1990s

Kenneth Brett Mabray, ’90, passed away in Long Beach, Calif., on June 3, 2019 as the result of an automobile accident. He was 51. He was born in Houston to Thomas Chambers Mabray and Brenda Wentz Mabray on January 18, 1968. Brett resided in Victoria as a teenager and was a 1986 graduate of Victoria High School. He attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, before relocating to California. He was whip-smart and very mechanical and could build anything. His passion was automobiles, and that passion turned into a livelihood that garnered him respect in the California car-customizing community and beyond. He often appeared on nationally-syndicated, car-restoration television shows, including "Overhaulin'" with Chip Foose, as part of teams of experts who would restore automobiles to their former glory or transform them into imaginative and unexpected vehicles. Brett is survived by his father and stepmother, Thomas C. (Pepper) Mabray and Patricia Mabray of Bradenton, Fla; brother, Thomas C. Mabray, Jr. of Spring; stepsister Cybil Carrigan of Cleveland, Texas; stepbrother Donovan Carrigan of Kingwood; uncle and aunt, Dr. Richard Mabray and Edwina Mabray of Victoria; and special cousins D'Ann Mabray Shippy of Frisco, and Michael Mabray of Victoria; as well as other uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. Brett was predeceased by his mother. Donations in memory of Brett may be directed to the Shriners Center Transportation Fund, which supports children receiving care at Shriners hospitals. Please send donations to: Shriners Center Transportation Fund - Al Amin Shrine, 2001 Suntide Road, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78409, 361-241-5353; or to a nearby Shriners Center.

 

Kyle Doughty Jordan, BA ’91, of Laurinburg, NC, died June 8, 2019. She was 50. Kyle was born June 3, 1969 in Corpus Christi, Texas to parents Erik and Linda Doughty. Kyle graduated from Baylor University in Waco, TX and moved to Austin, Texas. While there, she met her husband Lee Jordan. They were married in 2003 and had two beautiful children together: Mary Marjorie and John Erik Jordan. Kyle was a wonderful wife and mother to her children. She was their advocate, role model, and friend. In 2014 the Jordan family moved from Houston, TX to Laurinburg, NC to live a quieter life while restoring Lee's grandfather's 150-year-old home. Kyle quickly made the transition from "city girl" to "country girl" and loved the homestead where they had begun to keep bees, grow lavender, and even raise chickens. In 2016, Kyle became a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, which she loved, as this career allowed her to make a difference in people's lives as well as in the community. She became an active member of the Scottish Pilot Club, the Scotland County Humane Society, Scotland County Literacy Council and Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church. Kyle also volunteered with Special Olympics, Scotland County Partnership for Children and Families and any other group that needed a hand. She had just landed a part in the Encore! Community Theatre production of "Over the River and through the Woods." Whether family, friend, client or fellow volunteer, she was prepared to give you her all. Kyle's "all" was authentic, kind, thoughtful, fun and full of laughter. Kyle Doughty Jordan will truly be missed. Kyle is survived by her husband Lee Jordan, children Mary and John Jordan, parents Erik (Rose Anne) Doughty and Linda Doughty of Corpus Christi, brother James (Amanda) Doughty of Corpus Christi, and numerous in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and other family and friends. A memorial service will be held at Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church on Saturday, July 13 at 12:00 pm with visitation following in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of the many organizations for which she volunteered: Scottish Pilot Club, Scotland County Humane Society, Scotland County Literacy Council, Old Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church, Special Olympics, Scotland County Partnership for Children and Families, or to the gofundme.com/Kyle-Jordan-Memorial page.

 

Dr. Latta Michel Baucom, MBA ’92, of Davidson, NC, died July 28. Davidson Day School Headmaster Latta M. Baucom passed away Sunday afternoon at the age of 54 after an almost three-year battle against liver cancer. Before his time as headmaster at the Davidson private school, Latta had held positions at three schools in Florida. He began as the first head of school at North Ridge Christian School in Haines City, then he worked as high school principal at All Saints Academy in Winter Haven, and later as high school principal at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach. Latta’s positions in education were less about the job than they were about forming connections with the families, faculty and students. He was an educator at his core and followed his passion for learning and teaching others, whether that be from a textbook or the priceless pieces of wisdom and advice he shared with many. Before becoming an educator, he had attended and graduated from Camden Military Academy in 1982. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree in economics at Wake Forest University in 1987, then received his master’s in business from Baylor University in 1992, and finally his Doctorate of Education in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University in 2016. In 2001, Latta founded the North American International School in Pretoria, South Africa, with his father. His dedication to the field of education was merely one example of his compassionate and selfless morale. He enrolled in the United States Army after graduating from Wake Forest and served three years of active duty from 1987 to 1990. Then, while earning his masters at Baylor, he was in the Army National Guard. After this, he served a two-year active duty tour with the North Carolina National Guard from 1996 to 1998. Even prior to his positions as an educator, he worked to help children and families as the Head of Children and Family Services for the North Carolina National Guard; this was his last act of duty. His time serving our country was recognized and awarded through several honors. These included a National Defense Service Medal, an Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, an Army Service Ribbon, and his Parachutist Badge. Latta was preceded by his late mother Henrietta Baucom in 2017. He is survived by his father Kenneth Baucom, brother Ian Baucom, and sister Christianne Nieuwsma. Latta’s legacy continues through his wife Gina Baucom and his six children: Steven VanMeter, Jodi Waters, Danielle Baucom, Rachel Baucom, Abigail Baucom, and Joel Baucom. He is also succeeded by four grandchildren, three nephews, and four nieces. Latta’s most important passions and parts of his life were his family, his faith, and his service to his country. The memorial service will take place at Davidson College Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. this Wednesday. Latta will be buried with military honors in Mount Zion Cemetery immediately following the service. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, is serving the family of Mr. Baucom. Condolences may be made to the Baucom family at www.cavin-cook.com.

 

Dr. Renee Yvette Mansfield Faulconer, BA ’92, of Tyler, TX, passed away Friday, July 12, 2019 in Tyler after a long and courageous fight with brain cancer. She was 51. She was born Oct. 22, 1967 in Dallas and raised in Waco by her parents Beth and Michael Mansfield. She married her love, Galen Faulconer, on October 1, 1994. Renee was a member of Marvin United Methodist Church and the Trinity Sunday School Class. She was a 1986 graduate from Richfield High School in Waco. She was a graduate of Baylor University in 1990 and the University of Houston where she received her Doctor of Optometry degree in 1993. Nothing gave her more happiness or purpose than her husband and their four children. She rejoiced in their love and she celebrated every milestone, every memory and every success, especially their time in Colorado. One of her greatest joys was serving as room mother for all of her children and opening her home for countless school events. Beyond her children, she was a nurturer to all that knew her. She brought so many friends together and cherished her time with each one. Her life was a living example of Ephesians 4:32 - "And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ." She loved her community and lived to serve others. She was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, served as the Texas Rose Festival Kick-Off Party Co-Chairman, the Tyler Museum of Art Little Black Dress Co-Chairman, a board member of Parents Anonymous, and a member of the Women's Symphony League. She is survived by her loving family including her husband, Galen Faulconer; children, Grayson, Clayton, Caroline and Frances all of Tyler; parents, Michael and Beth Mansfield of Waco; sisters, Stephanie Pennington and husband Tommy of Southlake and Michelle Dunnam and husband, Jimmy, of Waco; and several nieces and nephews. All of these she loved and touched deeply. The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Elizabeth Maher, Dr. Bruce Mickie, FitSteps for Life and the Hospice of East Texas. Visitation is scheduled from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Monday, July 15, 2019 at Stewart Family Funeral Home, 7525 Old Jacksonville Highway, in Tyler. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to FitSteps for Life, P.O. Box 8257, Tyler, TX 75711 and The Hospice of East Texas Foundation, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, TX 75701.

 

Dr. Marty Jean Watkins Kinard, EdD ’93, daughter of Arty and Jean Watkins, wife of Larry Kinard, mother to Matt and Erin, mother in law to Sarah and Lyle, sister to Jerry and Luan and grandmother to Noah, Lily, Emma, Lucy, Layla and Liza, passed away on May 7, 2019. Marty was born in Clovis, New Mexico on August 23, 1954.  She grew up in Dalhart, TX where she had a life long love affair with west Texas.  She graduated from Dalhart High School and attended Texas Tech University where she received her MS degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. Marty met her husband of 42 years at Texas Tech in 1974.  They married in Dalhart in 1976 and lived in Paris, TX, where Matt was born, Muenster, TX, where Erin was born, Hillsboro and finally Waco. Marty began her career working the Abernathy, North Lamar and Marietta school districts providing speech therapy services.  In 1991 she returned to school at Baylor University, earning her doctorate in educational psychology and then continued her career at the Family Practice Center specializing in family practice faculty development where she worked with academic physicians and interns improving their teaching skills. Marty was an elder at First Presbyterian Church in Waco where she lived out her baptism through active involvement in the youth and music ministries of the church. Marty was an accomplished musician, cook, mother and problem solver.  She loved singing in small and large choral groups, she loved being a mother to her children and a helper to all who needed assistance.  She was exceptionally smart, funny, witty and could banter and joke with anyone and was always ready with her set of “Bubba” teeth to provoke a laugh and embarrass her children. In the 14 years since her strokes Marty expanded her family to include five caregivers who stayed by her side until the very end.  Nykkie, Renee, Renea, Erica, and LaShonda loved and cared for Marty and gave her the greatest gift she could receive, love and respect. Funeral services will be at First Presbyterian Church in Waco on Saturday, May 11th with visitation with the family at 12:30 and the memorial starting at 2 p.m.

Annette Denise Nemmer Carruth, MSEd ’94, of Waco was born December 26, 1964 to Agnes and Joe Nemmer and passed peacefully on June 17, 2019 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. The visitation will be held at 6 p.m., followed by the Rosary at 7 p.m. at OakCrest Funeral Home (4520 Bosque Boulevard, Waco, TX) on Friday, June 21. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 22, at St. Louis Catholic Church (2001 N. 25th, Waco, TX) by Father Ryan Higdon. Burial will follow at the Oakwood Cemetery in Waco, TX. Mrs. Carruth attended St. Louis Catholic School and Reicher Catholic High School before graduating from Texas State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Education. Annette also received her Master's Degree in Education and Administration from Baylor University. A longtime educator and teacher with China Spring ISD, Annette retired in 2015. In her retirement, she went to teach 4th grade at St. Louis Catholic School, a position she called her dream job. Along with teaching, Annette enjoyed gathering with family and friends, practicing her Catholic faith, spending time with social and school groups, and being outside in her garden with her dogs. Annette was active with the Women's ACTS Team at St. Louis. Annette is preceded in death by her parents, Agnes and Joe Nemmer and brother David Eugene Nemmer. Annette leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband Richard Carruth of Waco; daughter, Tori Carruth of Austin; daughter, Abby Janell "Nellie" Carruth of Waco; brother, Joe Nemmer and wife Janice of Waco; brother John Nemmer and wife Christy, of Waco; nephew, Jody Nemmer and wife Suzanne of Waco; niece, Melissa Brewton of Waco; niece, Jennifer Smith and husband Mike of Waco; nephew, Clinton Nemmer of California; niece, Sissi Gholson and husband Bobby; nieces and nephew, Terri Collins, Tonia Nemmer, Wendy Nemmer, Leslie Nemmer, David Nemmer Jr., and numerous other relatives, loved-ones and close friends. Pallbearers will be Jody Nemmer, Kenny Brewton, Cole Gholson, Chuck Carlile, Kevin Kelly, Rick Wolfe, Ryan Gobar, and Tommy Beckner. Honorary pallbearers will be Bobby Gholson, Clinton Nemmer, Austin Beckner, Adam Beckner, and John Young. Donations may be made in honor of Annette to St. Louis Catholic School or MD Anderson Cancer Center for their incredible care.

 

Joel Shawn Hurley, BBA ’94, MBA ’96, of San Antonio met his Maker, Jesus Christ Tuesday, June 18, 2019. He was 47. Hurley was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Rev. Clarence and Mildred Hurley and his maternal grandparents, Robert and Lydia Grant. Joel is survived by his children, Liam Hurley and Isla Hurley; his parents, Joe and Clara Hurley; his sister, Angie Torres (Ramon); niece, Megan Torres; nephew, RJ Torres; uncles and aunts, Jackie and Marcie Grant, Marguerite Hurley, Beverly Hurley and Rev. Billy and Sue Burr; and numerous cousins. He was a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in San Antonio. He was awarded a BBA and an MBA both from Baylor University. He first was employed as a Business Consultant with Anderson World, then Anderson Consulting. He was also employed with Ernst & Young; then later as Senior Vice President of Hitachi Corporation and the Redaptive Corporation. SERVICES A Celebration of Joel's Life will begin at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, July 6, 2019 at Westover Hills Church, 9340 Westover Hills Boulevard, San Antonio, Texas 78251 ~ please use the west or south entrances. In lieu of flowers, his family requests contributions in his memory be made to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, 1001 East 101st Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64131 ~ www.pkdcure.org.

 

Barbara Bell Powers, BBA ’94, formerly of Tyler, TX, died in her home in Long Grove, IL on July 1, 2019. She was 47. Powers was born January 11, 1972 in Tyler to Bill E. and J. Sue Bell. Barbara graduated from Andy Woods Elementary, Hubbard Middle School, and in 1990, Robert E. Lee High School. She was a 1994 graduate of Baylor University, worked in Waco, Dallas, and Tyler before moving to Illinois in 2016. In high school, she participated in drill team and was a Symphonette, and at Baylor she was elected to the Student Congress. Barbara married Jeffery Kevin Powers on December 23, 2000 in Tyler. They were blessed with a daughter, Caroline Lizabeth and son, Connor Harrison, along with Jeff’s daughter, Katelyn. While living in Tyler, she participated in parent organizations at All Saints, The Symphony League, and the Tyler Rose Festival. She taught Information Technology at both Tyler Junior College and Texas State Technical College, Marshall Texas. Together with her husband Jeff, they formed and operated Azalea Technology in Tyler. They sold the company and moved to the Chicago area. In their new home, Barbara was again active in parent organizations, and served on The Choir Guild Board of Adlai Stevenson High School. Barbara was preceded in death by her father, Bill E. Bell Sr.; her sister, Brenda Bell Shepherd; her grandparents; an infant niece; and an infant cousin. She is survived by her loving husband, Jeff; daughter, Caroline; son, Connor of Long Grove IL; her stepdaughter, Katelyn Powers of Westminster MD; her mother, J. Sue Bell, brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Susie Bell; sister and brother-in-law, Belinda and Jim Cook; and sister and brother-in-law, Beth and Jerry Calhoun of Tyler, along with 12 nieces and nephews and 14 great- nieces and nephews. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, July 10, 2019 from 6-8 p.m. at Stewart Family Funeral Home 7525 Old Jacksonville Hwy, Tyler, TX.

 

Nancy L. Kallus, ’97, age 64, of Leroy, TX, passed away Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2019 at her residence. A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 7, 2019 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Timothy Vaverek officiating. Nancy was born January 12, 1955 in Waco, the daughter of the late Frank and Annie (Roessler) Schroeder. She was a 1973 graduate of West High School. On March 18, 1978 she was united in marriage to Larry Kallus in West. Larry preceded her in death on August 19, 2010. Nancy was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption in West. She was also a member of the SPJST Lodge. She worked for Baylor University for 24 years, most recently in the Philosophy Department. Nancy enjoyed crocheting, cooking, gardening, and taking care of animals, especially her cats. She loved spending time with her family and adored being with her grandkids. Survivors include her daughter, Jamie Jo Ruth and husband Shannon of Leroy; three sisters, Cecilia Soukup of Robinson, Mary Jane McClinchie of San Antonio, and Dianne Reed of Hallsburg; her grandchildren, Keri Jo Ruth and Justin Ruth; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Waco Humane Society or Fuzzy Friends.