Louise Beene Cundieff, 92, of Cayuga entered her heavenly eternal home on Dec. 6, 2016 at East Texas Medical Center in Athens after a short illness. 

Louise was born June 26, 1924 to Guy Houston and Nettie Wills Beene of Mexia. She was the eighth of nine children born to the Beene’s. She had a wonderful childhood growing up with her siblings, Wendell, Ray, Rex, Clifton, Frances, G.H. (Bud), Ruth, and Hazel. They grew up on the family farm doing all the chores and pulling all the shenanigans children do. She and Ruth often told of their older brother, Bud, taking the criers out of their baby dolls and otherwise terrorizing them as brothers are apt to do.

Louise attended Mexia schools where she learned to sew in home economic class and used that talent often in her life. She met Esmond Cundieff, who was a good friend of her older brother, Bud, in high school. They dated and fell in love just before World War II broke out. Esmond joined the Navy. They communicated while he was away and dated when he came home on leave. They wanted to get married before Esmond shipped out, but Papa, Louise’s dad, told them they needed to wait. If they really loved each other their love would stand the test of time. As Louise often told her children; that was a strong, lasting love. While Louise awaited Esmond’s return, she worked as a secretary for J. I. Riddle Company. When Esmond came home and the war was over, Papa let her fly to Port Orchard, Wash. where they were married at a Baptist church on Wednesday night after church, Sept. 19, 1945. The newlyweds lived in base housing at Port Orchard until Esmond was discharged from the Navy.

They moved back to Dallas for a short time and then moved to Mexia, where all their family lived. They lived in the Mexia area the rest of their married life except for a short six months when they lived in Waco. They were active members of Calvary Baptist Church in Mexia. They loved their Lord and their church and filled many roles in the church. They were the parents of five children, William Rodney, died at birth, Judy Louise, Ronald Esmond, Janet Ruth, and Richard Colby. They provided a wonderful Christian home and upbringing for their children. They moved from Mexia to Forest Glade, just outside Mexia in 1953. The family did everything together: attending Calvary Baptist Church activities, picking peas and shelling them in the back yard, making homemade ice-cream, raising a calf from time to time, planting and raising a garden, cleaning the house, going to Forest Glade School activities, swimming, camping, fishing and other fun family activities. With four children, pennies were often tight, so Louise made all the girls’ clothes all through school, and a few of the boys’ when they were little. Judy and Janet never minded. It allowed them to have more clothes and they got to help pick out patterns and material. They had wonderful times with all the cousins and relatives on both sides of the family. They all loved to sing together and often did so at school and church. They weren’t a perfect family but they all loved each other and still do.

Louise worked various jobs, church secretary, law secretary, furniture store bookkeeper, Mexia State School, home health nurses, Home Interiors Consultant, and director of the Senior Center in Mexia for several years. She loved doing crafts, having friends to her house, organizing activities, and teaching Sunday School and Bible study from nursery to senior adults. She loved all ages and they loved her. She influenced many young lives for the Lord as a teacher, camp counselor, and mentor. Her youth girls even got her to make the drag with them one night after visitation. It was said by one of her granddaughter-in-laws that she didn’t know anyone who was loved more than Granny. It was so true. She was called Granny by many people, both adults and children, most who were no relation.

Louise lost Esmond, the love of her life, in April of 1989. She stayed in their home in Mexia until December of 1999 when she decided that caring for the yard was a little more than she could handle, even though she loved doing it. She bought the cutest mobile home that looked just like it had been made for her and moved to Muldoon to live next to Ronnie and Mary Ann. She had a wonderful time living there and was an active member of Muldoon Baptist Church. In 2007, she moved next door to daughter Janet in Cayuga. She attended Cayuga Baptist Church. 

Louise was always healthy until her last illness. But even during that she was a wonderful minister for the Lord to everyone who passed through her room at the hospital; doctors, nurses, aides, cleaning personnel. She often asked the children why she was still here and why Jesus hadn’t come for her. She was so tired and so ready to go to her Heavenly Home. They told her that she was still sharing God’s love – even as she was leaving this world.

Louise is survived by her children, Judy Nichols and husband Nick of Canyon Lake; Janet Cotton and husband Jerry of Cayuga; Rick Cundieff and wife Jackie of Llano; daughter-in-law Mary Ann Cundieff of Corpus Christi; her grandchildren Chris Nichols of San Antonio; Jason Nichols and wife Tausha of Canyon Lake; Trenton Nichols and wife Dana of Shiner; Keith Cundieff and wife Jennifer of Bartlett; Misty Bowden and husband Curt of Corpus Christi; Scott Cotton and wife Felicia of Cayuga; Brent Cotton of Cayuga; Aaron Cundieff and wife Ashlee of River Ridge, La.; Krista Klaproth and husband Kenly of Tow.  Her great grandchildren: William Nichols, Megan Nichols, Colby Nichols, Austin Nichols, Nate Cundieff, Mason Cundieff, Austin Bowden and wife Kaitlyn, Brooklyn Bowden, Jason Bowden, Justice Cotton, Jaycee Cotton, Alexandra Cotton and Wyatt Cotton. Great great granddaughter: Laycee Bowden. There are many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Esmond Cundieff, sons, William Rodney and Ronald Esmond Cundieff, both parents, all siblings and their spouses, nieces and nephews.

The service will be at 2 p.m., Dec. 9 in the chapel at Blair- Stubbs Funeral Home in Mexia with burial in the Mexia Cemetery. The Reverend Richard Cundieff, son, will officiate. Pallbearers will be her grandsons and the granddaughters will be honorary pallbearers. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home on Dec. 8.

Memorials can be made to Genesis Hospice in Athens,  the American Cancer Society, or the American Heart Association.

Her family wishes to express their thanks and appreciation to all her friends and relatives who have prayed for her through this illness and have been such an important part of her life. You know she loved you and so do we, but more importantly God loves you!

Mary Jane Northcutt, 60, passed away Dec. 9, 2016 at her home in Prairie Hill. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 11 at Prairie Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Fred Sain and Chaplain Karen Hulsey officiating. Interment was in the Prairie Hill Cemetery. Aaron Spencer, Arturo Olivarez, Brandon Lee, Butch Wendt, Shade McCord and Kevin Smith served as pallbearers.

Mary Jane was born Sept. 18, 1956 in Lamesa to Norman D. and Angelita Rodriguez Rockey. She retired from the Mexia State Supported Living Center after 32 years of service as a Dorm Charge. Mary Jane enjoyed her job and considered everyone she worked with, or cared for, as part of her extended family.

Mary Jane married her loving husband, Johnny D. Northcutt, on Nov. 18, 1990 at Lake Limestone. Her family was her life, especially, the grandchildren. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister. Her favorite past time was spending time with her family but she also enjoyed fishing and dove hunting. Mary Jane had a big and caring heart and always willing to help others.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Norman Dale Rockey, Jr. and Rickey Rockey.

Mary Jane is survived by her husband of 26 years, Johnny Northcutt of Prairie Hill; children, Mary Ann Dabney of Mexia, Robyn Duke and husband, Michael of Groesbeck, Norris Dabney, III of Mexia, Sabrina Carter and husband, Bubba of Prairie Hill and Shane Northcutt of Prairie Hill; grandchildren, Johnathon Miller, Bryon Dabney, MaKenzie Hitchcock, Zoey Hitchcock, Weslee Duke, Kenneth Duke, Morgan Sweeney and husband, Chris, Michael Duke, III, Chelsea Carter, Tori Griger, Dalton Griger, Brindley Northcutt, Kendall Northcutt and Taylor Velselka; sisters, Rosa Dabney of Mexia, Betty Ann Clacky of Kirven and Sue Ellen Rockey of Corsicana; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Mrs. Eddie Lee (Youngblood) Denton Cooper passed from this life on Dec. 8, 2016, in Houston, still inspiring others at the phenomenal age of 94.

She passed with peaceful anticipation of receiving the rewards of heaven God promises to faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Her home-going celebration will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17 at St. Luke United Methodist Church, 405 S. Belknap, Mexia, with her pastor, the Reverend Robert Campbell officiating. Viewing and family visitation will be held Friday, Dec. 16 from 4–6:30 p.m., with an additional viewing one hour before the service, both at St. Luke.

She was born, with mid-wife assistance, on the family farm near Coolidge. She graduated from Woodland High School as class valedictorian, and received a bachelor’s degree in education from Samuel Huston College, and a MA in Education degree from Prairie View A&M University. 

Mrs. Cooper’s lifelong career and passion was teaching. She spent the entirety of her 38 year teaching career in Coolidge I.S.D.   She purposefully chose to remain close to home and positively influence youth in the small community near the farm on which she was raised, and on which she helped remain in continuous family operation for over 120 years. She was also a faithful servant leader in her church, St. Luke U.M.C. - serving as adult Sunday School teacher, lay speaker, volunteer and mentor to others in various roles. She was a resident of Mexia, where her involvement included being a supporting founder of Caritas Mexia and active in the Limestone County Retired Teachers Association. 

She was an avid reader, an adventurer, a lover of the outdoors, and seemed to never meet a stranger, prompting interesting conversations and connections with just about everyone she met. Her laugh was contagious; her compassion, endearing. 

Though she became legally blind at age 92 and started to experience declining health about that time, she continued to encourage others not only with her sharp wit and insightful counsel, but also with her confident response, “I’m blessed,” when asked about her well-being, even through her frailest physical state. 

She is preceded in death by – and ready to join - her parents, James E. Youngblood and Mattie (Hobbs) Youngblood, her 14 siblings (Alfred, Ulysses, Shallie, Mary Ethel, Grover, DeLillian, Theodore, Booker T., Billie, Oscar, Helen, Clarence, Rudolph and Tracy) and the loves of her life, husbands Luther Denton (1968) and the Rev. E. M. Cooper (1981). 

Her faithful, strong and courageous legacy will be remembered with love by her daughter, Vicki Denton Holmes, and son-in-law, Sidney, of Houston; and granddaughter, Ashlee Holmes Eiland, and husband, Delwin, and two great-grandchildren, Brooklyn and Myles, all of Fox River Grove, Ill. She is also survived by a host of special friends; her sister-in-law, Lena V. Youngblood, Houston; brother-in-law, Aldee Miller, Wichita, Kan., and an extensive number of nephews, nieces, great-nephews/nieces, cousins and their families. 

For those desiring to make memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider donations either to St. Luke U.M.C. – Eddie L. Cooper Memorial Fund (P. O. Box 930, Mexia, TX 76667), or to Coolidge I.S.D. – Eddie L. Cooper Scholarship Fund (P. O. Box 70, Coolidge, TX 76635). 

Moore’s Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe St. in Teague, is serving the family

Joanne Nussbaum Sikes, age 81, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother went home to meet her Lord and Savior on Dec. 13, 2016. She was born on March 2, 1935 in Milwaukee, Wis., the daughter of Julius Harold and Erna Rang Nussbaum.

Joanne grew up in Mexia. She graduated from Mexia High School in 1953. She attended North Texas University before eventually transferring to Sam Houston State University graduating with a BA in Business Administration in 1957. She married LN (Sonny) Sikes in Waco on Sept. 4, 1954 and they had two children, Sherri and Larry.

Joanne was a “stay at home” mom who also ran the Office of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) as the office manager for 18 years from home with the help of her dear friend Ivy Moss. Based on all of her endless support of the NIRA she was eventually named “Mother of the NIRA.” She was always very involved in the community by serving in the Huntsville Study Club and the Newcomers club, was a member of the Boy’s and Girl’s Club, served on the Walker County Rural Water Board, and established the SHSU Faculty Wives Club. She was a lifetime member of the Alumni Association at SHSU and was presented the Alumni Association Service award in 2005. She was also instrumental in creating the SHSU Parents Association of which she is a life and charter member. Joanne was always strong in her faith and was a member of the First United Methodist Church for 58 plus years and served on many committees.

Joanne was preceded in death by her mother, father, brother Harold Nussbaum and brother in-law Bobby Sikes. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Sonny Sikes, daughter Sherri Stephens and her husband William Louis (Rock), son Larry Sikes and his wife Shelley, grandchildren Ryan Stephens and his wife Alaina, Staci Stephens, Macy Fuller and her husband Aaron, Keely Sikes, and Landon Sikes, her first great grandchild Rhett Stephens, sisters in-laws Frances Ragland, Jan Powers, and brother in-law Jack Sikes.

 
Pallbearers will be Robert McCann, Kirk Moss, David Saunders, Jim Saunders, B.J. Sikes, Landon Sikes, Ryan Stephens, Roger Walters.  Honorary pallbearers are Rusty Davis, Jim Dutton, Mathew Love, Brad McReynolds, Freddy Sikes, and Ronnie Williams.

The family cannot thank enough the caregivers of Consider the Lillies, specifically Jean Archie, Dawn Drake, Margie Johnson, Stacy Tubbs, Gayle Newkirk and Lara Lewis. They, along with Thee Hospice, took such great care of Joanne during her battle with NPH.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home.

A celebration of her life will begin on Thursday, Dec. 15 with visitation at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home from 5–8 p.m. There will be service at the First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Scott Dornbush on Friday, Dec. 16 at 10 a.m. followed by the burial at Brook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, send donations in her memory to The Sikes Family Scholarship Endowment, Attention: Office of University Advancement, SHSU, Box 2537, Huntsville, Texas 77341-2537.

Full obituary may be viewed and memorial condolences made to the family at shmfh.com.

Billy Glen Holmes of Groesbeck passed away Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2016 at Scott & White Memorial Hospital in Temple at the age of 60.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17 at 2 p.m. in the First Baptist Church of Mexia with Jimmy Cotton and the Reverend Marcus Sheffield officiating. The family is honoring Billy’s request to be cremated.

Urn bearers will be John Gilliam, Wade Wiley, Bobby DuBois, Atwell Goins, Sr., Atwell Goins, Jr., Clayton Goins, Lee Buford, Jackie Dillon, Billy Don York, Montey Cain, Kevin Painter, James Tennyson, Blair Carroll, Jesse Shaw, Mark Waddell, Chad Mizell, Ryan Campbell, Thomas Taylor, Steve Gilliam, and Kelly McReynolds.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Andrew J. Holmes (Sr) and Helen Holmes; maternal grandparents, Bill and Ella Mae Lummus; and his father, Andrew James Holmes, Sr.

Billy is survived by his wife, Charla Holmes of Groesbeck; sons, Andy Holmes and wife Roni of San Antonio and John Holmes and wife Megan of Groesbeck; daughter, Lauren Holmes and Chad Mizell of Corsicana; mother, Elenor Holmes of Mexia; brother, Marc Holmes of Donie; sister, Jean Holmes of Fairfield; granddaughter, Charlee Kaye Holmes of Groesbeck and niece, Reagan Bates and husband Larry of Mexia. 

Visit groesbeckfuneralhome.com to leave messages of condolence on the guestbook.

Roger D. Lucas, 67, of Huntsville, passed away peacefully Dec. 13, 2016. He was born March 13, 1949 in Mexia, son of the late Louis and Lillian (Ward) Lucas.

Mr. Lucas graduated from Wortham High School, Class of 1967. Shortly after he joined the Navy and served during the Vietnam war on the USS Forrestal in communications.

He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and hunting with his special friends, Randy Goolsby, from Wortham, and Matt Allen, from Grants, NM.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters Christina (Chrissy) and Jeff Toups, and Kelly and Steven Savoie, and son Joshua and Elishia Lucas, grand children, Nicholas and Emily Toups; Braxton, Levi, and Emerson Savoie; Steven and Elijah Lucas. Surviving brothers are Bill Lucas (Marie) from Arizona, Thomas Lucas of Corsicana, Danny Lucas of Corsicana; sisters Margaret Swor (Ken) Huntsville, and Terri McGowen (Joe), Fairfield, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers James Lucas, Kenneth Lucas, and Harold “Whitey” Lucas; sisters Elsie Trickett (Rolyn) and Gladys Garner (Ray), his  nephews Mark Lucas and Jeff Lucas, and niece Cynthia Garner.

After serving his country, Mr. Lucas received his Masters Degree in Economics from the University of North Texas, Denton. He went on to work as an oil and gas insurance broker in Louisiana, Texas, and New Mexico. In 1994, he formed a brokerage company in Albuquerque, NM called RIMS (Risk Insurance Management Services).

A memorial service will be held Sunday, Dec. 18 at 1 p.m. by Pastor Edward Ridge at Corley-Porter Funeral Home, 208 N. Canton, Mexia.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wortham Scholarship Fund.

Jesse Lee Ross, Jr., beloved father, teacher, and mentor passed away on Dec. 14, 2016, at the age of 82. A Wake will be held Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Dorsey Keatts Chapel. The Home Going ceremony will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, Dec. 19 at the Dorsey Keatts Chapel, with the Reverend Henry Chambers officiating. The Interment will follow at the Woodland Cemetery. 

Mr. Jesse Ross, Jr. was born on Feb. 7, 1934, in Mexia, to Jessie Lee Ross Sr., and Beulah Ross. Mr. Ross graduated from Woodland High school in Mexia and continued his education at Prairie View University obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and later obtaining his masters at Prairie View. While attending Prairie View, he met and married Erna Faye Walker, from Brenham Texas who preceded him in death at a young age.  Together, they raised five children, Craig, Sheena, Sherri, Jerome and Kevin.   After graduating from Prairie View, he became a mathematics teacher and taught for over 20 years near Brenham and at Dunbar High School in Mexia, and Mexia Jr. High. 

He later taught staff development at Mexia State School and computer classes at MCC College and Navarro college.  

Mr. Ross was a member of the Bethlehem Baptist church and attended Faith Tabernacle where Rev. Henry Chambers Jr., was the pastor. He loved to read and study the bible, he watched sports, and loved to dine out and was an avid gardener.

The Angelic Hosts came for Mrs. Sallie Joe Wiley on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016 in the Parkland Health Systems in Dallas among loving family and devoted friends. 

Viewing was held at the Moore’s Angelic Chapel on Friday, Dec. 16 from 1-7 p.m. with the family present from 5-7 p.m. 

Funeral services were held Dec. 17 at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church South Teague, 400 J. A. Brooks Drive, where her husband, Rev. C. J. Wiley is the pastor. Interment was in the Grove Island Cemetery Hwy 1365 in Teague. 

Mrs. Wiley was born Sept. 3, 1936 to the parentage of Minnie Lee Williams (S.M. Williams) and Henry Esters (Dorothy Esters) and attended school in the Teague Texas Independent School District. She once worked for Federal Judge Barbara Lynn until Mrs. Wiley’s health failed her.  

Sallie Joe loved people, feeding people, and most of all, she loved her husband of over 64 years: Rev. Clemmie J. Wiley. Instead of being concerned about herself, even during her last days, she was concerned about her husband. 

She was preceded in death by:  her son, William Curtis Wiley; parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. 

Those left to cherish her memory are: her husband:  Rev. Clemmie J. Wiley; three sons: Clemmie J. Wiley, Jr. (Iba), Samuel Wiley, and Paul Wiley; four daughters: Vickie Branch, Cheryl Wright, Stephanie Wiley (Johnny) and Lisa Wiley (Gary); one sister: Patricia Esters; nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends.  

Moore’s Angelic Funeral Home, 406 Monroe Street Teague, served the Wiley Family.  

Visit mooresangelicfuneralhome.com to sign the guestbook and light a candle.

Richard “Buddy” Fogleman, 87, faithfully completed his earthly journey and was joyfully welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Dec. 18, 2016, in Waco.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21 at First Baptist Church of Mexia, with the Reverend Marcus Sheffield officiating. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20 at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home in Mexia. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Teague.

Buddy and his twin sister, Rachel, were born Sept. 22, 1929, in Teague, the ninth and tenth children of Jim and Vela Jones Fogleman.

He grew up and went to school in Teague and later worked at his brother’s filling station. He married Vauda Love Ballard on April 18, 1953 in Oceanside, Calif. where he was stationed with the United States Marine Corps. He was promoted to corporal and honored as the top marksman in his platoon. He was honorably discharged in August 1953. He and Vauda moved to Houston so he could attend school to become a journeyman painter. He then worked for a commercial contractor in Houston for six years.

In 1960, he and Vauda moved back to Mexia where he went to work for the maintenance department at Mexia State School. He served 31 years with the State of Texas until his retirement in 1991. They raised their two children, Linda and Richard, in Mexia, and loved caring for their four grandchildren, Stephanie, Scott, Mark and Emilie, who loved their “Papaw” dearly. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Mexia.

Buddy was a wonderful gardener and a meticulous wood craftsman and enjoyed sharing his works with his family and friends. After they retired, Buddy and Vauda were members of the Bi-Stone Travelers. They visited all 50 states with special friends, Jim and Liz Johnson. In 2014, Buddy and Vauda moved to Hewitt and lived at Stoney Brook Assisted Living.

Buddy was a very caring, tenderhearted Christian man, beloved by his wife, siblings, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Monroe Fogleman and Travis Fogleman; and sisters, Izetta Heichelbech, Justina Swint, Dorothy Hardison and Stella Mae Fogleman.

He is survived by his wife, Vauda, of Waco; daughter, Linda Sadler, and husband, Rick, of Mexia; son, Richard Fogleman, and wife, Lori, of Hewitt; brother, Rayford Fogleman of San Angelo; sisters, Doris Martin of Conroe and Rachel Steen of Teague; grandchildren, Stephanie Tankersley of Hewitt; Scott Sadler, and wife, Kera, of Fort Worth; Mark Sadler, and wife, Sarah, of Fort Worth; and Emilie Fogleman of Dallas; six great-grandchildren, Brendan, Haleigh, Jackson, Caroline, London and Kensley; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Mexia or Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Hospice. The family also would like to thank the doctors, nurses and hospice staff at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest for their compassionate care and the staff at Stoney Brook Assisted Living for their love and care over the past two years.

Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Lewis “Mr. Man”  “Big Lou” Randle- June 16, 1959 – Dec. 13, 2016

The Angelic Hosts came for Lewis Randle in the early morning of Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016 at the Mile Marker 188, of I-45 in Teague. Viewing will begin at the funeral home, Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. with a Vigil Service from 5-7 p.m. attended by the family.  funeral services will be held Thursday, Dec. 22 at 11 a.m. in the First Baptist Church, 209 N. Sixth Ave., downtown in Teague. Officiating will be Elder Frederick Miles and Bro. Cleo Phillips. Interment will be in the Grove Island Cemetery, Teague.  

Lewis was the fifth child born to Mary Lou Randle and Lewis Joe Johnson in Teague. He completed his public school education in the Teague Public School System. Mr. Randle was a faithful brother in the West Side Church of Christ in Teague and served the church as song leader. His career took him to employment with the Coca Cola Bottling Co. in Houston, the Burlington Northern Railroad, and to his retirement from The Texas Department Of Criminal Justice after 19 years, seven months, and one day of service. He had a passion for food service, and a food truck that featured barbecue and other specialties. He was an avid Dallas Cowboy fan and followed the team passionately. His children, especially his grandchildren, were his heart.

“Mr. Man” was preceded in death by his father Joe Lewis Johnson, Sr.; his brothers Clyde W. Miles, Sam Johnson, and Willie Randle; sisters Carolyn Jameson, Mercy Jo Johnson, and Beverly  Pool.

Those left to cherish his memory most are mother, Mary Lou Randle, Teague; his son Chris Wright and wife Tequilaof Teague; daughters Tamara Randle and LeAndra Randle both of Waco; brothers Lewis Johnson, Jr., L.A. Calif; Danny Johnson and wife, Dorothy, Mexia;  Albert Randle and wife, Latrica, Frisco, sisters Wanda Ruth Rice, and husband, Edward, Teague;  Ruth Johnson, Teague; Mary Alice Johnson, Redland, Calif.; and Melvia Johnson, Teague; 10 grandchildren; aunts; Momma Mae Johnson and Jesse Mae Cross;  a special friend Donna Ford; nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Bonnie G. Hughes, former longtime resident and business owner, of Mexia, passed away Dec. 19, 2016 in Allen. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 22 at First Baptist Church with the Reverend Marcus Sheffield officiating. Interment will follow in the Mexia Cemetery. Keith Mack, Drew Cain, Ben Buschur, Tim Hughes, Ethan Hughes, John Posey, John Hughes and Greg Gann will serve as pallbearers.

Bonnie was born March 15, 1931 in Greensboro, North Carolina to Bascom and Ethel Melton. She married her one and only love, Herbert Carlton “Pete” Hughes on June 11, 1949 in South Carolina. They were blessed with three children, David Carlton, Trudy Ann and Jonathan Franklin. 

In 1964, Pete and Bonnie moved from High Point, North Carolina to Dallas. In 1965, Pete became manager of A Brandt Furniture Company (ABCO) in Mexia. They lived their remaining years together in Mexia where they raised their children, became active members in the First Baptist Church and in the community. 

Bonnie’s love for the Lord, her family and others was exemplified in the way she lived her life. She filled her time as mother and being active in her church, from leading GA’s to teaching Sunday school. She and Pete were a big part in starting the young couples Sunday school class at First Baptist Church. They loved teaching and fellowshipping with them. They felt as if they were family.

Bonnie always had a love for fashion and make-up. She purchased Merle Norman in 1982 and began her career as a store owner and fashion advisor to many women. She loved helping women feel good about themselves, not only physically but spiritually as well. She remained in the store until she was no longer able.

Her main love in life was her soulmate, Pete. She loved having him by her side in all aspects of life. She especially loved their date nights when he would take her to Dallas.

She was filled with joy when the grandkids began arriving – starting with Ethan, then Millicent, Tim, Keith, Melody, Jill and Drew.

Bonnie was loved and will truly be missed.   

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband of 50 years, Pete Hughes; and five brothers.

Bonnie is survived by her three children, David Hughes and wife, Ellen of Plano, Trudy Cain and husband, Mike of Tehuacana and Jonathan Hughes of Dallas; grandchildren, Ethan Hughes of Houston, Millicent Hughes of Austin, Timothy Hughes of Dallas, Keith Mack and wife, Megan of Ft. Worth, Melody Buschur and husband, Ben of Buena Vista, Colo., Drew Cain and wife, Jennifer of New Braunfels and Jill Cain of Dallas; great-grandchild, Jackson Cain; sister, Helen Tiberio of Caledonia, NY; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Larry James Eubanks was born July 3, 1951 in Mexia to James Harlin Eubanks and Alma Jean (Shamblin) Eubanks. He passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 22, 2016.

He grew up in the Heights and graduated from Reagan High School in 1969. He attended Texas A&M where he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting in 1973. He was a proud Aggie. He worked briefly for Arthur Anderson as an auditor before going to Jet Lube Inc., a division of Capital Southwest in 1974.  He became a CPA in 1979 and served as the Corporations President acting board member from 1995 until 2000 when he retired due to medical implications. In 2001, his brother Bill, gave Larry the gift of life by donating one of his kidneys which allowed him 15 more years.

Larry is survived by his parents James and Jean Eubanks; wife, Vicki Eubanks; his brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Miyuki Eubanks; son’s family, Michael and Susie Eubanks (Mikey & Cody); stepsons family, Jay and Rebecca MacKinnon (Chase & Taylor); stepsons family, James and Yesenia MacKinnon (Jaden & Eliana); nieces family, Emily and John Wisbrock (Annette, Carolyn, Joel); nephews family, William and Melissa Eubanks (Austin, Preston); and by many cherished relatives and friends.

The family wishes to thank our nurses, Kim Kirkpatrick and Sherron Hill, with Kindred Hospice, and Phyllis Sampson for the compassionate care given to Larry over the past two years.

A memorial service is scheduled at 10 a.m., Wed., Dec. 28 at Klein Funeral Home CyFair on Wortham Blvd.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Larry’s favorite Charities; Be An Angel Childrens Charity, or Sealy Lions Club.

Hubert Michael “Mike” Thomas was born to Hubert “H.O.” Thomas and Agrippa Easterling Thomas on Dec. 8, 1946 in Personville. Mike died at the Groesbeck LTC on Dec. 27, 2016 at the age of 70 years.

Mike lived his early years in Houston until his family returned to the Mexia area in 1960. Mike graduated from Mexia High School in 1965 while working at his family’s business, the T&C Grocery located on the Old Circle in Mexia. Mike received his Associate’s in Science degree from Navarro College in 1967. He then graduated from Baylor University with his Bachelor’s in Business. In 1973, Mike graduated from Baylor School of Law and became a successful trial attorney in Dallas and the Central Texas area. Mike’s accomplishments included being certified by the Texas State Board of Legal Specialization in both Personal Injury Law and Civil Trial Law and obtaining multiple large jury verdicts for his clients. He was a member of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America and Texas Trial Lawyers Association. Mike was a tenacious attorney who never wavered in his commitment to obtaining the best result for those he represented.

Mike was predeceased by his parents, Hubert and Grip Thomas and brother-in-law, E. V. “Cookie” Childress.

Survivors include five sons: Jason Thomas and wife, Paula, of Cedar Park; Grant Thomas and wife, Alexis, of Austin; Martin Thomas of Austin; Adam Thomas of Denver, Colo.; and Spencer Thomas of Dallas; one grandson, Cash Thomas; one sister, Linda Childress Stephenson of Tyler; loyal friend Lynn “Sonny” Adams and former law partner, Holloway Martin.

Memorials may be made to Groesbeck LTC, 607 Parkside, Groesbeck, TX 76642.

A Celebration of Life for Mike will be held on Saturday, Jan. 7 from 3-5 p.m., at the Forrest Place in Mexia.

Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Zack Henson McClintock passed away Dec. 27, 2016 at his home in Waco at the age of 92. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 30 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel with the Reverend Wayne Williams officiating. Interment will follow in the Fort Parker Cemetery.

Visitation with the family will be prior to the service on Friday from 10-11 a.m. at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home.

Zack was born July 21, 1924 in Groesbeck to James L. and Bertha Sharp McClintock. He attended Mexia High School and graduated in 1942. In March 1943, he entered the US Army Air Corps. After being discharged from the Army, he graduated from North Texas University with a Bachelor’s of Science and Bachelor’s of Administration degrees. Zack began his career with General Dynamics in Fort Worth. He completed his career with Berry-Barnett Grocery Company in Mexia, retiring after 29 years of service as Directory of Customer Service.

Zack was a longtime member of the Mexia Lions Club and a member of the Waco Senior Kiwanis. He was also a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church and Wesleyan Workers Sunday School Class of Waco. He was strong in his faith and a devout Christian.

Zack was an avid sports fan and an amazing friend who will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and one sister.

Zack is survived by his wife, Lucille Cagle; stepson, Michael Cagle and wife, Amy, daughter Katie; and several nieces and one nephew.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations be made to the Senior Kiwanis Scholarship Fund in Waco or charity of choice.

The family would like to express great appreciation to Dr. Barbara Weise, Dr. Clay Gowan, Dr. John Ervin and Hillcrest Scott & White Hospice for their care.  

Pallbearers will be Dennis Walker, James Black, Don Corbitt, Elmer Beene, Jr., Dick Flatt and Holloway Martin.  Honorary pallbearers will be the Waco Senior Kiwanis, Charles Sadler, David Brubaker, Brad Perkins, Bryan Perkins and Brett Perkins.

Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.   

Mary Current Adams passed away Jan. 4, 2017 in Dallas at the age of 62. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 10 at Blair-Stubbs Chapel in Mexia with Chaplain Karen Hulsey officiating. 
Visitation with the family will be from 1-2 p.m., prior to the service on Tuesday.
Mary was born Oct. 6, 1954 in Fairfield to Sam and Omah Faye Lance Carter. She was in administration for Texas Baptist for a number of years.  
Mary was a loving mother and grandmother; her world revolved around her family, especially the grandchildren. She enjoyed family gatherings, arts and crafts, crocheting and babysitting. Mary was also a devoted Christian whose faith in God was strong. She was a member Heights Baptist Church in Richardson.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Mary is survived by her loving son, Corey Current; grandchildren, Ryan Makayla, Joshua Corey and Nevaeh Analise Current; sisters, Sammie Faye Turner of Kirven, Gloria Owsley and husband, John of Terrell; brother Fred L. Carter and wife, Debbie of Kirven; uncle , Tommy Lance of Mexia; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Elmer Raymond Wilson, formerly of Coolidge, passed away Jan. 7, 2016 in Groesbeck at the age of 84. Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 11 at the First Baptist Church in Coolidge with the Reverend Chuck Sturgeon and Chaplain Jon Honea officiating. Interment will follow in the Prairie Hill Cemetery. Larry Wilson, Terry Wilson, Ronnie Wilson, Rodney Harrison, Scott Spencer and Donald Erwin will serve as pallbearers. Paul Youngblood will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
Visitation with the family will be prior to the service beginning at 1 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Coolidge.
Raymond was born July 9, 1932 in Coolidge to Wyratt L. and Vesta G. Stafford Wilson. He retired from the Texas Highway Department after completing 24 years of service. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War era. On Jan. 20, 1956, he married the love of his life, Mary D. Kilgo in Garland.
Raymond enjoyed going to garage sales in search of finding that “hidden treasure.” He also enjoyed going to Palestine to the movies and out to eat. Keeping his yard looking nice, well mowed and free of nut grass was something he took pride in doing. Raymond was a loving husband, father and grandfather; the time spent with his family was most precious to him.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Coolidge.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother Lester Ray Wilson.
Raymond is survived by his wife of almost 61 years, Mary Wilson; children, Wyatt L. Wilson and wife, Melissa of Prairie Hill and Karen J. Ward of Coolidge; grandchildren, Clint Ward and wife, Jessica, Jon Ward, Amber Ward Williford and husband, Clint, Heather Sandifer and husband, Paul and Lee Wilson and wife, Emily; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Weldon “Woody” Wilson of Lake Kiowa; sister, Joy Wilson Harrison of Canton; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Rollin Kerzee, 87, passed away at 5:55 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, at Lima Convalescent Home.
Rollin was born on Feb. 27, 1929, in Mexia to the late Alton B., Sr. and Addie (Bond) Kerzee. On Oct. 23, 1981 he married Patricia Ann (Lawler) Stein who preceded him in death on Aug. 27, 2006.
Rollin was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Eagles Aerie #370, Elks BPOE and I.A.F.F. He retired as the Assistant Fire Chief for the Lima Fire Department where he was the first Arson Investigator for the Arson Unit. Rollin was the former training officer for the Lima Fire Department and enjoyed training volunteer firemen. He worked for the State Fire Marshal office after retirement.
He is survived by his children, David and Rebecca Kerzee of Lakeside, Ohio; John D. and Sue Stein of Lima, Ohio; Tama and Russ Hollar of Cridersville, Ohio; and Joseph W. and Mary Beth Stein of Lima, Ohio; sisters, Louise Prather of Mexia, and Martha (Elmer) Beene of Mexia; brothers, Richard (Beulah) Kerzee of Mexia and Maurice (Pam) Kerzee of Brackettville; six grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by a sister, Frances Fowler and three brothers, Alton Kerzee, Jr., Jerry Kerzee and Wilmer Kerzee.
The family received friends from 2-8 p.m. on Jan. 11 and at the church an hour prior to the service. A Parish Wake service was held at 8 p.m., Jan. 11 at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home in Lima, Ohio.
A Mass of Christian Burial will began at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 12 at St. Charles Catholic Church in Lima, Ohio. The Reverend Kent Kaufman and Rev. David M. Ross officiated. Entombment will be in Gethsemani Mausoleum, Lima, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Charles Catholic Church or St. Rita’s Hospice.
Condolences may be expressed at chamberlainhuckeriede.com

Born: Feb. 25, 1933
Deceased: Jan. 12, 2017

Glenda Lee Cregger, 83, passed away on Jan. 12, 2017, in Corsicana. Glenda was a feisty, strong and compassionate woman who loved gardening, being outdoors and antique hunting. She will be greatly missed by her son, Robert Lane Smith and his wife Diana and by her seven grandchildren - Kristy Waterman, Brandin Smith, Tiffany Hughes, Blair Weaver, Nicole Finney, Joshua Davis and Jennifer Terrell – all of whom have fond memories of summers spent hatching baby ducks, being chased by geese, helping with yard work and trips to the thrift shops. 
A visitation will be held from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 16 at Corley-Porter Funeral Home, 208 N. Canton Street in Mexia. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. at Point Enterprise Cemetery.
Visit porterfuneralhometx.com to sign the guestbook and leave a message for the family.
Corley-Porter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Corene Turner Tyner, 92, of Austin, passed away on Jan. 13, 2017.
Corene was born Jan. 28, 1924 in Mexia to George and Mary Turner; she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt and sister.
She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Gordon Davis Tyner.
Corene is survived by her children, Charlotte Carter, Roy Dean Tyner and Terri Kay Culbertson and husband, Robert.  Corene was “Nana” to her grandchildren, Dena Looney and husband, Dion, Heather Carter Gitterle and husband, Marc, Chris Tyner and wife, Amy, Scott Tyner and wife, Sarah, Shelley Walters and husband, Trey, Michael Culbertson and wife, Christina; and to her great grandchildren, Katie and Blake Looney, Aidan and Gabel Gitterle, Noah, Leah and Jonah Tyner and Zoey and Pace Tyner.
The family will receive friends at 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 21 at Blair-Stubbs Funeral Home. Following the visitation, a 2:30 p.m. graveside service will be conducted in the Mexia Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901; the Wortham High School Ex-Students Association; or a church/charity of choice.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.

Neil Bond, 82, of Shiloh, passed away Jan. 16, 2017.  Funeral services are pending at this time.
Neil is survived by his wife, Mary Bond; two sons, Brandon Bond and Ronald Bond; and grandchildren.
Visit blair-stubbs.com to leave the family a memorial message.