1970s
Ernest Marvin Jennings, BBA ’70, of Granbury, TX, died Sept. 7 at age 72. He was born November 14, 1945, to Marvin and Janice Jennings. Ernie spent his young life in Waco, Texas where his dad was Principal of Richfield High School. He served in the Marines and graduated from Baylor University. He had a lifelong career of nearly 48 years with State Farm Insurance Company in multiple roles, most of those as an agent in Coppell, Texas, where he retired last December. He was a loving and dedicated father to his son Matthew Jennings. Ernie served Coppell schools and community through the years in many capacities. He was a Christian who practiced philanthropy, many times anonymously. His favorite pastimes centered around nature, most recently in Ruidoso, New Mexico, and Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas. He was a published author and enjoyed running, hunting, hiking, furniture-building, boating, and maintaining a show place yard. He was a sports enthusiast, especially when his grandkids or the Baylor Bears were involved. He loved western art and co-owned, with his wife, Andrea, “Our Neck of the Woods” in Graham, Texas, where they sold art, primitive Texas furniture, and unique home decor. They recently moved to Pecan Plantation near Granbury, Texas. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Andrea Jennings of Granbury, TX; son, Matthew Jennings and family: Angela, Savannah and Colton Jennings of Cross Roads, TX; step-daughter Reagan and family: Cody, Molly and Graham Garrison of Granbury, TX; step-daughter Erin and family: Ethan, Lair and Lake Vickery of Colleyville, TX; sister, Claudia Dickerson of Gold River, California; niece, Laura Howard of Portland, Oregon; extended family and many good friends. Ernie battled cancer for five years with determination and a positive spirit. He gave love generously and will leave a giant hole in our hearts! A visitation and memorial service will be held for Ernie at White’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 185 S. White Chapel Blvd., Southlake, Texas, in the Founder’s Chapel on Monday, September 10, 2018, at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to a favorite charity or to Hospice of Granbury/Patient Care. Paul said in II Corinthians, “For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (II Corinthians 5:1)
Robert W. Lee, BS ’70, JD ’75, of Tyler, TX, died July 19. He was 70. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, July 29, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. at Grace Community Church, 3215 Old Jacksonville Hwy., directed by Shane Barnes and officiated by Robert's uncle, Lewis Earl Lee. Lee was born February, 14, 1948 in Dallas to Robert Elvin Lee and Kathleen Louise Cotter Lee. Robert was a member of Green Acres Baptist Church. He graduated from Baylor University where he earned his bachelor's and law degrees. He began his career as the Assistant City Attorney, before opening his private practice, where he worked until retirement. Robert was an avid sports fan and loved participating in golf and baseball as much as possible. He found great joy being involved in his children's athletic endeavors, and he influenced many young men and women who knew him as coach over the years. Robert is survived by his loving family including his wife of 46 years, Vinni Lee; his children, Jason Lee and wife Audra, Christa Hagler and husband Trace, Greg Lee and wife Jessica, and Traci Lee; his grandchildren, Lynsey and Lauren Lee, Aidan, Rebecca, Andrew and Annalise Hagler, Makayla, Kaydence and Oscar Lee; his sister, Sandra Kachel and husband John; his niece Abby Homer and nephew, Cody Kachel. Honorary pallbearers will be Francisco Tellez, John Gamel, Gus Harmon, Steve Mason, and Choice Richardson. Visitation is scheduled immediately following the memorial service.
William Richard Powell, BBA ’70, age 71, passed away on October 13, 2018, at his residence in Brenham, Texas. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday October 18, 2018 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Rev. Stephen Whaley will officiate. Richard was born on November 29, 1946 in Houston, Texas to Paul Taylor and Johnnie (Hill) Powell. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Baylor University and his Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law. Richard was in private practice for a number of years prior to moving to Brenham; where he spent his time ranching, gardening, and traveling. He was an avid cook who loved entertaining friends and family. He most recently served as the Vice-Chair on the Board of Trustees for Blinn College. Richard was a loving husband of 44 years and a dedicated father and grandfather. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. Survivors include his wife, Barbara (Andrau) Powell, sons Douglas Peck (Missy), Randall Peck (Lisa) and Richard Alan Powell (Danyel); daughter Deborah Billeaud (Tommy); brother Robert B. Powell and sister-in-law Sue; sister-in-law Paula Powell; sister Jane and brother- in-law Dr. Sid Jones; and sister-in-law Nancy Andrau. Grandchildren: Taylor Higdon, Braden Henry, Jessica Peck, Chase Powell, Shelby Peck, Ainsley Powell, Avery Peck, Abigail Cullip, Rylee Cullip, and Joshua Peck. Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main, Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, visit www.memorialoakschapel.com. At Richard’s request, please make memorial contributions to the charity of your choice.
Helen Joyce Ross, BA ’70, of Waco died Sept 24. Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 29, at Northside Church of Christ. Burial will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 29, at Hamilton Beaman Cemetery Corsicana, Texas. Visitation is from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, September 28, at Bellmead Funeral Home. She was born in Mildred, Texas, December 30, 1933, to Holman Ole Olsen and Lila Farmer Olsen. Joyce grew up in Corsicana, Texas. She married Bill Ross on April 27, 1957. They raised two sons. A graduate of Baylor University, Mrs. Ross was a retired teacher. She taught in Connally ISD and Hubbard ISD. Joyce has attended the Northside Church of Christ for the past 21 years. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband. Joyce is survived by Russell Ross and wife, Marca, of Waco; son, Randall and wife, Monica, of Waxahachie. She enjoyed being MeeMee to: Jessica Ross Carver and husband, Chase, of San Antonio, Curtis Ross, wife, Kristina; and great grandson, Benjamin of College Station. It was also her delight to be honorary MeeMee to Mitchell, Ally and Alaina Williams, Krista Schulz, Sarah and Allison Bruton. She is survived by siblings: Betty Beamon, Ben and Glendene Acock, Ole and Judy Olsen, Darrell and Darlyn Olsen, and James and Martha Olsen. Joyce is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and dear friends.
James W. “Jim” Scarborough, BA ’70, of Waco died Aug. 15. Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 22, at Oakwood Cemetery, with the Hon. Jeffrey C. Manske officiating. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 21, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. Jim was born, April 16, 1939, in Jacksonville, Texas, to Dr. and Mrs. James S. Scarborough. Jim graduated from Waco High School in 1957. Subsequently, he attended and graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Prior to graduating from Baylor, Jim married the love of his life, Carol Adams. Shortly thereafter, he joined the United States Army, where he served in France as a military policeman and received an honorable discharge. During his long and successful career in business, Jim started and sustained several locally-owned businesses. On a personal level, Jim enjoyed taking road trips with his wife, Carol, frequently noting that they had visited by car 47 of the 48 states in the Continental U.S. When not travelling, Jim's greatest joy came from spending time with his family. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James S. Scarborough and Frances W. Scarborough. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Sylvia S. Lloyd. He is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter, Stacey Y. Scarborough; and granddaughter, Natalie C. Koerth. He is also survived by his nephew, Michael Martin; and two nieces, Kathleen Wade and Kelly Sparkman. The family wants to thank Dr. Gary Barbin for his exceptional care. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or the Waco Humane Society.
Claude L. Wakeland, BBA ’70, of Waxahachie, TX, died Aug. 17 at age 75. He was born September 12, 1942 in Waxahachie, Texas to Mildred Tapp Wakeland and Mancel Lee Wakeland. He lived and grew up in Milford, Texas, attending Milford ISD from first grade through high school graduation. After graduation, he attended and graduated from Baylor University, Waco, Texas. He continued his education to be a Certified Public Accountant.
Growing up and during his college years, he worked for his Dad’s soil conservation business. Claude could operate the bulldozers and motor graders, load those huge machines onto the back of the truck and drive to farms and ranches to do terracing, clear trees, dig water tanks, etc. He could also tear the motors apart and put them back together on those huge machines.
March 11, 1966, he married Shirley Vest, the two of them had started first grade together and were married over 52 years at the time of his death. Claude enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling, especially to Estes Park, Colorado. He and Shirley eventually bought a house on the Big Thompson River, Estes Park, Colorado, enjoyed living there for 14 years. During his years of accounting, he was fortunate to travel many of the states throughout the U.S.A. He also worked internationally in England, Switzerland and Germany. In early 1997, he suffered kidney failure, started dialysis and had to retire. He went on the transplant list for a kidney and pancreas transplant. He had his transplant October 28, 1997. All we knew about his donor was that it was an 18 year old, nothing more. We wanted very much to meet the donor’s family to express our appreciation for their gift of life. We knew it would be very emotional but we made it happen in 2011. The young man’s name was Hermilo Trejo, Jr., lived right here in Ellis County! We invited his family over and what a joyous time it was for all of us. Such a beautiful family and they teased Claude about being part Mexican. Their loving generosity gave Claude almost 21 years of life, we are eternally grateful to the Trejo family. Claude is survived by his wife, Shirley, one daughter, Sherrie Stanley of Austin, two sons, Bryan Claude of Dallas, Cory Graham of Waxahachie, one granddaughter, Aubrey and husband, Jason Fouts, two grandsons, Justin and Shane and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred Tapp and Mancel Wakeland. In Lieu of flowers, Claude’s family requests memorials be made to: First Baptist Church, PO Box 296, Milford, TX. 76670 (stained glass window fund) or Milford ISD Alumni, 609 Cosby Rd., Milford, TX. 76670.
Sandra Barnett O’Bryan, BA ’72, of Cabot, AR, died Oct. 25. She was born on Oct. 25, 1951 in Little Rock, Ark., to the late Jack Barnett and Lara Starkey Barnett. A loving mother and grandmother, Sandra was a retired schoolteacher who taught English Literature for over 35 years at Cabot High School. Sandra was a long-time member of Hope Presbyterian Church in Cabot, where she previously served as an Elder on the Church Session. Sandra graduated from Hall High School in 1969 and from Baylor University in 1973 before returning to Cabot to raise her family. Sandra was also preceded in death by her son, Eric O'Bryan, and her husband Joseph H. O'Bryan, both of Cabot, Ark. She is survived by her twin daughters Jessica Wallace of Little Rock, Ark., and Stephanie O'Bryan of Apple Valley, Calif.; her two grandchildren, Ian and Mia Wallace of Little Rock, Ark.; and several nieces and cousins. A graveside service for the family will be held at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Cabot, Ark., 10 a.m., on Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, by Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth. Please share your messages of love, comfort and support with the family at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.
Robert Lane Stecher, BA ’72, of Pasadena, TX, died Aug. 1. He was born on January 8, 1951 in Waco, TX. He was a graduate of Midway High School and Baylor University. Upon graduation, Robert taught high school mathematics for two years, worked in various areas of the petroleum industry for more than thirty-two years, and finally served as a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in various nursing homes in Texas until his retirement. Robert was a member of First Baptist Church in Pasadena, TX. Robert is survived by his wife, Grace Lavern Stecher; son, MichaeScott Stecher; parents, Lane and Mary Stecher; sister Deborah Gregory; and seven step-grandchildren. Visitation will be held at Rosewood Funeral Home in Humble TX. On Wednesday, August 8, 2018, at 1pm. Funeral Service will be held at Rosewood Funeral Home Chapel in Humble TX. On Wednesday August 8, 2018, at 2pm. Burial at Rosewood Memorial Park in Humble, TX.
Fred M. Worley Jr., BBA ’72, of Waco passed away in peace and surrounded by his loving family November 10, 2018. A memorial service will be 10:00 am Tuesday, November 13, 2018 at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 pm Monday, November 12, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey. Fred was born and raised in Taylor, Texas by loving parents, Fred and Regina Worley, Sr. He was a graduate of Taylor High School where he excelled in athletics and academics. Fred was excited to celebrate his 50th high school reunion with his classmates earlier this fall. His senior year in high school, he was awarded the Citizens National Bank Scholarship to Baylor University where he was a member of Kappa Omega Tau fraternity. After graduating from Baylor in 1972 with a degree in Finance and Economics, Fred began his banking career at Citizens National Bank in Waco. Throughout his banking career, which spanned five decades, Fred was known for his integrity, commitment to his customers, and community involvement. Most recently, Fred volunteered with Meals on Wheels and was on the Board of Directors. Throughout his life, he was an active member of the Waco Rotary Club, Keep Waco Beautiful, Keep Texas Beautiful, the Art Center Waco, CASA, the Boy Scouts, Leadership Waco, and the Waco Chamber of Commerce. One of his proudest accomplishments was his role in the founding and construction of the Cameron Park Zoo. Fred was passionate about sports - coaching youth baseball and basketball for his children; serving as Commissioner of the American Softball Association; officiating track at Baylor, UIL, and TAPPS; volunteering with Baylor Softball; and officiating high school football for more than 40 years. Fred was a legend in this role, spending his Friday nights wearing the white-hat, managing the emotions of hundreds of coaches and players, and exhibiting patience and fairness. His crew was highly lauded for their professionalism, often receiving requests for marquee match-ups, playoff games, and even state championships. Fred is survived by his wife of 25 years, Barbara Worley; sister Sandy Worley and Bob Hand, her husband, of Houston; son Trey Worley and Jaime, his wife, of McKinney, Texas; son Jared Kahanek of Washington D.C.; and daughter Jessica Kahanek and Lewis Lowe, her husband, of Washington D.C.; and grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Sophia Worley. Fred is also survived by his mother-in-law Jo Ellen Fulbright, brothers- and sisters-in-law, Linda and Brian Watts, Mary Alice Lewis, Sue Ellen Meyer, Joe and Jerri Fulbright, Rose and Danny Abshire, Grady and Jennifer Fulbright, and Pat and Ande Fulbright and scores of nieces and nephews. Honorary pallbearers include Skeet Doss, Jimmy Mucha, Mike Connell, Johnny Giotes, Nathan Christian, Steve Stuckert, Chuck Lewis, and Harry Harelik. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to local charities of your choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.
Patti Gibson Bradley, BA ’73, of Carrollton, TX, died Sept 21. Patti is relieved and renewed in the arms of her Altogether Lovely LORD. Born in Fort Worth on March 29, 1952, PATTI GIBSON BRADLEY lived her early life in Denton and McAllen and high school years in Sweetwater. Graduated summa from Baylor Dec '73, married Aug. '74, bore son Chris in '79 and daughter Sarah in '82. She was a resilient, funny, and lovely lady. Diagnosed with MS in '93 (after years of baffling symptoms), totally disabled by 2000, then cared for by husband Bill and a loving group of TCA Addison moms called "Patti's Pals." She was relieved & renewed Sept. 21, 2018. Survived by son Chris Bradley of Lexington, KY, his wife Lauren, daughters Lily & Emmy; daughter Sarah Bradley Renteria of Denton, her husband Fran, daughter Bella; brother Jerry Gibson, his wife Elaine of Santa Barbara, CA; numerous treasured aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, & cousins. Memorial service on Oct. 5, 1:30 p.m., reception at 2:30 p.m., Bent Tree, 4141 Int'l Pkwy, Carrollton. Published in Dallas Morning News
Jerry Doyle Miller, JD ’73, of Destin, FL, died Sept. 20 after a short battle with cancer. He was 69. He was born May 28, 1949 in Mt. Vernon, Illinois to Albert and Lydia (Doyle) Miller. He graduated from Fairfield Illinois High School, earned a Bachelor's Degree from Eastern Illinois University and a Juris Doctor from Baylor Law School. He was both a member of the Texas Bar Association and the Illinois Bar Association for over 40 years. He had an Oil and Gas Law Practice in Olney, Illinois for over thirty years. He had lived in Destin, Florida for the last 21 years. After retirement, Mr. Miller started Emerald Coast Homes, Inc a custom home building company in northwest Florida with his sons. Mr. Miller enjoyed boating and traveling in his motorhome for many years. He also enjoyed playing tennis and golf. He was a member of the Village Baptist Church of Destin, Florida, the Benevolent Order of Elks and the Loyal Order of Moose. Mr. Miller had a winter home in Davenport, Florida and spent time in the Florida Keys every year. Mr. Miller is survived by his wife, Sherry, daughters Megan (Stacy) of Atlanta, Georgia and Kelsey (Mark) of Wildwood, Missouri and sons Jonathan (Neenah) of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, Nick of Miramar Beach, Florida and Blake (Chelsy) of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, a brother Jim of Mason City, Illinois, 2 grandchildren Waylon and Winona of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida and his faithful Golden Retriever/Border Collie of 15 years Layla and his Tuxedo Cat Sir James (Junior). Mr. Miller was preceded in death by his parents. Burial at Sea and a Celebration of Life will be held in Destin, Florida October 21, 2018. The family requests Memorial Gifts be made to Community Hospice Dr. Gaston J Acosta Rua Center for Caring, Jacksonville, Florida. Published Online in Northwest Florida Daily News
LTC (Ret) William E. “Bill” Moore, MHA ’73, of San Antonio died Sept. 1 at age 77 after a
short courageous battle with cancer. Bill was born on January 11, 1941 in Washington, D.C. to the late William Edward and Leola Josephine Ellis Moore. He grew up in McLean, Virginia.
Bill graduated high school from Fork Union Military Academy and received a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Texas Christian University and a Masters Degree in Hospital Administration from Baylor University. He received his commission as Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1963 and began his military career initially as a Chemical Officer but was soon transferred to the Medical Service Corps. His assignments while on active duty in the Army included Vietnam, three tours at Fort Sam Houston, Texas; Fort Gordon, Georgia; Fort Knox, Kentucky;
Tehran, Iran; Heidelberg, Germany, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He retired from the Army
with almost 25 years of service to our nation in 1988 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC).
He then worked for 10 years with the Texas Department of Health as a Genetics
Program Coordinator and volunteered extensively with the March of Dimes before retiring. Bill loved spending time with family and friends, traveling all over the world, and supporting military organizations, especially those who provided scholarships to military children.
Bill will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Anita Susan (Beltran) Moore, daughter LTC(Ret) Michelle “Micki” McCassey and her husband, Everett, daughter Kimberly Dickinson and her husband Joel, precious granddaughter Kiera Grace McCassey, and many close family and friends from across his military career, recreational vehicle clubs and San Antonio Rodeo committees. A Celebration of Life service with full military honors will be conducted at 09:30 am, Friday, September 21, 2018 at the Fort Sam Houston Main Post Chapel, 1605 Wilson Way, San Antonio, TX 78234. Interment will be at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in a private family setting. Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Army Medical Department Museum Foundation, P.O. Box 340244, San Antonio, TX 78234, www.ameddmuseumfoundation.org, or Patriot Paws, 254 Ranch Trail, Rockwall, TX 75032, http://patriotpaws.org/donate/, or a charity of your choice in support of our military.
Michael Tawney, BA ’73, of Katy, TX, died Aug. 20 at age 67. Mike was born in Terre Haute IN to Muriel Dolores and Roy Opie Tawney, but they soon moved and he grew up on the sunny beaches of California. In 1969, a little town in Waco with bright lights of green and gold brought him to Baylor University where the rest of his life began. Mike served in the Baylor ROTC throughout his entire collegiate career, followed by three distinguished years serving in the United States Air Force. While at Baylor, he met the love of his life, Mary, and the rest was written in the stars. After marrying in 1974, they had two children, Lauren Elizabeth Tawney and Stephen Eugene Tawney. He also leaves behind a beloved brother, also named Stephen Tawney, and his wonderful wife Diane. A career driven and focused man, he spent many years at McLelland Engineers, followed by BFI and eventually Loomis Armored from which he retired in 2005. Aside from being very devoted to his employees and career, he was the most loving and thoughtful husband and daddy that anyone could hope for. Our mother was the love of his life, and we children were a close second. (Actually, his dog Jack may have come first.) He was there for every one of Stephen’s football games and Lauren’s violin concerts. It didn’t matter if it was a state championship game, or just scratching out sounds on Lauren’s beloved instrument. Despite this devotion, these were not his biggest passion. All who knew him knows that would be Katy Football! As a matter of fact, his hospice visit from Coach Joseph was the highlight of his week. He fought very hard to just see one more game.
Adrian Scott Vaughan, BM ’73, MA ’75, of Waco died Oct. 1. Graveside services will be 1:30 p.m. Thursday, October 4, at Waco Memorial Park, 6623 Interstate 35 S, Robinson, Texas 76706
Scott was born April 4, 1951 in Austin, Texas. His family moved to Lubbock shortly afterwards. As a teenager, he moved with his family to Waco. He graduated from Richfield High School (now Waco High) in 1969. In 2012, he married Hanna Rubel Phillips. Scott had a bachelor's degree in music composition and a master's degree in Theatre Arts, both from Baylor University, and attended doctoral program in music composition at North Texas State University. He also worked as a computer programmer. At the time of his death he had been long retired but was involved in many activities, including composing music for friends and relatives on special occasions. Over the years he played in many bands. Two years ago he realized he had a talent for art and, after just one art class, began painting portraits of family members. He was a member of the Waco Lions Club. Scott loved people, especially getting together with classmates from Richfield High School Class of 1969 (Hanna graduated from high school the same year). Surviving Scott is his wife, Hanna; daughter, Chelsea and husband Stephen Dark; brother, Steve Vaughan and wife, Leta; grandson, Isaac Dark; his nephews and niece and their children; stepsons, Jarrod Harelik and Josh Harelik and wife, Heather; stepdaughter, Alyssa Harelik Morrow and granddaughter, Sophia Morrow, and many, many friends. Memorials may be made to Heart of Texas MHMR, PO Box 890, Waco, TX 76703.
Sign the guestbook at www.oakcrestwaco.com
Bruce Alan Buchanan, BS ’75, died Aug. 13.
Dr. Charles F. Thomas, MA ’75, PhD ’79, of Brownwood, TX, died July 24. devoted his life to the study and instruction of literature, with a focus on the work of Robert Browning. He was born in 1931 in Pasadena, California, with the name Charles Flint Waterman. His father, Crawford Waterman was an aviator, and his mother, Grace Lewis, a pianist. At a young age he lost his father, and after his mother remarried, he later took the last name of character actor and businessman John Thomas. He spent his childhood, along with his brother Crawford John Thomas, in the Los Angeles area. Charles received a B.A. from UCLA, an M.A. from USC, and an MA and Ph.D from Baylor University. He served as Professor of English at Howard Payne University, and served there for several years as Head of the English Department and Chairman of the Humanities Division. In 1989 he began residency in Japan, where he was appointed Professor of English and American Literature in the Graduate Department at Baiko Jo Gakuin College and Professor of English Literature at Fukuoka Jo Gakuin College. In 1994 he became a Professor of English and American Literature at Kyushu University, Japan. As an author, Charles published a four volume literary reference series titled Art and Architecture in the Poetry of Robert Browning. Through extensive travel and research, Charles Thomas created a comprehensive guide of real sources for the numerous references and allusions to the paintings, sculptures and architecture within Browning’s poetry. The series was completed in 2013 with a two-DVD video guide. The inspiration for this life’s work he explains:
Where did the gift come from? I do not know.
Acting, lecturing, research had an impact
On my gushing creative juices,
But the profusion, how to account for that?
If he were alive, I would ask Verdi
How he, around his eighties, wrote Falstaff,
And he would say, “Write sonnets, ballads galore.
What is late age for? Write memoirs, essays, more!”
Grow old along with me!
The best is yet to be,
The last of life, for which the first was made . . .
Charles Thomas is survived by his niece, Jonelle Thomas-Pickett; a grandniece; and two grandnephews.
Karl Edward Ray, BBA ’75, JD ’83, of Salado, TX, died Aug. 26.
Jan Kelly Horner, BA ’77, of Granbury, TX, died Oct. 26. Service will be held at 2:30p.m., Saturday, November 3, 2018, First Christian Church. Jan was born, December 19, 1954, in Baytown, Texas, to Charlene and Levi Waddy Kelly. She was a graduate of Ross S. Sterling H.S. in Baytown, Texas in 1972, and a graduate of Baylor University in 1977. She was employed by the Houston Post, Texas Monthly, Better Homes and Gardens and completed her career being self-employed in the advertising field in Dallas prior to retiring in Granbury, Texas. Jan was known for her wonderful sense of humor, loyalty to friends and family, generosity to all and a deep and abiding love of her dogs. She loved First Christian Church. Jan is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Alan Wood Horner; two sisters, Ann Kelly Miller and Kay Kelly Thornburg and husband, Robert; and numerous loving nieces and nephews. She is also survived by: David and wife, Carol, of Waco, Lauren Horner of Dallas, Amanda Ohlenburg and husband, Jim, of Dallas, Todd Horner of Austin, Abigail Horner Boney and husband, Cory, of Waco, Jack and William Ohlenburg, and Blaine Horner and Abigail Horner. Memorials may be made in her honor to Ada Carey Shelter c/o Mission Granbury, 3611 Plaza East Court, Granbury, TX 76049.
J. Michael “Mike” Seago, MBA ’77, of Cleveland, TN, died Sept. 20 at the age of 74 after a brief but savage fight with dementia. Mike, the oldest son of H.W. "Bill" and Christine Loyless Seago, was born December 3, 1943, in Gilmer, Texas. He graduated from Lufkin High School in Lufkin, Texas, in 1962. He received his BS in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1966. Mike also received his MBA from Baylor University. Mike and his wife of 52 years, Mary Helen Seago, were married June 19, 1966. Mike served in the United States Army from 1967 through 1970 primarily stationed in Japan. Upon their return to the states, Mike worked first for the Southland Paper Mill and then began his career with M&M Mars beginning in Waco, Texas. He helped build the Waco plant from the ground, and continued to work for Mars in varying capacities in Cleveland, Tennessee and Las Vegas, Nevada until his retirement in 1998. Mike was not content to only play golf in retirement; he taught a variety of classes at Lee University for 15 years. Mike also served The Caring Place as Chairman of the Board. Mike and Mary Helen have two daughters, Kelly Seago Whatley (Jon) of Odem, Texas, and Karen Seago Hall (Mack) of Cleveland, Tennessee. His family was made complete with the addition of his four perfect grandchildren, Payne & Jackson Whatley and Rheagan & Tripp Hall. Mike enjoyed nothing more than seeing the Texas Aggies win at any event, especially football. They have failed him by not winning the SEC football crown in his lifetime. He also loved traveling with Mary Helen, watching his grandkids do anything at all, and playing golf. Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Bill & Christine Seago and his sister, Marilyn Seago Grossman. Mike is survived by his wife, Mary Helen; his daughters and their husbands, Jon & Kelly Whatley and Mack & Karen Hall; his four grandchildren, Payne, Rheagan, Jack, & Tripp; his brother, Robert Seago (Annette); along with several nieces and nephews and numerous cousins. There will be a Committal Service at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga Monday, September 24, 2018, at 10:30 AM. Pall bearers are Dave Gregory, Dr. David Chaffin, Tim Rader, and Dr. Rodney Fitzgerald. The family will receive friends Monday, September 24, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Cleveland. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to The Caring Place in Cleveland, Tennessee, or the Pat Summitt Foundation (patsummitt.org). You are invited to share a personal memory of Mike or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral and Cremation Service and the Cody family are honored to assist the Seago family with these arrangements.
Rick Hendrix, ’78, of Montalba, TX, died July 15 at age 61. Services are Saturday, July 28, 2018, 2:00 PM at Living for the Brand Cowboy Church in Athens, Texas with Randy Skiles officiating. He was born June 24, 1957. Survived by his parents R.K. Hendrix Sr. and Sallie Hendrix. Brothers Ken Hendrix and Tim Hendrix, Sons Richard A. "Scooter" Hendrix Jr., Johnathan Hendrix, Daughter Megan Hendrix and two grandsons. Rick spent his career employed in the Oil & Gas Industry and is co-owner of Shack Energy Services and Fairfield Quick Lube, Inc. He attended college at Baylor University where he was a proud member of the Baylor Bears Football Team. Rick enjoyed life, family members and many friends. His presence will be missed here on earth, but it will forever remain in our hearts.
Dr. Jim H. Patton, PhD ’78, of Woodway, TX, passed away unexpectedly on November 1, 2018, at his home due to a heart attack. A memorial service will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 17, 2018, at FUMC of Waco. A reception will follow from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. to visit with the family. Dr. Patton's family requests that you may wear any applicable uniform corresponding with your service to the community. Jim was born in Amarillo on June 22, 1948. He was the son of James Herbert Patton and Evelyn Patton. He graduated from Twin Falls High School in Twin Falls, Idaho. From there, he furthered his education by attending Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Idaho State. While attending Idaho State, Jim met the love of his life, Kristi McGarry. The two wed on February 24, 1973. Jim and Kristi then moved to Waco, so Jim could earn his PhD from Baylor University in 1978. After earning his doctorate, Jim, was a postdoctoral fellow at UTMB in Galveston. Jim returned to Baylor University in 1980 to join the faculty in the Psychology and Neuroscience Department. Most of Jim's life was spent furthering others' educational pursuits as well as his own through teaching and leading by example at Baylor University for the remainder of his life. Jim enjoyed the outdoors in many aspects: fly-fishing, hunting, competitive shooting, Scouting, and anywhere with his family outside. Jim also was an avid Scouter. He served many roles in the Scouting community over his entire life and cherished each relationship with Scouts from all over the world. He was preceded in death by his father at a young age and by his mother later in life. Jim is survived by his wife, Kristi M. Patton, of whom he was married to for 45 years. He is also survived by his only son, Dustin Patton. Jim leaves behind a brother, John Moore and wife, Wendy, of Pocatello, Idaho. He also leaves behind a sister, Becky Chollett and husband, Galen, of Lorena. Jim has many other family members that he is survived by as well: brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, Dr. Patton's family would like donations given to the charity of one's choice. For an extended version of Dr. Jim H. Patton's obituary, please visit www.gracegardensfh.com.
Donna L. Ober Karn, BA ’79, of Galveston, TX, died Aug. 18 at age 78. She was born in Galveston, Texas on February 15, 1940. She was a 1958 graduate of Ball High School. After high school, she went to Baylor University and received her degree in journalism. She worked at several newspapers in the Waco area. Later, after moving to Galveston, she went back to college at the University of Houston in Clear Lake and received her master’s degree in teaching. She then taught at Galveston Catholic School and the Galveston Independent School District for several years before retiring. She loved to needlepoint and go bird watching. She was very active at Moody Methodist Church, where she played hand bells and sang in the choir. She was a very loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She will be sadly missed by all of those who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her parents, August (Pete) and Josephine Ober; and brother Mike Ober. She is survived by her husband John Karn; daughter Pam Tuley and husband Tim; son Billy Schulz and wife Angela; sister Lynette (Scooter) Ostermayer and husband Ric; brother Joseph (Doc) Ober; grandchildren Courtney Schulz Powell and husband Preston, Carly Schulz, Anna-Laura Schulz Tisdale and husband Peyton, Matthew Tuley, Megan Tuley, Madison Tuley, Jacob Young and Matea Donna Schulz; great-grandchildren Charlotte Tanksley and Emma Powell; nieces Gerri Atkinson and Robbin Tauch; and nephew Ricci Ostermayer. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at 1:00 P.M. at J. Levy & Termini Funeral Home, with Reverend Raymond Pinard officiating. The family would like to express a special thanks to A-Med Hospice for their kindness and compassion during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Galveston Historical Foundation, 2228 Broadway, Galveston, Texas 77550.