Eloise Lawhon Beckham, DHS 1939 Graduate

Our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Eloise Lawhon Beckham Smith, passed peacefully into Heaven Sunday, January 8, 2012. We will miss her quick wit, laughter and love. She was born March 4, 1917 to Farris R. and Myrtle Morgan Lawhon. Her three older brothers, Paul, Lester, and Elwin preceded her in death.

After graduating from Denison High School in 1934, she attended business school and worked in Babcock Brothers Office Supply's home office in Denison until 1940. From 1941 -1954, Eloise was a stay-at-home mom. From 1954-1979, she was employed by Citizens National Bank of Denison. She worked in the proof department, as secretary to the bank president, and as a trust officer.

Robert (Bob) Sidney Beckham and Eloise Lawhon were married November 1939. They are survived by their children, Robert Beckham Jr. and wife Linda of Pearland, Linda Scott and husband John of Bells, Bryan Beckham and wife Pat of Bellevue, Neb., and former daughter-in-law Pam Beckham of Denison; grandchildren, Deb Beaver and husband Ted of Bells, David Scott and wife Amanda of Bells, Laura Scott of Arlington, Sydni Bamberg and husband Kyle of Albuquerque, N.M., Leigh Ann Erickson and husband Paul of Arlington, Bryan Beckham and wife Lisa of Pottsboro, Robert Beckham and wife Sarah of Omaha, Neb., Alex, Emily and Andrew Beckham of Bellevue, Neb., and 21 great-grandchildren.

Bob Beckham died in 1969. Eloise married Travis W. Smith in 1982. Travis and Eloise lived in Sacramento, Calif. for five years where they enjoyed being close to his sons, Ted and Ron Smith, and their families. Travis' daughter, Janet, and family live in Frisco. Travis and Eloise moved back to Denison in 1987. In 1989, they moved to Wesley Village in Denison, which became their comfortable home. Travis died in 2005.

Eloise was a lifelong member of Calvary Baptist Church of Denison. She played the piano and organ for the church for many years. The family has happy memories of being very involved in the church as they grew up in that loving environment.
 

Rodney Earl Pirkle, DHS 1947 Graduate

Rodney Earl Pirkle passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2012, in Wylie, Texas. He was born March 27, 1929, in Denison, Texas.

Rodney worked for the MKT/Union Pacific Railroad 42 years. He loved all sports, was an avid golfer, and was an active member of the Arlington Senior Men's Golf and Softball Association, and Hella Shrine Golfers.

His greatest love was spending time with family. Rodney was preceded in death by his son, Rodney Pirkle Jr.; father and mother, Wylie and Larie Pirkle; and brother, Wylie.

Survivors are his wife of 63 years, Rosemary, DHS Class of 1947; daughter, Darlene Berry and her husband, Jim; grandsons, Brian Berry and wife, Shelley, Steven Berry and wife, Katie; great-grandsons, Brady, Breck, Brooks and Logan; many nieces, nephews and friends.

 

Jerry Donald Harvey, DHS 1959 Graduate

Jerry Donald Harvey, a resident of Houston, Texas, passed away, at home on November 18, 2011, at the age of 70.

Jerry was born in Sherman on January 15, 1941. He graduated from Denison High School in l959 where he played football, was captain of the basketball team and served as Senior Class President. He attended Texas Tech University, graduated from North Texas University and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. He married his high school sweetheart, Danna Ruth Burns, the daughter of the late Daniel Bennett and Ruth Jennings Burns. Jerry and Danna celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in September.

Jerry was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps in 1964. He worked for MKT Railroad and Burlington Northern Railroad. Jerry often spoke of the day his life changed on March 16, l969, when he accepted Christ as his Savior. This lead him to attend seminary and he directed a ministry called The Mustard Seed Jesus House in the Chicago area. For many years he worked for W.R. Grace and recently Chemtool.

Jerry is preceded in death by his brother, Richard Harvey, his father Marion Dain Harvey and his mother Margaret Harvey.

He is survived by his wife, Danna; his sister Carolyn Lilley and her husband Jerry; his brother Robert Michael Harvey and wife Karen. He is also survived by his children, Dr. Bryan Harvey, Dr. Benjamin Harvey and wife Dawn, Susan Rebecca Harvey, Abraham Harvey and wife Kara; his ten grandchildren, who fondly call him Papa, are Jacob, Emily, and Rachel Harvey, Jerry Bryan, Alexandra, and Keiler Harvey, Mary and John Carthew, Jonah and Lillian Harvey.
 

Joe Kenneth Cravens, DHS 1949 Graduate

Joe Kenneth Cravens, 79, passed away on November 3, 2011. He was born January 8, 1932, to James W. and Clara Cravens at the Cherry Mound settlement near Denison TX. He was a 1949 graduate of Denison High School and was a member of the winning Yellow Jacket football team of 1948. After serving proudly in the United States Marine Corps, Joe married his high school sweetheart, Joann Newland, on June 13, 1953.
Joe worked as an operating engineer at #2 power station of the Texaco Refinery in Port Arthur, Texas for over forty years.
 

Survivors include his wife, Joann; daughter, Jeannette Stafford of Nederland; and son, Joe II and his wife, Felicia, of Katy; six grandchildren, Tony Stafford, Jr. and his wife, Tiffany and Toby Tabor and her husband, Brian, all of Nederland, Hannah and Chelsea Cravens of Katy; Megan Davis and Lindsey Davis of Woodlands, California; and his three great-grandsons.
 
Joe was preceded in death by his brothers, George Cravens and Denver Cravens; his sisters, Agnes Campbell and Katherine Brown; by his daughter, Julie Davis.

Donald Lee Wright, DHS 1949 Graduate

 

Richard Michael Potter, DHS 1973 Graduate

Our beloved Son, Brother, Uncle, and Friend, Richard Michael Potter, 56, slipped peacefully into the arms of his heavenly father Jesus, Saturday, September 10, 2011, during his short stay at Heritage Gardens Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Carrollton, Texas.

A Memorial Service will be held to honor his life Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 7 p.m., at Bratcher Funeral Home, 401 West Woodard Street, Denison Texas, with Dr. Chet Haney officiating.

Rick was born in Heidelberg, Germany on June 8, 1955. He was preceded in death by his adopted Mother Hilda Potter of Denison, Texas and his birth Mother Irmgard Walter of Heidelberg, Germany who passed away on July 10, 2011.

As a child growing up in Denison, Texas, Rick attended Parkside Baptist Church from the age of 5 until he moved to Gainesville, Texas. Rick held a perfect attendance record for 14 consecutive years at Parkside.

Rick graduated from Denison High School in 1973 and continued his education at Grayson County College to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse and graduation in 1974. Rick's love for nursing started at Madonna Hospital as an orderly in Denison, Texas. Rick worked in a variety of medical facilities in places such as the State School in Gainesville, Texas, the Louisiana State Prison in Angola, Louisiana and the Dallas County Jail in Dallas, Texas. He continued his nursing education at Tarrant County Junior College in Nursing Home Administration.

Rick worked as a nurse in the Vocational Counseling & Rehabilitation Services in St. Louis, Mo. He also worked in Boca Raton, Florida and Savoy Nursing Home, Savoy, Texas. Rick did a lot of private duty nursing for many of his friends. Rick loved landscaping where he worked in Dallas, Texas for many years. Rick also loved to travel, collect match box cars and antiques. Rick touched many lives during his short life and he will be missed greatly.

In 2007, Rick was reunited by telephone with his birth Mother Irmgard Walter and found out about his eight brothers and sisters and his huge extended family in Germany. Shortly after the telephone reunion with his birth mother, he flew to Heidelberg, Germany and was reunited with his mom and met his brothers and sisters for the first time. Each of Rick's brothers and sisters loved him and accepted him with open arms. Rick made several more trips to Heidelberg to get to know more about his family and German heritage.

Richard is survived by his adopted Father Jesse C. Potter Jr., his sister Linda Thomas, her husband Charley Thomas, all of Denison, Texas, his niece Allison Lee-Anne Essin, her husband Sam Essin and their daughters, Ella Grace, Kimber Faith and Logann Hope of Sherman, Texas, and Linda's Sister Angie Dennis of Pittsburg, Kansas.

Rick is survived by his brothers, Thomas, Udo Helmut, and Heiner Zimmerman, his sisters, Angelika (Geli) Wind, Dorle Gand, Engrid Zimmerman, and Rosie Fischer, Aunts Hannelor Hildebrand, and Renada, and his Uncle Dieter all residing in Heidelberg, Germany.

Rick is also survived by his Aunt Christa Murgida in Beverly, Massachusetts, Aunt Irene in North Carolina, Aunt Jessie Mae and Uncle Bob in South Carolina and Aunt Carline in Georgia. There are numerous nieces, nephews and cousins in both the United States and Germany.

Charles Ray Chumley (1936-2011)

Charles Ray Chumley, age 75, entered into eternal life Saturday, August 20, 2011 at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas.

Mr. Chumley was born February 5, 1936 in Denison, Texas the son of Richard and Hazel (Green) Chumley. Charles graduated from Terrell High School. He married the love of his life, Vernetta Harian August 31, 1960 in Denison, Texas. He served his country proudly in the U. S. Army. Charles later retired from the Katy/ Union Pacific Railroad as a conductor after 30 years of service. He never met a stranger, had a wonderful personality and a big smile. Charles was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and brother. He will be greatly missed but will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Chumley is survived by his beloved family, wife of 51 years, Vernetta Chumley of Denison, TX., children, Janice Patten, Carolyn Harian, Gwendolyn Thomas and Jackie Don Chumley, grandchildren, Jamillah Brown, Christe (Marcus) Allen and Mignon Phradichith, great-grandchildren, Ethan Allen, Alahni Phradichith and Kingston Phradichith, siblings, Lillian Allen, Lola Johnson, Brenda Carlisle, Ernest (Nora Jean) Chumley and Hosea (Belinda) Chumley, Godchildren, Latonya Ross, Kylan Ross and Kamery Ross, lifetime friends, Robert L. Goins and Hubert Pressley.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Richard "Sonny" Chumley.

Dresean "D.J." Jones (1992-2011)

 Former Denison High football star D.J. Jones, 19, died Friday, August 5, 2011 morning in Cartwright.

D.J. was a four-star recruit as the 48th ranked player in the state and 27th ranked running back in the country for the Class of 2010. He was committed to Texas A&M University and also had offers from several other major programs including Florida, Arkansas, Baylor and Kansas. In his senior season at Denison High School, D.J. ran for 2,257 yards and 30 touchdowns on 268 carries and caught 30 passes for 431 yards and four touchdowns as Denison went 13-2 and reached the state semifinals. He was a second team all-state selection after earning first team all-state honors as a junior, when he ran for a school record 2,646 yards and finished with 39 total touchdowns, 35 of them rushing. D.J. graduated as the school's all-time leading rusher with 5,518 yards and second in rushing touchdowns with a total 68. He had (28) 100-yard games, which is also a Jackets record. He also holds Denison single-game records for yards rushing touchdowns, total touchdowns and points, after his 434-yard eight TD (seven rushing) performance.

D.J. was born on Aug. 1, 1992 in Denison. He leaves to cherish his memories are: parents; Ramon and La Tonya Walker of Denison, and Leo Jones Jr. of Sherman; sisters, Taylor Bogan Jones, Candice Walker, Montasia Jones, Mercedes Jones and Bre'Andrea Jones; brothers, Ramond Walker Jr., De'Anthony Phillips and Jace Andrews Jones; grandparents, Rev. Jimmy and Barbara Bogan of Denison, Robert and Glenda Hunter of Sherman, Granville and Marie Walker of Denison, and Leo Jones Sr. of Van Alystne; great-grandparents; Anna L. Waddles of Denison, and Marcalee Sims of Sherman; special uncle, Jimmy Bogan III of Denison. He also has many uncles, aunts, cousins, other relatives, and friends who all loved and will miss him dearly.

Kevin Potts (1960-2011)

Kevin Gerrard Potts, 51, entered into eternal life Sunday, August 7, 2011 at his home.

Mr. Potts was born April 18, 1960 the son of Roscoe and Gertrude (Potts) Morrison. He graduated from Denison High School. Kevin was well rounded and skilled to do unique work with his hands, specializing in home craftsman improvements. He was always willing to help others in the community, no matter what the task was, and he did it with joy.

He enjoyed watching football, listening to old music and being with family. Kevin was employed with Tyson Foods as a machine operator. He loved the Lord and was a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. Kevin was a loving son, father, grandfather and brother. He will continue to live on in the hearts of family friends.

Kevin is survived by his beloved family: parents, Roscoe and Gertrude Potts Morrison of Denison, Texas; son, Kent McCullum and wife, Ashley of Denison; daughters, Tonya Brigham of Houston, Texas and Shanay Stewart of Houston; seven grandchildren; brothers, Stevie Potts and wife, Elisabeth of Pittsburg, Calif., Bruce Holmes of Dallas, Texas and Tonien Hudson of McKinney, Texas; sisters, Monica Stewart and husband, Jesse of Denison, Janice Holmes and husband, Sam of Tulsa, Okla. and Cynthia Brownlow and husband, Earl of Sherman; aunts, Sellestine Kimbrough and husband, Larry of Abilene, Texas, Imogene Shaw of Denison, T.J. McNealy of Denison and Nettie Morrison of Allensworth, California; uncles, Finus Ray Potts and Harold Morrison both of Sherman; special friend, Linda Stewart of Denison; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Kevin was preceded in death by his grandparents, Randell and Earnestine Bell Potts and Quincy and Okada Morrison and infant brother, Clanton Morrison.

Molly Jo Kelly Crook (1921-2011)

Molly Kelly Crook, 89, passed from this life on August 5, 2011 in Denison, Texas.

Molly was born on November 2, 1921 to Joe Clarance and Della LaVerna Ryon in Whitewright, Texas. She graduated from Denison High School in 1940 and continued her education at Austin College and Grayson County College. She was a retired chemist from the Safeway Plant in Denison and was a Realtor. She was life long member of Calvary Baptist Church in Denison.

Molly was preceded in death by her parents and brothers and sisters, Arthur Lee Kelly, C.L. Kelly, Nora Mae Johnson, Gladys Jackson, Lucille Bailey and Juanita Wright. She is survived by her nieces and nephews. Her caregiver for several years was Genette Wheeler, niece of Denison, Texas.

Rosann Blackwell (1941-2011)

Rosann Blackwell, 70-year-old Denison resident, passed away Thursday, August 4, 2011 at Texoma Specialty Care.

Miss Blackwell was born on April 3, 1941 in Fort Worth Texas, daughter of Guy and Jennie Lee Looper Blackwell. She graduated from Denison High School.

Surviving is her cousin, Mrs. Fayden Douglas "Doll" Linderman Watson, formerly of Denison, and now of San Antonio, Texas.

Peggy Jane (Burden) Cunningham (1934-2011)

Jane Cunningham passed away August 3, 2011 at Denison Manor nursing home. She was born August 6, 1934 in Denison, to Edna Mires Burden and William M. Burden, the 11th child of 13. She attended Golden Rule School, Denison High School and loved to talk and laugh. One of her great pleasures in life was enjoying all children.

In 1956, Jane married Jack Griffith Cunningham and the couple had three children. Their married life was spent in California and Texas.

Janie is survived by daughters, Linda Zinke, Lori Allen and husband, Aaron Allen and son, Steve Cunningham; sisters, Betty Frisbie, Doris Holloway, Annette Wagener; brothers, Gordon, Don and Richard Burden; grandchildren, Jacob Zinke, Brian Zinke, Monica Bolton Whaley and husband, Cody Whaley, Ben Bolton, Brooke Bolton, Tori Allen; great-grandson, Wyatt Whaley; brother-in-law, Jesse Wagener; sisters-in-law, Mayna, Pat, Donna and Josephine Burden (a very special friend) and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Jack; sisters, Mary Evelyn, Billie June and Dorothy Nell; brothers, Bobby, Jack and James Burden.

Kenneth Wayne "Kenny" Smith (1956-2011)

A memorial for Kenneth Wayne "Kenny" Smith who passed away suddenly July 30, 2011 will be held Sunday, August 28 at 2 p.m. at Red River Cowboy Church Hwy. 691 in Denison. Kenny was born in Denison on August 28, 1956 to William Kenneth and Mildred Higgins Smith. He attended schools in Denison starting first grade at Golden Rule before the family moved east of Denison. He then attended Lamar, McDaniel Junior High and graduated from Denison High School in 1974.

Kenny started his working career as a teenager cutting, baling, hauling hay. During high school he worked at Vest Brothers Grocery in the meat market. After high school he began his life long career in welding, working mostly on power plants and pipelines. He once said he had worked in every state in the United States except Hawaii. He even worked some in Jamaica. When he wasn't working he enjoyed watching the History of Discovery channel on TV or hanging out with his four legged "kids", Buddy, Levi and Moomoo (who will probably miss him the most).

Kenny is survived by his spouse Zelta of Denison, sons Tommy Smith of Durant, Timmy Smith of Seven Points, Texas; and daughter Tammy Smith of Seven Points, Texas. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Laci Smith of Gainesville, Texas, Destinee Smith, Taylor Smith and Gracie Smith all of Denison, Brandon Smith and Kailee Smith of Durant and great-grandson Isaiah Lopez of Gainesville. He also leaves behind his dad, Kenneth of Denison, sister's, Audra Burnett and husband Kurt of Denison, and Nancy Smith and husband Jerry of Pottsboro, nephew Austin Burnett, niece Macey Smith Watson and husband Bryon, great-niece Allison Watson.

He was preceded in death by his mom in April 1993.

 

Jerry Van Rushing (1947-2011)

Jerry Van Rushing, 64 yrs old, resident of Midlothian, passed away on July 23, 2011 peacefully surrounded by his children and friends at his home due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis otherwise known as "Lou Gehrig's Disease."

Jerry was born on March 7, 1947 in Denison to his parents Alvie Roscoe Rushing and Ethel Beaula Rushing. Jerry went to work as a young adult at the Denison Cotton Mill with his family and was a graduate of Denison High School. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy joining on July 7, 1965 during the Vietnam Conflict as a "plank owner" serving as the original crew of the United States Aircraft Carrier Enterprise CVAN 65; at the time, the largest nuclear powered aircraft carrier on planet Earth. Jerry served aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise during several missions including the extraction of numerous United States Marines during the siege of Khe Sanh. Jerry was a 3rd Class Petty Officer. He also served aboard the U.S.S Durham LKA 114. After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Jerry returned to Denison and attended Grayson County Community College. He went to work for Johnson & Johnson in Denison and eventually, due to a higher calling for serving others, joined the Denison Fire Department and eventually the Dallas Fire Department.

Jerry was hired by the Dallas Fire Department in October of 1975 and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. He was up front during most every fire and was more concerned about the safety and well-being of his crew, than he was about his own safety. Jerry worked 24 hour shifts at the Dallas Fire Department and would them come home and paint houses on most of the days he was not fighting fire, to support his children. Jerry retired from the Dallas Fire Department in October of 2005 from Fire Station number 57.

After retirement, Jerry bought a Harley Davidson "Fat Boy" motorcycle and joined the Wind & Fire Motorcycle Club, Dallas Chapter number 8 serving as Vice-President. He traveled all across the United States with his beloved motorcycle club members having the time of his life.

Jerry was a vehement believer in his savior Jesus Christ and almighty father God. Because of his faith in Jesus, Jerry always felt compelled to give and did give to numerous organizations, from injured veterans returning from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan to Breast Cancer Awareness.

 

Kimberly Dawn Rosenow (1973-2011)

Kimberly Dawn Rosenow, 38, passed away on Thursday, July 21, 2011 at Texoma Medical Center.

Kimberly was born on June 27, 1973 to Francis Dean and Margaret Gill Rosenow in Aurora, Illinois. Graduated from Denison High School in 1991 and went to Grayson County College. She worked for several restaurants in the DFW area and was of the Baptist faith.

Survivors are her family mother and step-father Margaret and Jerry Huckeba of Palestine, Texas; sons Evan Blake Rosenow of Denison, Parker Allen Raley of Denison; daughter Ambriehl Elizabeth Raley of Denison; sisters Stacey Lynn Beam of Van Alstyne; grandchildren Peyton Michelle Rosenow; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Preceded in death by her father; brother Robert Allen Gatley.

Jerry Foster Orr (1937-2011)

Jerry Foster Orr, 73, a dignified resident of Ravenna, Texas passed away at his home July 17, 2011.

Jerry was born Nov. 6, 1937 to Azel and William "Frank" Orr and grew up in Denison with his two sisters, attending Waples Memorial Methodist Church. In 1956, he graduated from Denison High School and later joined the U.S. Army. While in the service, he met Dorothy Walker, the "love of his life", and married in Pirmasens while both were stationed in Germany. On his immediate return from the service, he became employed with IBM in Sherman. Their first home was in Denison followed by several years in Georgetown and in retirement, they moved to Ravenna.

Jerry's life exemplified that of a true Texan; loyal, honest and hardworking with a strong sense of pride for family, home and country - ultimately making the world a better place for those he loved. He was a member of the Elks Lodge and the Masonic Lodge. In his retirement, he devoted his energy to his herd of beautiful cattle and belonged to the Beefmaster Breeder's United Association. Jerry's tender heart also rescued his dog, Annie, who will certainly miss riding with him.

Jerry is survived by his wife Dorothy of 52 years, daughter Suzanne O'Maley and her husband Jeff of Houston, daughter Becky Schroeder of Buda; four grandchildren, Casey and Jackson O'Maley and Blake and Brady Schroeder; two sisters, Kay Beggs of Friendswood and Sandy Boswell of California; a nephew Matt Beggs and a niece, Sheleigh Beggs.

Barry Don Nelson (1969-2011)

Barry Don Nelson, age 42, went home to be with the Lord Sunday, June 26, 2011 at Texoma Medical Center.
Mr. Nelson was born May 16, 1969 in Denison, Texas the son of Ray Don and Linda Kay (Harbour) Nelson. In 1988, he graduated from Denison High School where he was an honor roll student and enjoyed history. He also enjoyed listening to country music, watching the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers play. Out of high school he worked for J. B. Sims for ten years in maintenance and later painting and odd and ends job. Barry was a very good hearted person, and a wonderful and caring son, brother and uncle. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Nelson is survived by his beloved family, mother, Linda Nelson of Denison, Texas, sister, Renae Durrett of Mansville, Texas, niece, Magan Grantland and great niece, Chloe Carpenter both of Mansville, Texas, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Barry was preceded in death by his father, Ray Don Nelson, grandparents, Wanda and Don Nelson and Ruby and Woody Harbour.

Eddy G. Nicholson, DHS 1956 Graduate

The world of art and furniture collecting lost one of its most colorful players June 16 when former Denisonian, Eddy G. Nicholson, 72, died in West Lake Village, CA.

The 1956 Denison High School graduate began collecting early American artifacts in the early 1980s. That’s the year that on Feb. 1 he was named president and chief operating officer of Congoleum Corporation, a publicly traded conglomerate involved in ship building and floor covering that was based in Portsmouth, N.H.

The company had just suffered a $10.7 million loss in 1974 when inflation skyrocketed. So when Nicholson joined the firm, his job was cut out for him. His priorities at Congoleum were clear. He wanted to clean up the corporate balance sheet and install financial and operating discipline.

By 1982 he had accomplished both missions.

Two years earlier, he and a fellow executive, Byron C. Radaker, the largest shareholders, took the company private in a $580 million buyout backed by investors, the first and largest of its kind at that time. Six years later the two dismantled Congoleum and sold its subsidiaries for a reported $850 million. After the sale he was quoted as saying he had no regrets about the sale, adding that there is “always a time to buy: and “always a time to sell.”

However he admitted that there were “always mixed feelings” as he reflected on the “wonderful team of employees” that he and Radaker had put together. Nicholson was living in New Hampshire at the time and was rocking the market for Americana by paying astronomical prices for art and antiques bought for his 1845 Federal-style farmhouse in Hampton.

When the majority of his collection was shipped to Christie’s in New York to be auctioned, after he planned a move to California, the two-day sale of 630 items brought up to $14 million with as much as $9 million from the American decorative arts. Nicholson first focused on buying paintings, then later switched to furniture. At a Christie’s sale in 1986, he paid $1 million for a Philadelphia tea table, an auction record for Americana.

Later that year after he and his partner sold Congoleum’s Bath Iron Works for $850 million, he acquired a Philadelphia wing chair with carved claw-and-ball feet for $1.1 million, raising the record for American furniture. Before that sale ended, he had purchased a Boston bombe chest of drawers for $660,000 and a 17th century Massachusetts wainscot chair for $528,000, two more record figures.

Over the next six months he continued on his buying spree and capped off the season by buying Jean-Antoine Houdon’s famous bust of Thomas Jefferson for $2.9 million, the most ever paid at auction for a pre-20th century sculpture at that time.

A death notice in the New York Times bylined by Paul Vitello reported that Nicholson would sit with his auction paddle and do all the bidding himself rather than have a surrogate bid by telephone. “If he wanted something,” he was quoted as saying, “nothing could stop him.”

In 1986 at a Sotheby’s Auction, an earlobe tug drove the cost of the Chippendale wing chair he purchased to $1.1 million, then a record for American furniture. Eddie’s parents were Voy and Doris Nicholson who lived at 505 West Hanna. In an 1981 interview in The Denison Herald while he was in Denison visiting his parents, he said that success “depends on how one is raised. My parents have a special talent,” adding that he and his brothers and sister learned respect in the home and at school.”

He was one of five children whose father worked for Levi-Straus in Denison. After graduating from Denison High School, he went to Harding College in Arkansas, then a year and a half later came back to Southeastern in Durant before receiving his business administration degree from Memphis State University. In 1955 while a student at DHS, Eddie was named the outstanding representative from some 250 boys in the House of the Hi-Y Model Legislature in Austin.

He was married in Little Rock to Linda Bennett and they had three children, Kevin, Dee Dee and Steve. He also had four grandchildren and three brothers and one sister. He was quoted in the Herald article as saying “Whatever it is (that makes a person successful), causes some children to be the best at what they do, is be prepared adequately. It also takes good fortune.”

Nicholson said that others in his peer group had the same amount of training that he had, but he had good fortune and was in the right place at the right time.” In another interview in the Herald in 1986, Nicholson was asked about the spark for his interest in collecting antique furniture. He calmly replied, “Everyone starts collecting sometime in their life,” whether it be baseball cards or whatever. Some of us just take it beyond.”

Nicholson traveled many miles in his successful climb in the business world. He worked hard, and played hard, and there is no doubt that he made his mark in business and on the world of art collecting.

Terra Dyer (1958-2011)

Terra Dyer passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on July 15, 2011 in her home at Lake Texoma, Texas. Born March 3, 1958 in Wichita Falls, Texas, Terra was the daughter of Robert E. and Lavada "Peggy" Grace Early. Terra graduated from Denison High School in 1976 and went on to obtain her Associates Degree in Nursing in 1978, which led her down a path that Terra was passionate about. She cared for hundreds of people throughout our country. Terra had a special interest in neonatal and pediatric care as well as adult psychiatric. By looking at her eyes in the photo, one can see the nature of her soul, which was of compassion and kindness.

Terra married Kenneth Dyer June 2, 1979 and raised two children, Patrick and Deanna. Two children that would bring out the love and pride in Terra, two children that would grow up to be successful as Patrick is an urban school teacher in a disadvantaged area of Oakland, California with a special talent for at risk children, while Deanna, a recent graduate of UC Hastings School of Law, is a human rights attorney with a focus on violence against women and women's issues in San Francisco, California. There is no doubt that Terra is now smiling down on her two children that she considered her blessings in life.

Terra's personality alone will be remembered amongst family and friends. Her laughter will be heard in the memory of family and friends, as it was one of those infectious laughs that we do not soon forget. Her quick wittedness was a rare talent and when she spoke, people listened, as it was sure to be funny and make you laugh. One of Terra's greatest joys in the world was to watch the sunset over the water. She made it a daily routine to catch the sun going down once she moved to California and lived on the coast. Terra marveled at nature and its beauty in all forms.

Terra is predeceased by her parents, Robert and Lavada Early. She is survived by her two children, Patrick and Deanna Dyer as well as countless friends and family members.

It is with the knowledge of what Terra would have wanted that the family will enable Terra's ashes to be set free in Monterey Bay at the Pacific Ocean. It is there that Terra will go with the wind and soar with the eagles to go wherever she wants to be at anytime. Being a child of the 1970s and one of peaceful nature and free spirit initiative, it is only fitting that Terra is set free in this manner.

Britton W. Swain Jr. (1930-2011)

Britton W. Swain Jr. passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 25, 2011 surrounded by his family in Denison.
Britt was born September 16, 1930 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Britton W. Swain Sr. and Pauline Shields Swain. He and his family moved to Denison in 1945 where he graduated from Denison High School in 1948. After high school, he attended Rice University on a football scholarship, but after a short time at Rice was called to active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps in support of the Korean War.

On February 19, 1951, Britt married Patsy Diane Shelton Swain. Britt and Patsy recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They have three children: Reid Shelton Swain (wife Shirley Swain) of Houston, Ann Swain of Frisco and Britton "Trey" W. Swain III (wife Lisa Swain) of McKinney. Reid, Ann and Trey all graduated from Denison High School. Britt "Da" is also survived by 6 grandchildren (Tyler Shelton Swain, Morgan Elizabeth Swain, Emily Leann Swain, Micaella Ann Swain, Kimberly Ann Munson and James Allen Knierim. He was also a proud great-grand parent of 4 and is survived by many close cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family. Britt was preceded in death by his parents, older brother George William Swain, and sisters Juanita Swain David and Betty Jo Swain Wilson .

After Britt's time in the service, he spent four years with the Frisco RR in Springfield, MO. before coming home to Denison where he worked for the Katy RR while attending Southeastern State College. After graduation, he became the first paid executive of the Lake Texoma Association while also serving as the assistant manager of the Denison Chamber of Commerce. In 1965, Britt opened Armadillo Village north of Denison and operated it until it closed in 1975. He joined Bayless Insurance agency in 1974 and was associated with them until his retirement in 1997.

Britt was very proud of his Denison heritage (as evidenced by owning the same Yellow Jacket seats at Munson stadium for over 65 years) and served his community throughout his life with enthusiasm and passion. In 1972, he very successfully served as the General Chairman of the Denison Centennial Celebrations. The event is fondly remembered by many and he remained proud of the citizen's spirit of cooperation, involvement and love of Denison. Britt also held many offices in the Chamber of Commerce, including as a founding Gold Coat member, and chaired many important committees over the years. He served on the Denison School Board from 1972 through 1978 and was President of the Rotary Club he belonged to for over 30 years. He was awarded the Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellowship and, in 1982, he received the Rotary Club Civic Award recognizing his significant contributions. Britt also served on the Fairview Cemetery board for many years and served as President of the board on multiple occasions. While serving on the Cemetery board, he was instrumental in the building of the Chapel that stands today. The Cemetery was special to him and he boasted that the first Swain was buried there in 1907.

Britt's circle of Denison friends remained large and strong his whole life. His High School buddies Roy Jackson, Bobby Noe, Jack Hicks and Ben Harmon will serve as pallbearers along with friends Horace Groff, Ralph Jones, Jerdy Gary, J.R. Saxon, John Porter and Melvin Brown.

Brian Hicks (1957-2011)

William Brian Hicks, 53, passed away at his home Saturday, June 18, 2011.
Brian was born September 16, 1957 in Denison, the son of Lindell and Ruby Hicks. He was a graduate of Denison High School where he was a top student in metal shop. Brian went to work at Reedrill (Bucyrus) not long after graduation. He continued working there as one of their best machinist until his death. Brian enjoyed riding his Harley bike and fishing. He was funny and the life of the party. Brian's sense of humor made him loved by all who met him. Called "Tiger" by his dad, his friend's continued the nickname.

Brian is survived by his beloved family, mother, Ruby Moran and step-father, Sam Moran, sister, Jana Hicks Garner, niece, Callin Rosenow, nephew, Dalen Rosenow and great-nephew, Jaxon Hale as well as numerous friends and extended family. All of whom loved him dearly.

Brian was preceded in death by his father, Lindell Hicks, grandparents, Les and Reona Hicks, Alta Faye Skiles, Frank Bryan and brother-in-law, Steve Garner.

Rev. Billy Earl Creswell (1936-2011)

Rev. Billy Earl Creswell, 75, entered into eternal life Monday, June 13, 2011 at his home in Sherman.
Rev. Creswell was born April 29, 1936 in Ferris, the son of Rev. Earl Franklin Creswell and Estella (Thompson) Creswell. After graduating from Denison High School in 1954, Bill served his country proudly in the U.S. Army. After the Army, he received his ministerial degree in music from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Mo.

Bill's call to the ministry took his family to Missouri, Texas, Florida and Indiana, where he served as full-time music minister. Bill was also an excellent carpenter, building many homes around Denison and the Dallas area. He was a true blessing and Christian example as a husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. Bill's passion for being an example of Christ by his actions lead him to taking care of everyone elses' needs first before his own. He lived Col. 4:17, "see that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord." Such a kind and generous man, who never met a stranger, will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Rev. Creswell is survived by his beloved family: children, Mike Creswell of Arkansas, Debra Creswell Cantrell and husband Gary of Sherman, and Rev. Scott Creswell and wife Jennifer of Griffin, Ga.; grandchildren, Tai Bailey and husband David of Frisco, Taylor Phelan of Chicago, Ill., Tarrah Phelan of Lynchburg, Va.,. Chandler Creswell and Cheney Creswell both of Georgia, LaTosha Webb and Tiffany Webb of Arkansas; brother, Glen Creswell and wife Audrey and sister, Mary Helen Creswell all of Denison, and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Earl and Estella Creswell and sister, Lois Collier.
 

Mary Coco-Larkin (1934-2011)

Mrs. Coco-Larkin, 76, passed away Thursday, June 9th, at the Legend Oaks Assisted Living Center in Houston. She had been battling several illnesses for many years, but always kept going and never wanting to give up, even through the most trying times.

Mary was born August 12, 1934 in Pottsboro, Texas to the late Lawrence and Nancy (Heironimus) Hall. She graduated from Denison High School on June 1, 1951. She was married to Stanley Leon Coco for 24 years before his passing in 1975. They had five children together. She volunteered with schools and churches for many years. Mrs. Coco-Larkin also worked in sales at JC Penny and later as an Administrative Assistant at Grayson County College, Nursing Department. Mary married Gene Larkin on October 10, 1998 in Sherman. She and Mr. Larkin were married until he passed away on March 2, 2011. Mary was a devout Christian and a faithful, longtime member of the North Park Baptist Church.
Mary loved to travel and to be with her family and friends. She would do anything for her family, even if it meant she would have to give up something herself, in order to help her children. After her first husband died, she continued to raise her five children, working a full time job and attending Grayson County College, obtaining her Associates Degree. Not only was she determined, independent and strong, she was also very caring and loving to all those who knew her. To her children, she is a remarkable woman who they will always enjoy the fond memories they shared with their mother. Her graceful approach to living had a profound impact on many. Mary's quiet, confident, caring style will be missed greatly by her loving children as well as family and friends. Those who knew her will miss her sparkling sense of humor and friendly smile.

Mrs. Coco-Larkin is survived by four sons, Dale Coco and his wife Sandy of Prescott, AZ, Miles Coco and wife Peggy of Houston, Rick Coco and wife Bonnie of Vero Beach, FL, and Chris Coco and wife Suzanne of Little Rock, AR; one daughter, Penny Coco-Boyd and husband David of Potomac, MD; one sister, Carolyn Simmons and husband Odis Simmons; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Jessie Dee (Harris) Fields (1925-2011)


Jessie Dee Harris Fields passed away Tuesday, June 7 in San Antonio at the home of her daughter, Ann and son-in-law, John. She was surrounded by her family and passed lovingly and peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, whom she faithfully worshiped.

Jessie was born Sep. 20, 1925 in Denison to James Edward Harris and Lily Mae Uptegrove. She graduated from Denison High School in 1944. Jessie married Howard Herrell Fields in Grayson County in 1947. Howard preceded Jessie in death on June 29, 1982. Jessie was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother, James Randolph Jackson Harris. Jessie retired from General Telephone Company in 1983 after 19 1/2 years of service as an operator, service assistant, and instructor. Jessie was a member of Crutchfield Baptist Church, serving the church in many ways and held fond memories of her church family and the "HAPPY HEARTS" fellowships. She also attended Victory Baptist Church in Sherman and enjoyed their loving fellowship.

Jessie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and held special affection for her siblings, friends, and neighbors. One of Jessie's greatest pleasures was playing games with her family and friends, especially "42" and Yahtzee.

She is survived by her daughters; Linda Fields of San Antonio, Ann Chappuis and husband, John of San Antonio, Sheri Perkins and husband, Curtis of Whitesboro, and honorary daughter and neighbor, Mary Lou Green of Sherman. She is also survived by her sisters; Margie Ann Davis of Irving, and Carrie Marie Meyers of Etiwanda, Calif,; a brother, Billy Lewis Harris, address unknown, and sister-in-law, Margie Fields of Inverness, Fla., as well as many nieces and nephews that were very dear to her. Jessie is also survived by grandchildren; Kelly Melvin and husband Mack of San Antonio, Jessica Hudson, and husband Jerry of Grand Bay, Ala., Jeffrey Chappuis and Stacy of Austin, Adam Chappuis and Holly of San Antonio, Stacy Orsburn and husband, Rick of Kingston, Okla., Amy Heinz and husband Mike, of San Antonio, and Carly Sisemore and husband Josh of Sherman. Her great-grandchildren are; Kayla Murray and husband, Anthony of Mobile, Ala., Spc "Max" Rodriguez, serving in the US Airborne currently stationed in Italy, Belle Hoover of San Antonio, Joey and Tanner Hudson of Grand Bay, Alabama, Kennedy and Delaney Boss of Plano, Haidyn and Elizabeth Heinz of San Antonio, Micah McDonald of Pottsboro, and Layla and Cooper Sisemore of Sherman.

Hugh R. Traweek Sr. (1938-2011)


Hugh R. Traweek Sr., 72, went to be with the Lord at Texas Health Presbyterian-WNJ with all of his children by his side on Tuesday, June 7, 2011.

Mr. Traweek was born August 14, 1938 in Denison, to parents Lonnie Russell and Jessie Merle Stanberry Traweek, Sr. Hugh was a golfer, fisherman, and loved to camp with his family on special holidays. He was retired from Fisher Controls and had many special friends from Fisher. He loved the outdoors and gardening. His very special friend most of all was his little dog ""Mandy Lulu"". He was in the high school Touch of Gold class that played at the inaugural of Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953.

Survivors are his sons Hugh Rennie Traweek, Jr. and wife Kym, Tracy Lee Traweek, Sr. and wife Vonda K. Pfeiffer, Darren Traweek and wife Teresa; daughters Katrina Nanny, Laura Barbour and husband Joey Barbour; sister Dorris Brackett; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren, with one on the way.
Preceded in by son Hugh Russell Traweek; brother Lonnie Russell Traweek, Jr., his father Lonnie Russell Traweek, Sr. and mother Merle Traweek.

Jeanna Sue Roesler (1936-2011)

Jeanna Sue Roesler, 75, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2011 at her home in Denison, Texas.

Jeanna was born in Roberta, Oklahoma on March 23, 1936, the daughter of Garland Eugene Nix and Mary Sue Melton. She married Ludwig H. Roesler in Denison in July 1955 and he preceded her in death in 1987. She was of the Baptist faith; a graduate of Denison High School, class of 1955; was a Red Hat Lady; traveled 20 years with her husband in the Air Force; 21 year survivor of breast cancer; loved to travel, do crafts, paint and bowl.
She is survived by sons Tom Roesler of Denison, David Roesler of Denison, Ludwig E. Roesler and wife Susan of Viera, Florida; daughters Cindy Woods and husband Al of Ravenna, TX, Susan Arthur and husband Art of Denison, brother Erwin Nix and wife Judy of Calera, OK; grandchildren Heather Keener, Alicia George Austin, Tiffany Sullivan, Kathleen Roesler, Thomas Roesler, Michael Mitchell, Dorian Roesler, Damian Roesler, Andrea Roesler, Roberta Sparks, Keith Woods; great-grandchildren Christina Sparks, Samantha Sparks, Erica Sparks, Aden Keener, Daxon Keener, Makayla Sullivan and McKenzie Roesler.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ludwig H. Roesler, parents Garland and Mary Sue Roesler, brother Frank L. Nix and sister Betty Henson.

Roy Garcia Martinez Jr. (1948-2011)

Roy Garcia Martinez Jr., 62, entered into eternal life Thursday May 12, 2011 at his home in Denison.
Mr. Martinez was born Dec. 20, 1948 in Denison, the son of Roy Garcia and Margaret Nealdan (Mills) Martinez Sr. Roy graduated from Denison High School and Grayson County College. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. For 30 years he was a machinist at Texas Instruments. Roy enjoyed working on cars, cooking, and family gatherings. He was a member of the National Rifle Association. Roy will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Mr. Martinez is survived by his beloved family wife, Danna Martinez of Denison; children, Melissa Greenwood and husband James of Denison, Sheri Morris and husband David of McKinney, Roy Garcia Martinez III and wife Kay of McKinney, Steven Martinez of Little Rock, Ark., and Michael Brooks of Denison; grandchildren, Seth Greenwood, Zachary Greenwood, Ryan Greenwood, Michael Brooks, Jared Morris, Justin Morris, Tori Martinez and Sarah Martinez; sisters, Linda Delores "Dennir" Neal of Sherman, and Mary Margaret Harralson and husband Ken of Denison, and Shirley Reynolds of McKinney; brothers, John Lester Martinez of Denison, and Joseph Martinez and wife Shelly of El Paso; sister-in-law, Linda Martinez and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lucille Douglas (1921-2011)

Mrs. Douglas, 89, passed away Thursday, May 12 at the Homestead of Sherman.
Lucille was born May 16, 1921, in Denison to the late Walter and Gladys (Richardson) Boatright.

After graduating from Denison schools, she married Glen Douglas on July 1, 1944, in Denison. She and Mr. Douglas were married over 62 years when he passed away in October 2006. Lucille enjoyed cooking, sewing, and loved her animals and birds. She was a Baptist.

Mrs. Douglas is survived by one son, Charles Douglas of Sherman; one daughter, Linda Jones of Sherman; two grandsons, Jason and Ryan Douglas and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three brothers, Arthur, Ivie, and Michael Boatright; and three sisters, Alice Conner, Eula Faye Foster, and Lena Boatright.

Carol Owens (1944-2011)

 Our beloved mother and meme Carol Elizabeth Owens, 66, went peacefully home to our Lord's arms, Thursday, May 5, 2011 at Texoma Medical Center.

Mrs. Owens was born May 25, 1944 in Parsons, Kansas the daughter of Thomas and Lillian (Proctor) Harkness. She graduated from Denison High School in 1962 and attended North Texas and Southeastern University. Carol married the love of her life, Eugene Owens August 16, 1963 in Denison. Carol was an excellent bookkeeper, for years she was the payroll clerk for Levi Strauss and financial secretary for First Baptist Church in Denison. Later she kept the books for the Exxon Station she and her husband operated. Carol enjoyed being with her daughters and their families. She loved the Lord and attended Trinity Lighthouse Church.

Carol will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
 

Mrs. Owens is survived by her beloved family, husband of 48 years, Eugene Owens of Denison, TX.; daughters, Kristen Testerman and husband, James of Denison, TX and Melissa Welch and husband, Robert of Sherman, TX; four grandchildren, Ashlea Welch, Lynsey Testerman, Kyle Gotcher and Mikayla Testerman. Carol was preceded in death by her parents.

Juanita Wilson (1920-2011)

Juanita Wilson, 90, passed away on Sunday May 1, 2011 in Allen.

Mrs. Wilson was born Aug. 25, 1920 in Pottsboro, daughter of Albert Sidney and Sallie Cowherd Brown. She graduated from Denison High School and married Nolie A. Wilson on June 29, 1940 in Durant, Okla. They were married 52 years until his death on Aug. 2, 1992.

She was a homemaker and member of the Church of Christ Faith. She was known by all her grandchildren as "Granny", "Granny Bitsy" or "Granny Ocars", and to her family as "Pete".

Survivors are sons Gary L. Wilson and wife Cheri Streetman, Jerry W. Wilson and wife Dawn of Allen; sister Dorothy Grimes of Pottsboro; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren with one due in June of 2011.

Preceded in death by parents; husband Nolie; sisters Mary Thompson, Geneva Thomas; brothers Albert W. Brown, Jack Brown, Charles Brown and Ralph Brown.

Steve Melton (1963-2011)

Steven Lee Melton, age 47, went home to be with the Lord Thursday, April 21, 2011 at his home.
Mr. Melton was born December 17, 1963 in Denison, Texas the son of James Edward and Earline (Christman) Melton. Steve graduated from Denison High School in 1982. He worked for many years at LOF. Steve enjoyed sports and four wheeling; he especially loved watching the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys. Steve will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Mr. Melton is survived by his beloved family, mother, Earline Burleson and husband, Dave of Denison, TX, sons, Scott Melton and Adam Melton both of Sherman, TX, daughter, Jennifer Morton and husband, Clint of Sherman, TX, granddaughter, Kaitlin Morton of Sherman, TX, sister, Jana Bishop and husband, Larry of Pottsboro, TX and niece, Whitney Farris and husband, Dustin of Sherman, TX. Steve was preceded in death by his father, James Melton and grandparents, Willie and Edith Christman and Effie Melton Spencer.

Sandra Dickerson (1925-2011)

Peggy Marie Vaughan Hahnel, 86-year-old Denison resident, passed away Sunday, April 17, 2011 at Homestead of Denison.

Mrs. Hahnel was born on March 21, 1925 in Denison, Texas, daughter of Edwin and Lillie M. Farley Bevan. She married Robert "Bob" Vaughan June 16, 1950 in Denison. He preceded her in death on July 16, 1992. She married Eugene Hahnel on Nov. 11, 1997 in Denison, and he died July 2, 2003.

Mrs. Hahnel worked for Dr. Jensen and Dr. Dickey's office and Dr. Lanny Youree DDS. She retired in 1986 and was a member of the First Christian Church for more than 73 years. She made Christmas (Chrismons) ornaments for their sales. Peggy was active in many of the women's groups at the church.

She was a graduate of DHS, May 31, 1941. Mrs. Hahnel was a founding member of the Denison High School Alumni Association and an active member of the 1941 Class Alumni Association helping to plan alumni events and contact members of the class.
Surviving are her son, Ed Griggs and his wife, RoseAnn of Pottsboro; daughters, Ellen C. Willis of Denison and Devon Armstrong and husband, Tim (T.J.) Armstrong of Denison; grandchildren, Eddy Griggs of Pottsboro, Stephanie McGehee and husband, Alan B. of Denison, Michael Savage of Colorado, Christy Vaughan of Denison, Bevan "Caden" Vaughan of Denison, Jason Armstrong of Denison. Great-grandchildren are Jordan Aynes, Kaitlyn Griggs, Luke McGehee, Ashton Savage, Austin Savage, Jaxson Cathey and Reagan Armstrong; daughter-in-law, Roeann Vaughan of Denison; and Peggy's faithful companion, Muffin, her tea cup Yorkie.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Bob Vaughan and Gene Hahnel; two children, Kathleen Vaughan and Bevan Clifford Vaughan.

Paul Henderson (1945-2011)


Paul Michel Henderson, 65, entered into eternal life Thursday, April 14, 2011 at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital-WJN.

Mr. Henderson was born May 19, 1945 in Denison, the son of Clyde and Jewel (Roberson) Henderson. He graduated from Denison High School in 1965 and University of Texas at Arlington with a bachelors degree in math. Paul was an excellent computer programmer and enjoyed working on computers. He worked four years for Levi Strauss and 27 years with Texas Instruments as a computer programmer specialist. He loved watching the Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys, but his favorite was the Denison Yellow Jackets. Paul will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Henderson is survived by his loving family: brother, Jerry Henderson and wife, Gwen of Denison; sisters, Lucille Boren of Richardson, Texas Imogene Gilliam of Denison and Ruth Wasden and husband, Tom of Denison; and numerous nieces and nephews. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Marie Caraway, Delois Chastain, Joyce Irwin, Jimmy Henderson and Johnny Henderson, Bobby Henderson and Larry Henderson.

Addison Wilkinson, DHS 1951 Graduate

Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at the Delhomme Chapel of the Flowers for Addison A. Wilkinson, 77, who passed away on April 12, 2011 at 11:55 p.m. at his residence.

Mr. Wilkinson, a resident of Lafayette, La., was the son of the late Mason Wilkinson of Alexandria, La., and the former Janet Wyatt of Alexandria, La. After moving to Texas at age 5, he graduated high school in 1951 from Denison High School in Denison. After high school, he attended and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelors degree in geology in 1956.

After graduation, he began working as a geologist for Plymouth and Delhi-Taylor Oil Companies. He then began a 25 year career with Tenneco Oil Co., starting as a geological engineer in South Texas. Throughout his years with Tenneco, he held many positions in many states as well as the Netherlands. Addison finished his career in Lafayette, where he made his home, as a vice president and the general manager of the Eastern Gulf of Mexico Division. After his retirement from Tenneco Oil Co., he became a vice president, a board member, and a founding partner of Newfield Exploration Co. before his second retirement. He was a member of the Lafayette Geological Society, the Chancellors Council of the University of Texas, the Littlefield Society at UT, and a past member on the Advisory Council Geological Foundation at UT.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Betty Wilkinson of Lafayette, La.; one son, Robert Wilkinson of Carlsbad, Calif.; one daughter, Elizabeth J. Wood and her husband Adam of Dallas; and two granddaughters, Allison Paige Wood and Leah Elizabeth Wood, both of Dallas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

JoAnn (Kinnamon) Gregg (1934-2011)

JoAnn Kinnamon Gregg, 76, a loving mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend, entered the gates of heaven Tuesday, April 12, 2011.

JoAnn was born Nov. 8, 1934, in Denison to Leslie Wells Kinnamon and Bernice Beatty Kinnamon. She graduated from Denison High School in 1953 and was employed as a beautician at Eads and later at Joys. On July 4, 1953, she married Leldon Gregg. They moved to Ohio while Leldon was stationed in the service, but returned to Denison after two years. In Denison, she and her family were very active members of Southside Baptist Church.

In 1966, JoAnn moved with her husband and son, Russell, to Fort Worth. Two years later, their son Jeff was born and by the late 1970s she and her family moved to Burleson, where she remained until her death. She was a faithful member of Bethesda Baptist Church in Burleson. JoAnn was employed by Edison's and J.C. Penney in Fort Worth. Her favorite pastime was baking and decorating cakes for family and friends.
JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband, Leldon, in 2007; her parents; and one son, Russell Gregg, in 1984.

Survivors: Son, Jeff Gregg and wife, Rosario; grandchildren, Andrew and Dylan Gregg and Josh and James Sirek; sister, Dora Rae Stracener and her husband, Ed; niece, Brenda Canright and her husband, Darrell; and nephew, Darrell Stracener.

Bobby Gene Koiner (1935-2011)

Bobby Gene Koiner, age 75, entered into eternal life Thursday, April 7, 2011 at Texoma Medical Center.
Mr. Koiner was born September 3, 1935 in Krum, Texas the son of James Calvin and Eunice (Story) Koiner. Bobby graduated from Denison High School in 1954. In 1966, he received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Bobby married the love of his life, Mary Lucille "Mary Lou" Mead February 14, 1958. Bobby was the manager of quality control at Safeway Stores, Inc, plant. He retired after 41 years of service in 1995. Bobby was a member of the Society for the Preservation of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, Texoma Chordringers chapter, active member and past president, American Cancer Society , Denison Chapter, past president. He loved the Lord and was a member of Southside Baptist Church. Where he formerly served as Sunday School teacher and choir member. He and his family traveled and sang in churches in area towns for many years.

Mr. Koiner is survived by his beloved family, wife of 53 years, Mary Lucille "Mary Lou" Koiner of Denison, TX, sons, Chris Koiner and wife, Donna of Keystone Heights, FL, Ron Koiner and wife, Debbie of Castle Rock , CO and daughter, Robin Verbil and husband, John of Scottsdale, AZ, grandchildren, Paul Koiner of Shreveport, LA, Kyle Koiner of Gainesville, FL, Joel Koiner of Keystone, FL, Aaron Koiner of Colorado Springs, CO, Ryan Koiner, Jonathan Koiner, Jordan Koiner and Justin Koiner all of Castle Rock, CO, Lindsay Verbil, Brian Verbil and Elliot Verbil all of Scottsdale, AZ, brothers, James Koiner of Plano, TX, Charles Koiner of Dublin, TX and Richard Koiner of Clarksville, TX, sisters, Doris O'Brien of Tom Bean, TX, Shirley Mullins of Morris Mill, TX and Betty Prewett of Sapulpa, OK. Preceded in death by his parents.

Johnnie Ray Smith, DHS Class of 1959

Johnnie Ray Smith, 70, of Denison left this world on April 4, 2011 at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital-WNJ after a short battle with Alzheimers.

He was born the only son to Homer "Pappy" Floyd and Lela Mae Smith. He graduated from Denison Senior High in 1959. While in high school, he worked at Palmer's Drive-In and Smith Flooring. After high school, he worked at Sherman Foundry from 1959 until he retired in 1999. He later worked for Driggs Liquor and Main Street Lumber until he got sick.

He loved his family. His heart beat faster when his wife of 51 years, Barbara Armstrong Smith, entered the room, and saddened a little when she left it. The marriage produced four unique children and five blessed grandchildren (that made up for the children).
Johnnie had a lifelong love affair with bacon, pancakes, butter, cigars, old cars, and the original Coca Cola. When he wasn't giving people he knew a hard time, he could be found at the Denison Elks Lodge 238, playing dominoes with his Elk brothers. His hobbies included fishing, spending time with his family, and bowling for over 31 years at A1 Lanes in Denison.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by: his high school sweetheart, Barbara, of the home; his children - daughter Joy and her husband, Jerry Brooks, of Denison, son Michael Smith of Fort Worth, daughter Suzanne and her husband, Michael Cox, and daughter Michelle and her husband, Drew Alverson, all of Bells; his five grandchildren, Dakota Brooks, Shea Alverson, Cassie and Sydney Smith, and Jonathan Cox; his sister Mary and her husband, Gene, of Otego, N.Y.; his favorite aunt, Winnie Smith, of Denison; a sister-in-law, JoAnn, and her husband, Ed Aynes, and a brother-in-law, TJ, and his wife, Devon Armstrong, all of Denison; and his four-legged friends, Prissy and Killer.
 

Gary Lynn Cottingame (1942-2011)

Gary Lynn Cottingame, 68, of Denison died Thursday, March 31, 2011 at Texoma Medical Center in Denison.

Mr. Cottingame was born Dec. 7, 1942 in Denison to H.E. and Reeda Childs Cottingame. He graduated from Denison High School in 1961 and married Vonda June Combs on Oct. 30, 1965 in Denison. He was a fabricator, in maintenance and a sales person. He was a member of Christ Our Savior Anglican Church and served in both the United States Navy and United States Air Force.

Mr. Cottingame is survived by his wife Vonda June Cottingame of Denison; sons Jimmie Lynn Cottingame and his wife Rochelle of Denison, Jeffrey Lynn Cottingame and his wife Janna of Durant, Okla., and Jason Lynn Cottingame and his wife Bri of Denison; daughter Kim Annette Hightower of Allen; sisters Marsha Allison of Pottsboro, Millie Miller of San Antonio and Donna Hayes and her husband Phillip of Viper, Ky.; grandchildren Haley Cottingame, Hayden Cottingame, Jordan Cottingame, Justus Cottingame, Jonas Cottingame, Jacee Cottingame, Kandice Rayford and her husband Walter, Michael Jones, Anthony Cole Jones, Phillip Hightower, Ayla Hightower and Ronald Anthony Hightower; and three great-grandchildren.

He was Papaw to dozens and Uncle Gary to many nieces and nephews.

Martha Jerrell (1936-2011)

Martha Jerrell, 74, of Denison passed away Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at her home surrounded by her family and friends.

Martha was born July 13, 1936 in Denison, the daughter of Hazel (Wisdom) and Vernon McGee. She was educated in Denison, graduating from the last class in the old high school in 1954 and continued her studies with honors from Brewer State University in Alabama.
Martha had a varied work career starting with Kress's Stores in Denison, which she was most fond of. Then Johnson and Johnson, Texas Instruments and finally for many years at Goodwill Industries, both in Sherman and Denison, often signing her pay slip and leaving it for those less fortunate than her.

She met her husband Billie G. Jerrell, an Air Force Staff Sergeant from Michigan stationed at Perrin Air Force Base on a blind date and were married 51 years.

She was a wonderful friend, wife, mother, sister, aunt and cousin. She truly will be missed by all those who knew and loved her. She lived a full and happy life and was well traveled, living in Arizona, California, Alabama, Virginia, Oklahoma, Louisiana and during the 1970s in Guatemala City, Guatemala and El Estor, Guatemala.

In 1990 she and Bill moved back to Denison to be near family and friends. In her free time she loved painting and making beautiful ceramic and porcelain dolls.

Surviving her is a son, Perry M. Kinamon of Denison; a daughter Stephanie A. and husband Michael D. Murphy of Denison; a brother James R. and wife Ruby Y. McGee of Colbert, Okla.; brothers-in- law O. L. (Pete) and wife Rose Marie Jerrell of Woodbridge, Va., Michael A. and Patricia Jerrell of Ozark, Ala., along with many cousins, nieces, nephews and, of course, her husband Billie G. Jerrell of Denison.

Martha was preceded in death by a son, Phillip A. Jerrell, who sadly passed away on the day of his birth in 1961. Also by her mother Hazel M. (Wisdom) McGee and her father James V. McGee, both of Denison.

Lena Jo Burns (1928-2011)


Lena Jo Myers Burns, 82, passed away Saturday, March 12, 2011 in Owosso, Okla.
Mrs. Burns was born Dec. 12, 1928 in Sherman, the daughter of John Dillard and Lula Josephine (Shockey) Myers. Her great-greatgrandfather, Henry Shockey of Paris, was awarded a land grant in the Paris, Texas area by the President of the Republic of Texas. Her grandfather later moved to the Sherman area. She fondly remembers the family farm where she was born and lived until age 5.
 

The family moved to Denison where she graduated from Denison High School in 1946 and business school thereafter. Her father had several grocery stores during the years.
She married Jerome Burns Aug. 8, 1954 in Durant, Okla., and traveled to many states and countries as he served as a USAF fighter pilot. Their first move was by car from Perrin AFB, Texas up the ALCAN Highway to Anchorage in the Territory of Alaska in 1956. While in Alaska she served as secretary to the 10th Air Division Flying Safety Officer in Division Headquarters Elmendorf AFB Alaska.
 

She was very talented in watercolor painting and ceramics. Her beautiful art treasures can be found in many homes of family and friends. She was a loving, caring mother to her four children and they thought of her with love in their hearts.

Mrs. Burns is survived by her husband, Jerome Burns of Denison, son, Edwin "Eddie" Owen Burns and his wife, Kris and their son, Bryce Burns all of Dallas; daughter, Teresa Josephine "Terri" Cone and husband Mark of Owasso, Okla., and their son, Casey Cone and wife, Amy of Broken Arrow, Okla. and their son, Elijah; grandson, Richard J. Burns and wife, Crystal of Burnsville, N.C. and their son, Austin and daughter, Haley; granddaughter, Christy Edwards and husband, Gary and their children, Dalton and Taven of North Carolina.
The loss of sons, Neil Carleton and Richard Jerome Burns preceded her loss to all family and friends. Preceding her in death were brothers, Clyde, Curtis JD, Hershel, OW Myers and sisters, Geneva, Helen, Mamie and Nadine.
 

She was lovingly cared for by her daughter, Terri and husband, Mark Cone for many months in their home.

Pat Johnson (1935-2011)

Pat Johnson was called home Friday morning, March 11, after a brief battle with cancer.
Patsy Ruth Bolen was the first born child of John and Mary Capshaw Bolen and was born on July 9, 1935 in Denison, Texas. She was the adoring and adored big sister to Virginia, Bob, Richard and Jack. The family lived out East Main in Denison and had many loving delightful times together. Pat was a good student and graduated from Denison High School in 1953. Though Pat was warned by her father not to date airmen from Perrin Air Force Base, she met and fell deeply in love with Airman William Michael Johnson. They were married in the chapel at Perrin on September 21, 1953. Mike and Pat were blessed with four wonderful children - Carl Ray, Michelle Ann, Denise Kay and David Michael. Since Mike was career military, they lived in many areas including Spain but much of their marriage was spent enjoying the beauty of Alaska. While in Alaska, Pat was an active Soroptimist. In 1998, Pat retired as a bookkeeper and Pat and Mike returned home to Denison.

Then Pat could start a delightful phase of her life called retirement. Even though professionally retired, she became more personally active. In 2001, Pat founded and became the Queen Mother of the Hyde Park Red Hatters. She was an active RVer and was a member and past officer of the Texoma Good Sam's. She was a very active member of Hyde Park Presbyterian Church and loved attending all activities. She loved antiquing, shopping, RVing, growing roses and reading but shunned needlework. She ran a beautiful home and was a most gracious hostess. She adored and doted on Mike and her family and was happiest being with them. She also loved those special times with her ornery cat, Mr. Shadow.

Pat is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Mike Johnson. She is also survived by her sons, Carl of Shiner, TX and Michael of Fairbanks, Alaska and her daughter, Denise Orris (Keith) of Fairbanks, Alaska. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren, Christine and Steven Paul Johnson of California, Jennifer Hamsley of Alaska, David Hamsley of Alaska, Christopher and Marianne Orris of Alaska and Elizabeth Johnson of England. Pat is survived by a great-grandson, Anthony Hattal of Alaska. She is survived by her sister, Virginia Krebs of Wichita Falls, her brothers Bob (Mary Ann) and Jack (Barbara) of Denison, her sister-in-law, Judy Bolen of Denison and her aunt, Emma Capshaw. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews and numerous beloved friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Michelle Johnson Hamsley, her brother Richard Bolen, her sister-in-law Mary Jo Bolen and her brother-in-law Ivan Krebs.

Mary (Loveless) Schnitker (1932-2011)

Mary Loveless Schnitker died Thursday, March 10, 2011 at Medical Center of McKinney.
She was born on Oct. 1, 1932 in San Antonio to Luke and Margaret Loveless.
Mary was preceded in death her husband of 57 years, Clifford Schnitker.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan Mayes and husband, Guion; son, Clifford Schnitker Jr. and wife, Karen; sisters, Kathryn Wurzbach and husband, Kenneth, Barbara Murphy, Patsy DeCroes and husband, Terry and Betty Werner and husband, Ken; brothers, Luke L. Loveless Jr. and wife, Yoko, Charles T. Loveless and the late Danny D. Loveless. She had four grandchildren, Matthew Mayes, wife, Lya, Nicolas Mayes and Andrea Schnitker and Chad Schnitker and wife, Jessica. She has two great-grandchildren, Madison Mayes and Lindell Schnitker and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary was active in real estate for several years before retiring. She graduated from Denison High School and worked at Bear Drug Store in Denison, where she met her future husband, Clifford.

Theresa Charles (1973-2011)

Theresa Charles' time on earth was temporary. The Lord called her home on Feb. 28, 2011. She was at Baylor Medical Center at Carrollton.


Theresa was born Aug. 18, 1973 in Denison, the daughter of Freddie Perkins and Karen Kerns. She was a member of Parkside Baptist Church, where she was active in the Awanas (Cubbies) and Pacesetters; was a graduate of Denison High School; completed the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service in Dallas and worked for a local funeral home for a short time.
 

She is survived by parents Freddie and Karen Perkins of Denison; sister Kristin Fondren and husband Donald of Denison; twin sister Jennifer Ridgedell and husband Johnny of Sherman; niece Kimberly Walker; nephews Bradly Walker, Jordan Ridgedell; numerous aunts and uncles from Texas and Iowa.

Frank Nix (1939-2011)

Frank Nix, 71, of Denison passed from this life Saturday, Feb. 19, at Kindred Hospital in Dallas after a lengthy illness.

Frank was born Aug. 21, 1939 in Roberta, Okla. to Garland Eugene Nix and Mary Sue (Melton) Nix. He grew up and graduated from Denison High School. Frank worked as a carmen welder for MKT Railroad retiring in 1988. Frank married Beverly Holland on July 3, 1964 in Denison. His hobbies were his horses and cattle.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Betty Henson. He leaves behind his loving family, wife, Beverly of Denison; son, Greg and wife Cathi of Celina; brother Erwin Nix and wife Judy of Calera, Okla.; sister Jeanna Roesler of Denison; grandkids Brett and Avery Nix of Celina.

Martha Louise Wagner (1921-2011)


Martha Louise Wagner, 89-year-old Denison resident, died Thursday, Feb. 17 at Texoma Medical Center.

Mrs. Wagner was born on June 4, 1921 in Denison, daughter of Harry A. and Blanche Miller Wagner. She graduated from Denison High School in 1938 and was active in the reunion of the 1937 and 1938 classes.

Martha Louise's parents owned Wagner Greenhouses on West Morton Street. She and her sister Betty grew up in the greenhouse and both worked there. Betty married and moved to west Texas in 1953. Martha continued to work there until her parents retired in 1960. Martha then worked at Wayside Florist in Sherman for approximately 20 years and, later, for Susan Florist.

She was a member of First Baptist Church since 1932 and a Sunday School teacher there for 66 years. She volunteered at First Baptist Church Christian Life Center and Texoma Medical Center. She enjoyed traveling in the United States and abroad. She and Betty made a trip around the world. She was a member of the Herb and Old Roses Society.

 

Morene V. Torbett, DHS Graduate

Morene V. Torbett passed away Monday, Feb. 14, 2011 at her residence in Denison. A graveside service for Morene was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19 at Cedarlawn Memorial Park, located at 5805 Texoma Parkway in Sherman. Rev. Jim Hawthorne and Chaplain Sheryl Myers officiated.

She was born July 9, 1914 in Sardis, Tenn., the daughter of P. J. Baker and Zella Haggard. She was a graduate of Denison High School and worked as an office manager for a doctor's office. She was also a pink lady for 20 years.

Morene is survived by her daughters, Sharon Fulton and Nancy Lowry both of Denison; brothers, Moody Mack of Atlanta, Ga. and Keith Mack of Denison; sisters, Dorothy Glance of Kent, Wash. and Lynn Czekaj of Ft. Worth; grandchildren, Chris Fulton, Johnathan Lowry, and Michelle Lowry; and 5 great-grandchildren.

Ruby I. Hill, DHS1938 Graduate

Graveside services for Ruby I. Hill, 89-year-old MLK Railroad retiree, were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 18 at Cedarlawn Memorial Park with Rev. Billy Wilder officiating. Mrs. Hill passed away Sunday, Jan. 16, 2011 in Grand Prairie
She was born on Oct. 22, 1921 in Caney, Okla., daughter of J.T. and Bertha Atkinson Singleton. She was a 1938 Denison High School graduate. On Sept. 27, 1941, she married Max Hill in Dallas.

She worked in the corporate office of the MKT Railroad in Dallas for 30 years and her last position was a manager of the Real Estate Division. She was a member of the R.R. Women's Executives, Epworth United Methodist Church in Arlington, Order of the Eastern Star, DAR and the VFW Auxiliary in Pottsboro.

 
Surviving are her son, Robert Hill and his wife, Nora of Arlington; daughter, Janet Osborne and her husband, Neill of Lake Charles, La.; sister, Shirley Baxter of Arlington; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Max, in 1963; brother, B.J. Singleton; and sisters, Doris Culley and Zoe Palmer.