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.