1950s

Dr. George P. Collins, BS ’50, of Huntsville, TX, died Sept. 14, 2019. He was 89 years old and had battled Parkinson’s Disease for over 20 years. George was the only child of Ruby and Posey Collins, born on September 1,1930 in Brady TX. He attended Brady High School where he graduated as valedictorian. He combined a degree from Baylor University with early entry into Baylor Medical School in Houston. After Medical school, he fulfilled his anesthesia internship at Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio. He enlisted in the US Air Force, serving his medical residency during the Korean War at Lackland Air Force base and Maxwell Air Force base. Around 1960, he moved to Pasadena, TX where he joined the Pasadena Anesthesiology Group and practiced at Bayshore and Southmore hospitals for over 40 years. He was introduced to Mary Butler, a fourth-grade teacher in Houston, and they wed in December of 1961. They made their home in Pasadena where they raised their girls, became faithful members of South Main Baptist Church, and made dear lifelong friends. In 2012, due to his battle with Parkinson’s and a fall by Mary, they moved to Huntsville, TX and were lovingly embraced by University Heights Baptist Church. As their health deteriorated, they lived at The Lexington Center, and later at Creekside Retirement Community. George was a complete man. He came to faith in Jesus as a child and remained deeply committed to that faith throughout his life. He was intellectually gifted in academics, medicine and music. As a pianist and organist, he played at church and at home. While in the Air Force, George became a pilot and continued flying his own private plane for many years. He loved getting away to his ranch in Caldwell, TX where he could ride horses and work with his hands. No matter where he was, his perfectionism knew no bounds. Above all, he was a kind and generous man who donated regularly to his church, to individuals, and to charities and who served as a mentor to local school children and to his family. He loved and served his friends and family well. George is preceded in death by his beloved Mary and his parents Ruby and Posey Collins of Brady. He leaves behind his family, daughter Elaine Collins Griffin and her husband John Griffin of Greensboro, NC, and daughter Sarah Collins Rogers and her husband Richard Rogers of Huntsville, TX. He was eternally proud of his grandchildren Bryan Griffin, Kelly Griffin, Libby Rogers, Luke Rogers, and Luke’s wife, Amanda Rogers. A memorial service is planned for Thursday, September 19 at 1:00 pm at University Heights Baptist Church in Huntsville, TX. Memorial contributions can be made in his name to The Houston Area Parkinson Society or to University Heights Baptist Church.

Dr. Irving M. Etkind, BA ’50, of Dobbs Ferry, NY, died April 20, 2019.

Dr. Cleo Marie “Cissy” Marschall Fuller, BA ’50, of Austin died Oct. 16, 2019. A Memorial Service will be 3:00 p.m., Saturday, November 9, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Waco with Pastors Patricia Dietrich and Kelsey Fitting-Snyder officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service in the fellowship hall of Saint Matthew, starting at 1:45 p.m. Marie was born November 8, 1928, in Mason, Texas, to William Ingo Marschall, Sr., and Cleo Wood Marschall. Marie attended Angelo State University and received a B.A. with majors in Journalism and English from Baylor University. While at Baylor she was a Lariat night editor and a member of Alpha Omega (now Pi Beta Phi), Sigma Tau Delta, the Round-Up staff, and the Baylor Rodeo Association. She was reporter and then permanent class secretary for the Class of 1950. Following graduation from Baylor, Marie taught junior high in San Angelo for one year and worked as a reporter and columnist for the San Angelo Standard Times. She then moved to Houston and was employed by Shell Oil as an editor and then worked as Assistant Editor for the Texas Agricultural Extension Service at Texas A&M University, where she met Dr. F. M. Fuller, Extension Service Entomologist, and they were wed November 27, 1954. Daughter Cynthia was born in 1958, and F.M. passed away in 1959. Marie enrolled in The University of Texas at Austin and received a Master’s in Journalism and then a PhD in Sociology in 1968. She began work as professor of Sociology at Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas. She taught at TWU and retired as Chair of the Department of Sociology and Social Work in 1992. Upon retirement, she received the title of Professor Emerita. She was president of the Southwestern Sociological Association, president of the Southwestern Social Science Association, and president of Alpha Kappa Phi, international sociological honor society. Marie retired to Austin in 1992, where she was active in a number of cultural and civic activities, including membership in the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Republic of Texas Museum and Headquarters Committee, Austin Art League, National Wildflower Research Center, Lost Creek Garden Club, Pi Beta Phi Austin Alumnae Club, Gillespie County Historical Society, Admiral Nimitz Foundation, German Heritage Society, and the alumni associations for Baylor University and the University of Texas at Austin. She was instrumental in writing grants for the Austin Womans Club restoration projects. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Coreth Marschall and W. I. Bill Marschall, Jr.; husband, Freeman M. Fuller, Jr.; and sweetheart of many years, Stu Richmond. She is survived by one daughter, Cynthia Fuller Frey and son-in-law, Michael Frey III,; grandchildren; Michael Frey IV, Amy Nelson and husband, James, and beloved great-grandson, Charlie Fuller Nelson; two nieces, Madolyn Marschall and Dorothy Marschall; and honorary grandchildren; The Richmonds, Lazar and Alexandra Ilic, and Joseph Pustejovsky; as well as a wide circle of friends and family. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Gillespie County Historical Society, or the Austin Womans Club. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.

Martha Jane Holcombe Martin, BBA ’50, of Midland, TX, passed away at the age of 90, surrounded by family and friends. Martha was born January 18, 1929, in Rankin, Texas, to Walter and Nora Holcombe. She graduated from Pecos High School in 1946 and obtained a degree in Business Administration from Baylor University in 1950. Returning to Pecos, she worked several years as a secretary at The Security State Bank. She married David Monroe Martin on June 28, 1953, and shared many wonderful years in Pecos and Fort Stockton, Texas, where they raised two children. During Martha’s time in Fort Stockton she established a successful business in bookkeeping. Following her husband’s passing in 1992, Martha continued her education, acquiring a Master’s Degree in Theology from Austin Presbyterian Seminary. Upon completion, she returned to Fort Stockton contributing to ministry outreach in the community through her church, First Presbyterian. Her final 16 years were spent living happily at Manor Park in Midland, Texas. Martha had a passion for needlepoint and other crafts and produced beautiful pieces of art through the years. She also loved performing church work, traveling, and spending time with her many friends and family. Martha is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Nora Holcombe, her husband, “Dave” Martin, and a brother, Walter M. Holcombe. She is survived by her children, David Monroe Martin, Jr., and his wife Marilyn, of Kingwood, TX and Tracie Drennon and her husband, Patrick, of Midland, TX; grandchildren, David Drennon of Nashville, TN, Nicholas Martin of San Marcos, TX, Kelleigh Flynn and her husband, Daniel, of Canyon Lake, TX and Daniel Martin of Kingwood, TX; sisters, Florence Cummings of Gonzalez, TX. Nora Gray and husband, DeVearle, of Kingwood, TX, and Patty Montgomery and husband, Dudley, of Lubbock, TX; numerous nieces and nephews; and her devoted caregiver, Delma Castillo of Midland, TX. There will be a Committal Service at East Hill Cemetery, Fort Stockton, TX, for family and close friends on Sunday, September 8 at 2:00 p.m. All are invited to join us for The Witness to the Resurrection at 3:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Stockton followed by a gathering in Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Fort Stockton, TX, or Walter Henry Holcombe and Nora Bradley Holcombe Endowment Scholarship Fund, Baylor University, Office of Gift Processing, 1 Bear Place, #970550, Waco, TX 76798. Arrangements are being taken care of by Heritage Funeral Home, Fort Stockton, TX.

Rev. H. Melton Prothro Jr., BA ’50, was born in Pleasant Hill, LA, to parents Margaret Tyler Prothro and Dr. H. Melton Prothro, Sr on May 28, 1929. He passed away on August 19, 2019 at his home in Haughton, LA. Visitation for friends and family will be at First Baptist Church of Haughton on Saturday, August 24, 2019 from 5PM to 7PM. Funeral services will also be held at First Baptist on Sunday, August 25, 2019 at 2PM. Interment will follow at Haughton Cemetery. His first 10 years of schooling were in Pleasant Hill, then he attended his senior year of high school at Marion Military Institute in Marion, AL, graduating with honors. Melton continued his education first at LSU, then Baylor University, graduating in 1950. He finished his formal education at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, TX. He was ordained to preach the gospel in 1948, shortly before marrying his childhood sweetheart, Margaret Shingleton. Together they had four children: Daphne (Mike) Ritter, Debby Bozeman, Danna Hendrix, and Drew (Gina) Prothro. Bro. Melton pastored only four churches in his lifetime: Noble Baptist Church, Noble, LA (3 months); Ike Baptist Church, Waxahachie, TX (3 years); Fellowship Baptist Church , Converse, LA (3 years); and, lastly, Haughton Baptist Church (now First Baptist Haughton), Haughton, LA for 41 years. He and Margaret arrived in Haughton in 1955 when Melton was age 27. He truly had a pastor’s heart for his church and the whole community. Many called him “Haughton’s pastor” regardless of their church or race. He loved the Haughton Buccaneers, receiving an honorary red jacket several years ago, and was also Grand Marshall of the Homecoming Parade. Through the years he served in various capacities in the Northwest Louisiana Baptist Association and Louisiana Baptist Convention. He could amazingly remember names and faces of people he had not seen in years. Bro. Melton’s heart, though, was in preaching God’s Word, sharing Jesus with all he came in contact with, and ministering to his flock. He also loved his fellow pastors and his “preacher boys” as he called them. He is survived by his four children, six grandchildren (Cory, Emily, Heather, Drew, Monique, and Tracy), and 12 great-grandchildren. Melton is also survived by his sister Mary Stuart of Dallas, TX, and his brother Hayes Prothro of Calvert, TX. He was predeceased by his parents, brother-in-law Dan Stuart, son-in-law Virgil Hendrix, and grandson Victor Hendrix. Of course, we count as additional survivors his wonderful church family and friends at First Baptist Haughton. Memorials may be made to the Geaux Global Mission Fund at First Baptist Church Haughton, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the charity of your choice. The family would like to extend a special thanks to dad’s longtime friend and physician Dr. Ted Warren and also his caregivers: Lisa Daley and the staff at STAT and St. Joseph’s Hospice. Many thanks also to our supportive church family and many friends near and far for loving on Dad and Mom through the years. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Armeen Erigan Stone, BS ’50, of Corpus Christi, TX, passed away on October 19, 2019. She was 90. Born in 1929 to Noubar Erigan of Armenia and Myrtle Allen of Tioga, Louisiana, she lived in Corpus Christi her entire life except for 4 years in college in Waco and 2 as a school teacher in Crawford. Her mother died when she was 8 years old so she was raised in large part by her step-mother Thelma Boone Erigan. Armeen graduated from Corpus Christi High School in 1946, then attended Baylor University as a home economics major. It was there she met the love of her life, Charles Cabeen (Chuck) Stone, Jr. After graduation they married in 1951 and she returned to Corpus Christi and devoted her life to her children, her friends, and her church. She was a long-time member of Grace Presbyterian Church, and also served as the president of the King High School PTA, receiving an honorary lifetime membership from the state organization. She and Chuck also travelled extensively in the US and abroad, including a trip to her father's native Armenia. She was predeceased by her husband Chuck, and brother Charles Erigan. She is survived by her children - all Baylor graduates -- Charles C. Stone III of Munich, Germany, Noubar Allen Stone and wife Meri of Simsbury, Connecticut, and Katrina Little and husband John of Ft. Worth Texas, and grandsons Travis Stone of Berkeley, California, Lukas Stone of Bozeman, Montana, and Jasper Stone of San Luis Obispo, California. Armeen remained a devoted fan of the Baylor Bears in all sports, and always looked forward to Homecoming, this year being one of the few she missed. For the last five years she was a resident at Mirador where she enjoyed all of the activities and friends she had made over the years. Her family would like to thank the staff at Mirador and her home care giver for their attention and care, and her many friends, too numerous to individually name, who looked over her, helped with errands, and drove her to and from church over the last few years. A celebration of Armeen's life will be held at a future date.

Raeford King Turner, ’50, age 94, passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2019, in Greensboro, NC. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, November 3, 2019, at 1:30 p.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Ray was born August 1, 1925, in Leaksville, NC, the son of the late Joseph Platt Turner and Myrtle King Turner. He graduated from Leaksville High School in 1942 and continued his education at Mars Hill College where he was president of the senior class after which he enlisted in the US Army Paratroops. While in service he participated in the airborne invasion of Germany in March 1945. He was proud to serve in both the 17th and 82nd Airborne Divisions. After discharge, he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he was a member of the football team. There he married the late Jane Perry and moved to Raleigh to attend NC State on a football scholarship. After receiving a degree in Horticulture and Landscape Design, he worked briefly in Waynesboro, VA, before moving to Greensboro to establish Turner Landscapes. As a young landscape designer he established a reputation for his innovative work and was responsible for the beautification of many Greensboro homes and High Point business, some of which were featured in national magazines. Early in his career he was fortunate to work with the Zenke designers on the Joe and Kathleen Bryan home and Spencer Love’s home. Many High Point furniture corporate headquarters showcase his designs. For thirty years, The Garden House in High Point was a destination for homeowners. His legacy of design can still be seen in the area but particularly at the Bob Timberlake gallery in Lexington finished in his 70’s. His green thumb coaxed flora out of red clay and sand at points south. As a former NC State football player, he followed his team and often relayed stories of his dad’s football highlights 50 years prior such as the first touchdown against UNC. His next passion was tennis where he won 3 State championships and placed in numerous tournaments. He continued to play three times a week into his 80’s. A friend commented, “If they wanted to win, pick Ray as your partner.” Ray is predeceased by his brother, Joseph Platt Turner, Jr. and his sisters, Eliza Turner Bingham, and Frances Turner Moyer Scott. He is survived by his children, Richard King Turner of Greeley, CO, Michael Raeford Turner of Fayetteville, W. VA; daughter, Sally Turner Bywaters of Rockport, TX, and his loving friend and companion, Ilene Craig. Family and friends are grateful for the care Ray received at Spring Arbor Assisted Living. Memorials may be sent to Guilford County Animal Shelter, 4525 W. Wendover Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27409, Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Ave., 27405 or Greensboro Beautiful, P.O. Box 3136, 27407 in memory of Raeford Turner. Hanes Lineberry North Elm Chapel is serving the Turner Family. Online condolences may be sent to www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com.

Chester Carlton Young Sr., JD ’50, 94, died on October 20, 2019 in Austin.  Chester was born July 9, 1925 in Meeker, LA, second of seven children to Sherman and Gladys Young. Work in the refineries brought the family to Port Acres, where Chester graduated Stephen F. Austin High before joining the Navy during WWII.   To his everlasting good fortune, he was stationed in Oakland, CA, where he met Marylin Joyce Beddoe, daughter of a Bay Area typesetter. They married in May 1946 and his bride soon came with him to Texas in a carload of men, driving nonstop in the heat of summer. Nevertheless, she remained married to him for the next 73 years, with Chester often referring to her as his "first" wife. On the GI Bill, Chester attended college and law school at Baylor on a fast track. After he passed the bar in 1950, they returned to Port Acres and he hung out his shingle as a practicing attorney at age 24. In 1955 Chester became an Assistant DA and entered the world of Jefferson County politics. In 1962 he was elected County Judge, a position he held for 12 years, until returning to private practice at his Nederland home office, where Marylin had a studio for her painting, fabric arts, and writing. Modest about his own success, he always touted her talents. In retirement, they moved to Albuquerque to be near their only grandson, John, and in 2004 came back to Texas to be near family in Austin. Even as his eyesight and health failed, Chester's wit and intelligence never dimmed, nor his loving concern for Marylin and pride in his family. Chester was preceded in death this year by his daughter Nancy Joyce Young of Boston, MA; brothers Pierce, Sherman, and Cary Young; and sister Ruth Justice. He is survived by his wife Marylin; son Carlton Young of Phnom Penh, Cambodia; son Damon and wife Joyce of Austin, who have been their caretakers the last many years; daughter-in-law Allison Bayer of Boston; grandson John Carlton Young and wife Kristin of Boston; brothers John and Joseph Young; and several nieces and nephews.

Betty Sue Carnett Cutbirth, BA ’51, of Brownwood, TX, died Sept. 25, 2019. Daughter of Reverend Ellis Lee and Gladys Carnett, she was born on September 7, 1931 in Lebanon Missouri, with a twin sister Peggy Lou, who passed away as an infant from a childhood illness. As a pastor's daughter, Betty Sue moved with her family to New Orleans at a young age, but spent the majority of her pre-college years in Ft. Worth, where her father was pastor of Travis Avenue Baptist Church. Betty Sue graduated from Paschal High school, Ft. Worth, in 1947, at age 16. She attended and graduated from Baylor University in 1952. While at Baylor, she was a member of Alpha Omega sorority, received her Bachelors of Science in education and met her husband of 66 years, Seale Cutbirth. While Seale attended Baylor medical school in Houston, Betty Sue taught second grade. Seale and Betty Sue were the parents of four children: Steve, Brian, Kitty and Sam. Betty Sue and Seale moved to Brownwood in 1958 where Seale established his general medical practice of 35 years. Shortly after moving to Brownwood, Betty Sue was asked by the JayCees to represent Brownwood in the Mrs. Texas Contest in Ft. Worth. She won the Mrs. Texas contest and was 4th runner up in the Mrs. America Pageant, all while raising four pre-school children. A loyal supporter of Howard Payne University, Betty Sue served many years on the board of trustees and received an honorary doctorate from Howard Payne for her service to the university. Other than spending time with family, playing bridge was Betty Sue's favorite pastime. She loved playing bridge with her friends and actually taught bridge at Howard Payne. Betty Sue was preceded in death by her husband, Seale; son, Brian; parents, Ellis and Gladys; twin sister, Peggy Lou; and brother, Eli. Betty Sue is survived by her son, Steve and wife, Sharron, of Waco; daughter, Kitty and husband, Russell, of Brownwood; and son, Sam and wife, Geanna, of Abilene. Betty Sue and Seale have nine granddaughters and 13 great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff at The Chatfield, Oak Ridge Manor and First Aid Agency Caretakers for their compassionate and excellent care. A celebration of life gathering will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, September 29, 2019 at Brownwood Country Club dining room. A graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m., Monday, September 30, at Eastlawn Memorial Park. The service will be officiated by family friends, Reverend Stan Allcorn and Dr. Bill Heston. The family requests any memorials be made to Butler Sunday School Class, First Baptist Church, Brownwood. Online memorials can be left at www.davismorrisfuneralhome.com.

J.T. Dickenson, BBA ’51, of Aledo, TX, died Oct. 7, 2019. T Dickenson was born February 25, 1930 to John Errett and Lexie Dickenson of Melissa, Texas. FUNERAL: 11:30 a.m. Friday in Greenwood Chapel. Interment: Greenwood Memorial Park. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Greenwood. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund or the Humane Society of North Texas. JT worked in his Dad's general merchandise store from the age of five, delivered milk before school and groceries after class. At the age of 11 he got his driver's license and delivered groceries to the rural customers. JT played both basketball and football for McKinney Boyd High and received a football scholarship to Baylor University. Within a month of graduating from Baylor in 1951 he married the love of his life Frances Walling, received his commission into the USAF as a second lieutenant and he and Frances began their journey of a lifetime. A Korean War veteran, JT served in the military for eight years, achieving the rank of Captain. In 1956 he received his MBA from the University of Texas. In 1959 JT and Frances moved to Fort Worth to raise their family and JT was offered a position at General Dynamics. In his 15-year career with GD he had the opportunity to be a part of the team that developed the F-16 prototype. He was very proud to be a part of a project that became such a successful part of General Dynamics and Fort Worth history. In 1974, JT left General Dynamics for a position with Justin Boot Company. Eventually JT became the President of Justin Boot Company, then COO of Justin Industries and finally the CEO of Justin Industries before his retirement in 2000. After retirement, JT was honored to serve as the President of the Justin Foundation. JT also participated on several Boards for companies in the Fort Worth area, was on the Executive Committee for the Southwestern Exposition and Live Stock Show and was a member of the Jewel Charity Ball. Even with his busy work schedule, JT was always involved with family. He and Frances raised three children, went to countless ballgames and school events and he had the patience to drive his family on countless Colorado vacations to trout fish, what an amazing dad. JT also loved to mow, and as he did in all aspects of his life, he gave 100 percent. In the 1960's, JT mowed ballfields at University Little League, earning him the position of President. Eventually in his mowing career, he and Frances lived on 35 acres which he tirelessly kept without help until the age of 87. JT was also an avid gardener. He raised a huge vegetable garden and supplied friends and family with tomatoes, cucumbers and three years ago a bounty of cantaloupe, 47 to be exact. JT was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; his parents, Errett and Lexie; and his two brothers, Edwin and Russell. SURVIVORS: his children, Mark and wife, Sally, Paul and Annette; three grandchildren, Errett and wife, Larisa, Frank and wife, Courtney and Megan Hood and husband, Ross; and one great-grandchild, Charlotte Hood. Dad, you said keep this short but a life led with integrity and hard work has to be honored. We love you and miss you always, give Mom a kiss from us. Mark, Paul and Annette.

Samuel Douglas Dillard, BA ’51, of Belton, TX, died Oct. 5, 2019. A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Belton, 506 N. Main Street, Belton, Texas, on Thursday, October 10, at 2 p.m. under the direction of his pastor, Dr. Andy Davis. Family visitation
will be held in the sanctuary foyer from 12:30 – 2 p.m. prior to the service. There will be no burial service, for in a final act of stewardship, Douglas gratefully willed his body to the Willed Body Program of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Douglas was born in Temple, Texas, July 11, 1929, to Clarence “Cy” and Aleene Lynch Dillard. He graduated from Reagan Junior High and Temple High School, then Baylor University in Waco and
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. Douglas was licensed to ministry at 15 and ordained at 17 by Memorial Baptist Church, Temple. As a student, he served as pastor at Pendleton Baptist Church and School Creek Baptist in Lampasas County. His ministries also included service as youth evangelist and minister of education at several churches before launching a career in religious public relations. Douglas operated a public relations and advertising firm known as Ministry of Ideas before becoming president of a management company that specialized in fund-raising for non-profit organizations. He won numerous awards and was listed in Who’s Who in the South and Southwest, Who’s Who in Public Relations, and PR Blue Book. He spent four years in an international business, where he was editor of the Texas International Business Directory, a monthly news magazine on world trade, and an online
electronic bulletin board on world trade that pre-dated the rise of the Internet. He retired in 1995 as vice president for the Radio and Television Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, where he directed public relations, direct mail, marketing, graphics, and printing for radio and television programming that reached an audience of more than a half-billion persons in 87 countries. In 1993, he received the Baptist General Convention of Texas Communications Award for outstanding contributions to the religious life of Texas through communications media. In 2002 the Dallas Chapter of Religion Communicators Council, of which he was a founding member and past president, presented him with the Norvell Slater Lifetime Achievement Award.
Douglas was widely known as a cartoonist and banquet speaker. He published three collections of his cartoons, illustrated several other books and award-winning filmstrips, and for more than 30 years published weekly editorial cartoons in The Baptist Standard and other religious news magazines. His beleaguered pastor character, “Brother Blotz,” has been viewed on the walls and in newsletters of thousands of churches. One of his editorial cartoons won a Freedom Foundation Honor Certificate. After retiring, Douglas returned to Bell County in 2007 to marry his childhood sweetheart, JoAn Musick Flowers, and spent the rest of his life joining in her volunteer and philanthropic support of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton Christian Youth Center, Texas Baptist Children’s Home, Hope Pregnancy Centers, Helping Hands, the J.A.I.L. Ministry, Friends of the Lena Armstrong Public Library, First Baptist Church Belton, Belton Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, and Central Texas Master Singers. Douglas is survived by his wife JoAn Musick Dillard of Belton; sister Doris Dillard Edwards and brother-in-law Marshall Edwards of Blowing Rock, North Carolina; son David Dillard and daughter-in-law Karen Dillard of Plano; daughters Debbie Manns of Georgetown and Donna Pool of Round Rock; twin stepsons Randy and Ricky Rubendall, ten grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Marah Martin Dillard.
He requested that memorials be given in his memory to the charity of your choice.

Ira Sherlene Story Heinze, BA ’51, of San Angelo, TX, died Sept. 7, 2019. Sherlene was born on February 20, 1930 in Miles, Texas to Sherman and Graydon Tidwell Story. She graduated from Miles High School where she was Salutatorian of her graduating class. Sherlene attended Baylor University and graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She married the love of her life, Robert Heinze, on April 25, 1953 in San Angelo, Texas at Park Heights Baptist Church. Sherlene taught elementary school from 1951-1956. Her love of teaching children to read continued as she introduced all of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren to reading prior to starting school. After her teaching career, she supported her husband as office manager and accountant for Robert A. Heinze Builders, Quail Run, and Rock Terrace Apartments. Sherlene developed a love and passion for music at an early age and continued to express her musical talent serving as pianist and organist for numerous churches throughout her life. She was a dedicated member of Glen Meadows Baptist Church. Sherlene loved to travel. She and her husband, Robert, had the opportunity to visit numerous countries, but one of her favorite places to visit was the mountains in South Fork, Colorado. Sherlene was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother to all of her family. She is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, Robert Heinze; daughter, Denise Howey and husband, Ray, of San Angelo; son, Story Heinze of South Fork, Colorado; grandson, Christopher Ross of San Angelo; granddaughter, Mariya Valentine and husband, John, of Ft. Worth, Texas; granddaughter, Darya Ross of Huntsville, Texas; great granddaughter, Bonnie Ross and great grandson, Augustus Ross. Sherlene is preceded in death by her parents. Family Visitation will be from 9-11 AM, Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Johnson's Funeral Home with funeral services to begin at 11. Interment will follow at Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. The family would like to express thanks to the Shannon ICU nursing staff and TLC Home Healthcare staff. Memorials in Sherlene's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Peggy Jean Parsons, BA ’51, of Temple, TX, died Sept. 17, 2019. She was born in Corpus Christi, Texas on the seventh day of October 1930 to her parents Zack Taylor and Lora Jean (Patterson) Waddell. During her early years Peggy graduated from Lorena High school. She went on to attend and graduate from Baylor University with her bachelors and master’s degree in education. Throughout her college years she was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a prestigious professional society for women in education. Peggy devoted her life to the education of youth, helping to develop the TAG program for gifted students and teaching for 47 years before retiring in 1998. Peggy was also a devoted wife to her husband Harold, whom she married in 1953. Together they spent 65 wonderful years together building a family and enjoying life until Harold was called home earlier this year. Peggy was a caring mother, grandmother, and friend to many. She was dedicated to The First Baptist Church of Killeen for 43 years. She was also committed to the organizations she was a member of, including The Daughters of the American Revolution, The United Daughters of the Confederacy, and the Retired teachers of Killeen Association. Peggy is preceded in death by her beloved husband Harold, her daughter Pamela, her parents Zack and Lora, daughter –in-law Nita, brother-in-law Don Parsons and wife Joyce, brother-in-law Al Parsons and wife Jeannie, brother-in-law Harry Clair, brother-in-law Frank Taylor, and cousin Patsy Smith. Peggy is survived and cherished by her son Paul Parsons, son Patterson (Pat) Parsons and wife Pamela; grandchildren Kristin Gray and husband Tommy, Brett Parsons, Brandon (Cody) Davis and wife Lori, Dustin Davis and wife Stacey, Jarrett Davis, Kara Parsons and Kyle Parsons. She also leaves behind, 9 great-grandchildren, sister Lynda Taylor, sister-in-law Sue Clair, her cousins Charles Patterson, Wanda Crossland, and many nieces and nephews. A graveside funeral service will be held at Waco Memorial Park on Thursday, September 26, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Randy Wallace officiating. Hewett-Arney Funeral Home of Temple is entrusted with the arrangements.

Rose Ella “Rosy” Place, BA ’51, age 88, of Gatesville, TX, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2019. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, September 1, 2019 at First Baptist Church in Gatesville, with Dr. David Crosby officiating. The family will receive visitors following funeral services at the church. Graveside services will be at Crawford City Cemetery, with Dr. Levi Price officiating. "Rosy" was born on May 13, 1931 in Gatesville, Texas, to the late B.E. and Genie McCoy. She grew up in Gatesville and graduated from Gatesville High School as the Valedictorian of her graduating class in 1948. Rosy graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Education and accepted a teaching position in Crawford upon graduation. She met Dwain Place at a Crawford Pirate football game and they were married on December 27, 1952 at First Baptist Church in Gatesville. Rosy was a born school teacher, who grudgingly retired after 40 years of classroom instruction. While Rosy did retire from teaching, she never stopped being of service to her church and community. Rosy played the organ and piano and sang in the First Baptist Church Choir for many years. Anyone who ever heard Rosy play or sing received a blessing and she always felt honored to play for church services, weddings or funerals. She was a devoted member of the Coryell Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and Retired Teachers Association and always looked forward to the annual Food for Families Drive around Thanksgiving. In 2006, Rosy and Dwain were named Citizens of the Year by the Gatesville Chamber of Commerce. Most of all, she loved her family and especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dwain; parents, B.E. and Genie; brother, Huron; and sister, Belva. Rosy is survived by her son, Allen D. Place Jr. and wife, Tonya; grandchildren, Ashley Louder and husband, Brad, Amber Brockenbush and husband, Jason, Nicholas Hukel and wife, Sarah, Shea Place and McKamie Place; great-grandchildren, Tyler, Colt, McKinley, Addison and Blake, and "McCoy"; nieces, Carol Gene Graves and Susan Woods; nephew, Mike McCoy; too many Place nieces and nephews to name, and an untold number of friends. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 912 E. Main, Gatesville, TX, 76528.

Edward Lee Wittner, BA ’51, of Waco died Oct. 2, 2019, at age 89. The only child of a Baptist minister, he grew up in Alpine, TX, and dearly loved Paisano Baptist Encampment. He returned every summer to direct or lead in some capacity for nearly 67 years. At Baylor he met Dolores Merlene Davis, ’51, and discovered his God-given talent for singing. He directed music in small community churches before being called to full-time ministry, serving in seven churches for over 50 years. Lamesa and Plainview were his greatest legacies for music and ministry. His youth choirs took mission trips throughout Mexico and the U.S. Ed was ordained in 1995 while music director at Waco’s Columbus Avenue Baptist Church where he served for 23 years before retiring in 1999. Although retired, he continued to serve churches for another decade. He received special recognition by the Governor and the mayor of Waco for his life-long service, and in 2002, he was made an honorary Alumnus of Truett Theological Seminary for mentoring prospective music directors. He is survived by his wife, Merle; his children, Edward Houston, Robbie, BSEd ’76, and Dan, BA ’82; and two granddaughters, Ashely and Shae, BA ’18.

Dr. Robert T. Coffey, BS ’52, of Fort Worth died Sept. 12, 2019. He was born August 26, 1931 in Big Spring, Texas to John Askew Coffey and Margaretta May Sanders. He attended Baylor University, followed by two years in the Air Force. He then attended the University of Texas Medical School in Galveston and earned his medical degree following a residency in psychiatry. Dr. Coffey was very active in the Fort Worth medical community. In 1982 he was elected and served as President of the Texas Society for Psychiatric Physicians, Tarrant County Chapter. He had a thriving and rewarding practice for over 30 years. When he retired he remained a proponent of preventive medicine, teaching, and continuing education with emphasis in quality of life at TCC. Bob had a Texas gentlemanly manner and a wicked sense of humor. As a fan of Mark Twain he was an artful storyteller to his three children. He was quite an artist specializing in charcoal and pencil sketching. He was also an enthusiastic dancer at local medical events and balls. Besides traveling around the world and experiencing various cultures, he and wife, Sylvia returned to Oahu, Hawaii for several seasons, where he would run in his beloved Kapiolani Park and in the evenings watch the outstanding sunsets. Back in Texas he looked forward to watching his Baylor Bears playing football, basketball, and track. Running was his passion. He was a founding member of the Fort Worth Runner's Club. He won and placed in marathons and countless races in a variety of distances in national competitions, placing on top in his age group, running on cross country courses and tracks, both indoor and outdoor. He continued to run daily 2 1/2 miles until the day before his passing. Bob was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Glenna Moore. Survivors: Loving wife of 34 years, Sylvia; son, Dr. Randall Coffey and wife, Elda; daughter, Carol Coffey and her children, Lisa Knupp and David Knupp; daughter, Linda Pedranti and husband, Joe, and their children, John Wojcuich and Lauren Wojcuich; stepsons, Edward Lehmann, Robert Lehmann, and Harold Lehmann; and their respective families. He will be missed by many. A bench in his honor will be donated and dedicated in Overton Park.

Lenvil Herbert Dicks, MM ’52, of Lake City, FL, died Sept. 15, 2019. Lenvil was born and raised in Columbia County, Florida and was the seventh of eight children to the late Rev. John Dicks and Pearl Tyre Dicks. He was born just before the great depression and grew up poor. The only thing they had of value was family. He graduated from Columbia High School in 1946, where he played trumpet in the Columbia High School band under Band Directors Carl Roberts and Barney Black. He earned a Bachelor of Music Degree from Stetson University in 1951, attending college under the G.I. Bill benefits from his service in the United States Army, where he played First Trumpet in the Fifth Army Division Band.  He later earned a Master of Music Degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas, from Baylor he went to playing First Trumpet in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. He later showed his love for Stetson by establishing a scholarship for music majors. Lenvil returned to Florida and accepted the Directorship of the Union County High School Band in Lake Butler, and moved to a position as Band Director of Columbia High School where he served as Band Director from August 1956 until June 1966. During this period, he wrote the Columbia High Tiger fight song “Onward Victorious” which is still played to this day. The school board reluctantly accepted his resignation allowing him to open his real estate business, Dicks Realty. Dicks Realty is the oldest Real Estate firm in Lake City and is still operating today under the leadership of his son Brad.  He was well known by the title of "The Land Man", during his real estate career, as he developed and sold thousands of parcels of land in the North Central Florida area. He was preceded in death by an infant child, Robin Dicks; and seven siblings, Golde Dicks Markham, Clarence Dicks, Tribble Dicks, Emerald Dicks Stewart, Opal Dicks Rogers, Fay Dicks Gay and Rodney Dicks. Lenvil was loving, compassionate, humorous and, dedicated to his community.  He never met a stranger and was quick with a joke or a simple hello. Being in business for over 50 years, it became common to see him at the post office or a local bank. Lake City changed a lot more than Lenvil did over that half century. He made it through life without ever needing an email or logging onto the internet. He was a simple man with few personal possessions but was generous, donating for community events such as fireworks, investing in our youth by buying animals the Columbia County Fair and stepping up when the CHS Band needed uniforms and instruments. He was also a strong supporter of local churches and charities throughout the years. As a teacher, he taught excellence and discipline. After school, he was a mentor to those same students who cropped tobacco and planted pine trees at the end of the school day. Later in life he became a source for owner financing with low money down, allowing thousands of families the ability to own their own property. Lenvil has sold one acre lots for as little as $100.00. Through the years he maintained a reputation of being fair and a man of his word. A handshake was worth more than a contract. He has been a source of wisdom for many businessmen that have become successful members of our community. Survivors include his children, Suzanne Davis (Jay), Bradley N. Dicks (Susanna) and Andrew J. Dicks all of Lake City; eight grandchildren, Brandon Mason, Brent Mason, Ashley Adams, David Adams, Shanna Adams, Sarah Dicks, John Dicks and Aaron Dicks; three great-grandchildren, Kaleb Adams, Brynlee Winn and William Wood, Jr.; his former spouse and committed companion, Beadie Dicks, Lake City; the mother of his children, Julia Dicks, Lake City; and numerous nieces and nephews also survive. From the children of Lenvil, a special thanks goes out to all of the nurses and staff of The Rehabilitation Center of Lake City for the outstanding care and compassion given to our Daddy during the last months of his life. Funeral services for Mr. Dicks will be conducted on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Hopeful Baptist Church with Rev. Ralph Rodriguez officiating. Interment will follow at Hopeful Baptist Cemetery.  Visitation with the family will be Wednesday evening from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

Dr. William F. “Bill” Floyd, BS ’52, of Gatesville, TX, went to be with his Lord on September 15, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family. Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 21, 2019 at First Baptist Church in Gatesville. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service. Bill was born November 10, 1929 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Hiram Carl Floyd, Sr. and Gladys Ona Winfield, the third of four children. He always said it wasn't his fault he was born in Oklahoma and that he came to Texas as soon as he could. He graduated from Gatesville High School in 1947 and then went to Baylor for a year. He was in the Golden Wave Band and had loads of fun. But his studies suffered, so he joined the Army and served as a Medic at Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) for a year. This helped him realize that college was a better choice. So he went back to Baylor and graduated three years later with a double major in Biology and Chemistry, several minors and excellent grades, all while holding down three jobs. Baylor graduation was in August of 1952 but he said his best day of that year was September 6 when he married Neta Jean Rogers, a partnership that lasted just over sixty-seven years. After graduation, he presented Neta with the option that he would either take an Air Force commission and start taking care of her, or go to medical school where she would support him for four years, then he would take care of her. So Neta said, “Let's go to medical school. He often said he had never yet paid back that debt to her. He served six years as a Flight Surgeon in the Air Force while having four beautiful daughters. He was honorably discharged from the Air Force as a Captain and moved his family back to his hometown of Gatesville. Bill practiced medicine in Gatesville for fifty-four years. With a big heart to help whomever he could, he routinely took “payments” for his medical services in the form of puppies, eggs and broken lawn mowers, and sometimes nothing. He was a founder of the Gatesville Clinic and adored by thousands of patients. He also served Gatesville in countless volunteer capacities to make it a better place. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church and served as a deacon. He did physicals for the athletes, pro bono, and worked with the Band Boosters. He was also in the Lion's Club and served on the boards of the Coryell County Museum and the Central Texas Hospitality House and as president of the Gatesville School Board. He loved to sing in the choir at First Baptist Church and with the Texas Country Gentlemen barbershop chorus. Bill had a quick wit; affectionately referring to all grandchildren as “lumps” and “twerpos”. All his daughters and granddaughters seemed to wind up with the middle name of Marie. He was a great cook known for his famous “make 'em eat 'em” hot sauce, pecan pie, homemade ice cream, and green beans of which the Gatesville Hornets consumed vast quantities.  Every spring yielded a bumper crop of bluebonnets in his yard where he enjoyed watching children from town come for photos.  Any long time Gatesville resident would remember his yard full of sculptured shrubbery featuring a giant Dumbo, bunnies and a roadrunner.  He had great stories about his life, especially about growing up in the depression. And he had a love of ice cold Dr. Pepper, which included serving on the board at the Dr. Pepper museum. Bill's faith in God and hospitality made his home the heart of his family. His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were an integral part of his life; always feeling loved and accepted by him. He brought life to the holidays; and especially Christmas through creative yard decorations and an elaborate indoor snow village. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, HC Floyd, Jr. and Bert Allen Floyd, Sr. and by his daughter Bonny Billings and husband Wayne. Bill is survived by his wife, Neta; sister, Marinel Floyd Schnizer Henderson and husband, Ray; daughters, Rebecca (Becky) Wilkins and husband, Wayne, Elizabeth (Betsy) Berry and husband, Clayton, and Beverly McNeal and husband, Scott; 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. To continue Bill's legacy of generous giving to the Gatesville community, the family asks that monetary donations in his memory be sent to the Dr. Bill and Neta Floyd Scholarship Fund c/o Gatesville ISD, 311 S. Lovers Lane Gatesville, TX 76528.

Bettye Deane Schauberger Hinson, BS ’52, of Houston died Sept. 2, 2019. She grew up in Homestead, FL; Valdosta, GA; and Waco. At Baylor, Bettye served as secretary of the Baptist Student Union, sang in the Baylor Religious Hour Choir, was a member of the Peer Club and taught Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church in the summers. She also met and then married Dr. Bill Hinson, BA ’53, in 1951 before teaching elementary school in Fort Worth while Bill attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Together they ministered to many in the churches he pastored, including Wayside Baptist Church of Miami, FL; First Baptist Church of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and First Baptist Church of New Orleans, LA. Bettye taught Sunday School, traveled on mission trips and served as church pianist early in their ministry. She was a devoted wife and helpmate for 68 years, always keeping her family as her first priority. The Hinsons moved to Houston in 2012 and were blessed by a new fellowship of friends as members of Second Baptist Church. Among her survivors are her husband Bill; children William H. Hinson Jr., BA ’81, and Lindy Hinson Price, BSEd ’81; six grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.

Sallye LaVerne D. Onuschak, BA ’52, age 86, of Wilmington, DE, passed away on August 26, 2019 at Christiana Hospital. Born in Prairie Hills, TX, she was the daughter of the late Sally (Ragan) and Verne Dellinger. LaVerne graduated from Baylor University with her bachelor’s degree in mathematics and Spanish and went on to work as a computer programmer. She was an avid pinochle and bridge player, earning the title of Bridge Life Master.  Through card playing and neighborhood welcome wagon activities, LaVerne formed life-long friendships that she valued greatly. She spent time gardening and flower arranging, watching birds in the back yard, and enjoying her extensive clock collection.  She was also a member of Limestone Presbyterian Church. LaVerne was predeceased by her husband of 47 years, Emil Onuschak, Jr. in 2014, and her brother, Floyd Dellinger. LaVerne is survived by her children and their spouses, David and Becky Onuschak of Germantown, MD and Susan and Craig Ano of Gaithersburg, MD; her grandchildren, Victoria, Derek, Jose, and Jolette; her brother and sister-in-law, Dale and Patsy Dellinger of Waco, TX, additional extended family members and friends. A visitation will be held on September 7, 2019 at Limestone Presbyterian Church, 3201 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. with funeral services beginning at 10:30 A.M. Burial will follow at Red Clay Creek Church Presbyterian Cemetery and a light lunch at the Limestone Presbyterian Church afterwards.

Julia Martha Winn Wrotenbery, BA ’52, retired teacher and long-time resident of Fort Worth died peacefully on August 22, 2019. She is joining her husband of 63 years, Carl Wrotenbery and her son, R. Alan Wrotenbery. She was 88. SERVICE: A memorial services to celebrate her life is scheduled for Saturday, September 7, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Agape Baptist Church, Fort Worth, TX. Julia was born in Pearsall, Texas on May 18, 1931 to T.N. and Thelma (Jacobs) Winn and attended public schools in Tyler, Texas. She received her undergraduate degree from Baylor University and held two masters degrees from SWBTS and UT Austin. Julia was member of Agape Baptist Church in Fort Worth at the time of her death and a former member of University Baptist Church, Fort Worth and Parkdale B.C., Corpus Christi. Mrs. Wrotenbery, a voracious reader touched many lives in her thirty-two years with the Texas school system in numerous districts including Fort Worth ISD and Corpus Christi ISD. SURVIVORS: She is survived by her daughter, Martha Runnels; and granddaughters, Shayna Runnels, Christine; her brother; sister; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Carolyn Chancellor Cotten, BS ’53, age 87, of Dallas, Texas passed away on the morning of August 23, 2019. Carolyn was born on March 25, 1932, in Dallas, Texas, and graduated from Baylor University after attending Sunset High School in Oak Cliff, Dallas, Texas. Carolyn was preceded by parents HC and Agnes Chancellor, son Allan Cotten, brother Dr HC Chancellor, and former spouse Dr Stonie Cotten. She is survived by daughter Marla Cotten of New York, New York, son Lary Cotten of Austin, Texas, son Marvin and daughter-in-law Françoise Cotten of Fort Mill, South Carolina, granddaughter Amanda Cotten and great grandchildren Abigail and Alexander Rhodes of Dallas, Texas, grandson David Cotten of Dallas, Texas, grandson Jonathan Cotten and wife Madison of Dallas, Texas, and grandson Samuel Cotten of Dallas, Texas Carolyn was retired from American Airlines, was a member of the "Clipped B's", former Braniff International Airlines flight attendants, and was the owner and founder of Cakes by Carolyn, one of Dallas' premier wedding cake providers. She was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Dallas and was later a member of the choir at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano.

Anna Jean Darby, MS ’53, formerly of Alice, Texas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 25, 2019.  She was in a hospice facility in Chandler, Arizona for the past week having suffered a significant stroke. She had been living with her niece, Leigh Pettit and nephew-in-law, Farrell Pettit, since April 2014 in Mesa, Arizona.  She is also survived by a grand-nephew Chad Wilson, his wife Marsha Wilson, great-grand nephew, Luke Wilson, great-grand nieces, Alamay Wilson, Delani Wilson and Everlee Wilson, all of Mesa, Arizona. Jean, as she preferred to be called, was born on May 11, 1929 to parents, Ozelle Bennett Darby and Frances Edwin Smith Darby in Whitesboro, Texas.  Her father was an evangelist of the Baptist faith and the family lived in Texas and Oklahoma during her childhood.  She received her bachelor’s degree in physical education from Mary Hardin Baylor University in Belton, Texas, and her master’s degree in physical education at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She started teaching school in Orange Grove in the late 1960's.  It was there she made treasured and lasting friendships.  After a year, she took a position in the Alice School District and continued until her retirement. She was known for teaching P.E., coaching girls sports, along with cheerleading and drill team, she also taught history and health classes. Drivers Education was her after-school and summer job.  She had quite the stories to tell about kids learning to drive!  Many memories were hers to cherish during school sports outings and bus trips, often she mentioned she couldn't have done it without the help of the "kids" moms being at the games or events. In 1989, she was commissioned to write a book, "Alice: A Centennial History" in conjunction with the city of Alice centennial celebration. Jean loved the outdoors, sports, and her pet Boxers and Dachshunds.  She said, after she moved to Arizona in 2014, that she could finally do the things she wanted to do; being around family, celebrating holidays with them, reading Tom Clancy novels, working jig-saw puzzles, playing solitaire uninterrupted!  She loved getting her newspaper each morning and planning her TV schedule each day. When asked if she'd like to get out for a bit, often she'd refuse because she might miss the "Spurs" playing or another game.  Once in a while, we would take her out to a high school volleyball game and she'd be coaching out loud from the stands!  That was cute to see! She had a heart of gold and will be dearly missed - we already feel the void in our home.  I'm grateful for her kindness, love and example to me and my family.  She lived a good and wonderful life and we all are happy for her return home to the family she so dearly loved and missed including her parents, her sister and brother-in-law, James and Laverne Kimbell, and her niece, Lisa Kimbell. We love you Auntie Jean! Graveside Service will be private. As were her wishes, Anna Jean Darby will be laid to rest at Waco Memorial Cemetery in Waco, Texas. Arrangements are entrusted to Holmgreen Mortuary, 2061 E. Main St., Alice, Texas.

Bobbie Creel Ramsey Donaldson, BA ’53, of Hillsboro, TX, died June 5, 2019. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2019, at Marshall and Marshall Funeral Directors Chapel in Hillsboro with Rev. Ken Branam, Rev. Danny Gilliam and Rev. Bob Harper officiating. Burial will follow at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery in Dallas. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Monday, June 10, at the funeral home. Bobbie Creel Ramsey was born to James McKelvain Ramsey (1904) and Mary Willis Yates Ramsey (1905) on October 16, 1929, in South Bosque, located in McLennan County. She was the middle daughter with an older sister, Elizabeth Ann (1925), and a younger sister/best friend, Lou Marie (1930). She attended and played basketball at McGregor High School (graduated two years early at 16), received her B.A. in Education from Baylor University in 1953, and her M.R.E. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1955. After graduation, she and her roommate and long-time friend, Nell Irvin (Doyel), were on staff at Gaston Avenue Baptist Church, the junior high and high school youth ministers. In the fall of 1957, Bobbie met and married USAF 1st Lt. Presley W. Donaldson while she was on staff at Pioneer Drive Baptist Church in Abilene. They subsequently moved to the El Paso area where they began their family that included children, George McKelvain (1960), Patricia Ann (1962) and Barbara Carol (1963). They lived on the Texas side of Anthony and moved to Austin and Dallas before settling in Irving in January of 1968. After visiting several churches in the area, the Donaldson family joined Plymouth Park Baptist Church (PPBC) where all family members were active. Bobbie was hired as the children’s minister at PPBC in the early 70's and served with Johnye Williams for several years. She enjoyed spending time with many church friends and also became a mall walker in the late 80's. In the 1990's, she served as the Director of International Friends at PPBC. In 2002, Bobbie and Presley retired to their farm in Hillsboro and joined the First Baptist Church of Hillsboro. She served the community by providing devotionals at one of the local nursing homes every Sunday morning. Preceding her in death were her parents, Jim (1998) and Mary (2001) Ramsey; sisters, Elizabeth Worthington (1972) and Lou Sherrill (2016); and her son, George (1989). Survivors include her husband of almost 62 years, Presley Donaldson; daughters, Patty Donaldson and Barbara Crow (spouse: Troy Crow); and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to the International Friends Plymouth Park Baptist Church, 1714 North Story Road, Irving, TX 75061.

Dr. Robert Allen Fanning, BBA ’53, of Dallas died Nov. 2, 2019. He was 87. A Baptist layman and attorney who served on a variety of denominational boards, Fanning was born in Dallas on Nov. 3, 1931, to Charles Allen and Beryl Buckner Fanning. He graduated from Baylor University and Southern Methodist University Law School. He served in the U.S. Air Force, rising to the rank of first lieutenant while serving in Japan in the JAG Corps. He was married to Carolyn Parker Fanning from 1960 until her death in 2006. He married Margaret Sharpe Fanning in 2008. He was a founding partner and longtime chairman of the board of the law firm of Fanning, Harper, Martinson, Brandt and Kutchin. Fanning was a member of Park Cities Baptist Church in Dallas. He served more than 40 years on the board of San Marcos Baptist Academy, including service as board chair. In recognition, the academy awarded him its Distinguished Service Medal and Exemplary Service Medal. He received an honorary doctorate from Dallas Baptist University, where he served as chair of the dinner committee for the Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award Dinner and as a member of the DBU Foundation. He also served terms on the boards of Baylor University, the Southern Baptist Convention Annuity Board and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Buckner Fanning, longtime pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in San Antonio. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; sons Barry and Marc Fanning; and five grandchildren.

Charles Graham, BBA ’53, age 94 of Lindale, TX, died Saturday, June 15, 2019. He was born in Buffalo, Texas on August 23, 1924 to the late Charles Waymon and Lillian (LaGrone) Graham. Mr. Graham was formerly of Keller, Texas, where he was a longtime resident, until moving to Lindale in 2011. He served in the United States Marines Corps during WWII, where he held the rank of sergeant. Mr. Graham spent his working career at Lone Star Gas Company in Dallas, where he retired after 37 years. He was preceded in death by wife, Wanda J. Graham in 2015, 3 sisters, 1 brother, and granddaughter, Ashley Graham in 1983. Mr. Graham is survived by his 3 sons, Kyle Graham of Lindale; Jeff Graham of Ft. Worth; Keith Graham of Keller; brother, Billy Graham of Houston; 4 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Saturday, June 22, 2019 at the Caudle-Rutledge-Daugherty Funeral Home in Lindale.

Alyda Maye Groth Shiplett, BA ’53, age 93, of Waco went to be with her Heavenly Father Wednesday August 21, 2019. A graveside service will take place 10am Wednesday, August 28, at Waco Memorial Park, 6623 S. I35, Waco, with Reverend Terry Johnston, Pastor, First Baptist Church, McGregor officiating. The family will receive visitors from 5-7 pm Tuesday August 27, at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Dr. Waco. Alyda was born January 28, 1926 in Riesel, Texas to Wesley Charles and Emma Antonio Wolter Groth. She graduated from Waco High School and married Mr. Delona Shiplett in Waco on January 28, 1950. They enjoyed 69 years together until his passing earlier this year. Alyda graduated from Baylor University with BA in Education in 1953, and began her 30-year teaching career in Waco Elementary Schools. Her passion was teaching and educating children, with a focus on reading and penmanship. She loved God and her church, having been baptized as a child, she was strong in her faith. Alyda could be found spending time in her garden; she and Delona were known for their azaleas. She had a fondness for birds, keeping a large collection of ceramic bird figurines. Alyda enjoyed singing in church choirs, including recording with her sister, Annette Warren. Above all, she loved her grandchildren; she retired to take care of them and spent time taking them to the library, sporting events and teaching them multiplication facts. Her favorite time was family get-togethers and special occasions where she could try new recipes and cook for everyone around. She was preceded in death by her husband just one month ago; parents; siblings, Ervin Groth, Lydia Braswell, Edna Gaeke, Angus Morris, Esther Groth, Louella Arnold, Carl Groth, Herman Groth, Glenn Groth, and Annette Warren. Alyda is survived by her son, Darrell Shiplett and wife Cheryl; daughter, Cheryl Tucker and husband Johnny; grandchildren, Karmae Shiplett, Jarrod Shiplett and wife Suly, Travis Tucker and wife Karla, Shane Tucker and fiancée Amy, and Holly Tucker; great-grandchild, Joseph Shiplett and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank Molly and Devon at Bluebonnet Hospice as well as Darlene and Amanda at Visiting Angels for their loving care of Alyda.

Sarah Williamson, BA ’53, age 86, was recently called to her eternal heavenly home to be reunited with her late husband Bill. Born and raised in Texas, Sarah somewhat reluctantly moved to the "frozen tundra" of Rochester in 1960 (and in the middle of a blizzard, of course) where Bill was called to minister. Over the years, she learned to enjoy the beauty of the state in all seasons, including skiing, canoeing, hiking and bird-watching among her many favorite activities. While she remained ever-proud of her Texas roots, there was no question that Sarah slowly but completely became a true Minnesotan at heart. Sarah Elizabeth Pitschmann was born on Oct. 11, 1932, in Houston, Texas, to Carl and Marion (Hammond) Pitschmann. She died on Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019, at Shorewood Senior Campus in Rochester. Sarah graduated cum laude from Baylor University in Waco, Texas (in only three years!) where she met her soon-to-be husband Bill, whom she married in 1952. Following their graduation from Baylor, they moved to several locations in Texas as Bill attended seminary in Fort Worth and pastored churches in Thicket and Beaumont, Texas, before God called them to Rochester so that Bill could pastor Emmanuel Baptist Church and be a chaplain at Mayo Clinic Hospitals. Despite some initial misgivings about the move, Sarah enthusiastically participated in helping Emmanuel to grow from a tiny group of six to a thriving church that has been a part of the Rochester community for 60 years. As part of the ministry of the church, Sarah founded an English as a Second Language program that reached out to those in the community who were non-English speakers and she remained active and involved in that ministry for over 40 years. During that time, Sarah also maintained her teacher's license and would often fill in as a substitute teacher in the Rochester school system. Sarah was a supportive wife, a terrific homemaker and loving mother to her four children. She often ventured outside of her comfort zone to help the kids to explore their interests. When one child became interested in camping, the family tried the activity and through this Sarah discovered a love of travel that remained with her for the rest of her life. She would spend winters planning the next great camping trip and through these trips she helped her family to discover the beauty and wonder of God's creation all over America. This, in turn, led Sarah and Bill to become world travelers and they would often combine missions work with their vacations in exotic locales. As much as she enjoyed those trips, it remained true for all of her years that there was no place more special to her than northern Minnesota. Survivors include her four children, Richard (Linda) Williamson of Oronoco, David Williamson of Rochester, Gail Williamson of Rochester, and Daniel (Ann) Williamson of Chanhassen, Minn. She was also a loving Nana to six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Sarah was preceded in death by her husband Bill, her parents, and her brother Carl. Funeral services will be held at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 2911 18th Ave. NW, Rochester, at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 24. Services will be officiated by Rev. Dr. Leo Endel, the pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, and Rev. Dr. Steve Melvin. Visitation will be on Friday, Aug. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Home, and also one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Oakwood East Cemetery.

Elwin Eugene Causey, BA ’54, age 90 of Chandler, TX, passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2019. He was born August 14, 1929 in Tyler, TX to the late, Elbert Eugene Causey and Della Mae Van Brunt Causey. Elwin worked in marketing and finance and was also an actor while living in New York for many years during his career. He was a member of Chandler First United Methodist Church. Elwin served in the Army during the Korean War. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Pauline Causey Craft and Yvonne Causey Wright. Survivors include his brother-in-law, Billy Wright, Sr., and many nieces and nephews; Jill Castro of Belen, NM, Billy Wright, Jr., of Colorado Springs, CO, Howard Wright of Chandler, TX, David Wright of Whitehouse, TX, Matt Wright of Lindale, TX, Anthony Wright of Rockwall, TX and Angela Wright of Chandler, TX.; and by numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. A visitation will be held at Jackson’s Burks Walter Tippit Funeral Home on Friday, August 30, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Graveside services are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. Saturday, August 31, 2019 at Bascom Cemetery with Rev. Larry Wickham officiating, under the direction of Jackson’s Burks Walter Tippit Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to The Hospice of East Texas Foundation, 4111 University Blvd, Tyler, TX 75701.

Buford Derald Lary, BBA ’54, of McAllen, TX, died Sept. 28, 2019. Lieutenant General Lary, USAF (Ret.), was 85 years old. Lary grew up a South Texas boy and for 29 years had made his home in McAllen, where he loved the community and made many good friends. He directed the construction of the current McAllen Airport and the Bus Station, both of which have contributed to McAllen’s prosperous growth. Born in Gatesville, TX, in 1933, he graduated from Mission (Texas) High School. He received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Baylor University in 1954 and a master's degree in the same field from the University of Oklahoma in 1970. He completed Squadron Officer School in 1961, Air Command and Staff College in 1967 and the Royal College of Defense Studies, London, England, in 1974. Lt. Gen. Lary retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1989 after more than 35 years of service, during which he served in many key command and managerial positions. He was commissioned as a Second lieutenant in the United States Air Force, 1954. He married Mary Frances (Hoffer) Lary in 1954. The first of three children, Buford Derald Lary Jr., was born in 1957 in Fukuoka, Japan. Over the next eight years, the family grew with the birth of son William Britton Lary in 1959 and Jean Ann Lary in 1965. From July 1987 to his retirement in September 1989, Lt. Gen. Lary served as the Inspector General, United States Air Force. His main responsibilities were anti-terrorism, counterintelligence, security, inspection, and flight ground safety. Prior to that, from July 1985 to July 1987, he was commander, first Air Force, and concurrently Commander of the CONUS NORAD Region. From July 1983 to July 1985, Lt. Gen. Lary served as the Senior Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense. From June 1982 to July 1983, he was a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs, after being the Air Force Deputy Director of Legislative Liaison from April 1981 to June 1982. From December 1973 to March 1981, he was in Europe, first as a student at the Royal College of Defence Studies, London, then at wing-level assignments culminating in command of a reconnaissance wing and later an F-111 fighter wing. His final year in Europe, he served at HQ USAFE as the Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Intelligence. General Lary was a command pilot and was checked out in the B- 47, RF-4, F-5, F-111, F-15, F-16, Gulfstream III and the Lear-35. As the inspector general, he flew the C-5, C-141, KC-135, B-52, B-1 and the Mirage 2000. His overseas experience included Japan, Thailand, South Vietnam, England and Germany. After his retirement, Lt. Gen. Lary wished to return to Texas and was fortunate to have the opportunity to be the Director of Aviation for the city of McAllen, Texas from April 1990 to April 2005. After retirement from the city of McAllen, he was busy with many other personal endeavors and was a board member of the McAllen Country Club and was president of that board from September 2012 until September, 2013. In 2015, General Lary met and married his wife Marilew (Cunningham) Sturgis Lary. They shared his remaining years traveling and spending time with many close friends. Lt. General (Ret) Buford Derald Lary is survived by his loving wife, Marilew Sturgis Lary; his son Lt Col (Ret) Derald Lary Jr and his wife Colonel (Ret) Debbie Lary and daughter Jean Ann Baird and her husband Robert Baird, along with step-sons James H. Sturgis, his wife Gloria Sturgis and Josh L. Sturgis (Olympia Vega); grandchildren Jeremiah Lary and Shelby L. Sturgis; and great-granddaughter Miah Star Lary. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Frances (Hoffer) Lary in 2014 and son William Britton Lary in 2010, his Father Buford Britton Lary and his Mother Cora Annette (Morgan) Lary. A memorial service will be held 10:00 am Friday, October 4, 2019, at the First Presbyterian Church in McAllen, and family will receive guests at the McAllen Country Club after the service. Kreidler Funeral is handling local arrangements; interment is to be held at a later time at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Lt. Gen. Lary’s name to the Vannie E. Cook Jr. Cancer Foundation, 101 W Expressway 83, McAllen, TX 78503.

Richard “Dick” Murray Sr., BBA ’54, of Dallas died Oct. 5, 2019. Originally from Shreveport, La, but retired to his adopted home town of Dallas, Texas, he passed away comfortably at the age of 88 with his family near his side. He is survived by his wife, Janice Collins Murray, originally of Bossier City, La, of over 64 years; his daughter Patti O'Keefe with husband Kevin and sons Richard Dave Murray with Sandy and children Michelle and Danielle, as well as great grand daughter Samantha; Mark Murray with Sarah and children Kate, Brooke and Sidney. Viewing will be held at Sparkman Hillcrest Funeral Home on Thursday, October 10, 2019, from 6:00pm until 8:00pm. Interment will take place at DFW National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211, at 10:00am on Friday, October 11, 2019. A Memorial Service will be at Park Cities Baptist Church on Friday, October 11, 2019, at 12:30pm with a reception to follow. Born to Venetia and John Murray of Shreveport as the baby of 8 siblings, Dick graduated from Byrd HS in Shreveport in 1949 as a member of the Louisiana state HS championship football team. He went onto play tight end at Baylor and played in the Orange Bowl in 1954.He met Janice Collins, the love and literally, the support system for the rest of his life at Baylor. They started a family after he was commissioned as a Lt in the US Air Force in 1954.He moved through the Air Force ranks with a sterling career in finance.He had assignments in Germany, Texas, Madrid Spain, Vietnam, and in Washington DC as director of budget for the Air Force.His final assignment was in 1982 in Dallas as the Commander of the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES).He retired in July 1985 after a distinguished 31 year career with the rank of Major General.He was admired and loved by over 34 thousand associates of the AAFES community as the General with the large heart, warm smile, and bigger than life personality. After life in the Air Force, he continued his professional career as an advocate in Washington DC with duties as President of the American Logistics Association (ALA) and the National Association of Uniformed Servicemen (NAUS). His final professional victory was gaining approval through President Clinton for the military medical benefit know as TRICARE for life, a Medicare supplemental coverage for military retirees-promise kept and delivered. Dick and Jan Murray retired to Dallas in 2005 and spent much time with family, friends and their chosen church, Park Cities Baptist. They were active in their community during their twilight years residing more recently at the retirement home, The Tradition, on Lovers lane. Dicky, Dad, Grand Pa and Papa was a very special son, husband, father, and friend for all those who had the pleasure of getting to know him. He was caring, loving and passionate in life. He would always take the time and go out of his way to assist someone who needed his help. We have been in the presence of a great man who provided a great service to his country, family and friends. He will be missed by many and we all will feel the loss going forward. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Alzheimer's Association, www.act.alz.org. Hang in there Lord, he is on his way!! Cheers and God bless you Dad.

Mary Stanford Ogletree, BS ’54, of Canton, TX, died Sept. 6, 2019. Services were held 10 am Monday, September 9, 2019, at First Baptist Church in Canton with Dr. Mike Roberson officiating, under the direction of Eubank Funeral Home in Canton. Interment was in Haven of Memories. Mrs. Ogletree passed away at her home on Friday, September 6, 2019. She was born during the Great Depression on August 16, 1933 in Canton to John Willis and Flora M. Scott Terry. Mary was a member of First Baptist Church in Canton, the Mathea Guild, Wednesday Study Club and Friends of the Library. She was the valedictorian of the Canton High School Class of 1950 and graduated Baylor in 1954. Mary taught Sunday School, GA's and Vacation Bible School. She also helped send children to Church Camp. After retiring from the Texas Department of Health and Human Services, she enjoyed travelling, visiting with friends and reading. She was known by her many friends as a loving person that cared deeply for others. She spent her life helping people, both family, friends and strangers. When Hurricane Harvey came through Louisiana displacing thousands, She and Tony opened up their home to provide shelter. Mrs. Ogletree is preceded in death by her parents; two husbands: Paul H. Stanford, Jr. and Tony Ogletree; step-son, Mark Ogletree, and mother-in-law, Mae Stanford. Upon graduating from Baylor in 1954, Mary married Paul, also a Canton High School graduate. He being a graduate of the University of Texas, they regularly attended the Baylor-Texas football game where they enjoyed rooting against each other, eventually sending their three daughters to Baylor and one son to Texas. After living in Washington state while Paul was in the Army, they lived in both Dallas and Canton raising their children. After Paul's death in 1988, Mary and Tony were married in 1997. Mary and Tony both graduated in the Canton High School Class of 1950.They spent their 21 years of marriage traveling around the country and visiting their grandchildren. Mary is survived by her children: Sara and Randy Plemons of North Richland Hills, John Paul and Susan Stanford of Dallas, Martha and Paul Freeman of Fort Worth, and Miriam "Mimi" and Ricky Dobbs of Commerce; step-son, Terry and Lisa Ogletree of Broken Bow, OK; daughter-in-law, Karen Ogletree of Tyler; twelve grandchildren: Jessica and Dr. Troy Barnes, David Stanford, Meredith Freeman, Claire Dobbs, Emma Dobbs, Brian Ogletree, Amanda Ogletree, Felicia Ogletree, Ethan Stafford, Emily and Ryan Geyer, Eric and Sarah Stafford and Amy Marney; seven great-grandchildren; and two brothers: Thomas and David Terry. Pallbearers will be Dean Hess, Charles Skidmore, John Dunlap, Mike Hackney, Max Callahan, Benny Williams, Larry Dunn and Mike Chambles. Family will receive friends 6-8 pm Sunday at the funeral home.

Capt. James Olis “Jim” Price, BBA ’54, LLB ’54, of Fort Worth died Aug. 19, 2019. Born in Fort Worth Sept 24, 1930 to Dr. & Mrs. J.M. Price, he attended Hubbard, Rosemont and Paschal, graduating 1948. Jim graduated Baylor University BBA 1952 and completed Baylor Law JD 1954. He was Chief Justice of the first student court at Baylor in 1953 and served as Business Manager of The Editorial Board for Baylor Law Review. As a boy, he drew pictures of planes and knew he wanted to be a pilot by 1941. He served in the U. S. Naval Reserve 34 years, including 4 years active duty. In 1951 he enlisted as Seaman Recruit and was commissioned Ensign upon entering active duty 1954. Designated Naval Aviator 1956, he served as carrier pilot with Air Anti-Submarine Squadron 23 aboard U.S.S. Boxer (CVS-21) and later as multi-engine instrument flight instructor. During time with the drilling reserve at Dallas Naval Air Station, he made trips to Viet Nam in C-118 transport aircraft delivering supplies to forces. After active duty, he returned to practice law as an Assistant City Attorney. In 1962 he moved to Federal Aviation Administration as Regional Counsel, when they sought an attorney and pilot. He was admitted and qualified as Attorney & Counsellor of the Supreme Court of the United States 1966. He finished his law career as Counsel for Federal Highway Administration, retiring 1989. Throughout life, Jim volunteered time & experience serving as President of FW Baylor Club, Board of Directors of Baylor Alumni Association and life member and as long-time deacon at Broadway Baptist. Active Baylor volunteer, he and Betty were given a Baylor Outstanding Parents Award 1985. In retirement, Jim volunteered as a Mediator for Dispute Resolution services in Tarrant County. He loved travel and he and Betty spent 25 years flying around the world on his beloved Navy planes. Jim was a loving, caring husband and father and a quiet encourager to the many friends he gathered throughout life using quick wit to bring levity to every situation. His belief in God and country remained steadfast. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matt, who passed away 2016. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Betty, and daughter, Ashlyn Lewis and her husband, Jeff.

Martha Scharbauer Adams, BSN ’55, 86, of Midland, Texas - cherished and devoted wife, Mother, Meme, mentor, sister, and friend went Home July 28, 2019. She joins waiting family - her father, Arnold P. Scharbauer; mother, Anna Mae Scharbauer; little brother, Phil Scharbauer and her oldest son, Steven Arnold Adams, whom she is probably trying to make behave in Heaven. Martha drew her first breath on October 11, 1932 in Midland, Texas. Following her west Texas girlhood on the Scharbauer Ranch, she earned her Nursing degree at Baylor University, where she met her life partner, Dr. John Truett Adams. They married on June 11, 1955 and shared their lives for 64 more years. Martha and John raised their five kids - Steve (deceased), Jim Douglas Adams, Linda Linette Witte, Cinda Ann Brooks and John Truett Adams, Jr. - in East Africa where they worked with the Southern Baptist International Mission Board in medical missions. Returning from the East African mission field in 1982, they continued medical work in the US, then transitioned to managing the AP Scharbauer Ranch well into their 80s. At 5 ft. 1 in, Martha was a giant. The ultimate optimist, her smile brightened rooms and melted hearts as she touched, then impacted every life that crossed her path. While she loved to laugh, travel, scrapbook, garage sale, volunteer, and hang out with friends, her greatest passion was for God and family. She loved fiercely and was loved deeply. Somehow, she managed to run a household while working with John in his medical practice, teaching health to African women, homeschooling her kids, attending their sporting events, managing epic family camping trips, traveling internationally, trekking in Nepal, rock climbing, bicycling and motorcycle racing. She leaves behind a family who misses her deeply and who have been forever imprinted by this amazing woman. Her legacy continues: besides her husband and four adult children, she is also survived by her sister, Lynn Collett of Seminole, grandkids, great grandkids, sons and daughters-in-law, and nieces and nephews spanning three continents. There are many others that she just pulled in and made "family". Everyone who knew her saw how beautifully she "walked the walk" of faith, love and compassion. Martha's passing was peaceful and spiritual with her close family on and around her bed. The family has decided not to have an additional memorial service. From the family - thank you to all those who graced Martha's life with so much love and friendship. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that you spend a few moments doing what she loved to do . . . cherishing family, friends, the moment, and God. Should you feel inclined to make a donation, you might like to consider the Martha Adams Scholarship Fund at First Baptist Church of Midland, which supports college education. Martha selflessly gave her life to love and serve. A life well lived showing how to live life well. Tutaonana Martha, Mother, Meme (Swahili for "Until We Meet Again). Published in Midland Reporter-Telegram on Aug. 4, 2019.

James Leon “Jimmy” Bradley Sr., BA ’55, age 85, of Groesbeck, Texas, passed away at his home on Monday, November 4, 2019. He had suffered a stroke a few days earlier. Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 6, 2019, at First Baptist Church in Groesbeck. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, at the First Baptist Church, with Dr. Troy Brooks and Reverend Tracy Sims officiating. Interment services will be held at the Faulkenberry Cemetery Pavilion. Pallbearers will be Bill Hughes, David Hughes, Charlie Bradbury, Jack Mauldin, Dr. Dan Miller, Todd Whitesell, Bodie Emmons, and Willie Nino. Jimmy was born February 28, 1934, in Dallas, to Bernice Leon and Gussie Lou Read Bradley. He grew up in Groesbeck and graduated from Groesbeck High School in 1951. Jimmy was a member of the Groesbeck Gun Club in the 1950's. He was a Peters' Shooting Ace in 1951 when he was eighteen years old. He was on the 1951 Junior All-American Trap Team. Jimmy received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Baylor University on May 27, 1955. He entered The University of Texas Law School in Austin, after graduating from Baylor. Jimmy was drafted into the U.S. Army after attending two years of law school. He served two years at Fort Sam Houston Military Base in San Antonio, during the Korean War. He was assigned to the psychiatric hospital, giving tests to incoming private soldiers. He received his honorable discharge and returned to finish law school, graduating January 26, 1963.Jimmy married Jane Snodgrass in 1962, and to this union three sons were born: Bryan, James "Little Jimmy," and Christopher. Jimmy returned to Groesbeck in 1962 and began work alongside his father in the office of Bradley and Geren. The law office became known as Bradley and Bradley. Jimmy practiced probate and real estate law. Jimmy had great pride in his hometown. He served as mayor. He participated in the Groesbeck Red Stocking Follies which raised money for civic projects. He coached Little League baseball for sixteen years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church. In 1983, Jimmy married Diana McBay, and they were blessed with two sons, Stephen and Mark. Jimmy began working with the Farmers State Bank in Groesbeck, in 1984 and had served as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors. He helped lead the expansion of the bank into other branches. Jimmy liked the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He raised, trained, and judged roller pigeons. He was proud to take his sons on hunting trips. Jimmy began his ranching career as a young boy by showing Hereford cattle. He would recall making yearly trips with his parents to the Fort Worth Stock Show. He began his registered Beefmaster business in 1983. The Circle J Ranch was represented from Texas to Colorado, Tennessee, Georgia, and Mexico. The ranch began having yearly cattle sales in 1992. His sons, daughters-in-laws, and wife followed him many miles with his cattle interest, which became their interest also. His son, Jimmy Jr. was his right-hand man. They worked together to build Circle J into an award-winning ranch. The Circle J Ranch received Beefmaster Breeder of the Year Award in 2001. Mr. Bradley was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother. He also was preceded in death by his oldest son, Bryan Lee Bradley, who died November 20, 2017, at the age of 55; and three infant granddaughters: Breckyn, the daughter of Jimmy and Rachel, born and died March 23, 2001, Laken Lou, the daughter of Mark and Paige, born June 19 and died June 20, 2017, and Swayne Addison, the daughter of Mark and Paige, born and died September 30, 2018. Many great aunts, great uncles, and cousins also preceded him in death. Survivors include his four faithful sons and their spouses. These sons were dedicated to allowing their dad to be at home during his time of declining health. The sons and daughters-in-law are James Leon "Jimmy" Bradley, Jr. and wife, Rachel, Christopher Richard Bradley and wife, Nancy, Stephen McBay Bradley and wife, Casey, Mark Read Bradley and wife, Paige, and Liz Bradley, daughter-in-law, the wife of Bryan Lee Bradley, deceased. His surviving grandchildren are: Lindsey and husband, Cody Hale, Ben and wife, Ashtyn, and Jenah (Bryan's children); Brayden James, Breann and Brittyn (Jimmy's children); Kennedy and Camryn (Chris' children); Rhett James and Reagan (Stephen's children); and Mayken Jaymes (Mark's child); and great-grandson, Wescott Van (Ben's son). He is also survived by Jane Dossey, the mother of Bryan, Jimmy and Chris, and Diana Bradley, the mother of Stephen and Mark; and also numerous cousins. Donations may be made to First Baptist Church, 306 N. Ellis St. Groesbeck, TX 76642 and/or Providence Hospice, 107 E. Commerce, Mexia, TX 76667.

Larry Francis Cochran, BA ’55, was born to Alma Lois Williams Cochran and Thomas Lawrence Cochran on July 13, 1933 in Navasota, Texas. He died on July 18, 2019 in Lake Jackson, Texas. Mr. Cochran was a graduate of Freeport High School and Baylor University. He volunteered for the U.S. Army, did his service and went to work for the Dow Chemical Company in 1958. He retired after 33 years in 1991. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Harriet Sharpe Cochran; son, Michael Lawrence Cochran and wife, Susan; son, Patrick David Cochran; sister, Nadine Cochran; sister-in-law, Marie Sharpe Blainel; niece, Sarah Blaine; great-nephew, Bennett Blaine; and many cousins. Our family would like to thank especially, Raquel Avalos, without whose help and devotion we could not manage. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity of your choice or to the St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church Altar Guild, Choir/Organ or After School Program, 200 Oyster Creek Drive, Lake Jackson, Tx 77566.

Jim Johnson, BBA ’55, JD ’58, age 86, longtime San Angelo, TX, attorney, died peacefully on November 4th. Jim was the first baby born on New Year's Day 1933 in Brownwood, Texas to Otey and Alta Johnson. He spent his formative years in Brownwood which included playing quarterback for the Brownwood Lions in high school; graduating in 1951. Jim attended Baylor University and graduated with a BBA degree in 1955. Prior to completing his undergraduate studies, he started law school, also at Baylor. His law school studies were interrupted by a two-year stint in the Air Force stationed at Goodfellow Air Force base. While in the Air Force, he was over a food service group, despite not having any cooking skills himself. After his service, Jim returned to complete his last year of law school where he met his wife, Jean Massey, who was teaching at Baylor. Upon graduation from Baylor Law School in 1958, Jim worked for the district attorney's office in Beaumont, planning to settle his family there. After one year, staying permanently in Beaumont was reconsidered so Jim traveled to San Angelo to interview for a job, and returned to let Jean know they were moving to San Angelo. Jim began his legal practice with the firm of Upton Upton Baker and Griffis prior to starting the firm of Upton Shannon Porter & Johnson. His law practice spanned more than 50 years and he was well known for his attention to detail. He was active in the community serving as a Trustee at Shannon West Texas Memorial Hospital, Director First Financial Bank and an Elder First Presbyterian Church. He was also a member of the State Bar of Texas and Tom Green County Bar Association, serving in several officer positions over the years. The family wishes to thank his caretakers at Talley House along with Patricia Chapa, Evon Christian, Paula Melton and Stephanie Melendez. Jim is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean Johnson; son, Tim Johnson and wife Carilyn of El Paso; daughter, Paige Johnson of Dallas; and twin grandsons, Spencer James Johnson of Champaign, Illinois and Grant Lawrence Johnson of Washington, DC. He is also survived by a sister, Brenda McCullough, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 8th at the First Christian Church. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim's former law partners.

Ronald “Ronnie” Lane, BA ’55, of Roswell, GA, passed away September 20, 2019. He was 85.Ronald received his Bachelor's degree from Baylor University in 1955, and attended Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also received his Master's of Education degree and his Specialist in Education Administration degree from West Georgia College in the 1970's. Ronald was an educator and administrator with Atlanta Public Schools and Fulton County Schools from 1958-1993. Ronald married Emma Watts Lane in 1959 and recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They have 3 children and 7 grandchildren.

Lt. Col. Parker Pasco, BBA ’55, USAF, Ret., 86, of McKinney, TX, died Sept. 4, 2019. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, September 11, 2019, at Chestnut Community Church with Rev. Rickey Hargrave officiating.  Interment will follow at Pecan Grove Cemetery in McKinney. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, on Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at Chestnut Community Church, 309 N. Chestnut Street, in McKinney. Pasco was born on February 28, 1933, in Dialville, Texas, the son of Oliver and Lois Parker.  He attended and graduated from Jacksonville High School where he was active in sports.  His nickname was “Toe” which was bestowed upon him for kicking 42 out of 52 extra points in the fall season of his senior year.  He was an all-state football player, state champion half-miler, and led the Jacksonville mile relay team to a new state record at the state track meet in the spring of 1951.  Upon graduation he was awarded a full scholarship to Baylor University for his exceptional performance in track and football.  Pasco graduated from Baylor with a Bachelor of Business Administration.  He earned his Master’s in Business Management from Troy State University. During these years Pasco met a very special young lady, Iris Dacus. After a brief courtship, the two were married on December 18, 1954 in Golden Acres, Texas. Upon receiving his commission into the U.S. Air Force in 1955, Pasco honorably served his country for 22 years until his retirement in 1977, obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.  He served during the Vietnam War and in various duty stations including four tours in Turkey with his family by his side.  He was humbled to be decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Medal, and six Air Medals, as well as other outstanding commendation medals.  During his time of service he spent 18 years as a rescue helicopter pilot, as well as serving as Detachment Commander, Squadron Commander, Deputy Base Commander, and Base Commander. Settling in North Texas after his military retirement, Pasco began his 15-year career as the Collin County Auditor in McKinney.  He was a past President of the Texas Association of County Auditors. He especially enjoyed his Mondays in Commissioners Court! Pasco pursued his love of golf, fishing, and travel alongside his loving wife of over 64 years.  They reflected on the many memories of raising their family, and enjoyed quality time together doing what they loved. Pasco’s love for Jesus was clearly evident as he continuously shared his faith with others.  He was an ordained deacon, and his church was of utmost importance to him; he considered them a part of his family.  Pasco was happiest when he was surrounded by his family. He loved them all very much and will forever be fondly remembered as a loving and devoted husband, Dad, and Papa, who had an exceptional work ethic and love for Christ which was his legacy to his family. Mr. Parker is survived by his wife of 64 ½ years, Iris Parker of McKinney; daughters, Sharon Rowe and husband, John of Aurora, Colorado; Lynn Chapell and husband, Gordon of Tucson, Arizona; Laura McGinnis and husband, Randy of Broomfield, Colorado; and son, Jaakko Johannsen and wife, Nicola of Berlin, Germany; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sister, Christine Huntsman of New Braunfels, Texas; brother, Joe Dan Parker and wife, Mary Ann of Richmond, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Tammie Sue Parker; son-in-law, Paul Ballard; as well as his parents and brothers Buddy Parker, Arnold Parker, and Alfred Parker. Serving as pallbearers will be Pasco Rowe, Jason Rowe, Robert Keith, TJ Williams, Parker Ballard, and Jeremy Parker.  Honorary pallbearers will be Bethany Chapell Frost, Karen Parker Beatty, John Rowe, Maj. Gordon Chapell, USAF, Ret., Randy McGinnis, and Tyler Keill. Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. 

Ida Mae McIver Pogue, ’55, died Oct. 15, 2019, in Seguin, TX. Ida Mae McIver Pogue was born to Hula Mae McIver and James D. McIver on November 1, 1935, in San Antonio, Texas. She attended Alamo Heights High School where she participated in a variety of activities, notably the Jody Drill Team. She attended Baylor University, where she met and fell in love with her future husband Gary Edwards Pogue. Ida Mae and Gary married in San Antonio on August 6, 1955. They moved to Pawnee, Texas, where she settled into her roles as homemaker and new mom to their first daughter, Lisa. In 1961 they moved to Kenedy, and welcomed new daughter #2, Laura. Ida Mae quickly became an integral part of the community, immersing herself in family and church. As if having two daughters, a husband, and a new home weren’t enough, she soon took on the role of “Second Mom”, mentor, loyal friend and confidant to her daughters’ ever-expanding circle of friends and to her many nieces and nephews. Throughout the following years, Ida Mae’s commitment to family, church, and her husband’s growing business continued, along with her love of animals (especially dogs). These things were the focus of her life. After Gary’s death in 2008, Ida Mae’s life changed drastically, and her health gradually began to fail. She joined Gary in Heaven on October 15, 2019, dying in Guadalupe Regional Medical Center in Seguin. Ida Mae is survived by her daughter Lisa Pogue Yaklin of Kenedy, daughter Laura Pogue Walters and son-in-law Keith Walters of Pleasanton, granddaughter Alexandria Walters of Los Angeles, Gary Luke Walters of Victoria, brother Lanny McIver and his wife Sandy of San Antonio, sister-in-law Dorothy Pogue of Kenedy, and countless nieces and nephews from all over. Visitation will be held Friday, October 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel. A service will be Saturday, October 19, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church with the Rev. Jim Pogue and Rev. Matt Singleton officiating. Private Interment will follow at Sunset in the Pawnee Cemetery. Donations and Memorials can be made to the Karnes County Humane Organization, The First Baptist Church of Kenedy, and SNIPSA. Dear God: Grant that your servant Ida Mae, being raised by you through your Son Jesus Christ, may know the strength of his presence and rejoice in His eternal glory. May Light Perpetual Shine Upon Her. Pallbearers will be Jimmie Pogue, Michael McIver, Joe Foster, Tom Pogue, Terry Johnson, Bronson Vaughn, and David Carson.

William Oliver Womble, BBA ’55, of Edmond, OK, died Oct. 12, 2019. "The Col" took his final flight to be with the Lord after a brief illness. He attended Baylor University, where he met the love of his life, wife Mary, to whom he was faithfully married for 59 blissful years. They had two wonderfully devoted sons, Bill and Mike. He became an Air Force pilot, where his overseas assignments included Spain, Germany, and Panama. He was preceded in death by his parents; four siblings; and wife, Mary. He is survived by his sons, Bill (wife Janie) and Mike (wife Irene); his precious grandchildren, who meant everything to him, Michelle (husband Matt), Billy (and their mother, Carol) Caitlin, and Ashley (husband Michael); and two great-grandsons, Jude DeForest and Mason Sisson. After struggling to encapsulate his life in words, it seemed to have been best expressed by one of his beloved grandchildren in the following post after learning about his passing: "My amazing Poppa Bill made his way home to my sweet grandma in his sleep yesterday morning. I wish I could give a better description of what an incredible man he was, but the words won't even come close to doing him justice. From flying C-130s all over the world and serving in Vietnam to pushing me, my sister and cousins as high as he could in the swing he built for us in the backyard, laying on the floor with Suzy the big golden retriever when she was afraid of storms, being by my Grandma's side day in and day out when she was sick for several years, donating monthly for years to countless charities for animals, veterans, hospitals, and never saying a word, holding people up and providing the most loving and honest assurance in painful times -- he did it all and he did all for his family. He got to meet not one, but two of his great-grandchildren in one year. For that I am forever thankful. I know for a fact he was truly one of the strongest, most selfless, intelligent, wholehearted, brave and just plain amazing men to grace this earth. I am so lucky to have been his granddaughter." Services are scheduled at his church home, the First Christian Church in Edmond, on Oct. 26, 2019, at 11 a.m.

Newton Cass Ellis, BS ’56, of Bryan, TX, died Aug. 5, 2019. A Celebration of Life will be held 10 am Saturday, October 26th at the Aggie Field of Honor Chapel with Pastor Tim Owens officiating. Arrangements are in the care of Callaway-Jones Funeral and Cremation Centers, Bryan-College Station. Newton was born August 2, 1935 in Paris, Texas to Woodrow and Evelyn Ellis. Newton is preceded in death by his only sibling, Donald Eugene Ellis. Newton graduated from Texas City High School. While Newton was a student at Texas City High School, he lettered in baseball. After graduation, he entered Texas Agricultural & Mechanical College. At Texas A&M, Newton was in the Corps of Cadets where, in his senior year, he was selected to be second in command of the Corp of Cadets. After a calling from God, Newton transferred to Baylor University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1956. The summer before entering Baylor University as a student, Newton returned to Texas City, Texas to marry the love of his life, Mary Kettrick, on July 16, 1954. Newton received an MA in Experimental Psychology in 1962 and a PhD in 1964 from Texas Christian University. In 1969, Newton and his family moved to Bryan, Texas where Newton became an Assistant Professor in Industrial Engineering Department at Texas A&M University. During his tenure, Newton served as Department Head of Industrial Engineering, Division Head of the Industrial and Bio-Engineering Research Division, Division Head of the Human Factors and Systems Engineering Division, Texas Transportation Institute, and the Texas Engineering Experiment Station. In 1991, Newton was awarded the University Level Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Former Students. This award recognizes outstanding members of Texas A&M’s faculty and staff for their commitment, performance and positive impact on Aggie students, Texas citizens and the world around them. In 2000, Newton retired from Texas A&M University after tenure of 32 years. At retirement, Newton was awarded Emeritus status, an honor conferred by Texas A&M University to show respect for his distinguished career. Newton taught the First Baptist Bryan Business Men’s Bible Class for 3 years. In 2017, Newton and his wife Mary became members of Iola Missionary Baptist Church Iola, Texas. Newton is survived by his beloved wife, Mary, and their two children, Dr. Lori L. Ellis, PhD of Celina, Texas, Dr. Jon Ellis, MD and his wife, Carole of Waco, Texas, and his two grandchildren, Tyler and Hannah Ellis. In lieu of flowers, Memorials will be graciously accepted for Iola Missionary Baptist Church Missions Fund, PO 220, Iola, Texas 77861. Express condolences at CallawayJones.com.

Rev. Harvey W. Hoffman Jr., BA ’56, 85 years old, made his transition to heaven on Tuesday, August 27, 2019. A visitation and funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church of Farmerville on Friday, August 30, 2019 under the direction of Farrar Funeral Home in Farmerville, LA. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. ~ 11:00 a.m. with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. A private burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery. Bro. Hoffman was born in Kosse, TX on July 7, 1934 to Wilburn and Julia Hoffman. He trusted Jesus as Savior at age 11 and began preaching at the age of 15. He earned his undergraduate degree from Baylor University and a master of divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Hoffman pastored ten Southern Baptist churches in Texas and Louisiana. [Friendship Baptist, Granger, Texas; Liberty Baptist, DeLeon, Texas; First Baptist, Hockley, Texas; Eastside Baptist, Gonzales, Texas; Terrell Hills Baptist, San Antonio, Texas; Crestview Baptist, San Antonio, Texas; First Baptist, Farmerville, Louisiana; First Baptist, Gonzales, Texas; Evergreen Baptist, Bernice, Louisiana; and Weldon Baptist, Bernice, Louisiana.] For five years, the preacher served as a Home Mission Board (now North American Mission Board) state missionary in Louisiana. Additional denominational service included board of directors of Baptist Standard, Texas, and moderator of local associations in Texas and Louisiana. Through the years, he conducted over 195 local church revivals. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. After “retiring,” he served as pastor or pulpit supply for 23 years in the Farmerville area. He received an honorary Doctorate of Divinity, but preferred to be known as “Brother Harve.” Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 63 years, Janet Darl Thompson Hoffman; his children: Shelda Hoffman Reeves and husband Dennis of Bullard, TX; Rev. Bill Hoffman and wife Terri of Shreveport, LA; and Rev. Jeffrey Hoffman and wife Angela of Arcadia, LA; grandchildren: Darla Hoffman O’Brien of Shreveport, LA; James Cooke and wife Monica of Austin, TX; Lauren Hoffman Jennings and husband Aaron of Dubach, LA; and Madison Paige Hoffman of Arcadia, LA; and four great-grandsons: Joseph Cooke, Noah Cooke, Benjamin Cooke, and Charlie Cooke of Austin, TX. Pallbearers will be James Cooke, Ronnie Hamilton, Marvin Miles, Marvin Neal, Mike Reeves, Jeremy Skeeles, Jordan Skeeles and Johnathan Skeeles. Honorary pallbearers will be Mac Armstrong, Malcolm Bane, Billy Grafton, Chiles Carpenter, Deacons of Weldon Baptist Church and Deacons of Evergreen Baptist Church. Online messages for the family may be left at www.farrarfuneralhomeonline.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be made to benevolent funds at Weldon Baptist Church or Evergreen Baptist Church.

Bettye Sue Rieger Lewis, BA ’56, was a woman ahead of her time in many ways. She was a seeker of real beauty and wisdom, always open to new ideas her entire 84 years. She passed away peacefully in her home on October 28, 2019. A service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 9, at Seventh and James Baptist Church. Visitation will be Friday, November 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at 3725 Castle, Waco, Texas. Bettye was born February 26, 1935, in Wichita Falls, Texas, to John David Rieger and Stella Smith Rieger. She was an only child to doting parents and was surrounded by a large, loving family growing up in Wichita Falls. With a lifelong intellectual curiosity, she graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1952. Her father insisted she receive a degree in business and, in 1956, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business from Baylor University. She was on the Lariat Staff and wrote editorials urging Baylor to admit African American students to the University, almost a decade before that actually occurred. Bettye followed her undergraduate degree with a Masters in Christian Education from Southwestern Theological Seminary and a Master’s in Education from Midwestern State University. During this decade of her 20s she would drive by herself each summer to Estes Park, Colorado, to be a hiking counselor at her beloved Camp Cheley. Camp Cheley was one of her favorite places on earth, a love shared by her son, John, who followed in her footsteps as a camper there for many years. In January of 1969, Bettye met Jerry Lewis in Wichita Falls, and they were married June 14, 1969. After their children, Sarah and John, were born, Bettye quickly left her career driven life and became the perfect wife, mother and homemaker. She was devoted to her home, family meals, gardening, volunteering in her children’s church and school activities, was Sarah’s Camp Fire leader, and created an amazing, stable home full of love. Her family was her first priority and they knew it. She took great pleasure in sewing beautiful clothes for Sarah and they spent many Saturday afternoons at Auzell’s and Cloth World, scheming combinations of patterns and fabric. In addition to making a beautiful home, at various points Bettye was a teacher at St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School, a curriculum specialist for Waco ISD, principal of Waco Baptist Academy, and finally worked alongside Jerry at The Lewis Group, their healthcare recruiting business for many years. Bettye was a talented quilter and made many quilts for her children and grandchildren, and has left beautiful baby quilts in boxes for her unborn great grandchildren. Her quilting group, the Material Girls, was a source of great pleasure to her and those friendships meant so much to her as did her friendships from PEO. Bettye was a voracious reader and it was hard to keep up with her reading list. She was still ordering books on her Kindle this fall. Bettye and Jerry traveled a great deal, and she was never without something to read or handwork for a quilt square along the way. Bettye is survived by her husband of 50 years, Jerry Lewis; her daughter, Sarah Aynesworth and husband, Brian; her son, John Lewis and wife, Ginna; grandchildren, Brian, Lewis, John and William Aynesworth and Caroline and Margaret Lewis; and her faithful dog Mitzi. We will miss her greatly, but she left us with so much for which we are grateful. She left us all with an appreciation for simple beauty, whether it is the beauty of nature or an appreciation of creative craftsmanship. She also left us with a sense of wisdom and lifelong learning. It is with a deep sense of gratitude that her family writes this synopsis of a pure and true love. Her kind, gentle, generous spirit will continue to inspire all of us to be the same. The family would like to express their deep appreciation for caregivers, Jada Hicks and Ana Varela, who treated Bettye like family these last several months. Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or the Seventh and James Baptist Church Music Ministry at www.seventhandjames.org.

Donald H. Mitchell, BA ’56, age 85, of Wildwood, TX, died Saturday, July 6, 2019. He was born in Pollock, on August 21, 1933, to Hester Nantz Mitchell and John Mitchell.  Brother Don pastored over sixty years, the last three churches he pastored were Allendale in Houston, Pine Forest Baptist in Vidor, and Wildwood Baptist in Wildwood. Survivors include his wife, Wanda Mitchell of Wimberley and formerly of Wildwood; children, Dwanna Zyla and her husband, Lou, and Charlotte Schobel, all of Wimberley; grandchildren, Stephen Turner and his wife, Carly, of Deer Park; Matt Turner and his wife, Patty, of Clear Lake; John Turner and his wife, Ashley, of Pasadena; and Joshua Schobel of Rockdale; stepchildren, Ivan Zyla and his wife, Michele, of Dedham, Massachusetts and Taras Zyla and his wife, Catie, of Oakland, California; twelve great-grandchildren; and sister, Janet Nolan of Newton. He is preceded in death by his parents; and son, Tracy Patrick Mitchell. A gathering of Don’s family and friends will be 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 9, 2019, at Broussard’s, 530 West Monroe, Kountze. His funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 10, 2019, at Wildwood Baptist Church, 100 Wildwood Drive, Village Mills, with his interment at 2:00 p.m., at Mitchell Cemetery, Wiergate.

Ina Lynn Walker Nesbit, BA ’56, of Canyon Lake, TX, was welcomed into Heaven Aug. 13, 2019. Lynn was born January 5, 1935 in Freeport, Texas. She was the oldest of two daughters to Beaulah Mae and Waldo Hunt (both passed away). Ina Lynn, as she was called in Angleton High School, graduated in 1952 and then went on to Baylor University, where she was in the marching band, met and married Glen Walker and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education in 1956. Lynn taught 2nd grade and served as a home bound teacher for several years, while raising three children in the Baytown Schools. Lynn was not only busy as a teacher, but was an excellent seamstress and even established a child's line of clothing, "Texas Cute." Throughout Lynn's life, she served the Lord faithfully in many capacities; mission organizations of the Baptist Churches, mission trips to Tanzania Africa, Romania, Mexico and building trips with Volunteer Christian Builders. She also served as the church Secretary at Crane's Mill Baptist Church in Canyon Lake, where she has resided for more than 15 years. Lynn made Texas and everywhere she traveled a better place because she "let her light shine...and glorify her Father who is in Heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Survived by... Loving mother and role model to daughters, Melinda (Terry) Keeble and Marla (Robert) Walker and deceased son, Eric Walker; sister, Waldene (Ralph) Shuman; grandchildren, Heather Lynn, Austin William, Brooke Renee and Garrett Tyler; great-grandchild, Nicholas Tanner. Ina is also survived by many nieces and nephews. A special thank you to A-Med Hospice who took great care of our mother. In lieu of flowers, memorials to A-Med Hospice or John Sealy Galveston Burn Center, Texas.

Reverend Dr. Billy T. Nimmons, BA ’56, of Dalton, GA died on Friday, August 9, 2019, at his home. Dr. Nimmons, Pastor Emeritus of First Baptist Church of Dalton, GA, served as the Church’s Senior Pastor from 1977-2000. He also served other churches in Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Texas. Dr. Nimmons was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lindsey (Clara Mae) Nimmons, and a sister, Sarah Turner. Dr. Nimmons was born in Houston, TX on December 10, 1934. He was a graduate of Baylor University, the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and he holds an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Mercer University. Dr. Nimmons’ civic and community engagement speaks of the passion that he had for social justice and those who have been disenfranchised in life. He served as a member of the Dalton Senior Housing Project and the Whitfield Commons Board, the Second Chance Program at Dalton High School, the Green House Child Advocacy Board (founding member), the AIDS Task Force for Whitfield County, the Whitfield Healthcare Foundation (various positions held), the Dalton/Whitfield Chamber of Commerce Board, the United Way Board, the Whitfield County Mental Health Society, the Georgia Council of Civic and Moral Concerns, the Advisory Board of the Alzheimer’s Association of Northwest Georgia, the Family Crisis Center, the Board of Directors of the Kiwanis Club of Dalton, the Olive Branch Board, and a member of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program Advisory Committee. Dr. Nimmons was actively involved in denominational work locally, statewide, and on the national level. He held many positions within the denomination. Dr. Nimmons also worked with missions partners in Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America. These accolades aside, Dr. Nimmons’ driving passion was serving as Pastor to not only the members of First Baptist Church, but also as Pastor to many members of our community and surrounding area. His heart’s desire was to fulfill the calling for himself and his Church to meet the needs of all people while never neglecting to share the message (gospel) of Jesus Christ. He mentored many in his ministry to fulfill their calling in/to ministry as well. Untold lives were touched and led to redemption by his love, care, compassion, and relentless prayers. Dr. Nimmons is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joanne Ball Nimmons of the residence; children, Rhonda (Richard) McGee of Snohomish, WA, Truett (Lee Ann) Nimmons of Dalton, Deborah Nimmons (Frank Martinez) of Seattle, WA; grandchildren, Katie Gaynier, Carley McGee, Kirsten McGee, Anna Nimmons, Memphis Martinez, and John Nimmons; great-grandson, William Gaynier; brothers, Lindsey Nimmons, Jr. and Donald Nimmons; and, sister, Beth Boughner. Nieces and nephews also lovingly survive. First Baptist Church of Dalton will host a community visitation for the Nimmons family on Thursday, August 15, from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. and Friday, August 16, from 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. in the Atrium of First Baptist. A memorial service to celebrate the life and ministry of Dr. Nimmons will be held on Friday, August 16, at 3:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of the Church with Reverend Dr. Jonathan Barlow and Reverend Phillip Cannon officiating. First Baptist Church of Dalton is located at 311 North Thornton Avenue, Dalton, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the First Foundation or First Baptist Church of Dalton. The address for both is P. O. Box 827, Dalton, GA  30722.

Bonnie Jo Perkins Tondera, BSN ’56, of Huntsville, AL, died Aug. 10, 2019. She was born near Bayfield, Colorado to Joe Bailey Perkins and Florence Mitchusson Perkins. She graduated from Springfield High School in Springfield, CO and Baylor University in Waco, TX with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. She married Steve Ernest Tondera on September 1, 1956 in Liberal, Kansas. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church for over 60 years and a teacher of many ladies’ Sunday School classes, as well as library custodian for many years. Bonnie spent most of her nursing career at Huntsville Hospital serving in various administrative roles, the longest being Vice President of Nursing for 13 years. She was on the faculty at the School of Nursing at the University of Alabama Huntsville for three years where she earned her Masters of Administrative Science. She was appointed by the Governor to the Alabama Board of Nursing and served a four-year term. Bonnie loved the outdoors with her favorite hobbies being hiking and studying wildflowers. She was active in the Alabama Wildflower Society and Huntsville Botanical Gardens. Her love of wildflowers lead to the publishing of a book, “Wildflowers of North Alabama” in 1987. Bonnie also enjoyed genealogy and traced both the Perkins and Tondera family's history back many generations, including foreign travel to document and share the family chronicles. Bonnie was predeceased by her husband, her parents, and her sister, Dixie Lee Hickey. She is survived by her daughter, Tamra Tondera Renfrow, her husband Denny, and daughters Kate and Anna (Kelseyville, CA); son, Steve Ernest Tondera, Jr. and his children, Shayla and Trey (Lester Prairie, MN); son, Joe Harold Tondera and his children, Joe and Sophie (Albany, GA). Visitation will be Saturday, October 12, 2019, 9:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church Huntsville in the Upper Gathering Place (Entrance 1). Memorial Service will follow at 11:00am at the First Baptist Church Chapel. Memorials may be made to North Alabama Land Trust, 2707 Artie Street, Suite 6, Huntsville, AL 35805, www.landtrustnal.org & Huntsville Botanical Gardens, 4747 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805.

Edward J. Aycock, BBA ’57, of Belton, TX, died Sept. 10, 2019. He was born in Temple, Texas to Joe and Jessie May Aycock on December 1, 1929.  Ed graduated from Temple High School in 1948.  He ran track and was on the District Championship football team of 1947. In 1949, he was employed as a Brakeman and Lineman for the Santa Fe Railroad. When the Korean War broke out in 1950, he joined the United States Air Force.  He was assigned to the Air Forces’ strike force, The Strategic Air Command.  He was honored to serve under the famous World War II General Curtis LeMay.  He served as NCOIC of Town Patrol and liaison to the United States Army in El Paso, Texas.  As part of the Air Force’s deterrent to war with the Soviet Union, he served in England and was in charge of an Elite Honor Guard. He then was selected to attend a Non-Commissioned Officers Training School at Fort Carson, Colorado. After completing his enlistment with the Air Force, he graduated from Baylor University with a B.B.A. in Management. After graduation, he was employed with the El Paso Natural Gas Company.  Subsequently, he was selected to serve as Human Relations Director at Hotel Dieu Hospital in El Paso. From there he went to St. Louis University where he graduated with a Masters in Hospital Administration. After graduation, he served as Chief Executive Officer of Doctor’s Hospital in Houston. After eight years there, he was employed as Vice-President of St. Francis Medical Center in Trenton, New Jersey. Upon retirement from St. Francis, he returned home to Temple, Texas where he served as Human Resources Director at King's Daughters Hospital. Ed is survived by his wife, Marva, two stepdaughters, D’Lyn Suggs and Jessica Sullivan (husband, Rodney), and four step granddaughters, Alexandra Whitaker (husband Forrest), Natalie Sullivan, Hannah Sullivan and Morgan Suggs, a nephew Mike Aycock and niece Pat Jones. He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Mateland Aycock and Howard Aycock. The family would like to thank the Willam R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home and Kindred Hospice for the love and care they provided to Ed in his final days. A memorial service will be held Sunday, September 15, 2019 at 2:00 pm at Victory Baptist Church, 13295 FM 2843, Salado, TX 76571. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home, 1424 Martin Luther King, Temple, Texas 76504 or to Victory Baptist Church, 13295 FM 2843, Salado, TX 76571.

Sharon Louise Chrestman Gilbert, BS ’57, of Waco died Sept. 21, 2019. The memorial service will be Friday, September 27, 11:00 AM, at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church Chapel in Waco. Sharon was born March 21, 1935 in Burkburnett, Texas to Marshell and Majorie Baker Chrestman. During the Great Depression, the family moved to Benevides in South Texas and then in 1944 Taft, Texas. Sharon graduated from Taft High School where she played in the band and led as drum major. She attended Baylor University and received a BS degree in Home Economics. While a student at Baylor, she met fellow Baylor student Bill Gilbert of Victoria, After Bill's graduation and commission as a lieutenant in the US Air Force, they were married, August 18, 1956, at First Baptist Church, Taft. Bill and Sharon had a wonderful, loving and adventurous 63 years of marriage. Sharon's radiant and beautiful smile has touched so many lives over the years. She will be sorely missed. She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter JoAnne. She is survived by her husband, Bill Gilbert; son, David Gilbert and wife, Carol of Tomball; great grandchildren Garett Gregory Martin, AnnaBelle Martin and Emma JoAnn Martin; sister, Barbara Harle and husband, Dr. Thomas Harle of Waco; brother, Honorable Don Chrestman and wife, Melinda of Weatherford. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Heart Association. 

Gay Grumbles Haller, BSN ’57, of Fort Worth, hospital volunteer, nurse, beloved mother and friend to all, died September 30, 2019. She was 84. Gay was born August 26, 1935 in Texarkana, Texas. She attended public schools in Atlanta, Texas, graduating from Atlanta High School in 1953, where she was a majorette and elected Homecoming Queen her senior year. The daughter of Ernest W. Grumbles, M.D., who co-founded the hospital in Atlanta and was a general practitioner there, Gay knew she wanted to be a nurse from an early age. She attended Baylor University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in nursing in 1957, just three years after Baylor graduated its first collegiate class. She got a job as a nurse at Baylor Hospital in Dallas (now Baylor University Medical Center), working in the operating room for orthopedic surgery. She was quickly promoted to Head Nurse because of her bachelor’s degree. She scrubbed in to assist with experimental cardiac surgeries in the dog laboratory at Baylor Hospital in the 1950s with Dr. Paul Ellis, who performed the first open heart surgery in Dallas. In 1959, she met her beloved husband of 57 years, Richard L. Haller. They married August 13, 1960 and settled in Fort Worth. Their daughter, Beth Ann, was born in 1961. Gay was a devoted mother and homemaker. In 1979, after her daughter graduated from high school, she went back to her two favorite things, medicine and volunteering. Continuing a family tradition (her mother Ella Pattee Grumbles set up the first hospital volunteer program at the hospital in Atlanta, TX), she became a volunteer in surgical recovery at Baylor All Saints Hospital in Fort Worth. She volunteered there for 30+ years. Gay was an active member of St. Stephen’s Presbyterian Church in Fort Worth, which she joined with her family in 1963. For many years, she ran its Emergency Relief program, which assisted people in poverty in Fort Worth. She was active with the church women and played in the bell choir in the 1980s. She is survived by her daughter, Beth Haller of Towson, Maryland; nephew, Ernest W. Grumbles III (Mary) of St. Paul, Minn., and his family; niece, Diana Grumbles Blackman (Chris) of Dallas and her family; nephew Richard Rogers (Debbie) of San Antonio; and numerous friends of many years. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard; her sister, Linda Grumbles Allen; and her brother, Ernest W. Grumbles, Jr. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to St. Stephen’s Presbyterian Church (2700 McPherson Ave., Fort Worth, TX 76109).

Mary E. Thompson, BM ’57, of New Braunfels, TX, died Oct. 24, 2019. She was born to William Thompson and Eleanor Waters Thompson in Houston, Texas on July 7, 1935. Mary grew up in the Heights of Houston. After attending Baylor University for her Bachelors and University of Michigan for her Masters, Mary taught band at Hogg Middle School, Scarborough High School, and Clifton Middle School in Houston. She retired and moved to New Braunfels to be closer to family, and continued her love of teaching students in NBISD, Comal ISD and surrounding counties. She taught private music lessons until she was 82 years young. Mary was a force of nature... a truly gifted and unforgettable teacher and Aunt who leaves behind a legacy of thousands of students and family members... all of us forever blessed, on one level or another, by her “southern fried wisdom” and insistence that we evolve into the best versions of ourselves - both onstage and off. Mary may have been short in stature, but she stood tall in our eyes. She helped students improve and become professional musicians, band directors, leaders, and contributing members of society. She taught students for the sheer joy of seeing them be successful musicians and to appreciate the art of music, and she loved them unconditionally. She attended every band concert, football game, and marching contest. She brought students and families into her homes and helped raise many of them, in her tough motherly/grandmotherly way. A loyal and hardworking member of the Comal Community Band and Oakwood Church, and a devoted Michigan and Baylor (Sic‘em Bears) fan; she seemed to have no limits to what she would do for others. Mary was recognized by NBISD as a Silver Unicorn in 2017, it was one of the proudest moments of her life. We were blessed and honored by her presence in our lives. While music was her love, Mary also loved her family. She gave us support, fun, love, and food. While she never married and never had children of her own, she had kids, a lot of them. She mothered many, many students, her sister’s children, and her sister’s children’s children. Yes, she had kids. She loyally attended her Texas grand-niece and grand-nephews volleyball and basketball games, band concerts, school events, and graduations. She was always there, our encourager, our cheerleader, our rock. She loved us and we loved her. She had a gift for making things all right; she knew how to make us laugh and feel good inside. Her friends from her bible study class were so special to her as well. She rarely missed Friday “game days” with her class, even though she didn’t necessarily like to play games; she went to enjoy the fellowship with her friends. She loved unconditionally. While it’s an earthly goodbye for now, we know we will see her again in heaven someday. One thing is for certain, there is a band up in heaven that needed a conductor, and we know she’s already accepted the job. She is survived by brother in law, Frank Gallerano; nieces, Kay Heckroth, Cheryl Smith, Laurie Smith, Jamee Smith; nephew, Karl Smith, Paul Heckroth; great nieces, Ashley Smith, Jackie Strickland, Katie Swett, Kelly Heckroth, Jeannie Mesker, Garittee Smith; great nephews, Derek Smith, Evan Smith, Jody Ledbetter, Tony Mesker, Aaron Mesker, Matt Heckroth, Michael Smith, Bo Smith; 7 great great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Jeanette Gallerano; niece Kim Smith; nephew Kirk Smith; and great nephew Andrew Mesker. Public visitation will begin 12 noon Tuesday at Oakwood Baptist Church and will continue until service time. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at Oakwood Baptist Church with Pastor Ray Still officiating. A Graveside service will be held 11:00 am Thursday, October 31, 2019 at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery in Houston, Texas. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Oakwood Church’s Spread Out Think Big/Building Fund. Mary was always passionate about the growth of her church and how they intentionally engage the community. Please visit our website at www.zoellerfunerlhm.com to share your condolences and memories.

Earl Glynn Alexander, BS ’58, age 82, a resident of Amarillo, Texas, and former resident of Fort Worth, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2019. MEMORIAL SERVICE: 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1, at the Ware Living Center in Amarillo and at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 2, at All Saints Presbyterian Church in Fort Worth, Texas. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Tarrant Area Food Bank, https://tafb.org/donate/; or to BCS Hope Fund, c/o Baptist Community Services, 701 Park Place Ave., Amarillo, TX, 79101. Earl was born Dec. 9, 1936, to the late Elton and Lillian Alexander in Nacogdoches, Texas. He graduated from Nacogdoches High School and earned a bachelor of science in chemistry from Baylor University. During his senior year at Baylor, he married Olive Alice Jeanfreau. Upon Earl's graduation, they moved to Providence, R.I., where he completed his Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Brown University. After graduating from Brown, Earl joined the technical staff of Texas Instruments in Dallas. He was employed in the area of research and development in semiconductor devices. In 1975, Earl and his family began a new era. They journeyed to Hawaii to become involved in Youth With A Mission, an international missionary organization. Earl and his family moved to Hereford, Texas, in 1978 where he was employed by Arrowhead Mills, a whole foods company. The next chapter in Earl's experiences was a return to the missionary organization. In 1984, Earl and his wife moved to Guatemala, Central America. There he directed a bilingual school of evangelism, and then oversaw a mercy ministries team. In 1988, Earl and Olive returned to Texas where he worked for General Dynamics (later Lockheed Martin) in Fort Worth until his retirement in 2003. Earl was steeped in Texas lore and knowledge. He would proudly cite he had traveled in all 254 counties of the state and had seen almost all of the courthouses. Music was an abiding interest throughout Earl's days. He took great delight in singing. He was a frequent soloist in several choirs and enjoyed singing in the Schola Cantorum of Texas chorus for 14 seasons. Gardening was a long-term interest of Earl's. He became certified as a Texas Master Gardener and was a member of both the Tarrant County and Randall County Master Gardeners associations. SURVIVORS: Earl is survived by his wife, Olive Alice Jeanfreau Alexander; his son, Eric Ross Alexander and daughter-in-law, Christine Lyons Alexander; six Alexander grandsons, David, Stephen, Robert, Michael, Lee and Andrew, their respective wives and their children; daughter, Paula Esther Alexander Olson, son-in-law, Daniel Warren Olson; three Olson grandsons, Eric, Alexis, and Peter, and one Olson granddaughter, Elizabeth Olson Hames, their respective spouses and their children; his sister, Faye Alexander Matlock; and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. COX-ROWLEY FUNERAL HOME Amarillo, 806-354-2585 View and sign guestbook at www.star-telegram.com/obituaries.

Roy Lynn Casey, BBA ’58, of Huntsville, TX, was born at home on the family farm in Falls County, TX on May 28^th 1930. He was the son of Lee & Mimmie Casey of Rosebud, TX. He passed away peacefully and went to be with Jesus on October 10^th, 2019 at the age of 89. Roy graduated from Rosebud High School and later studied at Temple College and Baylor University. He was proud of his education and the hard work he put into it because, as he said, “he climbed poles all day and went to school all night.” Roy met his wife, Sandra, on a blind date in 1956 when they went dancing in Ft. Parker, TX.  They were married on June 27, 1959 at First Methodist Church in Rosebud, TX. They were married for 60 years. Roy was a proud Korean War Veteran and soon after returning from the war went to work for what would become Southwestern Bell. He worked for the company in various positions for 32 years and retired in 1988. Roy was an avid rancher and was very proud of “The Farm” in Travis, TX. He would spend much time there, especially after retirement. He loved to hunt, travel, and “hold court”, and he also enjoyed playing golf later in life. Mostly, he loved his family and his grandkids. Roy is preceded in death by his parents, Lee & Mimmie Casey; his brothers Otho, Oran & Harvey Casey, and his sisters Marie Patzke & Modean Norman. Roy is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Sandra of Huntsville; son Keith Casey and wife Donna of Cypress, TX, son Chris Casey and wife Nanette of Pasadena, TX ; grandchildren Claire and Catherine Casey of Cypress, TX and Austin and Ally Smitley of Pasadena, TX as well as several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, October 15, 2019 at Cook-Gerngross-Green-Patterson Funeral Home in Rosebud.  Graveside services will be held at noon at Woodland Cemetery in Rosebud. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at 11:00am at 1^st United Methodist Church of Huntsville, 1016 Sam Houston Avenue, Huntsville, TX 77320. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to the 1^st United Methodist Church of Huntsville Building Fund.

Edna Bolt Peacock Gray, BA ’58, of Atlanta, GA, died Oct. 1, 2019. She was born at Piedmont Hospital Atlanta on November 6, 1936 to Ben Peacock and Edna Bolt Peacock. The family, which by now included little sisters Cornelia and Estelle, moved to Washington DC during WWII. Edna was a sickly child, she contracted almost every known childhood ailment and missed a lot of school. However, she had a great memory. To show how much she learned despite her absences, she recited the entire school play – loudly - from the stage during the main performance. Her mom may have been mortified, but this was an early demonstration of Edna’s determination to keep learning and get the job done. Throughout her life, Edna lived by these words: Put God first and everything will follow. Growing up in a multi-generational household surrounded by strong Christians, she had great role models of faith and service to others. These became the pillars on which she built the life that we celebrate today. Back in Atlanta after the war, mom settled into school life, first at Morningside Elementary School then at Grady High. First Baptist Church became her church home, where she made many life-long friends. Getting along with people of different faiths was easy for her, in school she had been exposed to different religions. In teaching mainly African American children for church mission work and later befriending them caused confusion about why there were different water fountains and seating arrangements on the bus. When it was time for college, she chose Tift College in Forsyth. Given her outgoing personality and way with people, it’s no surprise that she was elected freshman class president. After that, she followed her boyfriend west. She transferred to Baylor University in Waco Texas, where her accent got a lot of attention, they thought she talked funny. There she learned that fair is not always the way it should be, by having professors to lower her grades to help future med students keep theirs. She also saw pure hatred when the multiracial child she was teaching was threatened with violence, this occurrence chilled her for many years Although the boyfriend didn’t last, Mom’s life-long love of all things Baylor did. Her growth as a Christian and the many friends she made on-campus and off made it clear that she was in the right place. Baylor is where she learned to play the organ - thanks to her strong background from Miss Naina's teaching. Biology was her favorite class and influenced her later career. Singing – anywhere and everywhere – was a joy that Mr. Smathers instilled. After Baylor she returned to Atlanta, where she completed her medical technologist training at Emory. She was a phenomenal phlebotomist and well known for her ouchless sticks! She landed a great job at Piedmont. All the while, First Baptist Atlanta was her church home. Soon, the training union teachers spotted a match making opportunity, and placed her with a baritone named Jim Gray. His voice made her swoon. Her piano playing had the same effect on him. To no one’s surprise, an engagement soon followed. During their 29 years of marriage, Edna and Jim shared a love of God, of church service, boys camp, classical music and their three children. Edna Gray Farrar and twins Jim and Ben Gray. Church was a key part of family life, first at Briarcliff Baptist Church and later at Briarlake Baptist Church. Edna’s love of the armed forces and veterans led her to a career at the Decatur VA hospital. She retired as the supervisor of the hematology lab. Although her sons opted to attend UGA, Edna remained a stalwart Georgia Tech fan. Ironically the last song she could remember how to play on the piano was, Glory Hallelujah, the UGA fight song. After Jim’s heart attack and her mother's death, Briarlake because Edna’s home away from home. The choir and children’s ministries were her special callings. She spent hours on end with her Sisters Carol Stowe and Dot Poole planning and teaching third grade Sunday School. Vacation Bible School and mission trips, traveling to Europe and Israel – no matter where she was, she built her life on love of Christ and service to others. From marshalling the flag parade for Mission offerings to singing in the choir to helping out behind the scenes, she served with devotion. Also any WMU job that she offered she took. Although she did not get to spend much time with her grandchildren she loved and adored them. Although Alzheimer’s took so much, it couldn’t take her sweet spirt. When she was living in an assisted living facility the staff and residents loved her sweet nature. Throughout the long road, she faced her struggle with faith and grace. As she took her last breath, a piano version of “Holy, Holy, Holy” was ending. Then God gently took his daughter home. Funeral Services will be at HM Patterson and Son Spring Hill on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at 3:00 pm, starting with visitation at 2:00 pm. Burial Service will be at Westview Cemetery Monday, October 7,2019 at 11:00 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Briarlake Baptist Church or to the Alzheimers Association.

Anna Allen Miler Hamilton, BSN ’58, MS ’74, of Marble Falls, TX, daughter of Dan and Myra Miller, was born on September 23, 1937, and died September 15, 2019. Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 20, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Waco. Allen attended Baylor University and received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and then went on to acquire a Master of Science in Education. Allen was employed in various positions as a registered nurse, but she found her ideal position at McLennan Community College as an instructor of nursing for the last 30 years of her career. Allen married Jim Dalton just after college and raised her two sons, Dan and Steve. Later in life Allen married Nick Hamilton and enjoyed 28 years of marriage until his death in 2013. She is survived by her children, Dan and Brandi Dalton of Arlington and Steve and Staci Dalton of Waco; her grandchildren, CJ and Caiti Dalton of Fort Worth; as well as her sister and brother, Virginia and Frank Williams of Rhode Island. Life has changed, not ended. Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name. Speak to me as you always did. Laugh at the little joke we enjoyed together. Party, smile, think of me and pray for me. Let my name be the household word it always was. Let it be spoken without effort or grief. Life means all that it ever meant, there is no unbroken continuity. Why would I be out of your mind because I am out of your sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, after some brief moment all will be as it was before… only better, infinitely happier and forever. We will be together with Christ, and in all manner of things, all is well. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Fuzzy Friends Animal Rescue, 6321 Airport Road, Waco TX 76708; McLennan Community College, 1900 College Dr, Waco TX 76708 or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 515 Columbus Ave, Waco TX 76701. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.

Joe Donald Hendrix, BBA ’58, of Waco died Sept. 21, 2019. from a cardiac event.  A Memorial Service will be 4:00 pm Friday, September 27, 2019 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home with Rev. Wayne Williams officiating.  A reception will follow.  A visitation with the family will be 3:00 pm Friday, September 27, 2019 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home. Joe was born in rural McLennan County to Walter W. Hendrix and Agnes R. Hendrix.  He spent his childhood in Asa, Texas (south of Waco, down S. 3rd St. Rd.), where his father owned a grocery store.  He attended Rosenthal Schools and moved to Valley Mills, TX as a teenager, where he excelled in baseball and graduated from high school in 1954.  Joe spent many hours sacking and delivering groceries for his family’s business at the store located on the corner of Hwy 6 and 56. After graduating from Baylor in 1958, he began working for local CPA firm A.C. Upleger & Co. and soon became a partner.  After many mergers, this firm partnered with KPMG Peat Marwick.  In 1988, Joe retired from KPMG and conducted his own private accounting and tax practice in Waco for over 25 years. Professionally, Joe was a member of the Texas Society of CPAs for 48 years, board member for 20 years, and president of the local Waco chapter.  He served on multiple boards, including the Woodway Board of Adjustment, Baylor Hankamer Alumni Board of Directors, and First National Bank of Bosque County Board of Directors. Additionally, Joe was a Beta Alpha Psi member (an honorary national accounting society) and a long-standing member and former club president of Ridgewood Country Club. His hobbies included golfing, boating, and watching Baylor sports (especially baseball and women’s basketball).  He enjoyed his small ranch west of Valley Mills on the Middle Bosque River and frequently vacationed at Port Aransas.  He was a member of First Methodist Church Waco and Renew Church Waco. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Billie O’Connor of Denver, Colorado.  He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Paula Rawls Hendrix of Waco; son Brian Hendrix of Victoria; daughter Carolyn Walker and husband, Van of Crawford; grandson Kolby Walker and wife, Brooklee of Frisco; granddaughter Bethany Walker; and brother Jim Hendrix of Dallas. Memorials may be made to Renew Church Waco or Baylor University Athletics.

James David Sansing, BS ’58, of Huntsville, TX, died June 16, 2019.

Welch Larrabee “Larry” Sewell, BA ’58, age 84, of Mexia, TX, passed away Monday, Oct. 28, 2019. Larry was born Sept. 3, 1935, in Mexia to Welch L. and Margaret Lorena Cox Sewell. He grew up in Mexia and graduated from Mexia High School; Baylor University with a Bachelor’s Degree; and Sam Houston State University with a Master’s Degree. Larry served in the Texas National Guard, was a member and Past Master of the Springfield Masonic Lodge #74 and a member of the First United Methodist Church in Mexia. During his career he worked as a math teacher in various school districts in Texas, including Mexia ISD. He also worked as a test engineer for NASA during the Apollo and Skylab programs and later went to work for Lockheed Martin where he retired. In his younger years he served as a volunteer firefighter with the Mexia Fire Department and enjoyed spending time at his farm. Larry married Hermine Hawker and they were blessed with four children and a very happy marriage prior to her death in 2013. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and sister, Doris Simon. Survivors include his children, Carol Sewell Chipman of Oklahoma City, David Hawker Sewell and wife Cathye of Tomball, William Lester Sewell and wife Lisa of Blanco and Cynthia Ellen Sewell Catalani and husband Dave of The Woodlands; grandchildren, Diane Sewell and her husband Josh, Rhys Sewell, Katherine Chipman, Eric Chipman, Cari Catalani; and great-grandson, Matthew Sewell. Larry is also survived by several cousins and nieces. Graveside funeral service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Greenwood Cemetery in Teague with the Rev. Marcus Sheffield officiating. Masonic graveside rites will also be provided. Honorary pallbearers will be Edmund Schuster, Michael Russell, Buddy Williford, Josh Sewell and the members of the Masonic Lodge. Visitation with the family will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Sammye Charles Kinkade Cottle, BA ’59, took the hand of Jesus and went to her heavenly home on Friday, August 30, 2019. She had been on a long journey these last 7 years battling Alzheimer's disease. Her family rejoices that her suffering is over and she is in the arms of her loving Savior at last.  Sammye was born in Waco, Texas, January 16th, 1938. Sammye was the most wonderful Mother and Grandmother. Her influence and strong spirit filled life was an inspiration that made her children who we are today. She was a loving wife to John for 54 years on this earth. She went home on their 61st wedding anniversary to find him waiting for her at Heaven's gate. She attended Waco High School and graduated from Baylor University. Sammye sang like an angel and loved being in the choir. She served the Lord in every walk of her life. She left an indelible mark on the lives of her family and friends. Sammye was preceded in death by her parents Nell and Kenny Kinkade and her sisters Betty Watson and Margaret Sherman as well as her husband John Cottle. She is survived by her children--son, Chuck Cottle his wife Michele and their three children Lindsey, Madeline and Logan, and her daughter Mary Ellen Doak her husband Philip Doak and their children, Andrew, Molly and Spencer.

Dr. Gilbert Larry Simmons, BS ’59, DDS ’62, of Argyle, TX, died Sept. 28, 2019. He was born in Orange, Texas, November 25, 1936. His father, Rayford Gilbert Simmons, had the only barber shop and cleaners in Deweyville, Texas and his mother, Linadine Smith Simmons, taught school and piano. Larry’s family moved to Lufkin, Texas when he was in the third grade and he became active in Scouting, earning the rank of WEBELOS. He continued through the scouting ranks to reach the Order of Eagle Scouts. He earned the rank of Silver Award in Explorer Scouts and the God and Country Award. Larry was on the staff of Camp Tonkawa for four summers, where he was waterfront director and taught swimming, lifesaving, rowing and canoeing to younger Scouts. Larry was president of the Tejas Lodge of the Order of the Arrow of the Boy Scouts of America and received the Vigil Honor, the highest in the Order of the Arrow. His scouting badges and uniforms are on display in the Scouting museum in Palestine, Texas. Larry became a Christian at an early age and was active in the Baptist Church’s Royal Ambassadors for boys, reaching the rank of Ambassador Plenipotentiary. He was a Past Master Councilor of the Lufkin Chapter of the Order of DeMolay and later entered the Masonic Lodge. While attending Lufkin High School, Larry played tackle on both offense and defense on the varsity “A” teams his sophomore year, but after the season a kidney infection put an end to his promising football career. As a pre-dental student at Baylor University, Larry was elected vice-president of the freshman class for the spring term and was elected to the Student Congress his sophomore year. After graduating from Baylor University with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, Dr. Simmons entered active duty as a Lieutenant (senior grade, O-3) Dental Officer in the United States Navy. At a commentary Captain’s Mast, his commanding officer, Admiral Pollard, presented Dr. Simmons with a commendation for outstanding dentistry. After his tour of duty, he moved to Denton, Texas in 1964 and opened his dental practice on North Elm, where he practiced dentistry for thirty-five years and then served as Adjunct Professor at the Texas Woman’s University Dental Clinic. Dr. Simmons was active in the Denton Chamber of Commerce, becoming the “Top Hand Pacer” and subsequently was elected to the Board of Directors.  He was elected president of the Denton County Dental Society and was a fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.  Dr. Simmons served on the Board of Directors of the Denton Rotary Club and the Denton Chapter of the American Heart Association.  He was active in the First Baptist Church of Denton and was elected to the deacon council. In 2016, he was honored by the Stanfield Masonic Lodge as a 50 Year member. After moving to Argyle, Texas Dr. Simmons became chairman of the Argyle Planning and Zoning Commission.  The Commission adopted the first Argyle zoning ordinance and was recorded in the Denton County records July 7, 1977- referred to as “that brown book of 7/7/77.” Dr. Simmons and his wife book author Lynn Sheffield Simmons have been active in the Argyle community and are members of First Baptist Church Argyle. Dr. Simmons assisted with Lynn’s writing and in the production of historical pageants, Easter Sunrise services, establishing the Argyle Senior Center, beginning the North Texas Book Festival and holding offices for twelve years, and many other charitable organizations. Dr. Simmons is survived by his wife, Lynn, and three sons, Steve, Stan and Wade Simmons of Richmond, Virginia. There will be a private burial, and a celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. A thank you goes to VNA Hospice and Denton Rehabilitation for their tender, loving care.

Dr. Ronald Lee Vincent, BA ’59, of Spokane, WA, died Oct. 3, 2019. Vincent first came to Spokane in 1963 from Dennison, Texas after receiving his bachelor's degree from Baylor University and medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He started his internship at Deaconess Hospital, where he soon met and married his wife of 55 years, Patricia Lee Clatchey (Patti). Following his internship, Ron and Patti traveled back to Texas where he served as a Captain and Doctor at Reese Air Force Base in Lubbock. From 1964 to 1971, Ron and Patti lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where Ron completed his residency in neurological surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. His love for the Pacific Northwest brought Ron and Patti back to Spokane in 1971 to raise their family and start his practice at Neurological Associates. Ron passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 3, 2019. He is survived by his wife Patti; daughter Tonya and son Brandon (Sheryl); and grandchildren Carl, Jayden, Callie and Cooper. He is also survived by his sister Peggy (Posey) and brother Frank Vincent (Ju-ya) and many nieces and nephews. The family extends their sincere thanks and gratitude to the wonderful care given to Ron by Senior Helpers, Kindred at home and Hospice of Spokane. Patti and family look forward to celebrating Ron's life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Spokane. Please visit www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com to leave your condolences on Ron's online guestbook.