services will be Thursday, January 9, 2003, at 2 p.m. at Sherwood Baptist Church with Bro. Tom Hiser officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. [010803norwoodjpg.jpg] Mary Ann Norwood ODESSA Mary Ann Buchanan was born Sept. 10, 1943, in Moab, Utah, to Burt and Shelba Buchanan. She married Robert Norwood July 28, 1959, in Durango, Colo. Mary Ann was very involved in her community, being active in the Girl Scouts and Optimists Club and serving as past president of the American Business Womens Association. She was a faithful member of Bethany Christian Church. Mary is survived by her husband, Robert Norwood; daughters, Kathy Setzler of Monahans and Diana Crutchfield of Detroit, Texas; mother, Shelba Surls of Prescott, Ariz.; sister, Judy Amos of Prescott, Ariz.; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at the Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors Chapel with the Rev. Robert Scofield officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Angie Gonzales Nunez MONAHANS Angie Gonzales Nunez, 49, of Odessa went to be with our savior, Lord Jesus Christ, Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003. She was born to Angelo Gonzales and Delfina Sosa June 10, 1953, in Monahans. She was a Catholic and a victim of Lou Gehrigs disease. She is survived by three sons, Ricky Nunez and wife Belinda of Pecos, Bobby Nunez and Juan Nunez Jr. of Odessa; two daughters, Elsie N. Marmolejo and husband Miguel and Stephanie Nunez of Odessa; three brothers, Jimmy Gonzales and wife Nora of Uvalde, Angelo Gonzales Jr. and wife Tanya of Huntsville and Phillip Lee Gonzales of Sweetwater; four sisters, Criselda Benitez and husband Ignacio of Snyder, Irene Bustos and husband Tony of Monahans, Delvia Abila of Washington State and Cruz Hale of Houston; nine grandchildren; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends who will miss her very much. She will always live in our hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother and a sister. Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at St. Johns Catholic Church. Burial will be at Monahans Memorial Cemetery. Rosary will be said at 8 p.m. today in Todd Rush Chapel at Family Funeral Services. Arrangements by Family Funeral Services/Jackie Harkey. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday January 09, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ Felton Golden ODESSA Felton Golden, 68, of Odessa passed away Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003, at the Hospice House. He was born March 21, 1934 in Cass County, TX. Mr. Golden was an U.S. Army veteran. He moved to Odessa in 1952. He was owner of Golden Sprinkler Sales and a member of the Lutheran Church of the Risen Lord. He loved to fish. He was preceded in death by his wife, Loga Pat Golden. He is survived by his son, Bradley Golden of Odessa; daughter, Dr. Teresa Golden of Denton; mother, Verba Golden of Hughes Springs, TX.; brothers, Sammy and Max Golden, both of Hughes Springs, TX.; sister, Patsy Morris of Odessa; two grandchildren, Trent and Toby Golden. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 10, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Family will meet with friends 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials to Hospice House or the American Diabetes Association. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Mary Violet Maurice ODESSA To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the Heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. ECC 3.1. On Jan. 7, 2003, the Lord called Mary Maurice home to rest after 86 years on earth. Mary Violet Roemer Maurice was born March 24, 1916 to Frank and Helen Roemer of Choctaw, Okla., where she received her high school education. Later receiving her degree in business from the University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK. Mrs. Maurice moved to Hobbs, N.M. where she met and married Jerry F. Maurice for 51 years. She was a member of the Bobbie Chatman Bridge Club and the Presidential Museum for many years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Helen Roemer; sisters, Elizabeth and Wilmith Roemer; brother, Steve Roemer and her husband Jerry F. Maurice, Jr. whose family pioneered and settled in Ector County. She leaves behind to remember her loving ways and smile is one sister, Helen Reed of Norman, OK. and her extended family, Lessie Quarker Sims of Odessa and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 10, 2003, at Odessa Cemetery with Rev. Charles Sims officiating. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [010903robertrose.jpg] Robert Odell Rose ODESSA Robert Odell Rose, 88, of Odessa passed away Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at the Hospice House. He was born August 7, 1914 in Ranger, TX. Mr. Rose retired from ARCO Oil and Gas Co. Sept. 1, 1979 after 36 years of service working in the Permian Basin. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge. He was Church Of Christ. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Ruth Rose on May 25, 2002, and five brothers, John, Harland, Dave, Douglas and Charlie Rose. He is survived by his sons, Richard Rose of Midland and Jim Rose of Fort Davis; daughter, Patsy Rose of Muenster, TX; two grandchildren, Allison Richter of Marble Falls and Lindsey Rose of Midland; two great-grandchildren, Natalie Richter and Kathryn Richter; sister, Velma Lou Walker of Eastland; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with Lynn Money officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Family requests that Memorials may be made to the Hospice House or your favorite charity. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [010903jimmysmith.jpg] Jimmy R. Smith ODESSA Jimmy R. Smith died on Jan. 6, 2003 as a result of a fall in the back yard. Jimmy was born Oct. 11, 1932 to Roy and Lillie Smith of Hermleigh, Texas. He graduated from Hermleigh High School in 1950 and served in the Air Force during the Korean War. Jimmy married Jerrie Williams on Dec. 27, 1955. Mr. Smith was a court reporter for 38 years and was a member of the National Court Reporters Association and the Texas Court Reporters Association. He finished court reporting school in December of 1961 and went to work for State District Court Judge Gorge Kelton, then Judge Ray McKim. In 1979, he went to work for Federal District Court Judge Lucius D. Bunton, III and worked until his retirement in January of 1999. He had the pleasure of working with many fine attorneys. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 47 years, Jerrie Smith. Son, Jimmy Scott Smith and wife Grace, and grandchildren, Lillian and William Smith. Daughter, Tana Lynn Cooper and husband, Steven Cooper and grandson, Joseph McFarland. Survivors also include sisters, Mattie Belle Hays, Estelle Thompson and Billie Jo Farnsworth; and brothers, Harvey L. Smith and Bobby Smith. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Immanuel Baptist Church. Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday at Williams Cemetery in Smith County, Texas. Memorial of choice is Odessa Medical Center Hospital Auxiliary Look Good Feel Good program. Services entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Harvey Ray Reed ODESSA Harvey Ray Reed, 66, of Phoenix, Ariz., died Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003, at the Veterans Hospital in Tucson, Ariz. Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, at the Cornerstone Assembly of God with the Rev. Johnny Storz officiating. Harvey was born April 27, 1937, in Parma, Idaho. He graduated high school in Rushville, Neb., and he served in the U.S. Navy before becoming an auto mechanic and a used car salesman. He loved to travel and lived in several states over the years. He was a founding member of Cornerstone Assembly of God Church in Odessa. Survivors include his wife, Carolyn Sue Reed of Phoenix, Ariz.; son, Frank Reed and wife Joyce, their children, Corbin Reed and Misty Bassham; daughter, Falena Hurt and husband Ron of Silver Spring, Md.; granddaughter, Erin Bachman Smith and husband Danny, their children, Christopher and Madison, all of Odessa; mother, Fern Becker; sisters, Verna Madison, Betty Louder, Alice Thompson, Phyllis Smith and their families. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Paula Denise Bachman on Sept. 9, 1999. Services entrusted to Hubbard Kelly Funeral Home. [010903bartlett.jpg] Donald Bartlett ODESSA Donald Bartlett, 85, construction worker, of Odessa died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, in the Frank W. Wilson Funeral Chapel with Johnny and Cathy Thomason officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Garden Cemetery. He married Louise Crawford April 7, 1974 in Austin, TX. Survivors: wife, Louise Bartlett of Odessa; son, Donnie Bartlett of Dallas; daughter, Stephanie Young of Dallas; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. [010903jones.jpg] Twilla Jean Jones ODESSA Twilla Jean Jones, 62, of Odessa went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 7, 2003. She was a member of Northside Baptist Church. She was born in Ranger, TX on January 8, 1940. She married Elwyn Ray Jones on December 1, 1957 and remained his loving wife until his death in 1993. Her life was filled with love from her family and friends of which she had many. She was a devoted mother to her children, Toyah Cofield of Houston, TX, Mike Jones of Brownwood, TX, Rodney Jones of Big Spring, TX and Tammi Flodstrom of Ft. Worth, TX and a doting Granny to Matt, Eric, Chris, Lyndee, Ray, Summer, Claudia and Jillian. She was also a cherished sister to Jane Huff of Odessa, TX, Judy Stalling of Holiday Island, AR, Carol Evans of Fayetteville, AR and Jimmy Lowrance of Ft. Worth, TX. It isnt the tbings we get It isnt the things we know. Its the will to serve. Its the hand we lend. Its the light our lanterns throw. Although she will be missed by her family and friends there is a comfort to all of us who hold the precious memories of her in our hearts. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Northside Baptist Church with Rev. Clydell Chapman officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [010903huckaby.jpg] Lovie Lee (Collins) Huckaby ODESSA Lovie Lee (Collins) Huckaby was born November 18, 1931 to Jessie and Ora Lee Collins of Huntsville, Texas. She attended school in Coolridge, Texas until she moved to Odessa, Texas where she attended Blackshear High School under the principalship of Mr. White. Lovie Lee united with Saint James Baptist Church in Odessa, Texas under the pastorate of Rev. Williams; she served in the deacons wives, music (senior chorus), usher and mission ministries. In 1997 she became a chartered member of the Mount Olive Baptist Church. Lovie met and married Lee Edward Huckaby in Odessa, Texas, and shared in the rearing of their loving great niece and goddaughter, Rachel. Lovie Lee was a domestic engineer and caretaker for Dr. and Mrs. Wilbert Greene for over 34 years. She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Daniel Collins and two sisters, Naomi Medlock and Jessie Merle Manning. Her survivors include her husband of 51 years, Lee Edward Huckaby of Odessa, two stepdaughters, Wanda Joyce Huckaby and Elnora Flax of Dallas, Texas; two stepgrandchildren; one step great grandchild of Dallas, TX and her goddaughter, Rachel Irene Jonhson of Odessa, Texas. Her survivors also include seven brothers Leslie Lee Collins of Reno NV, Bernace Collins and his wife Deloris of Fresno, CA, Hop Collins and his wife Helen, and Mose Collins and his wife Loraine, both of Odessa, TX, Jessie Collins, Jr., Willie Ray Collins and his wife Helen and Robert Lee Collins and his wife Jean, all of Dallas, TX; four sisters Ardimese Woods of Odessa, TX, Berdamae Johnson of Dallas TX, Willie Mae Collins of Grand Rapids, MI. and Mae Kathrine and her husband Ron Griffin of Austin TX.; her maternal aunts, Lucinda Watson and Katherene Wilson of Odessa, TX., and Joan Sercy of Midland, TX.; one maternal uncle, Jack Cooper of Midland , TX., one paternal aunt Irene Collins of Houston, TX, Other survivors include her brothers-in-law Robert Huckaby and his wife Helen of Waco, TX, and Benjamin Huckaby and his wife Maudie of Odessa, TX., three sisters-in-law Clara Mae Huckaby Sample of Ft. Worth, TX, Bertha Huckaby of Waco, TX. and Johnnie Mae Lawrence of Odessa, TX., and many , many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Rose of Sharon Baptist Church with the Rev. Edward Fleming officiating. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Garden Cemetery. Services entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [010903anderson.jpg] Louella Lane Anderson STEPHENVILLE In beloved memory of Louella Lane Anderson, who entered into Heavenly Peace on January 7, 2003. Louella was born in Hasse, Texas on November 29, 1912 to Joe N. and Sarah Elizabeth Hamilton Lane. She was one of twelve children. She had been a resident of Odessa, Granbury and Stephenville, Texas. In the mid 1940s, she owned and operated the Peacock Beauty Salon in Odessa where she met her future husband. Louella was preceded in death by her husband, R.J. Cotton, and by a baby daughter, Ellen. She was a longtime and very active member of the Washington Street Baptist Church in Stephenville. Her children, son Ron Anderson of Odessa and daughter Sara Elizabeth Brooks and her husband Ed of Fort Worth, Texas and her only Grandson Jason Brooks survive her along with one brother and many nieces and nephews. Private services will be held at Stephenville Funeral Home in Stephenville, Texas, under the direction of Stephenville Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made through donations to childrens charity of choice or to the Alzheimers Association. LouelIa was cherished by all her family and friends. Those who met her will remember her kindness, sense of humor and most of all her laughter. To her, a day had been wasted if one had not laughed. Her legacy of love lives on in her survivors. She gave her children the greatest gift of all A Mothers perfect love. Mothers Hands Dear gentle hands have stroked my hair And cooled my brow, Soft hands that pressed me close And seemed to Know somehow Those fleeting moods and erring thoughts That cloud my day, Which quickly melt beneath their sufferage And pass away. No other balm for earthly pain Isnt half so sure, No sweet caress so filled with love Nor half so pure, No other soul can close akin that understands, No touch that brings such perfect peace as Mothers Hands. W. Dayton Wedgefarth _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday January 10, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011003Fox.jpg] Jane Catherine Fox ODESSA Jane Catherine Fox, age 75, of Odessa, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2003 at Medical Center Hospital. She was born April 7, 1927 in Brooklyn, N.Y. to Thomas Joseph and Mary Rose Donovan. A Rosary will be held at 7p.m. Friday, Jan. 10, 2003, in the chapel of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Funeral Mass will be held at 6PM, Saturday, January 11 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with Father Mark Woodruff officiating. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA. Mrs. Fox moved to Odessa in 1974 from Washington, D.C. with her husband after he retired from the Navy. She was an active member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, a volunteer for the American Red Cross and Good Samaritan Nursing Home. A graduate of Notre Dame, she worked as an adoption social worker before marrying her husband Albert on April 15, 1950. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who generously shared her compassionate spirit. She is survived by her husband, Albert D. Fox of Odessa; daughter Mary Jane Fox and her husband Rick Halverson of Kalispell, MT; son Dan Fox and his wife Cyndi and daughter Samantha, of Odessa; daughter Elizabeth Fox and her children Brian Daniel Hanway and Katherine Hanway of Dublin, CA; and sister Rosemary Cummings of Virginia Beach, VA. She was preceded in death by her parents, in-laws and sister Joan Donovan Shipp. In lieu of flowers, donations to Catholic Charities are requested. Services under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [011003Stone.jpg] Robert J. Stone II ODESSA Robert J. Stone II, 63, of Odessa, passed from this life Jan. 8, 2003 at his residence. He was born July 30, 1939 in Englewood, CA to Robert J. Stone I and Josephine Eleanore Bourbonous Stone. He married Dail Stone on April 3, 1964 and served his country in the Marines. He owned and operated The Vault here in Odessa. Those who have known Bob Stone, know there was a big change in his life in 1978. This change occurred when he dedicated his life to his Lord, Jesus Christ, and knowing Jesus made a great difference in his lifestyle. Bob, a mans man, was always positive and when first meeting him, he would make you laugh, then witness to you. Bob was a loving, wonderful Christian Husband, Father, and Grandfather who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his father, R.J. Stone I; his mother, Josephine Eleanore Stone; George C. Stone; and Gary Lee Stone. Those who survive him include his wife, Dail Stone of Odessa; his sons, Chris and Robert Stone III and daughter-in-law Mary Ann of Odessa; his daughter, Renee Hurt and son-in-law Paul of Odessa; and his brother, John F. Stone of Grandfield, OK; and his grandchildren, Ryan, Leah, Robyn, Robert IV, J.C, Zachary, Stephanie, Amber, and Chasity. Graveside services will be Friday, Jan. 10, 2003, at 2 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens with Rev. Mickey Munoz officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. Ada Pearl Thompson ODESSA Ada Pearl Thompson, 88, of Odessa passed away Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at Deerings Nursing Home. She was born Feb. 25, 1914 in Loraine, TX. She was a homemaker and a member of University Park Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband Alton Thompson and daughter, Judy Thompson. She is survived by daughters Patricia Moore and husband David of Odessa and Betty Zellner of Pauls Valley, OK.; four grandchildren, Stormy Evans, Joel Moore, Tiffany Martin and husband Jimmy and Michael Zellner; two great-grandchildren, Justin Evans and Samantha Moore. Ada was a loving mother and wife. Funeral services will be held 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday January 11, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011103Webster.jpg] Lana Patricia Webster ARLINGTON Lana Patricia Webster, 52, an insurance representative, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, in Arlington after complications from cancer. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Moore & Sons Funeral Home, 4216 S. Bowen Rd., in Arlington. Internment will be held in Plainview. Family visitation is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Lana Patricia Webster was born March 4, 1950, in Plainview. She was preceded in death by her father, James Webster. Survivors include her daughters, Deidre Dunham and husband, John, of Austin and Amie Tunnecliffe and husband, Mark of Arlington; mother, Tillie Webster of Brownwood; sister, Linda Young and husband, John, of Brownwood; grandchildren, Brandon Dunham, Mark Aaron Tunnecliffe and Kristin Tunnecliffe; and several nieces and nephews. Services entrusted to Moore Funeral Home-Bowen Chapel of Arlington. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday, January 12, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011203Absher.jpg] Helen Jean Absher ODESSA Helen Jean Absher, 82, of Odessa, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at her residence. She was born May 1, 1920, in Sweetwater. She was a retired hairdresser and a member of Temple Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dallas Vincent Absher; two sisters; and a brother. She is survived by her son, Ronnie Absher of Odessa; daughter, Lana Kay Holcombe of Odessa; five grandchildren, Trisha Taylor of Los Angeles and Rese Russell, Vincent Absher, Shawn Duncan and Jason Thornhill, all of Odessa; and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Juanita Nita Alden ODESSA Juanita Nita Alden, 89, of Odessa, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. She was born Nov. 21, 1913, in Erath County, Texas. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at First United Methodist Church with Blossom Mathews and Donnie Williams officiating. Burial will be private in Sunset Memorial Gardens. She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Mose Alden, in 1993; her sister, Lois Cranfill Hart; and by her brother, Orville Cranfill. The Aldens moved to Odessa in 1937. Mr. Alden managed the Fair Store where Mrs. Alden had the first Merle Norman studio in Odessa. They also owned and operated Alden Drug. She was a member of Fidelis Class at First United Methodist Church of Odessa, Modern Mothers Club, ABWA and Eastern Star. She is survived by her daughters, Moselle Alden Ford of Amarillo and Julie Anne Alden Flowers and husband, Don, of Odessa; son, Gary Roy Alden and wife, Linda, of Kingswood; brothers, Wendell Cranfill and Boyd Doc Cranfill, both of Lubbock; sisters, Doris Alderson of Lubbock and Joreta Moore of San Antonio; granddaughters, Julie Paige Ford of Dallas, Jenny Lynn Alden of Seattle, Wash., Laura Kathleen Ford of Dallas, Rebecca Ford Abercrombie and husband, Robert, of Denver, Colo., and Bridgette Nicole Alden of El Paso; and grandson, Christopher Alan Alden of San Antonio. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sacramento Methodist Assembly, P.O. Box 8, Sacramento, NM, 88347-0008 or Hospice House of Odessa. Services under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [011203Bernhard.jpg] Paula Jane Bernhard ODESSA Paula Jane Bernhard, 56, retired teacher of 35 years for ECISD, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, in Odessa after many years of complications with diabetes. Paula was the beloved mother of Hollie Bernhard of Odessa. Other surviving family members include mother, Phyllis Jordan; companion, Bill Bernhard; stepson, Wes Bernhard and wife, Tracy, and their sons, Wyatt and Nicholas, all of Oregon; her brothers, Jim Jordan and wife, Donna, of Odessa, Richard Jordan and wife, Darrelle, and their children, James Paul, Amelia and Eliza Anne, all of Wimberly. Paula Bernhard was born April 7, 1946, in Monahans. She graduated from Andrews High School in 1964 and completed her degree in elementary education at Howard Payne University in 1968. She went on to complete her education with an MA degree at Sul Ross. Paula dedicated 35 years of her to the education of children for ECISD. She was a beloved daughter, sister and mother as well as an outstanding friend to many. Her strength, courage, wit, humor and her ability to prove her point will be missed by all who knew her. She was a very determined woman who has meant so much to her family, friends and the community. Her loving and undying spirit will live on in our hearts forever. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to Harmony Home of Odessa in her name. Services under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [011203Fair.jpg] Doris Fair Doris Fair, 77, of Odessa, passed from this life on Jan. 10, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Jack Watkins officiating. She was born on March 17, 1925, in Ranger, Texas, to Maggie and T.T. Notgrass. Doris married Wilmeth E. Mutt Fair July 20, 1946, in Stephenville. She came to Odessa in 1948 from Dublin, Texas. Doris worked in the cafeteria for Ector County Independent School District as a baker and cook. She also worked as a clerk for G C Murphy and as a seamstress for Skibells. Doris also enjoyed crocheting. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mutt Fair; and brother, Milton Notgrass. Doris was Pentecostal. Survivors include her son, Terry Fair and wife, Kathy of Houston; daughter, Paula Fair Edwards and husband, Jimmy, of Odessa; brother, J.D. Notgrass of Granbury Texas; sisters, Lucille Mosley of Odessa, and Mary Sharp and husband, Don, of The Colony, Texas; granddaughters, Kern Sissney and husband, Ronnie, Kristi Young, and husband, Layne, and Kelli Edwards; and grandsons, Chris Fair, Dustin Fair and Cullen Fair; great-grandchildren, Peyton Young and Parker Young. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. [011203Rios.jpg] Valerie Mansanales-Rios ODESSA Valerie Mansanales-Rios, 32, of Midland, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Midland Memorial Hospital. She was born Dec. 10, 1970, in Hale Center, Texas. She married Esequiel Rios Jr. Feb. 1, 1997, in Odessa. She worked for Southwestern Bell Yellow Pages in sales. She was a member of St. Anns Catholic Church. Valerie was a 1989 graduate of Permian High School and a 1994 graduate of Texas Tech University with a major in English and a minor in Spanish. Her life revolved around her love for family, friends and the Lord. One of the joys in her life was her artistic talent for painting murals in childrens nurseries. This artistic ability brought spiritual fulfillment to her and those for whom she shared this gift. Valerie knew no strangers and touched everyones life with her laughter and loving, giving and witty personality. She will live in our hearts forever. We love you, Valerie. She is survived by her husband, Esequiel Rios Jr. of Midland; daughters, Victoria Ryan Rios and Isabella Danielle Rios, both of Midland; parents, Adon and Sylvia Mansanales of Odessa; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Esequiel Sr. and Mary Rios of Odessa; brother, Nick Mansanales and wife Misty of Odessa; sister, Mylissa Mansanales Center and husband Michael of Corpus Christi; nieces, Blayne Center of Corpus Christi, Rhiannon Mansanales of Odessa; nephews, Christopher Mansanales of Corpus Christi, Mykel Paul Hinojos of Austin and Samuel Chandler Rios of Austin. A rosary will be said at 7 p.m. today at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Monday at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Serafin Avenido officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [011203Stevenson.jpg] Verdie M. Mickens Stevenson ODESSA Services for Verdie M. Mickens Stevenson, 82, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at Greater Saint John Baptist Church with the Rev. E.J. Miller officiating. Burial will be at the Ector County Cemetery. Mrs. Stevenson died Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. She was born in Falls County March 27, 1920. She attended school at Cedar Valley in Chilton. She confessed a hope in Christ at an early age. In her early adult life she moved to Odessa, where she united with the Greater Saint John Baptist Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. L.H. Hall, where she had stayed an active member until her death. She has been a member longer than anyone attending the church. Serving in many aspects of the church, her presence in Missionary Society, Senior Choir and Sunday School will be greatly missed. Mrs. Stevenson met and married the late L.C. Mickens, and they were together until his death. Later years she married Denison Stevenson. They were so devoted to each other. At the church they were called Brother and Sister Hon. Whatever they were called upon to do, they had to get approval from Hon. Only death has separated them. She was an asset to her family, church and community. Leaving behind to cherish her memory a devoted husband, Denison Stevenson; sisters, Pearl Ward Bolts of Odessa, May E. Ward of Denver, Geneva Scott of Waco, Lizzie M. White of Corpus Christi, Bennie Harris and Emma Scott of Lott; brothers, Sterling Doc Ward of Littleton, Colo., J.K. Tomlison of Waco and O.T. Tomlison of Lott, Vincent Tomlison of Corpus Christi and Charles Tomlison of Wichita, Kan.; one longtime devoted sister-in-law, Iranee Ward of Odessa; and many nieces, nephews and special friends. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday, January 12, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011203Absher.jpg] Helen Jean Absher ODESSA Helen Jean Absher, 82, of Odessa, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at her residence. She was born May 1, 1920, in Sweetwater. She was a retired hairdresser and a member of Temple Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dallas Vincent Absher; two sisters; and a brother. She is survived by her son, Ronnie Absher of Odessa; daughter, Lana Kay Holcombe of Odessa; five grandchildren, Trisha Taylor of Los Angeles and Rese Russell, Vincent Absher, Shawn Duncan and Jason Thornhill, all of Odessa; and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Juanita Nita Alden ODESSA Juanita Nita Alden, 89, of Odessa, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. She was born Nov. 21, 1913, in Erath County, Texas. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at First United Methodist Church with Blossom Mathews and Donnie Williams officiating. Burial will be private in Sunset Memorial Gardens. She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Mose Alden, in 1993; her sister, Lois Cranfill Hart; and by her brother, Orville Cranfill. The Aldens moved to Odessa in 1937. Mr. Alden managed the Fair Store where Mrs. Alden had the first Merle Norman studio in Odessa. They also owned and operated Alden Drug. She was a member of Fidelis Class at First United Methodist Church of Odessa, Modern Mothers Club, ABWA and Eastern Star. She is survived by her daughters, Moselle Alden Ford of Amarillo and Julie Anne Alden Flowers and husband, Don, of Odessa; son, Gary Roy Alden and wife, Linda, of Kingswood; brothers, Wendell Cranfill and Boyd Doc Cranfill, both of Lubbock; sisters, Doris Alderson of Lubbock and Joreta Moore of San Antonio; granddaughters, Julie Paige Ford of Dallas, Jenny Lynn Alden of Seattle, Wash., Laura Kathleen Ford of Dallas, Rebecca Ford Abercrombie and husband, Robert, of Denver, Colo., and Bridgette Nicole Alden of El Paso; and grandson, Christopher Alan Alden of San Antonio. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sacramento Methodist Assembly, P.O. Box 8, Sacramento, NM, 88347-0008 or Hospice House of Odessa. Services under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [011203Bernhard.jpg] Paula Jane Bernhard ODESSA Paula Jane Bernhard, 56, retired teacher of 35 years for ECISD, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, in Odessa after many years of complications with diabetes. Paula was the beloved mother of Hollie Bernhard of Odessa. Other surviving family members include mother, Phyllis Jordan; companion, Bill Bernhard; stepson, Wes Bernhard and wife, Tracy, and their sons, Wyatt and Nicholas, all of Oregon; her brothers, Jim Jordan and wife, Donna, of Odessa, Richard Jordan and wife, Darrelle, and their children, James Paul, Amelia and Eliza Anne, all of Wimberly. Paula Bernhard was born April 7, 1946, in Monahans. She graduated from Andrews High School in 1964 and completed her degree in elementary education at Howard Payne University in 1968. She went on to complete her education with an MA degree at Sul Ross. Paula dedicated 35 years of her to the education of children for ECISD. She was a beloved daughter, sister and mother as well as an outstanding friend to many. Her strength, courage, wit, humor and her ability to prove her point will be missed by all who knew her. She was a very determined woman who has meant so much to her family, friends and the community. Her loving and undying spirit will live on in our hearts forever. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to Harmony Home of Odessa in her name. Services under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [011203Fair.jpg] Doris Fair Doris Fair, 77, of Odessa, passed from this life on Jan. 10, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Jack Watkins officiating. She was born on March 17, 1925, in Ranger, Texas, to Maggie and T.T. Notgrass. Doris married Wilmeth E. Mutt Fair July 20, 1946, in Stephenville. She came to Odessa in 1948 from Dublin, Texas. Doris worked in the cafeteria for Ector County Independent School District as a baker and cook. She also worked as a clerk for G C Murphy and as a seamstress for Skibells. Doris also enjoyed crocheting. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mutt Fair; and brother, Milton Notgrass. Doris was Pentecostal. Survivors include her son, Terry Fair and wife, Kathy of Houston; daughter, Paula Fair Edwards and husband, Jimmy, of Odessa; brother, J.D. Notgrass of Granbury Texas; sisters, Lucille Mosley of Odessa, and Mary Sharp and husband, Don, of The Colony, Texas; granddaughters, Kern Sissney and husband, Ronnie, Kristi Young, and husband, Layne, and Kelli Edwards; and grandsons, Chris Fair, Dustin Fair and Cullen Fair; great-grandchildren, Peyton Young and Parker Young. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. [011203Rios.jpg] Valerie Mansanales-Rios ODESSA Valerie Mansanales-Rios, 32, of Midland, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Midland Memorial Hospital. She was born Dec. 10, 1970, in Hale Center, Texas. She married Esequiel Rios Jr. Feb. 1, 1997, in Odessa. She worked for Southwestern Bell Yellow Pages in sales. She was a member of St. Anns Catholic Church. Valerie was a 1989 graduate of Permian High School and a 1994 graduate of Texas Tech University with a major in English and a minor in Spanish. Her life revolved around her love for family, friends and the Lord. One of the joys in her life was her artistic talent for painting murals in childrens nurseries. This artistic ability brought spiritual fulfillment to her and those for whom she shared this gift. Valerie knew no strangers and touched everyones life with her laughter and loving, giving and witty personality. She will live in our hearts forever. We love you, Valerie. She is survived by her husband, Esequiel Rios Jr. of Midland; daughters, Victoria Ryan Rios and Isabella Danielle Rios, both of Midland; parents, Adon and Sylvia Mansanales of Odessa; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Esequiel Sr. and Mary Rios of Odessa; brother, Nick Mansanales and wife Misty of Odessa; sister, Mylissa Mansanales Center and husband Michael of Corpus Christi; nieces, Blayne Center of Corpus Christi, Rhiannon Mansanales of Odessa; nephews, Christopher Mansanales of Corpus Christi, Mykel Paul Hinojos of Austin and Samuel Chandler Rios of Austin. A rosary will be said at 7 p.m. today at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Monday at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Serafin Avenido officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [011203Stevenson.jpg] Verdie M. Mickens Stevenson ODESSA Services for Verdie M. Mickens Stevenson, 82, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday at Greater Saint John Baptist Church with the Rev. E.J. Miller officiating. Burial will be at the Ector County Cemetery. Mrs. Stevenson died Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. She was born in Falls County March 27, 1920. She attended school at Cedar Valley in Chilton. She confessed a hope in Christ at an early age. In her early adult life she moved to Odessa, where she united with the Greater Saint John Baptist Church under the pastorate of the late Rev. L.H. Hall, where she had stayed an active member until her death. She has been a member longer than anyone attending the church. Serving in many aspects of the church, her presence in Missionary Society, Senior Choir and Sunday School will be greatly missed. Mrs. Stevenson met and married the late L.C. Mickens, and they were together until his death. Later years she married Denison Stevenson. They were so devoted to each other. At the church they were called Brother and Sister Hon. Whatever they were called upon to do, they had to get approval from Hon. Only death has separated them. She was an asset to her family, church and community. Leaving behind to cherish her memory a devoted husband, Denison Stevenson; sisters, Pearl Ward Bolts of Odessa, May E. Ward of Denver, Geneva Scott of Waco, Lizzie M. White of Corpus Christi, Bennie Harris and Emma Scott of Lott; brothers, Sterling Doc Ward of Littleton, Colo., J.K. Tomlison of Waco and O.T. Tomlison of Lott, Vincent Tomlison of Corpus Christi and Charles Tomlison of Wichita, Kan.; one longtime devoted sister-in-law, Iranee Ward of Odessa; and many nieces, nephews and special friends. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Monday January 13, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011303juanita.jpg] Juanita Nita Alden ODESSA Juanita Nita Alden, 89, of Odessa, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. She was born Nov. 21, 1913, in Erath County, Texas. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at First United Methodist Church with Blossom Mathews and Donnie Williams officiating. Burial will be private in Sunset Memorial Gardens. She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Mose Alden, in 1993; her sister, Lois Cranfill Hart; and by her brother, Orville Cranfill. The Aldens moved to Odessa in 1937. Mr. Alden managed the Fair Store where Mrs. Alden had the first Merle Norman studio in Odessa. They also owned and operated Alden Drug. She was a member of Fidelis Class at First United Methodist Church of Odessa, Modern Mothers Club, ABWA and Eastern Star. She is survived by her daughters, Moselle Alden Ford of Amarillo and Julie Anne Alden Flowers and husband Don of Odessa; son, Gary Roy Alden and wife Linda of Kingswood; brothers, Wendell Cranfill and Boyd Doc Cranfill, both of Lubbock; sisters, Doris Alderson of Lubbock and Joreta Moore of San Antonio; granddaughters, Julie Paige Ford of Dallas, Jenny Lynn Alden of Seattle, Wash., Laura Kathleen Ford of Dallas, Rebecca Ford Abercrombie and husband Robert of Denver, Colo., and Bridgette Nicole Alden and son Ferris of El Paso; grandson, Christopher Alan Alden of San Antonio; step-grandsons, Maury Flowers of Maui, HI, Jared Flowers and wife, Michelle, of , Josh Flowers of San Marcos, and Seth Flowers and wife, Shelby, of San Angelo. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sacramento Methodist Assembly, P.O. Box 8, Sacramento, NM, 88347-0008 or Hospice House of Odessa. Services under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Tuesday January 14, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011403gann.jpg] Roland Gann ODESSA Roland Aubrey Gann, 81, of Odessa passed away Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born May 23, 1921, in Marion County, Ala. He married Jesma Wiginton May 1, 1944, in Alabama. Mr. Gann had worked in the oilfield and was a Baptist. He is survived by his wife, Jesma Gann of Odessa; sons, George A. Gann and wife, Debrah, of Odessa and Charlie A. Gann and wife, Randi, of Bremerton, Wash.; daughters, Linda C. Coy and husband, Jim, of Watertown, Tenn., Beverley Gann and Lisa Salars and husband, Ron, all of Midland; brother, Ira Gann of Ohio; sisters, Hazel Martin of Tylertown Miss., Cozell Cantrell of Hamilton, Ala., Pherrell Turnbull and Neva Corte, both of Michigan, and Una Sweak of Gladewater; 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Family requests memorials may be made to your favorite charity. The family will meet with friends from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [011403owens.jpg] Frances Owens ODESSA Frances Owens, a resident of Odessa for 12 years, passed from this life Sunday, Jan. 12, 2003, at the age of 75. She was born Feb. 23, 1937, in Dawson County. Frances was a member of First Baptist Church in ODonnell where she grew up. She loved to read, sew and shell pecans. She also enjoyed listening to country music and spending time with her grandchildren. She is survived by her daughters, JoAn Lee and husband, Jerry, of Odessa, Anita Denny of Odessa, Joyce Waterfill and husband, Ron, of Kentucky; sons, Jimmy Cook and wife, Debbie, of Midland, Doug Cook and wife, Cindy, of Kyle, Paul Cook and wife, Nancy, of Odessa and Milton Lee Owens of Ballinger; brothers, Alvis Howell of Spokane, Wash., and Martin Howell of Yukon, Okla.; sisters, Lavada Flood of Odessa and Linda Crutcher of Hobbs, N.M.; grandchildren, Jay Lee, Jon Lee, Jera York, Beverly Allgeier, David Waterfill, Victoria Wilkerson, Tanya Williams, Toby Cook, Stephen McMurrian, Julie Cook, Christina Lyons and Jennifer Korn; and 13 great-grandchildren. A visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Services will be at 10 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Chapel Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, with Rev. Jimmy Dennis officiating. Interment will be at Gail Cemetery in Gail at 2 p.m. Jan. 14, 2003. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. Genevieve Sherman ODESSA Genevieve Sherman, 96, of Odessa died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, at her residence. She was born June 3, 1906, to T.J. and Mary Belle Duncan in Oklahoma Territory and lived in Oklahoma City until 1997 when she moved to Odessa. Genevieve married Byron Sherman Dec. 1, 1927. Byron preceded her in death Aug. 29, 1964. She was employed as a proofreader for many years at The Leader Press. She was a member of Crown Heights United Methodist Church and attended St. Lukes United Methodist Church in Odessa. Genevieve was Sooner born and Sooner bred and shes still a Sooner. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Elizabeth Knox, and a brother, T.J. Duncan Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Allred and husband, Richard, of Odessa; her son, Byron Ben Sherman Jr. and wife, Mary Anne, of Edmond, Okla.; granddaughters, Deanna Howard and husband, Curt, of Monahans, Emily Peck and husband, Ian, of Grapevine and Carrie Ann Shenk and husband, Joe, of Oklahoma City; grandson, Stephen Allred and wife, Amy, of Houston; and great-grandchildren, Tams and Taylor Howard, William Peck and Genevieve Anne Shenk. The family will be available for visitation from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Lukes United Methodist Church, 1601 E. 42nd St., Odessa, 79762; Crown Heights United Methodist Church, 1021 NW 37, Oklahoma City, OK 73118; or Southern Hills Christian Church, 3207 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73013. Arrangements entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home in Odessa. [011403jackson.jpg] Shannon Ray Jackson ODESSA Shannon Ray Jackson went home to be with our Savior Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003. He died at his home in Austin. A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 at Kelview Heights Baptist Church with the Rev. Jerry Berry officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Pipkin Funeral Home. Shannon was born Sept. 28, 1978, in Portales, N.M., and was the son of Roy and Terri Jackson of Austin, formerly of Midland. He is a 1998 Lee High School graduate where he was involved in the Lee Choir. He was a lifelong member of Kelview Heights Baptist Church and was actively involved in his youth group there. He moved to Austin to help start a new church, Rockpointe Community Church of Leander and was actively involved in childrens ministries there. Shannon enjoyed golf and all sports. He will be greatly missed by his parents; his sisters, Leigh-Anne Salcedo, and her husband, Daniel, and their daughter, Trinity, who dearly loved her uncle, all of Midland, and Shellie Jackson of Lynchburg, Va.; his grandparents, Robert and Gara Stallings and Bill and Nellie Snelson, all of Clovis, N.M.; his aunts and uncles, Robert Jr. and Glenda Stallings, Alan and Cara Stallings, Karen Waldron, Joe and Susie Wheeler and Dwayne and Jeannie Garrett; as well as numerous cousins and a large church family. Pallbearers are Sidney Smith, Craig Holly, Mark Jones, Shane McNamara, Jeff Webb and Dennis Hodge. Honorary pallbearers are Ron Smith, Stephen McGee, Keith Morgand, Captain McCurry and Jeff McCurry. The family has set up a fund in order to assist with the funeral. Donations may be made to First American Bank (Account Shannon Jackson Special). Shannon loved the Lord and his family and friends. He has gone home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday January 15, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [011503holguin.jpg] Edward J. Holguin PECOS Edward J. Holguin, born April 24, 1963, in Pecos, Texas, passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2003, at his residence in Galveston, Texas. He was preceded in death by his father, George A. Holguin, also of Pecos. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, January 18, 2003, at St. James Baptist Church of Pecos, 324 South Peach. [011503leroy.jpg] Leroy Brookover GRANBURY Leroy Brook Earnest Brookover, 85, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at the Glen Rose Medical Center - Alzheimers Unit. Services will be held at Acton United Methodist Church, Thursday, Jan. 16, at 2 p.m. Burial will be in Acton Cemetery. Leroy was born to C.E. and Lou Tish Brookover, in Burchfield, W.Va., Feb. 23, 1917. He came to claim Texas as his state in 1924. He started work for Gulf Oil Company after graduation from Crane High School. He was with Gulf Oil for 15 years and served in the U.S. Army Air Corp for 5 years during World War II. Later he formed his own company, Lerondo Oil Servicing Co., in Sonora, Texas. The company was named after Leroy, Ronnie and Dorris. He sold the company and retired in 1980 and started traveling. He became a world traveler. Leroy was a 32nd Degree Mason. Leroy was preceded in death by his son, Ronnie, who died Dec. 4, 2002; his parents, C.E. and Lou Tish Brookover; brother, Chris Brookover; and sister, Betty Lou Houston. Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Dorris Anita Cox Brookover; brother, Jack Brookover of Carmi, Ill.; cousins, W.D. Brookover of Acton and Jack Hooks of Henderson, Texas; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hanna House, P.O. Box 278, Glen Rose, Texas 76043, or Acton United Methodist Church. [011503flora.jpg] Letha Flora ODESSA Letha Flora, 72, of Odessa, and formerly of San Angelo, died at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital in Odessa. Letha was born Jan. 16, 1930, in San Angelo. She was a security guard for Texas Instruments for many years. She is survived by four children, Lanny Flora and wife, Jan, of Fort Collins, Colo., Brenda Menchaca and husband, Steve, of Odessa, Chuck Flora also of Odessa, and Rusty Flora and wife, Dyane, of Gardendale; seven grandchildren, Chris Flora, Irene Flora, Jim Latham, Mike Latham, Chad Flora, Lindsay Flora and Haley Flora; nine great-grandchildren; and one brother, Wayne Chandler of San Angelo. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003, at Johnsons Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Doyle Oliver officiating. Burial will follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. [011503johnson.jpg] Reba Lee Johnson CRANE Reba Lee Johnson passed away after a lengthy illness on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2003, in the Crane Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was born Oct. 28, 1921, to Pink and Nettie Louise OBriant in Roby, Texas. While working at the Boeing Aircraft Factory in Seattle, Wash., she met and married William Joseph Johnson, who preceded her in death in 1981. After World War II, Bill and Reba came to West Texas to make it their home. She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Odessa. She is survived by her three sons, Donovan Johnson and his wife, Cathie, of Odessa, Jimmy Johnson and his wife, Gwen, of Austin, Randy Johnson and his wife, Dee, of Dallas; and one daughter, Sigrid Garrett and her husband, Allen, of Odessa; she had seven grandchildren, Skye, Joseph, Carroll, Jeffery, Willow, Jeremy, and Justin. Also, she has one sister, Dixie Townzen of Midland. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, at the Shaffer-Nichols Funeral Home Chapel in Crane. Interment will follow in the Crane County Cemetery. [011503savage.jpg] Esther Morris Savage ODESSA Esther Morris Savage was born to the late Willie Dell Morris and Bobbie Jean Morris-Montgomery on July 23, 1960, in Crane, Texas. She attended public schools in Crane and Ector counties. She graduated from Ector High School in 1979. She was a member of the choir, and she played volleyball and basketball. At an early age, Esther accepted Christ in her life at the Mount Zion Baptist Church under the pastorage of the Rev. H.A. Bowens. All of her life, she had a deep compassion and love for singing, especially praises to God. Her favorite song was Its Been a Good Day. She later moved her membership to the Bethlehem Baptist Church under the pastorage of the Rev. R.S. Sutton. She married Thomas Savage on Feb. 14, 1982. She leaves to cherish her life sons, Clentin Spud Morris and Thomas Wayne Savage, and daughter, Meia Morris, all of Odessa. Her precious grandchildren, Shelby and Sheldon Man Man. Also her brothers, Willie Raymond Morris, William Dwayne Morris and wife, Vickie, and Eugene Morris and wife Debbie, of Odessa; Dave Morris and wife Orvetta, of Midland, Craig Morris of Abilene and Willie Dell Morris Jr. and Spencer Morris of Crane. Her sisters Saundra J. Lane of Odessa, Barbara Dickens of El Paso and Wendel J. Morris of Midland. Also her grandparents, Jack and Sammie Lane and Bertha Lou Morris, all of Crane; and a great host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Public viewing will be from 1 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, and from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 18, at Chapa Funeral Home. Family Wake will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Chapa Funeral Home. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Walkers Chapel, 525 S. Grandview Ave. Services entrusted to Chapa Funeral Home. Alka enjoy walking around Heaven all day. We love and miss you. Your family Genevieve Sherman ODESSA Genevieve Sherman, 96, of Odessa died Saturday, Jan. 11, 2003, at her residence. She was born June 3, 1906, to T.J. and Mary Belle Duncan in Oklahoma Territory and lived in Oklahoma City until 1997 when she moved to Odessa. Genevieve married Byron Sherman Dec. 1, 1927. Byron preceded her in death Aug. 29, 1964. She was employed as a proofreader for many years at The Leader Press. She was a member of Crown Heights United Methodist Church and attended St. Lukes United Methodist Church in Odessa. Genevieve was Sooner born and Sooner bred and shes still a Sooner. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Elizabeth Knox, and a brother, T.J. Duncan Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Allred and husband, Richard, of Odessa; her son, Byron Ben Sherman Jr. and wife, Mary Anne, of Edmond, Okla.; granddaughters, Deanna Howard and husband, Curt, of Monahans, Emily Peck and husband, Ian, of Grapevine and Carrie Ann Shenk and husband, Joe, of Oklahoma City; grandson, Stephen Allred and wife, Amy, of Houston; and great-grandchildren, Tams and Taylor Howard, William Peck and Genevieve Anne Shenk. The family will be available for visitation from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Lukes United Methodist Church, 1601 E. 42nd St., Odessa, 79762; Crown Heights United Methodist Church, 1021 NW 37, Oklahoma City, OK 73118; or Southern Hills Christian Church, 3207 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73013. Arrangements entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home in Odessa. Shane Hunter Williams ALPINE Shane Hunter Williams went home to be with the Lord Friday, Jan. 10, 2003. Shane was born Oct. 12, 1971, in Dallas, Texas, to Ronnie and Jan Williams. He spent his youth in Alpine, Texas, was a graduate of Sul Ross State University and then moved to Dallas in 1996 to pursue his career as an accountant. Shanes first love was spending time with his family and enjoying the outdoors. He especially enjoyed fly-fishing in the mountains of Colorado, where he wants his ashes to be spread. His grandmother, Billie Porter of Eldorado, and his grandfather, Aubrey Dean Williams of San Angelo, preceded him in death. He is survived by his parents, Ronnie and Jan Williams of Alpine; his brother and sister-in-law, Shanon and Kathy Williams, and his very special niece and nephew, Amber and Clayton Williams, all of Katy; his grandfather, Clayton Porter of Eldorado; his grandmother, Aleene Donaley of San Angelo; his uncle, Dean Williams, and aunt, Vickie Williams, of Eldorado; his uncle, Carl Porter, and aunt, Sue Porter, of Brookshire; his many cousins; and his special friends, Clyde Borders and Dudley. His warm smile, his big heart and his loving personality will be greatly missed by his many friends and family. A celebration of his life will be held at the First Christian Church in Alpine at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, 2003. Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church of Alpine or the memorial of your choice. [011503forrester.jpg] Stephen Forrester ODESSA Stephen Forrester, 50, of Odessa passed from this life Monday, Jan. 13, 2003. Stephen was born Aug. 6, 1952, in Houston to Jimmy Price Forrester and Jackie Glass Forrester. He came to Odessa in 1980 after graduating from Midland Lee in 1971. On December 23, 1982, he married Olga Perez. His religious affiliation was Baptist. Stephen was employed by Shell Pipeline for 21 years, and he enjoyed collecting Shell memorabilia. Spending time with his family and his dog, Ginger, were some of his favorite pastimes. He is preceded in death by his sister, Linda Norlane Jones. He is survived by his wife, Olga Forrester of Odessa; sons, Jason Price Forrester of Midland, Michael Soto of Abilene and Greg Soto and wife, Katie, of Odessa; parents, Jimmy and Jackie Forrester of Odessa; brother, Brad Forrester and wife, Sheri, of Odessa; brother-in-law, Sherman Jones; cousins, Keith and Linda; five grandchildren, Mikey, Ashton, Morgan, Noah and Rae Ray; nephews, Bradley Forrester, David McWilliams and Jonathan McWilliams, all of Odessa; Daron and Paige Jones, Jeffery and Cassey Jones, both of Houston; and nieces, Dahnya Jones of Houston; Tami and Kristin Forrester of Sugarland. Rosary will begin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003. Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2003 at Sunset Memorial Chapel. Rev. Warren Taylor will be officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to Hospice House. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster.