2018-2019, TX, Compiled by James W. Blankenship jkblank1(at)sbcglobal.net

Angelina

+2019, Lufkin, Angelina Co., TX, Obituary

http://lufkindailynews.com/obituaries/article_472aaedc-bf03-11e9-86cb-972a97fe270a.html

Rodney Lynn Blankenship, 68, of Lufkin, was born September 11, 1950 in Orange, Texas, the son of Arthur Blankenship and Hazel Lee Branch Blankenship, and died Tuesday, August 13, 2019 in Lufkin, TX.

Mr. Blankenship loved cars, he was the sole proprietor of C-C Enterprises, a local auto restoration business. He was known for award winning classic cars and custom hotrods. He had a strong desire to help young people get a good start and employed numerous youth through the work study vocational program. He was also a member of the East Texas Corvette Club of Lufkin.

He was preceded in death by his parents and twin sons Rodney Aaron and Eric Brandon Blankenship

Mr. Blankenship is survived by his wife of 48 years Dorothy Blankenship of Lufkin, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Erick Diaz of Cypress, TX; daughter Holly Blankenship of Lufkin, TX; grandchildren, Nicolas and Elliot Diaz, Grant Dehmer, and Blake Blankenship; brother and sister-in-law, Wade and Sandra Blankenship of Spring, TX; sister, Mary Luttrell of McKinney, TX; sister, Barbara Sykora of Katy, TX; sister, Jeanine Blankenship of Houston, TX; brother-in-law and wife, Edward and Debbie Polson of Alvarado, TX; sister-in-law, Linda Spratt Holland of Lufkin, TX.; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and too many more to name.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 am, Friday, August 16, 2019, at Shafer Funeral Home in Lufkin with Chaplain Katelyn McWilliams officiating. Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Jeep Compton, Garland Waldrop, Will Spencer, Francisco Farfan, Gene Sullivan, and Abraham Tobias Honorary Pallbearers will be Robbie Adams, David Martin, Erick Diaz, Lee Slaughter, and Wade Blankenship.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Baylor

+2018, Seymour, Baylor Co., TX, Obituary

Wichita Falls Times Record News (TX) - January 11, 2019

Thelma Bailey, 96, Seymour, TX, died on Tuesday, January 8, 2019.

Survived by brother, Thelbert Blankenship of Wichita Falls and sister, Faye Stewart, of Olney, Texas.

Services 2 P.M. Saturday, January 12, 2019, at the Seymour Church of Christ. Interment Riverview Cemetery. www.seymourmemorial.com.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Bee

+2018, Beeville, Bee Co., TX, Funeral

https://www.caller.com/story/life/announcements/obituaries/2019/01/12/corpus-christi-area-obituaries-01-12-19/2548014002/

E. D. Blankenship, 66 [1952], Beeville, died Jan. 10, 2019.

Graveside service will be at 10 a.m. Jan. 16 in Evergreen Cemetery, Skidmore. Galloway & Sons Funeral Home

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Beeville, Bee Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.gallowayandsons.com/memorialpage.asp?page=odetail&id=99144&locid=105

Eddy "E. D." Blankenship passed away Thursday, January 10, 2019 at his home in Beeville, TX surrounded by his wife and family.

Ed was preceded in death by his son, Brian; and his parents, Helen and Smokey Blankenship.

He is survived by his wife, Jean; their daughter, Jaime; son-in-law, Haskell Lutke; his brother, Alan Blankenship; and two sisters, Darlene Walser and Carol Bridger.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 16, 2019 at Evergreen Cemetery in Skidmore, TX.

+2018, Beeville, Bee Co., TX, Death

http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Eddy-Blankenship-106746824

Eddy Blankenship, March 25, 1952 - January 10, 2019, Texas

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Beeville, Bee Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.mysoutex.com/beeville_bee_picayune/obituaries/eddy-e-d-blankenship/article_d9050bcc-18d7-11e9-ad17-eb0855cf98db.html

Eddy “E. D.” Blankenship, 66, passed away Thursday, January 10, 2019, at his home in Beeville, Texas, surrounded by his wife and family. He was born March 25, 1952, to Cicero J. and Sarah Helen (Pledge) Blankenship in Poteet, Texas.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy.

He was preceded in death by his son, Brian; and his parents, Helen and Smokey Blankenship.

Ed is survived by his wife, Jean; their daughter, Jaime; son-in-law, Haskell Lutke; his brother, Alan Blankenship; and two sisters, Darlene Walser and Carol Bridger.

A graveside service will be held at 10 am, Wednesday, January 16, 2019, at Evergreen Cemetery in Skidmore, Texas. Galloway & Sons Funeral Home.

Bell

+2018, Temple, Bell Co., TX, Obituary

http://www.tdtnews.com/obituaries/article_106204a4-1855-11e9-a5e2-73d4a8e44a82.html

Mr. Dal Watts, 89, of Temple, died Thursday, Jan. 10, at a Temple nursing home. He was born Jan. 21, 1929, in San Angelo to Noble Hilton and Edith Mary Williams Watts.

He served in the US Navy and Merchant Marines. He married June Williamson in December 1965. He later married Shirley Blankenship Riney on Sept. 7, 1997, in Salado. He worked for Rocket Dyne and the Temple VA hospital. He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Temple.

Survivors include his wife; four daughters, Yolanda Perrine, Beth Smith, Judy Sawburger and Ann Peterka; a son, David Blankenship; two brothers, Flave Watts and Jerry Watts; a sister, Georgia Guderyahn; and nine grandchildren.

Services for Dal Watts, 89, of Temple will be at a later date. Dossman Funeral Home in Belton.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Shirley B. Watts – b.12Oct1931 - Temple, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJ27-BRSM

Relatives - Dal Watts, Howell Watts.

Bexar

+2018, Adkins, Bexar Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - August 22, 2018

Karen Ann Kosub, 57, of Adkins, Texas passed away on August 17, 2018. Karen was born on November 24, 1960 in San Antonio, the daughter of Lloyd George Kosub and Rosalie Ann (Shadrock) Kosub.

She is preceded in death by her father.

Karen will be missed dearly by her son, Daniel Blankenship; daughter, Christine Blankenship; daughter, Emily Blankenship; son, Russell Blankenship; mother Rosalie A. Kosub; brothers, Wayne A. Kosub, and Thomas Kosub (Judith); nieces and nephews, Brooke Winston (Justin), Paige Kosub, Meg Kosub, Lauren Kosub, Christopher Kosub, Julie Kosub and Jessica Kosub.

Funeral Mass, 9:30am, Friday, August 24, 2018. Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, St. Hedwig, Texas, Interment to follow in Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Cemetery. Father Bill Zadora will officiate the services. Services in care of Finch Funeral Chapel, LLC.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Bexar Co., TX, Marriage: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VT5M-8D6

Robert E. Blankenship, 32 - Karen A. Kosub, 35 - 14Feb1996

Bexar Co., TX, Marriage: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VT17-1Q3

Robert E. Blankenship, 26 - Melody L Blankenship, 25 - 10 Aug 1983

Divorced - 10 Aug 1989; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VYNB-7KL

Bexar Co., TX, Marriage: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VYSS-SN8

Robert E. Blankenship, 29 - Shea L. Langlois, 26 - 15May1993

Divorced -12Feb1994: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VYV3-2T6

Robert Blankenship – b.17Oct1963 - San Antonio, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJH3-ZRS7

Relatives - Denise Ann Blankenship, Gwenda Sizer Blankenship, Karen A. Blankenship, Melody L. Blankenship, Robert E. Blankenship, Robert Everett Blankenship, Shea L. Blankenship.

+2018, San Antonio, Bexar Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - April 13, 2018

Robert L. "Bob" Caldwell born in San Antonio, on Christmas Day Dec. 25, 1935 to Guy Albert and Louise Francoise "Jeanne" Michon Caldwell. Caldwell died March 27, 2018 in San Antonio. He was 82.

Caldwell was a builder. "He used his hands to make things better. He always wanted to fix things for people - that was his love language," daughter Brenda Criswell said. "My grandmother was 4 (feet) 10, and he was a 12-pound baby born at home," Criswell said. "The story goes that the doctor stayed over for Christmas dinner."

Caldwell was the youngest of 11 children. Growing up on the Southwest Side, Caldwell had a knack for working with his hands. He took shop classes at Burbank High School. After graduating, he joined the Navy in 1954. Discharged after a few years, Caldwell came home to San Antonio. During a family gathering, he met Janice Blankenship and the two of them went horseback riding, Criswell said. "He rescued her when her horse ran away with her. It was like in the movies," she said, recounting the beginning of her parents' love story. "He got on his horse, raced after her and scooped her off her horse." The couple married in the summer of 1960 By this time, Caldwell was rising through the ranks in the electrical trades.

Working for Fred Clark Electric and later in the 1970s for Fisk Electric Co., Caldwell worked on instrumental projects such as the expansion of the USAA campus and the Tower of the Americas. Caldwell passed on his electrical knowledge by teaching night courses. "He worked intermittently as an instructor from the late 1960s to 2005," said John Martin, training director of the South Texas Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Center. Friend and colleague Vic York said Caldwell "was very knowledgeable not only in the academic portion, but he had a practical knowledge as well. He was the kind of instructor I wanted to be."

Later, when Caldwell moved to Helotes, he was appointed as a municipal court judge in 1982. He served for 12 years. "It was always about his work and his family," Criswell said. "He loved his job and the simple things in life."

Preceded by: Parents Guy Albert and Louise Francoise "Jeanne" Michon Caldwell; five sisters; two brothers

Survived by: Wife Janice Blankenship Caldwell; daughter Brenda Criswell; son Robert "Les" Caldwell Jr. and daughter-in-law Lori; one granddaughter; two grandsons; three sisters

Graveside service with military honors at 1:45 p.m. Tuesday at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Janice A. Caldwell – b.20May1939 - San Antonio, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJLB-NSWQ

Relatives - Robert Lester J. Caldwell.

Bexar Co., TX, Birth; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V8W7-LCP

Janice Ann Blankenship - 20May1939, D/o Floyd Francis Blankenship & Ruth Anderson

2018, San Antonio, Bexar Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - April 26, 2018

Carol Paveglio age 89 [May 30, 1928] of San Antonio, Texas passed away Monday, April 23, 2018 surrounded by her loving family.

Carol was a tenth generation descendant of Juan Leal Goraz, the Alcalde of the Canary Islanders who formed the San Fernando de Bexar, now known as San Antonio in 1731. The home of her Great Grandfather Anton Friedrich Wulff, the city's first Park Commissioner who was responsible for the layout and beautification of Alamo Plaza, is now the home of the San Antonio Conservation Society. During the course of her life Carol, known to her family as The Mom or Nana, enjoyed many years of membership in the Conservation Society, the Bright Shawl and the Canary Islands Descendants Association ~ San Antonio.

Carol also had fond memories of volunteering at the Green Door Gift Shoppe, the Baptist Hospital Gift Shop - Downtown and working as a cashier at Olmos Pharmacy. She felt her biggest achievement was being the mother of 14 children, 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was dearly loved for her strength of character and her quick wit, right up until the end of her life.

In addition to her parents Harry & Merle Tyrrasch, she was proceeded in death by her beloved husband Robert Leno Paveglio, daughter Sharon Paveglio and dear Aunt Regina Tyyrasch.

She is survived by her children; Howard & Frances Paveglio, Linda & Kenneth Pollock, Mark & Evelyn Paveglio, Laura & Jeff Regal, Michael & Pearl Paveglio, Anthony Paveglio, Mary & David Druck, Paul Paveglio, Robert Paveglio, Christopher & Letty Paveglio, Joseph & Kathy Paveglio, Nicholas & Katrina Paveglio and Jonathan & Becky Paveglio. Her grandchildren; Christopher & Becky Pollock, Keith & Bea Paveglio, Karen & Paul McGarity, Stephen Paveglio, Kim & Jon Blankenship, Captain Klinton & Tanya Paveglio, Phillip Paveglio, Sarah Paveglio, Kaitlin Paveglio, Thomas Paveglio, Cole Paveglio, Joshua Paveglio, Angelina Paveglio, Jaqueline Paveglio, Noah Paveglio, Allison Paveglio and Sloane Paveglio. Great grandchildren; Patrick Perez, Sabrina Paveglio, Pamela Perez, Neil Paveglio, Jaslyn Pollock, Matthew Valenzuela, Lucas Pollock, Riley McGarity, Giana Valenzuela, Michael Meeks, Alexander McGarity and Benjamin Blankenship. She is also survived by her siblings; Harry & Lillian Tyrrasch, Barbara & Gene Newsom and sister in law Marjorie Paveglio Siegmund, nieces & nephews; Brenda(Newsom) Herrmann, Sheryl(Newsom) & Nick FitzSimon, Kathy(Tyrrasch) & Bryan Shockley, and great nieces and nephews; Carlyn Shockley, Anna Shockley, Michael Herrmann, Madison FitzSimon and Trey FitzSimon.

A Rosary will be held on Friday, April 27, 2018 at 11:00 am. Immediately followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 223 E Summit Ave. Interment will be at City Cemetary #1, S. New Braunfels Ave.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, San Antonio, Bexar Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - May 13, 2018

James "JIM" Robert Pannell passed from this life surrounded by family April 29, 2018 at the age of 81 [23May1936].

Jim lived a life of service. He first served his country in the United States Air Force, excelling at all assignments given to him. Later, he continued to serve the veterans of this country through programs and events associated with the Patriot Guard Riders, The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, and the American Legion. He was a wonderful provider for his family and the best father anyone could ask for. Jim gave to those in need by being a blood and platelet donor for many years until he was medically unable to continue doing so. He volunteered at civic events, such as the annual Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving dinner and donated his time to deliver meals to the needy through Meals on Wheels. He was the handy man of the neighborhood and never shied away from someone needing some sort of work done at their home. Through it all, Jim never met a stranger, and if there was a baby or small child around, he couldn't resist the urge to say hello.

Growing up in rural Mississippi gave him the ability to interact with animals in a way that seems to be lost to most in this day and age; he could calm an angry dog with just a few words or settle a horse with a gentle touch. Jim truly was one of a kind.

As an employee of Sears and Roebuck, he rose through the ranks into management. Upon his retirement from Sears, he decided that he would take some time off. However, anyone who knew him knew this would not last for long. He often held two jobs- he had a handy man business and when he was not doing repairs or improvements, bought and sold cars on his own. He began working for Bluebonnet Motors not long after his so-called retirement, and upon leaving there, promptly went to work for Jordan Ford, Inc. He spent numerous years in the car business before he retired once again and focused solely on his handy man business, JP ENTERPRISES. Jim will be missed tremendously by those blessed to be part of his family. We are comforted by the fact that he had accepted the Lord into his heart, and we know that he is in Heaven, watching over all of us.

He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Glover Pannell.

He is survived by his wife Judy Blankenship Pannell; mother, Irene Brooks Pannell; daughter, Mylissa Anne Pannell-Munguia and husband Victor Munguia; sons Brian Wayne Seals and Douglas Michael Seals; brothers, Charles, Cecil & Harold Pannell and their spouses; grandchildren Brady James Baughman and wife Holly, Zachary Michael Seals and wife Lauren & Bryce Douglas Seals; great grandchildren, Noah Seals & Charlotte Seals; and numerous cousins.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2018, San Antonio, Bexar Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - July 19, 2018

Billy Dean Myers of San Antonio, TX, born February 26, 1957 in Corona, [Riverside Co.,] CA, passed away at the age of 61 after a courageous battle with cancer in his home on Sunday, July 8, 2018 surrounded by his family.

Billy was a truck driver the past 15 years and enjoyed driving to many different states. Billy also loved to fish, hunt, listen to music, watch movies and sports, and grill for family cookouts.

Billy was preceded in death by his dad, Bill Myers of Springtown, TX, his mother, Faye Blankenship of Waco, TX, two step brothers, James Dunsworth of Fort Worth, TX and Arlen Dunsworth of Randleman, NC.

Survivors: His wife Pat, son Billy Myers and fianc Shadara, step son Danny Goff and wife Aza, step son Darrell Goff and wife Angie, 8 grandchildren plus one due in August, all of San Antonio, TX, sister Debbie Sanders of Fort Worth, TX, brother Don Myers and wife Dodie of Randleman, NC, step mother, Laqueda Myers, step sister Florinda Smith, step brother Aubrey Dunsworth and wife Teresa, all of Springtown, TX, step brother Kevin Dunsworth and wife Lou Ann of Fort Worth, TX, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and long time friend Todd Brown of San Antonio, TX.

Memorial Service -A private service will take place at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Riverside Co., CA, Birth; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V2YY-DGZ

Billy D. Myers – b.26Feb1957 – Mother; Johnson

2019, San Antonio, Bexar Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - February 17, 2019

Anita G. Kipp, 76, met her savior Jesus Christ in heaven on Monday, February 11, 2019. She was born in San Antonio, Texas on July 14, 1942.

She enjoyed music and dancing. She loved to cook so much, she made it her career.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Julia and Estanislado Godoy Sr., sister, Juanita Godoy, and brother, Emilio Godoy.

Survivors: daughters, Carol Pi eda (Roland), Cindy Perez (Andrew), and son, Ronald Kipp Jr.; brothers, John Godoy (Amelia), Stanley Godoy Jr. (Lupe), Amador Godoy, Armando Godoy (Gloria), Albert Godoy (Sylvia); sisters Carmen Blankenship, Lupe Wirtz (Tom), and Patricia Marquez (David), numerous grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

Funeral Mass will be offered on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at 11:30 am, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Schertz, Texas. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Bowie

+2019, DeKalb, Bowie Co., TX, Obituary

Texarkana Gazette (TX) - June 16, 2019

Ronnie Jack Long, 71, of DeKalb, Texas, died Thursday, June 13, 2019, in a Dallas hospital. He was born June 4, 1948, in Dallas.

Mr. Long was a retired machinist and a Baptist.

Survivors include one daughter, Cindy Blankenship of Kemp, Texas; two sisters, Lena Hahn and Ruby DeLozier of DeKalb; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a number of other relatives.

Services will be held at a later date. Cremation is under direction of Bates-Rolf Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, New Boston, Bowie Co., TX, Obituary

The Bowie County Citizens Tribune, (TX) - March 14, 2018

Willie 'Wiggs' Forrester, age 83 of New Boston, Texas passed away Wednesday, March 7, 2018 in a local hospital. Mr. Forrester was born March 20, 1934 in Bowie County, Texas.

He was a Rancher, Baptist.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Forester and a brother, Charles L. Forrester.

Survivors include three daughters and sons in law, Viki and Cary Pierce of New Boston, Texas, Leslie and Kenneth Blankenship of New Boston, Texas, Liz and John Reed of Texarkana, Texas, his grandchildren, Erin and Kirk Palmer, Ethan Forrester, Patrick Pierce, a great grandson, Easton Palmer and a number of other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, March 11, 2018 in the Bates Rolf Chapel, New Boston with Bro. Tuffy Williams officiating. Interment will be in Red Bayou Cemetery, New Boston under the direction of Bates Rolf Funeral Home, New Boston.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Leslie Kay Forrester – b.14May1962, Bowie Co., TX,

D/o Willie Gean Forrester & Patsy Ladell Drennan

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V8J8-Q41

Kenneth Adam Blankenship – b.10Sep1965, Cass Co., TX,

S/o Floyd Burkhal Blankenship & Karen Marie Miller

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V8ZV-LXC

+2018, New Boston, Bowie Co., TX, Obituary

The Bowie County Citizens Tribune, (TX) - July 25, 2018

Rodney "Keith" Dennis, age 66, of New Boston, TX, danced his way to heaven on Friday, July 13, 2018, leaving behind his guns, antiques, & vast collection of favorite footwear (Tony Lamas), his two beloved dogs, a large family and a multitude of faithful and fun friends. He fought a long and brave battle with cancer and to quote his friends and family "He was the toughest man I ever knew!" He was born April 23, 1952, in Texarkana, AR.

Keith was a Journeyman Plumber and Pipefitter and had been a member of local 237 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union. He began and spent the majority of his Plumbing career with Pioneer Mechanical Contractors, learning from the man he most considered his dad, the late Thomas Ray "Tommy" Thompson. He was the retired owner of Chase Mechanical Contractors. He was a fun and loving father, grandfather, brother, son and friend. His love of dancing made him a frequent dance partner to many at the VFW in Texarkana, AR, the American Legion in New Boston, TX, and the Longhorn Saloon in Ft. Worth, TX. He also enjoyed sharing his love for guns and target shooting, he was a faithful "Trumpster", and spent most "first weekends" in Canton at the Trade Days and once postponed a major surgery to attend the Canton Western Swing and Honky Tonk Festival. He found peace riding in the Mena Mountains, floating the Mt. Fork River, and listening to his old country music. He was one to watch, because you never knew what prank he may pull on you and could take just as much as he dished out. His creative side came out in his ability to weld and he left behind many unique treasures to his children that he hand crafted

Keith was proceeded in death by his beloved grandparents, Ralph B. and Maude E. Blankenship ; one brother, Freddie Dennis; a very special aunt, Marilyn Rogers; a very special uncle, John David Kuykendall of Wimberley, TX.

Keith is survived by two sons, Rodney Ray Dennis of Redwater, TX and Ryan Keith Dennis of New Boston, TX; One daughter and son-in-law, Robyn and Rodney Cox of Redwater, TX; his mother, Faithe Blankenship Dennis of Wake Village, TX; seven grandchildren, Coy Whiteside, Gaven Cox, Kholeton Cox, Ashlin Cox, Khamo Cox, Gage Bickham and Laycie Dennis; five brothers, Ralph Dennis and his partner Gail McDowell of Maud, TX, Doug Dennis and his wife Liz of Texarkana, TX, Bryant Dennis of Texarkana, TX, Philip Dennis and his wife Jennifer of Texarkana, TX, and Johnny Dennis of Amarillo, TX; one special aunt, Carol Kuykendall of San Marcos TX; three favorite cousins, David Kuykendall of Wimberley, TX, Mark Kuykendall of Buda, TX, and Kevin

Keith's family and friends will gather on Saturday, August 18th, 2018 in Redwater, TX to celebrate his life and legacy by sharing special stories of their times with him. In true Keith fashion, he left strict instructions that everyone is to be smiling, laughing and having a great time, just as he lived his life. Keith chose cremation and his wishes and family were well taken care of by Haynes Mortuary in Texarkana, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Brazoria

2019, Alvin, Brazoria Co., TX, Obituary

Athens Daily Review (TX) - February 12, 2019

Barbara Lynn Trammell Black, age 66 of Alvin, Texas passed away Thursday, February 8, 2019 at UTMB Hospital in Angleton, [Brazoria Co.,] Texas. She was born February 9, 1952 in Pasadena, Texas and was a longtime resident of Alvin.

Barbara attended South Park Baptist Church in Alvin, was an avid pool player, and was very proud to have worked as a correctional officer for many years.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father, Robert (Babe) Levi Trammell and mother, Johnnie Farrell Trammell.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Heather Sullins and husband Warren, Natalie Smith and husband Geoffrey; grandchildren, Amber Blankenship and husband Andrew, Whitney Sullins, Sarah Sullins, Savannah Sullins, Talon Smith, Wade Boothe, Taylor Porter and Kamryn Smith; great grandchildren, Grace, Leighton and Tinsley; sister, Cynthia Allen and husband Johnny; brother, Daryl Trammell; former husband, Steve Black, who continued to offer care and help along with invaluable friendship throughout her life; in addition to many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, February 11, 2019 at 6:00 pm, at South Park Baptist Church in Alvin, Texas. www.scottfuneralhome.net

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, Alvin, Brazoria Co., TX, Obituary

Athens Daily Review (TX) - April 18, 2019

Barbara Lynn Trammell Black, age 66 of Alvin, Texas passed away Thursday, February 8, 2019 at UTMB Hospital in Angleton, [Brazoria Co.,] Texas. She was born February 9, 1952 in Pasadena, Texas and was a longtime resident of Alvin.

Barbara attended South Park Baptist Church in Alvin, was an avid pool player, and was very proud to have worked as a correctional officer for many years.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father, Robert (Babe) Levi Trammell and mother, Johnnie Farrell Trammell.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Heather Sullins and husband Warren, Natalie Smith and husband Geoffrey; grandchildren, Amber Blankenship and husband Andrew, Whitney Sullins, Sarah Sullins, Savannah Sullins, Talon Smith, Wade Boothe, Taylor Porter and Kamryn Smith; great grandchildren, Grace, Leighton and Tinsley; sister, Cynthia Allen and husband Johnny; brother, Daryl Trammell; former husband, Steve Black, who continued to offer care and help along with invaluable friendship throughout her life; in addition to many other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, February 11, 2019 at 6:00 pm, at South Park Baptist Church in Alvin, Texas. Scott Family, 1421 East Hwy. 6, Alvin, Texas 77511.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, Bryan, Brazos Co., TX, Obituary

The Eagle, (Bryan-College Station, TX) - October 18, 2019

Joyce Elaine (Huff) Crocker went to be with Jesus, on October 15, 2019,. Born on September 9, 1952, Joyce was the daughter of Ruth (Pearson) and Arthur Huff.

Joyce married the love of her life, Donald Ray Crocker, on April 20, 1973, and together they raised three daughers, Synthia, Stacie and Stephanie. She was loved by all. She loved to play jokes and pull pranks on everyone and tried to spoil us all, especially her husband, Donald Ray.

Joyce is preceded in death by her mother and father, Ruth and Arthur Huff; granddaughter, Samantha Ray; sisters, Dorothy Ondrasek and Denise Price; brother, Jimmy Kidd; and sister-in-law, Theresa Huff.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Donald Ray Crocker; daughters and sons-in-law, Synthia and Justin Munsey, Stacie and Greg Blankenship, Stephanie and Bryan Ray; five grandchildren, Preslie, Hannah, Jack, Paislee and Bryan; brothers and sisters-in-law, Wayne and Lynn Huff, Glen and Lisa Huff, Gene and Debbie Huff; sisters and brothers-in-law, Karen and Jeff Riley and Debbie and Jimmy Vann.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 am, Saturday, October 19, at Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bryan with interment to follow at Smetana Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Brazos Co., TX, Marriage; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VYS4-GY6

, Jr., 1979 - Stacie L. Crocker, 1979 - 12Oct2002

Poss father; Gregory Lee Blankenship, b.10May1952

+2018, Lake Jackson, Brazoria Co., TX, Obituary

The Facts, (Clute, TX) - September 30, 2018

Marie Elaine McDaniel Givens, called "Elaine" by her family, was born in Angleton, TX December 12, 1948, and passed away September 25, 2018 at Lake Jackson Health Care while under hospice care.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Givens; her father, Homer Merton McDaniel, her mother Martha Ann Blankenship McDaniel, and her brother Homer Merton McDaniel, Jr.

She is survived by her sister JoAnn McDaniel McGaugh.

In accordance with Marie's wishes, there will be no funeral, memorial, or burial services

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Brown

+2019, Early, Brown Co., TX, Obituary

Brownwood Bulletin (TX) - March 21, 201

Clayton Keever, 85, died Thursday, March 21, 2019. He was born Feb. 23, 1924 to Albert and Hallie Mae Keever.

Survivors include spouse, Nelda (Blankenship) Keever; daughter, Kathy Williams and her husband Steve Williams; step-son, Rick Parrack and his wife Brenda Parrack; and sister, Dorothy Gault.

Graveside services will be held at Lowell Cemetery in Erath County at 2 pm, Friday, March 22.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Early, Brown Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.harrellfuneralhomedublin.com/obituary/clayton-keever

Clayton Lee Keever (85), passed away March 21, 2019 in Brownwood, [Brown Co.,] TX. He was born in Temple, TX on February 23, 1934.

Clayton was raised by his maternal grandparents and lived most of his early life in the Temple and Waco area. In 1973 he purchased land and moved to Gustine. He built his own home in Gustine and took great pride in that accomplishment. He lived in Gustine until a recent illness required nursing care. As a young man, he went to Coyne Electrical School in Chicago and later opened his own TV repair business in Waco. He also worked many years as a salesman for various wholesale electronic dealers. Clayton had also been a barber for a short time. He was a problem solver who enjoyed fixing things. He and Nelda enjoyed traveling together and were fortunate to have visited 48 states.

Clayton is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Hallie Mae Keever, and his maternal grandparents, David Sherman Whitlow and Mattie Boney Whitlow.

Clayton is survived by his wife of 37 years, Nelda (Blankenship) Keever of Early, his daughter Kathy Williams and her husband Steve of May, Texas, his sister Dorothy Gault of Burleson, Texas, and a step-son Rick Parrack and his wife Brenda from Gholson. Texas.

A graveside service for Clayton will be March 22 at 2:00 at Lowell Cemetery in Erath County.

Erath Co., TX, Marriage: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VY77-N6M

Erica N. Blankenship, 1938 - Clayton L. Keever, 1934 – m.23Dec1981

Burnet

+2018, Burnet, Burnet Co., TX, Obituary

The Newton Kansan, (KS) - February 8, 2018

Vivian Lois (Blankenship) Morford passed away peacefully on Jan. 27, 2018, at her home in Burnet, Texas. She was 91 years old. She was born Oct. 3, 1926, to Carmon and Frances (Frisbie) Blankenship in Great Bend.

Vivian grew up in Great Bend and Newton. She married Weldon D. Morford on Dec. 3, 1948, who later became Sheriff of Harvey County — and, for a short time, she was a Harvey County Sheriff Deputy herself. Together they had four children: Bruce, James, Linda and David. They lived in Kansas, Florida and Texas.

Vivian served in various churches throughout her life as a Sunday School teacher, choir director and soloist. Her love for music has touched the lives of all who knew her. She also taught elementary school for many years. She loved to sew for her family and others Other talents included water color and oil painting, as well as playing and teaching the piano. Vivian was an avid reader, and, in her later life, embraced technology because she always loved to learn. Even as a 90-plus-year-old, she kept in touch with family and friends through Facebook and emails. The world is a better place because of her life and love.

She is preceded in death by her parents; four of her siblings; her husband, Weldon; and eldest son, Bruce.

Survivors include her sister, Winifred (Blankenship) Hague of Topeka; sons, James Morford and wife Faye (Drew) of Donie, Texas, and David Morford and wife Sharon (Franz) of Ottawa; and daughter, Linda Morford-Downey of Burnet, Texas. She adored her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A family internment will be at the Greenwood Cemetery in Newton, where she will be laid to rest with her husband. A memorial service will be held on June 2, 2018, in Newton.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Burnet, Burnet Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/burnet-tx/thomas-blankenship-8769707

Thomas John Blankenship, age 70, [18May1949] of Burnet, passed away Thursday, July 4, 2019

A Memorial Service will be held at 10 am, Saturday, July 20, 2019, at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Burnet.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Marble Falls, Burnet Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/marble-falls-tx/zara-blankinship-7869458

Zara Lee Blankinship passed away June 1, 2018. He was born October 6, 1927 in Wichita Kansas to Zara S. Blankinship and Bennie Lee Thompson.

The family relocated to the Rio Grande Valley in 1930. Zara worked for his father at Blankinship Auto Repair through high school and began working for the U.S. Border Patrol as a mechanic in 1949.

In 1954, Z. L. started his own repair shop specializing in Volkswagen repair until 1959 when he became Service Manager for Blevins Motor Company. While with Blevins, Zara earned the Commendation Day Award, the highest honor awarded to employees by Volkswagen for customer service. Just over a decade later, Zara moved over to Van Burkleo Motors and again was awarded for his customer service, only this time by Ford Motor Company. In the early 80’s, Zara moved to Spicewood, Texas and worked for Subaru until his retirement. While in Spicewood, he sat on the board of his community for many years, earning his place as a pillar of his community.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Katherine Blankinship, his daughter, Jan Greenhill and his grandson, Michael Greenhill.

He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Averill and husband Joe, of McAllen, TX, daughter Jill Bradshaw and husband Doug of Concord, NH, son Lee Blankinship and wife Patty, of Spicewood, TX, son in law Charlie Greenhill of Phoenix, AZ, brother Tom Blankinship and wife Donna of California, sister Martha Powell of Dallas, TX, and step daughter Alicia Turnley of Smithville, TX. He has 7 grandchildren: Allen Gray and Trey Averill of McAllen, TX, Mandy Reid of Phoenix, AZ, Lauren Bradshaw of Charlotte, NC, Bambi May of Copperas Cove, TX, Chris Blankinship of Leander, TX and Kevin Blankinship of Lakeway, TX. He has 8 great grandchildren: Natalie and Mallory Gray of McAllen, TX Michael Reid of Phoenix, AZ, Jaxon Blankinship of Leander, TX, Zoe, Bella, Gabby and Kathryne May of Copperas Cove, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Meadowlakes, Burnet Co., TX, Obituary

The Highlander, (Marble Falls, TX) - January 12, 2018

Jean "Mama Jean" Blankenship, age 96 and 10 months, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018, at Sunrise Assisted Living in Claremont, [Los Angeles Co.,] California. Prior to her second time in California, Jean was a resident of Meadowlakes, Texas, from 1993-2016. As Jean liked to say, she was born on the Ides of March on March 15, 1921, in Albany, Texas, to James Otis "J. O." and Elizabeth (Campbell) Roberts.

Jean was the oldest of four girls, and was a big help to her parents as she watched her younger sisters while her parents ran the family businesses. She graduated from Texas State College for Women in Denton, Texas, in 1942 and became a school teacher.

Jean met the love of her life, Henry Blankenship, in Denton and the two married in Baltimore, Maryland, on Sept. 19, 1942. Jean and Henry moved across country to California in 1946 where they both were school teachers and raised two daughters, Betsy and Brenda. Jean taught at Foothill Intermediate School in Azusa, California, for 20 years before retiring in 1982. During the summer recess, the family of four would pack up the car and spend time in Idaho enjoying the great outdoors. This tradition continued long into retirement when Jean and Henry would spend spring and summer months in Island Park, Idaho, and fall and winter months in San Dimas, California. In 1993, the couple moved from San Dimas to Meadowlakes and continued being summer birds in Idaho. A few years later, Jean and Henry settled into Meadowlakes fulltime.

Jean enjoyed morning coffee with Henry, both working on their crossword puzzles, and reminiscing about their friends and blessed lives. Jean was active in her garden, sewing, and bridge clubs. Jean continued her social engagements after her beloved husband of 63 years passed away in November 2005. She missed him every day. Jean moved back to California in 2016 to be closer to family.

Jean is preceeded in death by her husband Henry; her parents; and her sisters.

She is survived by her daughters, Betsy (Fred) Preston and Brenda Blankenship Farrar; granddaughter Andrea Bowling; grandsons Brian Bowling, Matthew (Tina) Farrar, Eric Farrar, and Donald Farrar; great grandsons Blake Carnes, Caleb Farrar, Mason Farrar, and Micah Farrar. Jean will be remembered as a strong and independent woman.

A grave site funeral service was held Thursday, Jan. 11, at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park, Burnet.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Cameron

+2018, Brownsville, Cameron Co., TX, Obituary

The Topeka Capital-Journal, (KS) - April 3, 2018

Irma McCune Bomberger-Pardee, 89, of Brownsville, TX, passed away Tuesday, March 13, 2018. She was born March 12, 1929, in Leavenworth Co, Kansas, the daughter of Theodore and Myrtle (Batchelor) McCune.

She graduated from Atchison High School in 1948. Irma was employed at Jostens American Yearbook as a proofreader leader for 25 years. She enjoyed traveling, dancing, and all entertainment activities in her retirement community and living in sunny south Texas.

Irma married Delwin "Dutch" Bomberger in 1948. He preceded her in death in 1996. She married Gale Pardee in 1999 and he preceded her in death in 2014. She was also preceded in death by her parents; a grandson, Sean P. McCoy; sister, Theodora Blankenship; brothers, Marvin McCune and Elmer McCune.

Survivors include a son, Jon Bomberger and his wife, Shelagh, Kemah, TX; daughter, Connie McCoy and her husband, Patrick, Topeka; grandchildren, Cristy Drotts, Jay Bomberger; great-granchildren, Sean Patrick McCoy, Nolan McCoy, Ellie Drotts, Hunter Drotts; Sister, Jennean Reed and her husband, Len.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am April 7, 2018 at Penwell-Gabel Midtown Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Ave Topeka, KS. Interment of the cremated remains will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery at 6th and Gage.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Camp

+2019, Pittsburg, Camp Co., TX, Obituary

The Pittsburg Gazette, (TX) - September 5, 2019

Steve Perry, 57, of Pittsburg, died Friday, Aug. 30, 2019 in Pittsburg. He was born Dec.20, 1961 in Corona, Calif. to Thomas and Bertha Smith Perry.

Perry served in the United States Army and worked at Eastex Crude. He was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Pittsburg.

Perry is preceded in death by his father and a brother, Tommy Perry.

Perry is survived by his wife, Laura Kight Perry; sons, Matthew Perry and wife Ana and Tyler Perry and wife Kimberly; grandchildren, Trinity Perry, Tucker Perry and Tydus Perry; his mother, brothers, Alan Perry and wife Lesia, Chris Perry and wife Susan, Scott Perry and wife Tina; and a sister, Lisa Blankenship Logan and husband Keith.

Funeral services were held at 10 am, Monday, Sept. 2, 2019, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Pittsburg with burial at Leesburg Cemetery in Leesburg. Erman Smith Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Cherokee

2019, Jacksonville, Cherokee Co., TX, Obituary

Jacksonville Daily Progress (TX) - May 21, 2019

Marilyn Joy Dudley, was reunited with her beloved husband, Gene, on May 20, 2019, She was born December 15, 1942 in Jacksonville to Johnny "Ray" and Leona (Compton) Stubbs.

After 21 years, Marilyn retired from Farmers LP Gas. She was a member of Sunset Baptist Church in Jacksonville.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jackie "Gene" Dudley; and daughter, Sheila Rae Stricklen.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Stacey Lynn Dudley of Jacksonville, Nick Dudley and wife Tracy of Jacksonville; and sister, Loretta Sorensen of Jacksonville. She will be remembered by her six grandchildren: Nicole Dudley, Jordan Dudley, Joy Stricklen, Preston Carroll, Alec Blankenship, Jordan Carroll and three great-grandchildren, Allison, Daniel and Kinsley. She is also survived by several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

A funeral service is scheduled at 10 o'clock in the morning, Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at Autry Funeral Home Chapel in Jacksonville, Bro. Michael Mathis will officiate. Mrs. Dudley will be laid to rest next to her husband at Union Grove Cemetery in Jacksonville. Pallbearers will be John Dudley, Jason Dudley, Kip Franklin, Ray Loviette, Jerry Yaraberry and Hunter Clark.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Coleman

+2019, Coleman, Coleman Co., TX, Obituary

Brownwood Bulletin (TX) - February 26, 2019

Dorothy Pearl McDonald, 89, of Coleman, died Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Coleman Healthcare Center. She was born on Oct. 25, 1929 in Trent to John William McDonald and Estella May Blankenship McDonald.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her infant brother, Delbert William McDonald.

Survivors include a sister, Pauline McDonald of Coleman; and several cousins, including Alice Marie Blankenship Youngblood of Green Forest, Arkansas, Verna Blankenship of Berryville, Arkansas and Tommie Blankenship of Gravette, Arkansas.

Funeral services for will be held at 2 pm, Friday, March 1 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman. Burial will follow at Coleman City Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Collin

+2018, Allen, Collin Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/bartlett-tn/danny-blankenship-7944589

Danny Worth Blankenship was born on August 5, 1952 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He passed away on July 20, 2018 at Baylor Heart Hospital in Plano, [Collin Co.,] Texas at the age of 65.

He grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi and was raised with his brother, Claude and sisters, Claudine, Linda and Dianne. He worked in the Healthcare field at Atria Senior Living Group for 11 years. He held several positions such as Maintenance Director, Divisional Maintenance Director and Quality Enhancement. He met the love of his life in Memphis, Tennessee in 2000. They were wed in 2004 and transferred to Allen, Texas the same year with Atria Senior Living Group for a regional position. He loved living in Texas and made a lot of special friends who love and respect him. He enjoyed hanging out with his friends and having fun.

Danny loved spending time with his wife and family. He was very proud of his blended family which was truly special to him. He adored his daughters and the bond that he had with them was something dear to his heart. He loved working on his Corvette, hotdogs were his favorite food, enjoyed rock music and listened to music daily. He looked forward to catching up with family and friends on Facebook and playing Solitaire. Some of his loved ones would know that one of his favorite sayings was “For the love of God and all that is Holy”.

He was a very loving father to his children. A wonderful, patient, and caring husband. Danny was laid back, calm and had a witty sense of humor. He was good at getting to know someone by talking to them and finding out what was important to them. He would catch you off guard in a conversation by throwing out a crazy question about something that would surprise you and make you laugh.

He was preceded in death by both parents, Claude and Mildred Blankenship and sister, Claudine.

Danny is survived by his loving wife of over 14 years, Zora Blankenship; Daughters, Angie Richmond and Regina Prescott with son in law Jason Prescott; Stepsons, John Stone and Brian Stone with daughter in law Leighanne Stone; Grandchildren, Briana, Alex, Colby, Preston, Olivia, Jared, Jessica, Blake, Anden, and Karsyn; Great-grandchildren, Hudson and Blake; Brother, Claude Blankenship; Sisters, Dianne Baker and Linda Lehman; and numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and a host of dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00-5:00 P.M. Sunday, August 5, 2018 at Memphis Funeral Home located at 3700 N. Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, Tennessee 38133.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Plano, Collin Co., TX, Obituary

Allen American (TX) - April 9, 2018

Raymond Olen Blankenship of Plano, Texas passed away on April 7, 2018 at the age of 87. He was born on August 8, 1930 to Army Lee and Edna (Dillard) Blankenship in McKinney, Texas.

Raymond married Patsy Ruth Burgess on September 4, 1955 in Seagraves, Texas. He proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the Military Police Motorcycle Patrol in the United States Army and was honorably discharged on January 11, 1954. Raymond loved God and his Country. He was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. Raymond was a long time member of the Plano community. He was a member of the Free Masonic Lodge.

Raymond is survived by his daughters, Deborah Nelson of Princeton, Texas, Susan Byrd and husband, James of Aledo, Texas, Amy McCormick and husband, David of Ovilla, Texas and Angela Carl and husband, Chris of Savoy, Texas; grandchildren, Amber, Jacob, Lauren, Hallie, Trey, Dylan, Pierce and Ray; brother, Army Olen Blankenship; sister, Frances Busby; and numerous other loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Blankenship; parents, Army Lee and Edna Blankenship; son, Raymond Bryan Blankenship; and five siblings.

A funeral service was held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 12, 2018 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas. Interment will Military Honors followed at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Plano, Collin Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - January 18, 2019

Linda Blankenship, 71, died Tuesday January 15, 2019 in Plano.

Linda was a teacher for 44 years; the last 42 years teaching special education at the Durant Middle School.

She is survived by her husband Mark Wayne Blankenship of the home; sons Marlin Blankenship of Durant, Oklahoma and Shawn Blankenship of Bells; and 2 granddaughters.

A Celebration of Life will be at 2 pm, Monday, at New Life Assembly of God in Calera, Oklahoma with Anthony Williams officiating. Holmes Coffey Murray Funeral Home in Durant, OK.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Grayson Co., TX, Birth: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VDYQ-2V6

Marlin Dwayne Blankenship, b.17Apr1981 – S/o Mark Dwayne Blankenship & Linda Nell Moore

+2018, Plano, Collin Co., TX, Obituary

Durant Daily Democrat (OK) - January 18, 2019

Linda Blankenship left this earthly life on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 in Plano, Texas. Linda was born in Durant, Oklahoma on April 13, 1947 to Henry Earl Moore and Katherine Virginia (Travis) Moore.

She married her husband, Mark Dwayne Blankenship in Calera, Oklahoma on March 8, 1980.

Linda was a very active member at Grace Baptist Church and loved working with children. Linda was a teacher for 44 years; she taught elementary school for two years in Utica, Oklahoma and then she spent 42 years teaching special education at the Durant Middle School. Linda earned a bachelors degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and her masters degree in Special Education from East Central University. She enjoyed shopping (especially at Dillard's), cooking, and volunteering any way she could. She loved spending time with her granddaughters, teaching them new things like making cookies and just hanging out. Linda was a woman that loved the Lord and enjoyed speaking about him to anyone she could.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Henry Earl Moore and Katherine Virginia (Travis) Moore, and brother Bobby Earl Moore.

Linda is survived by her husband, Mark Blankenship of the home. Sons: Marlin Blankenship of Durant, Oklahoma and Shawn Blankenship and wife Stephanie of Bells, Texas. Granddaughters: Kylie Blankenship and Addison Blankenship of Bells, Texas. Brother, Larry Moore and wife Rayla of Bokchito, Oklahoma. Also, many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2:00 pm, on Monday, January 21, 2019 at New Life Assembly of God church in Calera, Oklahoma with Bro. Anthony Williams officiating. Graveside internment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery in Calera, Oklahoma. Serving as pallbearers; Tim Dunn, Lynn Dillingham, David Short, Brad Blankenship, James Heil, and Kelly Leewright. Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home in Durant, Oklahoma.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Princeton, Collin Co., TX, Obituary

http://www.eastgatefuneralhome.com/obitlink?obit_id=2080580

Tommy Joe Blankenship of Princeton, Texas passed away at home on March 8, 2018. He was born June 23, 1956 in McKinney, Texas to Archie and Doris (Williams) Blankenship.

Tommy was a member of First Baptist Church of Princeton. He spent his free time always finding ways of tinkering around, whether it be working on lawnmowers, model cars, or just around the yard. He also very much enjoyed going fishing.

Tommy married Cindy Newell on April 14, 1994, and was a lifelong resident of Princeton where he worked in security.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents as well as a brother, Ricky Lynn Blankenship.

Tommy is survived by his wife Cindy, a brother; Frankie C. Blankenship, a niece; Tawnya Strawn (Max), a nephew; Frankie Lee Blankenship (Misty), a great-nephew; Derek, great-nieces; Chrissy and Katelynn, one great-great-nephew; Nolan, as well as numerous cousins.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Comal

+2019, New Braunfels, Comal Co., TX, Obituary

New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung (TX) - June 23, 2019

Joyce W. Webb, age 100, of New Braunfels, TX, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2019. She was born on January 31, 1919 in Poteet, Texas to Jesse and Dolle (Almeda) Pratt.

Joyce is preceded in death by her loving husband Hal Webb, her parents, her brothers, Joe Pratt and wife Annette and Winston Pratt and wife Agnes, sisters, Geraldine Henneke and husband Edward and Nell Conner and husband Tom and sister Edith Mabel Blankenship.

Survivors include nephews, Donald Blankenship and wife Juanita, Curtis L. Blankenship, Sr., Larry Blankenship, Sr. and wife Donna; niece, Lauren Box and husband Jim; nephew, Jerry Blankenship and wife Betty, their granddaughter, Balley. Numerous grand-nieces and grand-nephews and great grand nieces and nephews and other loving family members and friends.

A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, New Braunfels, Comal Co., TX, Obituary

New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung (TX) - November 7, 2019

James Ronald Evans (Ron), entered into his eternal rest on November 5, 2019, at the age of 75. A long-time resident of New Braunfels, Texas, Ron was born in Fort Worth, Texas on December 2, 1943. He was the oldest of three boys born to the late C. J. and Ruth Evans.

On September 26, 1970, he married the love of his life, Joyce Evans. They were married in Uvalde, Texas, and blessed with three daughters. Ron and Joyce recently celebrated 49 years together.

Ron enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after graduating from Paschal High School. He served as an instructor and an intelligence officer for 22 years. He was very proud of serving in Germany, Hawaii, North Dakota, San Antonio, and many other short term duty locations. He retired from the Air Force and became a Loss Prevention Specialist for Wal-Mart. He was a member of many clubs and organizations; the American Legion, the Elks Lodge, the German American Society, which he was proud to be president of for several years, and an active member of Grace Lutheran Church in San Marcos.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Evans; daughter and son-in-law Kim and Alan Silva, daughter and son-in-law Heather and Mark Toye, daughter and son-in-law Nicole and Johnny Garcia; grandchildren Mason, Evan and Brittney Blankenship, Teal and John Albert; Brandt, Sadie, Tucker and Makensie Addington; Annika, Soren and Corry Garcia; great-grandchildren Kimber and Callen Albert and Presley Addington; and brothers Mike and Greg Evans. He will also be missed by his beloved dog, Remmy.

A short service beginning at 1:00 pm, on Sunday, November 10, at Grace Lutheran Church (1250 Belvin) in San Marcos, Texas. The graveside service is following at Comal Cemetery, 301 Peace Avenue in New Braunfels.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Cooke

+2018, Callisburg, Cooke Co., TX, Obituary

Gainesville Daily Register (TX) - November 7, 2018

Dale Wayne Westbrook, 66, of Callisburg, passed away November 5, 2018 in Gainesville. He was born July 3, 1952 in Gainesville to Kenneth Ray and Martha Joyce (Blankenship) Westbrook.

Dale graduated from Callisburg High School and received his Associate's Degree from North Central Texas College. Mr. Westbrook married Sherry D. Lemons on October 7, 1988 in Gainesville. He enjoyed music, movies, and carpentry.

Mr. Westbrook was preceded in death by: his father; brother Randy Westbrook; and mother-in-law Tena Lemons.

Survivors include: wife Sherry D. Westbrook of Callisburg; daughter Kelli Westbrook of Gainesville; son Chad Simpson and wife Lynzee of Gainesville; grandchildren: Colton, Madison, and Maycee; mother Martha Fitzhugh of Callisburg; sister Teena Westbrook of Callisburg; sister Kathy Shugart and husband Tucker of Callisburg; brother Steve Westbrook and wife Billie Jo of Callisburg; father-in-law Bobby Lemons of Gainesville; brother-in-law Ronnie Lemons of Gainesville; sister-in-law Michele Scheibel and husband Tracy of Southlake; and numerous beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2:00 pm on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at Callisburg Church of Christ with Ben Willingham officiating.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Callisburg, Cooke Co., TX, Obituary

Gainesville Daily Register (TX) - February 12, 2019

Martha Joyce (Blankenship) Westbrook Simpson, 83, of Callisburg, passed away February 9, 2019 in Callisburg. She was born December 7, 1935 at home in Cooke County to Leonard and Pauline (Cole) Blankenship and raised in Callisburg.

Martha was a Licensed Vocational Nurse for more than 30 years, retiring from Gainesville Memorial Hospital. She was a dedicated member of Jehovah's Witnesses. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, crocheting, and dancing.

Martha was preceded in death by: her parents; sister Mary Jo Blankenship; brother Leonard Ray Blankenship; son Dale Westbrook; son Randy Westbrook; and grandson Aaron Westbrook.

Survivors include: husband Lewis Simpson; daughter Teena Westbrook of Callisburg; daughter Kathy Shugart and husband David of Callisburg son Steve Westbrook and wife Billie Jo of Callisburg; daughter-in-law Sherry Westbrook of Callisburg; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and sister Brenda Threadgill and husband Matt of Lake Kiowa.

The memorial service is scheduled for 10:00 am, on Thursday, February 14, 2019 at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Gainesville, Cooke Co., TX, Obituary

Gainesville Daily Register (TX) - April 17, 2019

Tommie Mae Skinner, 89, of Gainesville, was born on June 11, 1929 in Megargel to Thomas Walter Shelley and Clara Mae (Blankenship) Shelley. She passed away on April 15, 2019 in Denton, [Denton Co., TX].

Tommie was preceded in death by her parents; husband William Alexander Skinner; son Terry Ray Conner; and son Larry Lynn Conner.

Tommie is survived by her son Gary Joe Conner and his wife Linda of Gainesville; son Ronnie Conner of Graham; daughter Marsha Ann Homer of Gainesville; son Michael Lee Conner of Gainesville; daughter Jan Faye Cagle and her husband Phillip of Sulphur, OK; daughter Jill Kaye Bowles and her husband David of Princeton; daughter Janie Vasquez and her husband Alex of Austin; 15 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Dorothy Berryman of Kyle; and sister Robbie Keesee of Abilene.

Funeral services are set for 10 am, Thursday, April 18, 2019, at the Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home, with David Gray officiating. Burial will follow at 3 pm, in the Megargel Cemetery, in Megargel, Texas. Pallbearers will be Jody Goss, Dylan Scruggs, James Reed, David Reed, Alex Conner, and Tommy Dhane.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

1930 Census, Precinct 7, Archer Co., TX,

Shelley, Walter 30, M, TX, Head,

Shelley, Clara 30, F, TX, Wife,

Shelley, Dorthy 08, F, TX, Dau,

Shelley, Ruby Lois 05, F, TX, Dau,

Shelley, Tommie M. 00, F, TX, Dau,

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:HGLJ-SN2

2018, Mountain Springs, Cooke Co., TX, Obituary

Gainesville Daily Register (TX) - June 26, 2018

Jimmy Royce Cloer, 79, of Mountain Springs, passed away on June 25 in Whitesboro, [Grayson Co.,] TX. He was born on June 11, 1939 in Marietta, OK to Lonnie B. Cloer and Lorene (Alexander) Cloer Hite.

He was a graduate of Valley View High School in 1957. Except for a short while, Jimmy worked for himself for over 55 years as a framing contractor and general contractor in the Dallas area. He was very talented and had the honor of working on some of the largest and finest homes in Dallas, homes for ex-Dallas Cowboys players and politicians. He was one of the very best at what he did. Many of Jimmy's customers became his lifelong friends. Jimmy also loved to fish trout and deer hunt.

He lived most of his life in Mountain Springs, TX. Jimmy married Ruth Ann Morgan in 1961 and they remained married all his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; paternal grandparents Samuel Franklin Cloer and Mary Raymouth (Higgison) Cloer Henderson; and maternal grandparents Oscar Gordon and Pearl Lucille (Massey) Alexander.

Survivors are his wife Ruth Ann (Morgan) Cloer and his son Jimmy Kevin Cloer and wife Malissa Ann (Blankenship) Cloer of Wylie, TX; granddaughters Ashley Nicole Cloer of Dallas and Jordan Lindsey (Cloer) and husband Dustin Homer of Austin, TX. Jimmy is also survived by: brothers: Sam Cloer and wife Donna of Gainesville, and Bobby Cloer of Gordonville; sisters: Joann Ortez of Valley View, Perlene Newton and husband Norman of Valley View, and Kay Kerr and husband Brad of Collinsville; a dear aunt Norma Alexander of Gainesville; and many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

A Memorial Service is set for 2:00 PM on Friday, June 29, 2018 at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home in Gainesville. Interment will follow at the New Hope Cemetery in Mountain Springs.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Malissa Ann Cloer – b.26Apr1965 – Richardson, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KG64-WQJ

Relatives - Brenda Lee Blankenship, Christopher L. Blankenship, Jim R. Cloer, Jimmy Kevin Cloer, Michiel William Blankenship, Mike Blankenship, William Harold Blankenship.

+2019, Muenster, Cooke Co., TX, Obituary

Columbia Daily Tribune (MO) - February 8, 2019

Amber Elizabeth Richardson, 31, of Muenster, TX, formerly of Centralia, passed away on Friday, Feb. 1, 2019 at Medical City in Denton, [Denton Co.,] TX. She was born on May 4, 1987 in Columbia, the daughter of Mark and Rebecca (Butzin) Hunt.

Amber graduated in 2005 from Centralia High School and then joined the US Air Force. Amber was married on Oct. 1, 2010 in Linden, TX to Patrick Richardson. She obtained her Bachelor's Degree from Park University in 2018 and was currently working for Callisburg School District in Callisburg, TX as an administrative assistance.

Amber was preceded in death by her grandparents, William & Claudia Butzin; grandfather, Joe Hunt; and two uncles, Billy Butzin and Kent Butzin.

Survivors include her husband, Patrick Richardson of the home; two children, Tyler Richardson and Chloe Richardson of Muenster, TX; her parents, Mark and Becky Hunt of Centralia; one brother, Dustin Hunt of Hallsville; one sister, Heather Hunt Blankenship (Jesse) of Centralia; grandmother, Phyllis Hunt of Rocheport; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Kent and Sherri Ness of Atlanta, TX; uncle and aunt, Mike Kara Hunt of Rocheport; and several uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm, Sunday, Feb. 10, at the Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia, with Elder Allen Garrett officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery on Monday, Feb. 11, at 10:00 am, with full military honors.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Jesse Dwayne Blankenship – b.23Aug1984 - Centralia, MO:

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJGW-HNGF

Relatives: Brandi N. Blankenship, Hank R. Blankenship, Jeffrey Hank Blankenship, La Blankenship, Laquita Ann Blankenship.

Jeffrey Hank Blankenship – b.11Sep1965 - Centralia, MO:

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJGW-HNG2

Relatives: Hank R. Blankenship, Jesse Dwayne Blankenship, La Blankenship, Laquita Ann Blankenship.

Coryell

+2018, Gatesville, Coryell Co., TX, Obituary

Waco Tribune-Herald (TX) - March 22, 2018

Billy Ray Wright, age 83, of Gatesville, passed away Tuesday, March 20, 2018. Billy was born, February 24, 1935, in Coryell County, Texas, to Vernon Wright and Nannie Clara Blankenship Wright.

He attended school in White Hall and Pearl, graduating from Pearl High School in 1953. He married Minnie Sue Sydow on February 25, 1956. He worked as a custom farmer, the Texas Highway Dept., and various other jobs throughout the years. Billy had a passion for playing dominoes and watching any Baylor sport. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Gatesville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon Wright and Nannie Clara Durham; sister, Patsy Mariott; and grandson, Matthew Daniel Wright.

Billy is survived by his wife of 62 years, Minnie Wright; daughter, Judy Sue Hill and husband, David of Robinson; son, Danny Ray Wright and wife, Monica of Waco; brother, Teddy Joe Wright of Gatesville; granddaughters, Natalie Farst and husband, Travis of Plano, Krystal Canales and husband, Kyle of Florence, Alabama, Kacie Jumper and husband, Kory of Temple; grandson, Kenneth Hill and wife, Keri of North Richland Hills; great-granddaughter, Shiloh Jumper; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 24, 2018 at Scott's Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Hemmeline Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Denton

+2019, Denton, Denton Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - April 13, 2019

Thomas Sill was born to Henry Washington Still and Rubye Edith Still in 1930.

Tom grew up in Tom Bean with his parents and his sister Lee Greig and his brother Daniel Eugene Still. He joined our family 35 years ago as a husband, step-father and step-grandfather. With his kindness, humor, and easy going manner he quickly made himself at home and made himself a part of our family. Though we will miss him greatly, we feel fortunate to have had him in our lives.

He graduated Tom Bean High School in 1950, then went on to study Biology at East Texas State University. After graduation, he joined the Air Force. He served abroad, primarily in West Germany, where he studied economics at Heidelberg University through the GI Bill. To say that Tom forged his own career path would be an understatement, but one thing was always certain, whether he was working as a salesman in the Southwest, digging up frozen ground in Canada, working on cryptography assignments at Ramstein Air Force Base, planning water treatment facilities, or working on an offshore oil rig, he had lots of stories about his work. None of those stories ended with '…and everything went the way it was supposed to!'

Tom married Alma Lois Still in 1984. Together, Tom and Lois enjoyed traveling, spending time outdoors, and talking about what else there was to eat. Tom enjoyed talking, football, talking about football, and snacking from the end of one meal until the beginning of the next meal.

Both his parents and his brother and sister preceded Tom in death. He was also preceded in death by his step-sons, Red Blankenship and David Blankenship and his son-in-law, David Isaacs.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Still; step-daughter Ann Isaacs; step-son Albert Blankenship and daughter-in-law Robin Lang Blankenship; daughter-in-law, Marion Campion Bell and her husband Lance Bell; and his son Kirby Still and his family. He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Family Night will be held at Waldo Funeral Home 6 to 8 pm, Friday, April 12, 2019, followed by a graveside service at Cedarlawn in Sherman at 1 pm on Saturday.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Denton, Denton Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - November 21, 2019

Alma Lois Still of Denton, TX, May 08, 1932 - November 19, 2019. She was born May 5, 1932 in Van Alstyne, Texas.

Lois married Robert Boyd Blankenship in Abernathy Texas. They retired from the Air Force and returned to North Texas. She enjoyed her family, friends, knitting, quilting, cooking, and gardening.

Preceded in death by her parents Mary Myrtle and Albert Warden and her two sons Red and David Blankenship and all her siblings.

Her surviving children are Ann Isaacs and Albert Blankenship. Her grandchildren are Matthew, Andrew and Sara Blankenship, John, Dustin and Brad Isaacs, Robert Lee and Lea Celeste Blankenship. Her great-grandchildren are Brooklyn and Preston Isaacs, Lyndee Woodall, Kayla, and Robert Gage Blankenship and Shelby Lynn.

Services will be held 1:30 pm, Saturday, November 23, 2019, at the Chapel on the Hill in Cedarlawn Memorial Park in Sherman. Waldo Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, Lewisville, Denton Co., TX, Obituary

The Oklahoman, (Oklahoma City, OK) - March 25, 2019

Shirley (Ann) Rooks-Murphy, age 80, former resident of Edmond, OK, passed away on March 19, 2019, in Lewisville, TX. Shirley was born June 4, 1938, in Durant, OK to E. Franklin Shoemake and Vivian (Moore) Shoemake.

She grew up in Oklahoma City and attended Roosevelt Junior High and Central High School, where she made many lifelong friends. Prior to marriage, Shirley worked briefly for Southwestern Bell, the National Guard Armory, and retired after 14 years at Integris Baptist Medical Center. She volunteered her time for many years with the Baptist Auxiliary, was a longtime member of Northwest Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, and in her later years, Chisholm Creek Baptist Church in Edmond.

Shirley was preceded in death by her late husbands: William "Bill" Rooks, in 1997; John "William" Yerby, in 1995; and most recently, Robert "Tony" Murphy, in 2016.

Shirley is survived by her four children, Suzanne Yerby Thole (David), John Scott Yerby, Chas Rooks (Lisa), and Allison Rooks Blankenship (Brad); seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; a special aunt, Sue C. Boyd, of Oak Grove, MO; and numerous cousins.

Memorial services will be held on Monday, April 1 at 11 am, at Chisholm Creek Baptist Church in Edmond, OK.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Providence Village, Denton Co., TX, Funeral

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - November 15, 2018

Tommy Walter Blankenship, 72, of Providence Village, died Tuesday, November 13, 2018, in Dallas, [Dallas Co., TX].

Memorial Services will be held 2 pm, Monday, at Waldo Funeral Chapel in Sherman.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

El Paso

2018, El Paso, El Paso Co., TX, Obituary

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/elpasotimes/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=187884147

Published in El Paso Times from Jan. 17 to Jan. 24, 2018

Manuel "Manny" Esqueda born Feb 24, 1945 to Rebecca and Jose Esqueda, passed away Jan 14, 2018.

Manny graduated Bel Air HS 1964, attended Texas Western College 1964-1966. He was an MP in the US Army from 1966-1968 stationed in Badenerhof Kaserne, Heilbronn, Germany.

He is preceded in death by his mother Rebecca,

He is survived by his father Jose, his wife Mary Lou, daughter Mandy Lisa her husband Jaime and his grandson Xavier. Also survived by his sisters and brother Cecilia Gonzalez (Narciso), Angelica Gonzalez (Ruben), Javier (Lupe), his mother-in-law Consuelo Hernandez, and sisters and brother in law, Connie Hernandez (Rene+) Yolie Lounsberry (Robert+), Ricky Hernandez, Melanie Escobedo(Raul+). Survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank all the family and friends who visited and spent time by his side. A very especially thank you to Raquel Martinez for offering support to his wife, Mary Lou, during this time. The family would also like to express how special it was that Manny's father who he called "Jefe" was with him everyday.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions In Manny's name to Rocky Steady Boxing 10950 Pelican Dr. Ste. B-2, El Paso TX 79935. Visitation will be January 18 from 5-9pm at Hillcrest Funeral Home-Carolina with a Vigil at 7pm.

Funeral mass will be January 19 at 9:45am at Cristo Rey Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.

Not part of the Blankenship family, I served with Manny in Germany in the 1960’s, JIM

Ellis

+2018, Ennis, Ellis Co., TX, Obituary

The Waxahachie Daily Light, (TX) - April 10, 2018

Joseph J. Slovacek passed away at the age of 89 in Dallas, Texas on Monday, April 2, 2018. He was born on October 3, 1928 in Bardwell, Texas to Louis C. and Frances (Belha) Slovacek.

Joseph grew up in the Ennis Area and attended Palmer schools. He went to Arlington State College for four years where he earned a certificate in engineering. On September 27, 1958 he married Charlyne Agnes Spaniel and they made their home in Dallas for seven years before moving back to the farm near Ennis. He served his country proudly in the United States Army serving in Okinawa and was honorably discharged with the rank of Staff Sergeant.

He worked for LTV for seventeen years before retiring to the farm where he loved spending time working the land and ranching. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and formerly a member of St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, SPJST, American Legion, VFW, and KJT. He served as precinct 122 Election Judge for many years. He was also elected to serve as the Farm Service Agency of Ellis County committee Representative.

He is preceded in death by his parents, son, David Slovacek; brother, Louis Slovacek and sisters: Emily Marusak and Georgie Kozlovsky.

He is survived by his wife, Charlyne Slovacek; son, Ronald Slovacek and wife, Barbara; daughters: Donna Blankenship and husband, Cord, and Yvonne Jander and husband, Christopher; grandchildren: Christy Meaney, Katy Blankenship, Sarah Slovacek, Jason Jander, Jacob Jander, Adam Miller, Lindsay Whitman and Shelly Miller; four great-grandchildren; two brothers: Albin Slovacek and wife, Lillian and John Slovacek and wife, Anna; two sisters: Mary Foitek and husband Jerry and Margaret Kozlovsky and husband, Charles; sister-in-law, Delphie Slovacek along with a host of extended family and friends.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held on Friday, April 6, 2018 at 10 a.m. in the St John Nepomucene Catholic Church of Ennis with Father John Dick as celebrant. Interment will follow in St Joseph Cemetery under the direction of J. E. Keever Mortuary, Inc.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Fannin

2018, Bonham, Fannin Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - December 11, 2018

Nancy Fern Duncan, 88 of Bonham passed away on Saturday, December 8, 2018. She was born June 14, 1930 in Abilene to Charles Harkey and Migg Thornton Harkey.

Nancy married Richard Max Duncan on September 23, 1950. Her proudest accomplishment was obtaining her teaching certificate. She touched many lives in both San Antonio ISD, Richardson ISD and Austin ISD. She received her undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University and her Masters of Education from East Texas State Teacher's College (Texas A&M-Commerce).

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband Richard Max Duncan; parents, Charles Harkey & Migg Thornton Blankenship; sister, Annadell Turnbull; and brother-in-law, Marshall Turnbull.

Surviving are her daughter, Deborah Mullenix and husband Jackie of Bonham; two sons, Richard Max Duncan, II and wife Karen of Plano and Charles Duncan of Bastrop, TX; three grandchildren, Jeffrey Mullenix, Max Duncan and Charley Duncan; three great-grandchildren, Ehren Mullenix, Charlie Duncan, Jr and Tynlee Duncan; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Cremation arrangements under the care and direction of Wise Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Bonham, Fannin Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - October 24, 2019

Annie Pearl Davis, 84 [1935], of Bonham, died Saturday, October 19, 2019 at her residence in Bonham.

She is survived by her daughters, Virginia Jeter of Bonham, Belinda Blankenship of Dodd City, Vickey Haney of Denison, and Rhonda Garland of Sherman; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 3 pm, Friday, at Brown Cemetery. Pastor Sammy Stephenson will officiate. Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home in Bonham.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Fort Bend

2019, Missouri City, Fort Bend Co., TX, Obituary

Houston Chronicle (TX) - June 18, 2019

Coby Charles Hesse passed away in Missouri City, Texas on June 13, 2019, at the age of 72. Coby was born on April 29, 1947 in Little Rock, Arkansas, raised by his grandmother, Lucy Blankenship.

He met his high school sweetheart, Penny, before deploying for United States Army service in Vietnam. Upon his return they married and he graduated from ASTC in Conway, Arkansas with a degree in Accounting and Finance. Coby moved to Houston to begin his career with Price Waterhouse shortly after graduation. He later became a partner with Touche Ross and spent the majority of his career with the Coastal Corporation where he retired in 2001 as the company's Senior Executive Vice President Finance and Administration. He served on numerous boards of directors during his career and post retirement.

His passion for golf, boats, fishing and the outdoors were evident in all aspects of his life He loved spending time with friends and had great pride in his family and grandchildren's accomplishments.

He is preceded in death by his parents and grandmother, Lucy.

Coby is survived by his wife of 50 years, Penny, his daughter Cynthia Gratzer and her husband Tim Gratzer; and grandsons, Coby and Garek Gratzer.

A memorial service will be held this Thursday, June 20, 2019, at 2 pm, at The Settegast-Kopf Co. @ Sugar Creek in Sugar Land.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Sugar Land, Fort Bend Co., TX, Obituary

May 30, 1960 - November 12, 2019

Glen Earl Hendrix, 59, passed away Tuesday, November 12, 2019, at his home in Sugar Land, TX. He was born May 30, 1960, the son of Carol Henry and Mildred (Richter) Hendrix in Bryan, TX.

Glen was baptized and confirmed in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in College Station, TX and graduated Bryan High School in 1978. While in high school, Glen worked at the local Dairy Queen near Bryan High School and Gibsons Hardware at Redmond Terrace in College Station. After graduation, Glen pursued an electronics certification and degree from the Electronic Systems Engineering Technology Program at Texas A&M University in 1980. Upon completing his degree, he moved to Houston, TX and began his career with Geosource as a technician, working on and testing seismic equipment for fourteen years. He continued his career at Input-Output, Inc. as a manufacturing manager followed by time served at Texas Instruments. For the past eleven years, Glen had worked at Geospace, Inc. in Houston, TX. Over his work tenure, he developed many close friendships with his associates. Glen was a person of many interests during his life. He was known as an avid golfer, bowler, jet skier, and also enjoyed deep-sea fishing and mountain biking. To many that knew him well, he enjoyed his gun collection and had a passion for preparing and smoking barbecue and was very well known for his participation in annual chili cook-offs.

Glen also enjoyed multiple trips to Las Vegas with friends for celebrations and attended various musical concerts with his favorite artists including the The Eagles, Steve Miller Band, Motley Crue, and Dave Matthews Band, in addition to many other classic rock artists. Glen enjoyed regularly attending games for his Houston teams, the Texans and The Aeros Hockey team. Glen had an extensive movie collection and was a huge fan of old western movies, especially John Wayne classics. He enjoyed time with his family.

Glen is preceded in death by his parents, Carol and Mildred Hendrix.

He leaves to cherish in his memory his brother, David Hendrix of Missouri City, TX; sister, Cheri Hendrix Blankenship and husband Dean of Missouri City, TX; his adoring nieces and nephews, Chloe Grace Blankenship, Alec Dean Blankenship, and Breck Ann Blankenship; his close and dear colleagues from his work family.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am, Friday, November 22, 2019, at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home in Stafford, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Galveston

2019, Dickinson, Galveston Co., TX, Obituary

The Galveston County Daily News, (TX) - August 9, 2019

Leroy James "Rusty" Schaper, 85, passed away Thursday afternoon, August 8, at his home in Dickinson. He was surrounded by his wife and four children, who cared for him until the end, and by other family members who loved him.

Rusty was the youngest and last surviving sibling of 13 Schaper brothers and sisters who for many years operated the Schaper Dairy on the west end of Galveston Island. In 1975, Rusty purchased Texas City Feed and Supply, which the family still operates.

Early Life: Rusty was born on the island at St. Mary's Hospital on Sept. 20, 1933. He and several generations of Schapers worked in the dairy, a business founded after his grandfather, August Charles Schaper, immigrated from Hamburg, Germany, in 1872. Rusty was the captain of the Ball High School football team, once leading the team to score three touchdowns in 90 seconds.

Rusty was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was deployed from 1953 to 1955, serving in Germany after the Second World War as a member of a guided missile battalion. Rusty continued playing football during his service in the Army until a broken leg sidelined his playing career. He was known for his navigational skills during his time overseas, where he was referred to by his fellow soldiers as a leader of men.

On March 27, 1954, he married his high school sweetheart and the mother of his four children, Jane Angelo of Knippa, Texas.

Dairy Farming & The Feed Store: Upon returning from his military deployment, Rusty first worked at the dairy. He later purchased a local business, Texas City Feed & Supply in 1975, operating the business with the support of his wife and family for over 44 years until his death. Family members continue to operate that business. The dairy closed down in 1978.

He was active in his community through involvement with the Tucker Lodge 297 Masons and coached little league baseball. He was a supporter of the Galveston County Fair & Rodeo through his affiliation with the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. Rusty was a former board member of the Bank of the West, which later became Texas First Bank.

Later Years: Rusty was an avid fan of Astros baseball, watching the games religiously. He was an active livestock owner and passionate rancher. He was especially fond of circus peanuts and jelly beans. He was always an advocate for small business, often refusing to patronize big-box chain stores while famously never entering a WalMart store.

In his later years (as well as his early and middle years), Rusty could always be found with his friends and family, pouring himself a Jack Daniels toddy with just a splash of water at around five o'clock. His family compound in Dickinson was known as Five O'Clock Somewhere.

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents August H. and Elizabeth Schaper; sisters and brothers, Helen Walker (Milton), A.C. Schaper (Norma), Harold Schaper (Olga), Ethel Mae Schaper, Mabel Schultze (Henry), Louis Schaper (Marguerite), Robert Schaper (Lillian), Annabelle Swygert (Tom), Victor Schaper, Theodore "Buck" Schaper, Catherine Siefkes (Paul) and Ray Schaper (Jane).

He is survived by Jane Angelo Schaper, his beloved wife, high school sweetheart and love of his life for over 65 years. He is also survived by daughter Sherry L. Schaper, sons Leroy James "L.J." Schaper, Jr. and wife Laurie, Gary G. Schaper and wife Rita and daughter Joni J. Schirmer, Kevin Schirmer, grandchildren Kelsea Vernon and husband Shaun, Andrew Schaper, Kyle Schaper and wife Caitlin, Whitney Schaper and Kailea Blankenship and husband Seth. Other survivors include Waunita Schaper, Jeanne Huggins, Lamar Angelo (Judy), Jack Angelo (Sonja) and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

The funeral service will be at 10:00 am, Monday, August 12, 2019, at the Crowder Funeral Home, 851 FM 517 West in Dickinson ,with burial to follow in Galveston Memorial Park Cemetery in Hitchcock. Officiating at the services will be "The Right Reverend" Tom Lera (as Rusty called him), a dear family friend. Pallbearers will be Andrew Schaper, Kyle Schaper, Shaun Vernon, Seth Blankenship, Kevin Schirmer and Joe Betancourt. Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Lera and Donald C. "Frog" Smith.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Obituary

The Galveston County Daily News, (TX) - April 23, 2019

Elizabeth Patricia (Betty Pat) Curran, 94, died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Galveston, Texas on April 18, 2019. Betty Pat was born on the island (a proud BOI) on March 17, 1925, daughter of Syvert B. Christensen, Sr. and Ellen (Nell) Lidstone Christensen.

Betty Pat remained a widow, caring for her five children. She was very proud of her work as a Deputy Clerk in the Galveston County Clerk Office, Secretary at O'Connell Business Office, and The University of Texas Medical Branch (Moody State School).

Betty Pat is preceded in death by her husband, Bernard A, Curran, Sr. (46 yrs. of age); her parents; her two sisters, Mary Jane Christensen and Helen (Nell) Naschke; and her two brothers, Syvert B. Christensen, Jr. and John L. Christensen.

She is survived by her children: daughters, Mary Frances Settles (Michael), Ellen P. Sanderson (David), and Rita Lu Whiteman (Paul); sons, Bernard A. Curran, Jr., (Catherine) and Christopher A. Curran (Georgette). Survivors include grandchildren and their families: Paige Strode, (Marc), children, Curran, Maverick, Raleigh and Ben; Amy Dodge, (Ryan), child, Bryce; Raymond B. Curran; Corey D. Sanderson, (Angela), sons Preston Blankenship and Zachary Sanderson; Brandi Sanderson, son, Chase Givens; Bryan S. Curran, (Mia); and Jack A. Curran; Drake C. Whiteman, and Gage C. Whiteman; Sabrina E. Curran and Christopher M. Curran. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Teresa Sudela Christensen and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral mass will begin at 10:00 am, at St. Patrick Church, 3424 Ave K, in Galveston on Thursday, April 25, 2019. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 2506 65th Street, Galveston. Pallbearers will be Raymond B. Curran, Bryan S. Curran, Jack A. Curran, Corey D. Sanderson, Drake C. Whiteman and Gage C. Whiteman. Honorary pallbearers are sons- in-law Thomas Michael Settles, Paul Whiteman, David Sanderson, and her granddaughters Paige Strode, Amy Dodge and Brandi Sanderson.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Santa Fe, Galveston Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.galvnews.com/obituaries/article_371c84dd-5942-5703-90d9-4960e4d71bfc.html?block_id=531951

Iris Lorraine Pitre Blankenship, 83, of Santa Fe passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2019. She was born a BOI on December 19, 1936 to Jean and Beatrice Pitre.

Iris attended Ball High School, graduating in 1955. She was a very talented twirler for the Ball High Tornettes. After high school, Iris met Jack Blankenship, dated for three months, married on June 29, 1956. Iris worked for Texas City National Bank, and then worked for the Falstaff Brewery in Galveston. Continuing her education, she received her LVN associates degree in 1979 from College of the Mainland Nursing School and started her career at Galveston County Memorial, now Mainland Center Hospital. Iris retired in 2009 after 30 years of service, receiving many accolades and recognition awards. Iris was a friend to all who met her, and will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Iris was preceded in death by her parents, Beatrice A. and Jean C. Pitre; her brother, George Pitre; sister-in-law, Marilyn Sue Sexton and her son, Bobby Jack Blankenship.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 63 years, Jack W. Blankenship; son, Bruce Blankenship (Sandy); daughter, Bea Ann Blankenship West (Bill); her grandchildren: Dwayne Blankenship (Kandis), Darbi Blankenship Harris (Matt), Bobby Blankenship, Melissa West Smith (Curtis), Amber West, her nine great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Fuchsia Nelson (Howard), and Martha Spencer; and Honorary for Life Sister, Joan Norris, numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces.

Memorial Service will be at 11:00 am, on Saturday, December 28, 2019, at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in La Marque with Father Bob Moore officiating. Honorary Pallbearers are David Norris, Gil O’Balle, Marcus Junemann, Chris Elliott, Joel Villareal, Bill Vandre, and Harry Guss.

+2018, Texas City, Galveston Co., TX, Obituary

The Galveston County Daily News, (TX) - October 13, 2018

Clifford James Blankenship, 71, of Texas City passed away Thursday, October 11, 2018 at his residence. He was born September 24, 1947 in Smithville, Texas.

Clifford was a graduate of Texas City High School Class of 1966. He was a Charter member of St. John's United Methodist Church. Clifford served two tours in Vietnam with the US Navy on the USS Canberra.

Survivors include parents, James and Dorothy Blankenship; sons, Troy James Blankenship and wife Stacy, and Bradley Daniel Blankenship; grandchildren, Tyler James Blankenship, Trevor Daniel Blankenship and Sage Marie Blankenship, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 7:00 pm, Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at Emken-Linton Funeral Home. Graveside Services will be 10:45 am, Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at Houston National Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

James Edward Blankenship – b.28Sep1928 – Angleton, TX:

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KPJ2-R87

Relatives - Bradley D. Blankenship, Bradley Blankenship, Clifford J. Blankenship, Dorothy Gosch Blankenship, Dorothy J. Blankenship, Jas E. Blankenship, Troy James Blankenship.

Gillespie

+2018, Fredericksburg, Gillespie Co., TX, Obituary

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal (TX) - July 18, 2018

Mrs. Paul L. Payne nee Jimmie Jean Goodloe of Fredericksburg, Texas, formerly of Lubbock, Texas passed away in Fredericksburg, on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at the age of 91 years. She was born July 29, 1926 in Lubbock, Texas, the daughter of Granville Eagleton Goodloe & Lera Lavonia Norred Goodloe.

Preceded in death by her parents, husband Paul Lewis Payne, Jr., five sisters, two brothers, Nell Goodloe; Jack Newton Goodloe; Granville Robert Goodloe, Mary Rebecca Fairly; Miriam Rose Blankenship; Barbara Charles Adams; and Jo Bess Sherwell.

Mrs. Payne is survived by a daughter & spouse, Angela & Dr. Matthew J. Hoermann of Fredericksburg, grandchildren & spouses, Jessica & Taylor Ory; Jacob & Kaitlin Hoermann; Jamie Hoermann; Jonathan Hoermann; Joshua Hoermann and great grandson, Jason William Ory.

Graveside services and interment will be held on Monday morning at 10:00 A.M. in the Lubbock City Cemetery in Lubbock. Memorial services will follow Monday morning at 11:00 A.M. in the First Christian Church, at 2323 Broadway in Lubbock.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Grayson

+2018, Denison, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorialcom/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Virginia-Blankenship&lc=1759&pid=187992502&mid=7741089

Virginia Lee Hair Blankenship of Denison passed away January 26, 2018. She was born December 30, 1929 in Altus, Oklahoma,

She was married for 67 years to Dr. William Lee Blankenship. She was the mother of six children, and was a housewife until her children were grown, then worked for 10 years in the Denison High School Library. She was a member of Waples Memorial Methodist Church.

She is survived by a sister, brother, five children, ten grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, on Wednesday 31 Jan 2018 at Waples Memorial Methodist Church in Denison.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Denison, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=Mary-Blankenship&lc=1759&pid=188050351&mid=7747937

Mary Kay Blankenship, aged 61, passed away suddenly at her home on Tuesday, January 30, 2018.

Mary Kay Blankenship attended public school in Pottsboro, graduated college from UNT and retired from a long, fulfilling career as a middle and high school teacher. Kay, as most knew her, was known not only for her God-given talent for teaching but also for her kind and generous soul. The numerous people that she welcomed into her life felt privileged, and very much loved and honored to be counted among her friends and adopted family. Countless hours were spent by Kay mentoring, helping and guiding her students over the decades. The lives of the youth that she touched spanned from Houston to Sherman, Tom Bean, Denison and beyond. Many a student owes a great measure of their success to the time and effort that was happily and selflessly given by Kay Blankenship. Her unwavering devotion and love also extended to her friends. Kay was always by their sides through illnesses, difficult times and losses. No one ever felt alone or forgotten, with Kay in their lives.

Kay was undoubtedly loyal and devoted to her family, and this was quite clearly evident in how she selflessly and lovingly cared for her siblings and parents. When her parents grew older and needed help, she immediately and without question uprooted her life in Houston, where she was teaching and moved back home to Denison to assist and care for them. Upon the passing of her father in 2002, Kay ran the family farm singlehandedly, right up to her death. After both of her parents had passed away, she looked after her little sister Linda who was in failing health, until her passing a few years later. Her devotion also extended to her 2 older brothers, who she loved unconditionally. She particularly looked up to, admired and eagerly sought the advice of her closest brother, Brad. Everyone knew without a doubt just how proud Kay was of her big brother Brad.

After taking over the management of The Blankenship Farm, Kay worked tirelessly with the humane society and opened the farm to recue animals, including livestock. Kay both lovingly cared for and nurtured the neglected, abused animals, giving them a safe, loving and secure home where they could heal and thrive. During this period, she was quite active in the community, volunteering her time with many non-profit organizations and local museums, as well as continuing to mentor and guide many youths.

Mary Kay Blankenship is proceeded in death by her parents, David and Wanda Blankenship, little sister Linda Blankenship and great-nephew Jeremiah David Martinez.

She is survived by her older brothers David and Brad Blankenship, her niece Audrey Martinez and her 7 great-nieces and nephews: Lauren, Jonathan, Wanda, Sarah, Rachel, Joshua and Jacob Martinez.

A memorial service will be held in her honor at the First Christian Church, Disciples of Christ in Denison, TX this Saturday, February 10th at 2pm.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Denison, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/denison-tx/teddy-blankenship-7813422

Teddy Norman Blankenship Sr., age 84, of Denison, Texas passed away on Wednesday April 4, 2018. Teddy was born Monday December 4, 1933 in Denison, TX to Minnie Mae (Smith) Blankenship and Oscar Glenn Blankenship.

Teddy served his country during the Korean Conflict in the U.S. Navy, was

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2018, Denison, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - May 27, 2018

Dolly Doris Massie, 68, slipped peacefully into the arms of Jesus Friday, May 25, 2018 at her home in Denison. She was born October, 22, 1949 in Kemp, Oklahoma the daughter of Oran and Pansy (Williford) Peebles.

Mrs. Massie was married to Glenn Massie. She enjoyed crocheting, the outdoors, gardening and spending time with her family. Dolly worked for Sonoco and later retired from Fisher Control. She loved the Lord and was a member of Hendrix Baptist Church. Dolly was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Mrs. Massie was preceded in death by her parents, Oran and Pansy Peebles, sisters, Jewel Underwood, Meda Peebles, Virginia Farar, Barbara Doty and Bertha Hudgins, brothers, Jimmy, Richard, Carol, Harold, Don and Glenn Peebles.

Mrs. Massie leaves behind her beloved family, husband, Glenn Massie, sons, Tony Hudgins and wife, Kim, Cody Hudgins and wife, Megan, daughters, Vicki Blankenship and husband, John and Kristi Simpson, grandchildren, Randi Hudgins, Ryan Hudgins, Teagen Hudgins, Ty Blankenship , Alec Blankenship , Jordan Simpson, Casey Simpson and Kylie Haines, sister, Betty Brinkley Snow, brothers, W. T. Peebles, James Peebles, William Peebles, and Billy Brinkley; sisters-in-law, Fran Hartline, Carol Peebles, Ann Meade, Patsy Moody, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at Hendrix Baptist Church with interment following at Fairview Cemetery in Denison.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Denison, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - August 30, 2019

Judy Gail Blankenship, 63, of Denison, died Tuesday, August 27, 2019 at Medical City in Dallas, [Dallas Co., TX].

She is survived by her husband, Charley Blankenship of Denison; sons, Keith Blankenship of Denison, Andy Blankenship of Tulsa; brother, Eddie Thompson; and three grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 10 am, Friday at Fisher Funeral Home Chapel in Denison. Pastor Steve Rice will officiate. Interment will follow at West hill Cemetery in Sherman.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Howe, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Published in The Herald Democrat on Jan. 28, 2018

My daddy, John Edward Blankenship, 64, of Howe, TX left this earthly life on Thursday, January 25th, 2018 at Wilson N. Jones Medical Center, [Sherman, Grayson Co., TX]. He was born on July 17, 1953 in Little Rock, AR to Bill and Doris Blankenship.

John graduated from J. J Pearce High School in 1972. Upon graduation, he served in the United States Air Force. After his honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1980, John worked for the phone company GTE which changed names multiple times in his 37 years working for them until he retired December 29th, 2017 from Frontier Communications.

He loved spending time with family and friends and taking trips to Oklahoma to see his three grandchildren. He loved fishing and showing off his latest firearms he had acquired. He would call up his friends at all hours of the day or night to go to the casino with him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Billy Joe and Doris, and older brother, Greg Blankenship.

John is survived by his sister, Brenda Noth and husband Michael of Ranger; brother Carl Blankenship and wife Frita; daughter, Evelyn Gellenbeck and husband Kris; grandchildren, Colten, Carley, and Coy Gellenbeck; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday, January 29 at 10:00am at Waldo Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Burial Park in Oklahoma City at 3:00 pm.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Pottsboro, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - December 16, 2018

Jerry "J.C." Livingston, 78, died Sunday, December 09, 2018 at his home in Pottsboro.

He is survived by his wife, Lu Juana Blankenship Livingston; son, Michael Livingston; brother, Don Welch; sister, Dale Welch; three grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at Preston Community Church with Bill Schutz officiating. Johnson-Moore Funeral Home in Denison.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Sherman, Grayson Co., TX Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - March 30, 2018

Mr. Richard Wade "Dickie" Taylor, 69, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, March 28 at Texoma Medical Center, [Denison, Grayson Co., TX]. He was born November 18, 1948 in Sherman.

Richard served in the US Army, where he was stationed in Germany. On December 5, 1972 he and Judy Ann Blankenship were married in Durant. Mr. Taylor worked several years at Johnson & Johnson. In retirement, he enjoyed reading, gardening, and cheering for his grandkids at their sporting events.

Mr. Taylor is survived by his wife of 45 years, Judy of Sherman; two children, Russell Taylor of Sherman and Heidi Lyons and her husband Shawn of Van Alstyne; four grandchildren, Ella, Owen, Paislee, and Preslee; three sisters, Karen Tovey of Rome, GA, Terri Wrede of Howe, and Pamela Bagley; brother-in-law, Gary Blankenship and wife Pat of Denison; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Wells Taylor and Vera Belle (Hunter) Taylor; brother-in-law, Terry Blankenship; father-in-law, Buddy Blankenship; and mother-in-law, Carmen Blankenship.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, March 31 at Waldo Funeral Home. Rev. Duane Peters will officiate. Burial will follow at West Hill Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Sherman, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - April 25, 2018

Jerry Lynn Morse, 69, passed away Sunday, April 22 at Wilson N. Jones Regional Medical Center. He was born May 26, 1948 in Sherman to the late Ted and Margie (Dagnan) Morse.

Jerry earned a degree in accounting from Grayson County College and worked many years in the family business at the Luella Super T and TNT Grocery in Sherman. Jerry will be remembered for his generous spirit, always wanting to give people something. He especially enjoyed sending Christmas and birthday cards to his family and many friends.

Mr. Morse was preceded in death by his parents.

Mr. Morse is survived by his two sisters, Pat Pierce and her husband Stan and Tammy Blankenship and husband Alan; nieces, Pam Dodson and Alicia Blankenship; nephew, Steve Pierce; special aunt, Jamie Adkins and husband Junior; great niece, Shelby Dodson; great nephew, Avery Dodson; great great niece, Amy McClain; and other aunts and cousins.

A memorial service for will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, April 26 at Waldo Funeral Home. Rev. Danny Wood will officiate.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Sherman, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - March 3, 2019

Robert Duer Grigg, departed this earth on Friday March 1, 2019. He was Born February 19, 1930 in Amarillo, Texas.

The family later moved to Sherman where they resided until 1938 when they bought a small farm in the Bethany community where they still call home. He attended school in Bells and Sherman.

Bob joined the Navy in 1952 serving aboard the USS Menifee for two years before transferring to the Yokasuka Naval base in Japan until 1956 when he was honorably discharged. In 1957 Bob married Maxine L. Blankenship and moved to Oklahoma City, where by the grace of God, they where blessed with a daughter Denise Marie and a son Fred Regan. He was employed at the Cummins Sales and Service. In 1965 they moved back to Sherman. After working at car dealerships for a few years he was then employed by an Air Freight Delivery Service which they later purchased and combined with farming they operated until retirement.

Bob was proceeded in death by his parents C. R. Grigg and Dora M. Grigg and his wife of fifty years Maxine L. Grigg

Bob is survived by Denise Marie Taylor and her husband Daniel of Grapevine; her two sons: Christopher and Bryan Ketcham, Fred Regan Grigg and his wife Kathy of Sherman; their three daughters: Meagan, Desirae, and Aliyah. As well as great grand children Camden, Traeston, and Talayah.

Graveside service will be held at Cedarlawn Memorial Park in Sherman,Texas on Friday March 8th at 11:00 am, Pastor Michael Escamilla to officiate.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Sherman, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Published in The Herald Democrat on Mar. 31, 2019

Mrs. Dianna G. Blankenship, 77, passed away Friday, March 29, 2019 in Sherman. She was born April 6, 1941 in Ashland, Kentucky to the late Frank and Ida (Queen) Wilcox.

Dianna was a devoted and loving wife and mother. In 2003 she moved to Texas to be near her son and grandson. She was a member of Victory Baptist Church.

On November 25, 1960, Dianna married Ron Blankenship in Cattlettsburg, KY. They were married 46 years when Ron passed away in 2006. She was also preceded in death by her parents, husband, four brothers, and one sister.

Mrs. Blankenship is survived by one son, Ronnie Blankenship of Sherman; one grandson, Devin Blankenship of Sherman; and one brother, Bob Wilcox of Flatwoods, KY.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, April 2, 2019, in the Chapel on the Hill at Cedarlawn Memorial Park. Rev. Ken Dacus will officiate.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Sherman, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - November 16, 2019

Jack Robert Dye, or Bob as he was more affectionately known, passed from this life into the arms of his heavenly father on Wednesday, November 13, at his home. Bob was born in Denison, TX, on November 29, 1956, to Dr. Jack Dye and Sarah Blankenship Dye.

Bob was the eldest of three sons. He graduated from Denison High School in 1975, where he was a standout Yellowjacket football and tennis player. He went on to play tennis for Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, graduating with honors in 1978. Bob became a CPA in 1981 and established a successful private practice, which he operated until his death.

Bob was known as one of the kindest, most intelligent, and generous people and he made friends everywhere he went. It was impossible to walk into a restaurant or business without his being approached by someone who would pat him on the back and want to tell a story about a time they shared together. He was a good friend to all who knew him, and he prided himself on that. He loved a good adventure, and one of his greatest involved helping John Farley negotiate the return of the Quedlinburg treasures to Germany after they were stolen in WWII.

A man of many interests, Bob enjoyed sailing boats (he and his brother, Bill, would compete annually for last place in the Lakefest Regatta), playing golf, traveling, and in his younger days, running marathons. Bob excelled in just about everything he ever did (except boat racing and manual labor). Bob possessed a strong faith in God, and he will be remembered by those who knew him as someone who always wanted to help those in need.

In December of 1978, Bob married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Robbins. In 1980, they began their family when they welcomed the first of their two daughters, Jennifer, followed by Lindsey three years later. Bob's pride and joy were his two daughters, Jennifer and Lindsey, whom he never missed an opportunity to brag about. They grew up knowing their dad loved them more than anything and that he was so proud to call them his daughters.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents.

Bob is survived by his two daughters, Jennifer of McKinney, and Lindsey of Sherman; and his ex-wife and mother of his daughters, Joyce Dye Northcutt, also of Sherman; two brothers, Ben (Leigh) Dye of Denison, and Dr. Bill (Amy) Dye of Monroe, LA; Aunt Kathy Dophied of Pottsboro; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Funeral services for will be held at 11 am, on Saturday, November 16, at Hagerman Baptist Church in Sherman. Dr. Bill Dye will officiate. A private committal service will precede the funeral at Georgetown Cemetery in Pottsboro with Bentley Dye, Josh Jones, Mike Pike, Nate Pike, Joe Smith, and Robert Sylvester serving as pallbearers. American Funeral Services.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Van Alstyne, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - September 9, 2018

William "Bill" Cupit died Thursday, September 6, 2018 at his home.

He is survived by his wife, Vicky of the home; three grandchildren; brothers, Robert Cupit of Concord, California and Kenneth Cupit of Van Alstyne; and sisters, Linda Cherry of Hillsboro, Connie Blankenship of Howe, and Lori Stevens of Van Alstyne.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Scoggins Funeral Home chapel in Van Alstyne. Jim Poole will officiate.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Collin Co., TX, Birth; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VD46-QPM

Connie Sue Cupit – b.16Oct1951 – D/o Grover Keneth Cupit & Shirley Thomison Rigsby

Collin Co., TX, Marriage; https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTY1-328

John E. Blankenship, 46 [1953] - Connie S. Cupit, 48 [1951] – m.06Aug1999

John E. Blankenship – b.1953 - Van Alstyne, TX; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJYT-CBYS

Relatives - Janice Fisher Blankenship, Lillian H. Blankenship, Orval Glenn Blankenship, Pat E. Blankenship, Tammy Blankenship.

Collin Co., TX, Birth; https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VDYQ-2VR

Tammy Jane Blankenship, b. 29Dec1981 – D/o John Edward Blankenship & Patricia Elizabe Lovetere

Collin Co., TX, Birth; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V8PS-XC4

Evelyn Ann Blankenship – b.17Feb1984 – D/o John Edward Blankenship & Patricia Elizabeth Wold

Grayson Co., TX; Devorce: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VYV6-8LC

John E. Blankenship, 41 [1954] - Patricia E. Blankenship, 41 [1954] - 02Feb1995 [m. 12Jul1978]

+2019, Van Alstyne, Grayson Co., TX, Obituary

Van Alstyne Leader (TX) - February 22, 2019

Kenneth Wayne Cupit, 77, of Van Alstyne, passed away February 14, 2019 at Medical City Dallas, [Dallas Co., TX]. He was born January 11, 1942 in Sherman.

He was raised by his grandparents Emmett and Clara Cupit. He married Sharon Hurst June 3, 1966 in McKinney. They were married 52 ½ years.

Kenneth was a Baptist and graduated from Van Alstyne High School in 1960. He was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the United States Army. He worked as a machinist for 40 years at Capital Wire & Cable in Plano. He loved traveling, wood working and flea markets.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his grandparents, Emmitt and Clara Cupit, G.K. Cupit and Christine Harden Cupit; and brother, William Cupit.

His survivors include his loving wife Sharon and Lucy; brother-in-law, Dean Hurst; brother, Robert Cupit; sisters, Lori Stephens, Linda Cherry and Connie Blankinship; sister-in-law, Vicki Cupit; and aunt, Imogene Montgomery.

Graveside services for will be held at 11 am, February 19 at the Van Alstyne Cemetery. Scoggins Funeral Home in Van Alstyne.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Gregg

+2018, Longview, Gregg Co., TX, Obituary

Longview News-Journal (TX) - February 2, 2018

Mrs. Dorothy Ann Owens 79, of Longview, was born on February 9, 1938, near Elkhart, Texas, to James Edward and Thelma Bennett Coleman and died on January 28, 2018.

Mrs. Owens was a member of Judson Road Church of Christ for nearly 40 years, teaching many children's and ladies' Bible classes. Her life revolved around church and family. She was a woman of faith and exemplary morals. Her own interests centered on religion, home making, and concerns about the government, but whatever was important to those she loved, mattered to her--whether it was taking trips to please her husband, listening to genealogy puzzles to humor her son, or cheering for whatever football team her son-in-law was coaching. She enjoyed the music of her family's blue grass band, Them Texas Boys, and her nephews', The Coleman Brothers. She traveled to nearly all 50 states and was her grandsons' biggest fan. She took special pride in editing her son's Ph.D. dissertation, and in supporting her daughter's career as a teacher and coach's wife.

Mrs. Owens' American ancestry stretched to the 1620s and probably to Jamestown. The Colemans' antebellum home still stands in Orrville, Alabama, and her Bennett ancestors owned thousands of acres which are now the city of Dallas. At Elkhart High, Dorothy was a Dogwood Duchess, head cheerleader, and valedictorian. She married Bobby Owens, a Korean War veteran, in 1956 and moved to Lubbock, where she worked at Texas Tech while he studied mechanical engineering. Upon graduation, they moved to Sulphur Springs, where he worked for Rockwell and LTV. When their children entered school, Dorothy worked as school secretary to be near them and have the same holidays. Later, she managed the office for Cable Realty, and for B & R Development Co., an engineering firm her husband opened to design and build special machines. In 1979, he took a job with Stemco, in Longview. Dorothy managed the office for Williamson Machine and completed a degree at Kilgore College.

Survivors include Bobby Owens, her husband of 61 years; son, Dr. Jeffrey Owens of Tyler; daughter & son-in-law, Kathryn and Tracy Blankenship of Gladewater; grandson, Klint Blankenship and wife Nineveh, of White Oak; grandson, Barrett Blankenship and wife Shannon of The Woodlands; and great-grandchildren, Fannin, Amira, and Travis Blankenship. Also, her siblings: Wanda Demers of Longview; Billy Coleman and wife Sandra, of Elkhart; Marie Pierson and husband Carroll, of McKinney; Linda Gammill and husband Don, of Sulphur Springs; Jimmy Coleman of Elkhart; Mary Quinn of Longview; Edd Coleman and wife Laura, of Elkhart; and nieces and nephews: Paul Demers, Melynda Shaver, Mitchell Coleman, Randy & Kyle Pierson, Lana Van Vleet, Deonna Watkins, Kristi Hopkins, Rikki Segleski, and Craig & Cory Coleman. Also her in-laws, Nancy Owens & Juanell Owens of Grapeland; Jim & Nancy Owens of College Station; and Bonnie & James Keen of Grapeland; as well as special friends, Mike and Gloria Crossland of Longview.

Services for Owens, will be held 10:00 A.M., Friday, February 2, 2018, at Rader Funeral Home. Burial will be at Davis Cemetery, near Grapeland, at 3:00, Friday.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Tracy Dean Blankenship – b.25Jan1963 - White Oak, TX:

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KGGT-F2D

Relatives – B. Blankenship, Fred E. Blake, Kathryn Owens Blankenship, Kathy Blakenship, Marmette D. Blake, Mr Tracy Blankenship, Nan Whitney Blake, Sharon Kay Blankensh.

+2018, Longview, Gregg Co., TX, Funeral

Longview News-Journal (TX) - May 8, 2018

Mary K. Blankenship, 87, of Longview, died May 5, 2018. Mrs. Blankenship was born May 29, 1930, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

Graveside services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Thursday, May 10, 2018, at Lakeview Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Longview, Gregg Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.news-journal.com/obituaries/mary-kathryn-blankenship/article_5247e5d4-0687-5079-9328-c9295d6d77f8.html

Mary Kathryn Blankenship passed away May 5, 2018, in Longview, Texas. She was born May 29, 1930, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, to Robert Michael and Lydia Marie King Reilly.

Mrs. Blankenship worked as a clerk for Weight Watchers for 40 years and was a member of the OMNI club with Texas Bank and Trust. She took many memorable trips with them, many of them abroad including trips to the Panama Canal, Russia, Italy and Ireland.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Bill Blankenship.

She is survived by a daughter, Kathi Elzner; son, Steven Blankenship; two granddaughters, Laurel Lozano and husband Christian; Salem Novak and husband Chris; six great grandchildren, Alora, Elijah, and Sona Lozano; and Corbom. Stark and Colson Novak.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 10, 2018 at the Lakeview Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Guadalupe

+2018, Seguin, Guadalupe Co., TX, Funeral

http://www.tributes.com/obituary/show/Edith-Mabel-Blankenship-106760230

Edith Mabel Blankenship, April 1, 1921 - January 20, 2019, Seguin, Texas

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 24, 2019 at 10 am, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with Dollene (Sissy) Lakey officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Seguin, Guadalupe Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.treshewell.com/obituary/edith-blankenship

Edith Mabel Blankenship, age 97 of Seguin, passed away on January 20, 2019. She was born on April 1, 1921 in Poteet, Texas to Jesse and Dolle (Almeda) Pratt.

Edith is preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Troy Blankenship, her parents, her brothers, Joe Pratt and wife Annette, and Winston Pratt and wife Agnes, sisters, Geraldine Henneke and husband Edward and Nell Conner and husband Tom and brother-in-law, Hal Webb.

Survivors include her children, Donald Blankenship and wife Juanita, Curtis Blankenship, Larry Blankenship, Sr. and wife Donna, Lavern Box and husband Jim, and Jerry Blankenship and wife Betty; sister, Joyce Webb; brother-in-law, Lytle Blankenship and wife Margaret; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.

Funeral Service, Thursday, January 24, 2019, 10:00 am, Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Drive, Seguin, Texas 78155. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. Serving as pallbearers will be Donald Blankenship, Larry Blankenship, Curtis Blankenship, Jerry Blankenship, Russell Schriewer and Miles Engelke.

Harris

2019, Baytown, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

The Baytown Sun, (TX) - October 17, 2019

William A Blevins was born on November 16, 1942 in Seagraves, Texas to L. J. and Ilavern Blevins. He passed into God's loving arms on October 16, 2019 in Baytown, Texas

William was a lifelong resident of Baytown. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army after serving in heavy artillery from 1966 to 1968. He was a member of St. John The Evangelist Catholic Church, a lifetime member and committeeman of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, a charter member of the Ruger Collectors Association and the Ruger Owners and Collectors Society. He was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman, and had a lifelong love of horses. He loved spending time with family, dancing, and traveling.

William married Linda L. Hanson on February 8, 1964 and was blessed with 55 years of loving marriage and a growing family. He retired from DuPont in 1999, after 33 years of devoted service.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, JoFrances West.

He is survived by his loving wife Linda, his daughter Terri Garland and husband Michael of Conroe, Texas, his son Dr. Cris Blevins of San Antonio, three granddaughters Brittney Sanders and husband David of Grandview, Texas, Bailee Hilderbrand and husband Keith of Iredell, Texas, and Tristen Carnley of Pleasanton, Texas, five great grandchildren Logan Hilderbrand, Kason Sanders, Rylan Young, Coy Sanders, and Linnie Hilderbrand, sister-in-law Pat Blankenship and brother-in-law Mark Blankenship of Georgetown, Texas, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, October 21, 2019, 11 am, at St John The Evangelist Catholic Church, 800 West Baker Rd., Baytown, TX. 77521. Burial will be held Tuesday, October 22, 2019, Crawford Cemetery, Crawford, TX. Navarre Funeral Home, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Houston, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

San Angelo Standard-Times (TX) - March 25, 2018

Courtney Duwain Wells, 98 [1920], of Houston, TX died Sunday, March 18, 2018 in Jacksonville, TX.

Survived by son John Wells and wife Karen; daughters Bonnie Blankinship and husband Robert and Nancy Lemke and husband John.

Graveside services with military honors were held Wednesday, March 21 at 1:00pm at Live Oak Cemetery in Brady under the direction of Leatherwood Memorial Chapels.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Houston, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

The Ironton Tribune, (OH) - August 15, 2018

Robert M. Blankenship, 95, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Ironton, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, in Hospice Plus, Houston, Texas. He was born Sept. 7, 1922, in Ironton, a son of the late Frank and Nellie Mae (Stephenson) Blankenship.

Mr. Blankenship was an Ironton High School graduate and went on to receive his associate degree. He was an US Navy veteran, serving in WWII and the Korean War. Mr. Blankenship was a retired industrial engineer for the U.S. government and was a member of the Elks, National Association of Retired Federal Employees, U.S. Navy Armed Guard WW II Veterans and Project Liberty Ship, and the American Legion. He was of the Baptist faith.

Mr. Blankenship was also preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Margaret Leonda (Hampton) Blankenship, on Dec. 22, 2012.

Mr. Blankenship is survived by daughter, Rhonda (Charles Tyson) Blankenship Smith, of Houston, Texas; son, Robert M. (Janie) Blankenship II, of Beeville, Texas; and grandson, Charles Tyson Smith IV, of Houston, Texas.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Houston, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/Mary-Blankenship-obituary?pid=190011164

Mary Frances Treadway Blankenship, of Houston, died at her home on August 20. She was born April 5, 1932 in Princeton, West Virginia, the second daughter of Theodore R. and Alice V. Mann Treadway of Princeton, West Virginia.

She attended Bluefield Business College and married Cecil "Red" Blankenship shortly after graduating. She made welcoming homes for her family and friends in 7 states and Germany before settling in Houston 43 years ago. Mary Frances was a member of Clay Road Baptist Church in Houston. Her abiding faith sustained her through personal and health-related challenges, and she demonstrated her values by continually prioritizing others. A large group of faithful friends around the country enjoyed the loyalty and humor that accompanied her friendship. Mary Frances excelled as a wife, mother, sister and aunt. She showered love and attention on all her family members. Saddened as they are by the loss, they nonetheless feel boundless gratitude for the joy she shared with them. The world was a more forgiving place with her in it.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Cecil T. Blankenship, daughter Carolyn Dunn, and sister Henrietta Wade.

Mary Frances leaves behind a daughter, Deborah Edlund (Louis Padula), a son-in-law, Allen Edmonds, and two granddaughters Katherine Gleason and Mallory Hashiguchi (Brian).

A celebration of Mary Frances' life will be held at Clay Road Baptist Church, 9151 Clay Road, Houston at 3 p.m. on September 9, 2018.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2018, Houston, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

The Times-Picayune, (New Orleans, LA) - September 18, 2018

Anne Louise Broussard Fautt, 95 yrs., died peacefully at her home on September 13, 2018. Anne Louise was born December 24, 1922 in Lake Arthur, Louisiana of Acadian French heritage, one of five daughters of Theogene and Olivia Olivier Broussard of Lake Arthur, Louisiana.

A tennis player and a swimmer Anne attended Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge, La. She was married in March 1942 to Capt. Robert Hugh Fautt after his graduation from United States Military Academy at West Point, NY. Anne met Bob through her cousin Paul Andrepont while they were in flight training at Chenault Air Force Base in Lake Charles, LA. Bob soon left for WWII where he was a fighter pilot in Europe receiving the Purple Heart of Valor. They had a daughter Susan Anne. After the war, Anne, Bob and Susan were stationed in Puerto Rico at the AF Base of the Lesser Antilles under the command of General Samford.

On August 1, 1947, Bob was killed in the plane he was flying that was caught in a violent storm on Jamaica. Subsequently, Anne and Susan returned to her parents' home in Louisiana. Anne was pregnant with twin girls Mary Catherine and Edith Louise who were born prematurely and died in September. In 1949, Anne and Susan moved to New Orleans. At the age of 27, a widow with a young child, she was the oldest student and only woman to enroll in the Pharmacy School at Loyola University of New Orleans. After graduating with honors in Chemistry and Pharmacy and a member of Phi Beta Kappa, she practiced and was partner with her father in his Lake Arthur Pharmacy, established in 1898.

"Miss Anne" as she was affectionately called, served her community caring for young and old, sick and dying regardless of race, religion or class. She served on the LA. State Board of Pharmacy, the board of the Public Library and the Altar Society of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church. In 2013, Anne decided to move to Houston, Texas to be near her daughter, Susan, her granddaughter Anne and her sister Alyce. She loved her new friends where she lived in her apartment at The Village of Tanglewood. She enjoyed Houston, the museum trips, spending time with her family and loved the Houston restaurants. She continued her interests in current events, was an avid reader and tennis fan. When Anne would not answer her phone we all knew that she was watching either the US Open Tennis Championship, Wimbleton, or an LSU or New Orleans Saints football game. She attended Mass weekly at St. Michael's Catholic Church and with Susan at Our Lady of Walsingham Catholic Church. She instilled in her family her strong faith In God and special devotion to the Blessed Mother.

Anne is survived by her daughter Susan Anne and her husband, Ron Blankenship , her three grandchildren Anne Stevenson Howard of Houston, Frank Clancy Dupepe, Jr. (Dr. Esther) of Birmingham, Ala, Laurent Robert Dupepe (Erika) of New Orleans LA and three great-grandchildren, Avery, Robert and Clancy III. She is also survived by her sisters, Dorothy Guirovich, Lafayette, LA and Alyce Clarkson, Houston, TX. Anne is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins here and abroad. In particular; Mary Catherine Clarkson and Richard Clarkson (Gayle), Houston TX and Laura Anne Trahan, Lafayette, LA.

A Requiem Mass will be held at Our Lady of Walsingham Catholic Church on Saturday, September 22nd at 1:00pm with a private burial at Glenwood Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Houston, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

Houston Chronicle (TX) - January 25, 2019

Beverly Luella (Blankenship) Stubbs [Nov 15, 1930 – Jan 21, 2019] of Houston, Texas passed away on January 21, 2019.

Survived by Richard A. Stubbs (Gloria) and Steven L. Stubbs.

Services to be held on January 25, 2019, at 11:30 at Heights Funeral Home at 1317 Heights Blvd. in Houston.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Houston, Harris Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/houston-tx/beverly-stubbs-8136451

Beverly Luella Stubbs was born on November 15, 1930 in Houston, Texas and passed away on January 21, 2019 in Houston, Texas

Family; Richard A. Stubbs, Husband, Richard Stubbs, Step-son, Steven Stubbs, Step-son

Harrison

+2018, Scottsville, Harrison Co., TX, Obituary

Marshall News Messenger (TX) - July 8, 2018

Juanita Clark Nowlin, 95, a beloved mother, sister, aunt, Granny and family matriarch, died peacefully at home in Scottsville on July 07, 2018 following a long battle with cancer. She was born on August 14, 1922 to Fred and Donnie Duke Clark.

She spent her early years in Clayton, Panola County, Texas. She moved to Marshall at a young age and graduated from Marshall High School in 1939. In later years, she attended night classes at Panola College in Carthage and was very proud of her accomplishments as an adult student. She enjoyed carpooling with others from Marshall. Her long history of employment began with a job at Miss Reba's Dress Shop which was an enjoyable experience. After marriage, Juanita worked at Nowlin's Mattress Factory for over 30 years until it closed. She was employed for 13 years in the Adult division of Texas Department of Human Services and retired from there with plans to attend Kilgore College.Since Juanita was experienced in indigent care services, Judge Gilstrap approached her about the county's need for an Indigent Health Program. She decided to withdraw from college to serve her community by establishing the program. As the first Indigent Health worker for Harrison County, she set up and ran the program for 13 years making many friends along the way. Juanita's retirement was brief because she missed interacting with others. She began working part time at Sullivan Life Insurance Company in Marshall and worked there an additional 7 years. She retired at age 83. Juanita's interests were broad. She spent many enjoyable hours working in her yard to make it a show place as well as at the land in Scottsville where she was able to live out her final years. She would walk in front of her son-in-law's tractor with her yellow hat bobbing keeping him away from her beloved Dogwood trees and pointing where she wanted him to bush hog. Robert Rasberry, whom she counted as a special friend and who had worked for Nowlin's Mattress Factory, worked with her at the land and together they managed to clean many of the fence rows. She volunteered her time teaching second grade Sunday School at First Methodist, Marshall, where she was a member until her death, and at the Marshall Literacy Center and for Hospice where her services were welcomed. She was a member of the Order of Eastern Star in Marshall for over 50 years as well as a member of the Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Olive Lee Stephens and Marie Blankenship; son-in-law, Jack Caffey, and friend, Robert Rasberry.

She is survived by her daughters, Barbara Nowlin Caffey and Belinda Nowlin Anderson and her husband, Victor; grandson, David Anderson and his wife, Donna; granddaughter, Angela Simpson and her husband Rob; grandson, Michael Anderson; great grandchildren, Christina Patterson, Heather Anderson, Kenzie Simpson, Victor Ledger, and Kathryn Anderson; brother, Charles Alfred Clark; many nieces and nephews, and cousins. All had a special place in her heart and they will miss her.

A special thank you to some of the community of people in her life: Marshall Home Health and Hospice, Sue Perkins, RN; Rhonda Perkins, Dolly and Joe Moore, aangels from FUMC who administered communion monthly while she was homebound, niece, Jane Canfield, who sent flowers often, Andrea Coleman who fixed her hair for over 20 years, Tracy Watson, and the Order of the Eastern Star for the Christmas baskets.

There will be a graveside service Thursday, July 12, 2018, 10:00 AM at Algoma North Cemetery with Ralph Johnston, Chaplin at Marshall Home Health and Hospice officiating. Honorary pallbearers: W. R. Duke, J. R. Duke, C. C. Carter, Wm. Blankenship , R. E. Nowlin, W. C. Nowlin, Jr., John Canfield.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Hunt

+2018, Greenville, Hunt Co., TX, Obituary

Greenville Herald-Banner (TX) - June 26, 2018

Marsha Kay Hunt, 65, passed away June 19, 2018 at Hunt Regional Medical Center in Greenville, Texas. She was born June 2, 1953 to Harold Eugene (Gene) and Helen Irene Blankenship in Columbus, Ohio.

She worked for decades as a self-employed housekeeper and attended Saint William the Confessor Catholic Church in Greenville. She married George W (Rusty) Hunt III in Mineola on Jan. 16, 1996.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

She is survived by her son, Kristopher Kimbley; daughter Breanna Kimbley; stepsons Blake Hunt and Jordan Hunt; grandsons David Kimbley and Thomas Kimbley; sister Karen Ruff and husband Gary; brother Harold Blankenship; and numerous nieces.

There will be a funeral mass at St. William the Confessor, followed by a graveside service at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Wolfe City, Thursday, June 28, 2018 at 10:00 a.m.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Franklin Co., OH, Marriage: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K3GT-Y3P

Harold E. Blankenship, 20 - Helen I Moore, 18 - 10Oct1947

S/o Eugene R Blankenship & Alta C Boles – D/o Connie Moore & Pearl Moore

+2018, Greenville, Hunt Co., TX, Obituary

Greenville Herald-Banner (TX) - June 28, 2018

William (Bill) Henry Edwards Jr. died June 15, 2018, at age 64 in his home in Greenville, Texas. He was born in Greenville, SC, on Feb. 13, 1954, to William Henry Edwards Sr. and Eula Mae Edwards.

Bill married Sandra Dengler on July 1, 1978. He was an electrical engineer for many years and then for the last 10 years he worked as a juvenile detention officer for Hunt County at the juvenile jail in Greenville, Texas He loved guns, computers, and history.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Eula; his father, Henry; his stepfather, George; his brother, Larry; and various other family members.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra Edwards; his three daughters, Ginger Edwards, Emily Blankinship, and Alicia Edwards; his five grandchildren, John, Jacob, Isaac, Audrey, and Elijah and various aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Bill's body was donated to UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas to be a part of the willed body program in order to train new doctors, paramedics and various other medical professionals. A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 1, at 3:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Greenville, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Hutchinson

2019, Fritch, Hutchinson Co., TX, Obituary

Borger News-Herald (TX) - March 21, 2019

Tommie Lindell Hale, of Fritch, passed away Monday, March 18, 2019, in Amarillo, [Potter Co., TX]. She was born March 17, 1937 in Denison, Texas to Doug and Woody (Pritchard) Johnson.

She married Arlen Hale, who preceded her in death, and they were Fritch residents for many years. She was a Baptist and was a homemaker. Tommie never met a stranger and was a wonderful, loving mother to her children. Tommie and Arlen loved to dance, especially square dancing. She graduated from Phillips High School in 1956. She was a member of the Eastern Star and was a Den Mother and Troop Leader for the Boy Scouts. Many remember Tommie from her working at M.E. Moses, Mister Burger, Heard and Jones and KFC. She also worked at the Fritch Elementary School cafeteria. Arlen and Tommie also owned the Borger Health Club for a few years.

Tommie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arlen; and 2 brothers: Doug Johnson and Mike Johnson.

Her survivors include: a daughter, Tacy Hale of Borger; 3 sons: Kenny Hale and wife Nona of Borger, Joe Hale and wife Josefina of Richland Hills, Texas and Mark Hale of San Antonio, Texas; a sister, Phyllis Hicks of Sherman, Texas; 12 grandchildren: Jeremy Hale, Logan Hale and wife Gianna, Dillon Killpack, Bianca Hale, Morgan Hale, Dennis Lacson, Donna Lacson, Jonathan Hale and wife Ronnie, Jaycee Hale, John Dry, Elizabeth Dry and Sean Blankenship and 8 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 22, 2019 at 2:00 pm, at Brown's Chapel of the Fountains, 206 W. 1st Street, Borger, with Care Pastor Bobby Bridges officiating. Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery, Borger.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Jasper

+2019, Jasper, Jasper Co., TX, Obituary

The Jasper Newsboy, (TX) - August 7, 2019

Eddie Stagg age 71, of Jasper, died July 29, at his home. Born in Beaumont, Texas, Eddie was a longtime resident of Jasper.

He served in the U.S. Navy and was a Vietnam veteran. He was very active in local rodeo, riding bareback for several years. He was a professional bass fisherman and a member of the American Angler Association for over 5 years. After retirement, he worked on boats. He liked hunting and working on cars. He also enjoyed sports.

Eddie was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Stagg Jr. and Ruth Nichols Crane; two sons, Jimmy Stagg and Ben Stagg; and one brother, Ronnie Fear.

Eddie is survived by his son, Jason Stagg and wife, Sherry, of Beaumont; daughters, Brandi Graham and husband, Lance, of China, Texas, and Tara Hall and husband, Jonathan, of Orange field, Texas; one brother, Marvin Cowart and wife, Gwen, of Jasper, Texas, and one step brother, Glen Crane and wife, Karen, of East Bernard; one sister, Barbara Blankenship, of Kingwood; nine grandchildren, and one great grandchild.

A Celebration will be at a later date. Stringer & Griffin Funeral Home of Jasper.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, Jasper, Jasper Co., TX, Obituary

The Jasper Newsboy, (TX) - November 6, 2019

Mary Louise Smith Blankenship passed away on October 31, 2019, in Jasper, Texas. She was born on October 14, 1939, in De Ridder, Louisiana to Julius Murray Eaves and Mae Louise Marze Eaves.

Mary loved the Lord, her family, and her church family at both First Baptist Church of Jasper and Little Cypress Baptist Church in Orange, TX. The light of her life was serving her Lord.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Donald Lee Smith; her parents, Murray and Mae Eaves; her brother, Ronnie Eaves and son, Donald Dean Smith.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Blankenship of Jasper, Texas; two sons and daughters-in-law, Steve and Tara Smith of Richmond, Virginia and Troy and Lynda Smith of Orange, Texas; one stepson and step-daughter-in-law Jimmy and Angela Blankenship of Wakefield, Virginia; one sister-in-law Patricia Christopher of Reclaw, Texas; six grandchildren; eight step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews, which she loved dearly.

Funeral services will be Friday, November 8, 2019, at 11:00 am, at First Baptist Church of Jasper, with burial to follow at 2:30 pm at Cannon Cemetery, Merryville, Louisiana.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Jefferson

+2019, Beaumont, Jefferson Co., TX, Obituary

San Antonio Express-News (TX) - May 25, 2019

Beth Waddell, 68, of Beaumont, passed away Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas, Beaumont, after suffering many years with Multiple Sclerosis. She was born on August 1, 1950, to Alta Ladell Fite Hutto and Eddie Ray Hutto, in Amarillo, TX.

Beth graduated from Bovina in 1969 and married the love of her life Donald Waddell (Don) that same year. She and Don Celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in December 2018. Together they had two beautiful successful children.

In high school, Beth was involved in Future Homemakers, marching band, tennis, basketball, and she was the head cheerleader. As an Active Duty Airforce Military Spouse for 26 years she was very active and supportive of the military mission, by caring for the home and the children when Don was deployed for long periods of time and she further supported the mission by organizing Holiday meals, luncheons and dinners for other Military families who were not able to travel home during the holidays when her family lived abroad, and while living in the United States. Beth was elected President of the Military Spouses Club for the Supply Group which helps military families and would often provide care for numerous children of Air Force members and she organized cookie bakes for single military personnel living in barracks. Beth was a Red Cross Volunteer and visited children in hospitals to provide entertainment. Beth also volunteered for numerous fund-raising events and was asked by doctors to visit with patients who were newly diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis because of her positive attitude towards her own MS diagnosis. As a military spouse Beth traveled the world, she had the opportunity to live in New Mexico, Kansas Florida, Colorado, Nebraska, Germany and Texas, and she traveled to several other states while living in the US. While Living abroad Beth traveled to Luxenberg, Denmark, Austria, Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.

In her free time, Beth enjoyed spending time with her loved ones. Beth also enjoyed fishing at Manitou Lake, in Colorado, as well as numerous Texas lakes. Beth enjoyed fishing and boating so much that she ultimately took over the operation of the boat and the fishing trip. Beth enjoyed knitting scarves and blankets, cooking, baking, painting with oils and watercolors, drawing, ceramics, and she enjoyed the flowers, windchimes, hummingbirds, and Cardinals in her backyard.

Beth was a beautiful, joyous daughter, hardworking devoted wife, a loving and proud mother, a celebrated Mama, a loyal sister and a reliable trusted friend. She taught her kids how to be fierce and independent. Beth was a warrior with a free spirit. She showed how to keep love and humor even in her darkest days. She fought like a champ until the very last minute and held on longer than anyone thought could be humanly possible. Talk about compassion. She was absolutely compassionate and never met a stranger. Beth was everything you could wish for in a wife, mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She was generous, kind, silly, loving, and non- judgmental in a funny judging way.

Survivors include her mother, Alta Hutto of Lubbock, TX; husband, Don Waddell; son, Dr. Kevin Waddell and his wife, Liza, of Beaumont; daughter, Mandy Blankenship and her husband, Michael, of Lake McQueeney TX ; sisters, Roxanne Burnett and her husband, Horace, of Amarillo, TX ; Twyla Lusk and her husband, Terry, of Dalhart, TX ; and Nancy Orman and her husband, Tommy and Tammy Hutto Long, all of Lubbock, TX ; brother, Buddy Hutto and his wife, Tammy, of Weatherford, TX ; brother-in-law, Charles Waddell and his wife, Judy, of Lamoni, IA ; sisters-in-law, Helen Jeanes and her husband, Gary, of Eagleville, MO; and Laverna La Faille and Wanda Sams, both of Lenox, IA; grandchildren, Britney Blankenship , and Austin of Seguin, TX; Shelby Blankenship and her husband, Jason of Canyon Lake, TX ; Jaxon Waddell; Landon Waddell; and Jefferson Waddell of Beaumont, TX; great-grandchildren, Bentley Blankenship and Madelyn Van Dries; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, Aunts, Uncle, and friends.

Funeral service will be at 3:00 pm, Sunday, May 26, 2019, at Amelia Baptist Church, 8055 Brighton Street, Beaumont, with a reception to follow at Broussard's Centre, 1775 Calder Avenue, Beaumont. A family committal will be held at Broussard's Crematorium, Beaumont.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Guadalupe Co., TX, Marriage; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTRB-8P4

Michael T. Blankenship, 1968 - Mandy M. Waddell, 1971 – m.18Jul1989

Bexar Co., TX, Birth: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V8TB-QY7

Britney Michelle Blankenship, b.23Apr1990 – D/o Michael Todd Blankenship & Mandy Micehlle Waddell

Jones

+2018, Anson, Jones Co., TX, Obituary

Abilene Reporter-News (TX) - July 20, 2018

Weldon Bouton, 89, Anson, TX, died Thursday, July 19, 2018, at Valley View Nursing Home in Anson. Born June 24, 1929 in Guion, Weldon was a son of the late Walter and Zeffie (Powell) Bouton.

He graduated from Lawn High School and served as a private in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1952. Weldon worked as a serviceman for Lone Star Gas Company in Abilene for 37 years until his retirement in 1990. He met and married the love of his life, Mildred Pauline Meissner, June 27, 1953 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Abilene. They moved to Anson in 1963 where he loved to garden and raise animals. Weldon was a good, kind, honest and wonderful man who loved God and his family.

Weldon was preceded in death by a brother (Frank Bouton), two sisters-in-law (Eloise Fritcher Bouton and Nelta Meissner) and two brothers-in-law (James Jacobson and Albert Meissner).

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Mildred Bouton of Anson one son, Gary Bouton (and fiance;, Cheryl Guernsey) of Anson; three daughters, Jeanie McLaren (and husband, Bob), Barbara Blankenship (and husband, Randy) and Tammy Devaney (and husband, Steve) all of Anson; grandchildren, Kristin Swan, Adam Littlefield, Bryan Bouton, Brittney Bouton, Aaron Blankenship, Kayla Blankenship, Lauren Bounds, Stephanie Devaney, Jason Devaney, Lana Davis and Bobbi Lytle; 13 great-grandchildren; two great great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, George Meissner; sister-in-law, Lucille Jacobson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside serves will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 21, 2018 at Hawley Cemetery, directed by Adams-Graham Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Anson, Jones Co., TX, Obituary

Abilene Reporter-News (TX) - October 17, 2018

Mildred Bouton, 86, passed away Monday, October 15, 2018, at Valley View Nursing Home in Anson. Born August 18, 1932 in Littlefield. She was a daughter of the late Robert and Emma Ell (Bontke) Meissner.

Mildred graduated from Eula High School in 1951. Mildred met and married the love of her life, Weldon Bouton, June 27, 1953 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Abilene. They moved to Anson in 1963. Mildred was fortunate to be a stay at home Mom where she loved playing the piano, working in the yard, growing flowers and caring for her family.

Mildred was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 65 years, Weldon Bouton; a brother, albert Meissner; two brothers-in-law, James Jacobson and Frank Bouton; and two sisters-in-law, Nelta Meissner and Eloise Bouton.

Survivors include one son, Gary Bouton (and fiance;, Cheryl Guernsey) of Anson; three daughters, Jeanie McLaren (and husband, Bob), Barbara Blankenship (and husband, Randy) and Tammy Devaney (and husband, Steve) all of Anson; one brother, George Meissner; one sister, Lucille Jacobson; grandchildren, Kristin Swan, Adam Littlefield, Bryan Bouton, Brittney Bouton, Aaron Blankenship, Kayla Blankenship, Lauren Bounds, Stephanie Devaney, Jason Devaney, Lana Davis and Bobbi Lytle; 13 great-grandchildren; two great great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Services will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 18, 2018, at Adams-Graham Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Hawley Cemetery, directed by Adams-Graham Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Kerr

+2018, Kerrville, Kerr Co., TX, Obituary

Kerrville Daily Times (TX) - December 7, 2018

Betty Jo McIlwain Cass, 88, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, after a long battle with dementia. She died peacefully in her sleep while in the care of Morningside Ministries Cibolo House in Boerne, [Kendall Co.,] Texas. She was born in Port Lavaca, Texas, on Sept. 9, 1930, to Joseph Washington and Edna Mary McIlwain.

Betty graduated from Corpus Christi High School in 1948 and worked for H-E-Butt Grocery Company, Texas Instruments, The Houston Post and Reynolds Metals Company, where she retired after 22 years in 1973. After retirement, She relocated to Kerrville, Texas, where she worked for the H-E-Butt Foundation and for James Avery while enjoying a life of fun and travel with close friends, family and her beloved dog, Penny Loafer. She had a fighting spirit and loved life. She will be greatly missed by all her knew her.

Betty was married to Patrick Henry Cass for 25 years and is survived by four of their five children: Patrick Henry Cass Jr of Kerrville, Texas, Joseph Michael Cass of Aransas Pass, Texas, Charles Casey Cass (deceased), John Kevin Cass of Sandy, Oregon, and Kathleen Cass Blankinship of San Antonio, Texas. She was blessed by her 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018, at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Kerrville, Texas, at 1 pm. A private burial will occur in Uhland, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Nueces Co., TX, Marriage: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VT5T-4FY

Brian K. Blankinship (1959) - Kathleen Cass (1960) – m.20Apr1991

+2019, Kerrville, Kerr Co., TX, Obituary

Kerrville Daily Times (TX) - July 16, 2019

Thomas "Jon" Blankenship passed into the Lord's Heavenly Garden on Thursday, July 4, 2019. He was born in Dallas, Texas, on March 18, 1949.

For over 20 years, Jon was a radio personality at KLAR, KVOZ and KGNS in Laredo, Texas, and at KRVL in Kerrville, Texas. He was active in many community services in both Laredo and Kerrville. After his long radio career, he began working at the Internal Revenue Service as a clerk and a tax examiner, from where he retired.

Jon had a passion for gardening. When not busy with work, he could be found tending his plants in his denim overalls and pith helmet in the backyard. Countless battles were fought against critters that enjoyed the fruits and vegetables of Jon's gardening efforts. Sometimes he won, and sometimes he lost, but he never quit trying to nurture his plants, much like his love for his wife, Alicia.

He is survived by his wife, Alicia Blankenship; his sister, Toni Brock; his children, Manuel Sanchez, David Sanchez, Lisa Flores and April and Melanie Blankenship; and his grandchildren, Donna Gray, Jennefer and Marleh Sanchez, Tristan and Tyler Sanchez and Carolina and Collette Flores; and his beloved dog, Trixie.

A memorial service will be at 10 am, Saturday, July 20, 2019, at First Christian Church 204 E. Graves St., Burnet, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Lubbock

2018, Lubbock, Lubbock Co., TX, Obituary

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal (TX) - August 22, 2018

Guy Lloyd Sullivan, 90, of Lubbock, was born November 26, 1927, in Centerpoint, Arkansas, to Guy A. And Gladys Hardie Sullivan. He passed away on August 17, 2018

He graduated from Texarkana (Texas) High School on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and from Abilene Christian College in 1951. He taught P.E. at West Elementary in Snyder, Texas, from 1953-1958 before entering into the insurance business. Guy was active in several civic activities during his 40 years in Snyder. He was a charter member of the founding Board of Directors for Camp Blue Haven, a youth Bible Camp in New Mexico. After moving to Lubbock, Guy volunteered with the Covenant hospital Auxiliary for ten years.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Elaine; son, Scotty Sullivan and wife Mary; daughter, Sue Jane Sullivan; daughter, Dr. Sara Dodd and husband Dr. Tim Dodd; son, Shane Sullivan; daughter, Sabrina Blankenship and husband Kelly; stepdaughter, Mikki Slaughter and husband Jay; he is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway. A detailed obituary can be viewed at www.combestfamilyfuneralhomes.com

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Sabrina Anne Sullivan- b.0 Sep1966, Mitchell, TX – D/o Guy L. Sullivan & Lillie Mae Mccleskey

+2018, Lubbock, Lubbock Co., TX, Obituary

Abilene Reporter-News (TX) - October 31, 2018

Lillie Mae McCleskey Sullivan passed away October 22 in Lubbock. Lillie was born April 28, 1931, in Fisher County. The youngest of six children of George and Bessie Yantis McCleskey.

Her parents farmed near Rotan, and Lillie and her older siblings attended the Dowell School. Lillie finished her remaining two years at Rotan High School, where she graduated in 1948. She was a 1952 graduate of Abilene Christian College, majoring in Spanish. In 1985, Lillie earned her MA in Spanish from Texas Tech University. Her teaching career began at East Elementary in Snyder, included one year at Borden County ISD, and concluded with a long run at Ira ISD, where she was hired to implement the school's first foreign language program. She retired at the age of 69 after 16 years teaching at Ira, a school and community that always held a special place in her heart.

Lillie continued to substitute teach even after retiring. The Snyder years from 1952-1985 were filled with raising five children. She was busy with PTA activities, piano recitals, Bible School lessons, athletic contests, and laundry. Lots of laundry. She was a seamstress, an excellent cook, and a businessperson as part owner of Lad and Lassie in Snyder for many years.

Lillie served on the Scurry County Library Board and was also elected to two terms on the Snyder ISD Board of Trustees, serving from 1979-1985. Nurturing family ties was a vitally important part of Lillie's life. Her older sisters left Texas during WWII, both relocating to Washington state. Her brothers both served in the Navy during WWII. Letters and visits from all of them were a treasure to Lillie, the youngest still at home with their widowed mother Bessie. Lillie made sure her five children had the chance to travel to visit their aunts and uncles, spending time with them and their first cousins. In recent years, she delighted in seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren continue to experience such close family dynamics with their great-aunts and great-uncles and cousins.

Lillie was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Frances McCleskey, Eula Bustetter, and Roberta Clark and brother Preston McCleskey.

She is survived by brother Dr. Clifton McCleskey and wife Jo of Charlottesville, Virginia; sons Scotty Sullivan and wife Mary of Abilene and Shane Sullivan of Lubbock (who lived with Mother the past two years and provided wonderful care); daughters Sue Jane Sullivan of Gail, Dr. Sara Dodd and husband Dr. Tim Dodd of Lubbock, and Sabrina Blankenship and husband Kelly of Buffalo Lake. Nine grandchildren survive: Hayley Conger and husband Brent of San Antonio, Julie Allison and husband John of Dallas, Kassidy Johnston and husband Dr. Blake Johnston of Lubbock, Emily Rollins and husband Zach of Snyder, Tori Ericson and husband Jarred of Lubbock, Christopher Dodd and wife Kelly of Austin, Hannah Sullivan of Lubbock, Katie Joiner and husband Evan of Austin, and Michael Dodd of Austin, as well as 12 great-grandchildren and numerous special nieces and nephews with whom she kept close. And, of course, her dog, Chang.

A memorial service will be on Friday, November 2, 2018, at 2 p.m. at the Broadway Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Kelly Bob Blankenship – b.15Jan1964 - Brownfield, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:294J-KBY

Relatives - Bill Blankenship, Keny Blankenship, Lj Blankenship, Lois Brown Blankenship, Lois B. Blankenship, Monica M. Blankenship, P. C. Blankenship, Rusty Ron Blankenship, Sabrina A. Sullivan blanke, Sally Diane Blankenship.

Terry Co., TX, Birth: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:V8J2-WWZ

Kelly Bob Blankenship, 15Jan1964 – S/o Billy Clinton Blankenship & Lois June Foster

+2018, Lubbock, Lubbock Co., TX, Obituary

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal (TX) - January 17, 2019

Grace Vernell "Nell" Holt, 90, passed away January 14, 2019. She was born on August 18, 1928 to J. D. and Lucy Blankenship Crow in Ropesville, TX and grew up there.

Nell married Alvis Holt on November 13, 1944 in Levelland, Texas. They farmed in the Seminole community moving to Lubbock in 1955. Nell was a member of Sunset Church of Christ. She was an avid sports fan with her sons and grandsons and was their "grandcheerer". Nell was a great cook and enjoyed playing dominos. She worked at Lena Stephens for many years. Nell was a caregiver to all that she knew, taking food to sick friends and visiting them.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Alvis Holt; son, Jerry Doyle Holt; and brother, Mack Crow.

Survivors include her; son, Sammy Holt and wife, Sharron of Lubbock; daughter-in-law, Claudia Holt of Cape Coral, FL; grandchildren, Jerry Don (Audrey) Holt; Lainey Holt, and Tyler Holt; great-grandchildren, Ainsley, AJ, and Strader; sister, Marjorie Pointer of Levelland; fourteen nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews and beloved longtime friend, Bobbie Simpson.

A time of fellowship and remembrance is scheduled from 2 pm, to 3 pm, on Friday, January 18, 2019 at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers, followed by a graveside service at 3:15 pm, at Resthaven Memorial Park.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

McLennan

+2018, Waco, McLennan Co., TX, Obituary

http://www.wacotrib.com/obituaries/carswell-juanita/article_9d7bd0ef-30b7-59ef-a6d3-b5e4aa4474c6.html

Juanita "Nita" Jenkins Carswell passed away Thursday, May 24, 2018, with family at her side. She was born December 7, 1921, in China Spring, Texas, to Warner Lee Jenkins and Anice Faye Jenkins.

Nita worked for the City of Waco and State of Texas Parks & Wildlife Dept prior to retirement. She loved to crotchet and was an accomplished china painter and landscape artist...especially bluebonnets.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Ross Carswell; parents, Warner and Anice Jenkins; and sisters, Hallie Baldridge and Doris Ann Manning.

She is survived by daughters, Donna Perry Bell and husband, Tom, Annice Perry Lovorn and husband, Jay, and Jackie Carswell Blankenship and husband, Bob; and a host of grand and great grand children.

Services will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 30, at First United Methodist Church of Waco with Rev. Molly Simpson and Dr. Steve Ramsdell officiating. Burial will follow at China Spring Cemetery. Pallbearers are Tom Bell, Jay Lovorn, Bob Blankenship, Chris Bell, Jeremy Carroll, and Jeff Bell.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Harris Co., TX, Marriage: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTGV-9N6

Robert A. Blankenship, 45 [1944] - Jacqueline L. Carswell, 37 [1952] - 09Apr1989

Robert Alan Blankenship – b.26Sep1943 – Houston, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KPH6-6JR

Relatives - Alan Blankenship, Corabel S. Blankenship, Jacquelin C. Blankenship, Jacqueline A. Blankenship, Jacqueline C. Blakenship, Kimberly A. Blankenship.

2019, Waco, McLennan Co., TX, Obituary

Fergus Falls Daily Journal (MN) - March 5, 2019

Police in Waco, Texas, made an arrest in the death of 19-year-old David Grotberg of Fergus Falls, who was killed in a hit-in-run bicycle accident in 2016. According to a press release from the Waco Police Department, detectives arrested 50-year-old Tammy Blankenship Harlen just before 11 am, and transported her to the McLennan County Jail on a second-degree felony charge of failure to stop and render aid after the crash. Grotberg was struck the night of Oct. 6, 2016, in the 3200 block of Franklin Avenue and was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Grotberg's girlfriend was riding alongside him, but she was not injured, police said.

According to an arrest affidavit, police believed an SUV struck Grotberg shortly before 10 pm, Witnesses reported the SUV was driving "very fast and did not stop after striking Grotberg," the affidavit states. Grotberg's death stirred an outcry from the Waco cycling community about hazards facing cyclists. Dave Morrow, a Waco Bicycle Club member, helped place a white-painted "ghost bike" at the crash site in Grotberg's memory.

"I am happy the police have apprehended a suspect, but we have compassion for the suspect, and we hope justice is served and the person who was driving the car can be rehabilitated," Morrow said Tuesday. "We can't bring David back, but his family being strongly religious and myself having a spiritual tradition, we all want a better society, and forgiveness is an important component."

Police kept the case open when an anonymous letter was mailed to the Waco Police Department in September 2018, claiming Harlan was speeding and drinking when she hit Grotberg. An informant followed the SUV the next day to Marlin, where the suspect left the car until it was repaired.

"The tenacity of our detectives is pretty incredible to witness," Waco police Sgt. W. Patrick Swanton said. "When you get a case such as this, where a young man needlessly died, those cases never end for the detective. It is a case in point on this one, where you have to have a break come through that assists."

About a week after the fatal crash, the Waco Bicycle Club showed cyclist solidarity in a "ride of silence" to honor the Baylor University sophomore. Grotberg, a Baylor Honors College student and a trumpet player in the Golden Wave Marching Band, was honored by Oklahoma State University during OSU's home football game against Iowa State University on the day of his death. An endowed scholarship has been set up in his name at Baylor.

During investigation into Grotberg's death, detectives requested a search warrant for Harlan's phone that revealed she filed an insurance claim for her car on Oct. 29, 2016. She said the damage was done after she hit a stop sign on University Parks Drive on Oct. 28, 2016. Based on the photos of Harlan's car, police believed the damage looked more consistent with a collision with a person than a stop sign. When detectives interviewed Harlan later in October 2018, she said she hit a sign after attending a gathering in Woodway, where she had been drinking wine. Harlan told police she thought she hit a stop sign after she saw the stop sign on University Parks Drive, the affidavit states. She later said she thought she may have hit a homeless person on her route.

Police found blood along the inside mirror of the passenger side and under rubber molding under the front windshield. A swab of the blood tested inconclusive as to whom the blood belonged to, the affidavit states. Police arrested Harlan at her downtown Waco home and took her to McLennan County Jail. Bond information was not immediately available.

David was a student at Baylor University where he attended the Honors College. David was riding his bicycle on Oct. 6, 2016, on the 3200 block of Franklin Avenue, when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. David later died from his injuries. "We are very thankful for the hard work and dedication of the Waco police," Clark Grotberg father to David said. "And we are thankful to our Baylor family down in Texas."

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

McLennan Co., TX, Marriage: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTBN-7S5

Tammy R. Blankenship, 1968 - William Q. Harlan, 1965 – m.21Jul1990

+2019, Waco, McLennan Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/doris-blankenship-obituary?pid=193098134

Doris Blankenship passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2019.

Lake Shore Funeral Home, Waco, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Doris Irene Blankenship – b. 02Apr1923 - Waco, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KPSM-LB5

Relatives - Donald R. Blankenship, Richard Blankenship.

Travis Co., TX, Marriage; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VYM7-GLK

Donald R. Blankenship, 1932 - Doris I. Seelke, 1923 - 12Nov1968

McLennan Co., TX, Divorce, 31Oct1975: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VY6R-T7P

Richard Blankenship – b.17Sep1957 - Waco, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJYY-FHQG

Relatives - Donald R. Blankenship, Doris Seelke Blankenship.

1930 Census, Precinct 4, Milam Co., TX,

Sealke, Frank Will 31, M, TX, Head,

Sealke, Ruby 28, F, OK, Wife,

Sealke, Doris Irene 07, F, TX, Dau,

Sealke, Frank Earl 05, M, TX, Son,

Sealke, Charlie Eugene 03, M, TX, Son,

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:HFQ4-YMM

Midland

+2018, Midland, Midland Co., TX, Obituary

Published in Midland Reporter-Telegram from Jan. 16 to Jan. 17, 2019

Elizabeth Blankinship, 89, entered eternal rest on the morning of January 12 at Midland Memorial Hospital. She was born in Stecker, Oklahoma in 1929 to Grover and Martha (Reiss) Smallwood. She was the oldest of five siblings, and as the first grandchild, was particularly adored by her German immigrant grandparents, Otto Reinhold Reiss and Elizabeth (Schramm) Reiss, for whom she was named. She spoke many times of the adults speaking in German when they didn't want the children to know what they were discussing.

Elizabeth graduated from Broxton High School, and shortly thereafter, married Herbert Blankinship. In their early marriage, they lived in Anadarko, Oklahoma, where Herb worked in the oil fields, and Elizabeth reared their two children, Gary Don and Barbra. In 1956, Parker Drilling moved their family to Odessa, where Herb continued his career in the oil fields of West Texas. After another move with Parker Drilling to their Midland office in 1964, Elizabeth and Herb together opened the first Pizza Hut in Midland, and they continued as Pizza Hut franchisees until the sale of their stores in 1988. Elizabeth kept books and made payroll, going to the office daily until the last few years. She valued hard work, and could not abide laziness.

In 2016, they moved from their longtime residence near Midland College to Manor Park. Most recently, they were both residents of Cowden Cottage, where they were beloved. You could most often find them enjoying time in front of the fireplace --- even on a warm summer day! Elizabeth loved playing games, laughing, trips to their Ruidoso home, and Las Vegas where she played the slots - even winning a sizeable jackpot several years ago. Her favorite color was red, and it was hard to escape the red lipstick prints she loved planting on loved ones' cheeks. The color red even extended to her choice of wine. If you were among her favorites, you could expect a call from her on your birthday, singing the Happy Birthday song in a warbling off-key voice. She found that insanely funny! She was a member of First United Methodist Church and Petroleum Club Ladies Association. She, along with her husband, Herb, have been supporters of Midland College, Midland Memorial Hospital, Petroleum Museum, and Hillander School.

She is pre-deceased by her son, Gary Don in 1966, two sisters, Ruth Brannam and Martha Jean Schenk, and one brother, Grover Smallwood, Jr.

Elizabeth is survived by her husband of 71+ years, Herb, and by her daughter, Barbra Grafa, and her favorite son-in-law, Trey of Midland, whom she loved like a son. "Mimi" is survived as well by her two granddaughters, Tiffany Grafa Meade and husband, Todd of Midland, and Courtney Grafa Kerr and husband, Andy of Ft. Worth. Five great-grandchildren survive her: Gunner Meade, Logan Meade, Addison Kerr, Carter Kerr, and Cooper Kerr. These fine young people absolutely lit up her life.

Steve Brooks will officiate memorial services on Friday, January 18, 2019 at 3:00 pm, in the chapel of First United Methodist Church. A private family graveside will be held at Resthaven Memorial Park. Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Midland, Midland Co., TX, Obituary

Midland Reporter-Telegram (TX) - September 15, 2019

Bessie Jane Davidson, age 82 [1937], of Midland, TX, went to be with her Savior on September 6, 2019.

Bessie will be missed as our matriarch of five generations. She enjoyed gardening, Levi Garrett Snuff, fried green tomatoes, country music, especially Loretta Lynn and time with her family.

Bessie is survived by her siblings, Eva Lovell, Effie Barnes, Clifton Blankenship; her daughters, Janice Murphy and her husband, John, Joyce Casteel and her husband, Allen; grandchildren, Lori Pike Cartmell, Jason Pike and his wife, Malinda, Shane Casteel and his wife, Tamara, Josh Casteel and his wife, Britni; great grandchildren, Amber and Kayle Jade Cartmell, Dylan, Bailey and Jordan Casteel, Nathan Carbonell, Hayden, Corbin, and Brennon Pike, Evelyn Teske, Aralyn and Gracelyn Casteel; great great grandchildren, Kaden Blu Cartmell, Colton and Eveylnn Gavia, as well as her beloved extended family and friends in Alabama.

A Celebration of her life will be at 4:00 pm, Wednesday, September 18, 2019, at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Clay Porter officiating.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Montgomery

2019, Conroe, Montgomery Co., TX, Obituary

The Courier of Montgomery County, (TX) - May 25, 2019

Harold Lamar Griffin Jr. was born September 18, 1957, in Dallas Texas at Parkland Memorial Hospital. He was the first born of Ann Marie Escousse and Harold Lamar Griffin.

He moved to Conroe with his Mother and Father, Brother, Jeff, and Sister, Sharon, in 1969. Hal was a proud graduate of the Conroe Tigers' class of 1976. He continued his education by enrolling in Texas Tech University in Lubbock Texas and graduated in 1981 with a degree in landscape architecture. Following his graduation, he moved back to Conroe where he started his own landscaping company. He took much pride in showing off the places he landscaped including the grounds of Cashner funeral home. Jeff Cashner stated Hal played a big role in their grand opening in 1984. In 1998 Hal accepted a position with Yamaha Motor Corporation of America as a Territory Manager in Austin, TX. He was responsible for fleet sales to golf car dealerships and golf courses (which was appropriate since Hal loved to play golf from a very young age).

On July 31, 1999 following a golf tournament, he met Donna Blankenship at The 311 club on 6th street in Austin, TX. He loved to tell the story that 3 months following that fateful meeting, he was pulling a U-Haul trailer from Soper, OK to Austin with a woman he barely knew and her 2 kids, 13 year old Eric Blankenship and 10 year old Jaye Blankenship. He often reflected on that experience as the best decision he ever made. He loved to brag on his step children and was very proud of them. He became interested in real estate after selling their home in 2008. Prior to moving back to Conroe, he joined Keller Williams Advantage Realty in Conroe of December 2010 to present.

Survivors include: Donna Griffin, wife of the home; stepson Eric Blankenship, his wife Carissa and Grandson Jet; stepdaughter, Jaye Blankenship of Austin; mother, Ann Griffin, father; Harold Griffin and his wife Ruth Terry; Brother, Jeff Griffin; sister, Sharon Hamilton and her Husband John Hamilton of Benton Louisiana; niece, Holy Wells, and her son, Dane; Nephew, Joe Peveto; and Cat, Jasper Switch.

Celebration of life will be held Monday, May 27, 2019 at 2:00 pm, at Cashner Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

2019, Conroe, Montgomery Co., TX, Obituary

The Courier of Montgomery County, (TX) - September 1, 2019

Ann Marie Escousse Griffin, age 86, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2019, in Conroe, Texas. She was born July 19, 1933, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Edith and George H. Escousse.

After graduating Behrman High School in Algiers, she went on to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology from Loyola University. Soon after, she married soon-to-be "Dr." Harold L. Griffin, Sr., whom she met in Houston, Texas, while both pursuing their careers in the medical field. They moved to Dallas, Texas, and worked at Parkland Hospital where their three children were born. Galveston, Texas, would be their next stop on the map as Dr. Griffin was doing his residency at UTMB. Eventually, his practice and their home base was established in Columbus, Texas. Ann was very active in the community there, serving as den mother to the Cub Scouts and making many dear friends.

She later relocated to Conroe, Texas, where the Church of Christ community welcomed her with open arms. She went on to dedicate her life to, FIRST AND FOREMOST, her children, as well as to her very successful career in the Conroe Hospital System where she utilized her extensive knowledge in Chemistry and Medical Technology to aid in the growth of the Laboratory, as well as the relationships with the doctors and employees she worked with. She became a huge asset to her peers at Sadler Clinic, heading up the Laboratory Department and exhibiting an uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way. She was an active member of Kiwanis and served her community well.

Her face, her name and her home became a familiar one as she raised her three children and a village of their friends. Her door was always open -- (literally, LOL) -- and lifelong relationships that were established often resulted in frequent visits long after her children were grown. She was very active in her children's lives, from Little League Baseball and Football, to Cheerleading and Drill Team activities. She loved sports -- from football, baseball and basketball, to ice skating and golf. Her friends and family -- (EVEN THE STORE CLERK) -- knew her children, grandchildren and great-grands were her pride and joy, and she gave ALL of herself to them 'til the end.

She was loved by many and will be forever missed. Her smile and her sweet Southern Charm will be in our hearts forever as we mourn her passing and cherish the memories we had with her. We look forward to the day we will ALL be together again, thanks to Jesus Christ, our Savior.

She was preceded in death by her brother, George T. Escousse, and her firstborn son, Hal Griffin, Jr.

She was survived by her son, Jeff Griffin, and daughter, Sharon Griffin Hamilton; grandson Joe Peveto; granddaughter Holly Wells and great-grandson Dane Turner; son-in-law John Hamilton and daughter-in-law Donna Griffin; stepchildren, Quincy and Matt Hamilton, Taylor and Jaye Blankenship, and 10 step-greatgrandchildren; cousin, Jesse Doyle, Jr., and wife, Alice; sister-in-law, Carol Haley and husband, Jimmy; nephews Brad and Greg Escousse and Ernie Williams and their families.

She will be buried in Gretna, Louisiana, with her son Hal, next to her mother and father and brother at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Nacogdoches

2018, Melrose, Nacogdoches Co., TX, Obituary

The Daily Sentinel, (Nacogdoches, TX) - January 18, 2018

Thomas Vaiden Sluterbeck, born May 20, 1974 was taken from us on January 8, 2018 at the young age of 43.

Thomas will be greatly missed by his Family and friends. He was a very witty person, intelligent beyond belief, a Philosopher, a computer/electronics expert, an amazing self taught singer, guitarist, artist and a lover of gaming and skateboarding. He spent his last day skateboarding. He made an impact with the local skaters at the new Skate Park in Lufkin, with his positive attitude about skateboarding and of course his skill he still had even all these years later.

He is survived by his son Joey Strahan, Parents Tommy and Janice Sluterbeck, Grandmother Dorothy Broadway, Former wife Laura Skipworth Sluterbeck, sisters Sharon Snider and husband Jeff, Amber Grigsby and husband John and Amy Hart, Brothers Jason Lee, Lynn Lee and wife Ashley, Ryan Sluterbeck and wife Nicole and Craig Hart, Aunts Dana Pace and husband Ronnie, Dodi Beaumont, Mary Kay Wilson and husband Mickey, Cassie Hall and husband Bill and Holly Cipriani and husband Tim, Uncle Charles Christian, Nieces Brianna Harrison and husband Mark, Lizzie Lee, Alexis, Madison, Taylor, Emma and Aubrey, Nephews James Fuller, Bradley Fuller and Wyatt Lee and numerous cousins. Thomas was very close to some of his cousins including Amy, April, Cindy, Brad, Jennifer and Jessie. They were all raised together and were like siblings. He also had very close friends that he still kept in touch with for many years.

He is preceded in death by his Mother Patricia Pitts Lee, Grandfathers Harvey Pitts and Berman Sluterbeck, Grandparents Charles and Mary Christian, Sister Melinda Burks and brother David Burks, Aunts Jan Blankenship and Syble Miller and Glenda Sanders.

Memorial will be held at Melrose Community Center on Sunday, January 28, 2018 at 2 PM. Burial will be at Gravel Ridge Cemetery to follow.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Nacogdoches, Nacogdoches Co., TX, Obituary

The Daily Sentinel, (Nacogdoches, TX) - March 30, 2018

Dr. Daniel Lavon Spinks, age 33, passed away Tuesday, March 27, 2018. He was born in Nacogdoches County to Marshall Lavon Spinks and Tamye Hall Blankenship.

Daniel and his wife Cassidy made their home in Nacogdoches, TX with Daniel working independently from home and Cassidy as a Registered Nurse. Daniel was an accomplished marksman and enjoyed firearms, hunting, fishing, and traveling. In his lifetime, Daniel traveled to over fifteen different countries for school and leisure. Daniel was a devoted citizen to the Great State of Texas. He possessed a deep and emotional attachment to his home state from his youth until his death, often stating to friends and family, "TEXAS FOREVER!" He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Stephen F. Austin in 2010 with a dual Bachelors Degree in History and Political Science. Daniel also attended Texas Tech University where he excelled as a student of Political Science, being endowed with numerous scholarships, fellowships, and serving as Vice-President of the Texas Tech University Political Science Graduate Student Association. Daniel earned his Masters of Arts degree in 2013 and was in the process of defending his dissertation for Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science.

Daniel is survived by his beloved wife, Cassidy Spinks, of seven years, and their "fur babies" Faust, Klause, Schatzi and Braxton. He is also survived by his mother, Tamye Hall Blankenship, her husband Johnny Blankenship; siblings, Annie Blankenship, Marsha Kay Spinks, and Micah Heath Spinks; his Uncle and favorite riding buddy Terry Hall and wife Julie; Uncle Roy Spinks, Uncle Stacey Spinks and Uncle Brad Spinks; Aunt Pat Rhodes and Aunt Eva Fountain; He is also survived by so many more friends and family. To his nieces and nephews, Uncle Dan-a-lee, will always be remembered and loved.

Daniel was preceded in death by a child born in heaven and father Marshall Lavon Spinks. He is also preceded in death by his father, Marshall Spinks and grandparents, Marie Lacey, Floyd Lavon Spinks, Othel and Daniel Hall and Elnora Chance Burke.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, March 31, 2018 at Laird Funeral Home with Bro. Paul Sever officiating. Interment will follow at Blue Springs Cemetery in Etoile, Texas. Serving as pallbearers will be Chris Beavers, Chris Knowlton, Kyle Smith, Steven Newcomb, Chase Phillips, James Hall, Blake Stanaland, Heath Heart, Jordan Spinks and Jay Gatley. Honorary pallbearers will be Adam Reimer and Ted Stevens.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Nueces

+2019, Corpus Christi, Nueces Co., TX, Obituary

Corpus Christi Caller-Times (TX) - April 24, 2019

James Greenwood, age 81, Corpus Christi, passed away April 15, 2019. He was born December 22, 1937 to Earl Sammuel and Ruth Marie Greenwood in Pharr, Texas.

James was raised in Corpus Christi, Texas and attended Sundeen High School. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and served from January 16, 1956 to January 15, 1960 in the 3320 Air Police Squadron. He married his wife, Elfrances Sue, on June 15, 1962. He retired from Asarco after 37 years.

James is preceded in death by his parents: Earl S. Greenwood and Ruth Marie Greenwood, wife: Elfrances Sue Smith Greenwood, brother: Earl S Greenwood, sisters: Winnie Glass, Mae Conner, Claudia Blankenship and Carol Ann Greenwood.

Left to cherish his memories are his daughters: Nancy (Robert) Fincher, Shawnna (Chris) Campbell and Shannan (Jerry) Copeland, seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and two brothers: Edward (Betty) Greenwood and Wilbur (Jody) Greenwood.

A Memorial Graveside Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, April 26, 2019 at Seaside Memorial Park.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Corpus Christi, Nueces Co., TX, Obituary

Houston Chronicle (TX) - August 13, 2019

Ruth Fullilove Krumrey, a Christian woman, entered unto her Heavenly Birthday on Saturday, August 10, 2019, as she turned age 94. She was born in Shreveport, Louisiana August 10, 1925 to her parents Mary Shirley Barbin Fullilove and Jacob Foster Fullilove.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her aunts Melba Fullilove Maino, Irby Boone, Dorthea Dixon, her brother Jacob Foster Fullilove, her sisters Mary Shirley Cardwell, Elaine Blankenship, and Gennie V. Stackhouse, her son Lloyd Walter Krumrey, Jr. and his wife Jana Charland Krumrey.

Ruth is survived by her husband Lloyd Walter Krumrey, Sr., sons Kenneth Foster Krumrey, Michael Frederick Krumrey, and Christopher Guy Krumrey and his wife Marsha Foss Krumrey, and daughter-in-law Elizabeth G. Krumrey. She is additionally survived by her sister Barbara McMillan. Ruth is also surrvived by her grandchildren Michael Charland, Aimie C. Mills, Jennifer C. Simpson, and great grandchildren Courtney Charland, Ryan Z. Charland, Timothy Gillette, Christopher Gillette, Zachary Mills, Kiera R. Simpson, Garrette R. Simpson, Gabrielle R. Simpson, and Jesse R. Simpson, plus numerous nieces and nephews and their children.

Services will be held at 1:30, Wednesday, August 14, 2019, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 808 Louisiana Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas with graveside services following at Seaside Memorial Park. Pastor Emeritus Alton Kirk and Pastor Richard Lofgren will officiate with Janet Miller as organist. Honorary pallbearers : David Barrett, Michael Barrett, Adam Barrett Hetherington, Billie Price, Bill McNair, Erm Mueller, Roger Brandt.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Port Aransas, Nueces Co., TX Obituary

The Antlers American, (OK) - June 21, 2018

Briar D.A. Nail Irene Simpson passed from this life and went to our heavenly father on June 12, 2018, in Port Aransas, TX. She was born on April 3, 2018, to Kendall Simpson and Dakota Pryor in Corpus Christi, TX.

She was preceded in death by: maternal grandparents: Rodney Pryor and Robin Gann.

Briar is survived by her parents: Kendall Simpson and Dakota Pryor; sisters: Tymberleingh Pryor, Emmalynn George, Payton Simpson, Kenzlee Barker, Cyndall Simpson; brother: Cinch Simpson; paternal grandparents: Hollis and Debra Simpson of Antlers; paternal grandmother: Susee Nunnelee of Port Aransas, TX; paternal great grandparents: Wanda Cassidy and William Jason Blankenship Sr., numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives and friends.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Oldham

+2018, Adrian, Oldham Co., TX, Funeral

Amarillo Globe-News (TX) - November 19, 2018

Albert Pat Blankenship, 81, of Adrian died November 17, 2018.

Services will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, November 21, 2018, at Adrian High School Gymnasium. Burial will follow at 4:00 p.m. at Lieb Cemetery. Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors , Amarillo.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Adrian, Oldham Co., TX, Funeral

https://boxwellbrothers.com/obituaries/albert-pat-blankenship/

Albert Pat Blankenship, 81, of Adrian, Texas, died November 17, 2018. He was born April 4, 1934 in Seymour, Texas to Albert and Lovesta Blankenship.

Pat graduated from Morse High School in 1955. Attended Frank Phillips Junior College where he played basketball and baseball. Pat married Kay Warren on September 14, 1958 in Borger, TX. He earned his Bachelors and Masters Degree from West Texas State University. He worked at the Mavrick Boys Club. He started his teaching and coaching career in Masterson, TX. He moved to Adrian, TX in 1966 and was Superintendant at Adrian Independent School District for 35 years. He was a Mason and member of the Adrian’s Lions Club. He was a member of the Adrian Church of Christ.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Martha Davis and her husband Lynn.

He is survived by his wife, Kay Blankenship of Adrian; a daughter, Sherry Hale and husband Monty of Adrian; two sons, Pat Blankenship and wife Jeannine of Antonito, CO and David Blankenship and wife Julie of McKinney, TX; a sister, Beth Dortch and husband Tom of Morse, TX; three brothers, Sonny Blankenship and wife Jenny of Gruver, Eschol Blankenship and wife Eulalia of Spearman, and John Blankenship of Amarillo; seven grandchildren, Jason, Holly, Karen, Zach, Lauren, Caitlin and Jesse; five great-grandchildren, Taylor, Ethan, Kaylie, Cooper and Riley; several beloved nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, November 21, 2018, at Adrian High School Gymnasium. Burial will follow at 4:00 p.m. at Lieb Cemetery. Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Palo Pinto

+2018, Mineral Wells, Palo Pinto Co., TX, Obituary

Mineral Wells Index (TX) - April 5, 2018

Deloris Lucas, 78, passed away April 1, 2018, in Fort Worth [Tarrant Co., TX]. She was born Jan. 10, 1940, in Forman, the daughter of James Rupert and Iowa Clementine Southall Blankenship.

She married Jimmie Lee Lucas on Nov. 11, 1956, in Erath County. She was a longtime resident of Mineral Wells. She was a member of Holders Chapel United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her daughter, Deloris Diane Lucas.

She is survived by her husband, Jimmie Lucas; daughter, Teresa Stephens; adopted daughter, Cindy Chavez; and adopted grandchildren, Natalia and Andres Paul Sr.

Service is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 7, in the Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Chapel. Burial will follow in Staggs Prairie Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Panola

+2019, Carthage, Panola Co., TX, Obituary

The Panola Watchman, (Carthage, TX) - February 27, 2019

Kenneth Wayne Tatum, 57, of Carthage, Texas, passed away on Friday afternoon, February 22, 2019, in Tyler. He was born on June 21, 1961, in the Fair Play Community in Panola County, Texas to the late Edgar, Sr. and Velma D. Willis Tatum.

Mr. Tatum was of the Baptist faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Edgar Tatum, Jr. and Benny Ray Tatum; and sisters, Jean Blankenship and Velma Ree Green.

Mr. Tatum is survived by sisters, Nelva Hicks and husband, Ralph of Beckville and Barbara Taylor and husband, James of Dallas and brother, Tommy D. Tatum and wife, Ferene of Lakeport.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am, on Wednesday, February 27, 2019, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Roger Smith officiating. Honorary pallbearers are Rodney Hicks, Fred Blankenship, Chad Hicks, Moses Tatum, Osaze Idumwonyi and Kobe Idumwonyi.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Woods, Panola Co., TX, Obituary

The Panola Watchman, (Carthage, TX) - September 29, 2019

Kyle Allen Knight, of Woods Community Passed away on Sept. 24, 2019. He was born August 14, 1967 in Nacogdoches, Texas to Joseph Enoch and Linda Kay Templin Knight.

Mr. Knight was reared in the Woods Community and graduated from Carthage High School in 1985. Kyle was a graduate of Texas A&M University in 1991 with an engineering degree and was always proud to be an Aggie.

Kyle will always be remembered for his passion for collecting railroad memorabilia and his loving, generous heart and spirit.

Kyle was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Thomas Enoch and Jennie Knight of the Woods Community; his maternal grandparents, Dick and Ruth Templin of the Paxton Community; and an uncle, Thomas (Tommy) Knight of the Woods Community.

He is survived by his parents, Joe and Kay Knight of the Woods Community; his daughter, Shelby Knight and her fiancé, Ramtin Eskandani of Tyler; a sister, Dr. Polly Knight Blankinship and her husband, Todd of Van Alstyne, Texas; a niece, Callie Blankenship and a nephew, Preston Blankenship of Van Alstyne, Texas; aunts and uncles, Jean and Jimmy Bowlin of Tenaha, Texas; Daphne and Robert Templin of Nacogdoches, Texas; Benjene Knight of the Woods Community. He is also survived by numerous cousins and a host of friends.

Graveside funeral services for Mr. Kyle Allen Knight, 52, of the Woods Community, of Panola County, Texas were held at 11:00 am, Friday, September 27, 2019 at Woods Cemetery with Rev. Mike Lauxman presiding. Pallbearers will be, Garrett Lauxman, Stephen Clackley, Robert Williams, Patrick Sharp, Robert Templin, Todd Blankenship, Jimmy Bowlin, Todd Thompson, and Albert Ray.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Fannin Co., TX, Marriage; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTBT-841

Billy T. Blankinship, 1965 - Pollyanne Knight, 1970 – m.30Jul2001

Tarrant Co., TX, Birth: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VD5N-6K8

Billy Todd Blankenship, 28Jun1965 – S/o Johnnie Danie Blankenship & Linda Joyce Estes

Parker

+2018, Weatherford, Parker Co., TX, Death

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/timothy-wayne-blankenship-obituary?pid=189053837

Timothy Wayne Blankenship [08Feb1965] passed away in 18 May 2018. Weatherford, Texas

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Timothy Wayne Blankenship – b.08Feb1965 – Irving, TX:

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KG6P-FXZ

Relatives - Bill M. Blankenship, Bill Blankenship, Billy M. Blankenship, Billy Mack Blankenship Jr., Billy M. Blankenship Jr., Delores D. Blankenship, Kelle W. Blankenship, Mary P. Blankenship, Ruby D. Blankenship, Ruby Delores Blankenship, Spencer Todd Blankenship, Tommy Blankenship.

Collin Co., TX, Birth: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VDCP-DSC

Timothy Wayne Blankenship - 08Feb1965 – S/o Billy Mack Blankenship & Ruby Delores Howell

Potter

+2018, Amarillo, Potter Co., TX, Funeral

Amarillo Globe-News (TX) - November 29, 2018

Olivia Jean "OJ" Blankenship, 71, of Amarillo died November 27, 2018.

Services will be at 2:00 pm, Saturday, December 1, 2018, at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel. Burial will be in Llano Cemetery.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Amarillo, Potter Co., TX, Obituary

https://boxwellbrothers.com/obituaries/olivia-jean-oj-blankenship/

Olivia “OJ” Blankenship, 71, of Amarillo, passed away Nov. 27, 2018. Treasured daughter to June Hathcock. Adoring mother to Julie Clarke and her husband, Jeff, and Sheryl Caldwell and her husband Tony; and loving friend to so, so many.

She worked as a dedicated IT manager and professional at Pantex for more than 45 years but it is her faith and her relationships for which she will most be remembered. For decades, people went to Olivia for prayer, encouragement and often, candy. And they never left disappointed. When she prayed for you, the mountains moved.

She was preceded in death by her father, James C. “Jay” Hathcock, and her brother, Jay Lewis Hathcock.

Olivia loved flowers and saw them as a sign of loving and being loved. Any flowers sent to celebrate her will be donated after the service so others also can experience their beauty.

A celebration of her life will be at Boxwell Brothers in Amarillo at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018.

Randall Co., TX, Birth: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VD6J-YCB

Olivia Jean Hathcock, F, 12Jan1947 – D/o James Carlton Hathcock & Winifred June Davis

Potter Co., TX, Marriage: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTRH-ZM9

Richard Travis Blankenship, 20 [1946] - Olivia Jean Hathcock, 19 [1947] - m.26Aug1966

+2019, Amarillo, Potter Co., TX, Obituary

Amarillo Globe-News (TX) - November 22, 2019

Judy Anne (Blankenship) Barton died unexpectedly at home on November 17, 2019. She was born on December 19, 1951 in Amarillo, where she lived her entire life.

Judy was a team player with an incredible work ethic. Judy worked at BSA for 35 years in the billing department before retiring in 2017. "Ms. Judy" also worked as a barista at Starbucks for 15 years, including during her two years of "retirement." At Starbucks, she liked working the drive-through window and serving as a second mom to the younger baristas.

Judy worked hard but also maximized the fun in her life. She loved to go to the movies (she liked almost every movie she saw), bowl, ride roller coasters, travel with her daughter and friends, and take walks in the park. She also loved a good nap and to spend time with her friends, who were a second family to her and Shawnee. Ray and Iweta Johnson, Marisa Kennedy, Susan McClanahan, and Diane Howard are among those meant the world to her. She regularly laughed more in a week with her family and these friends than most people laugh in a lifetime. Judy was the best.

Judy’s family and countless friends are devastated by her passing but treasure their memories of this kind, fun, selfless, dependable, and loving woman. She graduated from Tascosa High School and was a cheerleader and class favorite. She adored her parents, Ralph and Patricia "Pat" Blankenship. Judy and her sister Jo Malone, "The Blankenship Girls," grew up on a dairy farm and had a life full of adventures together, including raising their girls together with pride and a lot of love.

Judy had one child--her daughter and "sunshine," Shawnee. Judy's love for Shawnee was apparent to everyone. Judy's favorite place in the world was next to Shawnee. As a mom, Judy was fun, adventurous, sacrificing, affectionate, caring, steadfast, and generous in every way. The two were tethered as tightly as two people could be. She was always, and will forever be, adored by her daughter.

Judy has two nieces, Brett Anne Williams and Lisa Shaw, who she and Shawnee spent many weekends having adventures with that were full of silliness and laughter. Aunt Judy was always there to listen to her nieces and guide them with kindness. She was a role model to them as they became aunts themselves. Like everyone who knew her, they will remember her laugh and smile that would light up a room

Judy has four grandchildren that she adored: Charlie, Dylan, Graham and Zadie Anne Merriman. They could not have loved her more. "Mimi" took them on adventures that lasted hours and always ended with the kids returning home well-fed with arms full of presents and smiles on their faces (usually a movie or trip to the arcade was involved). Judy was a master at entertaining her grandchildren at the kitchen table with cards, board games, and fun activities she somehow made up on the spot.

A service will be held at Schooler Funeral Home, 4100 S. Georgia, at 11 am, on November 23, 2019.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Red River

+2019, Avery, Red River Co., TX, Obituary

Texarkana Gazette (TX) - August 6, 2019

Truman Lewis Latham, 71, passed away Saturday, August 3, 2019 at his home in Avery, Texas. He was born August 22, 1947 in Dallas, Texas to Leslie Lewis and Edith Margie Splawn Latham.

Truman worked on the Shelby Ranch in De Kalb, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Helen Blankenship; and one brother, Ernest Latham.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Latham of Avery, Texas; one son, Jesse Latham of Bossier City, Louisiana; one daughter and son-in-law, Lori and Ronny Raney of De Kalb, Texas; six grandchildren, Jeremy Raney of De Kalb, Texas, Kyler Raney of De Kalb, Texas, Logan Raney of De Kalb, Texas, Anastasia Latham of Paris, Texas, Sabrina Latham of Paris, Texas, and Rainey Tubbs of Idabel, Oklahoma; two step sons, Barney Tubbs of Oklahoma and Loyd Tubbs of Clarksville, Texas; one brother and sister-in-law, Donnie and Rhonda Latham of New Boston, Texas; three sisters and two brothers-inlaw, Christine Eubanks of New Boston, Texas, Kathy and Robert Bailey of De Kalb, Texas, and Patsy and Paul Mitchell of De Kalb, Texas; one special niece, Marlene Latham of New Boston, Texas; and numerous other family members and friends.

Services will be 10:00 am, Wednesday, August 7, 2019, at Bates Family Funeral Home in De Kalb, Texas with Bro. Terry Carson officiating. Interment will follow at Hubbard Chapel Cemetery in De Kalb, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Reeves

+2018, Pecos, Reeves Co., TX, Death

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/jason-todd-blankenship-obituary?pid=189145187

Jason Todd Blankenship - October 17, 1979 May 27, 2018 - Texas

Pecos Funeral Home - Pecos

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Rockwall

+2018, Rockwall, Rockwall Co., TX, Obituary

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock, AR) - January 19, 2019

Connie Blankenship died January 15, 2019, in Rockwall, TX. She was born close to Dermott, AR, on February 6, 1930.

She had four children: Mike, George, Susan and Mary Thompson.

The funeral will be at Temple Baptist Church in Dermott, January 20, 2019, at 2 pm.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Rockwall, Rockwall Co., TX, Obituary

https://griffinculpepper.com/book-of-memories/3699160/Blankenship-Connie/service-details.php

Murphy Ledell “Connie" Blankenship died January 15, 2019 at her son’s home in Rockwall, TX. Connie was born in the Bellaire Community near Dermott, AR, on February 6, 1930.

In 1945 Connie married Julius Eugene “J. E.” Thompson and had four children, Michael Jay, George Eugene, Susan Joyce and Mary Bess. In 1965 she married Gilley Rue Blankenship and had no children with him.

Mike, George and Mary produced 9 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren: Mike’s were Ralph Michael (wife Doris) of Garland, Texas, Victor Lee Strang (wife Sabrina) of Royse City, Texas and Nastasha Strang of New York City. George’s were Julius Eugene III of Little Rock, Arkansas and April Renee Roberson of Newport, Arkansas. Mary’s were Malorie Lynn Brown of Harrison, Arkansas, Jessica Michelle Nelson (husband Marquise) of Bearden, Arkansas, Shannon Nicole Thompson of Little Rock, Arkansas and Stacy Ann Powers of Little Rock, Arkansas.

Great-grandchildren are: Elena Nelson, Savannah Thompson, Victoria Strang, Eric Thompson, Christopher Zumwalt, Samantha Manees, Kyle Nuehring, Cole Nuehring, Hannah Nuehring, Gabe Brewer, Marquise Nelson, Keairon Nelson, Alex Garrett, Seth Mosely, Kaleah Thompson, Corey Clay, Kobyray Thompson, Karay Thompson, Karayah Thompson, Stanley Bullock and Ryan Bullock.

Funeral services will be at 2 pm, at the Temple Baptist Church in Dermott, AR, with Rev. Bobby Franklin and Rev. Jody Gannaway officiating. Burial at Dermott Cemetery.

Scurry

+2018, Snyder, Scurry Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/?action=obituaries.obit_view&CFID=c18434b7-2f75-4baf-a636-4d46551b5b83&CFTOKEN=0&o_id=6523969&fh_id=14781

James “Bill” Durwood Blankenship, age 87, of Snyder, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2019 at his home after a lengthy illness. He was born April 3, 1932 in DeLeon, Texas to James Rupert and Iowa (Southall) Blankenship.

Bill was married to Norma Dean Springfield on April 22, 1956 in Ackerly, Texas. Bill and Dean celebrated a wonderful life of 63 years together. They were truly blessed with a loving family and many friends. Bill served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. Afterwards, he went to Odessa to work in the oil field. There in Odessa, he met Dean. In 1954 Bill moved to Snyder while working for Baker Oil Tools. Then in 1980, Bill opened his own business, Blankenship Packer Service, from which he retired from the oil business fourteen years later. During this time he developed an innovative packer configuration for which he became well known.

Bill’s first love was farming and ranching. The first farm he owned was in Dublin, Texas. In 1980 he began purchasing farms in the Fluvanna area. He enjoyed making improvements in the land improving production.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers Wayne Blankenship, Olan Blankenship, and Gerry Blankenship; three sisters Ollie George, Louise Knight, and Janie Lucas.

Survivors include his wife Dean, sister LaJoyce Davis of Stephenville, daughters Vicki Shurtleff (Sam) of Lampasas, Lisa Hartzog (Donny) of Snyder, and Pam Palacios (Antonio) of Mission. He is also survived by seven grandchildren James Shurtleff, Robert Allan Shurtleff, Amanda Whitmire (Adam), Kayla Hartzog, Nathan Palacios (Ana), Jason Palacios (Alli), and Maggi Palacios. He is survived by 3 great grandchildren and many friends.

Services will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, August 18, 2019, at First Baptist Church in Snyder. Interment will follow at Hillside Memorial Gardens under the direction of Bell-Cypert-Seale Funeral Home.

+2019, Snyder, Scurry Co., TX, Obituary

http://www.bellcypertseale.com/obituary/norma-dean-blankenship

Mrs. Norma Dean Blankenship, 85 of Snyder, TX died on Wednesday, October 30, 2019 at Covenant Medical Center in Lubbock, [Lubbock Co., TX]. She was born on March 28, 1934 in Ackerley, Texas to Barney Otis Springfield and Neva Mattie King.

Dean was a member of First Baptist Church in Snyder and was Co-Owner and office manager of Blankenship Packers. She earned her teaching degree from Texas Tech University in 1970 and taught kindergarten in Ira for many years.

Dean married James "Bill" Blankenship on April 22, 1956 in Ackerley, Texas. He preceded her in death on August 14, 2019. She was also preceded in death by: Her parents and 1) Brother - James Darrell Springfield

She is survived by: 3) Daughters: Vicki Shurtleff and husband Sam, Lampasas, TX. Lisa Hartzog and husband Donny, Snyder, TX, Pam Palacios and husband Antonio, Pharr, TX; 7) Grandchildren: James Shurtleff, Robert Allen Shurtleff, Amanda Whitmire and husband Adam, Kayla Hartzog and Wyl Wiggins, Nathan Palacios and wife Ana, Jason Palacios and wife Ali, Maggi Palacios; 3) Great Grandchildren

Services will be held at 2:00 pm, on Saturday, November 02, 2019, at First Baptist Chapel with Hospice Chaplain Kinney Robinson officiating. Internment will follow at Hillside Memorial Gardens. Bell-Cypert-Seale Funeral Home.

Shelby

+2019, Center, Shelby Co., TX, Obituary

Herald Democrat (Sherman, TX) - October 2, 2019

Virginia Leann Blankenship (Fenley) of Center passed away on September 26. She was born October 28, 1949 in Denison, Texas.

She was the 1968 Valedictorian of Denison High School, and earned her Masters Degree in 1974 from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. She taught High School Physics in Center and Shelbyville, Texas for 36 years, retiring in 2009. She was a former member of Waples Methodist Church in Denison.

She is survived by two sons, four brothers, and three grandchildren.

A Memorial is scheduled for her on October 6, at 2 pm, at the Center Middle School in Center, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Smith

+2018, Tyler, Smith Co., TX, Obituary

http://obituaries.tylerpaper.com/obituaries/tylerpaper/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=187974097

Published in Tyler Morning Telegraph on Jan. 26, 2018

Brenda L. Blankenship, 69, of Tyler, TX went to be with her Lord and Savior Tuesday, January 23, 2018. She was born in Dallas, TX, January 1, 1949 to her parents, Winnie and A. F Shaw.

Brenda graduated from Canton High School, 1967 and attended Tyler Junior College. She retired from Cunningham Lindsey as a manager. Brenda enjoyed cooking, bowling with her friends, spending time with family, and spoiling her grandchildren. Brenda was a Christian and was sincere in her faith.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Paula Kay Shaw.

Brenda is survived by the love of her life Hack, of 50 years, her son Brendan Blankenship, daughter, Celie Pyle and husband, Tony Pyle, brother Dennis Shaw and grandchildren; Hunter Rodriguez, Alec Blankenship, Jayci Jordan and Elliott Pyle.

A family and friend gathering will be held on January 27, 2018 between 12 pm - 3 pm at the family home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Haskell Lynn Blankenship – b.01Feb1946 - Tyler, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KGP7-T89

Relatives - Brenda Shaw Blankenship, Brendan L. Blankenship, Celie K. Blankenship rodrigue, Michele Lynn Blankenship.

+2018, Tyler, Smith Co., TX, Obituary

Longview News-Journal (TX) - April 13, 2018

Katie L. (Ferguson) Landrum was born April 1, 1959, in Gladewater and died March 27, at East Texas Hospice in Tyler, Texas.

A resident of the West Mountain community most of her life, Katie graduated from Union Grove High School in 1977. She completed a cosmetology degree at Kilgore College. However, Katie's gift as a problem-solver and her proficiency in technical skills drew her into the business and medical fields. Graduating Cum Laude from LeTourneau University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management, Katie spent the next 12 years analyzing and implementing medical systems and managing and training staff for various hospitals and companies. She traveled extensively, working from coast to coast, meeting new co-workers and making new friends. Katie was a devout woman of faith and member of The Church at West Mountain.Katie loved family and looked forward to the times spent back home in West Mountain.

Preceding Katie in death were her mom and dad, John and Susie Ferguson of West Mountain; grandparents, Homer and Alma Blankenship of White Oak; Howard and Dorothy Ferguson of West Mountain; sister-in-law Debbie Landrum of West Mountain; adopted aunt and uncle, Jimmy and Margie Hicks of Lott, TX; and best friend and cousin Mary Jane Park of Tyler.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 36 years Willie Landrum and adoring son Justin Landrum and partner S. Nathaniel Burgess of Longview; close sisters and brother and spouses, Cyndi King (Will) of Rosewood; Debra Cline (John) of White Oak; Brenda Cooper (Ralph) of Pritchett, and Cody Ferguson (Cyndi) of Union Grove. Caring family also includes mother-in-law and spouse Margarette Annette Payne (Boyd) of Ore City; brothers-in-law and spouses Jimmie Landrum of West Mountain; Lloyd Landrum (Donna) of Littleton, Colorado; Scott Landrum of Tyler; sisters-in-law and spouses Rebecca Sapp of West Mountain; Lisa Grady (Jim) of Apopka, Florida; Sabrina Richardson (Scott) of Union Grove; Melissa Madden (John) of Minden, Louisiana; Tammy Gray (Tymon) of Ore City; a host of dear cousins; and many precious nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews who will dearly miss their Aunt Katie.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, April 15, at 3:00 p.m. at Union Grove Baptist Church, Gladewater, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Tyler, Smith Co., TX, Obituary

Tyler Morning Telegraph (TX) - July 13, 2018

Ann Williams, 73, of Tyler, passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home on Wednesday morning, July 11, 2018. She was born June 2, 1945 in Overton, TX to Nelson and Mary Glenice Blankenship of Arp.

Ann was a member of Rose Heights Church where she taught Sunday school in the 1980's, sang in the church choir and served on the Mission Board for many years. She graduated from Arp High School in 1963 and from Tyler Junior College with a one-year Degree in Business in 1964. She married Floyd T. Williams on January 24, 1969. Through the years, she held secretarial positions with Gulf States Telephone, Loggins Meat Company and Howe-Baker Engineers as well as being a homemaker. She also enjoyed volunteering at Overton and Troup Nursing Homes as a beautician.

Ann was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren when she wasn't enjoying traveling through the U.S. with her husband in their RV.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her loving family including her husband of 49 years, Floyd T. Williams; son, Todd Williams and wife Teresa of Tyler; daughter, Tara Lemmel and husband Chad of Arp; grandchildren, Johnathon Williams, Noah Williams and Liam Lemmel; sister, Glenda Baird of Arp and a host of extended family and friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, July 14, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Rose Heights Church with Pastor Doug Anderson and Pastor Jerry Hanson officiating. Burial will follow at Williams Cemetery in New Chapel Hill. Pallbearers will be Kevin Watkins, Logan Watkins, Bill Taylor, David Adams, Chipper Hugghins and Peyton Hugghins. Honorary pallbearers will be Billy Wayne Allen and Billy Vernon.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Winona, Smith Co., TX, Obituary

Tyler Morning Telegraph (TX) - February 28, 2019

James Edward Blankenship, 65, Winona;

Graveside service 1 pm, Friday at Starrville Cemetery. Croley Funeral Home, Gladewater.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Winona, Smith Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.croleyfh.net/obituaries/James-Edward-Blankenship?obId=4199845#/obituaryInfo

James Edward Blankenship, 65, of Winona, was born December 17, 1953 in Paducah, Kentucky to the late Edward C. Blankenship and Katherine Louis Green Blankenship. He passed away, Sunday, February 24, 2019 in Tyler, Texas.

Mr. Blankenship had a long career as a Commercial Truck driver. James enjoyed hunting, old westerns and reading his bible. He had a huge heart and would have helped anyone. He also very much enjoyed spending his time with his family and friends. James will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife and companion of 32 years, Karen Blankenship; son Billy Haley; daughters Michelle Blankenship Jones, Kristy Lewis and husband Scott; Three grandchildren Jacob White, Jessica Jones, Adalynn Lewis and sister Jeanie Hopkins.

Graveside services will be 1:00 pm, Friday, March 1, 2019, at Starrville Cemetery in Winona, Texas.

Tarrant

2019, Bedford, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

Fort Worth Star-Telegram (TX) - September 1, 2019

Larry Stricklin, 85, of Bedford, passed away Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019. He was born Oct. 17, 1933, in Chicago to the late Everitt and Kathrine Stricklin.

Larry graduated from St. Mel High School in 1951 and St. Joseph College Indiana in 1955. After graduating college, he proudly served three years in the US Army, stationed in Germany. He was an independent furniture sales representative over 40 years. He and Ruth were involved in many organizations, enjoyed traveling, and spending time with their family.

Larry was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Ruth.

Survivors: Son, Dan Stricklin and wife, Mary Dee, and their children, Elaine and Rebecca; son, Ron Stricklin and his children, Brielle and Ryan; daughter, Julie Lane and husband, David, and their children, Christopher and Michael; and sister, Kathleen Blankenship.

Mass of Christian BuriaL: 10 am, Wednesday, Sept 4, 2019, at Good Shepherd Catholic Community in Colleyville. Interment follows in Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Chicago, Cook Co., IL, Birth; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QL9S-7FV5

Kathleen Joan Stricklin, 03Jul1936 – D/o Everett Paul Stricklin, 25, MO - Katherine Elliott, 25, IL.

+2018, Fort Worth, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

The Herald Bulletin, (Anderson, IN) - March 1, 2018

Barbara Ann "Sissy" Reed, 80, formerly of Anderson, passed away Feb. 21, 2018, at her home in Fort Worth, Texas She was born on May 10, 1937, in Canalou, Missouri.

Barbara graduated from Alexandria High School in 1954. She retired in 1983 from Guide Lamp Division of General Motors after 18 years of service. Barbara shattered the glass ceiling at Guide, holding some very non-traditional roles for females during her tenure.

In retirement, Barbara moved to Naples, Florida, where she owned and operated a franchise business and was later instrumental in establishing a residential coop community for active senior living, Holiday Manor Coop. She was also a founding partner in the Pelican Creek Investment Group, a real estate holding corporation. Barbara was a voracious reader, accomplished Toastmaster, and enjoyed traveling - especially on cruises. She was an avid card player who enjoyed playing euchre, pinochle, bridge, and others. A true competitor, it was nearly impossible to beat her at a game of Scrabble. Barbara also enjoyed cooking meals big enough to feed an army for her friends and her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alton and Elizabeth Blankinship; husband, Bobby Reed; children, Teresa Garrison, Christine Wooldridge, Mary Kay Talbert; brothers, Charles Blankinship, William Blankinship, and Warren Blankinship.

Barbara is survived by her children, Sherry Cain of Anderson, Michelle Marquand of Pontiac, and Andy Reed of Fort Worth; eight grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren.

Services will be Saturday, March 3, 2018, 11:30 a.m. at Loose Funeral Homes & Crematory, 200 W. 53rd St., Anderson, Indiana. Entombment will take place in the Anderson Memorial Park, immediately following services.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Fort Worth, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/ronald-blankenship-obituary?pid=190073332

In Memory of Ronald Lee Blankenship - June 23, 1956 - August 25, 2018.

Funeral Home Services for Ronald are being provided by Guardian Funeral Home of Fort Worth, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Ronald Lee Blankenship – b.23Jun1956, McLennan, TX – S/o Jimmy Lee Blankenship & Marjorie Nan Auberry

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VDF3-GP4

+2019, Fort Worth, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

Published in Star-Telegram on Feb. 27, 2019

Frances Marie Blankenship, Fort Worth, passed away Friday, Feb. 22.

Funeral: 9:30 am, Sat. [Greenwood Funeral Home]

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Fort Worth, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.greenwoodfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Frances-Blankenship-4/#!/Obituary

Frances Blankenship, 88, passed away Friday, Feb. 22, 2019, in Fort Worth. She was born in Kansas City, MO, to James L. and Marie E. Cave on Nov. 4, 1930.

Frances went to school in Fort Worth and during the war she worked at Lockheed Martin building planes. She then worked as a telephone operator for Southwestern Bell/ATT for 36 years. She was involved in volunteering with the Texas Pythian Home. She was also involved in researching the family tree.

Frances was preceded in death by her daughter, Linda Creamer; brothers, Earl and Darrel; and sisters, Gladys and Ellen.

Survivors: Daughters, Pamela Brigham and husband, Perry of Fort Worth and Betty Booth and husband, Charles of Fort Worth; sons, Tommy Blankenship and wife, Susan of Springvale, Maine, Larry Blankenship of Sendlefingen, Germany and Mark Blankenship and wife, Carrie; sister, Catherine Titus of Burneyville, Okla.; grandchildren, Douglas and Corey Brandstetter, Misty Burns, Dickie Blake, Christy Salisbury, Sondra Cordero, Melissa Blankenship and Auhtumn Blankenship; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be Mar 2, 9:30 am, Greenwood Funeral Homes and Cremation, Cemetery, Mausoleum, Florist

3100 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, officiated by Chaplain Al Munger. Pallbearers: Perry Brigham, Mark Blankenship, Corey Brandstetter, Douglas Brandstetter, Cameron Brandstetter and Colton Brandstetter.

+2019, Fort Worth, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

Published in Star-Telegram on Apr. 26, 2019

Rosa Maria Blankenship, 81 [1938], Fort Worth, passed Tuesday, April 23, 2019.

Funeral: 3:30 p.m., Mon., Greenwood Chapel.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, North Richland Hills, Tarrant TX, Obituary

Fort Worth Star-Telegram (TX) - January 10, 2018

Robert Eugene Mullins passed away from heart failure Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017, at his home in North Richland Hills, Texas, just six days before his 74th birthday. Bob was born Dec. 27, 1943, in Philadelphia, Pa.

As an infant, he moved to Oak Hill, WV where he lived until he joined the Air Force after high school graduation He worked for Braniff Airlines until they went out of business, and after a brief period of others jobs, he went to work for American Airlines, where he retired as a crew chief. Bob was an avid golfer and was a volunteer employee of Meadowbrook Golf Course in Fort Worth where he played golf multiple times per week with his many golfing buddies.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Carlene Blankenship Mullins; his mother, Carmella Pizzino Mullins; and his father, Billy Mullins.

He is survived by his son, Christopher McGough of Ajijic, Mexico, and Christopher's four children; son, Brian Kickhoefer and his wife, Laura, of San Antonio, Texas, and their three children; and son, Bart Kickhoefer of Glen Rose, Texas, and his two children. Also, by his stepchildren: Thomas Blankenship and his wife, Sheila, of Burleson, Texas; Patrick Blankenship and his wife, Wendy, of Bedford, Texas; Kelly Blankenship and his wife, Rebecca, of Fort Worth, Texas; and Christa Blankenship of Whitney, Texas. From the Blankenships he is also survived by 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Bob is also survived by his brother, David Mullins of Kansas City, Mo.

Celebration of Life: 11am Wednesday, Jan. 17, at St. John the Apostle Church in North Richland Hills with graveside service afterwards at Shiloh Cemetery in Flower Mound.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Saginaw, Tarrant Co., TX, Obituary

Fort Worth Star-Telegram (TX) - April 28, 2019

Tom Dennis, 83, passed away Saturday, April 20, 2019, in Fort Worth, [Tarrant Co., TX]. He was born July 23, 1935, in Fort Worth, to Thomas and Frances Dennis.

Tom attended Circle Park Elementary, J. P. Elder and graduated from North Side High School in 1954. He joined the United States Army in 1955 and served in the 82nd Airborne Division. He was stationed in Germany until his discharge in 1957. After his discharge, he entered North Texas State University. While in school, he met his future wife, Linda. They were married April, 29, 1960. Tom graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He later earned a Master's degree from North Texas University. After graduation, he and Linda moved to Saginaw where they raised their two children. Tom began his teaching career in 1962 in the Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD where he taught at Boswell High School for several years. He later was the vocational director for the district.

Tom retired in 1992, and spent his retirement years on his farm north of Saginaw. He enjoyed raising cattle, fishing, and restoring his two 1935 Model A cars. He especially loved spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Linda; son, Tim Dennis and his wife, Vicki; daughter, Lori Anne McElyea; grandchildren, Taylor Davis and her husband, Nick, Spencer Dennis, Robert McElyea and Ryan McElyea; great-grandson, Ely Davis; his sisters, June Blankenship, Linda Coomer and her husband, Rufus, and Melody Sherrod; seven nieces and nephews; 10 great-nieces and nephews; and 35 great-great nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service will be at 11 am, Tuesday, April 30, 2019, at Biggers Funeral Home, 6100 Azle Ave., Lake Worth.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Taylor

2019, Abilene, Taylor Co., TX, Obituary

Abilene Reporter-News (TX) - September 15, 2019

Dr. Robin Dale Tacker, 80, of Abilene, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, September 10, 2019. Dale was born on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1939 in Porter, Oklahoma to Robin Joel and Vernie Lea Elston Tacker.

His parents owned a dairy farm and a baby calf was born the same day. They soon moved to Wagoner, Oklahoma where Dale grew up and graduated high school in 1957. Dale grew up riding horses, caring for cattle, training and racing horses, and rodeoing, which included roping and the occasional bull ride. He also boxed in the Golden Gloves while in high school. He worked with Mr. June Jeffers breezing his racehorse, Mr. Bar None, before going to school. Dale learned much of his horsemanship skills while working for Mr. Jeffers and, at the age of 12, trained his first horse for money.

After high school, Dale entered Oklahoma State University. After a year of school, he joined the paratroopers in the U.S. Army, but due to Dale's color blindness, he had to leave the paratroopers and join the regular Army. He trained at Fort Carson, Colorado and served with the 1st Battle Group, 60th Infantry. He became a First-Class Gunner, a sharpshooter, an expert in pistol and trained as a boxer, helping the 60th Infantry win the Post Boxing Championship, earning a commendation from his commanding Colonel.

After his honorable discharge from the Army, he enrolled at David Lipscomb University, where he met the love of his life, Renith Capps They were married on November 21, 1962. After the spring of 1963, Dale and Reni signed up with the Bureau of Indian Affairs to teach on the Navajo Reservation at Round Rock, Arizona, with Chinle as their sub-agency. They both taught in the school and Dale trained horses for the trading post owners and one of his own.

After many adventures, they returned to Wagoner, Oklahoma for Dale to finish his degree. He graduated from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah and went into teaching full-time with Reni. They both taught at Star School in Wagoner, with Reni teaching grades 1-4 and Dale teaching grades 5-8. Dale was the principal and bus driver, Reni managed the cafeteria, and they both served as the janitorial staff, event planners and Christmas play organizers. The following year, Dale became eligible for the GI Bill and they moved to Tulsa for Dale to earn his Master's and Doctorate degrees from the University of Tulsa in Education. Dale and Reni both taught in the Tulsa public schools, where Dale was promoted to an elementary school principal. In September of 1969, their son, Robin Dale, Jr. was born, and in November of 1971, daughter Rhonda Kaye was added to the family. In 1977, the family moved to Abilene where Dale was hired as the Director of Student Teaching at Abilene Christian University, where he remained until he retired in 2004. During those years in Abilene, Dale worked with the bus ministry at the Hillcrest Church of Christ and helped with many services at the Central Iglesia de Christo and with the International Friends ministry at Hillcrest.

Following his retirement, Dale and Reni worshipped and served at the Hamby Church of Christ. Dale was an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene, serving a term as President and selling tickets to and working the annual Chili Days. Dale continued to train horses and participate in team roping events in and around Abilene until he could no longer get on a horse.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Robin Joel and Vernie Lea Tacker, and his sisters, Bobbie Lea Stockton and Carolyn Jeanne Hornsby.

He is survived by his devoted wife Reni; son Robin Dale Tacker, Jr and his wife Mary; daughter Rhonda Kaye Wilson and husband Andy; grandchildren Haley Jane Tacker and Robin Joel Tacker, Jake Wilson, Luke Wilson, Sam Wilson, Katie Wilson, and Nate Wilson; and the grandchildren of Robin Dale, Jr. and wife, Mary; Terra Rose Jimenez and Caden, Destiny and Avery Blankenship. He is also survived by his sister Jane Baird and husband Dr. David Baird; brother-in-law Mike Hornsby; and six nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be on Monday, September 16, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at the Hamby Church of Christ, with burial to follow at Elmwood Memorial Park with military honors. Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut Street.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Terry

+2018, Brownfield, Terry Co., TX, Obituary

Published in The Lubbock Avalanche-Journal from July 18 to July 19, 2018

Lana Lisa (Hendricks) Blankenship 58, of Brownfield, TX died July 15, 2018.

Services will be 10:00am on July 20, 2018 at Meadow Church of Christ.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Tom Green

+2018, San Angelo, Tom Green Co., TX, Obituary

Odessa American (TX) - May 23, 2018

Glenda Faye Mathers, age 83, of San Angelo and formerly of Sweetwater passed away Sunday [20May2018] at Sagecrest Care Center in San Angelo. She was born February 27, 1935 in Electra, Texas the daughter of Roy and Tinnie Blankenship Maxey.

She graduated from Odessa High School and later married Joseph Maxey who preceded her in death on December 24, 2001. She attended technical school and later worked for Gulf/Chevron Company as a land lessor and locator where she retired from. She was known as a people person who always placed others first and helped many who needed help during her life. She also loved the outdoors especially hunting and fishing and was proud to have been a member of the Red Hat Society and being with friends. She especially loved her grandchildren and being with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Joe Mathers, a son, Robert Michael Bates, a daughter, Debbie Hefner, and a brother, Roy Maxey.

She is survived by two grandsons, Jason Hefner and his wife Sarita of Sweetwater and Jarod Hefner of Odessa, her granddaughter, Tisha Dubose and her husband Dustin of Odessa, her son-in-law, Bill Hefner of Robert Lee, five grandchildren, Belinda Bugaris and husband Bo of San Angelo, Kelsee Hefner of Dallas, Brooke Hefner of Sweetwater, Brody Dubose and Ryan Dubose both of Odessa, two great-great grandchildren, her sister-in-law, Trudy Maxey of Odessa, a nephew, Wes Maxey of Odessa, and several cousins including Jack and Jamie Collins of Lubbock.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am Wednesday, May 23, at the Robert Lee United Methodist Church with graveside services at 2:30 pm at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Odessa under the direction of Johnson's Funeral Home of San Angelo.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, San Angelo, Tom Green Co., TX, Obituary

San Angelo Standard-Times (TX) - May 26, 2019

Delores Ann Warren, 80, of San Angelo, went to be with her Lord Jesus Thursday, May 23, 2019. She was born August 2, 1938 to Gordon Vance Harris and Ethel Blankenship Harris in Blytheville, Arkansas.

She married William Lee Warren September 4, 1960 in Blytheville, Arkansas. They lived in Sweetwater, Texas, Canton, Oklahoma and the Houston Area before moving to San Angelo in 1974. She was a graduate of Texas Woman's University. She was talented in visual arts and music. She loved drawing and painting, music, flower gardening and church activities. In recent years, failing health prevented her from pursuing those loves.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband of the home, daughter Karen Mikel Warren Singleton of Watanga, Texas, son William Patrick Warren of San Angelo, sister Patty Sue Hudson and her husband, Tom, of Bluffton, South Carolina, sister Charlie Jean Zlobik and her husband, Tony, of Port Charlotte, Florida, sister-in-law, Peggy Page of San Angelo, sister-in-law Margaret Allcorn of Abilene, brother-in-law James Patrick Warren of Big Springs.

Funeral service is 2 pm, Tuesday at Belmore Baptist Church with burial to follow in the Evergreen Cemetery in Ballinger. Johnson's Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

1940 Census, Ward 1, Blytheville, Chickasawba Twp., Mississippi Co., AR,

Harris, Gordon 38, M, AR, Head,

Harris, Ethel 38, F, TN, Wife,

Harris, Delores Ann 01, F, AR, Dau,

https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KQKX-571

+2019, San Angelo, Tom Green Co., TX, Obituary

San Angelo Standard-Times (TX) - October 25, 2019

Floyd Melvin Seaton, 83, of San Angelo, Texas passed away Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at The Springs Memory Care Facility. He fought a courageous battle against Alzheimer's with the support of his loving caregivers and family. He was born on February 19, 1936 in Gillett, Texas to James Collins Seaton and Willie Caraway Seaton.

Floyd graduated from Post High School on a Friday and began work for the Santa Fe Railroad the following Monday. He worked for 38 years as a communications telegraph operator, from 1954-1992. Following his retirement, he continued sharing his knowledge of the telegraph with visitors to the Railway Museum of San Angelo. He donated many of the Santa Fe artifacts to the Museum and loved spending his Saturdays discussing the history of the railroad. Floyd was an avid hunter and fisherman and never missed an opportunity to "elaborate" on his adventures.

Floyd is preceded in death by his loving wife of 25 years, Patricia, his parents, James and Willie Seaton, his mother-in-law, Ruth Dick, brother-in-law, Ed Landers, and niece Glenita Graham.

He is survived by one brother, Lester and wife Glenda Sue Seaton of Gorman, sister, Betty Blankenship and husband Jerry of Seguin, and sister, Louise Landers of Lubbock. He was loved and will be missed by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A family graveside will be held at 10 am, Tuesday October 29, at Lawnhaven Memoral Gardens with Pastor Alfred McCurdy of New Hope Bible Church officiating. Johnsons-Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Travis

+2018, Austin, Travis Co., TX, Death

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/austin-tx/darro-blankenship-7836378

Darro Anthony Blankenship was born on June 15, 1953 and passed away on April 28, 2018

Cook-Walden Funeral Home of Austin, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Darro Anthony Blankenship – b.15Jun1953 – Austin, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K596-RR3

Relatives - Jene Darene Blankenship, Leah Lynne Blankenship.

+2018, Austin, Travis Co., TX, Obituary

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/Barbara-Blankenship-obituary?pid=189183592

Barbara Jean Blankenship passed away on June 2, 2018.

Funeral Home Services for Barbara are being provided by Cook-Walden Chapel of the Hills Funeral Home of Austin, TX.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2018, Austin, Travis Co., TX, Obituary

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/austin-tx/barbara-blankenship-7868852

Barbara J. Blankenship (née Idso), 66, of Austin, Texas, passed away at her Austin home June 2, 2018. She was born March 25, 1952, in Bozeman, Montana, to Paul and Norma Idso. The second oldest of six children.

Barbara traveled the world growing up in an Army family. She proudly attended 17 schools, graduating from McLean High School in Mclean, Virginia, in 1970. Barbara married David Blankenship in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, August 21, 1970, upon David’s completion of U.S. Army basic training. Together they deployed to Germany and began a wonderful life together traveling the world. Their love story included nine moves during the next 20 years while raising five children. With wanderlust in her soul, Barbara’s favorite pastime was long, unplanned road trips with David – oftentimes to visit the ocean.

Barbara’s passion was her children and grandchildren. She was ready and willing to share a story or a photo – and usually more than one – of her children and grandchildren to anyone willing to listen.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Norma, and her siblings Linda Smarr, Douglas Idso, and Debra Reynaga.

Barbara is survived by her husband, David Blankenship; five children: Michael Blankenship, Jonathan Blankenship, Sara Artrip, Laura Yeager, and Kathleen Bowen; and 15 grandchildren: Zachary, Danielle, Zoe, Gabrielle, Hannah, Miranda, Samuel, Elijah, Ryan, Alyssa, Isaiah, Jack, Jonathan, Audrey and Emily.

A celebration of life service will be held at 10 a.m. June 10, 2018, at Cook Walden Chapel of the Hills Funeral Home at 9700 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, Texas 78750. Her ashes will be later interred at Central Texas Veterans Cemetery.

2019, Austin, Travis Co., TX, Obituary

Austin American-Statesman (TX) - June 11, 2019

Carolyn Harris-Hynson passed away peacefully in her home in Austin on June 8, 2019, surrounded by family and friends. She was born in Smithville, Texas on August 18, 1926.

Her parents, Bess Nichols and Kinkle Harris had four daughters, known as the "Harris girls" As the youngest by ten years, she brought light and joy to all. Bess, Virginia, Marian and Carolyn enjoyed a wonderful childhood in Smithville, growing up among lots of relatives. In high school, Carolyn led the Smithville Tiger marching band as Drum Majorette. Carolyn followed her sister's footsteps by going to the University of Texas and by joining the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. She graduated in 1948 with a degree in Childhood Education.

While at UT, Carolyn met and married Fred Clark Chandler, Jr., from Stephenville, Texas. In 1950, they moved to Fort Stockton and began farming where they pioneered the development of raw land into cultivated cotton crops. Besides raising her two young children, Sally and Clark, she was very active in the local community. She did synchronized swimming performances in the annual Water Carnival and one summer, a solo to the music of Blue Moon.

In 1962, they moved to Austin where Fred completed Law School and after graduation, they moved to New Jersey where Fred taught at Rutgers Law School and Carolyn taught in the Moorestown elementary school system. Carolyn had a flair and passion for creating a beautiful home and entertaining family and friends She started a successful small decorating business in Philadelphia and South Jersey. In 1978, Carolyn travelled to San Miguel de Allende in Mexico to study ceramics and Spanish. Carolyn married Robert C. Hynson of Laurel, Mississippi in 1980. They began to divide their time between Laurel and San Miguel de Allende. They had a wonderful life together travelling and enjoying being with their friends.

In Laurel, Carolyn was active in the Garden Club of America and the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art. She also served on the Advisory Board of the New Orleans Museum of Art. After Bob passed away in the late 1980's, Carolyn returned to Austin to be near family and friends. For the past thirty years, she has been active in her church at both St. David's Episcopal and the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. She became a Stephens Minister. Also, she was very active in the Austin Art League as well as the Blanton Museum of Art. Carolyn will be remembered as a person of joy who made everyone feel uplifted and special. Her deep Christian faith guided her through life. Carolyn was a gifted teacher. She had a beautiful voice and loved to sing. She loved Conspirare of Austin. She loved art and creating a beautiful environment. She loved Mexico, the culture and the people and sharing her home in San Miguel with friends and family over the years.

Carolyn is predeceased by her parents, Bess Nichols and Kinkle Harris; her three sisters, Marian Thornberry, Bess Jones and Virginia Cockrell; and by Fred C. Chandler, Jr. and Robert C. Hynson.

Survivors include her daughter, Sally Chandler, son-in-law, Mark Chalmers and granddaughter Lee Chandler-Chalmers; son Fred Clark Chandler, III and granddaughter Lauren Wendorf Chandler; granddaughter Grace Chandler Blankenship and great granddaughters Scarlett Harris and Rylie Ann Neslony. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2:00 pm, on Thursday, June 13, 2019, at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, 3201 Windsor Road, Austin, Texas, 78703.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Upshur

+2018, Gilmer, Upshur Co., TX, Obituary

Longview News-Journal (TX) - April 1, 2018

Mrs. Jane Rogers age, 84, passed away peacefully at her home in Gilmer on Friday, March 30, 2018. Her husband Marion, held her hand as she passed and she was surrounded by friends and family. Jane was born in June of 1933 in New Willard, TX to the late Alonzo Lee and Clara Bell (Wilson) Gulley.

Jane married Marion Rogers in June of 1972 in Winter Haven, Florida. Their marriage has lasted for 45 years and up until her passing, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was also an active member of the First Baptist Church in Gilmer and the Rachel Sunday School Class.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, and two sisters.

Mrs. Rogers is survived by her husband, Marion Rogers; sons, David Rogers of Port Angles, WA, Gary Rogers and wife Robin of Gilmer, Joe Blankenship of Longview; daughter, Nancy Keckler and husband David of Reno, NV; brothers, Thurman and Hunter Gulley both of Zavalla, TX; sister, Grace Turner of Huntsville, TX; four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., on Tuesday, April 3, 2018, at Croley Funeral Home Chapel in Gilmer with Brothers Mike Kessler and Marion Palmer officiating. Interment will be held at DFW National Cemetery at a later date and time. Pallbearers for the service will be Curtis Hart, Sherrell Walker, Doug Johnson, Carl Reuther and Bobby Gipson. Honorary pallbearers will be the Rachel Sunday School Class.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Joe Blankenship – b.30Sep1956 – Longview, TX: https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:QJ27-W75F

Relatives - Joseph C. Blankenship Jr, Richard W. Blankenship, Thelma Croxton Blankenship.

+2018, Gilmer, Upshur Co., TX, Obituary

Longview News-Journal (TX) - July 4, 2018

Mrs. Vada Blankinship Baldree, 85, daughter of George and Mary Rhodes, passed away peacefully Friday June 29, 2018 at home surrounded by her family. She was born in Bastrop, Texas, on March 5, 1933.

Our Mom married William (Bobby) Ray Blankinship in Corpus Christi, TX, and they shared a life full of love and happiness until his death in 1983 in Petal, MS. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Blankinship moved back to Corpus Christi to take care of her mother and earned an Associate Degree as a Mental Health Associate; which she promptly put to work as an Activities Director and Ombudsman in numerous nursing homes. She subsequently met and married Major William Baldree. The married couple toured the US and eventually bought and worked a goat ranch in Brackettville, TX. Upon retiring, Mrs. Baldree moved to Gilmer, TX to be close to her family. Our mother loved the Lord and was proud to have served Him by playing the piano in her church and sharing her love and faith with her family, friends and church members.

She is survived by her husband Major William Baldree, daughters Vickie Blankinship Struwe-Brown, Valrie Blankinship Moss, Vonnie Blankinship Zappa, son William Ray Blankinship, four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Baldree will be buried beside her first husband, Bobby Blankinship, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Petal, MS.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Victoria

+2019, Victoria, Victoria Co., TX, Obituary

The Victoria Advocate, (TX) - December 6, 2019

Calvin Ray Pfeil Sr., 90, of Victoria, passed away on Tuesday, December 3, 2019, surrounded by his family. He was born on the snowy, winter morning of November 13, 1929, in Shiner, Texas, to the late Gus and Bessie Pfeil.

Calvin was a retired salesman from Lance Inc. Calvin married the love of his life, Lela Margaret Blankenship, on September 4, 1949, with whom he enjoyed 70 years of marriage.

Calvin was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ivan and his wife Lucille; sister-in-law, Evelyn; daughter-in-law, Doris; grandson, Paul Green; and great-grandson, Colt Shugart.

Calvin is survived by his wife, four sons; Calvin (Nancy) Pfeil, Jr., Michael (Sandra) Pfeil, Robert (Shirley) Pfeil, and William (Pam) Pfeil. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 12 great great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am, on Saturday, December 7, 2019, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Interment immediately following at Resurrection Cemetery, with Rev. Paul Kirchner, Pastor, officiating. Serving as pallbearers are, Adam, Jeff, Michael Jr., Stephen, Clayton, and Shane Pfeil, Tommy Green, and Cody Shugart. Honorary pallbearers are all of his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great great-grandchildren, and Larry Bruchmiller. Colonial Funeral Home.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Walker

+2018, Huntsville, Walker Co., TX, Obituary

The Huntsville Item, (TX) - April 13, 2018

Sharon Snider Blankenship passed away peacefully on April 4, 2018 in Huntsville, Texas. She was born February 26, 1944 in Victoria, Texas to William Edward Snider and Murtis Rogers Snider.

Sharon Graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in San Antonio. She attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and graduated from Texas A&M with a Bachelor of Science Degree in English and Journalism. She had a long career in the broadcast and technology industries, culminating in becoming the Founder/President/CEO of LAN International, a software development company serving radio and television stations. Under her leadership, LAN International, now a wholly owned subsidiary of Clear Channel Communications, had offices in California, Texas and Florida.

Sharon and Hass lied in McAllen, Texas, Canyon Lake, Texas and Dana Point, California during their careers. They retired to Huntsville in 2015 to be near extended family, her aunt Burniece Rogers Harding, and cousins Vicky Harding Taylor and Jenny Harding Fricks. She was a member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Huntsille.

Sharon is survived by her husband of 54 years, Hassel Blankenship, sons Steven Blankenship of San Antonio and Scott Blankenship of Huntsville; sister Cathy Snider Symes of Portland, Oregon, brother Ed Snider and wife Maria Elena of Katy, Texas; niece Eva Karas and husband Art, and grandnieces Mina and Ana Rosa, and grandnephew Stefano of Hudson, Ohio.

Memorial service will be held at 5:30 PM on Thursday, April 19, 2018 at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Huntsville, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Wichita

+2019, Wichita Falls, Wichita Co., TX, Obituary

Wichita Falls Times Record News (TX) - March 20, 2019

Janet Maxine Matthews Blankenship, 90 of Wichita Falls, went to be with our Lord on Sunday, March 17, 2019 in Wichita Falls, Texas. She was born July 24, 1928 in Morton to Guy and Almazelle Monroe Mathews.

Janet grew up and attended school in Morton and Draughon's Business School in Lubbock. She worked as an accountant and bookkeeper in several businesses in Lubbock where she met and married her husband, Loyd Blankenship. The couple married on July 1, 1950 in Clovis, New Mexico. She was active in teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir in the Baptist Church. She made friends everywhere she went and kept her and everyone else's spirits high, bringing joy and laughter in the lives of many.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Almazelle Mathews; her son, Jeff Blankenship; 2 brothers, Marion Mathews and Vaughn Mathews; and a granddaughter, Heather Renee Yelvington.

Janet is survived by her husband, Loyd Blankenship ; 2 daughters, Charisse Wagner and Cyndee Mayworm and husband, Al all of Wichita Falls; a sister, Sandra Stringer and husband, Charles; 2 granddaughters, Amber Schrimpoter and Audra Strader and husband, Chris all of Wichita Falls and 1 great granddaughter, Jackie Mikel-Kay Murders.

Graveside services will be held Friday, March 22, 2019 at 1:00 pm, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Lubbock. Archer Funeral Home, Seymour, Texas.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

+2019, Wichita Falls, Wichita Co., TX, Obituary

Wichita Falls Times Record News (TX) - June 13, 2019

John Keith Harris, 66 [01/27/1953], passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2019 in Wichita Falls.

Keith was a 1972 graduate of Hirschi High School. He served in the U S Navy aboard the USS Trenton from 1973-1977. He retired from SAFB as a Senior Aircraft Mechanic in 2016. He has since worked as a school crossing guard at Booker T. Washington Elementary. He was a member of BACA for 10 years and continued riding his motorcycle until the end. He will be missed by many.

Keith was preceded in death by his mother Joyce Gillette and his father William K. Harris, Jr.

Keith is survived by his wife Terri Jackson; 2 step-children; Rhiannon Blankenship and Sean Blankenship and 7 grandchildren; a sister Brenda Freeman; a niece Rebekah Rice; a nephew Nathan Freeman; as well as 6 grand nephews and one grand niece.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Dallas Co., TX; Marriage; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VTYK-DK8

James M. Blanckenship, 1960 - Terri E. Busby, 1963 - 30Jun1984

Williamson

+2019, Cedar Park, Williamson Co., TX, Obituary

Lewiston Tribune (ID) - March 31, 2019

Barbara Mae Campbell, surrounded by her loving family, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019, in Cedar Park, Texas. Barbara was born March 2, 1929, in Emmett, Idaho, to Rufus and Ollie McCowan.

They, along with Barbara's sister, Maxine, lived in Emmett until 1936, when they moved to Clarkston. While attending Clarkston schools she excelled in her studies and enjoyed being a majorette. Spending her summers working at Sears in Sacramento, Calif., she enjoyed visiting her beloved aunt, Bertha Weiner, and family. She graduated from Clarkston High School in 1946.

After high school, she worked at American Insurance and Loan. She would recall wonderful memories of coffee with friends at Eddie's Malt Shop. It was there that she and Philip Bryce Campbell began courting and then married in 1950. They soon joined with Phil's aunt and uncle, Raymond and Lucille Robison, in the flower business at Hill's Valley Floral. Enjoying creating flower arrangements for the valley, they continued this venture through 1967. In 1960, their first child, Mark, was born. As their family grew with the birth of their daughter, Teri, Barb became a full-time wife and mother. She worked part-time for several dentists and doctors in the area, and supported the rental properties they owned and managed with bookkeeping. She was a terrific housekeeper who was known for her weekly routines. Sewing was also a favorite as Barb made many outfits and costumes. "Room Mother" and a PTA member were also amongst her many roles. Her hallmarks became her excellent treats and her loving support.

Barb was a diehard fan of the ski slopes into her early 80s and was even a Senior Olympic Champion. She and Phil started snow skiing at Waha, where they brought their own rope-tow, wore leather boots and strapped on their skis with bear-claw bindings. They soon graduated to Pierce and Grangeville, enjoying the actual ski lifts and hut for warming up and refueling. In the early 1960s, a group of them started frequenting the slopes of Brundage Mountain in McCall. They also gathered there in the summer for tennis and Fourth of July celebrations. Continuing this social tradition for the next 40 years, they made this their second home on the weekends during the winter months, and created many wonderful memories with family and friends.

Barb loved her community and could be found working at the election polls for a chance to visit with everyone. She delighted in organizing frequent classmate gatherings and luncheons with friends. She always had an encouraging word or a birthday card to send to someone. The Episcopal Church of the Nativity was her church family for most of her life. She was an active member, and for many years loved working with the annual bazaar as treasurer, as well as the chancel guild and the Saturday suppers for the community. As they became empty-nesters, she began her journey as a Mary Kay Cosmetics consultant and continued for more than 30 years. She was frequently a queen in her unit, always a star consultant and among the top five. Her gift of encouragement was evident as she cheered others on to become their best and was celebrated as a "Miss Go Give."

Barb was a diabetic, but she never let that slow her down. In her later years, water aerobics, yoga and tennis were still part of her weekly routines. After her husband Phil passed, she continued to live independently thanks to her son, Mark, and the help of her friends. Many thanks to those of you who came to her aid when needed.

After she lost her sister, she decided it was time to move to Texas to be with her daughter, Teri, and her family. She loved being around family and the warm weather. All her caregivers loved her spirit and she became "the bright spot" in their day.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Philip; and her sister, Maxine Blankenship.

She is survived by her children, Mark (Paula) and Teri (Craig); her grandchildren, Jesse, Tyler, Ashley, Creighton, Cameron and Christa; and great-grandchildren Dayton, Payton, Braxton and Blakeleigh; along with many cousins and several nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1 pm, May 18 at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com

Wood

+2018, Quitman, Wood Co., TX, Obituary

Wood County Monitor (TX) - April 11, 2018

Sondra Kay Roberts, 63 of Quitman died April 4, 2018 in Tyler, [Smith Co., TX]. She was born July 2, 1954, in Dallas to the late Jessie and Juanita Hill

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Brice Hill and Jessie Hill and sisters, Mabel Blankenship, Darlene Fisher and Freda Phelan.

Survivors include her husband of 43 years, Charles Roberts of Quitman; son, Casey Roberts, Greenville; daughters, Sheree Phillips, Quitman; brothers, Alan and Mitchell Hill, both of Quitman and two grandchildren.

A memorial service for Mrs. Roberts will be scheduled by the family at a later date.

From: Diane Renfrow dhrenfrow(at)yahoo.com