Ector Co. TX - Obits from the Odessa American Online, Sep 2-15 2003 Thanks to the Odessa American Online, http://www.oaoa.com/ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm ------------------------------------------------ [010102obitbner.gif] Tuesday, September 02, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [090203fred.jpg] Fred Price Giles ODESSA Fred Price Giles, 70, of Odessa, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at his residence. He was born July 3, 1933, in Runnels County on the family farm east of Winters to John Malcolm and Florence Bates Giles. He grew up in Runnels County and graduated from Novice High School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. After his discharge, he returned to Runnels County where he farmed. He later farmed and ranched in South Dakota. He later returned to Texas and was a car dealer in Littlefield and Brownwood, retiring in 1989. He moved to Odessa in 2000 and lived there ever since. He was a Baptist. He is survived by one son, Marc Giles and wife Nettie of Odessa; his daughter, Kelly Wright of Abilene; one brother, Abe Giles of Lake Brownwood; one sister, Fairy Alcorn of Winters; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; and two sisters. Services will be at 2 p.m. today in the Winters Funeral Home Chapel with his nephew, Tony King, officiating. Burial will be in the Crews Cemetery, directed by Winters Funeral Home. [090203judy.jpg] Judy Lynn Hunt ODESSA Judy Lynn Hunt, 28, of Odessa, was born May 8, 1975, in Odessa, Texas. She passed away on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital after a short battle with cancer. She was employed by Wal-Mart as a Seasonal Coordinator. She enjoyed her job all of her co-workers. She attended public school in Odessa. She was a member of the Bible Baptist Church. Visitation will by from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today at Chapa Funeral Home. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. John Lyons, pastor of the Bible Baptist Church officiating. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Leslie Hunt. She is survived by her grandparents, Raymond and Ethel Hunt of Odessa; mother, Dorothy Hunt of Odessa; sisters, Jennifer Gaylene Hunt and Sherry Lynn Hunt, both of San Angelo; and a host of other relatives and friends. Judy will be missed by all. The family requests that memorials be directed to the United Services Blood Bank of Odessa. Services entrusted to Chapa Funeral Home. [090203thomas.jpg] Thomas Tommy Frazier Pierce III ODESSA Thomas Tommy Frazier Pierce III, 45, of Odessa, passed away Saturday Aug. 30, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Memorial Services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday Sept. 2, 2003, at Redeemer Lutheran Church with Pastor Dean Kelm officiating. Honorary pallbearers will include Lyle Debolt, Vernon Debolt, Paul Debolt, Hal Lambert Sr., Lewis Lambert, Bynum Vincent, Peter Capella and Marks Gillham. Mr. Pierce was born Dec. 14, 1957, in Odessa. He lived in Odessa all of his life. He graduated from Odessa High School, and also attended UTPB, Odessa College, and Texas A&M University. He was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church. He was preceded in death by his father, T.F. Pierce II; and his grandfather, Kelly A. Douglas. Survivors include, his mother, Barbara Ridge and husband Dean of Odessa; two sisters, Jeanna Payne and husband Roger of Duncan, Okla., and Carol Ann Rice and husband Teddy of Wetauga, Texas; his grandmother, Christine Douglas of Odessa; an aunt, Brenda Vincent of Odessa; two uncles, K.A. Douglas Jr. of Odessa and William Boyd Douglas of California; and 3 nieces, Audra Ann Payne, and Tracy and Angie Rice. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Teen Challenge in Odessa, or Redeemer Lutheran Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [090203ml.jpg] M.L. Les Weatherall M.L. Les Weatherall, 95, of Midland, died on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2003, at his residence. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003, at the First Presbyterian Church in Midland with the Rev. Jerry Hilton, pastor, officiating. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home, 3800 N. Big Spring St., Midland, TX. He was born on Sept. 12, 1907, in Vernon, Texas and married Leah Daily on Oct. 9, 1930, in Breckenridge, Texas. Upon graduating from Vernon High School in May, 1926, he was employed by Humble Oil and Refining Co. (Exxon). He worked in that area until 1930 and was transferred to Hobbs, N.M. Later he was transferred to the East Texas area working at Kilgore, Gladewater and Tyler. He returned to the Permian Basin and to Midland in 1935 and, after working here for about five years, he also worked in Denver City, Hobbs, Odessa, Stanton, McCamey and Monahans, returning to Midland in 1964. He retired from Exxon in 1971. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, LTC (retired) Marcus and Gloria Weatherall Sr. of Norman, Okla.; one daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and J.D. Lammons of Bedford, Texas; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; nine nieces; and six nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Leah Daily Weatherall; one daughter, Grace Muir of Albuquerque, N.M.; five brothers; five sisters; three nieces; and six nephews. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the Home Hospice of Midland, 901 W. Missouri, Midland, TX 79701, or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. For online condolences go to ww.npwelch.com. [090203mary.jpg] Mary Wilson ODESSA Mary Wilson, beloved mother, grandma, MeMa, MeMe and GiGi, entered into eternal rest and peace with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. Mary was born Aug. 21, 1928, in Lyons, Ga., to Heery and Beulah Collins. Mary has been a resident of Odessa since 1970. Mary was a member of Temple Baptist Church for a number of years. She worked as a waitress at The Kettle for several years where she made many lasting friendships. Mary was a very loving and caring woman with many things to give at anytime. She was full of advice that her friends and family will always remember and share. Mary will always be in our thoughts as she watches over us. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, David E. Wilson; father, Heery Collins; mother, Beulah Sikes Collins; brother, Harry Collins; sister, Betty Rutledge; and grandson, Terence Martinez. Mary is survived by her sister, Peaches Haines; brother, Junior Collins of Georgia; son, Don Shouse and wife Jenny of Ruidoso, N.M.; daughters, Peggy Martinez and husband Joe of Odessa and Mary Ann McMillian of San Angelo; nine grandchildren and spouses; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be grandsons, Tim, Tom, Tony and Tracey Martinez and Kevin and Jason Shouse. Mary has touched so many lives in very special ways that she will never be forgotten. Her words of wisdom will be shared for many years to come by her friends and family. Mary enjoyed all the special moments that she shared with her friends and family throughout her life. We will love and miss you always, sweet dear mother, MeMa, MeMe and GiGi, but we know that you have found eternal peace and happiness with your Lord Jesus Christ. Your struggle with pain and sickness has come to an end. God bless you and keep you always. Visitation with the family was from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday at the Sunset Funeral Home. Services will be at 2 p.m. today at Sunset Memorial Gardens Funeral Home with the Rev. Kyle Rogers officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Agusala, Dr. Kodi and the 9 Central nursing staff. [090203helen.jpg] Helen Jack Peggy Wood MIDLAND Helen Jack Peggy Wood passed away Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2003, at her home in Midland. Peggy was born Nov. 17, 1921, to Charles and Anna Keen in Graham, Texas, and was a descendant of the early settlers of Texas. She attended school in Olney, graduating from Olney High School in 1939. Peggy then went on to North Texas State Teachers College in Denton. After graduation, she taught school and was a librarian in Brownfield and Van Horn. Peggy eventually moved to Midland in 1949, and in 1950 started work at Humble Oil and Refining, which in time became Exxon. She worked for Exxon for 36 years, retiring July 31, 1986. Peggy loved to needle point, crochet and work crossword puzzles. She was a long time member of Bellview Baptist Church. Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Beatrice Sue Keen. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Charles and DeLora Wood of Odessa, Texas; her daughter and son-in-law, Jo Anna and Mike Minter of Sanger, Texas; grandchildren, LaDonna Chism of Odessa, Charles Wood Jr. of Annandale, Va., and John Wood of Odessa; great-grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Trinidad and Devin Wood; and her sister Mildred Harrison of New Orleans. Funeral Services will be held at 9 a.m. today at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Myron Unruh officiating. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Memorials may be directed to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Crippled Children, 2201 Welborn St., Dallas, TX, 75219, or you may call (800) 421-1121, and Odessa Christian School at 2000 Doran Drive Odessa, TX, 79761 or you can call 362-6311. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday, September 03, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [090303hershel.jpg] Hershel W.C. Ainsworth ODESSA Hershel W.C. Ainsworth, 56, of Odessa passed away Sunday, Aug. 31, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born Nov. 20, 1946, in Delhi, La. Mr. Ainsworth was a salesman for Bowen Tool Co., and he was Baptist. He is survived by his parents, W.C. and Dorothy Ainsworth of Odessa; sons, Kenneth Ainsworth and wife, Martha, of Pipe Creek, Texas, and Toby Ainsworth and wife, Sunny, of Odessa; brothers, Charles Ainsworth and wife, Brenda, of Odessa and Bobby Ainsworth of Odessa; sisters, Patsy Berry and husband, Mike, of Denver City and Gloria Hallmark of Kermit; three grandchildren, Tangi Ainsworth of Pipe Creek, Kaylee and Aleeha Ainsworth, both of Odessa. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003, at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home Chapel. Interment to follow at Kermit Cemetery. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [090303gertrude.jpg] Gertrude Cox ODESSA Gertrude Cox, 78, beloved wife and cherished mother, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2003, in Waco, Texas. Born in Magnolia, Arkansas, on September 18, 1924, she married John B. Cox in 1946 and moved to Odessa in 1948 where she lived until about 6 years ago. Gertrude was a member of Highland Methodist Church and the Eastern Star. She worked as a Licensed Vocational Nurse with a variety of companies in Odessa as a home health nurse and was a bedside companion to many former Odessa residents. She is preceded in death by her husband, John B. Cox. She leaves behind her daughter, Bobbye Cox of Odessa; her son, Tommy Wayne Cox and his wife, Jennifer Marshall, of Virginia Beach, Va.; her son, Gerald Cecil Cox; her daughter, Carolyn Darlene Cox of Ridgecrest, Calif.; and her son, Ronald Lee Cox and his wife, Kay, of Dallas, Texas. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 4, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens, with Rev. Jim Ray Brown officiating. Services are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [090303gwendolyn.jpg] Gwendolyn Warren ODESSA Gwendolyn H. Warren, 72, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2003, at St. Lukes Medical Center in Houston. She was born on November 23, 1930, in Brady, Texas, to Garland and Fannie Mae McDonald. She was an Odessa resident since 1949. In 1952, she married Frank Warren Sr. He preceded her in death. Gwendolyn was a school bus driver for E.C.I.S.D., a member of the VFW Southside Post 6717 and member of Mackey Chapel United Methodist Church. Surviving are her sons, Frank Warren of Houston and Ronald Warren of Odessa; daughter, Betty Flax of Pearland; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Visitation will begin today from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. at Odessa Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services have been set for 10 a.m. Thursday, September 4, 2003, at Mackey Chapel United Methodist Church, 306 W. Clements St. with the Reverend Dennis Body officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. [090303josephine.jpg] Josephine Christian ODESSA Josephine Christian, 91, a housewife, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2003, at her home in Odessa, Texas. Mrs. Christian lived in Odessa, Texas, for 43 years and was previously from Colorado City, Texas. She is survived by sons, Fred Christian and wife, Emma, of Riverdale, Calif., Charles Christian of Miraloma, Calif., Chester Christian and wife, Shirley, of Borger, Texas, Alvin Christian and wife, Ginger, of Odessa, Texas, Ivory Christian and wife, Annie, of Odessa, Curtis Christian and wife, Rochelle, of Aurora, Colo., Laurence Christian and wife, Dale Marie, of Odessa and Kenneth Christian and wife, Helen, of San Marcos; daughters, Lucille Christian, Bennie Starling, Barbara Armstrong, Willie M. Haynes and Frankie M. Davis and husband Eugene, all of Odessa; brother, Henry Knox Jr. of Rockdale, Texas; sisters, Irene McDowell of Austin, Texas, and Lela Payne and Hattie L. Strain, both of Cameron, Texas; 65 grandchildren; 119 great-grandchildren; and 48 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Christian; father, Henry Knox Sr.; and her mother, Julia Ann Milligan-Knox; and daughters, Vernice Christian and Wanda Faye Christian. She was born May 5, 1912, in Giddings, Texas. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Thursday at Martinez Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003, at Rose of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. J.W. Hanson officiating. Burial will be in the Ector County Cemetery in Odessa. [090303judy.jpg] Judy Lynn Hunt ODESSA Judy Lynn Hunt, 28, of Odessa, was born May 8, 1975, in Odessa, Texas. She passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital after a short battle with cancer. She was employed by Wal-Mart as a seasonal coordinator. She enjoyed her job and all of her co-workers. She attended public school in Odessa, Texas. She was a member of Bible Baptist Church. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. John Lyons, pastor of Bible Baptist Church, officiating. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Leslie Hunt. She is survived by her mother, Dorothy Hunt of Odessa; special companion for eight years, John Heaton of Odessa; sisters, Jennifer Gaylene Hunt and Sherry Lynn Hunt, both of Odessa; grandparents, Arab and Ethel Hunt of Odessa; and a host of other relatives and friends. Judy will be missed by all. The family requests that memorials be directed to United Services Blood Bank of Odessa. Services entrusted to Chapa Funeral Home. [090303billie.jpg] Billie Jean Tierce ODESSA Billie Jean Jarrett Rhodes Tierce, 71, unexpectedly passed away at her home on Monday, September 1, 2003. Billie was born March 14, 1932, to Wilbur and Louise Jarrett in Odessa, Texas. She graduated from OHS and was a lifelong resident of Penwell and Odessa. In 1950 she married J. Lowell Rhodes and later married Ronald Tierce in 1976. Billie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, and great-grandmother. After retirement from bookkeeping, she enjoyed cooking, sewing and homemaking. Her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchild brought her immense joy. She was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Risen Lord. She was preceded in death by her parents Wilbur and Louise Jarrett, stepmother, Lucille Jarrett; her son, Jerry Rhodes, and infant grandson Chase Clifton. Billie is survived by her husband, Ronald Tierce; daughter, Lynn Rhodes Clifton and husband, Blake, of Columbia, Mo.; son, Mike Rhodes and wife, Dottie; daughter, Pam Rhodes Pitt and husband, Mike, all of Penwell, TX; daughter-in-law, Marcy Rhodes of Odessa; her brother, Will Jarrett of Dallas, Texas; sister, Bobbie Henry of Wallburg, N.C.; grandchildren, Heather Maddox, Chris, Amber and Jarrett Pitt, Ashley and Bailey Rhodes, Kimberly, Melody, and Chance Rhodes, Ned, Dylan, and Grace Clifton; and great-grandchild Haylee Williams. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2003, at the Lutheran Church of the Risen Lord with the Rev. Chris Conners officiating. The family will receive visitors Wednesday, September 3, 2003, from 7 to 9 p.m. Burial will follow the service at Ector County Cemetery. Services are 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, September 04, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [090403joe.jpg] Joe Dale Halford ODESSA In the early hours of Sept. 2, 2003, Joe Dale Halford passed from this life into the presence of his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Joe was born June 12, 1952, in Brownfield, Texas. He grew up in Midland and Odessa and attended Permian High School. On Jan. 5, 1973, he married Cathe Wimberley, and he remained completely devoted to her for 31 years. She was his Baby Doll, and he was her rock steady, dependable, totally supportive. When he said for better or worse, he meant what he said. Cathe and Joe raised two wonderful children, Jill and Jody. He was a proud dad who loved to brag on his kids. Jody brought Nick home for the weekend when they were in junior high, and he has been a devoted son ever since. These three have blessed Joe and Cathe with nine grandchildren who love their Pa so much. He gave generously of his time, his money and his love to each and every one of them. Joe Halford was well known throughout oil country and never met anyone who did not admire and love him. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, knowledge about drilling rigs, commitment to excellence and absolute integrity. He would not lie for any reason, and when he gave his word, you could take it to the bank. Joe gained his first oilfield experience at J&L Machine working for his father-in-law, Dub Wimberley, and became an expert oilfield mechanic. Joe worked for Bridges Equipment for 15 years. His employers, Mike and Jimmy Bridges, were also his close friends. They could, and did, trust him with their business as if it was his own. Joe was a humble man who was always surprised and honored to hear that people thought so much of him. He was a gentleman to whom the little courtesies came naturally. He was also a mans man who enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing or just watching the grandkids play. He was an avid NASCAR fan whose support for Dale Jarrett never wavered. He loved country/western dancing and ladies were willing to stand in line for the best dancer around. Joe leaves behind a loving family, his wife, Cathe; their daughter, Jill Easterling; two sons, Jody Halford and Nick Castilleja and their wives, Stacy and Elsa; one granddaughter, Krysta Halford; eight grandsons, Jonathan, Ethan and Jordan Easterling, Dustin Flowers, Colten Carrell, J.D. (Joe Dale III) Halford, Christian Herrera and Hayden Castilleja. His parents, Nell and Gene Henderson; Bob and June Hudnall; his sister, Jan Eiland and husband, Eddie; two brothers, Bobby Hudnall and Craig Halford and wife, Lisa; his niece, Jennifer Halford; and nephews, Justin, Andrew, Aaron and Jacob Eiland, Cole Halford and Ryan Parker. Joe was very close to Cathes family, parents, W.L. and Leona Wimberley; sister, Janis McGee; and brother, Kevin Wimberley and wife, Tonia; niece, Jana House and husband, Sgt. Jeramy House, and their children, Taylor and Katelan; nephew, Joel McGee and wife, Lisa. Joe and Cathe both had aunts, uncles and cousins who all loved him. He will also be missed by hundreds of friends. Memorials on Joes behalf are being accepted at Pray Texas, 8715 Andrews Highway, Odessa, TX 79765. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at Temple Baptist Church with the Rev. Griffin Jones officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [090403wayne.jpg] Wayne I. Gregston ODESSA Wayne I. Gregston, 80, a longtime resident of Odessa, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2003, at the Hospice house, having battled with leukemia since his diagnosis in March of 2003. He was born Dec. 31, 1922, in Sweetwater, Texas, and graduated from Lamesa High School. He served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II where he was awarded the American Theater Ribbon, the European, African and Middle Eastern Ribbon, the Bronze Star, the Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He worked for over 40 years in the oil field business, having worked for Gulf, El Paso and Shell Oil companies. He retired as an operator from Shell in 1985 and started a new chapter of his life. He dedicated his spare time to volunteer efforts for girls and boys sports programs at Sam Houston Elementary, Bowie Junior High, Odessa High and Odessa College. He performed many jobs for these schools including coaching, maintenance, groundskeeping, security and being a great cheerleader and supporter. His favorite job, one he took great pride in, was an official at track meets. He ran his events off smoothly and fairly and prided himself on the manicured perfection of the sand pits of the long and triple jumps. He was lovingly known as Mr. Greenjeans to most students and to his grandchildren, it was Wiggie, a play on his initials. Wayne was a member of the Odessa Chamber of Commerce Sports Committee and a member of Temple Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, R.D. Gregston and Alta Elizabeth Nelson; a daughter, Donna Gregston Craft; daughter-in-law, Janet Gregston; grandson, Kyle Wayne Gregston; brothers, Emil, Paul and Eric Gregston; and sisters, Alyse Woods and Betty Argabright. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Patsy Solis Gregston; son, Danny Wayne Gregston and wife, Stephanie, of Fort Worth; daughters, Gail Gregston Randle and husband, Tate, of Seguin, Traci Lynn Gregston of Odessa and Debbie Gregston of Houston; stepdaughters, Donna Solis Garza of Odessa and Patty Solis Dozier and husband, Bob, of Midland; stepson, Richard Solis and wife, Debbie, of Laurinburg, N.C.; brother, D.W. Gregston of Espinola, Ariz.; sisters, Hazel Cobern of Granbury and Leotte Brown and husband, Horace, of Fort Worth; grandchildren, Austin Randle, Jade Randle, Sam Ogburn, Connor Gregston, Raleigh Denert, Bella Gregston, Julie Hinojos, Lori Zurita, Beto Garza, Anthony Garza, Margaret Robles, Adrian Garza, John Solis, Lindsay Solis, Shelby Solis, Amber Benson, Nathan Dozier, Megan Dozier and Hanna Dozier; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a memorial scholarship in Waynes name and requests that memorials be sent to The Wayne Gregston Memorial Scholarship Fund at Bank One, account number 636241614, mailing address 3800 E. 42nd St., Odessa, TX 79762. Education and athletics were so important to Wayne, and this scholarship will be used to help fund higher education goals for worthy Odessa High School seniors. The family will be available to greet friends at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home on Friday, Sept. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. Friends and loved ones are invited to share in celebration of Waynes life with the family on Saturday, Sept. 6, at 10 a.m. in the auditorium at Temple Baptist Church at 10th and Texas St., with Rev. Griffin Jones officiating. In honor of Waynes bright outlook on life, attendees are asked to wear bright, happy colors to the service. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens following the service. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Frances Rochelle ABILENE Frances Rochelle was born on January 17, 1918, in Wildorado, Texas. She was raised in Amarillo and was married to Winton Rochelle. They lived in Odessa for 21 years, then in Houston for another 24 years. She passed away peacefully on August 26, 2003, after living for one year at her sons home in Austin. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Lula Fay Stringfellow Giles, and by her husband, Winton Rochelle. Frances is survived by her daughter, Joyce Bolton of Dimmitt, Texas; and by her son, Gary Rochelle of Austin. She is also survived by three sisters in Amarillo, Elizabeth Gahn, Martha B. Stulce and Lutie Hume (Cindy) Kennedy. Frances was recognized for 55 years of volunteer service to the Girl Scouts in Odessa and Houston. She was awarded the Thanks Badge and Thanks II for many roles as a Girl Scout including Troop Leader, Day Camp Director, Backpacking Coordinator, Outdoor Training and History Committee. For many years she was the church librarian at the First Baptist Church of Odessa and the Hidden Valley Baptist Church of Houston. She was most recently an active member of and church librarian at Memorial Baptist Church of Houston. The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills, 9700 Anderson Mill Road, Austin. Funeral Services will be held at the Cox Funeral Home, 4180 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 30. A Memorial Service will be held at Memorial Baptist Church, 91971 Airline Drive, Houston at 1 p.m. on September 13. Memorial contributions may be made to the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, 3110 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77098, or to the local Girl Scouts or church library of your choice. Arrangements handled by Cook-Walden Chapel of The Hills Funeral Home, 9700 Anderson Mill Read, Austin, Texas 78750. 512-335-1155. Gladys E. Vine GODFREY, Ill. Gladys E. Vine, 96, passed away at 8:40 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2003, at Alton Memorial Hospital. She was born October 7, 1906, in Edwardsville, Illinois, the daughter of the late Conrad and Louise (Sehnert) Wentz.. She married W. Paul Vine on June 21, 1928, in Edwardsville, Ill., and he preceded her in death in 1992. Survivors include two daughters and one son-in-law, Nancee Vine of Godfrey, Ill.; Jeanne and Thomas Russell of Odessa, Texas; one brother, Charles Wentz of Lebanon, Ill.; one sister, Ethel Knodel of Quincy, Ill. She was formerly employed at Home Furniture Store in Alton. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Alton. She was the last surviving member of the Dirty Dozen Bridge Club. Visitation was Thursday August 28, 2003, at the Elias-Smith Funeral Home at 1313 West Delmar Godfrey, Illinois 62035. Services were held the following morning with the Rev. Matthew Richarson officiating. Burial followed at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey, Illinois. Memorials suggested to the American Heart Association or the Southwestern Chapter of the American Red Cross, or a charity of ones choice. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday, September 05, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [090503wilma.jpg] Wilma J. Branham MONAHANS Services for Wilma J. Branham, 70, of Monahans are scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at Bethel Baptist Church with the Rev. Gordon Cox officiating. Graveside services will be held at 3 p.m. in Greenwood Cemetery in Greenwood. Mrs. Branham died Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Hospice House of Odessa. She was born June 29, 1933, in Okemah, Okla. She was a homemaker and preceded in death by two sisters and one granddaughter. Survivors include her husband, Dan Branham of Monahans; sons, Craig Branham and wife, Ruth, of Kuntz, and Eric Branham and fiancée, Pam Lawrence, of Monahans; sisters, Dollie Harrison of Tulsa, Okla., and Kay Freeman of Clyde; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was a loving sister, wife, mother and grandmother. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Allison Cancer Center or to Hospice House of Odessa. Services entrusted to Family Funeral Services/Jackie Harkey of Monahans. [090503wayne.jpg] Wayne I. Gregston ODESSA Wayne I. Gregston, 80, a longtime resident of Odessa, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2003, at the Hospice House, having battled with leukemia since his diagnosis in March of 2003. He was born Dec. 31, 1922, in Sweetwater, Texas, and graduated from Lamesa High School. He served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II where he was awarded the American Theater Ribbon, the European, African and Middle Eastern Ribbon, the Bronze Star, the Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He worked for over 40 years in the oil field business, having worked for Gulf, El Paso and Shell Oil companies. He retired as an operator from Shell in 1985 and started a new chapter of his life. He dedicated his spare time to volunteer efforts for girls and boys sports programs at Sam Houston Elementary, Bowie Junior High, Odessa High and Odessa College. He performed many jobs for these schools including coaching, maintenance, groundskeeping, security and being a great cheerleader and supporter. His favorite job one he took great pride in was an official at track meets. He ran his events off smoothly and fairly and prided himself on the manicured perfection of the sand pits of the long and triple jumps. He was lovingly known as Mr. Greenjeans to most students and to his grandchildren, it was Wiggie, a play on his initials. Wayne was a member of the Odessa Chamber of Commerce Sports Committee and a member of Temple Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, R.D. Gregston and Alta Elizabeth Nelson; a daughter, Donna Gregston Craft; daughter-in-law, Janet Gregston; grandson, Kyle Wayne Gregston; brothers, Emil, Paul and Eric Gregston; and sisters, Alyse Woods and Betty Argabright. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Patsy Solis Gregston; son, Danny Wayne Gregston and wife, Stephanie, of Fort Worth; daughters, Gail Gregston Randle and husband, Tate, of Seguin, Traci Lynn Gregston of Odessa and Debbie Gregston of Houston; stepdaughters, Donna Solis Garza of Odessa and Patty Solis Dozier and husband, Bob, of Midland; stepson, Richard Solis and wife, Debbie, of Laurinburg, N.C.; brother, D.W. Gregston of Espinola, Ariz.; sisters, Hazel Cobern of Granbury and Leotte Brown and husband, Horace, of Fort Worth; grandchildren, Austin Randle, Jade Randle, Sam Ogburn, Connor Gregston, Raleigh Denert, Bella Gregston, Julie Hinojos, Lori Zurita, Beto Garza, Anthony Garza, Margaret Robles, Adrian Garza, John Solis, Lindsay Solis, Shelby Solis, Amber Benson, Nathan Dozier, Megan Dozier and Hanna Dozier; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a memorial scholarship in Waynes name and requests that memorials be sent to The Wayne Gregston Memorial Scholarship Fund at Bank One, account number 636241614, mailing address 3800 E. 42nd St., Odessa, TX 79762. Education and athletics were so important to Wayne, and this scholarship will be used to help fund higher education goals for worthy Odessa High School seniors. The family will be available to greet friends at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home on Friday, Sept. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. Friends and loved ones are invited to share in celebration of Waynes life with the family on Saturday, Sept. 6, at 10 a.m. in the auditorium at Temple Baptist Church at 10th and Texas St., with Rev. Griffin Jones officiating. In honor of Waynes bright outlook on life, attendees are asked to wear bright, happy colors to the service. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens following the service. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. James C. Holliday MIDLAND James C. Holliday passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2003 in the Home Hospice House in Odessa. He was 76. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Bill Skaggs of Kelview Heights Baptist Church officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. The family will receive friends anytime at the home of Jamye Ball, 4808 Rangewood Ct. Midland, TX 79707. He was born June 26, 1927, to J.H. Holliday and Fannie Byrd Vaughan in the Oak Creek community of Coke County, Texas. His family moved to Tarzan, Texas, in 1931 and to Midland in 1936. He attended Midland schools and at the age of 14 he decided hed rather get a job and go to work. In 1945 he joined the Navy Seabees and served in the Philippines. In 1950, during the Korean Conflict he was called back into active duty and served one year in Alaska. He married Myrna Faye Johnson on February 11, 1950, in Midland. He worked 34 years for The Permian Corporation. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Bill Holliday, Jack, Monta and Charlie Lacey and a precious grandson, Dustin Bradley. Survivors include two daughters, Michele Bradley and husband, David, Jamye Ball and husband, Brian, all of Midland; two sisters, Wynonah Zimmerman of San Antonio, and Vaughni Peacock and husband, Douglas, of Odessa; three grandchildren, MLissa Reynaud and husband, Lee, of Elk City, Okla., Nicholas Atchley and Adam Ball, both of Midland; and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Brian Ball, David Bradley, Nicholas Atchley, Randy Rives, Tom Thibeau Ron White. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Home Hospice of Midland, 901 W. Missouri, Midland, TX 79701. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. For online condolences go to www.npwelch.com. [090503charles.jpg] Charles Robert Monk ODESSA Charles Robert Monk, 89, a longtime resident of Odessa passed away Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born Oct. 15, 1913, in Coleman. He married Doris Yeary Feb. 18, 1988, in Odessa. He was an U.S. Navy veteran of WWII. He was a Baptist. He is survived by his wife, Doris Monk of Odessa; sons, William Raymon Monk of Medford, OR., Jack Elton Monk of Sparks, Nev., Bobby Fletcher of Brownwood, Texas; daughters, Karren Crofford and Lori Laughlin and Linda Leyva, all of Odessa; numerous grandchildren; and great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Graveside services will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003, at Rose Hill Cemetery with Rev. Clydel Chapman officiating. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [090503olen.jpg] Olen Dewey Wilson MIDLAND Olen Dewey Wilson passed away Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003 in Coleman, Texas. He was born December 16, 1941, in Clarendon, TX, to William and Thelma Wilson. Dewey was raised in Clarendon and the surrounding area graduating from Clarendon High School. He joined the U.S. Navy serving on an icebreaker ship. Dewey moved to Midland in the early 1960s and began his lifelong sales career with Wes-Tex Equipment Company. He worked for Wes-Tex Equipment Co., which later became Witt International, for many years before moving to Permian Mack, Jack Sherman Chevrolet and other car dealerships in the surrounding area. Dewey loved to golf, fish and go boating, but most of all he loved spending time with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, William Bryan Wilson; two brothers, Buster and Bobby; and two sisters, Jane and Jean. Dewey is survived by his wife, Beth, of Midland; his son, Brandon Wilson of Lake Brownwood, TX; his daughters, Dana Oden and husband, Eli, of Lake Brownwood, TX, Stephanie Gladish of Midland, TX, and Amy Samples and husband, Don, of Midland, TX; his sisters, Glenda Bailey of Itasca, TX, Betty Wilson, Shirley Jones, Charlotte Johnson and Frankie Bain all of Amarillo, TX; and grandchildren, Chase, Joshua, Corbyn, William, Addy, Justin, Keagan and Lyndsey. The family will receive visitors from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at Ellis Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will be a celebration of Deweys life, and will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003, at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Phil Konz officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to MARC, 2701 N. A St., Midland, TX 79705; or the American Cancer Society, 2304 W. Wadley, Midland, TX 79705. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday, September 06, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [090803mauel.jpg] Manuel Botello ODESSA Manuel Botello, 43, of Odessa was born Sept. 3, 1960, in Mexico. He passed away Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was the Executive Chef Manager for the Holiday Inn Centre for 17 years. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003, at Chapa Funeral Home. A Rosary will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. at Chapa Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will be held in San Miguel Zacatecas, Mexico. He is survived by his father, Jose Botello of Zacatecas, Mexico; mother, Maria Rincon of Zacatecas, Mexico; brothers, Julian Botello, Armando Botello, Pedro Botello, Jose Botello and Alejandro Lopez, all of Odessa; sister, Delfina Cardiel of Odessa; aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives. Manuel will be missed by all. Services entrusted to Chapa Funeral Home. [090603alice.jpg] Alice Eloise Sandell ODESSA Alice Eloise Sandell, 72, went home to be with the Lord on September 4, 2003, with her family by her side. Alice was born on February 16, 1931, in Wink, Texas. She was a lifetime resident of the Permian Basin. Alice was a member of Midessa Heights Baptist Church where she served as an adult Sunday School teacher and Treasurer for many years. She left a loving legacy of faith and hope in Jesus Christ. Alice will be greatly missed, but to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord, II Cor. 5:8. Alice is preceded in death by her mother and father, JT and Myrtis Ralston, and her sister, Priscilla Poeppel. She is survived by her husband, Ralph Sandell Jr. of Odessa; son, Larry Agnew and wife, Gene, of Odessa; daughters, Terry Kirk of Midland and Tammy Hampton and husband, David, of Amarillo; brothers, Jerald Ralston and wife, Sue, of Crockett, Texas, and Mike Ralston and wife, Wanda, of Odessa; grandchildren, Priscilla McKaskle and husband, Jay, Steven Kirk and wife, Michelle, Alicia Monk and husband, Ben, Daniel and Samantha Agnew, Justin, Jeremy and Autumn Hampton; great-grandchildren, Ty, Toby and Tara McKaskle; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews, one great-great niece, a multitude of cousins, and brothers and sisters in Christ. Services will be held at Midessa Heights Baptist Church at 11 a.m. September 7, 2003. Jerald Ralston and Nick Gates will be officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Home Hospice of Odessa. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. [090603olen.jpg] Olen Dewey Wilson MIDLAND Olen Dewey Wilson passed away Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2003 in Coleman, Texas. He was born December 16, 1941, in Clarendon, Texas to William and Thelma Wilson. Dewey was raised in Clarendon and the surrounding area graduating from Clarendon High School. He joined the U.S. Navy serving on an icebreaker ship. Dewey moved to Midland in the early 1960s and began his lifelong sales career with Wes-Tex Equipment Company. He worked for Wes-Tex Equipment Co., which later became Witt International, for many years before moving to Permian Mack, Jack Sherman Chevrolet and other car dealerships in the surrounding area. Dewey loved to golf, fish and go boating, but most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, William Bryan Wilson; two brothers, Buster and Bobby; and two sisters, Jane and Jean. Dewey is survived by his wife Beth of Midland; his son, Brandon Wilson of Lake Brownwood, TX; his daughters, Dana Oden and husband Eli of Lake Brownwood, TX, Stephanie Gladish of Midland, TX and Amy Samples and husband Don of Midland, TX; his sisters, Glenda Bailey of Itasca, TX, Betty Wilson, Shirley Jones, Charlotte Johnson and Frankie Bain all of Amarillo, TX; and grandchildren, Chase, Joshua, Corbyn, William, Addy, Justin, Keagan and Lyndsey. The family will receive visitors from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at Ellis Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will be a celebration of Deweys life, and will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, 2003, at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Phil Konz officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home, 801 Andrews Highway, Midland. Memorials may be directed to MARC, 2701 N. A St., Midland, TX 79705; or the American Cancer Society, 2304 W. Wadley, Midland, TX 79705. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Sunday, September 07, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ Wanda McKenzie ODESSA Wanda McKenzie, 84 of Odessa, died Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, in an Odessa hospital. A private family service will be held at a later date. She was born Jan. 13, 1919, in Royse City, Texas, and married Kenneth Paschal McKenzie on May 18, 1940, in Stephenville, Texas. He preceded her in death. She was an avid reader, and loved to sew. She worked many crossword puzzles. Wanda was a loving mother and grandmother. She was a member of First Christian Church in Odessa. Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Peggy McKenzie of Odessa; daughter-in-law, Barbara McKenzie of Aledo, Texas, four grandchildren, Lisa and Doug Hoffman, Cory McKenzie, Mandy and Jeff Butler and Katlin McKenzie; and three great-grandchildren, Darian Butler, Julie Butler and Caleb Hoffman. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and a son, Gaylen McKenzie. A special thank you to Wandas provider, Lori Wright, for your love, care and support of our mother and grandmother. The family suggests memorials to Shriners Crippled Childrens Hospital, 4911 Montrose Blvd., Houston, TX 77006. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. [090703Wilkins.jpg] Olga Anna Zimmerman Wilkins CARY, Ill. Olga Anna Zimmerman Wilkins, 91, went to her heavenly home on Friday, Sept. 5, 2003. She was born on Oct. 21, 1911, in Chicago to Harry and Olga Schefla Zimmerman. She is predeceased by her husband; her sister, Ruby Kruse; and her brothers, Louis Zimmerman and Harry Zimmerman. Olga married Marvin Scheunemann Wilkins on Sept. 22, 1933, at The Little Church on the Corner in Chicago with the Rev. Don Davis officiating. Olga is survived by three children, David Wilkins and wife Alice of Laurinburg, N.C., Gail Wilkins Johnston of Venice, Fla., and Marvin Wilkins and wife Judi of Odessa. Olga has eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Olga graduated from Austin High School in Chicago in 1930, and then graduated from the West Suburban Hopsital School for Nurses as a Registered Nurse in 1933. She later graduated from Loyola University and was a Public Health Nurse for Stickney Township in Illinois. Olga was active at the Little Church on the Corner in Chicago and after retirement, she attended the Baptist Temple in San Benito, Texas. Olga and Marvin retired to San Benito in 1967. In 2001, the moved to Parks Methodist Retirement Village in Odessa. The family wishes to gratefully thank the nurses and staff of Parks Methodist Retirement Village for their compassion and very capable care of Marvin and Olga Wilkins. Services are entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. Funeral services and interment will be in Cary, Ill. [090703Willis.jpg] Teresa Gayle Willis ODESSA Teresa Gayle Willis, 19, passed away Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, at her residence in Odessa. She was born June 12, 1984, to William and Roberta Willis in Odessa. Even throughout her illness, she always had a positive attitude, encouraging others. Graveside services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8, 2003, at Rose Hill Cemetery with the Rev. Larry Flanary officiating. Survivors include her parents, William and Roberta Willis; grandmother, Evie Moseley; and brother, Billy Willis, all of Odessa; uncle and aunt, Auby and Jil Hatten of Mertzon, Texas; and several cousins. Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Monday, September 08, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [090803keel.jpg] Keel J. Adams ODESSA Keel J. Adams passed away April 22, 2003, in Baytown, Texas, at the age of 91. She was born December 15, 1911, in East Bernard, Texas. She was a school teacher at Crockett Jr. High School for 18 years and a homemaker. She was a member of Highlands Methodist Church from 1953 to 1999 and Cedar Bayou Methodist Church of Baytown, Texas. for the last four years. She was very active in her church. Mrs. Adams graduated from Rice University in 1934. She was a wonderfial mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She enjoyed her family and friends and loved to read. Mrs. Adams is preceded in death by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. S. N. Jordan of Houston; and one brother, S. N. Jordan Jr. She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Virginia and Wayne Miller of Baytown, Texas; grandchildren, Mary Miller Baggett, Sharron Miller Green and Michael W. Miller; and 15 great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 13, 2003, at Highlands Methodist Church in Odessa with Dr. David Weyent officiating. Her ashes will be interred at Woodlawn Cemetery in Houston. Memorials may be sent to Highlands Methodist Church of Odessa; The Library; or a charity of your choice. Services under the direction of Navarre Funeral Home, 2444 Rollingbrook, Baytown, TX. 281-422-8111. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Tuesday, September 09, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ Cyril Cy Bond KINDARD, Fla. Mr. Cyril Cy Bond, age 82, of Kinard, Florida, died Monday, August 25, 2003, at the Parthenon Health and Rehab Center in Blountstown, Florida. Mr. Bond was born in Banks County, Georgia. He was the son of the late A.F. and Robie Bond of Odessa, Texas, where he graduated from Odessa High School. He had lived in Kinard since 1999 coming from Dade City, Florida. He was a retired insurance agent and a veteran of WWII serving in the United States Navy on the USS Battleship Washington. He was of the Protestant faith. Suvivors include his wife, Anne Bond of Kinard, Florida; one daughter and son-in-law, Sherry and Ronald Jones of Bradenton, Florida; one sister, Williford Bond Smith of Odessa, Texas; one granddaughter, Kendyl Jones of Bradenton, Florida; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held Friday. August 29, 2003, at 1 p.m. from the graveside at the Barbee Family Cemetery in Kinard, Florida. Interment followed. The family received friends Thursday, August 28, 2003 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Peavy Funeral Home. All arrangements were under the direction of the Peavy Funeral Home in Blountstown, Florida. [090903james.jpg] James R. Leeton Sr. MIDLAND James R. Leeton Sr. passed away Saturday, September 6, 2003, at his residence in Midland, Texas. Jim was born on February 21, 1919, to H.B. Leeton and Mary Isla McDonald Leeton in Merkel, Texas. He was reared in Overton, Texas where he graduated Valedictorian of his class at Overton High School in 1936. Jim received his bachelors degree from North Texas Agriculture College in 1938 and received his Law Degree from the University of Texas in 1941. He then entered the Army Air Corp during WWII and graduated from Advanced Twin Engine Flight School based at Turner Field in Albany, Georgia, two years later. In 1943, he married Mary Eunice Peggy Lewis and attended Instructors Flight School at Maxwell Field also located in Albany. Jim was then transferred to Monroe, Louisiana, for navigation school until 1945 at which time he was sent to Sebring, Florida, for B-17 training and to be an instructor. He returned to Maxwell Field and completed his B-29 training there. He completed his military service in 1945 and then moved with his wife to Fort Worth and opened a private law practice. While living in Fort Worth, Jim was appointed by Texas Governor Daniels to serve as Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the Dallas/Fort Worth Bi-County Park Commission created to bring a major league baseball park to Arlington, Texas. Jim, Peggy and their children then moved to Odessa in 1965 to manage PL&B Well Servicing Company, which he established in the 1950s. In 1972, he moved to Midland and opened up a solo law practice. He later joined in practice with his son, Jim Leeton Jr., until his retirement in 1978. He engaged in the oil and gas production business from 1948-2003. Jim was a member of the Texas Bar Association from 1941 until 2003 and served as President of The University of Texas Longhorn Club from 1959-1962. Jim is preceded in death by his parents, H.B. and Mary Isla Leeton; his brother and sister-in-law, Harold B. and Gene Ammons Leeton; daughter, Lucy Leeton Link; and, granddaughter, Andrea Fowler. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Peggy Lewis Leeton; a son, James R. Leeton Jr. of Midland, his wife Barbara and their two children, Emily and Ryan; three daughters, Kathy Fowler of Midland and her two children, James and Melissa; Patricia Leeton of Midland; Elizabeth Shipman of Odessa, and her husband Terry and their three children, Justin Johns, Jaclyn Johns, and Hillary Shipman; son-in-law, Peter J. Link of Covington, Louisiana, his wife Maureen and his four children Peter Link, Jr., Lisa Link Edward, Patricia Link, and Helen Link; and two great-grandchildren, Austin and Kaitlyn. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 9, 2003, at Ellis Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday, September 13, 2003. Arrangements are under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. The family request that memorials be directed to Cook Childrens Medical Center, 801 Seventh Avenue, Fort Worth, Texas 76104, or a charity of your choice. [090903manuel.jpg] Manuel Rodriguez ODESSA Manuel Rodriguez, 59, passed away on September 6, 2003, at Medical Center Hospital. He was born on August 22, 1944, in Alpine, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict, was self employed masonry contractor and was Baptist. Surviving are his wife, Alice Rodriguez of Odessa; sons, David Rodriguez and wife, Dolores, Manuel Rodriguez III and his wife, Angela, Derek Rodriguez all of Odessa; his mother, Luisa Rodriguez of Odessa; brother, Sam Rodriguez and wife, Juanita, of Odessa; sisters, Ofelia Galindo and husband, Bill, Linda Gonzales and husband, Leon, all of Odessa; three grandchildren, Marcus Rodriguez, Valerie Rodriguez and Maybree Rodriguez; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services have been set for 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2003, at Odessa Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend David Pistone officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be David Rodriguez, Manuel Rodriguez, Derek Rodriguez, Sammy Rodriguez Jr., Adrian Gonzales, Jeremy Galindo and Paul Gomez. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. [090903emmitt.jpg] Emmitt A. Tyler Jr. LA VERNIA Emmitt A. Tyler Jr. was born to Emmitt Sr. and Agnes Tyler in Borger, Texas, May 7, 1929, and left us on September 6, 2003. He graduated from Odessa High School in 1948 where he was recognized for participating in the State Championship of 1946. He proceeded to attend San Angelo Sate where he met and married Maxine Brymer in 1949. Emmitt and Maxine moved to Odessa where he embarked on a career in sales. Throughout his years he met and made many friends and will always be remembered for his quick wit and humor. He is survived in death by his beloved wife, Maxine; children, Robert and wife, Kathy Tyler, Mike and wife, Linda Tyler, Connie and husband, Bill Matt; sisters, Grace Pettus, Ruth Patterson, Lillie and husband, Roland Washburn; eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, brothers Ed Tyler, Mac Tyler, and sister, Truvy Heath. Memorial contributions may be made to Vitas Healthcare, Inc., 5430 Fredericksburg, Suite 200, San Antonio, Texas 78229. Services will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 2 p.m. at Finch Funeral Chapel in La Vernia, Texas. [090903vickie.jpg] Vickie Lynn Sandefer ODESSA Vickie Lynn Sandefer was born on April 4, 1960, in Oakland, California. She moved to Odessa, Texas, in 1977 and lived here until she was called home on September 7, 2003. Vickie is survived by her loving husband of 23 years, Daryl Sandefer; her parents, Jack and Barbara Rudd; her grandmother, Gladys Rudd; her brother, Scott Rudd; her sister, Michelle Ragsdale and her husband, Doug; a brother, Ronald Rudd and his wife, Cathy; a brother-in-law, David Hall; not to mention numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her sister, Hope Hall. Vicky grew up a navy brat until her father retired after serving 22 years in the military. She was a very happy and loving wife and friend to everyone that she met. Vickie loved to be outdoors camping, hiking, or arrowhead hunting. She always met life two steps ahead. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved her. Memorial services celebrating Vickies life will be held at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, September 10, 2003, at 11 a.m. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. [090903dixie.jpg] Dixie June Chester Voss ODESSA Dixie June Chester Voss, 67, of Odessa, known as Granmom to her grandchildren, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2003 in Odessa. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 10, 2003, at Frank Wilson Funeral Directors Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Dixie Voss was born June 16, 1936, in Rotan, Texas, to Nan and O.G. Chester. She married Jack L Voss on October 21, 1950, in Stamford, Texas. Because Jack was in the Navy, she and her family lived in numerous cities around the country including New Orleans, San Francisco, Long Beach, San Diego, San Angelo, and Hawaii before moving back to Odessa. She is a former president of Ector County REACT and was a Newsletter Editor for the Ector County Community Service Organization for a number of years. She helped found Meals on Wheels of Odessa and was a President of the Board of Directors for over a decade. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Ruby Charles Chester. She is survived by the love of her life and husband of 53 years, Jack Voss of Odessa; one daughter, Sherri Ann Voss of Odessa; grandson, Jack Motes of Odessa; great-granddaughters, Dallas Motes and Breanna Motes of San Angelo; grandson, Jason Motes of Dallas; sister, Frances Howard and husband, Clyde, of Odessa; niece, Jenny Clay and husband, Eddie; and greatniece and nephew, Chris Clay and Jessica Clay of Odessa; sister, Carol Medlock and partner, Marshall Suitt ,of Walnut Cove, North Carolina; and brother Wayne Chester of Odessa. Services were entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. God saw you getting tired And a cure was not to be, So He put His arms around you, And whispered, Come to Me. With tearful eyes we watched you, And saw you pass away, And though we loved you dearly, We could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Wednesday, September 10, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [091003a1.jpg] Dixie June Chester Voss ODESSA Dixie June Chester Voss, 67, of Odessa, known as Granmom to her grandchildren, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2003, in Odessa. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 10, 2003, at Frank Wilson Funeral Directors Chapel with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Dixie Voss was born June 16, 1936, in Rotan, Texas, to Nan and O.G. Chester. She married Jack L Voss on October 21, 1950, in Stamford, Texas. Because Jack was in the Navy, she and her family lived in numerous cities around the country including New Orleans, San Francisco, Long Beach, San Diego, San Angelo and Hawaii before moving back to Odessa. She is a former president of Ector County REACT and was a newsletter editor for the Ector County Community Service Organization for a number of years. She helped found Meals on Wheels of Odessa and was a President of the Board of Directors for over a decade. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Ruby Charles Chester. She is survived by the love of her life and husband of 53 years, Jack Voss of Odessa; one daughter, Sherri Ann Voss of Odessa; grandson, Jack Motes of Odessa; great-granddaughters, Dallas Motes and Breanna Motes of San Angelo; grandson, Jason Motes of Dallas; sister, Frances Howard and husband, Clyde, of Odessa; niece, Jenny Clay and husband, Eddie; and greatniece and nephew, Chris Clay and Jessica Clay of Odessa; sister, Carol Medlock and partner, Marshall Suitt of Walnut Cove, North Carolina; nieces and nephews, Stefanie Medlock, Nicole Medlock, Jeff Medlock and Christopher Gentry, all of Odessa; and brother Wayne Chester of Odessa. Services were entrusted to Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. God saw you getting tired And a cure was not to be, So He put His arms around you, And whispered, Come to Me. With tearful eyes we watched you, And saw you pass away, And though we loved you dearly, We could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday, September 11, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ T.O. McLean, Fisherman ODESSA T.O. Thurman Oliver McLean was born in a log cabin in Love County, Okla., on Sept. 15, 1915, to Arthur McLean and Viola Lay McLean. He passed away Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2003. He graduated from High School in Wynnewood, Okla., and earned a degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Oklahoma. He was married to Oteka Paul McLean for 59 years from May 2, 1936, until her death December 25, 1995. They lived in a series of oil field towns, finally settling down in Odessa in 1951. T.O. spent most of his life working in the oil industry and founded McLean & Sons, which he managed up to the time of his death. He and Oteka traveled all the way around the world. They attended international track meets regularly. He was an avid fisherman, fishing all over the world and establishing two world records for Peacock Bass. He described himself on his business card as T.O. McLean, Fisherman. He also was an accomplished gemstone hunter and jewelry maker. His favorite agate hunting areas were southwest Texas, miles away from any roads. He spent many years in the Boy Scouts, both as a member and a Scout leader. He was an Eagle Scout and received a citation from President Roosevelt for saving the life of a drowning victim. He was a charter member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church and a member of St. Andrew Cumberland Presbyterian Church. T.O. is survived by two sons, H.D. McLean and wife, Beth, of San Angelo, and S.A. McLean and wife, M.J., of Woodward, Okla.; four granddaughters, Zoe Yetman of Greenville, N.C., Staci Ivey of Raleigh, N.C., Victoria Wilkerson of Oklahoma City and Sarah McLean of Houston; five great-grandchildren, Andrew Yetman, Richard Ivey, MacKenzie Yetman, Christopher Wilkerson and Channing Hay. Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 1415 N. Grandview Ave. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Meals on Wheels of Odessa. Mary Oswald BAILEY Graveside services for Mary Francis Bryant Oswald, 72, of Cumby, are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at Aldridge Ridge Cemetery near Bailey, Texas, with Rev. Stan Corcoran officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of LyBrand-Pemberton Funeral Home of Commerce. Mrs. Oswald died Monday in a Conroe hospital. She was born Feb. 3, 1931, in Commerce, the daughter of the late Fred Albert and Francis Edna Bryant. She graduated from Commerce High School in 1948 and was active in alumni affairs. She was of the Catholic faith and attended St. Josephs Catholic Church in Commerce. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Don Crownover in 1985; and by husband, Joe Oswald, in 1995; Mrs. Oswald had lived in Cumby the past three years. Mrs. Oswald is survived by her son, Danny Wilson and wife, Lori, of Montgomery, Texas; and sister, Annie Fred Abernathy of Cumby; two nephews, Mark Abernathy of Douglasville, Ga., and Billy Abernathy of Cumby; two nieces, Bobbi Abernathy of Friendswood and Ruth Abernathy of Crandall; one great-nephew, Andy Abernathy; and two great-nieces, Whitney Abernathy and Katie Abernathy. Mrs. Oswald was also preceded in death by infant sons, Jim Bob and David Wilson. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Thursday, September 11, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ T.O. McLean, Fisherman ODESSA T.O. Thurman Oliver McLean was born in a log cabin in Love County, Okla., on Sept. 15, 1915, to Arthur McLean and Viola Lay McLean. He passed away Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2003. He graduated from High School in Wynnewood, Okla., and earned a degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Oklahoma. He was married to Oteka Paul McLean for 59 years from May 2, 1936, until her death December 25, 1995. They lived in a series of oil field towns, finally settling down in Odessa in 1951. T.O. spent most of his life working in the oil industry and founded McLean & Sons, which he managed up to the time of his death. He and Oteka traveled all the way around the world. They attended international track meets regularly. He was an avid fisherman, fishing all over the world and establishing two world records for Peacock Bass. He described himself on his business card as T.O. McLean, Fisherman. He also was an accomplished gemstone hunter and jewelry maker. His favorite agate hunting areas were southwest Texas, miles away from any roads. He spent many years in the Boy Scouts, both as a member and a Scout leader. He was an Eagle Scout and received a citation from President Roosevelt for saving the life of a drowning victim. He was a charter member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church and a member of St. Andrew Cumberland Presbyterian Church. T.O. is survived by two sons, H.D. McLean and wife, Beth, of San Angelo, and S.A. McLean and wife, M.J., of Woodward, Okla.; four granddaughters, Zoe Yetman of Greenville, N.C., Staci Ivey of Raleigh, N.C., Victoria Wilkerson of Oklahoma City and Sarah McLean of Houston; five great-grandchildren, Andrew Yetman, Richard Ivey, MacKenzie Yetman, Christopher Wilkerson and Channing Hay. Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 1415 N. Grandview Ave. Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Meals on Wheels of Odessa. Mary Oswald BAILEY Graveside services for Mary Francis Bryant Oswald, 72, of Cumby, are scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at Aldridge Ridge Cemetery near Bailey, Texas, with Rev. Stan Corcoran officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of LyBrand-Pemberton Funeral Home of Commerce. Mrs. Oswald died Monday in a Conroe hospital. She was born Feb. 3, 1931, in Commerce, the daughter of the late Fred Albert and Francis Edna Bryant. She graduated from Commerce High School in 1948 and was active in alumni affairs. She was of the Catholic faith and attended St. Josephs Catholic Church in Commerce. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Don Crownover in 1985; and by husband, Joe Oswald, in 1995; Mrs. Oswald had lived in Cumby the past three years. Mrs. Oswald is survived by her son, Danny Wilson and wife, Lori, of Montgomery, Texas; and sister, Annie Fred Abernathy of Cumby; two nephews, Mark Abernathy of Douglasville, Ga., and Billy Abernathy of Cumby; two nieces, Bobbi Abernathy of Friendswood and Ruth Abernathy of Crandall; one great-nephew, Andy Abernathy; and two great-nieces, Whitney Abernathy and Katie Abernathy. Mrs. Oswald was also preceded in death by infant sons, Jim Bob and David Wilson. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Friday, September 12, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [091203edward.jpg] Edward Cordova Jr. ODESSA Edward Cordova Jr., 29, of Odessa passed away Wednesday, September 10, 2003, in Seminole from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was born April 22, 1974, in Odessa to Arturo Sr. and Betty Cordova. He was a Christian Catholic and worked as a welders helper in the construction business. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Salvador Sr. and Josefina Cordova, Calistro and Rosa Sotelo; and uncle, Salvador Cordova Jr. He is survived by parents, Arturo Sr. and Betty Cordova of Odessa; daughter, Hailey Cordova of Porterville, Calif.; sister, Debbie Torres and husband, Larry, of Odessa; nephews, Daniel and Miguel Torres, and niece, Angelica Torres, all from Odessa; several aunts, uncles, cousins and lots of friends. A rosary will be recited today, September 12, 2003, at 7 p.m. at Odessa Funeral Home Chapel. Mass will be said at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 13, 2003, at St. Josephs Catholic Church with Rev. Gilbert Rodriguez officiating. Interment to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Edward Pequeno, Salvador Hinojos Jr., Paul Pequeno, Johnny Madrid, Chris Apodoca, Mark Serrano, Felipe Zamora, Mikie Espinoza and Richard Hinojos. 23rd Psalm The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in straight paths for His names sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, For thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the day of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. AMEN. Services by Odessa Funeral Home. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Saturday, September 13, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [091303john.jpg] John Wilber Easterling ODESSA John Wilber Easterling, 86, of Odessa passed away Thursday, Sept. 11, 2003, at the Hospice House. Services will be 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel with Father Francis Frey officiating. He was born August 22, 1917, in Hallettsville, Texas. The family moved to Del Rio in 1918. He was a veteran of WW II. He was a resident of Odessa since 1946. In 1952, he began selling trucks and pickups and retired from Sewell Ford in 1978 as truck and fleet sales manager. John was a member of the Catholic Church and a charter member of the Knights of Columbus. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elsie, and sons, Ron F. and Wayne. He is survived by son, Tom Easterling of San Angelo; nine grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to your favorite charity. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. [091303lura.jpg] Lura Lou Alice Pipkin KERMIT Lura Lou Alice (Gandy) Pipkin, a long time Kermit resident went from this life to enter into eternal life with her Lord on Thursday, September 11, 2003. Lou had been a resident of Kermit for 67 years. She was born November 11, 1910 in Woodford, Carter County, OK, to George Wesley and Ivy Mae (Bryant) Gandy. Lou attended Healdton schools and graduated in 1929. She went on to attend Business College in Ardmore, OK, where, upon graduation, she married Garvice Delmer Buster Pipkin in Ardmore in 1933. Lou and Buster moved to West Texas in 1936 and took up residency in Kermit. Together, they started GD Buster Pipkin Trucking Company in 1945. Lous primary job was to take care of all the bookkeeping. After retiring from the trucking business, Lou started work as a sales clerk for Owens Jewelry and Cones Jewelry in Kermit until her retirement in 1984. Lou was a charter member of the First United Methodist Church of Kermit and was a founding member and Treasurer for the Builders Sunday School Class for many years. She served on the Building Committee for the new Sanctuary in 1958 and for the Educational Building in 1963. Lou was also an active member of the UMW and the Methodist Womens Guild. She enjoyed quilting and was a needlepoint artist. One of the biggest highlights of Lous life was when she and Buster built their new home in 1955. Lou oversaw most of the construction and completion of the home. She also enjoyed going back to Healdton each August for the Old Timers Reunion. Lou was preceded in death by her husband, Buster, on February 5, 1967, her grandson, Mike Hayes in 1995 and by five brothers and one sister. She is survived by her daughter, Donna Hayes, and husband, Dennie of Kermit; one son, Tommy Pipkin of Kermit; six grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at the First United Methodist Church, in Kermit, at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, September 14, 2003, with Reverend Beth Harrington officiating. Interment will follow at Kermit Cemetery. The family has entrusted Family Services Funeral Parlor to handle the funeral arrangements. [091303james.jpg] James N. Seward ODESSA James N. Seward, 81, of Odessa, passed away on Sept. 11, 2003, at Parks Methodist Retirement Center. James was born August 7, 1922, in Liberty Hill, Texas, to Norman and Katy Seward. James was a marine veteran and proudly served during WWII. He married Jewel Israel on August 10, 1941, in Lampasas. James worked in the oil fields for 23 years, and retired as a Field Superintendent. He was a member of Sherwood Church of Christ. James is survived by his wife, Jewel Seward of Odessa; sons, Tommy Seward of Bertram and Jim Seward of Odessa; daughter, Claudia Kelly of Corpus Christi; brother, Ray Seward of Austin; sister, Ruth Carr of Bastrop; three grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, 2003, at Sherwood Church of Christ in Odessa. Burial will be in the Liberty Hill Cemetery in Liberty Hill on Monday, September 15, 2003. 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] Sunday, September 14, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [091403Bailey.jpg] Novilene Bailey ODESSA Novilene Gwendolyn Forbus Bailey was born to Lee and Essie Forbus in Loraine, Texas, on July 17, 1928. She and her family moved to Kermit when she was at the age of 6 years old. She was a good student and made very good grades throughout her tenure at Kermit High School. She was the tennis champion of the school. Novilene kept herself busy working at the drug store during school time. After graduation, she was offered the job of Texas and Pacific Railway assistant to the agent, because she was the fastest and most accurate typist to graduate. After getting married by the Rev. Byron Bryant of the First Baptist Church in Kermit, Novilene and Keith were transferred to Big Spring where Keith worked for Texas Electric Service Co. as a troubleshooter, leaving the same job in Kermit. Novilene went to work for Champ Rainwater, the manager of Pioneer Gas Co. Later, Keith went to work for the only glass company west of Abilene as the assistant manager of Western Glass and Mirror Co. In 1950, Keith was offered the managers job in Hobbs, N.M., and worked there until he was offered the managers job of Roswell Sash and Door Glass Co. Novilene worked for Dr. McCloud Chiropractor in Roswell. While there, Dr. Orvile Turner was the minister at First Methodist Church. Later, Keith took an absence from work to go to Niles, Mich., and went to school at Harvard Business School. Upon returning, a short time was spent in Big Spring where they built a new house on Stadium Street They only lived there until Keith was transferred as 20 percent owner/manager in Plainview. They sold their home to Dr. Hunt, the president of Howard County College. While in Plainview, Novilene worked for Kimbell Wholesale Grocery. They were active in the First Methodist Church as teachers and choir members. Keith was Scoutmaster, as well. After four years, they moved to Odessa after being offered a new type of manager position in the glass business. They built a complete new building and were the only full line distributor of safety glass, because all of the cars were being equipped with curved parts and there were many. Novilene was hired by one of Keiths partners in Lubbock. Keith told the partner he could not hire her as per the company policy, but Harrold said Keith could, so he did. Novilene was the best in the entire organization and was used to train all of the new secretaries and office help. She would know the voice the second time she heard it. She would ship out as many as 200 windshields of the same number to St. Louis or Phoenix, Ariz. After Keith moved to Odessa Glass and Mirror, he left Novilene at Adams Avenue Glass to continue like they started. Later, Bob Bailey came back from Houston and worked as salesman and manager until he went into his own business. After 33 years in the glass business, they sold out to their partners over a seven-year payout. Novilene was a Boy Scout den mother, and later joined Keith in the Ambassadors of the Chamber of Commerce. They served there until Novilene went on kidney dialysis. She has been a member of the Desk and Derrick Club, President of the Optimist Club and she was awarded the Glen Atkins award. She has had Alzheimers for about 12 years, but it didnt bother her much until May 2002. Novilene had been the secretary of the Builders class for several years. Novilene has been a loving mother, friend and wife for over 58 years. We love her and know that she will be with Jesus and God, waiting for us. Honorary pallbearers will be the Builders Class Members, the Odessa Optimist Club and the Ambassadors. Preceding her in death are her parents, Lee and Essie Forbus; brother, Doyle Forbus; sister, Vada Pace; and her son, Mickey Stewart Bailey. Survivors include her husband, Keith S. Bailey; son and wife, Bob and Debbie Bailey, all of Odessa; grandson, Gregory Keith Bailey of Denton; granddaughter, Kira B. Steadmon and husband, Aaron Steadmon; great-granddaughter, Nykayla Steadmon; daughter-in-law, Barbara Bailey, all of Odessa; nephew and wife, David and Geneva Pace of Andrews; several great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins and lots of friends. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, 2003, at the First United Methodist Church. Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. James Luther Goble CRANE James Luther Goble went to be with his Heavenly Father on Sept. 12, 2003, in the Crane Memorial Hospital. Luther, as he was best known, was born on March 17, 1906, to Frances Day and John William Goble in Gordon, Palo Pinto County, Texas. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edith; his mother and father; nine brothers; one sister; one grandson; one great-grandson; and one grand son-in-law. Luther came to the oilfields of West Texas when he was 20-years-old. He spent the next 50-odd years working the oil patch from Santa Rita, Texas, to Southeastern New Mexico then back to the SandHills in Crane County. He retired from Humble Oil and Refining Company in 1966. Prior to retirement, he and Edith moved to the City of Crane from the Humble SandHills Camp in Crane County. In 1999, Luther moved to Desert View Manor as an assisted living resident, making that his Earthly home until Jesus called him from labor to rest, and now he is in that house not made by Earthly hands. He left us a rich heritage of Christian Love, Christian witness, Christian labor, Christian friendship and Christian leadership. He is survived by daughter and son, Mimi and Tiny Earp of Crane; a son and daughter, Cliff and Ann Goble of Monahans, Texas; two granddaughters, Carlton Pierce Cuffman of Crane and Tinita and Ronnie Cooper of Imperial, Texas; one grandson, Clifford Goble of Odessa, Texas; five great-grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren. Church services celebrating this loving fathers life will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, 2003, at the First Baptist Church in Crane. Burial will follow in the Crane County Cemetery with arrangements by Shaffer-Nichols Funeral Home. Pallbearers are John Carlton, John Clayton Pierce, Ronnie, Cody and Dylan Cooper, Justin Mitchell, Breck and Jim Breck Bean and Clifford and Coby Goble. Honorary pallbearers will be Don Booth, Eddy Parker, Charles Sheppard and Charles Mapes. Betty J. Kirkpatrick ODESSA Betty J. Kirkpatrick, 79, of Odessa passed away Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2003, at Seabury Nursing Center in Odessa. Graveside services were at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, 2003, at Sunset Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating. Mrs. Kirkpatrick was born July 20, 1924, in Muskogee, Okla., to George and Katie Whitman. She graduated from high school in Olive, Okla. She married Leo S. Kirkpatrick on June 6, 1942 in Shamrock, Okla. They moved to Odessa in 1963. He preceded her in death on May 20, 1997. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Juanita Hunnicut and Delores McBee. Mrs. Kirkpatrick is survived by two daughters, Katie Hayes and husband Tim of Odessa and Pat Beaty and husband Terry of the Houston area; one brother, Frank W. Whitman and wife Hellenna of Tulsa, Okla.; two sisters, Katherine Vann and Margie Webb, both of California; two granddaughters, Lisa Coe of Albuquerque, N.M., and Kelli Jean Stotts of Odessa; two great-granddaughters, Gabrielle Henson and Samantha Coe; and numerous nieces and nephews. [091403Vasquez.jpg] Raul L. Vasquez ODESSA Raul L. Vasquez, 64, of Midland was called home to the Lord on Friday, Sept. 5, 2003, in Naga City, Philippines. He was born in Marfa, Texas, on Jan. 6, 1939. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force from January 1957 to February 1961. He is preceded in death by his father, Fermin J. Vasquez; mother, Cruz Lara Vasquez; and grandson, Jacob V. Olivas. He is survived by his daughters, Veronica Vasquez and Rebecca Watts and husband George, both of Midland, Catherine Vasquez of Odessa, Maggie Fimbres and Eudelia Martinez and husband Victor, all of Corpus Christi, and Gliceria Vasquez of San Jose, Calif.; brothers, Robert J. Vasquez and Fermin Jr. Vasquez, both of Odessa; sisters, Priscilla Suarez of Las Vegas and Frances Militscher of Riverhead, N.Y.; and 20 grandchildren. Memorial services are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, 2003, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Odessa, Texas, with the Rev. Gilbert Rodriguez officiating. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster. [010102obitbner.gif] Monday, September 15, 2003 Permian Basin Obituaries Obituaries Index Home _________________________________________________________________ [091503mary.jpg] Mary Jewell Calloway ODESSA On Saturday, September 13, 2003, Mary, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, was called by our Lord and Savior and left this world of long suffering and pain to be with our Heavenly Father. She was born to John Oscar Ford and Eleanor Butterworth Ford on November 22, 1926, in Anniston, Alabama. She was proceeded in death by a baby brother she never knew, her loving parents, her younger sister, Betty Jean, and her brother, Jerre. She married her husband, Joseph Chester Calloway, in Anniston, Alabama, on June 20, 1942. She is survived by Chester, who adored and loved her for the entire 61 years that they were married. Together they had four children that they raised to believe in God and his promise of a final resting place in Heaven. She is also survived by her children and their life partners: Joseph Charles and Phyllis Calloway of Gardendale, Rebecca Ann and Bobby Smith of Odessa, Brenda Gayle and Don Machen of Gardendale, and Terry Randal and Laura Calloway of San Antonio. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Mary worked as a professional seamstress and also was a very successful manager for Tupperware. She loved quilting, cooking, cake decorating, candy making, fishing, and Permian MOJO football. Although it hurts to have to let her go, she is now in Heaven and no longer in pain that tormented her body for so many years. Wilson Funeral Home is providing funeral arrangements with memorial services to be held at First Church of God, 2212 E. 11th, on Tuesday, September 16, at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Pall bearers will be her grandsons, Dewayne Press, Jason Machen, Justin Machen, Craig Calloway, Phillip Holder, and Jason Ballew. Pastors Jimmy Braswell of Home Hospice and Malcolm Tyree of First Church of God will officiate services. _________________________________________________________________ Top | Obituaries Index | Home Copyright © 1999-2003 Odessa American. All rights reserved. Refer comments to Webmaster.