Remembering Rev. Billy Graham

After the passing of Rev. Billy Graham in late February, the Baylor Family paused to recall his trips to campus and reflect on the life of such a faithful servant.

Graham preached the Gospel to nearly 215 million people in live audiences across more than 185 countries and territories. More than 3.2 million people responded to the invitation to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior.

The evangelist traveled to Baylor and Waco on numerous occasions, including speaking in a Chapel service in 1950 and at a memorial service for victims of the May 1953 tornado that devastated downtown Waco.

“We are deeply grieved to learn that the Rev. Billy Graham has passed away, yet we rejoice that he has been called home as a good and faithful servant of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone, PhD, said in a statement offering condolences to the Graham family.

“In 1970, Billy Graham visited the Baylor campus and described the distinctive role that Baylor plays in Christian higher education. He spoke of the University’s commitment to faith and learning and to helping our students understand their responsibility to be the hands and feet of Christ and serve others throughout the world, a commitment to which Baylor remains faithful…. Our deepest prayers are with the Graham family, and we join millions around the world in giving thanks for Billy Graham, for his unyielding faith in a risen Savior and his mission to bring Christ’s light to the world.”

A renowned author and one of the Gallup Organization’s “Ten Most Admired Men in the World” an unprecedented 55 times, Graham counseled American presidents and consoled the nation in times of crisis. 

Graham was presented with an honorary doctorate from Baylor in 1954, and he was one of 12 individuals named as the most effective preachers in the English-speaking world in 1996, following a worldwide survey conducted by Baylor.

Although he did not attend the University, the Graham family has strong Baylor ties. His daughter Anne Graham Lotz served as a Baylor Regent from 2005 to 2008. Three of his grandchildren earned Baylor degrees: Jonathan Lotz, BA ’94, Morrow Lotz Reitmeier, BSEd ’96, and Rachel-Ruth Lotz Wright, BSEd ’97.

In early September 2012, a contingent of University representatives visited Graham in his log cabin home in the mountains near Montreat, North Carolina, where he was presented with Baylor’s Pro Ecclesia Medal of Service. The award honors individuals whose contributions to Christian ministry have made an immeasurable impact on our world. [Read the Fall 2012 Baylor Magazine feature on Graham as the award recipient at baylor.edu/magazine] The Baylor representatives were welcomed by four of Graham’s children— Franklin, Ruth, Gigi and Anne—and by his granddaughter Morrow. Graham’s wife Ruth passed away in 2007. 

A Nov. 6-7, 2018, conference by Baylor’s Institute for Studies of Religion will focus on Graham’s impact globally and on American Evangelicalism. The conference will feature plenary addresses by Grant Wacker, author of America’s Pastor: Billy Graham and the Shaping of a Nation; Anne Blue Wills, author of a forthcoming Ruth Graham biography; and Ed Stetzer, The Billy Graham Distinguished Chair of Church, Mission and Evangelism at Wheaton College. Graham would have celebrated his 100th birthday Nov. 7.

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Compiled by Randy Fiedler, director of marketing and communications in Baylor’s College of Arts and Sciences, the following summarizes a few of Graham’s visits to this community. Photo courtesy of The Texas Collection.

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Jan. 10, 1951

Graham, then 32, first visited Baylor to speak during Chapel in Waco Hall, where he used John 13:13 as his text: “Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.” [KJV] Later that day, he spoke at First Baptist Church Waco with his message broadcast live over WACO Radio. Brought to Texas by the Baptist General Convention of Texas, he was on a statewide drive to win 250,000 new converts during 1951.

Quotes from his Waco Hall address:

“Without divine intervention, we cannot preserve our way of life, our homes and our future.

“A general awakening is occurring on college and university campuses throughout the country. College students are hungry for God.”

Nov. 6, 1954

Graham came to campus as part of the University’s second Conference on American Ideals. He spoke in Waco Hall to an overflow crowd and delivered “Christianity’s Contribution to American Civilization” as his address. 

“I have great admiration for this institution. It has been constantly in my prayers, and it has been my privilege in the past few years to recommend students to this institution,” Graham said. “We need an institution like Baylor University that trains young men intellectually but does not forget the spiritual, development of a soul. And Baylor more than any institution I know in the United States has taken knowledge and the intellectual in one hand and the spiritual in the other, and is developing Christian leadership in America unparalleled at the present moment.”

Nov. 14, 1962

As one of the featured speakers during the University’s World Emphasis Week, he spoke to a packed Rena Marrs McLean Gymnasium. Baylor classes were dismissed that morning to give students a chance to hear Graham speak, but only 4,000 students could be admitted into the building. However, KWTX-TV and local radio carried Graham’s address live.

Graham told students that mankind had obtained the weapons to destroy itself. “Unless we find a solution, you won’t live a normal life. The explosion will take place in your generation,” he said.

Feb. 1, 1970

Graham opened Baylor’s 125th-anniversary convocation, delivering an address to about 10,000 people in Waco’s Heart of Texas Coliseum.

He said there was a need for institutions with a “Spiritual emphasis” to compensate for “the tragic failure of American secular education—the failure to educate the total person in mind, body and spirit.”

“There is no reason for Baylor’s existence as an educational institution without spiritual emphasis,” he said. “That is one thing we’ve got that makes us unique. That is why there will always be a Baylor. ... (A Christian institution) should give relevance to Christian faith through social concern. Blessed is the man who stands with the gospel of the Bible in one hand and social concern in the other.”

1935-44

Dr. Nathan Libby, BA ’36, MD ’36, of Great Neck, NY, died Nov. 22 at age 104.

May 22, 1913 - November 22, 2017, of Great Neck, NY. Devoted and beloved husband of Shirley Libby; father to Susan Siegel (Phillip), Jean Cartwright (Brian), Daniel Libby (Nancy Kemeny), Charles Libby (Carole Lerman), and James Libby (Sheri); grandfather of Lisa, Jennifer, Samantha, Grant, Eliot, Bryce, Jackie, Laura, Vicki, Ilana, Eve, Joanna, Jeffrey, Valerie, Rusty and Scotty; and great-grandfather of 17.

Nathan was a graduate of Baylor University where he played varsity football and received his M.D. He then served as Lieutenant Commander and surgeon in the U.S. Navy during WWII. During the war he met Shirley, and they were married for 72 years, until her death on November 28, 2016. Nathan was a founding physician of North Shore Hospital, now Northwell Health, and practiced medicine until age 81. Services will be held on November 26, 2017 at Riverside-Nassau North Chapel in Great Neck.

(Published in The New York Times on Nov. 26, 2017) 

Beatrice Wilbanks Myers, BA ’39, of Ridgeland, MS, died Nov. 19 at age 98.

Beatrice Wilbanks Myers, known as Bea by friends and as Nana by her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, died November 19, 2017, at Hospice Ministries in Ridgeland, MS. It is fitting that she, like her husband Charles, passed away on a Sunday, the day they had faithfully served the Lord in ministry for over seven decades of their lives. She was born to D.P. and Myrtle Puett Wilbanks on November 22, 1918, in Beaumont, Texas. The family moved to Paint Rock, Texas, when Bea was an infant, and she spent her entire childhood there, finishing as class valedictorian at Paint Rock High School, at age 16. From an early age, she had a definite interest in music, beginning with piano lessons, and started serving as her church pianist when she was twelve years old. That love of music was a constant all her life.

After graduation, Bea attended Baylor University, where she earned the Bachelor of Arts degree. While there she met her future husband, Charles Edward Myers, Th.D. They became friends while working with the Baptist Student Union on campus, while Charles served as its president and she as its organist. She played for the weekly Baptist Religious Hour during her entire college career. Upon graduation she returned to Paint Rock where she taught school briefly. She and Charles then married in 1942. Her marriage lasted 71 years until Charles’ death in 2013. Bea liked the role of a pastor’s wife. She was Charles’ helpmeet in all of the churches he pastored: the FBCs in Sulphur, OK, McKinney, TX, McAlester, OK, and Alta Woods Baptist in Jackson, MS. She was active in each church’s WMU, taught ladies’ Sunday School classes, and served as church organist at times. She especially enjoyed hosting in their home the pastors, missionaries and other guests who spoke in the churches. Her life touched many friends in each place of service. Some have often said that she was the perfect pastor’s wife. After their retirement, Charles and Bea found great satisfaction in serving as interim pastor of eight Baptist churches in Mississippi and twice in Germany. Their last place of service was at the Orchard Retirement Home in Ridgeland, where Charles organized and conducted Sunday worship and Bible studies on a volunteer basis, and she served as pianist.

Bea especially enjoyed her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Martha Sellers, and her husband, Ron, of Pearl, MS. Her grandchildren include Scott (Susan) Sellers of Mountain Brook, AL; Susan (Tom) Perkins of Northport, AL; Stephen (Della) Sellers of Madison, MS; Melissa Sellers of Jackson, MS. Bea’s great-grandchildren are Reed and Ryan Perkins and Eli, Ethan, Ward, and Lane Sellers. It was a joy for Bea to babysit with the four grandchildren and then with the six great-grandsons, and felt blessed for the privilege of living nearby them and sharing good times with each one as they grew. She was proud of their academic, athletic, and social achievements. And in return, she blessed each of their lives with her love, grace, faith, wisdom, and kindness. Visitation for Bea will be at Alta Woods Baptist Church in Jackson MS, from 9:30-11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 22, 2017, followed by a memorial worship service at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. Entombment will follow at Lakewood Memorial Park on Clinton Boulevard. Memorials may be made to the Mr. and Mrs. D.P. Wilbanks Memorial Scholarship at Baylor University, Waco, TX. Contact Rona McKinney at Rona_McKinney@baylor.edu or http://www.baylor.edu/SOE/scholarship.

Please visit www.baldwinleepearl.com to sign online guest register.

(Published in Clarion Ledger on Nov. 21, 2017)

Sterling H. Smith, ’39, of Mineral Wells, TX, died Dec. 28 at age 101.

Sterling Henry Smith, 101, passed away Dec. 28, 2017, in Mineral Wells. Service is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9, at First Baptist Church. Burial will follow at 4 p.m. in Oakwood Cemetery in Waco. Members of Mineral Wells Masonic Lodge No. 611 will serve as pallbearers. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Monday at Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home.

He was born March 15, 1916, in Waco, Texas, the son of James Henry and Henrietta Frances Ingram Smith. He married Margaret Louise Berry in October 1941 at Memorial Baptist Church, in Temple, and she preceded him in death on Aug. 22, 2005.

He was the purchasing agent at Randolph Air Force Base during the World War II years. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Mineral Wells. He repaired and sold Singer sewing machines in Mineral Wells for many years, working for the Singer Company until retiring in 1974. He was very active in the Mineral Wells Senior Center and Mineral Wells Masonic Lodge No. 611. He was a member of the Sons of the Republic of Texas and the Mineral Wells Historical Society. He was also a member of the “Descendants of Austin’s Old Three Hundred.”

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael Berry and Cathy Smith, of Tulsa, Okla.; daughter and son-in-law, Martha and Max Zimmerman, of Houston; grandchildren, Stacey Lee Smith, of Franklin, Tenn., Prue Viscomi, of Houston, Margaret Emma Zimmerman, of Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom, and Michael Elizabeth Zimmerman, of Austin; great-grandchildren, Elizabeth, Geoffrey and Prue Noel Smith, of Franklin, Tenn.; sister-in-law, Nell Berry, of Universal City, Texas; three nieces; four nephews; and numerous grand-nieces and grand-nephews and great-grand-nieces and great-grand-nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Mineral Wells Senior Center, Mineral Wells Center of Life or the charity of your choice in his memory. Leave condolences at www.bcbfuneralhome.com. Baum-Carlock-Bumgardner Funeral Home.

(Published in the Mineral Wells Index on January 2, 2018) 

Margaret Elizabeth Fitzgerald, BA ’40, MA ’57, of Palestine, TX, died Jan. 11 at age 99.

Funeral services for Margaret Elizabeth Fitzgerald will be held on Monday, January 15, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. at the First Baptist Church, Palestine, Texas with Rev. Tony Watson, Rev. Bill Connally, and Rev. Jimmie Adams officiating. Burial will follow in Palestine City Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey & Foster Funeral Home. Miss Fitzgerald passed away at Cartmell Home for Aged on January 11, 2018. Miss Fitzgerald was born November 11, 1918 in Palestine, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Boyd and Fannie Elizabeth Fitzgerald, brothers, Elmer, Roy and Maurice Fitzgerald and sisters, Ollie Waggoner, Eudell Seymour, Thelma Connally, Jewel Seeliger, and Julia Fitzgerald. She is survived by nephews, Frank Waggoner and wife Evelyn, Bill Connally and wife Vera Dale, and Donald Earl Seymour and niece Geraldene Adams and husband Jimmie. She is also survived by several great nieces and nephews, whom she loved very much.

Margaret graduated from Palestine High School, Lon Morris College and Baylor University with her Bachelor and Master degrees. She began her teaching career at Jacksonville and also taught English for three years in Sao-Paulo, Brazil. The majority of her career in public schools was with the Palestine Independent School District where she taught English and Public Speaking and was a counselor at the high school. She retired in 1989. She was a beloved teacher and counselor to hundreds of students for many years. Miss Fitzgerald was active in First Baptist Church serving as a Bible teacher and a member of the Woman’s Missionary Union for over 61 years. She accepted her Savior and was baptized on August 19, 1928 in the First Baptist Church, Palestine.

Visitation will be held 1 hour prior to service. Pallbearers will be Ricky Naismith, David Ritchey, Willie Langston, and Steve Jenkins. Honorary pallbearers will be Raymond Rogers, Jerry Mitchell, Bob Metteauer, Todd Staples and Rev. Jay Abernathy. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, Palestine, Lottie Moon Mission Offering or the Palestine High School Scholarship Fund, c/o Elizabeth Wilson, 1007 E. Park Ave. Palestine, TX. 75801. The family would like to thank the staff of Cartmell Home for Aged and Heart to Heart Hospice for the care given to her and to Mr. & Mrs. Rick Naismith for taking her to church for as long as she was able to attend. 

(Published by Bailey and Foster Funeral Home)

Margaret Mason Masters Griffin, ’40, of Fort Worth died Dec. 1 at age 98.

Services at the graveside will be held for Mrs. Margaret Mason masters Griffin, 98, of Kilgore, will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2017, in the Kilgore City Cemetery with Rev. David Hampton officiating. Mrs. Griffin completed her earthly journey on Friday, December 1, 2017, in Ft. Worth. Margaret was born on January 12, 1919, in Greenville, to B.E. and Carrie Mason Masters. The family lived in Paris and Amarillo before settling in Kilgore in 1935. It was in Kilgore High School that she met Dickson Leon Griffin, her future husband. Margaret attended Kilgore College and Baylor University. Margaret and Dick married on December 21, 1941, two weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Except for the time that he was serving in the United States Army, Margaret and Dick resided in Kilgore for 62 years of married life. In 2012, she moved to Brookdale Westover and recently Clare Bridge where she lived until her passing.

Margaret taught Sunday school at the First Baptist Church in Kilgore for many years and was a member of the Samuel Paul Dinkins Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was knowledgeable of and collected antiques, enjoyed travelling and decorating. Margaret also loved spending time in her yard and taking care of her family pets. Left to cherish her memory are her children, daughters and a son-in-law, Susan and Weir Wilson of Fort Worth, Mandy Griffin of Fort Worth; sons and daughters-in-law, Leon and Verlyn Griffin of Fort Worth, Earl and Rocky Griffin of Lake Cherokee; grandchildren, Walker Wilson, Carrie Wilson, D.L. Griffin, III, Aaron Griffin, Alexa Griffin; eight great-grandchildren and a cousin Carolyn Downs. Preceding her death are her husband, Dick, grandson, Earl Griffin Jr. (Matt), her parents, and her soulmate and friend, Bart Crowley. The family owes special thanks to Gerald Zenick, Margaret’s exercise instructor for his dedication and friendship and to Angie Ramos for her dedicated care of Margaret.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to Kilgore College, 1100 Broadway, Kilgore, Texas 75662 or to the charity of your choice.

(Published by Rader Funeral Home)

Daphne Davenport Hollingsworth, BA ’40, of Lubbock, TX, died Dec. 11 at age 97. 

Daphne Frances Davenport Hollingsworth was born February 9, 1920 in Dallas to Lillie Bishop Nance and Wallace Davenport, and died on December 11, 2017 in Lubbock. Her gravesite service will be January 2, 2018 at 10 a.m. at Plainview Memorial Park and a celebration of life will be at 1 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Lubbock. 

Daphne, known also as D.D. and Mimi, attended school in Plainview and was the first female drum major at Plainview High School. As a freshman at Wayland Baptist University, she continued as drum major of PHS. Always marching to the beat of her own drum, she wore pants and was placed on the prayer list at Wayland for that rebellious act. She then moved to Waco where she joined Kappa Kappa Gamma and graduated from Baylor University with a degree in fine arts.

Not one to sit still, Daphne became a flight attendant for Braniff Airways. Her memories of the friendly skies included girdle and weight checks, and proper makeup requirements. She was once featured on a Braniff ad.

Daphne was an accomplished artist and painted countless portraits. She was known for painting everything blue that was not breathing, including phones, toilets and dings on her baby blue Buick Regal. Her painting of Coronado is displayed in the Floyd County Museum. Daphne was one of five founders of the Fine Arts Center in Plainview. She also was a teacher in Plainview and Tulia schools.

She was Plainview’s biggest cheerleader and was involved in many local organizations including Junior Service League, Plains Art Assn. (charter member and first president), Cultural Arts Council (director), Texas Retired Teachers Assn. (president), and Symphony Guild.
Daphne became a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in 1950 and served on the vestry, altar guild, altar garden and as house chairman. She joined St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Lubbock in the late 1990s.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother and idol James Wallace Davenport; son, David Hegi; and husband, Dr. Dorris O. Hollingsworth.

Mimi is survived by children Diana Azpurua and Shelley Kemp; grandchildren Susie Casal (Ernie), Melissa Pierce (Eric), Rudy Azpurua (Jody Mims), and Kelsey Kemp (Matt Bruehl); great-grandchildren John Paul and Nicholas Casal, Caroline Pierce, and Bailey, Cami, Lexi and Brody Azpurua; and other loved ones, Jim Davenport (Sally), Claire Doyle, Lindsey Davenport.

Her family has immense gratitude for the love shown to Daphne by her treasured caregivers at South Haven Assisted Living and Accolade Hospice. They treated her like family.

Daphne had a love for animals that carried on to her family.

She requested memorials to Paws Pet Adoption, PO Box 1605, Plainview, TX 79073. (Published by Bartley Funeral Home)

Louise Stringer Latimer, BM ’41, of Hallsville, TX, died Dec. 16 at age 97.

Louise Latimer was born on November 29, 1920, in Beaumont, Texas, to Meyers and Jessie Stringer. She spent her early years in Beaumont, where she attended South Park schools. She graduated from Beaumont High School, then taught music in the South Park Independent School District for 41 years. She graduated from Baylor University, where she met the man she later married, Philip Latimer, who became a math professor at Lamar University.

After the second World War, Louise and her husband went to Denton, Texas, where she earned her master’s degree in music. While there, she learned to play the harp. She gave private instruction in harp and taught harp and music in the South Park schools. She also conducted a state-recognized harp ensemble, played harp in the Beaumont Symphony, and often performed at churches and for other groups.

They attended First Baptist and Calder Baptist churches in Beaumont. She directed children’s choirs at both churches. She was involved in music education in various ways her entire life.

In later years, she moved to Hallsville, Texas, to be near one of her daughters. She attended First Baptist Church, Hallsville, where she made many friends.

After a short illness, she died Saturday, December 16, 2017. She is survived by two daughters, Carole Hanna and Martha Blain, and their husbands, Danny Hanna and Rob Blain, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

Her funeral will be at Calder Baptist Church in Beaumont at 9 a.m. Saturday, December 30, 2017. A memorial service will be held in Hallsville at a later date. 

(Published by Longview News-Journal)

Bette Gough Slade, BA ’42, of Henderson, TX, died Jan. 4 at age 96.

Memorial services for Bette Gough Slade will be held Tuesday, January 9th at 2:00 PM at The Church at Lake Cherokee at 11968 FM 2011 E., Henderson, TX (between Silvey Bridge and FM 1716) with Rev. Bill Smythe and Fr. Mike Maxwell officiating. Services will be under the direction of Rader Funeral Home with private entombment held at Rosewood Park Mausoleum. A reception will be held following the memorial service in Maxwell Hall adjacent to the church. She was a greeter at The Church at Lake Cherokee for many years. She died in the morning of January 4, 2018. Bette was born on Easter Sunday March 27, 1921 and felt that God guided her throughout her life.

She was the daughter of Carl Herbert and Porter Lucile Gough. She attended public school in Waco, Los Angeles Junior College in California and graduated from Baylor University in 1942. She received her Golden Diploma in 1992.

After graduation she worked for the U. S. District Engineers building Blackland Army Airfield. Later, she was transferred to Alberta Canada to help build the Alcan Highway. When the 33rd Flying Training Wing came to Waco, she was secretary to General Luther Smith.

She married Frank Hearin Slade, whom she met at Baylor, after he returned from overseas duty on November 18, 1945. He knew he would marry her after one dance. They came to Longview as a partner in the family owned Turpie Slade’s Men and Boys Store. She was active in Camp Fire Girls Programs and a den mother for Boy Scouts of America. She served on many committees and offices of the Jaycettes. She was a charter member of the Camellia Garden Club, organized in her home in 1953. She was the second woman to serve on the Board of Directors of the Longview Chamber of Commerce and remained on the Public Relations Committee for many years. She owned Welcome Services and was the City Hostess for 30 years before retiring in 1991. She welcomed thousands of new residents to Longview and introducing them to local businesses and loved being recognized by those she welcomed through the years.

During her leadership of the Newcomers Club, she developed many activities for new residents. For her devotion, she was voted Woman of the Year by a local chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.

Frank and Bette were original shareholders when Lake Cherokee was formed. She drew the lot number of their first lot from the fish bowl in 1947. In 1956, they bought the lot where they would spend weekends with their boys and then build their home in 1977 where she lived out her life. She was preceded in death by her husband Frank Slade, her parents Lucile and Carl Herbert Gough of Ruidoso, New Mexico, her sister Eldon Claire Brooks of Waco, her sister Dorothy Palmer and her nephew, Joe Brooks of Marietta, GA.

Survivors include son Frank G. “Chip” and Dianne Slade of Spring Branch, Texas and son Charles H. “Chuck” and Ann Slade of Houston, Texas, granddaughter Hearin Gough Slade Schmitt and her husband Paul, and great granddaughters Emmerich Anne, Porter Elizabeth, and Vivian Slade Schmitt of College Station, Texas. She is also survived by niece Missy and Sam Lanham, niece Deedee and Tom Howard, and nephew John Cree and Judy Palmer.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to the Salvation Army or to the charity of your choice. (Published by Rader Funeral Homes)

Edith Blackwell, BA ’43, of Albuquerque, NM, died Dec. 3 at age 95.

Edith Alice Blackwell completed her life’s journey on December 3, 2017. She was born on February 24, 1922 in Seneca, NM, where her family homesteaded in 1907. Edith was one of eight children born to Garrett and Lucy Blackwell. Her brother, Bert Blackwell and his wife, Barbara, along with a number of nieces and nephews, survive Edith. Her family and her friends at Manzano Del Sol and St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church community will miss her smile. In her quiet way, Edith enjoyed being with her friends and family. She was a loyal friend and loved her family. Edith attended schools in Seneca and Clayton, NM, and Baylor University. She took pride in her work as a secretary at the school administration offices in Clayton, Las Cruces, and Albuquerque. Edith enjoyed music, and when she was able, playing the piano.

Her family is especially grateful for the care she had at Manzano Del Sol, and for her friend and caregiver, Tara Graham. Cremation has taken place. Memorial Services celebrating Edith’s life will be held Monday, December 11, 2017, 2:00 p.m., in the chapel at Manzano Del Sol, 5201 Roma Ave. NE, with Pastor Rachael Powell officiating. A reception in the Courtyard Cafe will follow the ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be made to St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 211 Jefferson NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Please visit our online guestbook for Edith at www.FrenchFunerals.com. (Published in Albuquerque Journal)

Katharine Brister Lockhart, BA ’43, of Hearne, TX, died Dec. 14 at age 96.

Katharine Elizabeth Brister Lockhart, 96, of Hearne entered heaven to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 14, 2017. Katharine was born on December 11, 1921, in Taylor, Texas, to Robert H. Brister and Ruby Irene Neal Brister. Shortly after her birth, her family moved to Waco, Texas, where she grew up. Katharine received her Bachelor’s degree from Baylor University, Master’s degree from Sam Houston State University, and her Supervisory Counseling and Vocational Counseling certifications from Texas A&M University. On June 10, 1952, she married Shirley M. (Pete) Lockhart and moved to Hearne, Texas, and began teaching in Hearne High School. She served as a teacher, and later as Counselor, at Hearne High School until retiring in 1987. On July 24, 1986 she married Cecil N. Lockhart.

Katharine’s life was one of service--service to the Lord, and service to others. She served in many areas at First Baptist Church, volunteered on the Robertson County Child Protective Services Board, served as the secretary and treasurer of the Norwood Cemetery Association, and was Director of Call-For-Help. She recently received the 2017 RSVP Volunteer of the Year award for the Brazos Valley area.

Katharine is preceded in death by her parents, husbands Pete Lockhart, Cecil Lockhart, brother Robert Andrew Brister, and Scott Lockhart. She is survived by family Bart and Luanne Lockhart, Cecil Paul and Del Marie Lockhart, Jodi and Mark Cochran and children Tarah and Travis, Shannon and David Ryan and children Nicholas and Jacob, Heather and Patrick Tessman and children Rayli, Brayden and Hunter. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 am Monday, December, 18, with a celebration of Katharine’s life beginning at 11:00 at First Baptist Church in Hearne. Interment at Suggs Cemetery, Blackjack community.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be to First Baptist Church, Hearne, and Call-for-Help, Hearne. (Published by The Eagle)

Eleanor Lee Harris, ’44, of Tyler, TX, died Jan. 21 at age 94.

Eleanor Lee Harris left this earthly life to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and her beloved husband, Marion Miller Harris on Sunday, January 21, 2018 in Tyler, Texas. She was born October 6, 1923 in Mason, Texas to Albert G. Lee and Alfreda Tips Lee. She grew up in Sweetwater, Texas in a musical family and began taking piano lessons at age 5. All through school she was active in music, drama, tennis, and swimming and youth activities at her church. During high school years, she began organ lessons and was a member of the National Honor Society. She attended the St. Louis Institute of Music and then Baylor University, where she majored in piano, also taking harp, organ and cello lessons. She became a member of Mu Phi Epsilon fraternity for music majors and served as president of Phi Beta Mu, Baylor music fraternity, was a member of the Athenean Sorority and was selected two years as a Baylor Beauty. On July 1, 1944 Eleanor married Marion Harris, a Baptist pastor and served faithfully as a pastor’s wife in churches in Live Oak, Devers, Mineola, Marshall, Jefferson and New Colony, Texas. She was always very active in church life, serving as pianist or organist, teaching adult Sunday school and leading Girls’ Auxiliary. She lead each church’s Women’s Missionary Union and held state offices in Texas WMU. She was active in the Marshall Music Club for many years, serving as president and other offices. She sold pianos and organs through Tyler Baldwin Co. and managed their Baldwin store in Marshall for several years. She was also a lifetime member of PEO.

Eleanor was very accomplished, but always said her greatest joy and her life work was sharing in the ministry with her husband in each of the churches he pastored for over 62 years until his death in 2006. At that time she moved from Jefferson to Tyler and lived at Rosewood Estates. Eleanor is survived by two sons; Tom Harris and wife, Anna Kay of Waco, Texas and Tim Harris and wife, Becky of Tyler, Texas; grandchildren and great-grandchildren include; Lance Harris and wife, Kira of Waco, Texas and children Emma, Jack and Hearon; Holly Harris Stump and husband, Matt of Waco, Texas; Stephanie Harris Pool and husband, Michael and children Keaton and Tucker of Plano, Texas; Paul Harris and wife, Nadji and children Kiana and Ave of Baytown, Texas. A Celebration of Eleanor Lee Harris’ Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at Corley Funeral Home in Corsicana, Texas. Memorials may be made to the Marion M. Harris Scholarship Fund, c/o Truett Seminary, One Bear Place #97126, Waco, Texas 76798. An online guestbook is available at www.corleyfuneralhome.com and selecting the Eleanor Lee Harris obituary.

(Published by the Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Mary Farrow Long, BA ’44, MA ’65, of Belton, TX, died Jan. 20 at age 95.

After a long, full, and happy life, Mary Cole Farrow Long died on January 20, 2018, at age 95. Born in Dallas, Texas, on October 1, 1922, to Ernest Eugene and Sadie Flynn Boone Farrow. Mary was predeceased by her husband of sixty-six years, Dr. William Bowman Long. She is survived by her four children and their spouses, as well as two additional generations of offspring: Dr. William Farrow Long and wife, Kathryn Fagan Long, Daryl Elizabeth Long Edwards and husband, Thomas David Edwards, Dr. Robert John Long and wife, Penny Sue Gullo Long, Dr. Linda Sue Long Fletcher and husband, Michael Steven Fletcher; 12 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her Brother, Edwin Moore Farrow of Dallas and sisters-in-law, Genie Watkins Farrow and Doris Mann Farrow.

After receiving her MA from Baylor in 1965, Mary began an 18 career teaching English at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. During her tenure there, Mary taught Freshman and Sophomore English, Creative Writing, and sponsored the literary magazine, The Baylorian. She retired in 1983. After retiring from at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Mary put into practice what she had been teaching and wrote four books of genealogy on the Cole, Boone, Farrow, and Long families. In 1997, she and her husband, Will Long were co-authors of a history of the Nose Brotherhood at Baylor University from its founding in 1926 to 1965. Honors Mary has received include being named by the Central Texas Chapter of the Baylor Alumni Association as its first Distinguished Baylor Woman in 1994. Mary and Will received the Baylor University Founders Medal in 2004 and the Herbert H. Reynolds Meritorious Service Award in 2005. They also received the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Distinguished Service Award in 1995.

A Celebration of Mary Long’s life will be held at First Baptist Church, Belton, TX on January 27, 2018 at 11 am. Interment will follow at 3pm at Oakwood Cemetery, Waco, TX. The family will greet friends before the Celebration in the Foyer at First Baptist Church. Dossman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, if Memorials are desired, the family suggests a donation to the Will and Mary Long Presidential Endowed Scholarship at Baylor University (Office of University Development, One Bear Place # 97050, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798 – 7050) or the Long-Fagan Presidential Endowed Scholarship at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UHMB, Box 8433, Belton, TX 76513).

(Published by the Waco Tribune-Herald)

Mary Curtis Wallace, ’44, of Louisville, KY, died Jan. 7 at age 95.

Wallace, Mary Curtis, 95, died January 7, 2018. She was born October 29, 1922 in Lexington, Kentucky to the late John James and May Peak Curtis. She graduated from Henry Clay High School. She initially attended Baylor University, but went on to graduate from Wheaton College, Magna Cum Laude. After teaching English at Lafayette Junior High School for several years, she married the love of her life, Rev. John T. Wallace, Jr. in 1947. They moved to Hennessey, OK where she continued to teach high school English. After John accepted the pastorate of the Felix Memorial Baptist Church (later known as Parkway Baptist Church) in Lexington, Mary served as a substitute teacher in the Fayette County Public Schools for 25 years. Most important to her were her roles as mother and minister’s wife. She taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Bible classes for over 50 years. She was an active leader in the Baptist WMU at the local and state levels. After John’s retirement, she was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church. She served as a board member and president of the PTA and later worked as Area Coordinator for AISE student exchange program. She did private tutoring and was a volunteer English teacher with the International Friendship Program. Known for her sweet and kind manner, she loved cooking, antiques and playing the piano. She was profoundly proud of her Kentucky ancestry and the state’s heritage. She lived a life of unwavering faith, prayer, love and service.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, John T. Wallace, Jr., her son John T. Wallace, III, her sister Martha Langdon, and her brother Jack Curtis. She is survived by her children, James C. Wallace (Barton) and Fern Woods (Charles); grandchildren Lindsey Ford (Edward), Ashley Wenaas (Matthew), Hayley Riccio (Felipe), John and Alison Woods; great grandchildren Amelia and Reece Ford, Annalise, Bennett and Caroline Wenaas; as well as sister Dorothy Curtis Burt. The family would like to express sincere thanks to all the loving and dedicated people who cared for Mary in her final years, especially those at Oaklawn and Elmcroft. A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 20, 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 150 East High Street, officiated by Dr. Bob Baker, with burial following at Lexington Cemetery. Visitation is Friday, January 19, 4:00-7:30 p.m. at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, 463 East Main Street, as well as on Saturday at the church before the funeral from 10:00-10:45 a.m. Memorial gifts may be made to the Missions Fund of either Calvary Baptist Church or Parkway Baptist Church.

(Published in Lexington Herald-Leader)

1945-49

Salla Bradshaw, BA ’45, of Celina, TX, died Dec. 30 at age 101.

Salla Bradshaw’s life was sprinkled with S’s. Starting with her birth 101 years ago in the small southern community of Swink, Oklahoma, she was the only one of six siblings born in the Sooner State. At age three, her Gammill parents packed up the family and moved across the Oklahoma border to Arbala, a small community in Hopkins County, Texas.

Her story jumps back and forth across the Red River for many decades. At 98, she was still living at her home three miles outside of Celina, Texas. Salla surrendered her driver’s license when she sold her Chevy Malibu at the age of 97. “I wanted to sell it before my family asked me to hand over the keys,” she said sassily. Salla’s life was a love story. Outliving two husbands and her son John Stephens, she shared her love with her two daughters, Kay and Judy, her two “ornery” sons-in-law, Larry and John, seven grandchildren Karli, Kirk, Don, Josh, Katie, Johnie, Adam and 16 great-grandchildren. “Ray Stephens was the love of my life,” Bradshaw said upon reflecting on her marriage with her first husband and father of her three children. She married at age 17 on December 27, 1933, to her “preacher” husband.

On September 1, 1934, with $20 and not much else, she and Ray moved to Plainview, Texas to enroll at Wayland Baptist College. In the Spring of 1937, the young couple transferred to Baylor University and later graduated with Bachelor’s degrees, of which she was most proud. After Ray’s death, Salla taught school in Frederick, Oklahoma and raised her children in that wonderful small town that embraced and supported this single mom and family. Education was so important to Salla; she encouraged all her children and grandchildren to earn a college degree. The Salla Stephens Bradshaw and John Ray Stephens Endowed Scholarship at Wayland Baptist University is a continuance of their story… a couple who completely surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ, reaped his many wonderful blessings, and shared them with others. With this endowment, her dollars are still educating four to five college students each year.

From Salla’s experiences, she understood the struggles and challenges it took to get an education. After Ray’s death, Salla remarried and enjoyed 20 years with second husband, Lewis Edward “Blue” Bradshaw, a 57-year-old bachelor from Baytown, Texas. He introduced her to golfing as the two traveled the world playing golf as part of a group of mature golfers with low handicaps. “I don’t have a favorite place. It just all depended on the people we were traveling with,” she said. “I really enjoyed the Holy Land tour with my church, First Baptist of McKinney, though.” “I’ve done everything I ever wanted to do.” Bradshaw was a fountain of youth…spry and splendid, yes, a couple more S’s. She couldn’t promise where she’d be for more than a few days at a time. But she had places to go and people to see. Now off to Heaven, her greatest trip yet, her eternal everlasting home! We love you, Gia!

Those who so desire may make memorial donations in memory of Salla to The Salla Stephens Bradshaw and John Ray Stephens Endowed Scholarship at Wayland Baptist University, 1900 W 7th St, Plainview, TX 79072 or https://give.wbu.edu/

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 4, 2018 at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel with interment on Friday, January 5,2017 at 1:00 p.m. at the Yantis Cemetery, Yantis, Texas.

Willie Merle “Billie” Clifton, BA ’45, of Portland, OR, died Jan. 26 at age 93.

Willie Merle “Billie” Harding Clifton, 93, passed away quietly Jan. 26, 2018 in Happy Valley, Ore. She is survived by three children, Carol, Lee (Dianne) and Lloyd (Ellen); 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her youngest brother, C. B. Harding (El Rose). Her other brother, Kirby Harding (Charldeen) died last year.

A graduate of Waco High School, Billie attended Baylor University before marrying Elliott Smith “Clif” Clifton, an Air Force Navigator, who was stationed in Waco. While her husband worked on his doctorate at Iowa State University, Billie studied home economics to further her dream of being a good wife and mother.

During their marriage, they lived in Kentucky, Iowa, Florida, Michigan and Arkansas. Billie made lifelong friends in all of those states which she maintained throughout her life. After her husband’s death in 1987, she moved back to Waco where she eventually started to work at the age of 72 as a greeter at the Stanley Compton Funeral Home. She also served on the Board of Directors for Rosemound Cemetery in Waco, Texas where she will be buried with her husband in the near future.

Mary Eleanor Marstaller, ’45, of Waco died Jan. 30 at age 95.

Mary Eleanor Leggott Marstaller went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, January 30, 2018. The Memorial service will be 1:30 p.m., Saturday, February 3, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, with the Rev. Tim Jarrell officiating. Visitation will follow the service. Mary Eleanor was born September 11, 1922, in Waco, Texas, to Arthur and Myrtle Leggott. A Waco native her entire life, she attended Waco schools, Baylor University, and 4-C Business College. On September 11, 1942, she married R.L. “Buster” Marstaller. For many years, she supported Buster in the family grocery business. Mary Eleanor was an active member of Austin Avenue United Methodist Church. For many years she honored and praised our Lord as she played beautiful hymns for her Sunday School class. The Scripture “Whatsoever you have done unto the least of these, you have done unto me,” guided her. She was always there to visit friends in the hospital, retirement centers, and shut-ins at home.

She was a doer and was known for delivering tons of homemade cookies and delicious chicken salad sandwiches when there were illnesses, deaths, or other needs. Mary Eleanor also loved playing bridge and was a member of several groups. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. After she learned of her aneurysm a few years ago, she elected to live life to the fullest. She continued to attend church, visit friends, enjoy family, exercise and play bridge. The Scripture “This is the day that Lord has made. Rejoice and be glad in it,” was how she lived.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and brothers, Bob Leggott and wife, Bobette, and Arthur “Red” Leggott, Jr., and wife, Carol. She is survived by her daughter, Lynda Conner and husband, Scott, of Naples, Florida; son, Bill Marstaller and wife, Karen, of Waco; grandson, Matt Marstaller and wife, Lindsey, of Waco and Clif Marstaller and wife, Beth, of Burleson, Texas; and seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, D. T. Leggott and wife, Cecile, of Waco; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorials may be made to Providence Hospice, Meals on Wheels, or Austin Avenue United Methodist Church. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Faith Lambrides Kaminski, BA ’46, of Jupiter, FL, died Jan. 31 at age 88. 

Faith Maria Lambrides Kaminski, age 88, passed away on January 31, 2018, she was predeceased in death by her beloved husband, Arthur Charles Kaminski. Faith was most recently a resident of Allegro Jupiter for the past 4 years. Previously a longtime resident of Palm Beach Gardens since 1983, she served as the Senior Citizen Coordinator and Recreational Director for the City of Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Well known to many residents there, Faith planned and organized regular trips and outings in Florida, the USA and throughout the world for over 25 years. An avid game player, Faith was a regular poker, blackjack, bridge player, backgammon and a nationally recognized Scrabble player. Faith was both a parishioner, a Daughter of the King of Saint Mark’s Church, Palm Beach Gardens and member of their hospital chaplaincy program. Prior to her duties with the City of Palm Beach Gardens, Faith and Arthur were on Long Island in Brightwaters, NY where they raised their 2 children, Diane Kaminski Tice (David Tice) of Palm Beach Gardens, FL and Ronald Arthur Kaminski (Carrie Jean Weekley Kaminski) of Lighthouse Point, FL.

While in Long Island, Faith served the community in numerous capacities. Specifically, she was a Girl Scout Brownie Troop Leader for 30 years, Altar Guild Member of Saint Peters Church, Bay Shore, NY and Saint Mark’s Church, East Islip, NY, and many other community groups as well. Fluent in Spanish, Faith received her undergraduate degree (B.A.) from the University of Maryland in Psychology and Spanish. Prior colleges included Baylor University in Waco, TX, and Howard Payne University in Brownwood, TX. Faith was born in New York City to Victoria Elizabeth Lambrides and Army Chaplin John Lambrides. Her father’s ministry work moved the family from Laurel, MD, Columbia, SC and Austin, TX where she attended and graduated high school.

Faith is survived by her brother, Lt. Colonial (Ret.) Paul David Lambrides of Poinciana, FL. Faith had 5 grandchildren, Trevor Tice (Jillian Tice) of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Timothy Tice (Angela Tice) of Mount Pleasant, SC, Tara Tice Bell (Jason Bell) of Perrysburg, OH, Nicholas Kaminski of Denver, CO, and Andrew Kaminski of Arlington, VA. She also had 4 great-grandchildren, Declan, Gibson, Graham and Liam Tice. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 10th at 11:30AM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 3395 Burns Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice Foundation, 5300 East Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33407. 

(Published in The Palm Beach Post)

Margaret Uzzell Kerrick, BA ’46, of Owensboro, KY, died Jan. 12 at age 93. 

Margaret U. Kerrick, 93, passed away Friday, January 12, 2018, while under the care of Hospice of Western Kentucky. Born October 19, 1924, to Wasson and Neva Taylor Uzzell, she grew up in Paris, TX, and graduated from Baylor University. In 1946, the city girl married a Daviess Countian, the late Fay W. Kerrick, and began learning the skills of a farm wife.

After ten years near Panther, they relocated to the Pleasant Ridge area and joined Friendship Baptist Church. She taught at Whitesville Elementary School from 1957 to 1985, then became active in the Daviess County-Owensboro Retired Teachers Association. Even after moving to the east side of Owensboro in 1991, she remained a faithful church member at Friendship.

Margaret loved spending time with her grandchildren and doing genealogy research with her late sisters, Drunell Summers and Georgianna Shipman. An avid reader and puzzle-solver, she also enjoyed singing and playing the piano, autoharp, and harmonica; traveling; and her work as a volunteer recording textbooks for the blind. She was a skilled seamstress and quilter, a prolific canner and freezer of fruits and vegetables, and had a wonderful sense of humor.

She is survived by her sons, Clyde Kerrick of Easley, SC, and Wasson (Jennifer) Kerrick, of Philpot; her daughter, Aleta Kerrick (Peter Schwarz) of San Jose, CA; and her grandchildren, Kendra and Wesley Kerrick and Maddy Schwarz. Her family is very grateful to those who visited and in other ways helped make her days more enjoyable during the last few years and months.

Services will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday and after 12 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Owensboro Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may take the form of donations to Meals on Wheels, c/o the Munday Activity Center, 1650 West 2nd Street, Owensboro, KY 42301.

Messages of condolence may be offered online at www.glenncares.com. (Published by Glenn Funeral Home)  

Dr. Frankie Nell Nations Forist, BS ’47, MD ’50, of San Antonio died Nov. 26 at age 91.

On Sunday, November 26, 2017, Dr. Frankie Nell Nations Forist passed away at her home peacefully. She was 91 years young. Dr. Nations was born August 1, 1926 in Goldfinch, Texas to John Carroll Nations and Frankie Avant. She was Baptist, a proud mother of her children and will be missed by all of her family and friends.

The family she leaves behind to cherish her loving memory is her daughter Renelle; son-in-law Kelly Sellers; grandchildren Morgan, Chloe, and Austin. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John William Forist; son John Blake Forist; brother Carroll Nations; sister’s Evelyn Smith Noble, and Mary Ross.

Funeral services will be celebrated on Friday, December 8, 2017 with a viewing at 2:00 p.m. and service at 2:30 p.m. at the Fred J. Tips Mausoleum Chapel in Mission Burial Park North Cemetery.

(Published in Express-News) 

Patsy Creekmore Oates, BSN ’47, of Beaumont, TX, died Nov. 17 at age 92.

Patsy Ruth Creekmore Oates, born April 29, 1925, in Dean Springs, Arkansas, died peacefully at her daughter’s home in Houston, Texas on Nov 17, 2017. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Griffith Oates, her parents, Golda and Alton Creekmore, and her siblings, Gwendolyn Buddy, Bill Creekmore and Tom Creekmore. She is survived by her four children, Jay Oates and wife Jenny of Houston, William Oates and wife Cindy of Scottsdale Arizona, Scott Oates and wife Kathleen of Corpus Christi and Laurel Gonzalez and husband Ozzie of Houston. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Will Oates and wife Laura of Houston, Mary Polan and husband Parker of Austin, Leanne Vanecek and husband Peter of Los Angeles, Elizabeth Orr and husband Dan of Greenfield, Indiana, Rosser Oates of Dallas, Sam Gonzalez of Los Angeles, Nick Gonzalez of Houston, Suzanne Gonzalez also of Houston, and 7 great-grandchildren. While attending nursing school at Baylor in Dallas, Pat met Griff, a student at Baylor Dental School, and they married Dec. 21, 1947.

They moved to Beaumont, Texas, where Griff set up his practice in orthodontics and remained there for over 50 years. Patsy was a member of the Junior League of Beaumont and the Sabine District Dental Society Auxiliary. She volunteered at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital, Planned Parenthood, and as a conflict mediator. After her children were grown, she became a realtor, which, as a people person, she really loved. Pat’s childhood during the Great Depression and the kind spirit of her parents created in her humility and empathy for all throughout her life. She was a lifelong learner and shared her joie de vivre with her family and friends. Pat was always open for a new adventure, a scintillating conversation, and a glass of wine. She will be remembered with love and respect. The family wishes to thank Michelle Evans for her excellent care of Pat over the past several years as she struggled with Alzheimer’s disease and Houston Hospice for their support in Pat’s final days. Funeral services will be private and a celebration of life will be held December 9. Memorial Remembrances may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Planned Parenthood of Houston.
(Published in the Beaumont Enterprise)

Helen Welch, BA ’47, of Dallas died Jan. 6 at age 91.  

Helen Virginia Welch was born on September 16, 1926 in San Benito, Texas. She departed her earthly home and was welcomed into her eternal home at the age of 91 on January 6, 2018. She attended Baylor University, where she was a Baylor Beauty and a member of Athenean Sorority (now Kappa Kappa Gamma). Fred Eugene (Gene) Welch returned after his service in World War II where they met and fell in love. They were married on June 6, 1947 and celebrated 53 years of life together until Gene’s death on August 27, 2000. Gene and Helen moved to Dallas in 1947. Helen, after raising her family to school age, became a master teacher in two DISD schools for over 35 years. Helen’s life was a living testimony to her unwavering faithfulness and trust in her Lord. She and Gene joined the growing First Baptist Church of Dallas in 1947. Helen taught Sunday school in the junior division and for over 45 years touched the lives of hundreds of children.

Preceded in death by her husband seventeen years ago, she is survived by her four children: daughter Debe and her husband Scott Brakefield; daughter Linda and her husband Duke Jimerson Jr.; son Brad Welch and his wife Debbie; and daughter Tami Welch Schwarz. Eleven grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and loving friends also survive her. We are grateful for her devoted caretakers: Evelyn, Berlin, Erika and Precious. A visitation will be held from 9AM - 8 PM at Restland Funeral Home on Thursday, January 11, 2018. A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on Friday, January 12, 2018 at The Wildwood Chapel at Restland Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her name to First Baptist Church Dallas 1707 San Jacinto St., Dallas, TX 75201. (Published in Dallas Morning News)

Charles Marion White Jr., BA ’47, of Cypress, TX, died Nov. 17 at age 96.

Charles M. White, Jr. age 96, entered into rest on November 17, 2017 in Cypress, Texas. He was born January 7, 1921 in Macon, Georgia to the late Lois & Charles M. White, Sr. He was preceded in death by his wife and the mother of his children, Doris Jean White. He is also survived by his second wife, Doris Wayne.

He is survived by his children, Robert L. “Bob” White and wife Judy and his daughter Linda Howell, his grandchildren Jason and his wife Laurie White, Jamie and her husband Reuben Soto and Hannah and her husband Trevor Contella, and 4 beautiful great grandchildren with one little girl on the way.

Charles was a US Navy veteran and devoted Christian, husband, father and grandfather.

In his life, he loved many things, golf, tennis, hunting and fishing and Baylor University where graduated and later he worked as a development officer for many years. He was a CPA and entrepreneur and held many positions as well as several self-employed businesses. His greatest business accomplishment was starting National Mail Advertising, which became one of the largest mail advertising processing companies in the south. He later became a Real Estate Agent and sold homes until he was in his 90’s.

All services will be held Monday, November 20, 2017 at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home & Cemetery. Visitation 1:30-2:30 pm. Graveside Service at 3:00 pm with Rev. Larry Bertrand Officiating. (Published by Dignity Memorial)

Anna Smith Wright, BA ’47, of Vernon, TX, died Nov. 23 at age 92.

At home, surrounded by her family, Anna Lois Smith Wright, 92, peacefully passed away into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Nov. 23, 2017. She was born in Alcoa, Tenn. to Willie Mae Isbill Smith and James Fred Smith on May 10, 1925. Because of her father’s health, her family moved across the country and homesteaded west of Phoenix, Ariz., when she was eight years old. Anna grew up in the Tonopah desert and loved playing and exploring with her young brothers, sisters and friends. Throughout her life, she drew strength and purpose from experiences in her childhood and moved among us encouraging, inspiring and spreading hope and love to so many of the lives that she touched.

Her family eventually moved to Phoenix, where she graduated from Phoenix Union High School (Class of 1943). She then attended Phoenix Junior College and after two years, transferred to Baylor University in Waco, Texas where she met a handsome Texan, Bob Wright, when the Baylor student bus broke down on the way home from the Baylor/Texas football game in Austin. It was love at first sight, and they married three months later. They both shared a great love for Robert Browning and became close to their English professor and Browning collector, Dr. A. J. Armstrong. This was a passion they shared throughout their lives.

Anna believed that education was very important and after graduation from Baylor, she and Bob taught school in Taft, Texas and then moved to Bob’s hometown of Vernon where she taught elementary school in Chillicothe while Bob joined his father and brother in the family meat packing business, Wright Packing Company.

She and Bob soon started their family, and as a wife and mother, Anna’s first priority and greatest joy always included those activities involving Bob and her three children, Cheryl, Kelly and Gail, and later, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nothing gave her greater pleasure than orchestrating a family get-together, a family summer vacation, a one-on-one trip with one of her children or grandchildren, and with tender regard for both family and friends, Anna made use of her remarkable gift for keeping her family connected.

As her children began leaving home, Anna enrolled at Midwestern University to earn her Masters degree in Education, and in 1972, when Vernon College first opened its doors, she joined the faculty as the first Sociology Instructor and became a mentor to the students in her classes. She is also a founding member of the Vernon College Foundation on which she served until 2006.

Inspired greatly by their college professor, Dr. A. J. Armstrong, Anna and Bob became lifelong philanthropists who determined to encourage others to reach their unique potential. They have been enthusiastic supporters of The Armstrong Browning Library at Baylor University and Vernon College.

Throughout her life Anna was actively involved with many civic and church groups. Her interest in local community work included countless volunteer hours in the company of like-minded friends, and her boundless energy was directed toward such organizations as the Boys and Girls Club of Vernon, Vernon College and Vernon College Foundation, Red River Valley Museum Guild, Republican Party of Wilbarger County, Vernon Musicians Club, Vernon Community Concert, Vernon Beautification Committee, Golden Wings Hospice Foundation and AAUW. She was also very active in First Presbyterian Church of Vernon where she was an Elder and sang in the choir.

Anna and Bob loved beautiful music, especially opera, which led Anna to become involved on The Southwestern Hospitality Board of the Metropolitan Opera and the Dallas Opera Board. She was also a dedicated and loyal sports fan and especially faithful to the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers. During her 12 plus years in bed after her stroke in 2005, each game she watched became the highlight of the day!

Anna was awarded as A Woman of Distinction by the AAUW of Texas at the Centennial Biennium Convention in 2006, and she and Bob were awarded the 2012 Benefactor of the Year Award by the Council for Community College Resource Development in Washington, D. C.

We would like to extend a very special thank you to the two Caregivers who have taken incredible care of our sweet Anna for over ten years, Betty Piper and Dale Jackson, as well as several other kind and loving caregivers who have given her exceptional care along the way; Gussie Allmer, Tomeka Murray, GayLynn Samson, Larissa Bradley, Mary Gaines, Teresa Serrano, Ashley Gordon, Jennifer Trinidad, Rhonda Gordon, Lupe Turaville, Angie Garza and Michelle Moore. We would also like to thank the many friends and family members who have taken part in Anna’s care and encouragement over the past twelve years: Angels Care Home Health of Vernon; Doctors and nurses at Wilbarger Memorial Hospital; and Hospice of Wichita Falls

Anna was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 64 years, Bob Wright; brothers, Fred Smith and French Smith, and sisters, Sarah Sears and Barbara Pierce, of Phoenix, Ariz.

She is survived by her three children: daughter, Cheryl Henry and her husband, Billy Don of Dallas; son, Kelly Wright and his wife, Carol of Albuquerque; and daughter, Gail Wright and her spouse, Pam of Fort Worth. Cherished grandchildren: Brooke Henry Drake, Meredith Henry Ladd, Laurie Henry Hunter, Jonpaul Wright, Michael Wright and Emily Wright; precious great- grandchildren, Morgan Ladd, Kate Ladd, Lauren Ladd, Ali Ladd, Kelly Paul Wright and Marin Wright; two sisters, Dorothy Smith Zobel of Denver, Colo., and Patricia Smith Williams of Phoenix, Ariz., many close cousins, nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Anna’s life will be held on Monday, Nov. 27, 2017 at 3 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 2001 Yucca Lane, Vernon, Texas, under the direction of Sullivan Funeral Home. A private Graveside Service will be held for the family. Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 26, 2017 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Sullivan Funeral Home.

Some of Anna’s favorite charitable organizations are listed below for those wishing to make a memorial gift in memory of Anna:

The Bob and Anna Wright Scholarship Fund - Vernon College - 4400 College Drive Vernon, Texas 76384 - 940-552-6291

The Red River Valley Museum - P.O. Box 2004 - Vernon, Texas 76385 940-553-1348

Boys and Girls Club of Vernon - 2015 Yamparika St, Vernon, TX 76384  940-552-2961

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.sullivanfuneralhomevernon.com.

(Published in Vernon Daily Record)

Anthony V. Banes Sr., BA ’48, of Huntsville, TX, died Nov. 17 at age 97. 

Anthony (Tony) Vincent Banes, Sr, age 96, formerly of Huntsville, Texas, died November 17, 2017, in Round Rock, TX. He was born in Braddock, PA to Stanislovas and Lydia Banis. He grew up in Chicago, Illinois, but left to serve in the Army during World War II with the Tank Destroyer Division at Camp Hood. He met and married the love of his life, Verna, in Waco, Texas.

Tony received degrees from Baylor University and Oklahoma State University, and did further graduate work at the University of Texas and the University of California at Los Angeles. He taught mathematics at Trinity University before moving to Los Angeles, California, where he worked in the computer analyst and programming areas at Thompson-Ramo Wooldridge, Bissett-Berman, Litton Industries, Teledyne Corporation and as the founding Vice-President of Macrodata Corporation. Later he worked at Tracor in Austin, TX and then taught briefly at Sam Houston State University in the Mathematics department.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Huntsville. He also was once active in the Walker County Genealogical Society, AARP Tax Aide and 55-Alive Safe Driving Programs and also assisted in the publication of the Walker County Cemetery Book. Tony also worked with several Walker County elections.

Tony was proceeded in death by his wife of nearly 70 years, Verna Banes, and sisters Josephine Survillas and Alice Banis. He is survived by his son Stanley Banes and wife Beth of Garland, TX, and son Anthony Vincent, Jr. and wife Hildegard of Silver Spring, MD, and daughter Rebecca Krohn and husband Harvey of Pflugerville, TX. Grandchildren are Robert, Scott, Matthew and Micah Banes, Natalie Meyers, John Mauk, Brian and Marcus Krohn and Rachel McDown. His great-grandchildren are Colton Banes, Hunter and Katie Banes, Blake and Madison Meyers, Mia and Ayla Mauk, Riley Krohn and Zachary McDown.

A celebration of his life and burial will be held at the Vaughan Cemetery near Hillsboro in Hill County, Texas on Friday November 24, 2017 at 11:30 AM.
Condolences and memories may shared with the family at www.beckchapels.com 

(Published in The Huntsville Item) 

Edward G. Bashara, ’48, of Waco died Feb. 5 at age 92.

Ed Bashara, 92, of Waco, died Monday, February 5, 2018 at St. Catherine Center in Waco. Ed was born October 5, 1925 in Waco to Adele and George F. Bashara. He attended Waco schools and was a clarinetist in the band programs as well as leading the band at North Junior High as drum major. Upon graduation from Waco High School, he attended Texas A&M University before being drafted into the Army during World War II. After serving his country with an honorable discharge, he attended Baylor University.

He assisted his father in the contracting and construction business, being involved with the building of their own home, and many commercial projects, among which included work for the new Lake Waco Dam at that time. After many years in the construction business, in February of 1954 he joined Texas Life Insurance Company, a locally owned independent agency in the insurance industry. Throughout his career, Ed received numerous honors recognizing his accomplishments during his over 50 years with the company. Ed married Mary Anne Nalley July 5, 1952 at Austin Avenue Methodist Church in Waco. Their union was blessed by the birth of their two sons Edward Greg and Gary Wayne. He was very proud and grateful for his family and was a loving husband and father, and took great pride in watching his family grow. On July 5, 2017, Ed and Mary Anne celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

He was also so very proud of his two granddaughters Meagan Elizabeth and Lauren Adele, as he watched them grow into the beautiful and talented young women they are today. He enjoyed boating and playing golf with his many friends at Ridgewood Country Club, and along with Mary Anne going to numerous dances, forging life-long relationships with many wonderful friends. Ed was an enthusiastic spectator of golf, baseball and football, being an avid supporter of Baylor athletics for many years. He was a Master Mason, a member of Karen Shrine, and a life-long member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Adele and George F. Bashara; a sister, Vivian Weisberg; a brother, George Bashara; his nephew, Steve Weisberg; and a son, Gary Wayne Bashara. He is survived by his wife, Mary Anne Nalley Bashara; son, Greg Bashara; daughter-in-law, Mary Elizabeth Horne Bashara and daughters, Meagan Elizabeth and Lauren Adele; niece, Brenda Bashara Kanuch and husband, Tom of Dallas; nephew, Doug Bashara of Colorado; nephew, Mick Weisberg of Dallas; nephew, Dick Weisberg and wife, Lynn of Issaquah, WA; nephew, Mark Nalley and wife, Karen and son, Mark Alan of Belton; niece, Suzanne Nalley Merritt and husband, Nelson of Houston and son, Christopher and wife, Courtney, son, Hunter, and daughter, Skylar of Rogers; and son, Brice and wife, Dominique and daughter, Naomi of Riverside, CA. The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to St. Catherine Center for their care. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, St. Paul’s Day School of Waco or to Shriner’s Children Hospital. Honorary pallbearers will be Mark Nalley, Mark Alan Nalley, Dick Weisberg, Doug Bashara, Joe Bashara, Mick Weisberg, Tom Kanuch, Nelson Merritt, Christopher Merritt and Brice Merritt. (Published by Lake Shore Funeral Home)

Dr. Jimmie Coker Holland, BA ’48, MD ’52, of Scarsdale, NY, died Dec. 24 at age 89.

Dr. Jimmie Holland, who rose from rural Texan roots to pioneer the field of psycho-oncology — treating the emotional distress of cancer patients while their medical symptoms are addressed — died on Dec. 24 at her home in Scarsdale, N.Y. She was 89.

Her husband, Dr. James F. Holland, a chemotherapy specialist, said the cause was complications of cardiovascular disease. With several colleagues in the mid-1970s, Dr. Holland established a division of psychiatry at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan. She became the first woman to head a clinical department there and was credited with creating the first full-time psychiatry service in a major cancer hospital.

Born to high school dropouts in a farming hamlet east of Dallas, Dr. Holland was one of only three women in her 1952 medical school class. She originally hoped to be a nurse.

“In the small community in rural Texas where I grew up, I knew of no women who had become doctors,” she said.

Then her ambitions widened — she planned to be a country doctor or a pediatrician — before she gravitated to what would prove to be a groundbreaking psychiatric specialty.

She recounted several reasons for doing so: Her uncle had been institutionalized for a mental breakdown when she was 9; her first husband committed suicide when she was 27; and she was frustrated that her second husband’s oncology colleagues were focusing solely on medical treatment and not on the state of mind of patients facing an unpredictable prognosis.

In treating cancer patients’ mental well being, Dr. Holland rejected what she called “the tyranny of positive thinking.”

A good attitude was one thing, she argued, and the idea of mind over matter might be like chicken soup — it couldn’t hurt, as long as it was coupled with competent medical care. But pep talks were not enough, she said.

“It’s bad enough to have cancer,” she told the website Medscape.com in 2015, “but when all of your family and friends are saying that you have to be positive and you have to fight this thing, and the patient is exhausted and beaten up by the treatments — it seemed to me that adding that burden to be positive was just ridiculous.”

In a letter to The New York Times in 1985, Dr. Holland and a colleague, Morton Bard, wrote of cancer patients, “Should they be viewed as weak or as somehow having contributed to their own demise?”

Dr. Holland treated depression in patients undergoing treatment and anxiety in survivors, sometimes over body image after the loss of a breast or a testicle.

She urged doctors to screen for emotional distress as a vital sign, just as they do for temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure and pain. Physiological symptoms, she said, could often be relieved by antidepressants, anxiety medicine, meditation and other treatments.

In her book “The Human Side of Cancer,” written with Sheldon Lewis and published in 2000, she quoted a patient of hers as saying: “They have measured everything but my thoughts and mind. Somehow, my mental attitude, the stress, the anguish should be analyzed and studied the same as my physical condition.”

Dr. Holland was the founding president of the American Psychosocial Oncology Society and the International Psycho-oncology Society. She also taught at Weill Cornell medical school.

“For more than 40 years, Jimmie made an essential question — ‘How do people with cancer feel?’ — the center of her work,” her husband said in an email.

Dr. William Breitbart, chairman of the psychiatry and behavioral sciences department at Memorial Sloan Kettering, described Dr. Holland in a statement as “a once in a generation influencer.”

She was born Jimmie Coker born on April 9, 1928, in Forney, Tex., a hamlet of about 100 people, to Clifford Coker, a cotton farmer, and the former Mary Velma Cox.

She earned a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University in Waco, Tex., where she found a mentor in a female biology professor. She graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in a class of 85 students.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by six children, Diane, Steven, Mary, Sally, Peter and David Holland; and nine grandchildren.

Dr. Holland taught psychiatry at the State University of New York at Buffalo from 1956 to 1973; practiced at Edward J. Meyer Memorial Hospital (now the Erie County Medical Center) in Buffalo from 1958 to 1972; served in 1972 as a consultant on a joint Soviet-American schizophrenia research study in Moscow; and returned the next year to teach and practice at Montefiore Hospital of Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx.

She joined Memorial Sloan Kettering in 1977. There, she was chief of the psychiatry service until 1996 and chairwoman of the department of psychiatry until 2003.

She edited the first textbook on psycho-oncology in 1989 and was featured on the 2015 PBS documentary “Cancer: The Emperor of All Maladies,” based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Siddhartha Mukherjee.

Dr. Holland described her focus on how emotionally healthy individuals dealt with catastrophic disease as “the psychological care of the medically ill,” particularly those who had been stigmatized because they had cancer.

In the 1950s, she wrote, The Times rejected an advertisement for a women’s support group because it mentioned the words “breast” and “cancer.” She recalled, too, that “a taxi driver once refused to drive me to Memorial, saying, ‘No, ma’am, that place is for the Big C. I drive all the way around it.’ ”

People, she wrote, feared being fired from their jobs if they admitted to having cancer; doctors often withheld their diagnosis from their patients.

“The philosophy was that if we tell them they have cancer, they’ll give up hope, so we won’t tell them,” Dr. Holland said in 2015.

That began to change as recovery rates improved, and as prominent cancer survivors like Betty Ford and Happy Rockefeller spoke openly about their illness.

“One of the things that I’ve learned in 40 years is that our emotions are exactly the same,” Dr. Holland said. “They haven’t changed one iota over millennia. It’s fear. It’s worry. It’s what’s going to happen to me and what’s going to happen to my family. All of those fears are there.

“What the patient has always wanted and still wants is to know that this doctor cares about me,” she continued. “When you feel like your doctor cares, then you’re right there ready to help.” (Written by Sam Roberts/Published in New York Times)

Mary Margaret Ingram, BA ’48, of Waco died Dec. 30 at age 91.

Mary M. Ingram, 91, of Waco, died at home on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017. Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m., Monday, Jan. 8, at Mart Cemetery. Mary was a graduate of Baylor University where she studied radio broadcasting and education. She worked in radio and as a teacher before working as a secretary for the Army. She was a devoted sister and aunt. (Published in Waco Tribune-Herald)

Nancy Biles Miller, BM ’48, of Brownwood, TX, died Jan. 28 at age 90.

Nancy Biles Miller, long-time resident of Brownwood, Texas, died Sunday, January 28, 2018, at the age of 90. She lived to become a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, business professional, governmental leader and change agent, and civic activist. She is also remembered by friends and family as a beautiful vocalist. Nancy was born October 29, 1927, in Fort Worth, Texas. She was married to governmental and community leader Harry A. Miller, Jr. for almost 65 years who preceded her in death in 2016. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Dent Biles and Hallie Parrish Biles, as well as her brother, Jerry Dent Biles.

Nancy graduated from Baylor University in 1948 with a Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Voice/Performance. Musical performance remained a pillar throughout her life and she shared her beautiful soprano voice to the enjoyment of those around her until the end. Nancy served as a public school music teacher in Fort Worth, Texas from 1949 to 1951. She held administrative positions with General Telephone Company and Southwest State Bank in Brownwood, Texas from 1959 to 1968. Beginning in 1969 until 1972, she served as the Administrative Assistant to the President of Howard Payne University and also performed public relations work in that capacity. From 1972 until her retirement in 1988, Nancy held the positions of Director of Volunteer Services, Public Information Officer, and Student Rights Specialist for the Texas Youth Commission - Brownwood State School. Through her employment by TYC as its very first Volunteer Coordinator, she was recognized by the Commission as paving the way for the creation of an extensive network of volunteer programs in all institutions and half way houses throughout the State of Texas. In this role, she was also responsible for organizing the first TYC Community Advisory Council to develop a collaboration for the rehabilitation of Texas juveniles between TYC and the civic leaders of the communities in which TYC facilities were located. Nancy was active in professional and civic organizations such as Texas Corrections Association, Texas Employees Association, Brownwood Community Cultural Affairs Commission (Past Chairman), Rotary Ann Club (Past President), Union Presbyterian Church (Past Chairman, Board of Deacons), Community Concert Association, Mu Phi Epsilon (National Music Organization), Epsilon Sigma Alpha (National Service Organization), Brown County United Way (Chairman, Women’s Division and Board/Directors), March of Dimes Mother’s March, and Muscular Dystrophy Drive.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Kay Miller Dodds; her son Randall Miller and his wife Suetta; her daughter Laurie Miller Qunell; son-in-law Michael Qunell; grandson Chris Miller and his wife Cassie; grandson Jason Qunell and his wife Carrie; granddaughter Lindsey Bell and her husband Michael; granddaughter Catherine Qunell; granddaughter Caitlin Day and her husband Cody; grandson Austin Miller; great-granddaughters Kelsey Miller, Kayla Miller, Avery Qunell, and Coulter Day; great-grandson Major Bell; five nieces; and three nephews. Services will be held at Union Presbyterian Church, 700 Fisk Avenue, Brownwood, Texas at 2:00 pm, Friday, February 2, 2018, under the direction of Heartland Funeral and Cremation Service. A reception will be held at the church following the service. Online condolences to the family can be left at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net. (Published by Heartland Funeral Home)

Lois Mae Nail, ’48, of Liberty, TX, died Jan. 11 at age 92.

Lois Mae “Sue” Nail, age 92 of San Antonio, formerly of Liberty, died on January 11, 2018. She was born October 20, 1925 in Onalaska, Texas, daughter of the late Fred T. Ball and Mettie Ball. Her parents moved to Liberty, in 1928 when her father became the distributor of Texaco products for Liberty County. Sue attended public schools in Liberty, and was Valedictorian of the LHS Class of 1943. Sue worked at the Liberty Chamber of Commerce for one year prior to enrolling as a Freshman at Baylor University in Waco in 1944. She graduated from Baylor in 1948 and received Bachelor Degrees in Education and Music, and in 1972 she received a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Lamar University. Sue was a member of the First Baptist Church in Liberty. She began her work career at Liberty ISD teaching third grade at Sam Houston Elementary, where she met her husband, the late George Howard Nail. Sue and Howard were married in 1952 at FBC, and spent more than fifty-two years together until his passing in 2004.

Sue taught many local children, including her two sons, at her private home school kindergarten during the years her boys were preschool age. In 1960 she returned to work at Liberty Junior High School, teaching seventh grade English until her retirement many years later. Sue was a member of The Delta Kappa Gamma Society of women educators, Liberty County Association for Retired Teachers and was active in the Woman’s Missionary Union at FBC. Sue served as Church Organist at FBC for most of her adult life. She enjoyed music, travel, reading, family and friends. Sue was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother; Emmett Ball, sister; Corky Altenburg, and granddaughter; Jennifer Nail. Survivors include her son; Steven Nail and wife Joyce of San Antonio, son; Michael Nail and wife Katherine of Austin, grandsons; Cameron Nail, Christopher Nail and wife Susan, great grandson; Michael Wyatt Nail, great granddaughter; Amelia Nail, and numerous nieces and nephews. Services for Lois Mae Nail will be held 1PM Thursday January 18, 2018 at First Baptist Church of Liberty with burial to follow in Cooke Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday January 17, 2018 from 4-6PM at Allison Funeral Service, 1101 North Travis, Liberty, Texas. Condolences can be sent online at www.allisonfuneralservice.com (Published by Allison Funeral Service)

Dr. Leslie August Rasner, BBA ’48, LLB ’50, of Robinson, TX, died Nov. 22 at age 95.

Leslie August Rasner, 95, born January 19, 1922 in Groesbeck, Texas, passed away on November 23, 2017. A private family service was held on November 26, 2017. The son of Robert and Clara Rasner, Les was raised in Ben Hurr before joining the U.S. Navy in World War II. Based in Long Beach, Les taught calisthenics to the sailors and was especially proud of his contribution to the physique of his famous student, Johnny Weissmuller - the original 'Tarzan!' After his military service, Les returned to Waco, where he married Ernestine Burns. Miss Ernie passed away in July, shortly before they would have celebrated their 70th anniversary. Early in their married life, they barely survived the devastating Waco tornado in 1953. Les claimed the only headache he ever had in his life was the result of a brick building falling on top of them while in their convertible.

Les received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Baylor University, a Juris Doctorate from Baylor Law School, and a MBA from the University of Texas. After a stint with the FBI, Les became a professor at Baylor University’s School of Business, where he taught for over 42 years. There, Les was instrumental in forming the new Insurance Program, and was Chairman of the Departments of Business Law, Insurance, and Real Estate. His classes were always a favorite - especially to those who loved Baylor athletics as much as he did. Each class was likely to begin with a discussion of a recent Baylor sporting event. Les was very competitive and loved his Bears to win, not missing a game in Floyd Casey Stadium for over 40 years. The athletes in his classes knew they would have some ‘explaining’ to do to if they did not perform well, or even worse, if they did not show up for class.

Les authored a study published by Baylor urging compulsory auto liability insurance. He also wrote a thesis entitled “Insurable Interests in Texas” discussing “inconsistencies and inadequacies” of insurance laws, which was utilized by Texas Legislature in passing new insurance legislation. Les’s competitiveness carried over to the weekly games of ping pong and dominoes with his family, friends, and his brother, Gus, who lived next door. Les would rarely lose and denied, of course, allegations that the dominoes were ‘marked,’ Les was also known for the ‘quick serve’ in ping pong games after the ball bounced off the table and his opponent forgot to call ‘time out!’ If Les was not attending a sporting event, you could find him at Geneva Hall with Miss Ernie. But his dancing prowess was not limited to dance halls. If he happened to be at a restaurant and heard a tune he liked, the waitress would likely be swept up by Les and ‘two-stepped’ across the room!

Les was preceded in death by his wife, Ernestine; his parents; and his sister, Nora Hinze. He is survived by his son, Blake and wife, Diane; son, Brent and wife, Mary; grandchildren, Reid, Ross, Ryan, Brady, and Shannon Rasner. He is also survived by his brother 98-year-old brother, Gus Rasner and wife, Doris; as well as nieces and nephews Janine Duncan, Robert Rasner, Candy Jones, Charlie Rasner, and Eileen Meroney Melton. He was a lifelong member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church. Les never scolded his sons or grandchildren, as they could do no wrong in his eyes. In the unlikely circumstance that one of them was actually guilty of some wrongdoing, it would be classified as an ‘accident’ by Les. Its been said that it is hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember. Les’s legacy of stressing the importance of education, and practicing humility, kindness, and devotion to family and friends, will never be forgotten. Memorials maybe made in his honor to Mission Waco or the Waco Humane Society. (Published in Waco Tribune-Herald)

Dr. John Warren Steen Jr., BA ’48, of Brentwood, TN, died Sept. 3 at age 91.

Author, pastor, and Christian journalist, Rev. Dr. John Warren Steen, Jr. died at Somerfield at the Heritage on September 3, at the age of 91, one day following his 65th wedding anniversary.

He was born on November 9, 1925 in Jackson, Mississippi to John Warren Steen, Sr. and Annabelle Henry Steen. He attended Mississippi College, Baylor University, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Union Seminary. A Navy veteran of WWII, he served as assistant chaplain and organist/pianist.

An active member of Immanuel Baptist Church for 47 years, he served as deacon and was involved with international missions. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Lipham Steen; children, J. Warren Steen (Kathy), Annell Steen Fields (Richard), Lucinda Steen Stewart (Tim); grandchildren, Dr. John Warren Steen, IV, Dr. Bart Steen (Autumn), Matthew Steen (Anna), Sarah Steen Morales (Andreas), Jim Shaffer (Stacey), Andy Shaffer (Tanesha); Benjamin Stewart, and Emily Stewart; great-grandchildren, Evan Shaffer, Jayden Shaffer, and Ryder Shaffer.

Services will be Saturday September 9 at 2:00pm at Immanuel Baptist Church, 222 Belle Meade Blvd. Nashville, TN with visitation at 1:00pm. Memorial gifts may be made to: Immanuel Baptist Church music ministry or the Nashville Symphony. Please visit our online obituary at www.marshalldonnellycombs.com. (Published in Tennessean)

Shelby C. Strickland, BBA ’48, of Houston died Jan. 23 at age 94.

Shelby Clark Strickland, 94, of Houston, passed away Tuesday, January 23, in a Houston nursing facility. Graveside services will be held Friday, January 26 at 11:00 a.m. at Walkers Creek Cemetery near Cameron, with Rev. Billy Crow officiating.

Shelby was born February 12, 1923 in Waco to Leo and Lucy Pearl (Sparks) Strickland. He was a veteran, serving his country in the United States Navy during WWII. He graduated from Baylor University with a Business Administration degree. He worked for Exxon Pipeline in Houston for more than 35 years. Shelby was a member of the Exxon Annuitant Club and a member of St. John’s Presbyterian Church in Houston.

Survivors include:

Wife: Doris Jean Strickland of Houston

Two Daughters - Sherry Hibbert of Houston and Susan Neibel and husband Steve of Carrollton

Four Grandchildren – David Neibel and wife Michelle of San Antonio, Timothy Neibel of Carrollton, Hayley Hibbert Reis and husband Kevin, and Thomas “Trey” Hibbert III, of Houston

Three Great grandchildren – Noah and Wyatt Neibel of San Antonio and Reagan Reis of Houston

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Jude’s Hospital or Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.

Arrangements are under the direction of Green-Patterson Funeral Home in Cameron. Condolences for the family may be left at www.green-pattersonfuneralhome.com

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Dr. Thomas Ezell Adams, BA ’49, of Morrison, CO, died Jan. 16 at age 95.

Thomas Ezell Adams, Sr., was born January 30, 1922 in Kosse, Texas, and passed away January 16, 2018 in Plano, Texas. Thomas begun his adult life studying at Baylor University, which was interrupted by the war, where Thomas honorably served in the U.S. Army, and was discharged as a TEC 5 in the 109th EVAC Hospital. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Baylor University; yet finished off his studies at Southwestern Seminary, and became an ordained Baptist Minister. He spent many years ministering to numerous Baptist congregations in North Texas; and spent his life living predominately in the Richardson area. Mr. Adams is survived by his son, Thomas Adams, Jr. and family; daughters, Beverly Dennett and family; and Linda Alvarez and Family. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Mildred; son, Paul; and two daughters and their families. (Published by Williams Funeral Directors)

Barbara Gerber Butt, BA ’49, of Kerrville, TX, died Dec. 14 at age 89.

Barbara Dan Butt, wife of Howard E. Butt, Jr., and influential leader in The H. E. Butt Family Foundation, died in her home on December 14, 2017, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 89.
She was born Barbara Dan Gerber on January 26, 1928, in San Angelo, Texas, to parents Rex Gerber and Christine Hanks Gerber. Although many of their relatives still live around San Angelo, the Gerbers moved to Corpus Christi, where Mrs. Butt’s father worked 40 years as a geologist for Humble Oil, then Exxon.
Mrs. Butt was two years older than her sister, Betty Gay Gerber Blank. The two of them attended Corpus Christi High together, where Mrs. Butt served as president of the Latin Club and the Tri-Hi-Y Club, a leadership program of the YMCA. The two sisters would remain very close throughout their lives.
During her senior year in 1945, Mrs. Butt invited her former boyfriend, Howard E. Butt, Jr., to address Tri-Hi-Y when he was on break from Baylor University. Later, he would say that her poise and confidence as president of the club made quite an impression on him.
The next semester, she joined him at Baylor, where she received the honor of Baylor Beauty, earned a degree in English, and secured the love and affection of her future husband.

On March 21, 1949, after dating for most of seven years from the age of fourteen, Barbara Dan Gerber married Howard E. Butt, Jr. In their first years of marriage, the two lived in Corpus Christi. She “held down the fort” while Howard worked as an H-E-B executive and led Christian crusades around the country on the weekends. “I would fly all night after speaking in the southeast,” Howard Butt often told people. “Barbara Dan would meet me at the plane with a clean shirt and a fresh tie, and I would go and spend the day in the grocery company.”
Mrs. Butt believed her marriage was a gift from God, once saying, “I feel like I was put on this earth to be Howard Butt’s wife.” Everyone who knew them could see that their marriage was special.

After their youngest went to college, Mrs. Butt followed her husband into leadership at The H. E. Butt Family Foundation. By 1983, she was serving as Secretary-Treasurer on the board. Ten years later, she was Vice President, attending weekly executive staff meetings and working together with the staff to operate Laity Lodge, the retreat center built on the Frio River at the 1900 acre H. E. Butt Foundation property near Leakey, Texas.

For several decades, she was instrumental in the planning and execution of the Laity Lodge Leadership Forums, which brought together Fortune 500 executives from around the country for a weekend of learning, spiritual reflection, and worship.

She made decisions on everything from the keynote speakers, to the musicians, to the invitation, to the layout of the meeting rooms. In 2007, Howard Butt said of her, “My wife is a wise woman, full of both common sense and spiritual wisdom.” After serving alongside her husband more than three decades, she retired from the board of The H. E. Butt Family Foundation in 2014.

“Her love for our dad was the mark of her life,” said their daughter, Deborah Rogers. “Theirs was a 75-year love affair, a model of marriage in our family, at Laity Lodge, and in our community.”

In 2012, Howard began having health issues, eventually diagnosed as Parkinson’s. According to her son Stephen Butt, when Mr. Butt’s Parkinson’s grew worse, “she absolutely put everything in her life on hold for him. Her devotion to our father was deep and knew no boundaries.” Mrs. Butt lost her husband on September 11, 2016.

“I still cannot fathom Mother and Dad separated,” said their son Howard Butt III. “Theirs was an exceptional marriage, and it gives us all great comfort to believe that in her passing, they are reunited in heaven.”
“After Dad died,” Mrs. Rogers said, “she would still tell our children that she loved everything about their grandfather, the way he dressed, the way he treated people, his mind, even the way he aged.”

Early in her marriage, Mrs. Butt was known to say, “There is more to life than length! You best measure life by its depth!” Surely, she was blessed with a life of great length and great depth.

Barbara Dan Butt is survived by her son Howard Butt III, his wife Pamela, and their children Howard IV married to Kristen, Hillary Butt Gromus married to Thomas, and Jeffrey married to Alexandra; her son Stephen Butt, his wife Susan, and their daughters Sarah and Shelby; and her daughter Deborah Rogers, her husband David, and their children Katherine Hanks McAlister married to Rob, Alexandra Crawford married to Patrick, and Jackson Rogers. Her sister, Mrs. Blank, now lives in Hong Kong, China. Mrs. Butt has one great granddaughter, Charley Butt, daughter of Howard IV. Memorial gifts may be sent to Trinity Baptist Church or The H. E. Butt Family Foundation.

You are invited to sign the Guestbook at www.porterloring.com
(Published in San Antonio Express-News)

Elton Eugene Dorsey, BBA ’49, of Fort Worth died Dec. 18 at age 91.

Lt. Cmdr. Elton E. Dorsey (USN, Retired) passed away Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, at the age of 91. He will be remembered by family members as “Dee” or “Uncle Dee.”
Elton was born May 21, 1926, in Golden, Texas, the fourth son and seventh child of Robert and Ollie Dorsey. He grew up in Hillsboro and served as a teenager in World War II, then later in the Korean and Vietnam wars. He married Mary Louise Cunningham in 1958 and became the father of a daughter (Sandra). He and Mary would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary next May 30th.

He began as an enlisted man in World War II, but after college (B.B.A., Baylor), attended Supply Corps School and was commissioned an Ensign. He became inactive in 1952 and worked as an Internal Revenue Agent from 1953-1956. He returned to active duty as a Lt. JG in 1956 and was promoted to Lt. Cmdr. during this tour.

Upon retirement in 1958, he and his wife and daughter became permanent residents of Fort Worth. During the early part of his retirement years, he enjoyed working as a part-time employee with tax-service companies. But he was more than content to have just a leisurely retirement, enjoying working on his home computer and watching lots of sports events on television.

(Published by Greenwood Funeral Homes)

Mary Alice Thompson Grundy, BA ’49, died Jan. 29 in Branford, CT. She was 90. 

She was born in Palestine, Texas on December 25, 1927, daughter of Roy and Ona Thompson. She passed away on January 29, 2018 in Branford, Connecticut, one month after her 90th birthday, from complications after a stroke. She lived in Palestine until she attended and graduated from Baylor University in Waco, Texas where she met her husband of nearly 50 years, Larry A. Grundy of Memphis, Texas, who preceded her in death. She lived in nine states in the USA, and in England. She loved her family, enjoyed her cats, and became an accomplished weaver. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Friedman, her husband, Peter Friedman, son Allen Grundy, and his wife Mary Grundy. She leaves five grandchildren Melissa Baker (husband Stephen), Scott Friedman, Matt Grundy (wife Danielle), Corey Romeo (husband Richard), Ryan Grundy, and one great granddaughter, Talia Baker. She will be laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery in Memphis, Texas on February 3, 2018. 

(Published in Palestine Herald-Press) 

Doris Rucker Hooks, BBA ’49, of Fort Worth died Dec. 28 at age 88. 

Doris Rucker Hooks, age 88, formerly of Fort Worth, passed away December 28, 2017 in Granbury, Texas.
Doris was born in Georgetown, Texas on June 18, 1929 to William and Edna Anderson Rucker. She was the youngest of three children. She graduated from Baylor University in 1949 with a BBA in Education. She married Bentley C. Hooks, Jr. on July 4, 1953. They had three daughters, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

She loved her daughters immensely, but her pride and joy were her grandchildren. Many summers were not complete without visiting “MeeMaw” for a week. Her eyes would light up whenever she was with her grandchildren.

She loved playing tennis, and played until she reached the age of 86. She was a member of Westcliff United Methodist Church, which later became Arborlawn United Methodist Church. She moved into Waterview Senior Living in Granbury, Texas in November 2015 and loved playing Ping Pong and “Bubbleball” with the other residents. The family is very grateful for the incredibly warm and wonderful care that Waterview Memory Care employees provided for her.

She is preceded in death by her sister Mary Rucker Cole, her brother William Rucker Jr, her husband, Bentley C. Hooks, Jr., and her daughter Jane Hooks Orcutt.

Survivors: She is survived by two daughters: Kay (and Dean) Wiesmann, Carol (and Bill) Thomson; grandchildren Colin (and Leslie) Orcutt, Sam (and Amy) Orcutt, Dayna (and Casey) Norton, Rachel Thomson, Kelly (and Caleb) Newman, Jenny Thomson; great-grandson Benjamin Reed Orcutt; son-in-law Bill (and Lydia) Orcutt, and her honorary daughter Carolyn (and Kent) Moseley. (submitted)

Edwin William Makowski, BA ’49, of Robinson, TX, died Dec. 2 at age 89.

Edwin William Makowski, lovingly known as “Ed”, passed away on December 2, 2017 in Robinson, Texas at the age of 89, having succumbed to lung cancer. A memorial service is scheduled for December 27, at 11 a.m., at Central United Methodist Church, 5740 Bagby Ave in Waco. Ed was born in Lexington, TX to Edwin Walter and Bertha Florence Makowski. He attended LaVega Schools in Bellmead, TX and then Baylor University, where he received a BA degree. He served four years in the air force, then returned to Waco and joined his father in Mac’s Garage, an auto repair shop.

Ed and his first wife, Laura, were married at Sparks Memorial United Methodist Church in Bellmead, TX in 1956. He and his father became GMC Truck dealers and then started M&M Truck Lease in 1970. Ed sold the business and moved to Edinburg, TX in 1990.

He married Ann McNallen in 1991. After a few months of leisure, Ed and Ann started a new enterprise, A&E Truck Parts, which was sold seven years later. Ed then became a substitute teacher for McAllen and Mission school districts and served as Chairman of the Cimarron Homeowners Association Architectural Committee. After Ann’s death in 2015, Ed moved back to McLennan County, residing in Robinson until his death. Ed had a long and fruitful interest in the genealogy of the German Texans of which he was a part, documenting over 90,000 names in his GerTex tree on Ancestry.com. He was a master at Bridge and Scrabble but enjoyed games of all types.

Ed is survived by his son, Mike and wife, Donna, of Waco, TX; his son, Andy and wife, Carole, of Kingsport, TN; his step-children, Pam Albrecht, Karen McNallen, Dean McNallen, and Dale McNallen, along with their spouses, children, and grandchildren; his sister, Frances SoRelle of Richardson, TX; his nieces, nephews, and a host of loving friends. Memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church Music Ministries (cumcwaco.com) or the Central Texas Choral Society (centraltexaschoralsociety.org) - organizations which Ed loved and passionately supported. Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.LakeShoreFH.com. (Published in the Waco Tribune-Herald)

Nancy P’Pool Redding, BBA ’49, of Houston died Dec. 15 at age 89.

Nancy Elizabeth P’Pool Redding passed away peacefully at Methodist Hospital on the 15th of December 2017, with loving family by her side. The beloved mother and grandmother was known to all simply as Nana. She was born in Waco, Texas to Raymond Clinton and Haloise Herring P’Pool on the 20th of January.

Nancy attended Lanier Junior High and Lamar High School, where she was a member of the school’s third graduating class. It gave her great pleasure that her children and grandchildren also attended and graduated from Lamar. She attended Baylor University, was a member of Alpha Omega Sorority, Phi Gamma Nu, a professional commerce sorority and Sigma Tau Delta, a professional English fraternity. In 1949, she graduated with a degree in Business Administration. Nancy went on to wed her college sweetheart, Jack T. Redding, and they were married for 53 years until his passing in 2004.

After a few years teaching school, Nancy took on her greatest role as mother to her three sons Bob, Ray and Rick. A member of Second Baptist Church, Nancy’s life was one of faith, family and friends. She was devoted to caring for her parents, husband and children through the years and maintained many lifelong friendships. A member of the Junior League of Houston for over 50 years, she was an avid baker and gardener, accomplished at needlepoint and an especially loyal fan of baseball, most notably little league games played by her sons and grandson.

Nana is survived by her three sons and their wives: Robert and Gloria Redding, of Corpus Christi, Raymond Sr. and Annie Redding of Houston and Richard and Susan Redding of Houston, as well as three adored grandchildren, Haloise Hudson Redding, Raymond P’Pool Redding Jr. and his wife Sydney Ackerley Redding and Rachel Camille Redding.

Friends are cordially invited to gather with the family and share remembrances of Nancy, during a visitation from half-past three o’clock in the afternoon until half-past six o’clock in the evening on Monday, the 18th of December 2017, in the parlor of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

A funeral service will be conducted at ten o’clock in the morning on Tuesday, the 19th of December 2017, in the Hankamer Chapel of Second Baptist Church, 6400 Woodway Drive in Houston where Rev. Ryan Vinzant is to officiate.

A private family entombment will take place in Memorial Mission Mausoleum at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery in Houston.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family request memorial contributions in honor of Nancy be directed to Star of Hope Mission, 4848 Loop Central Dr., Suite 500 Houston, TX 77081 or online at www.sohmission.org (Published by Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors) 

Dorothy Runnels, ’49, of Spring, TX, died Dec. 7 at age 91.

Preceded in death by parents Thomas Collie Waldrop & Mary Frances Catherine Erwin Waldrop, Dorothy Waldrop Runnels, 91, passed away after suffering a stroke and heart failure at her home in Spring, Texas, so she may be near her Granddaughter Lora. Born in Waco, Texas, Dorothy resided most of her life in Houston, Brenham, and Waco. She was in the Famous Waco High School Graduating Class of 1943. Still friends with many to this day and her best friend Milton Wilson. Then she attended Business College and saved up enough money to pay part tuition at Baylor University and take a chance at it all. While working in the Dean’s office, with a Major in journalism she made very little money. Dorothy left school and got a better job with the Veterans Administrations Contact Office. It was there that she met her future husband Olan Runnels. They married June 5, 1947, two days after Olan’s Baylor Graduation and moved to McAllen, TX. A few years later and living in Houston, Dorothy gave birth to a son, the child she dreamed of.

While Olan worked, transferring his family all over the US, Dorothy took care of the home and her son with a smile and made the most of her time by going on many adventures with lifelong friends, hosting parties, playing golf & bridge, and becoming a mother figure to many others whom dearly loved her. Once Olan retired, he and Dorothy traveled all over the world. Dorothy was a very special person that enjoyed life with respect and a sense of humor. She carried a spark in her smile and laugh that will never be forgotten and greatly missed. She is survived by her son, Robert Jeffrey Runnels and wife Belinda Ainsworth-Echarte, granddaughter Lora Runnels Sundbeck, grandsons Dale & Robert, six great grandchildren, London, Henning, Makayla, Alayna, Ethan, and Aubrey. Special Instructions/Comments: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Fighters of Houston, P.O.B. 272641, Houston, TX 77277. (Published by Afterlife.co/us)

Henry Lee Rydel, BBA ’49, of West, TX, died Jan. 18 at age 95.

H.L. “Cob” Rydel, age 95, of West, passed away January 18, 2018 at West Rest Haven in West.
A rosary will be recited and Mass of Christian Burial celebrated 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption, with Rev Stephen Nesrsta as celebrant.  Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard.  The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at Aderhold Funeral Home. Henry was born March 8, 1922 in West, the son of the late Ernest and Minnie (Marak) Rydel. He was a 1940 graduate of West High School prior to attending Hill Junior College in Hillsboro. Henry served his country with the United States Army during World War II from 1942 to 1946 in India. Upon his return he received a business degree from Baylor University in 1949.  On May 12, 1951 he was united in marriage to Pat Luckemeyer in San Marcos. He owned Hlavaty’s Gas Station from 1956 to 1962 prior to starting the Ace Auto Supply in West in 1961. Henry was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of the Assumption.  He was also a member of the West VFW Post #4819. He played enjoyed playing softball and football. He loved watching sports on television, working, fishing, visiting with friends, dancing and going to the horse races in Hot Springs, AR.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 66 years, Pat Rydel of West; his children, Denise Gerik and husband Jerry of Aquilla and Mike Rydel and wife Laurie of Mechanicsville, VA; a brother-in-law, Wayne Luckemeyer and wife Sharon; grandchildren, Anne Pustejovsky and husband Cory, Joshua Gerik and wife Tara, Alicia Rydel, Tyler Rydel and Trey Rydel; great grandchildren, Camille, Ava and Luke Pustejovsky and Allison and Laura Gerik; two nieces and many other relatives and friends.
Pallbearers are Joshua Gerik, Cory Pustejovsky, Luke Pustejovsky, Trey Rydel, Tyler Rydel, Louie Webre Jr. and Bailey Warren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to West Rest Haven Disaster Relief Fund.

(Published by Aderhold Funeral Homes)

Doris Jones Scott, BA ’49, of Stillwater, OK, died Dec. 7 at age 91.

Doris Jane Jones Scott came into this world as the adored daughter of Martin and Jane Jones, and the baby sister to Martin Jr. and Preston (Bud). She left this world as the life-long love of Walter Gaylord Scott, the sweet mother of Lori Jane Scott Robertson and Gaye Lynn Scott, the gracious mother-in-law of Glenn Earl Robertson, and the doting grandmother of Joel Scott Robertson. Walter, her husband of 67 years, and Lori and Gaye Lynn were with her in her home when she passed away. She lived a life of sweetness and grace, love and kindness, and she will be missed by all who knew her.

Doris was born in Palestine, Texas on August 20, 1926 and passed on to life in Gods comforting embrace on December 7, 2017. She was cheerful and loving to the end, thanks to the constant love and devotion of Walter. She was the love of his life and the focus of his energy, passion, and compassion from the time they met at Baylor University, where they each earned baccalaureate degrees in 1949, his in Bible and hers in Spanish. She worked as a church secretary while he attended graduate school, she typed his 475-page dissertation (more than once) for his doctorate from The Johns Hopkins University, and she raised two tow-headed girls who are still referred to by many as The Girls today.

Doris loved her God and her church throughout her long life. She hosted countless wedding showers, she was active in the WMU, she worked in the church office during the Sunday School hour for many years, and she was the unofficial church historian for First Baptist Church. Doris also loved genealogy and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, and the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

When Walter retired, they enjoyed traveling with The Girls to Europe, attending OSU baseball games, continuing their genealogy work, bickering, loving, laughing, and living out their lifetime commitment of love. God’s grace and enveloping love were present throughout their lives together as they raised their family, served their church, and loved their God, and Gods grace and love were present at the end. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the First Baptist Church Foundation.
Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church, 701 S. Duncan, Stillwater, Oklahoma, on Monday, December 11 at two o'clock in the afternoon. Interment will follow at Fairlawn Cemetery. The Reverends Tim Walker, Rodney McGlothlin, and Glenn Robertson will preside.

Strode Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be emailed to the family and an online obituary may be viewed by visiting www.strodefh.com. (Published in Stillwater News Press) 

Dr. W. Marvin Watson, BBA ’49, MA ’50, of Spring, TX, died Nov. 26 at age 93. 

Marvin Watson, age 93, of Spring, Texas, passed away on November 27, 2017. He is survived by his wife, Marion, his daughter Kimberly Rathmann, two sons, Winston Lee Watson and William Marvin Watson III, a son-in-law, R. Craig Rathmann, a daughter-in-law, Kathryn Allen Watson, four grandchildren, Meredith Watson, Ashley Rowland, Austin Rathmann, and Winston Rathmann, and three great grandchildren, Ellie Rowland, Rhett Rowland and Harper Leigh Rathmann. He was graduated by Huntsville High School and received Bachelor’s of Business Administration and Master’s in Economics degrees from Baylor University. He served as an instructor in the Economics Department while at Baylor. He later received two honorary degrees, an Honorary Doctor of Law and an Honorary Doctor of Humanities. He served in the Marine Corps Air Wing during World War II and as the 61st Postmaster General of the United States of America, a Cabinet position at the time of his service. As Postmaster General, he managed the second largest budget in the American government, exceeded only by the Defense Department. He managed 762,000 Post Office employees. He also served as Chief of Staff in President Lyndon Johnson’s White House.

His business experience after graduation from Baylor included City Judge and City Manager of Daingerfield, Texas. Later he worked for Lone Star Steel Company, in Dallas, as Executive Assistant to its President, E.B. Germany. He was President of Occidental Petroleum International and Executive Vice President and a board member of the parent company, Occidental Petroleum. During his tenure, the company grew to be the thirteenth largest corporation in America. He was Chairman and CEO of Radopath Pharmaceuticals, Chairman of the Board of Polish Telephones and Microwave Corporation, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Immune Associates, Inc., Chairman of Matrix Incorporated, Chairman of AEON Solutions Corporations, Chief Executive Officer of Out of India Corporation, and Chairman of Harbinger Corporation.

He was a member of the Texas Judicial Council, Texas Industrial Council, and was on the Executive Board of the Texas Law Enforcement Foundation. He was a member of Texas State Democratic Executive Committee, and was appointed Chairman of the Committee by Governor John B. Connally. He and Marion were members of Second Baptist Church in Houston. Marvin served on the Board of Directors of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, World Impact, Inc., World Evangelism of America and was Chief Executive Officer of the Old Time Gospel Hour, based in Lynchburg, Virginia. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Executive Officer Scottish Hella Shrine of Dallas and Northeastern Texas Shrine Club. Dr. Watson was laid to rest at the Texas State Cemetery, Austin, Texas, on November 30, 2017. (Published by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes) 

Wanda Slocum Watson, BM ’49, of Fort Worth died Oct. 23 at age 89.

Wanda Slocum Watson died peacefully Monday, October 23, 2017 in Fort Worth, Texas. A memorial service was held at the Fort Worth nursing home where she lived happily for the last three years. Wanda was born on May 31, 1928 in Weatherford, Texas to Ferd and Loma Slocum and was the oldest of three children. Wanda grew up on the Slocum Brothers Ranch near Cresson, Texas, which was featured in the movie “Pure Country.” She attended grade school in Cresson in a one-room schoolhouse, and Weatherford High School. Later she attended Baylor University where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Wanda moved to Midland in 1949, where she became a second grade teacher at Sam Houston Elementary School.

Wanda was always proud to have had President George W. Bush and Florida Governor Jeb Bush as her students. Wanda met Jim Watson in Midland and they were married in Cresson on August 22, 1953. Wanda and Jim lived, worked, and raised their two sons, Mark and Rob, in Midland for over 30 years. During their time in Midland, Wanda worked in the oil industry as a receptionist for the Western Company and Enron Corporation. She played piano and sang in the choir at First Baptist Church for many years, attended symphonies and musicals, and participated in the Midland Community Theater.

In the mid-1980s, Wanda and Jim moved to Fort Worth to be near family. Wanda and Jim were married for 55 years, until Jim’s death in 2009. Wanda loved people, watching her sons and grandchildren play sports, the Dallas Cowboys, cooking for the holidays, music, art, travel, and animals, as evidenced by her adoption of an abandoned kitten and dedication to feeding it every two hours for weeks. Wanda was most proud of and deeply loved her two grandchildren, Tori and Brock. Many long-time friends continue to thank Wanda for introducing them to their future spouses. She shared deep faith, love, joy, and compassion with friends and family for 89 years. Wanda is survived by her sister, Linda Tucker of Mullen, Nebraska; eldest son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Deanna Watson of Cochiti Lake, New Mexico; youngest son and wife Rob and Donna Watson, and granddaughter and grandson, Tori Layne and Brock Taylor Watson, all of Fort Worth, Texas. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ferd and Loma Slocum; brother, Ferd Taylor Slocum; and husband, Jim Watson. The family wishes to provide deep thanks to the nurses and aides of Carlylse at Stonebridge Nursing Home in Southlake, Texas, and a special thanks to hospice nurse Flomina, who provided compassionate crisis care for Wanda at the end of her life. (Published in Midland Reporter-Telegram)

1950-54

Calvin Ashley, JD ’50, of Wichita Falls, TX, died Jan. 13 at age 92.

Calvin Ashley, 92, passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2018, in Wichita Falls.

Funeral service will be at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 18, 2018, in the chapel of Lunn’s Colonial Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at a visitation following the service. Interment will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 19, 2018, at Crestview Memorial Park under the direction of Lunn’s Colonial Funeral Home.

The second of nine children, he was born on February 3, 1925, in Wichita Falls to Alvie Raymond and Zoda Pearl Ashley. Calvin was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Kathryn and son, Roger.

A lifelong resident of Wichita Falls, he attended San Jacinto and Austin Elementary schools, Reagan Junior High and graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1942. While attending Hardin Junior College, he was drafted into the Army in 1943. He served in the Army Air Corp until 1945. Returning home, he graduated from Hardin Junior College in 1947 and enrolled in Baylor School of Law. On December 29, 1947, Calvin married Mary Kathryn Morgan. They moved to Waco where he graduated from Baylor School of Law in 1950.

Calvin started practicing law in Wichita Falls and was in private practice throughout his early career but spent most of his career in public service. He served at City Judge, Assistant District Attorney, and was elected County Judge in 1962. He served as County Judge until being appointed District Judge in 1962. He served as County Judge until being appointed District Judge in 1977 and served there until retiring in 1989. After one year, he returned to work as a visiting judge until retiring for good in 1995.

Calvin is survived by his son Jack Brady Ashley and wife, Robbie of Montague; son Allan Ashley and wife, Becky of Lewisville; sister, Dorothy Sternadel and husband, James of Wichita Falls; sister, Betty Laroe of Amarillo; brother, Alvie Ashley of Austin; brother-in-law Fred Morgan Jr. of Wichita Falls, Texas; grandchildren, Zachary Ashley and wife, Christen of League City; Cy Ashley and wife, Kayce of Henrietta; Mindy Ashley of Dallas; Monica Huchton and husband, Jason of Muenster; Paige Martinez and husband, Roberto of McKinney; Lucas Ashley and wife, Kristine of Little Elm; Dustin Ashley of Snyder, OK; and Morgan Ashley of Stillwater, OK; and 17 great-grandchildren. (Published by Lunn’s Colonial Funeral Home)

Rev. Dr. Jack Carroll Bush Sr., BA ’50, of Boerne, TX, died Dec. 26 at age 88.

For the Rev. Dr. Jack Carroll Bush, Sr., his work here is done. As with all Methodist clergy, he has received a new appointment and at long last, his final appointment has arrived. He was known by many as simply, “Rev” and was born in Waco, Texas on June 18, 1929, to Richard C. Bush Sr. and Vivien Evelyn Harris Bush. He married the love of his life, Ruth Louise Kline, in 1950 after graduating from Baylor University. His first job was as the band director for Kerens High School in Kerens, Texas. Soon he found himself in the ministry with his first appointment as an associate minister at First United Methodist Church in Temple, Texas. After two years, his second appointment took him to the First Methodist Church of Maypearl, Texas where he also attended the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. The First Methodist Church of Arlington, Texas was his next appointment and while there, he graduated from Perkins at SMU.

The Rio Grande Valley was the next stop on his appointment list, where he established the St. Stephen Larger Parish. This combined the First Methodist Churches of Combes, Texas and Santa Rosa, Texas. After four years in the Valley, Cokesbury United Methodist Church in San Antonio, Texas became the fifth appointment followed by St. Matthews United Methodist Church for nine-years also in San Antonio. The next appointment was at Alamo Heights United Methodist Church. From there he served as a hospital chaplain at Santa Rosa Hospital and as the Director of Chaplains at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio for more than 15 years. While serving this appointment, he received his doctorate in pastoral care from the San Francisco Theological Seminary in San Anselmo, California. After 15 plus years in his chaplaincy appointment, he was appointed to the First Methodist Church of Fashing, Texas where he retired after thirteen years.

Jack loved music. He played trumpet in the Baylor University band. He arranged music not only for band and orchestra but also for choral. Music was always a large part of his churches and ministry. Many of his youth choirs traveled the country performing. He volunteered at Bradley Middle School in San Antonio helping and teaching band and music. His love of performing had him participating in many, many bands from Big Bands to German bands. Rev. Dr. Bush was also a theological scholar, often seen with a theology book, highlighters, and many colored pens to make his copious notes.

Rev. Dr. Bush is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ruth. They have five children. Jack Bush, Jr., his wife Southern, Vivien Smith and her husband Bohn, Chris Bush and his wife Shannon, Dr. Janis K. Bush and her husband Dr. John Kaulfus, and Mollie Shannon Lamont. Their seven grandchildren include Nick Bush and his wife Elise Aliberti, Matthew Bush and his wife Tricia, Eleanor and Bennett Bush, Ashleigh Davis and her husband Justin, Taylor Lamont and his wife Michelle, and Caitlin Lamont. His five great-grandchildren are Louise Bush, Ashtin, Coltin and Austin Davis, and Landon Lamont. Rev. Dr. Bush was preceded in death by his mother and father and two brothers Rev. Dr. Richard C. Bush, Jr., and Robert C. Bush. We will remember his smile, his warmth, his energy, his love for life, family, friends, and music but also his parishioners, colleagues, students, and fellow musicians for whom many became lifelong friends. He worked very hard all his life and made a difference in the lives of so many.

We invite you to join us and celebrate his life and last appointment. Honorary Pall Bearers are Nick Bush, Matt Bush, Taylor Lamont, Bennett Bush, Justin Davis, Coltin Davis, and Landon Lamont. The family wants to thank the people of Care Choice of Boerne for the care and love shown to Rev. Bush. In lieu of flowers, Jack Sr. hoped that you might make a contribution to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Antonio or do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for the less fortunate in his name. (Published by Porter Loring Mortuaries)

Robert Dalton Christian, BA ’50, of Gallatin, TN, died Dec. 18 at age 90. 

Robert Dalton Christian was born March 19, 1927 to John Robert Christian and Elizabeth Smartt Christian in Birmingham, Alabama. He died December 18, 2017 in Gallatin, TN. He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Bonnie Gaither and Allie Butler, and brother Bill Christian. Bob attended Hueytown High. He enlisted in the Navy in 1945 and was sent to Guam and Iwo Jima. Bob returned home in July 1946 and attended Baylor University. Afterwards he attended New Orleans Seminary receiving a Masters of Divinity Degree. He preached at First Baptist Donaldsonville, LA; Bridgedale Baptist in Jefferson Parish, New Orleans; and Bellview Baptist in Sandusky, Alabama. After joining the National Guard as Chaplain he served in Incirlik Air Force Base as well as in Turkey, Greenland, and Thailand. He stayed at Dyess Air Force in Abilene, Texas for nine years.

Bob received his Doctorate from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Bob lacks 800 miles in traveling around the world. Climbed Mt. Ararat twice. Led devotions at the Garden Tomb. He served as Kiwanis President many times. He was a member of First Baptist Church Decatur for 10 years. While visiting his sister, Allie Butler, he met and married Ann DeMoss. Happily married for 13 years.

Survived by: wife, Ann DeMoss Christian - Gallatin TN; Son, Robert Dalton Christian Jr. (Shirley) John and Julia, Huntsville, AL. Four step children. Coleman DeMoss (Debbie) Aaron and Nicole, Atlanta, GA; Bob DeMoss (Julie) Nick DeMoss Bentonville, AR; Nancy DeMoss Moon (Steve) Lance Pate and Adam Pate, Tallahassee, FL; Susan DeMoss Hampton (Lance) Bryant Holt and Peyton Holt, Gallatin, TN; Great grandchildren- Max, Jack and Lucy Pate, Trussville, AL; Sister, Jessie Word, Pelham AL. Bob left a lasting impression on people with his love for his church, his family, and his Lord. He will be remembered and missed. (Published by Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home)

Dr. Thomas O. Eller, BS ’50, MD ’54, of Plano, TX, died Jan. 8 at age 91.

Dr. Thomas O. Eller, MD, a longtime Plano physician, died Monday, January 8, 2018. Dr. Eller was born March 29, 1926 to Ethel and Jacob Eller in Clovis, New Mexico. He was a graduate of Clovis High School and attended Eastern New Mexico University. He held a Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and a Doctor of Medicine degree from Baylor University College of Medicine in Houston. After 42 years of service to his community, he retired from the practice of family medicine in 1996.

During his years of practice, Dr. Eller was active in the Collin County Medical Society of the Texas Medical Association. He served several terms as president and as secretary treasurer of the association. He was accorded Honorary Membership in the Texas Medical Association in 1996.

He was also active in the Red River Chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He served that organization several times as president and as secretary treasurer. Dr. Eller became a Charter Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians in 1972 and became a Life Member in 1996. He was a charter member of the medical staff of Plano General Hospital (now Medical City of Plano), and served as Chief of the Medical Staff there in 1977. He served on the development committee for Rehab South Hospital. Dr. Eller proudly served in the United State Navy during World War II and later briefly served as a medical officer.

Dr. Eller was a devoted husband and father. When his children were at home, he enjoyed taking them on trips for vacation and other family activities such as swimming and hiking.

He is (survived by his wife of 65 years, Shirley Frank Eller, whom he met while both were students at Baylor, and by two sons, Dr. Thomas O. Eller, II and wife, Carlette, and Dr. Richard Eller and wife, Michele. He is survived by 9 grandchildren: Andrew, William, Kathleen, Jacob and Arianna Eller, William Lyons III, and Mallory, Kami, and Michael Cavenee. The family suggests that memorials may be made to The First Christian Church, 813 East 15th Street, Plano, TX. (Published by Ted Dickey Funeral Home) 

Anita Gillis Harvey, BBA ’50, of Houston died Feb. 3 at age 89. 

Rev. Wayne A. Heinze, BA ’50, of Buffalo Gap, TX, died Dec. 31 at age 88.

Reverend Wayne Allan Heinze, 88 entered into Heaven Sunday, December 31, 2017.

He left behind his wife of 63 years Sue (Doucette) Heinze who served faithfully by his side. He was born in Houston on February 28, 1929, the son of Dan and Lois Heinze, he was the fourth child of the five children.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers Dan Heinze, Don Heinze, and Lon Heinze and sister Elaine Berry.

Wayne prepared for his 69 years of ministry at Baylor University, preaching every chance he had in country churches. After graduation from Baylor in 1949, he taught school for 25 years at Washington Middle School and Stephen F Austin High School in Houston. While teaching school, he served in churches as Youth, Children, Music, Education Minister, Evangelist Minister, and he started many Bus Ministries.

Wayne’s passion in life was to serve his Lord and Savior and he did that from his teens until he departed. He was not just a preacher, but he was a friend at the time of need. You could find him under a house fixing pipes, building a fence, or any service that was needed in the community that he was serving. He lived by the scripture of Matthew 25:40, And the King answered and said unto them, Inasmuch as you have done it unto the least of these my brethren you have done it unto me.

Wayne and Sue came to Buffalo Gap, Texas when he retired from teaching to live the country life. They began to serve at First Baptist Church Buffalo Gap as Music and later as Pastor. He started a Bus Ministry that reached many people for the Lord. He also served for a time at First Baptist Church of Tuscola starting a Bus Ministry for that church as well. A need for a church off Highway 89 became apparent, Wayne was called to come help build and Pastor Elm Creek Baptist Church where he served as Pastor for fourteen years before retiring.

Wayne had a full life of many accomplishments, but he would tell you his greatest was adding souls to the Kingdom of God.

His life will be celebrated Saturday, January 6, 2017, at First Baptist Church of Buffalo Gap, at 1:30PM. Officiating will be his nephews Harold Heinze, great nephew Nathan Heinze and Chuck Gillian, pastor of First Baptist Church of Buffalo Gap. Burial will follow at Buffalo Gap Cemetery, directed by Fry~Smith Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday, evening January 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 at Fry-Smith Funeral Home, 502 Kent Avenue Tuscola,

Family has requested in lieu of flowers please donate to St. Jude Hospital, 501 St Jude Place,

Memphis, TN 38105.

(Published in Abilene Reporter-News)

Billie Wedgeworth Ives, BA ’50, of Houston died Nov. 28 at age 89.

Billie Wedgeworth Ives, BS ‘50, of Waco, TX, formerly of Houston, TX, died Nov. 28, 2017 at the age of 89. A graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in Baytown, TX, she began her family’s Baylor tradition when she enrolled in 1946. At Baylor, Billie was a member of Beta Beta Beta. While in Mrs. Sendon’s Spanish class, she met Bob Ives, BA ‘50, a World War II veteran. The two married and began their life together in Baytown before settling in Houston. Billie worked as a medical technologist.

She was an active member of Tallowood Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School and participated in mission trips to Mexico. Billie was a member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and an avid traveler. She was a member of the Golden Bear Circle of Baylor’s Endowed Scholarship Society, a Lifetime Member of the 1845 Society, and a Lifetime Member of the Baylor Line Foundation. Her son Robert preceded her in death. Among her survivors are her husband of 66 years, Bob, BA ‘50, children Laurie Ives Graham, att. ‘72-’74, Karen Ives Baldwin, BA ‘82, four grandchildren including Matthew Graham, BA ‘08, Sarah Baldwin, Baylor senior, three great-grandchildren, and brother, R.M. Wedgeworth, ‘52. (submitted)

David Earl Narramore Sr., BBA ’50, of Greenville, TX, died Nov. 27 at age 90.

David Earl “Toby” Narramore, Sr., 90 of Greenville, passed away on Monday, Nov. 27, 2017, in Greenville. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 30, 2017, at Coker-Mathews Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Roy Youngblood and Pastor Carlos Mendoza, officiating. Burial will be in Memoryland Memorial Park. Visitation will be Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2017, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. David was born on May 8, 1927, in Greenville, Texas to William Oscar Narramore, Sr. and Blanche Alice Narramore. Following high school, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, in Germany. He graduated from Baylor University and married Frances Marie Youngblood (also a Baylor graduate) in August of 1950. Together they taught public school in Brownsville, Texas. Eventually, he was the business owner and operator of Memoryland Memorial Park and DEN-CO Memorials Monument Company. His work there started with drawing for the monument artwork and sales, for what was then Youngblood Memorial Company.

David Earl was a member of First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for many years. David’s artistic talent, Christian faith, and connections with school children (as a teacher in Brownsville) led him to create a little book called “Adventures of Jose’—Stories about an Imaginary Little Boy Who Loves Jesus”. The Jose’ book was used in the children’s ministry of a First Baptist Church mission which eventually became New Life at Lakeside/Nueva Vida Church. David Narramore continued to delight in giving away many copies of this book to families with children, wherever he encountered them to the end of his life.

He is survived by his son, David Narramore, Jr., and wife, Diane of Fairview; daughters, Rebecca Kobylecky and husband, Steve of Greenville; Jaynie Ringman and husband, Philip of Wichita Falls; Cathleen Narramore and husband, George J. Martinez of Euless; brother, James Narramore and wife, Grace of Greenville; grandchildren, Alicia Kobylecky of Waco, Laura Kobylecky of San Marcos, Heather Ringman of Houston, Matthew Ringman and wife, Melanie of Denton, Jonathan and Tyler Narramore of Fairview; and great-grandchildren, Elijah and Joshua Ringman of Denton. He is preceded in death by his wife, Frances, in 2015 after 64 years of marriage; parents, W. O. and Blanche Narramore; and brother, Bill Narramore. Pallbearers will be Matthew Ringman, Jonathan Narramore, Tyler Narramore, Jimmy Narramore, Steven Scott, Jorge Mendoza, and Joshua Mendoza. (Published in Greenville Extra)

Dr. G. Gene Pitman, BS ’50, of Pleasant Hill, CA, died Jan. 3 at age 90.

Dr. G. Gene Pitman, 90, formerly of Waco, passed away on January 3, 2018, in Pleasant Hill, California. He was a physician in Waco from 1968 to 1996, at one time Chief of Surgery at Hillcrest Hospital and chief of the medical unit at Waco VA Hospital.

Gene was born in Ibex, Texas, in 1927, but grew up in Bettie, Texas. He was drafted into the Navy in 1944 and served two years in the South Pacific. Upon discharge, he attended Baylor University and graduated with a double major in pre-med and mathematics in 1950. He married his childhood sweetheart, Virginia Ann Dodson, a BSN ‘52 graduate and recipient of the Abner V. McCall Humanitarian Award.

After a year at Southwestern Seminary in Ft. Worth, the Pitman’s moved to Nigeria, West Africa, as Southern Baptist medical missionaries.
In 1968, Dr. Pitman settled his family in Waco, where he went into surgical practice. Gene was a kind, generous man and loved by all. Besides his work as a physician, Gene and Ann were active members at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, in Baylor University, and their community.

Gene is survived by Ann, his wife of 65 years, three daughters, Laurie Pitman (‘77), Sherie Ellington, and Julie Pitman of Dallas; as well as four grandchildren Ian Farmer, Clifford Lusk (‘02, ‘06), Elyce Ellington, and Alex Ellington. (Submitted)

Gladys Graham Walker, BS ’50, of Arlington, TX, died Nov. 6 at age 88.

Gladys Graham Walker, 88, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 6, 2017, with her loving family by her side. MEMORIAL SERVICE: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at First Baptist Church, Arlington, Texas. Gladys was born March 24, 1929, in Dallas, Texas, to Edgar Ford Graham and Clara Brooks Graham. Gladys grew up as an only child in Shreveport, La., and Marshall, Texas, where music and dance were part of her early life. She attended Baylor University where she met the love of her life, George Goodman Walker. She graduated in 1951 with a degree in home economics. She put her skills to good use over the decades, cooking, sewing, doing crafts, and slaying crossword puzzles until her death at 88.

On Dec. 8, 1951, Gladys and George married and moved to Arlington, Texas, where they began their 64 years together, until George’s death in March 2016. They quickly found a home at First Baptist Church, where Gladys was an active member for the rest of her life. There she helped found International Friends in 1972, a church-sponsored program to welcome new, international residents to the country and help them adjust to life in the United States. She contributed to International Friends in many roles until her death, finding it an opportunity to learn about other cultures and dream about the places she wanted to visit. Instead of traveling, the world came to her in the form of lifelong friends from across the globe and gifts, cards, letters, and food from them for decades. She participated in several women’s groups, including the American Association of University Women, Women’s Missionary Union, and the Arlington Women’s Club.

Her calling was to be the best wife, mother, and homemaker she could be. She never missed the important moments - baseball games, recitals, award ceremonies, late-night homework sessions - in constant, loving support of her children. Her loving example and gentle graciousness flowed not only to her children and grandchildren but also to her great-grandchildren and extended family.

SURVIVORS: Daughter, Nancy Kress and husband, Steve; son, David Walker and wife, Michelle; son, Richard Walker and wife, Lori; grandchildren, Robyn Kress Schimmels and husband, Jon, Brian Kress and his wife, Danna; Bailey Walker Young and her husband, Austin, Graham Walker and wife, Bridget, Brooks Walker, Claren Walker, and Natalie Walker; and great-grandchildren, Samantha, Henry, and Scarlett Schimmels. (Published in Star-Telegram)

Dr. Sharon Seybert Storey, ’50, of San Diego, CA, died Nov. 10 at age 88.

Sharon “Ron” Sebert Storey, Jr., M.D., returned to his heavenly home on November 10, 2017. His devotion to medicine and his firm belief in God supported him throughout his life and ultimately gave him peace.

Ron was born to the late Sharon S. Storey, Sr. and Maude Alice Storey, an ophthalmologist and a homemaker respectively, in Edinburg, TX on October 13, 1929. He received his bachelor’s degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. He went on to graduate from Baylor College of Medicine obtaining his medical doctorate degree. He served honorably in the United States Air Force medical core during the Korean War and was stationed at Travis AFB, CA. In 1958, he moved to Houston, Texas to complete his residency in Anesthesiology.

Ron specialized in Cardiovascular Anesthesiology. He was renowned for being the anesthesiologist for Michael DeBakey, M.D., the world-famous cardiovascular surgeon who performed the world’s first artificial heart transplant and pioneered such now-common procedures as bypass surgery and invented a host of devices to help heart patients.

In 1986, Ron was recruited to the University of New Mexico School of Medicine as the Founding Chair of the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine. He retired from medicine in 1990; however, he continued to volunteer, support and serve the healing arts until his passing.

In 2002, Ron was appointed by Queen Elizabeth as a Serving Brother to the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem.

Ron was blessed with loving family and friends. He was a healer and educator at heart. He loved the theater, traveling and reading. He is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his creator.

Ron is survived by his life partner Theodore “Ted” Milby; his former spouse Florence Marie Storey; his daughters Sharon Marie Storey, Carol Michele Storey-Desroches, and Allison Leigh Jones; and his grandsons Jarrett Jones and Trevor Jones. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral in San Diego, CA on December 4, 2017. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group at https://www.saintjohn.org/donate.

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Erbest August Zimbelman, BA ’50, died Jan. 28 at age 91.

Sioux Falls - Ernest (Ernie) Zimbelman, 91, died Sunday, January 28, 2018. He was born on November 30, 1926, near Anamoose, ND, the 8th son of Carl and Katie (Kessler) Zimbelman. He became a Christian at age 11, was baptized in Brush Lake, North Dakota and joined the McClusky (ND) Baptist Church. After early education in rural one-room schools, he graduated from McClusky High School in 1944. He taught in a rural school (at age 17) following graduation, then saw military service in Japan as part of the American Occupation Forces. On his return he started college in North Dakota and completed his BA at Baylor College in Waco, TX. At a Christian summer camp in 1948 he met Dorothy Wolitarsky and they were married in Turtle Lake, ND on September 1, 1949. Eventually moving to California, Ernie and Dorothy settled in the San Francisco Bay Area where Ernie completed a master’s degree at UC Berkeley and then taught junior high school.

A call to the North American Baptist mission field in 1959 allowed Ernie and Dorothy (along with their sons) to serve Christ in educational ministry in Cameroon, West Africa. Teaching, administration, and financial oversight of a teachers’ training college and church growth work kept them busy for the decade of the 1960s, with a couple of years back in the US where Ernie completed a Doctorate in Education (with Honors) at the University of Oregon.

On returning from the mission field, Ernie shifted careers to counseling psychology and worked for the Narramore Christian Foundation; as a Clinical Supervisor for the Fuller Graduate School of Psychology in Pasadena; and as an Assistant Professor at the newly established Rosemead Graduate School of Psychology (now affiliated with Biola University). With a colleague he then established an independent counseling psychology practice in Southern California.

The call of teaching and Christian ministry in higher education brought Ernie back to Sioux Falls and the North American Baptist Seminary (NABS), where he founded a Master of Arts in Counseling program. Since 1974 that program produced numerous graduates who went on to serve in churches, prisons, hospitals, schools, clinics, and in private practice. Ernie served as Acting President of Morality in Media in South Dakota; was a Board Member and Board Chair of Carroll Institute, a substance abuse treatment program. He authored the text Human Sexuality and Evangelical Christians. He was a licensed psychologist in South Dakota and California, a member of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, and a member of the American Psychological Association. He taught counseling at a seminary near Amsterdam, Holland, and was a keynote speaker and facilitator at pastoral conferences and workshops in Japan and Cameroon.

On his retirement from NABS (now Sioux Falls Seminary), Ernie was awarded the citation Distinguished Professor of Counseling Emeritus. We remember him for his faithful service to Christ and His church, to his students, and to those who benefitted from his skills as a therapist.

He is survived by Dorothy, his wife of 68 years; his sons Joel (Linda) of Chico, CA; Kirk (Cyndy) of Yankton, SD; Peter (Judy) of Sioux Falls; five grandchildren (Lexie [Rhys], Lauren, Oliver, Olivia, and Jonah); a brother Wally and two sisters--Adeline Kopf and Vera Wahl; as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Zimbelman Stewardship endowment at Sioux Falls Seminary, N.A.B. Heritage Commission or a charity of your choice.

Funeral services for Ernie will take place on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Trinity Baptist Church. Visitation will take place the night prior, at Heritage Funeral Home on Friday, February 2, 2018 with family present from 5:00-7:00pm.

www.heritagesfsd.com (Published in The Argus Leader)

Margaret Weedon Boles, BA ’51, of Hawkins, TX, died Jan. 1 at age 87.

Early on January 1, 2018, Margaret Boles celebrated the New Year by reuniting with her husband Joe, a host of friends and family, and most importantly her Savior Jesus Christ. She was born on March 27, 1930 to Hardy and Carrie Weedon in Bryan, Texas. After three sons, Margaret was celebrated by her mother and clothed in lace and curls which often clashed with her tomboy nature. While attending Baylor University, she caught the eye of a lanky pre-law major, Joe Boles, who recently had answered God’s call to become a pastor. One Sunday Joe was visiting Margaret’s home church in Bryan with a friend. The friend told Joe, “I’m gonna take her out on a date.” Not to be out done, Joe stated, “Really? I’m gonna marry her,” which he did in 1951. Margaret embraced the role of a pastor’s wife which included being under the constant watchful eye of critics, a home that was always open, a life filled with service in every church program, and being a prayer warrior in defense and support of her husband. She helped support Joe as a school teacher while he received his degrees and moved from church to church. She served with Joe as a missionary to the Bahamas and never stopped talking about that experience. After unsuccessfully trying to have children, they adopted three children over a five year span; Jeffrey, Carrie and Cindy. Surprisingly, after 18 years of marriage Margaret got pregnant at the age of 39 and gave birth to Gregory in 1970.

In 1977, while pastoring a thriving First Baptist Church of Bellaire, Joe passed away suddenly, leaving Margaret with four children at home. Fueled by an unwavering faith, she watched God provide for her family in many miraculous ways. She soon returned to teaching and later retired from Condit Elementary in Bellaire as a loving kindergarten teacher. Her home was always open, welcoming visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The holidays would always include others that needed a loving place and at Christmas she made sure everyone had a gift. She was known by many names depending on your relationship with her - Mrs. Boles, Margaret Ann, Momma Boles, Mom and Nana.

As her health declined and limited her mobility, she maintained a vibrant prayer and counseling ministry from her recliner. As a testament to her faith, her African grey parrot, Caesar learned to say, “Praise the Lord” and “Jesus” from overhearing her prayers.

Margaret is predeceased by her parents, her brothers Donald, Lynn, and Travis, and her husband of a short 26 years Dr. Joe Boles. She is survived by her four children, Jeff, Carrie, Cindy and Greg, her 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

We would like to thank the loving staff of Clarewood House especially Blanca Ras, Anna Samuel, Deante Sigears, and Pat Papiannia for their tender care for our mother over the last few years.

Services will be at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home, 4525 Bissonnet St. Bellaire, Texas. Visitation will be on Thursday January 4th from 6-8 PM. The Funeral service will be Friday January 5th at 10:00 AM with Pastor George Phifer officiating. Interment will be at Steep Hollow Cemetery, Steep Hollow Rd., Bryan, Texas at 2:00 PM.

Condolences may be offered at www.earthmanbellaire.com

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Alma Outlaw Boone, BS ’51, of San Antonio died Dec. 15 at age 88.

Alma Louise Boone, born on November 12, 1929 in Carlsbad, NM passed away on December 15, 2017 at the age of 88 years. She is preceded in death by her husband and parents. She is survived by her sons Stephen Austin Boone III & family and Nigle Boone. She will be laid to rest in Resthaven memorial Park in Midland, TX on Friday, December 22, 2017. (Published by Dignity Memorial)

Patricia Stallworth Everett, BA ’51, died Nov. 22 in Frisco, TX. She was 87.

Patricia Curry Stallworth Everett, 87, peacefully passed away on November 22 in Frisco, Texas. “Patsy” was born in Marlin, Texas on December 21, 1929, to Fleta May Curry Stallworth and George Alexander Stallworth. Patsy was the Valedictorian of the 1947 graduating class of Levelland High School. She attended the University of Texas, Columbia University and Baylor University, where she graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. While at Baylor she was an active member and President of the Athenean Club, and later became a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma when it became a national sorority.

In 1951, Patsy married the love of her life, Charles Edward Everett. After 21 years of service, she retired from teaching English, Speech and Drama in the Houston and Alief school districts. She was a faithful member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, where she served as a Deacon and an Elder. She was a member and President of Coterie of Houston, a study club, and enjoyed bridge, gardening, theatre and volunteer work.

Patsy was preceded in death by her parents and her husband “Chuck,” of 64 years. She is survived by three devoted daughters: Suzanne Everett Fox and husband Bill; Elaine Everett Atchison and husband David; Amy Everett Rose and husband Kyle; She was “Gammy” to eight adored grandchildren; Christopher Everett Fox and wife Stephanie; Bradley Clark Fox and wife Amanda; David Blake Atchison; Joel Matthew Atchison; Amanda Atchison Hanks and husband Jeremy; Emily Rose Dushman and husband Daniel; Kyle Andrew Rose and wife Madison and Charles David Rose. She leaves two great grandsons, David Rainor Atchison and Kamden Cooper Fox, along with other dear nieces, nephews and cousins.

Patsy was a loving and kind mother, wife and friend. She was a true southern lady, and spending time with loved ones was her greatest joy. The family would like to thank our St. Andrew’s friends for their prayers and ministry over six decades, and the Cottages at Chapel Creek and THPC for their dedicated caregiving and hospice care. A memorial service will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on December 16 at two o’clock. A private family burial will follow in Marlin, Texas. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church Missions or The Alzheimer’s Association.

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Thomas M. Sewell, BA ’51, of Blooming Grove, TX, died Jan. 27 at age 85.

Thomas Monette Sewell, Jr., 87, of Blooming Grove passed away Jan. 27, 2018 after a short illness. His companion of 40 years, Carol Gaines, of Houston, was with him. Other family members were close by. Tom was born in Blooming Grove Aug. 18, 1930 to Beulah and Thomas Monette Sewell, Sr. He graduated from Baylor University and University of Texas School of Law. He practiced law in Houston for 30 years at the prestigious firm of Fulbright & Jaworski. After retiring, Tom moved back to Blooming Grove to operate a cattle business on his parents’ land. He built his home there as well.

During their years together, Tom and Carol enjoyed square dancing, music, movies and traveling. They made many trips to National Parks in the western United States and to various destinations in Europe. Tom was an accomplished artist working primarily in watercolors. Favorite subjects were his beloved cattle and dogs, and amazing scenes from his widespread travels.

He was preceded in death by his parents Beulah and Net Sewell, his sister Mollie Sewell Smith and his brother Bill Sewell. He is survived by seven nieces and nephews, Lynn Pearson of Waco, Susan and Charlie Hoffmeyer of New Ulm, Gayl Newton of San Antonio, Griff Smith of Caldwell, Bilray and Chely Sewell of Charlotte, North Carolina, Ivette and Jack Conway of St. Louis, Missouri, and Kari Sewell and husband Joe Morales of Ashville, North Carolina. He also is survived by his much-loved companion Carol Gaines, many great nieces and great nephews and his precious dogs Chula, Cody and Giada.

The family greatly appreciates the help and love given to Tom by neighbors Paula and Trae Southard and Baldo Ferrer.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, in the pavilion at Rose Hill Cemetery in Blooming Grove. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Tom’s memory to your favorite charity. An online guest book is available at www.griffin-roughton.com

(Published by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home) 

Jack P. Sharp, BM ’51, of Port Ludlow, WA, died Jan. 12 at age 87.

Jack Paul Sharp May 11th, 1930 - January 12th, 2018 Passed away January 12th, 2018. Jack was born in Dallas Texas to Arlie and Winnie Kate Sharp. After Graduating from Baylor University he began his teaching career that spanned most of his life. Starting as a music teacher he moved on to elementary school then junior high. He worked for Dixie school district for many years and was a favorite teacher with the parents who were always asking for “Mr. Sharp”.

On June 23rd, 1954 Jack married his best friend and love of his life Lou Etta Morgan. They produced three sons Monte, Christopher and Alex. Monte was born in Dallas, Texas and both Chris and Alex were born in Kenya, East Africa where Dad was working. He taught at Kagumo College in Nyeri, Kenya and later at Kenyatta College in Nairobi, Kenya. He also had a stint teaching college on Yap Island in Micronesia before returning to the US. At the end of and after his teaching career he went into the travel business starting Sharp Safaris. Jack took 80 picture taking safaris to Africa and numerous trips around the rest of the world. He could tell you how to get to some obscure restaurant in Cairo, Paris, Hong Kong or just about any other place. Jack was gifted with an indomitable sense of adventure. Whether bouncing around the bush in Land Rovers, flying over migrating herds or facing off with a silver backed gorilla he lived life with an incredible “what’s next” gusto.

Survived by his wife Lou, sons, Alex and Monte. Their wives Viv and Traci, sister Dorothy Nell Robin, grandchildren Sidney, Krista, Skyler, and baby Asaya, Great grandchild Paige, and many others in his large extended family. Jack will join his son Christopher who passed away a year ago almost to the day in the hands of his loving God. A memorial will be held on Saturday, January 27th at 11:00AM at the Port Ludlow Community Church in Port Ludlow Washington. (Published in Marin Independent Journal) 

Betty Beene Smith, ’51, of Shreveport, LA, died Nov. 29 at age 89.

Betty was born on October 10, 1928 and passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2017. Betty was a resident of Shreveport, Louisiana at the time of passing. After graduating from Byrd High School, she continued her education at Stephens College, Baylor University, and Centenary College. Visitation will be December 4, 2017, from 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. A service honoring her life will be held at Osborne Funeral home, 3631 Southern Ave. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Volunteers of America Shreveport, First United Methodist Church, Shreveport and The Shreveport Symphony, or the charity of your choice. Monday, December 04, 2017 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Osborn Funeral Home 3631 Southern Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 Funeral Service at FH Tuesday, December 05, 2017 11:00 AM Osborn Chapel 3631 Southern Ave Shreveport, LA 71104.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Volunteers of America Shreveport, First United Methodist Church, Shreveport and The Shreveport Symphony, or the charity of your choice. Monday, December 04, 2017 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Osborn Funeral Home 3631 Southern Avenue Shreveport, LA 71104 Funeral Service at FH Tuesday, December 05, 2017 11:00 AM Osborn Chapel 3631 Southern Ave Shreveport, LA. (Published by tributes.com) 

Walter Price Smith, BA ’51, of Mars Hill, NC, died Oct. 17, 2017, at age 87.

Walter Price Smith, 87, retired former vice president of Mars Hill College (University), died Tuesday, October 17, 2017, at Madison Health and Rehabilitation in Mars Hill, NC.

A 1949 junior college graduate of the Baptist school, he joined the administrative staff in August 1954 and spent 42 years as writer, editor and photographer in the Office of Public Information. For more than 30 years he edited the college catalog and the alumni magazine and taught journalism in the English Department as associate professor before retiring in June 1996.

Mr. Smith grew up in Pensacola, FL, where he attended public schools and was graduated from Pensacola High School in 1947. Following his studies at Mars Hill, he transferred to Baylor University in Waco, TX, where he majored in journalism and English.

During the summer between his junior and senior years he did an internship under the auspices of the Texas Daily Newspaper Association. He was a reporter on the afternoon daily at Wichita Falls, TX. During his senior year at Baylor he edited the school’s daily student newspaper; was president of Sigma Delta Chi, professional journalism fraternity; and was named to the national publication “Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities.”

A month after graduation he joined the Air Force and was sent to Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX, for basic training. After brief assignments as a reporter on base newspapers at Lackland and at McConnell AFB in Wichita, KS, he was admitted to Officer Candidate School at Lackland. Upon graduation he was commissioned as a second lieutenant and assigned to communications intelligence schools in Denver, CO, and at Brooks AFB in San Antonio.

Although the Korean War was winding down at the time (1953), Lt. Smith was deployed to an Air Force intelligence gathering unit in Japan as a cryptographer and intelligence analyst. When the armistice was signed ending the war, he returned to the U.S. and was released from active duty.

He immediately joined the staff of the morning daily newspaper in his hometown, Pensacola, as a general assignments reporter. The following year he joined the staff of Mars Hill College (University) as a public information specialist, writing news and feature stories for release to area newspapers and magazines and doing related photography. In December he was married in San Antonio to Pat Janicke, whom he had met during his third Air Force assignment in the Alamo City.

During the 1956-57 school year he took a leave of absence from his duties at Mars Hill and earned a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin. When he returned to his duties at Mars Hill he assumed added responsibilities for college publications. Mrs. Smith worked at the college before their three children were born, then was a stay-at-home mother for 10 years before returning to work at the college when their youngest child entered first grade.

Over the years Mr. Smith was active in Mars Hill Baptist Church, serving several terms as chairman of the board of deacons and on various committees. For 8 years he was chairman of the board of elections for the town of Mars Hill. In 1991 the college trustees named him Vice President for Publications; and in 1994, on his 40th anniversary at the school, he was presented a

Distinguished Service Award. By the time they retired in 1996 the Smiths had served 71 years at the college; he for 42 and she for 29. Even after retiring the Smiths remained active in the community and with Mars Hill College (University) serving as founding members and officers of the Retired Personnel Organization. In 2006, as part of the sesquicentennial celebration, Walter, Robert Chapman and Darryl Norton published a photographic reminiscence of Mars Hill College (1856-2006) entitled Through the Long Years.

Mr. Smith’s immediate family survivors include his devoted wife of 63 years, Pat; a son, Travis and his fiancée, Jenny Bowyer and his three children, Austin and Alexis of Asheville, NC, and Alyssa, of Hickory, NC; a daughter and son-in-law, Kellye and Michael Ratcliff of Greenville, SC; and a daughter, Karen Marie Smith, MD, of Winston-Salem, NC. The extended family includes a step granddaughter, Treva (Lacy) Cross, and their children Kaley and Mitchell; a step grandson, Jason Ratcliff and his sons Justin and Carter; and step grandson, Joshua Ratcliff (Sarah) and sons, William and Thomas.

Other survivors include aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, and in-laws in Florida, Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and California.

The family will receive friends Sunday, October 22 from 2 pm - 4 pm at Blue Ridge Funeral Service (7626 Highway 213) in Mars Hill. Interment will be in Mars Hill Baptist Church cemetery (private service).

A service celebrating Walter’s life will be held on Saturday, October 28 at 11 am at Mars Hill Baptist Church (67 North Main Street). The family will receive friends at a reception immediately follow the service in the church fellowship hall. The Reverend Tommy Justus will officiate.

The family would like to thank Dr. James Hoer and Camilla Olson of Carolina Internal Medicine and the staff of Madison Health and Rehabilitation for the loving care of their husband and father.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Pat J. and Walter P. Smith Scholarship Fund at Mars Hill University, Advancement Office, PO Box 6792, Mars Hill, NC 28754 (www.mhu.edu) or to Mars Hill Baptist Church, PO Box 218, Mars Hill, NC 28754 (www.marshillbc.org).

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org

(Published in the Asheville Citizen-Times)

Dr. James Vardaman, BA ’51, of Waco died Jan. 31 at age 89.

Dr. James Vardaman, BA ’51, Professor Emeritus of History and Master Teacher James W. Vardaman, Ph.D., who died Jan. 31 in Waco. He was 89. 

Dr. James W. Vardaman was born on Nov. 26, 1928, in Dallas, Texas, where he grew up as the youngest of five children of Daisy and Ephraim Jeremiah Vardaman. In 1945, at 16 years of age, he enlisted in the U.S. Marines and served in the Philippines as well as on board the Pasadena. His military service provided him an introduction to the wider world, to war and the aftermath of war, to typhoons, to sergeants and their disciplinary techniques, and to fellow enlisted men in the Marines with whom he lived and served. His lifelong regard for friendships made during those years was always specific to the individual. He spoke of fellow Marines warmly by name, state, hometown and pithy remarks that were as fresh in his mind at 89 as they had been when he was 20.

He also maintained lifelong regard for those military and government leaders whose values and vision enabled them to conduct themselves by admirable and lofty standards.

Most importantly at that juncture in his life, military service in World War II gave Dr. Vardaman the door through which he walked into higher education – the G.I. Bill. He was grateful forever. Being decommissioned at one minute after midnight on March 18, 1949, at a base in Oklahoma, he then drove all night to Waco, Texas, where he enrolled that day, the last day of registration for the spring quarter at Baylor University. As a distinguished scholar and historian later in life, he reflected on occasion that the most significant moment in his life was seeing his name and grade posted on a small piece of paper by a professor’s door in the summer of 1949. He had passed a university course – and was going to be able to become a college student at Baylor.

His intensity for learning and maximizing every day of higher education had begun. Beginning with gratitude for his sister, Ann Miller, who tutored him at Baylor, his love of all things literary and historical grew with each year of extraordinary courses and undergraduate studies. The fine history faculty, particularly Dr. Bruce Thompson, affirmed their student’s aptitudes and encouraged him to consider a career as an historian because it would be a perfect fit. It was. He completed Baylor in two years, taking overloads each term. He earned his master’s degree at the University of Minnesota in 1952 and his Ph.D. in British History at Vanderbilt in 1957.

His teaching career included winning the top teaching award at TCU, then earning a special place in the lore of Virginia Military Institute for five years as well as taking wide-ranging opportunities for summer teaching and fellowships, including University of Virginia and University of North Carolina. However, in 1967, when several Baylor professors and Judge McCall contacted him regarding an open position in the history department, there was no question what would be his next step in academe: He was coming “home” to his alma mater. Here he thrived and received many teaching honors. He was named a Master Teacher in 1993 and elected to Phi Beta Kappa, as an alumnus.

He chaired the Beall-Russell Lectures in the Humanities for nine years, bringing to campus distinguished national and international giants, such as Nobel Prize recipient Czeslaw Milosz; the Very Reverend Michael Mayne, dean of Westminster Abbey; A. S. Byatt; Edward Said; Bill Moyers; Robert Haas and many others. He taught in and then directed many international programs for the University, including teaching in Baylor in Vienna and Baylor in London before becoming director of Baylor in the British Isles, a program housed for nearly 20 years within the confines of Westminster Abbey at Westminster School. His international teaching included serving an exchange professor to the Yunnan Nationalities University in Kunming, PRC, in 1984-85 and was followed by a memorable trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway across Russia. He began the semester-long program for Baylor in Maastricht, The Netherlands, in 1995, a program that continues to be a proud feature of Baylor’s international programs and draws students and faculty from across the University. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Dr. Vardaman also led many alumni trips across Europe, to South America, and most notably, of course, back to the British Isles and Ireland. His relationship with former students was a great treasure to him, as were his friends and family. Dr. Vardaman concluded his tenured years at Baylor in 2000 after 33 years of teaching and inspiring students to ground their worldviews within the vast narrative of humankind.

At retirement, Dr. Vardaman built a library to contain about 5,000 of his favorite books. He could be found there many hours a day for the past almost two decades. Drawing on his vast knowledge, he was the perfect reader of the great tomes across all times and spaces, countries and civilizations. He often offered up sober details about historical events and personages to his family and close friends, insights that the most learned scholars could possibly have profited from knowing. (One point among many to remember: the Magna Carta was “sealed,” not “signed” by King John at Runnymede.)

In 2017, a professorship in the history department was established in Dr. Vardaman’s name. As additional tributes have been lifted to Dr. Vardaman’s memory and legacy this week, Michael Livingstone, a former student, has described him as “my earthquake.” Another, Dr. Scott Harper, reflected on his professor in terms of the Dylan Thomas poem “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night” and speaks for many when he says: “I have never known anyone like Dr. Vardaman who more raged against the dying of the light: the light of enlightenment and education, the light of justice for wrongs committed at every level of society and culture, the light of friendship and love, the light of his own life. He did not go gentle into anything.” Dr. Vardaman was preceded in death by his daughter, Kirsten Vardaman Turner, in August of 2014, and his brother-in-law and sister, Dr. Robert T. Miller and Ann V. Miller. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Elizabeth (Betsy) Vardaman, senior lecturer and associate dean for engaged learning in the College of Arts & Sciences; his daughters, Bridget Ashmore and Page Cupper; three grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. A Service of Remembrance at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Seventh & James Baptist Church, 602 James Ave. in Waco. A memorial gathering will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, in the President’s Suite at McLane Stadium, where friends and family are welcome to visit and remember Dr. Vardaman. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be directed to the James Vardaman Endowed Professorship or Dr. James W. Vardaman Endowed Scholarship Fund at Baylor University. Gifts can be mailed to One Bear Place #97050, Waco, Texas 76798-7050 or made online by going to www.baylor.edu/giving/memorialfunds. 

Alex Rice Federwisch, BBA ’52, of Robinson, TX, died Jan. at age 97.

While resting peacefully at his new home away from home in Waxahachie, Alex Rice Federwisch of Robinson, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on January 23, 2018. He was 97 years old. A Memorial Service honoring his long life will be held 3 p.m., Tuesday, January 30, at the First United Methodist Church in Waco. Wayne Williams officiating. A visitation will follow at the church.

Alex was born October 29, 1920 to Richard and Gerda Federwisch in Otto, Texas. He grew up on the family farm and attended Mart schools. From an early age he learned the importance of hard work and the ways of a farmer. Although his family had little financial means, they survived the depression better than most, by raising their own food and living off of the land by selling vegetables, firewood and eggs. After graduating from Mart High School in 1939, Alex enrolled in Texas Univ. in Austin. A month after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Alex felt the call to serve his country, so he enlisted in the Marine Corps where he was trained as a field telephone operator. He was stationed in the command post in the following Pacific theaters: American and British Samoa, the Marshall, Gilbert and Mariana Islands. Alex retired from the service at the end of WWII, achieving the rank of Master Technical Sergeant.

Upon the completion of the war, Alex returned to Waco and worked at the General Tire Plant and eventually at Citizens National Bank. While working at the bank he attended Baylor University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Alex worked at Citizens Bank for 37 and half years until his retirement. Alex met the love of his life, Leta Reeves at St. John’s Methodist Church. The two were married on January 18, 1947. Leta and Alex had two wonderful children; daughter, Judy born in April 1948, and son, Ric born in February 1955. In 1956, Alex felt the desire to live and work on a farm again, so he moved the family from Waco, to a farm in Robinson, which would come to be known as the Sleepy Hollow farm. Alex loved his family and was always eager to participate in things they did, and he was always eager to serve the community. Alex’s interest in helping the small Robinson Schools separate from the Rosenthal schools began, and he was elected to the Robinson School board in the mid 1960’s and served as President for fourteen years during which time they added grades 9-12 and built a new high school and football field. Most importantly though, was the family’s deeply embedded faith in God, and their desire to be involved at church.

Alex and Leta served as members of St John’s Methodist church, where he taught Sunday school and served on the Board and eventually served as Chairman. In 1972, Alex and Leta transferred their membership to First United Methodist Church of Waco, so they could be with their children and grandchildren. They became members of the Odell Dudley Sunday school class, where they met many lifelong friends. The Sleepy Hollow farm was the site of numerous church picnics, hayrides and BBQs. For over 50 years the annual Federwisch Easter Egg hunt brought from 50-70 family members and friends to the farm to enjoy the great outdoors and country hospitality. Many of the family’s best memories took place on the farm.

Preceding Alex in death were his parents, Richard and Gerda; his wife of 62 years Leta; his sister, Alice Hanath; and his daughter, Judy Holze.

Remaining to remember his life and legacy are his son, Ric Federwisch and wife, Heather of Waxahachie; his son-in-law, Larry Holze; grandchildren, Chris Holze and wife, Christine, Michelle Holze Wilson and husband, Ken, Tiffany Holze Cherry, Megan Grace Federwisch Tillman and husband, Ryan, Tyler Federwisch, Kyle Klansek, Megan Ryan Bordelon and husband, Brian; and eight great-grandchildren, Peyton Fisher, Taylor Wilson, Madison Wilson, MacKenzie Cherry, Camille Cherry, Landon Holze, Lincoln Tillman, and Knox Tillman.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to the Children’s Ministry of First United Methodist Church Waco. (Published in Waco Tribune-Herald)

Jerry Ray Moore, BBA ’52, of Brentwood, TN, died Dec. 29 at age 86. 

Jerry Ray Moore, age 87, of Brentwood, TN, and formerly of Birmingham, AL, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2017. He was a devoted husband and family man, as well as a devoted patron for care of orphans, others with special needs, and patriotic causes. Mr. Moore was born in Tyler, TX on March 29, 1931. He attended John Tyler High School, Kemper Military Academy in Booneville, MO, and Baylor University in Waco, TX. He retired from the U.S. Air Force as Major, and was a recipient of the Air Medal. After retirement, he resided in Birmingham, Burnsville, NC, and Nashville, TN. Mr. Moore was predeceased by his parents, Reagan Travis Moore and Mary Butler Moore of Tyler, TX. Survivors include Mr. Moore’s wife of 66 years, Betty Watson Moore; daughter, Lynn Lavezo (Steve); sons, Thomas Moore (Jamie Lee), John Reagan Moore (Sherrie), and Jim Moore (Paige); grandchildren, Christopher Lavezo, Jonathan Lavezo, M.D. (Camille), John Reagan Moore, Jr. (Emma), Reilly Schilling Moore, Jackson Lee Moore, Campbell Lawrence Moore, Lauren Brooke Moore, and Landen Travis Moore (Brooke); and great-grandchildren, Daphne Moore and Kollins Moore. The funeral service was at 12 noon on Sunday, December 31, 2017 at Ridout’s Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham, AL, followed by the burial at Southern Heritage Cemetery, Pelham. Dr. Benjamin Littlejohn officiated. (Published in The Birmingham News)

Mamie Lou Ann Paul, BA ’52, of Chanute, KS, died Jan. 29 at age 86.

Dewey Gene Wilson, BBA ’52, of Columbia, SC, died Jan. 16 at age 90. 

Dewey Gene Wilson, 90, of Columbia, died peacefully Tuesday, January 16, 2018. Born April 13, 1927 in Electra, TX, he was a son of the late Robert Clark Wilson and Maude Meador Wilson. He was a graduate of Baylor University and served in the US Navy at the end of WWII. Mr. Wilson was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Columbia where he taught Sunday school and sang in the choir. He was owner of Gene Wilson State Farm Insurance Company in the St. Andrews area. His zest for life was unmatched, working out 3 times a week until he was 85, and volunteering with Meals on Wheels in the community he so dearly loved. Survivors include his daughter, Kelly Wilson White (William) of Manassas, VA; sons, John Clark Wilson and Kirk Everett Wilson, both of Columbia; grandchildren, Christopher Pertl (Jenna), Ryan Pertl and Kaitln Pertl. In addition to his parents, Mr. Wilson was preceded in death by sisters, Lela Lee Wilson, US Navy (Ret.), and Robbie Lee Wilson; a brother, Patrick Wilson. Mr. Wilson will be laid to rest at Remembrance Gardens at Riverbend in Austin, TX. A visitation will be held from 12 until 2 o’clock, Friday, January 19th, at Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, 5202 Colonial Drive, Columbia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Harvest Hope Food Bank, Meals On Wheels or to The Oliver Gospel Mission. Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com. 

James B. Wolfe, BA ’52, of Lubbock, TX, died Jan. 12 at age 92.

James Wolfe of Lubbock, TX took his final breaths of life at home; just the way he wanted. He was born on February 8, 1925 in Dallas, TX to Greene W.B. Wolfe, and Emma Leona (Walsh) Wolfe. While still in high school, he met the love of his life, Verda Nell Hamiter. Upon his return from WWII, they continued their romance and married on May 3, 1947. To this union were born 3 sons - James Gordon, William Gregory, and Charles Gary Wolfe, 8 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.

When he became of age, in 1943, he enlisted in the Army and served a tour in Europe from 1943-1946. For his services, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and several other medals. Following his discharge, he and Verda attended Baylor University where he was involved with ROTC and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Education in 1952. He was then commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force in 1953 working his way up through the ranks and served until his retirement in 1970 as a Major. Upon his military retirement, he joined the Texas Department of Health for whom he worked until retiring in 1983. After this, he and Verda enjoyed traveling and being grandparents.

A man of unwavering faith, he was an active member of the Baptist church and served whenever and wherever he was able. He was ordained as a Deacon and truly loved serving his church. He and Verda are long time members of Oakwood Baptist Church where they were actively involved with Sunday School, VBS, and choir. He is survived by his wife, Verda; sons Gordon Wolfe; Greg Wolfe and his wife, Cynthia; and Gary Wolfe and his wife Leila; Grandchildren DeShaun, Kristina, Benjamin, Joshua, Daniel, Breckron, and Dashayla; and great-grandchildren Nikolaus, Elizabella, Sophia and Olivia. Preceding him in death are his parents; two sisters, Anna Pearl Fletcher and Lorazell Elizabeth Anderson; and granddaughter, Shemaiah Wolfe. His family would like to thank Kindred Hospice for making his final days special and comfortable. You are invited to attend a memorial viewing on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Combest Family Funeral Homes Chapel. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Resthaven Memorial Park. www.combestfamilyfuneralhomes.com. 

Doris Nola Cundiff, MA ’53, of Kirksville, MO, died Nov. 26 at age 93.

Doris N. Cundiff, 93 of Kirksville passed away on November 26, 2017 at the Northeast Regional Medical Center.

She was born on April 8, 1924, the daughter of Ray P. Gardner and Alma Lee Humphrey Gardner, in Marceline, Missouri. The family soon moved to Kirksville, Missouri where she spent her childhood.

On June 18, 1960 she was married to William V. Cundiff who preceded her in death. Surviving are sons, Barry V. Cundiff and Kirby R. Cundiff, of Kirksville, MO; daughters-in-law, Audrey and Katlin; grandson, Brody; step-granddaughter Jasmine; sister-in-law, Nancy Boren of Centralia, MO; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sisters Evonne Mills, Carol Collier, Justine Stewart, brother-in-law, Chester Boren; and her parents.

Doris graduated from Kirksville High School in 1942 and attended Northeast Missouri State Teachers College from which she received a B.S. in Business Education and Music in 1945. She received a Master of Arts in General Business from Baylor University, Waco TX in 1953.

During her life Doris was a dedicated Piano Teacher in Kirksville, MO, a regular substitute teacher in the Kirksville Public Schools, and a volunteer at the A. T. Still University Museum of Osteopathic Medicine. She also taught at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO, at the high school in Bowling Green, Missouri, and at Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, VA.

Doris was a member of: Kirksville First Baptist Church, General Society of Mayflower Descendants, Daughters of the American Revolution, Order of the Eastern Star Kirksville Chapter #184, and for a number of years she was a volunteer leader for Recovery, Inc., a mental health self-help organization.

Doris also frequently attended the First Christian Church in Kirksville, Missouri. Later in life, she regularly attended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Kirksville, MO.

Visitation Friday, December 15, 2017 Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home

2100 E. Shepherd Avenue Kirksville, Missouri 63501

Memorial Service Saturday, December 16, 2017 2:00 PM

Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home Memorials are suggested to the Shriners Children’s Hospital or the Masonic Home of Missouri and may be left at or sent to the Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home, 2100 E. Shepherd Ave., Kirksville, MO 63501.

Patricia Avera Dyer, BA ’53, of Cove, TX, died Jan. 19 at age 85.

Patricia Avera Dyer 85, of Cove, Texas, passed away on Friday, January 19, 2018 at her home surrounded by loving family. A daughter of James Avera and wife Gladys Icet, she was born March 19, 1932. She was a great granddaughter of pioneer Cove shipbuilders and Confederate blockade runner, Capt. William Icet. Mrs. Dyer attended Barbers Hill school and Baylor University. She was a member of Old River Baptist Church, where she taught a ladies’ class for thirty years. Mrs. Dyer was an administrator for Chambers County Programs of The Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation for over 20 years. Mrs. Dyer was proceeded in death by her husband, Stanley Dyer; and son, Stanley Powell Dyer. Survivors include daughter, Dawn Diane Dyer of Cove; sister Sylvia Robbins of Houston; niece Cindy Robbins of Houston; granddaughters Alisa Dyer and sons Stanley and Adrian of Michigan and Jennifer Dyer of New York City. Friends are invited to visit with the family beginning at 1pm on Saturday, January 27, 2018 in the chapel of Sterling Funeral Home, 602 N. Main Street in Dayton. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. following the visitation with Brother Danny Biddy officiating. A graveside service and committal will immediately follow in Palms Memorial Park Cemetery in Dayton. Condolences can be shared with the family by visiting www.SterlingFuneralHome.com. (Published in The Anahuac Progress)

Rev. Arlis R. Fuller, BA ’53, MA ’68, of Houston died Dec. 10 at age 93.

Arlis joined his Lord Jesus Christ Sunday morning, December 10th. His son Randal and his grandson Daniel were at his bedside. Arlis was ordained as a Southern Baptist Minister at Magnolia Temple Baptist Church of Houston, Texas in 1950. He went on to earn his B.A. from Baylor in 1953 and a B.Div. from Southwestern Seminary soon after. He earned his M.A. from Baylor in 1967.

Arlis pastored Southern Baptist churches in Houston, Waco, Rosebud, and Grand Prairie over the years. After his retirement in 1994, he was a substitute school teacher and interim pastor.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Hazel, his son Randal and daughter-in-law Holli, and grandchildren Sara Elizabeth and Daniel Joseph.
Visitation will be Saturday December 16, 2017 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at McKnight Church in Cushing, Texas. Service will be at 12:00 PM. 

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Frances Thomason Ingraham, BA ’53, of Franklin, TN, died Nov. 4 at age 85.

Ingraham, Frances Rose, age 85, of Franklin, TN passed away peacefully Saturday, November 4, 2017 after a long struggle with dementia. Visitation: Tuesday, November 7, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in the parlor at Tap Root Farm, 4099 Clovercroft Road, Franklin, TN. Celebration of Life: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 11 in the chapel at Church of The City, 828 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin, TN., with private family burial prior to service.

Frances was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, to Francis and Minnie Riddlehover Thomason. She attended Corpus Christi High School and Baylor University, graduating in 1953 with a degree in education. She married Frank Calvin Ingraham June 5, 1953. During the Korean conflict the couple was stationed at the Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Cheyenne, Wyoming where Frank was a US Air Force Judge Advocate Officer- JAG (attorney) and Frances taught grade school. They moved to Nashville in 1955 and to Franklin in 1962. Frances quickly became a value to the community, originating the Candy Striper Program at Williamson County Hospital and serving as its first director. She reached out to young people with the good news that God loved them, serving as director of the intermediate-age Sunday School department at Belmont Heights Baptist Church and, later, as an adult department director at First Baptist Church Franklin.

In the late ‘80s through early ‘90s she was active in continuing the Women’s Ministry at First Baptist Church, Franklin, now Church of The City. In 1974 after losing her 17-year-old son, Hal, Frances experienced deep grief, finding comfort in God’s word and presence. This experience became her ministry; she, authored articles and spoke privately and publicly, loving others through encouraging words and sharing of her faith. Frances was a scintillating communicator of the written word. She converted an upstairs bedroom into the place where she retreated to study and write — sometimes by hand and other times with her Smith Corona. She leaves her family a rich collection of her organized and well-written talks, devotions and articles. Frances loved to play the piano and enjoyed listening to her vast music library. She opened her home to dear friends and acquaintances, treating them like family and sharing heartfelt joy with true southern hospitality — something she laughingly called “feller-ship.” Her cellar was always full of fresh, canned vegetables and she kept a place set at the table and a spare bedroom ready for guests and friends passing through. Her home was a favorite retreat to many people through the years. She loved others well and the Lord flowed from her heart.

She is responsible for discovering the 10-room 1929 Victorian house and land which became Tap Root Farm. On a drive one afternoon, with her three children in tow, Frances came upon an antebellum house surrounded by farmland. She drove down the long driveway, knocked on the door and met the owner. “Is this house for sale?” said Frances. “Oh honey,” said the owner, “You don’t want this old house, it’s country.” The next day she took Frank and they decided it was perfect. Since then, Frances has made her home an extension of her personality and warm hospitality. She hosted an annual Christmas open house for her church and the Clovercroft Community and her home was included in the annual Franklin Heritage Tour of Homes.

In any circumstance the devoted wife, mother, church leader and civic volunteer behaved with dependable equanimity. She was named Williamson County’s “Mother of The Year” in 1969 and was active in the PTAs of Franklin Elementary and Junior High School. She taught her three children core-values through family farm life. She organized her family around wholesome activities such as 4-H, cattle-shows, and the family garden. She even taught farm-to-table economics by helping her children sell produce from their farm stand on Clovercroft Road. Most of all, she prayed with her children at the very moment of need, whether a disappointment, a lost item, or a victory to celebrate. She did not “table” her prayer life — many prayer journals express her commitment to family and precious dear friends. She was one-in-a-million and even more, an incredible example to all who knew her.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Harold (Hal) Eric Ingraham; and her brother, John Henry (Johnny) Thomason. SURVIVORS: Frances, or as her grandchildren call her “Rosey,” is survived by her husband, Frank; daughters Susan Rose Ingraham and Marianna Wilson and husband Jim; grandchildren Erica Anne Hopkins and husband, Ronnie; Kurt Calvin Ingraham; Carmen Rose Evans and husband, Sean; Meredith Ley Wilson; Lucia Genevieve Wilson; and one great granddaughter, Ashlyn Rose. Memorials may be made to the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home. WILLIAMSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 615 794-2289. www.williamsonmemorial.com 

Conway Hale Sawyers, BA ’53, of Burleson, TX, died Sept. 29 at age 89.

Sawyers served 10 years as Arkansas Baptist State Missions Director and 17 years as director of missions of Liberty Baptist Association in El Dorado. He received a Bachelor’s Degree from Baylor University and a Master’s Degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is survived by his wife of 66 years Marceille of Burleson; daughter Kathy Weatherly and husband Bill; son Larry Sawyers; two sisters, Willene Austin and Vera Breeding; 2 grandchildren; 3 nieces and 2 nephews. Funeral services were held Oct. 5 at Laurel Land Funeral Home in Fort Worth. (Submitted)

Eris Yvonne Wood, nee LeComte, BA ’53, passed away in Round Rock, Texas on January 31, 2018 at 87 years of age, after a long struggle with dementia.

She is survived by her daughters, Sherrie Nutt and her husband Randall Nutt; and Michelle Keen and her husband Scott Keen and their children, David, Hannah, and Samuel. She is preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, Leslie David Wood. Yvonne, as she preferred to be called, was born in Houston, Texas on December 2, 1930 to Franklin Rudolph and Flora Lee LeComte. In 1953, she graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Biology. Then, she was hired by Humble Oil to do geological and geophysical drafting, due to her talent in art. In 1958, she married Leslie Wood. Eight years later, she gave birth to their first daughter and became a homemaker. Yvonne’s first love was the arts, primarily visual arts and dance. She took dance all through school in Houston and performed on stage in many shows. She also was a gifted visual artist. Her free time was spent in her yard tending her flowers. Yvonne also volunteered tutoring children in reading. She was an active member of Westbury Baptist Church in Houston prior to her illness. A graveside service is scheduled for Saturday February 3, 2018 at Cook-Walden Capital Parks in Pflugerville at 3:30 pm. Clint Neighbors will officiate the ceremony. In lieu of flowers please send donations to watchandprayministries.org or bnaizion.org. The family would like to extend great thanks to the staff at Trinity Care Center in Round Rock, Texas for their diligent and loving care for the last five years of Yvonne’s life. (dignitymemorial.com)

Erlene Guess Dunn, BS ’54, of Oakwood, TX, died Jan. 16 at age 84.

Earlene Dunn, 84, of Oakwood, died Tuesday, January 16, 2018 in Fairfield.  Mrs. Dunn was born February 21, 1933 in Oakwood to parents Paul Edward and Berneice Givens Guess.  Erlene was a 1950 graduate of Oakwood High School.  She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and a Master’s degree in Education from Sam Houston State University.  She met and married Leon Palmer Dunn of Shreveport, LA in 1956.  He was a coach and science teacher.  She taught Home Economics for almost 30 years.  In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her only brother, Paul Edward Guess, Jr. of San Antonio and her husband of 27 years, Leon P. Dunn, Sr. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Leon P. Dunn, Jr. and wife Terry of Houston; Charles E. Dunn and wife Staci of Oakwood; Elizabeth R. Whitt and husband John of Oakwood; eight grandchildren, numerous step-grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the Oakwood Memorial Baptist Church at 210 Love St.  Oakwood, TX  75855  (Published by Capps Chapel)

Thomas T. Garner, BBA ’54, of Dallas died Jan. 10 at age 88.

Thomas Tucker Garner, 88, of Dallas, TX went to be with the Lord on January 10, 2018. Tom was born on February 27, 1929 in Winfield, Texas. Tom served in the US Air Force when he met and married Ruth Struss on April 19, 1953. Tom graduated from Baylor University with a BBA in 1954. He was a charter member of Shiloh Terrace Baptist Church, and was an active deacon for many years. Tom was lifelong Rotarian and served as President of Fair Park Rotary Club. Tom was a self-employed Certified Public Accountant for over 60 years in public practice. Tom enjoyed serving his clients and community. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Judson Garner and Zelda Tucker, and his wife of 64 years, Ruth Garner. Tom is survived by his daughter, Susan Garner of Dallas and son Dan Garner of Mexia, TX, 5 grand children, 3 grand stepchildren, 7 great grand children, 5 great grand stepchildren, and a host of beloved friends. Services will be held on Saturday, January 13th at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75228. Visitation at 1:00pm, funeral services at 2:00pm, and welcome reception following. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Shiloh Terrace Baptist Church Building Fund. (Published in Dallas Morning News)

Bill B. Glover, BA ’54, of The Hills, TX, died Nov. 1 at age 86.

Dr. Bill Glover was born in Tucumcari, New Mexico to Frank Glover and Ruby Reed on November 18, 1930. He went home to be with his Lord and Savior on November 11, 2017. He is survived by his dear wife of 37 years, Barbara Glover. He is also survived by his children, Brad and Wendy Glover, Justin and Karen Glover, Steve Robisheaux, Randy and Lori Robisheaux, Kelly and Gary Miller, and Trey Robisheaux. He was always Papaw to his grandchildren; Josh, Laurel, and Julianne Glover, Ellie Mae and Jake Glover, Rachel Robisheaux, Heather, Amber, Ryan, Andrea, and Trent Robisheaux, Danny and Tammy Davis, Cambri and Keith Kubosh, Caleb Davis, Tye and Savanna Miller, along with eight great-grandchildren. He adored them all.

While his family moved several times during his childhood, he graduated from Albuquerque High School, and then moved to Waco and attended Baylor University for his undergraduate degree, beginning what became a lifelong passion for his beloved Baylor Bears. He went on to receive his doctorate from Southwestern Baptist Seminary in Ft Worth.

Bill moved to Austin and became the Professor of Bible at the University of Texas and also became the Director of the Baptist Student Union (BSU). While continuing to teach at UT, he became the Associate Pastor at University Baptist Church and eventually became the Senior Pastor.

Bill lived an adventurous and varied life. After stepping down from University Baptist Church, he went to work for the Texas Agriculture Commission, owned several small businesses, including a tune up shop, and he worked for many years at Cook Walden where he won every sales award given. Throughout his life, no matter what his vocation, his calling remained clear. He spent a summer teaching at the Baptist Seminary in Arusha, Tanzania. He wrote Sunday School lessons for the Southern Baptist convention, and he traveled extensively to teach at conferences. He felt the Lord call him back to the pulpit, and he accepted the role of pastor at River Road Baptist Church.

It was during his time at River Road, while teaching at a singles conference in Glorieta, New Mexico, that he met Barbara Robisheaux, who one year later became his wife. Bill and Barbara eventually joined Hyde Park Baptist Church, and then later moved to Austin Baptist Church.

God, people, and family were the building blocks of Bill’s life. He never missed an opportunity to encourage someone, tell a joke, or laugh out loud. He loved his God with a relentless passion, and whether preaching or having a cup of coffee with friends, he was quick to bring the conversation around to knowing the Lord as savior. He was a prayer warrior, a lifelong student of the bible, and always looked for ways to inspire others.

While we will miss him here, he leaves with us a lasting legacy of love, faithfulness, and devotion to the Lord that inspires everyone who knew him.

Visitation will be held Friday evening November 17th from 5 to 7 PM at Cook Walden located at 6100 N Lamar, Austin, Texas 78752. A Memorial service will be held Saturday November 18th at 3 PM at Austin Baptist Church located at 7016 Ribelin Ranch Dr in Austin, Texas 78750. Donations can be made in Bill’s honor to: Austin Baptist Church at http://www.austinbaptistchurch.com/online-giving.

To share condolences with the family, please visit www.cookwaldenfuneralhome.com.

(Published by Cook-Walden Funeral Home)

Joe Mac Gresham, BS ’54, of Austin died Feb. 2 at age 86.

Joe Mac Gresham of Austin, passed away on February 2, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by the love of his life he first met at the age of fourteen, Dianne, his wife of 66 years. He adored his three children Joe Mac, Jr.(Marybeth), Pat Gresham and Kelly Bond (Pat), six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Joe Mac was preceded in death by his parents James S. and Ida Gresham, brother Jim Gresham, and one grandson Mike Gresham. Born in Waco on January 30, 1932, he was a member of the 1948 Waco High School state football championship team, then received an athletic scholarship to play baseball at Baylor University. Following graduation, Joe Mac served in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Bergstrom AFB. He joined Prudential Life Insurance company in 1957 where he spent his entire career. They attended River Bend Church in Austin. He was an avid golfer and a member of The Hills of Lakeway. Services will be held at 12:00PM, Wednesday, February 7, in the Smith Chapel, Riverbend Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to luckylabrescue.com

(Published in Austin American-Statesman)

William Bryan Hightower, BBA ’54, of Houston died Nov. 14 at age 85.

William Bryan Hightower departed this life and entered into the loving arms of the Lord on November 14, 2017. A memorial service will be held Thursday, November 16, at 2:00 p.m., at Saint Martin’s Episcopal Church, 717 Sage, Houston Texas 77056. A graveside service will be held Friday, November 17, at 11:00 a.m., at Oakwood Cemetery, 2124 South 5th Street, Waco, Texas 76706. Bill was born in Waco to Bryan Jennings and Emma Pfaeffle Hightower on September 26, 1932. He attended Waco High School, where he excelled at golf and played football. Upon graduation, Bill spent two years as a member of the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University in College Station. He was gratified when his father permitted him to return to Waco to attend Baylor University, where he became a lifelong Baylor Bear fan. It was at Baylor that Bill met the love of his life, Dorothy Covington, and they were married on July 17, 1954.

Following graduation from Baylor, Bill joined the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant and was stationed in Mobile, Alabama, where their first son, Richard, was born. It was there that Bill developed a love for planes and flying. He always said the most beautiful part of flying was the final approach.
Bill then joined Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in management positions in Midland and Fort Worth. He later joined his father-in-law, Tom Covington, in the family casket manufacturing and distribution business, Dixie Casket Company, where he remained until his retirement in 1997.

Bill was an active member of the Executives Association, which met on Tuesday mornings at River Oaks Country Club, where many life-long friendships were formed.
One of Bill’s greatest joys was driving up to “Benny’s Fence Line” at his Hill Country hunting lease, “Cherokee Creek,” with his brother Jack, and the other members. Cherokee Creek was a place to get away with dear friends, children and grandchildren to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation and develop deep and meaningful relationships. Bill also loved the game of golf and spent many hours on the course with his friends and family.

Bill was predeceased by his parents; wife, Dorothy; and brother, Jack. He is survived by his son, Richard Wesley Hightower of Houston and his wife, Gayle Coolidge Hightower, and their children, Jennifer Hightower Monteleone and her husband, William Attaway Monteleone III, and their children, William Attaway IV and Addie Coolidge, and Richard Wesley Hightower, Jr., and his wife, Emily Songy Hightower, and their new child, Bryan Bullock; his daughter, Gayle Hightower Durie and her husband, John Pate Durie of Houston and their children, John Pate Durie II, Laura Elizabeth Durie and William Thomas Durie; and his son, Kenneth William Hightower of Austin and his partner, Melinda Montgomery.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com. (Published by Wikirson-Hatch-Bailey)

Elizatbeth Ruth Killion, BA ’54, of Waco died Nov. 28 at age 85.

Elizabeth Ruth “Betty Ruth” Wolfe Killion passed away in Waco, Texas, on November 28, 2017. A graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, November 30, at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco. The Reverend Sharron Cox and The Reverend Ray Waldon will officiate.

Betty Ruth was born in Waco on September 24, 1932, to George Edward Wolfe and Ruth Lewis Wolfe. She attended and received diplomas from Waco High School, Christian College and Baylor University.

Preceding her in death were her parents, George Edward Wolfe and Ruth Lewis Wolfe; brother, George Edward Wolfe, Jr.; her son, James Reese Killion, Jr.; and her daughter, Reesa Elizabeth Killion and her son, James Reese Killion, Jr.

She is survived by family, including her husband of 64 years, James Reese Killion; daughter, Ruth Killion Miller and husband, Jeff; grandson, Jeffrey Reese Miller and his wife, Amy; grandson, Tyler Davis Miller and his wife, Jennifer; and great grandchildren, Jackson Robert Miller, James Tate Miller and Coralie Elizabeth Miller.

The family is thankful for Jacque Harris, Becky Lupu, Uni Murphy and the staff of Lake Ridge Healthy Living, for the love and excellent care that she received from them during her lengthy illness. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com. (Published by Wilkerson-Hatch-Bailey)

Dr. Martha McFarling Mead, BA ’54, of San Antonio died Nov. 30 at age 83.

Martha Lee McFarling Mead passed away peacefully on Thursday November 30, 2017. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Lt. Col. Donald F. Mead (Ret.); their daughters, Leslie Ann Cardinal (Joseph), and Dr. Melissa Jane Clough (Fred); her sister, Ida Gwen Kujawski (Bruce); three grandchildren, Calvin, Maggie, and Molly; as well as numerous loving relatives and friends.

Martha was born in Tulia, Texas and raised in Odessa, Texas. She graduated from Baylor University, married Don soon after, and began life as an Air Force wife. She enjoyed being a full-time mother while her children were young.

Martha then began her professional career by teaching elementary school in Albuquerque and on Fort Buchanan in Puerto Rico. She was very excited when she had the opportunity to return to school for her Masters degree in School Guidance and Counseling at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.

When her husband was transferred to San Antonio, Martha accepted a position as a school counselor at Harlandale High School and then moved to a counseling position at John Jay High School. From there, she was promoted to lead the Vocational Education Program at John Jay High School. While working full time, she pursued her lifelong dream of earning a doctoral degree, completing her Ed.D. in Adult and Community Education from Texas A&M University.

Martha was always known for being a caring leader and a great team builder. She was persistent and passionate in pursuing her belief in lifelong learning. She was also admired for her friendly nature and ready smile.

Dr. Mead launched the first Community Education program in San Antonio, under the sponsorship of Northside Independent School District. She and her team grew the program into a large and successful program that continues to this day. It serves many people throughout the San Antonio Area with a GED program, an English as a Second Language Program, as well as many career-focused and fun-based classes. While leading this pioneering program, Martha also spearheaded many groundbreaking programs, including education programs and childcare programs for school-aged parents so that teen parents could complete their high school education while raising their young children.

After retiring from Northside ISD, a beautiful new elementary school, Dr. Martha Mead Elementary, was built and named in her honor. Martha was also very active in launching the NISD Museum project.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Gwen Sprawls McFarling Braly; her father, Benjamin Hayden McFarling; and her stepfather Bill Braly. The family would like to thank the staff at The Mission at Blue Skies of Texas, as well as Blue Skies Hospice for their care for Martha. In lieu of flowers, friends wanting to honor Martha may make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the Dr. Martha Mead Elementary School Fund, 3803 Midhorizon Rd., San Antonio, Texas 78229. Martha will be dearly missed and never forgotten. A memorial service followed by a reception will be held on Monday, December 4, 2017 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Community Room at the Mission, at Blue Skies of Texas, 4917 Ravenswood Drive, San Antonio.

(Published in Express-News)

Veda Nicholson Nichols, BSN ’54, of Houston died Feb. 8 at age 85. 

Veda Rhea Nicholson Nichols died February 8 in Houston, Texas. Born September 4, 1932, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of Neva Rowsey Nicholson and Cline Lowell Nicholson. She is survived by her best friend and husband of 64 years, Buford Nichols, Jr.; her daughters and their spouses, Elizabeth Nichols-Kelloff and Mitchell Kelloff of Lansing, Kansas; Susan Pryor and Robert Pryor of Galax, Virginia, and Carol Thomas and H. Victor Thomas of Houston, Texas. Her surviving grandchildren are Neva Shoemaker, Nick Kelloff, Christopher Pryor, Shannon Pryor, Timothy Pryor, Jason Thomas, and Kelly Thomas. She is also survived by her sister Ann Smith of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Veda graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She earned her Master of Public Health from the University of Texas. She was instrumental in establishing the USDA Children’s Nutrition Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. Veda’s research while at the Center led to decreased mortality in malnourished infants.

Veda enjoyed spending time with her family. She loved traveling, reading, and spending summers in Colorado. The family extends their gratitude to Veda’s caregivers, Gloria Rodriguez and Magdalena Cano, as well as the workers at Brazos Towers.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, February 12, at Willow Meadows Baptist Church, 4300 W. Bellfort Blvd., Houston, TX. Memorials may be designated to Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, or to
Willow Meadows Baptist Church World Missions.

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Dr. Robert T. Radford, BA ’54, MA ’59, of Dallas died Jan. 26 at age 85.

Robert Radford was born on August 8, 1932 and died at home on January 26, 2018.   A memorial service will be held 2pm on February 10 at Northaven United Methodist Church.  Robert was preceded in death by Nevalee Jones Radford, his wife of 42 years, and his daughter Patricia Radford.  Bob is survived by his companion, Janice Murray, his son Robert  G. Adams, and his daughter Louise Payne of Stillwater, Oklahoma. Other survivors include cousins, grandchildren, and many loyal friends.

 Bob was a mentor to many of us as he never quit teaching and helping us sort out life›s challenges. Friends say that knowing Bob was a gift.  After receiving his bachelor and master’s degrees at Baylor, he began his teaching career at an elementary school in Indiana.  From there he taught at Caney Junior College in Kentucky.   After that he continued his own education at The University of Texas at Austin and received a PhD in Philosophy.  Bob spent the rest of his career as a member of the Philosophy Department at Oklahoma State University.  He taught courses called Business Ethics, Engineering Ethics, and Philosophies of Life.

 Bob graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas in1950 and moved back to Dallas about ten years ago.  During these ten years he particularly enjoyed solving the problems of the world with his colleagues at the Town North Y, teaching Bible classes at the Stewpot, and creating groups at Northaven to discuss theology and religious practices. He will be missed by many.

For those who would like to honor Bob, contributions may be made to the Stewpot (1835 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201), Northaven United Methodist Church, or to another charity of your choice. (Submitted)

Donna Jean Richardson, BS ’54, died Dec. 24 at age 84.

Donna Jean “Dee” Richardson, 84, of Rogers, AR, formerly of Stillwater, OK, passed away December 24, 2017 at her home. She was born February 15, 1933 in Perry, Oklahoma to Marty Lester and Georgia Bell Stephens McQuain. Dee was loved dearly and will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her three daughters, Michelle Richardson of Rogers, CeCe Spedding of Denver, CO and Debbie Barnes of Cushing, OK. (Published by Stockdale-Moody Funeral Services)

1955-59

Dr. Raymond Earl Carver, BM ’55, of Austin died Jan. 16 at age 85. Funeral Home Services for Raymond are being provided by Neptune Society - Austin of Austin, TX.

Don Tate Cates, BA ’55, LLB ’57, of Forney, TX, died Dec. 9 at age 84.

Don Tate Cates, born on June 12, 1933 in Commerce, Texas, went home to Heaven on Saturday, December 9, 2017. Don was surrounded by his loved ones at his time of death. Don is now rejoicing in Heaven with his Lord and Savior whom he faithfully and joyfully served all his days on earth. Don and his wife, Stella, were blissfully married for 60 years. Family was his number one priority. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his delight and spending time with them was his favorite pastime, especially when he could involve the kids in some of his other pastimes: Texas Rangers baseball, Baylor football, playing racquetball, Scrabble, and drinking coffee. Don received his Bachelor’s Degree in 1955 and his Juris Doctor in 1957, both from Baylor University. He was a proud Baylor Bear and enjoyed many trips to Waco with family and friends to support Baylor Football.

Don was a practicing attorney for 60 years with a passion for helping others. It has been said that Don’s wise counsel saved more marriages than he completed divorces. Don was an active public servant serving as the Mayor of Forney 1985-1997, Kaufman County Justice of the Peace 2001-2010, and a Director for the North Texas Municipal Water District 2002-2017. Don was an active and involved church member. He served as a Deacon, teacher, and youth group leader at First Baptist Dallas. When the Cates family moved to Forney in 1974, Don became active at First Baptist Forney serving as a Deacon and teaching a men’s Bible study class for 30 years.Don loved God first and foremost and took to heart Joshua 24:15 “…but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Don was a loyal friend, mentor, leader, provider, and patriarch.

He leaves a legacy of Christian faith as he is survived by wife, Stella Oates Cates; son, William Don Cates and wife, Susan of Tehuacana, Texas; daughter, Margaret Ruth Cates Burchett of Forney; son, John Robert Cates & wife, Belinda of Forney; son, Harry Louis Cates II of Frisco, Texas; grandchildren, Misty Holler & husband, David, Cara Taylor & husband, Ryan, Hannah Cates & husband, Charlie Blueweiss, John Thomas Cates, Cecily Cates, Chelsea Cates, Avery Cates, Elijah Cates, Joseph Burchett, Marla Burchett, Lindsay Cates, Elizabeth Cates, William Cates; great grandchildren, Christine Holler, Sean Holler, Alexander Donawho, Margaret Holler, Micah Holler, Anderson Silva, Evelyn Holler, Tate Holler, and Jocelyn Taylor; sister, Vivian Cates Crowson of Longview, Texas; and brother Michael Reid Cates and wife Linda of Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Don is preceded in death by parents, Harry Louis Cates, Sr. and Bobbye Tate Cates; brothers, Harry Louis Cates, Jr., George Truett Cates, Durward Hampton Cates; sister, Yvonne Cates Garrett.Service will be 11:00 am on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at First Baptist Church of Forney with interment to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery, Forney. Visitation will be 6:00-8:00 pm on Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at New Hope Funeral Home in Sunnyvale.

The family requests memorials be made to the First Baptist Church Forney Building Fund in lieu of flowers. (New Hope Funeral Home)

Col. Silver C. Chisum, BS ’55, of Austin died Jan. 5 at age 90.

Lt. Col. USAF (Ret) Silver "Chis" Chisum of Austin, Texas, passed away January 5, 2018, at the age of 90. Silver Chisum is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Billie Chisum; their four children: Carolyn Sweeney and husband Kevin, Michael Chisum, Patricia Looney, and Randall Chisum and wife Cindy; six grandchildren: Amber Harrison and husband James, Caitlin Taylor and husband Michael, Laura Chisum, Janna Shepherd and husband Scotty, Daniel Chisum, and Elissa Thomasson and husband Bryce; and three great-grandchildren: Courtney Harrison, Shona Shepherd, and Edward Shepherd.

Lt. Col. Chisum served our nation in the US military for over 30 years, including the US Navy, US Marines, and US Air Force. Silver Chisum joined the US Navy as a naval corpsman in 1945 and was assigned to the USS Missouri. In 1946-1947, Silver participated in Operation High Jump, which established a research base in Antarctica, Little America IV. Silver received his commission with the US Air Force through the ROTC program at Baylor University in 1948. He was called on to active duty because of the Korean War. In 1953, he earned his pilot's wings.

He graduated Baylor University in 1955 with a bachelor's degree in psychology. From 1953-1955, Silver flew fighter aircraft, including F86 and F80s for the TAC (Tactical Air Command). From 1955-1970, Silver was assigned to MAC (Military Airlift Command), and piloted cargo planes (C124, C130, and C47) in and out of Asia and Vietnam during two tours of duty. From 1970-1971, Silver served as the Squadron Commander for the 18th SOS (Special Operations Squadron) out of Da Nang Airbase, Vietnam. He flew night interdiction missions in the AC119K gunship. During this time, Silver earned the Distinguished Flying Cross when he successfully piloted his aircraft back to the base, after receiving heavy damage from anti-aircraft fire and losing engine power. Upon later recalling the incident, Silver gave testimony that the astounding escape from a fiery crash was solely to be credited to a miracle of God, and not to his own skill. Upon his return, Silver transferred to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, where he was instrumental in starting the Social Actions Program. Silver retired from the US Air Force in 1978. Lt. Col. Chisum earned numerous awards and medals during his military career including: Distinguished Flying Cross (18th SOS Vietnam), Bronze Star, Air Medal with Two Oak Leaves, Air Force Accommodation Medal (One Oak Leaf), Air Force Outstanding Unit Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, American Theater Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal (with One Star), Antarctica Service Medal (Operation High Jump), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Two Stars), Vietnam Service Medal (Four Stars), Air Force Longevity Award (Four Oak Leaves), Air Force Reserve Medal, Small Arms Expert Ribbon. Silver enjoyed football and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan.

He had divided loyalties between University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University as his sons each attended a different school. Silver loved to swim, especially at the beach while the family was stationed in Hawaii. His children have many wonderful memories of Fort DeRussy Beach in Honolulu, and swimming out to the anchored platform with their dad as each of them became stronger swimmers. Silver had an appreciation of music, and enjoyed listening to Luciano Pavarotti and the Three Tenors but was particularly fond of Willie Nelson songs of any kind. He had a huge sweet tooth, as any of his friends will attest, most often satisfied with chocolate. Silver enjoyed playing pool, teaching his grandchildren how to play, repairing pool cues, and watching Western movies. He avidly studied the Bible, especially in his retirement. Silver was a member of High Pointe Baptist Church, often arriving early on Sunday mornings to open the church, make coffee, and set out water for the pastor and song director. Visitation will be held Friday, January 12, 2018, from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm, at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N. Lamar Blvd. Services are scheduled for Saturday, January 13, 2018, 11:00 am, at High Pointe Baptist Church, 12030 Dessau Rd., Pastor Juan Sanchez officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Silver's name to Meals on Wheels Central Texas or Mobile Loaves and Fishes. The family extends a special thank you to the staff and caregivers at Buckner Villas for their devotion and loving care, and Regina Graham of Hospice of Austin for her compassionate, professional care in the final weeks of Silver's life. (Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home)

Ann Morris Hazlett, ’55, of Dallas died Jan. 23 at age 84.

Ann was born to Sarah Ruth & James Harold Morris, graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas & attended Baylor University. Ann married her high school sweetheart Richard & they returned to Dallas where she became the most amazing mother a child could hope for. She was a tireless volunteer but also made time for FUN! She loved parties with her Lakewood buddies and martinis on the deck at Emmaus lake weekends. Events at her home were gracious & warm, just as she was. Ann is survived by her husband, Richard E. Hazlett, Jr, children Ben Hazlett & Lynn Sloan and Jeff & Caroline Hazlett, grandchildren Austin Hazlett & Alanna Ross, Megan Hazlett & Mathieu Debic, Nathan Hazlett, Sarah & Taylor Tichenor, and Josh Turner.

She is also survived by countless relatives & friends who will miss her grace, style & sense of humor. The family wishes to extend thanks to all who helped care for Ann, especially Tracey Canady whose friendship & love made Ann's last years brighter. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wesley Rankin Community Center by visiting www.wesleyrankin.org/give A celebration of Ann's life will be held Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at 2:00pm in the sanctuary of Highland Park United Methodist Church. Family will greet friends at a church reception following the service.

(Published in Dallas Morning News)

Rev. Robert Joe Potts, BA ’55, of San Antonio died Dec. 24 at age 84.

Rev. Potts died Dec.24,2017, age 84. M.Div. from SW Seminary. Survived by wife, Dorothy M. Cook BA ’54. Married for 62 years. Son, Robert Potts, jr. BA '80 and daughter Katherine Musgrove. Pastored Baptist churches in Texas and Georgia for forty-plus years including: FBC, Corsicana, TX, '65-'73; FBC Columbus, GA, '73-'95. CBF missionary 1996-1998 in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Awarded Doctor of Divinity degree from Mercer University, Macon, GA. (submitted)

Laura Virginia Tillotson, BM ’55, of Greenville, SC, died Dec. 12 at age 84.

Laura Virginia Tillotson, 84, a longtime resident of Brevard, peacefully passed into eternal rest Dec. 12, 2017.

Known as “Ginny,” “Tillie,” and “Miss Tilly,” she leaves behind a world made brighter by her smile, more beautiful through her music, funnier with her ever present humor and happier with her laughter.

Born in Hendersonville, she is survived by her brother, James L. Tillotson (Judy), of Charlotte, N.C., several nieces, cousins and countless dear friends.

She joins her parents, Harold and Eunice Tillotson; brother, Harold Jr .; sister, Myrtle Ann; nephew, Scott Tillotson; great-niece, Cyndie Candler Mattingly; and many other relatives.

Growing up next to her grandparent’s boarding house, The Cottage Hotel, she played clarinet in high school and received a scholarship from James Pfohl to attend Transylvania Music Camp, today’s Brevard Music Center. She would return to Brevard Music Center every summer after, through college and graduate school and into her teaching career.

She earned her Bachelor of Music Degree from Baylor University in Texas, her Master of Music Degree at the University of Illinois, pursued doctoral studies at the University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill), Jacksonville University, Northwestern University and Frostburg State University and studied conducting on multiple overseas trips.

She began teaching in Jacksonville, Fla. before returning to North Carolina to join the faculty at the Brevard College of Music, where she spent over three decades teaching woodwinds, directing concert bands and eventually, chairing the Fine Arts department. In her “spare” time, she served on Brevard Music Center’s artist faculty and performed as principal clarinetist (Asheville Symphony, Brevard Chamber Orchestra, Brevard Music Center).

From 1980 until 2001, she was the conductor and artistic director of the Brevard Chamber Orchestra (predecessor of Brevard Philharmonic). Under her direction, the Brevard Philharmonic grew into a renowned 55-piece orchestra with guest artists as varied as Phyllis Diller and Robert Moog.

Enjoying a remarkable rapport with audiences, she also conducted the Hendersonville Symphony Orchestra from 1989 to 1993. She retired in 2001.

In 2005, the Brevard Chamber Orchestra Association honored her with a Golden Baton and conductor emeritus status.

“The much-loved Tillotson relished the moment among old friends and delivered very funny remarks that kept all the hearts in check.”

In 2011, the Brevard Philharmonic honored her during its 35th anniversary celebration, an observer noting that “a conversation with Tillotson is peppered with comic anecdotes and quick-witted come-backs that, while delivered gently, showcase her wicked sense of humor and love of life.”

In 2016, she published her memoirs, “Conducting Matters, a Sonata of Life.”

Accomplished musician, composer, conductor, author, sister and friend, she was above all an educator who found joy inspiring young people to explore the magical world of music. Many of the students nurtured would attend prestigious conservatories and pursue careers in music, some becoming teachers, bandleaders and professional performers.

Miss Tilly will be missed by many whose lives she touched.

Online condolences may be left at http://www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com.

Charles Thomas Wright, BA ’55, of San Antonio died Jan. 29 at age 85.

Born January 10, 1933, Tom Wright was a native San Antonian. He died Monday, January 29, 2018 at home after a cancer diagnosis in June, 2017. After graduating from the Peacock Military Academy and Baylor University, Wright served in the US Air Force before returning to San Antonio where he became a successful entrepreneur and real estate developer. With his entrepreneurial spirit and business savvy, he made Aladdin Carpets synonymous with quality for its oriental rug cleaning. He installed one of the first commercial oriental rug cleaning machines in the nation and set the standard for the industry. He soon became the "rug man" with his knowledge of rugs which he purchased from New York auction houses and from vendors during his travels abroad. He also became one of the first pioneers of adaptive re-use real estate development in the city of San Antonio with his restoration and conservation of the Reuter Building on Alamo Plaza, directly across from the Menger Hotel and the Alamo itself. His abilities as a conservation-minded entrepreneur led to the development of a mixed-used commercial, retail, and residential project on South Presa known as Charles Court. Compromised of five buildings creating and inner courtyard, Charles Court still makes visitors feel that they have been transported to New Orleans.

His Development, preservation, and conservation projects didn't stop there. In the mid-1980s, he along with the Conservation Society, and the team for Alamo Architects saved the historic Fairmount Hotel from being razed by moving it in its entirety from its original location to its current location on South Alamo Street. This feat is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records (a video of which can be viewed on YouTube) as the heaviest building ever moved on wheels.

There was much more to Tom than his successful business career. As a young man, he met John Palmer Leeper, the founding director of the McNay Art Museum, and his wife Blanche. Through his warm friendship with the Leepers, Tom became an enthusiastic member of the museum as well as an avid art collector. Though he modestly referred to the works he gathered as an "amalgamation" rather than a collection, the many visitors to his numerous residences will attest that his eye for collecting resulted in a harmonious, unified whole, an art installation unlike any other in San Antonio. Ranging from nineteenth-century African to contemporary art, the collection was rich and eclectic with particular highlights in American modern art and nineteenth-century French graphics. Tom gave many of these treasures to the McNay, including two masterpiece paintings by the American modernist Helen Torr.

A generous entertainer, Tom reveled in seeing others enjoy his art and installations over the years and often hosted events for local non-profit organizations in his home, including AtticRep and the McNay Contemporary Collectors Forum. His fame as a connoisseur was spread far and wide by the dinners he hosted for the McNay's annual print fair. Art dealers from San Francisco to New York still speak of the wonderful evenings spent in his company and the many wondrous things they saw in his home. Another passion was travel. The Leepers taught him to travel well during trips to New York, London, Paris, Rome and Madrid. He also enjoyed traveling to more adventurous destinations, including Kathmandu, the Arabian Sea, and Antarctica. Mexico, however, always held a special place in his heart. Tom was never more gracious than when hosted friends at one of a number of summer rentals he took over the years in San Miguel de Allende.

Tom is survived by his family Della Savage, Kim, Karin, and Kelly Wallace; Gail and David Gifford; and Lyle Williams and Keith Swinney.

Memorial contributions may be made to the McNay Art Museum or to the charity of your choice. A celebratory commemoration of Tom's remarkable life will be announced in the near future. Or heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the Visiting Angels who lovingly cared for Tom.

(Published in Express-News)

Dr. William G. Brown, BS ’56, of Waco died Jan. 17 at age 83.

Dr. William G. Brown, 83, passed away on January 17, 2018, at Baylor Scott&White Hillcrest Medical Center in Waco, Texas. A Celebration of Life service will be 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 23, at the Worship Center of the First Baptist Church of Woodway in Waco.Dr. Brown was born to Leonard Franklin and Anna Portia Brown on July 14, 1934, in Drumright, Oklahoma. He graduated from Chase Rural High School, Chase, Kansas, in 1952. Dr. Brown graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from Baylor University in 1956. He married Claretta Crawford on September 2, 1956 in Wichita, Kansas. He graduated with a Master of Science degree in Geology from the University of Kansas in 1958 and was hired as a geologist by the Chevron Oil Company. Bill worked as an exploration geologist for Chevron for 23 years.

In 1981, he accepted a teaching offer from Baylor to teach structural geology. He remained with Baylor until his retirement in 1997 and was named Professor Emeritus.At Chevron, he served as Coordinator of the Standard Oil Company of California Structural Geology Seminar Program from 1975 to 1980. He advanced to the position of Consultant Geologist, serving as Mid-Continent Division Geologist at the time he resigned to teach at Baylor.Dr. Brown was a Professor of Geology at Baylor University for 16 years. He received his PhD in Geology from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks in 1987 at age 53. During his tenure at Baylor, Dr. Brown taught a variety of geology classes for: undergraduate non-geology majors; undergraduate geology majors; and graduate geology majors. He particularly enjoyed teaching a six week field course in the Structural Geology for graduate majors, which covered the western half of the United States. He was a faculty advisor for 14 Bachelor of Science theses; 18 Master of Science theses, and two PhD dissertations. Dr. Brown was active in the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG). He taught in a number of AAPG sponsored Structural Geology seminars; he authored, or co-authored 45 publications (articles, field trip guidebooks, seminar note-sets, short-course notes, and abstracts). He made oral presentations to the AAPG (both local and national), and to the Geological Society of America and attended three international Penrose Conferences. He gave presentations about geology at several primary and secondary schools in Wyoming and Colorado. Dr. Brown received two awards for his presentations and in 1981, he was named “Scientist of the Year” by the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists in Denver, CO. In 1990, Dr. Brown was selected as a Guest Lecturer for the AAPG Distinguished Lecturer Series.

Dr. Brown was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Leonard Franklin, Jr., and his wife, Linda; and a daughter, Cheryl Ann Gates.Survivors include: his wife, Claretta of Waco; daughter, Pam of Waco; and son, Mike of Aubrey, Texas, and his former wife, Holly O’Quinn, of Lewisville, Texas; former son-in-law, Allan Gates and his wife, Pat, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; two grandsons, Jason Gates and his wife, Brittani, and Jonathan Gates and his wife, Chrissy, all of Broken Arrow; two granddaughters, Makenna and Braden Brown of Lewisville; one step-grandson, Matt Philpot and his wife, Sarah, of Broken Arrow; one step-granddaughter, Alisha Mavis and her husband, Brad Mavis, of Cary, North Carolina; two great granddaughters, Hadley and Harper Gates of Broken Arrow; two step great grandsons, Christian and Isaac Philpot of Broken Arrow; and a niece, Ann Leslie Brown of Seattle, Washington.Dr. Brown was ordained as a Deacon in the College Heights Baptist Church, Casper, Wyoming, in 1965; he also served as a Deacon and Sunday School teacher in the Applewood Baptist Church, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Woodway at the time of his death.Memorials should be sent to the Baylor University Department of Geosciences, Waco, TX 76798. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Woodrow C. Carlile, BBA ’56, of Waco died Jan. 3 at age 94.

Woodrow Carlile passed away on Wednesday, January 3 at Providence Hospital after a short illness. A memorial service to honor his life will be 1:30 pm Saturday, Jan. 6, at OakCrest Funeral Home with Rev. Charlie Dodd officiating. Visitation with the family will be at the funeral home from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, Jan 5. Woodrow "Woodie" was born in Waco to John and Betty Carlile, the seventh of nine children. He graduated from Waco High School in 1941 and served in the U. S. Army Signal Corp during World War II. In 1947 he married Cathryn Donaldson and on December 20, 2017, they celebrated their 70th anniversary.

Woodie graduated from Baylor University in 1956, and after 35 years of service, he retired from the U. S. Treasury Department as an IRS agent.

Woodrow is survived by his wife, Cathryn; their two children, son, Tom and wife, Janet; and daughter, Tammy and husband, Roger Smolkowski; grandchildren, Thomas Carlile and wife, Jadyn, Ashley Carlile, Chris Smolkowski, Mike Smolkowski and wife, Brittany; and one great grandson, Carson Carlile. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Woodrow will be remembered by all who knew him as a Quiet Gentleman.

Sign the Guest Book at www.oakcrestwaco.com. (Published in Waco Tribune-Herald)

Marilyn Joanne Padgett Critzer, BA ’56, of Arlington, TX, died Nov. 4 at age 83.

An inspirational life . . . Marilyn Critzer, 1934-2017. . . Dr. Algie and Nellie Padgett gave birth to a girl, and gave her the name Marilyn. She grew up in Baytown, Texas. After graduating from Baylor, Marilyn served a church in Hawaii, where she met her future husband, Marine Roger Critzer. Marilyn taught in many cities where Roger was stationed. While living in Arizona, Marilyn completed her master's degree. Marilyn taught AP English from 1977 until 2001 at Lamar High. Her impact on students was nothing short of astounding. Marilyn was sponsor of the National Honor Society, co-sponsor of Elan, and officer of Texas State Teachers' Associations. She was active in Lamar Baptist Church choir, bells, and Sunday School. She received the Texas Excellence Award, Lamar Teacher of the Year, Texas Teacher of the Year, and "Who's Who Among Teachers."

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents and son, Roger. Marilyn leaves behind her husband of 61 years; siblings, Don Padgett and Norma Lauderdale; children, Cheryl, Michelle, and Steve; grandchildren, Brandi, Joshua, and Jonathan; and great-grandchildren, Grace, Warren, and Taylor. As a child at Wooster Baptist, she placed her faith in Jesus, a faith that carried her into His arms in heaven. SERVICE: 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, at Lamar Baptist Church. (Published in Star-Telegram)

Dr. William Curtis McGinley, BA ’56, MD ’60, of North Richland Hills, TX, died Jan. 14 at age 84.

William Curtis McGinley, M.D. passed on Sunday, January 14, 2018 at the age of 84. Born in Dallas on September 3,1933 to Ollie and Ethel McGinley, his family made their home in McGregor in 1936.Dr. McGinley was a graduate of McGregor High School, Baylor University in Waco, and Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, where he received his medical degree. He was board certified by the American Board of Family Practice and practiced medicine for 45 years.

In 1964, Dr. McGinley made his home in Haltom City and was in private practice with Drs. Bob and Martha Chapman for 20 years. During that time, he was a member of the medical staff at Glenview hospital where, in 1970, he served as Chief of Staff.In 1981, he went into private practice with Drs. Aubrey Guthrie, Leverett Golden, and Barry Fawcett at Mid-Cities Family Practice, and joined the medical staff at Harris Methodist HEB Hospital in Bedford. Dr. McGinley retired from private practice in 1996, and began a teaching tenure in the Department of Family Practice Residency Program at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth. He retired in 2006 at the age of 73. Some of his fondest memories were working with these young, intelligent men and women as they completed their medical training.He was a member of the Tarrant County Medical Society; Tarrant County Academy of Family Practice; the HEB Rotary Club, where he received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award; the Karem Shrine; and the Disciples of Christ Church, where he served as Deacon and Elder.In 1977, Curtis married Colette, who brought with her a complete family - teenagers, Jolette, Michelle and Mike; two dogs, a cat and a horse! He embraced and loved them all, and will be remembered by this family as a caring, responsible husband and father whose great laugh kept everyone from taking life too seriously.

Dr. McGinley is survived by his wife of 40 years, Colette McGinley; daughter, Jolette Wine; daughter, Michelle and husband Kim Smith; son, Mike Mitchell and wife Kathy; grandchildren, Dustin, Kacie, Carson, Conner and Kamden; brother, Thom McGinley; niece, Meghan and husband Robert Hopkins, and daughter Kyla. A celebration of life will be held at First United Methodist Church, 521 W. Pipeline Road, Hurst, Texas on, January 24 at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the McGinley Memorial Library in McGregor, Texas or to the charity of your choice. (Legacy.com)

Charles B. McNeill, BA ’56, of Brandon, MS, died Jan. 21 at age 86.

Charles B. McNeill, 86, of Brandon, MS passed away Sunday, January 21, 2018. He was born February 17, 1931, in Quitman, MS to James and Vera Christine (Carlson) McNeill. Charles will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a wonderful listener, advice giver, and pound cake baker. His cornbread dressing will go down in family history as the best.Charles grew up in Quitman and graduated from Quitman High School. He served in both the Air Force and the Red Cross, where he traveled to many countries. He graduated from Baylor University in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. Charles received his Master of Science degree in College Counseling from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1965. He worked for the University of Southern Mississippi in both the registrar's office and admissions and retired in 1992 after 25 years as Director of Graduate Admissions. While residing in Hattiesburg, he attended Temple Baptist Church.

In 1997, Charles moved to Brandon, MS to be closer to his grandchildren. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Jackson where he sang in the senior choir for many years.Charles is preceded in death by his wife, Sue Burkes McNeill, parents James and Christine McNeill, siblings Margaret Wisner, James William “Billy” McNeill, and George C. McNeill. He is survived by his children, Lynda McNeill Aldana of Baltimore, MD, Scott R. (Bridget) McNeill of Bogart, GA, and daughter Julia M. McNeill of Brandon, MS; his sister, Bettye Daly of Albuquerque, NM; his grandchildren, Ian M. McNeill, Hagan B. McNeill, Regan G. McNeill, and Gavin R. McNeill, Isabel E. Aldana, and his great-grandson, Matthew M. McNeill. Graveside services will be held at Highland Cemetery, 3401 W 7th St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, on Thursday, January 25, 2018, at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations are made to Lottie Moon Christmas Offering at www.imb.org/lottie-moon-christmas-offering or to First Baptist Jackson, PO Box 250 Jackson, MS 39205. (Moore Funeral Services)

Maj. Walter Philip Barclay Sr., BBA ’57, of Portland, TX, died Nov. 11 at age 81.

Walter Philip Barclay, Sr. departed this life November 11, 2017 in Corpus Christi, Texas, after bravely suffering Parkinson's disease for many years. He was born on the 14th of January 1936 in Liberty, Texas. Phil, "Tex" Barclay was a graduate of Longview High School in Longview, Texas and Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Upon graduation from Baylor, Phil joined the United States Marine Corp where he proudly served 21 years. He served several tours in Okinawa and Vietnam. After retiring Phil worked for Reynolds Metals Company and several other companies located along the port in Corpus Christi, Texas. Phil was a member of the Masons as well as the Shriners. And while serving in Okinawa he belonged to the Sojourners organization.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Joshua Walter Barclay and Ruthell Barclay of Longview, Texas. Phil is survived by his wife and love of 59 years, Carol Ann Barclay from Mart, Texas, his loving children, daughter, Elizabeth Reeves (Jeffery L Reeves), his son, Walter Philip Barclay, Jr. (Patti L Barclay) his granddaughters, Jennifer Ruthell Reeves and Katie Ann Barclay.Service will be held at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, 9974 I-37 Access Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78410 on November 27, 2017 at 2:00 pm. For those desiring, in lieu of customary remembrances, please make memorial donations to the Michael J Fox Parkinson's Foundation (https://www.michaeljfox.org) or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to Limbaugh Funeral Home, 500 Wildcat Dr. Portland, TX 78374. 361-643-6564. www.limbaughfuneralhome.com (Published in Corpus-Christi Caller-Times)

Katherine Sermas Dameris, BBA ’57, MSEd ’60, of Houston died Jan. 2 at age 81.

Katherine Sermas Dameris, age 81, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, the 2nd of January 2018. She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend. Katherine was born in Waco, Texas to Koula and Victor Sermas on the 6th of January 1936.

Katherine graduated with a Bachelors of Business Administration degree in 1957 and a Masters of Science in Education in 1960, both from Baylor University. She began teaching grade school in Houston before devoting her life to raising her two boys. During this time, she volunteered at the library at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral for many years. She also volunteered at local hospitals as a translator for patients coming to Houston for treatment from Greece who could not speak English. Once her boys were grown, she continued to nurture her love of books by managing several bookstores.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Nick T. Dameris; her sister, Patsy Govatos; and her brother-in-law, Thano Dameris. She is survived by her son Theodore and his fiancee Lori Lindley, whom she loved very much; her son Brian; brother Gus Sermas and his wife Cathy and their children Kurt, Jason and Jenny; brother Paul Sermas; sister-in-law Catherine Dameris; goddaughter Mary Lynn Pergantis and her husband John; niece Helen Govatos and her husband John and their children Evan and Patsy; nephew Lee Govatos; niece Vicki Economou and her husband Chris and their children Thane and his wife Reena, Caitlin and her husband Andy and Demetri and his wife Mitra; nephew Thad Dameris and his wife Sarah and their children Elizabeth, Claire and John; nephew Peter Dameris and his wife Helene and their children Thomas, James and Isabella; and niece Denise Hazen and her husband Charles and their children Catherine and Nicholas.

Friends are cordially invited to gather with the family and share remembrances of Katherine during a visitation to be held at half-past eleven o'clock in the morning on Saturday, the 6th of January, at St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 1100 Eldridge Parkway in Houston, where the funeral service is to commence at twelve o'clock noon.

The interment is to follow, via an escorted cortege, at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery in Houston. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Thad Dameris, Peter Dameris, Kurt Sermas, Lee Govatos, Demetri Economou and Patrick Sermas.

In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions in memory of Katherine Dameris may be directed to Holy Archangels Greek Orthodox Monastery, P.O. Box 422, Kendalia, TX, 78027.

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Robert Charles Goodwin, BBA ’57, of Austin died Dec. 4 at age 83.

Robert C. (Bob) Goodwin died peacefully on December 4, 2017 in Lakeway, Texas at the age of 83.EHW as a member of the Golden Wave Marching Band. Bob is survived by his wife, Linda, BSEd ’60, and his children Charles (wife Triss) and Susan Oshana (husband Rob). He is also survived by his grandsons Sam Oshana, Noah Oshana, and Bradley Goodwin. He is also survived by his brothers Bill Goodwin of Plano and John Goodwin of Amarillo. Bob was born on September 9, 1934 in Borger, Texas to Robert E. and Evalyn Goodwin. He graduated from Tulia High School in 1953 and Baylor University in 1957 with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army from 1957-1960. Bob worked in banking for over 40 years in McAllen, Texas, and he was actively involved in the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, the McAllen Greeters, Rotary Club, United Way, Mission-McAllen Beef Syndicate, and Calvary Baptist Church. Bob was honored as McAllen Man of the Year in 1985 for his many contributions to the local community. Bob retired from Compass Bank in 2009, and he and Linda moved to Lakeway.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11am on December 15th at The Lakeway Church. Reverend Brent Graham will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Bob's life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Lakeway Church Building Fund or the Bright Horizons program at Emmaus Catholic Parish in Lakeway. (submitted)

Joyce Carolee Dunn McBeth, BS ’57, of Blooming Grove, TX, died Feb. 8 at age 82.

Joyce Carolee McBeth, age 82, passed from this life at her home in Blooming Grove, Texas, on Thursday, February 8, 2018. She was born on October 15, 1935 in La Feria, Texas to Joseph Curtis Dunn and Edith (Cochran) Dunn. Carolee was a mathematician by degree, graduating from La Feria High School in La Feria, Texas and Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She was a retired scientist and moved to Ennis in 1966 where she held a substitute teacher position for five and a half years. She was a member of several organizations including: MENSA, Cooking Club of America, National Home Gardening Club, and Dirt Doctor's Ground Crew by Dr. Howard Garrett. She was a member of Friendship Baptist Church in Ennis where she played the flute in the church orchestra.

Carolee was married to Joseph Harold McBeth for 25 years and they have five children: daughter, Vivian McBeth; sons, Fletcher McBeth, Lowell McBeth, Joseph Clinton McBeth, and Gordon Travis McBeth. Carolee is also survived by her sister, Ada Betty Finley and numerous cousins. Carolee is preceded in death by her parents, Edith and Joseph Curtis Dunn, brother James Curtis Dunn and nephew Mark Dunn. Graveside will be at 10:00 am, Saturday, February 17, 2018, at Mont Meta Memorial Park in San Benito, Texas. To view an obituary or sign the guest book, please visit www.bozemitchellmckibbinfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Boze-Mitchell-McKibbin Funeral Home, 800 South Kaufman, Ennis, Texas 75119 (972)878-2211. (Published in Valley Morning Star)

Julian Winchell Oates, ’57, of Waco died Jan. 7 at age 86. Julian Winchell Oates, of Waco, passed away peacefully Sunday, January 7, 2018.

After a long and honorable life, he joined the Lord, his beloved wife, Betsy, and daughter, Meg. By his side were family and friends. Services will be 11:00 a.m., January 13, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with The Rev. Raymond Joe Waldon officiating. There will be no scheduled visitation. Julian was born September 4, 1931, in Waco, to Emmett and Gladys Oates. Julian grew up in Waco and attended Waco public schools. From an early age, Julian excelled in tennis and played on the Waco High tennis team, winning the city championship in doubles. Julian went to the University of Texas (UT) on a tennis scholarship; he played on the tennis team under Dr. Daniel Penick from 1950–1952. He was a member of the Southwest Conference (SWC) championship tennis team, SWC singles runner-up and UT team captain in 1951, SWC doubles champion in 1951 and 1952, and was runner-up in 1950. In 1953, Julian joined the UT golf team, played under Harvey Penick, and won the 1953 SWC individual golf championship. In recognition of these achievements, Julian was inducted into the UT Hall of Honor in 1982 and the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame in Waco. Throughout his life, Julian loved the University of Texas; he enjoyed serving on the UT nominating committee for the Hall of Honor and attending football games with his family. During the years at UT, Julian spent time off the court/course with Betsy Oates.

In 1956, Julian and Betsy married and remained devoted to one another throughout their fifty-eight years together. They deeply loved their family; they enjoyed their dear friends, church, community, and travel. Summers were filled with fly fishing in Colorado, golfing at Sea Island, and boating on Lake Waco. After college, Julian began a career as a stock broker with Merrill Lynch. This became his lifelong career and one he enjoyed until his last days. Even in the end, he would ask, “What is PEP trading at today?” Julian helped form a brokerage firm, Schneider, Bernet, and Hickman, and managed the Waco branch for many years. When the company sold, Julian moved the group to Payne Webber, now UBS. Julian was a devoted member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the T-Association, and Ridgewood Country Club.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betsy; his daughter, Meg, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. E.J. Oates, and his sister, Kay Barrett. He is survived by his daughter Julie and her husband, David Wallace; his son, Hal and his wife, Kirsten; his grandchildren, Will Bauer, Philip, and Hal Koelsch; and his nieces, Della Thomas, Elizabeth Wicklund, and their families.Sincere thanks to the staff at Right At Home—especially owners, Jon and Terri Searles; and the staff from Providence Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, or the charity of your choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on the “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Beverly Grace Wolf Russell, BBA ’57, of San Antonio died Jan. 15 at age 81.

Beverly Grace Wolf Russell passed away January 15 at the Brookdale Alamo Heights Assisted Living facility after a brief illness. Beverly was a long-time resident of San Antonio and a former school teacher, where she retired from Teddy Roosevelt High School. She is survived by her son, Chuck and Eileen Russell of Waco; daughter, Candace Sue and John Boothby of Newnan, Georgia; and sister, Margaret Bates of San Antonio. Her parents, Henry and Clara Wolf have been deceased for some years. She is also survived by nieces Sarah and Pete Jackson, Cindy and Don Cutrer, and nephew Bill and Lisa Sims; friends Gene and Margaret Russell; grandchildren Tori Russell, and Noah and Kristen Russell, and great grandson Weston Russell. Beverly loved the Lord. She grew up in First Baptist Church San Antonio and then served the Lord most of her adult life as a pastor's wife. In her later years, she was an active member of First Baptist Church Universal City. She was a 1954 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in San Antonio and a 1957 graduate of Baylor University, which she supported with pride throughout her life. Next to serving the Lord, Beverly’s passion in life was family and friends. (Mission Park)

Dr. Richard West Sellars, BS ’57, of Santa Fe, NM, died Nov. 1 at age 81.

Historian Richard West Sellars died quietly at his home in Santa Fe on November 1, 2017, after a struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Born in Decatur, TX, in 1935, he was the son of wildcatter oilman Robert Thompson Sellars, Sr. and schoolteacher Johnnie Mae Blankenship Sellars and grew up knowing the security of a multigenerational network of relatives and friends in that small town. He left there to attend Baylor University, graduating with a degree in geology in 1957. After a few years as an independent oilman in Jackson, MS, he realized that his interests actually lay more in history, geography, and literature. He furthered his education in these fields at North Texas State University and the University of Missouri--Columbia, earning a Ph.D in Western History in 1972. Although his goal had originally been to teach on the college level, he immediately found employment with the National Park Service upon receiving his degree. Soon he wholeheartedly embraced a career that afforded not only intellectual analysis of National Park Service historical and natural park units, but also interesting travel; he visited at least 350 of these sites. From 1979 to 1988 he headed the Southwest Cultural Resources Center in Santa Fe, overseeing programs in history, archaeology, and historic architecture for the Southwest Region and Servicewide programs in submerged cultural resources. He served as acting superintendent at Pea Ridge National Military Park and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

He also was a consultant with the Dallas County Historical Foundation on preservation and interpretation of the Texas School Book Depository and Dealey Plaza in Dallas, TX, site of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, in planning today's Sixth Floor Museum. But it was in writing and lecturing that he found the greatest satisfaction. His articles on American history and cultural and natural resource preservation appeared in numerous publications, and he frequently taught courses on preservation philosophy, policy, and practice and historic preservation at National Park Service training centers and various universities. He is best known as the author of Preserving Nature in the National Parks: A History, published in 1997 by Yale University Press and the chief catalyst for a major initiative by the National Park Service to revitalize natural resource management in the parks. After his retirement in 2008, he worked on a history of cultural resources management in the National Park Service, which remains unfinished. His achievements were recognized by the National Park Service and related organizations with the Eastern National Authors Award in 1997, the George P. Hartzog award and the U.S. Department of the Interior Meritorious Service Award in 2008, and the George Melendez Wright Award for Excellence in 2011. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to preservation principles and devotion to the National Park Service.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Thompson Sellars, Jr. Surviving members of his family include his sister, Sally Florian and her husband James, sister-in-law Sharon Sellars, cousin Ben Man and his wife Kareen, in-laws Robert and Alice Stevenson, nieces Amanda Callinan, Melinda ("Tenna") Florian, Kathryn Sellars, nephews Jason Florian and Trevor Stevenson, three great nieces, and his wife of forty years, Judith Stevenson Sellars. The family wishes to thank caregiver, Glory Samlal for her superb care during Dick's final month and PMS Hospice for their compassionate and competent efforts. There will be no funeral, but a memorial service will be held in early 2018, and his ashes will be buried in the Sellars family plot in Decatur, TX at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please direct any memorial donations to the George Wright Society, P.O. Box 65, Hancock, MI 49930-0065; Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), 962 Wayne Avenue, Suite 610, Silver Spring, MD 20910; or The Food Depot, 1222A Siler Road, Santa Fe, NM 87507-4107. (Published in Santa Fe New Mexican)

Jon Burran White, BBA ’57, of Dallas died Nov. 30 at age 81.

Jon Burran White, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, 81, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 30, 2017. Jon fought a brief fight with various earthly ailments, but right to the end had a wry smile and gleam in his eye for all. Jon was born in Kilgore, Texas on January 12, 1936 to Olin Ward & Bernice Burran White. He was the younger of two boys. Jon attended Kilgore Junior College, The University of Texas in Austin, and graduated from Baylor University. Later in life he completed the Executive Program at Stanford University.

He began his career as an insurance agent helping families obtain financial protection, soon rising to membership in the Million Dollar Round Table. Later, Jon served as President & CEO of Southwestern Life Insurance. Jon spent the later years of his career in commercial real estate with Cushman & Wakefield. Jon, at heart, was a people person. This served him well both in his career, and in supporting the many causes he held dear. Jon was a strong advocate of Buckner International and the Salesmanship Club. Jon enjoyed a round of golf with friends, fall outings hunting dove, quail or pheasant, and weekend fishing retreats to Ferndale. Jon was a trusted, forthright advisor who people sought for counsel on a variety of challenges and life decisions. Jon always strived to better the communities in which he lived. He was a former director of the Dallas Chamber of Commerce, Circle Ten Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Hankamer School of Business at Baylor University, the Southwestern Medical Foundation, amongst many others. He was a long-time deacon at Park Cities Baptist Church who personified Joshua 24:15. He tried to live to the Glory of God through his faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Jon is survived by his dear wife Mary Mack Crabb of six decades, brother Robert George (wife Patricia Barnes), two adoring sons, six grandchildren and their families: Jon Burran, Jr. (wife Michelle), grandchildren Ryanne Nicole (Niki) (husband John Michael Shewchuk), and Jon (Jack) Burran, III (fiance Emma Anderson). Craig McKinley (wife Michelle), grandchildren Brooks McKinley, William Thompson, Matthew Henry, and Mary Elizabeth. The family is hosting a visitation on Thursday, December 7, between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. at Park Cities Baptist Church and is eager to hear stories of the man we will miss. A memorial service will be held at Park Cities Baptist Church on Friday, December 8, at 1:00 p.m with a reception following. Memorials may be made to Buckner International, 700 North Pearl St., Suite 1200, Dallas, TX 75201 or the Salesmanship Club, 106 East Tenth Street, Dallas, TX 75203. (Published in Dallas Morning News)

Dr. Donald Eugene Ellis, ’58, of Frisco, TX, died May 17, 2017.

Donald Ellis passed away Wednesday, May 17, 2017. Celebration of Life: 2 p.m. Thursday, May 25, 2017, at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Faith Chapel, (6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano, Texas 75093, with a reception immediately following. All friends and acquaintances are cordially invited to share in this celebration of Don's life. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations will be graciously accepted at Buckner Children and Family Services, 5310 S. Buckner Blvd., Dallas, TX 75227, 214-328-3141.

Don was born Dec. 31, 1937, in Paris, Texas, to Woodrow and Evelyn Ellis. Along with his older brother, Newton, the family lived in many places as Don's father followed jobs associated with his welding trade, including the U.S. Navy. The family eventually settled in Texas City, Texas, where Don graduated from Texas City High School. Don became interested in speech and debate and was very successful in both high school (where he was awarded the Thespian Award) and college. He was both a participant in debate as well as often being asked to be a judge. He graduated from Baylor University with a degree in speech and history. While a student at Baylor, he was involved in youth revivals around Texas, and was even afforded the opportunity to preach in his home church. During his junior year at Baylor, he met the girl of his dreams, who would eventually become his wife — Joyce Donath. Joyce has claimed for years that she was married to the best husband in the world. While in both high school and college, he worked for the local union hall as an iron worker. After graduating from Baylor, he taught secondary school mathematics while also completing his master's degree at North Texas State University. He ultimately completed his Doctorate of Education at The University of North Texas while serving as a Teaching Fellow in the department and also a director of a men's dorm. After graduation, he joined the administrative staff at Union University in Jackson, Tenn., and was assigned the rank of assistant professor. Don was ordained as a deacon at Hillcrest Park Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas, in the early 1960s.

He was truly a gifted and special man. Because of his outstanding speaking voice, he was asked to narrate or role play a character in numerous Christmas and Easter plays and pageants. He was a compelling and popular Bible study teacher in each local church he served. Many who knew him acknowledged his unsurpassed generosity and compassion for family and strangers alike. In his professional life, he served in many capacities: dean of students at Union University, personnel administrator for the city of Fort Worth, adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, administrator for the First Baptist Church of Van Nuys, Calif., and president at California Graduate School of Theology. Mingled among these assignments, he was constantly in demand to lead fire and police promotional and assessment tests and seminars. His last two areas of service were as executive vice president at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas, and executive vice president/provost at Texas Chiropractic College in Pasadena, Texas. He has served on a number of boards such as the Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA, Rotary International, American Association of University Administrators, Phi Delta Kappa, the National Education Association, and as vice chairman of the Board for the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas, a governor-appointed assignment..

Survivors: Don is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce, and their four children who were all "specially selected" from Buckner Baptist Benevolences in the 1960s. The family includes Andrea Anderson, Alicia and husband, Paul Howell, Adam and wife, Junko Ellis, and Alex Ellis; and their five grandchildren, Amanda Ellis, Jeffrey Ellis, Abigail Tisdale, Gregrey Ellis and Michael Howell. He is also survived by his brother, Newton and his wife, Mary, their children and families; and cousins.

(Published in Star-Telegram)

Luke Herlickson Markve, BA ’58, of Buffalo, MN, died Dec. 2 at age 85.

He is survived by his wife, Louise, and children: Jennifer, Mary, John, Stephen and Benjamin, 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. A service will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 27th at the Buffalo Presbyterian Church in Buffalo, MN. (Star Tribune)

Frank Baird Marshall, BBA ’58, of Dallas died Nov. 4 at age 81.

Frank Baird Marshall, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, 81, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 4, 2017, after a brief but brave fight against cancer. Frank, the oldest of two boys, was born in Gilmer, Texas, on December 18, 1935, to Johnnie Lois Marshall and Frank Hart Marshall. At the age of 5, the family moved to Mount Pleasant, Texas, to open Marshall's department store. Frank was the product of a stable, loving, and faith-filled home. He enjoyed academics, the outdoors, Scouts, and attending Baylor football games with family. Frank graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in 1954 and Baylor University in 1958, with a BBA degree in Business Administration. He was also a graduate of the Southwestern School of Banking at SMU. At Baylor, Frank pledged Try-C (Phi Delta Theta) and became a fiercely loyal fan of all things Baylor Bear. After graduating from college, Frank served in the National Guard. Through an acquaintance of his father, Frank began his banking career at the Exchange Bank in Dallas (1959), then transitioned to First National Bank (1963). The next move came in 1975 - the highlight of Frank's career - were his years at Park Cities Bank & Trust in the Highland Park Village. Not only was this the bank of the Dallas Cowboys, but its particular view of the DCC golf course afforded Frank the opportunity to keep watch over his buddies. Nationwide, banking grew volatile and Frank survived a series of mergers and buyouts. Though the bank names changed, the constant figure was Frank B. Marshall. His deep personal relationships with clients could not be replaced.

Frank's impressive array of positions over 58 years are a mini-history of Dallas banking. In 2003 Frank was asked to join Bank of Texas where he experienced, once again, "the old days of banking." Over the years, Frank served in a variety of leadership and executive positions throughout the community. His bank titles are too numerous to list. Additionally, Frank served as HPISD Board Member, Dallas Country Club President and Board Member, Park Cities Baptist Church Treasurer and Deacon, and YMCA Board Member.

When Frank wanted to relax, he would enjoy golf and fellowship at the DCC. To say he was beloved among his golf cronies is an understatement. More recently, Frank enjoyed family time at White Bluff and reuniting with friends at a variety of Baylor events. Frank is survived by his wife of 50 years, Markay Hughes Marshall, daughters Stefani Marshall Rea (David), Stacy Marshall Reynolds, Shannon Marshall Owens (Brett), all of Dallas, and brother Jack Hart Marshall, of Mount Pleasant. His adored nine grandchildren include Virginia Leigh Rea, David Colyer Rea, Jr., Jack Marshall Rea, Marshall Adams Reynolds, Garrett James Reynolds, Caroline Lindsey Reynolds, Avery Markay Owens, Benton Keller Owens, and Joshua Baird Owens. While Frank was a wonderfully loyal husband, father, and grandfather, he is in heaven solely because he knew, and was known by, the Lord Jesus Christ. It is to Him that we as Frank's family give all glory, honor, and praise. A memorial service will be held at Park Cities Baptist Church on Tuesday, November 7, at 3:00 p.m. with a reception following in The Great Hall. Memorials may be made to The Rise School of Dallas, 6000 Preston Road, 75205 or The Notre Dame School of Dallas, 2018 Allen Street, Dallas TX 75204, both of which serve children with special needs. We will see you soon, Daddy! "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21. (Published in Dallas Morning News)

Janice Skelton Miller, BA ’58, of Napa, CA, died Nov. 24 at age 81.

Long-time Napa resident Janice Dorene Skelton Miller (Jan Miller) died peacefully due to complications from Alzheimer’s Disease on Nov. 24. She was 81.Jan was born on Aug. 27, 1936, in Fayetteville, Ark., to Doran and Ruby Ballou Skelton. When she was 5, the family, which included her brother Buddy, moved to Rogers, Ark. In Rogers, she attended Central Ward Elementary School and Rogers High School. She graduated in 1954. Those were happy years and Jan was heavily involved in classes and activities. In the summer after her junior year she represented Rogers High at Girls State in Little Rock. In her senior year she was senior class secretary, Future Teachers of America President, secretary of the Arkansas Future Business Leaders of America and an officer in her local FBLA chapter, Worthy Advisor of Rainbow Girls, president of Wing Scouts, voted Best All Around Girl by her classmates and was Valedictorian of her senior class. She served the high school band as manager, was on the staff of the school newspaper, was in the pep squad and was a senior play cast member. After high school graduation she attended Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark., for one year. She transferred to Baylor University in Waco, Texas, in 1955. She graduated from Baylor in 1958 with a BA degree and teaching credentials for grades kindergarten through high school.

In 1957 she married her high school sweetheart Harrell Glenn Miller, who would eventually become a Napa pastor, principal at Redwood Middle School and Vintage High, and a prominent volunteer and community leader. They lived in San Antonio and Del Rio, Texas, and Vorges, France, during his years in the Air Force. Following his Air Force commitment they moved to California in 1960 where Jan taught at Petaluma Junior High while Harrell attended Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Mill Valley. Harrell’s first full-time pastor calling was to the Redwood Baptist Church in Napa in 1963. The Millers have lived in Napa since then, though they also lived part-time in their later years in Golden Canyon, Ariz. Daughter Margaret was born in Petaluma and Matthew was born in Napa. The children both graduated from Vintage High and Baylor.During the years the children were growing up and attending Napa schools, Jan served as an officer in the Northwood Elementary School Parent Faculty Club and also in the Vintage Parent Faculty Club. She was also a scout leader for both children and was an occasional substitute teacher in the Napa Valley Unified School District.In Napa, Jan was a long-time volunteer in the Community Projects PEO, AAUW, Napa Genealogical and Biographical Society, and served at the Redwood Baptist Church and the First Presbyterian Church. At First Presbyterian, she was the co-director of Christian Education and was in charge of the Child Care Center and the Presbyterian Day School. She had been a church administrator at Redwood Baptist. She also was involved in two Napa book clubs.In Arizona, she belonged to Gold Canyon United Methodist Church and a Gold Canyon neighborhood book club.Jan loved to travel with Harrell, visiting friends. She was a voracious reader, a master at crossword puzzles, a movie enthusiast, a strong supporter of her favorite sports teams, the Baylor Bears, the Oakland Athletics and the Golden State Warriors, and a devoted grandmother to her grandsons.

She leaves behind her husband Harrell, her daughter Margaret Elizabeth Miller of Plano, Texas, her son Matthew Harrell Miller and his wife Robin of Vacaville, and two grandsons, Luke Matthew Miller and Kyle Robert Miller of Vacaville. (Treadway & Wigger)

Kenneth W. Peters, MHA ’58, of Austin died Dec. 19 at age 89.

Colonel, USAF, MSC Retired Ken Peters of Onion Creek age 89, died December 19, 2017. Ken was born August 24, 1928 in Slayton, Minnesota. After graduating from Slayton High School in 1946, he received a B.A. degree from Luther College in 1950, where he also lettered in football. In 1958, he was awarded the Master's Degree in Hospital Administration (MHA) from Baylor University through the US Army-Baylor program. While attending Purdue University graduate school in Chemistry Ken accepted a direct commission in the USAF Medical Service Corps. He was called to active duty May 21, 1951. After several assignments in hospitals and medical staff positions Ken was appointed Chief, USAF Medical Service Corps in July 1975. He serviced as Corps Chief until October 1979 when he retired from active duty.

In October 1979, he joined the staff of The Texas Hospital Association as Vice President, Planning. He retired from THA in February 1987 as a Senior Vice President. He was an active member of the American Hospital Association, the College of Healthcare Executives, the Texas Society of Association Executives and the American Society of Association Executives as well as several military organizations. He achieved Fellow status in the American College of Healthcare Executive (FACHE) and Certified Association Executive (CAE) status in the American Society of Association Executives. Ken enjoyed living and playing golf at Onion Creek. He served as the Volunteer Chairman for the LPGA tournaments held there and also served on the club Board of Directors and was President of the Men's Golf Association in 1991. Ken enjoyed all the friends he met at the Independent living community near Onion Creek. While attending Luther College he met Dorothy Thompson and they were married May 13, 1951. Their marriage was blessed with two daughters, Deanne and Kathryn. Ken was the youngest of six children born to John and Katherine Peters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Earl, Harry, Lester, Lyle; and sister, Esther. Ken is survived by his wife, Dorothy; daughters, Deanne and husband Russ, Kathryn and husband Dan; three grandchildren, Rebecca and husband Andy, Grace, and Sarah. Ken was a lifelong member of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Visitation 6:00 pm 8:00 pm on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 2620 South Congress. Funeral Service 11:00 am, Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at Bethany Lutheran Church. Graveside Service 10:30 am Saturday, December 30, 2017 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas. Memorials and guestbook online at www.wcfish.com.

(Published in Austin American-Statesman)

Mack C. Rudenske, BA ’58, of Granbury, TX, died Nov. 29 at age 81.

Mack C. Rudsenske went to be with the Lord on Nov. 29, 2017. He was born a Texan in San Antonio and he died a Texan in Granbury. He loved his wife of 57 years, Carolyn, his sons, Scott and Todd, and daughter-in-law Susan. He was a very proud grandparent of Ava, Blair and Whitney, whom he spent much of his time spoiling, especially when it came to ice cream and rides in his golf cart. He gave three very important things to his family that reside with them today: a desire for education; a willingness to work hard; and, a moral compass.

He was a graduate of psychology at Baylor University and a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. While he spent most of his professional life as a real estate developer and broker helping people buy a house or finding the perfect location for their business, he most enjoyed helping to counsel his clients on how to establish a home or achieve success as an entrepreneur.

He served as president of the DeSoto Chamber of Commerce in 1976 and was voted Outstanding Man of the Year for the DeSoto Community in 1985. He also served as president of the DeSoto Jaycees and member of the Lions Club while also helping to establish the DeSoto Presbyterian Church. Besides the accolades, he gave his time and his heart to his neighbors, friends and church. A long-time Dallas Cowboy fan, he can now yell for them, and at Jerry Jones, while watching through the roof of Cowboys Stadium (and no doubt helped lead them to victory over the Redskins the day after he left the Earth). Other hobbies included golfing with his friends and the first day of deer season. Finally, his story would not be complete if the love for his dogs were not mentioned here.  We know that he is in a better place surrounded by his four-legged friends Beau, Belle, Bear, Pepper, Triste and Brandi. His memorial service will be in January and arranged by First Presbyterian Church in Granbury. (Hood County News)

D. Norman Beck, BA ’59, of Colorado Springs, CO, died Jan. 20 at age 80.

Norman Beck entered the presence of the Lord January 20, 2018 following complications of Lewy Body Dementia. He was born in Woodward, Oklahoma January 3, 1938. He graduated summa cum laude from Ashland (KS) High School in 1955. He graduated from Baylor University in 1959. After doing his graduate work at Stanford University, he went on to work for Lockheed Martin as an aerospace engineer. He worked at Lockheed 42 years. He moved to Colorado Springs in 2002 so he could fulfill his dream of volunteering at Focus on the Family. His favorite Scripture verse was John 3:16. His passion for life was to live so that others could know. He taught Sunday school classes for adults and children. He served with the Gideons handing out Scriptures for 40 years. One of his favorite joys was playing trumpet in the New Horizons band. He is survived by his wife of 47 years LuWana Beck, daughter LaVada (Tom) Torzewski, daughter Melody (Pat) Schaeffer, son Michael (Jill) McCoy, granddaughters Madisen and Whitney McCoy, and his brother Judson Beck. He was preceded in death by his father Reverend Haskell Beck and his mother LaVada Beck. Burial will be at Evergreen cemetery. Memorial service will be at Vista Grande Baptist church, Friday January 26th at 1:00pm. (Evergreen Funeral Home)

J.D. Biggs Jr., BBA ’59, of Waco died Dec. 26 at age 98.

J. D. Biggs, 98, of Waco, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, December 26, 2017. Graveside funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 29, at Waco Memorial Park, with Pastor Paul Krupicka of St. Matthew Lutheran Church officiating. Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 28, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home.

J.D. was born October 6, 1919, to Tennie Cauble Biggs and Jessie Biggs on a farm near Oglesby, Texas. He attended Oglesby schools, business college in Dallas, and later obtained his BBA from Baylor University.

J.D. served his country honorably during WWII. He was working for the federal government when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in November, 1941. After completing an aircraft mechanics course, he was assigned to the 320th Bomb Group. He was a T/ Sgt, Crew Chief, on the B-26 during WWII in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, and later participated in the Korean Conflict. Following his Korean service, February 1953, he returned to work at the VARO, retiring as Supervisor of the Field Section July 1974.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 42 years, Agnes Jander Biggs; five sisters, Bernice Biggs, Edith Maxey, Dora Williams Harrison, Leatha Osborne, and Mildred Stamps; one brother, Woodrow Biggs; and grandson, Joshua Lane Wickman.

J.D. is survived by one daughter, Pat Biggs Wickman and husband, Larry; grandson, Zachary Lane Wickman; granddaughter, Cassie Laine Wickman York and husband, Jonathan; great-granddaughter, McKenna; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Matthew Lutheran Church or to a charity of choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” in our website, www.WHBfamily.com.

Barbara Anderson Brookshire, BA ’59, of Austin died Jan. 10 at age 80.

Barbara Brookshire, age 80, passed away peacefully of Alzheimer's disease on January 10, 2018, in Austin. SERVICE: 3 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 18, at the Chapel of Tarrytown United Methodist Church, 2601 Exposition Blvd., Austin. Reception immediately following at Westwood Country Club, 3808 W. 35th St. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Alzheimer's Association or the Settlement Home for Children. Born in Waco, Texas, Barbara graduated from Waco High and Baylor University. Barbara also lived in Corsicana, Arlington, and Austin for much of her life. Barbara was known for her beauty, warm smile, style, graciousness, and generous spirit. A former "Baylor Beauty," her true beauty was within her soul, and she will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives she touched. Until her health began failing, Barbara volunteered for numerous charitable organizations. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, C.V. and Anada Anderson; and brother, Vic Anderson, Jr. SURVIVORS: Survivors include daughters, Britt Brookshire (Bob Buchanan) and Carlye Brookshire (Ralph Stanley); granddaughter, Clare Brookshire; and Barbara's ex-husband, Lee J. Brookshire, Jr. The family would like to thank mother's long-term helper Margaret Young and the Legacy Oaks Assisted Living staff for their friendship and unwavering care. WEED-CORLEY-FISH FUNERAL HOME Austin, 512-452-8811 View and sign guestbook at www.star-telegram.com/obituaries

(Published in Star-Telegram)

Carolyn Heath Caldwell, BBA ’59, of Fort Worth died Jan. 12 at age 82.

FORT WORTH - Carolyn Heath Caldwell 82, went to be with our Lord on Jan. 12, 2018.Carolyn was born in Cleburne on Dec. 12, 1935. She graduated with a Business Degree from Baylor University in 1959. She was the President of the Fort Worth Geological and Geophysical Auxiliary for two years. She loved to travel, and photographed and prepared the power points for her husband to lecture on cruises throughout the world. She typed and edited the two year project for the completion of her husband's "Geology in the Bible" book. She was famous for her "Texas Trash" that she lovingly prepared and distributed during the Christmas Holidays. Survivors: Husband, Billy Caldwell; daughters, Caryn Weaver and husband, Steve, Jeana Braley; son, Craig Caldwell and wife, Karen; five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. (Greenwood Funeral Homes)

Rev. John H. Dillingham, BA ’59, of Schulenburg, TX, died Jan. 24 at age 87.

John Howard Dillingham, 87, of Schulenburg, Texas passed away on Jan. 24, 2018 in Schulenburg. He was born on August 18, 1930 to Murvin Cecil and Mary Eileen (Cobb) Norvell in Purcell, McClain County, Okla. On July 13, 1946 he married Carole Jeanne Hall. John lived in Topeka, Kan. from 1979-2000; Columbus from 2000-2014; and in Schulenburg from 2014-present. John received his Bachelor of Arts from Baylor University, Bachelor of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Seminary, and Master of Sacred Theology from University of Dubuque, Iowa, graduating Summa Cum Laude. John pastored several churches in Texas before joining staff of Menninger Foundation as Chaplain. He was a member of the Clinical Pastoral Education staff as a CPE Supervisor; Fellow College of Chaplains; and in 1992 was voted Chaplain of the Year. John is survived by his wife of 71 years, Carole Jeanne Dillingham of Schulenburg; son, Alan E. Dillingham and wife Sabine of California, Md.; brother, Phillip Norvell of Fayetteville, Ark.; nephew, Ronald Norvell of San Antonio; four grandchildren, Lisa Marak and husband Randy of Weimar, Lorry Beck and husband Saxon of Muldoon, Alan Shane Dillingham of Mobile, Ala., and Blythe Dillingham of San Diego, Calif.; and three great grandchildren, Raven Behrens and husband Dustin of Smithville, Saxon "Tad" Beck, Jr. and wife Jesi of Fayetteville, and Kendall Marak and fiancé Hunter Hengst of La Grange; and six great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Murvin Cecil and Mary Eileen (Cobb) Norvell, his beloved adoptive parents, John and Margaret Dillingham, brothers, James, William, Robert and Cecil Norvell, and daughter, Alana Dillingham Shimek. Memorial Services were Sunday, Jan. 28, at 3 p.m. at Weimar United Church of Christ with Rev. Dr. Jerry L. Carpenter officiating under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home, Columbus. Burial took place in Weimar Masonic Cemetery in Weimar. Pallbearers were Randy Marak, Alan Shane Dillingham, Saxon Beck, Dustin Behrens, Saxon "Tad" Beck, Jr., Daniel Shimek, and Hunter Hengst. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1893, Memphis, TN 38101-9950; or Hospice of South Texas, 605 E. Locust Ave., Victoria, TX 77901. Online condolences can be given at www.hennekefuneralhome.com. (Colorado County Citizen)

Luther Lattimore Hillman, BA ’59, of Southlake, TX, died Jan. 25 at age 80.

Luther Lattimore Hillman SOUTHLAKE--Luther Lattimore Hillman, 80, passed away Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018. MEMORIAL SERVICE: 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at First United Methodist Church of Grapevine with Rev. J. Melburn Sibley and Rev. Allen C. Liles officiating. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial donations be made to Grapevine Rotary Club (www.grapevinerotary.com) or Grace Classical Christian Academy (www.graceclassical.com).

Lou was born July 7, 1937, in Leakey, Texas, to the late John R. and Erna Hillman. He was raised in Galveston and graduated from Ball High School in 1955 and Baylor University in 1959. After graduation, he served in the Texas Air National Guard from 1960-1961. His career began in 1961 in Houston with Dun and Bradstreet. In 1963, he was Chamber of Commerce General Manager for Trinity, Texas. Lou was a member of the Employee Relocation Council (ERC) since 1977; a charter member of Grapevine Rotary Club; first paid staff member of the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce, serving as manager from 1964-1967 and later as chairman of the board from 1977 to 1978; the first CEO of Northwest Dallas Chamber of Commerce; a president of Northeast Tarrant County Board of Realtors; Texas Association of Realtors Board of Directors; the North Texas Real Estate Commission Board of Directors; and served as one of the pioneer members of DFW International Airport development team. In 1972, Lou embarked on a career in commercial and residential real estate, opening Lou Hillman Red Carpet Realtors in Grapevine. For over 45 years, he served as owner and general manager of the brokerage, which in 2014 became Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Lou Hillman, realtors. Lou loved traveling the world with Aimee, his beloved companion of 33 years; fishing; photography; and spending time in the Texas Hill Country and Galveston. He loved people, made strangers into friends, and told good stories. Above all, Lou loved spending time with his grandchildren.

SURVIVORS: Son, Crae Hillman and wife, Judy; daughter, Anne Thomas and husband, Ryan; grandchildren, Rebecca Hillman, Hannah Chase and husband, Eric, Pierce Thomas, Henry Thomas, and Benjamin Thomas; beloved companion, Aimee Jacobie; sister, Jeanette Thompson; and a host of friends, colleagues, and extended family members. (Published in Star-Telegram)

Robert C. Mackey, BBA ’59, died Dec. 30 at age 88.

Louis Prince Mainer Jr., ’59, of Indianapolis, IN, died Nov. 24 at age 81.

Louis Prince Mainer, Jr. passed away peacefully November 24, 2017. His family was at his side as was his wish. Louis was born in Trinity, Texas on September 28, 1936 to Mr. and Mrs. Louis P. Mainer, Sr. Louis grew up in Trinity and went to Baylor University. He met his wife, Linda, and they were married in 1958. Louis and Linda had two children, Kim Pickett and Mark Mainer (deceased).Lou, as he was referred to by most anyone that met him, loved golfing, weekends at "the farm", and watching any type of sports on television - especially the Dallas Cowboys and Butler Basketball. Louis worked for Roche Labs for 33 years and was the Division Sales Manager in Indianapolis for 24 of those 33 years.L

Louis is survived by his wife of 59 years, Linda, daughter Kim, and son-in-law, Steve Pickett, two grandsons, Justin Burger (San Diego, CA) and Reece Mainer (Shallotte, NC), brother-in-law, Larry Luttrell and two nephews, Todd Luttrell and Greg Luttrell. Services will be at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN. Visitation will be Saturday, December 2, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. with funeral services beginning at 12:00 p.m. Interment will be at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis, IN.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Walther Cancer Foundation, 9292 N. Meridian St., Suite 300, Indianapolis, IN 46260 or the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary, 1357 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, In 46260.Leppert Mortuary - Nora Chapel entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences and memories of Louis may be left at www.leppertmortuary.com.

(Published in the The Indianapolis Star)

Mary Margo McCaffery, BS ’59, of Los Angeles, CA, died Jan. 8 at age 79.

Mary Margo McCaffery, a pioneer in the care of people with pain, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 in Marina Del Ray, CA. Margo was born and raised in Corsicana, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, Marley William and Mary Katherine (Adams) Smith, her brother, Marley Donald Smith, her only child Melissa Ruth Mielke, and her husband, John Richard Brewer. Margo received a BS in Nursing from Baylor University in 1959 and a MS in Nursing from Vanderbilt University in 1961. She became an assistant professor in pediatric nursing at UCLA in 1965. In 1970, Margo became self-employed as a consultant and educator on the nursing care of patients with pain, until she retired in 2011. Margo authored numerous articles, guidelines, videos, and five books on pain. She became a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and received numerous prestigious awards and appointments. Margo was a trailblazer in the field of pain management and inspired generations of nurses and physicians. She was an impassioned advocate for the relief of people suffering with pain. She is best known for her 1968 clinical definition of pain, embraced worldwide: "Pain is whatever the experiencing person says it is, existing whenever he says it does." Margo was a wonderful women who lives on through her life's work and through those whose lives she has touched. She will be forever loved and forever missed by those who knew her. (Published in the Los Angeles Times)

Dr. Charles L. Rohden, BS ’59, of Texas City, TX, died Dec. 30 at age 82.

Charles L. Rohden Sr. was born January 24, 1935 in the old part of Texas City on 3rd Street. His parents were Evelyn and Charlie Rohden. He attended Danforth Elementary through middle school. He had a short break due to the Texas City disaster of 1947. He then attended Texas City High School and graduated in 1952. He played football at Texas City High School and received honors at the state level and was also captain of the basketball team his senior year. This was followed by a four-year stint at Baylor University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry and was then accepted at the University of Texas Dental School in Houston where he studied dentistry. He was also elected to the Texas City School Board where he served 19 years, several of those years as the board President.

He was an avid fisherman and was considered one of the best fisherman in the area. He took great pride in the fact that, during his senior year with his dad, he caught 17 tarpon off the end of the dike. During his early years, Dr. Rohden attended First Baptist Church of Texas City. Later, he attended The Fellowship church in Texas City where he developed a close friendship with the pastor, Kevin Herrin and his father. Dr. Rohden met his wife Dorthy during his senior year of dental school, and during this year in 1961 they were married. He was very proud of the fact that Dorthy was elected homecoming queen when she was at La Marque High School. During their marriage they had three children, Charla Rohden, Charles Rohden Jr., and Craig Rohden. He also had two grandchildren, Candice Gordon and Christian Rohden, and two great grandchildren, Liam and Kinsey Gordon. Dr. Rohden is also survived by Susan Hill. After his first marriage, he spent many happy years with Susan and her family. Dr. Rohden practiced dentistry in Texas City for nearly 50 years where he helped many people. He had a very kind disposition and big heart and he will be missed by all. (The Daily News)

Louis Oliver Satterfield Jr., BBA ’59, LLB ’60, of China Spring, TX, died Jan. 31 at age 80.

Louis was born October 20, 1937, in Louden, Tennessee, to Louis and Katherine Satterfield. After moving from Tennessee to Arkansas, the family landed in Dallas, Texas where Louis graduated from high school. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Baylor in 1959 and a Juris Doctor degree from Baylor’s School of Law in 1960. As a law student, he was legislation editor of the Baylor Law Review. Louis met the love of his life, Peggy Clare, while in law school, and they married on September 8, 1962 in Liberty, Texas. Rumor has it, he had to chase her around the law library in order to ask her for a date. They lived in Houston, Texas until 1969, when they moved to Liberty. Louis retired from the practice of law on November 1, 1995. Prior to that time, he maintained his office in Liberty. He also previously held positions with Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Martin, P.C. (where he was Of Counsel); Kirk & Carrigan, P.C.; Woods, Harman & Satterfield; The Superior Oil Company (where he was Vice President, Secretary, and Corporate Counsel); and Shell Oil Company. He was a member of the Texas and Liberty County Bar Associations and had been admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States as well as various federal district and appellate courts. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association (Benefactor), Texas State Rifle Association (Life), Houston Zoological Society, the Liberty Rotary Club (Past-President 1985-86), the Baylor Law Alumni Association, and the Baylor Board of Regents (1990-1999).

For nearly fifty years, he was active in the First Baptist Church of Liberty, Texas, where he taught Sunday School classes, participated in several foreign mission trips, wrote and taught various special Bible studies, and served as a deacon. After moving to China Spring in 2006, Louis was active in Columbus Avenue Baptist Church where he taught Sunday school classes and special Bible studies, and served as a deacon and then later attended and was active at Highland Baptist Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and photography. A strong, loving husband, father, and grandfather, Louis was our rock and will be missed deeply. We rejoice that he is now home with the Lord and reunited with Peggy Clare. No more sorrow. No more pain.

Louis was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Clare; his brother, John; and his parents. Survivors include his daughter, Clare Paul, and her husband, Robert; his grandchildren, Joseph Paul and Elisabeth Paul; nieces and several cousins. The family wishes to express its deepest appreciation to Right at Home along with Linda Mansolo, Moe Burns, and Shamyra Coe in caring for Louis and for making his last days as comfortable as possible. Memorial donations can be made to the Peggy Clare and Louis O. Satterfield, Jr. Scholarship Fund at the Baylor Law School, Baylor University, Waco, Texas or to the Alzheimer’s Association. (Lake Shore Funeral Home)

1960-64

Dr. Paul Borisuk, MS ’60, of died Jan. 5 at age 82. Dr. Paul Borisuk, 83, of Unicoi, TN, passed away January 5, 2018.

He was the son of the late Andrew and Susannah Borisuk. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Rebecca Terrell Borisuk; one son, Bobby Terrell; one sister, Nina Borisuk Hecht; one half-sister, Natalia Jesionovskaya. He is survived by his wife, Dottie Hughes Borisuk; three daughters, Jeanne Terrell Alexander (Byron) of Kingsport, TN; Kathy Terrell Clouse (Brian) of Flag Pond, TN; Denise Hughes Bain (Paul) of Lexington, NC; three sons, Jim Terrell (Carol) of Seymour, TN; Bill Terrell (Karen) of Knoxville, TN; Dan Borisuk (Beth) of Nashville, IN; seventeen grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, Ben Borisuk (Betty) of Middlesex, NY; Andy Borisuk (Sheila) of Vernon, NJ; and one brother-in-law, David Hecht of Far Hills, NJ.

Dr. Borisuk was a graduate of Houghton College, Baylor University, and University of TX. He practiced medicine at Parkland Hospital and Baylor Medical Center in Dallas, TX; VA Hospital in Canandaigua, NY; and VA Hospital, Johnson City, TN “Dr. Paul,” as he was known to many, was a physician in his professional life, serving veterans for many years as a VA physician. He loved farming and traveling, preferring travel by car or camper to visit every part of this country. Paul dearly loved and cared for his family, gave of himself to his many friends and acquaintances, and could carry on a conversation with anyone he met. Paul was a serious student of the Bible and loved to talk about its truth and God’s love for us. He was a Sunday School teacher, a deacon, a Gideon, choir member, and served on many mission trips, caring for medical needs but most of all, sharing the love of Christ for His people all over the world. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse Medical Missions Fund or to the Gideons. There will be a private graveside service. Horne Funeral Home, Christiansburg VA, is in charge of arrangements. (Johnson City Press)

Kent Harvey Keeth, BA ’60, of Waco died Dec. 29 at age 79.

Kent Keeth, who directed The Texas Collection at Baylor University from 1973 until 2003, died last week in his Waco home. He was 79. During his 30 years as director, Keeth expanded the size and range of The Texas Collection, and also extended its prominence throughout Texas and beyond. The Texas Collection was established in 1923, and serves as a special library, archival research center and the University Archive that collects, preserves and provides access to materials documenting the history, heritage and culture of Texas for the Baylor community and the public.

Keeth enriched the Baylor Libraries’ collection of Texana, focusing on collecting not only historic artifacts but also printed pieces, from postcards to cookbooks, representative of contemporary Texas culture. He believed that future generations looking back at Texas history would require a wide array of materials to understand the complex subtleties of the lives of modern Texans.

Keeth remained active with American and Texas historical societies, often presenting papers and public talks on U.S. and Texas history. He also was a certified archivist and presented papers focused on his work at The Texas Collection at national and regional meetings. In 1981, Texas Gov. Bill Clements appointed Keeth to the Texas Historical Records Advisory Board.

Keeth may be best known to the Baylor community through his regular contributions to the Baylor Line magazine about the University’s rich history. For more than a decade, he provided glimpses into Baylor’s history rooted in materials he had at his disposal at The Texas Collection.

Beyond Baylor, Keeth was instrumental — along with his wife, Lucy — in establishing the Sanger Heights Neighborhood Association in 1984. Through their leadership within the association, they worked with the city of Waco to preserve historic homes in the north Waco area and make other substantial civic improvements.

“Kent was a scholar, superb teacher and gifted writer,” said John Wilson, interim dean of the Baylor Libraries and current director of The Texas Collection. “He had a brilliant mind and a witty sense of humor. I always enjoyed reading his contributions to the Baylor Line. He packed more into those reflections on Baylor history than I thought possible. He will be deeply missed by The Texas Collection, Baylor University and the citizens of Waco.”

Keeth was born Aug. 25, 1938, in Marshall, Texas. He attended Baylor University and graduated in 1960 with a B.A. in history with minors in English, Spanish, philosophy and economics. He earned an M.A. in history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1961 and a master’s degree in library science from the University of California-Berkeley the following year. From 1962 to 1964, Keeth organized and began operations of a new library at the Malaysian Teachers College in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

From 1965 to 1968, Keeth worked as a reference librarian for the Legislative Reference Service of the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. His duties included reference and research services for members of Congress, congressional committees and their staffs. He then returned home to Texas, serving as an archivist for the Eugene C. Barker Texas History Center at the University of Texas at Austin and, on June 1, 1973, at the request of Baylor President Abner V. McCall, returning to his alma mater as director of The Texas Collection.

Keeth was preceded in death by his wife in 1999. She also was a librarian who served Southwestern University, The University of Texas at Austin and Baylor University.

Sharon Smith Robertson, BA ’60, of Livingston, TX, died Dec. 29 at age 79.

Sharon Smith Robertson went to be with the Lord Friday, December 29. She was a great mom, wife, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas on February 12, 1938, Sharon later moved with her family to Ft. Stockton, Texas, where she attended her early school years. Then the family moved to Houston, where she graduated from Lamar High School. During those years, Sharon was very active in the South Main Baptist Church youth group. She graduated from Baylor University, where she was President of her sorority, Pi Phi, and an officer in the Baylor Student Council. As an Education major, she went on to teach middle school classes for 35+ years, in California, Colorado, Seattle, and Katy. She loved teaching. Numerous students have written that she was their favorite teacher.

Sharon was a committed Christian. She and her husband, Jim, were members of Tallowood Baptist Church, where they were active in the Praisers Sunday School Department. They made many friends there. They also loved to entertain at their home on Lake Livingston. Sharon and Jim also went on numerous cruises, all over the world. Sharon was predeceased by her daughter, Tammy Adamson. She is survived by her husband (Jim), her son and his family (Rob and Eva Adamson and daughters Katherine and Jordan), her sister (Susan Smith Bateman and husband, Clint), and her nieces (Stacie Bateman Crowson and daughter Hailey; Dr. Robyn Bateman Driskell and husband Will, and children Blake and Rachel; and Kara Bateman McDuffie and husband Michael, and sons Marshall and Matthew.) She is also survived by a number of cousins.

Memorial service will be at Tallowood Baptist Church, 555 Tallowood Drive, Houston, Texas, on Friday, January 5, 2018, at 11:00 AM. Contributions in memory of Sharon can be made to Tallowood Baptist Church. (Published in Houston Chronicle)

Hellen A. Yarber, BA ’60, MS ’68, of Hewitt, TX, died Jan. 17 at age 94.

Hellen Arlene Mallory Yarber, 94, was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Medical Center. Hellen’s life will be celebrated 11:30 a.m., Monday, January 22, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home with Pastor Randy Scrivener officiating. Burial will follow at Waco Memorial Park. Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 p.m., Sunday, January 21, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home.

Mrs. Yarber was born in Waco, Texas, to Richard Franklin and Myrtis Mallory. She grew up with 6 siblings and family was extremely important to her. When she was 16 she met and married D.M. Yarber on December 9, 1939, and they had 3 children. She received her Master of Science in Education from Baylor University, which was the beginning of her passion for education. She taught at St. Albans, Waco ISD and Valley Mills ISD for over 50 years. She often would be approached by former students when she was out shopping. She was one of the first teachers in Waco to receive the “Teacher of the Year” award in 1984. She taught Bible school for many years and tutored numerous children, as well as family members. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society of Educators and a lifetime member of the Texas Retired Teachers Assn. She also worked at Western Union and Veterans Affairs Hospital prior to becoming an educator. She attended the Hewitt First United Methodist Church.

Hellen was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 48 years, D.M.; daughter, Sharon Ann Yarber; granddaughter, Shannon Yarber; sisters, Lucille Bonner, Jessie Lease and Louise Mallory; and brothers, Clyde Mallory and Cecil Mallory.

Hellen is survived by her sons, Lawrence R. Yarber and Claudette, and Charles F. Yarber and Judy; sister, Kathryn Holder and John; sister-in-law, Eva Mallory; grandchildren, Christen Kimmitt and Jonathan, Lindsey Martin and Daniel, Chas Yarber, Matt Strahan and Jennifer, Cory Ironside and James A. Strahan; great grandchildren, Breanna and Haley Cotton, Kylie and Anna Kimmitt, Colton and Landon Yarber, Reece, Dane and Danni Martin, and Hayden Strahan; and great-great grandchild, Kayden Warren. She is survived by many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. Special thanks and love to nieces, Donna Benton and Sue Clark. Pallbearers will be Chas Yarber, Colton Yarber, Reece Martin, Landon Yarber, Matt Strahan and James A. Strahan. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Rev. Dr. Benjamin T. Griffin, BA ’61, of Annapolis, MD, died Dec. 3 at age 77.

He is survived by his wife, Gail VanOrmer; their six children (and spouses), Lynne (Ken), Michael (Mary), Geoffrey, Jeremy (Marie), Brian (Alicia), Jennifer (Chad); and their twelve grandchildren.

Born in Africa on September 27, 1940 to Baptist missionaries, Bennie, Jr., along with his brother, Byron, was raised and schooled by their mother, Alice, in the Calvert School curriculum while their father presided over the affairs of the Baptist Boys' School in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Nigeria was an English colony, the world was at war, and Ben was a minority "white" boy in a foreign land. These were his earliest memories. In the 1950s, Ben returned to the Griffin family's native Texas to finish his education. Schools were segregated; "blacks" were now the minority. Ben was then raised by his Grandmother Griffin. He said that next to his parents, no one helped or loved him more than did she. Such is the role of a grandparent. He considered it among his greatest honors to give her eulogy.

In 1961, he graduated from Baylor University, in Waco, TX, just as his father had done, as well as other Griffins. Like his father before him, Ben was "called" to the ministry. He attended Andover Newton Theological School near Boston, Massachusetts. The 60's were a turbulent time, and faith-based leaders were active in racial justice. Seminary students were no exception, Ben joined his classmates marching in Selma, AL.

Ordained a minister into the United Church of Christ, Ben began serving parishes in Pennsylvania, first in Mt. Pleasant, then in Orwigsburg, and finally in York. During those years, Ben was active in community service, led parishioners in worship, baptized babies, officiated at weddings, eulogized the faithful, and counseled many. Along the way, he earned his Doctor of Ministry and published writings, including his dissertation on the "Pastoral Care of Children in Crisis," a book, "The Americanization of a Congregation", and others. After more than twenty years serving as a parish minister, Ben move to New Brighton, MN, with his wife, Gail, and their youngest daughter, Jennifer, to become the President and Professor of Liturgies at the United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities. After eight years, Ben returned to his beloved Andover Newton Theological Seminary to become its President and Professor of Liturgies. There on "the hill," as the school was called by those who loved it, Ben's theological life came full circle. Ben retired from Andover Newton in 2004 and moved with Gail to a home in Annapolis to be nearer their grandchildren who live in the area.

Most knew Ben for his years of theological, denominational, ecumenical, or community service. But, in retirement, freed from those responsibilities, Ben spent the remainder of his life dedicated to what had always given him the most joy and fulfillment, beloved husband, father and grandfather. Those who knew him best, his family, can appreciate the appropriateness of his final sermon, "Grace Abounding." Grace: the unmerited favor of God. Ben was steadfast in his love for his wife and his unconditional support for their children who were the recipient of so much grace. For him, faith and family first and forever.

A public Memorial Service will be held at Trinity UCC Church, York, on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 2 p.m. (Published in York Daily Record & York Dispatch)

Carol Vincent Smelley, BA ’61, of Houston died Dec. 21 at age 79.

Carol Vincent Smelley went home to be with the Lord on December 21, 2017. She was born at St. Joseph Hospital, December 20, 1938. She has always been a happy girl who enjoyed people and loved being the center of attention. Carol grew up in West University attending Pershing Jr. High and Lamar High School. She was always a leader: at West University Baptist Youth Group, President of Niwauna Social Club at Lamar where she was also Duchess in the May Fete. Carol was part of the Lamar Drama Club which won State in One Act Play Competition. She attended Baylor University where she was Vice President of her sorority, Pi Phi. She was on the Editorial Board of the Baylor Newspaper serving as Reporter. She majored in Journalism at Baylor.

Her hobbies included bridge, leisure learning, needle point sewing, oil painting, tennis at Houston Racquet Club where her calendars were always full, and golf at Lakeside. Following a quadruple Bogie she said, "Can't wait till we are poor so we can drop this Country Club. Then I can quit this stupid game." Most importantly Carol is a committed Christian, she loved Bible Study and taught for many years in Baptist Sunday schools. "We must travel while we are young." So Carol traveled all over the world. Travel, travel, travel. Just a little short-term memory loss. Diagnosed with Alzheimers twenty years ago… Just another opportunity to make New Friends.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents William and Frances Gage Vincent. She is survived by her loving husband Dr. James Smelley, her two wonderful daughters, Kim Cremer and husband Frank, and Laura Visage and husband Tony, and her three loving grandchildren, Paul Cremer and wife Bella, Joey Cremer, and Abbye Cremer.

A visitation will be held at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079, on December 27, 2017 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. A Memorial Celebration of Carol's Life will be held 1:00 pm, December 28, 2017. The service will be held at Second Baptist Church in the Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Star of Hope, 4848 Loop Central Drive Suite 500, Houston, Texas 77081, or Second Baptist Church, 6400 Woodway Drive, Houston, Texas 77057.

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

George C. Stokes, BA ’61, of Bastrop, TX, died Nov. 17 at age 79.

George Clay Stokes, age 79, went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 17, 2017 at his home with his wife by his side. He was born on February 6, 1938 to George C. and Fannie P. Stokes in Miami, Oklahoma. His sense of humor will be sorely missed by both his family and friends.

He attended Miami Oklahoma schools and then went on to Baylor University and received his BA. George pursued his great love of theater performance throughout high school and college years. He met the love of his life, Sandra, on a blind date while attending Baylor University. On January 2, 1962 they married and have since celebrated 55 joyful years of marriage. George was employed by KPRC and KRTS radio stations as General Sales Manager. He was honored to receive many distinguished awards in the radio industry.

After retiring to the countryside, he worked on his home, entertained family and friends, and enjoyed fellowship at Lost Pines Bible Church in Bastrop, Texas. George loved reading, traveling, swimming and fishing. He took great pride in his Native American heritage as a member of the Peoria Indian Tribe.

He was preceded in death by his parents George C. and Fannie P. Stokes. He is survived by his wife Sandra; daughter, Catherine Lisa; son-in-law, Ken Eckart; son, George Daniel; daughter-in-law, Consuelo; Grandchildren, George T., Hastings and Christopher.

A Memorial Service was held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 25, 2017 at Bastrop Providence Funeral Home, 2079 Hwy 71 E., Bastrop, Texas, 78602. Interment will be held 2:30 P.M. Sunday, December 10, 2017 at the Stokes Family Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in honor of George C. Stokes to Wounded Warriors Project and Lost Pines Bible Church. (Published in Houston Chronicle)

Lt. Col. James S. Turner, BS ’61, of San Antonio died Jan. 27 at age 80.

Rather than saying he was a true Texan, it is probably more accurate to say he was a true American. Lt. Col (Ret.) James S. Turner passed away peacefully on 27 Jan 2018, just five days after his 80th birthday. He was born to parents Seal and Maud Turner in Pleasanton, Texas, where he learned to hunt, work cattle, and love the Lord. In short, he was a true Texan. A superb athlete (and one of the "Big Five"), he excelled in high school athletics and met his future bride Mary Ann, there in Pleasanton. After graduating from Baylor University with a degree in mathematics, Jim entered the United States Air Force where he proudly served for 27 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Don Turner.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and beloved wife of 58 years, Mary Ann Turner; two sons, M. Scott Turner and his wife, D'Lisa of Virginia; Todd A. Turner and his wife, Tricia of San Antonio; and grandchildren Ranger, Nikki, Cayla and Ali Turner.

Jim was a man whose words matched his actions, whether regarding his faith, his family, or his work. He was a great example to everyone, especially his sons; he modeled authentic Christian character. He graciously served in numerous capacities at several churches, wherever the Air Force sent him. Whether as a deacon, youth leader or choir member, he was a faithful ambassador for Christ. In the Air Force he flew over 100 combat missions over Vietnam and his B-52 aircrew was twice honored as the best in the Air Force. He was later a lead figure in the research and development of several key combat aircraft enhancements. After his Air Force retirement, Jim worked successfully as a defense contractor and a financial planner. He loved his family and repeatedly put them first over his own career advancement. There was also no doubt he was a Patriot, flying the American flag at his house every day for over 35 years and standing up for the values that make our country great. Rather than saying he was a true Texan, it is probably more accurate to say he was a true American.

There will be a visitation at Porter Loring Mortuary North from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Thursday, February 8, 2018. Interment will be at Ft. Sam Houston Cemetery earlier in the morning.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Castle Hills Baptist Church or Parkhills Baptist Church.

Tom Evans Gandy, BA ’62, of Fairway, TX, died Nov. 27 at age 77, after a 5-year battle with Alzheimer's.

He is survived by his wife, Dottie Bruce Gandy, BA ’62, and his son Brad Gandy. (submitted)

Wilton A. Lanning, BA ’62, of Waco died Jan. 10 at age 81.

Wilton Lanning, Jr., 81, passed away January 10, 2018, with his family by his side. A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 14, at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church with Reverend Ron Durham and Reverend Josh Vaughan officiating. A private burial service will be held Saturday, January 13. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, January 13, at the Dr Pepper Museum.

Wilton was born June 12, 1936, in Waco, the son of Wilton, Sr., and Ethel Lanning. He graduated from Waco High School and Baylor University, where he met his wife of 57 years, LaNell “Lee” Lanning. Wilton loved “all things Waco” and his Dr Pepper. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and telling others about the history of Waco. He also loved to hunt, making many memories with his family and friends at the deer lease.

Wilton was well-known as the former president & CEO of Waco’s oldest business, Tom Padgitt, Inc., serving in this capacity for 40 years. He was also highly involved in Waco community development. He served as the Executive Director of the Waco Business League, was the 70th President of the Rotary Club of Waco, the Chairman of the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Baylor-Waco Foundation. Wilton served on several boards including the Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center, the Waco Industrial Foundation, and the Waco Mammoth Foundation. He was also the co-founder and first president of the Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute.

During his career, Wilton was recognized for his dedication to the Waco community, receiving awards such as the James H. Lockwood Masonic Lodge 1343, A.F. & A.M. “Community Builder Award,” the National Philanthropy, “Lifetime Achievement Award”, and the Waco Business League “Lifetime Achievement Award.” He was an Eagle Scout, and the Boy Scouts of America honored him with the “Silver Eagle Award.”

Wilton is preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth Kelly; and his parents, Wilton Sr. and Ethel Lanning.

He is survived by his wife, Lee Lanning; son, Bill Lanning and wife, Jessica, and grandchildren, Mary, Lili, Karina and Lorena Castillo; son, Robert Lanning and wife, Beth, and grandchildren Caitlin and Austin Lanning; and many other family and friends.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Providence Hospital for their compassionate care and support. In lieu of flowers, his family asks you to donate to your favorite charity or to Baylor University, Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, or the Dr. Pepper Museum. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com. (Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey)

Billy Mack Patteson, BBA ’62, died Dec. 21 at age 82.

Billy Mack Patteson, age 82, of South Bosque County, passed away late Thursday night, December 21, 2017 at The Brazos of Waco.

Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Leah Hidde-Gregory and Rev. Howard Kenyon officiating. A reception will follow at the First United Methodist Church in West.

Billy Mack was born July 7, 1935 in Meridian, the son of Daniel F. and Annie Mae (Hughett) Patteson. He attended Waco Schools prior to receiving a Business and Economics Degree from Baylor University. Billy Mack then attended Southern Methodist University and received a degree from Texas Christian University's Brite Divinity School. On November 22, 1966 he was united in marriage to Katherine "Kathy" Duncan in Hurst. Billy Mack worked as a Pastor and social worker for the United Methodist Church in the Waco area during his 46 years in the ministry. He was appointed to Inner City Ministry in 1966, now Central Texas Senior Ministry. Billy Mack also served at the Baylor Wesley Foundation for 25 years until retiring in 2001. He was the Interim Pastor of several area church including Wesley Chapel UMC, Lorena UMC, West UMC, Clifton UMC, Aquilla UMC, Lebanon UMC and Bosqueville UMC. Billy Mack enjoyed square dancing, teaching Sunday School, traveling and pondering World issues while mowing. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandsons.

Billy Mack is preceded in death by his parents; a son, Jay Duncan Patteson; and brothers, Dan and James Patteson. Survivors include his beloved wife of 51 years, Kathy Patteson; a daughter and son-in-law, Liesl Patteson and Jeff Jewesson; twin grandsons, Henry and Matthew Jewesson; a sister, Barbara Bivona; many foster children including, Bill Decker and Maureen Collins; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Central Texas Senior Ministry in Waco. (Aderhold Funeral Home)

JoAnn Godec Potter, BM ’62, of Big Spring, TX, died Aug. 25 at age 78.

JoAnn Godec Potter, BM'62. A native of Hurley, New Mexico born January 28, 1939, she passed away August 25, 2017 at the Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Big Spring, Texas. She was diagnosed with MS in her mid 20's but lived life to the fullest, as much as her condition allowed, teaching private piano lessons and writing newsletters for the care home facilities where she has been a resident for the past 30+ years. She is survived by a son Thomas Furrh, a granddaughter Jessica Furrh, and two brothers. She was a member of Mu Phi Epsilon at Baylor and a composition student of Mr. Gibson as an undergraduate. (submitted)

Dean Thomas Blair, BS ’63, of Bend, OR, died Jan. 5 at age 81.

Dean was born in Pasco, Washington, and grew up in Kahlotus, Washington, in wheat and cattle country. He was very good at football and loved playing. He was the star of his high school team and went on to play in the Air Force while he was stationed in the Philippines. When he returned to the U.S., he received a full scholarship to play football as a running back at Baylor University. In 1960, he was blessed with his first daughter, Kristie Kay. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1963 and then went on to play professional football. He was a defensive halfback for the Dallas Texans and then continued with them when the team moved and became the Kansas City Chiefs. He played for six years and retired after a major knee injury. After recovering, he pursued his interest in rodeo. He tried his hand at roping, bareback, and bull riding.

He met the love of his life, Reba, at a rodeo event. They dated for a year, and were married on February 1, 1972, in Las Vegas. Their son, Beaumont Branton Blair, was born later that year. In 1975, Dean partnered with two close friends to form a wood stove manufacturing company, which became Sunrise Industries. The business moved to Bend in 1977. Dean and Reba bought a house in Redmond and enjoyed landscaping and learning to snow ski together. In December 1978, their beloved Beaumont passed away suddenly. In October, 1979, Dean and Reba adopted a baby girl whom they named Kara De’An. As a family, they continued snow skiing and learned how to water ski in the late 1980s. With several close friends, Dean enjoyed going on houseboat vacations at Lake Shasta in the summers and visiting various ski resorts around the Pacific Northwest in the winters.

In the mid-1990s, Dean closed Sunrise Industries, became a Realtor for a few years, and then became a courier for 12 years. Dean and Reba moved to Bend in 1998 and bought a new house in Bend in 2001. They learned how to golf together and enjoyed perfecting their new yard. After fully retiring in 2010, Dean began to encounter more health issues and spent a lot of time with his new best friend, Remi, his black miniature poodle. Together, they did all kinds of daily errands, watched football and the news, and spent time in the beautiful backyard. Dean loved being outdoors and took great joy in his new Traeger smoker and grill and the retractable awning over his back deck. He also enjoyed weekly dinners with his two grandchildren, Liam and Alsa. At the end of 2017, Dean started to have more problems with his heart and kidney functions. In January, with Reba, Remi, and Kara by his side, he stopped receiving all medications and passed away very quickly. His wish was to be cremated, and to have his ashes scattered at Mt. Bachelor and Lake Shasta. He didn’t want people to be sad on his behalf, so he requested to not have a funeral. The family is grateful for the wonderful team of doctors and nurses who worked with Dean during his final days.

Dean will be remembered for his ever-present sense of humor, his mischievous, always-up-to-something smile, and his love of sports and family. He left a positive imprint wherever he went and his spark for life will be missed. (Bend Bulletin)

Barbara Karen “Kay” Corwin, BBA ’63, of Waco died Dec. 25 at age 76.

Barbara Karen "Kay" Corwin died December 25, 2017, in Waco, Texas, after years of valiantly battling Multiple Sclerosis. A memorial service will be 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 9, 2018, in the Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Mark Failing and Reverend Scott Robbins officiating. A visitation with the family will be 6:00-8:00 p.m., Monday, January 8, in the Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Garden Room.

Kay was born in Waco, on July 9, 1941, to Barbara Maris Smith and Truett King Smith. She and her younger sister, Jan, grew up attending Columbus Avenue Baptist Church and Waco schools. After graduating from Waco High School in 1959, Kay attended the University of Houston for a year and then returned to Waco to attend Baylor University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 1963.That summer, she met Grady Giles Wilson, a Second Lieutenant going through Navigator Training School at James Connally Air Force Base. The two married January 31, 1964, and soon after moved to Merced, California. After three months in Merced, they moved to Seymour Johnson AFB in Goldsboro, North Carolina, where Kay gave birth to their first daughter, Robin, on May 7, 1965. The family moved one more time before returning to Waco, where Kay gave birth to another daughter, Lesley, on March 10, 1968. Kay was very involved in her daughters' lives, actively participating in the Mountainview Elementary PTA and serving as both a manager and a coach for their Lake Air Little League teams.

When both girls were old enough, Kay decided to return to work, and she spent several years as a nursing home inspector with the Department of Health and Human Services. In 1977, Kay and Grady divorced. After a few years as a single mom, Kay reconnected with Henry Michael "Mike" Corwin, an old friend from high school. The couple had originally met as six-year-olds at Columbus Baptist Avenue Church. They married in 1982, and Kay and her daughters moved in with Mike and his two children, Laura and Casey. After Mike and Kay were married, Kay retired from the DHHS, but she still wanted to give back to the community. She participated in the Junior League of Waco, actively supported the Waco Performing Arts Company, served on the board of the Waco Hippodrome Guild, and worked tirelessly as a docent at East Terrace, which she called her other home. In her spare time, she loved to travel. In addition to frequent trips to numerous destinations across the U.S. (often following their beloved Baylor Bears!), Kay and Mike made extended visits to several countries, including Austria, China, England, Greece, Ireland, Italy, and Mexico.Although the couple were very happy together, life was not without its hardships. In 1986, Kay was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and it affected her ability to walk or use her left hand. Then, in 1992, she and Mike suffered a devastating loss when Casey was killed in a car wreck. But no matter what challenge life threw at her, Kay persevered. When it became harder to travel, she found joy in a new role - that of grandmother. Over the years, she and Mike were blessed with five grandchildren. Laura and her husband, Chris Talley, had three children – Michael, Megan and Caroline. Lesley and her husband, Brad Mullen, had two – Madison and Connor. Both Kay and Mike enjoyed spending time with their children and grandchildren. Kay found her family to be one of her greatest comforts after Mike's death in 2010.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, Kay is survived by her sister, Jan Lapierre; Jan's husband, Billings; and their daughter, Rachel Tees, her husband, Mike, and their son, Michael.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the outstanding nursing and care staff at Bluebonnet Home Care, Bluebonnet Hospice, Home Care Assistance, and Home Instead, and to the many other people who have worked with Kay over the past two years. Special thanks go to Margot and Mandy for the one-on-one care and companionship they provided.

Memorials may be made to The Historic Waco Foundation, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, The Alzheimer's Association, The Freedom Alliance, USO, The Wounded Warriors Project, or any military cause of your choosing.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com. (Waco Tribune-Herald)

Dr. Luiz Natalicio, BA ’63, MS ’65, of El Paso died Nov. 14 at age 76.

Dr. Luiz Natalicio passed away peacefully with his wife Nancy and stepdaughter Diana Patrick at his side. Born in Brazil, he finished high school in Porto Alegre and attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he earned a B.A. and M.S. in psychology. In 1967 he completed a Ph.D. in Brazil and a post-doctoral residency in clinical psychology in San Antonio.

Luiz began a 20-year teaching career at the University of Texas-Austin. A gifted teacher, counselor, and writer, he won three teaching awards there. Over the years he authored and co-authored dozens of books and articles, and served as President of the Interamerican Society of Psychology. He continued his career at the University of Texas-El Paso, retiring in 1987 as Professor of Educational Psychology to devote full time to a private practice in clinical and forensic psychology. Luiz was often called as an expert witness in both civil and criminal cases, an experience he valued. He also served many organizations as consultant or supervisor, including El Paso Mental Health-Mental Retardation, Columbia Behavioral Health Center, Texas Tech Regional Health Science Center, Sun Valley Psychiatric Hospital, and Providence Memorial Hospital. Noted for his good taste and many interests, his love of all kinds of music was well known and shared with friends.

He worked his way through Baylor as leader of the King's Quartet, introducing Brazilian music to central Texas towns. He played bass, saxophone, piano, guitar and bongos, and joined Los Paisanos on arriving in El Paso. Luiz was well known for his remarkable generosity. He spoke often of his gratitude for opportunities he'd been given in the States, and gave back in time, talent, money and kindness. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Family members include niece Claudia Lima, nephew Alverne Natalicio; stepdaughter Diana Patrick, husband Jonas, grandsons Brennan and Brady; in-laws David and Marianne Book (Shelley, John), Norman and Melinda Rogers (Phillip, Stephen, Stephanie). A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, December 4, at University Presbyterian Church, 244 N. Resler. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Humane Society of El Paso, 4991 Fred Wilson, El Paso 79906, or Doctors Without Borders, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), PO Box 5022, Hagerstown MD 21741-5022. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West. Please visit our online registry at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net. (Published in El Paso Times)

Donna Lynn Fry, BBA ’64, died Dec. 9 at age 74.

Claude Ray “Dogie” Giles, BS ’64, LLB ’68, of Crawford, TX, died Jan. 11 at age 75.

Claude Ray "Dogie" Giles, age 75, passed away January 11, 2018, at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center-Hillcrest in Waco, Texas. A memorial celebration service will be 2:00PM, Sunday, January 21, 2018 at Wilkirson Hatch Bailey Funeral Home, located at 6101 Bosque Boulevard, Waco.

Dogie was born January 21, 1942, in Abilene, Texas, to Wylie Stell Ledger Giles and Lewis Elvin Giles. He grew up in Abilene and attended Abilene High School. After graduation, he attended McMurry University, where he was vice president of the student body and President of Kiva Social Club. He graduated in 1964 with a double major in history and English and received a scholarship to attend Baylor Law School, where he was a member of the Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity. Dogie graduated from law school in 1968 and began his career at Edwards & Faulkner Law Firm. In 1970, he was made a junior partner. In 1972, he was elected into the membership of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. In 1977, Dogie left the firm and opened Giles & Makowsky with his good friend, the late Dan Makowsky. They practiced together until 1993, when Dan retired. Dogie continued his practice and his son, Lewis, joined the firm in 2008. In 2009, Lewis was made partner and the firm became Giles and Giles. During his career, Dogie served on the local Grievance Committee, the Heart of Texas Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, and was a member of the McLennan County Bar Association and the McLennan County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He was repeatedly recognized as a member of the Pro Bono College of the State Bar of Texas for contributions to the delivery of legal services to low-income Texans. Dogie loved to help people and enjoyed the relationships he built with his clients, many times representing families for multiple generations.

During his life Dogie was known as a generous, friendly, witty man with a heart of gold who never met a stranger. He enjoyed poker with his friends, driving his Model A, listening to music, watching movies, traveling, and attending his grandchildren's activities. He was active in the AA community and a frequent speaker at meetings around town. He helped many people with their sobriety and celebrated his own AA forty-year birthday last April.

Dogie was preceded in death by his parents, Stell and Lewis Giles; and his sister, Patsy Giles.

Survivors include his brother, Lewis Giles, and wife, Barbara, of Garland,; his sister, Gwyn Kozma and husband, Dick, of Newnan, Georgia; and his children, Elizabeth Green of Belton, Catherine Cook and husband, Jack, of Crawford, Lewis Giles and wife, Cindy, of Waco, Shelley Giles of Waco, Michael Giles and wife, Angi, of Crawford, Greg Giles of Waco, Lori Evans of Birmingham, Alabama, Toby Scott of Helena, Alabama, and Jennifer Scott of Arlington. He is also survived by fifteen grandchildren, Tara Frymark, Cooper Green, Cori Burkett, Curtis Cook, Edgar Giles, Brittany Jimenez, Macie Barber, Hollie Kent, Cierra Barber, Kristen Ratliff, Kori Giles, Korbin Giles, Ashton Giles, Kate Reid, Derek DeBandi ; and five great-grandchildren, Carson, Kenley, and Grayson Engelhardt and Isaiah and Cha'Leigh Jimenez.

Memorials may be made to Greater Waco Legal Services, P.O. Box 689, Waco, TX 76703-0689.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com. (Published in Abilene Reporter-News)

John Dalton Hoffman, BBA ’64, of Houston died Dec. 30 at age 76. Memorial Service Thursday, January 4, 2018.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Westbury Baptist Church 10425 Hillcroft St. Houston, TX. 77096 or Alzheimer's Foundation of America 322 8th. Ave. #700 New York, N.Y. 10001

Betty Jane Pinter, BBA ’64, of Amarillo, TX, died Nov. 2 at age 81.

Betty was born on October 17, 1936 and passed away on Thursday, November 2, 2017. Betty was a resident of Amarillo, Texas at the time of passing. She graduated from Abbott High School in 1955, Navarro Junior College in 1958 and Baylor University in 1964 with a BBA/Secondary Education degree

Patsy Lou Steward, MS ’64, of Munday, TX, died Dec. 19 at age 75.

Patsy “Pat” Lou Steward, 75, passed away December 19, 2017 at the Munday Nursing Center in Munday, TX. A celebration of life followed by a visitation with family will be held Thursday, December 28, 2017 at 2:00p.m., at the Haskell Church of Christ annex. A private graveside service will be held at the Goree Cemetery in Goree, TX. Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Homes of Haskell, TX.

Pat was born on May 24, 1942 in Wichita Falls, TX to James Byron “Jack” and Berniece Ruth (Hudson) Steward. She was the oldest of three children and grew up in Goree, TX. She attended Goree schools and graduated in 1960. She continued her education receiving a bachelor’s degree from Abilene Christian College and a master’s degree from Baylor University.

She began her coaching and teaching career at Eastland High School. She enjoyed many years of coaching and teaching in various school districts in the area as well as at Ranger Junior College before ultimately combining her passion for sports with her dream of entrepreneurship. In 1984, she opened Playoff Sports in Eastland, TX which she successfully owned and operated until her retirement in 2014. During this thirty-year endeavor, she supplied countless little league, high school, and collegiate athletes, teams, and coaches with uniforms, trophies, shoes, and equipment. Throughout the course of her career she also organized and officiated numerous local high school track and field meets and instructed driver’s education courses.

 

As evident through her choice of profession, Pat loved sports and enjoyed many sports-related activities and opportunities throughout her lifetime - Some of her favorites were traveling to the summer olympic games in Munich, Germany, hosting Dallas Cowboys fullback Robert Newhouse at her Playoff Sports grand opening, developing lasting friendships within the local sports and coaching communities, and watching her nephews and nieces compete in various athletic and academic events. She was an avid Texas Rangers fan.

She enjoyed attending family reunions, playing bocce ball and chicken foot dominoes, and adding to her impressive collection of John Deere memorabilia.
She was a long time resident of Ranger, TX and a member of the Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, James Byron Steward, Jr.She is survived be her sister, Tonya Cypert and husband Buddy of Haskell; nephew, Cody Cypert and wife Breann of Lubbock; nieces, Jacy West and husband Brad of Haskell, Kristin Bishop and husband Russell of Abilene, and Jaryn Jackson of Lubbock; great nephews and nieces, Colby, Caden, and Carleigh West, Averie and Mason Cypert, and Jathan and Kerra Bishop; aunt Faye Lermuseaux of Bernalillo, New Mexico; and numerous cousins and friends.

The family wishes to express sincere thanks to the staff at The Woodlands Assisted Living, Hospice of Wichita Falls, and Munday Nursing Center for their compassionate care. They also wish to extend their gratitude to Molly Kennedy with Encompass Home Health of Eastland.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association,301 S Pioneer, Ste 105 Abilene, TX 79605. (Submitted)

 

Betty Buckler Thompson, BA ’64, of Fort Worth died Dec. 22 at age 75.

Elizabeth "Betty" Kay Buckler Thompson passed peacefully at home Friday, Dec. 22, 2017, after a lengthy battle with the complications of multiple sclerosis. Memorial Service: 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3, chapel of First United Methodist Church of Fort Worth with a reception following at the church. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society North Central Texas Chapter or charity of choice.

Betty was born in Waco to William Harding and Cathryn Crisler Buckler. Betty grew up with three loving sisters, Margie Kerr, Sally Rust and Kathy Lau, in Waco, Texas. After graduating from Waco High School, Betty received her B.S. in Education from Baylor University where she was a Pi Beta Phi. Betty married Timothy E. Thompson on July 23, 1966, in Waco, then soon after moved to Fort Worth, where they began their life together. Betty was an active member of the Junior League of Fort Worth, the Junior Women's Club (Culinary Arts) and the Jewel Charity Ball. Betty enjoyed volunteering at Campfire, Child Study Center, and the All Church Home. She was an amazing cook and loved to entertain friends and family at home. She also taught elementary school and then was a buyer for a bridal registry for many years.

SURVIVORS: Betty is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Timothy E. Thompson; daughter, Tracey and Chris Shaw; son, Tim Jr. and Marmendy Thompson; son, Trent and Teri Thompson; grandchildren, Mathilda, Emma and Grant Thompson. The family would like to acknowledge and thank Betty's husband, Tim, for his ceaseless loving devotion to her care. And thank the staff of Community Hospice and Klarus Home Health Care. (Star-Telegram)

Harold Eugene West, BS ’64, of Friendswood, TX, died Sept. 7 at age 77.

Harold Eugene West was born in Bristow, Oklahoma, on March 18, 1940. He went to be with Jesus on September 7, 2017. He is preceded in death by his mother, Iris Peden West, and his father, Martin Omar West. He is survived by Judy, his wife of 52 years; his son Barry and wife Kristina, and their children Brynn, Anna Kate, Kenzie, and Miles; his daughter Katy and husband Brandon Burk, and their children Lexie and Emily; his brother Bob, and children Kristi and Mikal and their families; his sister LaDawn Weeks, and family; his brother Sam and wife Paula, and son Jordan; and his sister Susie Penny and husband Mike, and sons Chad and Chase – along with a host of extended family members.

Harold graduated from Baylor University in 1964 with a BSED, and the Bears had no greater fan. He was Outstanding Student for Baylor AFROTC and served his country for 4 ½ years in the Air Force as an instructor pilot in the T-38 at Vance AFB in Enid, OK, and continued to serve in the Reserves for 10 more years. He entered civilian life and began a 27 year career as a commercial airline pilot.

Harold was much loved and will be greatly missed by his family and a host of friends who knew him as a godly, quiet man of integrity and honesty, coupled with a quick wit. Harold’s family members and a host of friends grieve over his passing. But our grief is not without hope, because we know that “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” As his wife, I mourn the loss of my beloved husband of 52 years. I will miss him for the rest of my life, but I am eternally thankful that he is now in a place where there is no sorrow, pain, suffering, or tears. He is in the “arms of Jesus,” and we know as Christians that we will see him again when our time here on earth is over. I thank all of you more than I can say for your love, support, compassion, and offers of help. Good-bye for now, my precious Harold.Judy Harold's wife, Judith Ableson, her twin, Linda, their son, Barry Martin, their daughter, Kathryn Lee, his 2 brothers, Robert O, Samuel E, & 2 sisters, Iris LaDawn & Mary O, are all Baylor grads, plus more. (submitted)

1965-69

Noah Lynn Appleton, BBA ’65, of Mooresville, NC, died Nov. 9 at age 74.

Noah Lynn Appleton passed away peacefully, at his home in Mooresville, North Carolina, with his wife of 20 years, Brigitte, by his side. Born in Marshall, Texas, he was a son of the late Noah W. and Gladys Winn Appleton. After graduating from Baylor University in Waco, Texas, Noah joined the U.S. Naval Aviation Officer Candidate Program, to proudly serve his country as an Aircraft Carrier Flight Instructor. Noah was a longtime owner of Advantage BMW Houston and Tuffy Auto Service Centers in Mooresville. His kindness, compassion, and humility were evident to every life he touched, including family, friends, and employees. Noah was a generous contributor to the Houston arts community and many local charities, among them Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, Humane Society, Citizen's for Animal Protection (CAP), SPCA, SEARCH Houston. Noah is survived by his wife, Brigitte Appleton; brother, James W. Appleton and wife, Patty; niece, Leah Walker; and nephew, Justin Appleton. Memorial donations may be made to the Lake Norman Humane Society, 110 Robinson Rd. Mooresville, NC 28117 or CAP (Citizens for Animal Protection) 17555 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.cavin-cook.com. (Cavin-Cook Funeral Home)

Lt. Col. Melvin Joseph Camp Sr., MHA ’65, died Nov. 16 at age 89 in Austin.

He was a loving and supportive husband, daddy, granddaddy, and great granddaddy. He instilled his values to generations, such as “family first” and “exploit your full potential.”

Mel was born June 1, 1928, in Bandera, Texas, to Elenora Stein and Alton Bell Camp. He graduated from St. Mary’s University with a BA in Business Administration and from Baylor University with a Masters in Health Care Administration. He enlisted in the US Marines and served at age 18. He then attended Officer Candidate School in the US Army. After 22 years of service, he retired at the rank of Lt. Colonel. After military retirement, Mel had a rewarding career as a hospital administrator for Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word at Spohn Hospital in Corpus Christi, TX, and St. John’s Hospital in San Angelo, TX.

Mel was preceded in death by his children Theresa Marie & Michael Thomas. His mother Elenora Stein, father Alton Bell Camp, stepfather Edward Liesman.

Above all of his lifetime accomplishments, he would place first his 65 year marriage to his loving wife Shirley Marie, together they had seven children. Although he thought Austin was “the Capital of the Universe,” his family was blessed to have lived abroad in France, Japan, Ethiopia, Virginia, and Thailand. He is survived by his close-knit family, who will miss him immensely; wife Shirley Marie Grubb Camp; their children Patricia, Catherine, Melvin “Joe” Jr., John and his wife Kara, Mark and his wife Teri; his grandchildren Melissa & husband Jason Cones, Keith Chandler, Kelly Chandler Wootton, Kristen and husband Mitchell Morris, Matthew Jewel, Ryan Jewel, Amy Giles and husband Josh, Austin Camp, Madison Camp, Erin Camp, Madelin Camp, Caroline Camp; his great grandchildren Jade Cones, Lacey Cones, Cole Wootton, Brodie Wootton, Kailey Morris, Makenna Morris, Madison Morris, Cameron Morris, Samuel Giles, Hadley Giles, Wren Giles; and a host of other loving family and friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2017, at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 4800 Convict Hill Rd., Austin, TX 78749. Recitation of Holy Rosary will begin at 9:30 am, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 am. Graveside service with Military Honors to immediately follow at Cook Walden/Forest Oaks Memorial Park. (Dignity Memorial)

Dr. Jon Allan Howell, BA ’65, of Temple, TX, died Dec. 22 at age 74.

He passed away after fighting a courageous battle to recover from a ruptured brain aneurysm, followed by a heart attack at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple.  His wife and children were by his side. Jon was born on January 5, 1943 in Temple to Dr. Floyd and Ora Mae (Mullen) Howell. He graduated from Temple High School in 1961, where he played fullback on the Wildcat varsity football team 1959 and 1960. Jon received his Bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and his DDS degree from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston in 1969. Dr. Howell opened his dental practice in Houston where he served his patients for ten years before moving back to Temple in 1979 to practice in his hometown alongside his brother, Dr. Shelley Howell. He owned Howell Dental Associates in Temple where he was still seeing patients until his death. He truly loved and adored his patients and office staff.

Family and friends fondly remember Jon as a man of unwavering faith, warm and welcoming, encouraging, humorous and light-hearted. He was an animated storyteller, a loyal friend, and a brother in Christ.  on was well respected in his community. His loving kindness, humility, compassion and warmth will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. He was a generous and benevolent man.  He leaves behind a strong legacy that will continue to impact our lives. Jon’s heart was spending time playing with his three year old son, Graham. He loved taking him to Walt Disney World several times a year as well as trampoline parks, aquariums, outdoor parks and playgrounds, train rides, and museums.  He was an amazing husband and father, “Daddio/Daddy Jon”, son, grandson, brother,  “Unja”, uncle and friend. Jon was very proud to be a Wildcat and was a huge fan and supporter of the Wildcat football team. He was also a pilot and aviation enthusiast. Dr. Howell was preceded in death by two brothers, Dr. Shelley Howell and Bill Howell.

He is survived by his wife Lizzi Howell of Temple, sons Jon Marc Howell of Austin and Graham Jon Allan Howell of Temple, daughters Holly Mae Wernli of Temple and Marcie Brooke Howell of Austin, and sister-in-law Angie Cupps of Mound. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Leslie Oujezdsky, Lindsay Newman, Chase Wernli, Sean Pearse Howell, and Lauren Grace Howell, and one great grandchild, Claire Elyse Newman. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 26 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Dossman Funeral Home in Belton. A celebration of Jon’s life, officiated by Dr. Bruce Cox, will take place at Temple Bible Church on Wednesday, December 27, 2017, at 2:00 p.m. in the Creekside Center. Pallbearers are Marc Howell, Kevin Cupps, Sean Howell, Daniel Wood, Jarrod Newman, Wes Wernli, Frank Hopson and Loyd Hopson.  Honorary Pallbearers are Graham Jon Allan Howell, Harrison Legan, David Hopson, Col. Sam W. Floca Jr., USA, Retired, Randy Holtzclaw, Chase Wernli and “Coach” Marcine Cottle. Burial will follow at North Belton Cemetery in Belton.

The family would like to thank our friends who have graciously supported us through this difficult time. Although he will be dearly missed, we confidently look forward to our reunion in our eternal home with Jesus. Memorial contributions may be made in Jon’s honor to Peyton’s Fight, “I’m Not a Superhero, but Fighting Cancer So Close Enough” for Peyton Jones, a 15-year old bravely battling leukemia.  Please mail to: Peyton Jones, 452 Private Road 3430 J, Lampasas, Texas 76550.

Graham Brian May, BBA ’65, of Burlingame, CA, died Jan. 1 at age 74.

Summing up Graham Brian May is a herculean task. He was brilliant, gruff, passionate, blunt; but above all else, loyal and generous. From getting coffee and toast for his wife and cutting up cantaloupe for his cat every morning to tracking his children's airline flights from takeoff to landing and insisting he shuttle them back and forth to the airport, he showed his love every day to those around him. He was a proud grandfather, a friend, and a mentor. He loved the butchers at Lunardi's, the boys at the Bull, his good friends from childhood and throughout life, his kids' friends, the Dancing Bear crew and so many others.

After what he declared "the best Christmas ever", he died suddenly while visiting buddies in Waco, Texas, on January 1st at the age of 74. At his passing, all the love came into focus and we realized there was both no time to thank him, and no need; he knew how we all felt about him. Born in Turlock, California, in 1943 to Kathleen Hughes and Graham May, Brian was spoiled by a doting mom and aunties while his dad was deployed in Europe. He carried that love of family and friends throughout his life. He graduated from Thomas Downey High School and then attended Baylor University on a track scholarship. At Baylor, he was a member of economic, business, and forensic honor societies and graduated in 1965 with a BBA in economics. He went on to earn an MBA in finance and management at the University of Miami in 1967. In 1973 he joined forces with Susan Bauer May and for 44 years they adventured through life.

Brian began his business career at IBM, came of age at the Sisters of Mercy where he worked in information systems management, and spent time at Ernst & Whinney as a Principal and Director of Health Care Information Systems. He then joined First Consulting Group (healthcare technology and management) and became Senior Vice President of the Western Region. He retired as CIO of UCSF Stanford Health Care. A Giants season ticket holder for nearly 50 years, the May "family dinners" were at the ballpark. Seeing his boys win three World Series was the reward for all those freezing nights at Candlestick Park with the other 500 fans. At AT&T Park he did a couple of turns on the three-legged stool as a "ball dude". A loyal Baylor alumnus, he served on the Sesquicentennial Council of 150 which was charged with devising a 20 year strategic plan for the university. He also served on the Baylor Bear Foundation Board and endowed an athletic scholarship at the school. Brian's community service included the San Mateo County Civil Grand Jury, Rotary (Paul Harris Fellow), and 6 years on the Burlingame Beautification Commission. Family, friends, golf, good wine and new restaurants, travel, good books, Hendricks martinis, farmers' markets, fresh flowers, and cats were just a few of his favorite things.

He is survived by his wife Susan, his daughter Katie (son-in-law Chris and granddaughter Frankie) of Alameda, CA, and his son Brad (daughter-in-law Jen and grandchildren Peyton and Graham – his biggest fan!) of San Carlos, CA. If you wish to make a donation in Brian's memory, the family requests that it be directed to his endowed basketball scholarship at Baylor University, One Bear Place #97050, Waco, Tx 76798-7050. Please make checks payable to Baylor University and indicate Brian May Basketball Endowment. A celebration of Brian's life will be held at a later date.. www.cvobituaries.com (Published in the Modesto Bee)

Col. Robert J. Pursley, MHA ’65, of Santa Fe, NM, died Nov. 10 at age 89.

Toy Mack Smith, BBA ’65, died Nov. 8 in Houston. He was 74.

Toy graduated from Spring High School in 1961 where he lettered in multiple sports, became an Eagle Scout, married his high school sweetheart and later graduated from Baylor University in 1965.  After Baylor, Toy started his career in the food industry before serving his country in Vietnam as a Lieutenant and platoon leader in the 25th Infantry Division in Vietnam. 

Upon return from the Army, Toy restarted his successful career from which he later retired multiple times, made a ton of friends who doubled as colleagues, and at some point led to the incredible introduction to the lovely Sandra Smith and a whole new chapter in his fabulous life. Toy enjoyed the outdoors, was a Boy Scout Leader, a devoted father and husband, little league coach, and in his later years enjoyed interacting and having immense fun with his grandchildren, riding horses, following his beloved Houston Astros and Houston Texans, and just enjoying life with his lovely wife Sandy. Toy’s children and several close friends have made it be known he set many new thresholds for decency, bravery, responsibility and above all else fatherhood. Some records cannot be broken.

Toy was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years Judith Smith, parents Toy Smith, Eva Smith, brother Kent Smith, and son Trent Smith. He is survived by his loving wife Sandra Smith; Children, Kyle Smith and wife Cathy, Melissa Rodd and husband Michael, Kara Ficke and husband Brian; Stepson Steve Ferguson Jr and wife March, and Stepson Scott; Grandchildren who knew him best as ‘PawPaw’… Hannah Rodd, Hayden Rodd, Andy Smith, Gibb Ficke, Luke Martin, and Layla Martin; Step-Grandchildren Michael Ferguson, MacKenzie Ferguson, Montgomery Ferguson, and Cash Ferguson.  He is also survived by many dear cousins like Pete Hawkins, Lynn Hawkins, Don McKinney, and many others.  Toy held very close to his relationships with his many, many friends at Spring Baptist Church, the Spring Texas community, and his fun-lovin’ close friends at Acosta. 

The family will greet friends at a visitation at Spring Baptist Church at 1027 Spring Cypress Road, Spring Texas 77373 on Friday November 10th at 9am.  A memorial service will be held immediately following at the same location at 10am to be followed by a short graveside service at Resthaven Cemetery in Houston, Texas (North Freeway) at 11:30am.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Spring Baptist Church at 1027 Spring Cypress Road, Spring Texas 77373. (Klein Funeral Home)

Carl G. Quisenberry, LLB ’65, of Wichita Falls, TX, died Jan. 17 at age 78.

Graveside Service: Will be held on January 24, at the National Cemetery, located at 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway Dallas. Visitation: 1 to 3 pm Saturday January 20th in Wichita Falls at the Owens & Brumley Funeral Home located at 1317 9th Street, Wichita Fall. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in the name of Carl Quisenberry to The Boot Campaign at 535 West Southwest Loop 323 Ste 206 PMB 160 Tyler, Tx 75701 or www.bootcampaign.com.

A native of Seymour, Texas, Carl attended Texas Tech University where he earned his Bachelor's degree and Baylor University where he graduated with a Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree. He was an artillery captain and combat veteran in the United States Army where he received a Purple Heart during his service in Vietnam. He practiced law for over fifty years in Fort Worth and Wichita Falls. Upon retirement in 2010, he volunteered his time as an ombudsman and counseled many individuals through his involvement with Alcoholics Anonymous. He was an avid outdoorsman and world traveler. He loved spending time at the family ranch and had a passion for hunting, fishing, gardening, art, photography and curating various collections. C

Carl was preceded in death by his father, John Carl; his mother, Pauline Eggleston; and his brother, John Bryan Quisenberry. Survivors: Carl will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 17 years, Linda Quisenberry; his daughter, Casey Quisenberry; his son, Cody Quisenberry and daughter in law, Dana Quisenberry. Carl will also be forever remembered by his grandchildren, Cooper Elle Quisenberry and Gibson Callie Quisenberry. (Published in Star-Telegram)

Terry Glen Betenbough, JD ’66, of Weatherford, TX, died Jan. 27 at age 76.

He was born November 23, 1941 to Bill and Helen Betenbough in Andrews, Texas where he lived until he started Texas Tech. He attended Tech from 1959 through 1963 earning a degree in Business Administration. He attended Baylor Law School and earned his law degree in 1965. Terry returned to Lubbock and lived there for 40 years. He owned Western Title Company there before moving to Weatherford in 2004. In Weatherford he worked as Landman for nine years. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a granddaughter, Hailley Ann James. Terry leaves behind his wife, Sandra whom he married in 1960; daughter, Teresa Hindle and husband Bobby; son, Beck Betenbough; brother, Vin Betenbough and wife Barbara and their daughters Angie and Sherri. Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, February 1, 2018 in the Abbey Chapel at Resthaven Funeral Home.

The family will receive guests one hour prior to service. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. Please visit www.resthavenfuneralhome.com for online tributes. (Dignity Memorial)

John Ray Jones, BA ’66, of Vernon, TX, died Dec. 31 at age 73.

John Ray Jones, 73 of Vernon, TX, died Dec.31, 2017. He was a graduate of Baylor Univ. in 1966 w/ a bachelor degree in mathematics & history. He taught at Mercedes High School 1966-1979 and moved to Vernon, Tx teaching honors math classes until he retired in 2005. He served on the Vernon ISD School Board 2009-2012. He is survived by his wife, Karen, son Jason and grandchildren Allysen and Joshua Jones. (Submitted)

Robert Joe McLean, BA ’66, of Birmingham, AL, died Jan. 14 at age 72.

They broke the mold when Joe was born in Waco, TX and grew up in the nearby town of Groesbeck. He was the oldest of four children and loved regaling anyone who would listen with stories of his childhood. Joe was proud of being an Eagle Scout and Salutatorian of his class. After graduating from Baylor University in 1967, he served two tours of duty as a Naval Officer in Vietnam. He attended South Texas School of Law in Houston. Following graduate studies of Criminal Law at NYU School of Law, he came to Birmingham in 1975 to teach at Cumberland School of Law. In 1981, he became an Assistant U.S. Attorney, eventually serving as the Chief of the Criminal Division. In 2004, Joe left to become a criminal defense attorney until his retirement in 2016.

Before passing, Robert Joe McLean forged a 73-year trail of laughter, generosity, compassion, and wisdom. He loved golf, long Sunday drives, dogs, reading history books on the back porch, traveling, telling stories and "Dad" jokes, and carrot pecan muffin tops. Most of all, he loved his wife, Gwen McLean, and daughter, Alexis McLean. Joe never met a stranger and will be missed by those who had the unique privilege of knowing him. Loved ones that cleared the path for Joe are his father, Robert McLean; mother, Jodie McLean; and brother, Bill McLean; and his Scottie, McGill McLean. Loved ones that will miss Joe include his wife, Gwendellyn "Gwen" Lewellyn Mc Lean; his daughter, Alexis McLean (Will Gamble); his sister, Mary Adams; his brother and sister-in-law, Jon and Sandie McLean; his nephews, Ben and Walter Lewellyn and Chase McLean; and his dog, Sugar McLean. T

he family will receive friends on Friday, January 19, 2018, from 10-11 AM at Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home and the Memorial Service will follow in the Chapel at 11 AM. Burial will be at Alabama National Cemetery at 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations Greater Birmingham Humane Society or Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. (Published in The Birmingham News)

Johnnie Dale Pendley, BBA ’66, of Waco died Nov. 5 at age 75.

Johnnie Dale Pendley 75, went to be with his Heavenly Father Sunday, November 5, 2017. Johnnie was born October 25, 1942, in Waco Texas to William Newton & Mary Lily Pendley. He graduated from LaVega High School and Baylor University. He served his country in the Air Force 1968-72. Johnnie is survived by son Wesley, daughter Kristi Paulson and husband James of Lewisville, granddaughters Julie and Emma, siblings, nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Friday November 10 at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Drive, with Alan Richie officiating. There will be a private burial at a later time. (Pecan Grove Funeral Home)

John Norton Springer, BA ’66, MS ’67, of Cameron, TX, died Feb. 7 at age 74.

Services for John Norton Springer, 74, of Cameron will be 11 a.m. Monday at Marek-Burns-Laywell Funeral Home in Cameron with the Rev. Tim Cheatham officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery in Cameron. Mr. Springer died Wednesday, Feb. 7, at his residence. He was born Feb. 15, 1943, in Cameron to John Everett and Zelda Marie Young Springer. He received his master’s degree from Baylor University. He taught history and social studies for two years at Waller ISD and later retired from Spring ISD. Survivors include his mother of Cameron. Visitation will be 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home. (Temple Telegram)

Joe Ray Cross, BBA ’68, of Arlington, TX, died Dec. 26 at age 72.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 9, at St. Barnabas UMC, 5011 West Pleasant Ridge Road, Arlington, TX 76016, 817.483.1667, www.sbumc.org. Joe is survived by his daughter, Christen Cross; son, John Cross and wife, Sarah Milligan Cross; four grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Barnabas UMC in remembrance of Joe's work and support of the church. Flowers may be received only at the church and only the morning of the service. To view full obituary and to leave condolences or messages for the family, please visit www.ThompsonFuneral.com. Martin Thompson & Son Funeral Home.

Col. John J. Danielson, MHA ’68, of San Antonio died Nov. 26 at age 83.

He was born August 4, 1934, in Teaneck, New Jersey, to Dr. John and Grace Murphy Danielson. Danielson graduated from St. Peter's University in Jersey City, New Jersey. He earned a graduate degree in Hospital Administration from Baylor University. His career took him to Germany, Vietnam and many stateside locations. Danielson retired after 30 years in the United States Army Medical Service Corps. He was a lifetime member of the Silver Caduceus Association. John was a member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed being a member of the ROMEO's (Retired Old Men Eating Out). He loved the salt air, beaches and fishing. John was an avid sports fan and he especially loved the Spurs and the Dallas Cowboys.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Grace Faith Casagrande. Danielson is survived by his wife, Rosemarie Danielson; daughters, Patricia Danielson, Jeanne Schaefer (Mark) and Susan McGinty (Michael); sons, John Danielson (Velma) and Michael Danielson (Mariann); grandchildren, Christopher, Sean and Emily Schaefer, Jake, Joey and Jacqueline Danielson, Patrick, Kevin and Kelly McGinty. Mass Dec. 11, 11:30 am at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, San Antonio. Monsignor Kevin Ryan will officiate. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please remember Jack and his family in your prayers.

Annella Bell Egbert, BS ’68, of San Antonio died Nov. 19.

Annella Bell Egbert was gifted peace and eternal bliss at the doors of heaven. Her family and friends referred to their precious love as Annella Bell, Mom, Mama, Nella, Big Nella and Bubbles. Annella grew up in San Antonio, Texas with two amiable parents, Tom and Maudie Chappell Bell. She had one adoring sister, Maudie Jean Jones, and one brother, Bill Rob Miller.

She attended Jefferson High School and Baylor University, where she graduated in three years due to her overwhelming excitement to grab her diploma and marry the love of her life, Tom Egbert. There was no greater love story, than to witness the magic shared between them. They loved each other well, a “well” closely identified to the unwavering characteristic of the Lord’s love. They fell in love young and it only grew deeper and stronger over the next 50 years. Tom loved everything about his girl, she was strong, caring, generous, loving, fun, joyous and beautiful. Annella and Tom had three children, Brandi Egbert Hollingshead (Scott Hollingshead), Ty Egbert (Jennifer Quy Egbert) and Jim Guy Egbert (Heather Rider Egbert). Annella’s nurturing character was evident from the relationships with her three children. Unconditional love for her children was an understatement, never desiring anything less than everything for the ones under her roof. She was proud of her children and supported them in all endeavors. “Bubbles”, as she was known to her 7 grandchildren, Parker and Chappell Hollingshead, Hannah Bell and Tommy Egbert and Rider, Madeline and Levi Egbert, had a unique bond manifested with memories, excitement and fondness. Each grandchild looked up to Bubbles, cultivating a life like hers. She fell in love with life and family, consequently her world revolved around exactly that.

She also loved the ranch, cattle, horses, a shot gun, dove hunts, the auction barn, rodeo, LBJ, tennis, bridge and she rocked a pair of cowboy boots. Annella was known for her beauty and style, she was always the ‘best on her row’. A phrase she must have told her grandchildren a million times. Annella loved her friends dearly and fiercely and would do anything for them. She was known for being a gracious hostess and loved to entertain. Annella was a gourmet cook and baker, she took pride in home cooked family dinners and “Bubble’s homemade chocolate chip cookies” were a longstanding tradition. Whether entertaining took place in the cul-de-sac where their home sat, the neighborhood favorite, El Jarro, the ranch in Karnes City or Lake LBJ, she created all the good times and a feast to go with it. Annella was truly one of a kind and each and every person that encountered her knew it. She spent her days in utter happiness with those that surrounded her and she continues to do so from the comfort and paradise in heaven. The Egbert Family would like to extend a special thanks to The Forum of Lincoln Heights, Karen Kosob and her staff, whom loved and cared for Annella so well.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation (www.alzfdn.org) or the San Antonio Livestock Exposition-Junior Livestock Auction (www.sarodeo.com). A Celebration of Life, “Boots and Bubbles”, will take place on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 2:30 pm at Trinity Baptist Church, San Antonio, Texas. (Dignity Memorial)

Helen Brinkmann Willhite, BMEd ’68, of Lake Isabella, CA, died Jan. 23 at age 81.

Helen Brinkmann Willhite passed away in her sleep in Kernville, CA after a struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Born to Matilda and Otto Brinkmann, she married Harold Willhite who preceded her in death. Her four children survive her, Donna McGroarty, Gloria Sargent, Harold Willhite and Darrell Willhite, as well as six grandchildren (Melanie Sargent Westhart, Michael Sargent, Byron Browne, Darrick Willhite, Greg Willhite and Lori Willhite) and two great-grandchildren, with a third great-grandchild due in March. She is also survived by her three sisters, Louise Ondrej, Lenora Kluck Lynch and Esther Alsup. Helen attended Waco High School, then graduated from Baylor University. She received her Bachelors of Music after taking time from her studies to have her children, as well as follow her husband to his Air Force assignments. She was a band director, choir director, music and English teacher at various schools and churches in Texas, Germany, and Colorado. The Celebration of Life for Helen will be held at 11:00 a.m. on June 23, 2018 at the VFW Hall in West. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the Alzheimer's Association. (Waco Tribune-Herald)

Connie L. Carouthers Dargel, BA ’69, of Weslaco, TX, died Nov. 7 at age 70, after living with cancer for several years.

She died at John Knox Village, near her home. Connie was born in Dayton, TX, on August 19, 1947. She spent much of her youth living in Anaco, Venezuela where her father worked in the oil industry.

Connie attended high school at San Marcos Baptist Academy in Texas. She went to Baylor University where she earned a BA in Education. While there, she met and married Russell Dargel, Jr. After graduating from Baylor, Connie spent several years teaching in Missouri and Mississippi, then moved to Donna, TX, where her husband joined his father managing Dargel Boat Works. Connie continued to teach in Donna and then in Weslaco. She taught everything from high-school Spanish to elementary and finally kindergarten, where she was as successful as she was loved. As an educator, Connie was creative, empathetic, and deeply devoted to her students. She received several awards in education, including Teacher of the Year at Airport Elementary in Weslaco. She retired from public school teaching in 2005.

Not only did Connie write songs to use in her kindergarten classes, but she also played the piano, sang, and directed the children's choir at First Baptist Church of Weslaco, where she had been a member for many years.

She was a loving wife and a devoted mother to her two sons, who inherited her passion for music and her commitment to education.

Connie Dargel is survived by her husband of 50 years, Russell Dargel, Jr., her sons, Corey, Aaron, his wife Lisa, and granddaughter Lilian Ellis. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Bray, and her brother, Chris Carouthers. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Gladys Carouthers, and her brothers, Larry and Leslie Carouthers.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that you make a contribution to MD Anderson Cancer Center or the cancer-related charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of McCaleb Funeral Home of Weslaco. (McCaleb Funeral Home)

Donald Ray Fenner, BBA ’69, of Plano, TX, died Nov. 8 at age 75. Donald Fenner, 75, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017 in Plano.

Memorials: Donations may be made to First Baptist Church of McKinney to the Donald and Pat Ann Fenner Scholarship Fund. Donald was born Feb. 22, 1942 in Fort Worth to Ernest David and Doris Fenner. He married Patricia Ann Fenner Aug.14, 1965 in Justin. Mr. Fenner graduated from Baylor University and served in the U.S. Army. After his service in the Army, he worked as a Hospital Administrator until his retirement. Upon his retirement, he spent his time at Touch of Class Antique Mall in Sherman. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 39 years, Patricia Ann Fenner; father, Ernest David Fenner; brother, David Fenner; nephew, Chris Fenner; and mother-in-law, Christine Bridgewater. Survivors: Son, Ryan Fenner of Dallas; daughter, Leah Lankford and husband, Britton of Plano, grandchildren, Hudson and Miles Lankford; mother, Doris Fenner of Haslet; and nieces, Rene Rice and Debbie Trudell. (Greenwood Funeral Homes)

Paul Thomas Jones, BBA ’69, JD ’71, of Fort Worth died Dec. 6 at age 70.

Paul Thomas Jones went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017.

Memorial Service: 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2017, at Christ Chapel Bible Church where Paul and Pamela were charter members. Paul was born in El Paso, Texas, on Feb. 22, 1947, to William and Alice Jones. He grew up in Dallas, Texas, and graduated from Hillcrest High School. He attended Austin College for two years and received his undergraduate degree from Baylor University School of Businesses and his Law degree from Baylor University Law School. Paul was a practicing attorney and CPA in Fort Worth for 35 years. During his career, he was an attorney with the IRS, worked for Champlin Petroleum Company, and was in private practice where he was board certified in estate planning and probate. SURVIVORS: Paul is survived by his wife of 48 years, Pamela Jones; son, Clayton Jones and his wife, Wendy; son, Austin Jones; daughter, Stacey Gould and her husband, Justin; granddaughters, Annabelle and Parker; and grandsons, Ryan and Carson. (Star-Telegram)

Vicky Lynn Reimer, BS ’69, died Jan. 8 at age 70.

Vicky Lynn Reimer passed away Monday, January 8, 2018. Services will be 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 11, at Rosemound Cemetery with Dr. John Collier officiating. Vicky was born November 28, 1947, in Waco, Texas, to Robert and Helen Reimer. She graduated from Baylor University with a degree in physical education. She was long time member of Parkview Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her parents. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com. (Wilkirson Hatch Bailey)

Lee Helen Willis, BSN ’69, of DeSoto, TX, died Nov. 3 at age 75.

A former nurse manager at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Willis was the younger sister of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. Viewing will be from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 8, at Golden Gate Funeral Home. A wake will be from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m., Wednesday, November 8, at the funeral home. Graveside services will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, November 9, at Oakwood Cemetery, 2124 S. 5th St., Waco, Texas. Memorials may be made to the Louise Herrington School of Nursing Alumni Scholarship Fund at Baylor University.

1970-79

Ronald K. Lamson, BBA ’70, of Marlin, TX, died Jan. 7 at age 77.

Ronald Keith Lamson was born August 23, 1940, to Newton Reed and Rosa Mae (Morgan) Lamson in Marlin, Texas. He passed away on January 7, 2018 at the age of 77 in hospice care at Providence Hospital. Services will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at Adams Funeral Home in Marlin with burial following at Hillcrest Cemetery with Pastor Cameron Supak officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service.

He was a 1959 graduate of Marlin High School and graduated from Baylor University in 1970 and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. Mr. Lamson was a lifetime member of the First United Methodist Church, volunteered for several years at the Samaritan House and was on the Board of the Marlin Service Unit of the Salvation Army. He worked for 30 plus years for the State of Texas, retiring in 2004. In his younger days he enjoyed many activities including riding his BMW motorcycle, canoeing the local lakes and the Brazos River and collecting guns. After retirement, his favorite past time was playing his saxophone and guitar.

Preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Rowena Lamson Adams, nephew Russell Roberson and niece Gloria Fikes. He is survived by his sisters, Patricia Adams of Marlin, Texas, Lois Roberson of Richmond, Texas and Virginia Wetzel of Riesel, Texas, nieces, Susan Fitzpatrick of Richmond, Texas, Vickie Nunn of Riesel, Texas, Linda Wetzel of Riesel, Texas, Shelly Yvelvington of Kingsland, Texas and Rosalee Schraeder of Riesel, Texas, nephews, Robert Wetzel of Riesel, Texas and Rodney Adams of Conroe, Texas. Pallbearers are Glyn Schraeder, Mike Schraeder, Logan Fitzpatrick, Johnny Urive, Robert Wetzel and Steven Wetzel.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, please make memorial donations to the First United Methodist Church of Marlin, Texas or the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 782, Marlin, Texas 76661.

(Dignity Memorial)

Ronnie D. Marstaller, BBA ’70, of Robinson, TX, died Dec. 13 at age 70.

A Celebration of Life will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 16, 2017, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home Chapel, 3124 Robinson Dr. with Rev. Sharron Cox officiating. Following the service, a visitation will be held until 1 P.M, at the funeral home.

Mr. Marstaller was born April 5, 1947, in Waco, Texas, the son of the late Charlie H. and Gertrude (Kincannon) Marstaller. In 1965 he graduated from Richfield High School and earned a BBA in Marketing from Baylor University in 1970.Ronnie served as General Manager of Marstaller Motors for many decades and was an active member of the Texas Automobile Dealer Association. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling. A dog lover, he had many dogs including Cotton Tail and Big Bear through the years. He was a member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church.

Survivors include Dorothy Marstaller; two sisters, Pat M. Hanna and husband Jeff, Pam Hughes and husband Mac; two nephews, three nieces, devoted friends, Stan Brown and Gloria Walker and dozens of cousins in the Marstaller, Gummelt and Kincannon families. For those desiring, the family has suggested Central Texas Humane Society or the Salvation Army for memorials. Condolences may be offered at www.pecangrovefuneral.com.

(Pecan Grove Funeral Home)

Carolyn McCullough McShan, BM ’70, BMEd ’71, of Oklahoma City, OK, died Nov. 12 at age 70.

On November 12, 2017, the family and many friends of Carolyn Ann McCullough McShan mourned her passing after a brief illness. Carolyn was born on February 10, 1947 in Longview, Texas to James Elbert and Mildred Nell McCullough. She graduated from Longview High School in 1965 and attended Baylor University, graduating with degrees in Music and Music Education. She then attended Westminster Choir College and Rice University, earning a Master's of Music degree in 1986. Carolyn was active as a professional musician for many years in Houston and Oklahoma City, providing leadership in a number of churches as well as teaching music in public schools and voice at several colleges in both cities. She later became certified to teach English as a Second Language and taught English to adults through Even Start of Oklahoma.

She is survived by William Michael McShan, her husband of 42 years; her daughter, Katharine and son-in-law Thad Danner of Olympia, WA; brother, William D. and sister-in-law Karinne McCullough of Houston; and uncle Johnny and aunt Betty McCracken of Hallsville, TX. A memorial service will be at First Unitarian Church of Oklahoma City on Friday, November 17, at 3 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Chancel Choir of the First Unitarian Church of Oklahoma City, the Nature Conservancy of Oklahoma, or the charity of your choice.

(Published in The Oklahoman)

Ruth E. Nordyke, BBA ’70, of Tyler, TX, died Nov. 11 at age 68.

Among her survivors are her husband of 47 years, David H. “Danny” Nordyke, BBA ’70; their children David H. Nordyke, Jr., BBA ’02, and his wife Lindsay, BS ’04, and Kathryn N. Rowan, BSEd ’97, and her husband Matt, BA ’98, JD ’01; sister-in-law Carolyn N. Whitney, BA ’66, and four grandchildren. For 34 years the Nordykes lived in Shreveport, LA, where they were members of Broadmoor Baptist Church. In 2004, they relocated to Tyler and were members of Green Acres Baptist Church. Ruth worked with the City of Shreveport Finance Department before becoming a full-time mom/homemaker.

Cheryl June Brewer Vincent, BA ’70, died Jan. 13 at age 70.

A memorial service will be held 10 a.m., Saturday, January 20, 2018, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Dr., with Pastor Gary Westbrook officiating. Cheryl June (Brewer) Vincent was born on August 5, 1947, in Waco, to James and Vivian (Westbrook) Brewer. She was the middle of five kids. She grew up in Waco where she attended University High school where she graduated in 1965. She attended Hill College and Baylor University where she studied Education. She married Robert Vincent on April 10, 1971. She was an educator at several schools in Central Texas including Connally and Chilton. She retired from teaching in 2005 to take care of her granddaughter Hanna after school. She loved her some Elvis and the Beatles, collecting dolls with Hanna, cooking, watching cooking shows, mysteries and old movies.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Bob; brother Jimmy; and sister, Marie. She is survived by daughter, Kathleen of Waco; son, James and wife Ashley, of Burleson; granddaughter, Hanna; brothers, Gary Brewer and wife Janie, of Mart, and Paul Brewer of Waco; several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers Donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500, Rosecrans, Avenue, Suite 200 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, or Fuzzy Friends, 6321 Airport Rd, Waco, TX 76708. Online guestbook at www.pecangrovefuneral.com.

(Waco Tribune-Herald)

Randall Kite Cooper, BBA ’71, of Prairie Village, KS, died Jan. 1 at age 69.

Randy was a faithful man of God who joyfully and unselfishly served his family, friends, church and community with an unconditional love and loyalty that reflected his Savior, Jesus Christ. Born September 17, 1948 to Victor and Donnie Cooper, Randy grew up in the Waco and Dallas areas of Texas. Randy was president of his high school class (the ‘67 Woodrow Wilson Wildcats) and was an accomplished athlete. He set the Dallas city record for the shot put in track and field and was honored as an all-state football player in high school. He went on to play football at Baylor University, where he met the love of his life, Carla Cooper. Randy and Carla were happily married for 41 years and made their home in the Kansas City area for almost 35 years until Carla’s passing in 2011. Randy was blessed with amazing creativity and artistic talents and enjoyed sharing those abilities with his friends and family through original birthday cards, elaborate themed birthday cakes, drawings, hand painted crafts, and the occasional wall mural. He exemplified loyalty, selflessness, and a caring heart to all who knew him, especially to his family and church fellowship at Leawood Baptist Church.

Randy is survived by his three children, Corrie Cooper of New York, NY; Callie Miller and her husband Glenn of Madison, MS; Collin Cooper and his wife Meredith of Westwood Hills, Kansas, and his two grandchildren, Claire and Henry Cooper of Westwood Hills, Kansas. Other survivors include his 100 year old mother, Donnie Cooper, his sisters Marilyn Eichelberger and her family, Sarah Cooper and her family, and his brother Kenny Cooper and his family, all of whom live in Texas. Randy was predeceased by his wife Carla Sue Cooper and his father Victor Cooper.

The Celebration of Life Service will be conducted by Pastor Adam Carter beginning at 2:00pm on Sunday, January 14th at Leawood Baptist Church, 83rd & State Line Road.

(Dignity Memorial)

Rex Eugene Allen, BA ’72, MA ’74, died Nov. 25 at age 67.

His life started in McAllen Texas October 10th, 1950 the son of Geri and Ralph Allen and brother to Gary. Rex is survived by his husband Vince Healy, the extended family (the Allens, Garrisons, Healys....) mother Geri, Gary and Rachel Allen, nieces Julie Matthews and Susan Raff, and Toby the Coonhound. Many knew him growing up in Dallas, at Baylor University, in his Seattle theater work, volunteering in Shanti, and for the last 25 years, in his care for the bereaved at Hospice of Tacoma and Providence Hospice. Rex served with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization for ten years and locally as a trainer, presenter, and a maker of healing ritual. Musicals, pies, reading, and football were joys. We grieve our loss of his compassion, sensitive listening, quiet speaking, and his ability to see the better qualities in us and others (that we may have not known were there). When he saw and coaxed those qualities to come forward, they became unexpected blessings.

A celebration of Rex's life, and a time to share a wee bit our loss and joys of Rex, will be at Daybreak Star Cultural Center at Discovery Park in Seattle 1/6/2018 at 1:30pm. Remembrances can be given to The Providence Hospice of Seattle Foundation or to any act of charity that calls your heart.

(Published in The Seattle Times)

Billy Mack Dagley, BA’72, MBA ’74, of Richmond, TX, died Dec. 22 at age 67.

A celebration of his life will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 29, at Grand Parkway Baptist Church, 12000 FM 1464, Richmond, TX. Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, December 28, at Sugar Land Mortuary, 1818 Eldridge, Sugar Land, Texas.

Bill was born in Waco on August 8, 1950, and was a graduate of Richfield High School; he received his bachelors and masters degrees from Baylor University. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Dagley. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Donna Dagley; sons, Geof Dagley and wife, Kelly, Greg Dagley and wife, Amber, and Jason Dagley; brother, Larry J. Dagley and wife, Norma; mother, La Verne Dagley; and nine grandchildren.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the American Heart Association or the Juvenile Diabetes Association.

(Waco Tribune-Herald)

Jack Kelly Dillard, BBA ’72, JD ’73, of Austin died Dec. 16 at age 69.

Born April 19, 1948, in Waco, Texas, Mr. Dillard grew up in Austin. He attended Highland Park Elementary, Lamar Junior High and graduated from McCallum High School in 1966. He received his BBA and his JD from Baylor University. After graduation from Baylor Law School in 1973, Jack first worked for the Texas Secretary of State's Office, then in the Governmental Affairs Division of Tenneco in Houston, Texas. In 1989, he began work for Altria Client Services (formerly Phillip Morris) as District Director of State Governmental Affairs. He initially worked in Overland Park, Kansas, but transferred to Austin in 1991, where he remained until he retired. From an early age, Jack loved politics, the governmental process and history. He was an avid reader and was always up to date on current affairs. Jack, a former debater, was also an excellent and persuasive public speaker. He had a keen mind and a virtually unfailing memory. For example, he could recite every Texas governor and U.S. President in order and provide an interesting story about each one. He was a studied observer of legislation and elections and had a highly accurate ability to predict their outcomes. Since his jobs at both Tenneco and Altria involved legislation and politics, he was one of the rare lucky individuals whose work focused on his favorite interests.

When you think of Jack Dillard, you think of his love for Baylor University. He was a long time football and basketball season ticket holder and member of the Baylor Bear Foundation. In 1988, he was proud to serve as the President of the Baylor Alumni Association. He received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award in 1988, and the W. R. White Meritorious Service Award in1997. More recently, when the Baylor Alumni Association became the Baylor Line Foundation, Jack served on its Board of Directors. His support of Baylor and its traditions were a major part of his life. Jack was also very involved in DeMolay and Freemasonry. As a young man, Jack was a member of Stephen F. Austin Chapter of the Order of DeMolay. He served as Master Councilor and later served as the State Master Councilor of Texas DeMolay. As an adult, "Dad Dillard" served as District Governor and as an advisor to Reagan Chapter and Houston Priory. Jack's DeMolay honors included the Degree of Chevalier, Cross of Honor, and the Legion of Honor. Jack also served as the State Grand Commander of Texas Chevaliers. While attending college, Jack received the three degrees of Freemasonry from Baylor Lodge No. 1235 in Waco, Texas. When he moved to Houston, he affiliated with Jacques DeMolay Lodge No. 1390 where he served as Worshipful Master from 1983 to 1984. He was a member of the York Rite Bodies, as well as the Shrine and the Grotto. Jack was a member of both the Houston and Austin Valleys of the Scottish Rite, and was invested as Knight Commander of the Court of Honour in 1983. In 2005, Jack received the Scottish Rite's honorary Thirty-third Degree for his outstanding service to Masonry and the community. One of Jack's passions was serving on the Board of Directors and financially supporting the Houston Scottish Rite Learning Center for Children.

Jack grew up at Highland Park Baptist Church. He watched the workers build the church while riding his bicycle to and from elementary school, and was the first in the family to attend Highland Park. It is the church where he was baptized and the church where all important Dillard Family events have taken place. He was a member of the congregation throughout his life and supported it with his prayers and resources. Jack was a leader in many professional, charitable and political organizations. Of all his endeavors, Jack was particularly proud of being a co-founder of the Texas Lyceum, the state's preeminent, non-profit, non-partisan leadership organization. Jack served as a member of the Texas Lyceum's Advisory Council at the time of his death. Jack Dillard was a true Texas gentleman. A benevolent man, Jack gave to numerous charities, as well as, family and friends, and will be remembered for his generosity and kindness.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Jack H. Dillard and Dorothy Kelly Dillard, both long time Austin residents. He is survived by his siblings, D. Diane Dillard (and her husband Judge Andrew S. Hanen), and Donald S. Dillard (and his wife Rebecca Patterson Dillard), his niece Kelly E. Hanen and nephews Philip C. Prasek (and his wife Kayla Hart Prasek, and their sons Silas and Declan), and Derek W. Dillard, as well as a large extended family and many dear friends. On December 20, 2017, Jack's family laid him to rest, alongside his parents, at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco, Texas.

A memorial service celebrating Jack's life will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 11:00 am at Highland Park Baptist Church. (5206 Balcones Drive, Austin, TX 78731) Those wishing to make a memorial gift are encouraged to consider giving to Highland Park Baptist Church, the Baylor Line Foundation (P.O. Box 2089, Waco, TX 76703), the Texas Lyceum (texaslyceum.org) or the American Diabetes Association (P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215).

(Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home)

Joseph Harold O’Bryan, BA ’72, JD ’73, of Cabot, AR, died Dec. 6 at age 68.

Joseph Harold O'Bryan, (JD 1973): I first met Joe in January of 1970. My mother, Lora Barnett, and Joe's Aunt Elizabeth (White) were good friends through church (Second Baptist Church in Little Rock) so when Elizabeth found out that I was going to enroll as a freshman at Baylor University, she informed my mom that her nephew, Joe, was already a junior at BU. Elizabeth and my mom arranged for Joe to take me as a passenger in his car from Little Rock back to Waco after Christmas break, 1970. He arrived at my mom's house, and we set off on the eight hour trip back to BU. The amazing thing was that usually there is a large group of persons who are traveling together in one car, both to and from Baylor for the holidays. However, this time, almost like "destiny", there were only Joe and me in the car, so we had the whole eight hours to talk and get to know each other. After Joe dropped me off at my dorm, I hadn't been in my room more than five minutes when the phone rang and it was Joe. He asked me for a date, to go to a BU Basketball game with him the next night. I was thrilled to say yes! We had that date and got along splendidly. We continued to date steadily for the next year and a half, and then we set May 21, 1971, as a date to be married.

We married at Second Baptist Church in Little Rock, with his father, Rev Harold O'Bryan (from Cabot's First Baptist Church) officiating. Well, I finished my BA and taught school for one semester in Gatesville, TX while waiting for Joe to completer his studies at Baylor School of Law in 1973. At that point, we moved back to Joe's hometown of Cabot, AR, where he began to work as a young lawyer with the firm of Thompson and Thompson (Edgar and John R. Thompson.) I got a job teaching at Sylvan Hills High School in NLR, and so we spent the next several years in those endeavors. However, when a job opened up within the Cabot School District, I took it and remained with that school system until 2007. Joe continued to practice law in Cabot and eventually was elected as Juvenile Judge, and later Municipal, then District Judge, for Cabot, Austin, and Ward, AR. He remained as an attorney and judge until his retirement. Joe was a long time member of Hope Presbyterian Church, where he served as an Elder on Session. Several years ago, he became a member of Jacksonville First Presbyterian Church. Joe had graduated from Cabot High School in 1967.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Rev Harold O'Bryan and Mary Jo O'Bryan, as well as by our son Eric O'Bryan. He is survived by his wife, Sandy Barnett O'Bryan of Cabot, our twin daughters Jessica O'Bryan Wallace of Little Rock, and Stephanie O'Bryan of Apple Valley, CA; his sister Judy Springfield of Schererville, Ind; his brother Jon O'Bryan, of Cabot; his brother Jeff O' Bryan, of Jacksonville, AR; grandchildren Ian and Mia Wallace of Little Rock; and several nieces and cousins. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe's memory may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Arkansas, #1 Lile Ct, Set 201, Little Rock, 72202-6242, or to First Presbyterian Church, 1208 West Mail, Jacksonville, AR, 72076. Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec 16, at First Jacksonville Presbyterian Church. Burial followed at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Cabot, under the direction of Moore's Cabot Funeral Home. Please take the time to sign the guestbook at www.moorescabotfuneralhome.com. (submitted)

Randall C. “Randy” Staudt, BA ’72, died Jan. 16 at age 68.

Born in Dallas, Texas November 1, 1949 to Ruben and Cordelia Staudt, Randy graduated Baylor University with a degree in Sociology. He also earned his certification as an emergency medical technician. He obtained his pilot’s license and his certification as a scuba diver instructor.  He lived and taught scuba diving in Grand Cayman. He worked as an electrical engineer and retired from Teco Westinghouse Electric as a General Manager. Randy surrendered his life to Jesus Christ in 1980. He worked tirelessly and diligently to save babies from abortion, serving as an educator, rescuer, and debater in the ProLife Movement. As chairman of the Williamson County Christian Coalition, he strived to elect those who would uphold Godly values. His desire was to serve his community and his country. He served 7 years as a Leander City Council Member. He was elected as a Republican Senate District Committeeman and served 8 years. He used his construction skills to build his home, Trinity Church, and Cornerstone Christian School.

Randy was a man whom you never forgot when you met him. His humor and wit entertained and encouraged those he encountered, young and old. He enjoyed telling stories and making people laugh. He would visit with everyone he came in contact with - in the store, at the hotel, or in the parking lot.  He loved talking with people in the many doctor waiting rooms he had to visit. It seemed it was a challenge to see if they would engage. Randy’s passion was music.  He played all kinds of strings: steel guitar, bass guitar, acoustic guitar, and mandolin. He also learned the harmonica. From his childhood Randy played guitar and entertained with a band.  He played for years with Common Thread Band of the Journey Church, later managing his own band, the Randy Staudt Band. He and Edna played together at the Williamson County Cowboy Church every Sunday in the Worship Band.  He enjoyed playing music and singing with his wife, sons, daughters, grandchildren, or anyone else who would grab a microphone.

He is survived by his wife, Edna, children: Amy Allen, Casey Staudt, Joshua Staudt, Otto Staudt, Caleb Staudt, and Ashley LaPierre,  grandchildren, four sisters, cousins, and many, many friends. In lieu of flowers you can send donations or memorials to the Agape Pregnancy Resource Center, Austin Pregnancy Resource Center or the Charity of your choice.

(Beck Chapels)

Walter Dean Davis III, BBA ’73, of Houston died Nov. 20 at age 66.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 27, 2017 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at 10:00 AM. Both services will be held at South Union Missionary Baptist Church, 3550 Lydia St., Houston, Texas 77004, Rev. Michael V. Smith, Pastor, Min. Hiawatha Johnson, Jr., officiating. The interment will be held at Paradise Cemetery, Leona, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Baylor Black Alumni Network Scholarship, One Bear Place 97170, Waco, TX 76798-7170.

(Published in Houston Chronicle)

Mary Lacy Clifton Chase, BSEd ’74, MSEd ’75, of Waco died Jan. 17 at age 67.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Monday, January 22, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey, and a celebration of Mary Lacy's life will be held at 5 p.m., Tuesday, January 23, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel.

Mary Lacy was born December 24, 1950, to Patricia Reiley Clifton and William Lacy Clifton of Waco. She attended Waco schools and St. Stephens' Preparatory School in Austin. At Baylor University, she received a Bachelor's and Master's in Education and Counseling.

Mary Lacy taught third grade at Viking Hills Elementary prior to marriage. She married the love of her life, Jim Chase, in October, 1983. They had one son, Jamey, for whom she had the honor and privilege of officiating his wedding ceremony to the beautiful Katie.

Mary's motivation in life was helping others. For more than 30 years she volunteered weekly at the Bill Logue Juvenile Justice Center's boot camp program for juvenile offenders. During that time she developed a unique Yoga and counseling program for the young men incarcerated there. She taught yoga poses, breathing techniques, life skills, and how to still the mind. She was particularly excited when they learned headstands, which many did.

She was always thrilled when graduates approached her to say they were doing well, and she grieved for the ones who didn't make it. Prior to her illness, Mary Lacy had begun plans for a halfway house for the graduates of the Juvenile Center. Her hope was to create a self- sustaining place where the young men could transition to a life of freedom. Her family is tasked with continuing the project to honor her legacy.

Mary Lacy is survived by her husband, Jim; and son, Jamey and wife, Katie, of Vail, Colorado; and many furry kids. She will be remembered as a woman who adored her family, loved serving the community, and had a passion for yoga.

Special thanks go to Dr. James Hodges, Mary's niece, Gracie Chase, nurse, Cindy Murphey, and Chaplain Sarah Miller, all who provided loving and kind care during her illness. Also, special friends and caregivers, Cristal and Diego Marroquin, Natalia Alvarado, and Flavio Martinez.

In honor of Mary's life, a fund has been established at Waco Foundation (1227 N Valley Mills Dr #235, Waco TX 76710) to further the halfway house project. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to this special project. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.

(Waco Tribune-Herald)

Dr. Marsha Lane McFarland, BA ’74, of Ada, OK, died Jan. 17 at age 66.

Services are 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Criswell Funeral Home Chapel, Revs. Harold Ware and Ken Cox will officiate. A Committal Service will be 4:00 p.m. Tuesday at Ringwood Cemetery at New Boston, TX.

Dr. McFarland passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at her home. She was born January 12, 1952 in Bryan, TX to Frank Eugene and Trudy Lively McFarland. She graduated from Stillwater High School and a Bachelor’s Degree from Baylor University, a Master’s Degree from Oklahoma State University and received a PhD. from the University of Georgia. Dr. McFarland was a former Assistant Professor of Counseling at East Central University in Ada. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Ada. Survivors include her nephews, Brooks Cox, Texarkana, AR and Casey Cox, Dallas, TX; her nieces, Amanda Fabish, Midlothian, TX, Rachel Gallardo, Dallas, TX and Clara Cullen, New York, NY; great-nieces, Emma, Anna, and Olivia Fabish, Midlothian, TX, and Mary Lynne Gallardo, Dallas, TX. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a twin sister, Lynne McFarland Cox. (Criswell Funeral Home)

William E. Mendoza, BS ’74, of Orange Grove, TX, died Jan. 9 at age 66.

William was born in Houston, Texas on December 30, 1951 to Guadalupe and Florentino Mendoza, Jr. He enjoyed traveling and fishing as well as watching the Dallas Cowboys, the Baylor Bears, and the Michigan Wolverines. He graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Biology in 1974 and graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School in 1980. He practiced anesthesiology in the San Antonio Medical Center.

William is survived by his father, Florentino Mendoza, Jr., his aunt, Lydia Mendoza, his sister, Gloria (Luis) Ramirez and two brothers, Mike (Lourdes) Mendoza and Patrick (Cookie) Mendoza, all of San Antonio, Texas, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Dr. Schnitzler for his care of William during his illness.

A Holy Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. on Thursday, January 11, 2018 at Holmgreen Mortuary Chapel in Alice, Texas. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 12, 2018 at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Orange Grove, Texas with Father Prince Kuruvila celebrant. Interment will follow at St. John of the Cross Cemetery in Orange Grove, Texas. Arrangements are entrusted to Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 E. Main St., Alice, Texas. Condolences for the family may be offered at www.holmgreenmortuaryinc.com and shared via Holmgreen Mortuary Facebook. (Published in Alice Echo News-Journal)

Jay Charles Bobbitt, JD ’75, of Dallas died Nov. 12 at age 68. He was born June 12, 1949, in Birmingham, Alabama to Dorsey Brown and Genevieve (Smith) Bobbitt. Jay graduated from W.T. White High School in Dallas, where he was an all-state champion debater.  After graduation, Jay entered the University of Texas in Austin, where he graduated in three years; he was also on the debate team and president of his fraternity, Delta Upsilon. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree from UT, he moved to Waco, Texas, where he entered the Baylor University Law School and graduated with his degree in 1975.

While in Waco he worked as a disc jockey at radio station WACO. He then moved to Dallas, where he worked at KLIF and was a youth minister at Walnut Hill Methodist Church. In 1976 he joined his brother’s company, Bob Bobbitt Custom Homes and soon was placed in charge of construction, where he remained until his retirement in 2015. Jay loved to travel during the past twenty years; he enjoyed several trips to Europe each year.  His favorite destination was Prague in the Czech Republic. He was a Texas Longhorn football fan and attended all games, home and away, until last year when his health kept him sidelined. Jay spent all holidays with Bob and Shirley at their home along with Lance, Julie and Jaxson.  He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his brother, Bob Bobbitt and wife Shirley of Frisco, Texas; nephew, Lance Bobbitt and wife Julie of Frisco, Texas; and great-nephew, Jaxon Bobbitt. Jay is preceded in death by his parents, Dorsey and Gene Bobbitt.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home Chapel, 2525 Central Expressway N., Allen, Texas 75013. Memorial donations in Jay's honor may be made to the American Cancer Society.

(Turrentine Jackson Morrow)

Mark Alan Boyd, BBA ’75, of Waco died Dec. 28 at age 64.

Mark passed away unexpectedly on December 28, 2017. Services will be January 3, 2018 at 10 a.m. at OakCrest Funeral Home with the Rev. Kip Osborne officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be January 2, 2018 from 6 to 8 at OakCrest.

Mark Alan Boyd was born August 11, 1953 in Waco, Texas to Brownilee and Walter Boyd. He attended Baylor University as a Citizens National Bank Scholarship Recipient and went to work for Citizens National Bank upon his graduation. He spent 33 years of his career in that building through numerous name changes until retiring from Bank of America in 2004. He then went to work for Community Bank and Trust where he worked until his passing. He enjoyed being actively involved in the Waco community and served in leadership roles for many organizations, including the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, Waco Business League, United Way, Waco Industrial Foundation, Waco Performing Arts Co., Cameron Park Zoo, Baylor Waco Foundation, the City of Waco Transportation Committee, Waco Founders Lions Club, Habitat for Humanity, Leadership Waco, and Central Texas Lighthouse for the Blind. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mark is survived by his wife of 42 years, Cindy Veselka Boyd; his son, Alan Scott Boyd and wife Karen; daughter, Alison Boyd Kutschera and husband Timothy, and daughter, Amanda Boyd Bonovitch; grandchildren, Katelyn, Jacob, and Zachary Kutschera and Nicholas Bonovitch. Also surviving are brothers, Parker Boyd and Brett Boyd and sister-in-law Debby Boyd. Mark loved his family, Waco, and Baylor University. He was passionate about his work and had a smile and a kind word for everyone he met. He was the ultimate professional. He enjoyed spoiling his grandkids, hunting with his family, and golfing with his friends, especially his yearly Rancho trips. He hosted amazing backyard barbecues and loved his yearly fall festival trips with his grandchildren in Pennsylvania.

Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity, the Cameron Park Zoo, or the organization of your choice.

Dr. Marcus Aubre Burch, BS ’75, of Greer, SC, died Feb. 6 at age 65.

As the New Year began his strength rapidly declined and Jesus quickly called him home. Marcus fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith. He was born in Yorktown, Texas, on November 18, 1952 to Daniel Aubre and Bobbie Sue (Williams) Burch, both of whom preceded him in death. Marcus graduated from W. B. Ray High School in Corpus Christi in 1971, from Baylor University (BS) in 1975, and from Baylor School of Dentistry (DDS) in 1978. He enjoyed practicing dentistry in Texas for over 40 years.

Marcus is survived by his wife of 43 years, Susan Harris (Shepherd) Burch; two children, Jessica Lee (Francis Ryan) Bobbie of Rochester Hills, MI, and Daniel Paul (Heather Dianne Griffin) Burch of Spring; five grandchildren, Contessa Reagan Bobbie, David Taylor Burch, Hunter Bryce Burch, Jackson Ryan Bobbie, and Jonathan Walter Burch; sister, Dana Adrienne Burch of Katy; and uncle, Joe Tom (Candace Elaine Lovell) Burch of Spring Branch.

He was a doting husband to his college sweetheart and a dedicated Daddy and Gampa, who relished each moment spent with his children and grandchildren. Family was his passion and that could certainly be felt by those whose lives he touched. His family is blessed with the peace of God which passes all understanding, knowing Marcus lived his life to the fullest and has passed on his best virtues and steadfast faith in Christ. The family wishes to express their gratitude to all who have provided care and compassion during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to the ministry or charity of your choice. Per his wishes his body is to be cremated with interment taking place at a later date.

Published online on Feb. 9, 2018 courtesy of aCremation.

Francis E. “Frank” Coffen, MHA ’75, of Mt. Union, IA, formerly of Fort Madison, died Jan. 25 at age 74.

Celebration of Life Service will be 1:00 PM Saturday, March 3, 2018 at Mt. Union United Methodist Church. The Reverend Randy Moser will officiate. Committal service will precede at 12 PM at Trinity Cemetery, rural Mt. Union, with military rites conducted by the Iowa Military Funeral Honors and the Henry County Honor Guard. Memorials are to Frank’s wife, Tammi Coffen, c/o the Kimzey Funeral Home, 213 North Main Street, Mount Pleasant, IA 52641, for a Genetics charity to be named at a later date. Online condolences may be directed to www.kimzeyfuneralhome.com. Francis Eli “Frank” Coffen was born September 9, 1943 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of Frank and Helen (Nader) Coffen. He graduated from high school in Pennsylvania.

Frank was first married to Joyce Naylor. Joyce preceded Frank in death. On March 9, 2010 at the First Christian Church in Burlington, IA, Frank married Tamara Suzanne Morgan. After high school, Frank enlisted in the United States Army. While serving his country at Fort Sam Houston, TX, he was trained to be a Medical Laboratory Technician. Helping others through medical care would become a lifelong career for Frank. While enlisted in the Army, he also received a degree from Baylor University in 1975. Following his honorable discharge, Frank returned to school. He earned his BA degree from Augusta College, GA in 1983. He furthered his education with a BS degree in Biology from (then) Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant in 1994. In 2009, Frank earned his MBA from St. Ambrose University. In civilian life, Frank was a Medical Technologist in hospital laboratories including McDuffie County Hospital in GA, Ft. Madison Community Hospital, Van Buren County Hospital in Keosauqua, Great River Medical Center. He completed his career at Jefferson County Health Center in Fairfield, from which he retired. Frank received many awards during his career, including one from the University of Iowa for his method of improving laboratory organization. Frank was a member of Mt. Union United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Tammi, of Mt. Union; 7 children – Sherry Naylor, Charlie Naylor, Kristopher Bowen, Cristi Bieri, Ami Bieri, Cori Bieri and Mandi Bieri; a sister, Patty; 5 grandchildren – Quisetin, Landon, Noah, Graham and Emily and 2 great grandchildren. His parents, his first wife, Joyce and a daughter April precede Frank in death.

(The Hawk Eye)

Joe Clyde Millender III, BA ’75, of Houston died Nov. 29 at age 65. Funeral services for Joe Clyde Millender, III, were held on Saturday, December 2, 2017, at 11:00a.m. at Bowers Funeral Home in Teague. Bro. Scott Matthews officiated. Interment followed the services at Greenwood Cemetery. Mr. Millender passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2017, at his lake house at Teague Club Lake. He was born in Teague on October 17, 1952, grew up in Teague, and graduated from Teague High School with the class of 1971. He earned a B.A. degree in Accounting from Baylor University and moved to Houston where he worked as a C.P.A. for TXU for thirty-two years. He was presently working for Lonestar Prestress in Houston. Mr. Millender enjoyed his work very much. In his spare time, he loved to go shopping and study family genealogy.

He is survived by his father, Joe Millender, Jr.; one brother, Randy Millender both of Teague; one aunt, Billie Touma of Tyler; one niece, Misti Wortham & husband Ruel of Waco; one great-niece, Katlin Keaton; one great-nephew, Landen Wortham; and cousins, Denny Reese, Chester Kwiat, Jr., Oliver Kwiat, Ernie Kwiat, Rickey Shannon, Kevin Norris, Vivian Midgley, Janice Shilling, Marilyn Synder, Sheila Vasquez, Kristine Baugh, Robbin McKinney, Traci Cook, and Stephanie Able. Mr. Millender was preceded in death by his mother, Jackie “G.G.” Norris Millender.

(Bowers Funeral Home)

Dr. Lewis Sobhi Sidarous, PhD ’75, of San Antonio died Dec. 29 at age 72.

Dr. Lewis Sobhi Sidarous, our beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin went to heaven Friday, December 29, 2017. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Gay Yankie Sidarous and their 3 children.

Dr. Sidarous was born April 2, 1945 in Cairo Egypt. His father was Sobhi Sidarous and his mother Lucette Iskander Boutros.

When his father was transferred from Barclay's Bank of London to the Alexandria, Egypt branch, his family moved and Alexandria was where Lewis grew up, next to the Mediterranean Sea where he loved to swim. The family lived in a villa surrounded by fruit trees, especially mangos which he loved. He was very close to his siblings: Miranda Sidarous (George Naguib, deceased), Camilia Sidarous, deceased (Nabil Gabriel), Aida Gabriel Ishak (Baghat, deceased) & Hani Sobhi Sidarous (Nancy Yankie Sidarous) and will be deeply missed by many nieces and nephews.

Dr. Sidarous graduated from the University of Alexandria with a degree in chemistry. At Baylor his dedication, curiosity and talent were noticed and mentored by Dr. John S. Belew & Dr. Thomas C. Franklin, Dr. David E. and Pennington. After a brief stint as a chemist with Black Sands of Egypt, he moved to Waco, Texas where he entered graduate school at Baylor University with a full scholarship in chemistry. There he met Gay Yankie, also in graduate school. They were introduced by Lewis' brother Hani and Gay's sister Nancy, who also later married. After finishing his Ph.D., Lewis worked at Florida State University and the Health Science Center in San Antonio. He later bought a deli and called it Pirelli's Deli. He loved the creative work of building a business, developing a menu and welcoming people in to share food and community more than any work he had ever done.

But what he loved most was our three children: Monica Lucette Sidarous Ford (Thomas), Natalie Danielle Sidarous McCannell (Jason) and Jared Lewis Sidarous. Our marriage was good; we had fun together and loved working together, but our union was established for all time by our deep, boundless love for our children. We never needed a vacation from them because the most fun we ever had was with them. The word "love" could never contain the adoration we will always hold in our hearts for this man.

Much kindness & care given to our family. We wish to extend special thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Glazier, Dr. Mary Hull and also to providers Jimmy & Vanessa Lopez, Ms. Esmeralda Zapata and especially Ms. Leticia Harrison.

Services will be held at St. Anthony's Coptic Church by Father Antonios Girgis on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at 10:00 am with burial in the Yankie Family plot at China Spring Cemetery.

Contributions may be pledged to China Spring Cemetery, Texas 254-749-0832

(Published in Express-News)

Galen Robert “Bob” Alderman Jr., BS ’76, JD ’79, of Lufkin, TX, died Nov. 4 at age 62.

Galen Robert Alderman Jr. (he would not answer to that, he is just Bob) was, and always will be, my soul mate. He was my partner. He was the kindest, most generous and loving father to his four children, Amber Williams Trickey, Robby Alderman, Katie Alderman Salazar and Cole Alderman. Although the children are grown, we still practice “helicopter parenting” at full throttle, and they have come to accept it. As they age, they even seem to appreciate it. Their weddings were breathtaking. I hope some of you were able to attend. We welcomed Jon Trickey, Rachel Alderman, Fabian Salazar and Robin Alderman as their partners into our family. Multiple grandchildren have blessed our lives including Gage (8), Kimber (5) and Rowan (5 weeks); all are happy and healthy. We were able to share precious moments with our family in places all over the world. We have been so blessed.

His parents predeceased him, Galen Robert Alderman Sr. (also known as Bob) and Eleanor Alderman. He is survived by his brother Frank and his wife Wanda of San Antonio, along with many nieces and nephews.

Bob went to Churchill High School in San Antonio (1972), Baylor undergrad (1976), and Baylor Law School (1979). He graduated from law school at just 23 years of age and came to Lufkin to join the Zeleskey Law Firm, where he practiced for 35 years before forming a partnership with Bob Cain and Erika Neill in downtown Lufkin in 2014. He was as passionate about his practice as he was about his family – a strong oak, with flexibility and strength combined. He left no detail unfinished for his clients and law partners, and for the most part, he did it all on a legal pad. He believed in paper, not digital information – something tangible and tactile that could not be deleted. His passion was Barefoot Ranch, his horses and the work he loved to do there. I always struggled with that part. I wanted to go to the ranch for leisure, he wanted to do the work – the mowing, repairing fence, preparing the hay meadows, caring for the horses.

He found purpose in the completion of a task, done the “right way”. He explained that his work as a lawyer was never finished, never truly completed, it was an ongoing calling and service to his clients. In contrast, when he mowed a pasture, and finished, he could see the fruit of his labor and felt fulfilled. He served this community in many ways. He was active in the Volunteer Services Council, Noon Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, State Bar of Texas, American Bar Association, Angelina County Bar Association, Texas Associate of Defense Counsel, State Bar Foundation, coaching of Youth Baseball and Soccer, Leadership Lufkin, YoungLife, Baylor University Alumni Association, Crown Colony Country Club Tennis Association and First Christian Church. Please join our family in honoring him – a great man who touched so many people. I pray his spirit stays with us, as God will allow him, but that he spends eternity on a ranch prepared just for him… somewhere on the outskirts of heaven. – His loving wife of 32 years, Kaye.

Funeral services for Bob Alderman, 62, of Lufkin will be held Thursday, November 9, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at First Christian Church Lufkin. Interment will follow in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park. A celebration of his life will be held from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at Crown Colony Country Club. Mr. Alderman was born November 6, 1954 in Richmond, Virginia, and died Saturday, November 4, 2017 in Dallas.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Bob Alderman to the Lufkin State Supported Living Center, Volunteer Services Council, 374 Circle Drive, Pollok, Texas 75969. Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com. (Carroway Funeral Home)

Robert “Bob” Gerard O’Bierne, BS ’76, MBA ’78, of Waco died Dec. 23 at age 63.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 29, at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 9820 Chapel Rd, Woodway TX 76712. Visitation will begin at 6:00 p.m., with a Rosary Vigil to be held at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, December 28, in the Chapel at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, 6101 Bosque Blvd, Waco 76710. Bob was born on April 20, 1954, in Jamaica, Queens, New York, to Robert Pond and Mary Ann O'Beirne. He spent most of his early years in El Paso, Texas, where he graduated from Eastwood High School in 1972. He attended Baylor University in Waco, where he was active within the Kappa Nu and Kappa Sigma Fraternities. Bob graduated with a B.S. in Biology in 1976 and his M.B.A. in 1978.

After his time at Baylor, Bob spent approximately 39 years with Olmsted-Kirk Paper Co. in Waco, as Vice President and General Manager. In Waco, he married Martha McConnell, his cherished wife of almost 36 years. He was active in numerous organizations, civic affairs, and community activities within the cities of Waco and Woodway. He served on the Board of Directors and as President of both the Dr Pepper Museum and Free Enterprise Institute and the Rotary Club of Waco. Bob enjoyed umpiring high school baseball and served as a board member and head coach within the La Vega and Midway Little League organizations. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and active in numerous ministries as a founding member of St. Jerome Catholic Church. He was an avid Baylor Bear fan and loved his family dearly.

Bob is preceded in death by his father, Robert Pond O'Beirne; brothers, Robert Charles and William Francis O'Beirne; and sisters, Virginia O'Beirne and Mary Maggard.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Martha; daughter, Ashley O'Beirne Mejia and husband, Vince; son, Robert O'Beirne, Jr., and wife, Ashley; son, Stephen O'Beirne and fiancé, Rachel Urbanczyk; daughter, Kelly O'Beirne; and grandchildren, Madison and Vincent Mejia. He is also survived by his mother, Mary Ann O'Beirne; brothers, Patrick, John, Peter, Edward, and Colin O'Beirne; sisters, Carolyn O'Beirne and Jeanne Soucy; and mother-in-law, Ophelia McConnell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to support The Choice Wine and That Man is You! programs, hosted by Paradisus Dei (http://paradisusdei.org) and St. Jerome Catholic Church (https://stjeromewaco.org). The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at our website, www.WHBfamily.com. (Waco Tribune-Herald)

Lt. Col. Lewis Maloy Jones, MHA ’76, of Austin died Dec. 27 at age 76.

Lewis was born on August 11, 1941 in Jones County, Texas to Woodrow Wilson and Clariss Lillian Jones. He grew up in and around Haskell along with his five siblings. He was the first person in his family to earn a college degree. Lewis first met the love of his life, Gail, in high school, although she would tell you she picked him out in the second grade. They were married on December 22, 1962 in Haskell. He was a distinguished military graduate from West Texas State University with a degree in Mathematics where he was President of his Kappa Alpha fraternity chapter. Upon graduation, Lewis accepted his commission in the United States Army. Lewis served two tours in Vietnam as a Med-Evac pilot flying UH-1H helicopters (Huey’s).

Among his honors, he earned the Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism while participating in Aerial Flight and was a Bronze Star Medal Recipient. After returning home from Vietnam, Lewis completed his Master’s Degree in Hospital Administration from Baylor University. He finished his 20 year Army career working as a Health Care Administrator at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and at Brooke Army Medical Center.

After military retirement, Lewis completed his teacher certification and was a high school math teacher at Somerset ISD and later East Central ISD. Lewis loved to fish. He was known to fish at the lake but his heart was in Port Aransas. Early mornings were a coveted time to meet the sunrise and enjoy time in the shallows fishing for speckled trout and redfish. He also loved to fish off the piers and jetties in Port Aransas for flounder, pompano and the occasional hammerhead shark. Ever patient, he taught his children to fish, digging out many a swallowed hook, rebaiting the lines and retying the tackle. Lewis was also an accomplished handyman who was willing to try to fix anything. He always entertained Gail’s latest “vision” for their home and worked hard to accomplish the task to her high expectations. He was always available to family and friends for painting, wallpapering, restoration and building projects. Highlights include refinishing and restoring all of the antiques in their home, laying thousands of square feet of Saltillo tile, planting 1,000 baby pine trees on their Floresville property and building a garage with an upstairs apartment.

Lewis is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gail Ratliff Jones; three children, Leigh Cox and her husband Dale of Austin, Jay Jones and his wife Karen of Port Aransas, Jeff Jones and his wife Wendy of Houston; and Gail’s dog Scout . He is also survived by the smartest and most talented grandchildren ever, Tyler and his wife Danielle, Allison, Amy, Kyle, Haley, Colby, Clay, Wade and Angela. A Military Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 8, 2018 at 10:45 am at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio. A luncheon for family and friends will be held immediately afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lewy-Body Dementia Association (lbda.org) or the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org) in Lewis’s honor.

Dad - we look forward to seeing you again. Know that we’ll be sure to “shut the door!” because we weren’t “born in a barn.” Also know that we’ll take good care of mom for you. You are so loved and will be missed but never forgotten.

(Dignity Memorial)

Jo Ann Pressley Robinson, BSN ’76, of Roxton, TX, died Jan. 9 at age 65.

Services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 14th, at Bright-Holland Funeral Home with Rev. Rocky Burrow & Rev. Jerry Clements officiating. Burial will follow in Restland Cemetery at Roxton. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 5 – 7 p.m. Jo Ann, the daughter of Clyde & Fleeda McMinn Pressley, was born Dec. 20, 1952, in Dallas. She married Windell Carey Robinson on June 19, 1976. Together they had five beautiful children. She devoted her life to the people she loved and did so selflessly and with unconditional love. She graduated from Baylor University in 1976, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. She was a faithful steward to the community, church and most of all her family. Jo Ann was a dedicated pastor’s wife who loved many and was loved by many. Proverbs 31: 25-31

Survivors include her husband, Windell Carey Robinson, son; Jeremy Robinson & wife Stephanie, daughter; Kerri Whitley & husband Jason and their son, Jaxon Whitley, daughter; Mary Taylor & husband Jeremy and their children, Xavier Fountain, Quentin Fountain, Jeremy Taylor and Serenity Taylor, son; Jonathan Robinson and son; Timothy Robinson, sister; Sue Gilbert & husband Earl, brother; Tommy Pressley & wife Evelyn and sister; Margaret Knox & husband Donnie along with many nieces & nephews and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde & Fleeda Pressley, and two sisters, Macklin Jones and Rose Mary Weiler. Casket bearers will be: Justin Vickers, Nick McEntyre, Randall Patterson, J. R. Nix, Craig Vaughn, Stephen Morris & Matt McEntyre. (Dignity Memorial)

Dr. Joe Holbert Mayes, MSD ’77, of Lubbock, TX, died Dec. 10 at age 73. Mayes was born on August 19, 1944 to Billy Woods Mayes and Anna Faye Mayes at Florence Nightingale Hospital (now Baylor) in Dallas, TX. Raised in Crane Texas with his brother, Billy Woods Mayes II. Dr. Mayes graduated Crane High School in 1962. He graduated Texas Tech in 1970, after time in the US Army; he then received his DDS at Baylor College of Dentistry in 1974 and his MSD in Orthodontics in1977.

Dr. Mayes practiced orthodontics in Lubbock, Texas, for 40 years. He was an adjunct professor for Baylor College of Dentistry for orthodontic students. During that time, he also shared over 200 lectures around the world on topics of new treatments and appliances that he developed. He lived life to the fullest, and did not wait until he retired to enjoy all the opportunities available to him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl Lee Mayes, children Joe Mayes II, Stephanie Prentice, Anthony Jones, along with seven grandchildren.

He passed peacefully on December 10, 2017, at Covenant Hospital in Lubbock, Texas, after battling a long-term illness. Family and friends will gather to celebrate his life of 73 years on Friday, December 15, 2017, at 10 a.m., at Lake Ridge Chapel. A tribute of Joe's life may be found at www.memorialdesigners.net, where you may leave memories and expressions of sympathy for his family.

In lieu of flowers, his family suggests memorial contribution be given to the Morris Safe House Foundation, 3240 Nightingale Rd, Lubbock, TX 79407, https://www.facebook.com/morrissafehouse; or Joe Arrington Cancer Center, 4101 22nd Pl, Lubbock, TX 79410, https://www.covenanthealth.org/covenant-health-foundation/donate-now/.

(Legacy Memorial)

John Sylvester Oliver, BSEd ’77, of Hewitt, TX, died Jan. 15 at age 63. J

John Sylvester Oliver 63, peacefully entered into eternal rest on January 15, 2018. He was born in Houston, Texas on January 28, 1954 to the late, Charles M. Oliver, Sr. and the late Evelyn Hamilton Oliver. He was the second born of eight children.

Mr. John Oliver was the beloved husband of Wanda Johnson Oliver for over 40 years.

John was a graduate of M.B. Smiley High School in Houston, Texas. He was also a graduate of Baylor University in Waco, Texas where he played football under Coach Grant Teaff, from 1972-1974. They were Southwest Cotton Bowl Conference Champions in 1974. During his career he coached at University High, Bosqueville High and Milford High School. He was the Principal of Eagle Charter School in Waco, Texas. He also officiated basketball and football games for the SBOA Official Association.

He was a graduate of SSOTFB and a faith and dedicated member of the Banner Ministry.

John was an avid Fisherman and because he loved to fish his wife had to learn how to as well.  

 He was preceded in death by his brother, Melvin Oliver.

Left to cherish fond and loving memories are, his devoted and loving wife, Wanda Faye Oliver; his daughter Arianna Ross; brothers: Anthony Oliver, Charles Oliver, Jerry Oliver and Robert Oliver (Maria); sisters: Shelia Higgs and Cassandra Perry (James); a dedicated daughter: Tomeka Womack; special friends: Mr. and Mrs. Reggie Potter and family; Nurse “Lisa” and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

(Meaningfulfunerals.net)

Val J. Bateman, MHA ’78, of Saint George, UT, died Nov. 13 at age 75.

Val passed away peacefully surrounded by his adoring family in St. George after a valiant 17-year fight against cancer.

Born to Bertha Selma Bergquist and John Leland Bateman, Val graduated from South Cache High School, Utah State University, Chapman University and Baylor University.

Val married the love of his life, Bonnie Joyce Tidwell in the Logan LDS Temple on 14 August 1964. They filled their 53 years of marriage together with love, family and adventures.

Val had a 21-year Air Force career as a Hospital Administrator that included assignments in many parts of the world. He worked for the Dept. of Health and the Utah Medical Assoc.

Val was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many callings and honored the priesthood throughout his life by blessing those around him through his righteous example of love and service.

Survived by his loving wife, Bonnie, and their children, David (Robert), Amy Cox (Jordan), Wendy Woodland (Scot), Holly Little (Chad) and Brian, 15 grandchildren, 2 great grandsons and his sister, Ann Day. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ted.

 

Viewing and funeral services will be held 15 November, at Larkin Mortuary located at 2350 E. 1300 S. in SLC. Family and friends are welcome to visit starting at 9:45 with funeral services starting at 11:00. Interment will follow the service. The family wishes to express appreciation to many doctors and nurses that have helped to extend Val's life, especially Dr. LeGrand Belnap and Dr. Lincoln Nadauld.

(Published in Deseret News)

Scott Andrew Whiteaker, ’78, of Burleson, TX, died Nov. 30 at age 59.

Scott was born December 4, 1957 in Detroit, MI., but was a longtime resident of Arlington. He was the owner of All Ports Travel, a huge sports enthusiast and avid motorcycle rider (Harley Davidson’s), He loved to travel, play golf, his Baylor Bears and his chihuahuas. Scott was preceded in death by his parents, David G. Whiteaker and Patricia A. Whiteaker. He is survived by his loving wife of 15 years Dezorea (Dezi) Whiteaker; daughter, Amy Grenfell and her husband, Jeremy; son, Christopher Evans and his wife, Jamie, Uncle William Glass Jr. and wife, Carol; granddaughter Savannah Grenfell; grandson Brett Grenfell and Ronan Evans; and a host of loving friends, family, and clients.

A visitation for Scott will be held Monday, December 4, 2017 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Moore Funeral Home, 1219 North Davis Drive, Arlington, Texas. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at 2:00 PM, 1219 North Davis Drive, Arlington, Texas.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in Scott's memory may be made to SPCA of Texas, www.spca.org/memorialgiving. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.moore-funeralhome.com for the Whiteaker family.

(Dignity Memorial)

1980-Present

Dennis Thompson Franklin, BBA ’80, of San Antonio, TX, died on Dec. 31 at age 61.

Dennis Thompson Franklin, BBA ’80, of San Antonio, TX, died unexpectedly on Dec. 31 at age 61. He was born on January 2, 1956 in Gatesville, Texas. He graduated from Gatesville High School in 1974 and received a Bachelor's in Business Administration from Baylor University in 1980. He is preceded in death by his parents Mary Blackwell and Jimmie Thompson as well as his beloved sister Mary Ann Durfee. He is survived by his sons Christopher Travis Thompson and wife Lindsey, and Mark Aaron Thompson and wife Marissa. He was a doting grandfather to Madeline, Connor, Katelyn and Olivia. He is loved and remembered by his siblings Martha Russell, Sonny Garman and wife Melissa, Keith Thompson and wife Beth, Chris Thompson, Debbie Rhudy and husband Tim, and LaDonna Pederson and husband Shane, as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Dennis was extremely proud of both of his sons' accomplishments and wasn't afraid to tell you about them. He really enjoyed being around his grandchildren and there were often shouts of "Papaw's here!" whenever he arrived. His joy was evident whenever he was around his grandbabies, sons and family and his laughter with them will never be forgotten.

A private family service will be held in Gatesville, Texas to honor his passing. A Celebration of Life is set for Thursday, January 11th at River Crossing Country Club in Spring Branch, Texas starting at 11am. We ask that in lieu of flowers please donate to the 100 Club of San Antonio in his name. www.100clubsa.org.

(Porter Loring Funeral Home)

Alton Allen Jones, BS ’80, of Shreveport, LA, died Nov. 22 at age 60.

Alton Allen Jones loving husband, proud father, loyal son and quality friend, was called home by his Lord on November 22, 2017 after complications from recent chemotherapy. Al twice survived cancer in his twenties.

Visitation with the family will be held from 4:00 until 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 26, 2017 at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, on Marshall St. A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 27, 2017 at Broadmoor Methodist Church in Shreveport. Officiating will be Rev. Juan Huertas.
Al was a proud citizen of Shreveport, Louisiana since 1982 when he moved from Dallas to expand his successful career in the oil and gas industry. All who knew him recognized him as a man of integrity, professional competency and aspirational vision. His immediate family and friends knew him as a one-of-a-kind loving personality, a great sense of humor and valued member of the family and the extended families of his friends. His inquisitive mind made him a renaissance man in many topics, but it was his firm grasp of the things that really mattered to him: family and friends and his professional responsibilities to his partners, that distinguished his life.

After growing up in Dallas through his high school days at Sunset High School, Al attended Baylor University, where he played baseball for the Bears from 1975-1976, joined the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity and met his future wife, Melinda Dowd, who he married in 1984. She was the love of his life for 33 years. Al excelled in his academics, earning a Bachelor of Science in Geology and completed all the course work for a Master of Science degree in geology. He started his career at Texas Oil and Gas, where he honed his expertise from 1982-1984, generating prospects for exploration in the upper gulf coast region of Texas and Mississippi. The opportunity for him to advance came in 1984 with the offer from Palmer Oil and Gas, in Shreveport, to serve as their Exploration Manager. After success at Palmer, he reached a lifelong dream of having his own company and co-founded JM Exploration along with partner, David Meadows, in 2000. There he developed a base of investors to whom he exhibited an uncompromising loyalty, professionalism and responsibility. In addition to numerous oil reservoir discoveries, Al gave back to his profession through board service in industry centric professional boards and associations: Shreveport Geological Society and Shreveport Map Association, in both instances rising to the office of president, Shreveport Petroleum Data Association, Gulf Coast Geologic Convention as vice chairman, Baylor University Geology Advisory Board and was a Member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. He was the consummate professional at his craft.

Success to Al was more than his noteworthy career accomplishments, it revolved around his family and faith. His loyalty to his one love, Melinda, and pride in his sons, Dalton and Blake, along with his love of the Lord were always his driving forces. His sons, born in 1990 and 1995 respectively, were the lucky recipients of his life lessons, sport coaching, athletic genetics and fatherly devotion. He was a good golfer (in his own mind) and avid tennis player, a sporting activity he and Melinda enjoyed together and in which he excelled, playing in USTA finals in 1998 and 2007. He promoted his love of sports with service on Boards of the Oilman's Tournament and Pierremont Oaks Tennis Club and most importantly to him, teaching the fundamentals of baseball to local kids and participating in Shreveport's C.E. Byrd Booster Club activities. Al's commitment to his Lord was well known and his faith was solid. He was a member of Grace Community United Methodist Church. He served as a Stephen Minister and as a Stephen Ministry leader and the coordinator of Stephen Ministry referrals at Grace. As he left this life, Al was confident as to his destination.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Robert Jones. Al is survived by wife Melinda and son Dalton and wife Kati, future grandson and son Blake, his mother Ada Jones Goodwin, his sister, Lori Clopton and husband James, her children, Steven Humphrey, Nicholas Humphrey, and Victoria Humphrey, and his in-laws, Virginia and Edward Dowd. He is also survived by numerous other family and friends.

Serving as honorary pallbearers will be David Burch, Larry Dowd, Marshall Jones, Jimmy Marston, David Meadows, Ken Miller, Barron O'Neal, and Gary Wood.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Carolina Escobar M.D., Ron Mehaffy RN, and the physicians and nurses of the Baylor Pickens Cancer Hospital for their compassionate care and dedication to Al.

The family suggests memorials may be made to Grace Community United Methodist Church, (Restore Grace Fund) 9400 Ellerbe Rd. Shreveport, LA 71106 or Baylor Pickens Cancer Hospital, 3535 Worth St. Dallas, TX 75246.

(Published in Shreveport Times)

Melbin “Dean” Priddy, BS ’82, of Eddy, TX, died Dec. 23 at age 82.

Funeral Service: 1p.m. Wednesday, December 27, at Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel. Entombment will follow at Waco Memorial Park Mausoleum.

Dean was born July 20, 1935 in Itasca to William Jasper Priddy and Sudie Mildred Parker Priddy. Growing up quickly during tough economic times, Dean let little time go by before leaving Itasca to join the Air Force to see the world. Among the many places he was assigned, French Morocco was his favorite. He bought a Norton motorcycle and stirred up a great deal of North African dust. He also wasted no time pursuing the love of his life, Sue, to marry and start a family. After eight years in the service, Dean answered his true calling to serve others through a life in law enforcement. With stints at the Waco Police Department, U.S. Marshal’s Service, McLennan County Sheriff’s Office and Lorena Police Department, his proudest achievement was being appointed Chief of Police which closed the chapter on a 40 year career to a profession he loved so much. Always seeking knowledge, Dean received his Associates’ Degree at McLennan Community College and later his Bachelor of Sciences degree in Criminal Justice, all the while serving the community. Dean was a member of the Masonic Lodge, a Sunday school teacher, an ordained deacon at the First Baptist Church in Whitney and his final place of worship at Bruceville Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; and his grandson, Kenneth Wagner. Dean is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sue Priddy of Eddy; daughter, Beverly Wagner of Eddy; sons, Mickey Priddy and wife, Cilia and Wesley Priddy and wife, Erika all of Cedar Park; grandchildren, Audrey, Jared, Erin, Hannah, Rebekah, Mason and Marcelina; four great-grandchildren, Felix, Owen, Ciara and Ashley; and a host of other relatives. The family would like to acknowledge a special thank you to the Waco Police Association, Providence Hospice and Westview Manor. Memorial contributions s may be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation at www.alzfdn.org. Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.LakeShoreFH.com.

(Lake Shore Funeral Home)

Y. Preston Rowan, BBA ’82, of College Station, TX, died Nov. 14 at age 57.

Young Preston Rowan, husband to Lisa Young Rowan; father to Forrest and Sybil; son of Thomas “Doc” and Nannette Stewart Rowan; brother to Woodson, Nan, Margaret and Vivian; cousin, uncle and friend to many. His passing was sudden, but he was doing what he loved the most—riding his bicycle. Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00p.m. on Friday, November 17 at Callaway-Jones Funeral Home – Bryan. Memorial services will be at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, November 18 at First Baptist Church – College Station. Preston summarized his life simply, “Born…Trusted Christ…Got Married…Children…Everything Else…” and his simple life was filled with everything he could grasp. Preston was born on June 8, 1960 in Temple, Texas and resided in College Station since 1993. “Everything else” was a life filled with joy, laughter, sorrow, and tears, but always with a smile and recognition that life is good and God is in control. Preston was a child of God whose life rested on the hope that he now enjoys in God’s glory with his father, Doc; nephew, Matthew; and the countless friends and family he touched who were waiting for him there.Preston graduated from Temple High School in 1978, where he excelled in football, Student Body President and relationships.

Preston attended Baylor University and earned a degree in Economics from Hankamer School of Business in 1982. A proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and a staunch Bears fan whose hope for Baylor football was unending even during a winless season (The future’s so bright, I gotta wear shades. #Sicem). Preston’s indomitable impression upon his world continued uninterrupted and always with his laughing smile and genuine desire to know who you are. One of his favorite quotes, “What? Me Worry?” by Alfred E. Newman, summed up Preston’s approach to life, after Sybil graduated from high school.

His faith in God was strong and his love for his family infinite. Preston met Lisa in Temple, Texas and they were married on December 26, 1986. Preston would say that Lisa was the love of his life and he proved that to his last day by his deep affection and commitment to her and their marriage of 30 years. On many cool fall evenings Preston would start a fire in their backyard chimenea and invite Lisa to just sit and enjoy it together or drive his 4-wheeler thousands of miles over rough, South Texas terrain so she could photograph just the right wildflowers in season. Preston loved riding one of his bicycles almost every day of his life. Not content with ordinary commuter cycling, Preston always challenged himself and anyone fit enough to keep up with him to go a little further, a little steeper or just slow enough to get to know his riding partner better. Preston was a cyclist’s cyclist, ever ready to clip in and go, stop to help change a flat, or enjoy retelling the latest biking adventure wherever the ride that day ended. One of his sayings was, “Fast cyclists make slower ones look better. You’re welcome.” He was indeed fast to greet you warmly when you first clipped into your pedals and to hug you tightly after a long day on the saddle together. He was always ready for the next ride and next relationship. One look into Preston’s eyes and a firm handshake told you that he truly wanted to know you for who you were. He was the best there was.

