Ector Co. TX - Obits from the Odessa American Online, May 1-15 2003 Thanks to the Odessa American Online, http://www.oaoa.com/ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ------------------------------------------------ [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday, May 01, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050103bingham.gif] Triona Sis Bingham ODESSA Triona M. Sis Teague Canada Bingham, 75, passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa. She was born September 30, 1927, in Lamesa, Texas, to Bob and Ezdar Teague who were early farm and ranching pioneers at Hobbs, N.M. They preceded her in death in 1972. She moved to Southern California from Hobbs in 1955. She returned to Odessa in 1996 to be closer to her family. She was preceded in death by a son, Jerald E. Canada in 1991, and her husband, Donald E. Bingham in 1997. She is survived by a son, James E. Canada of Abilene, son, Donald R. Bingham and wife, Ester; two grandsons of South Korea; a granddaughter Jennifer Bingham of Germany; sister, Bobbie Jenkins of Odessa; brother, Tommy Teague and wife, Judy, of Hobbs, N.M.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2003, in the Frank W. Wilson Chapel with Dr. Dewey Blevins officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Odessa. Arrangements entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [050103velasco.gif] Ismael Tarin Velasco ODESSA Ismael Tarin Velasco, 65, of Odessa passed away April 28, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born May 28, 1937, in Presidio to Manuel and Adelida Velasco. He married Gloria Gomez. He was a Catholic and a truck driver. He is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Gloria Velasco of Odessa; son, Joseph A. Lujan and wife, Sylvia, of El Paso; daughters, Rosemary Tarango and husband, Jacob, of Odessa, Norma Chasco and husband, Mario, of Odessa, Joanna Loya and husband, Jose, of Odessa; sisters, Cruz Vasquez of Odessa and Bernicia Villalobos of Austin; aunts, Josefina Martinez of El Paso, Christina Rodriguez of Hobbs, N.M., Jose Tarin of Bakersfield, Concha Tarin of Odessa, Amanda Flores of Odessa; uncle, Alfonso Velasco of Odessa; and 11 grandchildren. Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Thursday May 1, 2003, at Odessa Funeral Home Chapel. Mass will be celebrated Friday at 10 a.m. May 2, 2003 at St. Elizabeths Catholic Church with Rev. Mark Woodruff officiating. Burial will follow at Rosehill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jacob Tarango, Joe Lujan, Jose Loya, Mario Chasco, Carlos Chasco, Fernando Villalobos, Jose Guzman, and Jose L. Tarango. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. [050103harrington.gif] Donna Fisher Harrington ODESSA Donna Fisher Harrington passed from this life on April 28, 2003, at Hospice House in Odessa, Texas. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Amos Harrington of Gardendale, Texas, as well as her father, James C. Fisher, and brother, Bobby C. Fisher. Donna was born in Odessa on January 25, 1953, to James C. Fisher and Bobbie E. Fisher. She attended high school at OHS and married Amos Harrington in 1970. Donna is survived by her two children, her daughter, Amanda Summers and husband, Brian Summers, and her baby granddaughter, Aubrie Summers, of Gardendale; her son, Joshua Harrington, also of Gardendale; her mother, Bobbie E. Fisher of Odessa; two sisters, Terrie Stelly and husband, Blain Stelly of Opelousas, La., Sue Reeves and husband, Mac Reeves of Odessa; and one brother, Ricky Fisher and wife, Cathy Fisher, of Odessa. Donna was a faithful Christian and was a member of The Cowboy Church of the American West. Until her death, Donna was a true and loving mother, grandmother and a beloved friend of Ron and Paula Norris. Donna had many friends in this journey through life and loved her family. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 2, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Pastor Tony Connor of The Cowboy Church of the American West will officiate. [050103butler.gif] W. I. Dub Butler ODESSA W. I. Dub Butler, 76, of Odessa went to be with our Lord and Savior Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at his residence. He was born September 5, 1926, in Cooter, Mo. He married Annie Jo Malone July 2, 1949, in Lamesa. He was a line foreman for H & H Electrical Contractors for over 30 years. He served in the U.S. Army and was a member of the First Assembly of God Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ogden and Mary Butler; sisters, Ollie and Louise Pharris; and brother, Gene. He is survived by his wife, Annie Josephine Jo Butler of Odessa; son, Bill Butler and wife, Paula, of Odessa; daughter, Shirley Hanks and husband, Jerry, of Odessa; brothers, Bill Butler and wife, Robbie, of Odessa and John Butler of Abilene; grandchildren, Michele and Darren Seglem, Jarrod Hanks, Shane and Kayla Shirley; great-grandchildren, Bryson Shirley, Alexis Shirley and Hunter Seglem. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, May 2, 2003, at First Assembly of God Church with Rev. Paul Thompson officiating. 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] Friday, May 02, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050203brewer.gif] Martha Jo Page Brewer LUFKIN Funeral services for Martha Jo Page Brewer, 74, of Kemp, will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2003, in the Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home Chapel with Robert Owens officiating. Interment will follow in Pollok Cemetery. Mrs. Brewer was born on May 4, 1928, in Olney, Texas, the daughter of Walter F. Page and wife, Nora Chalk Page, and went peacefully in her sleep to be with her Heavenly Father on Monday, April 28, 2003. Martha graduated from Olney High School in 1945, going on to graduate from Mary Hardin Baylor of Belton, Texas, in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree, later attaining her Masters Degree in teaching. After a brief career in the teaching field, she relocated to Odessa, Texas, where she secured the position of supervisor of the Texas Employment Commission of which she retired. She was a member of the Church of Christ, active in the D.A.R., U.D.C., Cherokee Civic Theatre of Rusk, Actors Repertory Theatre of Tyler, the Ladies Auxillary, and the annual Christmas Flotilla at Lake Jacksonville, Most recently, Martha participated in the ladies Red Hat Society in Dallas. After residing in Dallas for 13 years, she relocated to Kemp in May, 2002. She was a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and true friend. She is survived by her daughters, Jo Ulvog of Longview, Kathryn J. Williams and husband, Allen, of Jacksonville, Beverly Brewer Heaverlo of Yakima, Wash.; grandsons, Luke C. Ulvog of Dallas, Kenneth D. Kendall of San Marcos, Robert Brewer Heaverlo of Yakima, Wash.; granddaughter, Jennifer D. Sitton and husband, Kent of Fort Worth; great-grandsons, Mason Sitton, Zackery Sitton, Levi Sitton of Fort Worth; great-granddaughter, Kaitlyn Page Sitton of Fort Worth; brother, Freddie Page and wife, Mary, of Olney; niece, Regina Elson of Richardson; nephew, Page Elson of Richardson and the Philliber family. Mrs. Brewer was preceded in death by her husband of 11 years, Roy Lee Brewer of Pollok, and her sister, Maye Elson of Richardson. Pallbearers will be Freddie Page, Bob Philliber, Page Elson, Charles Rosin, Kenneth Kendall and Luke Ulvog. Honorary Pallbearers will be Kent Sitton and Allen Williams. The family will receive friends beginning at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday evening at Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home located at 2704 S. John Redditt Dr., Lufkin, TX 75904. We will all greatly miss her love, laughter and enthusiasm for life. Of the greatest was her total devotion to family and unerring, loving encouragement and support to all. The heavens are livelier now and there is a brighter star in the sky. Carroway-Claybar Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors. [050203edwards.gif] Elizabeth Edwards CRANE Services for (Dorothy) Elizabeth Marquis Edwards, 80, of Odessa, Texas, will be held at 11 a.m. in the Shaffer-Nichols Funeral Home Chapel in Crane, Texas, with Larry Mobbs officiating. Burial will follow in the Crane County Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Shaffer-Nichols Funeral Home. Elizabeth passed away, Wednesday, April 30, 2003, at her home in Odessa after a short bout with cancer. Elizabeth was born November 23, 1922 in Granger, Texas, and moved to Crane, Texas in 1937. She met and married W.R. Bill Edwards on October 24, 1940, in Crane, Texas, and resided in Crane until 1965. Survivors include four daughters, Patricia Ann Self and husband, Lawrence, of Fair Oaks, Calif., Dorothy Keeney and husband, J.L., of Crane, Frankie Hall and Linda Green, both of Houston, Texas; 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; a brother, John Marquis, Universal City, Texas; and a sister, Marjorie Slagle of San Angelo, Texas. She is also survived by a loving companion, Duane Ratliff of Andrews. A special visitation for her Odessa friends will be held at the Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home in Odessa from 2 to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 2, 2003. [050203norman.gif] Elizabeth Gracie Norman ODESSA Elizabeth Gracie Norman passed from this life on Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital surrounded by family. Her parents, Charles Phelps and Nora Phelps Wells, preceded her in death. Elizabeth was born November 3, 1925, in Gonzales, Texas. Elizabeth was a very loving and caring person. She was orphaned as a small child. She attended Moore High School in Waco, Texas. She attended Paul Quinn College in Waco. She met and married Lee Edward Norman Sr. at the age of 18. Elizabeth was a faithful Christian and member of St. Matthews Baptist Church where she actively participated in the Womens Mission. Her husband Lee was her knight in shining armor until her death parted them. To Elizabeth, Lee was her Prince for 56 years and her last distinguishable words were about him. Her great concern for children resulted in her being a foster parent to many children for a number of years as she worked diligently to keep siblings together. After many years of separation, Elizabeth and her brother, Charles, were reunited and remained close until her death. Elizabeth was many things to many people, but always a constant cheerleader, encourager and source of inspiration to family and friends, continually praising their efforts and accomplishments. Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Lee Edward Norman Sr. of Odessa; sons, Charles and wife, Eleanor, of Sacramento, Calif., Donald and wife, Jean, of Arlington, Texas, Jerry and wife, Rose, of Midland, Texas; daughters, Gail Fields of DeSoto, Texas, Sarah Williams of Red Oak, Texas, Nora Taylor of Midland, Texas; brother, Charles Wells of Muskegon, Mich.; 19 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 3, 2003, at the St. Matthews Baptist Church. Interment will follow at the Rose Hill Cemetery. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050203smith.gif] Deborah Dean Smith ABILENE Deborah Dean Smith, 54, died Wednesday, April 30, 2003, at her residence in Abilene. She was born to George H. Jerry Garms Jr. and Ruth Antoinette Toni (Hancock) Garms on June 11, 1948, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She married Ron Smith on April 5, 1969, in Odessa, and had been a resident of Abilene since 1977. She was a hairdresser at Vendettas Salon. Deborah was a member of First Central Presbyterian Church in Abilene where she served as a deacon and taught four year olds in Sunday School for over twenty years. She also served on the Board of Directors of Big Country Aids Resources; was a member of National Hair Dresser and Cosmetology Association; and worked with the American Cancer Society, having taught Look Better, Feel Great to cancer patients. She was preceded in death by her mother, Toni Garms, and her son, Ronald Todd Smith. Survivors include her husband, Ron Smith of Abilene; a daughter and son-in-law, Deanna and Dr. Ed Jump of Miramar, Florida; her father, George H. Jerry Garms, Jr. of Abilene; a brother, George H. Garms, III of Odessa; a sister, Eugenia Marie Baker Nicholson of Midland; three grandchildren, Britni, Taylor, and Hunter; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at First Central Presbyterian Church in Abilene with Dr. Clifford S. Stewart officiating. Interment will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory. Pallbearers will be Rocky Jay, Dr. Austin King, Bill Keeble, Tim Riley, Dr. George Woodward, Gene Six, Mike Ramsay, Bill Cox, and Robert Laird. Memorials may be made to Medical Care Mission, 302 Medical Dr., Abilene, TX 79601; First Central Presbyterian Church, 400 Orange St., Abilene, TX 79601; Hendrick Hospice Care, P.O. Box 1922, Abilene, TX 79604; or Cancer Network Services, P.O. Box 2026, Abilene, TX 79604. Lanita Louise Brookshier Williams BALLINGER The Lord reached for Louise as she slept on April 29, 2003. She was preceded in death by her only child, Juanita Stokes; her brother, Grafton Brookshier; her sister, Margaret Bragg; and her parents, Claud and Maggie Brookshier. She was the last of that family. Louise taught school in Ector School District for 30 years. Before that, she taught in Balmorhea, Texas, and Lawn, Texas. She had 36 years of teaching. She talked of her past students and of her so loved teacher friends many times. Louise received her education as she was growing up in Talpa and Ballinger, where she furthered her education. She went to Alpine to Sul Ross, then she finished her education at Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas. Louise truly believed that an education is necessary tool for all the children. She has made it possible for her only granddaughter to receive the education that she wants. Louise loved to read, travel and shop especially at Wal-Mart. She loved to travel the country roads to see the blue bonnets. Louise will be deeply missed by her only granddaughter, Maggie Stokes of Odessa, Texas; her nephew and caretaker, Mark Bragg and his wife, Arlene, of Pecos, Betsy Bragg of Pecos, Rex Bragg of Carlie, Pa., Richard Bragg of Ozona, Claudia Conn of Surphur, La., Pat Morrison of Fort Worth, and several cousins. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2003, at the First United Methodist Church in Ballinger. Burial will follow in the Norwood Cemetery. Arrangements are with Rains-Seale Funeral Home. Margaret Jane Amstead AUSTIN Margaret Jane Amstead was born in Fort Worth, Texas, to Margaret McCurdy Bell and Curtis Bell on August 26, 1923. Her parents preceded her in death. She died Tuesday, April 29, 2003. The family moved to Lockhart in 1927 and she graduated from Lockhart High School in 1940. She made her way through the University of Texas at Austin with her unusual proficiency in shorthand and typing, and received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration in 1943. After working in Houston for a short time, she went to work at the Defense Research Laboratory in Austin as an executive secretary. There she met and subsequently married Bill Amstead on February 27, 1947. She is survived by her husband, Billy Howard Amstead; son, William Amstead and wife, Barbara; and grandchildren, Brent and Kyle. She is also survived by her daughter, Barbara Pennington and her husband, Mickey, and granddaughters, Sarah and Rebecca. Margaret Jane was a founder and member of Covenant Presbyterian Church. She was in many civic organizations including Exchangettes, The Austin Womens Club, The Wives Club at the University of Texas, and Chapter R of the PEO. She was a stay-at-home mother. When Dr. Amstead was president of the University of the Permian Basin in Odessa, she was active in social affairs in Odessa and served as the hostess for the University. Margaret Jane had many interests. She was a licensed airplane pilot and belonged to the 99s and was an amateur radio operator. She was an avid birdwatcher and traveled over the world with her husband in this hobby. She fished on the highland lakes as well as off-shore. She could drive anything: boat, car, motorcycle, off-shore craft, or airplane. She enjoyed hunting dove, quail and deer. At various times, the Amsteads had vacation homes on Lake Travis, Baffin Bay and Ruidosa, New Mexico. The family would like to thank the health care providers at The Summit at Westlake Hills for her care during her long illness with Alzheimers. A memorial service will be held at Covenant Presbyterian Church on Sunday, May 4, 2003 at 2 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions in lieu of flowers be made to either Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3003 Northland Drive, Austin, Texas 78757 or PEO Chapter R, 8605 Shoal Creek, #104, Austin, Texas 78757. Arrangements under the direction of Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar, Austin, Texas 78752, (512) 454-5611. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday, May 03, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050303dean.jpg] Edith Imogene Dean ODESSA Services for Edith Imogene Dean will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 4, 2003, at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Home. Imogene was born in Montalba, Texas, on August 10, 1929, to Floyd Q. and Sally Pearl Wilbanks. She married D. D. Dean on October 30, 1947. This coming October, they would have been married 56 years. She passed away Thursday, May 1, at Covenant Methodist Hospital in Lubbock after a short illness. Imogene Imo was loved by everyone who knew her well and by those who only met her once. She happily shared her attitude toward life, her wonderful and funny sense of humor, and her sweetness and goodness with everyone she came in contact with. Imogene was a homemaker and her loved ones felt welcomed and loved in her home. She loved being with her family, going to Las Vegas and playing bingo 24/7. Imogene is survived by her loving husband, D. D. Dean of Odessa; four children, Debbie Tyson and her husband, Mike, of Midland, Tanya Cooper and her husband, Craig, of Odessa, Nancy Duncan of Odessa and Dalton Dean and his wife, Denise, of Denver City. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Danny Miller of Odessa, Kara Miller of Lubbock, Brandy Dean of Odessa, Leah and Kayli Cooper of Odessa, Levi Duncan of Odessa, Tanner Thomason and Callie Dean of Denver City. She is also survived by great-grandchild, Madison Nicole Miller of Midland and numerous nieces and nephews. Imogene is also survived by two sisters, Ruby Perkins of Roswell, N.M., and Polly Hoge of Seymour, Texas. Imogene was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Floyd Junior Wilbanks and Williams Lawrence Sonny Wilbanks; one sister, Oleta Meyers; and her son-in-law, Jody Miller. Pallbearers will be Tom Elliot, Bob Evans, Martin Gonzalez, Hal Stokes, Charlie Sparnon and Joe Tidwell. Honorary pallbearer will be Buddy Wilbanks. Posthumous pallbearers will be Jody Miller, A.D. Perk Perkins, Junior Wilbanks and Sonny Wilbanks. There will never be another person on this earth as special as Imogene Dean. As a wife, mother or friend, she was truly an angel lent to us by God and has now been taken to Heaven to watch over us. Services are entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [050303dsmith.jpg] Deborah Dean Smith ABILENE Deborah Dean Smith, 54, died Wednesday, April 30, 2003, at her residence in Abilene. She was born to George H. Jerry Garms Jr. and Ruth Antoinette Toni (Hancock) Garms on June 11, 1948, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She married Ron Smith on April 5, 1969, in Odessa, and had been a resident of Abilene since 1977. She was a hairdresser at Vendettas Salon. Deborah was a member of First Central Presbyterian Church in Abilene where she served as a deacon and taught four-year-olds in Sunday School for over twenty years. She also served on the Board of Directors of Big Country Aids Resources; was a member of National Hair Dresser and Cosmetology Association; and worked with the American Cancer Society, having taught Look Better, Feel Better to cancer patients. She was preceded in death by her mother, Toni Garms, and her son, Ronald Todd Smith. Survivors include her husband, Ron Smith of Abilene; a daughter and son-in-law, Deanna and Dr. Ed Jump of Miramar, Florida; her father, George H. Jerry Garms Jr. of Abilene; a brother, George H. Garms, III of Odessa; a sister, Eugenia Marie Baker Nicholson of Midland; three grandchildren, Britni, Taylor, and Hunter; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at First Central Presbyterian Church in Abilene with Dr. Clifford S. Stewart officiating. Interment will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory. Pallbearers will be Rocky Jay, Dr. Austin King, Bill Keeble, Tim Riley, Dr. George Woodward, Gene Six, Mike Ramsay, Bill Cox, and Robert Laird. Memorials may be made to Medical Care Mission, 302 Medical Dr., Abilene, TX 79601; First Central Presbyterian Church, 400 Orange St., Abilene, TX 79601; Hendrick Hospice Care, P.O. Box 1922, Abilene, TX 79604; or Cancer Network Services, P.O. Box 2026, Abilene, TX 79604. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday, May 04, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050403jessiebab.jpg] Jessie Babcock GROOM Jessie Lorene Babcock went to be with the Lord, May 2, 2003 at the age of 84. Lorene was born Sept. 19, 1918 in Lakeview to Luther and Belle Byars. She married Frank Babcock on Dec. 5, 1936 in Pampa. He precedes her in death. Mrs. Babcock was a homemaker and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Groom. She had a kind and gentle heart that went out to those around her. Lorene was a wife, mother, grandmother and the matriarch of a large family which her whole life revolved around. She is survived by two sons, Don Babcock and wife Caron of Amarillo and Ronny Babcock and wife Dee of Pampa; two daughters, Joey Brister and husband Danny and Tommie Zuerker and husband Jack, both of Odessa; sister, Maxine Collins and husband Gene of Amarillo; twelve grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren; beloved niece Sweetie Costanzi and husband John; and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at First United Methodist Church in Pampa. Burial will follow in the Fairview cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Frank. W. Wilson Funeral Directors of Odessa and Carmichael-Whatley of Pampa. [050403bell.jpg] Juanita Bell Odessa Juanita F. Bell, 66, of Odessa, passed away Friday, May 2, 2003 at Medical Center Hospital. She was born April 26, 1937 in Gladewater. She moved to Odessa with her parents in July 1945. She attended Odessa High School and was valedictorian of her class. She married Jack Bell on Feb. 9, 1968 in Odessa. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Bell, parents, Opsy and Shorty Haarmeyer and brother Herbert Haarmeyer. She is survived by daughters, Ann Roach and Bobbi Pradon and husband Daniel, all of Odessa; six grandchildren, Corey Pradon and wife Arlene, Todd Pradon, Dena Peacock and husband David, Jehra Haechten, Heather Roach and Kalym Haechten, all of Odessa; two great-grandchildren, Justin and Austin. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 5, 2003 at Temple Baptist Main Auditorium with the Rev. Griffin Jones officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens under the direction of Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050403pitt.jpg] Virginia Pitt Our beloved mother Virginia Murel Pitt, 75, of Odessa passed away on April 26, 2003, at Regency Hospital in Odessa. She will be greatly missed and remembered by all that knew her. She loved dancing, bowling and spending time with her good friends. She was born on Dec. 25, 1927, in Dallas to George Curtis and Francis Myrtle Adds. She was employed with El Paso Products for over 20 years, Yale E. Key Well Services for many years and was a member of Desk and Derrick Club. Services are scheduled for 11 a.m., Monday at the Lutheran Church of the Risen Lord in Odessa, with Rev. Richard B. Pitt and Pastor Chris Conner officiating. Burial will be on Tuesday at 2 p.m., in Haven of Memories Cemetery in Canton. She was preceded in death by her husband, Earnest Burrell, mother, Frances Myrtle Adds, father, George Curtis Adds, and granddaughter, Bethany Farrah Pitt. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt. She is survived by sons; Michael and wife Pam of Penwell, Richard and wife Jeanne of Thomas, Okla., Marvin Pitt of Orlando, Fla.; sister, Fern Spruiell of Seagoville; grandchildren; Chris Pitt of Houston, Heather and husband William of Austin, Amber Pitt of Dallas, Jarrett Pitt of Penwell, Jennifer Pitt of Orlando, Fla., Robert and wife Shawn Pitt of Orlando, Fla., Jack Pitt of Orlando, Fla., Roxanne Pitt of Orlando, Fla., Winston Pitt of Thomas, Okla., Megan Pitt of New York; great-granddaughter, Haylee Williams; a loving niece Kathy and husband Jim Rogers of Hobbs, N.M.; nephews, Kirk and wife Debbie Spruiell of Cayuga, Odell and wife Misty Spruiell of Seagoville; and her great-nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Chris Pitt, Jarrett Pitt, Winston Pitt, Robert Pitt, William Maddox, and Luke Wells. Honorary pallbearer will be Jason Rogers. Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Fathers house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14: 1-3 [050403willie.jpg] Willie Cloninger Willie Lea Cloninger, 87, of Odessa, died in her residence Saturday, May 3, 2003. She was born July 3, 1915 in Jacksboro. She married E.D. Cloninger June 3, 1937 in Brakenridge. She came to Odessa in 1955 and had been a night watchman for Britt Trucking Company. She was a member of Northside Baptist Church since 1958. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Directors with the Rev. Jeff Chapman officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. She is survived by daughters, Sheila Hunt and Modilyn Lowman, both of Odessa; seven grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, four sisters and four brothers. [050403erwin.jpg] Sue Erwin Sue Lorene Erwin, 78, of Odessa, died at her residence Saturday, May 3, 2003. She was born March 6, 1925 in Pontiac, Okla. She married Pete Erwin Aug. 20, 1945 in Plainview. She came to Odessa in 1950. She worked as a nurses aid and in her later years as a private sitter. She was a member of Parkview Church of Christ. Her family expresses a special gratitude to Odessa Hospice Care. Services will be held at Hubbard-Kelly Chapel at 2 p.m. Tuesday with Charles Jones and Alan Pitt officiating. She is survived by: sons, Mark and Terry Erwin of Odessa; daughter, Linda Tate of Odessa; brother, Herbert Whelchel of Ada, Okla.; sister, Velma Howell of Seminole, Okla.; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Erwin; son, Larry Erwin; brothers, Clarence Whelchel, Earl and Arvil Whelcher. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest that memorials be made to Odessa Christian School and Odessa Hospice Care. [050403suesmith.jpg] Frances Sue Smith ODESSA Frances Sue Smith died Friday, May 2, 2003, in Odessa. She was born March 27, 1932, to James Frank and Alpha Mae Nance in Knox City. She married Kenneth L. Smith Sr. on January 11, 1950, in Sweetwater. She enjoyed playing dominoes and dancing with her friends at the Northside Senior Citizens Center and watching Little League baseball. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her sister, Winnie Mae Hobert of Munday. Survivors include her son, Kenneth L. Smith Jr. of Odessa; grandchildren, Cortney and Kimberly Smith of Lubbock; brothers, James Frank Nance Jr. of Turlock, Calif. and William C. Nance of Munday; sister, Bobbie Leach of Midland; and her niece and special friend, Shirley Bowman of Munday. Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Jonathan Jarratt officiating. Funeral arrangements are by Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Northside Senior Citizens Center, 1225 N. Adams, Odessa, Texas 79761. [050403lonnie.jpg] Lonnie Truelove Lonnie Dewayne Truelove, 39, of DePere, Wisconsin passed away Tuesday, April 29, 2003 as the result of an automobile accident. He was born March 12, 1964 in Big Spring, Texas. Lonnie was a former longtime resident of Midland and had worked for Midland Park Lanes for many years. In November, 2001 he married Tracy Archer in Odessa, Texas. His main interest was bowling with his family and friends. Lonnie was a loving stepfather, devoted husband and steadfast friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy Joe Truelove and Vonda Rhodes. Lonnie is survived by his wife, Tracy Truelove of DePere, Wis.; two step-daughters, Candace VanZandt of DePere, Wis. and Elizabeth VanZandt of Kermit; sister, Vicky Pipes of Midland; brother, Billy Theobold of Midland. The family will receive friends at Ellis Funeral Home, Sunday, between the hours of 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Graveside services have been scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday at Fairview Cemetery in Midland with Reverend Bob Porterfield officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Monday, May 05, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050503erwin.jpg] Sue Erwin ODESSA Sue Lorene Erwin, 78, of Odessa, died at her residence Saturday, May 3, 2003. She was born March 6, 1925 in Pontotoc, Okla. She married Pete Erwin Aug. 20, 1945 in Plainview. She came to Odessa in 1950. She worked as a nurses aide and in her later years as a private sitter. She was a member of Parkview Church of Christ. Her family expresses a special gratitude to Odessa Hospice Care. Services will be held at Hubbard-Kelly Chapel at 2 p.m. Tuesday with Charles Jones and Alan Pitt officiating. She is survived by sons, Mark Erwin and wife Larrysa of Odessa and Terry Erwin and wife Susan, both of Odessa; daughter, Linda Tate and husband Bill of Odessa; daughter-in-law, Bonnie Erwin; brother, Herbert Welchel of Ada, Okla.; sister, Velma Howell of Seminole, Okla.; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Erwin; son, Larry Erwin; brothers, Clarence Welchel, Earl and Arvil Welchel. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest that memorials be made to Odessa Christian School and Odyssey Hospice Care. [050503smith.jpg] Frances Sue Smith ODESSA Frances Sue Smith died Friday, May 2, 2003, in Odessa. She was born March 27, 1932, to James Frank and Alpha Mae Nance in Knox City. She married Kenneth L. Smith Sr. on January 11, 1950, in Sweetwater. She enjoyed playing dominoes and dancing with her friends at the Northside Senior Citizens Center and watching Little League baseball. She was preceeded in death by her parents, her husband and her sister, Winnie Mae Hobert of Munday. Survivors include her son, Kenneth L. Smith Jr. of Odessa; grandchildren, Cortney and Kimberly Smith of Lubbock; brothers, James Frank Nance Jr. of Turlock, Calif. and William C. Nance of Munday; sister, Bobbie Leach of Midland; and her niece and special friend, Shirley Bowman of Munday. Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with Jonathan Jarratt officiating. Funeral arrangements are by Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Northside Senior Citizens Center, 1225 N. Adams, Odessa, Texas 79761. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Tuesday, May 06, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050603polly.jpg] Lodeamer Polly Glidwell ODESSA Our precious Mother, Polly Glidwell, 75, went to be with the Lord Saturday, May 3, 2003. She was born August 29, 1927, in Louann, Ark., to Archie B. and Alice Adams. She moved to Odessa in 1960 and worked as a cashier for Everybodys Super Market and Furrs Super Market for many years. She was a member of West Odessa First Baptist Church. Mom met the love of her life, Johnny B. Glidwell Sr. and they married December 19, 1981, and were soulmates on eart until his death in 1999. They are now reunited in Heaven. Polly was a beautiful and loving Mother to her children, Mike Stewart and wife, Kandy, JoAnn Owens and husband, Jerry, and Sheila Black and husband, Bob. She was a special Granny to her grandchildren, Justin, Michelle and Kelly Stewart, Rebecca and Coby Pond and Toni McDaniel; and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Harvey Adams and wife, Betty, of Odessa; sisters, Myrtle Garner of Eunice, N.M., and Mary Sue Blair of Odessa. She was a God-grandmother to Bradley Burke. She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny Glidwell Sr., parents and a speical grandbaby, Jason Stewart. Mother was a gracious and beautiful lady who leaves behind many friends and family who loved and cherished her. There is now a great void in our lives, but she will forever remain in our hearts. We love you Mom. Pallbearers are Bill Evans, Ed Taylor, James White, Mike White, Gaylon Whitley and James Rowan. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with Brother A. D. Kyle officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. II Timothy 4:6-7 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. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hospice Home of Odessa. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050403willie.jpg] Willie Cloninger ODESSA Willie Lea Cloninger, 87, a longtime resident of Odessa, passed away Saturday, May 3, 2003, at her residence. She was born July 3, 1915, to William Randolph and Margaret Lea Cantrell Jolly in Jacksboro. She married E.D. Buck Cloninger June 3, 1937 in Breckenridge. He preceded her in death March 26, 1986. She was also preceded in death by four sisters and four brothers. Mrs. Cloninger moved to Odessa in 1955 and had been a night watchman for Britt Trucking Company. She was a member of Northside Baptist Church. She is survived by daughters, Sheila Hunt and Madilyn Lowman, both of Odessa; seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home with the Rev. Jeff Chapman officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050603jesus.jpg] Jesus Jimenez ODESSA Jesus Jimenez, 27 years of age, passed away on May 4, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born on July 3, 1975, in Del Rio, Texas, to Jesus and Concepcion Jimenez. He married Diane Montoya on February of 2000 here in Odessa. He is survived by his wife, Diane M Jimenez of Odessa; son, Jesus Jimenez Jr. of Odessa; daughter, Iliana Gabrielle M. Jimenez of Odessa; mother, Concepcion Jimenez of Odessa; father, Jesus Jimenez of Odessa; grandparents, Jose Guadalupe and Rebeca Mariel of Odessa; brother, Gerardo Jimenez of Odessa; sisters, Marisol Jimenez, Magaly Jimenez and Mayra Saucedo, all of Odessa. Visitation will take place today at 6924 W 18th in Odessa. A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. today, May 6, 2003, at the residence. Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Wednesday at St. Josephs Catholic Church with the Reverend Gilbert Rodriguez officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Reymundo White, Gerardo Jimenez, Jesus Jimenez, Jaime Luna, Pedro Avila, Ricardo Maciel, Ricardo Enriquez and Jesus Leyva. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. Thomas Woodrow Woody Peeks BRECKENRIDGE Graveside services for Thomas Woodrow Woody Peeks, age 90, of Odessa, will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2003, at the Breckenridge Cemetery. Burial will be directed by Morehart Mortuary. Mr. Peeks passed away peacefully Saturday, May 3, 2003, at his home in Odessa. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 6, 2003, from 4 to 5 p.m. at Morehart Mortuary. Woody Peeks was born on July 19, 1912, in Eolian, Texas, to parents Thomas and Alvah Peeks. Woody attended Breckenridge and Cisco schools graduating in 1930. He then married his beloved wife of 65 years, Irene Peeks, in June of 1932. Irene preceded him in death in 1998. He has now joined her so they may spend eternity together in Gods loving embrace. Woody retired in 1977 after completing 32 years of service with Texas Pacific Oil Company. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Alvah Peeks; his brother, Raye Peeks; and his half brother, Don Peeks. Woody is survived and lovingly remembered by an only daughter, Patricia Edwards and husband, Pat, of Bakersfield, Calif.; three granddaughters, Debbie, Belinda and Cindy; three great-grandchildren, Noah, Tanya and Nicholas, all of Bakersfield, Calif.; and his nephews, Don Peeks and Joe Peeks of Breckenridge. Woody was loved by all who knew him. He is gone from our sight, thats all. He is still and will always remain in our thoughts, hearts and prayers. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Association or left at Morehart Mortuary. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday, May 07, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050703joe.jpg] Joe Mike Karr ODESSA Joe Mike Karr, 43, a longtime resident of Odessa, passed away Sunday, May 4, 2003, at his residence. He was born Sept. 9, 1959, in Stanton. He attended Odessa schools. He was a welder for Western Tank for several years. He loved fishing, hunting, bowling, boating and skiing. He was preceded in death by his brother, Raymond Lynn Karr, and his grandparents. He is survived by his parents, Joe and Gloria Karr of Odessa; sons, David Karr of Coppell and Michael Karr of Odessa; sister, Sharon Thompson of Odessa; two nieces, Mizti and Sabrina; nephew, Ray; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 8, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Interment will be at 4 p.m. at the Resthaven Cemetery in Menard. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050703barry.jpg] Barry Lee Melton ODESSA Barry Lee Melton, age 42, died Monday, May 5,2003. Barry, the fourth child of Tom and Dorothy Melton, was born on February 1, 1961. Barry was an avid sports fan, having played football for Permian High School. Barry loved hunting and had a natural gift in all things outdoors. Barry is survived by his parents, Tom and Dorothy Melton; his brother and sister-in-law, Tommy and Jerri Melton of Odessa; his sister and brother-in-law, Dana and Bernie Ballard of Frisco; his sister and brother-in-law, Melinda and Clark Lea of Midland; and numerous nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa officiated by the Rev. Mark Riley of Immanuel Baptist Church. Arrangements are under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the charity of ones choice. [050703olivas.jpg] Manuel Olivas ODESSA On May 5, 2003, God called our father, Manuel Olivas home. He was born June 22, 1917 in Candelaria, TX to Remedios and Maria Olivas. He married Ynes Acosta on March 9, 1940 in Barrancos de Guadalupe, Chihuahua, Mexico. Rosary will be said at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, 2003, at Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors Chapel. Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 9, 2003, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with Father Mark Woodruff officiating. Interment will follow at Ector County Cemetery. Mr. Olivas moved to Odessa in 2000, he was employed as a cement finisher for 50 years. He is survived by his wife, Ynes of Odessa; sons, Chon Olivas of Houston, R.E. Olivas and Manuel Olivas, Jr. of Mesa, AZ, Ismael Olivas of Jal, N.M., Ruben Olivas of Odessa and Rey Olivas of Midland; daughters, Anita Galindo and Mary Ellen Rubio, both of Odessa, Estella Royal of Mesa, AZ, Rosa Elva Martinez of El Paso and Emma Mendoza of Big Spring; brothers, Ramon Olivas of Anthony, Jose Cabezuela of Presidio and Chon Cabezuela of Odessa; sisters, Margarita Cabezuela of Chihuahua, Mexico and Leonore Sosa of Milpitas, Calif.; 36 grandchildren; and 50 great-grandchildren. 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] Thursday, May 08, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050803raymond.jpg] Raymond G. Bedford MIDLAND Raymond G. Bedford, 47, of Odessa, died on Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at an Odessa hospital. Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2003, at the Zion Church in Odessa with Brother Dewey, pastor, officiating. Raymond was born on December 28, 1955, in Atlanta, Ga., and married Brenda Evans, June 23, 2001, in Odessa. He had lived in Odessa since 1980 and had been a truck driver for G&RG Trucking, Inc. He served in the United States Army and was a member of Zion Church. He was also a member of the Last Few motorcycle club for five years. Survivors include wife, Brenda Bedford of Odessa; four sons, Raymond Seth Bedford of Austin, Christopher Bedford of Beaumont and Daniel and Jason Bedford, both of Fort Smith, Ark.; one daughter, Ashton Bedford of Odessa; his parents, Raymond and Helen Bedford of Midland; three brothers, Donald Alan Bedford of Odessa, James Lee Bedford and wife, Penney, of Lochbuie, Colorado and William Joseph Bedford and wife, Latona, of Midland; one grandmother, Bertha Bedford Montgomery of Abilene; one step-grandchild; Sierra Jewell Evans of Odessa. He was preceded in death by his sister, Glenda Sherell Bedford; paternal grandfather, Ray Bedford; and maternal grand parents, Howard and Stella Bernard. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. [050803bill.jpg] Bill Wrinkle RANKIN Bill Wrinkle, 65, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, May 5, 2003, at Midland Memorial Hospital, Midland, Texas, following an illness diagnosed as Mesothelioma Lung Cancer. Bill was born March 29, 1938, in Bronte, Texas, the son of Arthur Lee Wrinkle and Leotha Best Wrinkle. He married Patricia Brock on May 18, 1958, in Midland and to this union one child was born, Kerry Brent Wrinkle. Bill is survived by his wife, Patricia; son, Kerry Brent and wife, Phyllis, and grandchildren, Kylie and Caleb Wrinkle, all of Rankin. Also surviving is one sister, Juanita White of Mansfield, Texas; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Bill was preceded in death by his parents. Following graduation from Bronte High School in 1957, he signed a letter of intent to play Guard for the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Being a much sought after ballplayer, he was offered a scholarship to every Southwest Conference College with the exception of one. Bill attended Odessa Junior College Trade School while employed by Neills Plumbing and Heating in Midland. From there his career began with Texas Natural, later known as Union Texas Petroleum, Benedum Field, Midkiff, Texas, that spanned some thirty-one years, with the exception of a two year stint with Uncle Sam in the U.S. Army, Artillery Division during the Berlin and Cuban Crisis January 1961, Honorable Discharge as Specialist E5 February 1, 1963. Following retirement from Union Texas Petroleum when the company sold to Western Gas Resources, Inc. on November 1, 1991, Bill continued to work for the new owners as a IRD Mechanalysis Technician until retirement on January 31, 1998. Work became his ballgame early in life and he always enjoyed his job and the people he worked with. Another part of his career included agent for Germania Farm Mutual Insurance Association for the past twenty-five years. Sports continued to be a part of his life as a coach in Little League and Pony League Baseball coaching the renown RANKIN GO TEAM was one of the joys of his life. He was an avid fan of the Rankin Red Devils, always supporting the home team win or lose. His church life was foremost in every way as was his family. Bill has been a member of First Baptist Church in Rankin, Texas, since 1967, where he served as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher and Brotherhood President and on numerous committees of the local church. Bill was presently serving as a director of the Rankin Chamber of Commerce. Bills grandchildren will always remember him as Grandpa, the guy that could almost always FIX IT, if it was broken, a wonderful husband and a friend to his wife and the greatest Dad, and father-in-law anyone could hope for. Funeral services for Bill. C. Wrinkle will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 8, 2003, at First Baptist Church, Rankin, Texas, with the Rev. Jim Medley and Rev. J.C. Tankersley officiating. Special music will be provided by Rev. Morris Johnson and Mrs. Lana Medley. Burial will follow in Rankin Cemetery. Pallbearers will be members of the 1964 Rankin Go Team, Terry Gray, Jim Vick, Johnny Smith, Johnny Kidd, Lester Titsworth, Dean Titsworth and Billy Bearden. Honorary Pallbearers will be Tommy Latham, Phillip West, Leslie McFadden, Mel Longwell, Wally Johnson, Wylie Grant and Bob Welch. Arrangements are with Shaffer-Nichols Funeral Homes & Chapel, Crane, Texas. Our expressions of appreciation go out to the many of you that have faithfully prayed for Bills health recovery and for the team of doctors and nurses that gave their best during Bills medical treatment during the past six months. Memorials may be directed to a charity of ones choice. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures. 1 Corinthians 13:7, NLT. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday, May 09, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [050903cree.jpg] Robert Neal Cree ODESSA Robert Neal Cree, 68, of Kilgore, formerly of Odessa, passed away Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at a Tyler hospital. He was born February 16, 1935, in Mt. Pleasant, Mich., to George and Myra Cree. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, May 9, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Robert grew up in Odessa moving here when he was seven. He worked for Marks Crane and Rigging for 16 years prior to owning Cree Crane and Rigging, from which he retired in 1995. He loved nature. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Emma McCann; and brother, George Denver Cree. He is survived by his wife, Mae Cree of Kilgore; and sons, Dub Cree and wife, Janet, Bobby Cree and wife, Connie, all of Odessa, Terry Cree and wife, Lori, of Orlando, Fla., Bill Warden and wife, Peggy, of Marshall, Ronny Warden and wife, Lydia, of San Antonio and Terry Warden of Midland; daughters, Shirley Stewart and husband, J.E., of Lake Fork and Barbara Mitis and husband, Tony, of Kilgore; brother, Richard Cree and wife, Carolyn, of Fort Worth; 18 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Memorials may be given to American Heart Association. Services are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [050903laurice.jpg] Laurice Jean Neely ODESSA Laurice Jean (Logan) Neely, 72, of Odessa passed from this life Wednesday, May 7, 2003, to rest peacefully in the hereafter with her Lord and Savior. Mrs. Neely was a life-long resident of West Texas and she had many friends with whom she remained close through the decades. She made a sweet and lasting impression on everyone she touched, and she will be sorely missed by all who knew her. She was a retired gas settlement clerk for Phillips Petroleum Co. and had worked for Phillips for 23 years. She was a member of Friendship Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruby and Paul Logan, and a brother, Billy Logan. She is survived by some of those most dearly enriched by her presence here on earth, her husband of 52 years, John Neely of Odessa; sons, Dr. Dennis Neely of Midland and Tim Neely of Odessa; daughter, Carol Herrington; grandson, Robert; and great-grandson, Nathan Herrington. Public visitation will be held from 8 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2003. Funeral services will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 10, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. David Mitchell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers an expression of sympathy may be made in the name of Laurice Jean Neely to the American Lung Association, 5926 Balcones Dr., Suite 100, Austin, TX, or www.texaslung.org. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050903janet.jpg] Janet Marie Phelps ODESSA Janet Marie Phelps, 57, of Odessa passed away Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at the Covenant Lakeside Hospital in Lubbock. She was born November 24, 1945, in Lincoln, Ill. She was a social worker and a member of Temple Baptist Church. She is survived by her sons, John Phelps of Fort Hood and Andrew Phelps of Odessa; daughter, Christina Halfacre and husband, Danny, of Odessa; sister, Marcia Lindsey and husband, Jay, of Odessa; and six grandchildren. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 10, 2003, at Temple Baptist Church with the Rev. Johnny Thomason officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [050903david.jpg] David S. Reyes ODESSA David S. Reyes was born March 27, 1948, in Fort Stockton to father, Leonardo M. Reyes, and mother, Maria Luisa Salazar, who both precede him in death. David was Catholic and a member of St. Marys Catholic Church. Rosary will be said at 7 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2003, at St. Marys Catholic Church. Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 10, 2003, at St. Marys Catholic Church with Father Frances Frey and Father Bernard officiating. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery. Survivors include his wife, Leonor Reyes; two daughters, Amanda Lee Franco and husband, Jesse Franco, and Rebecca Lynn Martinez and husband, Ruben Martinez; four brothers, Leonardo S. Reyes Jr. and wife, Daisy Reyes, Manuel S. Reyes, Ruben S. Reyes and Joe Luis Reyes; three sisters, Angie R. Mata and husband, Julio Mata, Sylvia R. Moreno and husband, Efrain, and Dolores R. Duran and husband, Cruz Duran; four granddaughters, Jessica Lee Franco, Marcela Yvette Franco, Vanessa Lauren Franco and Nevaeh Nicole Martinez; two twin grandsons, Jesse Alexander Franco and David Andrew Franco, all of Odessa. Services under the direction of Martinez Funeral Home. [050903pat.gif] Pat Doty ODESSA Pat Doty, beloved wife and mother, went to be with Our Lord on Wednesday, May 7, 2003. She was a member of the First Baptist Church and past president of the Womens Missionary Union and her Sunday School class. She was currently serving as a Board Member of AARP and had held various other positions. She thoroughly enjoyed visiting and laughing with her friends and family and always wanted to be where everyone was gathering. Pats sense of humor and outlook on life was refreshing and joyful, and she will be missed tremendously by those who loved her dearly. Pat was born on December 26, 1916, in Eastland County, Texas, to George H. T. Key and Nettie Wilson Key. She moved to Odessa in 1946 and married Floyd E. Doty on November 21, 1949. In earlier years, Pat and Doty traveled across the United States with his job, always enjoying the people and the new and different areas of the country. Pat is survived by her husband, Floyd Doty of Odessa; brother, Cleo Key of Santa Ana, Calif.; sister, Vuriel Hodge of Oklahoma City, Okla.; and daughter, Elizabeth Faught and spouse, Elton Faught, of Odessa. Nana was blessed with six grandchildren, Cynthia Malone and her spouse, Ron Benke, of San Antonio; Doty Brown and her spouse, David Brown, of Odessa; Ginger Mason and her spouse, Jerry Mason, of Calgary, Alberta; Daniel Reed Jr., of Houston; Kathy Switzer, and her spouse, Mike Switzer, of Magnolia; and Krista Reed of Magnolia; and eight great-grandchildren, Keele Miller, and her spouse, Landon Miller, of Temple; Kyle Brown of Odessa; Coleman and Camden Mason of Calgary, Alberta; Dylan and Kaitlyn Switzer, of Magnolia; Emma and Kailee Presley of Magnolia. Pat is preceded in death by her parents, George and Nettle Key; sister, Georgia Wayne Gronemyer; and son, Daniel Melvin Reed. Funeral services will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, May 10, 2003, at The First Baptist Church in Odessa with pastor H. Bailey Stone officiating. Pall bearers will be Elton Faught, David Brown, Ron Benke, John May, L.J. Marrs and Forrest Mathews. Interment immediately follows at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Arrangements entrusted to Frank Wilson Funeral Directors. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday, May 10, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [051103marie.jpg] Beatrice Marie Chesser ODESSA Beatrice Marie Chesser went to be with her Lord on May 5, 2003. She was born in San Saba, Texas, on July 18, 1926. She was raised on a farm as the youngest of seven children. Marie left the farm as a teenager to pursue an education. Shortly after graduating business college, she moved to Goldsmith to begin employment. Maries occupational pursuit not only granted her the opportunity to provide for herself, but an introduction to her future husband. She married Billy Joe Chesser and had two children. Her hobbies included sewing, quilting, and tending to her flowers. Marie was very active in the church and a respected member of her community. She is survived by her brother, Roderick Quain; her sister, Josie Hughes; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Family visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, located at 2011 N. Washington, in Odessa. Graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Johnny Singletary ODESSA Funeral services for Johnny Singletary, 68, of Lake Haven, Lake Brownwood, Texas, will be 10 a.m. Saturday, May 10, 2003, in the Rocky Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Rick Justice and Rev. Lynn Turnbow officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2003, in the Davis-Morris Funeral Home. Mr. Singletary died, Thursday morning, May 8, 2003, at his residence in Lake Haven, Lake Brownwood, Texas. He was born August 17, 1934, to Benjyman Joseph and Elizabeth Melvina Sherrill Singletary in Durant, Oklahoma. He married Dorothy Nell Pilcher in Eunice, New Mexico, April 25, 1957. He was self-employed operating the Hi-Tech Pest Control Company for seven years. He was in the National Guard, had lived in Lake Haven for the past twelve years, and was a member of the Rocky Creek Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Nell Singletary of Lake Haven, Lake Brownwood, Texas; two daughters, Patricia Singletary of Odessa, Texas, and Teresa LaNell Winkler of Pearland, Texas; and son and daughter-in-law, Johnny and Gail Allen of Mansfield, Texas; eight grandchildren; nine brothers and sisters, Dollie Mae Cantera of Glenpool, Okla., Bennie Faye Smith of Atoka, Okla., Mary Lee Truitt of Goldthwaite, Texas, Patsy Jo Whitstone of Mineral Wells, Texas, Helen Ann Lewis of Monahans, Texas, Wanda Jean Briggs of Gardendale, Texas, Virginia Sherlene Haskins of Odessa, Texas, Junior Singletary of Lake Brownwood, Texas, and Linda Nelson of Frazee, Minn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjyman Joseph and Elizabeth Melvina Sherrill Singletary; and a sister, Billy Jay Duffy of Dickerson, Texas. Davis-Morris Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday, May 11, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [051103ann.jpg] Barbara Ann Owens ODESSA Barbara Ann Owens, 65, a longtime resident of Odessa, passed away Thursday, May 8, 2003 at Medical Center Hospital. She was born June 28, 1937 in Terre Haute Ind. She married Sherman Lee Owens June 21, 1958 in California. Mrs. Owens worked as a paralegal secretary for John Green Law Offices. She loved reading, camping, football and crocheting. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Hemsley. She is survived by her husband, Sherman Owens of Odessa; sons, Ken Owens and wife, Shauna, of Topeka, Kan. Steven Lee Owens and wife, Connie, of Ballinger, Texas; daughter, Lori Beth Kortum and husband, Steve, of Minneapolis, Minn.; mother, Loretta Hemsley of Placentia, Calif.; sister, Judy Holst of Brooklyn, Iowa; 10 grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved pets, Tinker and Sissy. Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2003 at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with Lynn Money officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [051103evans.jpg] Thelma Pat C. Evans SAN ANGELO Thelma Pat C. Evans, 85, of San Angelo passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2003 in an area nursing home. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2003 at the Robert Massie Riverside Chapel with the Rev. Carol Fiero of the First United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are made by Robert Massie Funeral Home. Thelma was born October 23, 1917 in Merkel, Texas to Willie and Kathryn Patterson. She married Ray O. Evans in 1939 and moved to San Angelo in 1972. Thelmas love and kindness for others, directed her into a career of nursing. She graduated from Shannon School of Nursing in 1936. Thelma worked at Herman Hospital in Houston for many years. She was head nurse at Central High School for 13 years. Although her career took time from her family, she always managed to find the time to be the best wife, mother and grandmother. Thelma made a lot of friends throughout her career. She will be missed by her family and friends. Survivors are husband, Ray O. Evans of Midland; daughter, Ann Armstrong of San Angelo; granddaughter, Diana Browning and husband, Richard, of Odessa; grandsons, Evan Armstrong and wife, Kathy , of Waco, Drew Armstrong and wife, Jenny, of Arlington; three great-grandchildren, Lauren Browning and Davis Browning of Odessa and Gavin Armstrong of Arlington. Pallbearers will be J.W. Henson, Evan Armstrong, Drew Armstrong, Richard Buz Browning, Davis Browning and Gavin Armstrong. The family requests that memorials be made to Vista Care Family Hospice of San Angelo and Alzheimers Association. [051103lorane.jpg] Lorane Taylor ODESSA Lorane Taylor, 85, of Odessa, Texas died Saturday, May 10, 2003 at Medical Center Hospital. Services will be at 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church of God with the Rev. Paul Jones presiding. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Arrangements by Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Lorane was born in Bonham, Texas on May 5, 1918. Lorane was a member of First Church of God. Many years she and her husband, Carl Taylor, were members of the Sheriffs Posse. One of her great delights was riding in the parades. Lorane had been a beautician and also a seamstress. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Taylor. A special thanks is given to her caregivers, especially Eddie Zimmerman and Emma Gibbs. She is survived by her sister Virgina Woody and husband, Hany of Littlefield, Texas and several nieces and nephews. [051103margie.jpg] Margie Garrett Burchell GARDENDALE Margie Garrett Burchell, 73, a longtime resident of Gardendale passed away Thursday, May 8, 2003 at her residence. She was born Sept. 12, 1929 in Meadow, Texas. She had worked in the cafeterias at Reagan and John Ireland Elementary schools and Deerings Nursing Home. She loved to cook, bowl, crossword puzzles and knitting. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Angela Kim Burchell, three brothers Vander, Raymond and Preston, one sister, Rosie and half-sister, Elsie. She is survived by her ex-husband, Joe Burchell of Gardendale; sons, Gordon Burchell and wife, Lynn, and Glen Burchell all of Gardendale; daughter, Donna Baker and husband, Gary, of Humble, Texas; brother, Brudge Garrett and wife, Dorothy of Winston, Ore.; eight grandchildren, David, Peggy, Dake, Jamie, Joshua, Krystle, Ashley and Kimberly; and two great-grandchildren, Dakota and Cameron. Margie was a wonderful and loving mother. She gave unselfishly to her children and will be greatly missed. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [051103tidwell.jpg] Charles S. Tidwell ODESSA Honoring the life of someone special who will always be remembered. Charles S. Tidwell was born December 4, 1931, and passed away Thursday, May 1, 2003. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. He is survived by four brothers and two sisters. Charles has two daughters, Andrea Y. Fine of Odessa and and Dana C. Tidwell of Oakland, Ill., who has cared for her father for several years now. Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home. [051103miller.jpg] W. Gene Miller ODESSA W. Gene Miller passed away on May 7, 2003, at his home in Odessa. A man of honor, Gene was born on Dec. 19, 1931 in Simms, Texas. He was the second son of Eliza Post and Basil Henry Miller. Gene graduated from Fair Park High School in Shreveport, La. And attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas. He served in the Naval Reserves until he was activated during the Korean Conflict and served aboard the submarine USS Gudgeon. Gene and Janet Bailey were married on Feb. 19, 1952 in Shreveport, La. And they maintained this partnership 51 years. Together they reared two daughters, Carol Miller Harry and Wendy Miller Younts. Both girls live in Odessa. Gene and family moved to Odessa in 1978 from St. Petersburg, Fla. When he purchased Basin Welding Supply, which he owned until 2002. Prior to moving to Odessa, Gene and his partners founded NASCO, Inc. in Birmingham, Ala. A wholesale welding equipment supplier. The company is still in operation today. A strong believer in principles, Gene was respected because his life was an example of his dedication to God, his country, his family and business. He was a deacon in the First Baptist Church and served in many capacities. He was also a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of the El Maida Shrine Club, Fellowship Lodge and Rotary International. Family and friends were the lucky recipients of Genes creative abilities. Many treasure the furniture pieces he created. A private pilot, Gene logged thousands of miles in the air for business and family. His family has fond memories of wonderful trips that came about because of Genes skill as a pilot. His wife, Janet Miller, his children, Carol and Steve Harry and Wendy and Dan Younts survived Gene. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Danny Younts, Bonnie Younts Horton and spouse, Travis, Christopher Younts, Timothy Harry and Barrett Harry. Memorial contributions may be made to the television ministry or the music ministry at the First Baptist Church, 709 N. Lee in Odessa. The family will be receiving visitors between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors on Sunday, May 11. On Monday, May 12, Committal Services will be held at 9 a.m. at the Sunset Memorial Gardens with a public memorial service at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church. Dr. H. Bailey Stone and the Rev. Curtis Brewer will preside at both services. Services entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. [051103jane.jpg] Dorothy Jane Dyer Nelson ODESSA Jane Nelson, 75, beloved mother and grandmother, went to be with the Lord and PaPa on May 9, 2003 after a courageous battle with ALS. She was born Sept. 17, 1927 in Wichita Falls and grew up in Fort Worth. She was a graduate of Hardin Simmons University where she was a Cowgirl. There she met her husband of 47 years, Don Nelson. Jane and Don moved to Odessa in 1956, where they raised three sons. Jane was a lifelong community volunteer, tirelessly contributing her time and energies to the First Presbyterian Church, The Interfaith Service Sewing Center, Harmony Home and the Odessa Regional Hospital. Harmony Home recently honored her dedication to their mission by naming her Volunteer of the Year in 2002. Jane served her church as both deacon and elder. She was active in the Womens Association at Odessa Country Club. She loved to golf and played weekly with friends and family until the time of her illness. She was a talented artist. She loved Texas Rangers baseball and the Midland-Odessa Symphony and Chorale. Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Don , and her parents, Eddie and Daisy Dyer. She was surrounded by her loving family, Jim and Karen Nelson of Lantana, Marshall Nelson, Peggy Nelson, David and Lori Nelson, all of Odessa. Granny Jane was dearly loved by nine grandchildren, Kyle, Olivia, Jeff and Amanda, Will, Clif, Chris, Sarah and Jayme, and one great-grandchild on the way. She was their biggest fan, attending countless sporting events, band and choir concerts and piano recitals. She is also survived by her dear sister, Peggy Beeman of Georgetown, and numerous nieces, nephews and their families. She leaves a host of friends, and the family is especially thankful for her friend, Lou Linneman. A memorial service to honor and celebrate Janes life will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2003, at the First Presbyterian Church in Odessa. Visitation for friends and family will be held at Frank Wilson Funeral Directors in Odessa from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 11. Expressions of love may be made in the name of Jane Dyer Nelson to First Presbyterian Church and Harmony Home. Services 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] Tuesday, May 13, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [051303lopez.jpg] Ruben Lopez Macias ODESSA Ruben Lopez Macias, 22, was born February 27, 1981, in Portales, N.M., to father, Ruben Lopez, and mother, Irma Macias. Ruben was a Christian. Ruben died Thursday, May 8, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2003, at Church of Christ on Sixth and Jackson with Pastor Raymundo Calzadias officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Survivors include his mother, Irma Macias of Odessa; sister, Mirna Mujica of Andrews; brother, Jesus Antonio Mujica of Fort Bragg, N.C.; grandparents, Armando and Elva C. Macias, both of Odessa; four uncles, Oscar Macias of Dallas, Jamie, Johnny and Freddy Macias, all of Odessa; girlfriend, Rosie Ybarra of Odessa. Services entrusted to Martinez Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday, May 14, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [051403austin.jpg] Austin Avery Lee Hankins ODESSA Austin Bubba Duck Avery Lee Hankins, two weeks old, of Odessa, passed away Sunday, May 11, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born April 27, 2003. Services will be 10 a.m. Friday, May 16, 2003, in Sunset Memorial Chapel with Rev. Ronald Rennegarbe. He was preceded in death by his uncle, Scott Avery Carlson. Survivors include his father, Rick Hankins; mother, Lindsey L. Venske; sisters, Sierra and Kyoko Hankins both of Chickasha, Okla.; maternal grandfather, Kennard Venske of Midland; grandmother, Jackie Venske of Odessa; paternal grandfather, David Hayes of Anna; paternal grandparents, Gene and Gwen Hankins of Chickasha, Okla.; aunts, Maria Venske of Odessa; Catherine and Alina Hankins of Conway, Ark.; cousins, Kenny and Harleigh Venske; maternal great-grandmother, Evelyn Carlson; paternal great-grandparents, Jim and Janie Hayes; paternal great- grandparents, Oather and Lois Hankins; numerous great aunts, uncles, and cousins. Services are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. We all love you and miss our little Angel Duck until we see you again. His days were short, it seems only God can understand but trust we will, in our Heavenly Father as He guides us hand in hand. He brought such peace and love and joy. Now hes earned his angel wings. We have his loving memories to bring us all some peace though our tears will fall in sadness. We know hell be just fine because the Lord is holding our Austin rocking him to sleep tonight. Love, Karen. Geral McCulloch ODESSA Geral McCulloch, 85, of Odessa died Tuesday, May 13, 2003, at Deerings Nursing Home. He was born April 22, 1918, in Hopkins County and moved to Odessa in 1944. He was a retired custodian of Odessa College. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Mark Scott of Highland United Methodist Church officiating. He was preceded in death by his mother, Maxie McCulloch; his father, Harvey McCulloch; and three brothers, Harold McCulloch, R.W. Dub McCulloch and H.C. Mac McCulloch. He is survived by his brother, Don McCulloch and his wife, Betty, of Odessa; his nephew, Donald McCulloch of Gardendale; and the wonderful friends and caregivers of Deerings Nursing Home. The family requests memorials be made to Highland United Methodist Church, 1808 N. Dixie, Odessa, 79761 or Harmony Home, P.O. Box 3087, Odessa, 79760. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [051403armando.jpg] Armando Oropeza ODESSA Armando J. Oropeza, 73, died Monday, May 12, 2003, at his residence in Odessa. Mr. Oropeza was Catholic. He was born January 17, 1930, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, to father Anastacio Oropeza and mother, Rosita Jaurequi, who both preceded him in death. Rosary will be said at 8 p.m. at Martinez Funeral Home. Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 14, 2003, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Gilbert Rodriguez officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Survivors include his wife, Matilda Oropeza of Odessa; two sons, Armando M. Oropeza Jr. and Angel M. Oropeza, both of Odessa; one brother, Chano Oropeza of Guadalajara, Jalisco; and sister, Lidia O. Neri of Guadalajara, Jalisco; six grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. Services under the direction of Martinez Funeral Home. [051403walter.jpg] Walter Dennis Mooch Bates ODESSA Walter Dennis Mooch Bates, native son of Odessa was born October 9, 1926. He was the son of Walter Lawrence and Mary Ardelle Bates. He died Sunday, May 11, at home after a short battle with cancer. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, 2003, at First Christian Church with Dr. David Mindel officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Mooch graduated from Odessa High School in 1945, lettering in football, basketball, and track. He was all-district in football in 1944. Drafted to Fort Bliss then shipped out to Germany in 1945, he also played football for the service. After being discharged in 1947 he attended Shriner College. Mooch went on to Baylor lettering in football in 49-51. He received the honor of All-Southwest Conference in 51 and played Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl in 52. Mooch married Billie Jean Pardo on December 23, 1951, in Odessa. He then started Bates Well Service and partnered with John Stewart in Anchors and Holes, and later R.V. Tool Company. Mooch retired from the oilfield in 1992. Mooch served as vice-president of the Permian Booster Club. He was a member of the Odessa Country Club and the West Texas-New Mexico Senior Golf Association. Besides being an avid golfer, his enthusiasm was directed to breeding and raising Brangus cattle at their Marble Falls ranch. He was also on the Board of Directors at the First National Bank and was a member of the Chuck Wagon Gang. After Billie Jeans passing in 1999, Mooch married Dorothy Kelley on January 24, 2002. From a 40-year friendship, he found a loving partner in Dot, sharing their mutual love of football, family, and the Lord. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Bates of Odessa; his son and his wife, Larry and Judy Bates of Odessa; his daughter and her husband, Denise and Jim Livingston of Lakeway; stepson, Lonnie Ferrell of Arlington; granddaughters, April Bates Williams and husband, Ivan, of Odessa, Angie Bates House and husband, Jeremy, of Fort Worth, Riley Livingston of Lakeway; grandson, Colby Ansley of Lakeway; great-granddaughter, Hannah Grace Williams of Odessa; brothers, Morris Bates and his wife, Reba, of Odessa, Foy Bates of Odessa; sister-in-law, Bettie Bates of Graham; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Jean Bates; his parents, Walter Lawrence and Mary Ardelle Bates and brother, Thomas Pat Bates. Pallbearers will be Colby Ansley, Bob Fair, W.R. Bro Hill, Roy Hunt, Tommy Melton, Ray Stoker, and Bill Trout. Honorary pallbearers include Ed Barham, Paul Campbell, Bill Casstevens, Bob Herrin, Joe Holley, Bill Madden, Dr. Thomas Meek, D.R. Slim Melton, Tom Melton, Ben Montgomery, Tom Murphy, Ted Roden, John Stewart, Joe Swann and Glen Jug Taylor. 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] Thursday, May 15, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [051503betty.jpg] Betty Joyce Bunch ODESSA Betty Joyce Bunch, 58, of Odessa, passed away Monday, May 12, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. She was born August 9, 1944, in Keiser, Ark. She was a retired beautician. She won first place at T.O.P.S. She loved to crochet and old country gospel music. She was a member of Faith Tabernacle Assembly of God Church. She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Amos Buddy Bunch of Odessa; son, Bobby Bunch of Odessa; daughter, Evelyn Jean Hall of Odessa; brothers, Wilton Brasfield of Brownfield, Donald Brasfield of Lincoln, Neb., and Ernest Brasfield of Plano; sisters, Barbara Young of Gardendale, Ann Hartman of Plains and Lisa Platz and Teresa Moore, both of Texarkana; three grandchildren, Kevin, Joshua and Frances; and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2003, at the Faith Tabernacle Assembly of God Church with Rev. Scott Sprouse and Bro. Paul Clark officiating. Interment will be at 4:30 p.m. at the Yoakum County Cemetery in Denver City. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Donald Foy Morrow [051503donald.jpg] Donald Foy Morrow ODESSA Donald Foy Morrow, 68, a longtime resident of Odessa, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born December 4, 1934, in Colorado City, Texas, to Hugh and Eva Morrow. In August of 1963, he married Veila Aceves in El Paso, Texas. He was a truck driver for 12 years, and in 1967 he went to work for Big Three Industries as a plant operator and retired in 1993 after 26 years of service. His interests were collecting clocks and trains, and he also enjoyed reading and classical music. He was very easy going and had many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Eva Morrow; his brother, Harold Morrow; and his sister, Linda Barker. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Norma and Danny Kiker of Odessa; son and daughter-in-law, Fred and Rebecca Morrow of Virginia Beach, Va.; two grandsons, Austin and Jordan Barron; one granddaughter, Klara Morrow; and one brother and sister-in-law, Kenneth and Elaine Morrow of Whitney, Texas. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, May 16, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Clydell Chapman officiating. A visitation to receive friends will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday. Services entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [051503mabel.jpg] Mabel Wisner ODESSA Mabel Wisner, 89, of Odessa, a retired nurse, died Tuesday, May 13, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital after a brief illness. She moved to Florida from Illinois in 1941 with her husband and two children. Together, they created a tropical oasis. They traveled all over the world, taking their children and grandchildren with them. She was born Mabel M. Droese in Walworth, Wis., one of nine children on July 26, 1913. She married William Wisner in November 1931. She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, William Wisner Sr., two sisters, four brothers and son-in-law. She is best known for her wonderful pies, shrewd card playing and her loving personality. She is survived by her son, William Wisner Jr. and wife, Mary Faith, of Tallahassee, Fla.; daughter, Dawn Whitlock of Odessa; brother, Elmer Droese of Tarpon Springs, Fla.; sister, Esther White of Bluford, Ill.; six grandchildren, Sandra Scott of Hood River, Ore., Michael Whitlock of Palm Harbor, Fla., William Wisner III of Seeley Lake, Mont., Donna Swinney of Odessa, Tracey Elliott of Bronson, Fla., and Lori Nolte of Yuma, Ariz.; 14 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Curtis Brewer officiating. Burial will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 21, 2003, at the Sylvan-Abbey Memorial Park in Clearwater, Fla. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster.