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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
Donald Lee Wright,
age 79, entered into eternal life Thursday, October 20, 2011
at
Texoma Medical Center.
Mr. Wright was born
June 28, 1932 in Denison, Texas the son of Robert Lee
and Eliza Janette (Bess) Wright. He served his country
proudly as an airman in the U. S. Navy. Donald married
the love of his life, Betty Landers in Denison, Texas.
Later he retired from Civil Service after 37 years. He
loved the Lord and attended East Baptist Church. Donald
was a kind and loving man who was known for his keen
sense of humor and capacity to spread laughter to
whomever he encountered. He was larger than life, and
anyone who ever met him would attest to that. His
passing will leave a void in so many lives, but his
spirit will dwell in our hearts forever.
Mr. Wright is
survived by his beloved family, wife, Betty Wright
of
Denison, TX, son, Gary Don Wright and wife,
Kimberly of San Antonio, TX, daughter, Lana Wright
Thomason and husband, Robbie of McKinney, TX and
daughter, Donna Blankenship of Wichita, KS,
grandchildren, Taylor Jo Blankenship, Alexa Rae
Blankenship, Gage Dylan Thomason, Braden Lee Wright,
Seth Ryan Thomason and Alexandra Caroline Wright and
great-granddaughter, Rylie Jo Blankenship, sisters,
Francis Lewis and husband, Gil of Denison, TX and
Pat Hedgepath and husband, Cal of Arlington, TX.
Donald was preceded in death by his parents Robert
and Eliza Wright, brothers, Billy Jean Wright and
Robert Arthur Wright and sisters, Juanita Patrick
and Mary Martha Cox.
Anne
Perdue Herrshcer, DHS 1954 Graduate
Anne Perdue
Herrscher, passed away on October 11, 2011, in
Dallas, Texas, surrounded by husband, family and
friends after a 17-day battle with complications
from gallstone pancreatitis. Her illness and death
were sudden and unexpected; leaving a void with many
loved ones that she had filled with her grace, charm
and humor. Anne will be greatly missed. Anne was
born on August 16, 1935 in Marlin Texas to the late
Maude Carter and Raymond Leo Perdue, both of whose
parents were early central Texas Settlers. Anne grew
up attending schools in Marlin and Mart and
graduated from Dennison High School. Anne attended
her mother's alma mater, Mary Hardin Baylor, her
freshman year, then transferred to Southern
Methodist University ("SMU") where she earned a
Bachelor of Arts degree in 1958, and more
importantly met the love of her life, Rick Herrscher.
Anne and Rick
were married following her graduation in 1958 at
SMU's Perkins Chapel, and made Dallas their home.
Together they were blessed with two sons: Richard
Forrest Herrscher M.D. and William Thomas Herrscher,
Esq., who survive her, along with Richard's wife
Christy Barttlet and their children Alexis 18,
Grayson 14, and Matthew 13, and William's wife the
Rev. Leslie Herrscher, and children William Otto 14,
J.T. 11, John Douglas, age 2, and Hannah Sophia, age
3 months. She is also survived by her three beloved
sisters Lilah Perdue Smedley of Waco Texas, Bobbye
Perdue Bell and husband Jack of Dallas, Texas, and
Ilda Perdue Williams and husband Jim of Orlando
Florida. In addition, she is survived by
brother-in-law Barton Herrscher and wife Stephanie,
and nieces and nephews, Howard Smedley Jr., Anne
Smedley Rue, Jane Smedley Hart, David Smedley, Susan
Bell Bullock, Mary Anne Bell Burgher, Bart Williams,
Nancy Williams Schultheis, Betsy Williams VanScoter,
Roger Barton Herrscher, Stephanie Herrscher Wheeler,
Brenda Herrscher Hittmire, Russell Herrscher, their
spouses and Tom Smedley Monet Herrscher, and Brandon
Herrscher.
Anne was a
caring mother, joyful wife, loving grandmother,
active church member, prayer warrior, charity
worker, and accomplished business professional. She
worked as a teacher, mother and then executive
director of Old City Park. Anne earned her Executive
MBA from SMU in 1986 and retired in 1996 as a senior
philanthropy officer from the Meadows Foundation.
Trusted and respected, Anne held board positions
with the HPPC Foundation, Dallas Woman's Club, the
SMU Annette Simmons School of Education, SMU Alumni
Board and Presbyterian Hospital. She made large
contributions of her talent and time to Dallas
Junior League, Dallas Garden Club, Dallas Historical
Society and Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. She later
worked as philanthropy consultant for the Hillcrest
Foundation who honored her in 2005 with a donation
in her name to SMU for education in servant
leadership and learning differences. Although she
loved Dallas and her friends, she also loved staying
at their EngleHause on Lake Athens, where she would
garden, decorate, write poetry and be at peace in
the woods. She passes on, leaving us with wonderful
memories and gifts of her presence.
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.
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