Vera Blancet Sanders passed away on Oct. 30, 2017. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 4 at the Dorcey – Keatts Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be at the Antioch Cemetery in Teague. Visitation will be on Friday from 2-5 p.m.
Sanders grew up in Teague and graduated from Booker T. Washington High in 1948. She was often sought out to play and sing in local churches in the Freestone County.

Gary Edward Bennett, 76, of Wortham, went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Oct. 30, 2017 in Fairfield following a long and brave battle against Mesothelioma lung cancer. Private family memorial services will be held at a later date.
Gary was born Dec. 9, 1940 in Wortham to parents L. T. and Billye Louise Means Bennett. He served his country in the Air National Guard and the United States Air Force. He was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He approached life with great passion and integrity. He was a gifted speaker with an outgoing personality. Bennett never met a stranger. He loved nature and outdoors activities; especially hunting. He loved his wife, family and friends deeply. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Morgan Jennings.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife Debbie; three sons, Brian Bennett and wife Reba; Larry Bennett and wife Debi; Aaron Bennett; four daughters, Margarette Webb; Laura Radzevicius; Crystal Bennett; Heather Taylor and husband Gerald; two brothers, Bill Bennett and wife Sue; Larry Bennett and wife Jackie; 16 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and many other family members and special friends.
To send a personalized sympathy card or leave the family a personal tribute, visit cappschapel.com

Eugenia Ann “Genie” Lummus, of Mexia, passed away Nov. 4, 2017 in Waco at the age of 73. In keeping with Genie’s wishes, there will be a private family service held later.
Genie was born June 20, 1944 in Mexia to Sig and Elsie Mae Eddy Erickson, the youngest of six children. She graduated from Mexia High School, Class of 1962, and later attended college to obtain her Nursing Home Administration License. She was administrator of the Teague Nursing Home, for several years, and then went to work at the Mexia State School, where she retired after 25 years of service.  
Genie married Harold Glenn Lummus and they were blessed with two sons, Mike and Keith, and one grandson, Blake. Her family was her life. She was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and sister. She loved her sons, but “Memaw” as Blake called her, was her pride and joy.  Anytime spent with family was important to her, but the holidays were special times enjoyed with her immediate family as well as her sisters and brothers and their families; they were a close family. They all liked to spend time together at the lake; she, along with sisters, Nancy and Martha enjoyed traveling to Las Vegas, Nev. and, also, playing bingo.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, H. Glenn Lummus; brothers. Gene and Ed Erickson; and sister, Martha Williams.
Genie is survived by her loving sons, Michael Glenn Lummus and William Keith Lummus both of Mexia; and grandson, William Blake Lummus of Mexia; sister, Nancy Jones; brother, Bobby Ray Erickson and wife, Joanne of Houston; sisters-in-laws, Elenor Holmes of Mexia and Nelda Robinette of McGregor; brother-in-law, Ron Williams of Mexia; her little companion, Precious; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave a message of condolence.

The Angelic Hosts came for William “Pete” Kirven at his residence in Coolidge among loving family and devoted friends on Nov. 6, 2017. 
Viewing will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 10 in the Moore’s Angelic Chapel. A prayer service will be held Friday from 6-7 p.m. in the chapel with the family present. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church, 500 East Carthage Street, Mexia, with Pastor Henry Chambers, Jr. officiating. Interment will be in the Sandy Creek Cemetery, Coolidge with military funeral honors.
Moore’s Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe Street, Teague is serving the Kirven family. Visit mooresangelicfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book and light a candle.
Kirven was the first of 13 children born to Moses Kirven and Vicy Beachum Kirven. He was born Sept. 22, 1943 in Limestone County, Coolidge.
He attended Oak Hill, Echols, Woodland and Coolidge School during his school years. He furthered his education at Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View. He earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science. After returning from active duty from the U.S. Army, he attended Paul Quinn College and earned a certification in social work. Kirven went on to achieve a master’s degree in social work from Baylor University, Waco.
He confessed his faith in Christ at an early age. He hoined Sandy Grove Primitive Baptist Church, Sandy Community in Coolidge. He met and married Bennie “Taylor” Kirven on Jan. 18, 1969. To this union two children were born; daughter Jeneanne Kirven of Bryan/College Station and son Michael Kirven of Coolidge.
Pete was drafted into the U.S. Army and served from 1969-1971 as an E-5. He was a medic. He was stationed in Tacoma, Wash. as a lab tech at Maghany General Hospital. Kirven received as honorable discharge in 1971. After his service in the military he began a career at the Mexia State School. He later became a truck driver and drove for 15 years. Throughout his career, he continued his love for ranching and doing community service.
He was a Board member of the Coolidge Independent School District for several years.
In January 2007, Kirven became known as “Commissioner Kirven.” He was the first African American elected as Commissioner of Limestone County Precinct 2. Kirven had the pleasure of serving constituents for two consecutive terms (2007-2014).
He was an active board member of the Navasota Valley Electric Coop., Prairie Hill Water Coop., president of Sandy Creek Cemetery Association for 25 years, and president of the Limestone County Nineteenth of June Organization, located at Booker T. Washington Park (Comanche Crossing) in Mexia. He was also a member of the Young Farmers of America.
Pete had a great love for leather and wood crafting, ranching and going to rodeos.
He is preceded in death by his father Moses Kirven; brother Earnest Kirven; devoted brother-in-law Shelton Heggins, Ernest Acres and Fred Daily; and mother-in-law Geneva Cornish Taylor.
He leaves to cherish his memory wife Bennie M. Kirven of 49 years; daughter Jeneanne M. Kirven; son Michael Williams Kirven and daughter-in-law Quanza; three grandchildren Ionica, Zurnique and Symii Love, all of Coolidge; his mother Vicy Kirven of Sandy Community; five sisters LaVern Kirven Jackson (Bobby), DeEvelyn Kirven Heggins, Madeline Kirven Gamble (Donald) of Dallas, Jacquelin Kirven Gee (Winford) of Mexia, and Sharon D. Kirven Henley (Rex) of Waco; six brothers Otis Kirven (Pearlie) of Dallas, Floyd Kirven and Elvin Kirven of Sandy, Felix Kirven (Ruth) of Virginia Beach, Va., Stelvin Kirven (Regina) of Sunnyvale, James Kirven (Gloria) of Mexia; sister-in-laws Eddie Taylor, Spring Taylor (LC), Vanessa Moseley all of Mt. Calm, Sandra Daily of West, Regina Acres of Waco, Sherrie Lewis of Mexia; brother-in-laws Carl Taylor (Gail) of Los Angeles, Calif., and George Taylor of Houston, and a host of aunts, nephews, nieces and friends.

Freddye Thompson was born July 30, 1924, to Iva McDaniel Fogg and Wilbur Degraffenreid Fogg in Brownwood, and died Nov. 9, 2017 in Bryan. 
Freddye graduated from Diboll High School in Diboll at the age of 16. She married Elmer Murel (Hotdog) Thompson at her parents’ home in Diboll on Aug. 25, 1946, after his service in the Navy. Freddye and Elmer attended Daniel Baker College in Brownwood, graduating and beginning their careers in the Texas schools where Freddye taught for more than 30 years. As the trailing spouse of a coach, Freddye taught whatever subject was open in Rusk, Hull-Daisetta, Orangefield, Anahuac and Mexia, but her primary teaching field was English. In retirement Elmer and Freddye traveled extensively in their RV, and Freddye continued her lifelong love of reading and playing bridge. Throughout her life Freddye enjoyed singing, primarily in the Methodist Church choir in each community where she lived. Freddye moved to Bryan in 2000 making new friends through bridge and her church, and she continued to travel the world. 
Freddye is preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her sister, Muriel Marie Guillot. 
She is survived by her children, Freddye and Sondro Minatrea and Liska and Niles Lusk of Bryan, Melissa and Jim Honeycutt of Lockhart, and Denise and James Elmer Thompson of Cushing. 
Freddye loved the holidays with family including her grandchildren Marc (Jill) Minatrea, Michael Minatrea, Brea (Domingo) Alvarez, Alex (Amanda) Cessac and Georgia Thompson, and great-grandchildren Luke Minatrea and Mia Minatrea, Cash Alvarez, Henry Cessac and Tommy Marquardt. Her children have been blessed with Freddye’s example of love, strength and education throughout their lives, and they will carry these memories of her forever.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 12 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel with the Reverend Jenn Pick officiating. Interment will follow in the Tehuacana Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be prior to the service beginning at 1p.m.
Freddye’s family wants to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and technicians who cared for her at CHI St. Joseph Hospital and Hospice Brazos Valley. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial gift to a charity of your choice.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave a message of condolence.

James Curtis Shivers left this life, but began a new and everlasting life, on Nov. 8, 2017. He had just celebrated his 96th birthday last Saturday.  Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 11 at the First United Methodist Church in Mexia with the Reverend Jenn Pick officiating.  Interment will follow in the Wortham Cemetery. Bobby McDonald, Rick Sadler, Alden Garber, Jerry Allen, Dicky Thornton and Randy Bates will serve as pallbearers. Visitation with the family will be from 5-7 p.m., Friday at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home.
James was born Nov. 3, 1921 in Corsicana to Rev. L. W. and Annie Mae Shivers; he was the sixth of seven children (four boys and three girls).  Being a minister’s son, he moved several times during his childhood, although he graduated from Cooper High School, he spent most of his high school days at Mexia High School. He enlisted in the Navy in 1942 and spent the majority of his career in the South Pacific, serving as a radio and communication instructor through 1946. After being discharged from the Navy, he attended Westminster College in Tehuacana and SMU.
Shortly before being discharged from the service, James was stricken with a rare eye disease leaving him without any central vision and no longer able to hold a job doing clerical work, as he had known. He heard of, and bought, a 100-acre farm near Mexia. He and his wife, Merl, moved into a three-room frame house with no running water or bathroom. She was pregnant, and her one request was to have a bathroom. James knew absolutely nothing about raising crops or cattle, but with the help of some dear friends, over the next 60 years transformed this rundown, overgrown place into a happy home and improved cattle operation. It was truly a labor of love and a blessing; he often said his farm saved his life, after becoming almost blind.
James was married to the love of his life, Merl Marsh Shivers, for over 60 years and, after her retirement, they spent many happy years traveling, square dancing and simply spending time together. They were blessed with a son, Terry Don, and daughter-in-law, Janise, who will continue his legacy of taking care of his ranch, along with their own. He, also, has a loving grandson, Christopher Lee and fiancée, JoAnna Wolfe and great-grandson, Kaison.
James was best known, in his later years, for his gift of talking. He loved people and had many friends, with whom he loved to share his stories.  He always said, “I can tell within five minutes of sitting next to a person on the bench in front of Walmart, if he or she is interested in talking.
James was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Mexia for over 65 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, brothers, Estes, Leslie, and L. W. Shivers, Jr.; and sisters, Paulene Shivers and Isabell Thornton. 
He is survived by one sister, Billy Jean Bates of Dallas, his immediate family as listed above, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A special thanks and note of appreciation goes to James’ longtime caregiver, Peg Brown, who cared for him, for many years, while living at home and to Skilled Care of Mexia, who made his life enjoyable during the last few months. Your help and devotion to him is most appreciated.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave a message of condolence.

Barbara Lee McClinton, of Coolidge, passed away Nov. 7, 2017 at the age of 75. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 11 at the First Baptist Church in Coolidge with the Reverend Chuck Sturgeon officiating.
Barbara was born Nov. 7, 1942 in Kansas City, Kan. to Glen C. and Dorothy Lucille Clark Bledsoe. She retired from Pleasant Hill Police Department, in Missouri, after 20 years of service as a dispatcher. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Coolidge.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Dorothy Bledsoe; step-mother, Laura Bledsoe Riehart; sister, Glenda Mapes; twin sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Carol Peters; and brother, Glen Gary Bledsoe.
Barbara is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Johnnie W. McClinton of Coolidge; son, Jay McClinton of Coolidge; daughter, Lee McClinton of Independence, Mo.; nephews, Craig Peters and wife, Carla and son, Cameron of Cleveland, Ohio and Garin Bledsoe and wife, Ann and children of Blue Springs, Mo.; niece, Robin Peters of Gladstone, Mo.; brother-in-law, Ron and wife, Sue Mapes of Cleveland, Mo. and sister-in-law, Phyllis Bledsoe of Blue Springs, Mo.; and extended McClinton family.
In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the local chapter Heart Association, local chapter Lung Association or Baylor Scott & White Hospice.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave a message of condolence.

Bonifacia “Bonnie” (Cordova) Reyes, of Mexia, passed away Monday, Nov. 13, 2017, at her home, at age 72.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 16 at the Iglesia Monte Carmelo in Groesbeck (State Hwy. 14-S). Officiating will be the Reverend Pedro Aguirre, Jr. of Iglesia Monte Carmelo, Rev. Benito Pantoja of Iglesia Gethsemani of Dallas, and Lic. Efrain Espinoza of Iglesia Filadelfia of Ft. Worth. Burial will follow in the Mexia City Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Mario Turrubiarte, Ralph Turrubiarte, Patrick Dixon, Tim Cordova, Jr., John Liscano, and Marcos Aguirre. Honorary pallbearers will be T. J. Cordova and Gilbert Reyes.
Bonnie was born Dec. 8, 1944 to Timoteo and Bonifacia (Vega) Cordova at Kosse. She grew up in Kosse and attended Kosse schools until they closed, transferring to Thornton, and finishing school in Groesbeck.
Bonnie worked a good many years of her life as a seamstress. She was working in Mexia’s sewing factory (under Louise Willett) when she married.
Bonnie was united in marriage with Gregorio Reyes, Jr. at the Iglesia Monte Carmelo in Groesbeck on Feb. 7, 1970. They made their home in Mexia. Bonnie later worked around ten years at the Mexia State School, until her health began to decline. She was a member of a close-knit family and enjoyed all occasions with the family, and especially loved cooking for her grandchildren, whatever they wanted. As a young person, she had enjoyed playing volleyball; she was a Dallas Cowboys football fan, and especially enjoyed laughing at Crazy Ray when he was a regular at the games on TV. Bonnie liked her pets, which were usually stray animals that became a part of her home.
She was very welcoming to the friends of her children, enjoyed feeding them and having them in her home, and many felt like she was a second mom. She also was eager to babysit for friends and family, never charging anything, and treating the children like her own family. Bonnie loved going to church and being with her church family. She was a member, all her life, along with all of her family, of the Iglesia Monte Carmelo, of the Concilio Latino Americano de Iglesia’s Cristianas and the Confraternidad de Damas.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Timoteo and Bonifacia Cordova; a son, Adrian Reyes; a sister, Martha Cordova; a brother, David Cordova; nephews, Bobby Turrubiarte and Arturo Turrubiarte; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Gregorio and Ruperta Reyes, Sr.; sister-in-law, Gonzala Reyes, and brother-in-law, Guadalupe Reyes.
She is survived by her husband, Gregorio Reyes, Jr. of Mexia; son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Dacia Reyes of McKinney; daughter and son-in-law, Amanda and Patrick Dixon of Fort Worth; son and daughter-in-law, Joshua and Reyna Reyes of Waco; son and daughter-in-law, Timothy and Mandy Reyes of Waco; son and daughter-in-law, Marcus and Heather Reyes of Mexia; thirteen grandchildren: Courtney Reyes, Julia Reyes, Sophia Reyes, Caleb Reyes, Jasmine Dixon, Adrian Dixon, Jordan Reyes, Jacob Reyes, Ethan Reyes, Zoe Reyes, Noah Reyes, Mia, Reyes, and Alea Reyes. She also leaves behind her brothers, Timoteo Cordova, Jr. and Frank Cordova; sisters, Dee Cordova and Paula Cordova of Groesbeck, Lucia Turrubiarte of Lewisville, Noemi Smith of Oxnard, Calif., and Mary Nelson of Tucson, Ariz.; brother-in-law, Gilberto Reyes of Mexia; and many cousins, nieces and nephews, and other extended family.
Visit groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Tammie D. Ward, of Prairie Hill, passed away Nov. 15, 2017 at the age of 52.  Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 18 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 4 p.m., Monday, Nov. 20 in the Prairie Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m.
Tammie was born Dec. 26, 1964 in Birmingham, Ala. Dock Sullivan and Peggy Baker Sullivan. She married her loving husband, Jerry Ward, on Dec. 21, 1996 in Cleburne. They later, moved to Prairie Hill where she thoroughly enjoyed raising and riding horses. She was an active member of a riding club and competed in barrel racing for many years. Tammie was also an excellent pool player and, while on a trip to Las Vegas, got the opportunity to compete there.   
Tammie enjoyed many activities, but nothing could compare to spending time with her family. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and sister. She loved all her family but, as most grandparents, her grandchildren were truly special.  Tammie was Christian and member of the Cowboy Heritage Church in Freestone County.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Peggy Sullivan; and grandson, Karsyn Wright.
Tammie is survived by her husband, Jerry Ward of Prairie Hill; two sons, Ty Wright and wife, Jessica of Orange Beach, Ala. and Sky Wright and wife, Paige of Waco; six grandchildren, Elliot, Abigail, Emery, Parker, Gentry and Oaklyn; father, Dock Sullivan and wife, Loria of Citronelle, Ala.; brothers, Mark and Chuck Sullivan; and sisters, Tresa and husband, Dannie Hutchison, Cigi Davis, Lorna and Katresa Sullivan.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave a message of condolence.

The Angelic Hosts came for Dorothy “Jackie” Nadene Hawkins Brown, age 84, on Nov. 18, 2017 in the Fairfield Nursing and Rehab Center of Fairfield among loving family and devoted friends. Memorial services are planned for a later date following her instructions for the disposition of cremation.  
Brown was born on April 10, 1933 in Crescent, Okla., to John C. and Betty E. Norwood Hawkins. She graduated from Douglas High School. She and Edward Lee Brown, a native of Teague, were married and lived in Los Angeles, Calif. for a number of years. Brown spent many years as a nursing home caregiver and she and Edward Lee moved back to Teague more than 33 years ago.
Dorothy was the oldest of 13 children, had a twin sister, Doris who preceded her in death and was a sibling to a second set of twins. Preceding Brown in death are her children: Jacqueline and Marvin Littleton; her parents; three brothers and two sisters.
Surviving Brown are her husband, Edward Lee Brown, Sr., of Fairfield; Brothers: Bobby Joe Hawkins, Chester Lee Hawkins, and Larry Dean Hawkins; Sisters: Erma Lois Hawkins, LaJohanna Hawkins, Hester Marie Hawkins, and Betty Ann Hawkins; a blended family; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. 
Moore’s Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe Street, Teague is serving The Dorothy Brown Family. 
Visit mooresangelicfuneralhome.com to sign the guestbook and light a candle.

Bryan Lee Bradley passed away unexpectedly at home on Nov. 20, 2017, in Wortham at the age of 55.
Visitation will be held Friday, Nov. 24 from 6-8 p.m. at Groesbeck Funeral Home.
A funeral is scheduled for 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25 at Mexia First Assembly, 1100 N. Ross in Mexia. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bryan’s life. The Reverend Jason Ellis will officiate. Burial will follow in Faulkenberry Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Chet Seelinger, Delbert Kyle, Morris DeFriend, Jimmy Fewell, John Favors, Mark Tilley, Wesley Willard, and Calvin Popp. Honorary pallbearers will be board members of the Farmers State Bank.
Bryan was born on Sept. 23, 1962, in Austin, Texas to James L. Bradley and Jane Dossey. He graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1981 and attended the University of Texas at Arlington, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. After returning to Groesbeck, Bryan was a loan officer at Farmers State Bank in Groesbeck, and he became the vice president of the Mexia branch. He also served on the Board of Directors for Farmers State Bank. He married Liz Graham in September 2003, and they welcomed their daughter Jenah Bethani Bradley in July of 2005. Bryan also had two other children, Lindsey Michelle Bradley born in October 1991 and Benjamin Lee Bradley born in July 1993.
Bryan was an avid hunter and often talked about his hunting adventures. He was a generous, witty and dedicated husband, dad, brother, son and friend. He never met a stranger and could find common ground with anyone he met. He was an active member of Mexia First Assembly, where he also served on the board. Bryan volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and Relay for Life, was a member of the Chamber of Commerce of Mexia and numerous other civic organizations.
Bryan was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, B.L. and Gussie Lou Bradley; maternal grandparents, Dr. M. R. and Dorothy Snodgrass, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Larry and Janie Graham; brother-in-law, Michael Graham; and nieces, Breckyn Bradley and Laken Bradley.
Bryan is survived by his wife Liz Bradley of Wortham; daughter Lindsey Bradley of Fort Worth; son Benjamin Bradley and wife Ashtyn of Fort Worth; daughter Jenah Bradley of Wortham; and grandson Wescott Van Bradley of Fort Worth. He is survived by his mom and step-father Jane and Garry Dossey of Groesbeck and father and step-mother James L. and Diana Bradley of Groesbeck; brother James L. Bradley Jr. and wife Rachel; brother Christopher Bradley and wife Nancy; brother Stephen Bradley and wife Casey; brother Mark Bradley and wife Paige all of Groesbeck; grandmother-in-law Gloria Graham of Hubbard; sister-in-law Denise Graham of Mount Calm; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to either Limestone Cancer Support Group, P.O. Box 107, Mexia, Texas 76667 or Freestone Cancer Support Group, Inc., P.O. Box 1522, Fairfield, Texas 75840.
The family would like to thank everyone for their continued support and prayers throughout Bryan’s battle.

Geneva Elizabeth Walker, of Mexia, passed away Nov. 23, 2017 in Waco, at the age of 75. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25 at the Northcrest Church of Christ with Jimmy Woodall and Stephen Trantham officiating. Interment will follow in the Mexia Cemetery. Bryan Trantham, Bradley Trantham, Russ Trantham, Eddie Walker, J. R. Walker and Keith Smith will serve as pallbearers.  Visitation with the family will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home.
Geneva was born Jan. 9, 1942 in Hubbard to Alvie and Willie Webb Woodall. She worked for a number of years as a donut cutter, in both, Mexia and Houston, a job she truly enjoyed. However, her primary focus in life was being a wife and mother and, later, being “Nannie” to her precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nannie got so much pleasure out of hearing her grandchildren laugh, as she told them stories, treating them to donuts and teaching them the value of money management. In addition to playing Skipbo with her family, she enjoyed family fishing trips, going to garage sales, singing and listening to music. 
She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, James Carl Walker; brothers, Haskell, D. R., Felix, Otis, Robert and Alvie Woodall; and sister, Faye Sykes.
Geneva is survived by her daughter, Cheryl Trantham and husband, Steve of Mexia; son, James Walker and wife, Bobbie of Mexia; grandchildren, Jennifer Collier of Hewitt, Eddie Walker of Mexia, J. R. Walker of Robinson, Bryan Trantham of Richland Hills Ft. Worth, Bradley Trantham of Mexia and Russ Trantham of Ft. Worth; great-grandchildren, Evan, Arianna, Lynlee, Riela and Ella.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave a message of condolence.

Funeral services for Damon Allen will be held on Friday, Dec.1, 2017, at the Mexia High School Football Stadium in Mexia. Pastor Bryan Hallmark will officiate. Interment will follow the services at Salem Cemetery near Freestone.
Visitation will be held on Thursday with the family present from 5-7 p.m. at Bowers Funeral Home in Teague.
Trooper Damon Allen passed away in the line of duty on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2017, near Fairfield.
He was born in Morgantown, Ky. on Oct. 4, 1976, and moved to Mexia in 1984. Damon graduated from Mexia High School with the class of 1995. In high school, he was a member of the Mexia Black Cat football team. He married Kasey Pickett on Nov. 27, 1993. After graduation, he worked briefly for the Mexia State School, then for five years at the Michael Unit for TDCJ, before becoming a D.P.S. State Trooper, where he remained for the past fifteen years. Damon enjoyed hunting and fishing, and jeep riding on the dunes at the beach. He attended church at the Cowboy Church in Freestone as well as First Assembly of God in Mexia.
He is survived by his wife, Kasey Pickett Allen of Teague; three daughters, Chelsea Quinn and fiancé Colton and their baby, Quest, Kaitlyn Allen, and Madison Allen; one son, Cameron Allen; his parents, Jimmy and Sue Allen of Mexia; three brothers, Ricky Allen and wife Lisa of Tennessee Colony, Ernie Allen and wife Tena of Thornton, and Doug Allen and wife Kristen of Mexia; one sister, Amy Gilmore and husband Jon of Mexia; his mother-in-law, Kathy Pickett; brother-in-law, Charlie Pickett and wife Leslie; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Visit the website at bowersfuneralhome.net to sign the memorial guestbook or to leave a message for the family.

Avis Willis (Mimi to her loved ones), 90, returned to her heavenly home on Nov. 24, 2017 after a valiant battle with a long illness. Her devotion to her family and friends, and her firm belief in God supported her in this struggle and ultimately gave her peace. Mimi was a wonderful soul who gave selflessly to her family, friends and community.
Avis was born to the late Audrey and Hughie Gore in 1927. She was raised in a large loving family with nine brothers and sisters. Avis married John Karner Willis of Tehuacana in September 1946 in Teague. They settled in Greenville where John served as a Texas State Trooper. Their three children were born there; Hugh Douglas, John Karner Jr., and Janet Kay. The family returned to Mexia in 1960 and all three children graduated from Mexia schools. Avis worked as a florist in Mexia for over 50 years. She was a faithful member of The McKinney Street Church of Christ, President of the Daughters of the Confederacy, and longtime volunteer at the hospital in Mexia.
Mimi was blessed with a large loving family. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother who’s touch, and kindness will echo throughout generations. Her brothers and sisters; Alford, Louise, J.W., Juanita, Hughie Jr., Madie, Gene, Linda, and Terry.
Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren: son Hugh Douglas Willis and wife Linda of Hillsboro, grandchildren Laura, John, and Leah and husband Stan Borel. Great grandchildren Mikaylie, Tierra, Jenna Lee, Jack and Tyranny. Son John Karner Willis Jr. and wife Vicki of Waco, Grandchild John Douglas and wife Crystal, Russell and wife Marcie. Great grandchildren Sophie, Audrey, Sidney and Ty. Daughter Janet (Martinelli) and husband Dave Martinelli of Waxahachie. Grandchildren Nathan Ragsdale and wife Vanessa, Blake Ragsdale and wife Alison, Jordan, Victoria and David Jr. Great Grandchildren Levi, Lori and Gabriel.
Avis was preceded in death by her parents Audrey and Hughie, husband John, brothers Alford (died Christmas Day 1944 in Bastogne), Hughie Jr., and sister Linda.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 28 at Tehuacana Cemetery with the Reverend Bill Wright, Sr. officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Corley- Porter Funeral Home prior to the service.
Serving as pallbearers will be Russell Allen, John Charles Willis, John Douglas Willis, John Nathan Ragsdale, Blake Alan Ragsdale, David Michael Martinelli, Jr. and Stanley Borel, III.
An online quest book is available at corleyporterfuneralhome.com and by selecting the Avis Willis obituary.
Corley-Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Robert Max Sheppard passed away Nov. 28, 2017 in Waco at the age of 85. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Friday, Dec. 1 at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home in Mexia with Pastor Steve McCoy and Pastor Curtis Carter officiating. Graveside services will follow at 12:30 p.m. in the Veteran’s section of the Waco Memorial Park Cemetery with Military Honors. Robbie Sheppard, Mason Krantz, Cooper Krantz, Curtis Carter, Bobby Sheppard, Kelly Sheppard, Robert Krantz and Tony Czajkowski will serve as pallbearers. Visitation with the family will be 5-7 p.m., Thursday, at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home.
Sheppard was born Oct. 11, 1932 in Toombs County, Georgia to William Robert and Mary Bell Sconyers Sheppard. He graduated from Vidalia Georgia High School and completed two years of college at Hillsboro Community College in Tampa, Fla. Robert proudly served his country in the US Air Force for six years. He retired, after 22 years of service, as an Assistant Chief Food Product and Service Manager for the Veteran’s Administration.  After retirement, he worked 13 years for M&M Mars as a contractor.
Robert married his loving wife, Margaret Louise McCoy, on Feb. 17, 1961 in Jacksonville, Fla. and later, moved to Texas in 1975. His family was his pride and joy; spoiling his grandchildren was his specialty. Robert had an outgoing personality, he never met a stranger. He was a Christian and member of Williams Creek Baptist Church in Axtell.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dasmey Charles Sheppard; and brother, John Howell Dixon, IV.
Robert is survived by his wife of 57 years, Margaret Sheppard of Waco; children, James Curtis Carter, Cherry Krantz, Robert Allen Sheppard, Kelly Brian Sheppard and Sherry Kirkparick Czajkowski; grandchildren, Kara Louise Sheppard, Bobbie J. Sheppard, Stephanie Marie Sheppard, Mason Krantz, Saint Sheppard, LeAnn Sheppard, Robert Charles Sheppard, Cooper Krantz, Britny Kirkpatrick, Tabitha Henson and Morgan Krantz; brother, J. C. Dixon; and sister, Dorothy Brinson and husband, Nelson.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SouthernCare Hospice Waco.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or leave the family a message of condolence.

Mary Earl Phillips passed away on Nov. 26, 2017. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 at Mt. Gideon Primitive Baptist Church of Doyle.
Phillips was born on July 5, 1955 in Dallas to the parentage of the late Mr. and Mrs. Richard Phillips. She was a graduate of Groesbeck High School in Groesbeck. She worked and retired from the County Tax Office in Wichita Falls, Texas for 39 years until her health failed her. Her love for her family was priceless. She was a faithful member at her church. One of her favorite scripture in the bible was Proverbs 3:5-6. She played the piano and donated to St. Jude Children Research hospital for many years.  
She leaves to cherish her memories: sisters, Minnie Blocker, Marie Forge and Ethelene Phillips; brothers, Richard (Ruthie) Phillips, Sammy (Trina) Phillips and Christopher Phillips and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Service and arrangements entrusted to Pearly Gates Funeral Home of Mexia.

Srean Hampton-Curry of Waco was born on Feb. 10, 1960 in Drew, Miss. to Wilton Hampton and Alberta Sims. She passed away on Nov. 17, 2017.   
Srean leaves to cherish her loving memories: her companion of 13 years, Kenny Barnes. Her children: Homer Hampton, Kathy Hampton-Kendricks, Marvin Curry, Latoya Curry; siblings, Robert Sims, Jr., Wilson Hampton, Flora Hampton, Elizabeth Hampton, Melvin Hampton, Glenn Hampton, JT Hampton, Vera Hampton, Ann Rhodes, Jimmy Rhodes, Billy Talton; grandchildren, Tiyun Kendricks, Hamaya Hampton, Ronadre Kendricks, Dyanna Ramsey, Jermaine Jones, Marveuna Robinson, Dareuna Robinson, Ronald Jr. Kendricks, Mi’Terria Duffy, Jamica Guilford, Kingston Knowlin, Tatiyana Mills, Kali’Mai Boyd, Ryiot Patterson, Jaxon Normart; Special nieces/nephews, Willie Hampton, JT Hampton, Renee Hampton-Taylor and Shaquana Wiley
Funeral services were held on Nov. 25, 2017. Services were entrusted to Pearly Gates Funeral Home of Mexia.

Norma Lee Shulanberger McNeil died peacefully on Nov. 27, 2017 at University Hospital in San Antonio at the age of 88.
McNeil is survived by her son and daughters, Jack McNeil and wife Marian of Magnolia, Linda McNeil of San Antonio, and Kathy McNeil of Waco. She is also survived by her granddaughter Veronica Filips, husband Tim and great-granddaughter Emma Filips of Magnolia.
Her husband Jack Kermit McNeil of Mexia preceded her in death.
Norma was born on Feb. 14, 1929 in El Centro, Calif. to Edgar and Katie Shulanberger. She was the oldest daughter with eight siblings. She married Jack K. McNeil in 1946. Over the years the couple welcomed their three children into their home. Her children remember her as a gentle and patient mother who encouraged them to pursue their educational goals.
Norma graduated from Northwest Texas nursing school with a diploma in nursing in 1972 at the age of 42. She was a dedicated individual who loved nursing and who was passionate about her role as a nurse educator for licensed vocational nurses through Navarro Junior College. She was an active and dedicated member of the First Baptist Church in Mexia and sang in the choir for many years. She also volunteered in a hospice respite program.
A funeral is scheduled at 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2 at First Baptist Church in Mexia with the Reverend Marcus Sheffield officiating. Interment will be at Mexia Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1–2 p.m. at First Baptist Church prior to the funeral service.
An online guest book is available at corleyporterfuneralhome.com and by selecting the Norma McNeil obituary.
Corley-Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

David William Smith, 68, of Mexia passed away Nov. 25, 2017. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2, 2017 at Corley-Porter Funeral Home Chapel in Mexia.
Smith was born Jan. 31, 1949 in Newport, Vt. to Richard and Susan Smith. He served in the United States Navy and was a very loving husband and father. His favorite name was Pepa and his family will dearly miss all the stories he had to tell. David was always there and ready to help anyone that needed help.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Michelle Tollett.
He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Smith of Mexia; son, Eric Tollett and wife, Stephanie of Austin and grandsons, Alex Salas and Anthony Salas both of Mexia.
An online quest book is available at corleyporterfuneralhome.com and by selecting the David Smith obituary.
Corley-Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Charlotte Sally Mae Yeager went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2017 at 4:18 a.m. Yeager was born on Nov. 8, 1979.
She is survived by her son, Lane Vaughn of New Waverley; daughter, Raven Yeager of Mexia; her loving mother, Susan Kerr of Willis; sisters: Chasidee Beene of Mexia, Frances (Eric) Macha of Spring, and Candace (Victor) Lopez of Willis. Nieces and nephews, Chelsea Macha, Colton Macha, Makayla and Kaden Lopez.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Nov. 19 at Pearly Gates Funeral Chapel in Mexia. Service and arrangements entrusted to Pearly Gates Funeral Home of Mexia.