Ector Co. TX - Obits from the Odessa American Online, Feb 15-28 2003 Thanks to the Odessa American Online, http://www.oaoa.com/ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ------------------------------------------------ [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday, February 15, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [021603Brannan.jpg] Steven Ray Brannan ODESSA Steven Ray Brannan, 31, of Odessa passed from this life Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2003, in Dallas. Steven was born Feb. 24, 1971, in Hobbs, N.M. Steven loved to ride cutting horses and was a member of the National Cutting Horse Association. He had lived in Odessa since 1976 and had an E.M.T. certificate from Odessa College. Steven had been an employee of R & M Wireline Service, Inc. for twelve years. He was a member of Greenfield Acres Baptist Church in Odessa. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie. He is survived by his son, Cory Ray Brannan of Odessa; his loving parents, Ray and Evelyn Brannan of Odessa; and numerous family members including Marion Hurst of Odessa, Joyce Goodson of Odessa, Bob Goodson of Houston, Debbie Thomson and her husband, Mart, of Odessa, and Mike Brannan and his wife, Bonnie, of Odessa. He also had numerous friends and four beloved dachshunds. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. today at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Mike Bartlett officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. James R. Covey Sr. ODESSA James R. Covey Sr., age 83, of Brownwood, died Friday, Feb. 14, 2003, at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa with the Rev. James Robertson officiating. Heartland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements in Brownwood. Sunset Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements. Mr. Covey was born Sept. 5, 1919, in DeRidder, La., the son of the late James Guy and Mattie Lee Hodges Covey. He married Ada Lee Jan. 15, 1946, in Bastrop. He served in the United States Army during World War II, receiving the American Camaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medial with two service stars. He worked in the oil fields including 45 years of service with Anderson Brothers Pipe. He was preceded in death by his wife. Survivors include his son, James R. Covey of Odessa; daughters, Reba Porter of Abilene and Mattie Robertson of Brownwood; his sisters, Reba Bodine and Gene Pepper of Houston, and Alvie Dorman of Port Arthur; seven grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. [021603Humpries.jpg] Elton Bud Humphries ODESSA Elton Bud Humphries, of Odessa, passed from this life Friday, Feb. 14, 2003, at the age of 78. He was born in Clifton, to Calvin and Annie Humphries and married Dorothy Blanche White in Texarkana, Ark., on April 6, 1946. He moved to Odessa from Snyder in 1952. Elton served in the Army Air Force during World War II and was a lifelong member of the VFW. Some of the things Elton enjoyed were gardening, camping, fishing and most of all spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed. Elton was preceded in death by his mother, Annie Humphries; father, Calvin Humphries; brother, Bill Humphries; and sister, Joy Lafern Taylor. He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy Humphries; son, Dan Elton Humphries of Spicewood; daughters, Diane Myers of Odessa, Peggy Neeley of Lake Jackson, Susan Hamlet of Clute, and Janet Eklund of Odessa; brother, Hurshel Humphries of Jacksonville, Fla., and David Humphries of Odessa; grandchildren, Ben, Adam, Thomas, Sadie, Sam, Nathan, Josie, Jeri Leigh, Chris, Michael, Joseph, Kim, Terecia, April, Jennifer and Courtney; eight great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Graveside Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, February 17, 2003, at First Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Steve Deines officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [021603purcell.jpg] Harry L. Purcell MONAHANS Harry L. Purcell, 62, of Panama City, Fla., died Monday, Feb. 10, 2003, at his home in Panama City. Services will be at 3 p.m. today at Cornerstone United Pentecostal Church with the Rev. Stan Huffty officiating. Burial will be in Monahans Memorial Cemetery. Mr. Purcell was a retired Air Force captain and had lived in Panama City, Fla., for 11 years. He served in the Air Force for 21 years and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He is survived by his son, Josh M. Purcell of Panama City, Fla.; his daughters, Gina L. Rice and Rhonda M. Adams, both of Salt Lake City, Utah, Debra J. Vaughn of Monahans, and Linda C. Rosenbaum of Youngstown, Fla.; his sister, Marjorie Smelser of Odessa; his brothers, William Purcell of Fresno, Calif., Tommy Purcell of Odessa, Charlie Purcell of Colorado, Johnny Purcell of Pleasanton, and Teddy Purcell of Waxahatchie; nine grandchildren; and two great-children. Services are under the direction of Heritage Funeral Home of Monahans. [021603Terry.jpg] Gail Alonza Terry ODESSA Services for Gail Alonza Terry, 38, of Odessa, will be at noon Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Greater St. Luke Baptist Church with the Rev. J.L. Terry officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Viewing will be from 6 to 9 p.m. today and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday at Chapa Funeral Home Chapel. Ms. Terry was born March 11, 1964, in Long Beach, Calif., to Audry Major Johnson and Alfreda Jackson. She attended school in Fort Worth before graduating from Roswell High School in Roswell, N.M. She had lived in Odessa for 17 years. She gave her life to Christ at an early age. She was a faithful member of Greater St. Luke Baptist Church where she served as president of the Usher Board. She was a co-founder of Black Angus Construction Company. She was employed as a cafeteria worker for the Ector County Independent School District. She was a member of the Odessa High School Booster Club and board member of the Permian Basin Youth Conference Choir. She loved working with youth in the community. She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her loving husband of 20 years, Billy Ray Terry Jr.; son, Billy Ray Terry III of Odessa; daughters, Venita Renee Terry and Vanessa Nicole Terry, both of Odessa; brothers, Audry Jackson Jr. of Fort Worth and Quincy Johnson and Keith Jackson, both of Odessa; sister, Venita Cannon of Odessa; grandmother, Julian Johnson of Fort Worth; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Pallbearers will be Eddie Cannon Sr., Eddie Jones, Henry Johnson, Sam Jones, Marcus Bracy and Willie Mims Jr. Funeral arrangements are by Chapa Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Tuesday, February 18, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [021803viola.jpg] Viola Teach Bayless KERMIT Viola was the eleventh child born to Howell and Nancy Caroline (Rankin) Bayless of Horatio, Arkansas. Horatio was her home until the death of her father during her freshman year of high school, her mother had expired when Viola was five. Viola was a victim of polio at 19 months and used crutches all of her life. Vernon, Texas, was her home for the next three years at which time her brother, A. B. Bayless, who gave her a home, was transferred to Iraan where Viola graduated from high school in 1931. Miss Ruby Wallace, an English teacher from Vernon, insisted that Viola go to college, and she was instrumental in gaining admission for Viola. It had been her fathers constant concern that Viola gain an education. Miss Wallace, Tula Bayless and Viola attended North Texas State Teachers College during the summers of 1930 and 1931. In June, 1934, following graduation from North Texas, Miss Bayless came to Wink where her brother was living. In September, she became a teacher in Wink High School where she continued teaching forty years. Four times since retirement she has been called back to complete a semester twice to teach English, twice to teach Business. In 1982, she taught the entire spring semester. Miss Bayless recalls that in her early years in Wink that Our Post Office was in a shack of a building of rough lumber. Most of the sidewalks were either planks or dirt. In those days, Wink boasted three drug stores and two movie theaters. Wink was completely enclosed by a barbed wire fence. Through the years the population would decrease then there would be another boom. Viola was a member of the Presbyterian Church which was a Mission Church. In about 1940 this church was disbanded because most of the members had been transferred away. We gave our little church building to Alpine, recalls Miss Bayless. For about three years, Viola drifted until the Reverend George Ditterline persuaded her to affiliate with the First Methodist Church where they put her to work immediately. As a child, Viola was brought up in both churches as their pastors were Circuit Riders and were in their churches only twice each month. Miss Bayless has served on most of the church committees; is secretary of literature, of membership, and to the Official Board. She has taught a Sunday school class most of the years and continued teaching until just recently. Several times she has been a Lay Representative to Annual Conference; the latest date was May of 1984. The Wink Study club organized and began the Winkler County Library. The first books were donated, and Miss Bayless accessioned those books. She also helped to organize the Winkler County Museum and was its first co-treasurer. Viola was instrumental in organizing the Wink Chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons and became its second president serving in that office two terms. She still served on their Advisory Board. Viola served two years on the Board of Advisors for Winkler County Senior Citizens Center. She organized their art department and taught their first lessons in Oil painting and just recently took over that job again. Miss Bayless was initiated into Kermit Chapter U. D. of the Order of the Eastern Star. Later she helped organize Wink Chapter No. 937 and became a charter member. She has held all line offices and was Worthy Matron in 1978-1979. Viola has served on several committees of the Grand Chapter of Texas or the Worthy Grand Matrons special committees including the years of 1984-1985. Among those honors bestowed upon Miss Bayless is a membership in the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. She was initiated into Gamma Mu Chapter in 1941; served many offices including that of president for a two and one half year term. Under expansion, she became a charter member of Theta Tau Chapter. Viola was given honorary membership in the League of Golden Hearts of the Presbyterian Church of Vernon in 1952. She was named First Lady of the Year by Beta Sigma Phi in 1968 in Wink. She was nominated for Senior Citizen of the year for Winkler County for 1983 and was honored at a reception along with other nominees. She was listed as one of the Most Prominent Educators of Texas in 1983. Miss Bayless said, I appreciate all the honors that have come my way, but most of all I appreciate the privilege of teaching and working with the young people in our community all these years. After retirement, Viola lived in Dripping Springs, Monahans and was presently a resident at Lincoln Towers in Odessa. She will be greatly missed by her family friends and ex-students of Wink High School. Survivors include her great niece and her husband who took loving care of her, Kay and Jim Mathews of Monahans; her nieces and their husbands, Mildred and Stanley Baker of Kermit and Lois and Joe Yoakum of Fort Worth, Texas; her great nephews Mike Yoakum of Forth Worth and Raymond Yoakum and his wife, Carol, of Weatherford, Texas. Also her niece, Helen Jones of Kermit. Another great niece, Marilyn Lambert of Aledo, Texas; and her great-great nephews, Roy Taylor and Joe Taylor of Odessa. She was also proud of Amanda Taylor of Wink, Brandi Taylor of Kermit, Shane, Shanna and Dylan Taylor of Odessa. Also many more great-great-great nephews and nieces. Services will be Thursday, February 20, 2003, at the First United Methodist Church in Kermit at 10 a.m. with Russ Smith Sr. officiating, interment at Kermit Cemetery. Services entrusted to Cooper Funeral Chapel Pall bearers are: Bill Beckham, Larry McCallister, Dale Carmen, Randy Gray and Russ Slaughter. Honorary Pall Bearers: All her ex-students from Wink. [021803jean.jpg] Margie Jean Hudson ODESSA Margie Jean Hudson, 73, of Odessa passed away Monday, Feb. 17, 2003, at her residence. She was born Nov. 15, 1929, in Compton, Calif. Mrs. Hudson was a nurses aide and had worked for Nurses Unlimited for several years and retired 14 years ago. She had lived many years in the Bay Area in California. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Margaret Cissel. She is survived by her husband, Frank Hudson of Odessa; sons, Dan OHearn and wife, Mary, of Odessa, Frank OHearn and wife, Bernadette, of San Jose, Calif., and Jeff Moyer and wife, Maureen, of Redding, Calif.; daughter, Peg King and husband, Rod, of Seattle, Wash.; eight grandchildren, John OHearn of Fort Worth, Kathleen OHearn of College Station, Chris Cox of Eatonville, Wash., Cheryl House of Des Moines, Wash., Mark Moyer of Redding, Calif., Ryan Moyer of Redding, Calif., Deanna Bermillo and Kenny OHearn, both of San Jose, Calif.; four great-grandchildren; Rosemary and Amanda House and Samantha and Hannah Cox. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home with Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Servants of The Poor or the American Heart Association. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [021803powell.jpg] Wilma Lee Powell ODESSA Wilma Lee Powell, 73, passed away Sunday, Feb. 16, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. She was born Jan. 8, 1930, to Claude and Irene McKee in Nowata, Okla. Wilma married Lewis J. Powell on February 9, 1958, in Lamesa. They owned and operated several barber shops. Her parents and one sister, Juanita Siebels, preceded her in death. Survivors include her husband, Lewis Powell of Odessa; daughter, Donna Bell and husband, Joe, of Odessa; sister, Martha Kelly and husband, Jim, of South Coffeeville, Okla.; two grandchildren. Shelly Patterson and husband, Mark, and Sonya Miles and husband, Rocky; five great-grandchildren, Ashley and Bryce Long, Meagan Epperson, Keely Epperson and Austin Twilligear; and two nephews and two nieces. Graveside services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitors will be received at 2402 Oakwood. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice House. Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [021803howard.jpg] Judy Howard ODESSA Judy Howard went to be with our Lord Sunday, Feb. 16, 2003, after a very courageous 14-year battle with cancer. She passed away at home with her family surrounding her. Judy was born Judy Susan Sykes on April 19, 1949, in Austin, Texas. In 1978, she met and married her husband, Neill Howard, and they settled down in Odessa with their family. At the young age of 39, Judy was diagnosed with breast cancer. She fought bravely and never let it slow her down. Six years later, it came back and she spent a month in Dallas at Baylor Hospital going through extensive treatment. Three years later it came back yet again, and again she fought it with the quiet determination and courage she was known for. Judy never let it interfere and lived each day to the fullest. She devoted her time and energy to her family, friends and her church. She was always known for her creativity, intelligence, strength and courage, generosity and sense of humor. She had said that she had no regrets. She got to she her children grow and have children of their own. She was able to know and love her grandchildren, who affectionately referred to her as Juju. Her faith in God and devotion to those she loved were an inspiration to all. Those who were fortunate enough to know her will cherish their time with her. She will be truly missed. There will be a memorial service at Westminster Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2003. A graveside service will be held at the Fairmount Cemetery in San Angelo, Texas, at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003. Her father, Roy Sykes, preceded Judy in death. She is survived by her loving husband, Neill Howard of Odessa; her mother and step-father, Frances and Ed Pinson of San Angelo; her children and grandchildren, Bill and Kelly Howard and Chad of Odessa, Brittany Howard of Coleman, Amy and Clint Vanlandingham and Tyler of Sterling Heights, Mich., Alison and DonnieCagle and Donnie III of Lubbock, Kimberly Claburn of San Angelo, Stacey and Donny Pipes of San Angelo; brothers and sister-in-law, Neil Sykes of Corpus Christi, Jerre and Karen Sykes of Houston; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. The family wishes to thank Westminster Presbyterian Church, Dr. George and staff of the West Texas Cancer Center, Odyssey Healthcare and the staff of the Radiology Department (Special Procedures) of Medical Center Hospital for their excellent care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Westminster Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund at 4901 Maple Ave., Odessa, TX 79762, or Odyssey Healthcare, 2651 JBS Parkway, Odessa, TX 79761. [021803olivas.jpg] Sally G. Olivas ODESSA Sally G. Olivas, 70, passed away Saturday, Feb. 15, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. She was born Nov. 4, 1932, to Joe and Juanita Guzman in Corpus Christi, Texas. Sally graduated from Roy Miller High School in Corpus Christi in 1952. She married Tony C. Olivas on Oct. 9, 1958, in Corpus Christi, and moved to Odessa that same year. She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. She was a member of St. Josephs Catholic Church. Her husband, her father and her son, Tony Dean Olivas, all preceded her in death. Survivors include three sons, Arnold A. Olivas and wife, Gloria, of Corpus Christi, Albert A. Olivas and wife, Dena, of Arlington, and David D. Olivas and wife, Olivia, of Odessa; one daughter, Janis J. Olivas of Odessa; her mother, Juanita C. Martinez of Corpus Christi; three sisters, Terri Lopez, Frances Alvarez and Mary Ann Trevino, all of Corpus Christi; seven grandchildren, Mike, Allison, Jennifer, Arnold II, Sylvia, Nicole and David II; and three great-grandchildren, Michaela, Desirae and Alex. Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2003, at St. Josephs Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Rosary will be said at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Chapel. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [021803ponce.jpg] Robert Raul Ponce ODESSA Robert Raul Ponce, 70, of Odessa, surrounded by his wife, children and loved ones, passed away February 15, 2003, at his residence. He was born August 22, 1932, in Corpus Christi to Rafael and Alicia Ponce. He married Pauline Maldonado May 3, 1965, in Corpus Christi. He was a Food and Beverage Manager in the Restaurant Industry and a Catholic/Christian. He served in the U.S. Air Force in the 1950 Korean War and later to be stationed in Hahn Germany. He moved to Odessa in 1968 from Corpus Christi where he was employed by the Inn of The Golden West Hotel and later to be employed at the Villa Del Sol and Wooley Tool Mfg. He was a member of the Odessa Basin Lions Club and the Odessa Sundown Lions Club where he served as President, Secretary and Board of Directors for both organizations. He also served with the Lions Cabinet of District 2T3 in various capacities including Zone Chairman, Deputy District Governor and Regional Membership and Extension Chairman. He was preceded in death by his father and mother. He is survived by his wife, Pauline Maldonado Ponce of Odessa; son, Rafael Ponce of Tennesee Colony, Texas; daughters, Cynthia Alvarado and husband, Ricky, of Odessa, Leticia Griffin and husband, Tommy, of Odessa, Lisa Martinez and husband, Ismael, of Odessa and Joanne Ponce of Willmington, Delaware; grandchildren, Thomas Carrasco, Abraham Carrasco, Crystal Venegas, Monica Venegas, Jeremy Ponce, Priscilla Casrrasco, Star Madrid, Amanda Madrid, Richard Alvarado, Joseph Martinez, Angelica Alvarado, Junior Zuviri and Lalo Zuviri; great-grandchildren, Zachary Carrasco, Julian Carrasco, Samantha Ponce, Jeremy Ponce Jr. and Xavier Ponce; and numerous nieces and nephews. A rosary will be said tonight at 7 p.m. at Odessa Funeral Home Chapel. Mass services will be held Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 2 p.m. at St. Anthonys Catholic Church with Rev. Serafin Avenido officiating. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery. His grandchildren, along with his dear and best friend Gilbert Valencia will assist as pallbearers. The family, first of all, is eternally grateful to God and would like to take the time to express their utmost sincere appreciation to the staff of Permian Basin Dialysis for the wonderful care, prayers, and love given to my husband and father. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. [021803smith.jpg] Marilyn Long Smith ODESSA Marilyn Long Smith was born Feb. 21, 1946, to Herman and Gladys Long in Hood River, Ore. She was the fourth of five children and was raised to love and respect the people she came in contact with and to work for the goals she set in her life. Marilyn met Aubrey Smith Valentines Day, Feb. 14, 1970, and they were married Friday, March 13, 1970. After almost 33 years, she left Aubrey on Valentines Day, February 14, 2003, and joined her father, Herman Long; her mother, Gladys Long; and her brothers, Calvin and Jackie Long, who preceded her in death. She will be with them now to add to the family circle along with all those who went before her. Marilyns most precious memories in her life were spent raising her children, SSGT Danny Neighbors and Amy Smith Bailey, and sharing their successes and comforting them when things didnt seem to work out for the best. Of course, her children grew to adulthood and set out on their own journeys in life, following their dreams. Danny graduated from the Odessa College Police Academy and became a proud member of the U.S. Army. He is now a staff Sergeant stationed in Germany and has an exemplary record and numerous commendations to accent his military career. Amy married Stacy Bailey and graduated from UTPB. She works for West Texas Opportunities as a caseworker helping people obtain childcare. She has many awards for outstanding performance of her duties and is a true leader and role model for anyone she comes in contact with. She also has two daughters of her own so theres always some activity to keep the whole family hopping. Grandma treasured time spent and memories made with the apples of her eyes, her granddaughters, Brittany and Katy. No joy filled her heart more than a scooter race around the yard when she said ready-set-go, and then counted off the time around the track, or a soccer kick for a field goal, or a t-ball home run, or all of the drawings, cut-outs, hugs and kisses to hang on her bulletin board. With all of this she was always the most wonderful wife and best friend a man could ever have. Together Marilyn and Aubrey set many goals and accomplished them one by one. They loved, worked, celebrated victories and faced disappointment together. They shared A Wonderful Life and never forgot to remind each other Its Just You and Me, Buck! Marilyn is survived by her husband, Aubrey; son, SSGT Danny Neighbors; daughter, Amy Bailey and husband, Stacy; granddaughters, Brittany McCollaum and Katy Bailey; Katys grandparents, Walt and Daphine Bailey; brother, Delbert Long; sister, Donna Arbuckle and husband, Robert; uncle, Harley Davidson and wife, Jewel; aunt, Ruth Hall; nephew, Chad Long; nieces, Marie Dawson, Teresa Sinclair, Brenda Walters, Tammy Snyder, Kristie Smith and husband, Dan, Jessie Rose and Randi Long; great nephews, Jeremy, Jessie, Dillon, Kyle, Taylor, Brandon, Jacob and Josh; great-nieces, Janell, Dezerae, Kari Ann, Sarah and Anna. Marilyn also has many cousins and other family in Colorado, Kansas and Missouri who will remember her for the wonderful person she was. Marilyn never left loved ones without hugs, kisses and I Love You, so now we must say I Love You until we are in the unbroken circle. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, at Ector County Cemetery with Rev. Jimmy Law officiating. Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Edna J. Malone Taylor BIG SPRING Edna J. Malone Taylor, 84, of Big Spring, died Saturday, Feb. 15, 2003, in Odessa. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Rosewood Chapel with Rev. Dennis Teeters, pastor of First Baptist Church, officiating. Interment will follow at Trinity Memorial Park. She was born Dec. 19, 1918, in Dallas, Texas. Edna married Paul Malone June 19, 1937, in Crane. He preceded her in death on August 28, 1989. She then married Owen Taylor Nov. 2, 1991, in Big Spring. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Big Spring and was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Survivors include her husband, Owen Taylor of Big Spring; two sons, Ron Malone of Edmond, Okla., and Don Malone of Licking, Mo.; a granddaughter, Lauren Malone of Norman, Okla.; one step-daughter, Marylan Duncan and husband, Jimmy, of Checotah, Okla.; two step-grandchildren, John Roberts of Checotah, Okla., and James Roberts of Austin; a great-granddaughter, MaKayla Roberts of Checotah, Okla.; and one brother, Billy Gray and wife, Louise, of Rankin. The family suggests memorials to: First Baptist Church, 705 W. FM 700, Big Spring, Texas 79720. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home of Big Spring. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday, February 20, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022003carter.jpg] Lilla Carter ARLINGTON Lilla Hickerson Beyer Carter, 94, a retired teacher, died Saturday, Feb. 15, 2003, at her home in Lubbock. Lilla Marion Hickerson was born April 27, 1908, to Metta Bybee Hickerson and Henry Clay Hickerson in Crawford, Texas. At the age of four, she moved by covered wagon with her parents and siblings to Oklahoma. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. She began her 14-year career as a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse in Oklahoma. She taught for several years at Texon, a no longer existing oil boomtown in Reagan County, Texas, and in Odessa, Texas. She married Texas oil pioneer Charles E. Beyer in 1944. He died in 1975 in Arlington, where they lived after his retirement. While in Arlington, Lilla was very active in civic organizations and the First Presbyterian Church. She was President of the Arlington Womans Club in 1959 and 1960 and served on the Board of A.W.C. for seven years, as well as the Board of the Y.M.C.A. She helped organize the local branch of the American Association of University Women and served as its President for one year. Lilla was also a member of the Arlington Historical Society, the Book Review Club, the Arlington Garden Club and Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority. In 1979, Lilla Beyer married George W. Carter and moved to Lubbock, Texas. Lilla was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Beyer; her husband, George W. Carter; brothers, Carl, Earnest, Alva, Harry and A. Lester Hickerson; and her sisters, Gladys Hickerson, Edith Morrow and Mary E. Foreman. She is survived by her brothers, Alex and Herbert Hickerson; and two nieces, Beverly Woollett of Bartlesville, Okla., and Pat Woods of West Columbia, Texas, who made their home with her after their mother, Ediths, death. Also numerous other nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Moore Funeral Home Chapel, Arlington, with her nephew, Rev. Eugene Foreman officiating. Lilla Beyer Carter will be laid to rest in Arlington beside Charles E. Beyer at Moore Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be from 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Arlington Womans Club.Services entrusted to Moore Funeral Home. [022003marie.jpg] Marie L. Grimes ODESSA Marie L. Grimes, 96, of Odessa passed away Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Hospice House. She was born May 20, 1906, in Morgan County, Ohio, to Denver and Beatrice Lochary. Graveside services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Fairlawn Memorial Park in Cushing, Okla. She was raised in Oilton, Okla. She married Cecil Grimes in 1926 in Oilton, Okla., who preceded her in death. She owned and operated Maries Beauty Bar for 25 years and retired 25 years ago. Survivors include her son, Bobby Grimes and wife, Mary; granddaughter, Elizabeth Atkinson; two great grandchildren, Tracee Robinson and Brad Dunnam; and three great-great-grandchildren, Chelcee Robinson, Zachary Robinson and Taylor Jones. Services are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [022003pleasant.jpg] Vernie Pleasant ODESSA Vernie Bailey Pleasant, 76, of Odessa passed away Saturday, Feb. 15, 2003, at Villa Mountain View Nursing Home. She was born January 4, 1927, in Lott. Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, at the Rose of Sharon Baptist Church with the Rev. J.W. Hanson officiating. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery. Arrangements by Ossie Curry Funeral Home in Lubbock. The family will receive friends from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday at Ossie Curry Funeral Home. Vernie attended public school in Lott. She moved to Tahoka, then to Lubbock and later to Odessa. She was married to Henry Pleasant. He preceded her in death. She worked at Grays Nursing Home, Medical Center Hospital, Nurses Unlimited and Texas Instruments. She was a member of the Rose of Sharon Baptist Church in Odessa where she participated in various auxiliaries. She is survived by her sons, Rev. Ronnie Brown of Lubbock and Alvin Bailey of Arlington; daughters, Gail Abron of Fort Worth, Tommie London of Lancaster and Lesa Johnson of Garland; brothers, Bernard Bailey of Houston, Ray Espie of Fort Worth, Bezel Bailey of Minneapolis, Minn., and Alvin Johnson of Fort Worth;sisters, Bonnie Truesdell of Lott, Lottie Nelson of Fort Worth, and Julia Mae Denzy of Tahoka; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday, February 21, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022103james.jpg] Jesse James Jess Wallace Sr. MIDLAND Jesse James Jess Wallace Sr. passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2003, at his residence. He was born July 16, 1908, in Leadman, Okla., to the late Jesse David and Lilly Etta Clement Wallace. At the time of his birth and childhood, Oklahoma was still a territory and was inhabited with a large Native American Indian population, who became his friends and playmates. Jess moved to Midland in 1932 and worked with the WPA program, which built most of the existing order streets in Midland, including Wall Street, Big Spring and Andrews Highway. He also drove a truck for Rocky Ford Moving vans and was proud of the opportunity to see the United States through his work. Jess met the late Sula Fay Stanley, daughter of Archie and Nina Stanley of Stanley Farm and they were married August 11, 1934. As Jess was too old to join the military for World War II, he instead worked the Stanley Farm as his contribution to our nation. Jess and Sue had six children. In 1945, the two opened a grocery store in East Midland, which is still in operation today. The first building for Wallace Grocery was an old boxcar that was retired from the railroad in the early 1900s. Jess was a people person and love being at the store, talking to all the friends, neighbors and people just passing through. He went to the store several times a day, up until a few months before his passing. Jess loved gardening, boat riding and fishing. However, his most pleasurable pastime was dancing at the senior citizen dances. He also loved his church and went as often as he could. His final request was to have a prayer meeting at his home that took place on Sunday, February 16. The first prayer was by Jess himself where he prayed for and blessed all his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse David and Lilly Etta Wallace; brothers, Leroy, Doyle and Melvin; sisters, Anola and Eva Mae; his wife, Sula Fay Wallace; and two infant sons, Richard Wallace and Waldo Wallace. Jess went home to be with his wife who, he said, was waiting on him, and to see his blessed redeemer, Jesus, who was also waiting on him. Services to celebrate his going Home are to be held at 11 a.m. Friday, February 21, 2003, at Pipkin Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Johnny Thomason officiating, assisted by brother Jeff Wilson. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Services are entrusted to Pipkin Funeral Home, 2508 N. Big Spring, Midland, Texas. Memorials may be directed to Northeast Community Church at Farm Road 1130 North, Midland, Texas. Jess is survived by his sons, David Stanley Wallace and wife, Mary Dell, of Odessa, Jesse James Wallace Jr. and wife, Joann, of Boyd and Bobby Dale Wallace and wife, Barbara, of Midland; daughter, Brenda Sue Coffmann and husband, Leonard, of Midland; brother, Cloyd Wallace of Midland; sister, Margaret Parnell of Midland; 11 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and a host of many, many friends. [022103done.jpg] David Earl Martin ODESSA David Earl Martin, 36, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at his Odessa residence. David was born April 11, 1967, in Odessa to Sandra and Ronald Martin. David lived in Odessa all his life and it was here that he raised his children. Davids children were the center of his world and all of his time was spent with them. Some of their favorite activities included going to the park together and attending all of the various sport functions the children were involved in. David is survived by his children, David Earl Martin Jr., Daphanie Martin, Sandra Diane Martin, Samantha Dionne Martin and Savanna Denise Martin, all of Odessa; his father, Ronald Martin of Odessa; his mother, Sandra Hodge and step-father, Argene of Odessa; grandmother, Mae Martin of Odessa; brothers, Leslie Martin and Sammy Wright, both of Odessa; and sisters, Jeanie Talley of Austin and Ronda Davis of Odessa. Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Sherwood Baptist Church with the Rev. Tom Hiser officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [022103shultse.jpg] Jessie Earl Shults ODESSA Jessie Earl Shults, 72, of Odessa, surrounded by his loved ones, went to be with our Heavenly Father Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Jessie was born July 10, 1930, in Midland, Texas. He served in the United States Army. Jessie was part of the Peace Keeping Force in Japan during WWII and served in the infantry during the Korean War, while stationed in South Korea. Jessie was awarded two purple hearts, a good conduct medal, WWII victory medal, Army of Occupation Japan medal, National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and the United States Services Medal. He was also a retired truck driver. Jessie joined his mother Lilly Shults, father Johnny Shults, four brothers and four sisters who preceded him in death. He will be with the now and add to his family circle, along with many of his dearest friends who went on before him. Jessie is survived by his sister, Myrtle Cutbirth; brother, Floyd Shults and wife, Melba; daughter, Janice Amos and husband, Greg; son, Jeff Shults and wife, Lisa; grandsons, Jake Cox, Shawn Shults, Seth Amos and Dustin Tyler; granddaughters, Heather Cox, Ashley , Jessica Christine, Casey and Madison Shults; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jared and Journey. Jessie had many nieces and nephews who will also remember him. Services are scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors with Dr. Dewey Blevins officiating. Burial services will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [022103smith.jpg] Harris L. Cotton Smith ODESSA Harris L. Cotton Smith, 71, of Odessa passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born October 27, 1931 in Monkstown, Texas. Mr. Smith moved to Odessa in 1938 from Fannin County. He served in the U.S. Navy. He was owner of Smiths Furniture Store and was a member of Highland United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife, Hylma Smith, and his parents, John Wymer and Zula Smith. He is survived by sons, Phillip Smith and Andy Smith, both of Odessa, and Stephen Smith of Andrews; brother, John W. Smith and wife, Mary Jane, of Odessa; sister, Geraldine Ball and husband, Dalton, of Odessa; eight grandchildren, Samantha Smith, Jacoby Smith, Emily Smith, Haley Smith, Drew Smith, Amber Smith, Zachery Smith and Autumn Smith; and two great-grandchildren, Cory Underwood and Hannah Gray. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, at Highland United Methodist Church with the Rev. Tommy Hiser officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to The Leukemia Foundation. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022103Vaughn.jpg] Robert Bob Louis Vaughan, Sr. ODESSA Bob Vaughan, 74, of Odessa, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Odessa Medical Center Hospital. He was born September 6, 1928, in Electra, Texas, to William Louis and Madge Pearl Vaughan. He married Dorothy Mae Wescott on June 5, 1954. Bob Vaughan graduated from Big Spring High School in Big Spring, Texas, in 1946. He enlisted in the Army in 1946 and served one year in Japan in WWII. Upon his discharge, he returned to Big Spring where he went to Howard Junior College. In 1955, he went to Texas Tech University and graduated in Geology in 1957. Bob worked at Phillips Petroleum in the Gas and Gas Liquids Division for 29 years. During that time, Bob and his family lived in numerous places, starting in Odessa; moved to Hobbs, N.M.; back to Odessa; then Borger, Texas; he was transferred to the home office in Bartlesville, Okla.; then Oklahoma City, Okla.; back to Hobbs; and finally back to Odessa where he retired in 1986. Bob was active in the United Methodist Church for most of his life. He enjoyed taking his family camping and seeing the sights and historic places in 32 of the United States. Bob also enjoyed reading, boating, water-skiing, fishing and rock collecting. Bob is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his two sons and their families, Robert L. Vaughan Jr., his wife Marie, and children, Emily and Steven Vaughan of Burke, Va., and Phillip Vaughan, his wife Toyi, and their daughter, Cassie Vaughan of Katy, Texas. Bob is also survived by his sister, Colleen Capen of Leander, Texas; two cousins, Jerry McClure of Miami, Ohio and Margaret (McClure) Jones of Floydada, Texas: and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, at St. Lukes United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kevin Bushart officiating. Graveside services will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens immediately following the memorial service. Services entrusted to Frank Wilson Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. Lukes United Methodist Church, Odessa, Texas, in Bobs memory. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday, February 22, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022203martin.jpg] Kirk Anthony Martin MIDLAND Kirk Anthony Martin, 43, entered eternal peace Saturday, February 15, 2003. Kirk was born November 5, 1959, in Tuscon, Arizona. He married the love of his life Lori, from Odessa, Texas, March 1, 1996, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kirk was employed by CUDD Pressure Control, Inc. as a District manager. He was a devoted husband and loving father. Kirk had a passion for bringing joy and laughter into other lives. He could light up a room with his smile and practical jokes. He will be missed, but never forgotten. He is survived by his wife, Lori Martin, of Odessa, Texas; his four daughters, Lacie, Amanda, Laura, and Kayla; his mother and father, Paul and Kathy Martin; and his two sisters, Kendra and Karreen. Memorial services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2003, at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home and Crematory, 3800 N. Big Spring St. in Midland, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to: Lori Martin and her girls at First American Bank, 4900 E. 42nd St.,Odessa, TX 79762 or to the Hospice House, 903 N. Sam Houston Ave., Odessa, Texas, 79761. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. [022203blake.jpg] Rodney Blake Roberts ODESSA Rodney Blake Roberts, age 67, passed away Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital, losing a well fought and courageous battle against cancer. He was born September 8, 1935, in Breckenridge, Texas. Rodney was one of Jehovahs Witnesses and had devoted his life to serving Jehovah. He was a full-time minister for many years during his youth. He also served as a Theocratic Ministry School overseer, teaching and sharing his love of Jehovah with the North Congregation of Jehovahs Witnesses. Rodney was interested in electronics, and after owning and operating serveral businesses locally, finished his career as an electronics teacher for Avalon Vocational Technical Institute. N5LQF, his Ham Operators license number, also enjoyed talking with his spiritual brothers over the ham radio network. Rodney leaves behind his wife of 38 years, Sue; and three children, Rodney Roberts II, Misty Dawn Roberts and Wendy Spring Roberts. He especially loved his two grandchildren, Amber Rose Ridley and Gogan Ryker Ridley. Survivors include two sisters, Barbara Simmons of Idalou, Texas, and Rene Novak of Odessa; as well as one brother, Forrest Roberts of Odessa; and many nieces and nephews. We have faith that Jehovah will not forget Rodney, but will remember all the good things he has done and will resurrect him to a better life when the time comes. Our thanks go to West Texas Cancer Center and Dr. George for their expertise and kindness during the past seven years. Many thanks to the local brothers and sisters who have given us moral support and help while Rodney was homebound. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses at Fifth and Adams, with Burt Cole officiating. [022203shults.jpg] Jessie Earl Shults ODESSA Jessie Earl Shults, 72, of Odessa, surrounded by his loved ones, went to be with our Heavenly Father Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Jessie was born July 10, 1930, in Midland, Texas. He served in the United States Army. Jessie was part of the Peace Keeping Force in Japan during WWII and served in the infantry during the Korean War, while stationed in South Korea. Jessie was awarded two purple hearts, a good conduct medal, WWII victory medal, Army of Occupation Japan medal, National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge and the United States Services Medal. He was also a retired truck driver. Jessie joined his mother Lilly Shults, father Johnny Shults, son, Jason Shults, four brothers and four sisters who preceded him in death. He will be with them now and add to his family circle, along with many of his dearest friends who went on before him. Jessie is survived by his sister, Myrtle Cutbirth; brother, Floyd Shults and wife, Melba; daughter, Janice Amos and husband, Greg; son, Jeff Shults and wife, Lisa; grandsons, Jake Cox, Shawn Shults, Seth Amos and Dustin Tyler; granddaughters, Heather Cox, Ashley , Jessica Christine, Casey and Madison Shults; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jared and Journey. Jessie had many nieces and nephews who will also remember him. Services are scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2003, at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors with Dr. Dewey Blevins officiating. Burial services will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday, February 23, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022303Brem.jpg] Joseph Lytt Brem ODESSA Funeral services for Joseph Lytt Brem, age 52, of Odessa, are scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, 2003, at Westover Baptist Church in Odessa. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. He went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2003, in Odessa, and is now rejoicing with his mother and grandparents. Mr. Brem had lived in Oessa since 1992 after moving from Paint rock, Texas. He was a gang pusher in the oilfield. He was a Baptist. He is survived by his three daughters, Missy Christine Brem Kelly and husband, Eric, Dita Bernatha Brem and Loretta Jo Brem, all of Sulphur Springs; his father, Joseph Brem of Odessa; brother, Keary Brem and his wife, Judy, of Odessa; sister, Rebecca Rose Bouck and her husband, Brent, of Midland; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dita Jo Brem; and his grandparents. Funeral services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022303Rannell.jpg] Rannell E. Brown HERINGTON, KAN. Rannell E. Brown, 51, of Herington, Kan., went to be with our Lord Friday, Feb. 7, 2003. He was born March 22, 1951, in Artesia, N.M., the son of Glen O. and Ruth (Hill) Brown. Services were in Farmersville at Grace Fellowship Assembly of God with Tracy McWilliams officiating. He was laid to rest at Nocona Cemetery in Nocona, Texas. Services entrusted to Jerry Woods Funeral Home. He graduated from Odessa High School and Odessa College. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Mr. Brown lived in Dallas for many years, where he owned and operated F.B.A. Security System. He was preceded in death by his father, Glen Brown; and a younger brother, Noel Brown. He is survived by his mother, Ruth Brown of Odessa; a sister, Glenna Rindt of Herington; and three nephews, Chad Mayes, Stuart Mayes and Ryan Brown. Lahoma Odell Atkins ODESSA Lahoma Odell Atkins passed away Feb. 22, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. She was born Oct. 9, 1916, in San Angelo to John and Tommie Pace. Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Lahoma owned Dells Place in San Angelo for 15 years and before retiring in 1984. One of her favorite pastimes was fishing. She was a lifelong resident of San Angelo. Lahoma is survived by her sisters, Esther Rose Holladay of Gardendale, Johnnie Wilson of Temple; nephews, Ray Woodall and wife, Danielle, of Gardendale, John Edward Harrell and wife, Elizabeth, of Midland, Michael Wilson and wife, Georgetta, of Tyler, and Peter Wilson and wife, Mary, of Tyler; nieces, Kay McCollum and husband, Russ, of Odessa, Trina Prichard and husband, Robert, of Big Spring, and Marietta Scott and husband, Jesse, of Waco; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; also numerous great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews. Arrangements and interment are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. [022303Lorell.jpg] Willard Lineaus Jack Lorette ODESSA Willard Lineaus Jack Lorette was born July 31, 1915, in Payne County, Okla., between Yale and Oilton. He passed away Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2003, at his home in Odessa. Mr. Lorette was the 1933 State Wrestling Champion in the 165-pound weight class and state collegiate champion in 1935, 1936 and 1937 while at Oklahoma A&M University. Jack married Richey Bernayz Hooper April 22, 1936, in Sepulpa, Okla. Jack joined the production department of Shell Oil Co. in 1937. He moved to Odessa in 1951 to start in the oil well servicing business. In 1963, he joined Roden Oil Co., after working two years with American Independent Oil Co. in Kuwait. He retired from HNG Oil Co. as its operational vice president. Jack was a member of H.A. McFarland Masonic Lodge, El Maida Shrine and the First United Methodist Church of Odessa. He is preceded in death by his wife of 61 years; his parents, Lineaus Leotis and Grace Rising Lorette; and a sister, Bea Lorette Jones. He is survived by his sister, Lucille Lorette Unger of Burden, Kan.; son, Lineaus Hooper Lorette of Fort Davis; daughter, Glee Lorette Greenwood of San Francisco; and two grandchildren. This sketch of a life says little of the qualities of this great man. To those who knew him, he was the fairest of managers, a supportive husband, a wise and tolerant father, and a great storyteller. Jack was the last of the Hooper children and spouses that contributed so much to the making of the culture of the Permian Basin into something we love. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Steve Trout officiating. Burial will be in Norman, Okla. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022303Westfall.jpg] Virginia L. Westfall ODESSA On Thursday, Feb. 21, 2003, Virginia L. Westfall went home to be with the Lord. Virginia was born Jan. 20, 1926, in Reading, Mich., to David and Lilah Schlegel. On June 19, 1948, she married R. W. Dick Westfall. They moved to Odessa in 1950. In 1963, she got her licensed vocational nursing certificate from Odessa College. Over the years, she worked as a nurse at Medical Center Hospital, various nursing homes and in homes as a private duty nurse. In the early 1980s, her love of ceramic art led her to open a small ceramics shop in West Odessa. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Dick Westfall; and two sons, David Wayne Westfall and Donald L. Westfall. She is survived by one sister, Donna Tonkel of Reading, Mich.; sons, Rick Westfall and wife, Peggy, of Odessa, Mark Westfall and wife, Debbie, of Odessa, and Larry Clevenger and wife, Jan, of Kalamazoo, Mich.; daughter, Bonnie Ruppert and husband, Larry, of Kalamazoo, Mich.; grandsons, Mark Clevenger, Aaron Westfall, Jason Westfall, Cris Westfall and Joshua Westfall; granddaughters, Melissa Koehler, Pam Freman, Lori Brown, Dana Brown, Renae Jones, Jennifer Pickett and Jessica Westfall; along with 14 great-grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her many friends from a lifetime of giving and helping others. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2003, in the chapel at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home with the Rev. Johnny Young officiating. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022303Martin.jpg] Kirk Anthony Martin MIDLAND Kirk Anthony Martin, 43, entered eternal peace Saturday, February 15, 2003. Kirk was born November 5, 1959, in Tuscon, Arizona. He married the love of his life Lori, from Odessa, Texas, March 1, 1996, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kirk was employed by CUDD Pressure Control, Inc. as a District manager. He was a devoted husband and loving father. Kirk had a passion for bringing joy and laughter into other lives. He could light up a room with his smile and practical jokes. He will be missed, but never forgotten. He is survived by his wife, Lori Martin, of Odessa, Texas; his four daughters, Lacie, Amanda, Laura, and Kayla; his mother and father, Paul and Kathy Martin; and his two sisters, Kendra and Karreen. Memorial services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2003, at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home and Crematory, 3800 N. Big Spring St. in Midland, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to: Lori Martin and her girls at First American Bank, 4900 E. 42nd St.,Odessa, TX 79762 or to the Hospice House, 903 N. Sam Houston Ave., Odessa, Texas, 79761. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Monday, February 24, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022403westfall.jpg] Virginia L. Westfall ODESSA On Thursday, Feb. 21, 2003, Virginia L. Westfall went home to be with the Lord. Virginia was born Jan. 20, 1926, in Reading, Mich., to David and Lilah Schlegel. On June 19, 1948, she married R. W. Dick Westfall. They moved to Odessa in 1950. In 1963, she got her licensed vocational nursing certificate from Odessa College. Over the years, she worked as a nurse at Medical Center Hospital, various nursing homes and in homes as a private duty nurse. In the early 1980s, her love of ceramic art led her to open a small ceramics shop in West Odessa. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Dick Westfall; and two sons, David Wayne Westfall and Donald L. Westfall. She is survived by one sister, Donna Tonkel of Reading, Mich.; sons, Rick Westfall and wife, Peggy, of Odessa, Mark Westfall and wife, Debbie, of Odessa, and Larry Clevenger and wife, Jan, of Kalamazoo, Mich.; daughter, Bonnie Ruppert and husband, Larry, of Kalamazoo, Mich.; grandsons, Mark Clevenger, Aaron Westfall, Jason Westfall, Cris Westfall and Joshua Westfall; granddaughters, Melissa Koehler, Pam Freman, Lori Brown, Dana Brown, Renae Jones, Jennifer Pickett and Jessica Westfall; along with 14 great-grandchildren. She will be dearly missed by her many friends from a lifetime of giving and helping others. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, in the chapel at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home with the Rev. Johnny Young officiating. 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] Tuesday, February 25, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022503eh.jpg] E.H. Chunky Hendrick ODESSA E.H. Chunky Hendrick was called to be with his heavenly father Sunday February 23, 2003. Chunky, as he had affectionately come to be known, was born in Odessa October 20, 1919. The youngest son of B.C and Elizabeth Hendrick, one of Odessas pioneering families, Chunky spent a lifetime working to improve the community he so dearly loved. Chunky graduated from Odessa High School in 1936 where he was a member of the varsity football team. He worked for the family owned funeral business (currently Hubbard-Kelly funeral home) and for the family owned hardware store. Upon graduation from high school, he attended Texas Christian University for a short time before he transferred to Texas Military College. Throughout the 1930s Chunky engaged in various occupations including a short stint in the oil industry. His patriotism led him to enlist in the United States Army to fight in World War II. Chunky was a member of the Army Air Force, a commitment that provided his first exposure to the field of communications, which would play a major role in his professional future. Chunky briefly joined the Flying Cadets, an organization that trains enlisted men to fly, but soon realized his real gifts were in leadership. In 1942 he was transferred to officer training school in Boca Raton, Florida, emerging as a second Lieutenant and receiving his commission from Yale University. On January 9,1944, Chunky married Virginia Ruth Tucker. The couple was transferred to New York, Connecticut, Kansas and Nebraska, where he trained with the B-29 fighting group. In 1944, Chunky received his war assignment and was transferred to Sal Pan with the 498th bombing group in the 873rd squadron and was promoted to Captain. He was decommissioned in 1945 and returned to Odessa to be with his wife and their first child, Mary Elizabeth, followed by son Edwin Henry Jr. in 1948 and daughter Marcia Lee in 1951. Chunky spent the next years of his life establishing a career, and defining his role in the community. Among some of his most proud accomplishments, he worked as one of the first paid firefighters in the city of Odessa and conducted a radio program called The Man on the Street in which he would interview passersby and reward them with a warm loaf of bread. In 1956 Chunky began his long and successful career as a stockbroker. For 32 years he played an active role in the business community. In the 1960s he served as president of the board of Trustees for E.C.I.S.D. He also spent four years on the Board of Directors for Odessa College where he served a president, and two years as Chairman of the Board for Medical Center Hospital, formerly the Ector County Hospital District. Chunky was one of the original founders and first commanding officer for the American Legion, established the local chapter of the National Guard Unit, and helped to establish the Boys Club of Odessa. He was a lifetime member of the First Christian Church. In 1980, Chunky was elected Justice of the Peace Precinct 2. During those years, Judge Hendrick presided over civil and criminal cases, acted as the county coroner, and was commissioned to preside over marriages. Remembered by many for his characteristic red suspenders and cigar, Chunky was an avid sports fan, rarely missing a Permian or Odessa High School football game. He will he greatly missed by his family and those who had the privilege of knowing this fine gentleman. Chunky was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Ruth; brothers, Tinker and Son Hendrick; and sister, Elizabeth Divine. He is survived by his daughter, Mary Elizabeth Stanfield and husband, Dave, of Fort Worth, Hank Hendrick and wife, Carolyn, of Odessa, daughter, Marcy Hubbard and husband, Maurice, of Odessa; grandsons, Wayne Lester King Jr., Dennis Harrison, Bryan Harrison and Shawn Harrison; and granddaughters, Marcy King Esparza and Tatum Hubbard-Fulbrigbt. Chunky had 11 great-grandchildren. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. A memorial service is planned for Wednesday, February 26, 2003, at 10 a.m. at First Christian Church Odessa, with the Rev. David Mindel officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Christian Church Odessa, Special Olympics-Team Odessa or the Permian Basin Rehabilitation Center. [022503lou.jpg] Eva Lou Fitzgerald ODESSA Eva Lou Fitzgerald, 65, passed away February 22, 2003 at Medical Center Hospital. She was born on January 3, 1938 in Russell, Ks to Maurice and Lucille Burris. Graveside Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Lou worked at Dobys BBQ and the Barn Door and one of her greatest joys was spending time with her family. She will be missed so very much. Lou is preceded in death by her sons, Rodney McPherson, Jamie Hodridge. She is survived by her daughters, Janie Holdridge of Hobbs, N.M., and Melody McPherson and Debbie Dutton, both of Odessa; son, Stacy Graham of Odessa; and grandchildren, Waylon Holdridge, Coy Holdridge, Chasity Trevino, Clayton Dutton, Kyle Dutton, Bryan Barton , Kris Dutton, Mandy Holdridge, Nikki Graham, Jamie Graham and Jeramy Graham. Arrangements entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [022503vernon.jpg] Vernon McCasland ODESSA Vernon D. McCasland, 81, went to be with the Lord Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, at his residence in Odessa surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 31, 1921, to Stacy and Verde Ola McCasland in Ralls, Texas. Vernon served his country during World War II in the Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arna, and the Southern France Campaigns. He was awarded the American Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, the European-Arfrican-Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Medal, Silver Star, Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He was a Mason and past Worshipful Master of the Masonic Lodge, a member of the American Legion and the Immanuel Baptist Church. Vernon married Doris Gummelt on Feb. 23, 1998, in Las Vegas, Nev. He moved to Odessa from Goldsmith in 1996. He was a repairman with El Paso Natural Gas and retired with 35 years of service. His parents; his brothers, Kenneth Elroy and Denver McCasland; and wife, Monetta McCasland, all preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife, Doris McCasland of Odessa; sons, John and Marty McCasland, both of Midland; daughters, Charlotte West of Odessa and Cheryl Bavousett of Seagraves, Texas; three step-daughters, Peggy Hamilton of Hobbs, N.M., Pat Mayo of Longview, Texas, and Sandra Gentry of Phoenix, Ariz.; one sister, Ethylene Skaggs of Early, Texas; 14 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren. Services are scheduled for 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Chapel with Dr. Mark D. Riley officiating. Masonic rites will be said at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be donated in lieu of flowers to Odyssey Hospice at 2651 JBS Parkway, Bldg. 4, Ste. B, Odessa, Texas 79761. Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022503price.jpg] Joe Gary Price Sr. ODESSA Joe Gary Price, Sr., 52, passed away Saturday, Feb. 22, 2003, after a short illness. Joe was born May 25, 1950, in Odessa, Texas, to Leon and Bernice Price. He married Shirley Stull on Sept. 3, 1988, in Odessa. Joe was a driver for the U.S. Government, transporting new recruits to Lubbock for physicals. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He is preceded in death by his father, Leon Price; granddaughter, Casey Price; and sister, Lynn Sims. Joe is survived by his wife, Shirley Price of Odessa; sons, Joe Gary Price Jr. and wife, Marian, of Odessa and Mike Dunn of Buffalo Gap; daughter, Teesha Price of Buffalo Gap; parents, Dene and B.J. Sims of Odessa; brothers, Larry Price and wife, Judy, of Odessa and John Price and wife, Joann, of Odessa; sisters, Janice Price of Odessa and Mary Pat Sims of Baton Rouge, La.; five grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held Tuesday, February 25, 2003 at 4 p.m. at the Odessa Eagles Lodge, 519 E. 7th St. Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Maudie M. Sweatt McRee AMARILLO Maudie M. Sweatt McRee, 96, died Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, at Parks Methodist Nursing Home in Odessa. She was a member of Paramount Baptist Church in Amarillo. Mrs. McRee was born in Roxton, April 16, 1906. She married Earl Sweatt in Amarillo on May 25, 1930. He preceded her in death in 1941. She later married Victor H. McRee of Dalhart on April 14, 1947. He preceded her in death in 1979. She was active at the Sunray Baptist Church and later in Dalhart First Baptist Church. Mrs. McRee was also preceded in death by her parents, William Prince and Johnnie Emma Morphew of Roxton; five brothers and two sisters, Fred, Hunter, Randall, Weldon, William and Nell. She is also preceded in death by three daughters, JoNell Sweatt, Joanne McRee Sanders and Barbara McRee Swimmer. She is survived by two sons and two daughters, Charles Earl Sweatt of Odessa, Mike Victor McRee of Cypress, Mary Sweatt Degan of Germantown, Tenn., and Eloise McRee Buck in Denton; 22 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildearren. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at Schooler-Gordon Funeral Home in Amarillo, with burial following at Dumas Cemetery in Dumas. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday, February 26, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022603franco.jpg] Sofia Prado Franco ODESSA Sofia Prado Franco, 73, of Odessa passed away Monday, Feb. 24, 2003, at the Hospice House. She was born March 16, 1929, in Fort Stockton. She moved to Odessa in 1952. She was a homemaker and a Catholic. She is survived by her husband G. S. Willie Franco of Odessa; daughters, Gloria Madrid of Fort Stockton and Billie Franco Spurgin and husband, Steve, of Marfa; brothers, Robert and Eloy Prado, both of Odessa; sisters, Triene Terrazas of Fort Stockton and Paula Urias and Pascuala Abeyta, both of Odessa; and two grandchildren, Stephanie Spurgin of Marfa and Will Tyler Spurgin of Santa Fe, N.M. Pallbearers will be Danny Urias, Tony Chavez, Tyler Spurgin, Ricky Abeyta, Manuel Prado Jr. and Ernesto Prado. Funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church with the Rev. Frank Chavez officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022603lou.jpg] Eva Lou Fitzgerald Eva Lou Fitzgerald, of Odessa, age 65, went home to the Lord on February 22, 2003, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born January 3, 1938, in Kansas to Maurice and Evelyn Lucille Burris. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 26, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Chapel with Rev. Jack Watkins officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Lou spent many years in the restaurant business with most of those years at Dobys BBQ and The Barn Door. She also owned and operated The Gourmet Grub and Jerrys Coffee Shop. Her most recent employment before her illness was Manager of Friends Convenience Store. At the time of her passing, she was retired. Even through her illness, Mother completed and also worked briefly for H & R Income Tax. One of her greatest joys was spending time with her family, and her critters, B.J. and Princess (Prince). She will be missed so very much. Lou is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Bob and Sarge Burris, all of Kansas; and two sons, Rodney Barton and Jamie McPherson. She is survived by two brothers, Mike Burris of Hobbs, N.M., and Babe Burris of Utah; her daughters, Janie Holdridge of Hobbs, N.M., and Melody McPherson and Debbie Dutton, both of Odessa; her baby boy, Stacy Graham of Odessa; and grandchildren, Waylon, Coy, and Mandy Holdridge, all of Hobbs, N.M., Chasity Trevino of Eunice, N.M., Clayton Dutton of Seminole, Texas, Kyle Dutton of Midland, Texas,; Kris Dutton of Odessa, Jamie Graham of Odessa, Jeremy Graham of Abilene, Texas, Brian Barton of Seminole, Texas, and Nikki McPherson of Odessa; two great-grandchildren, Shaylea and McKenzee Trevino of Eunice, N.M., and one more on the way in Hobbs, N.M. Special thanks to all the staff at Odyssey Hospice for their support and concern for Mother, and to her primary caretaker, her precious daughter Melody. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. [022603parks.jpg] Alice Rosemary Parks ODESSA Alice Rosemary Parks, 67, passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital following a sudden illness. She was born May 10, 1935, to Thelma Frances and Joseph Marvin Lawson in Fort Worth. She graduated in 1952 from Big Spring High School where she earned the title as first runner up as Miss Big Spring. After graduation, she joined Braniff Airlines as a flight attendant. Rosemary married Prince Rupert Ricker in 1954 and lived throughout Europe where she was blessed with two daughters, Gina Farrell and Prinny Ham, both of Odessa. She later married Les Ming and had a son whom she loved dearly, Les Ming Jr. of Santa Barbara, Calif. She worked for many years in the optical field before retiring. In the prime of her life, she was very beautiful and was blessed with a wonderful personality and was loved by many. She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Marvin Lawson. She is survived by her mother, Thelma Francis Barham; sister, Judith Ann Grigsby and her husband, Cuin; son, Les Ming Jr.; daughters, Gina Farrell and Prinny Ham; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Blessed the bed our mother laid on, for Angels gathered around her bed, and four Angels were around her head. One to watch, one to pray, and two to bear her soul away. Rest in peace, Mother we love you. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022603sofia.jpg] Matria Ethel Whiteley CROSS PLAINS Graveside services for Matria Ethel Riddle Whiteley, 85, will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday in the Cross Plains Cemetery, Cross Plains, Texas. Henry Pinkston of Abilene, Texas, will be officiating. Arrangements entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso, Okla. Matria died after a long and lengthy bout with Alzheimers at Concordia Care Center in Bella Vista, Ark., Friday evening, February 21, 2003. She was born in Rochester, Texas, Haskell County, July 20, 1917. She married Russell LeRoy Riddle, February 2, 1935. He passed away December 22, 1998. They moved to Odessa, Texas, in 1941. She worked at the cafeteria at Odessa High School as cashier and cook until 1955 when she married Cecil Merrill Whiteley and moved to Hurst, Texas. She continued working at the cafeteria at Bell High School where she retired. Mr. Whiteley deceased February 15, 1981. She then married Arthur Wiley Whiteley and moved to New Castle, Texas, on June 29, 1982. Arthur passed away June 22, 1996. Matria developed Alzheimers about 1990. She is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Nealie Pinkston; a son, Michael LeRoy Riddle; a daughter, Anna Marie Riddle Bowden; and two brothers, Raymond Pinkston and Howard Pinkston. Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Harold and LaQuitta Webber of Bella Vista, Ark.; granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Janetta and Elmo Halverson; two grandchildren, Joshua and Mandi Halverson of Sand Springs, Okla.; grandson, Mike Webber of Bentonville, Ark.; two sisters, Opal Bratcher of Carlsbad, N.M., and Bernice Warner of Friendswood, Texas; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Vida Pinkston of Stanton, Texas; and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimers Association, Oklahoma Chapter, 6465 S. Yale, Suite 206, Tulsa, OK 74136-7804. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday, February 27, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022703ada.jpg] Ada Chase ODESSA Graveside services for Ada Lane Wilkins Chase, 74, of Odessa will be at 3 p.m. Friday at Sunset Memorial Gardens with Rev. Jim Ray Brown officiating. Services under direction of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Mrs. Chase passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. She was born to Raymond and Caroline Lane May 13, 1928, in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. She married Robert Wilkins February 14, 1951, in Skamania, Wash. She later married Tommy Chase in Wappingers Falls, N.Y. She and Mr. Chase divorced in 1976. She graduated from LVN School in 1958 from Odessa College and worked as a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Medical Center Hospital and local nursing homes until retirement. She has been a resident of Odessa since July of 1978 moving from New York. Survivors include a daughter, Jacqueline Miles and husband, Joe, of Odessa; a son, Robert Wilkins Jr. and wife, Vickie, of Odessa; a daughter, Pamela Lawrence and husband, Gene, of Greer, S.C.; a brother, Raymond Land and wife, Evelyn, of Odessa; eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and several cousins. She was preceded in death by two sons, Raymond Garreno in 1962 and James Rose in 2002. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6-8 p.m. Thursday. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to Deerings Nursing Home. [022703sue.jpg] Nancy Sue Harris ODESSA Nancy Sue Harris, 54, passed away Sunday, February 23, 2003, at her residence in Odessa. She was born August 19, 1948, to Edward and Bertie Sue Spoonts in San Angelo, Texas. Nancy was a nurse and was Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her father. Survivors include her mother, Bertie Sue Spoonts Caldwell; sons, Kenneth Harris and wife, Chriss, and James Gideon and wife, Maria, all of Odessa; brother, Kenneth Spoonts and wife, Gail, of Anchorage, Alaska; and two grandchildren, Brian Harris and Valeria Gideon. Graveside services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, February 27, 2003, at Mertzon Cemetery in Mertzon, Texas. Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [022703jones.jpg] Mike Jones ODESSA Mike Jones, 51, of Odessa passed away Monday, February 24, 2003, at his residence. He was born on Nov. 20, 1951, in Odessa. Services are scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Chapel with Rev. Gail Reeves officiating and Rev. John Salcido assisting. Mike was a life-long resident of Odessa. He was a Welder by trade and was self-employed. He is survived by his mother, Tiny Jones of Odessa, Texas; and brother, Ronald Dane Jones of Odessa, Texas. [022703justus.jpg] Justus Heldenbrand ODESSA Justus is a young man who, even though he struggled with a long-term illness, loved being with his parents and friends in the door-to-door work of Jehovahs Witnesses. He knew Jehovah to be a God of Comfort. He has been full of love and life that radiated in all that hes done. He enjoys playing with his animals and caring for his wolf. His greatest joy has been sharing the hope of a paradise earth as Revelation 21:3-4 described: where the dead will return to an earth where there will be no more sorrow, no more pain and no more death. His family and a large group of close friends now look forward to that very day, when he himself will be resurrected on that paradise earth that he so fondly looked forward to. To discuss Justus with his family and friends, youll find many stories and experiences that show how much Justus really loved those around him and his heavenly father Jehovah. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 1, 2003, at Kingdom Hall, 11th St. and W. Loop 338, with Mr. Chuck Deitz officiating. 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] Friday, February 28, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [022803ann.jpg] Beverly Ann Johnson ODESSA Beverly Ann Johnson, 41, went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2003, at her home. She was a lifelong resident of Odessa and was employed with the Ector County Independent School District. She was born to John and Allie Johnson on Nov. 15, 1961, in Odessa. Beverly is survived by her parents, John Johnson and Allie Johnson; brother, Johnny Johnson; and sisters, Melba Mitchell and Carolyn Walldon. Services for Beverly are scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday at First Baptist Church, 709 N. Lee Ave., with the Rev. Johnny Young officiating. Burial will follow at Ector County Cemetery, Rosehill Section. You may visit Beverly from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. today. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Martinez Funeral Home. [022803pearl.jpg] Pearl Calicutt ODESSA Sister Pearl Calicutt was born July 17, 1929, in Waxahachie, Texas, to the parents of Melton and Liddie Sanford. She accepted Christ at an early age and was reared in a loving Christian home. She attended public school in Waxahachie and later moved to Lamesa, Texas, where she met and married Robert Quincy Calicutt. To this union seven children were born. Her husband, two sons and four sisters preceded her in death. Pearl loved people and people loved her. She was employed with Ark Animal Hospital for 25 years where she loved and came to be loved by the Wempes. She leaves to cherish her memory five children, Robert L. Calicutt of Wichita Falls, Texas, Charlene Green of Wichita Falls, Texas, Lanell Calicutt of Odessa, Texas, Eddie Calicutt of Graham, Texas, Janell C. Lewis of Odessa, Texas; one stepson, Robert L. Mims of Odessa, Texas; 25 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Martinez Funeral Home. Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Rose of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Darren Wills officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services entrusted to Martinez Funeral Home. [022803gray.jpg] Gary Gray ODESSA Gary Gray went with the Lord Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa, Texas, at the age of 49. He was born in Hobbs, N.M., on Oct. 26, 1953, and married Alicia Oct. 24, 1979, in La Salle County, Texas. He was a truck driver with McClatchy Brothers for six years and serviced the oilfields as well. He is survived by his wife Alicia Gray of Odessa; daughter, Mary Jo Gray; granddaughter, Samantha Marie Gray; parents, M.P. and Eunice Gray of Pontotoc, Miss.; brothers; Bennie Gray and wife Connie of Hobbs, N.M., Ronnie Gray and wife Shirley of Mineral Wells, Texas, and Prentiss Gray and wife Janine of Pontotoc, Miss.; sisters, Carolyn Seitz and husband Dale of Flowermound, Texas, and Jody Bourne and husband Jerry of Pontotoc, Miss.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, David Gray. Family will receive friends Friday, Feb. 28, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Services for Gary will be held Saturday, March 1, 2003, in the Chapel at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home at 3 p.m. with Pete Drennaw officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The funeral services are under the direction of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [022803mac.jpg] J. A. Mac McKenzie ODESSA J. A. Mac McKenzie, 71, of Odessa, passed from this life Thursday, Feb. 27, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. He was born April 16, 1931, in Fouke, Ark. He moved to Odessa in 1961. He worked as a tool pusher for Tom Brown Drilling. He was preceded in death by his father, Evert O. McKenzie, and brother, Vernon McKenzie. He is survived by his wife, Jewellene McKenzie of Odessa; son, Jerry McKenzie and wife Dena of Dublin, Ohio; daughter, Yvonne Dunaway and husband Doyle of Odessa; granddaughters, Shonna Tracy of Houston and Caitlyn McKenzie of Dublin, Ohio; mother, Lonie McKenzie of Fouke, Ark.; sisters, Betty Dodd of Texarkana, Ark., Pauline Tefteller of Fouke, Ark., Charlene Winkley of Houma, La.; and brothers, Roy Dale McKenzie of Houma, La., and Donald McKenzie of Craig, Colo. Graveside services are scheduled for 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28, 2003, with the Rev. Owen Sharp officiating. Memorials are to be sent to Hospice House of Odessa. Services are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster.