In Memoriam: 1970s
Col. (Ret.) McLain Garfield Garrett Jr., MHA ’70, peacefully transitioned from earth to glory at home on March 31, 2020, with family by his side. Known as Mac to all, he was a loving and much-loved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor to many. One of four children, Mac was born on August 29, 1934 to the Late Reverend McLain Garrett and wife, Everlena Meachum, in Birmingham Alabama. He attended Florida A&M University where he participated in the Reserve Officer Training Corps, initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Beta Nu), and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Medicine. He received his Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Baylor University. He was commissioned in the United States Army in 1956 and served for 30 years. During his distinguished career, he was among the Army’s first African American helicopter pilots in the Medical Service Corps. He was a Dust- off helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, flying over 606 hours and evacuating over 1235 patients. He later became a Health Care Administrator and was a Commander or Deputy Commander of five hospitals with duty assignments to include Belgium and Germany (Nuremberg and Mannheim), as well as Fort Jackson, South Carolina. His many military awards and decorations include: the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/ 2 bronze service stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, Senior Army Aviator Badge, Army Commendation Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Combat Medical Badge. Following military retirement, Mac accepted a position at Howard University in Washington D.C. as Director of the Student Health Center. Never one for down time, he was a Surveyor for the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Hospital Organizations (JCAHO) for over 30 years. He was also a Fellow of the American College of Health Executives (FACHE). Mac was a faithful member of the Gift Chapel on Fort Sam Houston. He was a lifelong avid golfer (who honed a deadly short game in order to avoid the humiliation of buying hot dogs and beer). He is survived by his children Craig Smith, Carl Smith (Erika), Rhonda Greene, McLain Garrett III (Germaine), Dr. Janice Miller, and Mark Garrett (Lynn); grandchildren: Cameron Smith, Colin and Corbin Smith, Evan, Travis and Jacob Miller, Emerald Brewer Murray (Sean), Trinity Garrett, McLain Garrett IV, Kieran and Quinn Garrett. He leaves one brother Emmanuel G. Garrett and wife Dr. Glenda Garrett and devoted friend, Ms. Carolyn Foster, as well as cousins, nieces, nephews and loving friends. In addition to his parents, Mac was preceded in death by his loving wife, Jean (Richardson) Garrett in 2006, and his sisters Audrey Jewel Garrett-Jones and Patsy Marie Garrett Sissle. Memorial service will be held at a later date.
Sally Lindsey Melzer, BSHE ’70, of Midland, TX, passed into the Lord’s hands on February 19, 2020 just two days after a day of phone calls with her beloved sons and granddaughters on her 73rd birthday. She was an inspiration to all she encountered on her walk of life with Steve, her husband of 51 years. She was born to Jess and Ann Lindsey in Shreveport but very quickly moved to Midland with her older brother George where she resided all but 10 years of her life. She graduated from Midland High School in 1965 and Baylor University in 1970, two years after marrying Steve while living in Albuquerque where both her sons, Scott and Mike were born. The family moved back “home” to Midland in 1978 to be surrounded by family and embarked on her wonderful journey through life reaching the hearts of all she touched. She loved her granddaughters more than anything else. She loved hosting them for the holidays and traveling to see them on their birthdays. Most of all she relished in planning the family trips to many destinations where Lindsey, Taylor, Ellie (Scott and wife Audrey of South Carolina), Maggie and Sophie (Mike and wife Debbie of The Woodlands) graced her pleasure. Those are the memories etched in the minds of those she left behind. With Steve and wonderful friends by her side, they traveled the U.S. and world to experience the many joys of other cultures and peoples. Steve called her the “Will Rogers of Shopping”; she never met a shop she didn’t like. There never was a down time with her, she loved volunteering at Manor Park where she used her marvelous homemaking skills for the enjoyment of others. She loved her 40 years of her cherished bridge group and, more recently, her book club. She just returned from two trips, most recently to see her Dad’s family in Arkansas and over the Christmas holidays to the Holy Lands to see where Jesus changed our lives those two centuries ago. Now she is witnessing the wonders of heaven in his presence..The family expresses our thanks to the staff at Midland Memorial Hospital where they tried valiantly to get her past the sudden heart attack that took her from this life. Memorials can be directed, the 1st Presbyterian Church of Midland, Larry and Dorothy Melzer Endowment for Physician Recruitment Fund at Midland Memorial Hospital or the charity of your choice. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, February 21, 2020 from 5:00PM-7:00PM at The Branch at npw, 3800 N. Big Spring, St., Midland. Celebration of her life will be on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at First Presbyterian Church at 2:00PM. A reception at the Church will follow. Private family burial will be held at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.
Ron Adams, BA ’71, was born on Tuesday, March 8, 1949 in Waco, Texas, the son of Charles Paul and Ella Mae (Breitkreutz) Adams. He died on Monday, November 4, 2019 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was 70 years of age. Ron earned a Masters in Hospital Administration and worked as a consultant in the Healthcare industry. He married the former Miss Betty Ann Morrison. He was a member of Aspen Park Baptist Church in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Memorials may be made to Aspen Park Baptist Church Missions Fund at 4400 S. Aspen Ave., Broken Arrow, OK 74011. Ron is survived by, Wife, Betty Ann Adams, Tulsa, OK
Daughters, Marion Adams, Broken Arrow, OK, Nina Adams, Broken Arrow, OK, Son, Christian Adams, San Diego, CA, Grandchildren, Elizabeth Herzog, Madison Herzog, Mazzie Demkowich, Cash Tidwell, and Pepper Rose Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Dr. Billy Ray Austin, MA ’71, PhD ’77, left the tabernacle of flesh he had occupied for 88 years and put on the new body promised by Christ (2 Corinthians 5:1-4) on April 17. He was born to Gilbert Wayne and Lola Ellis Austin in O’Brien, Texas who raised five children during the Great Depression and WWII in Abilene where he attended public schools and Hardin Simmons University. Dr. Austin received his Bachelor of Science at Hardin-Simmons University in 1957, and an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Hardin-Simmons University in 1975. He earned the Master of Arts in 1971 and the Doctor of Philosophy in 1977 from Baylor University. He loved education, both as a student and teacher. He taught at Hardin-Simmons University, Temple Junior College and served as Chaplain at Baylor University. However, he always said the best thing he ever got from school was his wife, Margaret Heath of Levelland, whom he met at Hardin-Simmons. They were married August 7, 1950 and had two children, Randy and Terri, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Bill and Margie loved taking his children and grandchildren fishing, his favorite outdoor sport. But, he had many other interests such as writing and painting. He published fifteen books in several languages, including Austin’s Topical History of Christianity, many articles and essays. His interest in art began at a very early age and he painted off and on all his life, mainly self-taught and working with oils. After retirement, he returned to the easel almost full-time and began painting commissioned works. The past eight years of his life, he painted portraits of his great-grandchildren and had them printed into Christmas cards which he sent to hundreds of friends, relatives and loved ones. Although he had many interests, his greatest calling was to the pulpit. He was converted and baptized at the age of nine, surrendered to the ministry at age twelve and was preaching youth revivals throughout west Texas by the time he was fifteen. He was called to his first pastorate at the age of eighteen. He pastored a number of churches during his life-long ministry including; First Baptist Church, Waxahachie, First Baptist Church, Vernon, First Baptist Church, Nacogdoches, University Baptist Church, Abilene, First Baptist Church, Ponca City, Oklahoma, and First Baptist Church, Palo Alto, California. In Waco, he pastored Calvary Baptist Church and Park Lake Drive Baptist Church. As his life interests were many and varied, so were his pastoral ministries. He felt at home with all faith groups and preached in many different denominations. In retirement years, he was pastor of Mooreville Methodist Church and assistant pastor of Woodway First United Methodist Church. He was especially proud of receiving the Bishop’s award for excellence in ecumenical ministry in the Central Texas United Methodist Conference. Dr. Austin was preceded in death by his father and mother, his oldest brother Wayne and his sister Peggy. He is survived by two brothers Hubert and Roy, his beloved wife Margie, son, Randy Austin and wife Dara of North Richland Hills and daughter, Terri McKee and husband Mark of Hewitt; four grandchildren, Amanda Austin and Kyle Austin, Allyson McKee McNeill and Colt McKee; eight great-grandchildren, Martha Jean and Arthur Vance Austin, Jay and Maggie McNeill, Emily, Hank, Johnny and Scotty McKee. Due to ongoing social restrictions, a private burial service will be held and the family will schedule a service of celebration of life in the near future. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.
Col. Bobby King Helton, MHA ’71, of Springdale, AR, died February 18, 2020, at the age of 85. Bob was born in Canadian, Texas on September 27, 1934 to Thomas and Alice Bell Helton of Gageby, Texas. After graduating in 1953 from Wheeler High School, Bob married his high school sweetheart Lavada Jeanette Hogan. Together they moved to Lubbock Texas where Bob earned an undergraduate degree in Agriculture and a Master of Education from Texas Tech University. Following his graduation, Bob was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army Medical Service Corp. During his distinguished career, Bob served two tours in Vietnam earning the Legion of Merit and two Bronze Star Medals. As a Captain, Bob obtained a Master in Hospital Administration from Baylor University in 1969. He served his country for 28 years, retiring August 31, 1987. For his second career, Bob worked as a hospital administrator with his beloved Texas Tech University. Upon his second retirement in 2001, he and Lavada relocated to Marble Falls, Texas to be near family. Bob enjoyed the outdoors and as a master gardener could often be found outside tending to his beloved roses and his garden. He was also a skilled woodworker, although he will most fondly be remembered for his unskilled results. His family will joyfully remember him as a failed pool boy and strong financial supporter of the quilting industry through his wife Lavada. Bob's true passion, however, was serving Christ. He was a Deacon at First Baptist Church Marble Falls, an active member of Gideon's International, and an avid volunteer of many charitable organizations. But nowhere was his strength as a Christian more self-evident than in his stewardship as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a warrior of God, Country, and Family. Bob is survived by his daughter Sharla Boles and husband Rodney, sons Steven and wife Stacy; Mike Helton and wife Connie; seven grandchildren, Lauren Hepler, Jillian Boles, Jennifer Helton, Bailey Helton, Megan Helton, Jacob Helton, and Jaclyn Helton and two great-grandchildren Graham and Liam Hepler. He also leaves a sister, Joyce Smith and brother, Jack Helton. Bob was preceded in death by his wife Lavada and brothers Thomas and Bill. Bob Helton, loving and much loved, made a difference in this world and he will be missed greatly by his family and many dear friends. Visitation is scheduled between 9 a.m.-6 p.m., February 21, 2020 at Robertson Funeral Home, Wheeler, Texas. Memorial services will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, February 22nd at First United Methodist Church at 704 S. Main St. Following the service, there will be a burial at the Gageby Cemetery, Hemphill County, Texas. If you desire, in lieu of flowers, please make donations in Bob's name to Gideon's International. To sign the online guest book please visit www.nelsonberna.com.
Elaine Xylpha Adams, BA ’72, of Waco died Friday, March 6, 2020, at Providence Hospice Place. Graveside services will be held 12:00 p.m., Thursday, March 12, at Bartlett City Cemetery with Rev. Ken James officiating. The family will receive visitors 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 11, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at Providence Park Chapel at a later date. Elaine was born June 17, 1922, in Bartlett, Texas, to Ed and Josephine Adams. She was a graduate of Bartlett High School and Baylor University. Before retiring in 1987, she was Supervisor of General Accounting at Brazos Electric Cooperative, where she was employed for 40 years. She was a member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, where she enjoyed serving in the 1st Grade Sunday School Department. She was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, E.L. Adams, Jr.; brother-in-law, R.C. Barnes, Jr; and sisters, LaNelle Adams and Frances Barnes. She is survived by a nephew, B. L. Barnes and wife, Gigi, of Waco. Honorary pallbearers are retired and active employees of Brazos Electric Cooperative. The family would like to thank the entire staff at St. Catherine’s and Providence Hospice Place for the excellent care she received. Memorials may be made to Central Texas Sr. Ministry – Meals on Wheels or Columbus Ave. Baptist Church Building Fund. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.
Dr. Donald L. Jernigan, PhD ’72, born January 4, 1945, in Stephenville, Texas, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2020. Don, as he was known, died from complications of a long illness with his beloved wife Sharon and daughters Jill and Jana by his side. Don grew up in Texas. Raised in a Baptist family and the son of a Texas rancher and a schoolteacher, he learned at an early age that there was no substitute for hard work. He was a standout athlete and his involvement in athletics taught him the importance of teamwork, and as a team captain, he learned the value of good leadership. After high school, Don attended and graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington, earning a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Soon after, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps, serving as a deputy officer at Bethesda Naval Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. After his time as a serviceman, Don earned a PhD in physical chemistry from Baylor University, and went on to work as chairman of the chemistry department at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. He spent the next 10 years working in higher education. In 1982, Don joined Adventist Health System (now AdventHealth) as administrator for a multi-specialty group practice in Texas. Don became known for his principled leadership and commitment to Christian values. He served AdventHealth for 35 years and retired as its president and CEO in 2016. A faithful steward, he led physicians, hospitals, regions and ultimately a complex and sophisticated health care system with a purpose that superseded bottom-line metrics and always focused on people. During his decade-long tenure as CEO, the organization experienced steady growth and expanded its footprint across the country. Always focused on the mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ, Don fostered a culture of service that grew leaders and employees who share a passion for delivering whole-person, Christian health care. After retiring as CEO, he embraced his role as a founding faculty member of the AdventHealth Leadership Institute. His relentless focus on Christian principles in leadership and faith-based practical and experiential guidance helped many leaders hone strategic skills. Don embodied stewardship, driving AdventHealth to be an efficient and effective organization, fulfilling its mission and vision while wisely utilizing the limited resources of time, money and energy. He authored “The Hidden Power of Relentless Stewardship,” a book with far-reaching impact on many leaders. Don was a prominent speaker on issues of leadership, health care, science, education and the military. He was also a Diplomat of the American College of Healthcare Executives and served as a member of the board of trustees for the Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute and a member of the Governor's Council of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission. Don gave generously to many organizations including the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Grace Medical Home and United Way. Under his leadership, AdventHealth launched its corporate community involvement program to improve the health, prosperity and well-being of its communities, as the Bible instructs in Jeremiah: “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you… because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jeremiah 29:7). Don was a member of the Spring Meadows Seventh-day Adventist Church. He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Sharon; his daughters, Jill and Jana; their husbands, Richard and Tim; grandchildren, Hartlea, Gavin and Garrett; and Garrett’s wife, Angela. Don will be buried in Belton, Texas, with a private graveside service. A celebration of his life will be held in central Florida at a later date. In honor of Don, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the AdventHealth Leadership Institute.
Dr. Thomas C. Sheives, BA ’72, of Mechanicsburg, PA, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2020 at the age of 69. Tom entered into his new life in heaven thanks to his never-wavering faith in Christ. His wife and sons were with him in these final moments, giving thanks to God for Tom's integrity, love, and strength. Tom's life ended in Pennsylvania, but he was always a Texan at heart. He was born in 1950 in the Rio Grande Valley on the border with Mexico. He learned the value of hard work by working in his uncle’s produce warehouse. After graduating from McAllen High School, he went on to earn four degrees: two undergraduate degrees - one from Texas A&M (whoop!) and the other from Baylor University -, a Master’s degree from Texas A&M, and a PhD from the University of New Mexico. He worked hard, and was one of the few who could indeed say he was a “rocket scientist.” Tom never stopped learning with a “growth mindset” throughout his career, which included working at Sandia National Labs in New Mexico, with the oil and material handling industries in Texas, training project managers for two years during the Panama Canal lock expansion project, and starting and running his own company for 13 years from Arlington, Texas. His favorite job was his last: helping to launch and lead the Master of Science Program in Project Management at Harrisburg University in Pennsylvania while mentoring American and international students and other faculty along the way. One of Tom's greatest joys was playing tennis. He played at the collegiate level at Baylor, taught his sons, and organized regular matches several times a week wherever he lived – whether in Texas, Maryland, or Pennsylvania. Tom was fearless on the court, but a dear friend to those with whom he played. Tom had a blessed life and is survived by his gracious wife, Rosemary Sheives of Mechanicsburg, PA; his loving, faithful sons and their wives, Paul and Christina of Maryland, and Kevin and Katie of Washington, D.C.; his beloved grandchildren, Meredith, Kyle, Liam, and Harrison; his loving and tireless sister and her husband, Nanette and Tom Newbern of Kerrville, TX; and his mother and biggest advocate, Martha Ruth of Kerrville, TX. He was predeceased by his father, Oliver Francis Sheives. Tom is also survived by his spiritual daughter, Angela Nagano, and her husband, Phillip, and adored spiritual grandchildren, Eden and Ezra. He was very proud of all of his family and loved them deeply. There will be two opportunities for memorial services to celebrate Tom’s life. The first will be February 15, 2:30pm, at West Shore Free Church in Mechanicsburg, PA. The second will be March 1, 3pm, at the Lake Church in Arlington, TX. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Believe Big (https://believebig.org/donate/), a non-profit, faith-based cancer support organization that was near and dear to Tom.
Reginald Augustus Johnson, MHA ’73, passed away on April 8, 2020, in Columbia, MD.
Hon. Patricia “Pat” B. Andrews, JD ’74, of Dallas, born March 11, 1930, in Hillsboro, Texas, to Earl and Thelma Bridges, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2020. Judge Pat began her career with Southwestern Bell, but never abandoned her dream of obtaining a college degree. While working and raising her son, Pat obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and began working for Arlington ISD. Still desiring more, Pat obtained her J.D. degree from Baylor University in 1974. Admitted to the Texas Bar Associate in 1974, Pat began her legal career as an attorney in private practice. Her love for the law and passion for women’s equality made her a pioneer in the Tarrant County legal community. Not only was she the first woman admitted to the Arlington Bar Association, but she participated in countless marches in Austin, Texas, to further advance a woman’s rights. In 1980, she joined the Public Defender’s Office in Tarrant County as a Court Master until 1989, where she assumed the position of Court Master and Associate Judge for the 324th District court of Family Law. Although known for being a stern judge, her decisions were respected by her peers as they were fair and equitable. Upon her retirement in 2002, she remained active in the Arlington Bar Association, serving as Director from 2007 to 2010. She further volunteered the expertise she had garnered over the span of her career to help women in need through her service as a volunteer attorney with the Women’s Center of Tarrant County. One of her proudest achievements was being honored with the prestigious Yellow Rose of Texas Award by Governor Rick Perry and the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, in 2011, for her vast contributions to the legal profession and the Tarrant County community. She was a lifetime member of the Baylor Law Alumni Association, member of the Fort Worth Club, Tarrant County Bar Association, and the First Methodist Church of Arlington. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Charles J. Andrews, with whom she shared a passion of learning, travel and service. She is survived by her son, Lloyd “Rex” Crosswhite, granddaughter Alicia Crosswhite; grandson Sean Sweeney and wife Justine; great-granddaughter Emma Sweeney. A graveside service will take place Saturday, March 7, 2020, at 10 am, followed by a reception at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home in Dallas, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of North Central Texas.
Glen John Ivan Kramer, JD ’75, was born on April 30, 1945 in Hastings, Nebraska to Ivan and Lavinia Kramer. He passed March 17, 2020 at his home in Alpine, Texas. During his nearly 75-year journey, his quest for knowledge and learning was a constant theme. After graduating from St. Cecilia Catholic School in Hastings in 1963, Glen attended the University of Nebraska Lincoln for one year. He then joined the U.S. Navy, and was stationed in Alameda, California. Glen served as a petty officer, with duties as an aviation maintenance administrator. Upon his discharge, Glen returned to Hastings where he obtained a bachelors’ degree in Pre-Law from Hastings College in 1972. In 1975 he received his law degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Glen practiced law for many years in both Texas and Nebraska in private practice, as a prosecutor, a county judge, and a public defender. He also taught business law at the college level. In 1988 Glen moved to Alpine, where he continued to practice law. During this time, he received an MBA from Sul Ross State University in 1989. After spending many years back in Nebraska, Glen returned to Alpine in 2008, where he lived his remaining years. Throughout his life Glen was a passionate birder, and continued to do so in Alpine where he was often seen bird watching in the neighborhood, and each year letting his neighbors know when the vultures, hummingbirds, and swallows arrived, signaling spring. Glen’s interest spanned the gamut of natural history, as well as mechanics and history. In Alpine, Glen was an often-seen figure, whether that be during Saturday Mass at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church where he was always in shined shoes and suit, volunteering at the Alpine Public Library, spending time at the Sunshine House with friends, or chatting with neighbors. Glen had eight siblings, Bob Kramer, deceased, and is survived by Bonnie and husband Breck Alberts of Arizona, Carol Kramer of Nebraska, Clair and wife Sandy Kramer of Nebraska, Gale Kramer of Nebraska, Ken and wife Beth Kramer of Arizona, Mitch Kramer of Arizona, and Mary and husband Randy Lawson of Wisconsin, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Because of this time of uncertainty, services in Alpine will be held at a later date.
Frederick Adolphus Trombley Jr., BBA ’75, MBA ’76, age 66, passed away Friday, February 21, 2020, at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, Texas. Services will be 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 28, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home in Waco, Texas, with Elder Mike Moseley officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco. Visitation will be 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, February 27, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey. Rosary will follow visitation from 8:00-8:30 p.m. Fred was born in San Antonio but grew up in various places around the world, including Germany, Turkey, and a few different cities around the US, having been born the son of an Army colonel. Upon retirement, Colonel Trombley brought his family back to Waco, which was Mildred’s hometown. Fred attended Reicher High School and Baylor University. When Fred was five, he told his mother that when he grew up, he wanted to “get in one place and stay there.” So, after he graduated from Baylor, he didn’t stray far. He moved to Dallas, where he got a job as an accountant at Sedco Drilling Company, where he met the love of his life and worked until the company was bought out by Schlumberger. His talent and abilities were greatly appreciated, but he didn’t want to have to move his family every couple of years, so he asked to be laid off. After a few months of fun then fear, Fred was offered a position with Ensco (now known as Valaris), which required a move to Houston in 2011. He was planning to retire on Friday, February 28, and move with his wife to Waco, where they were restoring their dream home. Fred was preceded in death by this parents, Col. Frederick A. and Mildred A. Trombley, of Waco. Fred is survived by his wife of nearly 40 years, Sandy Trombley of Houston; his daughters, Gabby Trombley of Kenmore, Washington, and Dannie Grego of Richardson, Texas, along with Dannie’s husband, John, and, arriving later this summer, Fred’s and Sandy’s long awaited first grandbaby. Fred already had great plans for spoiling this tiny and much-loved miracle. He is also survived by his sister, Irene Hofstetter and her husband, Mark, of Evans, Georgia, as well as their children, Cora of Baltimore, Maryland, Ben of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Jake of Boston, Massachusetts. Fred was a man of rare form. Almost everyone who knew him expressed that he was the most genuinely nice person they had ever met. He was a terrible liar, not to say that he was a habitual liar; he was just really bad at it! He told the most stereotypical Dad jokes and never minded if he was the butt of someone else’s jokes. He could certainly take as well as he gave. His love for his family knew absolutely no bounds. Our world has become darker with his passing. Pallbearers will be Dave Armour, Tommy Darby, Bill Grego, Tim Lowrance, Bud Malone, Tom Schexnayder, David Schlack, and Paul Smith. In lieu of flowers, make a donation to the charity of your choice and hug your loved ones. Every day tell your special someone that you love him or her. Fred did. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.
Clifford Nelson Humphrey III, JD ’76, age 77, of Amarillo, TX died February 26, 2020. Memorial services will be at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, February 29, 2020, at First Baptist Church Chapel with Dr. Howard K. Batson officiating. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, Amarillo. Cliff was born in Amarillo, TX on October 21, 1942 to Ophelia and C.J. Humphrey. He graduated from Amarillo High School in 1961. Cliff received his doctorate from Baylor University. He was an attorney and political consultant in Washington, D.C. for 34 years. Cliff married Patsy at Washington Street Methodist Church in Alexandria, VA on October 27, 1979. Cliff lived in Alexandria, VA for 34 years and returned to Amarillo to retire in 2013. He is survived by his wife, Patsy Humphrey, of the home; children, Clifford Hatton Humphrey and wife Sarah, of Wilson, NY, Savannah Humphrey Long and husband Michael, of Denver, CO, Kelli Tucker Orford and husband Edward, of Charleston, SC, Holli Tucker, of Leesburg, VA, Tim Tucker and wife Carol, of Colorado Springs, CO; sister, Janice Humphrey and husband Gary Rowe, of Vancouver, WA; brother, Bryan Humphrey and wife Jane Ridley, of Haddon Township, NJ; and four grandchildren, Elizabeth, C.J., Grant, and Regan. Sign the online guestbook at www.boxwellbrothers.com
Dr. Ralph Edward Nussbaum, BA ’76, was welcomed into Heaven by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 8, 2020 from Lubbock, Texas. Please join the family at Grace Presbyterian Church, 4820 West 19th Street, Lubbock, Texas for a Visitation on Friday, February 14 at 6:00pm and again for a Memorial Service on Saturday, February 15 at 10:30am. Ralph was born Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 1953, to Elizabeth Marie Gulde Nussbaum and Leonard John Nussbaum in Amarillo, Texas. He was an energetic child surrounded by five brothers, many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. He was an active participant at church, school, and Boy Scouts. He enjoyed various hobbies including model and radio-controlled airplanes, fishing, and volunteering at the family business, A-to-Z Tire and Battery. In Ralph’s youth, Cardiologist Dr. Robert Gulde, his uncle, inspired him to pursue a career in medicine. After graduating from Tascosa High School in 1972, he attended Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri followed by Baylor University in Waco, Texas where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology in 1976. He was accepted into the Masters Program in Biology at the University of Houston in Houston, Texas before entering Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine at North Texas State University in Ft. Worth, Texas, where he graduated with his Doctor of Osteopathy in May 1982. Ralph began his post-Doctoral education by entering a Family Practice Residency at Texas Tech Regional Academic Health Science Center in Amarillo, Texas. In 1984, he was appointed Medical Director with the rank of Lieutenant Commander in the United States Public Health Service, serving at the Bureau of Prisons in Petersburg, Virginia. He completed his tour of duty in 1986 at the USPHS Indian Health Service in Watonga, Oklahoma. He followed his service with an internship at Huron Road Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio which led to an Anesthesia Residency at the Cleveland Clinic, graduating in July 1990. During his professional life, Dr. Nussbaum practiced medicine as a Staff Anesthesiologist in Brownsville, Kerrville, and McAllen, and the Veterans Administration in Martinsburg, West Virginia. He was appointed Anesthesia Department Chief in Huntsville, Texas; Anesthesia Department Vice-Chairman and Assistant Professor in Lubbock; Department Associate Chairman and Clinical Director in El Paso; and Department Chairman in Tullahoma, Tennessee from which he retired in April of 2017. In addition to his work as a clinical Anesthesiologist, Dr. Nussbaum was appointed Medical Director for both The Institute of Pain and The Institute for Hyperbaric Oxygen and Wound Medicine in McAllen from 1994 to 1996. In 1997, Dr. Nussbaum accepted an appointment as Medical Director for the Utah Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine to develop the only multi-place hyperbaric chamber in Utah.
In retirement, Ralph bought a farmstead in Tennessee where he worked with state conservation agencies to bring the historic site into the 21st century by implementing modern best practices while respecting the natural landscapes. StoryBrookeSprings Farm is establishing a beef cattle operation, a vineyard, a Soay sheep program, hay, pollinator and food-plot pastures, and has planted over 12,000 hardwood trees to reforest the steeper hillsides. Future plans include converting the century-old tobacco barn into an event venue, agro-tourism, and custom branding opportunities. Ralph married his sweetheart from Baylor University, Dona Reba Laverty, on December 19, 1977 at Bellaire Presbyterian Church. Together they raised Matthew, Monica, Rachael, and John. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Leonard Nussbaum. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Dona; four children; his three grandchildren Calvin, Chase, and Julia; his brothers Michael (Joyce), Stephen (Carmelita), Leonard (Melissa), Gregory (Patricia), and Philip (Kristy); nineteen nieces and nephews; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and great nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank the many doctors, nurses, caregivers, and friends who have loved and supported Dr. Ralph Nussbaum throughout his career and into his final journey through ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a motor neuron disease. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in memory of Dr. Ralph Nussbaum to: ALS - Therapy Development Institute 300 Technology Square, Suite 400 Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139 https://www.als.net/donate/
Dr. Weldon Ernest Viertel, PhD ’76, of Tyler, TX, was born December 4, 1930 in Stamford, TX to the late Max E. Viertel and Alice Byrd Viertel. He passed away on February 18, 2020 at the age of 89. Weldon was the husband of Jo Barnett Viertel for six years following a 58-year marriage to the late Joyce Garrett Viertel. Weldon received his BA Degree from Texas Tech and Hardin Simmons Universities, his MDiv Degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and his Ph.D from Baylor University. He along with the late Joyce Viertel were appointed by the Southern Baptist International Mission Board in 1959 and served as missionaries in the Bahamas, Philippines and Cyprus, with short periods in India, Barbados, New Orleans and El Paso. In addition to pastoring churches, Weldon was best known for the writing of numerous Seminary Extension training materials that are still being used in training seminary students around the world today. Survivors include his wife, Jo; children, Connie Lynn Williams of North Richland Hills, Timothy Weldon Viertel and wife, Jan of Madison, MS, and Lisa Lanell Bernard and husband, Eli of Indianapolis, IN; eight grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren; children of Jo Viertel, John and Sandy Barnett of Tyler, TX, Tina Barnett and fiance Craig Lew of Boise, ID, Jeff and Melinda Barnett of Red Rock, TX; and four grandchildren. Among the pallbearers with be his nephews Johnny Viertel, Kyle Viertel, Mark Viertel and John Ross Reames, along with grandson-in-law Nick Bradshaw and John Barnett, son of wife, Jo. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, at The Woods Baptist Church in Tyler, TX followed by the funeral at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be at Mason Cemetery in Arp, TX, under the direction of Jackson’s Burks Walker Tippit Funeral Home. To view online, please go to www.burkswalkertippit.com.
Miles Roland Warnock, BSEd ’76, a Dallas ISD teacher for decades who most recently taught English at Sunset High School, died April 11 after an illness. He was 65. Warnock had lived in Oak Cliff since about 1976. After he graduated from Baylor University and worked at D.A. Hulcy Middle School, a DISD campus near Desoto, for over 20 years. Miles Warnock is survived by his wife, Venessa, and their two adult children, Hunter and Maya.
Leesa Stroman, BSEd ’79, age 63, departed this world Friday March 13, 2020 from her mother’s home in Texarkana, Texas. Leesa was born and raised in Texarkana, Tx; graduating from Texas Senior High in 1975. She attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas; graduating in 1979 with her Teachers Certificate. Returning home, Leesa taught briefly at Westlawn Jr High before heading back to Baylor to attend graduate school. Leesa remained in Waco for over 30 years working for the US Postal Service. Leesa came home again to Texarkana in 2016 to help care of her mother. She loved learning and reading. She enjoyed attending theater and music concerts, cooking, and quilting. Leesa was an avid football fan; focusing on college games rather than Pro. She was obsessive about decreasing her carbon footprint – recycling everything possible. Leesa also leaves behind her other great loves – her dogs Precious and Jazz. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ravel L. Stroman and Carmelita Blankinship Stroman. She is survived by her two sisters and one brother-in-law, Patricia and Bob Palombit and Deann Stroman Bonner. Graveside services are scheduled at Hillcrest Cemetery, 1PM Saturday March 21, 2020. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Heart Association, Diabetes Association or to a local animal rescue group.