Recent Obituaries
Gladys Mae Gresham, age 88, of Irving, passed away December 28, 2008
after a long
illness.
She was born on September 16, 1920 in Wills Point to Cary Arthur and Lou Della
Wilson. Gladys was a long time resident of Irving and a member of Oak View
Baptist Church. She is preceded in death by her husband Leon E. Gresham, son
Larry Keith Gresham, 6 brothers and sisters, and her parents. She is survived
by her daughter Becky Parker and son-in-law Jack Parker of Bastrop; 3
granddaughters, Michelle Parker of Irving, Amy Waldrop of Montgomery, Texas, and
Tonya Wyatt of Irving; 6 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Saturday, January 3, 2009 at Oak View
Baptist Church, 1004 S. Story Rd. in Irving with Rev. Wallace Philpot
officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation:
6-8 PM Friday at the funeral home.
Sonja Simone Schreur, born to Earth October 3, 1937, was born to
Eternity
December 24, 2008. Simone passed peacefully this Christmas Eve
morning, with her loving husband by her side. Simone is survived by Harm K. Schreur, with whom she recently celebrated their Golden Wedding
Anniversary. She is survived by son, Steven J. Schreur, daughter-in-law, Kathy,
and beloved granddaughter, Adrienne Elise. Although separated by many miles,
the family has made many memories together; most notably to Harm's homeland of
The Netherlands, and to Sicily, where Harm and Simone were married in 1958.
Following a move to Mozambique, South Africa, the couple relocated with their
young son to Irving, Texas, where they have resided since. Simone enjoyed
motherhood and also the opportunity to utilize her many skills and talents in
her professional life. Following her service as the Executive Assistant to the
President of Rosewood Properties, Simone went on to pursue a career in Executive
Search. Having earned certification with the National Association of Personnel
Services, she went on to enjoy a challenging career with Brown and Keene
Consultants, until her retirement in 2001. Ever active in the community, she
was involved in many organizations in Irving, including the Irving Women's Club,
The League of Women Voters, The Las Colinas Women's Club, and was a Charter
Member of the Irving Symphony League. Simone's early years were spent in Fort
Worth, Texas, where she graduated from Poly High School in 1956. Following
graduation, Simone went on to attend Texas Tech University, making many close
friends, as part of Delta Gamma Sorority. She will be missed by all who knew
and loved her. A Celebration of Simone's Life will be held at St. Stephens
Presbyterian Church, her church home of 48 years. The service will begin at
11:00 am on Monday, December 29, 2008, located at 1621 West Grauwyler Road,
Irving, Texas, 75061, Reverend Ron Floyd officiating. Reception following
immediately at the Church. The family would like to express their heartfelt
gratitude to Simone's companions and caregivers, Rutendo (Rue) of Home Instead,
and Joan and Cassandra, both of Comfort Pro Hospice, for their countless acts of
loving kindness.
Jim
Raborn, of Irving, passed away Monday, December 22, 2008. He was
born October
21,
1947 in Caddo, Oklahoma. He was a member of Grace Pointe Church in Irving. He
was preceded in death by his son Bo Raborn. Survivors include his wife Janey
Raborn of Irving; children Kim and husband Joe of Waxahachie, Randy, Sondra, and
Rhonda, all of Graham; parents Earl and Bonnie Raborn of Mesquite; brothers Earl
Raborn of Irving, Wesley Raborn of Forney, Kenneth Raborn of Ardmore, Oklahoma,
and Clois Raborn of Dallas; 11 grandchildren; and 4 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at Grace Pointe Church, 209 Rolston Rd. with Rev.
Zane Causey officiating. Interment will follow at 3:15 PM at Oak Grove Memorial
Gardens, 1413 E. Irving Blvd. in Irving. Memorial donations may be made to
Grace Pointe Church.
Leon Junior Johnson, Jr., of Dallas, and previously of Traverse City,
Michigan, passed
away
Friday, December 19, 2008. He was born August 8, 1935 in Bancroft, Michigan.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting, watching westerns, and his family. He was preceded
in death by parents Leon Johnson, Sr. and Ila Louise Ordiway, sister Judy
Padilla, daughter Lisa Johnson, son Kevin Leon Johnson, and 2nd wife
Flora Johnson. Survivors include his daughter Brenda Lowrey and husband James of
Watuaga; sons Philip Johnson and wife Kathy, Terry Jo Johnson, and Alvie
Johnson, all of Michigan; brother Jerry Johnson, of Michigan; granddaughter
Rebecca Ham of Irving; grandson Johnathon McAllister of Watuaga; several other
grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Anita M. Vinson, 84, passed away December 16, 2008 in Irving. She was preceded in death by her husband H.B. Vinson, two sisters, Frances Miller and Barbara Boyd, and brother Ed Roberts. She is survived by her two sons, Ronald Vinson and Donald Vinson and wife Teresa; and sister Sue Dilda. Also surviving her are stepchildren Ann McGahee, Martha Mullins, Jerry Vinson and wife Linda, Russell Vinson and wife Becky, along with numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. During her working career, Anita was active in the family business, Texas Driving School that she and her husband H.B. Vinson started in 1946. She will be missed by all that knew and loved her. Graveside services will be held at 11 AM Friday, December 19, 2008 at Laurel Land Memorial Park, 6000 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy. in Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Thursday at the funeral home.
Floyd Felton “Bear”
Bryant, 69, of Irving, Texas, died December 12, 2008, surrounded by
his family. He was loved by his family,
church
friends, and Irving Fire Department family. Bear was born July 29, 1939 in Ft.
Worth and was raised in Grapevine. He worked for Morrill Meat Company and
delivered milk for Foremost Dairy before joining the Irving Fire Department. He
became a member of the Beltline Road Church of Christ. While working for the
fire department, he also worked as a maintenance man at Plymouth Park Shopping
Center, putting up Christmas lights for many years. He also owned Alpine Garden
Center, teaching his daughters how to lay grass and landscape a home. Daughter
Kelly Allen remembered a lesson Bear taught her about selling grass, which was
“Forget the comebacks and get the greenbacks.” While working for the Irving Fire
Department, Bear also served on the Irving Firemen’s Relief and Retirement Fund
Board, and served as Chairman of the Board for several years. After retiring, he
was appointed Outside Board Member. Bear also shot fireworks at Irving Mall
and several country clubs around the Metroplex. Daughter Karen Cornish remembers
flying to Austin with Bear and her Uncle Ronnie to take the state exam to become
Licensed Pyrotechnic Operators. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Brenda
Bryant, and their daughters: Karen Cornish, and Kelly Allen and son-in-law
Derrol Allen, all of Irving; sons: Terry and Keith Bryant; grandchildren:
Kristen and Jeff Cornish, Jeremy and Justin Hardegree, his wife Annelise, and
Nikki Bryant. He is also survived by his twin brother, Lloyd Delton Bryant of
Quinlan, brother-in-law Captain Ronnie Yankey of the Irving Fire Department,
mother-in-law Pansy Yankey, both of Irving and many nieces and nephews. Family
will receive friends on Tuesday, December 16 from 5 to 7pm at Brown’s Memorial
Funeral Home with a Firemen’s Service following. Funeral services will be held
at South MacArthur Church of Christ in Irving on Wednesday, December 17, at
10am, Don Hatch officiating. The family requests that memorials be made to the
Irving Firemen’s Relief Retirement Fund, PO Box 152288, Irving, TX 75015-2288.
Mary Tennison, of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008.
She was born May 7,
1934
in Raton, New Mexico. She was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Grand
Prairie and was a Lady Elk. Preceded in death by her parents Mike G. Plumisto
and Mamie Christina Ridenour Plumisto, survivors include her husband Edgar A.
Tennison of Irving; daughter Helen R. Stahnke of Grand Prairie; son George A.
Tennison and wife Jeanette of Marble Falls; daughter Deborah J. Beathard and
husband Ronnie of Pilot Point; daughter Mildred J. French and husband Jamie of
Pilot Point; sisters Helen Bolenbarker of Irving, Jane Smallwood of
Elizabethtown, Kentucky, Ann Kendall of Houston, Mississippi, and Anita Serra
of Denver, Colorado; 12 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren. Funeral
services will be held at 10 AM Tuesday, December 16, 2008 at Faith Lutheran
Church, 2200 SW 3rd St. in Grand Prairie. Interment will follow at
1:30 PM at DFW National Cemetery, Lane A, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy. in Dallas.
Memorial donations may be made to VITAS Hospice.
Ellen Marie Oliver, of Arlington, and formerly of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008. She was born November 6, 1946 in Hazen, Arkansas. Preceded in death by her father Samuel Werley, survivors include her mother Hazel Werley of Irving; sons Ron Alley of Burleson, and Scott Alley of Miami, Oklahoma; daughter Jana Barley of Winston, Georgia; brother S. Gary Werley of Fort Worth; sister Karen Nelson of Benbrook; 7 grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren. The family will receive friends 7-9 PM Friday, December 12, 2008 at the funeral home.
Waid Oscar Willcox, of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008. He was born March 21, 1919 in Merritt, Texas. He was a member of Plymouth Park Baptist Church in Irving. Preceded in death by his son-in-law Ernest Gallatin, survivors include his wife Martha Willcox, son Mark Willcox, and daughter Judy Gallatin, all of Irving; daughter Vicki Miller and husband Todd of Carrollton; 7 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1 PM Saturday, December 13, 2008 at Plymouth Park Baptist Church, 1714 N. Story Rd. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 6-8 PM Friday at the funeral home.
Merle Dean Carter
of Irving passed away December 7, 2008 in
Irving. He was born on October 16,
1947
in Ft. Madison, Iowa. He was a U.S. Army Veteran and later worked as a
carpenter. He is survived by wife Linda Carter of Irving; son Christopher Carter
of Euless; brothers James, Tim, Richard, Roger, and Mark; sisters Doris Roovart;
Charlene Russell and Myrna Melton. Visitation to be held from 6 to 8 PM Friday,
December 12, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.
Irene
Bell Peppard, of Littleton, Colorado, and formerly of Irving, passed
away Tuesday, December 2, 2008, encircled
by loving family and friends. She was
born November 5, 1924 in Winona, Texas to John and Lillie Bell. One of seven
children, she grew up on the family farm and moved to Irving after graduating
from Gladewater High School. After completing her nurse's training in Houston,
she married and traveled the world as a military wife. She returned to Texas in
1970 when her husband retired from the Army. Irene retired from John Peter Smith
Hospital in 1987 where she worked as an RN for 15 years. Irene enjoyed spending
time with and talking about her grandchildren. Survivors include her daughter
Deborah Peppard of Littleton; son Jay Peppard and wife Jennifer of Arlington;
daughter Patricia Peppard Roland and husband Ken of Littleton; grandchildren
Jason and Justin Peppard of Arlington, and Brittany, Shawn, and Eric Roland of
Littleton; sister Marvelle Murrell of Irving; brother J.D. Bell of Gladewater;
very special friend Faye Cantwell of Bedford; and many loving nieces and
nephews. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Monday, December 8, 2008 at
Brown's Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Sandra Seamens officiating.
Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 2 to 4 PM
Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the American
Cancer Society.
Cindy Swistak, of Irving, passed away Monday, December 1, 2008. She was born October 9, 1958. She is survived by her son Aaron Swistak; brother Dan Green; and 2 grandchildren. Memorial services will be held at 10 AM Saturday, December 6, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.
Mark Olive, of Greenville,
passed
away Monday, December 1, 2008. He was born August 15, 1969 in Irving. He was a
member of the Vansickle Baptist Church in Greenville. Preceded in death by his
father Miles Olive, survivors include his mother Norma Olive of Caddo Mills;
sister Tina McCommas and husband Tim of Arlington, sister Judi Ratliff and
husband Roger of Caddo Mills; brother Stephen Fisher and Kathy Smith of
Lewisville; and sister Lisa Olive of Roanoke. Family to receive friends from
5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Thursday, December 4th at the funeral home. Funeral
services will be held at 11 AM Friday, December 5, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial
Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Brian Grey officiating. Interment will follow
at Oak Grove memorial Gardens.
Evelyn Dolores Miller,
of
Irving,
passed away Saturday, November 29, 2008. She was born October 31, 1929 in San
Antonio. Dolores was raised in Granger and Taylor, attended Southwestern
University, and lived the last 44 years in Irving. Dolores was a very active
member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Irving. Preceded in death by her
parents John and Frances Velicka and husband Otis Miller, whom she married in
1949, survivors include her four boys Mike and wife Liz, Mark and wife Cindy,
Patrick, and Timothy. She was the proud Nanny of seven grandchildren and six
great grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 AM on
Thursday, December 4, 2008 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 202 S. MacArthur
Blvd. Interment will follow at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas at 2:30 PM.
Visitation: Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 PM followed by a Rosary at 7:30 PM. In
lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Luke’s Catholic
School.
J
eraldine Waggoner
Lloyd, of Lake Limestone and formerly of Irving,
went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 29, 2008 after a lengthy battle
with cancer. She was born January 2, 1932. She was born and raised in Irving
and with few exceptions lived in Irving all her life. In 2004, she moved to
Lake Limestone to live near her son and daughter. Jerry gave so much love and
was loved by many. She is preceded in death by her father C.C. Waggoner and
mother Exie Opal Cunningham Waggoner and husband Frank Lloyd. She is survived
by her sister Gwendolyn Simpson, brother Craig Waggoner and his wife Joy, sister
Mary Jo Sinclair, and sister Tommie Sue Mayfield. She is also survived by her
son Frank Lloyd, Jr. and his wife Donna, and daughter Nancy Nelson and her
husband Andrew. Other survivors include her granddaughter Kim Goss and family,
grandson Brad Boyd and family, and granddaughter Andra Rutherford and family.
These families include 6 great grandchildren. Graveside services will be held
at 10 AM Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens, 1413 E.
Irving Blvd. in Irving. Visitation: 6-8 PM Tuesday at the funeral home.
J.W. Hogue, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, November 25, 2008. He was born September 7, 1923 in Point, Texas. Survivors include his daughters Beth Rust and husband Roy of Irving, and Holly Murrow and husband W.R. of Irving; son James Hogue and wife Vicki of Missouri City, Texas; grandchildren Ashley, Chase, Corey, Leslie, Kyle, Kim, and Erin; and great grandchildren Hanna, Adam, Andrew, Ava, Braydon, and Bellamie. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Henry Malone and Pastor Joshua Price officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park in Dallas. Visitation: 5-7 PM Friday.
Eugene C. Parma
of Irving died November 24, 2008. He was born on July 16, 1925 in Ennis, Texas.
He was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Irving; a WWII Veteran with the
Army Air Corps 234th Army Air Forces Unit as a B29 Crew Chief;
Graduate of The A&M College of Texas, 1950. He retired from Sears after 38
years. Memberships include: 4th Degree Knight & Eucharistic Minister
and Legion of Mary; SPJST Lodge 130 Life Member; Czech Beseda Dancer; Catholic
Czech Club. Survivors include wife RoseAnn Parma of Irving; children Marilyn
Fulbright of Dallas; Daryl Parma of Green, Ohio; Patricia Jenkins of Dallas;
Scott Parma of Keller; Anthony Parma of Glenn Heights; Leanne Cannon of Dallas;
grandchildren Douglas Wilson; Lisa Wilson; Jennifer Parma; Leah Parma; Jacob
Parma; Shannon Parma; and Mallory Parma; great-grandchildren Alexis Polichetti;
Dalton Wilson and Zachary Jones. Family to receive friends from 4:30 to 6:30
prior to the rosary at 6:30 P.M. on Sunday, November 30, 2008 at Brown’s Funeral
Home Chapel; Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, St.
Luke’s Catholic Church with interment to follow at DFW National Cemetery at 1:00
P.M. Monday. Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph Residence, 330 W.
Pembroke Avenue, Dallas, TX 75203.
Rose Laverne Gandy Morris was born in Ft. Worth to Katherine Wilson
and
Wilmer P. Gandy on March 2, 1923 and passed away on November 20, 2008. In
Rose’s youth, the family moved from Dallas to a community called Union Bower,
now a part of Irving. Her love for sewing resulted in her parents sending her
to North Dallas High where she took all courses offered in that field. She met,
fell in love with, and married Robert L. Morris on the Monday after she
graduated from high school. They were married for 67 loving years. She always
wished for “Three Happy Things” in life. A swing on the porch…..a two story
house….. and a ranch. She lived to see all three wishes come true. The first
ranch was in Red River County. While there, she worked in Paris at McCuistion
Hospital for over 8 years. When the couple returned to Irving, she and Robert
worked for The National Headquarters of Boy Scouts of America. After they
retired from BSA, they had their second ranch in Peoria, TX. Rose is survived
by her husband Robert L. Morris, Sr.; two daughters Betty Kay and husband Steve
Taylor of Blackfoot, ID, and Terri and husband Richard Brooks of Boerne; son
Robert L. Morris, Jr. and wife Stella of DeSoto; five grandchildren; and one
great granddaughter. Her parents, a daughter, and a granddaughter predecease
her. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Monday, November 24, 2008 at First
Baptist Church, 403 S. Main St. in Irving. Interment will follow at Greenwood
Memorial Park in Ft. Worth. Visitation: 5-7 PM Sunday at the funeral home.
Glenna Elizabeth Terry, 78, passed away peacefully at her home in Grand Prairie on November 20th,following a courageous struggle with lung cancer. She was born February 16, 1930 in Como, TX to Rollie and Lilly Earhart and was a fourth generation Texan. She is survived by her daughters, Sherry Jones and her Husband, Gene, and Sandra Fong and her husband, Dr. Robert Fong, both of Irving as well as her son, Bryant Prater and his wife Pat of Grand Prairie and son Shawn D. Terry of Dallas. She is also survived by her grandchildren Bryan Cowley, Amy Patton, Aaron Prater, Austin Terry and Alexandra Terry and great-grandson Nate Patton. She was a loving, devoted and proud mother and her passions in life were her children, grandchildren and her church. She was strong, passionate, energetic, honest and opinionated and was an avid reader. She was raised and educated in Hopkins County, Texas and moved to Irving in 1954 where she lived until moving to Grand Prairie in 2000. She managed a family business as well as holding several accounting related positions during her career until retiring in 1998 from F&M Equipment Company after 14 years. In retirement, she was active with her grandchildren, her church and volunteered with Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. She will be greatly missed by her family. Funeral service will be held Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 1:00 PM at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church at 2505 W. Northgate Rd. in Irving. The family will host friends at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home at 707 N. MacArthur Blvd in Irving on Friday, November 21, 2008 from 5:30-7:30 P. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to either the American Cancer Society or Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children.
Dorothy Weber of Balch Springs, and formerly of Irving passed away November 18, 2008. She was born on March 17, 1934 in Anson, Texas. She enjoyed crocheting, reading and watching movies. She is survived by son Alfred Weber, Jr. and wife Robbie of Colorado Springs, Colorado; grandchildren Sarah, Rachel and Ian all of Colorado Springs; and brother Earl Turner and wife Betty of Denison, Texas. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Friday at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, November 22, 2008 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.
Marie Bonnette Bibb
Langley born December 28, 1919 passed from this life November 14,
2008.
Preceded in death by husband, Lauren A. Langley and two sisters, she is survived
by son Larry J. Langley, daughter-in-law Margie, grandson Jay Langley and wife
Misti, great granddaughter Abigail Lauren Langley, the light of her life, and
numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Marie graduated from St.
Paul School of Nursing and had a thirty year career as a registered nurse in
obstetrics, and labor and delivery with St. Paul and Methodist hospitals of
Dallas. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, November 21,
2008 at Calvary Hill Memorial Park with the Rev. Msgr. Donald F. Zimmerman
officiating.
James Charles
Caskey of Irving passed away November 16, 2008 in Irving. He was born
on
January
31. 1932 in Lexington, Oklahoma. He was a veteran of the US Marine Corp. and
worked as a sales manager at Texas Stadium. He is survived by son James R.
Caskey and wife Carey of Alvarado; daughter Connie M. Durham of Denver,
Colorado; sister Virginia Cudd of California; 6 grandchildren and 2
great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday,
November 21, 2008 at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas with Rev. Michael McVey
officiating.
Marlin M. “Skip”
Winn of Irving passed away November 14, 2008 in Irving. He was born
on 
January
18, 1931 in Wichita, Kansas. He was a veteran of the US Army and later worked in
the printing business. He was a Boy Scout leader and coached Irving Baseball and
Football. He is survived by wife Helen C. Winn; son Michael Winn and wife
Alison; daughter Kathleen Winn; son Mark Winn and wife Katie; grandchildren
Amanda Charron, Matthew Winn; Sara Winn, Parker Winn and great-granddaughter
Laurana Charron; Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday,
November 19th at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. In lieu of flowers,
memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans Fund.
Richard Morgan Neal
passed away November 13, 2008. He was born on February 22, 1958 in
Waco,
Texas. Preceded in death by parents Marie and Douglas Neal; and brother Dana
Neal. He is survived by wife Cindy Neal of Burleson; daughter Danielle Neal of
Plano; Stephanie Neal of Burleson; brother Robert Neal of Euless; sister Nikki
Allen of Euless; and cousin Mickey Rozelle. Memorial services will be held at
1:00 P.M. Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel
with Rev. Ken Parlin officiating.
Dorothy “Dottie” Marshall, of Irving, passed away Wednesday, November 
12, 2008. She was born November 16, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois. She was a 1945 graduate of Oak Park High School in Elmhurst, Illinois and Grinnell College in Ames, Iowa with a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. After completing her college education, she served as a WAVE officer in Washington, D.C. and Tokyo, Japan and was the Navy’s representative in Colorado. She retired from the Navy to start a family. She was a member of Irving North Christian Church and a member of the choir. She was active in her community, serving as an IPAR volunteer, swim coach, water safety instructor, and on the Irving Bicentennial Committee. Dottie enjoyed swimming, reading, cooking, and sewing. Preceded in death by her parents Calvin Darr and Matilda Cairns Darr; survivors include her husband Cliff Marshall of Irving; son Tim Marshall and wife Melissa of Houston; daughters Betsy Marshall and husband Richard Threlkeld of Arlington, Debi Marshall of Denver, Colorado, and Jennifer Driskell and husband Terrell of Buda; and grandchildren Ryan and Meredith Driskell. Memorial Services will be held at 10 AM Thursday, November 20, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Inurnment will follow at 1:30 PM at DFW National Cemetery.
John “Tiny” Ross, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2008. He was born January 22, 1969 in Dallas. He was a 
lifetime resident of Irving, a member of Celebration Worship Center, and enjoyed playing softball. Survivors include his wife Kimberly Ross of Irving; mother Billie Ross; son Christopher Payne; brother Joe “Jody” Ross; sister Kristie Ross; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Friday, November 14, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Joshua Price officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 5-7 PM Thursday.
David Leach Baird, of Irving, passed away Wednesday, September 24, 2008. He was born February 11, 1920 
in Pueblo, Colorado. He was a Lt. Colonel and retired pilot from the Air Force and superintendent of the Dallas Times Herald Composing Room. He enjoyed art, woodworking, and vacationing with grandchildren. People would always ask Dave and his wife Anna why they would take their grandchildren on so many vacations. Their most truthful answer was “Because they are fun!” They spent many years at a cabin in Cripple Creek, Colorado and at the Florida shores. They enjoyed hiking and many of the grandchildren have climbed Pike’s Peak with “Grandpa Dave”. Preceded in death by parents Carl and Marian Leach Baird, brothers Fred Baird and Richard Baird, and granddaughter Dana Baird, survivors include his wife of 68 years, Anna Baird of Irving; sons David Baird and wife Stephanie and Mark Baird and wife Lauren, both of Houston; daughter Kerry Dixon and husband Wade of Tribune, Kansas; and the joys of their lives from the time of their birth, grandchildren David Baird, III, Melissa Baird, Amy Baird, Christopher Dixon, Erin Dixon, Alexander Baird, and Emily Baird. Inurnment services will be held at 10 AM Monday, November 24, 2008 at DFW National Cemetery, Lane A, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy. in Dallas. Memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army.
Sara Elaine Williams, of Irving, passed away Friday, November 7, 2008. She was born July 5, 1987 in Las Vegas, Nevada. She enjoyed drawing, reading, and music. Preceded in death by her mother Harriet C. Williams, she is survived by her father Wyatt W. Williams; and brother Joshua R. Williams. Her family will receive friends from 5-7 PM Thursday, November 13, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. A Service of Celebration will follow at 7 PM. Memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Robert (Bob) Nelson Ditterline, grandson of the late Reverend John G. .jpg)
Ditterline; son of the late Reverend Dr. George R. and Lillie M. Ditterline; brother of the late Reverend Dr. C. Edward Ditterline passed peacefully in the early hours of November 5th 2008. Bob was born in Scranton, Arkansas on March 17, 1931. He attended grade school in Arkansas and New Mexico and graduated in 1949 from Wink High School in Wink, Texas. Bob received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1953 the field of Religious Education with a minor in voice from McMurray College in Abilene, Texas. He received his Master of Theology degree in 1955 from The Iliff School of Theology University in Denver, Colorado. Bob served the Methodist Church in a multitude of different capacities from 1950 through 1993. Bob spent 25 years in The New Mexico Annual Conference and 18 years in The Nebraska Annual Conference. Over the years he served his parishioners in numerous ways to include ministering to others through the word of God and as a featured soloist; he preached revivals, participated in spiritual life missions, and spoke at youth meetings in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska and Washington. Bob hosted radio and television broadcasts as well as recording an album titled “Face to Face.” Bob was united in marriage with the former Ms. Dorothy Bess (Dottie) Jones of Dallas, Texas on August 30th, 1956. They spent 52 years in matrimonial bliss and raised two children within the sanctity of the Christian mission. Bob was an avid gardener, and could often be found working in his garden at home. He enjoyed spending Saturday afternoons fishing with his children and taking his family on camping vacations to the Black Hills of South Dakota or the mountains of Colorado. Bob is survived by his wife Dottie, his son Gary W., daughter Sheri L. and her husband Randy, granddaughter Chelsei and her husband Noah and great-granddaughter Madison. Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Saturday, November 8, 2008 at First United Methodist Church, Main Sanctuary, 211 W. Third St. in Irving. Interment will follow at Laurel Land Memorial Park in Dallas. Visitation: 5-7 PM Friday at the funeral home.
Joan Kay Pasek, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, November 4, 2008. She was born April 7, 1940 in Omaha, Nebraska. She served in the US Navy, was a member of the Military Order of World Wars, MOAA, Ikebana Int’l, Dallas Chapter, North Texas Boston Terrier Rescue Club, and served on the board of directors of Lyric Stage in Irving. Preceded in death by her twin brother John J. Becklun and half-brother Bob Smith, survivors include her husband Marvin Pasek of Irving; and half-brothers Brian Becklun, and John Smith. Funeral services will be held at 1 PM Monday, November 10, 2008 at DFW National Cemetery, Lane B, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy. in Dallas with Rev. D. Stanley Corcoran officiating. Visitation: 2-4 PM Sunday at the funeral home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to any of her favorite organizations listed above.
Marissa Payton Pannell, of Grand Prairie, passed away Tuesday, November 4, 2008. She was born November 3, 2008 in Arlington. Preceded in death by her maternal grandfather Edward Lozano, survivors include her parents Jeff and Patricia Pannell of Grand Prairie; paternal grandparents Jim and Linda Lees; and maternal grandmother Mary Lozano. Graveside services will be held at 2 PM Friday, November 7, 2008 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens, 1413 E. Irving Blvd. in Irving. Visitation: 12:00-1:30 PM Friday before the service at the funeral home.
Bobby Wayne Adkins of Irving passed away November 4, 2008 in Irving. He 
was born on November 26, 1938 in Cookville, Texas. He worked as an Expeditor at LTV and enjoyed fishing, four wheeling and traveling. He is survived by wife Abi Adkins of Irving; sons Dale Adkins of Katy, Texas; Randall Adkins of Grand Prairie; daughter Kim Boykin and husband James of Glen Heights; step-son Terry Seale and wife Shawna of Lewisville; sisters Emma Ruth McIntosh of Florida; Jewel Inez Hailey of Red Oak, Texas; Mary Nell Adkins of Duncanville, Texas; Shirley Ann Adcock of Venus, Texas; 6 grandchildren; and 6 step-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, November 7, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ken Parlin officiating. Interment will follow at 2:00 P.M. at Hawkins Cemetery in Hawkins, Texas with Rev. Don Majors officiating. If desired, memorial donations may be made to The American Cancer Society.
Berneice “Babe” Franklin, of Irving, passed away Monday, October 27, 2008. 
She was born June 4, 1923 in Irving. She was a lifetime residence of Irving and a member of First Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband T.J. Franklin; son Tommy Franklin; daughter Georgia Ann Thomas; grandchildren Chris Thomas, Michael Franklin, and Steven Franklin; and 7 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Thursday, October 30, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 5-7 PM Wednesday, October 29, 2008. Memorial donations may be made to American Heart Association or to American Diabetes Association.
Ileeta “GiGi” Watson, of Irving, passed away Thursday, October 23, 2008. She was born July 1, 1955 in Dallas. A lifetime 
member of First Baptist Church-Irving, Ileeta was a singer with a beautiful voice and loved being a mother, grandmother, and friend. Preceded in death by her father Wallace Baker, survivors include her husband Donnie Watson; daughters Candace Gilbert and husband Lance, and Natalee Watson; mother Alma Baker; mother-in-law Shirley Watson; sister Luquitta Fisher; grandsons Kaler Gilbert, Logan Gilbert and Cameron Gilbert; nieces Danna Oxford, and Robie Dodson; great nieces Peyton Babovec and Ellie Dodson; great nephew Owen Dodson; and a host of family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Monday, October 27, 2008 at First Baptist Church-Irving, 403 S. Main St. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 2-4 PM Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society
Dorothy Lay 86, an Irving resident for 55 years, passed away Tuesday night, October 21, 2008 at Hearthstone Assisted
Living Center in Irving. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law Billie and Bobbie Barton and grandson Ronald Barton of Quinlan; son Roger Barton of Irving; son and daughter-in-law Gary and Helen Lay, grandson Joseph Lay and granddaughter Brittany Lay of Irving; daughter JoAnn Walker and grandchildren Rodney and Debbie Walker, and Keith and Terri Walker, of Irving; great grandsons Jarrett and Brian Walker; and great granddaughters Kaitlin, Rachel, Rhianna, and Shaina Walker. Funeral services were held at 9 AM Friday, October 24, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ken Parlin officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.
Sue Sullender, of Irving, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2008. She was born August 11, 1950 in Dallas. She was a 
member of First Baptist Church-Irving. Preceded in death by her husband Richard Weaver, survivors include her parents Leon and Moria Dossett of Canton; sons Jacob Fackler of Gardnersville, Nevada, and Cassidy Sullender of Irving; brother Kenneth Dossett of Grand Prairie; sisters Lanette Pacheco of Arlington, and Lanita Laura of Granbury; and grandchild Chatten. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Don Childress officiating. Interment will follow at Crown Hill Memorial Park in Dallas.
Sophia M. Pineda, of Grand Prairie, passed away Saturday, October 18, 2008. She was born September 26, 1966 in Ruidoso, 
New Mexico. Preceded in death by her grandfather Sofio Sanchez, aunt Frances Salcido and nephew Cody Isiaih Lopez, survivors include father Esequiel Pineda, of the family home in Grand Prairie; mother Adelina Conrad and husband Bob of Irving; grandmother Gonsagita Sanchez of New Mexico; son Adam J. Pineda; daughter Kathleen M. Pineda; brother Zeke A. Pineda and wife Stephanie of Euless; sisters Marlene Wyatt and husband Al of Grand Prairie, Elaine Tovar and husband Gilbert of San Antonio, and Krystal Conrad of Lewisville; stepbrother Steven Conrad of Ohio; and special cousins Selina Zimmerman, Jorae Cadena, Tito Salcido, and Daniel Salcido. A Rosary will be held at 6 PM Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 202 S. MacArthur Blvd. in Irving. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.
Winnie Belle Mussett, of Irving, passed away Saturday, October 11, 2008. She was born December 8, 1913 in Ivanhoe, Texas. She was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Irving and the St. Luke’s Altar Guild. Preceded in death by her husband Theodore A. Mussett, 4 brothers, and 3 sisters, survivors include sons James Mussett of Dallas, Noel Mussett and wife Alice of Ivanhoe, Dennis Mussett and wife Julie Faircloth of Georgetown, Texas, and David Mussett and wife Delenna of Irving; Daughter Sue Wynne of Irving, Dianne Pettinos and husband Warren of Austin, Jennifer McCullough and husband Bill of Little Elm; brother Hurshell Gray of Mathis, Texas; sisters Avis Sommers of Karnes City, Texas, Mary Chopelas of Alpine, Texas, and Francis Owen of Yukon, Oklahoma; 13 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and daughter-in-law Mary Regan. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church, 202 S. MacArthur Blvd. in Irving. Visitation: 6-8 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Graveside services will be held at 3 PM Thursday, October 16, 2008 at St. Joseph Cemetery in Beeville, Texas. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Bob Moore, 83, of Era, Texas died Saturday, October 11, 2008 surrounded by his family at Denton Regional Medical Center. 
He is survived by his wife Ginger Kinder, of Era; son Robert Michael Moore and his wife Joyce, of Colleyville; daughter Barbara Moore Easterwood and her husband Paul, of Houston; daughter Gretchen Hamel, of Washington, D.C.; and son Gates Fryer, of Chattanooga, OK; grandchildren Michael C. Moore, Derek Moore Burgess, Bobby Matthews, Danny Moore, Mark Moore, Misty Moore; and 14 great grandchildren. In 1946, Bob founded Bob Moore Construction, Inc. in Arlington, Texas, and received the AGC General Contractor of the Year award in 2005. He was particularly fond of the Texas Longhorn Breeders Association of America where he served as Chairman, Treasurer, and Director, and in 1989 founded Texas Longhorn Breeders of Tomorrow. Bob was a member of the Masonic Lodge 226 (OK), Veterans of Foreign Wars, and American Legion Posts and Scottish Rite of Free Masonry. Services at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, October 14, 2008 at Brown's Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Sam Porter officiating. Burial will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery in Grand Prairie, Texas. Family requests memorials to be made to Autobahn Motorcar Group Youth Scholarship Tour Fund, In Memory of Bob Moore, 3000 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, TX 76107.
Manuela, “Manolita” Anders Davidson longtime resident of Irving, Texas passed away Friday, October 10, 2008. She was
born May 7, 1935 in Banon Teruel, Spain. She was preceded in death by her parents Maria Pilar Abizanda Andres and Fernando Abizanda Andres, and sisters Trini Andres Colas and Paquita Andres Colas. She is survived by her husband Emmel Davidson of Irving; sons James H. Davidson and his wife Lynn, of Vancover, Washington, Anthony “Tony” R. Davidson of Garland and Robert C. Davidson and his wife Shawn, of Irving; sisters Irene Andres Colas, of Zaragoza, Spain and Maria Jesus Colas, of Barcelona, Spain; grandchildren Lucy Davidson, Henry Davidson, Lillian “Lillie” Davidson. Funeral services will be held at 12:30 PM Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow at 2:00 PM at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery, Dallas. The family will receive friends 6-8 PM Tuesday at the funeral home.
James Edward Reed, of Garland, passed away October 9, 2008. He was born June 24, 1931 in Gem, Texas. Preceded in 
death by his wife Mary Louise Reed in 2002, survivors include his daughters Ethel Louise Kurttila of Benton, Arkansas, Mary Katherine Eley of Garland, and Patti Gayle Russell of Tucson, Arizona; grandchildren Robert Miller, Angela Allison, Damon Hice, James Edward Reed, II, Katy Eley, and Cassidy Reed; and great grandchildren Jacob, Christopher, Nicholas, Joshua-Alize, Josiah- James, Marissa, and Taylor. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM Monday, October 13, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 2-4 PM Sunday.
Andrew G. “Andy” Shupe, of Irving, passed away Thursday, October 9, 2008. He was born November 7, 1923 in Blackwell, Oklahoma. He was a veteran of WWII, serving in the US Navy. Survivors include his wife Georgia Shupe of Irving; son Kim Shupe and wife Holly of Phoenix, Arizona; daughter Kathleen Shupe Rickerbecker of St. Martin; grandson Austin Shupe of Phoenix; granddaughter Nicole Rickerbecker of Georgetown, Texas; and sister Dorothy Herbert of Rhode Island. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Tuesday, October 14, 2008 at DFW National Cemetery, 2001 Mountain Creek Pkwy. in Dallas. Memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church-Irving, 211 W. Third St., Irving, TX 75060.
Asa Daniel, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, October 7, 2008. He was born June 23, 1938 in Texarkana, Texas. He was a 
member of First Baptist Church – Las Colinas. Survivors include his wife Bonnie Daniel of Irving; sons Judson Daniel, Tad Daniel and wife Mary, John Daniel, and Rick Edgett and wife Pam; daughters Faith Anne Daniel, Asa Elaine Myers and husband Ron, and Dana Koerth and husband Charles; brother William Brooks Daniel; sisters Reba Burke, Sarah Jane Anderson, and Glenda Sue Troquille; 15 grandchildren; and great granddaughter Asa Nicole. Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Friday, October 10, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Bob Swift officiating. Visitation: 5-7 PM Thursday.
Elmo Joseph Sanchez, Jr., of Keller, passed away Saturday, October 4, 2008. He was born September 25, 1928 in Baton 
Rouge, Louisiana. He was a veteran of WWII and served in the Army Air Corps. He was a member of Racetrack Cowboy Church, a former Golden Glove Boxer, and a longtime member of Horsemen’s Benevolent Protective Assoc. Preceded in death by his wife Edith Sanchez, parents Elmo and Elenora Sanchez, siblings Pearl Lewis, Irma Perrilloux, Una Nunnery, Peter Sanchez, and Robert (Lu Lu) Sanchez, survivors include siblings Helen Walton, John Sanchez, Ethel Barnes, Natalie Johnston, Janet Kelley, Claude Sanchez, Margaret Mascarella, Patricia Rhodes, and Charlotte Keller, all of Baton Rouge; Children Deborah Lee, Toni Taylor, Jennifer Johnston; grandchildren Brian Robertson, Misty Rae, Joey Crawford, Will Wittmer, and Raeanne Johnston; and great grandchildren Faith Robertson, Colin Rae, and Elise Wittmer. Memorial Services will be held at 2 PM Saturday, October 11, 2008 at Sam Houston Racetrack, 7575 N. Sam Houston Pkwy, W., Houston, TX. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Donald M. Cornett, of Irving, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2008. He was born in Brazoria, Texas on October 29, 
1921. Don graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and served his country as a control tower operator in the Army Aircorps during WWII. He worked as a chief examiner for the Texas State Board of Insurance before joining Rupe Investment Corp. as president. He enjoyed photography, hunting, fishing, and traveling. Preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Mildred Cornett, brother Malcolm Cornett, and parents Jefferson Alvey and Elna Cornett, survivors include sons Donald M. Cornett, Jr. of Irving, and Richard A. Cornett and wife Kay of Frisco; granddaughter Sherry Rowland and husband Al; great granddaughter Lauren Roush of Frisco; Mary Catherine Cornett, Ray and Sharon Cornett of Quintana, Texas; and Eugene and Gloria Cornett of Houston. Funeral services will be held at 1 PM Saturday, October 11, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 5-7 PM Friday, October 10, 2008.
Lois Ann Rhodes Short, born 14 August 1929, in Buffalo, NY to Christopher Lee Jr. and Mildred Clark Rhodes, died 3 October 
2008 due to complications of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD). Her family moved to Tulsa, OK in 1935. She graduated from Central High School, Tulsa, OK in 1947 and Christian College for Young Women in Columbia, MO in 1949 and attended Tulsa University, where she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma (KKG) sorority. Lois married Richard Allen Short, the love of her life, on December 21, 1951 in Tulsa, OK. She followed her husband’s military postings until he entered civilian life in Fort Worth, TX in 1955 and moved to Irving in 1957 where she resided until her death. Lois was an active member of the Irving Republican Women’s Club and the Irving Library Board. She was an accomplished musician, having performed with Richard Chronister and Tom Waring. She was the preferred piano accompanist for many solo, choral and instrumental musicians. Lois was a long time member of Plymouth Park United Methodist Church, having joined in 1957. She sang in the choir, was a member of the Women’s Society for Christian Service (WSCS) and served the church as a member of many church committees, including the Pastor Parish Relations Council. Once her children were self-sufficient, Lois acquired a Social Security number and began a career outside the home. Using her musical talent, she began by accompanying singers in local clubs, and worked as a Musical Therapist at the Carl Albert State Mental Institution in McAlister, Oklahoma. She then segued into the travel business, working first as a travel agent, and finally managing a travel agency. Her career allowed her to travel extensively throughout the world. Lois is preceded in death by her parents, Christopher Lee Rhodes and Mildred Enid Clark Rhodes Wolff, and nephew Huntington Wolcott Rhodes. She is survived by her loving husband Richard Short; brother Christopher Lee Rhodes III, wife Judith Peirsol Rhodes of Tulsa, OK. and nephew Christopher Lee Rhodes IV; son Grant Short, wife Patricia Short of Jacksonville, FL.; daughters Melissa Short Reeves and husband Mike Reeves of Fort Smith, AR; and granddaughters Rachel and Jessica Short of Coppell, TX, Rebecca and Molly Reeves of Fort Smith, AR., and Michelle Brown and husband Wes Brown of Irving, TX; and the many friends who loved and supported her. A celebration of her life shall be performed at 11:00 am on 25 October at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church, 1615 W. Airport Freeway, Irving, TX. 75062. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the organ fund of Plymouth Park United Methodist Church.