1960s

Sidney Dade Cox Jr., MHA ’60, of Springdale, AR, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, March 5, 2019. He was 96. He was married 64 years to Marie "Freddie" Cox, who died in 2017. The son of Sidney Dade and Margie Watts Cox, Sidney was born April 5,1922, in Lowndes County, Mississippi, where he was raised. He graduated from Lee High School in Columbus in 1940 and, in 1943, from Mississippi State University in Starkville, where he was Sigma Pi fraternity president and earned a B.A. degree. He was then commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army and served in the Pacific in the 1899th Engineering/Aviation Battalion. He built airfields on Guam from which B-29s launched attacks on Japan. He was discharged as a captain and lived in Mississippi and Atlanta. He re-entered the military in the newly developed U.S. Air Force and was stationed at Nellis AFB, Nevada, then Akron, Ohio, teaching ROTC. He was then transferred to Travis AFB, California. While in California, he met Marie Evelyn Friederick, and the two married May 2, 1953, in Reno, Nevada. They had four children: David, Robert, Steven and Sandra. Sid obtained an MS in hospital administration from Baylor University in 1955. Other military postings included San Antonio, Texas; Nagoya and Tokyo, Japan; Vandenberg AFB, California; Maxwell AFB, in Montgomery, Alabama; Offutt AFB in Omaha, Nebraska; and the AF Surgeon General's Office, Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia. He retired as a lieutenant colonel in 1966 and moved his family to Fayetteville. He returned to college, earning a teaching certificate, and taught 10 years at Fayetteville High School, retiring in 1977. He enjoyed woodworking and building mountain dulcimers and taught many dulcimer building classes in late 1970s and early 1980s. His hobbies included fishing, woodworking, playing and building dulcimers, traveling with his camper and Elderhostel programs. Sid volunteered many hours at the Arkansas Air Museum in Fayetteville, Jones Center for Families in Springdale, and the VA Hospital in Fayetteville. After the loss of his wife, he became an advocate of the grief support programs with Willard J. Walker Hospice in Fayetteville. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by parents, brother William A. Cox, and his sister Lelia Beatrice Harris. He is survived by sons David (Kate), Robert (Brenda), Steven (Dianne) and daughter Sandra Birchfield (Jody), three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The funeral will take place at 12:30 p.m. Monday, March 11, at Sequoyah United Methodist Church in Fayetteville followed by burial at the National Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, March 10, at Moore's Chapel in Fayetteville. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be sent to Willard J. Walker Hospice of Fayetteville or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Rev. David Joseph Flori, BBA ’60, of Richardson, TX, passed away on April 16, 2019, surrounded by devoted family & friends. Father David was born in Waco, TX on January 10, 1937 to Aloysius William and Barbara Kohl Flori. As a young man, Father David attended college at Baylor University. After earning a B.A. in Business, he served in the US Army, spending two years in Germany. He came home and worked in accounting as a CPA. Moving to Dallas, he later entered the seminary. After concluding his studies, Father David was ordained a priest for the Catholic Diocese of Dallas on May 24, 1986 at All Saints Catholic Church by Bishop Thomas Tschoepe. Father David’s first assignment was as Parochial Vicar at St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Richardson from June 1986 to July 1989. He was transferred to St. Philip the Apostle Church in Dallas as Parochial Vicar. Becoming Pastor in 1990, he remained at St. Philip until June 1997. Father David then returned to St. Paul the Apostle in Richardson in July of 1997 where he faithfully served as the Pastor, until his retirement on June 30, 2017. Father David was devoted to his church and considered all of the church his family. A kind and generous man, he always has a twinkle in his eye. He found humor in simple things and never quite embraced technology in our world. He would tell his parish staff that "emails are a passing phase" and "texting was bad for your health!” He believed a phone was just a phone and for him there was not anything that could replace a personal call to someone and that if you needed to write someone, put it in the mail with a stamp. He loved going places and traveling with family and parish members and generously made time for frequent trips to the zoo, soccer games, dance recitals, family dinners, birthdays. Father David thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors and hunted whenever he could. His hobbies also included building model airplanes, watching and going to baseball games, and taking walks. While it is impossible to capture all the wonderful qualities of this kind and gentle soul, we will all agree that he will be greatly missed and that he touched so many lives. He is survived by his sister-in-law Pat Flori, his nieces and their spouses Karen and Aaron Logan, Lisa and Patrick Nicholson, Nancy Acree, Celeste and Joe Schafer, Barbara Hanby, Christine Michael, Pam Alford; nephews and spouses Willie and Talara Flori, David and Sylvia Flori, Bill Michael, Tim Michael and numerous great nieces and nephews. His extended family included his 28-year friend and co-worker, Kathy Kelley; husband George Kelley, her daughter and spouse Melissa and Clem Giles and their children. He was preceded in death by his five siblings, Agnes Michael, Teresa Painter, Charles Flori, Sister Dorothy Ann Flori, and Leonard Flori. Father David will lie in state at Sparkman Funeral Home, located at 1029 South Greenville Avenue Richardson, Texas on Saturday, April 20 and Sunday, April 21 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m on both days. Father David's casket will be received at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church 720 South Floyd Road, Richardson, Texas on Monday April 22nd at 5:00 p.m. The Funeral Vigil will follow in the church that same evening at 7:00 p.m. The Most Reverend Edward J. Burns will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, April 23 at 2:00 p.m. The Most Reverend Gregory Kelly, the Most Reverend Robert M. Coerver, and the Reverend John Szatkowski, principal concelebrants, will be joined by Father David's brother priests. A reception will immediately follow the Mass of Christian Burial in the parish center at St. Paul. Interment will be on Wednesday, April 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the Priests Circle in Calvary Hill Cemetery in Dallas, Texas. Father David and his family have desired that memorial donations in his honor be made to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church for renovations to the convent and construction of a prayer garden. Inquiries may be directed to kathy@saintpaulchurch.org.

Services for Ellen Andrews Smith Gage, BA ’60, age 80, of Tyler, TX, are scheduled for 1 PM Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at Jackson's Burks Walker Tippit Funeral Home with the Reverend Matthew Boulter officiating. Burial will be in Rose Lawn cemetery under direction of Burks Walker Tippit Funeral Home, Tyler. Ellen died February 28 at home in Tyler. She was born in Tyler, Texas on April 22, 1938 to Frances McKay and Earl C. Andrews and graduated from Tyler high school.  She graduated from Baylor University, majored in History and Latin and was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority.   She then began her teaching career at The Chadwick School and Baylor University, ending it locally with years of service at John Tyler High School, Robert E. Lee High School, and The Brook Hill School. Ellen loved and studied music.  At Baylor she participated in five choirs: the a cappella choir, the chamber choir, the madrigal choir, Bards and Rhapsody and the Oratorial Chorus.  She loved to sing and pursued it throughout her life, serving also in the choirs at Green Acres Baptist Church, Saint Andrews Episcopal Church, and Christ Episcopal Church – her church home for many decades. Ellen loved traveling, camping, and socializing with friends in local organizations like her graduating class of 1956,  Culta Mea and the First Literary Club of Tyler.  She adored her sweet grandchildren and was very proud of all of her family. Survivors include her husband, Gaylen Gage; son, Lannom A. Smith and wife Jeanne; daughter, Kristen Smith; daughter, Haley Simpson; daughter, Hadley Montgomery and husband Paul. Grandchildren include Olivia, Sydney, and Walker Montgomery, Ella and Micah Smith, Rainee and Morgan Gage.  She also was very close to her many cousins. The family will receive friends from 5:30 to 7 PM Monday, March 4th at the funeral home. If desired, memorials may be made to Christ Episcopal Church or the Andrews Center in Tyler.

Wayne Huell Brinkley, BBA ’61, exited this earth peacefully in his sleep and went to be with Jesus Sunday, March 31, 2019, in Denton, Texas. He was 90. He was born to Henry and Eula (Martin) Brinkley, June 22, 1928, in White House, Tennessee. Wayne married the love of his life, Charleen Lewis, February 5, 1955. He served in the United States Airforce (1951-59), receiving the National Defense Services Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. Wayne graduated from Baylor University in 1961 with a Bachelor of Business Administration and began his career as Director of Freight Transportation with International Freezers in Laredo, Texas. International Freezers was soon purchased by U. S. Cold Storage and Wayne was named Vice President and Manager of the Laredo, Texas plant. In time, he moved to Arlington, Texas, and oversaw the building and management of a new U. S. C. S. plant. Wayne volunteered with various organizations including the Salvation Army and Rotary Club. He taught Sunday School, always found a place to serve in church or his community and co-hosted countless dinner parties with Charleen through the years. Wayne and Charleen lived and acquired many wonderful friends in Laredo, Waco, and Arlington, Texas, as well as, in White House, Tennessee. He was a hardworking man, loving husband, father and grandfather, and dear friend to many! Wayne is survived by his wife, Charleen of Denton; son, J.W. Brinkley, daughter-in-law, Kim, and grandchildren, Jessica and Jeremy of Aubrey, Texas; sister, Dartha (Dot) Roaden of White House, Tennessee; and a loving extended family in Texas and Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Eula; daughter, Kathleen; and brothers, Gerald, Charles W. and J.D. A funeral service will be held at 2:00PM, Saturday, April 6, 2019 at Slay Memorial Chapel in Aubrey, TX with Randy Shuffield officiating.  A private family interment will follow at Belew Cemetery in Aubrey, TX.  Online condolences may be shared at www.slaymemorialfuneralhome.com.

Aubrey Felton Conner, BBA ’61, was born December 11, 1937 in San Saba, TX to Arvin Felton and Faye Curb Conner. He passed away peacefully on April 9, 2019, at St. Catherine's in Waco, TX, at the age of 81, from effects on his autonomic nervous system due to Parkinson's. Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 27, at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at a later date at Waco Memorial Park. Due to World War II, the family moved from ranching life to follow Arvin's work, both as a civilian in airplane plants and active duty Marines. The family came to Waco in 1951 where they built several hundred small frame houses in the 50's and early 60's under the name of A F Conner and Sons. During the downturn of house building in the early 60's, the family turned to construction of rural community water systems throughout the state. Later after Arvin's health failed due to Parkinson's, Aubrey used his degree in personnel management from Baylor, at both Central Texas Iron Works and Gulf States Paper before his health, too, failed. Aubrey graduated from Waco High in 1956. He was on the first Waco Tribune Super Centex football team, the Texas All-State football team, sang bass in All-State Choir. He played football one semester for Texas Tech when he suffered a career ending knee injury. He then joined the Marines, earning platoon guide. After reinjuring his knee, he could not qualify for pilot training, so he took an early honorable discharge. He came back to Waco to complete his education at Baylor. It was there he met Janice Brown and they married in 1961 and followed the construction for several years. After the boys came along, they settled in Waco. Sue joined the family and there were 3 kids in 3 different schools for a couple of years as Janice worked as a nurse at Hillcrest Hospital. Aubrey and the family became active in many civic, church and school organizations – Northern Little League, Waco Christian School, Reicher Catholic Athletics, 4-H, Crestview and Lake Shore Churches of Christ, Rotary, Toastmasters, Texas Assn. of Business, Republican Party, and the National Rifle Association to name a few. Aubrey was a quiet, reflective man who didn't mince words. He was well respected for the moral principles and work ethics instilled in him by his parents. He enjoyed the outdoors, reflective music and reading and caring for his smooth fox terriers. Over the years his life was influenced in various ways by many special people: Tommy Blackburn, Norman Denney, Dr. Clint Chambers, Kyle Connally, Clay Connally and now deceased, Priscilla Connally Alldredge. Preceding him in death were his parents, Arvin and Faye; and his in-laws, J.B. and Martha Brown. Survivors include his wife, Janice Brown Conner; children, Byron and Pam Conner, Clint and Kristi Conner, and Sue and Ron Eberhardt; brother, Dean Conner and wife, Bernita; brothers-in-law, Ben Brown and wife, Elizabeth and Elbert Brown and wife, Betty; grandchildren, Caleb, Joshua, Ethan, and Eamon Conner, Nicole Eberhardt, and Allison Simpson; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Special thanks to Ron and Jan Oden, Robyn and Wilson Tarver, Don Anderton, and Janeth Elbert for their love and support over many years. Also special thanks to nephew, Chris Conner for his help the past few years with Aubrey and "Mamaw", and thanks to Dr. Michael Soileau, to Dr. Darryl Pietsch, Mark Roberts, P.A., and all the many nurses, therapists, and staff at St. Catherine's as they took loving care of Aubrey in his final six months.

June Williams McDonald, MHA ’61, of Wilmington, NC died Thursday, March 21, 2019 in Wilmington, NC. She was born at Tupper Lake, New York. She earned her B.S. degree at Syracuse University, applied for a commission and completed her dietetic internship at Brooke General Hospital, San Antonio, Texas. In the course of her service, she completed the requirements for a Masters Degree from the U. S. Army - Baylor University Graduate Program in Healthcare Administration. She then became the second dietitian in the Army to earn a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin. During the next few years Col. McDonald received assignments of increasing responsibility and received a wide variety of experiences. Her last few years in the Army included assignment as Chief, Dietetic Section, Office of the Surgeon General (OTSG); Chief, Army Medical Specialist Corps, OTSG; and Deputy Superintendent, Academy of Health Sciences, U. S. Army, Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. Upon her retirement Col. McDonald received the Distinguished Service Medal Previous awards and decorations included the Legion of Merit, the Army Commendation medal, Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. Col. McDonald's research for her Ph.D. resulted in the publication of "A Management Evaluation Program for Dietary Departments" published in the Journal of American Dietetic Association. Her name appears in Who's Who in America, Who's Who of American Women and Who's Who in Government. Upon her retirement, June and her husband Neil enjoyed living in Wilmington, NC where they enjoyed a wide variety of activities. She was a member of The Cape Fear Country Club, The Carolina Yacht Club, The Cape Fear Garden Club and the Thursday Morning Music Club. June also enjoyed playing golf and daily walks with her dog. She was preceded in death by her husband Dr. Neil Jarvis McDonald, her parents, three brothers and two sisters. Nieces, June Meres and Gail Halada survive her. She is also survived by her loving caretakers, Betty Baldwin-Bey, Demesa Bordeaux, Damera Hand, Felicia Davis, Kayla Bordeaux, Shelia Carr, Cyretta Page, Kia Dark, and Thomas Bey. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at Andrews Mortuary Market Street Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Thursday at Andrews Mortuary Market Street Chapel. Interment will be in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

Wanza Sue Floyd Reid, LLB ’61, age 80, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday, January 20, 2019. She was born on May 18, 1938 in Clarksville, Texas to Paul D. Floyd and Ernestine Jones Floyd. Sue graduated from Corsicana High School and went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree from East Texas State College and lastly earned her Law degree from Baylor University. She married William Mack “Bill” Reid on December 22, 1961.Sue and Bill were entrepreneurs, living several years in Puerto Rico buying, developing and selling various businesses. Upon their return to the United States, Sue accepted a position as district staff attorney for the Texas Department of Transportation where she handled employee litigation and right of way acquisitions. She was a member of the State Bar of Texas for over 50 years. She loved to travel – many trips foreign and domestic with family and friends. She enjoyed playing the slots. She was always a winner, but would never reveal her secret for success. Sue was known for her dry wit and her honest and straight forward approach to life and people. Those who knew her loved her and will have many fond memories to cherish. Sue was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her brother, Joe D. Floyd. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Angela Floyd of Framers Branch, Texas; two aunts: Earldene (Mrs. Darwin) Floyd of Boxelder, Texas and Peggy (Mrs. Amos) Floyd of Fredericksburg Texas; and numerous cousins. Cremation is under the direction of Corley Funeral Home and the interment of Sue’s ashes will be held at DFW Military Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Corsicana, Texas at 320 N. 15th Street, Corsicana, TX. 75110 or the charity of choice.

David Wilson Roach, BBA ’61, age eighty-four years died on March 26, 2019 at Mexia LTC. Visitation will be Friday, March 29, 2019 from 6-8 pm at the Groesbeck Funeral Home. A chapel service will be held at the Groesbeck Funeral Home at 2 pm on Saturday, March 30, 2019, with Richard Williams and Clif Fox officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Thornton City Cemetery. David was born on August 8, 1934 on the Roach family farm near Thornton. He lost his father at an early age and the family had to move to Groesbeck. His parents were Knolie B. Roach and Emma Manning Roach. He graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1952 where he played football and often got kicked out of the game because he thought someone was too rough on his older brother, Kenneth. He thought he had to take up for him. After graduation David enlisted in the United States Marines. He was stationed in El Tora Marine Corps Air Station, Santa Ana, California. Later he was sent to Korea where he was in the First Marine Aircraft Wing assigned to the “Devilcats” fighter bomber squadron of Marine Aircraft Group 12.  While in Korea he was awarded the Presidential Foreign Korea Medal, Expert Rifleman Medal, United Nations Medal, National Defense Medal and the Marine Good Conduct Medal. He was highly recommended by his commanding officers for officer’s school. He loved being a Marine but had spent all that time in Korea and was ready to come home and see his family. He promised his commanding officer and his mother if he left the Marines, he would come home and go to college. After returning to the US, David was located at Camp Pendleton, California, before being honorably discharged in August 1955. He then served in the reserves until 1960. After returning home to Groesbeck, David went to work at General Tire in Waco. He worked nights and went to Baylor University during the day. He graduated from Baylor with a BBA degree in Management & Finance in January of 1961. After graduation, David was recruited by Southwestern Bell and put on the executive program. He was working as 1st line supervisor when Hurricane Carla hit Galveston and Freeport in 1961. When President Kennedy was killed in 1963, David was 2nd line supervisor in Austin. They had to run 70 miles of telephone lines to the LBJ Ranch headquarters in Johnson City for Vice-President Johnson when he took over as President of the United States. Later, David became District Plant Manager in Huntsville, Texas and the Superintendent in Beaumont, Texas. His career with Southwestern Bell took him to many locations, but he said he liked Austin the best. Years later David moved to New York. Then he decided to move back west where he took an engagement ring to an Airline Stewardess Janie Farmer in Denver, Colorado and asked her to marry him. They came back to Texas where they were married. He then took the job of Auditor for Collin County. Later he was asked to be the Limestone County Auditor, where he saved the county over a million dollars in his first year and made significant improvements in the courthouse. He and Janie also had the ups and downs of cattle raising and the grandkids had fun naming the baby calves. Due to declining health, David got out of the cattle business. He still enjoyed having coffee and talks with all his coffee buddies at Mary’s until he couldn’t go anymore. He spent his last days in the Mexia LTC. David was preceded in death by his infant son, David Wilson Roach II; his mother and father; a brother, Billy Joe Roach, killed in World War II; a brother, Kenneth Roach; sisters, Gloria Hawkins, Margie Marcus, and Mary Tietjen; and a special niece and nephew, Robin Roach McMinn and Randy Roach. David was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ and he loved the Marines. Once a Marine, always a Marine. Semper Fi. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of forty-five years, Janie Roach; his daughter, Michelle Henson and husband Jack of Robinson; a son, David Bryan Roach of Maine; granddaughter Amy Moegelin and husband Chad of Robinson; their two children, Cade and Drew Moegelin; granddaughter Deena Pino and husband David of Woodway; granddaughter Christen Pena and husband Greg of California; grandson, John Roach and his four children of California; brother, Terry Don Roach and wife Angie of Groesbeck; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. His family would like to thank Mexia LTC director, Martha Saling and her employees for the love and care they showed David. Also a special thank you goes to all Hospice and Providence Hospice caregivers.

Floyd Eugene “Gene” Garman, BA ’62, of Pittsburg, KS, passed away at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at Medicalodges Pittsburg. He was 86. He was born October 25, 1935 at Coffeyville, Kansas, the son of Ivan Sylvester and Ava (Bradshaw) Garman. He attended a one room school in Coffeyville and graduated from Field Kinley High School in Coffeyville before hitchhiking and riding the train halfway across the country to Canon City, Colorado. He did come back to Coffeyville, and worked as a newspaper carrier for a short time before joining the USMC in 1953. After serving time in Korea during the war, Gene transferred to the USMC Reserves and served with them until 1961. He was stationed at Camp LeJeune, NC and it was there that he met his first wife, Frances. Gene attended and graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor’s of Art Degree with a major in religion and a minor in history in 1962.  He followed that with a Masters of Divinity in 1967 from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO. He also attended law school at Washburn in Topeka but did not graduate. Gene was a pipefitter by trade with Local Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local 441, working in Wichita. He then worked for the US Postal System as a postal worker, until he retired. Membership was held in the First Christian Church of Pittsburg, Marvin Armstrong Masonic Lodge #187, VFW, and served at the President of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Local 441. Mr. Garman was a strong advocate and chairman of the Crawford County Democratic Party and was the author of three books: Rocking the Pulpit, a book about the Pastor as Biblical Shepherd, was published in 1967; America's Real Religion, published in 1991 and The Religion Commandments, published in 2008 (both discussions about the Constitutional separation of Church and State). Survivors include a daughter, Ava Sue Green of Chattanooga, Tennessee; three grandchildren, Melanie Anne Green of Florida, Jacob Ray Green of Chanute, Kansas, and Ryan Patrick Green of Neodesha, Kansas; four great-grandchildren, Ella Green, Marlie Green and Avery Green, daughters of Jake and Clara and Ivan Levi Green, son of Ryan and Heather; two half-brothers, Charlie and Sonny; a sister, Barbara Ann and half-sister, Velma Kay and Velma's brother, John Pierce. He is also survived by his long time friend, Jewell Turner and her children; Greg Turner of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Denise Cannizzo of Fort Worth, Texas, Bonnie Turner of Joplin, Missouri; grandchildren, Bradley Turner of Joplin, Missouri, Bethany Thurston of Joplin, Missouri; great grandchildren, Gavin Thurston and Reece Thurston. He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Ivan Levi Garman and Bruce Turner. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday (March 2) at the First Christian Church with Rev. Pat Nixon officiating.  Following the services, a burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. at the Mt. Hope Cemetery in Independence, Kansas, where graveside military rites will be given by the US Marine Corps. The family suggests memorials to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and/or the First Christian Church. These may be left at or mailed to the Brenner Mortuary, 114 East 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762. Friends may also leave condolences online at www.brennermortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg.

Rev. Dr. J. Charles King, BA ’62, of Indianapolis, IN, died March 31. Father King was born in Houston, Texas, on April 17, 1940, to J.C. and Wilma King, the oldest of three children. Though he lived in Boston, MA; Claremont, CA; and Indianapolis, he always considered himself a Texan. As a child in Houston, he enjoyed comic books and radio plays, camp outs with the Scouts, and riding his bike to the public library or to see twenty-five cent matinees. This began his life-long love of fantasy and science fiction; he stopped counting how many times he re-read Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy after he was in the double digits, and he loved cheesy B movies with improbable monsters. In high school, he was a member of the speech team, which is how he met his future wife, Harriet Rhymes. He attended Baylor University, majoring in philosophy. At the urging of his high school sweetheart Harriet, he applied and was accepted to Harvard University for a doctorate in philosophy. They married August 17, 1963, after his first year in Boston. Upon completing his degree, he accepted a teaching position at the University of Houston which he held for two years. His next academic position, at Pomona College in Claremont, California, was for eleven years. While living in California, Charles and Harriet got their first two dogs: Minx, a basset, and Ursula, a Newfoundland. Against the warnings of their parents, they kept the dogs when they had their daughter Heather. That experiment was successful enough that four years later they had a son, Justin. At Pomona, Father King’s lectures on moral philosophy and political philosophy (for which he wrote a textbook) attracted students for their rigor and humor. He and Harriet entertained regularly, played golf together, and enjoyed the proximity of theatre and music performances in Los Angeles. After a Mellon Grant took him and his family to Blacksburg, VA for a semester to study with future Nobel Laureate Jim Buchanan at Virginia Tech, Father King accepted a position as Director of Publishing with Liberty Fund, Inc., an educational foundation in Indianapolis. Over fifteen years with Liberty Fund, he rose to the role of President. During that time, he oversaw educational seminars on a variety of topics literally around the world, bringing countless participants together in probing discussions of texts ranging from classical drama to modern philosophy. Though he missed his family terribly, he relished the chance to travel widely, directing conferences in Australia, Japan, and several European countries. Reading ​The Four Quartets​ by T.S. Eliot for a conference led Father King to the Anglican church, and he and Harriet began attending St. Edward’s. Since leaving Liberty Fund in 1995, he has served the parish of St. Edward the Confessor. Upon becoming a deacon, he took on the role of curate; after becoming a priest, he served as Rector and then Dean. In addition to preaching regularly, he has served as a mentor for younger clergy, led bible studies and book groups for his congregation, and helped build connections with a sister parish in Haiti. Though many may have found him intimidating in academic settings, where he could be a formidable debate partner, Father King had a ready laugh and a finely-honed appreciation of the absurd. This was constantly in evidence at home, especially in his role as a father; his children have many cherished memories of his inexplicably eccentric nicknames and other running jokes. Their first dog in Indiana was dubbed a “Polish Worm Hound” for offenses now forgotten, he called Heather “Heaping Snake” for reasons no one understood, and he was able to turn even disagreements into sources of humor. He was also an extraordinarily devoted husband, bringing Harriet flowers not just on their wedding anniversary, but also on the anniversary of their first date. He provided a daily example of what it meant to love people deeply, and to appreciate them fully. He is survived by his wife, Harriet and dog, Nelson (Indianapolis); daughter Heather, married to Eric Shamp (Redlands, CA) and son Justin, married to Diane Uhl (Houston, TX). He loved hearing stories about the exploits of his grandsons Alden and Mattox King, and Jackson and Austin Shamp. His sister Caren, married to Dale Hollis, and brother John, wife Mary Jones, still live in Texas.

Nelda Jean Ragsdill, BA ’62, of Waco, passed away Wednesday, February 6, 2019. She was 85. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 9, at Greater Waco Baptist Church, 912 TX-340 Loop, Waco, TX, with Pastor Nehemiah Torberson officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, February 8, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Drive, Waco. Jean was born to the Harris family September 27, 1933, in Anna, TX. She was the last of ten children. She attended school in Anna until she graduated high school. Around 1950 she moved to Waco, TX, where she attended Baylor University. Jean received her Bachelor in Education, with a major in Spanish and a minor in English. She began teaching at Waco Independent School District and retired from there after 47 years. In 1978, Jean married the love of her life, James "Jim" Ragsdill. She and Jim have been members of Greater Waco Baptist Church since 2000. Jean loved children and worked in the children's ministry and the nursery at the church until she was no longer able. Jean had a life-long passion for animals of all shapes and sizes. She rescued as many as she could and often brought many home. She had many friends and one of their favorite pastimes was shopping. She was loved by many and will be dearly missed. Jean was preceded in death by her parents and all of her siblings. Jean is survived by her husband, Jim Ragsdill; son, Kenneth Burk; several nieces and nephews; along with many friends. Special thanks to The Atrium at Bellmead for the special care given to Jean.

Dorothy Purcell Schneekloth, BA ’62, of Falcon, CO, died Mar. 6 at age 83. She was born March 19, 1935 in Gonzales, Texas to Edna and Lemuel Purcell. Head cheerleader for Gonzales High School and after graduating in 1953, Dorothy worked as a church secretary before moving to Waco, Texas to attend Baylor University. She met Dave Schneekloth who was stationed at a nearby Air Force base. The couple married in 1959, and through correspondence Dorothy graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education in 1962. Through her travels with the military she taught, volunteered and raised money for local organizations and the community. Dorothy adopted a son, Steve, in 1964 and a daughter, Sharon, in 1967. After settling down in Colorado Springs, the couple moved to Falcon where Dorothy taught second grade at Falcon Elementary from 1980 to 1999. After retiring from teaching, she volunteered at the Falcon Seniors Group, Peterson Air Force Base thrift store, and was a member of the Red Hat Society and the Kadena Officers Wives Club. Dorothy is survived by her son, Steve L. (Dawn) Schneekloth; daughter, Sharon L. (Jeffrey) Naylor; grandchildren, Jimmy Lawrence (girlfriend, Hannah), Shana Schneekloth, Casey Cooper, Spencer Cooper, Aran Naylor and Nichole Stormberg; three great-grandchildren, Essence, Inocencio and Vincent; and two sisters, Ailene Lord and Betty Frankenhauser. Memorial Service, 11:00AM, Saturday, March 16, 2019, Grace Community Church, 9475 Grace Church View, Falcon, Colorado 80831. Inurnment, Fort Logan National Cemetery, 3698 South Sheridan Boulevard, Denver, Colorado 80236.

Rev. Candido Gonzales Jr., ’63, of Van Vleck, TX, died Feb. 21 at age 79. He was born July 4, 1939 in Austin, TX to the late Candido Gonzales, Sr. and Refugia Gonzales. He is now with his heavenly Father. Candido was the pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church for 53 years, ministering to several generations. God also used him in the capacity of conventional and associational work. He had a passion for preaching and teaching the word of God. The Lord also gave him the privilege of preaching His word in other countries. He was given the gift of counseling people. Candido helped countless people with this gift. Reaching beyond his church and the community of Bay City. For 10 years he was a teacher for the Bay City Independent School District. He also had a passion for education, so that they could be more of an asset in God’s Kingdom work. Pastor Gonzales graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School. In 1963 he received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Baylor University. In 1983 he received a Master of Arts in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, TX. Survivors include his loving wife of 54 years Gloria Gonzales; daughter Kim Van Buren of Pearland, TX; grandson Evan Van Buren of Pearland, TX; siblings Robert Gonzales and wife Linda of Houston, TX, Mary Baker and husband Don of Austin, TX; step-brother Marshall (deceased) and wife Eunice of Austin, TX; nephew Monte Baker and wife April (missionaries in Budapest, Hungary), other nieces and nephews. Visitation will be 5:00-7:00pm Friday March 1 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Services are 2:00pm Saturday March 2, 2019 at First Baptist Church Bay City with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers are Barry Barnet, Evan Van Buren, Mark Flores, John Flores, Albert Guerrero and George Colesio. Please make memorials in his name to your favorite charity.

Kenneth Lucas, MHA ’63, Lt. Colonel, US Army retired, age 96, passed away in North Little Rock, Arkansas on Thursday, January 31, 2019. He was the son of Charlie N. Lucas and Minnie F. Moore Lucas. Kenneth attended schools in Paris, Arkansas and graduated from Bryant High School. He attended Arkansas Tech University and graduated from Arkansas State Teachers College (now UCA) with a B.S. Degree majoring in Biological Science; Colorado A&M College (now Colorado State University) with a B.S. Degree Majoring in Animal Science; and a M.H.F. Degree in Hospital Administration from Baylor. Kenneth had a career in the Army serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He retired as Lieutenant Colonel and received many commendations, awards, and campaign medals including the Meritorious Medal for loyalty and dedication. After military service, he worked in construction, as a cattleman and as a school teacher including teaching agriculture to veterans. He was preceded in death by his wife, LaRuth Roady Lucas. He is survived by son, Nick A. Lucas, Brooksville, Florida; daughter, Sue Ellen Lucas Johnston, Sherwood; step-son, Michael D. Lucas of Colorado; two grandsons, David T. Lucas and Mark W. Lucas of Colorado; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Virginia Sula Dobbins, Bryant; and Mary Alice Cooper, Little Rock as well as many nephews and nieces. He was a Diplomat of the American College of Health Care Executives and a member of the Alliance Bible Church, North Little Rock, where he served as a past president of the Governing Board. He was also a member of several masonic bodies including the National Sojourners, Heroes of '76 and Shriners. Kenneth enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and philately (stamp collecting) with an interest in U.S. stamps and postal history. In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, Fla., 33607 or www.donate.lovetotherescue.org. Celebration services for Kenneth will be held at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home, 7700 Hwy 107. Sherwood, at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, February 5th with visitation from 10:30-11:30 prior to service. Burial will be in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W. Maryland Ave., North Little Rock, Ark. 72120.

James Douglas Moore, BBA ’63, MS ’65, ("Jim" to some and "Big Daddy" to his four grandchildren) of Austin, Texas, passed away at the age of 77 on Sunday, February 24, following a long illness. James was born on January 1, 1942, in San Antonio, Texas, to Xanthea Lagadinos and Morden Moore. James, commonly referred to by all who knew and loved him as a "gentle giant", was large in both his impressive physical size and the boundless warmth of his heart. His favorite things in life revolved around family, food, and football: trips to the Gulf Coast, camping, canoeing, aimless drives through the Hill Country in his beloved pickup truck, enchiladas, cheeseburgers from Whataburger, cold cans of Tecaté with limes and salt, and, of course, cheering on his beloved Baylor Bears and Dallas Cowboys. His greatest love was always reserved for his wife, Katy, who he met in 1963 in Waco and married in November of 1965. Together, they raised four children in Austin and in Houston in houses brimming with too many dogs, a seemingly never-ending carousel of their kids' friends, and Legos and Barbie dolls in every corner. James's childhood in the Rio Grande Valley was spent playing football, attending Boy Scout camp at Camp Perry, and going on adventures with his close-knit group of friends. One of his favorite adventures took place on Easter weekend 1959, when he and his three best pals canoed 287 miles of the Rio Grande River, from Falcon Dam to the Gulf of Mexico, resulting in national news coverage. James was a proud graduate of Harlingen High School (Harlingen, Texas) and Baylor University (Waco, Texas), from where he held both a bachelor's and master's degree in economics. After completing his graduate degree, he joined the U.S. Navy, retiring a few years later as a lieutenant. During his life, James was always known as an outstanding scholar, excelling both as an undergraduate and a graduate student. In his professional career, James wore a variety of hats; including economics professor, football coach, Naval officer, real estate developer, small business owner, and environmental consultant for the South Texas agriculture and golf course industries. Considered by all to be the most ethical and moral of men, he was forever being tapped to serve as executors of trusts and estates. Second only to his wife and kids, James's biggest passion was for the sport of football. James played both sides of the line for his high school and college teams. He was one of the few players ever to be honored as All State two years in a row as a high school player. He was honored to be coached and influenced by John Bridgers and M.A. "Catfish" Smith while playing for the Baylor Bears. During that time, he formed special bonds and lifelong friendships with many of his teammates. Ever the pragmatist, he turned down an offer to play in the NFL, realizing pursuing his academic interests would serve him better on his way. Yet that didn't stop him from serving as a coach for both Baylor, as a defensive line coach, and the Navy, as a coach at Pensacola. James had the ability to touch the lives of every person he met. He is survived by his wife Kate Oliver Moore; his children, Katherine Lee (Paul Cooper) Moore, Matthew Douglas (Jennifer Quarles) Moore, Madison Moore (Charles) Agee, and AnnaKate (Joel Hickok) Moore; his grandchildren, Maya Isabella Cooper, Charles Matthew Agee, Andrew Campbell Agee, and Jethro James Hickok; his brother David (Beth) Moore; brother-in-law Tom (Frankye) Oliver; sisters in-law Alice (Robert Parrott) Oliver-Parrott and Jane (Wesley) Stafford; nieces Shelley Oliver Littleton, Jane Oliver Dunlap, Rachel Elizabeth Moore, Lee Alexandra Trevathan, Sarah Alice Stafford, Grace Stafford Barnett; nephews Jonathan David Moore, Thomas Wesley Shaw, Thomas Andrew Moore, Jordan Moncrief Trevathan, Parker Franklin Trevathan, James Michael Ezra Stafford and Thomas Mitchell Oliver-Parrott. He is also survived by a host of other cousins and grandnieces. He was preceded in death by his mother, Xanthea Lagadinos Moore, his father, Morden Kelso Moore, his brother Robert "Bobby" Charles Moore, his sister-in-law, Sarah "Sally" Oliver Shaw and his niece Elizabeth Shaw Mauldin. A celebration of James's life will be held on April 27, 2019, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Waco, Texas at 1:00 PM; the same church where Katy and he were married almost 54 years ago. Family and friends are invited to attend an additional celebration following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in James's honor to the Concussion Legacy Foundation at Boston University or the Boy Scouts of America.

Marvin Lane Dameron, MSEd ’64, of Eddy TX, age 86, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2019. Services will be 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 4, at Bruceville Eddy United Methodist Church with Pastor Robin Ford and Pastor Dennis Camp officiating. Burial will follow at Bruceville-Moore Cemetery. Visitation will be 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., prior to the service. Marvin was born May 31, 1932, to Marvin Eugene Dameron and Mary Frances Mills Dameron. He completed his high school education at Midway High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, track and baseball. In 1950, he and his classmates were the second class to graduate from Midway High School. Dameron attended Daniel Baker College in Brownwood on a basketball scholarship. After about a year, however, he became concerned about his grades and was given approval to quit basketball in exchange for taking a dishwasher’s position at the school, which enabled him to keep his scholarship. Daniel Baker College merged with Howard Payne University and Dameron graduated in 1955 with a Bachelor of Science from Howard Payne University. Nine years later, in 1964, he earned his Master of Science degree in Education Administration from Baylor University. After graduating from Howard Payne, Dameron was a teacher, coach, and high school principal for Bruceville-Eddy. He moved to Midway High School three years later, where he served as an assistant coach for football and track, taught sixth grade arithmetic and general science, and drove a school bus. In 1962, Dameron accepted a position as an elementary school principal and five years later as a junior high principal. A few years after that, in 1971, he became assistant superintendent for Midway ISD and acting superintendent in 1973. A year later he took over completely following Superintendent Rice’s retirement. He held this position until his retirement in 1989. Marvin Dameron was born and raised in Speegleville, Texas, where he attended school through tenth grade. He was a member of Speegleville Baptist Church for much of his life and was baptized in Hog Creek in 1946. He married Mary Ann Dunning in Bruceville in 1962. After making their home in Eddy, Dameron joined the Bruceville Eddy United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents; and younger brother, Billy Gene Dameron. Marvin is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; his sister, Mary Mooney; brother, Clyde Dameron; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Bonnie Lewis Kiker, MSEd ’64, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, and a steadfast member of the First Baptist Church of Abilene, passed away on March 30 at age 88 here in her hometown of Abilene. She was well loved in the community and will be long remembered and missed by her family and many friends. On Friday, April 5, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be a visitation for family and friends at The Hamil Family Funeral Home at 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. On Saturday, April 6, there will be a public graveside ceremony at 11 a.m. at Elmwood Memorial Park followed by a service in celebration of her life at 1 p.m. in the sanctuary of the First Baptist Church of Abilene, and then a reception at 3 p.m. at the Abilene Country Club. In lieu of flowers, donations can also be made in Bonnie's name to First Baptist Church, Abilene GLO Daycare. Memories and family condolences may be shared online at www.hamilfamilyfuneralhome.com. Bonnie was born on March 4, 1931, in Pampa, Texas - the second daughter of Hazel and Marvin Wayne Lewis. She moved with her parents and older sister at an early age to Abilene, where she would grow up and graduate from Abilene High School. Four years later, Bonnie was a cum laude graduate of Baylor University, with a BA degree in English and education. During her tenure at Baylor, she served as secretary of the student council; was named the "B" Squadron Sweetheart of the Baylor Air Force ROTC; and represented Baylor at the Rice University Rondolet Homecoming Pageant in Houston. Long after graduation, she remained active in the Baylor University Heritage Foundation. Bonnie married William George Kiker on June 10, 1952, and they lived briefly in Midland, Texas, where she taught classes at the local high school. The following year, she returned to Abilene with her husband and raised three sons. Bonnie was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Abilene, where she taught Sunday School with her husband, sang in the Sanctuary Choir, supported the Intercessory Prayer Ministry and served as a member of the Baptist Women on Missions organization. Her volunteer positions in the community included serving as president of the Junior League of Abilene, a board member of the Abilene Woman's Club, a board member of the Philharmonic Guild and a trustee of the Abilene Philharmonic Association. She was a member of Chapter CK of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and the Pensadoras Club, as well as a patroness of the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity at Hardin Simmons University. Bonnie was well known for her love of music, friends and family; and for the camaraderie and friendships she inspired in those around her. She prided herself on providing a home base around which her friends and family could gather, and saw the world through a lens of Christian faith and optimism. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Mrs. Reuel Nash, of Lubbock. She is survived by her husband William G. Kiker I, her son Marion L. Kiker, of Abilene and his fiancée Oksana Gladysheva; her son William G Kiker II and his wife Sherry, of Austin; her son, John D. Kiker and his husband Daniel J. Hulseberg, of New York City; and her grandson William G. Kiker III and his fiancée, John Robert Link, of Austin. Honorary pallbearers are Robert Nash, Wayne Nash, Dr. Arthur Hall, Dr. Lanny Hall, Steven Gibbs, Ernie Proctor, Dr. Carl Trusler, and Carlene Spicer. The Kiker Family would like to thank the team of caregivers who served Bonnie over her last years, especially Daisy Stallings, her constant companion and trusted friend. And most recently, Tabitha Collier-Tovey, Jill Dennis, Judith Rojas, Jewel Phillips, Bridget Grant, Maria Williams and Tiffany McCoy. These women, along with Bonnie's primary physician Samantha Goodman, MD, and the staff at Home Instead helped Bonnie laugh every day.

Cynthia K. Watkins Meadow, BA ’64, died April 25, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. Born July 27, 1941 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  She was the daughter of Orville C. Watkins and Dorthey Louise Wasson Watkins, both parents predeceased her. After graduation from Fort Smith High School (now Northside High School).  Cynthia worked two years for the Derrel Thomas Company in Van Buren, Arkansas.  During that time, she earned college credits for her freshman year taking night classes at Fort Smith Junior College (now the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith). Cynthia graduated from Baylor University, Waco Texas in 1964 and began a 30-year career with the United States Congress, Washington DC.  During that time, she earned a JD degree from the Columbus School of Law, Catholic University of America, and married Joseph F. Meadow with whom she had one son, Michael Joseph. On Capitol Hill, in Washington DC, she served on the staff of U.S. Senator Ralph Yarborough (D-TX) and then on the Judiciary Committee in the House of Representatives as Council under Chairman Jack Brooks (D-TX) assisting him in passage of the American Disabilities Act (ADA).  She also served on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Economic and Commercial Law as Chief Council. Following her retirement in January 1995, Cynthia attended and graduated from the Baptist Seminary in Richmond, Virginia in May 1999. As part of her curriculum she served with fellow students on a mission trip to Denia, Spain and completed a ministry internship at University Baptist Church in College Park, Maryland where she was ordained a deacon and taught lady’s bible classes. In 2017, she was diagnosed with incurable leukemia and volunteered to take part in several medicine trials.  She often said she would be fine no matter the outcome of the disease because she knew without doubt that she had a personal relationship with God the Father through, Jesus, His Son and the Holy Spirit, and knew that life after death is real. She often expressed gratitude for the loving care she received from her husband and son during her illness, and for the hours of hard work by her sisters, Sandy and Gloria, and brother-in-law Bob Bradford for their assistance with her affairs. She is also survived by her nephews David Bradford of Austin, Texas, and Greg Bradford of Frisco, Texas, and their families, and her niece Mary Stapleton PhD. of Towson, Maryland.

Emmett Daniel Smith, BBA ’64, MA ’66, of Dacula, GA, ended his life's journey at home on February 28, 2019. Dan was born in Iron Mountain, Michigan, on November 24, 1942, to Vida Larson Smith and Emmett Gardner Smith. He leaves his wife of 53 years Dixie Lee Allison Smith And two sons: Daniel Bruce and his wife Susan Knipschild and children Daniel (21), Brian (19) and Sammie(17); And Gregory Brian and his wife Tamara Lei and daughter, Gabby (9). Dan also leaves his 4 siblings: Neil ( wife Melanie and sons Jonathan and Jared), Deborah Ann Williams (sons Seth and Nathan), Lesley, and Lori (husband Ron, daughter Emily, son Josiah). Dan grew up in Northern California and that was "home". He attended Undergraduate school at Baylor University in Texas and graduate school ( Master's and PhD) at Ohio State University. His first job as Professor of Accounting was at the University of Florida from 1971-1991; His second job was at the University of Georgia from 1991-2010. He loved teaching, watching the light come on in a student's eyes. Dan received many teaching awards and other honors over the years. He was not only a teacher, but mentor, counselor and friend to thousands of students and to many peers. Private celebrations of life will be held this Spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center 1762 Clifton Rd, NE Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30322

Dorothy Nell Messer, BMEd ’65, of Kent, WA, died Feb. 2. was born in Huntsville, Texas on June 5, 1943, to J. Earl and Vivian Hensarling. She attended public schools in Huntsville, graduating from Huntsville High School in 1961. Dorothy played piano and organ, and was the pianist for the school’s choir for several years. She graduated from Baylor University in 1965 with a degree in music. Dorothy taught music in public schools, and gave private piano lessons to numerous students over the years. She also earned a Master’s degree in music from the University of North Texas, and was working on a PhD in music theory when she moved to North Carolina to marry her second husband, Keith Messer. After Dorothy and Keith moved to Kent, Washington in 1984, Dorothy started a typing and word processing business on the “Ave” near the University of Washington. Dorothy operated “ASAP Professional Typing” for 14 years, until 1999, when she retired to become a full time Grandmom. Dorothy had a lifelong love of music, and she and Keith had season tickets to the Seattle opera for many years. As a jazz lover, Dorothy also enjoyed going to Jazz Alley in Seattle to hear the Jazz greats who played there. In her later years, Dorothy enjoyed playing Skip-Bo, going to the grandkid concerts, vacationing in Leavenworth, and exercising at the fitness center at Valley Medical Center in Renton. Dorothy is survived by her husband of 36 years, James Keith Messer, of Kent, Washington; sister Earline Pritchard of Huntsville, Texas; sister Elizabeth Henson of Dallas, Texas; daughter Leigh Webb and husband David Webb of Palestine, Texas; son Andrew Foster and wife Laura Foster of Azle, Texas; granddaughter Madison Foster of Tacoma, Washington; and grandson Gavin Foster of Auburn, Washington.

John Bowmen Patterson, BA ’65, of Guntersville, AL, passed away late Monday evening, March 11, 2019 at Marshall Medical Center South. He was 75. Mr. Patterson was born and reared in Houston Texas, and he lived there until his senior year of high school before moving to Mission, Texas. Mr. Patterson had a Bachelors of Science from Baylor University in English and Social Studies, and he had a Masters degree from Sam Houston University in Education. Mr. Patterson was an avid Baylor Bear Football fan, his father was a team physician for the Baylor Football team and his brother played football for Baylor. He was part of five generations of family to attend Baylor University. Mr. Patterson retired from Education teaching in Texas and substituting in Marshall County after 20 years. He then hit the road as a truck driver and a Truck Driving instructor. In his retirement, he and his wife served as relief house parents at Moriah Christian Children's Home in DeKalb County. He was a born again Christian, and had a deep desire to study biblical history. He lived his faith and his belief in eternal life. He was a member of South Sauty Baptist Church and sang in the choir, known for his beautiful bass voice. He was known for his sense of humor, wit, and caring for other people. He was survived by his Wife; Sue Wood Patterson; Brother, Patrick Patterson (Debby) of Houston Texas; Sister, Dorothy Zey of Ft Worth Texas; Sister-in-Law, Annette Patterson of Dallas Texas; Grandchildren, Melanie and John Patterson and son-in-law, Barry Patterson of Odenville, Al and several nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents: Robert Patterson Sr.; brother, Dorothy Bowman Patterson, Brother, Michael Patterson and Robert Patterson Jr. and Stepdaughter, Suzanne Patterson. There will be a Memorial Service at South Sauty Baptist Church in Langston with Reverend Briggs King officiating. Burial will follow at Haneys Chapel Cemetery.

Leslie B. Vance Jr., JD ’65, passed to Eternity on Jan. 18, 2019, at his home in Meadowlakes, Texas, surrounded by his friends and family. He was 79. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, Feb. 1, at 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church, where he was an active member for many years, with Dr. Ross Chandler officiating. After proudly serving his country with the United States Marine Corps, Leslie went to law school and had a successful legal career that spanned more than 40 years. Among his accomplishments, Leslie served at various times as District Attorney for Bosque, Comanche, Hamilton and Eastland Counties. He also proudly served as Assistant Attorney General in the Law Enforcement Division under Attorneys General Dan Morales and John Cornyn. At his retirement from public service, Leslie was Chief Counsel for the Inspector General, Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Deborah Smith Chapman, BSN ’66, of Conroe, TX, died Apr. 21. Born September 8, 1944 in Metairie, Louisiana, she was the daughter of the late Cora Lee and W.J. Smith. She is survived by her loving husband, Jay Chapman; one brother, Patrick (Barry) Smith of Austin, one daughter Julie Herridge and her husband Ron of Montgomery; two sons Wynn Chapman and his wife Diana of Sugar Land, and Chris Chapman of Montgomery; and eight grandchildren, Hannah, Kyle, Jay, Abbey, Jaxson, Drew, Ashtyn and Jordyn. Debbie grew up in New Orleans, Dallas, Atlanta and finally Memphis. She graduated from high school in Memphis in 1962. She then went on to Baylor and graduated in 1966 with a BSRN. While attending Baylor, she met the love of her life Jay. They married on May 27, 1965 and moved to Dallas in 1966 where she worked as a nurse at Scottish Rite Children's Hospital. After living for a short time in Arlington, the family moved to Conroe in 1972. Debbie and Jay would have celebrated 54 years of marriage at the end of May. They were truly devoted to one another and set a beautiful example for their children and grandchildren. Debbie had a huge heart and she was dedicated to her faith and her family. During her 47 years in Conroe, Debbie touched the lives of many through her psychiatric nursing and her Christian counseling at West Conroe Baptist Church. What a blessing to know she's now in Heaven to watch over us. Services will be conducted Wednesday, April 24, at West Conroe Baptist Church in the Chapel. Family visitation will begin at 1:00 with a Memorial Service at 2:00. A reception will follow. Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of the present time do not amount to anything in comparison with the glory that is going to be revealed in us.

Anthony “Tony” Wayne Fox, BA ’66, of Lompoc, CA, passed away on March 5, 2019.  He was 74. His devotion to his family and his love of country were with him throughout his life. Tony was born in Tampa, Florida, on September 28, 1944.  Being raised in a military family, Tony traveled the world and even attended high school in Japan. After high school, he graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Political Science, and later earned a Master of Science Degree in Industrial Management and Supervision at Central Michigan University. He retired from the United States Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel after having served for almost 25 years. His favorite Air Force assignment was being in charge of the program to build F-16's for the Turkish Air Force. He lived and worked in Greenland and Saudi Arabia as well as in Ankara, Turkey. In 1967, Tony met his wife of 50 years, Ann, on a blind date. He proposed after knowing her for only eight days, and they were married ten weeks later. They have one son, Erik, a practicing attorney, who lives in Las Vegas with his wife Jennifer and their children, Dominic and Emma. After returning to Lompoc in 1995, Tony became active in the local community serving as a director of the Vandenberg Village Community Services District. His love of music got him involved with the Lompoc Pops Orchestra Board of Directors, where he served many years as President. His family is very grateful to the Lompoc Hospital and Lompoc Convalescent Care Center. It made the journey easier knowing that he received gentle, loving and expert care. A celebration of life will be held Thursday March 14, 1:00 p.m., at Starbuck-Lind, 123 N. A St., Lompoc. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lompoc Pops Orchestra.

Sharon Moore Goble, BS ’66, of Sherwood, Arkansas went to be with the Lord on February 7, 2019. She was 73. She was born on April 29, 1945 in Little Rock to J. Doyle and Hattie Moore. Sharon graduated from Baylor University with a B.S. in Math and Physics, she later pursued her master's degree in math at Louisiana Tech in Ruston, Louisiana. She was a long time member of First United Methodist Church in Jacksonville. Sharon retired from PNC Bank after 35 year of service as a senior V.P. in system development. She loved horses, dogs, and enjoyed playing bridge. She was a member of the Remount Saddle Club, Central Horse Show Association, Little Rock Dog Training Club, and Pulaski County Sheriff Mounted Patrol. She was devoted to her family, friends, and her church. Sharon was preceded in death by her parents. Sharon leaves behind to cherish her memory, her loving husband of 52 years, James Goble; daughter, Kathryn Kopreski; son-in-law, George Kopreski; and a host of many friends and family. A visitation will be held Thursday, February 14, 2019 at 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at A Natural State Funeral Service, 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas. Funeral services to follow on Friday, February 15, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 308 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas with interment at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, North Little Rock, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church in Jacksonville, Arkansas. The family would like to extend a special thanks to Sherwood Nursing Home and Arkansas Hospice for the care of Sharon.

Carolyn Sue Hart, BA ’66, known as Susie to her friends and “Gammy” to her grandchildren, passed away on March 1, 2019 in her home in Peoria, Arizona. On September 25, 1944, Susie was born to her parents, Signa Glenn and Thelma Mae Stegall, in Tucson, Arizona. She graduated from Baylor University in Waco, Texas with a Bachelor of Arts on June 3, 1966. She raised her two beloved children, Ken and Cindy, with their father, Ken Hart. For more than forty years, Susie worked as a school teacher at Scottsdale Christian Academy, Phoenix Christian High School, Northwest Christian School, and Wickenburg Christian Academy. Along with her faith, family and friends, her students were her passion and priority. She loved her vocation as an educator, and she used her position to spread the light of Jesus and impact the lives and communities of her copious group of students. Susie was also enthusiastically involved in her church and Sunday school; she cherished the friendships created through this fellowship. Susie is preceded in death by her parents, Signa Glenn and Thelma Mae Stegall. She will be lovingly remembered by her brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Cindy Stegall; by her children, Ken and Julie Hart and Cindy and Jason Creed; by her grandchildren, Taylor and Ella Hart, Whitney and Jace Creed, and Madison and Jacob Harner; and by the father of her children and husband of over twenty years, Ken Hart. Susie’s family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to her close friends, coworkers, and pastoral staff at North Phoenix Church.

Barbara Jean Lane, BS ’66, of El Paso, TX, died on April 7, 2019. Her suffering is over and she is in the loving arms of Christ our Savior who restores all. She was an only child of William T. and Margaret Doron Hudson born on September 30, 1945 in Ft. Dix, NJ. The family was soon stationed on base in Tokyo where they experienced many good memories. After the war, her father was moved to El Paso, later to retire as Lt. Col. So Barbara grew up in Northeast El Paso and attended the schools there including newly built Irvin HS. She was active with youth at Trinity Methodist Church and as a late teen met her future husband Robert C. Lane Jr. there. She attended Texas Western (UTEP) and was a Gold Digger Marcher. But she transferred to Baylor to graduate with her husband, all the while rooting for the Miners basketball team as they went on to win the National Championship. After Barbara earned her Masters at SMU, the family finally settled back in her hometown of El Paso with three children. She worked for Sierra Medical Center for 32 years, retiring as Lab Director. She was active in the community with Junior Woman's Club, Woman's Club (twice President), Kermezaar and the Arts, PEO Chapter M(President), and was on committees at Trinity-First UMC. Barbara loved to travel and took many adventures, including trips to all seven continents. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, and is survived by sons Robert (Lisa), and Jeffrey, daughter Jennifer (Aldo), and four grandchildren, Alan Mena, Hannah Lane, Noah Lane, and Sarah Lane. We wish to thank everyone who helped in her care: Doctors and Nurses too numerous to mention here, the gentle staff at Serenity Assisted Living, and Hospice of El Paso.  Viewing will be from 5pm-9pm Friday April 12, 2019 at Funeraria Del Angel, 8817 Dyer St. Burial will be 12pm Saturday April 13, 2019 at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery on Dyer across from the funeral home, followed by Memorial Service at Trinity-First UMC, 801 N. Mesa, then reception in the Parlor at Trinity-First.

William “Bill” D. Medford, Jr., MHA ’66, of Georgetown, Texas, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by the ones he laughed with, lived for, and loved on January 18, 2019. He was 88. He was preceded in death by his best friend and loving wife, Virginia Welter Medford of 55 years, who passed away in 2007. Bill was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma on April 4, 1930, where he lived the early part of his life. He entered Oklahoma Military Academy at the tender age of 14, finishing his formal education and graduation from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Bacteriology. He later went on to earn a Master’s in Hospital Administration from Baylor University. After finishing school, Bill began a long military career serving both in Korea and Vietnam. The military suited both his sense of order and his code of loyalty. Much of his early career was spent flying helicopters with the US Army Medical Service Corps, providing vital combat health support in field medical units. After hanging up his helicopter wings, he settled into healthcare administration until his retirement. Over the years, he, Virginia and the family traveled many countries and states, meeting so many people, of who many became and remained close friends. After military retirement, Bill worked for the State of Texas, had his own surplus business and became a tireless member of the Williamson County Gem and Mineral Society. He spent 20 plus years serving as their annual show chairperson promoting interest and enjoyment of earth sciences (minerals, gemstones, fossils and metalcraft) for all ages. Bill is survived by his daughter, Christine Wilson and her husband, Patrick Wilson; son, Mark Medford and his wife, Eva Medford; daughter, Marcella Medford; and four grandchildren, Kevin Medford; Stephanie Wilson-Hodgson and her husband, Cody Wilson; Amy Hodgson; and Ian Medford. He is also survived by family cousins, Louis Greer of New Orleans, Louisiana; Enus (Sonny) Wilson and Laveeda Grimm of Tulsa, Oklahoma. We thank God for the gift of his life and the blessing of the time we spent with him. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2019, from 4:30pm to 8pm at Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home, 2900 Williams Drive, Georgetown. The family warmly invites others to join them in a celebration of Bill’s life held at the funeral home on Sunday, January 27, 2019 at 11:00am. A reception will follow immediately after the service there. Interment services alongside his wife at Cook-Walden Capitol Parks Cemetery in Pflugerville will follow the reception.

John L. Midkiff Jr., MHA ’66, of Nashville, TN, died May 9, 2018.

Joseph Milton Thomas, BA ’66, MA ’72, died Apr. 30 in St. Augustine, FL, at age 75. He was born in Brownsville, TN on January 4, 1944 and graduated from Haywood County High School in Brownsville, TN.  He earned a Bachelor and Master of Philosophy and Religion from Baylor University in Waco, TX and a Master of Divinity from Southern Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY. He was a resident of Milledgeville for 34 years where he served as Associate Pastor of Hardwick Baptist Church and First Baptist Church. He also served as pastor of Sinclair Baptist Church and as Chaplain at Central State Hospital and Georgia State Prison in Milledgeville. He was most recently serving as Activity Director for Coquina Crossing Retirement Community in St. Augustine, FL. He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years Stephanie Samuels Thomas. Survivors include two daughters, Shannon Mercer of Plano, TX and Stacie McTeer of Hoschton, GA.  Three grandchildren, Connor and Hannah Mercer and Will McTeer. Visitation will be Sunday, May 5 from 1:00 until the funeral hour.  In lieu of flowers memorial contribution may be made to First Baptist Church of Milledgeville, Georgia College Foundation, or Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Tommy Leon Walker, BBA ’66, of San Antonio died Apr. 26 at age 74, with his wife & daughter by his side. Tom is survived by his wife Sandy of 54 years, his two daughters, Kristi Dutson and husband Greg, and Kandi Tucker and husband Tom & five wonderful grandchildren Grant, Brett, Cole, Cassie and Caden. As an East Texas boy, he enjoyed basketball and baseball and went on to play baseball at Baylor University where he met his wife. After serving in the US Air Force he began a career in sales & spent 30 years as a real estate agent with RE/MAX becoming highly respected in his profession. He enjoyed his work immensely, with Sandy by his side. He lived a life of service serving as a deacon & Sunday School teacher in his church as well as teaching and mentoring fellow real estate agents.In his earlier years, Tom was an avid golfer but had come to love travelling and going on cruises with his wife and friends. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Shearer Hills Baptist Church at 12pm on Friday, May 10.

Houston Daniel, BA ’67, passed away on March 6, at Methodist Hospital in Houston. The services will be held at First United Methodist Church in Liberty, where he was a member, with Reverend Josh Hale, Dr. David R. Murph, and Dr. Jerry F. House officiating. Interment will follow at the Daniel Family Cemetery on FM 1011 in Liberty. The Texas State Library and Archives Commission will host a reception honoring Houston at the Jean and Price Daniel House at the Sam Houston Regional Library and Research Center immediately following interment. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 10, from 6-8 p.m. at Allison’s Funeral Service in Liberty. He was born on July 1, 1945, in Lexington, Rockbridge County, Virginia. His parents were Price and Jean Houston Baldwin Daniel.  He was the great-great-great-grandson of Sam Houston, who was also born in Rockbridge County, Virginia. Houston graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1963. He graduated from Baylor University, where he received his bachelor of arts degree, in 1967. After receiving his undergraduate degree, Houston served in the Army National Guard before receiving his Doctor of Jurisprudence from The University of Texas School of Law in 1971. He practiced law and owned a rare book store in Austin until he moved back home to Liberty in 1978, where he practiced law for over 40 years. On March 20, 1976, he married Charlotte Whitehurst in a wedding ceremony performed at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston. Later this month, they would have celebrated 43 years of marriage. They are the proud parents of two sons, Timothy Houston and John Price Daniel.  As the owners of the historic Liberty Depot building, Houston and Charlotte have been ardent supporters of historic preservation and numerous other causes in the Liberty community. He was a charter member of the Atascosito Historical Society, and he held memberships with the Texas State Historical Association, Friends of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge, Friends of the Liberty Municipal Library, Bryan Museum in Galveston, Bullock Texas State History Museum, Preservation Texas, Texas Freedom Network, and numerous other civic organizations, clubs, and societies with missions to preserve history and improve communities. In 1992, Governor Ann Richards appointed Houston to the Sam Houston Bicentennial Celebration Commission, and his fellow members elected him Chairman. Houston was preceded in death by his parents, Price and Jean Houston Baldwin Daniel; and his brothers, Price Daniel Jr. and John Baldwin Daniel. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Daniel; their sons, John Price Daniel and Timothy Houston Daniel, his wife, Kenda Bing Daniel, and their son, Jonah Baumgarten.  He is also survived by his sister, Jean Daniel Murph, her husband, Dr. David R. Murph, and their children, Marilyn Jean Murph and Daniel William Murph.  Houston was also survived by 11 additional nieces and nephews, numerous great-nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins and lifelong friends. Houston was affectionately known as “Hootie” by his family and friends. He will be greatly missed, although his legacy of kindness, thoughtfulness, humor, and eternal optimism, will be remembered by all.  

Jerry Lloyd Hall, BBA ’67, BS ’68, of Dallas died Apr. 20. He was born on March 26, 1943. A faithful servant, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Jerry was called home by his Lord on April 20, 2019. He was born in McKinney, TX and reared by his parents, Dual Blaine Hall and Margaret Helen Hall. Jerry attended Baylor University on a baseball scholarship and made all SWC team at 3rd base in 1964. He then signed a major league contract with the Kansas City A's. He went on to become a CPA and later in retirement purchased a boot and shoe repair business which he ran with passion. Jerry played softball for several years and is in the Sr. Softball Hall of Fame. He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Seale Hall of 54 years and his only daughter, Krisie Hall Koepp, her husband, Bruce, his two grandchildren, Conner, his wife Britney of Forney, great-granddaughters Kimberlyn and Kenleigh; granddaughter Courtney Koepp of Norman, OK ; sisters Ann Redden and Sandra Godwin, plus numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, from 6:00-8:00 pm at Sparkman/Hillcrest, Dallas, TX.

Dr. James “Jim” Eugene Helgeson, BA ’67, of Aledo, TX, passed away Monday, Jan. 28, 2019, at the age of 73. CELEBRATION OF LIFE: 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, 2019, at Moore Funeral Home in Arlington, Texas. Jim, who was born in Red Wing, Minn., knew he wanted to be a doctor from a very young age. After graduating from Baylor University with honors, he went on to receive his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in 1971. Jim enjoyed a 45-year career as a pathologist, with most of that time spent at Arlington Pathology Association and Arlington Memorial Hospital. Jim was an avid outdoorsmen, who also loved history, nature and exploring the world. SURVIVORS: Jim will be lovingly remembered by his wife, JoAnn; his children, Eric and Merideth (Chris Villasenor)' his stepchildren, Eric (Jessica) Johnson, Elisha (Ruben) Rugerio, and Cody Etheridge; his sister, Linda Summers; and his nephews, Terry Summers and Chris (Matt Adams) Summers.

Warren K. Hoen, MHA ’67, (Ret) LTC, of St. Augustine, Florida, passed away on December 26, 2018. Warren, son of Murk and Grace Hoen, was born on November 3, 1930 in Utica, New York. Warren graduated from the University of Colorado in 1953 and joined the Army as a second lieutenant. He attended the first Dust Off class and began his career as a medivac helicopter pilot. He served in the Korean and Vietnam wars and is credited with rescuing over 1500 soldiers and received the Bronze Star and Air Medal of Heroism. Warren went on to earn his masters degree in hospital administration and continued his distinguished career in the Army and as a civilian. Known for his integrity, he honored his responsibilities to his family and his country. Warren is survived by his four children: Jeffery Hoen of Barbie, France, Charlotte Cooper of Orangedale, Florida, Andy Hoen of Reno, Nevada, and Kirsten Yelvington of St. Johns, Florida. He is also survived by nine grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Jacksonville Nation Cemetery on Friday, March 1, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.

H.H. “Hap” Pullium, BS ’67, passed away March 8, 2019 at home with family. Hap was born April 25, 1939 in Valley Town, North Carolina to Venison Pullium and Nettie Phillips Pullium. He attended Georgia Military for seven years, graduating in 1957. He attended the University of North Carolina and graduated from Baylor University in 1964. He worked as an administrative officer for USDA food and nutrition service for 26 years. He is survived by his wife Elaine Pullium, Nacogdoches; his sister Hope Pullium, Nacogdoches; his son David Pullium (Traci), Plano TX; his daughter Rebecca Brazil (Clint), Mesquite, TX; his daughter Mikel Salsgiver (Craig), Lucas,TX; his step daughter Christie Hale, Denver, CO; his step sons, Louis Callahan (Cathy), Greenville S.C. and Craig Callahan (Annette) Welsh, LA; grandchildren, Johnathon Willamson (Virginia), Franklin N.C.; Autumn Soeder (Dean), Plano TX; Alexandra Hale, Denver, CO; Lois and Griffin Callahan, Greenville S.C.; Patricia C. Francis (Mathew), Greenville, S.C.; Sarah Salsgiver Lucas,TX, and great grandson Chandler Williamson, Franklin N.C.; his 5 fur babies and many nieces and nephews and cousins. He is predeceased by wife Gerry Pullium, Dallas TX; parents Mr. and Mrs. Venision Pullium; brother Heyward Pullium, Andrews N.C.; and sisters Joy Longhurst, Andrews N.C., and Faith Watts, Marietta, Ga. Hap loved hunting, fishing, 42 dominoes and cards. He especially enjoyed being around his grandchildren and nieces and nephews, teaching some of them how to fish and hunt. We would like to thank Accolade Hospice, in particular Sara Moore, Amanda Osteen and Rev. Brian Tyre for the wonderful care they provided to Hap the last 7 months. Also thanks to Jordan Home Health Care and Dr. Hashim who cared for him prior to Hospice. Haps Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 23rd at the New Hope Methodist Church, 5301 E Main Street (Hwy. 21) in Nacogdoches. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Accolade Hospice or charity of your choice.

Dr. John D. Scott III, BS ’67, age 74, a resident of Baton Rouge, passed away peacefully at his home, April 11, 2019. John was born in San Antonio, TX where he graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. He received a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Chemistry from Baylor University, and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of North Texas. John has been a member of the American Chemical Society for over 50 years. He was an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Montana and the Scientific Director at the LSU Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices until his retirement in 2017.  John was previously a member and deacon at Southside Baptist Church and an active member of Christ Covenant Church. Those who knew John know that he loved and cared for them like family. John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Ann Rootes Scott, his three children, Ian Scott, Maris Bourg, Alyssa Hills, their spouses, Tracy Scott, Jason Bourg, and Nick Hills. He is also survived by his brother Bill Scott and wife Judy, and his grandchildren, Tea’ Minor, Mia Minor, Elizabeth Bourg, Kane Scott, Harrison Bourg, Thomas Bourg, Lily Parker and Ella Parker. He is preceded in death by his father John D Scott II and mother Josie Jennie Scott. Visiting hours will take place at Resthaven Gardens on April 17th, from 5-8 pm and April 18th beginning at 9 am until services starting at 11 am. Burial will follow at Resthaven. Pallbearers will be Bill Scott, Ian Scott, Clint Scott, Jason Bourg, Kane Scott, Harrison Bourg, and Thomas Bourg. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the American Diabetes Association or to a charity of your choice in John’s name. Special thanks to Canon Hospice for your kind, loving, and professional support in making John’s last days as comfortable as possible.

Margo Skelton, BS ’67, of Houston died January 30 at age 75. A private burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 11:00am. Reverend Steve Jones will be officiating. Margo was born in Birmingham, Al to Fred O. and Louise R. Skelton on February 12, 1944. She was preceded in death by her father, Fred Oland Skelton and her mother, Louise Robbe Skelton. She is survived by her brother, Steve R. Skelton, (Janice), her nieces; Pamela Skelton Duke (Jeff), and their children, Merrilea and Garris; Laura Skelton Roberts (Bobby), and their children Bo, Jimmy, Thomas & Kathryn. Margo received her undergraduate and Master’s degree from Baylor University. She worked in the healthcare industry as a medical technologist and managed labs at LaRoche and Kindred Health. She was a member of Forest Champion Baptist Church in Houston, Texas where she volunteered in their home ministries.

On Saturday, April 6, 2019, Glenn Walter Biedermann, BS ’68, loving husband and father of two children, passed away at the age of 73. Glenn was born on April 22, 1945 in Dallas, Texas to Walter and Lilly Gully Biedermann and grew up in Waco, Texas. He received his bachelor’s degree in Math and Physics from Baylor University in Waco in 1968, and he began his career as a geophysicist with Amoco in Fort Worth, Texas that same year, eventually retiring from Conoco as the General Manager of both International and Domestic Exploration. On August 31, 1968, he married Betty Jo Ardis. They raised a daughter, Tracie, and a son, Grant. He worked in the petroleum industry for 27 years, living in many locations throughout his career including Fort Worth, Texas; New Orleans, Louisiana; Ponca City, Oklahoma; London, England; Lafayette, Louisiana and Houston, Texas before retiring at the age of 50 to his beloved Ponca City in 1995. He was well respected in his field, earning numerous awards and accolades during his career. More than anything, Glenn was defined by his love of his family and his friends, and the passion with which he lived and enjoyed his life. He was a proud father, grandfather, and a devoted and loving husband, generous with both his affection and his time. He loved the peace and beauty of the mountains in Colorado, and cherished the times spent there with his family. He was known for his quick wit, his feisty humor, and his deep love for people. He loved freely and was equally loved in return. He was a man of great faith who was involved in the life of his church, Pioneer Bible Church, displaying his servants’ heart in numerous ways by serving both officially and unofficially as a deacon for many years. He was an extraordinarily capable and talented man, who never seemed to meet a problem he couldn’t solve or skill he couldn’t master. Glenn was preceded in death by his father, Walter, and his mother, Lilly. He is survived by his cherished wife of 50 years, Betty, his daughter Tracie, her husband Jeffrey and their daughter, Shannon and son, Camron of Houston, Texas; his son Grant, his wife Katie and their daughters Elaine and Fiona of Albuquerque, New Mexico; his brothers David and Allen, his sisters Patricia and Karen, a beloved extended family and many dear friends. A memorial ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 11th, 2019 at Providence Baptist Church 1301 E. Bradley at 2 o’clock p.m. Condolences may be sent to Trout Funeral Home, 505 W. Grand Avenue, Ponca City, Oklahoma. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Missions at Pioneer Bible Church, 301 N. 3rd St., Ponca City, Oklahoma 74601.

John “Bubba” Myers, BBA ’68, passed away Sunday April 7, 2019. Services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, April 15, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Chapel in Waco, Texas. Visitation will be 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday April 14, in the Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Garden Room. Bubba was born January 30, 1945, to Lloyd and Alyne Myers in Waco. He graduated from Waco High School. After high school he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Baylor University. Bubba then went on to marry the love of his life, Bobbie Naylor, in 1971. He first sold advertisements for KCEN, before taking over the family business, Johnnie’s Shoe Service, when his father became ill. He ran the family business alongside his mother and wife for the next 15 years. Bubba then became the executive director of the Waco Boys and Girls Club, which he did for more than 20 years until he retired. Bubba had a passion for sports and helping kids. He volunteered with Lake Air Little League for all of his adult life. He started as an umpire at 19 years old, was a coach for many years and then became president of the league until retiring. Bubba and his family were avid supporters of all Baylor athletics. He kept the official scorebook for Baylor’s men and women’s basketball teams for 35 years before retiring. More than anything he enjoyed watching his sons and grandchildren play sports. Bubba was loved by many and was considered a father figure to many more than just his three sons. Bubba is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Alyne Myers; and his great nephew, Jantzen Burrow. Bubba is survived by his wife of 48 years, Bobbie Myers; his brother, Allan Myers of Cleveland, Ohio; his sister, Martha Potter of Arlington; his sister-in-law, Elgenia Sandefur of Waco; his son, Zack Myers, and grandchildren, Megan and Grant Myers, of Keller; his son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Alyssa Myers, and grandchildren, Braxton, Ainsley, Chase, and Cole Myers, of San Antonio; his son, Scott Myers, and grandchildren, Dannika and Cooper Myers, of Frisco; nephews, Bill Lovering of Lacanto, Florida, John Lovering of San Antonio, Brad and Chris Myers of Ohio, and Josh Manlove of Midlothian; and niece, Jennifer Haack of Arlington. Pops, we are all with you “win or tie.” The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please donate to the Waco Boys and Girls Club in the name of Bubba Myers.

Dr. April Gale O’Quinn, BS ’68, 83, of Hattiesburg, MS, passed away Sunday, April 21, 2019 at Provision Living at Hattiesburg. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 24, 2019 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Moore Funeral Home in Purvis with services immediately following at 1:30 p.m. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia. Dr. O’Quinn was a member of Brushy Creek Baptist Church in Columbia. She started her career as a Nurse. Shortly after graduating from nursing school at Baylor University, she enrolled in the University of Texas Medical School specializing in Oncology. After graduation she started her career at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, before being recruited by Tulane Medical Center, where she was the head of the OB-GYN Department for 22 years before retiring in 2004. She was preceded in death by her parents, R.V. and Pauline O’Quinn; two brothers, Darris O’Quinn and Rhembert O’Quinn; and two nephews, Donald O’Quinn and Darrell O’Quinn. She is survived by two sisters-in-law, Mary Kathryn O’Quinn and Cheryl O’Quinn; five nieces, Donna O’Quinn, Denise Destin, Carrieann Harris, Carmen O’Quinn-Raschka, and Anna Katherine O’Quinn; two nephews, Bert O’Quinn and Randy O’Quinn; two great nieces, Katelyn O’Quinn and Sarah O’Quinn; and two great nephews, Mathew O’Quinn and Andrew O’Quinn.

John Cade Ramsey Sr., BBA ’68, age 72, of Hillsboro, TX, went to be with his heavenly father on March 24, 2019 at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at Open Range Cowboy Church in Whitney with Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors in Whitney in charge of the services Burial will follow at Ridge Park Cemetery in Hillsboro. A visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday evening at the funeral home in Whitney. John was born in Clifton, Texas on July 9, 1946. He was the son of John Cicero Ramsey and Mary Katherine McCown Ramsey of Whitney, Texas. John graduated from Whitney High School in 1964 and attended Hill College for one year, where he met his wife of fifty-two years. He married Susan Bond on June 23, 1966. He graduated from Baylor University in 1968 with a Bachelor of Business Administration. After graduation, John joined the management program at JC Penney and helped open the Six Flags Mall JC Penney store. He served six years in the United States Army Reserve beginning in 1969. In 1971 John and Susan moved to Hillsboro to manage Bond Furniture for his father-in- law for sixteen years. He served as Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce president in 1976. As Chamber President, John traveled to Washington D.C. to lobby for the construction of the Lake Aquilla Dam. He later started Ramsey Auction Service where he sold antiques and estates for eighteen years. Many have great memories of the fun the customers and workers had at the auctions. The last ten years he worked as a seismograph permit agent. He and his wife traveled for his job and lived in many beautiful places they had never been. John spent countless hours riding horses with his grandkids, taking them to playdays and attending their activities and sporting events. Besides his family, John’s greatest accomplishment was receiving his thirty-six-year chip from Alcoholics Anonymous earlier this month. He was a member of Open Range Cowboy Church where he served on the arena team. John also served as a lay pastor at Open Range Cowboy Church and was honored to have been able to baptize five of his grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and his birth mother, Sydonia Zander Sommerfeld; and a sister, Cynthia Finstad. John is survived by his wife Susan; children Mary Kay Zamzow and husband Michael of Whitney, John Ramsey, Jr. and wife Tracy of Hillsboro, Rebecca Pustejovsky and husband Craig of Abbott, Deborah Brooks and husband Rick of Hillsboro; grandchildren Michael Zamzow and wife Lindley, Austin Zamzow, Kara Zamzow, Kendree Zamzow, Cadie Ramsey, John Cade Ramsey, III, Carlie Ramsey, Hunter Pustejovsky, Hayden Pustejovsky, Bethany Kazda, Will Kazda and Landree Brooks; brothers, Jimmy Sommerfeld of Laguna Park, Howard Sommerfeld and wife Elizabeth of Waco, sister Ellen Shields of Clifton; brother-in-law, Bill Bond and wife, Caroline of Richardson; nephew, Dr. Kirk Bond and wife Leanna of Temple, niece Suzanne Bond of Richardson; godchildren, Susan Stanford of Las Colinas and David Stanford of South Pasadena California; and numerous nieces and nephews.

James B. Crenshaw, BA ’69, age 71 of Springfield, TN, died Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at his home. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 11:00 AM in the Oakhurst Chapel of Robertson County Funeral Home with Dale Swearingen and Carolyn Fitch officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 9 AM until the hour of service. Following the service his remains will be cremated. Mr. Crenshaw was born June 20, 1947 in Sikeston, MO to the late Bridwell Logan and Mary Maxine Collins Crenshaw. He graduated from Sikeston High School in 1965 and Baylor University in Waco, TX in 1969. In 1972 he received a doctorate of juris prudence degree from the University of Missouri School of Law in Columbia, MO. After graduation he had a private law practice in Sikeston before moving to Jefferson City, MO in 1974 to work for the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Public Service Commission. He later moved to Clarksville, TN and worked for the District Attorney and later had his own practice before retiring in 2002. He enjoyed traveling, watching TV and keeping up with the news. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Logan Crenshaw who died in 1971, and a brother-in-law, James E. Fitch who died in 2014. He is survived by a special friend, Elizabeth Ferguson of Springfield, TN; brother, Joseph Moore Crenshaw of Cuba, MO and his children, Jackie, Meredith, and Danny; sister, Carolyn Fitch of Franklin, TN and her children, Richard (Meredith) Fitch of Birmingham, AL and their children, Wesley and Kristen, Kim (Walter) Costner of Brentwood, TN and their children, Logan, Thomas, and Kyle, Sam (Joy) Fitch of Birmingham, AL and their children, Lauren, Anna Katherine, and Michael, and Russ (Jenna Beth) Fitch of Franklin, TN and their children, Andrew, Jack, and Ryan; and Robert Logan Crenshaw’s children, Chris and Christy.

Dr. Richard Winn “Doc” Harrison, BA ’69, of Kilgore, TX, died Apr. 26. The retired Kilgore College professor and administrator passed away peacefully at his home after a brief valiant fight with cancer. Dr. Harrison taught English and speech at KC for 39 years, served as the Communications and Speech Department Chair and finally as the Liberal and Fine Arts Dean before his 2014 retirement. A memorial service for Dr. Harrison is set for 10 a.m. Saturday, May 11, at the Cross Roads United Methodist Church with the Reverends Shawn Heatherly and David Banks officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 10, at Kilgore's Rader Funeral Home. Born January 26,1947, in Paris, Texas, to the Honorable Archibald Myers Harrison and Florence Jeannette Evans Simmons Harrison, Richard participated in Boy Scouts during his early years. He earned the Eagle Scout Rank in 1961 shortly before entering Paris High School and graduating in 1965. Then in 1967, he graduated from Paris Junior College where he was a member of the PJC Rodeo Team. After his transfer from PJC, Richard earned his B.A. degree in 1969 from Baylor University where he continued his rodeo activities as a member of the rodeo team there. He loved his time at the university, and his passion for the Baylor Bears never ceased. The last event he was able to enjoy was watching the Lady Bears Basketball Team win the national championship. Shortly after his graduation from Baylor, he joined the United States Army Reserve Unit in Paris, serving until 1975. Beginning in 1970, Richard entered graduate school at East Texas State University, now Texas A&M Commerce, earning both the M.S. (Education) and M.A. (English) degrees in l97I and 1972. In addition, he taught 10th grade English at Clarksville High School in 1971-1972.
He was accepted into the ETSU English Doctoral Program and taught English at the university until he earned his doctorate in 1975, specializing in 19th Century American Literature, in particular the works of Mark Twain. It was during those years in Commerce that he learned to play Texas-style fiddle music and consequently organized and directed ETSU's summer collegiate fiddlers' contests. His love of music, in particular Bob Wills' Western Swing, continued throughout his life. Aside from rodeo, music and Mark Twain, Richard felt strongly about conservation efforts. Most important to him was keeping/maintaining waterfowl habitats viable, and he soon learned that Ducks Unlimited was the organization to make that possible. He volunteered his services to DU for more than 35 years, working as the dinner chairman for numerous events, serving in both the district and state capacities and mentoring youth. He never asked others to do what he was not willing to do himself and continued to sponsor as a life member in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He organized the Kilgore College Chapter of DU and also sponsored and worked with the Kilgore High School DU Chapter. He was most proud of these young people in their efforts to raise funds for conservation. In fact, the KHS Chapter was the top fundraiser in Texas for three years in a row and within the top 10 nationally for those same three years. Before retiring from KC, he earned numerous awards. The most prestigious was his nomination as Piper Professor in 2010. That same year, he received the Beeson Award for Excellence in Teaching. Another of his passions was watching "The Andy Griffith Show," especially the black-and-white episodes. He was a member of the Andy Griffith Show Rerun Watchers Club, faithfully read “The Bullet" newsletter and often greeted friends with "Gomer says Hey!" He loved his fur babies and did his best to do what he could for helping make sure that abandoned animals could find loving homes. His home was seldom without those extra paws scurrying about. Much like his favorite author Mark Twain, Richard often quipped that animals are some of the best teachers and we humans need to learn from them.
Preceding him in death are his parents; a sister, Ann Frances Simmons Abbett; and his aunt, Ann Frances Evans Woosley. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 47 years, Sarah Jane Herrin Harrison of Kilgore; daughter, Dr. Emily Kate Harrison (Laura Ann Samuelson) of Boulder-Longmont, Colorado; son, James Richard Harrison of Dallas; sisters, Julia Beth Harrison Bolling of Houston and Jeannette Simmons Waterman (Bill) of Walpole, Massachusetts; his nieces, Linda Jo Abbett of Garland, Julia Simmons Abbett Coats of Garland, Dr. Melanie Elizabeth Bolling Schmidt (Robert) of Richmond, Virginia; and his nephews, Mark Harrison Davis (Mindy) of Jersey City, New Jersey, and Harrison Fenner Bolling (Whitney) of Houston.
He is also survived by beloved pets: his dogs, Ginnie and Cammie and his cats, Stanley, Rallo and Laurel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations may be made to the Cross Roads United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1272, Kilgore, TX 75663; Pets Fur People, P.O. Box 6151, Tyler, TX 75711; and The Cat's Meow Rescue in Longview/Kilgore, P.O. Box 6722, Longview, TX 75608.

Charles Jackson Nunn, BAcc ’69, of Waco passed away Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at Providence Hospital. He was 79. Services will be Friday, February 15 at 2 pm at Highland Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Wible officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, February 14 from 6 to 8 pm at OakCrest Funeral Home. Charles was born August 29, 1939 in Ben Wheeler, Texas to William Rufus and Lois Marie Coleman Nunn. He grew up in Waco and in 1958 graduated from University High School where he participated in All State Choir from 1957 to 1958. Charles continued his education at Baylor University earning his Bachelors degrees in accounting and business. Charles served in the Texas National Guard for 7 years. He served as a Scout Master and as President of the Central Texas Genealogy Society. He was also a member of the Brazos Valley Woodcarvers Association and the Institute of Management Accountants Association. On July 22, 1961, he married Sherry Robertson. He became a member of Highland Baptist Church and remained one for 57 years and was a former Deacon. He was very proud to have been a multi gallon blood donor, which he began doing when he was a teenager. Charles retired from WISD as Chief Accountant. He also worked during his lifetime at General Tire and Rubber Company, 7-11 Stores, the Baylor Accounting Office and EOAC. Charles was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Roscoe Nunn. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of nearly 58 years, Sharon Evon (Sherry) Robertson Nunn; son, Tracey Aaron Nunn; grandson, Jonathan Aaron Nunn; granddaughter, Kaitlyn Vickki Nunn McCarthy; brothers, William Travis Nunn and wife, Gayle, and Donald Ray Nunn and wife, Connie; sister-in-law, Cyndie Nunn (wife of Roscoe); brother-in-law, Ronald G. Robertson and wife, Shirley; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.