1940s
Robert Royal Lucas, ’41, of Dallas passed away on Saturday, July 14, 2018. He was 98. He was born on March 3, 1920 to Robert and Winnie Lucas in Rosebud, Texas. Robert graduated from Rosebud High School. He hitchhiked to Waco, Texas where he graduated from Baylor University. After graduating he enlisted in the United States Army Air Corp, where he was a bomber pilot of a B-24. He and his crew were shot down over Germany, but he was able to get his plane into Switzerland. He escaped his interment and made his way back to England. He spent the remainder of the war flying planes for overseas shipments. After the war he moved to Houston, Texas where he married Francis Hall on November 15, 1945. He then went to work for IBM and started his family. Robert spent 30 years with IBM, then retired to play golf, quail hunt, spend time with family and friends, and spend time at his ranch. He is survived by his sons, Bruce Lucas and wife Alice of Palestine, Texas, and Steven Lucas of McKinney, Texas; grandchildren, Adrian Wolf and her husband David, Teresa Cope and her husband Dale, Michael Lucas and his wife Tonya; Casey Lucas and his wife Jamie; and Jason Lucas and his wife Caitlin. Each of his grandchildren have blessed him with two great grandchildren, totaling 10. Bob was also blessed by be survived by many great friends, many he considered to be family. His family and friends will miss this great one of a kind man. The family requests that visiting hours for Mr. Lucas be observed on Thursday, July 19th at 12:30 PM at Northridge Presbyterian Church in Dallas, Texas. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM at Northridge Presbyterian Church. Interment will take place following the funeral service at Restland Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Cemetery, 13005 Greenville Avenue, at Restland Road, Dallas, Texas 75243.
Mary Eleanor Pool Matthews, BA ’41, of Austin left us to be with the Lord on May 1, 2018, at the age of 98. “Scooter” was born to Anna Ruth Posey Pool and Arthur Claude Pool on December 19, 1919, in Grandview, Texas, on her family's cotton farm. She was the oldest of four children who all preceded her in death. Scooter graduated from Grandview High School in 1937 and graduated from Baylor in 1941, earning a degree in Education. While at Baylor, she was a member of the Peer Club, which later became Delta Delta Delta. She married her college sweetheart, Roy Exum Matthews on December 31, 1941. After marrying, she and Roy settled in Dallas where Roy was completing his training for pediatric dentistry through Baylor Dental School. They waited many years before being blessed with one daughter, Mary Catherine, "Cathy," in 1955. Being devoted to her family and church meant everything to Scooter. She was an avid community volunteer, especially in Cathy's schools. She was active, and then later served as President of the Dallas Dental Wives Auxiliary, and took major roles in her membership at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Dallas. Roy suddenly passed away in 1970, and after Cathy left for the University of Texas, Scooter enjoyed working in the linens department at Neiman Marcus. She later retired and moved to Austin to be closer to family, Cathy and her husband Curt Johnson, and grandson Leif Johnson. She joined and loved the Church of the Good Shepherd and the St. Anne's Guild where she was active for the majority of her remaining life. Scooter took great joy in walking through her neighborhood with family and friends. Always with a positive outlook on life, Scooter loved Jesus and lived her life accordingly. She was never in a bad mood and always had a smile on her face. She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings, her husband and her son-in-law, Curt Johnson. She is survived by her loving daughter Cathy Johnson and her devoted grandson, Leif Johnson. She was lovingly cared for by her helpers: Maria, Lisa, Dixie, Brenda, Jeanie and Yamah. Their friendship enriched her life. A celebration of Scooter's wonderful life will be at The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd (3201 Windsor Road, Austin, Texas 78703) on Friday, May 4th at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, please honor Scooter with a donation to The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd or the Neil T. "Buddy" Jones Endowed Scholarship at Baylor University (Baylor University Development, One Bear Place #97050, Waco, TX 76798-7026) or the charity of your choice. For those desiring, you may also access the online guest registry and obituary at www.wcfish.com. Published in Austin American-Statesman
Mary Buldain Schwartze, BA ’43, of Waco returned to her Heavenly Father, Thursday, June 7, 2018. She was 96. Mrs. Schwartze peacefully passed away in her home surrounded by family and her dear friend and care giver, Debra "Greta" Garrett. She will be laid to rest in a small private service at 9:00 a.m., next to her husband, Dr. Erich Wilhelm Schwartze II M.D., at Waco Memorial Park, prior to Mrs. Schwartze's memorial service at 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 11. The memorial service will be held in the Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home Chapel. Baylor chaplain, Dr. Burt L. Burleson, DMin., will be officiating the services. Visitation will be held 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 10, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey. Mary Schwartze was born, September 25, 1921, near Kerrville, Texas, to Dr. Felix and Louise Buldain. Dr. Buldain came to Baylor after meeting Dr. Samuel P Brooks in New York while Dr. Buldain was teaching at Columbia University. He was the head of the language department. Mary was raised in Waco along with her three older brothers, Frank, Lewis and George, and twin sister, Martha. Mary attended Waco public schools and graduated from Waco High School in 1939. She attended Baylor University, graduating with degrees in both Spanish and Education in 1943. Mary always love working in the yard. While working in her yard one day, she met another Baylor student, Erich Schwartze from Washington D.C. He told his parents later that night he met the girl he was going to marry. She told the story and that he was too sure of himself. They married December 8, 1943, in Waco. They moved to Washington DC, but World War II took her husband overseas and she returned to Waco. After the War, they moved to North Carolina where he attended medical school. Mary liked North Carolina but returned to Waco. Erich completed medical school and the Korean conflict took him overseas again. After this Mary never wanted to go far from home. She did teach school in Waco for a few years. After children and her husband starting a medical practice she concentrated on making a home for her family in Waco. Mary loved having cats and dogs. Her hobbies also included landscaping and interior design. She attended Columbus Ave. Baptist Church of Waco. Mrs. Schwartze was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Erich Wilhelm Schwartze II M.D; siblings, Lt. Col Frank E. Buldain J.D., Mr. George Buldain, Col Lewis P. Buldain, and Dr. Martha Buldain, M.D.; and daughter-in-law, Mrs. Dayna Wimpee Schwartze. She is survived by her two sons, Erich Wilhelm Schwartze III, J.D., and wife, Beverly, of Bayou Vista, Texas, and Dr. George Mark Schwartze, M.D., of Waco; five grandchildren, Erika Susan Schwartze of Waco, Erich Wilhelm Schwartze IV and wife, Becky, of Grand Prairie, Texas, Jeffrey Mark Schwartze of Waco, David Andrew Schwartze and wife, Claudia, of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Meredith Schwartze Ducote and husband, Cullen Craig Ducote, of Beaumont, Texas. Mary Schwartze is also survived by her four great-granddaughters; and numerous nieces and nephews. Honorary pallbearers will include her grandsons, Erich Wilhelm Schwartze IV and Jeffrey Mark Schwartze. Others serving as pallbearers are Cullen Craig Ducote, Joshua "Josh" Paul Zachry, and Bernard "Bernie" Louis Machovsky. The family wishes to thank devoted care giver, Debra Garrett, and also Alicia Hargis of Interim health care. Memorials to Mary Schwartze may be made to: Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, Attn: Development, 2222 Welborn St, Dallas TX 75219; Fuzzy Friends of Waco, Mailing Address: P.O. Box 20966, Waco TX 76702; or the charity of your choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.
Allen M. Sory, BA ’43, of Orlando, Florida, passed away March 20, 2018, at age 96. He was born in Fort Worth, Texas on October 21, 1921 to Elmer and Erma Sory. He was married to Wanda for 65 years. Allen had a career in Education and worked for the Pasadena Independent School District. He was a member of the Lions Club and First United Methodist Church of Pasadena. He had a passion for gardening and travel. He was preceded in death by parents, Elmer and Erma Sory; sisters, Loree Clayton and LouNell Amsden; granddaughter, Donna Brown; daughter-in-law, Earline Sory. He is survived by wife, Wanda Sory; son, Steve Sory; daughter, Sheryl Tous and husband Jorge; grandchildren, Teresa Queal, Kina Williamson and husband John, Denise Wood and husband Joe, Julia Tous, Anna Tous; great-grandchildren, Justin Sory, Daniel Sory, Cameron Queal, Jordan Queal, Austin Queal; great-great granddaughter, Addison Sory. A funeral service were held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 26, 2018 at First United Methodist Church, 1062 Fairmont Pkwy, Pasadena, Texas 77504. The family received friends one hour prior to service. Allen was laid to rest in the Forest Park Cemetery in Webster, Texas.
Frances Williams Chisholm, BA ’45, of Louisville, KY - Age 93, passed into God's eternal presence on April 21 at Brookdale Blankenbaker. She was born on October 27, 1924 in Tyler, Texas, daughter of Horace and Lennie Williams. She was pre-deceased by her only sister, Lucile. Frances graduated from Baylor University with a teaching certificate. She taught elementary school in Texas where she met and married her husband, Roy. They had been married for 67 years at the time of his death in 2014. She and Roy moved with General Electric first to Schenectady, NY and then to Louisville, when Appliance Park first opened. In Louisville, she & Roy raised their three children, Cathy Chance, and Claudia Zeckner (Russ) both of Louisville, & Dr. Roy Davies Chisholm III (Cindy) of Cumberland, Maryland. Frances had a servant's heart and leaves behind a heritage of faith and family. She was a loving servant to her family as wife, mother and grandmother; a lifetime servant in her church through choir, hand bells, and children's Sunday School teaching; and a servant in her community through Recording For the Blind, as an accompanist for Senior House Choral group at Dosker Manor, and as a District President for WSCS, now UMW. She and Roy were faithful members of Christ Church United Methodist for over 50 years. Along with her children and their spouses, she is survived by eight grand children, one step granddaughter, three great-grandsons, one great-granddaughter, and two step great-grandsons. Her family thanks all the personnel at Brookdale Blankenbaker where Mom lived out the final 2 1/2 years of her life. We thank especially the nursing staff, the RCAs and the PLAs who loved and served her personally. We also thank the Hosparus caregivers who ministered to her and our family during the final months of Mom's life. Visitation will be held at Pearson's Funeral Home, 149 Breckenridge Lane, 40207 at 3:00 PM on Saturday, May 26. A Memorial Service will follow at 4:00 PM at the funeral home. A private family service will be held at Cave Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to the Memorial Fund at Christ Church United Methodist, Learning Ally (formerly Recording For the Blind), Alzheimer's Association, or Hosparus Health in Louisville.
Published in The Courier-Journal
Peggye Spencer Avinger, BSHE ’47, passed away peacefully on July, 14, 2018. She was 91. A Graveside service for Mrs. Avinger will be held at 10am on Tuesday, July 17th at Forest Park Cemetery in Shreveport, Louisiana. Officiating will be Dr. Greg Davis of Broadmoor United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held from 4pm until 6 pm on Monday, July 16th at Osborn Funeral Home. Peggye Zeola Spencer was born in Doyline, LA to Fritz and Zeola Spencer. She grew up in North Louisiana, and while attending junior high in Minden, she met the love of her life Pat Avinger. She later graduated from Tallulah High School, and attended LSU. Peggye and Pat were married in February 1946, after he returned from wartime service in Europe. They moved to Waco, TX to complete their educations, where she graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Home Economics. Mrs. Avinger was a devoted wife and mother. She served in numerous volunteer capacities in the community, and was a longtime member of Broadmoor United Methodist Church. She and Pat were active supporters of Baylor Athletics until their health prevented traveling to Waco. They also enjoyed many golf trips with special friends. Peggye was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Fritz Spencer, Jr. and Jerelyn D. Spencer; and husband Pat. She is survived by two daughters, Mary Lou Pierson and husband Don, of Longview, and Nancy Lynn Reeves of Shreveport; son, Patrick S. Avinger and wife Denise of Ovilla, TX; five grandchildren, Julie Cummings and Crandell of Keithville, Jennifer Pierson of Dallas, TX, Jeffrey Pierson and Meg of Longview, TX, Patrick S. Avinger, Jr. and Lindsey of McKinney, TX, Katie Avinger of Austin, TX.; and nine great-grandchildren.
Published in Shreveport Times
Dr. Herman Allen Dobbs Jr., BS ’48, MD ’52, passed away on June 18th, 2018, at the age of 90 years. Born on October 29, 1927, Herman grew up in Hempstead, Texas, and went on to attend first Baylor University and then Baylor College of Medicine. Graduating from medical school in 1952, Dr. Herman Dobbs went on to a nearly 40-year career as a distinguished surgeon at the Texas Medical Center. An avid cyclist, photographer, reader, and lover of nature and progressive politics, Herman Dobbs shared a long and happy marriage with his wife, Houston artist Kathy Hall. Dubbed "Popeye" by his grandchildren, his gentleness and humility belied a delightful sense of humor and a brilliant mind. Herman Allen Dobbs Jr. was predeceased by his brother Thomas David Dobbs, sisters Anita Morman and Lorene Jackson, granddaughter Grace Kerrigan, and great-grandson Elan Kai Dobbs. He is survived by spouse Kathy Hall, stepdaughter Lynn Fountain, children Allen Dobbs, Ann Dobbs, David Dobbs, Sarah Kerrigan, and Cynthia Dobbs, as well as by seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren (with another on the way). The family plans to hold a private ceremony at a later date. If you wish to honor Herman, please consider donating to the Houston Food Bank, the ACLU, or the Southern Poverty Law Center. Published in Houston Chronicle
Peggy Jo Malone Gunter, BSN ’48, of Leawood, KS, passed away peacefully on Monday May 21, 2018 with both her daughter and son by her side. She was 90. Peggy was born in Wichita Falls, TX, attended Winnetka elementary and Sunset High schools in Dallas and completed her BS in nursing at Baylor University. Peggy married Joe S. Gunter in Dallas on June 28, 1948 and they shared their lives with each other for the following 61 years residing in Dallas TX; Houston, TX; Springer, NM; Rapid City, SD; St Joseph MO; Osage Beach, MO; Columbia, MO; Lawrence, KS and Overland Park, KS. Although she sometimes practiced as a registered nurse, Peggy's focus was always on supporting her husband and children as a wife and mother, broadly demonstrating kindness and friendship, and supporting social programs within her community. Peggy was a longstanding member of St Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, a supporter of the University of Missouri in Kansas City's Music and Dance programs since 2002, and enjoyed bridge and keeping up with "her teams" in sports. Peggy is survived by her daughter, Sharon Lee, and her life partner, Jean Sax, of Columbia; her son, Garth, and his wife, Dawna, of Shawnee, Kansas.; two grandchildren, Geena Renee Brown, and her husband Xavier, of Shawnee, Kansas; and Joe Seth Gunter of Denver, CO; and great-granddaughter, Violet Renee Fritz of Kansas City, MO.Peggy was preceded in death by her son Seth and husband Joe. There will be a memorial service at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Mission, KS, on Saturday, June 2nd at 11am. In lieu of flowers please make memorial donations to Mosaic in Beatrice, (402) 223-4066, 722 South 12th St. Beatrice NE., 68310-4548, or St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 6630 Nall Avenue, Mission, Kansas, 66202.
Published in Kansas City Star
Ramah “Sue” Hester, BA ’48, of Houston passed away May 2, 2018 at Cedar Ridge Memory Care Home in Cedar Park, Texas. She was 91 years old. Sue was born on December 14, 1926 to Josephine Harrington and Rev. James Arthur Kidd in Cooper, Texas. She grew up and attended school in Alpine, Texas. After graduation she followed her father's footsteps and attended Baylor University where she graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. Sue started her teaching career teaching 4th grade in the Rio Grande Valley but was soon drawn to join a friend in Midland, Texas where she quickly found a job with an oil company. It was in Midland where she met her future husband, Robert Jackson 'Jack' Hester, and in January 1952 they were married in Woodville, Texas. Sue followed Jack in his career in the oil business starting out in Ozona, Texas then back to Midland where they settled. They were active members of First Baptist Church in Midland. It was in Midland that they started their family, first a daughter, Lynn in 1954, then their son, John in 1959. Jack's career took them to Corpus Christi, Houston, and Dallas then back to Houston where they retired. In Houston they were active members of Tallowood Baptist Church where they first joined in 1968 until 1984, then again in 1986 upon their return to Houston. Sue dedicated her life to raising her family and making a Christian home. Her primary career was as a stay-at-home mother, however, she loved teaching and engaged in a second career as a teacher in 1977-1980 in Spring Branch ISD. She remained active in teaching pre-school Sunday School and as a nursery teacher at Tallowood. Sue's greatest joys were studying the Bible, cooking for her family, playing piano and oil painting. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Sue is preceded in death by her husband, Jack. She is survived by her daughter Lynn Shuler and husband Wiley Shuler of San Marcos, Texas, son John and his wife Connie of Austin, Texas and grandchildren James Shuler and wife Ashley, of Katy, Texas, Cora Shuler Rodenbusch and husband Will Rodenbusch of Austin, Texas and five great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank the staff at Cedar Ridge Memory Care Home in Cedar Park, Texas and the dedicated nurses at Resolution Hospice for their loving care of our mother, grandmother and friend. Visitation for Sue will be conducted on May 9, 2018, in the chapel of Memorial Oaks Funeral Home from 5 o'clock in the evening until 7 o'clock. The graveside service will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorial donations be made to: Tallowood Baptist Church. Published in Houston Chronicle
Dr. José T. Sepúlveda, BA ’48, of San Antonio DDS went Home to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, December 22, 2017 at the blessed age of 97. He was born in Laredo, TX to José S. and Genoveva (Treviño) Sepúlveda. He was a Veteran of WWII having served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater. Dr. Sepúlveda established a successful Dental practice in San Antonio for 50 years until his retirement in 2003. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Maria Luisa Sepúlveda and brother, Oscar Treviño. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Aniece (Chrisner) Sepúlveda; his four children, Joe, Jr. (Alice), Debra, Cynthia (Jim), and Sonia; four grandchildren, Justin (Marlena), Stephen, Alyssa (Conrad), and José Carlos; and three great grandchildren, Julian, Bran and Ezra; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. SERVICES: A Rosary, Mass, and Reception will be held Friday, December 29, 2017, at 1:15 pm at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, 10703 Wurzbach Road. A private interment with Military Honors will be held at Fort Sam Houston at a later date. For personal acknowledgement, you may sign the online guestbook at www.missionparks.com
in the Tributes section. Arrangements with: Published in Express-News
Marijo “Josie” Barton Sterling, BA ’48, of Lubbock, TX, died June 27 at age 91. Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 29 at the Carillon Chapel in Lubbock. Graveside services will precede the memorial service. Jim Powell will officiate. Josie was born September 19, 1926, Lamb County, Earth, Texas to Robert Eli and Nellie Pearl Barton. She attended Earth Springlake Schools, and graduated from Baylor University in 1948 with a BA degree in speech/radio. Josie met the love of her life, Curtis J. Sterling on a blind date in 1947. Curtis and Josie married on December 19, 1948 and lived in Brownfield, Texas from 1950-1963. They owned the Brownfield News until it was sold in 1962. While in Brownfield they were blessed with 2 daughter's, Suzie Sterling King and Janice Sterling Gaunt. The family moved to Lubbock where Curtis became a stock broker for Rauscher Pierce. In addition to being a full time homemaker and mother, Josie was actively involved her in her church and community. Her community activities included president of both Mackenzie Junior High and Coronado High school P.T.A.. Kappa Alpha Theta Mother's Club, Sick Children's Clinic BOD, Sherrick Retirement Home BOD, president and member, 43 year member and president of Chapter CF P.E.O. As a life long Baptist she was a member and Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church of Lubbock. After transferring to Second Baptist Church, she served as deacon and Sunday school teacher for many years. Survivors include Suzanne Sterling King and her husband Dr. Robert King of Lubbock and Janice Sterling Gaunt and her husband Tom Gaunt of Dallas. Josie's grandchildren include Sterling and Lindsey King, Kristan and Kyle Nevins, Gregory King, Brynn Isom, Wesley and Tytus Laughton, and Blair and Clayton Isom. Survivors also include 14 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to The Lubbock Food Bank, The Foundation of Carillon, or Second Baptist Church of Lubbock. Online condolences may be offered at www.resthavenfuneralhome.com.
Published in The Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
Col. William F. Carroll, BA ’49, MHA ’72, of San Francisco, CA, died at home of Parkinson's Disease on 9 April 2018. He was 81. Bill Carroll, aviator, pharmacist, hospital administrator, proud member of the Olympic Club since 1945, 3rd generation San Franciscan, was born at St. Mary's Hospital with twin brother, Bob, in June 1936. Bill attended St. Emydius grammar school until moving to Healdsburg at age 12 with family when his father bought a drugstore there. Bill graduated from Healdsburg High School and went on to college at the University of Wyoming to study pharmacy. While there he was active in ROTC and continued in the reserves after graduation. He then practiced pharmacy for 4 years before going on active duty in the Army in the Medical Service Corps and becoming an aviator. Bill's love for flying earned him the coveted award of the U.S. Army Master Aviator badge. He flew two 13 month combat tours in Vietnam, resulting in bravery awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, 11 air medals (3 with V for valor) and the Combat Medical Badge. He was proud of his status as an instrument flight examiner and being Commander of the 421st Medical Co. (Air Ambulance) in Germany. Bill attended the Command and General Staff College, the Army War College and the Health Care Administration course for his Master's Degree. He served as executive officer at Madigan General Hospital for the culmination of his active duty career in the US Army. Bill retired with 28 years of active service after attaining the rank of full colonel and many meritorious awards for outstanding service. He was a true hero! He is survived by his wife, Diane, of 52 years and many nephews and nieces, good friends and his comrades-in-arms. He's predeceased by his parents, William and Elinor Carroll, his twin brother, Robert Carroll and his sister, Joan (Carroll) Passalacqua. A memorial service and Mass at St. John's Catholic Church in Healdsburg is being planned for 11AM on Friday, 11 May 2018. Donations in his memory may be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101.
Published in San Francisco Chronicle
Lillian Khoury Burke Davidson, BA ’49, of Waco died, peacefully, at 3:00 a.m., Sunday, May 27, 2018. Lillian was the first of eight children born to Alexander and Theodora Khoury, August 20, 1922. Burial will be 12 Noon, Saturday, June 2, at Oakwood Cemetery. A celebration of her life will be held at St Paul’s Episcopal Church on Saturday, June 2, at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Rev, Raymond Waldon, with a reception following in the church parish hall. Lillian attended Waco public schools, finishing Waco High in 1940. She worked her way through Baylor University, graduating in 1949, after which she moved to San Antonio, associating herself with General Services Administration. She retired from Brooks General Hospital in 1979, returning to Waco to be with family. Upon her return to Waco, she worked with the City of Waco in its purchasing department. While residing in San Antonio, she met and was married to Sanford Burke. Mr. Burke died in 1994. She later married Cecil Davidson, who predeceased her in 2004. Lillian was a devoted Christian woman, active both in her church in San Antonio and at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, her home parish. She sang in the choir at both churches, worked at St. Paul’s House in the mill district and devoted many hours to Meals on Wheels. A feisty and dedicated worker she was difficult to keep up with. She was an avid reader and student of opera, referred to by many as the grand dame of opera and classical music. She knew the composers, the stories, the music and characters. She was particularly delighted when the Metropolitan Opera began live performances at local theaters, which she attended until unable to attend. Lillian was preceded in death by her parents; and her brothers, Edward, Ernest, Theodore, Edward II, and Paul. She is survived by brothers, Fred and wife, Betty, and Rollin and wife, Loraine; sister-in-law, Judy; children, Barone Burke and wife, Bonnie, of San Antonio, and daughter, Tina Burke Sansom and husband, Rev. Vernon Sansom; and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and by step-children, Denise West and Steven Davidson, both of California. Pallbearers will be David Sansom, Trey Sansom, Brian Burke, Dr. Ernest Khoury, Gregory Khoury and Fredrick Khoury. Honorary Pallbearers will be Lillian's nieces and nephews. Special thanks goes to Eva Cruz and her sister, Olga Lerma, for the tender love and care they both gave to Lillian. They contributed greatly to Lillian's quality of life during her last years as they would have for members of their own families. Memorials may be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School, its Meals on Wheels program or Friends of the Waco Library. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.
Champ Clark "C.C." Ellis Jr., BA ’49, of Fort Worth, passed away Sunday, July 15, 2018. He was 91. FUNERAL: 3:30 p.m. Tuesday in Greenwood Chapel. Interment: Greenwood Memorial Park. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Greenwood. C.C. was born in Jonesburg, Mo., on Oct. 4, 1926. He was an Army veteran of World War II, serving in the Philippines. After the war ended, he returned to complete his bachelor and master studies in mathematics at Baylor University. He taught high school math before embarking on a long career at General Dynamics/Lockheed Martin, retiring after 56 years. C.C. enjoyed attending and teaching Sunday school at University Baptist Church in Fort Worth. C.C. was preceded in death by his father, Champ Clark; mother, Lillian; and wife of 62 years, Betty Joyce. SURVIVORS: Son, John Lee Ellis and wife, Patricia Heller; and daughters, Susan Lynn Ellis and Jennifer Gail Carroll and husband, Mark.
Jeanne (Emma Jeanne) Tinkler Fortson, BA ’49, of Edinburg, TX, 89, passed away peacefully to be with her Lord on the afternoon of April 16, 2018 at her daughter's home in Barre, Vermont. She was born in Houston, Texas on June 12, 1928 to Watt and Marguerite (Philibert) Tinkler. Jeanne spent almost all of her life in her hometown of Edinburg, Texas. A graduate of Baylor University, she returned to Edinburg to work in her father's abstract business with plans on moving to South America to work in the oil business. But once back in Edinburg, she met the love of her life, the new dentist in town, the late Dr. Charles L. Fortson. They were married in March of 1950 and celebrated over 57 years together. Jeanne was not only a homemaker, but she continued to work in the abstract business until her father retired. She also ran her husband's dental office and was the Church Secretary for the First Baptist Church for many years. Jeanne was always on the go and her talkative nature helped her meet and make many lifelong friends. But her closest friend by far was her sister, Charlotte Humphrey, who lived next door. Jeanne enjoyed gardening, including raising prized Birds of Paradise (her "Birds") as well as camellias, and she was known for growing much sought after mandarin oranges. Jeanne leaves behind three children: Susan Magee-Bibi (Abd Bibi) of Barre, VT, Patricia Callahan (Bill) of Edinburg, TX and Richard Fortson (Karen) of Los Alamos, NM. She has 11 grandchildren who reside in various places: Texas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Washington, Vermont and China. In addition, there are seven great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter. Surviving her are her two sisters: Charlotte Humphrey of Edinburg, TX and Mary Jo Henry of Spring, TX as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their children. An avid church-goer, Jeanne was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Edinburg, where she was a strong believer in tithing. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the First Baptist Church in Edinburg, the Rio Grande Bible Institute in Edinburg or to The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. A memorial service will take place on Saturday, June 16 at 10 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Edinburg. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Aurora Funeral Home Sam Houston in Pharr.
Published in The Monitor
Rev. Dr. James A. Langley, BA ’49, died June 7, 2018, at age 93. He had lived in the D.C. area for 62 years. He is survived by four children, Carol Langley, Jim Langley, Jr., Jane Langley-Smith, and Marilyn Langley, and five grandchildren. His wife of 51 years, Eugenia (Jean) Langley, died in 2002. Dr. Langley was born and raised in Opelika, Alabama and served with the U.S. Army in France in World War II. He graduated from Baylor University in 1949, and received a B.D. from Southwestern Baptist Seminary, an MDiv from Princeton Seminary, and a Th.D. from Southwestern. He served as pastor of Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church from 1957 to 1970, then led the D.C. Baptist Convention as Executive Director until his retirement in 1991, promoting the reception of African-American and ethnic congregations into the DCBC and the election of women to top leadership positions. His commitment to justice and equality arose from his deep faith. He went on preaching missions to Mexico, Hong Kong, and Rwanda. He was a member or trustee of local and national Baptist and ecumenical organizations, and continued to serve as interim pastor at several area churches after his retirement. After retiring, he wrote and published poetry. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Washington, 1328 16th St. NW, on Saturday, July 28 at 2 p.m.; valet parking available. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bacone College or the American Indian College Fund.
Doris Jane Jones Scott, BA ’49, of Stillwater, OK, died Dec. 7, 2017 at age 91. She 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 God’s 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 God’s 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.
Elizabeth “Liz” Patterson Walters, BS ’49, died May 5 at age 91. She was born on November 10, 1926 to Sam and Grace Patterson. She grew up in San Antonio, TX with constant playmates in her brother, sisters, and many close cousins. She graduated from Harlandale High School in San Antonio at the age of 17 and went on to complete her education at Baylor University. She graduated with honors and acquired a position at Baylor Scott and White hospital in Temple, TX. She not only was a phlebotomist, but also worked in the laboratory to test blood, grow cultures and diagnose various diseases. During this time, Elizabeth met her husband, Frank Walters, on a blind date that was set up by a dear friend, George Panion. True love transpired, and they were married. During their 42 years together, Frank and Liz were blessed with two children, Pat and Lynn. After being a stay-at-home mother for several years, she began teaching 7th grade Science at Memorial Junior High. Liz taught there for 26 years. Not a day went by without discussing some form or fashion of science, and that continued all the way through her journey with Alzheimer’s! After retirement she enjoyed getting deeper into the Bible through Bible Study Fellowship and was an active member of retired teachers. She and Frank enjoyed many years of activities and travel, often visiting Canada, Alaska and Disney World in Florida. After Frank passed on to his new life in eternity, the Lord knew Liz still had many years ahead and knew she was lonely. She found love again with Lester Krohn, Pat and Lynn’s Godfather. They had 12 wonderful years together and she loved and cared for him until he passed on to Heaven. Liz then moved to Tyler, TX to be with her favorite little sister, Patricia. Liz was a devoted Christian who was the ultimate hostess, loved her family, and was always ready to listen with an open heart and a prayer. After a long road of living gracefully with Alzheimer’s, Elizabeth went to the loving arms of Jesus, her Savior, on May 5, 2018. Elizabeth is survived by her children, Pat Walters and his wife, Sheri of Sugar Land, TX, Lynn Bryan and her husband, Danny of Frisco, TX. Carrying on her legacy of love, she also is survived by her grandchildren, James Bryan and his wife, Christina, Dania Bryan, Amy Moore and her husband, John, and Alyssa Walters, her great grandchildren, Bryce, Blake, Daniel, Chad and Trevor, and one great-great granddaughter, Taelyn.