Archived Obituaries 2007

Dora Elizabeth Faulkner, of Irving, passed away Saturday, December 29, 2007. She was born June 16, 1926 in Athens, Texas. Survivors include her husband Rex Faulkner of Irving; son Michael Faulkner and Jim Chamblin, both of Los Angeles; daughter Donna Snider and husband James of Irving; brother Emmett Boyd of Woodbine, Georgia; and granddaughter Emily Cate Snider Finbow. Private interment will be held at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Memorial services will follow at 11 AM Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at First Christian Church, 210 E. 6^th St, Irving. Visitation: 4-6 PM Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church.

Doris Virginia Cross a life long resident of Irving passed away December 30, 2007. She was born on March 29, 1925. She was a member of Oak View Baptist Church in Irving. She is survived by son Steven Cross and wife Alma of Floresville, Texas; son Stanley Cross and wife Maryann of Pasadena, California; daughter Susan Cross Roberts and husband Drew of Sachse, Texas; brother Walter “Dub” Futch of Irving; grandchildren Abigail, Wesley & Kelsey Roberts and Alexandra Cross; nephew Dr. Tom Futch; nieces, Joyce Ann Wommack; Carolyn Cooper; Keri Robertson; Lindy Russell and Karen Cross. Funeral services will be held at 12:30 P.M. Thursday, January 3, 2008 at Oak View Baptist Church, 1004 S. Story Rd, Irving, with Dr. Jim Gerlach officiating. Visitation: 6-8 PM Wednesday. Interment will follow at 2:30 at DFW National Cemetery, Dallas.

Geraldine “Jerry” Lucas, a 66 year resident of Irving, passed away Tuesday, January 1, 2008. She was born April 8, 1918 in Hopkins County, Texas. Jerry was a 1939 graduate of Saint Paul Nursing School. She married Winston B. “Buck” Lucas in 1942 and he preceded her death after 58 years of marriage. Also preceding her in death was her father Ervin Addy, Sr, M.D. and mother Emma Johnson Addy, siblings Ervin E. Addy, Jr, M.D. and Beth Leveridge, nephews Ervin E. Addy, III and Wm. Blair Addy; survivors include her son Andrew “Andy” Lucas and daughter Carol Lucas, both of Irving; friends who are family Eddie and Scherel Carver of Tyler, Dave, Nana and Robbie Edwards of Coppell, the Mintz family, Bob and Linda, Robin and Randy, Wendi and John, Misti and T.R., Emma, Mattie, and Savana, and David, Eliza, and Vincent Pintor of Dallas; brother-in-law Jack Leveridge of Breckenridge, Texas; and nieces and nephews Kathy and Fred Hoffman of Arlington, Mike and Rosa Leveridge of Breckenridge, Susan Addy of Coppell, Judy Blaylock of Coppell, Mark and Kay Ross of Irving, and Steve and Linda Leveridge of Euless; cousins Willard Gober of Austin, Charles Addy of Alex, Oklahoma, and Jim and Ruth Gober of Farmington, New Mexico. Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Thursday, January 3, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 5-7 PM Wednesday. Donations may be made to the Special Olympics Teams at Bachman Recreation Center, 2750 Bachman Dr, Dallas, TX 75220.

Harold Allspaw, 87, passed away Sunday, December 23, 2007. He worked for Braniff Airways for 40 years, was very active in his church and community and was loved by all who knew him. Memorial services will be held at 3 PM Saturday, January 5, 2008 at First United Methodist Church, 211 W. Third St., Irving. Interment will take place in Berne, Indiana.

Vera Naomi Wells, of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 27, 2007. She was born September 2, 1931 in San Angelo. Survivors include her husband Kenneth Wells of Irving; daughter Tracy Porter, husband Scott, and their daughter Alyssa of Austin; brother Roy McDaniel of Houston; and sisters Freda Holloway of Alvarado, and Ila Walters of Houston. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Earnest Walt officiating. Interment will follow at 2 PM at DFW National Cemetery. Visitation: 6-8 PM Tuesday, January 1, 2008. Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society for lung cancer research.

Geneva Gail Rokusek, of Euless, passed away Wednesday, December 26, 2007. She was born August 20, 1949 in Wynnewood, Oklahoma. Survivors include her ex-husband Stan Rokusek of Euless; mother Genevieve Ashmore of Irving; son Clinton Rokusek of Arlington; daughter Linda Rokusek of Euless; and sisters Alyce Peruski of Plano and Shirley Bonner of Irving. Graveside services will be held at 1 PM Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at Oaklawn Cemetery in Wynnewood.

Billy Tyce Shindoll, of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 20, 2007. He was born April 4, 1932 in Dallas. Survivors include his spouse of 56 years, June Shindoll of Irving; daughter Debra Guthrie and husband George of Burleson; son-in-law Bill Forston of Red Oak; grandchildren Tiffany Watkins of husband Hally of Grand Prairie, Brian Guthrie and wife Lynn of Glen Rose, Anthony Guthrie, and Roland Perez of Grand Prairie; great grandsons Taylor and Chandler Watkins; brothers Gene Shindoll and wife Bernice of Balch Springs, and Orvil Shindoll and wife Gloria of Kerens; and sister Joyce Campbell of Ft. Worth. Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM Saturday, December 22, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Joaquin Garrison officiating. He was laid to rest at Grove Hill Memorial Park next to his daughter Elizabeth Charlene Forston.

Cecil Fulmer passed away on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 to be reunited with his parents, Marcus and Betsy Fulmer and his daughter LeAnne. He was born March 24, 1926 in Royce City, Texas. Cecil’s career was spent in the chemical fertilizer business, serving in managerial positions with Armour, Inc. and Nipak, Inc. of Dallas. He served in Germany and France in World War II as a member the 75^th Infantry Division. He is survived by his wife Glenda, son Mark, and his sister Frances Hamrick. Services will be held at 11 AM Friday, December 21, 2007 at First Baptist Church – Irving, 403 S. Main with Rev. John Durham officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Rholand Henry “Hank” Carroll, of Irving, passed away Sunday, December 16, 2007. He was born September 19, 1926 in Yarnaby, Oklahoma. He enjoyed fishing, playing 42 and dominoes and swapping stories with family and friends. Survivors include his wife Charlene Carroll of Irving; sons Wade Carroll and wife Becky of Keller, and Dusty Carroll of Elmo, Texas; daughter Gaylen Carroll of Keller; grandchildren Durenda, Todd, and Greg Jonas, and Cory, Cody & Bobby Carroll; and 10 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10 AM Wednesday, December 19, 2007 at Church of Christ Beltline with Don Hatch officiating. Interment followed at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton.

Hatsune (Hattie) Yamada, age 105, and formerly of Irving, died peacefully at home with her daughter at her side, on 12/13/07. Hattie was born March 8, 1902, to Monnosuke Higuchi, born in Nishinomiya, Japan, and Tani Yamamura Higuchi, born in Hiroshima, Japan. She was preceded in death by Koichi (Kay) Yamada, her husband of 43 years, son Keizo Yamada, sister Momowe Higuchi, and brother Mitsuzi Higuchi.

Hattie and her husband lived in Ohio for 12 years and in Irving for 53 years. She moved to Houston in 2000 to be near her daughter and son-in-law, Yuri and Charles Streat, and together they moved to Casa Grande, Arizona in August of this year to be near other family members.

Hattie was most proud of her long career as a Sunday School teacher, beginning with a class of young boys when she was baptized and became a member of First Reformed Church in College Point, New York at age 17, and ending with a class of senior citizens at First United Methodist Church in Irving when the class dwindled (due to age) to only one member. Then the two of them joined another class together. Hattie joined the Methodist Church when they moved to Ohio and then joined the church in Irving. Her last church home was at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Houston. She was a Lifetime Member of United Methodist Women.

Hattie worked as a secretary for the federal government in the Office of Personnel Management for 15 years, where she won praise and respect, and retired at age 70. She was a member of several service and special interest organizations, and loved her volunteer work which kept her busy for many years. After retirement, she traveled extensively worldwide.

Hattie, the matriarch of five generations is survived by (in addition to her daughter and son-in-law) three grandchildren, Tani Delicia Salazar (Amir Motamedi), Toshi Hernan Salazar (Julia Yee Salazar), and Tami Kay Salazar Terry (Mike Terry), nine great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by brother Norimi Higuchi of Flushing, New York, nephew Donald Higuchi (Hilde Higuchi) and family of Yaphank, New York, cousin Martha Takata of Burlington, Ontario, Canada, nephew Fred Sakuda (Eiko Sakuda) and family of Montebello, California, and a host of friends.

The family wishes to express gratitude to Trinity Hospice of Houston, and especially Amy O’Neil, RN, Monica Hernandez, CAN, and Dr. Darryl R. Brown, and also to caregivers Esther O’Connor of Casa Grande, Esther Grant, and Shirley Mayon of Houston for their exceptionally tender and loving care.

Lorene Terry, of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 13, 2007. She was born January 9, 1928 in Tatum, Texas. She was a member of Loners On Wheels, and enjoyed traveling, hiking, yard work, watching and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, and doing things for others. Preceded in death by her husband Homer Terry, survivors include her sons Gary Terry and Dennis Terry, both of Irving; daughter Patricia Terry of Ft. Scott, Kansas; sisters Wanda Birch of Bethany, Oklahoma, and Juanita Davis of Mabank; grandchildren Misty Williams, Jason Gunn, Dorothy Lawrence, Rachel Lawrence, Tommy Dail and Morgan Dail; great grandchildren Phoebe Ogletree, Braydon Terry, and Audrey Gonzalez; and many camping friends. Funeral services were held at 3:00 PM Monday, December 17, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Rudolf Frank Kohut, of Hurst, passed away December 8, 2007. He was born February 2, 1928 in Cyclone, Texas. He was a member of SPJST and enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, grilling, and spending time with his grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Francis Kohut, brothers Joe and John, sisters Vlasta and Emily, and nephew John, Jr., survivors include his wife Agnes Frances Kohut of Hurst; daughters Melissa Howard of Flower Mound, Melinda Honey and husband Robert of Celina, Marlena Methner and husband Kevin of Hurst; and grandchildren Joshua and Amanda Honey, Matthew, Marcus, and Lucas Howard, and Melody Methner. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Friday, December 14, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at DFW National Cemetery. Visitation: 6-8 PM Wednesday.

Diane Mary Duruda, of Irving, passed away Wednesday, December 5, 2007. She was born August 20, 1955 in Providence, Rhode Island. Preceded in death by parents Manuel and Mary Duruda, survivors include nieces Christine Duruda and husband Walter Lundy of Garland, Carol Duruda and husband Kip Claridge of Lake Worth, Florida, and Gina Duruda of Irving; brother Gary Duruda of Irving; nephew Gary Duruda, Jr, and great nieces Heaven, Alexis, and Miracle Lundy. A memorial service will be held on Monday, December 17, 2007 at 7 PM at Family Worship Center, 1715 N. Britain Rd, Irving.

Frances “Louise” Freestone, of Irving, passed away Thursday, December 6, 2007. She was born September 19, 1926 in Falfurrias, Texas. Louise especially loved her grandchildren and the Dallas Cowboys. Survivors include her sons Timothy Freestone and wife Molly of Savannah, Texas, and Ronald Freestone and wife Donna of Ennis; sisters Mary Riddle of Dallas, and Elizabeth Sandlin of Arlington; 7 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 11:30 AM Saturday, December 8, 2007 at Calvary Hill Chapel in Dallas. Interment followed at Calvary Hill Cemetery.

Norma Lagatha Koch, of Irving, passed away Saturday, December 8, 2007. She was born October 3, 1934 in Oklahoma City. Preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, and brother; survivors include her sons Victor Hutcherson, Michael Hutcherson, and Tony Hutcherson; daughter Nedra Edwards; 6 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren.

Boatwright, Richard Daniel born July 1, 1952 passed away December 2, 2007. Danny will be remembered for his kind-hearted soul. Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Joan Boatwright, brother Tommy and nephew Craig. Survived by sister Linda and husband Larry Redden of Coppell, brother Jerry and wife Shannon of Ft. Worth, sister Karen of Irving, nieces Renee’, Amanda and Brittany, nephew Preston, great-niece Kirsten and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Danny loved his family, the Texas Rangers, and his faithful dog Spot. Memorial Mass will be held at 3:00 P.M. Friday, December 7, 2007 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church in Irving Reverend Thomas Cloherty officiating. Donations can be made to your local SPCA.

Perry, Lany Lane, 46 , beloved husband, father, brother, and son went to be with our Lord on Saturday, December 1^st, 2007. After a brief illness, he passed away at home, with his family at his side. Born to Dr. Litt and Bertha Perry in Midland, he moved to Irving in 1968. He graduated from Irving High School in 1980. A Certified Dental Technician, Lanny owned and operated Centric Ceramics Dental Laboratory in Irving. Preceded in death by his father, Dr. Litt Perry, survivors include his wife Pam, daughter Megan, and son Ryan, all of Irving; mother Bertha “Bea” Perry of Irving

; brother and sister-in-law Dr. William and Molly Perry of Saratoga, CA; sister and brother-in-law Cindy and Stuart Moriak of Irving; half-brother Eddie Schutte of Austin; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. The family will receive friends Tuesday, Dec. 4 from 6-8 p.m. at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. Lanny’s life will be celebrated on Wednesday, Dec. 5 at 11:00 a.m. at Irving Bible Church, 2435 Kinwest Pkwy, Irving, TX, 75063. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Lanny’s family would like to extend special thanks to everyone for their prayers and well wishes and for all of the renewed friendships during this difficult time. Pallbearers will be Dr. William Perry, Stuart Moriak, Alan Ainsworth, Scott Taylor, Randy Ellisor, and Keith Wilson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. www.pancan.org or charity of your choice.

Vera Estelle Brown, of Irving, Texas, passed away Friday, November 30, 2007. She was born November 16, 1914 in Vilonia, Arkansas. She is survived by her son: James R. Brown, of Grand Prairie; 2 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, December 3, 2007 at Beltline Road Church of Christ. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Louise Christine Johnson, of Irving, passed away Monday, November 26, 2007. She was born April 26, 1918 in Wichita Falls. Survivors include his sons Richard Johnson and wife Darline of Naperville, Illinois, and Howard Johnson and wife Carol of Castle Rock, Colorado; daughters Evelyn Hays and husband Robert of Irving, and Helen Teeple and husband Dwight of South Plains; brothers Marvin Koch of Denison, and Wilbert Koch of Lake Havasu, Arizona; sister Bertha Arnholt of Columbus, Indiana; 8 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, December 8, 2007 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2620 W. Grauwyler in Irving. Interment will follow at Laurel Land Memorial Park in Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Friday, December 7, 2007.

Dewey Kermit “Dewman” Kaylor, Jr, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, November 27, 2007. He was born December 30, 1941 in Newton, North Carolina. Preceded in death by his parents Dewey and Maude Kaylor, wife Linda Kaylor, children Jim West and Tonya West, sister Patricia Dunlap, and brothers Noel Kaylor and Gilbert Richards; survivors include daughters Sandra Bench and husband Greg, Pam Kaylor, Kelly Kaylor, and Michelle Kaylor and son Mark Kaylor; brothers Carl Kaylor, and James Kaylor; sister Kandace Rich; 4 grandchildren; one great grandchild; Tammy Harrison; Lindan; Jamie; and many “Brothers in the Wind”. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, December 1, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Benny Onza officiating. Visitation: 9 AM-1 PM Saturday prior to the service.

Dale Veenker, of Coppell, went to be with the Lord on November 22, 2007. He was born March 24, 1938 in Chancellor, South Dakota. Survivors include his wife Leota Veenker of Coppell; son Jeffrey Veenker and wife Kimberly of Southlake; daughter Cynthia Feldt and husband John, Jr. of Frisco; brother Don Veenker of Sand Springs, Oklahoma; and grandchildren Ashley, Taylor, Jackson, and Bennett. Funeral services will be held at 9:00 AM Tuesday, November 27, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Private interment will follow. Visitation: 6-8 PM Monday. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Gideons International Irving-Coppell Camp, P.O. Box 170395, Irving, TX 75017-0395.

Ola Faye McLemore, of Irving, passed away Thursday, July 20, 1925. She was born July 20, 1925 in St. Charles, Kentucky. Preceded in death by her parents John and Mervia Eli, brothers Winfield Eli and Lorne Eli, and sisters Bonnie Coyle Crick, Helen Franklin, Dot Camplin, and Lucille Riley; survivors include sons Jerry McLemore and wife Linda of Pace, Florida, and Owen McLemore of Josephine, Texas; daughters Violet Bennett and husband Gerald of Irving; and Ferry Weber of Josephine, Texas; 9 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, November 26, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 2-7 PM Sunday.

Maurita “Rita” J. Hammer, 61, of Irving, passed away at her home on Nov. 20, 2007. She was born March 15, 1946 in Hollis, OK to Buster and Donna Mills of Childress, TX. She was employed by the Irving Police Dept. for the past 19 years. She began her employment with the Police Dept. as a 911 operator and progressed to Computer Systems Coordinator. Rita was chosen as IPD Civilian of Fourth Quarter 2006 and Civilian of the Year 2006. She earned a Bachelor Degree in Business from Dallas Baptist University. Preceded in death by her parents, survivors include her husband of 40 years, William A. Hammer, son Michael Hammer, and grandchildren Alex and Alison Hammer, all of Irving; and sister Sandi Churchill of Rosanky, TX. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the IPD Officers Foundation, American Cancer Research, or Irving Humane Society.

After completing her life’s work with love, compassion and dignity, a country girl at heart has gone home to her Heavenly Father. Jo Dell Ritter, loving mother, grandmother, wife, sister, mother-in-law, aunt, friend and neighbor received her glorious reward on 11/19/2007. We unite to celebrate her life, and the love she gave so freely. Family was her passion, while cooking, gardening, reading and gambling (slot machines) were her joys and hobbies. Her life was truly an example of the scriptures as she loved her neighbors, treated everyone as she herself would like to be treated, and forgave without limits. Proceeded in death by Robert W. Hood & Ruth Elizabeth McCutcheon. Survived by husband Raymond Ozell Ritter of Irving; son Randy Ozell Ritter & Katherine –Musick of Irving; Son & wife Raymond Dale & Samantha Ritter of Lewisville, Texas; brother Jimmy Hood of Wolff City, Texas; sister Mary Ruth Hinsley of Quinlan, Texas; grandchildren Ryan & Kristen Ritter of Irving. Her warm smile and beautiful blue eyes will be missed, but the love she provided us, compassion that she shared with us and strength that she showed us will remain in our hearts and minds forever. We celebrate this beautiful woman’s life that was so well lived and cherish the love and memories that will always be with us. Funeral services 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, November 21^st at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Wally Williams officiating. Interment at Smith Cemetery, Irving, Texas.

Rita JoAnn Arnold, of Ft. Worth, passed away Saturday, November 17, 2007. She was born November 6, 1936 in Dallas. She was a member of South MacArthur Church of Christ. Preceded in death by her parents William Thomas Sitton and mother Geraldine Monkton; survivors include her son Thomas Arnold and wife Cindy, and daughter Mary Cooper and husband Tim, all of Irving; sister Martha Stanphill of Pilot Point; aunt Ardinell Hill; and grandchildren Amy Arnold, and Marissa and Megan Cooper, all of Irving. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at South MacArthur Church of Christ, 1401 S. MacArthur Blvd, Irving. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 6-8 PM Monday at the funeral home.

Tomie Bratcher, of Irving, passed away Saturday, November 17, 2007. She was born October 6, 1914 in Cooper, Texas. Preceded in death by her son Billy Ray Pamplin; survivors include her sister Doris Nichols of Irving; grandson Shelby Pamplin; and great grandson Christian Ray Pamplin. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation 7-9 PM Monday at the funeral home.

John Thomas Ritchie, of Hurst, passed away November 17, 2007. He was born February 24, 1942 in Denton. Preceded in death by his father J.V. Ritchie and mother Geraldine E. Fuller, and sister Imogene Ritchie Kilgore; survivors include his wife Florence Ritchie of Hurst; sons Charlie Webb of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Henry Webb; daughters Cynthia Mackay of Dallas, and Johnette Blount of Hurst; brothers James Ritchie and wife Vivian of Scrogging, Texas, Robert Ritchie and wife Gay of Denison, and Jerry Ritchie and wife Linda of Argyle; brother-in-law James Kilgore of Houston; 4 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. Interment will follow at 2:00 PM at Acres Cemetery in Sherman. Visitation: 6-9 PM Monday.

Natalie Silva, of Dallas, passed away Tuesday, November 13, 2007. She was born August 22, 2006 in Dallas. She is survived by her parents Oscar Silva and Olga Jaquelin Esquivel of Dallas; and sisters Jasmin Esquivel of Dallas, and Jessica Esquivel of Irving. The family will have a prayer service from 10:30 AM-12:30 PM on Friday, November 16, 2007at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at 1:00 PM at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Ernest Edwin Clark, of Irving, passed away Sunday November 11, 2007. He was born December 1, 1927 in Longview, Texas. He was an insurance auditor and retired from Trinity Universal Insurance after over 20 years. After retirement, he managed storage facilities for 12 years. He had lived in this area for 15 years and enjoyed fishing. Preceded in death by his parents Reese and Mildred Clark, brother Glen Reese Clark, and great grandson Mathew Bailey Sanford, survivors include his wife Dorothy Clark of Irving; son Steven Clark and wife Tina of Pottsboro; daughter Donna Hanna and husband Ben of Irving; 5 grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to Donna’s home for visitation from 1-4 PM on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 1900 Covey Ct, Irving.

Jeanette Smith, of Irving, passed away Friday, Nov. 9, 2007. She was born August 10, 1943 in Temple. She is survived by her former husband Glenn Waters; sons Wendell Waters and Dale Waters, both of Irving; daughters Pamela Dewitt of Bedford, and Marsha Lamphere of Cadillac, Michigan; brothers Alford Simek and Leroy Simek, both of Waco, and Victor Simek of Rosebud; sisters Wilma Bane of Buckholts, Texas, and Vlasta Machalicek of Waco; 6 grandchildren; and 6 great grandchild. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at Waco Memorial Funeral Home in Waco. Interment will follow at Waco Memorial Park.

Virginia L. Jacobs, of North Richland Hills, Texas, passed away Tuesday, November 6, 2007. She was born April 6, 1934 in Wakarusa, Indiana. Preceded in death by her husband Tom Moser and son Tom Moser, Jr., survivors include her son Kenneth Wayne Moser; daughter-in-law Teresa Ann Moser of Elkhart; sister Nora Wade of Elkhart; nephew Ralph Jacobs of Arlington, Texas; grandchildren Lashonda Ann Moser and Tom M. Moser, III of Elkhart, and Jimmy Lee Moser of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and great grandchildren Madison Moser and Tyler Banks, both of Elkhart. Graveside services were held at 11 AM Monday, November 12, 2007 at Laurel Land Memorial Park in Dallas.

Sylvia Simpson of Flower Mound passed away October 29, 2007 in Dallas. She was born on February 19, 1946 in Vernon, Texas. She worked for Irving Independent School District and was a member of Irving Bible Church. She is survived by husband Benny Simpson of Flower Mound; son Shannon Simpson and wife Alison of Ft. Worth; sisters Carol Kilman of Irving; & Sherry Fincher of Wichita Falls; sister-in-law Barby Goodlett of Houston; Brother-in-law Scotty Simpson of Wichita Falls; one grandchild, Keller Simpson of Irving; nephews Ryan Fincher of Wichita Falls; Justin Fincher of Lubbock; John Mccallum of Arlington; nieces Toni Campbell of Wichita Falls; Amy Jeffcoat of Albany, Georgia; and Leslie Latham of Oklahoma. Memorial services were held on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at Irving Bible Church with Pastor Andy McQuitty officiating.

Billy Guy Clement of Irving passed away October 30, 2007. He was born on October 3, 1923 in Valley View, Texas. He was a member of St. Stephen’s Presbyterian Church in Irving past member of the Masonic Lodge and member of The Irving Rotary Club. He is survived by wife Shirley Clement of Irving; son David Clement and wife Chris of Frisco; son Kevin Montgomery and wife Kerry of Burleson; daughter Karen and husband Gerald Farris of Irving; brother John D. Clement of Lewisville; sister Mildred Read of Bedford and 3 grandchildren.The family will receive friends from 6 to 9 P.M. Friday at the funeral home. Funeral services to be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, November 3, 2007 at St. Stephens Presbyterian Church with interment to follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens

Lucille Pritchett, of Irving, passed away Wednesday, October 24, 2007. She was born July 23, 1919 in College Station. Preceded in death by her husband, Paschal Pat. Pritchett in 1998, and her daughter Carol Ames in 2003, survivors include her sons Larry Pritchett of Burnet, and Kenneth Pritchett of Irving; daughters Margaret Hull of Naples, and Connie Gerbig of Huntsville; sisters Frances Clem, and Mary Osborne , both of Dallas, and Dorothy Lough of Marble Hills, Missouri; 8 grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, October 31, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Pastor Wayne Brashear officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park, Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 Pm Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Rowlett Animal Adoption, P.O. Box 736, Rowlett, TX 75030.

Margaret “Peggy” Goodgame, of Grapevine, passed away Monday, October 22, 2007. She was born January 30, 1933 in Washington, DC. Preceded in death by her husband Billy Bentley Goodgame in 1990, survivors include her sons Jeff Goodgame of Irving, and Dave Goodgame of Houston; daughter Karen Clark of Ft. Morgan, Colorado; brothers Wallace Campbell of Thurmont of Maryland and Robert Campbell of Cape Coral, Florida; sisters Nancy Manos of Laurel, Maryland, and Janet Ebersole of Columbia, Maryland; and 4 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, October 26, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at 2:00 PM at Goodgame Cemetery in Athens, Texas. Visitation will be 7-9 PM Thursday.

Doris Ann Hunt, of Irving, passed away Monday, October 22, 2007. She was born November 22, 1919 in Dallas. Preceded in death by her husband Claude Hunt in 2003, survivors include her sons Lawrence Hunt of Irving, and Ronald Hunt of Arlington; 1 grandchild, and 1 great grandchild. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, October 25, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Earnest Walt officiating. Interment will follow at Wheatland Cemetery in Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Wednesday.

Jerry Dale Callison, of Irving, went to be with the Lord on October 23, 2007. He fought a good fight, he finished his course, he kept the faith! 2 Timothy 4:7 He was born July 29, 1960 in Nowata, Oklahoma. Survivors include his wife Glenda Callison of Irving; mother Thelma Meacham of Cambridge, Idaho; son Jerry Callison, Jr, and daughter Christina Callison, both of Mesquite; 1 brother; and 6 sisters.

Edward Allen Bridges of Irving passed away October 22, 2007 at his home. He was born on June 2, 1926 in Dallas, Texas. He is survived by wife Dorothy Bridges of Irving; sons Boyd Fredregill and wife Audry of Grand Prairie, and Roger Keith and wife Susan of Killeen; daughters Beverly Fredregill of Ennis, Joyce Shankles and husband Thomas of Irving, Shirley Barfield and husband Danny of Arlington, and Debbie Holcomb and husband James of Terrell; brother James Bridges and wife Betty of Denver, Colorado; 16 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM Friday, October 26, 2007 at Plymouth Park Baptist Church, 1714 S. Story Rd, Irving, with Rev. Ken Branam officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 1-9 PM Thursday at the funeral home.

Stephen Howard Wilkinson, 50 year old son of Howard and Mary Jo Wilkinson, passed away Wednesday, October 17, 2007. He was born August 25, 1957 in Denton. Stephen was a member of Preston Rd. Church of Christ in Dallas and a part of a small business. He will be sorely missed by his many friends and family. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, October 23, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home with Mr. Walt Minchew officiating. Interment will follow at Crown Hill Memorial Park in Dallas.

William E. Fredd, Jr, of Dallas, passed away Thursday, Oct. 18, 2007. He was born Sept. 19, 1914 in Bloomington, Indiana. Preceded in death by his son Edward A. Fredd, our sweet and loving Pee Paw is survived by his wife Mary Alice Fredd of Dallas; son David Fredd and wife Connie of Keller; daughter-in-law Suzy Fredd of Irving; 5 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren. Graveside services: 11:30 AM Mon, Oct. 22, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens, 1413 E. Irving Blvd, Irving. Visitation: 10-11 AM Mon, at the funeral home.

Al Zady Looper, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, October 16, 2007. He was born July 20, 1920 in Dallas. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Irving and the Masonic Lodge. Preceded in death by his wife Mabelle, survivors include his nephews and nieces John Looper, Joel and Margaret Looper, Larry and Becky Young, and John and Tammy Newbern, and numerous great nephews and nieces. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, October 20, 2007 at First United Methodist Church, 211 W. 3^rd St, Irving with Rev. David Turner officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park, Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Friday at the funeral home.

Richard Guy Fowler, of Irving, passed away Thursday, October 18, 2007. He was born January 13, 1920 in McKinney. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Irving, and VFW Post 4477, and enjoyed fishing, camping, gardening, and dancing. Preceded in death by his parents E.E. and Grace Fowler, brother Wilson Fowler, sister Oma Bolin, and wife Mildred Fowler, survivors include his son James Richard Fowler of Irving; daughter Mary Moloughney and husband Edward of Dallas; 4 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; sister-in-law Emma Kathryn Beck; and nieces, nephews, and cousins. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, October 23, 2007 at Brown's Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Monday at the funeral home.

Kenneth Boyd Branch, of Irving, passed away Wednesday, October 17, 2007. He was born November 12, 1930 in Mt. Vernon, Texas. He was a member of Oak View Baptist Church in Irving. Survivors include his wife Peggy Branch of Irving; sons Ken Branch and wife Bobbi of Irving, and Rob Branch and wife Rhonda, of Grapevine; daughter Regina Kenemore and husband Tim of Irving; brothers Don Branch and Glen Branch, both of Dallas, and Ronald Branch of Carrollton; 7 grandchildren; and 4 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, October 22, 2007 at Oak View Baptist Church, 1004 S. Story Rd. with Dr. Jim Gerlach officiating. Interment will follow at DFW National Cemetery, Dallas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Sunday at the funeral home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Oakview Baptist Church – Continuing the Vision, Phase II.

Vera Marshall, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, October 16, 2007. She was born November 15, 1914 in Stamford, Texas. She was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Irving. Survivors include her daughters Sue Peddy of Irving, and Linda Roberts of Raymore, Missouri; 4 grandchildren; and 4 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Friday, October 19, 2007 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2620 W. Grauwyler, Irving. Interment will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, October 20, 2007 at Bethel Lutheran Church Cemetery, Avoca, Texas. Visitation: 7-9 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Albert Klokau, of Irving, passed away Friday, October 12, 2007. He was born July 15, 1920. He belonged to Southside Baptist Church and was a member of Irving Masonic Lodge 1218. He is survived by his wife Myrtle Estele Klokau; son Jerry Allen and his wife Shelia; grandson James Allen; and sister Cherie Grossman. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, October 16, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with interment to follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 6-9 PM Monday at the funeral home.

Larry Gene Kroening, of Irving, passed away Monday, October 8, 2007. He was born April 8, 1940 in Durant, Iowa. He was a member of South MacArthur Church of Christ and enjoyed fishing. Preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Viola Kroening, survivors include his wife Naomi Kroening of Irving; brother Ronnie Kroening of Irving; and sister Karen Ross of Davenport, Iowa. Memorial services will be held at 7:00 PM Friday, October 12, 2007 at South MacArthur Church of Christ Chapel, 1401 S. MacArthur Blvd, Irving.

Samuel Thaddeus “Thad” Hancock, Jr. passed away Tuesday, October 9, 2007. He was born January 6, 1920 in Lumberton, North Carolina. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Irving, Delta Pioneers, a volunteer with Baylor-Irving, and Frontiers of Flight Museum. Preceded in death by his daughter Diane Hancock, survivors include his wife Martha Hancock of Irving; sons Donald Hancock of DeSoto, and Alan Hancock and wife Evette of Lindale, Texas; daughter Lynn Barrett and husband Robert of Pollock, Louisiana; and 3 grandchildren. Memorial services were held at 11:00 AM Thursday, October 11, 2007 at First Presbyterian Church in Irving with Dr. Truman Warren officiating. Interment at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens preceded the services. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Diane Hancock Memorial College Scholarship Fund, % Maggie Evans, 3818 Twin Falls, TX 75062.

Mildred Elizabeth Cornett, of Irving, passed away Saturday, October 6, 2007. She was born December 17, 1922 in Austin. Mildred enjoyed photography and traveling. Preceded in death by parents Ancel and Edna Dieterich; brother Wilbur Dieterich, and sister Edna Jewell Mitchell; survivors include her husband Donald M. Cornett of Irving; sons Donald M. Cornett, Jr. of Irving, and Richard A. Cornett and wife Kay of Frisco; brothers James Dieterich and wife Shirley of Austin, Jerry Dieterich and wife Jenny of Ft. Worth, and Eugene Dieterich and wife Fran of Waco; sisters Florence Joch and husband Ralph of Austin, and Dorothy Henshaw and husband Acey of Jacksonville, Florida; granddaughter Sherry Rowland and husband Al; great granddaughter Lauren Roush of Frisco; Mary Cathryn Cornett; Eugene Cornett; and Ray Cornett, all of Quintana, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 5-8 PM Friday.

Frank Rovello, of Irving, passed away Friday, October 5, 2007. He was born January 7, 1915 in Waco. He was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Preceded in death by his wife Esther Rovello in 1994, survivors include his sons Jim Rovello of Irving, and Dan Rovello of Framers Branch; and 1 grandchild. Graveside services were held at 1:00 PM Monday, October 8, 2007 at Calvary Hill Cemetery in Dallas.

Ronald Eugene Keith, of Irving, passed away Sunday, October 7, 2007. He was born November 24, 1934 in Wichita, Kansas. Survivors include his wife Betty Joyce Keith of Irving; son Gregory Alan Keith of Richardson; daughters Cindy Doles and husband Dennis of Richardson, and Katherine Smith and husband Mark of Wichita; brother Elvin Keith of Wichita; and 5 grandchildren. No local services are planned. Burial will be in Wichita, Kansas.

Irving resident Ruby Norice Hodges died of complications from cancer at the age of 81 on Friday, October 5, 2007. She had lived in Irving for 53 years. Ms. Hodges was born March 31, 1926 in Terrell, Texas the third child of Omar and Jessie Lee Zink. The family moved to Dallas during the Great Depression. She graduated from Crozier Technical High School in 1944 and began working for the Southwestern Bell Telephone Company shortly thereafter. In 1945 she married her childhood sweetheart, Eugene Edward Hodges, while he was on leave from service in the Navy during WWII. In 1954 the young couple moved to Irving, where they raised two children. Following her divorce in 1977, Ms. Hodges managed exclusive apartment properties in Dallas for several years, and then took up a career tailoring suits for Graham’s, an upscale men’s clothing store, until her retirement in 1992.

Ruby Hodges had a remarkable spirit and zest for life. Her warm sense of humor, thoughtfulness, generosity and fun-loving personality won her many life-long friends. She was exceptionally talented and excelled in sewing, knitting, quilting, crochet, upholstery, and stuffed animal creations. While she used this talent to make a living for many years, she preferred to create beautiful and unique pieces that were essentially works of art as gifts for her friends and family.

Ruby Hodges battled lung cancer for more than five years, but through great determination and toughness she carried on with a full and rich life right through her final days. In her last year of life, she made nearly 2000 rosaries for a Catholic missionary and relief organization.

Ruby Hodges is survived by her son Richard Edward Hodges of Claremont, California; daughter Cynthia Maloney-Marlar of Grand Prairie; sisters Doris Rebolt of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Pat Ritchey of Nocona, Texas; 5 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Katherine Borkovich; son-in-law Mike Marlar; and brother-in-law Grady Ritchey. Graveside services were held at 10:00 AM Monday, October 8, 2007 at Grove Hill Memorial Park in Dallas, where she was laid to rest beside her beloved mother.

Leroy Waggoner, of Flower Mound, passed away September 30, 2007. He was born January 25, 1915 in Era, Texas to Joseph Ransom “Rance” and Ninnie Rae Waggoner. He grew up in Era and Gainesville. Leroy married Vivian Eileen Allen in March, 1938. They lived in Dallas and Irving throughout their adult life. For many years, Leroy and Vivian were members of the Longhorn Bottle Club. Mr. Waggoner was a Master Mason with the Grand Lodge of Texas for more than 50 years. He worked as a bricklayer for many years and became a construction superintendent for Mayor Bob Folsom and then Kaiser Aluminum until he retired. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Paul Waggoner, and sister Imogene Sheppard, survivors include daughters Donna Carter of Edgewood, and Sharon Parks and husband Ray of Arkansas; son Roy Waggoner and wife Terry of Highland Village; half-brother Bill Waggoner and wife Sharon of Gainesville; sisters Helen Kent of Lufkin, and Naomi Carpenter of Wichita, Kansas; 6 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 PM Wednesday, October 3, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Wallace Philpot officiating. Interment will follow at Wheatland Cemetery in Dallas.

Barry Brown, of Irving, passed away Sunday, September 30, 2007. He was born January 19, 1970 in Dallas. He is survived by his son Charles Brown of Irving; brothers Terry Brown of Mabank, and Gary Brown of Irving; and nephews Brandon, Michael, and Ryan. No services are planned.

Bennie Lincoln Robinson, Jr., of Irving, passed away Sunday, September 23, 2007. He was born July 13, 1922 in Wichita Falls. He was a HUMP pilot during WWII in China, Burma, and India and was involved in the first Hydrogen Bomb test. He also flew B52 Bombers with the Strategic Air Command for many years and retired as Lt. Col. from the Air Force in 1970. Bennie was a member of the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed his grandchildren, reading, and watching old westerns on television. He was a Master Tax Advisor for H&R Block for 30 years. The family invites you to visit "www.bennierobinson.com" to see more about his life. Preceded in death by his parents Bennie L. and Nettie E. Robinson, and sister Jennie Elizabeth Robinson Spray; survivors include his wife Louise P. Robinson of Irving; son Alfred B. Robinson and wife Suchada K. of Denison and their daughters Michael, Jeanne, Audrey, and Beatrice; son Harvey L. Robinson of Irving; daughter Mary K. Cordell and husband Charles of Frost, Texas and their sons Kelly and Kyle; brother Robert M. Robinson of Katy, Texas; and sisters-in-law Gene Robinson, and Ruth P. Gwinn. Inurnment services were held at 9 AM Tuesday, October 2, 2007 at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas.

Jeanice Kay Young, of Irving, passed away Monday, September 24, 2007. She was born December 12, 1960 in McKinney. She was a member of First Baptist Church-Irving and enjoyed bible studies, women’s retreats and boating. Survivors include her husband Christopher Young of Irving; sons Chris Young of Irving, and Brandon Mora of Louisiana; stepsons Clay Young and wife Stephanie of The Colony, and Clint Young and wife Kate of Saginaw; brothers Ray Tumey and wife Debbie of Austin, and Eddie Gene Tumey of Dallas; sisters Teresa Lamb of Haltom City, and Dore Jean of Vancouver, Washington; 1 grandchild, and one on the way; father and mother in-law Ted and Jane Young of Mesquite; brother-in-law Rick Young of McKinney; and nephew Mattison Young. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, September 28, 2007 at First Baptist Church, 403 S. Main St., Irving.

Nancy Carolyn Smith, of Irving, passed away September 21, 2007. She was born November 6, 1942 in Dallas. She was a member of South MacArthur Church of Christ, the Class of 1961 Girls Club of Irving, and enjoyed singing and homemaking. Nancy and her husband Jackie had just celebrated their 45^th wedding anniversary on September 8^th. Others survivors include her sons Greg Smith and wife Julie of Irving, and Cris Smith and wife Torre of Waxahachie; and grandchildren Garrett, Hailey, Taylor, and Taryn. Funeral services were held at 10 AM Monday, September 24, 2007 at South MacArthur Church of Christ with Mr. Tim Lewis and Dr. Grady King officiating. Interment followed at Trinity Cemetery in Wilmer, Texas.

Jennings T. Smith. Born April 25, 1929 in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jennings T. Smith recently passed away at Baylor Medical Center at Irving in Irving, Texas,due to complications from a stroke. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Flor A. Smith, his two daughters, Kathryn Ryan of The Woodlands, Tex., and Cinda Koehler of Doylestown, Penn., and four grandsons.

Jennings attended college in Washington, D.C., and held an A.B. in accounting, a Juris Doctor in Law, and a Master's of Law. After military service during the Korean conflict, he served for five years in the Office of Chief Counsel at the Internal Revenue Service in Washington, D.C., first as a trial attorney and then as a legislative attorney drafting tax legislation with the U.S. Congress.
In 1994 he was awarded the Lars Ehnebuske award from the Irving Academy of Community Services. Memorial Service is 3:00 PM Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church, Irving, TX. Visitation is 6-8 PM Monday, September 17, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Irving Healthcare Foundation or to Plymouth Park United Methodist Church.

George Arthur Gross, Jr. of Irving, passed away Sunday, September 16, 2007. He was born November 7, 1944 in Decatur, Illinois. He is survived by his daughter Molly Farr and son Mark Gross. Services will be at a later date. Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family.

Yancey, W. Kenneth of Irving, passed away Saturday September 15, 2007. He was born April 22, 1928 in Brookhaven, Mississippi and had been a resident of Irving since 1958. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Billie Sue Yancey, originally of Sicily Island Louisiana; son W. Kenneth Yancey , Jr. and wife Alicia of Ashburn, Va.; daughter Karen Yancey Wilson and husband Walter of Granbury; three grandchildren W. Kenneth Yancey, III, Heath A. Yancey and Sarah Grace Wilson; and a sister Mignonne White of Baton Rouge, LA as well as many close friends.

Yancey joined Southwest Bank and Trust in Irving in 1958 and retired as Chairman and CEO of InterFirst Bank Irving, Las Colinas and DFW Freeport. He was most recently Vice Chairman of the Board of Bank of the West. Ken was an active civic leader having served in the following leadership roles: former President of the Board of Irving Community Hospital (now Baylor Medical Center at Irving), past Chairman Irving/Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce and Irving Symphony Assoc, past President Irving Rotary, former Lions Club member, former board member of Lighthouse for the Blind and Circle Ten Council of the Boy Scouts of America. He was also a veteran and a long time member of Plymouth Park United Methodist Church.

In 1994 he was awarded the Lars Ehnebuske award from the Irving Academy of Community Services. Memorial Service is 3:00 PM Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church, Irving, TX. Visitation is 6-8 PM Monday, September 17, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Irving Healthcare Foundation or to Plymouth Park United Methodist Church.

Martha Elizabeth “Betty” Kemmerly, of Irving, passed away Friday, September 14^th. 2007. She was born December 17, 1927 in Memphis, Tennessee. Survivors include former husband Richard C. Kemmerly of Irving; daughter Cynthia Ashburn-Brock of Kingman, AZ; daughter Cathy Kemmerly of Irving; granddaughter Aleigha Frazier and husband Trent of Wylie, and their soon to be born daughter Hannah Josephine (Betty’s first Great Grandchild); grandson Cpl. Chase Martin Ashburn of the US Marine Corps. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at Woodhaven Presbyterian Church. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Operation Kindness-Animal Shelter, Carrollton,TX in lieu of flowers.

Mary Louise Sowell Crowder passed away on Tuesday, September 11, 2007 while in a nursing facility in Irving, TX. She was 95. Mary Louise and Horace M. had four children, Mary Faith; Horace; Betty Sue and David. Preceded in death by her husband Horace Crowder in 1992, daughter Betty Sue Crowder, and son Horace Crowder, Jr; survivors include daughter Mary Faith of Santa Barbara, CA; Eva Crowder, Horace's widow, of Irving; son David and wife Pat of Ft. Worth; 8 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Born in San Antonio September 4, 1912 to parents Bessie George and Earnest Sowell, Mary Louise lived in Dallas for many years and most recently in Marble Falls. Her life interests centered in art; ceramics and oil painting; and Christian work within the Baptist Church and Child Evangelism Fellowship. Interment is to be at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 15, 2007 at Laurel Land Memorial Park, 6000 S. R.L. Thornton Frwy, Dallas.

William P. Esslinger, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, September 11, 2007. He was born November 15, 1911 in Ft. Smith, Arkansas. William was a member of Rotary for over 50 years with perfect attendance for 50 years. He was the First Division Manager for Southwestern States Telephone Co. which was later acquired by Verizon. He was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus and enjoyed playing bridge. He was preceded in death by his wife Marie Esslinger in 1990. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM Thursday, September 13, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Father Aidan O’Donovan officiating. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, September 14, 2007 at Ft. Smith National Cemetery, Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Visitation: Thursday until service time.

Claude Alexander Wheat, Jr., of Irving, passed away Saturday, September 8, 2007. He was born December 3, 1934 in Albany, Oklahoma. He is survived by his wife Shirley Wheat of Irving; sister Annetta Koster of Modesto, California; and a host of family members and friends. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, September 13, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Visitation: 6-8 PM Wednesday at the funeral home.

Ruth J. Thixton, 87, passed away early Saturday 9/8/07 after a lenghty illness in Irving, TX. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter & Mathilde Hansen, sisters and husbands, Eunice and Gilbert Erbach (New Holstein, WI) Eliene & Charles Altmann (Two Rivers, WI) brother Gilbert & Arlyne Hansen (New Holstein, WI), sister-in-law, Grace Hansen (Kiel, WI). Ruth joined her husband of 57 years, Jim Thixton in Heaven on this day. She is survived by sons, Michael Thixton of Mineral Wells, TX; Patrick Thixton of Irving, TX; daughters Kathleen Hickey of Mineral Wells, TX & Sandra Finley of Grand Prairie, TX; brothers Charles Hansen, New Holstein, WI; Eugene & wife, Maria Hansen also of new Holstein, WI. Mrs. Thixton is survived by 7 grandchildren & 6 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Her children wish to thank Vitas Hospice staff for the care and comfort provided during this transition. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, American Lung Association or Vitas Hospice.

Odas Lee Walker of Irving passed away September 11, 2007 in Irving. He was born on June 2, 1919 in Henrietta, Texas. He loved bowling and horses. Survived by wife Lena Walker of Irving; sons Ronnie Walker of Irving; Nathan Walker of Iredell, Texas; daughter and son-in-law Dianne & Mickey Winchester of Iredell, Texas; 6 grandchildren;12 great-grandchildren and special friends Freddie & Dale Davenport. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Funeral services will be at 1:00 P.M. Friday, September 14^th at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Earnest Walt officiating. Interment will follow at 2:30 P.M. at DFW National Cemetery.

Edna Lucille Reiter, of Irving, passed away Thursday, September 6, 2007. She was born June 8, 1908 in Kingman, Kansas. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Irving and also the Irving Garden Club. She married Raymond Frank Reiter on June 1, 1930 and he preceded her in death. Survivors include her son Daryl Reiter and wife Elaine of Irving; 2 grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, September 10, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Candy Caballero, of Irving, passed away Thursday, August 30, 2007. She was born February 2, 1940 in Dallas. Survivors include her daughters Debra Bruce of Dallas, Rosemary Caballero of Dallas, Belinda Rojas of Mesquite, and Lupita Gracia of Dallas; sons Marcos Caballero, Jr. of Irving, and Rogelio Caballero of Dallas; brother Daniel Garcia of Irving; sister Mary Helen Dawson of Balch Springs; brother Leon Garcia of Irving; sister-in-law Irma Crockett; 15 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; and a host of special nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 12:00 PM Saturday, September 1, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Tommye Josephine Pearcy Staton of Irving died September 3, 2007 in Irving. Ms. Staton was born July 21, 1926 in Stephenville, Texas (Erath County). She retired as a buyer from Ceco Corporation in 1986. She was active in Girl Scouting, as a volunteer for 12 years and served as Volunteer Vice President with the Tejas Council of Dallas during the 1970’s. Ms. Staton was preceded in death by husband Clifford of 52 years. She is survived by daughter Lisa Amelia Pomroy of Colleyville; two grandchildren, Callie Amelia Pomroy and Jacob Richard Pomroy; sister Marguerite Arthur of Denver Colorado; brother A. R. Pearcy of Olney, Texas and a host of nieces; nephews; sisters-in-law and special friends Barbra and Clarence Holub. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday, September 6^th at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Jose Reyes, of Irving, passed away Thursday, August 30, 2007. He was born October 13, 1930 in El Salvador. Survivors include his wife Estebana Reyes of Irving; sons Carlos Reyes, Oscar Reyes, and Filimon Reyes, all of Irving; daughters Julia Reyes, and Martha Rivas, both of Irving, Rosa Cruz and Marlene Flores , both of Virginia, and Maria Guevara and Gladis Salazar, both of El Salvador; 3 brothers; 5 sisters; and 22 grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 9:00 AM Saturday, September 1, 2007 at Iglesia Santa Maria de Guadalupe in Irving. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Michael Anthony Benavidez of Irving passed away August 26, 2007 in Dallas. He was born on

August 17, 1960 in Waco, Texas. He is survived by wife Angie Cantu of Irving; parents Garland Benavidez and Gloria Romo; sons Michael Benavidez, Jr. of Plano; Justin Benavidez of Irving; daughter Misty Hulet of Irving; step-daughter Rita Gloria Jerry of Plano; brothers Eugene Benavidez of England; Donald Benavidez of Irving; Ralph Romo of Dallas; Garland Benavidez, Jr. of Dallas; sister Lisa Hulet of Waxahachie and 5 grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, August 30th at Brown's Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Russell and Robert Romo officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Eldon D. Lee, of Irving, passed away Friday, August 24, 2007. He was born August 23, 1919 in Lampasas County, Texas. Survivors include sons James D. Lee, and Brent Lee, both of Irving; daughters Peggy Hughes of Euless, and Frances Pierce of Grand Prairie; sister Faye Howell of Coleman; 6 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild. Graveside services will be held at 2 PM on Tuesday, August 28, 2007 at Pilgrims Rest Cemetery, Evant, Texas. Visitation: 6-8 PM Monday at the funeral home.

Bill Grantland, beloved husband, father, and brother went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 23, 2007. He was born December 5, 1930 in Dallas and was a longtime Irving resident. Bill served four years in the US Navy on an ammunition ship during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on April 30, 1954. After leaving the Navy, Bill served his apprenticeship as a bricklayer under the G.I. Bill. After a few months, he became a contractor and was a builder and developer for many years. He was smart, witty, and a great leader. Bill loved gold and his golfing friends. He also loved Fellowship Church and his walk with the Lord since joining the church. He loved to travel and he loved life. He will be missed by family and friends. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Jo Grantland; daughter Kerri Martella of San Diego, California; sons Steve Grantland and wife Kara, and Mac Grantland and wife Alexia, all of Colleyville; brother Tommy Grantland and wife Billie of Irving; and grandchildren Tyler, Zachery, Cade, Brynlie, and Gavin. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Monday, August 27, 2007 at Fellowship Church, 2450 Hwy. 121 N, Grapevine. Interment will follow at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park, Colleyville. Visitation: 6-8 PM Sunday at the funeral home. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Baylor Cancer Center or Fellowship Church.

Mamie “Pauline” Gregory, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, August 21, 2007. She was born April 23, 1919 in Forney, Texas. Preceded in death by her husband Curtis Gregory on August 23, 1998, survivors include her sons Curtis Gregory, Jr., and Richard Gregory and wife Rachael, all of Irving; daughter Martha Brann and husband Travis of Cedar Hill; brother Don Davis of Houston; sisters Lou Blackwood of Roxton, and Linda Davis of Brownwood; 6 grandchildren; and 7 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday, August 25, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Pastor Chad Burton officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Dallas. Visitation: 7-9 PM Friday at the funeral home.