The Rowans Roost in South Texas was Preston’s home away from home. Purchased in 1970 by his beloved father, Doc, the Roost captivated Preston in a way only some can truly understand. Whether tracking his beloved hunting dogs, Kate and Missy, in search of the next covey of quail; smoking a pork shoulder for 9 hours over mesquite wood from Woodson’s fire pit; capturing the beauty of the Spring wildflowers with Lisa; or just sitting on the back porch watching the spectacular sunsets from his four-wheeler, Preston loved that place he had always known but could never get enough of and his family and numerous friends who were always invited to come, stay and experience a unique sense of peace not easily found. Unless you did something stupid to deserve a dreaded “LT” (Last Trip), like shooting a trophy buck reserved for Doc. The Roost was wild, untamed and fit the adventurer’s side of Preston for 47 years, where he joyfully taught his own son, Forrest, the ways of the land. Preston was missed from the moment he left us and our hearts will always be filled with his presence.

Preston is survived by wife, Lisa; son and daughter-in-law, Forrest Rowan and Ashby; daughter, Sybil; mother, Nannette Stewart Rowan; Siblings, Woodson Rowan (Sherry) of Lubbock, Nan Gunter (John) of Dallas, Margaret Davis (Phil) of Fort Worth, Vivian Norment (Russell) of Fort Worth; and more family and friends than can easily be counted. Contributions can be made to the Preston Rowan fund at Prosperity Bank.

(Callaway-Jones Funeral Home)

W. Marshall Campbell, BBA ’83, of Bonham, TX, died Jan. 6 at age 56.

A Memorial Service for William Marshall Campbell, 56 of Bonham, TX will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at First Baptist Church in Bonham with Rev. Chase Hinson officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, prior to the service at First Baptist Church – Bonham.

Marshall attended Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, Texas, graduating in 1979. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting at Baylor University, graduating in 1983. He was a Certified Public Accountant and licensed Minister. He was employed at Texas A&M Commerce as the Budget Director for Student and Academics Affairs. Prior to this, he served as a Bonham High School Math Teacher from 2009-2010. From 2001 – 2009, he was the Treasurer for the Southern Baptist Missions in South America. He held numerous accounting positions from 1983- 2000.

Marshall loved to fish in the lakes of Colorado. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Bonham, TX where he served as a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher. He also served on the Board of Directors at Morning Star Academy. He was a dedicated family man and husband and enjoyed spending time with his kids. He loved to joke with everyone and was proficient at quoting movie lines! His main goal in life was to share the love of the Lord with people, and to make sure everyone he encountered knew our heavenly Savior.

Marshall was preceded in death by his father, Richard Wesley Campbell of Bonham, TX who passed away on January 1, 2018. Surviving are his wife of 30 years, Susan Elizabeth McIlvain Campbell of Bonham, TX, son, Jarrett Campbell and wife Cassie of Williston, ND, daughter, Rebecca Hicks and husband Isaac of Euless, TX, daughter, Rachel Campbell of Bonham, TX, son, Jacob Campbell, Bonham, TX, daughter, Rayen Campbell, Bonham, TX, daughter, Roxanna Campbell, Bonham, TX, mother, Frances Sexton Campbell of Bonham, TX, brother Carter Campbell and wife Mara, New Florence, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Memorials in lieu of flowers: Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, International Mission Board of SBC, First Baptist Church, Bonham.

Michael Emile Greig, BS ’84, of Plano, TX, died Nov. 18 at age 55.

Michael Emile Greig was born March 5, 1962 in Miami, Florida to parents Abboud and Ruth Greig. He graduated Baylor University in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science in Geology and the University of Texas at Arlington in 1988 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. In 1993, Michael and his friend and long-time business partner Doug Brower, founded Bombay Properties. Today, their business has grown to include multiple companies that encompass all facets of real estate including a realty brokerage firm, home construction and property management.

He was a born leader who loved to take care of people. He was a true first born and took the responsibility of being the rock of the family very seriously. He was always available to help with either actions or words. He loved his family and was involved in all aspects of his children’s life. He coached baseball, soccer, basketball, and volunteered for anything that was needed to help all the kids on the team succeed. He served many years as a board member for PSA youth baseball. He was so proud of the young man and young woman that his children were becoming. He was a loyal friend and once you became his friend you became his family and there was nothing that he wouldn’t do for you. Laura and Michael were both avid scuba divers. They would also share this love with their children.

Michael is survived by his wife of 31 years, Laura Greig, children Ryan and Carly Greig, mother Ruth Greig, sister Mona Hinze, brother Steven Greig and wife Theresa, sister Tina Kardaras and husband Larry, mother-in-law Janet Swiertz, sister-in-law Liane Boon and husband Taylor, sister-in-law Michelle Swiertz and many loving nieces and nephews – Christopher, Alex, Trey, Jessica, Lauryn, Ashley-Cate, Courtney, Jacob, Victoria, Meredith and Elizabeth. He was preceded in death by father Abboud Greig and father-in-law Norbert Swiertz. A memorial service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at 3:00 pm at LifePoint Church, 4501 Hedgcoxe Rd, Plano TX 75024 with Senior Pastor George Feiser officiating.  Michael’s ashes will be spread in the waters of Cozumel Mexico, in San Luis de la paz Guanajuato (Posada family land) in Mexico the home town of his devoted employees as well as along side his father in Greenwood Cemetery in Fort Worth.

There will not be a reception following the service. If desired, contributions to Ryan and Carly’s college fund may be made at https://www.gofundme.com/greigfamily4 in lieu of flowers.

(Allen Family Funeral Home)

Robert Mark McDonald, BS ’84, of Fort Worth died Dec. 26 at age 55.

SERVICE: 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018, at Hope Church in Fort Worth. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hope Church (reference: Mission Trips) either online or by check to Hope Church, 1750 Beach St., Fort Worth, TX, 76103.

Mark graduated from Southwest High School, Baylor University, and SMU Business School. Mark started his career serving in the Navy as a nuclear submarine officer. He most recently worked as a performance improvement independent consultant. He was an involved member of Hope Church and loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Jo McDonald. Survivors: His wife; Tess; children, Rachel and Chase; his father, Robert Sandy McDonald and wife, Pat; and brother, Brent McDonald. (Thompson Harveson & Cole Funeral Homes)

Vicky Lynn Hunt, BBA ’87, of Waco died Nov. 14 at the age of 68.

Vicky Lynn Hunt, BBA ’87, of Waco died Nov. 14 at St. Catherine’s Hospice with her husband, Russ, and her sisters, Marci and Jayne, by her side. She was 68. Memorial service:  Saturday, December 2, at 11:00 am at Lake Shore Baptist Church, 5801 Bishop Drive in Waco, with a reception following. Born Vicky Lynn Davis to Homer and Jean Davis in San Antonio, Vicky moved with her family to Laredo when she was ten. She met the love of her life, Russ Hunt, while he was stationed at Laredo AFB. He spied her in the church choir and finagled a way to go to her house for Sunday dinner. They married after Vicky graduated from high school and enjoyed 50 years of love and devotion.

The USAF took them from Biloxi, MS, to Germany - first Wurzburg, Bavaria, and later Hahn AFB, where Russ, Jr. was born. Vicky’s love of travel developed early, and they took every opportunity to explore most of central Europe before moving to Waco, returning to Europe often.

Vicky began her career in education working for Waco ISD, running the Special Education Resources Center. Even though she wasn’t yet a certified teacher, she had extensive knowledge about which materials would support learning for students with specific disabilities. Vicky always did her “homework,” studying curricula and doing research in the days before Google.

Because of her love of children and heart for those with disabilities, Vicky moved to Kirk Wilson as school secretary where she could have daily contact with students. She stayed until the campus closed and then pursued her dream of going to college.

After graduating from Baylor and earning Special Education certification through Tarleton, Vicky began teaching at Waco High. Always the curious learner, she simultaneously commuted to UT and earned an MS in Early Childhood Education. She later served as a “Helping Teacher,” where her gifts of enthusiasm, versatility, tenacity, and knowledge of methodology and materials benefitted WISD Special Ed teachers and their students.

Vicky will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, graciousness and empathy. She always thought of others. It was not unusual for any of her friends to be surprised with a gift of something Vicky noticed you needed or that she made for you. Sharing her love of travel with friends, she happily planned trips anywhere. You never got lost if Vicky was along. She was the best tour guide and knew about the history, art, culture and food of everywhere she’d been or planned to go. She was a voracious reader, a gourmet cook, and so very smart. If you had a question about almost anything, you could count on Vicky to find the answer.

Vicky’s grandson, Patrick, was the light of her life, and she took every opportunity to be with him until her illness limited her. She especially enjoyed having him as a traveling companion. Vicky enjoyed cruising, having a special affinity for Germany and even repeated the “Christmas Markets” cruise twice so she could share it with with family and friends. Vicky’s happy place was Kauai, HI, where she and Russ celebrated their anniversary every summer, always enjoying a family vacation with Patrick and his folks. For nearly three years, Vicky courageously fought Multiple Myeloma. She never complained. When her chemo yielded good results, her response was, “It’s a God thing.” When her body betrayed her with enormous pain, she would say,” It is what it is.” Her faith grounded her. She was an example of strength, grace, and trust in God.

Vicky is survived by her husband Russ, their son, Russ Jr, his wife Leslie, and son Patrick; her sisters, Marci Hall and Jayne Mitchell, and their children: Marci's son, Bryan, and grandson, TJ; Jayne's daughter, Whitney, and daughters, Kaylee and Emory Grace, and a host of cherished and lifelong friends. Memorials honoring Vicky’s life may be made to The ARC of McLennan County, P. O. Box 3367, Waco, 76707 or Lake Shore Baptist Church Missions, 5801 Bishop Drive, Waco, 76710. (Oak Crest Funeral Home)

John Stumpf, MS ’89, of Hewitt, TX, died Jan. 31 at age 64.

John was born on February 13, 1953 and passed away on Wednesday, January 31, 2018. John was a resident of Hewitt, Texas at the time of passing. John attended University of Illinois where he earned a BS in Agriculture in 1978 and went to work for Monsanto. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, February 5, at The First Baptist Church of Waco. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 4:00-6:00 p.m., Sunday, February 4, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be made to The First Baptist Church of Waco or to the donor's choice. (Published by Tributes.com)

Diederik M. Fikkert, BA ’90, of League City, TX, died Jan. 4 at age 50.

Diederik M. Fikkert, BA ’90, of League City, TX, died Jan. 4 at age 50, after a 10-month battle with brain cancer. He met his wife (Melody Peck Fikkert BS '92) at Baylor and they were married almost 24 years. They were both members of Circle K International. He earned a pharmacy degree from University of Texas at Austin in 1993 and spent his entire career practicing as a nuclear pharmacist in the DFW and Houston areas.

D was a huge Baylor football fan. He and Melody attended every Homecoming together between 1990 and 2008, not missing one! Going to Baylor games every season and meeting up with old Baylor friends was always a highlight of the year. D had a love for Jesus and was known for his inspiring Facebook posts while battling cancer. He is survived by his father, wife, 3 children, brother (Arnold Fikkert BS '91, MA '93) and sister in law (Chimene Willis Fikkert BS ’93).

(Submitted)

Jan Lee Skrabanek, BSEd ’92, of Riesel, TX, died Jan. 3 at age 47.

Funeral services will be 3:00 PM, Saturday, January 6, 2017 at Adams Funeral Home in Marlin, with the Reverends Andy Kilpatrick and David Harlow officiating. Interment will follow in Hillcrest Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM prior to the service. Ms. Skrabanek was born on December 26, 1970 in Waco to Gary and Margaret (Drews) Skrabanek.

She received her Master’s degree from Texas Women’s University and her Bachelor’s from Baylor University. Ms. Skrabanek started her teaching career in Marlin ISD in 1998, she worked there until 2008 and then taught one year at Waco ISD – Brazos Middle School. She went to La Vega in 2009 and was hired as an English Teacher and later taught Speech Communication. Ms. Skrabanek completed her 9th year and was the High School Teacher of the Year for 2016-2017, as voted by her peers. As of this year, Jan was the yearbook sponsor and teacher of computer touch data classes, along with banking and finance.

 

The most important things in her life were her students and her family. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ben and Frieda Skrabanek and Albert and Emma Drews and her mother, Margaret Skrabanek. Survivors include her father, Gary Skrabanek; brother, Ron Skrabanek and his wife, Anne, of Marlin; sister, June Haptonstall and her husband, Marcus of Azle; nieces and nephews, Sarah, Ben and Rebecca Skrabanek, Laura Miller and her husband, Matthew, and Rachel Neal and her husband, Andrew; great nephews, Ethan and Elijah Miller, and numerous cousins and dear friends.

(Dignity Memorial)

Kenton “Paul” Smith, MBA ’92, MA ’93, of Vestavia Hills, AL, died May 3, 2017, at age 59.

He was born February 26, 1958 in Lawrence, KS. He lived in Vestavia Hills, AL with his wife, Sue Ann, and his four teen-aged children. Paul was a devoted father who loved his children above all else. He was a life member of the Safari Club International and the NRA. He held two Masters Degrees and was a Senior Director at Alvarez and Marsal in Birmingham, AL.

Paul is survived by his wife, Sue Ann Smith; one daughter, Bailey Smith; three sons, William Smith, Reid Smith, and Samuel Smith; mother, Gwenn Smith; one sister, Pam Dittmer (Jim); one brother, David Smith (Laurie); nephew and niece, Bret Smith and Sienna Smith; father-in-law, Kinney Harley (Sandy); sister-in-law, Wendy Harley (Paul Earnhart); and brother-in-law, Kinney Harley, Jr.

A Memorial Celebration of Paul Smith's Life will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 12, 2017 at Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham, AL. Immediately following the service, the family will greet friends at the funeral home. Memorial gifts may be made to the Children of Paul Smith College Fund at Wells Fargo Bank.

 

(Dignity Memorial)

Jennifer Lynn Maxwell, BSN ’94, of North Richland Hills, TX, died Jan. 16 at age 45, following a year-long battle with cancer. She fought valiantly and trusted deeply.

She was born in Dallas, Texas, on August 8, 1972, and grew up in Euless and Bedford, Texas, graduating from Lake Country Christian School where fellow students remember her thoughtfulness and caring nature.

Jennifer attended Baylor University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor School of Nursing. After graduation, she worked in the Neonatal ICU at Baylor Hospital in Dallas. Following her work at Baylor, she worked as a school nurse at Boles Junior High School in Arlington ISD, and later taught at Hillwood Middle School, Trinity Springs Middle School, and Timber Creek High School in Keller ISD. Parents in the NICU and students in her classes saw the same caring heart that had been recognized in her high school years. In order to have more time with her children, Jennifer invested the last several years doing on-line teaching out of her home.

The three dates that were closest to Jennifer’s heart were October 3, 2009, when she married the love of her life, Troy Maxwell; January 5, 2011, when she gave birth to their son, Jett Ryan; and September 26, 2012, when their daughter, Jillian Joy was born. Oh, how she treasured those three dates!

Jennifer’s heart of compassion and love of serving others, accompanied by her deep devotion to her husband Troy and her two children stand as the hallmarks of her life.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Mina Hefler.

Jennifer is survived by her loving husband, Troy; children, Jett Maxwell and Jillian Maxwell; her father, Harold Hefler; siblings, Nancy Calvin and husband Jim; and Joseph Hefler; and a host of family and friends.

(Lucas Funeral Homes)

Jeffrey Lee Starnes, BA ’94, of Sunnyvale, TX, died Nov. 24 at age 49.

Jeff was born in Birmingham, AL on August 5, 1968. He attended Clear Creek High School, graduating in 1987. He attended Baylor University, where he earned Bachelor of Music in 1994. Jeff was a strong man of faith who loved his family. Jeff is survived by his beloved wife of 24 years, Shaira Newsome Starnes and his five beautiful children: Kelton, Cason, Cambelle, Karis and Kinsley.

Jeff is also survived by his parents, Bob and Marilyn Starnes; sister, Michelle Starnes Eichler and her husband Milt and their children Morgan and Mason. His parents-in-law, Reg and Jan Newsome, also survive him along with their children and grandchildren: Shawn and Jami Newsome and daughters Lydia and Naomi; Shaynor and Heather Newsome and children Jonathan and Violet; Shanda and Nick Sloan and children Jackson, Katelynn, Megan and Lauren; and Shaelyn Newsome.

A memorial service for Jeff will be Tuesday, November 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Calvary First Baptist Church, Mesquite, TX. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Starnes Memorial Fund: https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/7ZDXT8c19L.

(New Hope Funeral Home)

Jeffrey Jerrod Creecy, BA ’00, died Jan. 10 in Fort Worth at age 39.

Jeff was born on July 22, 1978. He was adopted into the home of Kent and Mary Creecy at the age of three. Jeff was a proud graduate of Kemp High School Class of 1996. He attended Baylor University where he received a Bachelor of Social Work in 2001. While in Waco, he was an active member of the Antioch Community Church International Missions Team. In his professional life, Jeff worked as a social worker in a variety of fields including hospice, long-term care and at-risk youth. He is remembered by friends as a great listener and advisor.

Jeff is preceded in death by his father, Kent Creecy. He is survived by his mother Mary Creecy of Kaufman, sister Trona Jurden and husband Jerry of Wylie, sister Melinda Polk and husband Jimmy of Kaufman, brother Ken and wife Thuy of Allen, nephews Cameron and Micah, nieces Kara, Kaylee, Ellie, Hannah, Lizzy, Molly and Emma. In lieu of gifts or flowers the family would be grateful if you would honor Jeff’s memory with a gift to the Kemp Education Foundation at www.kempeducationfoundation.org or P.O. Box 296, Kemp, TX 75143.

(Parker Ashworth Funeral Home)

Dr. Richard Alan Young, PhD ’01, of Chattanooga, TN, died Jan. 20 at age 73.

Richard Alan Young, 73, passed away unexpectedly on January 20, 2018. He was born in Rochester, NY, on Aug. 17, 1944. Richard was a U.S. Navy veteran and served during the Vietnam era.  He has a PhD from Baylor University in Theology. He was preceded in death by his parents, Geraldine Rodell Young and Kenneth Murchison Young.

Richard is survived by his wife, Laura Dozier Young, and two brothers, Kenneth Young of California and Lawrence Young of Arizona. He will be buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk, Va., and a memorial service may be at a later date.

Please share your memories of Richard with the family at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com. Arrangement are by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, East Chapel, 404 S. Moore Road, East Ridge, Tn. 37412.

(Chattanoogan)

Francine Hemphill Lumbard, MFA ’03, of Waco died Dec. 27 at age 67.

Francine Lumbard died of natural causes on December 27, 2017. A native of Seattle, WA, Fran lived a full life surrounded by her children, theatre, music and laughter. She was a true educator and humanitarian—who believed in the power of education and action to influence positive change in the world. Fran founded the Legal Assistance Project, which sought to improve the lives of our community’s disenfranchised children. She wrote scripts and directed plays—including well-received local productions of Fences, Three Sisters and I Do! I Do! She was also an active member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.

Fran was a highly-educated adventurer who moved from coast to coast across her lifetime. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington, a master’s degree from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Baylor University. Fran lived in Waco, TX and Silvana, WA for 17 years respectively. She also loved living in Austin, where she attended The University of Texas.

Fran is survived by her daughters Ariel Lucia Lumbard and Corinna Marie Lumbard, son Neil Dellacray Lumbard, sister Christine Lidvall, and brothers Peter Hemphill, Frank Hemphill, John Hemphill and James Hemphill. She was predeceased by her husband Keith Lumbard, brother Bill Hemphill and sister Maria Hemphill. A memorial service will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday, January 5, 2018 at Connally-Compton Funeral Home at 4400 W. Waco Drive in Waco, TX. A second memorial service will be held in February in Silvana, WA. The family has asked for donations to the ACLU or American Diabetic Association in lieu of flowers.

(Dignity Memorial)

Chameka Nicole Venelle Scott, BA ’06, of Houston died Jan. 21 at age 33. What made Chameka Scott special wasn’t her basketball career, her national championship, or her stint in the WNBA.

It wasn’t the time she spent working as a performance coach, or the impact she made on roughnecks of all kinds while working on oil rigs, or the successful company she founded and built from the ground up.

It wasn’t her fearless nature, her love of travel, her voracious appetite, her ability to be good at literally everything she did, or her unparalleled napping skills.

It was her smile. Her hugs. Her positivity. Her desire to leave everyone she met in life better off than she found them.

What made Chameka Scott so special was her drive to leave everyone she met -- and every situation she encountered -- better off than they were when she found them.

Chameka Nicole Venelle Scott was born in Houston, Texas on May 9, 1984 to Mario Sr. and Charmaine Scott. She grew up in Friendswood, Texas where she attended schools in the Clear Creek Independent School District (Landolt Elementary, Brookside Intermediate and Clear Brook High School).

Through her school years, Chameka excelled both academically and athletically receiving many awards in various sports such as volleyball, tennis, track and field and basketball. Although Chameka was a talented athlete, basketball effortlessly became her first love. Her love and dedication to the game of basketball would open doors beyond imagination and eventually lay a successful foundation for her professional career. During high school, Chameka received many basketball honors, including MVP of her district. In 2002, Chameka earned a basketball scholarship to Baylor University. At Baylor University, Chameka served as co-captain of the Lady Bears 2005 NCAA National Championship team. Chameka graduated from Baylor University in 2006 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Media Studies. Upon graduation, Chameka would continue her basketball career playing professionally for the WNBA’s Sacramento Monarchs and overseas in the countries of Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria.

Diagnosed with colon cancer July 2015, Chameka refused to wallow in sadness and pity. While most would wonder “why me”, Chameka bravely asked “why not me?” Despite countless surgeries, a partial colon removal, trips to the emergency room, extended hospital stays, radiation and chemotherapy treatments, Chameka’s spirit remained unbroken and positive. She was determined not to let cancer or her health veer her off course. During this time, Chameka worked offshore as professional performance coach for Equilibria and Chevron. And when her disease attempted to sideline her again, Chameka refused and powered ahead forming her own company, Praos Performance, LLC. As CEO of Praos Performance, Chameka worked with top star clients Hilton Hotels, Pacific Drilling, Maersk Training and the NFL’s Super Bowl LI. Cancer would not slow Chameka down. Chameka faced her illness with her positive attitude being more concerned with others than herself. This is one reason she will be missed so much. She had such an impact on the lives of all around her, both before and after she fell ill, that many of you are probably wondering how you will be able to go on without her in your life? The answer to that question is evident in Chameka’s attitude towards life, and even towards death, during her illness. One of her favorite words was the word “faith.” It was her faith and attitude that led her to fight without worry not two and a half months, but two and a half years of beating back her disease three times. And that attitude rubbed off onto others around her. On her last visit to the oncologist she accepted the results of the CT scan with faith and courage stating, “I have accepted my situation. I have made peace with God. I know where I am going and I have nothing to fear.” Chameka went to be with the Lord peacefully on January 21, 2018. (Dignity Memorial)

Joseph Connor Redfearn, BSEd ’08, of Mt. Pleasant, TX, died Dec. 5 at age 32. He was born on January 14, 1985 in Mount Pleasant, TX to Joe Redfearn & Pam (Criscoe) Hollingsworth. He was a member of the Mission Church in Mount Pleasant and served as a missionary in Asia as well as Belize. His football career started in High School with the Mount Pleasant Tigers and then he played for Ole Miss University, Santa Monica College and Baylor University. Connor was an integral part of Legacy Pipe, his father-in-law’s company, and was assisting in the move of the pipe yard from Houston to the Mount Pleasant area. He is survived by his loving wife and precious daughter, Katherine & Ruby Redfearn; father, Joe Redfearn; mother, Pam Hollingsworth; grandfather, James B. Criscoe; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Bill & Cheryl Walker; brother & sister-in-law, Garret & Codie Redfearn; sister & brother-in-law, Catherine & Tom Vanden Berge; niece, Isabella Redfearn, nephew, Carson Vanden Berge; brother-in-law & spouse, Jeff & Traci Spann; niece & nephew, Nolan & Lydia Spann. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Sylvia Criscoe and grandparents, Noble & Syble Redfearn. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:The Ranch PO Box 2167 Mount Pleasant, TX 75456 or accepted at The Mission Church and designated for the Ranch. “Putting God back into the hearts of men and men back into their families”. A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Friday at the Trinity Baptist Church with services to follow at 11:00 AM. Interment will be in the Concord Cemetery in Morris County. (Bates Cooper Sloan Funeral Home)

William Henry Lowrance, of Waco, died Jan. 4 at age 23. A former Baylor student, William Lowrance passed away on Thursday, January 4^th, 2018, after battling T-cell Lymphoma. William had completed his Junior year at Baylor in the Spring of 2017. January 4, 2018, God took William home to be with his father, David Trent Lowrance, Jr. and his grandmother, Mary Fentress Makovy. William Henry Lowrance graduated from Prosper High School in 2012 as one of the top 10 graduates in his class. He received the Presidential Gold Scholarship from Baylor University and began his lifelong dream as a proud Baylor Bear. During the summer of 2014, William was diagnosed with Stage IV T-cell Lymphoma. He received an allogenic stem cell transplant three days after his 21st birthday. Despite complications from his transplant, he returned to Baylor and completed his Junior year. Even though he was taken too soon, he will always be a Baylor Bear. Left to honor and cherish his memories are his mother, Regina Makovy Lowrance; grandparents, Henry Makovy and David and Elizabeth Lowrance; aunts, Melissa Makovy, Elizabeth Makovy and Lynn Murtha and her husband, Patrick Murtha; his cousins, Brittany Cortez and her husband, Stephen, Alessia Burch, Austen Clemons and his wife, Christina, Lindsey Scott and Laney Scott, Jack Murtha, Anne Murtha and Clayton Murtha. A Celebration of Life to honor William will be held Saturday, January 13^th, 2018, at 2:00 pm, at the Lake Shore Funeral Home, located at 5201 Steinbeck Bend Drive in Waco, Texas. (Lake Shore Funeral Home) 

Dylan A. Salas, 19, of Fort Collins, CO, died Jan. 28. He was 19. died Sunday night. A 2016 graduate of Rocky Mountain High School, Dylan was born and raised in Fort Collins. In school and in life, he was an athlete, a leader, and a friend. Dylan was a two-year letterman in Golf at RMHS. He also enjoyed playing soccer for both RMHS and Arsenal as well as basketball with Rocky Mountain Fever. Besides his athletic achievements, Dylan was also part of leadership programs, DECA (Distribute Education Clubs of America) and FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) in high school. He was in Boy Scout Troop 90 and loved going camping with his fellow scouts and dad. He loved people and being around others. Dylan genuinely liked and cared for everyone, with a big heart and without judgment. Dylan was a student and proud fan of Baylor University. He planned to return to Waco in the fall. He loved to attend Bears sporting events and enjoyed the warm Texas weather. Dylan loved to play golf especially enjoying sunsets at the course with his dad and papa Max. Those who knew Dylan can remember him each time they tee up, and every time they admire a beautiful sunset as if playing a round with Dylan. Dylan is survived by his parents, Ron and Christina Salas; sister, Emma Salas; paternal grandparents, Max Salas, Maricela Vasquez, Pam Salas, and Vickie Salas; maternal grandparents, John and Shirley Rael; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Visitation and viewing from 5-7 pm Thursday, February 1st and 4-6 pm Friday, February 2nd at Goes Funeral Care in Fort Collins; Memorial Service at 10 am Saturday, February 3rd at Timberline Church in Fort Collins, a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please make checks out to Christina and Ron Salas which will be deposited to The Dylan Salas Memorial Golf Scholarship Fund. Please visit www.goesfuneralcare.com to share memories and condolences.

(Published in The Coloradoan)

Faculty, Staff and Friends

Ruth Collins Sharp Altshuler died December 8 at 93. 

Ruth Collins Sharp Altshuler, pillar of charitable and civic efforts in Dallas, died December 8 at UT Southwestern Medical Center after suffering complications from a hip fracture. She was 93. Her father, Carr P. Collins, founded Fidelity Union Life Insurance and reshaped the 1950s Dallas skyline with the construction of the company's headquarters. Her brother Jim Collins was a powerful U.S. Congressman who represented Dallas from 1968 to 1983. Her sister-in-law Calvert Collins was the first woman elected to the Dallas City Council. But it was Ruth Altshuler, the twice-widowed mother of three, who left an indelible imprint on the soul of her beloved city.

Born March 10, 1924, Ruth was raised in a stately home on Swiss Avenue. After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School she attended Southern Methodist University. Her junior year, Ruth married Lt. Bleecker P. Seaman Jr., a Naval Academy graduate. Eighteen months after they wed, Bleecker died when his plane was shot down over Tokyo. In 1947, she married Charles Sharp, a naval officer who later became an executive with Fidelity Union. They had three children, Sally, Stanton, and Susan. In 1956, Charles was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Ruth stoically cared for him until his death 28 years later. In 1987, she married Dr. Kenneth Altshuler, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at UT Southwestern Medical Center. They enjoyed a long marriage filled with happiness and humor, celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary just two days before she died.

Ruth was one of the most tireless and effective volunteers and civic leaders Dallas has ever seen. Through her decades of philanthropic work, she raised millions for area charities. Dallas is known as the "Can-do City." But Ruth helped make sure that those who could did. Her civic mandate, issued with an extended index finger, was, "Do it!" And they always did. Upon her death, Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings said, "What she did for this city can never be fully comprehended," and called her, "one of the strongest people in Dallas' history." Ruth contributed to the Dallas community in countless ways. At 88, she agreed to accept the daunting task of organizing the city's ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. She pulled it off in stunning fashion. She hosted annual food drives in her driveway to benefit organizations including the North Texas Food Bank, bought air-conditioners for local shut-ins, and helped raise more than $600,000 for the children of J.D. Tippit, the Dallas police officer shot by Lee Harvey Oswald just hours after JFK's assassination.

Ruth's commitment to helping others can be traced to her philanthropic parents and her membership in the Dallas Junior League. In the 1950s, as a new member of the league, she toured facilities like Parkland Hospital, the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and the Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind. "It was as if I walked through a door into a whole new world," she said. "Once I saw what needed to be done out there, I've never been comfortable since." On September 6, 2017, more than 1,200 people gave Ruth a standing ovation at a United Way luncheon in her honor. Ruth told the crowd about her defining upbringing. In 1918, her father stood in front of the congregation of First Baptist Dallas and pledged $5,000 to the church. "Mother was just gasping," Ruth said. "She was crying all the way home on the streetcar. 'Where are you going to get that kind of money? We don't have a dime!' My father said, 'I'm going to go to the bank tomorrow and borrow it.' I was brought up in a home where your father would go to the bank to borrow money to give to the church."

In addition to raising millions of dollars, Ruth donated millions of her own. She served as chairs of both the Carr P. Collins Foundation and the Sharp Foundation. She helped SMU's students by creating the innovative Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center and helped recognize the university's outstanding faculty by establishing the Altshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor Award. The Ruth Collins Sharp Drama Building in the Meadows School of the Arts was named in her honor. For nearly 50 years she served as an SMU trustee and was the university's first female board chair. Ruth's lifetime of service was filled with many firsts. She was the first woman to serve on a grand jury in Dallas, the one that indicted Jack Ruby for killing Lee Harvey Oswald. She was the first woman on the board of First Republic Bank of Dallas. She was the first woman elected Chairman of the Executive Board of Highland Park United Methodist Church, and first female Chairman of the Board of the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. She was the first lifetime member elected to the National Salvation Army Advisory Board, and was a founding board member of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. She was also the first woman to serve as a board member of the Salvation Army of Dallas, Goodwill Industries, and the Dallas Citizens Council. Ruth founded the Dallas chapter of the United Way's Alexis de Tocqueville Society. She co-founded the Dallas Children's Advocacy Center, was president of the Junior League of Dallas, president of the Visiting Nurses Association, vice-chair of the Southwestern Medical Foundation, and a life trustee of the Hockaday School. She was a board member and lifelong champion of the Dallas Summer Musicals. She served as chair of the Communities Foundation of Texas, KERA, and the Salvation Army of Dallas. She served on the Board of Visitors of UT Southwestern Medical Center. President George W. Bush appointed Ruth to the Library of Congress Trust and she served on the board of the Laura Bush Foundation for America's Libraries. Upon her death, the President and former First Lady remarked, "Ruth taught us the lessons of philanthropy, service, and friendship. She was charming, humble, talented, generous, and funny. We loved being with her, and we will miss her." In 2004, Secretary of State Colin Powell named her to the United States Commission to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). In 2011, she became the first person in the U.S. to receive all three national service honors the Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year Award from the National Society of Fundraising Executives, the national Alexis de Tocqueville Award of the United Way of America, and the Distinguished Service Award given by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges. She was one of three life members of the Salvation Army's National Advisory Board.

Ruth had a remarkable way of being poignant and funny at the same time and loved to tell tales about herself. Quick-witted and spontaneous, she once began a speaking engagement by saying, "I have been sitting on this dais between Jenny Craig and Miss America, and I've been buttering my bread under the table." Her accounts of her job at a tuna cannery during WW II sounded like an episode of "I Love Lucy". She told the Dallas Morning News about working night shifts for Delta Air Lines after the death of her first husband. She flagged in planes, told baggage handlers how many pieces of luggage to load, and went over weather reports with pilots. "One day, I was sitting at the Teletype machine when it came across: 'Atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima today.' I tossed it aside and said, 'Get that out of here. I need the weather report for Shreveport!' Ruth dedicated her long life to serving others and inspired others to do the same. Toward the end of her life she ended every speech with her favorite quote by Albert Schweitzer, "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing."

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Carr P. Collins, and brothers, Jim Collins and Carr P. Collins Jr. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Kenneth Altshuler of Dallas; her daughter Sally Sharp Harris and Sally's husband, Fred Harris, of Great Barrington, Mass.; her son, Charles Stanton Sharp Jr. of Dallas; her daughter Susan Sharp and Susan's husband, Jason Weisman, of Dallas; six grandchildren, Elena Jacobson, Lucas Jacobson, Peter Jacobson, Michelle McAdam, Carr McAdam, and Chance McAdam; and two great-grandchildren, Nico de Leonardis, and Quinn Jacobson. Ruth's memorial service was held on December 14 at Highland Park United Methodist Church. Donations can be made to the Salvation Army or the charity of your choice. salvationarmydfw.org.

(Published in Dallas Morning News)

Darlene Bedford Benson of Waco died Nov. 15 at the age of 67.

Darlene Bedford Benson, of Waco, a Baylor 1845 Lifetime member, died Nov. 15. She was 67. She grew up valuing education, family, and God above all else. She and her husband, Dr. L.W. Benson, instilled these values into their home full of children. She transitioned to glory on November 15, 2017 at the age of 67. She is survived by so many who have loved her and have truly appreciated her love for them including her husband, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Public viewing and flowers can be delivered to Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, 6101 Bosque Boulevard, Waco, TX, from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 1. The Celebration of Life Service will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 2 at Greater New Light Missionary Baptist Church, 925 N. 18th Street, Waco, TX. Interment will be at Mt. Zion Cemetery, Caldwell, TX. Go to www.alcbf.com for greater information. Darlene's family has selected Dr. Barry J.W. "The Shepherd" Franklin, CFSP at A Life Celebration by Franklin in Taylor, TX, to fulfill her final earthly celebration with great excellence.

Yvonne Franklin of Amarillo, TX died Dec. 12 at age 97.

Yvonne Franklin, NONA, of Amarillo, TX died Dec. 12 at age 97. Yvonne J. Franklin, 97, died Tuesday, December 12, 2017. Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 16, 2017, at First Baptist Church with Dr. Howard K. Batson officiating. Private burial will be in Llano Cemetery by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Born on December 23, 1919, in Melrose, Alabama, Yvonne was one of seven children born to Benjamin and Zeddie Jones. She graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1938, and attended Amarillo College and then New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico. While attending NMSU, she met Lt. Willis Bennett (Bill) Hunt, who was a pilot stationed with the 120th Observation Squadron at Biggs Field in El Paso, Texas. Yvonne and Bill were married on August 28, 1941. Six weeks later, Bill was killed in a plane crash during a training mission near White Sands, New Mexico. Yvonne stayed at Biggs Field working as a stenographer, an aircraft dispatcher and as assistant manager of El Paso Municipal Airport during WWII. She also logged over 50 hours as a pilot but couldn't qualify for her license because she didn't weigh enough! After WWII ended, Yvonne moved to Washington D.C. where she worked in the United States Department of the Navy until 1950.

Upon returning to Amarillo in 1950, Yvonne worked as a secretary for Rip Underwood in the First National Bank Building. It didn't take long for her to get noticed by the eligible bachelors working at the bank. In short order, Robert McCartt asked his friend, James Franklin, to find out who she was and whether she'd be interested in going on a date. As good friends do, Mr. Franklin did what he was asked but he failed to ever report back to Mr. McCartt. Instead, James Franklin, who was working as an auditor at the bank, decided to start walking Yvonne home each day and before long, the two were married on August 23, 1951. James and Yvonne had two daughters, Ann Franklin Austin and Jane Franklin Austin and were married for 58 years until Mr. Franklin's death on April 29, 2009.

Yvonne loved the Texas Panhandle and its people and served in many civic capacities. She served on the Wayland Baptist University Board of Trustees for twelve years and was a loyal supporter of Wayland's concert series and music programs. Mrs. Franklin also served as the President of the Amarillo Symphony Guild and as President of the Amarillo Symphony Board. She also was a member of the Southwestern Hospitality Board of the Metropolitan Opera of New York City in the 1970's. She was a Baylor 1845 Lifetime member.

As a couple, James and Yvonne were active members at First Baptist Church in Amarillo where she helped teach in the Second Grade department for nearly 45 years. In addition to her love for classical music, Yvonne was very interested in history and, as a result, spent much of her time putting various books together about the history of First Baptist Church, the history of the family ranch in Gray County, the history of both sides of her family, as well as several cookbooks which she liked to give away to family and friends.

Whether it was serving her famous fried chicken, having her grandchildren spend the night on the front porch of the ranch Pool House, or going parasailing in the Bahamas when she was almost 80, Yvonne was fun and loved her family - something she showed every chance she had.

The family wishes to thank all the kind people at BSA Hospice and the Ware Living Center for the love and care shown to Yvonne over the last several years.

Yvonne is preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin Robert Jones and Zeddie Turner Jones; six siblings, Troy Franklin Jones, Paul Newton Jones, Benjamin Robert Jones, Jr. ("B.R."), Freda Grace Caballero, Wanda Louise Burke and Gary Roger Jones; her first husband, Willis Bennett (Bill) Hunt, and her second husband of 58 years, James B. Franklin.

Survivors include her two daughters, Ann and husband Jim Austin; Jane and husband, Dr. Steve Austin, all of Amarillo; five grandchildren, Olivia Mijares and husband Ruben, of Houston; James Austin and wife Lauren, Luke Austin and wife Meredith, all of Amarillo; Tripp Austin and wife, Molly, of Dallas and Liesl Everett, of Amarillo; thirteen great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, December 15th from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Home located at 2800 Paramount Blvd. and suggests memorials be made to the Music Ministry of First Baptist Church of Amarillo, 1208 Tyler, Amarillo, Texas 79101 or to the James B. and Yvonne Franklin Scholarship, in care of the Amarillo College Foundation, P.O. Box 447, Amarillo, Texas 79178. Sign the online guestbook at www.boxwellbrothers.com. (Amarillo Globe News)

Charles Benjamin Graves Jr., age 91, of Austin, Texas passed away on January 27, 2018.

Born in Houston, Texas on October 22, 1926 to Charles Benjamin Graves, Sr. and Lucille Phipps Graves, he is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Ruth Graves Dill, his wife Nancy Grace Nichols Graves in 1968, his wife Darlene Graves in 2009, and his wife Francis Graves in 2015. His love for God, family, friends and country was exemplified in all he did as he spent his life serving God, serving others, and serving his country. Charles was a man of character, conviction and great integrity. His positive approach to life, contagious smile, bright blue eyes, and sense of humor were just some of the ways he exhibited his joy in Jesus Christ. He never met a stranger and was known to the end for boldly sharing his deep faith and love in Christ. An incredible encourager, protector and believer that God has a plan for our lives, he had a heart of gold, consistently displaying unconditional love and forgiveness for those blessed enough to know him. Widowed when his children were quite young, he clung steadfastly to the prayer he and their mother prayed. It was their hope that one of them would be present to see all five of their children follow Christ. He provided all five the love, support and courage to build and grow their own families and careers.

His dream was to see all of his children and fourteen grandchildren graduate from college, going so far as to set aside funds so that college was a possibility for all. US Army Colonel Charles Graves enlisted at seventeen years of age and proudly served in Korea, Germany, and Japan. As a member of the Army Corp of Engineers, he helped design and rebuild bridges in Japan after World War II. A highlight of his life was touring Washington D.C. on the Honor Flight with other WWII and Korean War veterans during the spring of 2016. Following graduation from Oregon State University, Charles Graves continued his career as a civil engineer for the City of Texarkana, Portland Cement Association, City of Austin, Cunningham Graves Engineers and Austin Spectrum. He built many friendships in the professional engineering community and served as a consultant for many after retirement. Charles was an active church member all of his life and was extremely devoted as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, and Chairman of Deacons at Hyde Park Baptist Church and as a founding member of Austin Baptist Church. He was a Baylor Alumnus By Choice. The experiences and friendships he established have always been meaningful to him as he found purpose and hope through his church family. Charles authored and published his first book after his wife, Nancy, died, When Tragedy Strikes. Many people were comforted as he shared his experiences in writing. A second book, Resolve It, was written to encourage others in various stages of life. He had such a heart for helping others. His words, both written and spoken, will forever leave a legacy to those who knew and loved him.

Charles Graves is survived by his five children, Marcia Graves Brown (Steve), Chip Graves (Cindy), Maurine Graves Richter (Rick), Nancy Graves Linder (fiance, Allen McCurdy) and Carolyn Graves Martinez (Eddie); beloved brother, Dick Graves (Jan); fourteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and numerous friends and relatives. Along with all of our extended family and friends, we will miss him, but we will see him on the other side. Isaiah 41:10 The family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, January 31, 2018, at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 1, 2018, at Austin Baptist Church, 7016 Ribelin Ranch Drive, Austin, Texas 78750. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Charles's name may be directed to Austin Baptist Church, the Charles B., Jr. and Darlene L. Graves/George W. truett Theological Seminary Endowed Scholarship Fund, or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be left at www.cookwaldenforestoaks.com.

(Published in Austin American-Statesman)

Christeen Elizabeth “Pooh” Hixson, 93, passed away November 10, 2017 in Lake Charles, LA.

She was born in Elizabeth City, NC and lived in Lake Charles since 1945. She was a member of the 1st Baptist Church of Lake Charles, where she taught Sunday school for 35 years. She was also a member of the Enterprise Club for 30 years, served for the Memorial Auxiliary for 30 years, having completed over 500 hours, served with the Red Cross in 1942 during WW ll. She was an avid bridge player. She was affectionately known as “Pooh” by her family and friends, a name her son gave her. Pooh was also known for her tasty dishes she would cook for family and friends. She was named a Baylor Legacy Legend in 2010.

She is survived by her sons, John Hixson and wife Sheila, of Lake Charles; Paul Hixson and wife, Sandy of Sulphur; daughter, Mary Elizabeth Hixson of Falmouth, MA; grandchildren, Lodden Harp and husband, Dakota; Lauren Phillips and husband, Grant; Meggie Hixson; Emma Hixson; Christie Gorrell and husband, Todd; Josh Pinhack and wife, Raina. She is preceded in death by her husband, John Carroll Hixson, Sr. and son, Robert Hixson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home or Louisiana College. Funeral Services will be Sunday, November 12, 2017 at 2pm. Visitation will begin at 12 noon until time of service at Hixson Funeral Home of Lake Charles. Burial will follow at Consolata Cemetery. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com.

(Dignity Memorial)

Anna Mae Collier Marshall, just shy of 100 yrs, passed away December 25, 2017.

Anna Mae Collier Marshall, just shy of 100 yrs, went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 25, 2017 at The Plaza at Edgemere, a caring and loving assisted living community in Dallas, Texas. On March 12, 1918 Anna was born in Barsola, Texas to Walter Lee and Ollie Smith. She was one of five children. Anna was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Ollie (Hollis) Smith; her husband of 45 years, Hershel Frazier "Red" Collie; brothers Herman, Coy and Travis "Cooter" Smith; her daughter, Sue Collier Daniel; her husband, Fax Coleman Marshall and his son, Richard Coleman Marshall. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by her sister, Pauline Smith Hayes (Gene); her daughters, Anita Collier Jones and Lynda Smith Collier, both of Dallas; her four grandchildren, Craig Collier Daniel (Rob Delameter), Susanna Daniel, Lee Anna Jones Lackey (Brandon) and Leisa Jones Winters (Jimmy); and seven great-grandchildren, Nathan, Jacob and Luke Lackey, MacKenzie and Maci Winters, August and Lewis Daniel Stewart; and Fax Marshall's daughters, Amanda Marshall Bean and Jan Marshall Dove.

Anna has been an active member of Park Cities Baptist Church, Dallas, Green Acres Baptist Church Tyler, and First Baptist Church, Henderson. She served the First Baptist Church of Henderson as Financial Secretary after retiring as Assistant Cashier of Republic Bank, Henderson. Henderson is where she raised her family and was active in the community. She enjoyed teaching children in Sunday School and loved her professional and volunteer work. Due to Anna's youthful appearance, "here come the Collier girls", was a comment often heard when referring to Anna and her daughters. Anyone who knew Anna would know she was an amazing seamstress. Her three daughters and granddaughters took pride in the beautiful couture collection of clothing that she made for all of them. The family would like to than the nurses and staff at The Plaza at Edgemere in Dallas for their tender care of "our Nana" over the last 13 years. A home of warmth and affection was provided on a daily basis.

A memorial service will be held January 9,10:30 A.M. at the First Baptist Church, Alto, Texas. This is the church that Anna Mae's father, Papa Smith, helped build in 1924 and where her parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Memorial donations may be given: First Baptist Church, Henderson, Texas; First Baptist Church, Alto, Texas and the American Cancer Society.

(Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Thomas Z. Parrish of Waco died Jan. 15 at age 98.

 Thomas Z. "Tom" Parrish died in Waco on January 15, 2018 at the age of 98. A service commemorating his long life will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 20, at First Baptist Church, Waco, The Rev. Matt Snowden officiating. A visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, January 19, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home in Waco.

Parrish was born September 6, 1919, in Moscow, Texas. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University and served as a teacher and superintendent of schools in his hometown before joining the U.S. Navy on his 22nd birthday. Expecting to be a part of the U.S. efforts to ship supplies across the Atlantic to sustain England, he was instead sent to the Pacific, where on December 7, 1941, he served as a 3rd-class storekeeper aboard the USS Vestal, a repair ship berthed alongside the USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. After Pearl Harbor, Parrish was assigned to Naval Intelligence, analyzing reports from across the Pacific Theater. Wanting to do more than read about the war, he requested reassignment and was attached to the U.S. Marines as a forward observer, coordinating carrier-based airstrikes on islands across the Central, South and Southwest Pacific. Altogether he made five amphibious beach landings, including Iwo Jima. When the war concluded, Parrish was assigned to the occupational forces in Hiroshima, Japan, where he spent six months as a medical corpsman and became known as "Hershey Joe" for giving the children chocolate. Through 51 months of combat duty, he was promoted to ensign, Lieutenant junior grade and Lieutenant. After his discharge, Parrish enrolled in the University of Texas School of Law. He practiced law in Plainview, Texas, for two years before entering Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. While there he noticed a student from North Carolina, Frances "Emmy" Thomas, working at the campus snack bar. After she made him a milkshake, he immediately declared she would be the woman he married. The couple spent 62 years together, Emmy dying two years and one day before her husband. Parrish pastored Baptist churches in Oklahoma for two years before becoming legal counsel and then vice president for development at Wayland Baptist College in Plainview.

After eight years at Wayland, he moved to Baylor University where he spent 22 years, retiring in 1985 as vice president for development emeritus. During his Baylor career, Parrish headed fundraising efforts that renovated and erected many of the campus' buildings. He was instrumental in the creation of Student Foundation, the Heritage Club, the Development Council, and Baylor Parents League. After his retirement, Parrish worked as a development consultant for numerous higher education and benevolent institutions, including Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center, which honored him with its Distinguished Service Award. Parrish spent many years teaching a Sunday school class at First Baptist, Waco, and regularly preached in nursing homes and jails.

A popular speaker, Parrish regularly addressed Waco-area service clubs on an array of topics, especially U.S. history and American literature. A passionate learner and book lover, his personal library contained thousands of volumes, all of which he'd read and enjoyed discussing. He authored several professional publications on education and fundraising, as well as a book on the Civil War, The Saga of the Confederate Ram Arkansas: The Mississippi Valley Campaign, 1862. He was a member of the Texas Bar Association and the Rotary Club, and was also a Master Mason AF, AM, honored for 75 years of membership. He served on the boards of the United Way, the Heart O' Texas Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Keep Waco Beautiful and the Waco-McLennan County Library.

Parrish is survived by his sons, Mike Parrish and wife, Julibeth, and Maxey Parrish and wife, Susanne, all of Waco; his grandchildren, Annabeth Parrish and fiancé, Mickey Kosarek, Mary Parrish-Iles and husband, Herman Iles, and Ted Parrish. The family expresses its heartfelt gratitude to caregivers, Stacy Williams and D'Ann Martin, and the compassionate staffs of Providence Hospice and The Brazos of Waco.

Memorials may be made to the Tom Z. and Frances E. Parrish Endowed Scholarship Fund at Baylor University, One Bear Place #97050, Waco, TX 76798, or a charity of your choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.

(Waco Tribune-Herald) 

Dr. Tom Proctor, 74,  passed away on November 13, 2017, in Waco.

Dr. Tom Proctor, 74, professor emeritus of educational psychology in the School of Education passed away on November 13, 2017, at his home in Waco. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, November 18, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. The Rev. David Story will officiate. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 17, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home.

Tom was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa. He attended Dowling Catholic High School. He trained in the Catholic seminary at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, where he earned his bachelor's degree, but ultimately decided not to pursue a career as a priest. He served as a student chaplain at a hospital in Kansas and then at the Kansas Neurological Institute. He then taught math to adolescents at Topeka State Hospital while earning his master's in special education and doctorate in educational psychology from the University of Kansas.

His first and only job after earning his doctorate was at Baylor University, where he worked for 30 years training teachers to work with children with special needs. He trained his students at the Baylor Learning Lab, and later at Hillcrest Professional Development school, where his wife, Marlene, also worked. Tom most aspired to be non-judgmental in his approach to others and taught his students to be mindful that "everyone's doing the best they can to feel good about themselves." Tom enjoyed fishing, spending time on their houseboat, grilling, reading, watching football (especially Baylor), and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and friends. Most of all he loved spending time with the love of his life, Marlene, from whom he was rarely apart during their 47 years of marriage.

Tom's father, James V.; and mother, Mary, preceded him in death. He is survived by his brother, James C.; wife, Marlene; son, Tim and wife, Lara; son, Tony and wife, Ashley; and five grandchildren, Ethan, Adam, River, Dylan, and Sawyer. Special thanks to Dr. Gary Barbin, Hospice caretakers Jake Flores and Jessica Jones, and Visiting Angels' Shana Scott and Ursula Brooks for the care they provided Tom. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Caritas of Waco. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.

(Waco Tribune-Herald)

Angela Lee “Angie” Taylor died in Santa Fe, NM, on Nov. 8 at the age of 52.

Angela Lee “Angie” Taylor, formerly of Dixon, Dixon, IL, died in Santa Fe, NM, on Nov. 8. Taylor, a part-time lecturer at Baylor, was 52. A beloved daughter and sister, a cherished friend, an animal lover, a devoted Christian, and a lifelong advocate for the Deaf community, Angie passed away from an aggressive form of ovarian cancer. She grew up in Dixon, where she attended several local public schools. At the time, sign language was not permitted at school. Angie’s family worked tirelessly with her at home to ensure she could speak, a rarity for Deaf children, read lips, and knew the basics of American Sign Language. At the age of 12, Angie transferred to Illinois School for the Deaf in Jacksonville. She thrived in the Deaf community and strongly felt that attending ISD forever altered the course of her life. She was a cheerleader, played field hockey, and made lifelong friends. Angie went on to attend Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation – recreational therapy, and later attained a master’s degree in sign language education, also from Gallaudet. She co-authored the book “Signing for Dummies,” which was published in 2003, and remains in print today. 

Angie lived in Washington, D.C. for a number of years, and worked at Family Service Foundation Inc. She also spent several years living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she worked at Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind. There she worked as both a sign language consultant and as an interpreting services coordinator, while serving as an adjunct professor at Pikes Peak Community College. Angie later taught Deaf Culture and Advanced American Sign Language at Moraine Valley Community College in Illinois. Before her death, she was serving as both an assistant professor at McLennan Community College, and as an adjunct professor at Baylor University, both in Waco.

For the last 6 months, Angie has been spending time in Houston, receiving treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Angie absolutely loved Houston, and while her cancer was painful, she still enjoyed her stay in the city. She would check into hotels with her mother, Virginia, and sister, Laura, order room service, partake of the city’s restaurants, and take short walks. Angie was on vacation in Santa Fe when her cancer took over. She was admitted to hospice at CHRISTUS St. Vincent Hospital, and 8 days later, after being blessed by the Archbishop of Santa Fe, she passed peacefully with Virginia, Laura, and her beloved dog, Isaiah, by her side. Angie was deeply loved and will be terribly missed.

She is survived by her mother, Virginia Taylor, and father, Robert “Bob” Taylor of Dixon; her brother, Rob (Heather) Taylor of Polo; and sister, Laura Taylor of Austin, Texas. She also is survived by nieces, Peyton and Parker Taylor of Polo, and Hailey Lillyman of Virginia Beach, Virginia. She leaves several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends in both the hearing and Deaf communities. She was preceded in death by grandparents, most recently Lois B. Fryman, and aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of life to honor Angie will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Bethel Evangelical Congregational Church in Dixon.