Mary Roberta Reeder, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, August 21, 2007. She was born December 16, 1923 in Opalika, Alabama. Survivors include her sons Perry Reeder and wife Janet of Irving, Steve Reeder and wife Yolanda of Ft. Worth, and William Reeder and wife Jeannette of Irving; sisters Marfa and Gail; 4 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. Graveside services were held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, August 22, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Jerry Jan Stout, of Irving passed away Saturday August 18, 2007. He was born June 20, 1942 in Cedar Hill. Jerry enjoyed collecting knives, walking, watching old movies, and hunting. Survivors include his wife Mary Stout of Irving; son Jerry J. Stout, Jr. of Irving; 6 sisters; 5 brothers; 9 nieces; and 10 nephews. Graveside services: 2:30 PM Tuesday, August 21, 2007 at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas.

Lillian Matthews Austin, of Irving, passed away Sunday, August 19, 2007. She was born April 6, 1905 in Temple. Preceded in death by her husband Guy B. Austin, Sr. in 1975 and her son Guy Austin, Jr. in 2000, survivors include her daughter Lill Coleman of Irving; 8 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren. Funeral services: 1:00 PM Wednesday, August 22, 2007 at First United Methodist Church, 311 W. 3^rd St, Irving, with Rev. James Hathorn and Rev. Chris Allen officiating. Interment: Laurel Land Memorial Park, Dallas. Visitation: 6:30-8 PM Tuesday at the funeral home.

Phyllis Jean Jessup, of Irving, passed away Thursday, August 16, 2007. She was born November 19, 1921, the youngest of five girls, to Jessie Mulford Rosenberry and Lewis James Rosenberry on a farm in Cooperstown, N.Y. She graduated from high school in Corning, N.Y. and was employed by the American LaFrance Foamite Corporation of Elmira, N.Y. as a secretary. She married Keith Jessup and they moved to Dallas where she worked for Textile, Inc. After the birth of their two daughters, she was involved with PTA, Girl Scouts, teaching Sunday school, and was active in the Braniff Auxiliary. She was later employed at the Child Care Center of the First United Methodist Church as a pre-school and kindergarten teacher. Preceded in death by her husband Keith, she leaves behind two beloved daughters and their families; Linda Stanberry and husband Dean of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Carole Lanier and husband Larry of Krum; grandchildren Brad Jones of Little Rock, Amy Jones of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Jason Mershon of Irving, Ashley Mershon of Austin, and Collin Poston of Krum; and nephew Robert Deneen. Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM Monday, August 20, 2007 at First United Methodist Church in Irving. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Arrangements were made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home. Phyllis will be remembered for her generosity and selflessness, her positive spirit, her wonderful sense of humor, her nurturing and encouragement, and most of all, her love for her family. If it were possible to order up the perfect mother and grandmother, she would be just like Phyllis. She was always there to help, encourage, and to make it all better, no matter what the problem. She carried on this nurturing and inspiring spirit as she touched the lives of hundreds of children through her work in Sunday school, kindergarten, and Girl Scouts. In a time where positive role models are sorely needed, we could do no better than to point to that sweet and lovely spirit, Phyllis Jessup.

Elizabeth Bolton DeSoto, of Irving, passed away Friday, August 10, 2007. She was born October 30, 1933 in Sayre, Pennsylvania. Survived by her husband Jack DeSoto of Irving, son Stephen DeSoto of Byron, NY, daughters Mary Ellen Tette of Auburn, NY and Kathy Cleveland of Irving. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 10:00 AM Tuesday, August 14, 2007 at St. Luke Catholic Church, Irving. Interment at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Watkins Glen, New York. A Rosary was held at the funeral home on Monday at 7:00 P.M.

Marcos R. Caballero, of Dallas, passed away Thursday, August 9, 2007. He was born April 25, 1937 in New Braunfels. Survivors include his wife Candy Caballero of Dallas; sons Marcos Caballero, Jr., of Irving, and Rogelio Caballero of Dallas, daughters Rosemary Caballero of Dallas, Belinda Rojas of Mesquite, Debra Bruce of Dallas, and Lupita Gracia of Dallas; brothers Eugene Caballero, Jesse Caballero, Jose Caballero, and Gabino Caballero; sisters Odelia Gutierrez, Isabel Garcia, and Mary Garcia; 16 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM Monday, August 13, 2007 at St. Luke’s Catholic Church with Deacon Ismael Guerra as celebrant. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Rosary: 7 PM Sunday at the funeral home.

Aidan Joe Miller, of Grand Prairie, passed away Saturday, July 28, 2007. He was born March 19, 2007 in Irving. Aidan is survived by his mother Elizabeth Miller of Grand Prairie; father Micheal Miller, Jr. of Meridianville, Alabama; grandparents Joe Salazar Soto, Bonifacia Soto, Mike Miller, Sr., and Karen Miller; Yvonne Banaszak sister Ashton Miller of Grand Prairie; aunts Mary Thayer, Tina Rushing, Teresa Gonzales, and Diana Miller; uncles George Thayer, Andrew Gonzales, Ted Ruiz, and Mark Miller; and cousins Monica Corral, Anna Luna, Amanda Reyna, Ryan & Drake Cox, and Dylan Miller. A Rosary was held at 7 PM Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Graveside services were held at 11 AM Wednesday, August 1, 2007 at Grand Prairie Memorial Gardens in Grand Prairie.

Freddie Chance Hinkley passed away Monday, July 30, 2007. She was born August 6, 1918 in Cisco to parents Earl and Ruth Parmer. Preceded in death by her husband and father to her children W.T. “Cy” Chance, son Tommy Chance and husband Gardner Hinkley, survivors include daughter Sandy Parker and husband Audie; step-daughter Libby Dudley and husband Wes; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; sisters Pat Price, and Betty Nix; and nephews Ron Price, and Randy Nix. Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Wednesday, August 1, 2007 at Summers Funeral Home, 203 W. 7^th St, Cisco. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation: 6-8 Tuesday at the funeral home in Cisco.

Naomi Karr Davis, of Irving, passed away Thursday, July 26, 2007. She was born October 20, 1926 in Dallas. Preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Jessie Karr, husband Wood Davis, Jr., and brother Walter Karr; survivors include her daughters Gloria Davis Been of Arlington, and Shirley May Davis of Irving; brother A.W. Karr of Irving; 4 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. A Memorial Service was held at 4 PM Monday, July 30, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel.

Francis Marion Romberg, of Irving, passed away Wednesday, July 25, 2007. He was born January 9, 1915 in Freyburg, Texas. Preceded in death by his wife Mary Jane Romberg in 2006, survivors include his daughters Helen Romberg of Dallas, and Betty Watkins and husband James of Keller; granddaughters Jennifer Watkins of Grapevine, and Jessica Watkins of Keller; and great granddaughter Madison Lorance. Visitation: 7-9 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, July 27, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Earnest T. Walt officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Peter Paul Torres, Jr., of Irving, passed away Thursday, July 19, 2007. He was born February 1, 1953 in Santa Maria, California. He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene in Irving and enjoyed fishing, reading, and watching movies. Survivors include his wife Rosario Torres of Irving; mother Lupe Torres; son Sergio Vargas of Irving; daughters Denise Garza and husband Ernesto of Dallas, and Felicia Leal of Grand Prairie; brother Jonathon Torres of Seattle, Washington; sisters Elizabeth Medina and Vivian Gutierrez, both of Vancouver, Canada, and Rosie Torres of Seattle; and 2 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, July 28, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Rick Thomason officiating. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery, Roxton, Texas. Visitation: 7-9 PM Friday at the funeral home.

Harrell Wayne Davis, of Irving, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, July 22, 2007. He was born March 14, 1933 outside of Durant, Oklahoma. He moved to Dallas, Texas with his parents at a young age. He married the Love of his Life, Ella Joyce Davis, of Frankston, on July 5, 1952 in Frankston, Texas. He worked as a warehouseman for what is now Merck, Sharp and Dohm before making a career move to work in the industrial cutting tool and carbide fabrication business as a salesman. He later became the President of Reliant Tool Company now known as RETCO Tool Company, Inc. He was very active in youth sport programs and served as President of the Irving Boys Baseball Association (IBBA) and coached several teams in the IBBA, the Irving Girls Softball Association and the Young Men’s Christian Association. He had a love for reading, poetry, hunting, crossword puzzles, and his grandchildren. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and served in the United States Army. Mr. Davis was an ordained Deacon and humbly served God and church for many years. He is survived by his wife, Ella Joyce Davis, of Irving; sons Mark Anthony Davis, Dale Wayne Davis, and David Reed Davis, all of Irving; daughter Brenda Joyce Stevens and son-in-law Scott Alan Stevens, of Midlothian; brother James Dale Davis, of Dallas; sister Sharon Hale of Gainesville; 6 beautiful grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10:00 am, Thursday, July 26, 2007 at Plymouth Park Baptist Church. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving. In honor of Mr. Davis, his family requests contributions are made to the Plymouth Park Baptist Church Library, 1714 N. Story Rd, Irving, TX 75061.

Thomas Junior LeGrand, of Irving passed away Wednesday, July 18, 2007. He was born March 30, 1932 in Lake Murray, Florida and raised in Richmond, Virginia. He had a 9^th grade education and at age 14, started the life of an adult as a construction worker for his Dad’s construction company. At age 18, he served in the Korean War. After the war, he drove 2 million miles hauling liquid nitrogen without an accident.

Dad lived life the way he wanted and did not let anything stop him. He did all that he wanted and did not care to do or see more. He was a tall man full of life and humor. He loved his family very much and took care of us when we needed it. Whenever he got ready to go – he left. Preceded in death by Linda, the love of his life and wife of 32 years on February 1, 2007; survivors include his daughter Lisa Baldwin and husband Daniel of Forney; and grandson Garrett Thomas LeGrand Grace. We love him very much and will see him again. Graveside services were held at 10:30 AM Monday, July 23, 2007 at DFW National Cemetery with Rev. Earnest T. Walt officiating. Arrangements were made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

James Walter Buice was born October 12, 1930 and went to be with his maker on Wednesday, July 18, 2007. Walter was born in Wheeler County, Texas and was one of 5 children born to William Howard and Nora Mae Buice. Preceding Walter in death were his brothers Wesley and Fred, his sister Lois, his first wife Marianne, and infant daughter Lois Anita. Walter is survived by his wife Eileen; daughters Waltea Swasey and her husband Lloyd and Bequita Mileur and her husband Travis; son Howard Keith Buice and his wife Sheree; step-daughters Susie Miller and her husband Richard, and Dottie Cornett. He was blessed with 6 granddaughters, Kerri Hartmann and her husband Ray, Maleah Gasser and her husband Daniel, Michele and Valerie Swasey, Rachel Mileur and Danielle Berry; 4 grandsons Mason Mileur, Brendon Mileur and his wife Kristen, Andrew Mileur and his wife Megan, and Nathan Buice; and 3 great grandsons, Benjamin Hartmann, Elijah Gasser, and Cannon Mileur; and 1 great granddaughter Brielle Hartmann. Walter also leaves behind his sister Mary Eunice Phillips and her husband Bob, and many nieces and great nieces and nephews together with his Buice cousins and a host of friends.

Walter was proud of his heritage and proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years. Walter was a retired minister of music for several Baptist churches and enjoyed reminiscing and bragging about special musicals he had directed and also for his love of choir members. He was a proud retired photographer for Provine School Pictures.

Walter’s love for the Lord, his music, and his love for children were some of his attributes. He loved his family and held special bragging rights to their accomplishments, if you would only lend an ear.

There is no doubt that Walter will be missed by all of us. Our grief is lessened only because we know that at last he is resting in the arms of the Lord. Walters’s final message to all of us is to carry on, do not be sad for him, as he is in the place of all places. To God be the Glory.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM Wednesday, July 25, 2007 at Calvary Baptist Church, 913 N. Nursery Rd, Irving. Interment will follow at 2:30 PM at DFW National Cemetery, Dallas. Visitation: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday at the funeral home.

Almagene Virginia Hart, of Irving, passed away Sunday, July 15, 2007. She was born August 30, 1924 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Preceded in death by her husband S.V. Hart in 1982, survivors include her son Jim White and his wife Connie of Irving; sister Ressie Parker of Hot Springs; and grandchildren Kelly White and Tracy White. Funeral services were held at 2 PM Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Ken Branham officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Ronald Jay Smithwick, of Irving, went to his heavenly home to live forever with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, July 14, 2007. He was born March 9, 1940 in Dallas. He was a member of MacArthur Blvd. Baptist Church and also a Mason. Ron enjoyed sports, bible study, walking and jogging. After retirement from TXU, he drove a school bus for the IISD. Preceded in death by parents Ripley and Edna Smithwick and daughter Rhonda Neuenschwander, survivors include his wife Relda Smithwick of Irving; daughter Jane Worthen and husband Jeff of Houston; son-in-law Michael Neuenschwander of Portland, Oregon; brothers Denny Smithwick of Dallas, Wayne Smithwick of Crawford, and Gene Smithwick of Weatherford; 3 grandchildren; and many friends and relatives. Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at MacArthur Blvd. Baptist Church, 8001 Mustang Dr, Irving. Interment followed at DFW National Cemetery, Dallas.

Clinton David “Shorty” Ranft, of Irving, passed away Saturday, July 7, 2007. He was born April 12, 1929 in Irving. He was a Korean War Veteran and a member of the American Legion. Shorty was a great fisherman, a great friend, and was always helping others. He is survived by his son Alvin Wells; brother Sidney Ranft, Jr. of Midlothian; and sister Marjorie Jackson of Mt. Enterprise, Texas. Funeral services were held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Michael McVey officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Helen Sue Hill, of Irving, passed away Saturday, July 7, 2007. She was born October 17, 1932 in Dallas, Texas. She is survived by Larry Cook of Irving, brother Ray McFadden of McKinney, brother-in-law Joe Stevens of Richland Hills, niece Brenda Carlberg and husband Bill of N. Richland Hills and nephew Mark McFadden and wife Tammy. Funeral services were held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Esther Lee Fann, of Arlington, formerly of Irving passed away July 3, 2007. She was born April 12, 1932 in Hope, Arkansas. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Irving. She enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and caring for others. Preceded in death by Clyde Fann. She is survived by son Robert Fann and wife Sheila of Lewisville; son Johnny Fann and wife Kimberly of Arlington; brother Virgil Brown of Texarkana, Texas; sister Deloris Pettermen of Euless; 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Graveside services were held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, July 5^th at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens with Rev. Wayne Watkins officiating. Local arrangements by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Randy Gene Fulford, of Irving, passed away Thursday, June 28, 2007. He was born June 25, 1954 in Tacoma, Washington. He is survived by his wife Jackie Fulford of Irving; son Casey Fulford of Irving, daughters Randi Rogers of Dallas, and Melissa Taylor of Arlington; brother Jace Fulford of Irving; sister Larana Kirby; and grandchildren Phillip Fulford Hurley, Darby Rogers, and Gillian Taylor. Funeral services were held at 3:00 PM Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Mack Barron officiating.

JoAnn Gannon, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2007. She was born December 14, 1943 in Durant Oklahoma. Preceded in death by parents Hollis and Irene Robnett and son Bradley Shea Robnett Gannon; survivors include her son Scott Gannon of Mesquite; brother Lloyd Robnett of Irving; and sister Jimmie McAnally of Venus. Funeral services were held at 1:00 PM Saturday, June 30, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Michael McVey officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Lawrence “Larry” Piano, Jr., of Irving, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2007. He was born August 31, 1954 in Dallas. Survivors include his wife Betty Jane Piano of Irving; sons Brian Piano of Irving, and Brandon Piano of Arlington; Daughter Lori Jean Piano of Irving; brother Johnny Piano and wife Julie of Haslet; sisters Lena Piano of Plano, and Kaye Rohus of Weatherford; step-brothers Billy Swor, Todd Skinner, and Steve Skinner; 2 grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends. Funeral services were held at 3:00 PM Saturday, June 30, 2007 at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. John Durham officiating.

Kathryn Denise Matthews, 50 passed away Tuesday, June 26^th after long battle with cancer. She was born in Memphis, Texas on May 27, 1957. Kathy was an inspirational presence in the life of everyone she met. She seemed to be helping people her entire life, whether it be as paramedic/fire-fighter, a mother, a grandmother, an aunt and a devoted wife. She is preceded in death by parents David and Edene Whitley; She is survived by husband Michael Matthews; sons Randy Barnhardt and Chris Matthews; daughter Melissa Ellison; 2 granddaughters Jasmine Ellison and Chelsea Barnhardt; brothers Ricky Wynn and wife Ruth; Andy Hill and wife Janice Hill; Ronnie Vickers and wife Nancy; sister Peggy Rodriguez and husband Joe and a host of nieces and nephews. She enjoyed playing games, reading crocheting, writing letters taking pictures and bragging about her grandchildren. She will be greatly missed. Family visitation will be held on Wednesday, from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at noon on Thursday, June 28^th at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at DFW National Cemetery. The family would like to thank Dr. Bruce Fine and Allison Jones for their treatment and support. “Gone to be with the Lord, my yellow rose.”

LaWanda Ansley Hanson, of Irving, passed away June 23, 2007 after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer. She was born October 13, 1933 in Royse City, Texas to Edwin and Rose Ansley. She graduated as valedictorian of her class at Royse City High School and went on to East Texas State University (Texas A&M Commerce) where she met her loving husband of 52 years, Floyd A. Hanson. She taught Special Education at Irving High School for 25 years. She loved to travel, read, play tennis, and was an avid gardener. She was a member of Irving’s Picadilly Garden Club for over 40 years. She is survived by her loving husband Floyd Hanson of Irving; daughters Holly Hanson Dippel of Irving and Laurie Hanson Roberts and husband Bill of Frisco; and 3 beautiful grandchildren. A graveside service was held at 10 AM Wednesday, June 27, 2007 at Royse City Cemetery. That afternoon there was a memorial service at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church at 3 PM. Arrangements were made by Brown's Memorial Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that you make a donation in her name to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation at websites WWW.the3day.org/dallas07/hollyhansond and www.the3day.org/dallas07/lauriehr

Matias Espinosa Guerrero, of Duncanville, and formerly of Irving, passed away Wednesday, June 30, 2007. He was born February 24, 1938 in Eagle Pass, Texas. Survivors include his mother Catalina Espinosa Guerrero of Dallas; children John Vincent Guerrero of Mesquite, Mary Guerrero Smith of Dallas, Carolyn Guerrero of Corte Madera, California, Anna Guerrero Parsley of Aubrey, Gloria Guerrero Baures of Arlington, Frances Guerrero of Dallas, and Margaret Guerrero Pyffer of Dallas; siblings Jesse Guerrero of Mesquite, Margarita Sosa of Dallas, and Dolores Gonzalez of Dallas; and 10 grandchildren. Memorial services were held at 10:00 AM Thursday, June 28, 2007 at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, Dallas. Entombment followed at DFW National Cemetery, Dallas.

Michael Tittle, of Irving, passed away Thursday, June 21, 2007. He was born April 1, 1953 in Columbus, Ohio. He is survived by his wife Terry Tittle of Irving, son Michael Tittle of Irving; daughters Brandy Tittle of Irving, and Samantha Hogg of Columbus; brother Gary Tittle of Pickerington, Ohio; and sister Patricia Condit of Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

Bobby Joe (B.J.) Robinette, of Irving, was born February 14, 1932 to Joe H. and Lola Mae Robinette in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He left this earth on June 18, 2007 to join Beatrice, his wife of 53 years. B.J. and Beatrice were married on February 2, 1952 in Hempstead, New York. B.J. was first in the Army and later joined the Air Force until his discharge in 1963. He and Beatrice moved to Irving, where he joined the Irving Police Department. After 23 years on the police force, he then retired so that he could spend more time with his wife and family. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Beatrice, daughter Sandy Bonilla, and brother Johnny Robinette. Survivors include his sons Keith Robinette and wife Sharen of Irving and Craig Robinette of Whitney; daughter Linda Robinette of Whitney; brother Benny Robinette of Oklahoma; sister Evelyn Stansbury of Oklahoma; and granddaughter Cassie McCann of Irving. Funeral services were held at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with burial at DFW National Cemetery. If you choose to make a donation in honor of B.J., the family requests that they be made to the American Diabetes Assoc. in your area.

Georgie K. Kinsey, of Irving, passed away Friday, June 15, 2007. She was born February 22, 1929 in Greenville, Texas. Preceded in death by her husband Carroll Jack Kinsey in 2006, survivors include sons Alan Kinsey of Irving, Bobby Kinsey of Allen, and David Kinsey of Irving; daughter Carol Cash of Irving; brothers Earl B. Whitley of N. Richland Hills, Johnny Whitley of Dallas, and Terry Whitley of Kaufman; sisters Betty Marie Garrett of Wautaga, and Cora Lee Swank of Bedford; 8 grandchildren; and 10 great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 10:30 AM Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at Faith Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Michael McVey officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Roberta Ann Fields, of Irving, passed away Monday, June 18, 2007. She was born August 2, 1934 in Dallas. Preceded in death by her husband Gene Fields in 2004, survivors include her son Ron Fields and wife Kari of Georgetown; daughter Brenda Smith and husband Robert of Haslet; and grandchildren Angela, Ryan, Daryl, and Ashley. Graveside services were held at 1:00 PM Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Arrangements were made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Arthur G. Borrego, of Grand Prairie, passed away in Irving on Wednesday, June 13, 2007. He was born April 5, 1925 in Lumberton, New Mexico. He was a Boy Scout leader and an usher at Calvary Church, Irving. Survivors include his wife Joyce Borrego of Grand Prairie; sons Steve Borrego of Liberty Hill, Texas, and Raymond Borrego of Austin; daughters Kathleen McCoy of Redfield, Arkansas, Karen Morrison of Dallas, and Beth Tylock of Anchorage, Alaska; step-daughter Carla Joy Beulter of Villa Rica, Georgia; 22 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. Memorial services were held at 3:30 PM Saturday, June 16, 2007 at Calvary Church, Irving, with Pastors J. Don George, Gary Page, and Jim Thomas officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 560089, Dallas, TX 75356.

Gilbert Morgan Bell, 83, of Irving died June 12, 2007, after an extended illness. He was born in Jamaica Plains, Ma. But lived in West Roxbury, Ma. He graduated from Boston Latin High School, the oldest High School in America, and was a student in the Naval Academy and Boston University, until he entered the Navy during World War II.

At discharge, he joined his family now living in Ca. As a Borden’s employee, he was asked to serve in a Scout Program for the Boy Scouts of America. He became “hooked” on Scouting, joined the program as an executive, and served in Ca and NY for more than 25 years. He eventually became Public Relations Director for the 10 Western states of the United States. The Oct 1970 Reader’s Digest told of a new Scouting Explorer Program, and listed Bell as one of three who created the program that allowed Scouters to actually work with organizations such as police, or business as a part of Scouting. He was an active member of the Rotary, wherever he lived, and served as President of the Colusa County, Ca. chapter.

He moved to Texas in 1982, and joined the United Way of Tarrant County acting as liaison to volunteer programs in surrounding counties. Following United Way retirement, he became a Realtor in Irving.

He is survived by his wife, Nada Bell of Irving, son, James Bell, Yuba City, CA., daughters Sue Bell and husband Russell Yee, Portland Or., and Lorraine “Rainey” Kalfsbeek and husband Ross Kalfsbeek of Grimes, CA., Amy Wilson and Kevin Wilson of Irving, 4 grandchildren & 3 step grandchildren. He is also survived by sister, Ruth Moeller, Folsom, CA., and four nephews and 2 nieces. His only brother, Alwyn Bell is deceased.

Visitation will be Sat. 6-8 p.m. at Ben Brown Memorial Funeral Home in Irving, and a Memorial Service will be at the Episcopal Redeemer Church located on 2700 Warren Circle at 2 p.m. in Irving with the Reverend Gail N. Gateley. Burial will follow cremation.

Virginia Wagner of Cedar Hill, formerly of Irving, born in 1921 passed away June 11, 2007. Survived by sons Kevin Wagner of Cedar Hill and Craig Wagner of Kissimmee, FL; daughters Nancy Johnstone of Desoto and Rande Sue Wagner-Minson of Grand Prairie; brothers Phil Reed of Indio, California; Dick Reed of Cedar City, Utah; 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by grandchildren Erin Clay and Becky Johnston. Services 1:00 P.M. Saturday, June 16, 2007 in Brown’s Memorial Chapel with interment at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving.

Dorothy Finch of Dallas, formerly of Irving passed away June 11, 2007. She was born on October 1, 1915 in Midland, Texas. She was a member of Oak View Baptist Church. Survived by son Doug Harrison and wife Sharman of Lawton, Oklahoma; Dennis Harrison and wife Lisa of Tomball, Texas; daughters Nancile Proctor and husband Luis of Red Oak, Texas; Margie Everson of Duncan, Texas; Jenny Fisher of Irving; Ellie Finch of Irving; sisters Geraldine McCraw of Texarkana; Analee Holcombe of Bedford; Sara Dantzler of Allen; 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Funeral services 1:00 P.M. Thursday, June 14^th Brown’s Memorial Chapel with Dr. Jim Gerlach officiating. Interment at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Deloris Day, of Irving, passed away Thursday, May 31, 2007. She was born April 4, 1941 in Oklahoma. She loved to work canvas needlepoint, crochet, Elvis, movies, and keeping up with pictures of family and friends. Survivors include her husband Hugh Day; sons Danny Wells and David Wells; daughter-in-law Joyce Wells; grandsons Daniel Spencer and wife Christina; great grandson Adam Spencer; grandson Bryan Wells; mother Harlyne Griffin/Nelson; father L.A. Nelson; sister Brenda McCoy; and nephews Jeromy and Chris Noble.

Frank Hodges, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and formerly of Irving, passed away Friday, June 8, 2007. He was born August 10, 1915 in Gause, Texas. He was a member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church and active in the March of Dimes. Preceded in death by his wife Ruth Mary Hodges in 1997, survivors include his son Phil Hodges and wife Mary of Stephens, Arkansas; daughter Mary Frances Sewell and husband Richard of Bartlesville; 5 grandchildren; and 7 great grandchildren. Graveside services were held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Dorothy Havlik, of Irving, passed away Tuesday, June 5, 2007. She was born March 2, 1939 in Kaufman. She is survived by her daughter Joey Havlik and husband Pedro Herrera of Irving; sister Ollie Smallwood of Balch Springs; 4 grandchildren; and adopted children Holly Kelley, Kelli Belcher, Vickie Clamon, Carolyn Clamon, and Wayne Hendrickson. Graveside services were held at 1 PM Thursday, June 7, 2007 at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens. Arrangements were made by Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Aubrey Fisher, of Irving, passed away Sunday, May 27, 2007. He was born July 29, 1928 in Brown County, Texas. Survivors include his wife Catherine Fisher of Irving; daughters Pamela Williams of Irving, and Brenda Weaver of DeRidder, Louisiana; sister Ann Williams of Tyler; and grandsons Aaron Weaver, Camron Marshall, and Zachary Weaver. Graveside services were held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at Rock Church Cemetery, Blanket, Texas, with Rev. Donald Ray Caldwell officiating.

Elizabeth Hutchinson, an Irving resident since 1953, passed away Wednesday, May 23, 2007. She was born August 6, 1926 in Washington, DC. She was a graduate of the University of NC Women’s College, a founding member of the Irving Symphony League, a member of the Irving Heritage Society, and Las Colinas Country Club. Preceded in death by her son David P. Hutchinson in 1974, she is survived by her son William T. Hutchinson and wife Lyn of Houston. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 560089, Dallas, TX 75356.

Jan A. Jack born in Johnson City, Illinois to Grant and Grace Anderson on June 26, 1923. Jan passed peacefully on May 24, 2007. Jan attended Southern Illinois University and was a member of the Delta Sigma Epsilon Sorority from 1940 to 1942. Leaving college to attend and graduate Dale Carnegie Business School. She would soon marry Herbert S. Jack and move to Dallas where she and Herb started their family. In 1963 she was the sixth consultant hired by Mary Kay and the third person to receive a “Pink Cadillac.” Her independence and strength lead to her continued success until she left Mary Kay as a Senior Director in 1995, at the age of 71. Her love for others and volunteer work kept her busy until her last days on this earth. She is survived by her children; son Grant H. Jack and daughter, Kathy J. Jack and life partner Susie Buck. Jan is also survived by her only grandchild Christopher G. Jack. Services will be held Friday June 1, 2007 at 1:00 P.M. at the First Christian Church of Rowlett, 7301 Miller Rd., Rowlett. Memorial contributions may be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.

Connie Frances Jennings of Irving, Texas passed away Sunday, May 27, 2007. She was born May 27, 1961 in Robstown, Texas to James and Frances Hanna. She is survived by her husband of 24 years, Dr. Ricky Dewayne Jennings, and their children Brandy Dawn Jennings, Ricky McCain Jennings, James Kyle Jennings, and Jaycie Lee Jennings, all of Irving, Texas; one sister, Sue Berry and husband Don of DeSoto, Texas; one nephew, Richard Wayne Berry of Irving; one niece Cheryl Grove of Euless, Texas. Other family includes father-in-law, Dewayne Jennings and mother-in-law, Norma Jennings of Jal, New Mexico, one sister-in-law, Rita Dawn Kopp and husband Kevin Kopp of Grand Junction, Colorado; one niece Katherine Janelle Kopp and one nephew, Nicholsas Michael Kopp. Her father preceded her in death. A Memorial Going Home Celebration will be held at 7:00 P.M. Thursday, May, 31^st at South MacArthur Church of Christ. A time for viewing will be at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home 707 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving from 7-9 P.M. on Wednesday, May 30^th.

Natalie Nichols passed away March 28, 2007 at her home in Irving. She was born on March 23, 1923 in Odds, Texas. She was a member of General Baptist Church. Preceded in death by husband Ed Nichols and children Carl, Robert and Jo Ann; she is survived by sons Winford Herring of Kosse, Texas; Bob Lanier of Irving; daughters Francis Runnells of Hubbard, Texas; Rosie Tigue of Irving; Sheila Lundgren of Euless; brother Buddy Brunson of Weatherford; sisters Johnnie Hunsell of Kosse, Texas; Jimmie Townsend of Missouri; Lillie Mae Blann of Marlin, Texas; Vinnie Mayhall of Athens; 21 grandchilren; 36 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday June 1^st at Brown’s Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Carl Robbins officiating. Interment to follow at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.

Ruby Faye Shaw loving wife, mother and grandmother, born January 4, 1928 passed away May 24, 2007. She is preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Bob Shaw. Survived by son Dennis Shaw and grandchildren Lee and Lindsey Shaw; brother Manuel Griffey and sister-in-law Quanita; sister Fern Deeds and numerous nieces and nephews. She loved life and did anything for anyone. She will be missed greatly. Funeral services were held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, May 30^th at Brown’s Memorial Chapel with interment at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas.